bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Financial Stability Determinants in Indonesia
Authors: Nugroho Antonius W , Adam Mohamad , Widiyanti Marlina , Sulastri Sulastri
Published: March 2021

Financial Stress Index (FSI) is one of the indices to measure financial stress which can lead to a financial crisis. Quantitative analysis was conducted to some banking sector performance indicator which impacts financial stability with FSI as a proxy. Data population was taken from banking company listed in Indonesian Stock Exchange, sampling using purposive sampling of 38 banks. Using pooled data regression analysis was founded that NPL, CAR, and ROA positively significant to financial stability, while NIM negative but not significant to financial stability. The research found that NPL and NIM are not in line with the hypothesis. NPL is an indicator for bad debt, which means that increase in NPL will make financial stability vulnerable, but the research shows that an increase in NPL causes financial stability incline to increased, this could have happened if any other factors maintain financial stability tend to increase. On the other hand, NIM is decreasing which means the productivity of banks decreased but financial stability tends to increase because other factors that maintain financial stability tend to increase.
Conducting Teacher Stage Coaching Using SAC Media during pandemic Through Techniques
Authors: Helwiya Helwiya
Published: March 2021

oaching techniques can be done by the principal to conduct mentoring, mentoring and training on teachers and tendik whose performance is still not in accordance with the standards set. Especially online learning (online) or online learning during the covid-19 pandemic, has a variety of ineffective opportunities. In addition, the problem of utilization of technology and learning media used in the implementation of learning is not maximal. The media used does not support the implementation of the teacher-selected learning model. Improving the competence and skills of teachers in using the media during the pandemic also needs to get the attention of the principal. In the Project to Improve the competence of prospective principals, the author conducts activities to improve the competence of teachers in the implementation of the learning process, especially the use of media through coaching techniques. Based on the results of the study obtained can be concluded that the use of android-based media, one of which is Smart Aplication Creator (SAC), is able to increase the activities of students in following learning from home, which is implemented during the covid-19 pandemic. This can be seen in five aspects, namely based on observation of the implementation of learning, the effectiveness of media use, the results of activities, student achievements and student wellbeing. In the observation aspect of learning implementation there was an increase from 76.50 to 90.39; from the effectiveness aspect of media use increased from 68.33 to 86.11; from the aspect of the evaluation of activities there was an increase from 74.17 to 90.00; from the student achievement aspect increased from 71.94 to 88.89 and from the student wellbeing aspect increased from 81.84 to 85.59.
Use of Methods Everyone Is A Teacher Here To Improve Geography Learning Outcomes
Authors: Jannah Miftahul
Published: March 2021

Education plays an important role to realize the government's efforts in educating the nation's life and ensuring the survival of the nation and the State. Education is also a long-term investment for the government and a vehicle to improve and develop the quality of human resources. The purpose of Geography education in schools in general is that students are expected to be able to understand concepts about the symptoms of nature and life on earth as well as interactions between humans and their environment that are closely related to the aspects of space and time. The research on the application of Everyone Is A Teacher Here Method in Geography learning in class XI IPS 1 SMAN 1 Rengat Barat is classroom action research, which is a study conducted by the teacher himself to improve the learning process that is his responsibility. The use of everyone is a Teacher Here method learning can improve students' learning outcomes in Geography learning in Grade XI IPS 1 SMAN 1 Rengat Barat, also make the teacher's activity in delivering student center-oriented materials significantly improved.
The Effect Green Marketing Mix on Corporate Image as Well as Implication for Purchase Intention of Food and Beverages Companies In Indonesia
Authors: Johan Sembiring Ryan
Published: March 2021

This study aims to analyze and prove effect of the green marketing-based marketing mix consisting of (green product, green price, green distribution, green promotion) on corporate image and its implications for the purchase intention of food and beverage companies in Indonesia, partially or jointly and the effect of the green marketing-minded marketing mix consisting of (green product, green price, green distribution, green promotion) and corporate image on the purchase intention of food and beverage companies in Indonesia, both partially or collectively. The research method used in this research is descriptive and verification methods with a sample of 205 respondents, and the data analysis method used is SEM (Structural Equation Modeling) using the Lisrel Program. Based on the research results, the following findings were found as green product, green price, green distribution and green promotion both partially and collectively have a positive and significant effect on corporate image with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 88%. Likewise, green product, green price, green distribution, green promotion and corporate image either partially or collectively have a positive and significant effect on purchase intention with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 98%. This research finds and proves that to increase purchase intention it is necessary to increase the marketing mix with a marketing perspective (green product, green price, green distribution and green promotion) and corporate image in the non-physical identity dimensions needs to be improved.
Covid-19 in Italy : Impact of Lockdown in Italy on Socio-Economic Situation
Authors: Nugraha Yogie
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak in Italy ranks third most in the world with very continued growth over time. The purpose of this article is to discuss the case of COVID-19 in Italy and its impact on socioeconomic life as well as international relations between Italy and other countries. This article uses library reviews to perform analysis related to the topic of this article using sources such as academic journals, research reports, news articles and so on.
Educação (Integral) para o século XXI: cognição, aprendizagens e diversidades
Authors:   Hugo Emmanuel da Rosa Corrêa,   Rodolfo Fiorucci,   Sergio Vale da Paixão
Published: March 2021

Com vistas a contribuir com a construção dessa nova educação, a presente coletânea traz textos que se dedicam às questões voltadas à aprendizagem e à educação integral, na busca pela alforria cognitiva da sociedade brasileira. Sem educação pública, integral e universal, o caminho será, inexoravelmente, de trevas.
ÜNİVERSİTE ÖĞRENCİLERİNDE KRONOTİPİN, YEME TUTUMU VE BEDEN ALGISI İLE İLİŞKİSİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: ALTINSOY Canan , YILMAZ YAVUZ Ayten
Published: March 2021

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, yeme bozukluğu gelişimi açısından yüksek riskli grup olarak görülen üniversite öğrencilerinin kronotipinin öğrencilerin yeme tutumu ve beden algılarıyla ilişkisinin değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır.Yöntem: Tanımlayıcı tipte olan bu çalışma bir devlet üniversitesinin 2020-2021 akademik yılında aktif olarak öğrenim görmekte olan ve çalışmaya katılmayı kabul eden 893 öğrencinin katılımı ile gerçekleştirildi. Veriler Google Formlar'da oluşturulan yapılandırılmış bir anket aracılığıyla, anket formunun öğrencilerin e-postasına gönderilmesiyle elde edilmiştir Verilerin değerlendirilmesinde tanımlayıcı istatistikler, X2 ve korelasyon testi kullanıldı. Çalışma için kurum ve etik kurul izinleri alnmış ve gönüllü katılım esas alınmıştır. Bulgular: Çalışmaya katılan öğrencilerin çoğunlukla kadın cinsiyetinde (%72.2), hekim tarafından tanı konulmuş bir hastalığı bulunmayan (%82.5), normal kilolu (%68.5) ve yaş ortalaması olarak 21.23±3.80 yıl olduğu belirlendi. Öğrencilerin kronotipinin belirlenmesinde Sabahcıl Akşamcıl Testinden 47.54±9.17 ortalama puan ile ağırlıkta ara tip (%67.2) olduğu bulundu. Pandemi sürecinde kilosunu koruyan ve uyku alışkanlığında herhangi bir değişiklik olmayan ve kadın cinsiyetindeki öğrencilerin kronotipinin sabahçıl tipte olduğu belirlendi. Çalışmada öğrencilerinin kronotipi ile Yeme Tutum Testi alt boyutları (diyet yapma, bulimik davranış, oral ontrol davranışı) ve Bedeni Beğenme Ölçeği arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir ilişki bulunmamıştır (p> 0.05). Ancak öğrencilerin yaşı ve BKI değeri arttıkça ve uyku süresi azaldıkça Sabahçıl-Akşamcıl Testi puanın daha yüksek olduğu, sonucun istatistiksel olarak anlamlı olduğu bulunmuştur (sırasıyla r = 0.124, r= -0.148, r =0.069; p< 0.05).Sonuç ve Öneriler: Pandemi sürecindeki vücut ağırlığındaki ve uyku alışkanlığındaki değişim ve cinsiyet gibi değişkenlerin kronotipler arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark gösterdiği belirlendi. Öğrencilerin hemşireler ve beslenme ve diyetetik uzmanları tarafından yürütülecek bireysel farklılıkların dikkate alındığı, sağlık danışmanlıklarına ihtiyacı açıktır. Ayrıca farklı yaş gruplarında, farklı örneklemlerle yapılacak ve sirkadiyen tercih ile beslenme alışkanlıkları, yeme bozuklukları ilişkisinin incelendiği, fiziksel aktivite ve besin tüketim kaydının alınması gibi yöntemlerle desteklenen ileri çalışmalara ihtiyaç vardır.
Should I Bribe? Re-Examining the Greasing-the-Wheels Hypothesis in Democratic Post-Soeharto Indonesia
Authors: Kurniawan Irfan , Riyanto Riyanto
Published: March 2021

During the Soeharto Era corruption was considered to grease the wheels of growth in Indonesia, a country once considered to be the most corrupt country in the world. Indonesia began to experience instantaneous decentralization and democratization after the Soeharto Era abruptly ended. While vastly celebrated, these episodes have their unintended consequence: coercive regulation. We employed the extensive firm-level Large and Medium Manufacturing (Industri Besar Sedang/IBS) census data combined with the Indonesian Democracy Index (Indeks Demokrasi Indonesia/IDI) at provincial level spanning from 2009 to 2015 and found that bribery hampered Indonesian firm output and productivity growth by 9.8% and 12.6%, respectively. These results suggest that the greasing effect has now diminished. Interestingly, we also found that firms located in a province with a better democracy index may experience less damaging effects of corruption. In other words, two firms paying the same value of bribe may obtain different effects depending on where they are located.
Deprem Etkisinde Çok Katlı Betonarme Bir Binanın TDY-2007 ve TBDY-2018 Deprem Yönetmeliklerine Göre Eşdeğer Deprem Yüklerinin Karşılaştırılması
Authors: ÖZMEN Alper , SAYIN Erkut
Published: March 2021

Deprem yapılar üzerinde yıkıma sebep olan en önemli etkenlerden biridir. Aktif olan bir deprem sistemi üzerinde yer alan ülkemizde meydana gelen depremler önemli can ve mal kayıplarına yol açmaktadır. Bu sebeple depremin yapıların tasarımı esnasında en gerçekçi şekliyle hesap edilmesi ve tasarımların bu esasa göre yapılması büyük önem taşımaktadır. Deprem etkisinin yapılara uygulanması için çeşitli hesap yöntemleri kullanılmaktadır. Bu yöntemlerden uygulaması en basit ve anlaşılır olanı Eşdeğer Deprem Yükü Yöntemidir. Deprem etkileri bu yöntemde belirli koşulların sağlanması durumunda Eşdeğer Deprem Yükleri olarak adlandırılan yatay yüklerle temsil edilirler. Bu çalışmada, beş katlı düzenli betonarme bir yapı tasarlanarak Eşdeğer Deprem Yükü Metodu kullanılarak TDY-2007 ve TBDY-2018’e göre doğrusal analizler yapılmıştır. Analizlerde farklı yerel zemin sınıfları dikkate alınmıştır. Çözümlerde SAP2000 yapısal analiz programı kullanılmıştır. Çalışma sonucunda 2018 deprem yönetmeliğinin daha gerçekçi ve güvenilir sonuçlar ortaya koyduğu görülmüştür.
Activity-Based Teaching of Quran for Deaf Students in the Special Education Integration Program
Authors: Dzulkifli Izuli , Suhid Asmawati , Mohd Fakhruddin Fathiyah , Ahmad Nor Aniza
Published: March 2021

The formal teaching and learning of the Quran for the hearing-impaired students in Malaysia is carried out at Special Education Schools offering Special Education Integration Program, locally known as ‘Program Pendidikan Khas Integrasi’(PPKI). The teaching and learning of the Quran for hearing-impaired students are based on the Special Education Curriculum of the Islamic Education subject. In order to enhance the achievement of deaf students in learning the Quran, teachers need to plan lessons relevant to the content of the learning of the Quran and students’ abilities. The objective of this study was to explore the activity-based teaching, such as reading and memorizing, employed by teachers who were teaching the Quran to deaf students in eight primary schools offering PPKI. This study utilized the qualitative approach in the form of case studies, using the interview technique and document analysis to obtain data. The findings showed the main activities inculcated in the learning of the Quran were reading and writing skills. These activities were carried out individually and in groups based on the different characteristics of the deaf students. Therefore, teachers should be aware of students’ ability levels and the different characteristics of the students’ hearing impairments such as mild, severe, and profoundly deaf so that the planned learning activities could be conducted smoothly during the teaching and learning sessions.
Ratification of International Labour Convention and the Reformation of Trade Union Recognition Process in Malaysia
Authors: Abd Razak Siti Suraya , Nik Mahmod Nik Ahmad Kamal
Published: March 2021

The decline in the density of trade unions and the decreasing number of collective agreements had resulted in a deplorable situation in Malaysia. It is difficult to resolve the problems because the trade unions’ recognition process is often complex and legislatively restrictive. Nonetheless, the ratification of the International Labour Convention and ILO Convention No.87 could be a stepping stone in the reformation of the recognition process’s legal framework. Therefore, the present paper analysed the role of the ILO convention in reforming the trade union recognition process in Malaysia. Additionally, a qualitative method was employed to examine the role of the convention and its mechanism in the reformation of trade union recognition. Next, pure legalistic analysis and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the industrial relations key player to obtain their perspectives on the effect of ratification on industrial relations. Based on the generated outcomes, there were mixed views on the ratification of the stated convention. Additionally, this paper analysed the impact of the ratification of the convention by the member states of the ILO and how these countries benefitted from the ratification. Finally, this paper concluded that despite the challenges, the ratification of the convention improved the trade union recognition process in Malaysia. Therefore, the Malaysian government should immediately ratify ILO Convention No.87.
Gender Stereotyping in TV Drama in Pakistan: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Malik Qurat-ul-Ain , Hameed-ur-Rahman Bushra
Published: March 2021

The research was aimed at analysing gender portrayal in TV drama in Pakistan over a period of five decades from its very inception in the late 1960’s till 2017. The research explored what types of gender stereotypes were being propagated in the prime time drama serials on the State owned TV channel, PTV which was the only platform available for most part of this duration. The methodology adopted for the research was quantitative in nature and involved a content analysis of the most popular Urdu serials aired between 1968 and 2017. The research focused on the three main characters in each drama and the total sample comprised 72 characters. These characters were analysed in a total of 4834 scenes to observe the display of gender stereotypes. The findings indicated that although overall both the genders were displaying their gender specific stereotypes yet some stereotypes such as bravery and aggressiveness were not being displayed by males and passivity, victimization and fearfulness were not being displayed by females. Later the 50 year time period was sub-divided into five decades to observe whether there had been a change over the years keeping in view the massive changes which had taken place in society. Findings indicated that although there were differences in gender depiction between the five decades for both the genders yet the changes were not linear which pointed to the role of other factors such as government policies which could have contributed to the increasing and decreasing stereotyping over the years.
Authenticity in Reality Television—The Case of ‘Sing! China’
Authors: Xie Yuting , Yasin Megat Al Imran , Shekh Alsagoff Syed Agil , Ang Lay Hoon
Published: March 2021

The issue of onscreen authenticity has become a controversial topic among the public, especially in the Information Era. The reality television phenomenon is global; therefore, it is worth studying the topic of authenticity in reality television in a particular context. We analysed authenticity in reality television through the programme ‘Sing! China’, focusing on which authenticity issues were present and how these issues were depicted. The chosen methodology combined relevant literature and a case study, and the discussion about authenticity in the programme was studied through online audience discourse such as their communications and interactions. The research showed that authenticity in reality television was a type of mediated authenticity by directors. It mainly manifested in two ways: performing authenticity and fabricated authenticity, from the perspective of the performance of participants and the production of programmes respectively. The findings indicated that authenticity in reality television does not fully reflect the truth. This study can not only help us explore manifestations of the truth on the screen, but can also aid in the future development of reality television programmes.
The influence of adalimumab treatment on the systemic gene expression in patients with psoriatic arthritis – preliminary report
Authors: Krawczyk Agata , Strzałka-Mrozik Barbara , Wcisło-Dziadecka Dominika , Kimsa-Dudek Magdalena , Kruszniewska-Rajsa Celina , Gola Joanna
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The primary goal of psoriasis treatment is to reduce the inflammatory response and associated complications. In severe cases of psoriasis that are resistant to local treatment (e.g., keratolytic preparations) and at least two types of general treatment methods (e.g., retinoids and cyclosporine A), biological therapy is used.
This study aimed to assess the systemic effects of adalimumab at a given stage of treatment in patients with psoriatic arthritis and evaluate how the drug can improve the clinical condition of the patients.

Material and methods

The study group consisted of patients with diagnosed psoriatic arthritis, while the control group consisted of individuals from whom peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained. The effects of the administration of adalimumab were assessed by analyzing the gene expression using oligonucleotide microarrays.

Results

The apoptosis process was indicated as one of the overrepresented categories (the PANTHER classification system 13.1 program, overrepresentativity test, p < 0.05). The dermatological indexes decreased, indicating an improvement in the clinical conditions of the patients three months after the first dose of adalimumab.

Conclusions

We found that adalimumab affects apoptosis, which is crucial in the development and course of psoriasis. The differential gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with psoriatic arthritis indicated the potential systemic effects of adalimumab therapy. The analyses of dermatological (the Psoriasis Area And Severity Index, body surface area and Dermatology Life Quality Index) and inflammatory (Biernacki’s reaction) parameters revealed the effectiveness of the therapy.
MOTIVASI SIKAP RELIGIUS MELALUI MANAJEMEN DAKWAH DI RUMAH SAKIT ISLAM SUNAN KUDUS
Authors: Kristiana Rahmawati Heny
Published: March 2021

Da'wah activities require a set of supporters in achieving success. This is influenced by the existence of a capability from a Da'i, the material presented as well as mad'u or the object that is being targeted must be clear about the purpose and benefits. If these components are processed using Islamic management knowledge, then the missionary activity will take place in a smooth and appropriate manner. In general, hospital institutions are only considered to be engaged in the health sector in which there are elements to seek profit only. But there is also a Hospital that is not only engaged in health and looking for profit but still pay attention to Islamic faith in every activity carried out. That is what is done by Sunan Kudus Islamic Hospital which provides Islamic services and still pays attention to the quality of worship to God for both employees and patients. So this missionary activity was carried out to support the services of the Sunan Kudus Islamic Hospital. The goal is that employees and patients at the Sunan Kudus Islamic Hospital have the motivation of religious attitudes towards actions and behaviors that are influenced by religious values ​​or teachings that are the driving force for directing behavior in accordance with the level of obedience to religion
Assessment of antioxidant and antibacterial activity of Phoenix dactylifera L. seed extracts: Perspective for the development of new foods
Authors: Ait Ouahioune Lidia , Bara Fatma , Bariz Karim , Houali Karim , Djenane Djamel
Published: March 2021

Background: Conventional food additives were associated with potential harm. Palm seeds are an interesting source of high-added value bioactive compounds, regarding their potential use in food industries. Aim: Date seeds extract (DSE) of Algerian Phoenix dactyliefra L. was studied for its phytochemical, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity and to identify its potential uses in foods. Material and methods: A total soluble solid of DSE (°Brix) was determined by refractometry. The total phenolic contents (TPCs) were determined according to the Folin-Cioclateu method and the total flavonoid and flavonols were also estimated with colorimetric method. The DPPH method was used to determine the antioxidant activity of DSE. The IC50 values were also calculated and the antioxidant activity index (AAI) was determined. The agar well diffusion method was employed for the antibacterial activity of the aqueous DSE against various pathogens. Results: Moisture, ash, and fat contents (%) determined were 11.06, 1.33, and 7.06, respectively. The physicochemical analysis of the extract showed a pH value of 4.67, titratable acidity value of 0.64 citric acid/100 g, °Brix value = 3%, sugars values of 0.12, 0.47, and 0.35 g/L for reducing sugar, total sugar, and sucrose, respectively. The determination of phenolic compounds was carried out on three groups, namely total phenols = 229.67 mg GAEq/g, flavonoids = 201.12 mg QEq/g, and flavonols = 173.03 mg QEq/g, respectively. The DSE demonstrates to be effective as an antioxidant “in vitro” and showed a strong antibacterial activity with different inhibition levels, depending on the bacterial strains. Conclusion: The current investigations present knowledge about the possible role of palm industry by-products as a novel perspective for the development of new foods. We suggest that date seeds can be exploited in some food applications utilizing their high levels of bioactive molecules.

​Keywords: Phoenix dactylifera L., Degla-Baïda, seeds extract, bioactive molecules, biological activity, in vitro, novel perspective.
Phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of different parts of three mandarin varieties extracts: A comparative study
Authors: Chaalal Makhlouf , Ydjedd iham , Mansouri Sana
Published: March 2021

Background: Mandarin by-products, such as peels and seeds, are considered as one of the naturel source of phenolic compounds. Aim: The objective of the present study was to compare the phenolic compounds contents and antioxidant activity of different parts (pulps, seeds, juices, and peels) of three mandarins varieties extracts. Material and methods: Total phenolic, flavonoid, and proanthocyanidin contents of the extracts were assessed while, the antioxidant activity was evaluated using three tests including ferric reducing power, free radical scavenging activity, and phosphomolybdate. Results: The Mediterranean Mandarin peels present a high total phenolics and flavonoids contents with values of 2445.62 mg GAE/100g FW and 609.78 mg QE/100g FW, respectively. Likewise, the clementine juice showed the highest proanthocyanins contents with value of 46.67 mg CE/100g FW. Seeds and pulps of the three varieties present the lowest phenolic compound contents. Mediterranean Mandarin juice showed a strong ferric reducing power and phosphomolybdate with values of 1270.91 and 190.19 mg AAE/100g FW, respectively, however, the peels reveled a strong free radical scavenging activity with value of 259.89 mg AAE/100 g FW. Statistical analysis showed a positive correlation between the antioxidant activity and the phenolic compounds contents of the three studied mandarins varieties extracts. Conclusion: Among the analyzed cultivars, Mediterranean mandarin variety may be considered as the most promising source of polyphenols and antioxidants, compared to the clementine and Satsuma varieties. Moreover, this study also highlights important properties of the fruit parts generally considered wastes. Keywords: Mandarins, different parts, phenolics compounds, antioxidant activity.
Diet, weight status, and physical activity in cancer prevention
Authors: Mehdad Slimane , Mansour Saida , Aguenaou Hassan , Taghzouti Khalid
Published: March 2021

Background: Cancer is a multifactorial disease involving individual, behavioral and environmental factors that can contribute to its onset. More than 40% of cancers are estimated to be attributable to avoidable risk factors, particularly diet, physical activity, weight status, and alcohol consumption. Aim: To provide insight into the role of weight status, diet, and physical activity in cancer causation and prevention, and to highlight evidence-based recommendations. Material and methods: A literature review of published studies, particularly recent systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and large prospective studies was conducted using PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Results: There is evidence that diets high in red and processed meats, fat and refined carbohydrates, and low in plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, high consumption of alcohol, overweight/obesity, and physical inactivity are associated with increased risk of tumor development and progression. Therefore, the current recommendations for cancer prevention are based on: (1) eating at least five portions (400g) of vegetables (3 portions) and fruits (2 portions); (2) limiting the consumption of alcohol and unhealthy foods such as red and processed meats, energy-dense foods, and trans-fatty acids; (3) maintaining a healthy weight status; and (4) being at least moderately physically active. Conclusion: While a balanced diet, as defined by the recommendations, can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, no single food can prevent the development of this pathology. The term "anticancer" associated with diet is therefore misleading. Several nutritional factors are associated with an increase or a decrease in the risk of certain cancers. Adopting a healthy and plant-based diets, avoiding overweight/obesity, and being physically active are considered as cornerstones of preventive strategies against cancer. Further studies are needed to elucidate the associations between dietary and lifestyle patterns and cancer.

​Keywords: Cancer, Diet, Weight status, Overweight, Obesity, Physical activity.
Nutritional properties and plausible benefits of Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) on bone metabolism and osteoimmunology : a mini-review
Authors: Nani Abdelhafid , Belarbi Meriem , Khan Naim Akhtar , Hichami Aziz
Published: March 2021

Bone is a hard connective tissue that undergoes a systematic renewal. This highly dynamic organ is made up of four different types of cells, however, bone formation is commonly attributed to osteoblasts and bone resorption to osteoclasts. Bone tissue formation occurs during embryonic development and in certain post-birth pathological conditions. The immune system could influence the functions of bone cells, and the crosstalk between hematopoietic, immune, and bone cells is known as osteoimmunology. Indeed, cytokines produced by immune cells, including TNF-α and IL-6, are critically implicated in bone pathogenesis. It is well established that diet plays an important role in bone health and function. Indeed, antioxidant nutraceuticals-rich diet, of which pearl millet is one, can be effective in treating osteoporosis. Pearl millet (PM) is an African native cereal that constitutes the staple food for African Sahel region inhabitants as well as for many peoples in rural regions in India. Pearl millet grains content in amino acids, minerals, and phytochemicals may contribute to promoting bone health and metabolism. Accordingly, in the current review, we discuss the putative effects of PM nutrients, with a focus on polyphenols, on bone metabolism and osteoimmunology. In the light of our previous studies and others from literature, we speculate that PM whole grains may be effective in the prevention and management of bone pathogenesis.

​Keywords: PM whole grains, polyphenols, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, osteoimmunology, TNF-α.
Bioactive compounds and antimicrobial activity of extracts from fermented African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa) against pathogenic microorganisms
Authors: Eboma Rachael Nkechi , Ogidi Clement Olusola , Akinyele Bamidele Juliet
Published: March 2021

Background: The challenges of multiple antibiotic resistance by pathogenic microorganisms has necessitated the need for a continuous searching for new and effective antimicrobial bioactive compounds. Objectives: In this study, antimicrobial activity of extracts from fermented condiment from Parkia biglobosa was investigated against some pathogenic microorganisms. Materials and Methods: Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify bioactive compounds in n-hexane extract (oil). Aqueous and n-hexane extracts of locust beans were tested against clinical isolates; viz., Klebsiella spp., Aeromonas hydrophilia, Citrobacter braakii, Enterobacter aerogenes, Shigella dysenteriae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans using agar well diffusion method. Results: The study revealed the phytochemicals in oil as phenols (41.8 mg/100g), flavonoids of 19.37 mg/100g, saponins (16.7 mg/100g), alkaloids (22.9 mg/100g), steroids (6.9 mg/100g), terpenoids (10.0 mg/100g) and cardiac glycosides (3.3 mg/100g). The aqueous extract contains phenols (33.7 mg/100g), flavonoids (12.3 mg/100g), alkaloids (17.6 mg/100g), saponins (5.0 mg/100g) and cardiac glycosides (1.2 mg/100g). The bioactive compounds in the n-hexane extract were ricinoleic acid, p-cymene, octadecanoic acid, n-hexadecanoic acid and others. Oil from fermented locust bean exhibited zones of inhibition ranging from 5 mm to 14 mm against the tested isolates at 10 mg/mL, while the aqueous extract displayed inhibition zones of 4 mm to 10 mm at 10.0 mg/mL. Conclusion: The chemical constituents in locally fermented condiment (locust bean) are responsible for pronounced antimicrobial properties. Hence, the condiment can be exploited for medicinal purposes.

​Keywords: Fermented food, condiment, n-hexane, phytochemicals and antimicrobials.
Bioenrichment using Satureja montana L. essential oil for the prevention against photooxidation of flavored extra virgin olive oil during light display
Authors: Taoudiat Aldjia , Spigno Giorgia , Ferhat Zoulikha , Djenane Djamel
Published: March 2021

Background: In response to consumer demand for novel and healthy foods, the presence in the market of olive oils (OOs) flavored with different plants, spices, herbs or fruits is increasingly common. All these flavoring agents have been used over the years due to its content in compounds with biological activities. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of the addition of S. montana EO at 100 ppm (0.01%, v/v), known for its high content of bioactive compounds, good flavor, and aroma in improving oxidative stability and quality profile of EVOO subjected to conditions causing accelerated oxidation (Light storage at 900 lux). Materials and methods: The S. montana EO chemical components were identified using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Enriched and non-enriched EVOO samples were examined as function of time (30, 60 and 9 days) of display for different quality indices. Results: Using GC/MS analysis of S. montana EO: thymol (28.36%), carvacrol (17.45%), p-cymene (10.91%), trans-caryophyllene (5.54%), ɤ-terpinene (5.03%) and geraniol (4.50%) were identified. The results highlighted that the enrichment with S. montana EO led to lower values of lipid oxidation indicators (K232, K270, peroxide value) and higher concentration of antioxidants (total phenols and pigments). In sum, the use of bioenrichment methods could be a sustainable solution for the promotion of the quality characteristics of EVOO in Algeria.

​Keywords: Bioenrichment, Satureja montana L., Essential oil, Extra virgin olive oil, Display, Quality stability.
Statistical characteristics of raindrop size distribution over the Western Ghats of India: wet versus dry spells of the Indian summer monsoon
Authors: Murali Krishna Uriya Veerendra , Das Subrata Kumar , Sulochana Ezhilarasi Govindaraj , Bhowmik Utsav , Deshpande Sachin Madhukar , Pandithurai Govindan
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The nature of raindrop size distribution (DSD) is analyzed for wet and dry
spells of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) in the Western Ghats (WG) region using
Joss–Waldvogel disdrometer (JWD) measurements during the ISM period
(June–September) in 2012–2015. The observed DSDs are fitted with a gamma
distribution. Observations show a higher number of smaller drops in dry spells
and more midsize and large drops in wet spells. The DSD spectra show distinct
diurnal variation during wet and dry spells. The dry spells exhibit a strong
diurnal cycle with two peaks, while the diurnal cycle is not very prominent in
the wet spells. Results reveal the microphysical characteristics of warm rain
during both wet and dry periods. However, the underlying dynamical parameters,
such as moisture availability and vertical wind, cause the differences in
DSD characteristics. The higher moisture and strong vertical winds can provide
sufficient time for the raindrops to grow bigger in wet spells, whereas
higher temperature may lead to evaporation and drop breakup processes in dry
spells. In addition, the differences in DSD spectra with different rain rates
are also observed. The DSD spectra are further analyzed by separating them into
stratiform and convective rain types. Finally, an empirical relationship
between the slope parameter λ and the shape parameter μ is derived by
fitting the quadratic polynomial during wet and dry spells as well as for
stratiform and convective types of rain. The μ–λ relations
obtained in this work are slightly different compared to previous
studies. These differences could be related to different rain microphysics
such as collision–coalescence and breakup.
Sensitivities of the Madden–Julian oscillation forecasts to configurations of physics in the ECMWF global model
Authors: Yano Jun-Ichi , Wedi Nils P.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The sensitivities of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) forecasts to various different configurations of the
parameterized physics are examined with the global model of ECMWF's Integrated
Forecasting System (IFS). The motivation for the study was to simulate
the MJO as a nonlinear free wave under active interactions with
higher-latitude Rossby waves. To emulate free dynamics in the IFS, various
momentum-dissipation terms (“friction”) as well as diabatic heating were
selectively turned off over the tropics for the range of the latitudes from
20∘ S to 20∘ N. The reduction of friction sometimes improves the MJO forecasts,
although without any systematic tendency. Contrary to the original motivation,
emulating free dynamics with an operational forecast model turned out to be
rather difficult, because forecast performance sensitively depends on the
specific type of friction turned off. The result suggests the need for
theoretical investigations that much more closely follow the actual
formulations of model physics: a naive approach with a dichotomy of with or
without friction simply fails to elucidate the rich behaviour of complex
operational models. The paper further exposes the importance of physical
processes other than convection for simulating the MJO in global forecast
models.
Monitoring sudden stratospheric warmings using radio occultation: a new approach demonstrated based on the 2009 event
Authors: Li Ying , Kirchengast Gottfried , Schwärz Marc , Ladstädter Florian , Yuan Yunbin
Published: March 2021

Abstract. We introduce a new method to detect and monitor sudden
stratospheric warming (SSW) events using Global Navigation Satellite System
(GNSS) radio occultation (RO) data at high northern latitudes and
demonstrate it for the well-known January–February 2009 event. We first construct RO
temperature, density, and bending angle anomaly profiles and estimate
vertical-mean anomalies in selected altitude layers. These mean anomalies
are then averaged into a daily updated 5∘ latitude × 20∘ longitude grid over 50–90∘ N.
Based on the gridded mean anomalies, we employ the concept of threshold
exceedance areas (TEAs), the geographic areas wherein the anomalies exceed
predefined threshold values such as 40 K or 40 %. We estimate five basic
TEAs for selected altitude layers and thresholds and use them to derive
primary-, secondary-, and trailing-phase TEA metrics to detect SSWs and to
monitor in particular their main-phase (primary- plus secondary-phase)
evolution on a daily basis. As an initial setting, the main phase requires
daily TEAs to exceed 3×106 km2, based on which main-phase duration,
area, and overall event strength are recorded. Using the January–February 2009 SSW
event for demonstration, and employing RO data plus cross-evaluation data
from analysis fields of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather
Forecasts (ECMWF), we find the new approach has strong potential for
detecting and monitoring SSW events. The primary-phase metric shows a strong
SSW emerging on 20 January, reaching a maximum on 23 January and fading by 30 January.
On 22–23 January, temperature anomalies over the middle stratosphere exceeding
40 K cover an area of more than 10×106 km2. The geographic tracking of
the SSW showed that it was centered over east Greenland, covering Greenland
entirely and extending from western Iceland to eastern Canada. The secondary-
and trailing-phase metrics track the further SSW development, where the
thermodynamic anomaly propagated downward and was fading with a transient
upper stratospheric cooling, spanning until the end of February and beyond. Given
the encouraging demonstration results, we expect the method to be very suitable
for long-term monitoring of how SSW characteristics evolve under climate
change and polar vortex variability, using both RO and reanalysis data.
Hydrometeorological data from a Remotely Operated Multi-Parameter Station network in Central Asia
Authors: Zech Cornelia , Schöne Tilo , Illigner Julia , Stolarczuk Nico , Queißer Torsten , Köppl Matthias , Thoss Heiko , Zubovich Alexander , Sharshebaev Azamat , Zakhidov Kakhramon , Toshpulatov Khurshid , Tillayev Yusufjon , Olimov Sukhrob , Paiman Zabihullah , Unger-Shayesteh Katy , Gafurov Abror , Moldobekov Bolot
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The regional research network Water in Central Asia (CAWa)
funded by the German Federal Foreign Office consists of 18 remotely operated
multi-parameter stations (ROMPSs) in Central Asia. These stations were
installed by the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) in Potsdam,
Germany, in close cooperation with the Central-Asian Institute for Applied
Geosciences (CAIAG) in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; the national hydrometeorological
services in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan; the Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute
in Tashkent, Uzbekistan; and the Kabul Polytechnic University, Afghanistan.
The primary objective of these stations is to support the establishment of a
reliable data basis of meteorological and hydrological data especially in
remote areas with extreme climate conditions for applications in climate and
water monitoring in Central Asia. Up to now, 10 years of data have been provided
for an area of scarce station distribution and with limited open-access data
which can be used for a wide range of scientific or engineering
applications. The data described in this paper are made publicly
available with the digital object identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.5880/GFZ.1.2.2020.002 (Zech et al., 2020) or via the
Sensor Data Storage System (SDSS) at http://sdss.caiag.kg (last access: 22 February 2021).
WegenerNet high-resolution weather and climate data from 2007 to 2020
Authors: Fuchsberger Jürgen , Kirchengast Gottfried , Kabas Thomas
Published: March 2021

Abstract. This paper describes the latest reprocessed data record (version 7.1) over 2007 to 2020 from the WegenerNet climate station networks, which since 2007
have been providing measurements with very high spatial and temporal resolution of hydrometeorological variables for two regions in the state of Styria, southeastern Austria:
(1) the WegenerNet Feldbach Region, in the Alpine forelands of southeastern Styria, which extends over an area of about 22 km × 16 km and comprises 155 meteorological stations placed on a tightly spaced grid with an average
spatial density of 1 station per ∼ 2 km2 and a temporal sampling of 5 min,
and (2) the WegenerNet Johnsbachtal, which is a smaller “sister network” of the WegenerNet Feldbach Region in the mountainous Alpine region of upper Styria that extends over an area of about 16 km × 17 km
and comprises 13 meteorological stations and 1 hydrographic station at altitudes ranging from below 600 m to over 2100 m and with a temporal sampling of 10 min.
These networks operate on a long-term basis and continuously provide quality-controlled station time series for a multitude of hydrometeorological near-surface and surface variables, including air temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed and direction, wind gust speed and direction, soil moisture, soil temperature, and others like pressure and radiation variables at a few reference stations.
In addition, gridded data are available at a resolution of 200 m × 200 m for air temperature, relative humidity,
precipitation, and heat index for the Feldbach region and at a resolution of 100 m × 100 m for the
wind parameters for both regions.
Here we describe this dataset (the most recent reprocessing version 7.1) in terms of the measurement site and station characteristics as well as the data processing, from raw data (level 0) via quality-controlled basic station data (level 1) to weather and climate data products (level 2).
In order to showcase the practical utility of the data, we also include two illustrative example
applications, briefly summarize and refer to scientific uses in a range of previous studies, and briefly inform about the most recent WegenerNet advancements in 2020 towards a 3D open-air laboratory for climate change research.
The dataset is published as part of the University of Graz Wegener Center's WegenerNet data repository under the DOI https://doi.org/10.25364/WEGC/WPS7.1:2021.1 (Fuchsberger et al., 2021)
and is continuously extended.
A Parameterization of Sub-grid Topographical Effects on Solar Radiation in the E3SM Land Model (Version 1.0): Implementation and Evaluation Over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Hao Dalei , Bisht Gautam , Gu Yu , Lee Wei‐Liang , Liou Kuo-Nan , Leung L. Ruby
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Topography exerts significant influences on the incoming solar radiation at the land surface. A few stand-alone regional and global atmospheric models have included parameterizations for sub-grid topographic effects on solar radiation. However, nearly all Earth System Models (ESMs) that participated in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) use a plane-parallel (PP) radiative transfer scheme that assumes the terrain is flat. In this study, we incorporated a well-validated sub-grid topographic (TOP) parameterization in the Energy Exascale Earth System Model (E3SM) Land Model (ELM) version 1.0 to quantify the effects of sub-grid topography on solar radiation flux, including the shadow effects and multi-scattering between adjacent terrain. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data was used to evaluate the performance of ELM. We studied the role of sub-grid topography by performing ELM simulations with the PP and TOP schemes over the Tibetan Plateau (TP). Additional ELM simulations were performed at multiple spatial resolutions to investigate the role of spatial scale on sub-grid topographic effects on solar radiation. When compared to MODIS data, incorporating the sub-grid topographic effects overall reduces the biases of ELM in simulating surface energy balance, snow cover and surface temperature especially in the high-elevation and snow-cover regions over the TP. Topography has non-negligible effects on surface energy budget, snow cover, and surface temperature over the TP. The absolute differences in surface energy fluxes for net solar radiation, latent heat flux, and sensible heat flux between TOP and PP exceed 20 W/m2, 10 W/m2, and 5 W/m2, respectively. The differences in land surface albedo, snow cover fraction, and surface temperature between TOP and PP exceed 0.1, 20%, and 1K, respectively. The magnitude of the sub-grid topographic effects is dependent on seasons and elevations, and is also sensitive to the spatial scales. Although the sub-grid topographic effects on solar radiation are more significant with more spatial details at finer spatial scales, they cannot be simply neglected at coarse spatial scales. The inclusion of sub-grid topographic effects on solar radiation parameterization in ELM will contribute to advancing our understanding of the role of the surface topography on terrestrial processes over complex terrain.