bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFECTO DE LAS ZEOLITAS SOBRE CIERTAS PROPIEDADES DE UN SUELO ENMENDADO CON BIOSÓLIDOS
Authors: Torri Silvana Irene , Amaturo Juan Ignacio , Sánchez Laura , Pacheco-Rudz Erika Odila
Published: August 2021

La aplicación de biosólidos como enmienda orgánica para restaurar suelos degradados constituye una alternativa para su eliminación. Sin embargo, los biosólidos pueden presentar concentraciones variables de elementos traza potencialmente tóxicos (EPT) que se acumulan en los suelos alterando la actividad microbiana. Las zeolitas son minerales que tienen espacios porosos y canales internos con una elevada capacidad de intercambio catiónico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la influencia del agregado de zeolitas sobre la actividad microbiana, pH, conductividad eléctrica (CE), carbono oxidable y disponibilidad de fósforo (P) en un suelo remediado con biosólidos. Se realizó un ensayo de incubación a temperatura ambiente. Se observó que la incorporación de zeolitas no modificó significativamente la actividad microbiana de los suelos sin remediar o remediados con biosólidos; sin embargo, incrementó de manera importante los valores de pH (en 2.89 y 1.18 unidades) y CE (en 4374 y 1459 µS/cm) en los suelos sin enmendar o enmendados con biosólidos, y produjo una reducción significativa en la concentración de fósforo extraíble. Dado el incremento en los valores de pH y CE observados, la proporción de biosólidos y zeolitas o el empleo de riego suplementario deben evaluarse cuidadosamente cuando estas remediaciones se incorporan de forma conjunta en el suelo, para evitar salinización si el objetivo es emplear ambas remediaciones de manera conjunta con fines de restauración de suelos.
EFECTO GENOTÓXICO DE DOS TINTAS EMPLEADAS EN EL ARTE DEL TATUAJE
Authors: Alarcón-Herrera Norberto , Flores Maya Saúl
Published: August 2021

El presente estudio aporta respuestas sobre el efecto genotóxico de dos tintas usadas en el arte del tatuaje. En la actualidad no hay información sobre los efectos genotóxicos que puedan producir algunos de los compuestos químicos de las tintas sobre la salud humana. El objetivo de este estudio fue conocer los efectos genotóxicos de la tinta negra y blanca, empleadas mayormente en el arte del tatuaje. En esta investigación se aplicaron la prueba de micronúcleos en células de sangre periférica de ratones CD-1 y la prueba de aberraciones cromosómicas estructurales en cultivos de linfocitos humanos. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron diferencias significativas en los valores promedio de las células en división (% IM), la frecuencia de micronúcleos (% MCN) en las células de sangre periférica de los ratones y el número promedio de aberraciones cromosómicas estructurales de las células de linfocitos humanos, por lo que fueron sometidos al análisis de la prueba de comparación múltiple de Dunnett (p < 0.05). Se concluyó que los componentes químicos de las tintas blanca y negra tienen efectos citotóxicos en las células de sangre periférica de ratón CD-1 y en las células de linfocitos humanos. En cuanto a los efectos genotóxicos de dichos compuestos, ambas tintas los producen en células de sangre periférica de ratón CD-1 y sólo la tinta blanca tuvo efectos genotóxicos en las células de linfocitos humanos en la concentración de 10 mg/mL.
CARBONO DE LA BIOMASA MICROBIANA, RESPIRACIÓN BASAL Y CINÉTICA DEL CARBONO DE DOS SUELOS EROSIONADOS ENMENDADOS CON BIOSÓLIDOS
Authors: de la Portilla López Nadia , Vaca Paulín Rocío Vaca Paulín , del Águila Juárez Pedro , Salinas Alcántara Liliana , Yáñez Ocampo Gustavo , Lugo de la Fuente Jorge
Published: August 2021

El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de la incorporación de tres dosis de biosólidos (0, 25 y 40 t/ha) a suelos erosionados por extracción minera y erosión hídrica, sobre el carbono de la biomasa microbiana, la respiración basal y la cinética del carbono mineralizado a los 7, 30, 180 y 360 días después de dicha incorporación. Los resultados mostraron aumento de la respiración basal y el coeficiente metabólico en ambos suelos a los 7 y 360 días, respectivamente, después de la adición de 40 t/ha de biosólidos. En suelos erosionados por extracción minera el carbono de la biomasa microbiana fue mayor en el tratamiento control (M0,0 t/ha de biosólido) después de 30 días de la incorporación, mientras que en el suelo con erosión hídrica el mayor contenido se presentó en H25 (25 t/ha de biosólido) durante los primeros 7 días. Finalmente, la adición de biosólidos favoreció la cinética de mineralización del carbono (Cm) de manera que los suelos tratados presentaron valores más altos respecto al control.
Hyperleptinemia Results in Systemic Inflammation and the Exacerbation of Ischemia-Reperfusion Myocardial Injury: The Involvement of the JAK/STAT Pathway
Authors: Polyakova Ekaterina A. , Mikhaylov Evgeny N. , Galagudza Mikhail M. , Shlyakhto Evgeny V.
Published: August 2021

Hyperleptinemia potentiates the effects of many atherogenic factors, such as inflammation, platelet aggregation, migration, hypertrophy, proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cell dysfunction. The present study analysed the eﬀects of long-term hyperleptinemia in an in vivo myocardial ischemia-reperfusion model to demonstrate whether the in vivo deleterious effect also affects cardiac structure and function. Rats by were subcutaneously administered leptin for 8 days to estimate the involvement of the JAK/STAT pathway. Data from 58 male Wistar rats were included in the final analysis. Myocardial infarction (MI) was modelled by the 30-minute ligation of the main left coronary artery followed by 120-minute reperfusion. Hemodynamic measurements, electrocardiography monitoring, echocardiography, myocardial infarct size and area at risk, blood biochemical parameters, leptin, IL-6, TNF-alpha, FGF-21, and cardiomyocyte morphology were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics v.26. Seven-day hyperleptinemia in rats led to increased an blood pressure and heart rate, myocardial hypertrophy, impaired LV function, an increased frequency of ischemic arrhythmias, dyslipidaemia, systemic inflammation, and an increased size of induced myocardial infarction. The blockade of the JAK/STAT signalling pathway effectively reversed the negative effects of leptin, including increased blood pressure and total cholesterol.
Supporting Cross-Border E-commerce of Micro Entrepreneurs in Developing Countries: Export Marketing Strategy
Authors: Kim Kihyon , Lim Gyoo Gun
Published: August 2021

Cross-border e-commerce is an opportunity for micro, small and medium sized enterprise (MSMEs) in developing countries. Based on a resource-based approach, this research studied how to support resource lacking enterprises with export marketing strategy. It dealt with actual business cases of Mongolian entrepreneurs trying to export Mongolian products to Korean market. Multiple source data including interviews, internal documents, and group discussions, were matched with theories to come up with strategies and validated by supporting organizations in Mongolia and Korea. The research suggests that MSMEs should rely on third party digital platforms rather than setting up their own. For product strtategy of the marketing mix, sellecting competitive product categories and supporting them adjusting to foreign markets and quality assurance is needed. For price strategy, loccally high priced products should use a price penetration strategy with a lower price compared to competing foreign products. For place strategy, supporting organizations should partner with exporters for collective delivery. For promotion strategy, they need to support the capacity of MSMEs enabling them to use digital marketing tools effectivly. These strategies were validated and adopted by supporting organizations in Monglia and Korea.
Urban Environment during Post-War Reconstruction: Architectural Dominants and Nodal Points as Measures of Changes in an Urban Landscape
Authors: Czarnecki Bartosz , Chodorowski Michal Pawel
Published: August 2021

Modernist planners were given the opportunity to apply the idea of ​​the Modern Movement in the implementation of cities transforming after World War II, which was not possible before in long-term evolving structures. Usually, however, it was impossible to change everything: some urban and even architectural elements were necessary to be preserved. As a result, the elements of the ancient landscapes of these cities - historical objects and spaces - necessary for the continuity of evidence of history and identity have been preserved, sometimes through reconstruction. Finally, in some of these cities, both old and new elements contribute to the contemporary urban landscape. The aim of the research is to examine two key categories of urban structure in this perspective: 1. landmarks 2. urban network nodes. For this purpose: 1. the changes in the number and rank of the space with which the landmarks exhibition was carried out were compared; 2. the changes in the rank of nodes in the urban structure functioning both in the pre-war and in the present structure, as well as changes in their distribution and concentration areas were analyzed. The numbers of individual elements were balanced and the changes in the structure of their arrangement were analyzed with the use of a polygon grid. The analyzes were based on the case of a medium-scale European city (Białystok). Research shows that as a result of post-war reconstruction, the number of elements of the urban grid decreased, especially those of lower rank, the rank of others decreased.
Socioeconomic and Spatial Impacts of High-Speed Rail on Enterprises: An Ex-Ante Case Study of Ahmedabad Station Area, India
Authors: Sudan Falendra Kumar
Published: August 2021

Growth benefits of high speed rail (HSR) for enterprises are not automatic, but require a buoyant local economy and a robust strategy. Against above background, main objectives of ex-ante case study have been to investigate local socio-economic and spatial impacts of proposed HSR project around Ahmedabad station area on Mumbai-Ahmedabad HSR corridor, analyze the opportunities and challenges of HSR development and draw policy implications. Qualitative research methodology has been used to elicit the perceptions and perspectives of randomly selected 43 small, medium and large enterprises. Data has been analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study reveals that HSR induced greater human interaction will activate local economy, improve business efficiency and generate employment. Frequent travels on business trips can influence enterprises decision to settle near HSR station for easy access and likely to promote realty development. The proposed HSR project should be developed in synergy with urban dynamics of cities in transition and metropolitan service cities. Poor public transport connectivity is likely to be a major challenge in improving HSR accessibility and enhancing overall impacts of HSR, which can be improved by developing an integrated urban transport system, for which cooperation of all stakeholders and coherence with firms’ strategies is essential.
How Ultrasonic-Assisted CO2 EOR to Unlock Oils From Unconventional Reservoirs?
Authors: Wang Hengli , Tian Leng , Zhang Kaiqiang , Liu Zongke , Huang Can , Jiang Lili , Chai Xiaolong
Published: August 2021

CO2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) has been proven its capability to explore the unconventional tight oil reservoirs and potential for geological carbon storage. Meanwhile, the extremely low permeability pores exaggerate the difficulty CO2 EOR and geological storage processing in the actual field. This paper initiates the ultrasonic-assisted approach to facilitate the oil-gas miscibility development and finally contribute to unlock more tight oils. First, the physical properties of crude oil with and without ultrasonic treatments were experimentally analysed through gas chromatography (GC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and viscometer. Second, the oil-gas minimum miscibility pressures (MMPs) were measured from the slim-tube test and the miscibility developments with and without ultrasonic treatments were interpreted from the mixing-cell method. Third, the nuclear-magnetic resonance (NMR) assisted coreflood tests were conducted to physically model the recovery process in porous media and directly obtain the recovery factor. Basically, the ultrasonic treatment (40KHz and 200W for 8 hours) was found to substantially change the oil properties, with viscosity (at 60°C) reduced from 4.1 to 2.8mPa·s, contents of resin and asphaltene decreased from 27.94% and 6.03% to 14.2% and 3.79%, respectively. The FTIR spectrum shows the unsaturated C-H bond, C-O bond and C≡C bond in macromolecules were broken from ultrasonic, which caused the macromolecules (e.g., resin and asphaltenes) to be decomposed into smaller carbon-number molecules. Accordingly, the MMP was determined to be reduced from 15.8 to 14.9MPa from the slim-tube test and the oil recovery factor increased by over 10%. This study reveals the mechanisms of ultrasonic-assisted CO2 miscible EOR in producing tight oils.
Analisis faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi struktur modal di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Hendi Hendi , Susanti Yenny
Published: August 2021

Capital structure is a combination of capital and debt so that it is very influential on the company's financial position. To finance operations, companies can use funds from debt or capital. However, the company's management must know whether the company is able to bear the financial risks or costs of these funds to prevent the company's bankruptcy. The purpose of this research is to analyze the factors that influence the capital structure. The independent variables are corporate tax rates, non-debt tax savings, investment opportunity sets, sales growth, and profitability. The sample data tested were obtained from the annual reports of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The reporting period used in this study was five years and amounted to 2,210. The data obtained were then processed through the SPSS 25 and Eviews 10 systems. The results revealed that corporate tax rates and profitability have a significant negative effect on capital structure. There is a significant positive effect of the investment opportunity set variable and sales growth on the owned capital structure. Another finding is that non-debt tax savings have no significant effect on capital structure.
Economic benefit, convenience dan risk benefit dalam mempengaruhi penggunaan Fintech yang berulang
Authors: Firmansyah Fani , Rozi Choirul , Prajawati Maretha Ika
Published: August 2021

Almost all activities in all sectors are supported by technology and information. Fintech has attracted much attention, but the current use of Fintech is still in doubt. This study aims specifically to determine the specific benefits that are felt as well as the negative impacts arising from the use of Fintech together can influence the use of Fintech repeatedly, specifically for the younger generation. This type of research is quantitative research. The sampling method used is Quota Sampling. In this study, 20 samples will be taken from several universities in Malang. Based on the results of the research and discussion of this study, it can be concluded that the higher the economic benefits and comfort provided by Fintech, the higher the recurring assistance for Fintech. Financial risk (financial influence) as a moderating variable that influences the effect of economic benefits (economic benefits) on the continuation of financial technology intentions (intention to use repeatedly in financial technology products). The financial risk offered by Fintech means the higher interest in using Fintech because of the higher the level of Fintech usage the higher.
Analisis kinerja berbasis Balanced Scorecard pada koperasi simpan pinjam
Authors: Nikmah Farida Ainun , Dewi Retno Mustika
Published: August 2021

This study aims to assess the performance of the Koperasi Pasar (Koppas) Wanita in Jatiprahu Village using the Balanced Scorecard method. This is a quantitative descriptive study, data collected through documentation, interviews and questionnaires from 158 samples. The results of the analysis obtained that three of the four research variable perspectives had bad results, the financial perspective, internal business, as well as growth and learning have decreased assessment results compared to the previous year. While the customer perspective variable has a good assessment result, increased compared to the previous year’s assessment. The overall performance Koperasi Pasar Wanita Kartini is satisfactory. The management and supervisor of the cooperative need to improve the existing performance system, so that in the future performance of the cooperative will be better.
APLICATION OF CATFISH FLOUR ON TEXTURE AND HEDONIC PROFILES OF PEMPEK LENJER
Authors: Aminullah Aminullah , Marwiyah Siti Wiwi , Kusumaningrum Intan
Published: August 2021

African catfish flour can be used for making pempek from premix flour. The objective was to study the effect of the catfish flour and compare tapioca and wheat flour to the texture and hedonic profiles of pempek lenjer from premix flour. The methods consisted of making catfish flour and pempek from premix flour. The treatments were catfish flours of 15%, 20%, and 25% and a comparison of tapioca and wheat flours of 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1, respectively. Analysis on catfish flour was yield and proximate characteristics, as well as analysis on pempek lenjer, were texture profiles of hardness, springiness, and stickiness, and hedonic profiles of color, aroma, taste, and springiness texture. A complete two-factor random design and Duncan’s post hoc analysis were used in the research. The results showed that catfish flour has a yield of 20%, moisture of 6,6%, ash of 1,54%, protein of 50,94%, fat of 16,75%, and carbohydrate of 24,17%. In addition, the more the catfish flour and the less the tapioca used led to the lower the hardness and the higher the springiness of pempek lenjer. However, it did not significantly affect the stickiness. The hedonic analysis showed that this pempek has a high preference value on all parameters. The texture profiles and hedonic test produced a combination of catfish flour of 20% and a comparison of tapioca and wheat flour of 2:1 as the chosen product in this research.
KAJIAN CEMARAN MIKROBIOLOGIS CILOK DAN SAUS KACANG DI KOTA SURAKARTA
Authors: Yuliastuti Eko , Suhartatik Nanik , Mustofa Akhmad , Lustiyani Desy , Pratiwi Nanda
Published: August 2021

Cilok was a traditional food originating from Bandung and comes from the abbreviation of "Aci dicolok". As the name implies, a snack made from tapioca flour mixed with condiment and sometime using meat or fish fillet. It was tasty and chewy. Cilok has quietly different from meatball because meatball using wheat flour. Cilok usually consumed using a sauce made from crushed peanuts, sugars, salt, mixed with chili sauce, tomato sauce, or soy sauce which can be modified as you want. Recently, cilok sales in the city of Surakarta have become increasingly popular. In almost every corner we can find cilok sellers. This study aims to determine the level of microbiological contamination found in cilok and peanut sauce in Surakarta. The research method used was simple random sampling method from 5 districts in Surakarta. The number of contaminants was calculated by the direct plate count method. The tests performed were to determine the total plate count (ALT), total Staphylococci, total Salmonella shigella, and total coliforms of the cilok and also for the sauce. As for the cilok sample, the average log value of ALT was 6.57 - 7.97 log CFU / g, total Staphylococci 4.57 - 4.96 log CFU / g, Salmonella shigella was 0.53 - 1.23 log CFU / g, and total coliforms 1.00 - 2.26 log CFU / g. Peanut sauce sample, the average log value of ALT was 7.40 - 8.18 log CFU / g, total staphylococci 5.84 - 6.68 log CFU / g, total Salmonella shigella was 2.24 - 3.23 log CFU / g, and Escherichia coli 2.35 - 5.79 log CFU / g. From the test results of the peanut sauce and peanut sauce samples, it can be concluded that the peanut sauce and peanut sauce sold in Surakarta are still not suitable for consumption.
Effect of Dredging Rate, Sintering Time, Cooling Media on Corrosion Results of Carbon Steel Dredging
Authors: Irawan Dani
Published: August 2021

Metal reinforcement that has an impact on improving mechanical properties can occur in various ways, including by strain hardening mechanisms, solid solutions, second phase, prespitations, disperse, grain refinement and texture. In recent years, another method has been developed to obtain good mechanical properties without adding alloy elements, namely by the method of comprehensive plastic deformation (Severe Plastic Deformation). The purpose of this research is to conduct a study of rolling using medium carbon steel with a treatment temperature above recrystallization, rolling rate, sintering time, cooling media as an effort to develop and design new innovations about steel structures being rolled. The study of developing rolling techniques that can be applied in industry and can be applied as learning material / media in higher education requires structured research stages. The best impact value from this temper process is a temperature of 550 ° C for 1 hour where the impact value is 1.58 J / mm² with air conditioning media. In the rolling process above the recrystallization temperature 800 ° C deformation 20% the impact value is 1.7 J / mm² where the toughness indicates a ductile fracture while the deformation is 10% the impact value
Network Security Analysis and Bandwidth Management
Authors: Saputro Bagus Aji
Published: August 2021

Computer network users have to spend a lot of money to use the Internet. The Internet has given a very big change in the dissemination of information, so that many people are using data through the Internet. This problem can be solved by MikroTik as a regulator of Internet data traffic and limiting bandwidth that can interfere with computer network activities in accordance with the regulations that have been applied. As a result of not being limited in bandwidth, it causes an overload on a network which has an impact on disrupting internet traffic on that network. Each agency should implement bandwidth restrictions according to the needs of users using the internet. Result from this research is not being limited in bandwidth, it causes an overload on a network which has an impact on disrupting internet traffic on that network. Each agency should implement bandwidth restrictions according to the needs of users using the internet.
Making micro-credentials work: A student perspective
Authors: Oxley Kaleb , Van Rooyen Tristan
Published: August 2021

Micro-credentials, digital badges and industry-recognised certificates have been attracting considerable attention in recent years and with the disruption of many jobs due to the pandemic, interest in continuing education has grown. Micro-credentials represent an alternative approach to career and professional development (Ghasia, Machumu, & De Smet, 2019, p. 219; LaMagna, 2017, p. 207). These credentialed … industry aligned short units of learning’ are described by Wheelahan & Moodie (2021, p. 212) as an extension of ‘21st century skills’ and the discourse of employability in higher education. Graduate employability has become heavily integrated into modern higher education policy frameworks, but what does this actually mean from a student perspective?
Nevada Bird Records Committee Report for 2019–2020
Authors: Tinsman Jeanne , Meyers Martin
Published: August 2021

In 2019 and 2020, the Nevada Bird Records Committee reviewed 79 reports from the period 4 November 1955 to 23 October 2020. Seventy of them were endorsed. It added three species to the state checklist, the Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla), Mexican Duck (Anas diazi), and Pine Warbler (Setophaga pinus). Two of those (the Field Sparrow and Pine Warbler) were added to the review list. The Mexican Duck was elevated from subspecies to species status, and it, along with six other species, were removed from the review list. We also continued reviewing records that precede the committee’s establishment in 1994.
Update on the Status and Breeding Phenology of the Timberline Sparrow (Spizella breweri taverneri) in Alaska
Authors: Stuyck Claire M. , Leonard Paul B. , Frost Gerald V. , Lake Michelle L. S. , Walters Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2021

In July 2020 we located 10 singing Timberline Sparrows [Spizella (breweri) taverneri] in the region of Gold Hill, Nutzotin Mountains, east-central Alaska. All birds were on southeast-facing slopes in the ecotone between subalpine scrub and alpine tundra, to which habitat breeding Timberline Sparrows seem narrowly confined. The population’s estimated density of 0.77 birds/km2 was similar to that at the time of its discovery in 1994. We located the first active nest of the Timberline Sparrow reported for Alaska, ~0.3 m above the ground in a shrubby resin birch (Betula glandulosa). An observation of young fledged on 11 or 12 July 2020 implies egg laying in the third week of June, later than the beginning of the breeding season of Spizella (breweri) breweri.
Experimental Verification of General Validity of Non-Force (Information) Interaction Formula
Authors: Teslia Iurii
Published: August 2021

The work is devoted to the demonstration of the possibility of applying the formulas of information handling obtained in the theory of non-force interaction for the natural language processing. These formulas were obtained in computer experiments in modelling the movement and interaction of material objects by changing the amount of information that triggers this movement. The hypothesis, objective and tasks of the experimental research were defined. The methods and software tools were developed to conduct the experiments. To compare different results of the simulation of the processes in a human brain during speech production, there was a range of methods proposed to calculate the estimate of sequence of fragments of natural language texts including the methods based on linear approximation. The experiments confirmed that the formulas of information handling obtained in the theory of non-force interaction reflect the processes of language formation. It is shown that the offered approach can successfully be used to create systems of reactive artificial intelligence machines. Experimental and, presented in this work, practical results constitute that the non-force (informational) interaction formulae are generally valid.
Purification and Characterization of lipase enzyme from endophytic Bacillus pumilus WSS5 for application in detergent industry.
Authors: Khan Sofia Sharief , Verma vijeshwar , Rasool Shafaq
Published: August 2021

Lipolytic enzymes from endophytic microbes have been the focus of intense and growing research in view of the applicability of such enzymes in various industrial applications and endophytic microorganisms may emerge as a potential source of lipases with distinct characteristics. The current work involved purification and characterization of the lipase from an endophytic-bacteria isolated from the stem of Withania somnifera L. Dunal. Based on the analysis of morphology and 16S rDNA sequence, the endophytic bacteria was identified as Bacillus pumilus and designated as B. pumilus WSS5. Purified lipase from the B. pumilus WSS5 was found to be of 28 KDa as revealed by SDS-PAGE with optimum activity at 37°C and pH 8. The enzyme was found to be stable over a broad pH range of 6.0–9.0 and temperature stability was in the range of 10°C to 60°C. The enzyme activity was enhanced in the presence of organic solvents like Ethyl acetate, Methanol, 2-propanol, acetone, and ethanol. The stability of the enzyme in presence of various metal ions, surfactants, inhibitors, and kinetic parameters value suggested that this enzyme could be exploited in leather and detergent industries.In addition, the stain removal potential of the crude and purified lipase was determined on cotton fabric pieces stained with vegetable oil. Lipase added to water along with detergent significantly enhanced the stain removal efficiency of a commercially available detergent. The current findings suggest the potential of B. pumilus WSS5 lipase owing to promising properties such as the alkali-thermostability, organic solvent-tolerance, and broad substrate specificity that makes it a strong candidate for application in detergent formulations, biotransformation, industries, and medicine. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the purification and characterization of lipase from bacterial endophyte isolated from the stem of Withania somnifera L. Dunal.
Prognostic Value of Immune-Related IncRNA pairs in Patients with Bladder Cancer
Authors: Gao zhenzhen , Wu Dongjuan , Zheng Wenwen , Zhu taohong , Sun Ting , Yuan Lianhong , Fei Faming , Fu Peng
Published: August 2021

Background: The characteristics of immune-related long non-coding ribonucleic acids (ir-lncRNAs), regardless of their specific levels, have important implications for the prognosis of patients with bladder cancer. Methods: Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database, original transcript data were analyzed, the ir-lncRNAs were obtained using a coexpression method, and the differentially expressed pairs of ir-lncRNAs (DE-ir-lncRNAs) were identified by univariate analysis. The lncRNA pairs were verified using a Lasso regression test. Thereafter, receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were generated, area under the curve was calculated, Akaike information criterion of the 5-year ROC was determined, optimal cutoff value of the high- and low-risk populations of patients with bladder cancer was confirmed, and optimal risk model was established. The clinical value of the model was verified through the analysis of patient survival rates, clinicopathological characteristics, presence of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, and chemotherapy efficacy evaluation. Results: In total, 49 pairs of DE-ir-lncRNAs were identified, of which 21 were included in the Cox regression model. A risk regression model was established on the premise of not involving the specific expression value of the transcripts.Conclusions: The method and model used in this study have important clinical predictive value for bladder cancer and other malignant tumors.
Geophysical and Geotechnical Investigation of Building Failure in A Typical Basement Complex Environment – A Case Study in Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Afolabi Olaolu , Oladeji Ayoola Temiloluwa , Salami Babatunde Moruf , Lawal Sadiq Akorede
Published: August 2021

A building located within the Basement Complex of the ancient town of Ile – Ife, Osun State, Southwestern Nigeria was observed to have failed due to excessive total and differential settlement. The failure was investigated using the electrical resistivity and geotechnical methods The electrical resistivity method involved the 2-D electrical resistivity imaging (ERI) technique using the dipole-dipole array along four traverses of 30 – 60 m in lengths. The geotechnical method involved the cone penetration test (CPT) using the 2.5-ton static penetrometer machine. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the ERI data were made using the DIPROfWIN software for the pseudo-inversion while the CPT data were interpreted for lithology using standard chart. The results show that the topsoil, about 1.0 m thick, is composed of sandy clay/clay that is characterized by cone resistance (qc) of 0.2 – 2.0 MPa and resistivity of 75 - 200 Ωmm. The underlying clayey weathered layer, which constitute the shallow foundation soil is characterized by thickness of 4 - >10 m, qc of 0.2 – 1.0 MPa, resistivity of 25 - 75 Ωmm and estimated consolidation settlement of 200 – 500 mm. The basal layer is the saprock/fresh bedrock characterized by qc of > 8.0 MPa and resistivity of 100 - 1000 Ωmm. The subsoil is thus characterized by variably thick incompetent clayey weathered layer within which the shallow foundation was placed; hence the excessive total and differential settlements.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Pollution of the Snow Cover of the Severodvinsk Industrial District (Russia, the Arkhangelsk Region).
Authors: Yakovlev E. Yu. , Druzhinina A.S. , Zykova E.N. , Zykov S.B. , Ivanchenko N.L.
Published: August 2021

In the present work, the content of heavy metals in soluble and insoluble forms of snow was investigated, as well as in waters from wells near the Severodvinsk industrial centre (Russia, the Arkhangelsk region). The content of heavy metals (Al, Fe, Ti, Mn, Zn, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Co, V, As, and Cd) in the melt snow filtrate and solid residue was measured using the ICP-MS method. On the territory of the city, there are high concentrations of metals, high values ​​of electrical conductivity and low pH values ​​in objects most susceptible to anthropogenic pollution. It was determined that in urban conditions the share of the solid-phase component increases, which indicates an increase in dust fallout. Statistical analysis showed that most of the metals in the snow cover are linked with each other by a strong correlation (r> 0.9), and also made it possible to identify sources of pollution, namely thermal power plants and shipbuilding enterprises. The calculation of various indices for assessing the snow quality and natural waters determined the level of heavy metal pollution in the Severodvinsk industrial district as extremely high and dangerous for public health. The radiation parameters of water from wells were studied and a satisfactory radioecological characterisation of the research area was established.
Physiological and Proteomic Analysis Revealed the Response Mechanisms of two Different Grought-resistant Maize Varieties
Authors: Li Hongjie , Yang Mei , Zhao Chengfeng , Wang Yifan , Zhang Renhe
Published: August 2021

Background: Drought stress seriously limits the seedling growth and yield of maize. Despite previous studies on drought resistance mechanisms by which maize cope with water deficient, the link between physiological and molecular variations are largely unknown. To reveal the complex regulatory mechanisms, comparative physiology and proteomic analyses were conducted to investigate the stress responses of two maize cultivars with contrasting tolerance to drought stress. Results: Physiological results showed that SD609 (drought-tolerant) maintains higher photochemical efficiency by enhancing CEF (cyclic electron flow) protective mechanism and antioxidative enzymes activities. Proteomics analysis revealed a total of 198 and 102 proteins were differentially expressed in SD609 and SD902, respectively. Further enrichment analysis indicated that drought-tolerant ‘SD609’ increased the expression of proteins related to photosynthesis, antioxidants/detoxifying enzymes, molecular chaperones and metabolic enzymes. The up-regulation proteins related to PSII repair and photoprotection mechanisms resulted in more efficient photochemical capacity in tolerant variety under moderate drought. However, the drought-sensitive ‘SD902’ only induced molecular chaperones and sucrose synthesis pathways, and failed to protect the impaired photosystem. Further analysis indicated that proteins related to the electron transport chain, redox homeostasis and heat shock proteins (HSPs) could be important in protecting plants from drought stress. Conclusions: Our experiments explored the mechanism of drought tolerance, and obtained detailed information about the interconnection of physiological research and protein research. In summary, our findings could provide new clues into further understanding of drought tolerance mechanisms in maize.
A Comparative Study On The Physical Properties of Natural Sedimentary Loess And Manual Filling Compacted Loess
Authors: Zhang Linxin , Qi Shengwen , Yu Yongtang , Zhang Yaguo , Li Zhiqing , Hou Xiaokun , Ma Lina , Zou Yu , Guo Songfeng , Peng Jianbing
Published: August 2021

With the development of human society, mega engineering projects of removing the tops of hills to infill valleys began to appear in the loess region. The thickness of the manual filling compacted loess can reach tens of meters. For such large-scale construction projects, studying the properties of compacted loess is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of land creation and artificial infrastructure. In this paper, the specimens from two exploration well profiles were carried out to study the physical properties of natural loess and compacted loess from the Loess Plateau. Here the natural loess selected was deposited in old ages (Q2 and Q1) and had strong stability. The natural water content, dry density, specific gravity, liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, clay fraction, silt fraction, sand fraction, compression modulus, and permeability coefficient have been determined. Statistical theories such as t-test and correlation coefficient checks were used to describe the difference between the two kinds of loess, and the degree of correlation among various indicators. Besides, 14 groups of exploration well data in 8 studies were collected. The variation of natural water content and dry density with well depth was analyzed to supplement the existing data. Results have shown that the manual filling compacted loess is significantly different from the natural loess. On the whole, the liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, clay fraction, silt fraction, sand fraction and compression modulus of the compacted loess are smaller. And compared with the natural sedimentary loess with strong stability, it deforms more easily. The difference of compression modulus between the compacted loess and natural loess is mainly controlled by the dry density and the particle composition. Moreover, the heterogeneous level of the manual filling compacted loess is greater than that of the natural loess in the horizontal direction and smaller than that of the natural loess in the vertical direction. Under a combination of external hydrologic conditions and dead weight, the compacted loess will become more stable.
Assessing The Impacts of Wet Treatment On Leaching Toxicity of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash
Authors: Zhu Yonghao , Hu Yanjun , Guo Qianqian , Zhao Lingqin , Xu Bin
Published: August 2021

Wet-treatment is usually employed to recover metals from bottom ash (BA). However, its effectiveness on regulating the leaching behavior of BA and minimizing environmental impact is still unquantified when BA is used as engineering materials. This study investigated the leaching behavior of targeted pollutants including Cu, Zn, Ni, SO42- and Cl- in fresh bottom ash (FBA) and treated bottom ash (TBA) using batch, standard column up-flow leaching and simulated rainfall down-flow leaching tests. It was firstly noted by the batch leaching that the potential ecological risk of MSWI bottom ash could not be ignore during its reutilization, and wet treatment enabled reduce the leaching concentration of Cu, Zn, Cl- and SO42- by 7.1%, 33.8%, 46.3% and 18.9%, respectively. The leaching concentrations of the targeted ions in FBA are generally higher than those of TBA. Furthermore, when BA was applied in water dynamic system such as rainfall environment, its toxicity leaching should be paid more attention onto the early leaching stage with a very high water dissolved salts release, such as Cl- and SO42-. The leaching concentration of Cu particularly exceeded the limit value before L/S=1. Meanwhile, it was also found that the leaching of SO42-, Ni, Cu and Zn in water dynamic system were directly proportionate to the liquid-to-solid (L/S) ratio. The leaching concentration of the pollutants obtained from the simulate rainfall down-flow tests was usually 4-6 times higher than those from the standard up-flow column when at the same ratio of liquid and solid.
Potential Phytoremediation of Pampa Biome Native And Invasive Grass Species Cohabiting Vineyards Contaminated With Cu In Southern Brazil
Authors: Silva Isley Cristiellem Bicalho da , Somavilla André , Soares Vanessa , Tarouco Camila , Schwalbert Raíssa , Trentin Edicarla , Quadros Fernando , Nicoloso Fernando , Ferreira Paulo , Brunetto Gustavo
Published: August 2021

The aims of the present study are to evaluate whether the growth of Pampa biome native grass species Axonopus affinis, Paspalum notatum and Paspalum plicatulum, as well as of invasive grass species Cynodon dactylon, is compromised by excessive Cu availability in the soil (0, 35 and 70 mg of Cu kg-1), to determine the impact of excessive Cu on the physiological responses of the investigated species and to assess whether these species have the potential to enable the phytoremediation of soils contaminated with Cu. C. dactylon presented the best performance in soil contaminated with 35 mg of Cu kg-1. In C. dactylon, the concentrations of chlorophyll b and carotenoids increased, as did the photosynthetic rate and plant growth. Phytotoxic effects of Cu in soil contaminated with 70 mg of Cu kg-1 were more severe on A. affinis and led to plant death. The other species presented reduced photosynthetic and growth rates, as well as increased activity of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and POD. This very same Cu level has decreased photosynthetic pigment concentrations in P. notatum and P. plicatulum. On the other hand, it did not change chlorophyll a and b concentrations in C. dactylon and increased carotenoid concentrations in it. High values recorded for Cu bioaccumulation-in-grass-root factor, mainly in P. plicatulum, have indicated that the investigated plants are potential phytostabilizers. High C. dactylon biomass production - in comparison to other species - compensates for the relatively low metal concentration in its tissues by increasing metal extraction from the soil. This makes C. dactylon more efficient in the phytoremediation process than other species.
The Value of West Nile Virus RNA Detection by Real-time PCR in Urine Samples From Patients With Neuroinvasive Forms
Authors: gdoura Mariem , Fares Wasfi , Bougatef Souha , Inoubli Amine , Touzi Henda , Hogga Nahed , Dhifallah Imen Ben , Hannachi Naila , Argoubi Aida , Kacem Saoussen , Karray Hela , Alaya Nissaf Ben , Triki Henda
Published: August 2021

Introduction Routine laboratory screening is based on the detection of WNV specific IgM and IgG in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. Confirmation is then classically applied RT-PCR in CSF, which often give negative results due to too short virorachia and late sampling.RT-PCR was applied-for the first time for routine diagnosis purpose-on urine samples.Methods During 2018 outbreak in Tunisia, 107 patients presented WNV neurologic symptoms and were positive for WNV serology. Of them, 95 patients were sampled for urine and 35 were sampled for CSF. Qualitative RT-PCR was performed on both type of samples. Results WNV RNA was detected in 50,5% of urine samples (48/95) and in 2,8% of CSF samples (1/35). WNV RNA was detectable from 1 to 41 day from symptom onset, however, positive urine rate was 53,1% during the first 10 days from symptom onset. The proportions of urine-positive and urine-negative samples, based on day of collection, showed no statistical difference ( p >0,005). Cycle threshold values ranged from 12 to 39, with no correlation with the day of collection. The lowest Ct value was detected for urine sampled on day 5 after symptom onset. A statistically significant difference was found between age groups of confirmed and non confirmed cases ( p <0,001). Discussion/Conclusion Our study reports the use of RT-PCR on urine samples as a confirmatory diagnostic tool for WNV probable cases during an outbreak. Our findings underline the reliability, and rapidity of this confirmatory tool, even late and show its superiority on CSF investigation.
Inhibition of Neuropilin-1 improves non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in high-fat-diet induced obese mouse
Authors: Zhou Jian , Xu Sihuan , Zhu Yue , Li Xin , Wang Ao , Liu Kun , Hu Junfang , Li Li , Liu Yan
Published: August 2021

Background

Research findings indicate Neuropilin-1 plays a critical role in lipid metabolism and obesity-associated insulin resistance, on such a basis, this study aims to explore the effects and working mechanism of Neuropilin-1 inhibition on the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in high-fat-diet induced obese mice.
Methods

Firstly, the pcDNA3.1-NRP-1 recombinant plasmid containing Neuropilin-1 gene and the Neuropilin-1 gene RNA interference plasmid shRNA-NRP1 were successfully constructed. A total of 36 C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to 6 groups, blank group, control group, pcDNA3.1 injection group, pcDNA3.1-NRP-1 injection group, pGenesil-1.1 injection group and shRNA-NRP1 injection group. Expression of phospho-PI3K, phospho-AKT, phospho-mTOR and Neuropilin-1 in liver was measured as well as body and liver weight, blood glucose, serum transaminases and lipid levels of the mice.
Results

The weight and liver mass of high-fat-diet fed mice injected with pcDNA3.1-NRP-1 were significantly higher than those from the control group, but their body weight and liver mass decreased significantly after shRNA-NRP1 injection. The results also showed that Neuropilin-1 expression can significantly influence the severity of hepatic steatosis in high-fat-diet fed mice, decreased serum FPG, LDL, AST, ALT levels and the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 mRNA. In addition, the Neuropilin-1 expression will also influence the p-PI3K, p-AKT and p-mTOR in mice.
Conclusions

This study concluded that the inhibition of Neuropilin-1 could improve Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by decreasing body weight and reduce inflammation in high-fat-diet induced obese mice by modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway.
Deforestation in the Legal Amazon: The Impacts of Human Action on the Regional Climate Scenario
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda Valadares , Silva Arthur Amaral , Santos Vitor Juste , Calijuri Maria Lúcia
Published: August 2021

The Legal Amazon was established by the Brazilian government in 1953, in order to plan and provide for the social and economic development of the Amazon region. This is a region of great importance due to the maintenance of biogeochemical cycles that the forest exercises and for being a biodiversity hotspot. Amazon has been suffering from an intense and rapid change in land use and coverage, where deforestation and forest fragmentation stem from the agriculture expansion and wood exploitation. Therefore, this work aimed to identify and measure changes in the hydrological cycle and in the dynamics of climatic elements caused by human activities in the Legal Amazon. In addition, predictions of land use and land cover conditions were made for the years 2040, 2070 and 2099 allowing the knowledge of the level of long-term deforestation in this area. To achieve the objective, data from the study area were collected and standardized. The data was processed and compared, using the Land Change Modeler and Earth Trends Modeler modules. The results obtained by the modules are interrelated. Hydrological and climatic variables are impacted by changes in land use and coverage, from the expansion anthropic activities over natural vegetation, mainly in the area defined in this study, where the direct impact on NDVI is evident. These results corroborate to show that, in the legal Amazon, the forest has a direct influence on the climate. In this context, the failure to adopt conservationist practices and contain the natural forest suppression, increases deforestation, causing changes in the variables studied, tending to a worsening of climatic conditions.