bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
 the Impact of Watershed Land Use on River Water Quality: Implication for Planning in the Case of Kebena River Watershed, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Asnake Kalkidan , Worku Hailu , Argaw Mekuria
Published: October 2020

Background: The impact of watershed land-use on surface water quality, especially in urbanized areas, has been investigated in numerous studies in developed countries, however, the issue is one of the under researched areas in developing cities of Africa. To study the impact of watershed land-use on surface water quality, we used the main land use types of the Kebena watershed from aerial photograph and collected river water samples during the dry and wet seasons for two consecutive years at different points from the river course. We calculated the share of each land use using ArcGIS and tested the water quality during each season. The variations in water quality parameters relating to the different land use types of the sub-watersheds were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: Kebena watershed is mainly covered by 39.14% forest, 32.51% built-up area and 27.25% cultivated land. At sub-catchment level, Denkaka, (agriculture dominated) sub-catchment with 44.90 % cultivated land, Little Kebena, (forest dominated) sub-catchment, with 60.87% forest cover and Ginfle (urban dominated) sub-catchment with 90.44% built-up area were identified. The variations in water quality parameters relating to the different land use types of Kebena watershed revealed the significantly high seasonal relationship between the concentration of the water quality indicators during the dry season at (P<0.001, P<0.05). Furthermore, there is a strong positive relationship between the urban and forest dominated sub-catchments and water quality indicators during both the wet and dry seasons than agriculture dominated sub-catchment.Conclusion: Integrating watershed planning with land use planning, therefore, becomes one of the vital tools to address water quality problems in a holistic manner to further prioritize restoration and protection strategies for specific sub-catchments. Thus, in the urban dominated sub-catchment, relocating riverfront communities, providing a well-designed sewage system, applying appropriate storm water management schemes, are some of the important measures while providing wide river buffers with various vegetation cover are necessary to minimize pollutants influx to the river from the agriculture dominated sub-catchment. Furthermore, in the forested sub-catchment, applying preventive measures to retain and enhance connectivity of the existing natural green spaces through open space planning, development and management schemes is crucial.
Integrative Networks by BRWD3 Regulates Cytoskeleton Organization and Cell Motility
Authors: Li Junlin , Yu Yan , Cui Jihong , Wang Yan , Ding Kefan , Li Hongling , Zhang Kejin , Gao Xiaocai
Published: October 2020

BackgroundEukaryotic cytoskeleton forms and keeps cell shape, transports intracellular particles and organelles, determines cell motility and other important cellular events. A large number of regulators of cytoskeleton organization have been identified, but the detailed regulatory mechanism still remains obscure. Previous reports suggest that BRWD3 may be a regulator of cytoskeleton organization in Drosophila melanogaster, and influences cell shape. Therefore, we investigated the molecular network of BRWD3 regulating cytoskeleton organization.ResultsIn this study, we observed the alteration of cell shape, cell motility, and proliferation when BRWD3 was knocked down in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. The cells were rounded, cell motility decreased when BRWD3 was knocked down. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation combining with sequencing, we found that BRWD3 influenced the cytoskeleton organization, cell shape, and cell motility through regulating expression of the cytoskeleton associative genes including ARF1, ABI2, ARPC3, ARPC1A, RHOC, MEF2C, and VIM.ConclusionsA molecular network by BRWD3 is sketched to elucidate that BRWD3 may not only regulate actin filament but also regulate microtubule and intermediate filament-based cytoskeleton organization. These efforts provide an overview of a BRWD3 network regulating cytoskeleton organization, cell shape and motility, and allow a better understanding of cytoskeleton (re)organization and pathogenesis of mental retardation X-linked 93 and relative carcinomas.
A Hybrid Computational Framework for Intelligent Inter-continent SARS-CoV-2 Sub-strains Characterization and Prediction
Authors: Ekpenyong Moses , Edoho Mercy , Inyang Udoinyang , Uzoka Faith-Michael , Ekaidem Itemobong , Moses Anietie , Emeje Martins , Tatfeng Youtchou , Udo Ifiok , Anwana Enoabasi , Etim Oboso , Joseph Geoffery , Dan Emmanuel
Published: October 2020

Whereas accelerated attention beclouded early stages of the coronavirus spread, knowledge of actual pathogenicity and origin of possible sub-strains remained unclear. By harvesting the Global initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) database (https://www.gisaid.org/), between December 2019 and August 20, 2020, a total of 157 human SARS-CoV-2 (complete) genome sequences processed by gender, across 6 continents of the world, were analyzed. We hypothesized that data speaks for itself and can discern true and explainable patterns of the disease. Identical genome diversity and pattern correlates analysis performed using a hybrid of biotechnology and machine learning methods corroborate multiple emergence of SARS-CoV-2 sub-strains and explained the diversity of the SARS-CoV-2. Interestingly, some viral sub-strains progressively transformed into new sub-strain clusters indicating varying amino acid and strong nucleotide association derived from same origin. A novel approach to cognitive knowledge mining from enriched genome datasets and output targets labeling, helped intelligent prediction of emerging or new viral sub-strains.
Association of Gestational Weight Gain with Cesarean Section: A Prospective Birth Cohort Study in Southwest China
Authors: Huang Lujiao , Zhang Ju , Sun Hong , Dong Hongli , Li Run , Cai Congjie , Gao Yan , Wu Cheng , Lan Xi , Zeng Guo
Published: October 2020

Background: Cesarean section (CS) is a rising public health issue globally, which is even worse in China. Numerous studies have suggested that gestational weight gain (GWG) control may be an effective way to reduce the rate of CS. However, rare study has examined the association between GWG and CS among women in Southwest China. We proposed to examine their association based on a prospective birth cohort, and further to explore the optimal GWG range.Methods: We retrieved data from a prospective birth cohort conducted in Sichuan Provincial Hospital for Women and Children, Southwest China. Unconditional multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between GWG and CS by adjusting for potential confounders. In one analysis, we incorporated the GWG as categorical variable according to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendation, just as the majority of previous studies did. In the other analysis, we directly incorporated the GWG as continuous variable and natural cubic splines was used to characterize the potential nonlinear exposure-response relationship, aiming to identify the optimal GWG. We further stratified the above analysis by pre-pregnancy BMI and GDM, and then a heterogeneity test based on multivariate meta-analysis was conducted to examine whether the stratum specific estimation agreed with each other.Results: A total of 1363 participants were included. By adopting the IOM recommendation, the adjusted OR of CS was 0.63 (0.47, 0.84) for insufficient GWG and 1.42 (1.06, 1.88) for excessive GWG respectively. When stratified by pre-pregnancy BMI, we further found that BMI may be an effect modifier with a higher risk of excessive GWG seen in the underweight women. By applying a flexible spline regression, the optimal GWG in term of reducing CS based on our data were more stringent than that of IOM recommendation, which were 9-12 kg for underweight women, <20 kg for normal weight women and <10 kg for overweight/obese women. Conclusion: These results suggested a more stringent recommendation should be applied in Southwest China, and more attention should be given to those underweight women.
A Predictive Model for Estimating Risk of Harm and Aggression in Inpatient Mental Health Clinics.
Authors: Blasioli Emanuele , Hassini Elkafi , Bieling Peter J.
Published: October 2020

Background: Serious mental illness is a major risk factor for aggression and violence. The aim of the present study was to develop and test an algorithm to predict inpatient aggressions that involve a risk of harm to self or others.Methods: This work is based on a retrospective study aimed to investigate the prediction of risk of harm and aggressions at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, between 2016 and 2017. An analysis of the risk factors most strongly associated with harmful incidents is, followed by the description of the process involved in the development of a predictive model which estimates the risk of harm. Results: The efficiency of the model developed is finally evaluated, showing an overall accuracy of 75%: the specificity to identify episodes considered not at risk of harm is equal to 91.85%, whereas the sensitivity to identify episodes considered harmful is equal to 28.57%. a﻿Conclusions: The model proposed can be seen as a seminal project towards the development of a more comprehensive, precise and effective tool capable to predict the risk of harm in the inpatient setting.
Characterisation and structural analysis of glyoxylate cycle enzymes of Teladorsagia circumcincta.
Authors: Umair Saleh , Bouchet Charlotte , Palevich Nikola , Simpson Heather
Published: October 2020

A 1332 bp full length cDNA encoding Teladorsagia circumcincta isocitrate lyase (TciICL) and a 1575 bp full length cDNA encoding T. circumcincta malate synthase (TciMS) were cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli and the recombinant proteins purified. The predicted TciICL protein of 444 amino acids was present as a single band of about 52 kDa on SDS-PAGE and the recombinant TciMS of 525 amino acids formed a single band about 62 kDa. Multiple alignments of the combined bifunctional TciICL MS protein sequence with homologues from other nematodes showed that the greatest similarity (89-92%) to the homologues of Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Haemonchus contortus and Haemonchus placei and 71-87% similarity to the other nematode sequences. The 3-dimensional structures, binding and catalytic sites were determined for TciICL and TciMS and shown to be highly conserved. Substrate and metal ion binding sites were identified and were completely conserved in other homologues. TciICL was confirmed as a functional enzyme. At 30 °C, the optimum pH was pH 7.5, the Vmax was 275 ± 23 nmoles.min-1.mg-1 protein and the apparent Km for the substrate isocitrate was 0.7 ± 0.01μM (mean ± SEM, n = 3). Addition of 10 mM metal ions (except Mg2+) or 1 mM inhibitors reduced the recombinant TciICL activity by 60-90%. Antibodies in both serum and saliva from field-immune, but not nematode-naïve, sheep recognised recombinant TciICL in ELISA, supporting similar antigenicity to that of the native enzyme.
Two-step cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei with high peritoneal carcinomatosis index
Authors: Trilling Bertrand , Brind'Amour Alexandre , Hamad Raphael , Tremblay Jean-Francois , Dubé Pierre , Mitchell Andrew , Sidéris Lucas
Published: October 2020

Background Complete cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is the only curative treatment for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) arising from the appendix. High peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) is associated with an increased risk of surgical complications. The objective of this study was to present the results of a planned two-step surgical strategy to decrease postoperative morbidity and improve resectability of patients with very high PCI.Methods All patients who underwent a planned two-step surgical approach for PMP between January 2012 and March 2020 were included. Data was retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. The first surgery included a complete CRS of the inframesocolic compartment and omentectomy. HIPEC was delivered at the second surgery, after complete CRS of the supramesocolic compartment. Postoperative morbidity was assessed using the Clavien-Dindo classification and survival results were also collected. Results Eight patients underwent the two-step approach. Seven had a low-grade disease and one had a high-grade disease. The median PCI was 33 (29-39) and the median time between the two procedures was 111 days. One patient was deemed unresectable at the second surgery. The rate of major morbidity was 0% for the first step and 25% for the second step, with no mortality. Median follow-up was 53.8 months. Conclusion A two-step surgical management for low-grade PMP patients with very high PCI is safe and feasible, with acceptable postoperative morbidity and no compromise on oncological outcomes.
Two giant connected retroperitoneal schwannomas: A rare case report
Authors: Yang Tao , Cao Lanqing , Li Wei , Zhang Kai , Zhu Yuecheng , Liu Tongjun , Li Jiannan
Published: October 2020

Background：There are few reports of large retroperitoneal schwannomas and few guidelines for the diagnosis and surgical treatment.Case presentation：A 40-year-old female came to our department due to abdominal pain for 1 day and there are no other specific symptoms. There were no abnormalities in the patient's tumor markers. Plain computer tomography (CT) scan of the whole abdomen revealed two mass soft tissue density shadows behind the peritoneum, with uneven internal density, cystic low-density shadows and patchy calcification shadows. The larger mass was about 12.0 cm × 12.3 cm in size. Then tumors were completely excised by a reasonable surgical approach while the surrounding organs closely related to the tumor were preserved. Postoperative pathology confirmed that the tumor was benign schwannoma. In the 18-month follow-up, the patient had no recurrences and was asymptomatic.Conclusion：We summarize the diagnosis and treatment of a rare giant retroperitoneal schwannoma. Laparotomy for the management of retroperitoneal giant schwannomas may be a safe and effective method.
Cannabis compounds have anti-inflammatory activity in lung epithelial cells but pro-inflammatory activity in macrophages while increasing phagocytosis in vitro
Authors: Anil Seegehalli M , Shalev Nurit , Vinayaka Ajjampura C , Nadarajan Stalin , Namdar Dvory , Belausov Eduard , Shoval Irit , Mani Karthik Ananth , Mechrez Guy , Koltai Hinanit
Published: October 2020

Cannabis sativa is widely used for medical purposes and has anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the anti-inflammatory activity of cannabis on markers of immune responses associated with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) inflammation. An extract fraction from C. sativa Arbel strain (FCBD) substantially reduced dose dependently interleukin (IL) 6 and 8 levels in an alveolar epithelial (A549) cell line. FCBD contained cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), and multiple terpenes. Treatments with FCBD and phytocannabinoid standards that compose FCBD (FCBD:std) reduced IL-6, IL-8, C-C Motif Chemokine Ligands (CCLs) 2 and 7, and angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression in the A549 cell line. Treatment with FCBD induced macrophages (differentiated KG1 cell line) polarization and phagocytosis in vitro, and increased CD36 and type II receptor for the Fc region of IgG (FcγRII) expression. FCBD treatment also substantially increased IL-6 and IL-8 expression in macrophages. FCBD:std, while maintaining the anti-inflammatory activity in alveolar epithelial cells, led to reduced phagocytosis and pro-inflammatory IL secretion in macrophages in comparison to FCBD. The phytocannabinoid mixture may show superior activity versus cannabis fraction for reduction of lung inflammation, yet there is a need of caution in proposing cannabis as treatment for COVID-19.
Cerebral Palsy and Heterotaxy Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Abdullahi Abba Musa , Abdullahi Ibrahim Muhammad
Published: October 2020

Background: Cerebral palsy is not only a serious neurodevelopmental disease causing significant morbidity in children, but also a traumatic experience leading to psychosocial trauma to the parents or caregivers of the affected children. It is usually caused by prenatal or early post-natal insults to the newborn brain which may be associated with some congenital syndromes like congenital heart disease with transposition of the viscera but rarely a heterotaxy syndrome, a condition characterized with congenitally abnormal arrangement of the thoracic and abdominal viscera.Method: We present a case report of a 12 month old boy with neurodevelopmental delay, recurrent episodes of non-mucoid and non-bloody diarrhea, occasional constipation, bilious vomiting, abdominal distension and fever with associated cough and difficulty in breathing.Results: We discuss an unusual presentation of cerebral palsy and heterotaxy syndrome diagnosed clinically with supporting evidence from both laboratory and radiological tests. We also provide a brief literature review of the incidence and prevalence, causes and risk factors, classification, clinical presentation and associated co-morbidities of heterotaxy syndrome.Conclusion: Diagnosis of heterotaxy syndrome in a child with background cerebral palsy is a great challenge to both physicians and radiologists. This is more so in developing countries due to poor availability of good diagnostic apparatus, therefore, a high index of suspicion is needed. A clear understanding of the clinical features, comprehensive history taking and thorough physical examination are important in making prompt diagnosis. Timely and appropriate imaging is necessary to prevent delays in diagnosis and treatment which lead to poor outcomes.
Sample pooling as a strategy for community monitoring for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Sawicki Rafal , Korona-Glowniak Izabela , Boguszewska Anastazja , Stec Agnieszka , Polz-Dacewicz Malgorzata
Published: October 2020

Sample pooling strategy was intended to determine the optimal parameters for group testing of pooled specimens for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and process them without significant loss of test usability. Standard molecular diagnostic laboratory equipment and commercially available centrifugal filters, RNA isolation kits and SARS Cov2 PCR tests were used. The basic idea was to combine and concentrate several samples to the maximal volume, which can be extracted with the single extraction column. Out of 16 tested pools 12 were positive with cycle threshold (Ct) values within 0.5 and 3.01 Ct of the original individual specimens. The analysis of 112 specimens determined that 12 pools were positive followed by identification of 6 positive individual specimens among the 112 tested. This testing was accomplished with the use of 16 extractions/PCR tests, resulting in saving of 96 reactions but adding the 40 centrifugal filters. The present study demonstrated that pool testing can detect a single positive sample with Ct value as high as 34. According to the standard protocols, reagents and equipment, this pooling method can be applied easily in current clinical testing laboratories.
Post-recapitalization in Nigeria: how adequate is capital?
Authors: I. Offiong Amenawo , B. Riman Hodo , B. James Godwin , E. Okon Emmanuel , Ogar Anthony
Published: October 2020

Bank capital is one of the protective and necessary parameters for better performance in any banking system. This may explain why the industry in Nigeria has been constantly recapitalized for sectorial enhancement. Given the various bank capital reforms the sectors have undergone and a number of interventions, the question arose: How adequate is capital? The study used descriptive statistics and Levene’s test for equality of variance, as well as an independent sample t-test to look at the (10) ten various performance parameters for both pre- and post- recapitalization periods. From the results of the analysis, most of the performance parameters did not improve after post-recapitalization. This answers the question posed by the study that capital is not adequate in the Nigerian banking sector. Therefore, there is a need to inject more bank capital into the Nigerian banking sector if this sector must have a greater impact and respond to the challenges of the Nigerian economy for sustainable growth and development.
Öğretmen Adaylarının Özel Gereksinimli Bireylerin Eğitimine Yönelik Görüşleri
Authors: CAMCI ERDOĞAN Sezen
Published: October 2020

Çalışmanın amacı öğretmen adaylarının, özel eğitime ihtiyaç duyan bireylerin eğitimine yönelik görüşlerinin belirlenmesidir. Nitel bir araştırma olarak planlanan çalışmada lisans son sınıfa devam eden toplam 104 Sınıf Öğretmenliği, Fen Bilgisi Öğretmenliği ve Fransızca Öğretmenliği adaylarına görüş formları dağıtılmıştır. Bu görüş formu kapsamında öğretmen adaylarının özel eğitime gereksinimi olan grupların eğitim ihtiyaçlarına yönelik sorumluluk alıp almamaları gerektiğine ve en çok/ en az hangi grupta faydalı olabilecekleri ve nedenleri gibi ifadelere yer vermeleri istenmiştir. Verilerin analizinde betimsel analiz yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Öğretmen adaylarının %98’inin özel eğitime ihtiyaç duyan bireylerin eğitiminde sorumluluk almak gerektiğini düşündüğü sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Öğretmen adaylarının en faydalı olabileceği grubun fiziksel yetersizlik grubu; en az fayda sağlayabilecekleri grubun ise zihinsel yetersizlik grubu olduğunu düşündükleri ortaya çıkmıştır. Bu düşünceleri ortaya çıkaran nedenlerin ise, bazı grupların daha öğretilebilir olması, özel eğitime dair gerekli ve yeterli eğitimlerin varlığı/yokluğu, özel eğitim gereksinimi olan öğrenciler ile ilgili deneyimlerin varlığı/yokluğu gibi durumlarla ilişkili olduğu sonucuna varılmıştır.
URGENCY RIJALUL POSTING IN PREVENTING HOAX: QURANIC PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Witro Doli
Published: October 2020

Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Information stated in 2017 that it had blocked 800 thousand harmful contents, including hoax (fake news). However, Masyarakat Telematika (Mastel) Indonesia reported the results of a survey in 2019 that there were 34.60% of respondents received hoax every day. Hoaxes will have implications for harmony in society and are even very vulnerable to riots. This study uses a qualitative method with a literature review design that study the analogy between hadith and posts of Internet users that are both news or information. Hadith is information from the Prophet p.b.u.h., while posting is information that comes from Internet users. Based on this it is important to see the scholars of hadith in conveying, accepting the hadith, and including it in their respective books. To find out whether or not a hadith is correct, rawi examines sanad and matan hadith. In the hadith science, the study of the hadith discussed in the science of rijalul hadith. In rijalul, this post will be examined on how to explore the content of the Internet media. Of course, this is in accordance with the indicators (adl, dhabit, ittishal al-sanad, bighayr illat, and bighayr syadz) in the science of rijalul hadith, and the perspective of Al-Quran will be examined. Rijalul Posting is divided into two; al-urwah date account (how to clarify posts by looking at the identity and account history) and al-jarh wa ta'dil content account (how to clarify posts). Indicators used: fair information, date of posting, clear source, complete, and polite language. Thus, these posts can be shared on websites or social media.
Social Bonding dalam Pengelolaan Hutan Rakyat: Upaya Menuju Masyarakat Hutan yang Sejahtera
Authors: Setiyawan Khabib Bima
Published: October 2020

The forest is the source of livelihood of the community around it, forest sustainbility management become important thing to do to ensure the sustainbility of the forest. This research discusses about forest management strategies in the Berjo village, in which consist of three different institutions, they are Taman Hutan Raya (Tahura), Perusahaan Hutan Negara Indonesia (Perhutani), and Lembaga Masyarakat Desa Hutan (LMDH). the aim of this research is to find out the forest management strategies, methode in this research is qualitaive with case studies approach, this research conducted in the village of Berjo, Karangayar city. Purposive sampling is used to select the respondents. Data collection is done by observation, interviews, and documentation. The analysis of the data using the in interactive functional analysis and validation of data using triangulation of sources. The results showed that forest management is achieved by collaboration among Government and non government institutions with their Sosial Bonding Capital which allows for interaction in sharing knowledge as well as glue relations between groups. Social Bonding is owned by LMDH and Tahura are on the intermediate level which means they obey formal but on the other hand they approach at the level of values, culture, and perception. While the relationship between the LMDH (a unit of BUMN) and Tahura (units of goverment departmen) are on the level of social capital that embraced a formalvalue corresponding their jobs desk which are conservation and production of the forest. LMDH along with Perhutani in forest management through partnership relationship. They work togehter in the safeguarding of forests and open tourist attraction. Whereas in the greening of the forest, the Perhutani, the LMDH Tahura and do reforestation.
Kontestasi Pasangan Suami Istri dalam Pilkades
Authors: Astuti Puji , Sulistyowati Sulistyowati , Astrika Lusia
Published: October 2020

The Act Number 6 of 2014 cause of a great implication especially on the election of village chief. More over regarding on Ministerial Regulation Number 112 Year of 2014, article 23, which prohibit the single candidate opposing with the empty of ballot box. Thus, prohibition emerging of interesting phenomenon where is 17 couples of husband and wife being contestant on the village chief election in Demak Regency in the year of 2016. The aims of the reserch is to comprehend the husband’s reason to choose his wife as associate candidate. Do thus fact be part of practicing of women subordination? How the influence of thus phenomenon to the villlage democracy itself? The research uses qualitative-descriptive method with depth interview as instrument in collecting data. The result show that there are two main husband’s reason choose his wife as a competitor. Fisrt, by choosing his wife mean that there is no cost for compensation and no hard worry about conflict of interest in the coming day after election. Second, becoming his wife as a competitor mean that the winning opportunity is greater because patriarchy and Islamic tradition (were more joy in placing men as a leader) in Demak Regency. Then, the emerging of husband and wife as a candidate would decrease of democracy because there no rivalry as a soul of democracy. To improve of village chief election as a source of village democracy, it is best to correct the regulation which prohibit of the a single canditate by completing with require that the village chief election should be follow by at least two candidate who both of them have no relation as nuclear family.
Effect of initial plant density on modeling accuracy of the revised sparse Gash model: a case study of Pinus tabuliformis plantations in northern China
Authors: Li Yiran , Liu Xiaohua , Zhang Chuanjie , Li Zedong , Zhao Ye , Niu Yong
Published: October 2020

An accurate quantitative description of interception is necessary to understand regional water circulation. The revised sparse Gash model (RSGM) is currently used to estimate interception loss. Previous studies have proven that changes in initial plant density, which are caused by thinning, affect the accuracy of RSGM; however, the direct effect of initial density on modeling accuracy remains poorly understood because few studies have collected field data of the same species with various initial densities under similar site conditions. Therefore, six Pinus tabuliformis Carr. plantations with various initial densities were assessed from May to October 2016 in northern China. In summary, RSGM performs better with higher initial densities, and it cannot be suitably applied for plantations with lower initial densities, with the relative error ranging from 18.38 to 53.03%. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the predicted interception is highest sensitive to canopy structure, irrespective of initial density. The influence of climate parameters on simulated results decreased, as initial density increased. These support the notion that amending the representation of the canopy structure in the model and improving the estimation methods for determining the evaporation rate in open canopies can improve accuracy, and that the use of RSGM must first involve the consideration of initial density.
Application of monod two-substrate kinetics with an intermediate for anaerobic co-digestion of distillery wastewater and molasses/glycerol waste in batch experiments
Authors: Phayungphan K. , Rakmak N. , Promraksa A.
Published: October 2020

Anaerobic digestion is a highly complex process, particularly in co-digestion between poorly-defined, complex co-substrates like distillery wastewater, molasses, and crude glycerine. Thus, in this article, the authors tackled the problems by using Monod two-substrate with an intermediate (M2SI) model to represent accumulated biomethane evolution (ABE) obtained from the co-substrates, including easily degradable, slowly degradable substrates and intermediate. The M2SI model predictions were compared with the traditional Monod model's simulation results to clarify an outstanding of the present model in the aspect of modeling and control. Different behaviors of ABE curves from batch experiments were used to calibrate the M2SI model prediction with sensitivity analysis of the model parameters. It was found that the M2SI model gives a correct trend to describe the co-digestion process with multiple substrates and complex microbial activities with satisfactory fitting accuracy. At the same time, simple Monod kinetics have a good fit for dilute pure distillery wastewater, but the estimated microbial growth kinetics were counterintuitive. Therefore, the M2SI Model has a broader range of applications for co-digestion dealing with the complexity of multiple microbial activities to consume inherently complex or artificial co-substrates.
Cumulative effects of environmental factors on household childhood diarrhoea in Ghana
Authors: Afitiri Abdul-Rahaman , Armah Frederick Ato , Ekumah Bernard , Nyieku Florence Esi , Yawson David Oscar , Odoi Justice O.
Published: October 2020

Many children under five years still die from diarrhoeal diseases globally even though much progress has been made. The threat to public health posed by diarrhoeal diseases warrants the need to understand the interaction of the disease determinants from a spatio-temporal perspective to inform policy and intervention design. In this study, a pooled regression analysis was carried out using the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey data on 15,808 children under five years, to assess the combined effect of environmental factors on childhood diarrhoea prevalence and morbidity over a 21-year period. Childhood diarrhoea prevalence declined steadily from 20% to 16% from 1993 to 2003 but increased to 20% in 2008 and finally decreased significantly to 12% in 2014. The strength of the association between diarrhoea prevalence and each of the predictors presented in decreasing order of magnitude were as follows: current age of child, geographical region, religion, mother's highest educational level, ethnicity, source of drinking water and toilet facility, residential wellbeing, birth order, age of mother, and sex of child. Regional and temporal heterogeneities in prevalence, rate and distribution of diarrhoea were observed, indicating the need for context-specific interventions and policies.
Activated mineral adsorbent for the efficient removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) from aqueous solution: adsorption performance and mechanism studies
Authors: Zheng Tao , Zhou Xiaohui , Guo Jing , Zhong Chubin , Liu Yaochi
Published: October 2020

Activated mineral adsorbent (AMA) was prepared via double salts (Na2SO4 and CaCO3) heat treatment activation of solid-state potassium feldspar. Adsorption performance of AMA for Cd(II) and Pb(II) was investigated by batch mode and factors affecting adsorption including pH value, initial concentration of adsorbate, contact time, adsorbent dosage and temperature on adsorption performance for Cd(II) and Pb(II) were studied. The results indicated that the adsorption process was pH dependent, endothermic and spontaneous. When the adsorption process of Cd(II) and Pb(II) on AMA reached equilibrium, the maximum saturated adsorption capacities were 263.16 and 303.03 mg/g for Cd(II) and Pb(II) ions, respectively, showing higher adsorption removal efficiency. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm and pseudo second kinetic equation could well fit the adsorption process of Cd(II) and Pb(II) by AMA. Besides, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques were also performed to further reveal the adsorption mechanism. The results indicated that ion exchange, precipitation and adsorption played an important role in adsorption process. From the investigation, it was concluded that AMA was an excellent adsorbent with the advantages of environment-friendly, inexpensive, facile preparation and higher adsorption capacity of toxic Cd(II) and Pb(II) ions.
Adsorption of nickel (II) ions from wastewater using glutaraldehyde cross-linked magnetic chitosan beads: isotherm, kinetics and thermodynamics
Authors: Rani Priti , Johar Rajni , Jassal P. S.
Published: October 2020

Magnetic chitosan beads (MCSB), prepared from solution by using an external magnet, and the adsorption of Ni(II) ions from wastewater by MCSB and its cross-linked derivative with glutaraldehyde (GLU-MCSB) was investigated in an adsorption system. The GLU-MCSB sorbents are insoluble in aqueous acidic solution and improve adsorption capacity. The adsorption process was carried out by considering various parameters, viz. adsorbent dose, contact time, pH and temperature. Thermogravimetric analysis of beads shows that degradation takes place in two stages. Fourier transform infra-red spectra of magnetic beads exhibit an absorption band at 606 cm−1 for Fe-O. The elemental analysis (energy dispersive X-ray analysis) and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze the structure and characteristics of MCSB and GLU-MCSB. The Ni(II) removal efficiency attains a highest value of 95.12% with cross-linked GLU-MCSB in comparison to 79.5% with MCSB. Adsorption processes follow the pseudo-second-order rate kinetics model, which suggested that the rate-limiting step may be the chemical adsorption rather than the mass transport. The experimental data of adsorption fitted well with the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms with a high correlation coefficient (R2 > 0.9), showing that monolayer adsorption took place on the surface of GLU-MCSB absorbents. The negative values of entropy change, −175.64 and −163.30 J/(mol·K), and enthalpy change, −54.75 and −49.58 kJ/mol, for MCSB and GLU-MCSB suggest that the process is spontaneous and exothermic in nature.
Adsorption of copper ions from solution using xanthate wheat straw
Authors: Guo Qiehui , Zang Zhongyang , Ma Jie , Li Jingyi , Zhou Tong , Han Runping
Published: October 2020

To enhance adsorption capacity of wheat straw (WS) toward copper ion from solution, carbon disulfide was used to modify WS by a facile grafting method through epichlorohydrin and ethylenediamine. So WS containing xanthate groups (XWS) was obtained. The XWS was characterized using elemental analysis, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and adsorption property of XWS toward copper ions. The results showed that S was introduced into the surface of WS. The solution pH was in favor of Cu2+ adsorption at pH 5, while NaCl existing in solution was slightly favorable for adsorption. The adsorption kinetic followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, while the adsorption isotherm curve was well fitted using the Langmuir model. The adsorption capacity was 57.5 mg·g−1 from experiment. The process was entropy-produced, endothermic and spontaneous in nature. The column adsorption was performed and Yan model was good to predict the breakthrough curve. XWS as adsorbent is promising to remove copper ions from solution, and this offers one way of effective utilization of waste byproduct from agriculture.
Circulating Meteorin-like Levels in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Qian , Dan Yi-Lin , He Yi-Sheng , Xiang Kun , Hu Yu-Qian , Zhao Chan-Na , Zhong Xing , Wang De-Guang , Pan Hai-Feng
Published: October 2020

Background:

Meteorin-like (Metrnl) is a newly identified adipokine implicated in the pathogenesis
of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet data on the circulating levels of Metrnl in patients with T2DM are controversial.
To derive a more precise estimation on circulating Metrnl levels in T2DM patients, we conducted
this meta-analysis.

Methods:

The existing studies on the circulating levels of Metrnl in patients with T2DM published up to 16 January
2020 were comprehensively retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and The Cochrane library
database. Pooled standard mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using
random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed and quantified by Cochrane’s Q and I2
statistic. All statistical
analyses were performed using Stata 12.0 software.

Results:

Nine studies with 867 T2DM patients and 831 normal glucose tolerance (NGT) controls were included
in the final analysis according to the inclusion criteria. No significant difference in circulating Metrnl levels
was found between T2DM patients and NGT individuals (pooled SMD = -0.429, 95% CI = -1.077 to 0.219).
Compared to controls, circulating Metrnl levels were significantly higher in the subgroups with BMI <25
kg/m2, using plasma sample and patient sample size ≥100, while circulating Metrnl levels were significantly
lower in subgroups with age ≤50 years and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)
≥4.

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis indicates no significant change in circulating Metrnl levels in T2DM patients.
However, this result may be influenced by age, BMI, sample type, HOMA-IR and patients sample size. Further
longitudinal studies are warranted to offer more insights into the relationship between Metrnl and T2DM.
Hypoxic Preconditioning Ameliorates Amyloid-β Pathology and Longterm Cognitive Decline in AβPP/PS1 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhang Ji , Li Xiao-Jia , Xiao Jun , Ye Fang
Published: October 2020

Background and Objective:

Hypoxic Preconditioning (HPC) has been well established to
trigger endogenous mechanisms of neuroprotection basing on models of hypoxic and ischemic diseases
in the Central Nervous System (CNS). However, its effects against Alzheimer's Disease (AD) still lack
substantial evidence and in-depth exploration. The present study aimed to investigate the impacts of
HPC on AD-related memory decline and amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology in AβPP/PS1 transgenic mice.

Methods:

Seven-week-old AβPP/PS1 transgenic mice were randomized into HPC and non-HPC groups.
The HPC groups were treated with early and repetitive HPC for four weeks, while the non-HPC group
was raised under normoxia condition. All the animals were then raised until the age of 28 weeks when
Morris water maze tests were conducted to examine the animals’ spatial memory. Indicators for Aβ pathology
(soluble Aβ levels and numbers of Aβ plaques) and the expression of relevant proteins were
measured to explore potential mechanisms.

Results:

The results showed that HPC ameliorated memory decline and Aβ pathology in AβPP/PS1
mice. The protein levels of Amyloid-β Precursor Protein (AβPP) and β-site APP Cleaving Enzyme 1
(BACE1) were reduced while that of Hypoxic inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) was elevated in HPC groups.

Conclusion:

HPC might be a promising strategy for AD intervention. Its potential protection might be
realized via downregulating the expressions of AβPP and BACE1 and hence inhibiting Aβ pathology.
Notably, HIF-1α might play a key role in mediating subsequent neuroadaptive changes following HPC.
Acute Toxicity Analysis and Antidiabetic Effect of the Moroccan Spider Flower (Cleome Arabica L.) in Normal and Sreptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Amssayef Ayoub , Eddouks Mohamed
Published: October 2020

Aims:

The study aimed to assess the antihyperglycemic effect of Cleome arabica.

Background:

Cleome arabica L. or spider flower belongs to the Capparidaceae family and it is
used for treating inflammation and diabetes mellitus in traditional medicine.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the antihyperglycemic activity and acute toxicity of the
aqueous extract of Cleome arabica L (CAAE).

Methods:

The acute toxicity of CAAE was evaluated at doses of 500, 1000, or 2000 mg/kg. Parallelly,
body weight, signs of toxicity, and/or mortality were observed for 14 days. The effect of oral
administration of Cleome arabica aqueous extract (CAAE) at a dose of 100 mg/kg on glycemia
was performed in normal and diabetic rats. Additionally, histopathological structure of the liver,
phytochemical screening and in vitro antioxidant activity were studied.

Results:

The acute toxicity test revealed that all treated rats survived, and no change in body
weight was observed. The results demonstrated that CAAE exhibited a significant antihyperglycemic
effect in diabetic rats. Furthermore, the plant extract ameliorated the liver histology in diabetic
rats with a concomitant antioxidant activity.

Conclusion:

This study shows that Cleome arabica is partly safe, and its LD50 seems to be greater
than 5000 mg/kg. Cleome Arabica has a favorable effect against diabetes, which could be due to
the presence of numerous secondary metabolites and by the protection of hepatocytes.
How Much Vitamin D is Too Much? A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: De Vincentis Sara , Russo Antonino , Milazzo Marta , Lonardo Amedeo , De Santis Maria C. , Rochira Vincenzo , Simoni Manuela , Madeo Bruno
Published: October 2020

Background:

The beneficial effects of vitamin D, together with the high prevalence of
vitamin D deficiency, have led to an expanding use of vitamin D analogues. While inappropriate
consumption is a recognized cause of harm, the determination of doses at which vitamin D becomes
toxic remains elusive.

Case presentation:

A 56-year woman was admitted to our Hospital following a 3-week history of
nausea, vomiting, and muscle weakness. The patient had been assuming a very high dose of cholecalciferol
for 20 months (cumulative 78,000,000UI, mean daily 130,000UI), as indicated by a non--
conventional protocol for multiple sclerosis. Before starting vitamin D integration, serum calcium
and phosphorus levels were normal, while 25OH-vitamin D levels were very low (12.25 nmol/L).
On admission, hypercalcemia (3.23 mmol/L) and acute kidney injury (eGFR 20 mL/min) were detected,
associated with high concentrations of 25OH-vitamin D (920 nmol/L), confirming the suspicion
of vitamin D intoxication. Vitamin D integration was stopped, and in a week, hypercalcemia
normalized. It took about 6 months for renal function and 18 months for vitamin D values to go
back to normal.

Conclusions:

This case confirms that vitamin D intoxication is possible, albeit with a high dose.
The doses used in clinical practice are far lower than these and, therefore, intoxication rarely occurs
even in those individuals whose baseline vitamin D serum levels have never been assessed. Repeated
measurements of vitamin D are not necessary for patients under standard integrative therapy.
However, patients and clinicians should be aware of the potential dangers of vitamin D overdose.
The Technology Used for Synthetic Polyploid Production of Miscanthus as Cellulosic Biofuel Feedstock
Authors: Melnychuk Oleksandr V. , Ozheredov Serhiy P. , Rakhmetov Dzhamal B. , Rakhmetova Svitlana O. , Yemets Alla I. , Blume Yaroslav B.
Published: October 2020

Background:

The contemporary bioethanol production technologies are based on the utilization of plant lignocellulosic biomass. These technologies require conducting regular search, breeding, and creation of new energy crops. In particular, significant attention is paid to plants of the genus Miscanthus - perennial grasses that have a great potential as renewable energy sources. The main advantages of representatives of this species are considered to be high biomass yield, cold tolerance, a low requirement to soil conditions, long-term use of plantation, etc. M. × giganteus is the most promising species of the genus. The last is a sterile allotriploid originated through the hybridization of M. sinensis and M. sacchariflorus. Due to the problem with sexual reproduction, there is a lack of genotypes necessary for plant breeding programs to improve this species. Thus, polyploidization is an indispensable approach for obtaining new genotypes of M. × giganteus.

Objective:

The aim of this work is to review the attempts and methodologies employed to induce polyploidy in plants belonging to the genus Miscanthus.

Methods:

For this purpose, the concentrations and duration of treatment with different antimitotic agents in species, within this genus, have been considered. Methods for ploidy level determination and evaluation of biological and biochemical traits in the resulting polyploids have also been reported.

Results:

The application of antimitotic agents in vitro is the most effective and commonly used method of polyploidization in Miscanthus. The most effective antimitotic compounds appeared to be the well-known dinitroanilines, such as oryzalin and trifluralin, as well as new dinitroanilines with significantly lower phytotoxicity level.

Conclusion:

Polyploidization in Miscanthus has been investigated by various research groups worldwide. Currently, polyploid forms of M. sinensis, M. sacchariflorus and M. × giganteus have been obtained. The biological and biochemical traits of the obtained polyploids differ significantly from their original forms. However, the challenge of fertility restoration of M. × giganteus has not been resolved yet.