bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of antioxidant, antibacterial and wound healing activities of Vitex pinnata
Authors: Shafie Nurul Ashifah , Suhaili Nur Atiqah , Taha Hussein , Ahmad Norhayati
Published: August 2020

Background: Vitex pinnata is a popular ethnomedicinal plant but scientific studies to validate its pharmacological properties are lacking for this plant. This study aims to determine the antioxidant, antimicrobial and wound healing properties of the methanolic extract of the leaves and the hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions.   

Methods: The leaves of Vitex pinnata underwent methanol extraction and the methanol extract was fractionated with hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate solvents. The antioxidant activity was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by disc diffusion assay against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For the wound healing studies, the methanolic extracts of V. pinnata were used to prepare ointments with compositions of 10% (w/w) and 50% (w/w), which were evaluated for wound healing activity in an excision wound model in Wistar rats.

Results: All the extracts showed antioxidant activities, with the ethyl acetate extract having the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity, followed by the methanol, chloroform and hexane extracts. Similarly, their quercetin equivalent concentrations were 33.1, 31, 20.3 and 4.5 mg/mL, respectively. Except for the methanol extract, the disc diffusion assay showed that the extracts demonstrated species-specific antibacterial activities, with the ethyl acetate extract showing antibacterial activities against all four tested strains. The wound healing activity of the high dose treated group (50% [w/w]) shows significant increase of wound contraction when compared to the control group.

Conclusion: In the current study, the ethyl acetate extract showed activity for all tested bacteria and also had the highest DPPH activity. The methanolic extracts of V. pinnata leaves show modest wound healing activity in an excision wound model.
Dictionary of disease ontologies (DODO): a graph database to facilitate access and interaction with disease and phenotype ontologies
Authors: François Liesbeth , Eyll Jonathan van , Godard Patrice
Published: August 2020

The formal, hierarchical classification of diseases and phenotypes in ontologies facilitates the connection to various biomedical databases (drugs, drug targets, genetic variant, literature information...). Connecting these resources is complicated by the use of heterogeneous disease definitions, and differences in granularity and structure. Despite ongoing efforts on integration, two challenges remain: (1) no resource provides a complete mapping across the multitude of disease ontologies and (2) there is no software available to comprehensively explore and interact with disease ontologies. In this paper, the DODO (Dictionary of Disease Ontology) database and R package are presented. DODO aims to deal with these two challenges by constructing a meta-database incorporating information of different publicly available disease ontologies. Thanks to the graph implementation, DODO allows the identification of indirect cross-references by allowing some relationships to be transitive. The R package provides several functions to build and interact with disease networks or convert identifiers between ontologies. They specifically aim to facilitate the integration of information from life science databases without the need to harmonize these upfront. The workflow for local adaptation and extension of the DODO database and a docker image with a DODO database instance are available.
A proposed molecular mechanism for pathogenesis of severe RNA-viral pulmonary infections
Authors: Rogan Peter K. , Mucaki Eliseos J. , Shirley Ben C.
Published: August 2020

Background:Certain riboviruses can cause severe pulmonary complications leading to death in some infected patients. We propose that DNA damage induced-apoptosis accelerates viral release, triggered by depletion of host RNA binding proteins (RBPs) from nuclear RNA bound to replicating viral sequences.

Methods:Information theory-based analysis of interactions between RBPs and individual sequences in the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Influenza A (H3N1), HIV-1, and Dengue genomes identifies strong RBP binding sites in these viral genomes. Replication and expression of viral sequences is expected to increasingly sequester RBPs - SRSF1 and RNPS1. Ordinarily, RBPs bound to nascent host transcripts prevents their annealing to complementary DNA. Their depletion induces destabilizing R-loops. Chromosomal breakage occurs when an excess of unresolved R-loops collide with incoming replication forks, overwhelming the DNA repair machinery. We estimated stoichiometry of inhibition of RBPs in host nuclear RNA by counting competing binding sites in replicating viral genomes and host RNA.

Results:Host RBP binding sites are frequent and conserved among different strains of RNA viral genomes. Similar binding motifs of SRSF1 and RNPS1 explain why DNA damage resulting from SRSF1 depletion is complemented by expression of RNPS1. Clustering of strong RBP binding sites coincides with the distribution of RNA-DNA hybridization sites across the genome. SARS-CoV-2 replication is estimated to require 32.5-41.8 hours to effectively compete for binding of an equal proportion of SRSF1 binding sites in host encoded nuclear RNAs. Significant changes in expression of transcripts encoding DNA repair and apoptotic proteins were found in an analysis of influenza A and Dengue-infected cells in some individuals.

Conclusions:R-loop-induced apoptosis indirectly resulting from viral replication could release significant quantities of membrane-associated virions into neighboring alveoli. These could infect adjacent pneumocytes and other tissues, rapidly compromising lung function, causing multiorgan system failure and other described symptoms.
Dynamic causal modelling of COVID-19
Authors: Friston Karl J. , Parr Thomas , Zeidman Peter , Razi Adeel , Flandin Guillaume , Daunizeau Jean , Hulme Ollie J. , Billig Alexander J. , Litvak Vladimir , Moran Rosalyn J. , Price Cathy J. , Lambert Christian
Published: August 2020

This technical report describes a dynamic causal model of the spread of coronavirus through a population. The model is based upon ensemble or population dynamics that generate outcomes, like new cases and deaths over time. The purpose of this model is to quantify the uncertainty that attends predictions of relevant outcomes. By assuming suitable conditional dependencies, one can model the effects of interventions (e.g., social distancing) and differences among populations (e.g., herd immunity) to predict what might happen in different circumstances. Technically, this model leverages state-of-the-art variational (Bayesian) model inversion and comparison procedures, originally developed to characterise the responses of neuronal ensembles to perturbations. Here, this modelling is applied to epidemiological populations—to illustrate the kind of inferences that are supported and how the model per se can be optimised given timeseries data. Although the purpose of this paper is to describe a modelling protocol, the results illustrate some interesting perspectives on the current pandemic; for example, the nonlinear effects of herd immunity that speak to a self-organised mitigation process.
Towards Emancipatory L2 Instruction: Exploring Significant Learning Outcomes from Collaborative Digital Storytelling
Authors: Simsek Meliha R.
Published: August 2020

Digital storytelling has undergone extensive study in different content-areas, but its naturally-combined use with collaborative writing for skills development, and reflective practice remains underresearched in pre-service EFL teacher education. This study undertook joint tech-enhanced retelling of L2 texts by 56 Turkish EFL teacher candidates, rubric-based peer and teacher assessment of final products, comparative analysis of complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF) between outliers, and process evaluation using the significant learning taxonomy to explore impacts on L2 writing performance, academic learning, and personal growth. Despite assigning lower scores than the teacher-assessors, especially to the top-performers, the majority of peers successfully fulfilled the job, effectively performed the future reviewer role, and positively reacted to co-construction, and technology integration. CAF and reflection analyses indicated that the biggest difference between the highest- and lowest-scoring groups lay in grammatical accuracy, and lack of mutual interaction could account for the less cooperative group’s poorer performance. The classification of their post-task responses into six kinds of learning gains (foundational knowledge, application, integration, human dimension, caring, and learning how to learn) also revealed that their collaborative digital storytelling experience (CDS) elicited more procedural, critical, creative and practical thinking on the academic learning front, while disciplinary and integrative thinking may have declined due to more immediate preoccupation with task achievement. Their critical thinking was mainly organised around consensus-reaching, fluctuating membership, and logistical challenges, and most demonstrated a clear understanding of the role of positive group dynamics in group outcomes. Despite heightened awareness of the performance-boosting, character-forming, and motivational benefits of collective scaffolding and multimodal meaning-making, a minority could also discern the instrumentality of innovative teaching techniques in their future classroom practices.
Measurements of nonlinear absorption of intense 10  µm laser pulses in n-Ge, GaAs, and ZnSe
Authors: Matteo Daniel , Pigeon Jeremy , Tochitsky Sergei , Ben-Zvi Ilan , Joshi Chan
Published: August 2020

We study the nonlinear absorption of high-power 10 µm radiation propagating through

n

-Ge, GaAs, and ZnSe materials widely used in the long-wave infrared range. Measurements are performed using both nanosecond and picosecond

C
O

2

laser pulses providing intensities up to

100

M
W

/

c
m

2

and

5

G
W

/

c
m

2

, respectively. Nonlinear absorption coefficients in optical quality

n

-Ge are found to be the same for both pulse durations. The nonlinear absorption coefficient of these materials scales inverse proportionally to their bandgap energies, indicating increased photoionization in the smaller bandgap materials.
High-precision processing method for an aluminum mirror assisted with a femtosecond laser
Authors: Zhao Tao , Hu Hao , Peng Xiao-Qiang , Guan Chao-Liang , Dai Yi-Fan , Yong Jia-Hao , Gan Zi-Hao
Published: August 2020

At present, aluminum-based optical payloads are widely used in the aviation and aerospace field, and the demand for aluminum mirrors has become increasingly urgent in the visible light region. The main processing of an aluminum alloy mirror involves single-point diamond turning followed by a combined polishing process. Among these processes, magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is an important method for improving a surface figure. During the MRF process, excessive impurity contaminants are introduced into the surface of the aluminum mirror, thereby reducing surface reflectivity. In this paper, theoretical analysis and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiling were used to obtain the cause of pollution, and the process scheme of femtosecond laser cleaning was proposed. After verifying the feasibility, a new, to the best of our knowledge, process route was implemented on a

Φ

50

m
m

aluminum mirror. Finally, the surface figure of RMS

0.022

λ

and the surface roughness of Ra 3.24 nm were obtained. In addition, reflectance in the visible light and near-infrared bands has increased by about 50%.
Imaging properties of generalized composite aperiodic zone plates
Authors: Xia Tian , Cheng Shubo , Tao Shaohua , Yu Weixing
Published: August 2020

Generalized composite aperiodic zone plates (GCAZPs) are proposed to generate clearer images at focal planes. The images can be produced by a target object at infinity based on a collimator. The proposed zone plate consists of the proposed radial zone plate (RZP), whose original radius is not zero, and the common aperiodic zone plate, which has the coincident first-order diffraction area and the same axial first-order diffraction intensity distribution. The GCAZPs are applicable for the other aperiodic zone plates. Moreover, the modulation transfer function curve of the GCAZP is basically above that of the corresponding common aperiodic zone plate. Compared with the common aperiodic zone plates, the GCAZPs have the foci with higher intensity and the images with higher contrast at the same focal planes. In addition, a GCAZP with an arbitrary size can be designed. The construction method of the GCAZP is illustrated in details. Furthermore, it has been also proved numerically and experimentally that the GCAZPs are used to generate the clearer images than the corresponding common aperiodic zone plates. The proposed zone plates are applicable to generate clear images and trap particles stably at multiple planes simultaneously.
A orientação da ação para leitura crítica a partir de uma Experiência Formativa: uma contribuição para o ensino de química
Authors: Façanha Alessandro Augusto de Barros
Published: August 2020

A influência da Experiência Formativa no processo de compreensão da ação se constitui como o objeto dessa pesquisa de doutorado, a qual, tem como tese a defesa de que um sistema didático estruturado no conceito de orientação da ação de P. Ya. Galperin é capaz de promover uma mudança qualitativa na base orientadora de futuros professores de Química para ler criticamente. Surge em resposta a um problema de natureza formativa que se revela no distanciamento dessa habilidade como parte do conhecimento profissional para ensinar. Pautada na premissa de que a base orientadora é a estrutura central na aprendizagem, executa uma Experiência Formativa no intuito de se reestruturar a compreensão da leitura crítica em relação a um esquema orientador de referência. A pesquisa se pautou nos aspectos teóricos do enfoque Histórico-cultural com ênfase na Teoria da Atividade de A. N. Leontiev (1978), na perspectiva do experimento formativo de L. S. Vygotski (1982) e no conceito de Orientação da Ação presente na Teoria da Formação Planejada das Ações Mentais e dos Conceitos (TFPAMC) de P. Ya. Galperin (1979;1986), no intuito de investigar o processo de compreensão a ação para ler criticamente no com texto do ensino da Química no âmbito de uma experiência didático-formativa.
ITSBAT TALAK DALAM PERSPEKTIF HUKUM PERKAWINAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Zainuddin Zainuddin , Khairina Khairina , Caniago Sulastri
Published: August 2020

This study discusses about itsbat talak (legal recognition of divorce) pronounced by husbands out of court in the perspective of Marriage Law in Indonesia. There are three issues answered in this study. First, how is the legal problem of out-of-court divorce in the perspective of Marriage Law in Indonesia and Fiqh? Second, what is the urgency of itsbat talak in the view of fiqh and Marriage Law in Indonesia? Third, what is the review of the Marriage Law in Indonesia on the itsbat talak out-of-court? To answer this problem, a library study was conducted. The data was collected through searching of the research results, books, fiqh books, laws or regulations and electronic as well as digital data through websites. The study found that there are some legal problems of itsbat talak for out-of-court divorce such as its legality, the probability of talak for twice, no legal protection, the couple blocked from other marriage, and the lost of post-marriage rights. Itsbat talak for out of court divorce can be recognized in the Marriage Law in Indonesia. Studi ini mengkaji tentang itsbat (pengakuan hukum) talak yang telah dijatuhkan suami di luar pengadilan dalam perspektif hukum perkawinan di Indonesia. Ada tiga persoalan yang akan dijawab dalam studi ini. Pertama, bagaimana problematika hukum talak di luar pengadilan dalam perspektif Hukum Perkawinan di Indonesia dan Fikih ? Kedua, bagaimana urgensi itsbat talak dalam pandangan Fikih maupun Hukum Perkawinan di Indonesia ? Ketiga, bagaimana tinjauan Hukum Perkawinan di Indonesia terhadap itsbat talak  perceraian di luar pengadilan ? Untuk menjawab permasalahan ini dilakukan studi kepustakaan. Data tentang talak di luar pengadilan atau itsbat nikah dikumpul melalui penelusuran hasil-hasil penelitian, buku-buku atau kitab fikih, undang-undang atau peraturan dan data elektronik melalui website. Data ini diolah, dianalisis dan dijadikan bahan untuk mengkaji itsbat talak dengan menggunakan metode kajian hukum normatif. Hasil penelitian menemukan jawaban, pertama; ada lima problem hukum talak di luar pengadilan, seperti keabsahannya, kemungkinan terjadi talak dua kali, tidak adanya perlindungan hukum, pasangan talak di luar pengadilan tidak dapat melakukan penikahan resmi dengan yang lain, tidak bisa mendapatkan  hak-hak setelah talak. Itsbat talak dapat diakui dalam hukum perkawinan di Indonesia.
The Representation of Finger Movement and Force in Human Motor and Premotor Cortices
Authors: Flint Robert D. , Tate Matthew C. , Li Kejun , Templer Jessica W. , Rosenow Joshua M. , Pandarinath Chethan , Slutzky Marc W.
Published: August 2020

The ability to grasp and manipulate objects requires controlling both finger movement kinematics and isometric force in rapid succession. Previous work suggests that these behavioral modes are controlled separately, but it is unknown whether the cerebral cortex represents them differently. Here, we asked the question of how movement and force were represented cortically, when executed sequentially with the same finger. We recorded high-density electrocorticography (ECoG) from the motor and premotor cortices of seven human subjects performing a movement-force motor task. We decoded finger movement [0.7 ± 0.3 fractional variance accounted for (FVAF)] and force (0.7 ± 0.2 FVAF) with high accuracy, yet found different spatial representations. In addition, we used a state-of-the-art deep learning method to uncover smooth, repeatable trajectories through ECoG state space during the movement-force task. We also summarized ECoG across trials and participants by developing a new metric, the neural vector angle (NVA). Thus, state-space techniques can help to investigate broad cortical networks. Finally, we were able to classify the behavioral mode from neural signals with high accuracy (90 ± 6%). Thus, finger movement and force appear to have distinct representations in motor/premotor cortices. These results inform our understanding of the neural control of movement, as well as the design of grasp brain-machine interfaces (BMIs).
Prealbumin to fibrinogen ratio is closely associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Zang Shufei , Shi Lei , Zhao Jinying , Yang Min , Liu Jun , Ding Heyuan
Published: August 2020

The aim of our study was to explore the diagnostic value of prealbumin to fibrinogen ratio (PFR) for predicting prognosis with the optimal cut-off value in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) patients. A total of 568 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients were enrolled in this study. The values including Toronto clinical neuropathy score (TCNS), nerve conduction velocity (NCV), vibration perception threshold (VPT), blood cells count, biochemical parameters, fibrinogen and PFR were recorded. The patients were divided into tertiles based on admission PFR value. First, clinical parameters were compared among the groups. Secondly, a logistic regression and ROC analysis were performed as the statistical model. The percentage of DPN, TCNS and VPT were significantly higher in the lowest PFR tertile than in the middle PFR tertile and the highest PFR tertile (P < 0.01–0.001). NCV was significantly lower in lowest PFR tertile than in the middle PFR tertile and the highest PFR tertile (P < 0.01–0.001). The Spearman correlation analysis showed that PFR was negatively correlated with TCNS and VPT (P < 0.001), while PFR was positively correlated with median motor NCV (P < 0.001), peroneal motor NCV (P < 0.001), median sensory NCV (P < 0.001), and peroneal sensory NCV (P < 0.001). After adjusting these potentially related factors, PFR was independently related to DPN (P = 0.007). The area under ROC curve was 0.627. This study finds the first evidence to suggest PFR may be the key component associated with DPN in T2DM, while PFR might underlie the pathophysiologic features of DPN.
Self-medication during COVID-19 outbreak: a cross sectional online survey in Dhaka city
Authors: Nasir Morshed , Chowdhury A. S. M. Salauddin , Zahan Tahmina
Published: August 2020

Background: Self-medication is a common practice in Bangladesh as it provides a low-cost alternative for people, which involves inappropriate and injudicious use of medicines treat self-recognized symptoms by the people.Methods: A cross sectional online survey was conducted on 626 citizens by structured questionnaires during COVID-19 outbreak from April to May 2020 in Dhaka city, to observe the prevalence, pattern and sources of self-medication among the respondents with high socio-economic standings and education.Results: The prevalence of self-medication amid the outbreak of COVID-19 was 88.33% and only 179 (28.59%) took medication with doctors’ advice and remaining 447 (71.40%) respondents took the drugs as “self-medication” by other sources. The most frequently used prescription-only drug during the outbreak were ivermectin (77.15%), azithromycin (54.15%), doxycycline (40.25%). The common symptoms for which the respondent took self-medications were fever, throat pain, dry-cough and total 105 (16.77%) respondents took medications without having any symptoms. Almost 355 (85.33%) had taken medication without doing any test for COVID-19. This could be due to unusual distress, caused by high self-awareness of their health and buying capacity of medication.Conclusions: The study revealed the causes of self-medication as news of spread, effects and remedies in media channels, internet; mental stress of lockdown and isolation, insecurity and panic about scarcity of drug and healthcare support. High risks of developing antibiotic resistance, adverse drug reactions and financial loss was predictable with absence of strict regulatory enforcement to protect people and proper utilization resources during COVID-19 outbreak in Dhaka city.
Cannabis and the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Cohen Lawrence , Neuman Manuela G
Published: August 2020

Cannabis has been used for its medicinal purposes since ancient times. Its consumption leads to the activation of Cannabis receptors CB1 and CB2 that, through specific mechanisms can lead to modulation and progression of inflammation or repair. The novel findings are linked to the medical use of Cannabis in gastrointestinal (GI) system. PURPOSE: The objective of the present paper is to elucidate the role of Cannabis consumption in GI system. An additional aim is to review the information on the function of Cannabis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS AND RESULTS: This review summarizes the recent findings on the role of cannabinoid receptors, their synthetic or natural ligands, as well as their metabolizing enzymes in normal GI function and its disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and possible adverse events. The synergism or antagonism between Cannabis’ active ingredients and the “entourage” plays a role in the efficacy of various strains. Some elements of Cannabis may alter disease severity as over-activation of Cannabis receptors CB1 and CB2 can lead to changes of the commensal gut flora. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) contributes to gut homeostasis. The ability of ECS to modulate inflammatory responses demonstrates the capacity of ECS to preserve gastrointestinal (GI) function. Alterations of the ECS may predispose patients to pathologic disorders, including IBD. Clinical studies in IBD demonstrate that subjects benefit from Cannabis consumption as seen through a reduction of the IBD-inflammation, as well as through a decreased need for other medication. NAFLD is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver. The occurrence of inflammation in NAFLD leads to non-alcoholic-steatohepatitis (NASH). The use of Cannabis might reduce liver inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: With limited evidence of efficacy and safety of Cannabis in IBD, IBS, and NAFLD, randomized controlled studies are required to examine its therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, since long term use of the plant leads to drug use disorders the patients should be followed continuously.
Copper and Magnesium Deficiency are Associated with Osteoporosis in Southern Gaza Patients
Authors: Elhabiby Mahmoud I. , Mustafa Ayman M. Abu , Mohieldein Abdelmarouf H. , Elnabaheen Esraa M.
Published: August 2020

Osteoporosis is a common disease in old ages, trace minerals are central components of bone density and hardness. The present study aims to measure copper, magnesium, iron, calcium and phosphorus levels in osteoporotic southern Gaza patients and control groups. A case â€“control study included 35 osteoporotic patients and 35 controls aged 40-70 years. Copper, magnesium iron, calcium and phosphorus levels were measured in the serum at PalestinianMedical Relieve Society-Gaza by absorption spectrophotometry method-XLFS Kit (Diasys Diagnostic System GmbH). Serum copper and magnesium levels in osteoporotic patients (74.3Â±9.8Î¼g/dL 1.56Â±0.18mg/dl) respectively is significantly (p<0.001) lower than control (98.3Â±15.2Î¼g/dL, 2.06Â±0.13mg/dl ). The present work indicated a positive correlation between copper and magnesium levels (r=0.627, p<0.00), positive correlation between copper and number of daily meals (r=0.263, p<0.030), and also positive correlation between calcium and daily exercises (r=0.449, p<0.010). In conclusion copper and magnesium levels are significantly lower in postmenopausal women and men with osteoporosis. Optimizing levels of those trace minerals in old people is beneficial in prevention of osteoporosis. Daily exercises and ingestion of food containing trace minerals is highly recommended for this age group.
Determination the Fatty Acid Composition of the Rumex patientia L. Leaves and in vitro Antimicrobial Activity of their Different Extracts
Authors: Kaya Elife , Akbaş Perihan , Ceyhan Gökhan , Karabekmez Erdem Tuğba , Alkan Hiçran
Published: August 2020

Rumex patientia L. is from Polygonaceae family and there are 25 species of it in Turkey. Rumex patientia L. has antifebrile, laxative, diuretic, and pain killer properties. In this study, the extraction of the Rumex patientia L. leaf were done and determination the fat content and fatty acid composition by using GC device and to determinate in vitro antimicrobial activity of their different extracts were aimed. On the purpose of detection of antimicrobial activity; Rumex patientia L. leaf was extracted with ethanol, methanol, acetone, petroleum ether and water. Rumex patientia L. leaves was tested their different extracts using Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Pasteurella multocida, Yersinia enterocolitica, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and Candida albicans yeast by agar-well diffusion technique. As a result of the study, 26 fatty acid components were detected on Rumex patientia L. leaf. In addition, among obtained extracts the highest antimicrobial activity was formed by methyl alcohol extract on K. pneumoniae bacteria (32mm).
Aerobik Ardışık Kesikli Reaktörde Nitrifikasyon İnhibisyonunun Reaktör Performansı ve Çıkış Suyu Kalitesi Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: Yazıcı Hüseyin , Uslu İrem
Published: August 2020

Bu çalışmada aerobik ortam şartında işletilen laboratuvar ölçekli bir ardışık kesikli reaktörde (AKR) uygulanan nitrifikasyon inhibisyonunun reaktör performansına ve çıkış suyu kalitesine etkisi incelenmiştir. Başlangıç kimyasal oksijen ihtiyacı (KOİ) konsantrasyonunun reaktör işletiminin 42. gününe kadar 250 mg/L ve sonrasında 500 mg/L olarak ayarlandığı sentetik atıksuyun beslendiği reaktörde 52 boyunca reaktörden çamur çekilmeden ve reaktördeki pH ayarlanmadan işletme yapılmıştır. Reaktör işletiminde ilk 42 günlük periyodun sonunda KOİ giderim verimi %93 ve çamur hacim indeksi (ÇHİ) değeri 35,0 mL/g olarak hesaplanmıştır. Başlangıç KOİ konsantrasyonunun 500 mg/L değerine artırılması ile birlikte reaktörde döngü sonlarında ölçülen pH değerlerinde ani bir düşüş yaşanmıştır. Bunun sonucunda arıtma veriminin ve reaktör performansının azalması nedeni ile reaktör işletimi 52. günde sonlandırılmıştır. Çıkış suyunun amonyum (NH4), nitrit (NO2) ve nitrat (NO3) konsantrasyonlarına ait sonuçlar AKR sisteminin çıkış sularından nütrient geri kazanım potansiyelini artırmak üzere nitrifikasyon inhibisyonunun alternatif bir yaklaşım olarak potansiyelinin bulunduğunu ortaya koymuştur.
Parâmetros climáticos para simulação de desempenho térmico segundo a NBR 15.575
Authors: Guarda Emeli Lalesca Aparecida da , Durante Luciane Cleonice , Callejas Ivan Julio Apolonio
Published: August 2020

A norma brasileira NBR 15.575 estabelece que a avaliação de desempenho térmico de uma edificação por meio de simulação computacional deve ser conduzida pela relação entre a temperatura externa e a temperatura interna do ambiente, para os dias típicos de verão e inverno de forma a quantificar o atendimento aos requisitos dos usuários. Assim sendo, esse artigo tem por objetivo avaliar o desempenho térmico de uma edificação considerando métodos distintos de determinação de dia típico de verão e inverno e diferentes algoritmos de cálculo da irradiação solar (modelo de céu). A metodologia parte de uma edificação implantada em zona bioclimática 7, para a qual três algoritmos de modelo de céu foram testados, por meio de simulação computacional, para os dias típicos de verão e inverno. Verificou-se que, desconsiderando-se a nebulosidade, as temperaturas internas máximas e mínimas sofreram pouca alteração ao se variar os dias típicos obtidos por diferentes métodos, obtendo-se classificação de desempenho térmico Superior para a edificação pesquisada. Ao se considerar os modelos de céu, introduzindo-se a nebulosidade como parâmetro de entrada no dia típico de verão, a classificação de desempenho foi superior nos modelos ASHRAEClearSky e ASHRAETau, e intermediária com o modelo Zhang Huang, concluindo-se que os modelos de céu influenciam a classificação de desempenho. O modelo ASHRAETau forneceu, para o dia típico de verão, temperaturas internas inferiores às obtidas com os outros modelos de céu, não sendo recomendada a sua utilização. Comportamento semelhante foi obtido para o dia típico de inverno. O estudo fornece subsídios para determinação do dia típico para cidades brasileiras não especificadas na norma brasileira, contribuindo com reflexões acerca das lacunas existentes nos parâmetros normativos.
Achieving Net Zero Carbon Dioxide by Sequestering Biomass Carbon
Authors: Amelse Jeffrey
Published: August 2020

Mitigation of global warming requires an understanding of where energy is produced and consumed, the magnitude of carbon dioxide generation, and proper understanding of the Carbon Cycle. The latter leads to the distinction between and need for both CO2 and biomass CARBON sequestration. Short reviews are provided for prior technologies proposed for reducing CO2 emissions from fossil fuels or substituting renewable energy, focusing on their limitations. None offer a complete solution. Of these, CO2 sequestration is poised to have the largest impact. We know how to do it. It will just cost money, and scale-up is a huge challenge. Few projects have been brought forward to semi-commercial scale. Transportation accounts for only about 30% of U.S. overall energy demand. Biofuels penetration remains small, and thus, they contribute a trivial amount of overall CO2 reduction, even though 40% of U.S. corn and 30% of soybeans are devoted to their production. Bioethanol is traced through its Carbon Cycle and shown to be both energy inefficient, and an inefficient use of biomass carbon. Both biofuels and CO2 sequestration reduce FUTURE CO2 emissions from continued use of fossil fuels. They will not remove CO2 ALREADY in the atmosphere. The only way to do that is to break the Carbon Cycle by growing biomass from atmospheric CO2 and sequestering biomass CARBON. Theoretically, sequestration of only a fraction of the world’s tree leaves, which are renewed every year, can get the world to Net Zero CO2 without disturbing the underlying forests. Thoughts are put forth on how to achieve secure permanent biomass sequestration.
Screening of Cognitive Changes in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: A.F Paiva , A. Nolan , C. Thumser , F.H. Santos
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims: Screening and assessment of cognitive changes in adults with Intellectual Disabilities, mainly Down Syndrome (DS), is crucial to offer appropriate services to their needs. We present a systematic review of the existing instruments assessing dementia, aiming to support researchers and clinicians’ best practice. Methods: Searches were carried out in the databases Web of Science; PubMed; PsycINFO in March 2019 and updated in May 2020. Studies were selected and examined if they: (1) focused on assessing age-related cognitive changes in person with ID; (2) included adults and/or older adults; (3) included scales and batteries for cognitive assessment. Results: Forty-eight cross-sectional studies and twenty-six longitudinal studies were selected representing a total sample of 5,851 participants (4,089 DS and 1,801 with other ID). In those studies, we found 38 scales, questionnaires, and inventories, and 14 batteries for assessing cognitive and behavioural changes in adults with DS and other ID. Conclusion: The most used instrument completed by an informant or carer was the Dementia Questionnaire for Learning Disabilities (DLD), and its previous versions. We discuss the strengths and limitations of the instruments and outline recommendations for future use.
Comparison of Efficacies of Different Jakyakgamcho-tang Extracts on H2O2-Induced C2C12 Cell Viability
Authors: Kim Young Sook , Yuk Heung Joo , Kim Dong-Seon
Published: August 2020

Oxidative stress is a major contributor to muscle aging and loss of muscle tissue. Jakyakgamcho-tang has been used in traditional Eastern medicine to treat muscle pain. Here, we compared various solvent-based Jakyakgamcho-tang extracts in terms of their effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in murine C2C12 skeletal muscle cells. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content in 30% ethanol extracts of Jakyakgamcho-tang were higher than those of water extracts of Jakyakgamcho-tang. Ethanol extracts of Jakyakgamcho-tang had stronger antioxidant and 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid and 2,2´-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-scavenging activity than water extracts of Jakyakgamcho-tang. The ethanol extract of Jakyakgamcho-tang inhibited peroxide-induced cell viability and intracellular reactive oxygen species generation more effectively than the water extract of Jakyakgamcho-tang in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that the ethanol extract of Jakyakgamcho-tang is relatively more efficacious at protecting against oxidative stress-induced muscle cell death because it prevents reactive oxygen species generation in C2C12 cells. Moreover, the current study indicated that the effective dose of the ethanol extract of Jakyakgamcho-tang required to alleviate muscle pain might be lower than that required for Jakyakgamcho-tang.
A Review on Viral Data Sources and Integration Methods for COVID-19 Mitigation
Authors: Bernasconi Anna , Canakoglu Arif , Masseroli Marco , Pinoli Pietro , Ceri Stefano
Published: August 2020

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 disease, the research community is producing unprecedented efforts dedicated to better understand and mitigate the affects of the pandemic. In this context, we review the data integration efforts required for accessing and searching genome sequences and metadata of SARS-CoV2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 disease, which have been deposited into the most important repositories of viral sequences. Organizations that were already present in the virus domain are now dedicating special interest to the emergence of COVID-19 pandemics, by emphasizing specific SARS-CoV2 data and services. At the same time, novel organizations and resources were born in this critical period to serve specifically the purposes of COVID-19 mitigation, while setting the research ground for contrasting possible future pandemics. Accessibility and integration of viral sequence data, possibly in conjunction with the human host genotype and clinical data, are paramount to better understand the COVID-19 disease and mitigate its effects.
Copper Price Prediction Using Support Vector Regression Technique
Authors: Astudillo Gabriel , Carrasco Raúl , Fernández-Campusano Christian , Chacón Máx
Published: August 2020

Predicting copper price is essential for making decisions that can affect companies and governments dependent on the copper mining industry. Copper prices follow a time series that is non-linear, non-stationary, and which have periods that change as a result of potential growth, cyclical fluctuation and errors. Sometimes the trend and cyclical components together are referred to as a trend-cycle. In order to make predictions, it is necessary to consider the different characteristics of trend-cycle. In this paper, we study a copper price prediction method using Support Vector Regression. This work explores the potential of the Support Vector Regression with external recurrences to make predictions at 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 days into the future in the copper closing price at the London Metal Exchanges. The best model for each forecast interval is performed using a grid search and balanced cross-validation. In experiments on real data-sets, our results obtained indicate that the parameters (C, ε, γ) of the model Support Vector Regression do not differ between the different prediction intervals. Additionally, the amount of preceding values used to make the estimates does not vary according to the predicted interval. Results show that the support vector regression model has a lower prediction error and is more robust. Our results show that the presented model is able to predict copper price volatilities near reality, being the RMSE equal or less than the 2.2% for prediction periods of 5 and 10 days.
Production -Marketing Coordination under Demand and Lead -Time Uncertainty
Authors: Ran Cuiling , He Wei
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we consider a make-to-order supply chain which satisfies demand that is dependent on both price and quoted lead -time. The manufacturer chooses the lead -time and the order quantity, and the retailer sets the revenue shares. The interactions between the manufacturer and the retailer are modelled as a Nash Game, and the existence and uniqueness of pure strategy equilibrium are demonstrated. A mechanism that enables the supply chain to coordinate the decisions of the members is developed. Lastly, we also analyze how the supply chain system parameters impact the optimal supply chain decisions and the supply chain performance.
Chemo-Stratigraphy, Petrology and U-Pb Geochronology of Karakılıçlı Volcanic Field in NW Anatolia: Implications for Hellenic Subduction System
Authors: İskenderoğlu Ali , AYSAL NAMIK
Published: August 2020

Western Anatolia comprises a vast amount of various volcanic successions spanning from Eocene to Upper Miocene periods. These units mainly display southward younging in broad sense and display large amounts of chemical variation that spanned from basalt to rhyolite. The southward younging of magmatism and chemical variations have been largely attributed to the retreat and roll-back of the Hellenic slab and the western escape of the Anatolian microplate. However, there is still a lack of high precision data to pinpoint the exact nature of the magmatism and lithospheric tectonics. In this contribution we investigated a poorly known region along the Western Anatolia along Manisa district called Karakılıçlı volcanic field. We investigated two different volcanic sections (Kalpakkaya and Çamlık hill) that display the best volcano-sedimentary features in terms of geochronology and geochemistry. Samples acquired from the bottom, middle and upper portions of these sections display Early-Middle Miocene ages of 17.64±0.20, 17.22±0.15, 16.16±0.17 and 16.36±0.13, 15.79±0.71 and 13.61±0.20 Ma respectively. The results indicate that the volcanism in the region generated by the melting of the mantle and/or lithospheric mantle by slab retreat and roll-back of the Hellenic slab and evolved in the shallow magma chambers/mushes by fractional crystallization, magma mixing and crustal assimilation.
Mapping Research on Customer Centricity and Sustainable Organizations
Authors: Pardo-Jaramillo Sergio , Muñoz-Villamizar Andres , Osuna Ignacio , Roncancio Rolando
Published: August 2020

Firms are increasingly organized around the client. At the same time, there is customer pressure on green and sustainable organizations. The purpose of this paper is to map the current state of the research in the domain of customer-centric organizations from a sustainable perspective. We conducted a bibliometric analysis from published documents between 1990 and 2020. Key findings indicate that research on customer centricity and sustainability has increased in recent years and that the topic is structured into 3 clusters: (1) Sustainability; (2) Customer-Centric Perspective, and Sustainable Development; and (3) Customer Experience and Sales. Moreover, new concepts and technologies have been introduced during the last three years. The implementation of a bibliometric methodology and the focus given to the definition, the relationships, and the evolution of the three main clusters within the topic are the characteristics that differentiate our study from other publications or reviews in the field of research. This paper is beneficial for practitioners who aim to deploy the customer centricity approach in their firms from a sustainable perspective.
Limiting the Oxidation of WS2 Nanostructures by Oleylamine Surface Passivation for Room Temperature NH3 Sensing
Authors: Gqoba Siziwe , Rodrigues Rafael , Mphahlele Sharon Lerato , Ndala Zakhele , Airo Mildred , Kolokoto Tshwarela , Hümmelgen Ivo A. , Linganiso Cebisa E. , Moloto Makwena J. , Moloto Nosipho
Published: August 2020

Oleylamine capped WS2 nanostructures were successfully formed at 320 °C via a relatively simple colloidal route. SEM and TEM analyses showed that the 3D nanoflowers that were initially formed disintegrated into 2D nanosheets after prolonged incubation. XPS and XRD analyses confirmed oxidation of WS2 into WO3. Sensors based on these oleylamine capped WS2 nanoflowers and nanosheets still showed a change in electrical response towards various concentrations of NH3 vapour at room temperature in a 25% relative humidity background despite the oxidation. The nanoflowers exhibited n-type response while the nanosheets displayed a p-type response towards NH3 exposure. The nanoflower based sensors showed better response to NH3 vapour exposure than the nanosheets. The sensors showed a good selectivity towards NH3 relative to acetone, ethanol, chloroform and toluene. Meanwhile, a strong interference of humidity to the NH3 response was displayed at high relative humidity levels. The results demonstrated that oleylamine limited the extent of oxidation of WS2 nanostructures. The superior sensing performance of the nanoflowers can be attributed to their hierarchical morphology which enhances the surface area and diffusion of the analyte.
Validity of Three-Dimensional Tortuous Pore Structure and Fouling of Hemoconcentration Capillary Membrane Using the Tortuous Pore Diffusion Model and Scanning Probe Microscopy
Authors: Fukuda Makoto , Yoshinoto Hiroki , Saomoto Hitoshi , Sakai Kiyotaka
Published: August 2020

Hemoconcentration membranes used in cardiopulmonary bypass require a pore structure design with high pure water permeability, and which does not allow protein adsorption and useful protein loss. However, studies on hemoconcentration membranes have not been conducted yet. The purpose of this study was to analyze three-dimensional pore structures and protein fouling before and after blood contact with capillary membranes using the tortuous pore diffusion model and a scanning probe microscope system. We examined two commercially available capillary membranes of similar polymer composition that are successfully used in hemoconcentration clinically. Assuming the conditions of actual use in cardiopulmonary bypass, we perfused these membranes with bovine blood. Pure water permeability before and after bovine blood perfusion was measured using the dead-end filtration. The scanning probe microscopy system was used for analysis. High-resolution three-dimensional pore structures on the inner surface of the membranes were observed before blood contact. On the other hand, pore structures after blood contact could not be observed due to protein fouling. The pore diameters calculated by the tortuous pore diffusion model and scanning probe microscopy were mostly similar and could be validated reciprocally. Achievable pure water permeabilities showed no difference despite protein fouling, leading to low values of albumin SC. This is due to the mechanism that protein fouling occurs on the membrane surface, while there is little internal pore blocking. Therefore, controlling the fouling is essential for membranes in medical use. These characteristics of the hemoconcentration membranes examined in this study are suitable for clinical use.
Experimental Study for Determining the Parameters Required for Detecting ECG and EEG Related Diseases During the Timed-Up and Go Test
Authors: Ponciano Vasco , Pires Ivan Miguel , Ribeiro Fernando Reinaldo , Villasana María Vanessa , Canavarro Teixeira Maria , Zdravevski Eftim
Published: August 2020

The use of smartphones, coupled with different sensors, makes it an attractive solution for measuring different physical and physiological features, allowing for the monitoring of various parameters and even identifying some diseases. The BITalino device allows the use of different sensors, including Electroencephalography (EEG) and Electrocardiography (ECG) sensors, to study different health parameters. With these devices, the acquisition of signals is straightforward, and it is possible to connect them using a Bluetooth connection. With the acquired data, it is possible to measure parameters such as calculating the QRS complex and its variation with ECG data to control the individual's heartbeat. Similarly, by using the EEG sensor one could analyze the individual's brain activity and frequency. The purpose of this paper is to present a method for recognition of the diseases related to ECG and EEG data, with sensors available in off-the-shelf mobile devices and sensors connected to a BITalino device. The data were collected during the elderly's experiences, performing the Timed-Up and Go test, and the different diseases found in the sample in the study. The data were analyzed, and the following features were extracted from the ECG, including heart rate, heart rate variability, the average QRS interval, the average R-R interval, and the average R-S interval, and the EEG, including frequency and variability. Finally, the diseases are correlated with different parameters, proving that there are relations between the individuals and the different health conditions.