bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Truncated-Exponential-Based Appell-Type Changhee Polynomials
Authors: Nahid Tabinda , Alam Parvez , Choi Junesang
Published: September 2020

The truncated exponential polynomials em(x) (1), their extensions, and certain newly-introduced polynomials which combine the truncated exponential polynomials with other known polynomials have been investigated and applied in various ways. In this paper, by incorporating the Appell-type Changhee polynomials Chn*(x) (10) and the truncated exponential polynomials in a natural way, we aim to introduce so-called truncated-exponential-based Appell-type Changhee polynomials eCn*(x) in Definition 1. Then, we investigate certain properties and identities for these new polynomials such as explicit representation, addition formulas, recurrence relations, differential and integral formulas, and some related inequalities. We also present some integral inequalities involving these polynomials eCn*(x). Further we discuss zero distributions of these polynomials by observing their graphs drawn by Mathematica. Lastly some open questions are suggested.
The Nakano–Nishijima–Gell-Mann Formula from Discrete Galois Fields
Authors: Nakatsugawa Keiji , Ohaga Motoo , Fujii Toshiyuki , Matsuyama Toyoki , Tanda Satoshi
Published: September 2020

The well known Nakano–Nishijima–Gell-Mann (NNG) formula relates certain quantum numbers of elementary particles to their charge number. This equation, which phenomenologically introduces the quantum numbers Iz (isospin), S (strangeness), etc., is constructed using group theory with real numbers R. But, using a discrete Galois field Fp instead of R and assuring the fundamental invariance laws such as unitarity, Lorentz invariance, and gauge invariance, we derive the NNG formula deductively from Meson (two quarks) and Baryon (three quarks) representations in a unified way. Moreover, we show that quark confinement ascribes to the inevitable fractionality caused by coprimeness between half-integer (1/2) of isospin and number of composite particles (e.g., three).
Complexity Estimation of Cubical Tensor Represented through 3D Frequency-Ordered Hierarchical KLT
Authors: Kountchev Roumen , Mironov Rumen , Kountcheva Roumiana
Published: September 2020

In this work is introduced one new hierarchical decomposition for cubical tensor of size 2n, based on the well-known orthogonal transforms Principal Component Analysis and Karhunen–Loeve Transform. The decomposition is called 3D Frequency-Ordered Hierarchical KLT (3D-FOHKLT). It is separable, and its calculation is based on the one-dimensional Frequency-Ordered Hierarchical KLT (1D-FOHKLT) applied on a sequence of matrices. The transform matrix is the product of n sparse matrices, symmetrical at the point of their main diagonal. In particular, for the case in which the angles which define the transform coefficients for the couples of matrices in each hierarchical level of 1D-FOHKLT are equal to π/4, the transform coincides with this of the frequency-ordered 1D Walsh–Hadamard. Compared to the hierarchical decompositions of Tucker (H-Tucker) and the Tensor-Train (TT), the offered approach does not ensure full decorrelation between its components, but is close to the maximum. On the other hand, the evaluation of the computational complexity (CC) of the new decomposition proves that it is lower than that of the above-mentioned similar approaches. In correspondence with the comparison results for H-Tucker and TT, the CC decreases fast together with the increase of the hierarchical levels’ number, n. An additional advantage of 3D-FOHKLT is that it is based on the use of operations of low complexity, while the similar famous decompositions need large numbers of iterations to achieve the coveted accuracy.
Application of the Phase-Space Path Integral to Strong-Laser-Field-Assisted Electron-Ion Radiative Recombination: A Gauge-Covariant Formulation
Authors: Esquembre Kučukalić Ali , Becker Wilhelm , Milošević Dejan B.
Published: September 2020

We consider the problem of the choice of gauge in nonrelativistic strong-laser-field physics. For this purpose, we use the phase-space path-integral formalism to obtain the momentum-space matrix element of the exact time-evolution operator. With the assumption that the physical transition amplitude corresponds to transitions between eigenstates of the physical energy operator rather than the unperturbed Hamiltonian H0=(−i∂/∂r)2/2+V(r), we prove that the aforementioned momentum-space matrix elements obtained in velocity gauge and length gauge are equal. These results are applied to laser-assisted electron-ion radiative recombination (LAR). The transition amplitude comes out identical in length gauge and velocity gauge, and the expression agrees with the one conventionally obtained in length gauge. In addition to the strong-field approximation (SFA), which is the zeroth-order term of our expansion, we present explicit results for the first-order and the second-order terms, which correspond to LAR preceded by single and double scattering, respectively. Our general conclusion is that in applications to atomic processes in strong-field physics the length-gauge version of the SFA (and its higher-order corrections) should be used. Using the energy operator as the basis-defining Hamiltonian, we have shown that the resulting transition amplitude is gauge invariant and agrees with the form commonly derived in length gauge.
Large Time Behavior for Inhomogeneous Damped Wave Equations with Nonlinear Memory
Authors: Jleli Mohamed , Samet Bessem , Vetro Calogero
Published: September 2020

We investigate the large time behavior for the inhomogeneous damped wave equation with nonlinear memory ϕtt(t,ω)−Δϕ(t,ω)+ϕt(t,ω)=1Γ(1−ρ)∫0t(t−σ)−ρ|ϕ(σ,ω)|qdσ+μ(ω),t>0, ω∈RN imposing the condition (ϕ(0,ω),ϕt(0,ω))=(ϕ0(ω),ϕ1(ω))inRN, where N≥1, q>1, 0<ρ<1, ϕi∈Lloc1(RN), i=0,1, μ∈Lloc1(RN) and μ≢0. Namely, it is shown that, if ϕ0,ϕ1≥0, μ∈L1(RN) and ∫RNμ(ω)dω>0, then for all q>1, the considered problem has no global weak solution.
Taking a Road Less Travelled: Welcome to Tourism and Hospitality
Authors: Garrod Brian , Saarinen Jarkko , Moreno-Gil Sergio , Stepchenkova Svetlana , Buhalis Dimitrios , Fyall Alan , Jamal Tazim , Pennington-Gray Lori
Published: September 2020

It is my privilege to serve as founding editor of our new journal, Tourism and Hospitality, and my pleasure to welcome you to its pages [...]
Camelid VHH Antibodies that Neutralize Botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype E Intoxication or Protease Function
Authors: Tremblay Jacqueline M. , Vazquez-Cintron Edwin , Lam Kwok-Ho , Mukherjee Jean , Bedenice Daniela , Ondeck Celinia A. , Conroy Matthieu T. , Bodt Skylar M. L. , Winner Brittany M. , Webb Robert P. , Ichtchenko Konstantin , Jin Rongsheng , McNutt Patrick M. , Shoemaker Charles B.
Published: September 2020

Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) serotype E is one of three serotypes that cause the preponderance of human botulism cases and is a Tier 1 Select Agent. BoNT/E is unusual among BoNT serotypes for its rapid onset and short duration of intoxication. Here we report two large panels of unique, unrelated camelid single-domain antibodies (VHHs) that were selected for their ability to bind to BoNT/E holotoxin and/or to the BoNT/E light chain protease domain (LC/E). The 19 VHHs which bind to BoNT/E were characterized for their subunit specificity and 8 VHHs displayed the ability to neutralize BoNT/E intoxication of neurons. Heterodimer antitoxins consisting of two BoNT/E-neutralizing VHHs, including one heterodimer designed using structural information for simultaneous binding, were shown to protect mice against co-administered toxin challenges of up to 500 MIPLD50. The 22 unique VHHs which bind to LC/E were characterized for their binding properties and 9 displayed the ability to inhibit LC/E protease activity. Surprisingly, VHHs selected on plastic-coated LC/E were virtually unable to recognize soluble or captured LC/E while VHHs selected on captured LC/E were poorly able to recognize LC/E coated to a plastic surface. This panel of anti-LC/E VHHs offer insight into BoNT/E function, and some may have value as components of therapeutic antidotes that reverse paralysis following BoNT/E exposures.
Long-Lasting and Additive Analgesic Effects of Combined Treatment of Bee Venom Acupuncture and Venlafaxine on Paclitaxel-Induced Allodynia in Mice
Authors: Li Daxian , Yoo Ju Hyuk , Kim Sun Kwang
Published: September 2020

Paclitaxel, a primary chemotherapeutic agent used to treat numerous solid malignancies, is commonly associated with debilitating peripheral neuropathy. However, a satisfactory gold-standard monotherapy for this neuropathic pain is not currently available. A combination strategy of two or more medications with different properties may achieve more beneficial effects than monotherapy. Thus, we investigated the analgesic efficacies and spinal mechanisms of the combination strategy, including bee venom acupuncture (BVA) and venlafaxine (VLX) against paclitaxel-induced allodynia in mice. Four intraperitoneal infusions of paclitaxel on alternating days (2 mg/kg/day) induced cold and mechanical allodynia for at least 1 week as assessed using acetone and the von Frey hair test, respectively. Co-treatment of BVA (1.0 mg/kg, s.c., ST36) with VLX (40 mg/kg, i.p.) at the medium dose produced a longer-lasting and additive effect than each monotherapy at the highest dose (BVA, 2.5 mg/kg; VLX, 60 mg/kg). Spinal pre-administration of idazoxan (α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist, 10 μg), methysergide (mixed 5-HT1/5-HT2 receptor antagonist, 10 μg), or MDL-72222 (5-HT3 receptor antagonist, 10 μg) abolished this analgesia. These results suggest that the combination therapy with BVA and VLX produces long-lasting and additive analgesic effects on paclitaxel-induced allodynia, via the spinal noradrenergic and serotonergic mechanism, providing a promising clinical strategy.
Precise Half-Life Values for Two-Neutrino Double-β Decay: 2020 Review
Authors: Barabash Alexander
Published: September 2020

All existing positive results on two-neutrino double beta decay and two-neutrino double electron capture in different nuclei have been analyzed. Weighted average and recommended half-life values for 48Ca, 76Ge, 82Se, 96Zr, 100Mo, 100Mo - 100Ru (01+), 116Cd, 128Te, 130Te, 136Xe, 150Nd, 150Nd - 150Sm (01+), 238U, 78Kr, 124Xe and 130Ba have been obtained. Given the measured half-life values, effective nuclear matrix elements for all these transitions were calculated.
Predicting >10 MeV SEP Events from Solar Flare and Radio Burst Data
Authors: Núñez Marlon , Paul-Pena Daniel
Published: September 2020

The prediction of solar energetic particle (SEP) events or solar radiation storms is one of the most important problems in the space weather field. These events may have adverse effects on technology infrastructures and humans in space; they may also irradiate passengers and flight crews in commercial aircraft flying at polar latitudes. This paper explores the use of ≥ M2 solar flares and radio burst observations as proxies for predicting >10 MeV SEP events on Earth. These observations are manifestations of the parent event at the sun associated with the SEP event. As a consequence of processing data at the beginning of the physical process that leads to the radiation storm, the model may provide its predictions with large anticipation. The main advantage of the present approach is that the model analyzes solar data that are updated every 30 min and, as such, it may be operational; however, a disadvantage is that those SEP events associated with strong well-connected flares cannot be predicted. For the period from November 1997 to February 2014, we obtained a probability of detection of 70.2%, a false alarm ratio of 40.2%, and an average anticipation time of 9 h 52 min. In this study, the prediction model was built using decision trees, an interpretable machine learning technique. This approach leads to outputs and results comparable to those derived by the Empirical model for Solar Proton Event Real Time Alert (ESPERTA) model. The obtained decision tree shows that the best criteria to differentiate pre-SEP scenarios and non-pre-SEP scenarios are the peak and integrated flux for soft X-ray flares and the radio type III bursts.
Molecular Characterization of Dengue Type 2 Outbreak in Pacific Islands Countries and Territories, 2017–2020
Authors: Inizan Catherine , O’Connor Olivia , Worwor George , Cabemaiwai Talica , Grignon Jean-Claude , Girault Dominique , Minier Marine , Prot Matthieu , Ballan Valentine , Pakoa George Junior , Grangeon Jean-Paul , Guyant Philippe , Lepers Christelle , Faktaufon Daniel , Sahukhan Aalisha , Merilles Onofre Edwin , Gourinat Ann-Claire , Simon-Lorière Etienne , Dupont-Rouzeyrol Myrielle
Published: September 2020

Dengue virus (DENV) serotype-2 was detected in the South Pacific region in 2014 for the first time in 15 years. In 2016–2020, DENV-2 re-emerged in French Polynesia, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna, and New Caledonia, co-circulating with and later replacing DENV-1. In this context, epidemiological and molecular evolution data are paramount to decipher the diffusion route of this DENV-2 in the South Pacific region. In the current work, the E gene from 23 DENV-2 serum samples collected in Vanuatu, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, and New Caledonia was sequenced. Both maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses were performed. While all DENV-2 strains sequenced belong to the Cosmopolitan genotype, phylogenetic analysis suggests at least three different DENV-2 introductions in the South Pacific between 2017 and 2020. Strains retrieved in these Pacific Islands Countries and Territories (PICTs) in 2017–2020 are phylogenetically related, with strong phylogenetic links between strains retrieved from French PICTs. These phylogenetic data substantiate epidemiological data of the DENV-2 diffusion pattern between these countries.
FUT2, Secretor Status and FUT3 Polymorphisms of Children with Acute Diarrhea Infected with Rotavirus and Norovirus in Brazil
Authors: Loureiro Tonini Marco André , Pires Gonçalves Barreira Débora Maria , Bueno de Freitas Santolin Luciana , Bondi Volpini Lays Paula , Gagliardi Leite José Paulo , Le Moullac-Vaidye Béatrice , Le Pendu Jacques , Cruz Spano Liliana
Published: September 2020

Host susceptibility according to human histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs) is widely known for norovirus infection, but is less described for rotavirus. Due to the variable HBGA polymorphism among populations, we aimed to evaluate the association between HBGA phenotypes (ABH, Lewis and secretor status) and susceptibility to rotavirus and norovirus symptomatic infection, and the polymorphisms of FUT2 and FUT3, of children from southeastern Brazil. Paired fecal-buccal specimens from 272 children with acute diarrhea were used to determine rotavirus/norovirus genotypes and HBGAs phenotypes/genotypes, respectively. Altogether, 100 (36.8%) children were infected with rotavirus and norovirus. The rotavirus P[8] genotype predominates (85.7%). Most of the noroviruses (93.8%) belonged to genogroup II (GII). GII.4 Sydney represented 76% (35/46) amongst five other genotypes. Rotavirus and noroviruses infected predominantly children with secretor status (97% and 98.5%, respectively). However, fewer rotavirus-infected children were Lewis-negative (8.6%) than the norovirus-infected ones (18.5%). FUT3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) occurred mostly at the T59G > G508A > T202C > C314T positions. Our results reinforce the current knowledge that secretors are more susceptible to infection by both rotavirus and norovirus than non-secretors. The high rate for Lewis negative (17.1%) and the combination of SNPs, beyond the secretor status, may reflect the highly mixed population in Brazil.
HIF-1α Modulates Core Metabolism and Virus Replication in Primary Airway Epithelial Cells Infected with Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Morris Dorothea R. , Qu Yue , Agrawal Anurodh , Garofalo Roberto P. , Casola Antonella
Published: September 2020

Metabolic reprogramming of host cells is key to the foundation of a successful viral infection. Hypoxia inducible factors (HIFs) mediate oxygen utilization by regulating cellular metabolism and redox homeostasis. Under normoxic conditions, HIF proteins are synthesized and subsequently degraded following ubiquitination to allow for normal metabolic activities. Recent studies suggest that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has the ability to induce HIF-1α stabilization and accumulation through non-hypoxic mechanisms. This makes the HIF pathway a potential avenue of approach for RSV therapeutic development. Using a model of primary human small alveolar epithelial cells, we demonstrate RSV infections to greatly alter cellular metabolism in favor of the glycolytic and pentose phosphate pathways. Additionally, we show RSV infections to stabilize HIF-1α and HIF-2α expression in these cells. Inhibition of HIF-1α, but not HIF-2α, was found to significantly reduce RSV replication as well as the glycolytic pathway, as measured by the expression of hexokinase II. Our study contributes to the understanding of RSV-mediated changes to cellular metabolism and supports further investigation into anti-HIF-1α therapeutics for RSV infections.
Thapsigargin at Non-Cytotoxic Levels Induces a Potent Host Antiviral Response that Blocks Influenza A Virus Replication
Authors: Goulding Leah V. , Yang Jiayun , Jiang Zhimin , Zhang Hongyu , Lea Daniel , Emes Richard D. , Dottorini Tania , Pu Juan , Liu Jinhua , Chang Kin-Chow
Published: September 2020

Influenza A virus is a major global pathogen of humans, and there is an unmet need for effective antivirals. Current antivirals against influenza A virus directly target the virus and are vulnerable to mutational resistance. Harnessing an effective host antiviral response is an attractive alternative. We show that brief exposure to low, non-toxic doses of thapsigargin (TG), an inhibitor of the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ ATPase pump, promptly elicits an extended antiviral state that dramatically blocks influenza A virus production. Crucially, oral administration of TG protected mice against lethal virus infection and reduced virus titres in the lungs of treated mice. TG-induced ER stress unfolded protein response appears as a key driver responsible for activating a spectrum of host antiviral defences that include an enhanced type I/III interferon response. Our findings suggest that TG is potentially a viable host-centric antiviral for the treatment of influenza A virus infection without the inherent problem of drug resistance.
The Spillover of African Swine Fever in Western Poland Revealed Its Estimated Origin on the Basis of O174L, K145R, MGF 505-5R and IGR I73R/I329L Genomic Sequences
Authors: Mazur-Panasiuk Natalia , Walczak Marek , Juszkiewicz Małgorzata , Woźniakowski Grzegorz
Published: September 2020

The African swine fever epidemic occurred in Poland at the beginning of 2014 and, up to date, the disease has been spreading mainly in the eastern part of the country. Unexpectedly, in November 2019 an infected wild boar case was confirmed in Lubuskie voivodship in western Poland. During the following weeks, several dozen African swine fever virus (ASFV)-positive animals were notified in the neighboring area, causing severe concern regarding further spread of the disease to the mostly pig-dense region in Poland, namely, Wielkopolskie voivodship. Moreover, almost a year after, several infected wild boar cases were confirmed for the first time in Germany, just beyond the Polish border, sending out a shock wave through the global pig market. The whole genome sequence of ASFV, isolated from the first case of ASF in western Poland, and three selected viruses from other affected areas, revealed the tandem repeat and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variations in reference to the Georgia 2007/1 strain. These data, supported by the conventional sequencing of selected genomic regions from a total of 154 virus samples isolated between 2017 and 2020 in Poland, shed a new light on pathogen epidemiology. The sequence variations within the O174L gene detected in this study showed that cases identified in western Poland might be originating from the so-called southern Warsaw cluster. Moreover, the viruses originating from the northern Warsaw cluster do not possess single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutations within the K145R and MGF 505-5R genes, which are specific to all of the other Polish ASFV strains. These results led to a conclusion of their distinct origin. Supporting these results, the nucleotide sequencing of I73R/I329L intergenic region revealed its new, previously undescribed variant, called IGR IV, with an additional three tandem repeats of 10 nucleotides in comparison to the reference sequence of the Georgia 2007/1 strain.
Host Immune Response Driving SARS-CoV-2 Evolution
Authors: Wang Rui , Hozumi Yuta , Zheng Yong-Hui , Yin Changchuan , Wei Guo-Wei
Published: September 2020

The transmission and evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are of paramount importance in controlling and combating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Currently, over 15,000 SARS-CoV-2 single mutations have been recorded, which have a great impact on the development of diagnostics, vaccines, antibody therapies, and drugs. However, little is known about SARS-CoV-2’s evolutionary characteristics and general trend. In this work, we present a comprehensive genotyping analysis of existing SARS-CoV-2 mutations. We reveal that host immune response via APOBEC and ADAR gene editing gives rise to near 65% of recorded mutations. Additionally, we show that children under age five and the elderly may be at high risk from COVID-19 because of their overreaction to the viral infection. Moreover, we uncover that populations of Oceania and Africa react significantly more intensively to SARS-CoV-2 infection than those of Europe and Asia, which may explain why African Americans were shown to be at increased risk of dying from COVID-19, in addition to their high risk of COVID-19 infection caused by systemic health and social inequities. Finally, our study indicates that for two viral genome sequences of the same origin, their evolution order may be determined from the ratio of mutation type, C > T over T > C.
Chicken Astrovirus (CAstV) Molecular Studies Reveal Evidence of Multiple Past Recombination Events in Sequences Originated from Clinical Samples of White Chick Syndrome (WCS) in Western Canada
Authors: Palomino-Tapia Victor , Mitevski Darko , Inglis Tom , van der Meer Frank , Martin Emily , Brash Marina , Provost Chantale , Gagnon Carl A. , Abdul-Careem Mohamed Faizal
Published: September 2020

In this study, we aimed to molecularly characterize 14 whole genome sequences of chicken astrovirus (CAstV) isolated from samples obtained from white chick syndrome (WCS) outbreaks in Western Canada during the period of 2014–2019. Genome sequence comparisons showed all these sequences correspond to the novel Biv group from which no confirmed representatives were published in GenBank. Molecular recombination analyses using recombination detection software (i.e., RDP5 and SimPlot) and phylogenetic analyses suggest multiple past recombination events in open reading frame (ORF)1a, ORF1b, and ORF2. Our findings suggest that recombination events and the accumulation of point mutations may have contributed to the substantial genetic variation observed in CAstV and evidenced by the current seven antigenic sub-clusters hitherto described. This is the first paper that describes recombination events in CAstV following analysis of complete CAstV sequences originated in Canada.
Primary Retrobulbar Leiomyosarcoma in a Dog: A Case Report
Authors: Song Joong-Hyun , Yu Do-Hyeon , Jung Dong-In
Published: September 2020

A 2-year-old female Mongrel dog weighing 3.12 kg presented with a 2-month history of progressive exophthalmos of the left eye and periorbital swelling. Fine-needle aspiration cytology of the affected tissue revealed atypical cells of suspected malignant mesenchymal tumor origin. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed an ill-demarcated soft tissue mass in the left retrobulbar space extending into the nasal cavity and into the frontal lobes of the brain with destruction of the adjacent cribriform plate and the basisphenoid bone. Histopathological features of the tumor were consistent with the diagnosis of undifferentiated sarcoma. The tumor cells were immunoreactive for vimentin, smooth muscle actin, and desmin and negative for S100. These findings were mostly consistent with leiomyosarcoma arising from the smooth muscle on the retrobulbar tissues. Primary retrobulbar leiomyosarcoma is an extremely rare tumor in dogs. To expand our knowledge of retrobulbar leiomyosarcoma in dogs, we have described its clinical, diagnostic imaging, histopathological, and immunohistochemical characteristics in a dog.
Rainwater Harvesting Techniques to Face Water Scarcity in African Drylands: Hydrological Efficiency Assessment
Authors: Tamagnone Paolo , Cea Luis , Comino Elena , Rosso Maurizio
Published: September 2020

The sub-Saharan climate is experiencing a marked increase in temperature and intensification of precipitation intensity and variability. Besides, longer dry spells are compromising the reliability of local agricultural practices. The present study provides a comprehensive investigation about the benefits induced by using indigenous rainwater harvesting techniques (RWHT) against hydrometeorological threats affecting the Sahelian areas. Different RWHT have been tested in term of runoff retention, infiltration increase into the root zone, and soil water stress mitigation. To achieve these purposes, hydrological processes at the field scale have been investigated using a two-dimensional distributed hydrological model. To make the study representative of the whole Sahelian areas, several simulations were carried out adopting a wide range of input parameters based on conventional values of those areas. The results reveal that RWHT may lead to a runoff retention up to 87% and to double the infiltration. Intercepting and storing runoff, RWHT increase the water content in the root zone and the right design can diminish the crop water stress. Furthermore, the results show that adopting RWHT makes it possible to extend the growing season up to 20 days, enhancing the yield. These benefits contribute to the reduction of the climate-related water stress and the prevention of crop failure.
Evaluating the Effect of pH, Temperature, and Hydraulic Retention Time on Biological Sulphate Reduction Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Mukwevho Mukhethwa Judy , Maharajh Dheepak , Chirwa Evans M. Nkhalambayausi
Published: September 2020

Biological sulphate reduction (BSR) has been identified as a promising alternative for treating acid mine drainage. In this study, the effect of pH, temperature, and hydraulic retention time (HRT) on BSR was investigated. The Box–Behnken design was used to matrix independent variables, namely pH (4–6), temperature (10–30 °C), and HRT (2–7 days) with the sulphate reduction efficiency and sulphate reduction rate as response variables. Experiments were conducted in packed bed reactors operating in a downflow mode. Response surface methodology was used to statistically analyse the data and to develop statistical models that can be used to fully understand the individual effects and the interactions between the independent variables. The analysis of variance results showed that the data fitted the quadratic models well as confirmed by a non-significant lack of fit. The temperature and HRT effect were significant (p < 0.0001), and these two variables had a strong interaction. However, the influence of pH was insignificant (p > 0.05).
Ambient Background Values of Selected Chemical Substances in Four Groundwater Bodies in the Pannonian Region of Croatia
Authors: Nakić Zoran , Kovač Zoran , Parlov Jelena , Perković Dario
Published: September 2020

Groundwater quality is a consequence of cumulative effects of natural and anthropogenic processes occurring in unsaturated and saturated zone, which, in certain conditions, can lead to elevated concentrations of chemical substances in groundwater. In this paper, the concept of determining the ambient background value of a chemical substance in groundwater was applied, because the long-term effects of human activity influence the increase in concentrations of substances in the environment. The upper limits of ranges of ambient background values were estimated for targeted chemical substances in four groundwater bodies in the Pannonian region of Croatia, according to the demands of the EU Groundwater Directive. The selected groundwater bodies are typical, according to the aquifer typology, for the Pannonian region of Croatia. Probability plot (PP), the modified Lepeltier method, as well as the simple pre-selection method, were used in this paper, depending on a number of chemical data in analysed data sets and in relation to the proportion of <limit of quantification (LOQ) values in a data set for each groundwater body. Estimates obtained by using PP and the modified Lepeltier method are comparable when data variability is low to moderate, otherwise differences between estimates are notable. These methods should not be used if the proportion of <LOQ values in a data set is higher than 30%; however, the integration of results of both methods can increase the confidence of estimation. If the proportion of <LOQ values is higher than 30%, it is recommended to use the robust pre-selection method with the adequate confidence level. For highly skewed data, the 90th percentile of the pre-selected data set is comparable with other methods and preferable over the 95th percentile. The estimates obtained for inert and mobile substances are comparable on different scales. For highly redox-sensitive substances, estimates may differ by one to two orders of magnitude, in relation to the observed heterogeneity of the aquifer systems. The critical issue in the estimation process is the determination of hydrogeological and geochemical homogeneous units within the heterogeneous aquifer system.
Technical Efficiency of China’s Agriculture and Output Elasticity of Factors Based on Water Resources Utilization
Authors: Yang Shiliang , Wang Huimin , Tong Jinping , Ma Jianfeng , Zhang Fan , Wu Shijuan
Published: September 2020

A stochastic frontier approach (SFA) model of translog production function was constructed to analyze the growth effect of agricultural production factors on grain production in China. Under the condition of unchanged cultivated land, the agricultural labor, capital, and water were regarded as input elements of the agricultural production function. The maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) method was used to analyze the technical efficiency, output elasticity, substitution elasticity, and relative variability of grain production in China from 2004 to 2018. The results showed that: (1) For the technical efficiency and output elasticity of the input factors of grain production, there were significant differences in different provinces. For example, the water resource was insufficient in Beijing and Shanghai, but the output elasticity of water was high. Heilongjiang was rich in water and had high technical efficiency. For Xinjiang, water was sufficient, but its output elasticity was deficient and the technical efficiency didn’t increase. (2) The overall technical efficiency level was relatively low and was still declining year by year; the output elasticity of water was much greater than that of capital. There was still great potential for grain growth. (3) Optimizing resource allocation and controlling the appropriate ratio of input factors to develop grain production could achieve the maximum benefits. Finally, according to the empirical results, this paper put forward some practical policy suggestions for optimizing the allocation of input factors, especially water and capital, which can ultimately improve agricultural productivity by improving technical efficiency.
Influence of the Aggregate-Pouring Sequence on the Efficiency of Plugging Inundated Tunnels through Drilling Ground Boreholes
Authors: Jiang Xiangming , Hui Shuang , Sui Wanghua , Shi Zhiyuan , Wang Jiahao
Published: September 2020

This paper presents an experimental and field investigation on the efficiency of plugging by pouring aggregate in different sequences through multiple boreholes in a tunnel with flowing water. There have been controversies surrounding the selection of the pouring order for different particle sizes of aggregates and the order in different boreholes. A visualized experimental setup is used to investigate the influence of the pouring orders on the efficiency of plugging through multiple boreholes under the flowing-water condition. A case study of the salvage of a flooded mine using ground directional boreholes was investigated and compared with the experimental results. The water-pressure difference at the aggregate-capping moment, when fine aggregate was poured first and coarse aggregate later, was relatively small, compared to that when fine aggregate was poured upstream and coarse aggregate, downstream. The result implies that the efficiency of plugging with the order of pouring fine aggregate first and coarse aggregate later in different boreholes is better than that with the order of pouring fine aggregate upstream and coarse aggregate downstream. When the poured aggregate is about to be capped, increasing the pouring intensity with the same or a larger particle size is more conducive to capping. The case study shows that pouring fine materials in the early stage reduced the cross-sectional area; in the later stage, the aggregate particle size was gradually increased, which can be helpful in forming an effective water-barrier section in the tunnel. The pouring of aggregate provided a base for cement grouting to form a water-plug section with a length of 106 m, resulting in a sealing efficiency of 100% for the case.
Quality Assessments of Shallow Groundwaters for Drinking and Irrigation Purposes: Insights from a Case Study (Jinta Basin, Heihe Drainage Area, Northwest China)
Authors: Feng Jianguo , Sun Hao , He Minghao , Gao Zongjun , Liu Jiutan , Wu Xi , An Yonghui
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to determine the hydrochemical characteristics and hydrogeochemical processes of shallow groundwater in the Jinta Basin, northwest China, and to evaluate the suitability of groundwater quality for drinking water and agricultural irrigation. A systematic hydrogeological survey was conducted in the study area from May 2017 to October 2018, during which 123 representative samples of groundwater were selected for analysis of chemical parameters and determination of the water quality index. The results showed that the pH of groundwater in the study area was weakly alkaline and ranged between 7.21–8.93. Dominant cations were Mg2+ and Na+ and the dominant anion was SO42−. Along the groundwater flow from the southwest to northeast, the dominant groundwater chemistry type in the recharge area was Mg-HCO3·SO4. After the transition of the groundwater types in the runoff area to Mg-SO4·HCO3 and Mg·Na-SO4, the groundwater type in the discharge area evolved into Na·Mg-SO4·Cl. The major factors driving the evolution of groundwater chemical types in the Jinta Basin were found to be rock weathering, evaporation and precipitation. The chemical components of groundwater mainly originated from the dissolution of silicate rock and evaporative concentration of salt under water-rock interaction, whereas the dissolution of carbonate had little influence. The quality of drinking water was divided into five groups, and 39.84% of samples fell within the high and good quality groups. The quality of agricultural irrigation water was divided into different grades according to different methods.
Anthropogenic Modifications and River Ecosystem Services: A Landscape Perspective
Authors: Ekka Anjana , Pande Saket , Jiang Yong , der Zaag Pieter van
Published: September 2020

The process of development has led to the modification of river landscapes. This has created imbalances between ecological, economic, and socio-cultural uses of ecosystem services (ESs), threatening the biotic and social integrity of rivers. Anthropogenic modifications influence river landscapes on multiple scales, which impact river-flow regimes and thus the production of river ESs. Despite progress in developing approaches for the valuation ecosystem goods and services, the ecosystem service research fails to acknowledge the biophysical structure of river landscape where ecosystem services are generated. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to synthesize the literature to develop the understanding of the biocomplexity of river landscapes and its importance in ecosystem service research. The review is limited to anthropogenic modifications from catchment to reach scale which includes inter-basin water transfer, change in land-use pattern, sub-surface modifications, groundwater abstractions, stream channelization, dams, and sand mining. Using 86 studies, the paper demonstrates that river ESs largely depend on the effective functioning of biophysical processes, which are linked with the geomorphological, ecological, and hydrological characteristics of river landscapes. Further, the ESs are linked with the economic, ecological, and socio-cultural aspect. The papers show that almost all anthropogenic modifications have positive impact on economic value of ESs. The ecological and socio-cultural values are negatively impacted by anthropogenic modifications such as dams, inter-basin water transfer, change in land-use pattern, and sand mining. The socio-cultural impact of ground-water abstraction and sub-surface modifications are not found in the literature examined here. Further, the ecological and socio-cultural aspects of ecosystem services from stakeholders’ perspective are discussed. We advocate for linking ecosystem service assessment with landscape signatures considering the socio-ecological interactions.
Analytic Representation of the Optimal Flow for Gravity Irrigation
Authors: Fuentes Carlos , Chávez Carlos
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study is the deduction of an analytic representation of the optimal irrigation flow depending on the border length, hydrodynamic properties, and soil moisture constants, with high values of the coefficient of uniformity. In order not to be limited to the simplified models, the linear relationship of the numerical simulation with the hydrodynamic model, formed by the coupled equations of Barré de Saint-Venant and Richards, was established. Sample records for 10 soil types of contrasting texture were used and were applied to three water depths. On the other hand, the analytical representation of the linear relationship using the Parlange theory of infiltration proposed for integrating the differential equation of one-dimensional vertical infiltration was established. The obtained formula for calculating the optimal unitary discharge is a function of the border strip length, the net depth, the characteristic infiltration parameters (capillary forces, sorptivity, and gravitational forces), the saturated hydraulic conductivity, and a shape parameter of the hydrodynamic characteristics. The good accordance between the numerical and analytical results allows us to recommend the formula for the design of gravity irrigation.
Approaches to Multi-Objective Optimization and Assessment of Green Infrastructure and Their Multi-Functional Effectiveness: A Review
Authors: Wang Jia , Liu Jiahong , Wang Hao , Mei Chao
Published: September 2020

Green infrastructure (GI) is a contemporary area of research worldwide, with the implementation of the findings alleviating issues globally. As a supplement and alternative to gray infrastructure, GI has multiple integrated benefits. Multi-objective GI optimization seeks to provide maximum integrated benefits. The purpose of this review is to highlight the integrated multifunctional effectiveness of GI and to summarize its multi-objective optimization methodology. Here, the multifunctional effectiveness of GI in hydrology, energy, climate, environment, ecology, and humanities as well as their interrelationships are summarized. Then, the main components of GI multi-objective optimization including the spatial scale application, optimization objectives, decision variables, optimization methods and optimization procedure as well as their relationships and mathematical representation are examined. However, certain challenges still exist. There is no consensus on how to measure and optimize the integrated multi-functional effectiveness of GI. Future research directions such as enhancing integrated multi-objective assessment and optimization, improving life cycle analysis and life cycle cost, integrating benefits of GI based on future uncertainties and developing integrated green–gray infrastructure are discussed. This is vital for improving its integrated multifunctional effectiveness and the final decision-making of stakeholders.
Ailesel Akdeniz Ateşi
Authors: AKYOL ONDER Esra Nagehan , ERTAN Pelin
Published: September 2020

Ailesel Akdeniz Ateşi (AAA) tekrarlayan ateş ve ateşe eşlik eden seröz zarların inflamasyonu ile karakterli otozomal resesif geçiş gösteren en sık otoinflamatuar hastalıktır. Özellikle Yahudiler, Araplar, Türkler ve Ermeniler’de sık olarak görülür. Kendi kendini sınırlayan ateş, karın ağrısı, göğüs ağrısı, eklem ağrısı ve şişliği, erizipel benzeri eritem atakları en sık belirti ve bulgulardır. Henoch Schönlein Purpura ve Poliarteritis Nodosa ile AAA birlikteliği sıktır. Tanı koymak amacı ile kullanılan spesifik bir test olmayıp hastalığın tanısı klinik ile konulur. Atak sırasında bakılan akut faz reaktanlarında artış ve atak dışı dönemde bunların normale dönmesi tanıyı destekler. AAA ayırıcı tanısında, diğer periyodik ateş sendromları ve diğer romatolojik hastalıklar, enfeksiyonlar, akut batın sendromları, maligniteler, porfiria gibi diğer hastalıklar göz önünde bulundurulmalıdır. 1972 yılından beri hastalığın tedavisinde etkin ilaç olarak kolşisin kullanılmaktadır. Kronik inflamasyona ikincil olarak gelişen AA (sekonder) amiloidoz, AAA’nın en ciddi komplikasyonudur. Kolşisin tedavisi atakların süre, sıklık ve şiddetini azalttığı gibi amiloidoz riskini de önler. Son yıllarda kolşisin tedavisini tolere edemeyen veya ilaca yanıt alınamayan hastalarda interlökin-1 antagonistlerinin kullanımı ile başarılı sonuçlar elde edilmiştir.
Potential of Local Plants from Buton Island as a Source of Learning Biology
Authors: Slamet Agus , Andarias S. Hafidhawati , Ardiyati Dyah Pramesthy Isyana , B. Yenni , Inang W.D. Fatma
Published: September 2020

The aims of this study is to identify the diversity of local plants on the island of Buton, the results of the identification of potential learning resources, the potential of local plants on the island of Buton to be used as a source of learning to achieve basic skill in the 2013 curicullum. This researches is a method of exploratory research that contains  survey, observation and interview for the use of local plants. The data analysis used is the exploratif analysis and analysis of potential learning resources through a literature review. The results of this study indicate that 23 species of local plants have been identified on Buton Island to be used as a functional food, coloring agents, plastic subtitutes, herbs and spices, medicines and cosmetics, and raw materials for crafts/textiles. The local plants are Amorpophalus sp., Dioscorea alata, Setaria italica, Maranta arundinaceae, Cajanus sp., Oryza sativa, Indigofera sp., Tectona grandis, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Ficus septica, Pisonia alba, Musa balbisinia, Sterculia sp., Amomum sp., Spondias pinnata, Sandoricum koetjape, Averhoa balumbi, Eleutherine palmifolia, Donax canniformis, Pandanus sp., Lygodium circinatum, Bambusa blumeana, and lapi. Based on the requirements of fulfilling local potential as a source of learning that includes aspects of potential clarity, conformity to goals, clarity of objectives, clarity of information revealed, clarity of exploration guidelines and clarity of expected outcomes. the results of research in the form of local plant potential on Buton Island to achieve K.D-3.2 2013 curriculum on Indonesian Biodiversity Materials can be used as a source of biology learning for SMA class X.
The Permissible Input of Biogenic Elements to Water Bodies with Slowed and Moderate Water Exchange
Authors:   Aleksandr N. Popov
Published: September 2020

The article presents the outputs of researches on determination of permissible input of biogenic matter to water bodies with different types of moderate and slowed water exchange: that is phytoplankton, phytoplankton/macrophyte, and macrophyte types. We have shown that the permissible input of biogenic matter to water bodies with moderate and slowed water exchange should be determined with the focus on their actually registered trophic level and its permissible changes appointed depending on the types of this water bodies use. Determination of the admissible increase of the total phosphorous inflow to water bodies of phytoplankton, phytoplankton/macrophyte and macrophyte types is to be done through determination of the permissible, from the point of view of the water user, increase of either the biomass or the phytoplankton, or the supreme aquatic vegetation. The author gives the equations for determination of the permissible inflow of the total phosphorous to phyto-plankton, phytoplankton/macrophyte and macrophyte water bodies.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Water Utilities Taking into Account the Significance of Environmental Friendly Products
Authors:   A.A. Tskhay.
Published: September 2020

An approach has been developed to analyze the efficiency of enterprises providing water supply and wastewater treatment services, taking into account the importance of environmentally friendly products. The study solved the problem of choosing the option for accounting for the transition of water utilities from quantitative to qua litative ind icators, compa ring t he rate of cha nge in efficienc y for options for accou nting for the factor of environmentally friendly products. The criteria for the stages of growth and development in the life cycle of a water utility – «efficiency for itself» and «efficiency for the environment» – are formulated.The classification of water utilities on the basis of growth (development) is formulated, the situation of reducing the level of efficiency of the water utility according to the introduced classification is characterized. The periods when the enterprises of the industry most effectively convert external resources into results for the population are identified. The transition to quality criteria changes the list of leaders among the reviewed enterprises in similar regional administrative centers of Russia in terms of population. This approach can be useful when evaluating water utilities for potential investments, as well as when creating a centralized system for setting tariffs based on reference values of water utilities‘ costs.
Resecciones colorrectales segmentarias en pacientes con colitis ulcerosa y displasia o adenocarcinoma
Authors: Vilar Tabanera Alberto , Puerta Vicente Ana , Abadía Pedro , Die Javier
Published: September 2020

Introducción: El tratamiento estándar para los pacientes con colitis ulcerosa y displasia o adenocarcinoma de colon ha sido la proctocolectomía total, lo que conlleva una morbilidad y una reducción en la calidad de vida significativa.Materiales y métodos: Se hace un análisis retrospectivo de 5 pacientes con colitis ulcerosa a los que se realiza una resección segmentaria por displasia o adenocarcinoma.Resultados: La mediana de edad al diagnóstico de colitis ulcerosa y de la neoplasia fue de 56 y 62 años respectivamente. El tiempo de evolución de la enfermedad fue de 1 a 13 años. La mediana de seguimiento postoperatorio fue de 57 meses apareciendo en uno de los pacientes un nuevo foco de displasia.Conclusiones: En determinados pacientes seleccionados, las resecciones segmentarias podrían ser una opción segura si tienen buen control de la enfermedad, escasa actividad inflamatoria, pocos años de evolución y que puedan realizar un adecuado seguimiento posterior.