bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Circular Economy Material Using Fish Scales as Natural Flame Retardant and the Properties of Its Composite Materials
Authors: Liu Shang-Hao , Shen Ming-Yuan , Yang Cheng-You , Chiang Chin-Lung
Published: July 2021

In this study, a composite flame retardant was created by combining fish scale (FS), fishery waste, and ammonium polyphosphate (APP), a commercially available flame retardant. The composite flame retardant was added to epoxy resin (EP) to form an EP/APP/FS composite that prevents burns and is environmentally friendly. The use of FS conforms to the concept of circular economy and lowers costs by reducing the consumption of APP. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), integral procedural decomposition temperature (IPDT), pyrolysis kinetics, limiting oxygen index (LOI), the Underwriters Laboratories 94 (UL94) flammability test, scanning election microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to determine the thermal properties, flame retardant properties, flame retardant mechanism, char morphology, and composition of the composites. The TGA results indicated that the addition of 40% flame retardant raised the char residue from 16.45 wt% (pure EP) to 36.07 wt%, IPDT from 685.6 °C (pure EP) to 1143.1°C, LOI from 21% (pure EP) to 30%, and UL94 classification from fail (pure EP) to V-0. These results suggest an increase in char residue, which indicates better protection of the polymer matrix material. The improvements in IPDT, LOI, and UL94 classification, which indicate greater thermal stability, lower flammability (from flammable to fireproof), and higher flammability rating (from fail to V-0), respectively, suggest that the composite material has favorable thermal properties and is less inflammable.
Satellite-Based Human Settlement Datasets Inadequately Detect Refugee Settlements: A Critical Assessment of Area, Accuracy, and Agreement at Thirty Refugee Settlements in Uganda
Authors: Van Den Hoek Jamon , Friedrich Hannah K.
Published: July 2021

Satellite-based broad-scale (i.e., global and continental) human settlement data offer foundational information for diverse applications spanning climate hazard mitigation, sustainable development monitoring, spatial epidemiology, and demographic modeling. While many human settlement products report exceptional detection accuracies above 85%, there is a substantial blind spot in that product validation is typically centered on large urban areas rather than rural, small-scale settlements that are home to 3.4 billion people. In this study, we make use of a data-rich collection of 30 refugee settlements in Uganda to produce a targeted assessment of small-scale settlement detection by four broad-scale human settlement products: Global Human Settlements Built-Up Sentinel-2 (GHS-BUILT-S2), World Settlement Footprint (WSF), High Resolution Settlement Layer (HRSL), and Geo-Referenced Infrastructure and Demographic Data for Development (GRID3). We measured each product’s areal coverage within refugee settlements, assessed product detection accuracies in comparison to an independent dataset of 317,416 refugee settlement building footprints, and examined agreement between products. For refugee settlements established before 2016, the human settlement products had a low median F1-Score (F1) of 0.24, a high median false alarm rate of 0.59, and tended to only agree at locations of highest building density. Individually, WSF entirely overlooked 8 of the 30 study refugee settlements (median F1=0.17); GHS-BUILT-S2 underestimated the building footprint area by a median 50% (F1=0.15); GRID3 overestimated the building footprint area by a median 280% (F1=0.38); and HRSL underestimated the median area by 7% (F1=0.34). All products suffer from low detection accuracy and high false alarm rates, but GRID3 and HRSL, based on 0.5 meter resolution imagery, offer better detection accuracy than GHS-BUILT S2 and WSF, which are based on 10-30 meter resolution imagery. These results show that human settlement products have far to go in providing an accurate depiction of small-scale refugee settlements and would benefit from incorporating refugee settlements in training and validation of broad-scale human settlement detection.
INFLUENCE OF VAPOR AND CRYSTAL FORMATION PROCESSES ON HEAT EXCHANGE IN FILM VAPORATORS
Authors: Koshelnik O. , Pavlova V. , Pugacheva T. , Kruglyakova O. , Dolobovska O.
Published: July 2021

Evaporators for changing the concentration of solutions have a different design, depending on the type of processed substance.

Significant energy consumption in such equipment is associated with the need for removing large quantity of liquid phase.

Multiple-effect evaporators are used to reduce the energy consumption of the evaporation process, but such equipment is quite expensive.

Evaporators with secondary vapor heat reusing that operate in film mode can be an alternative to multi-effect evaporators. This equipment can operate efficiently across minimal temperature differences due to secondary vapor compressors. The disadvantage of this device is strict requirements for impurities in solutions.

Impurities create deposits (incrustations) of various substances on the heat transfer surfaces, which worsens the operating conditions.

If crystallizing solutions are used in evaporators with reusing of secondary vapor heat, then one of the ways to reduce the rate of heating surfaces incrustation is to add a solid phase to the initial solution.

A mathematical model is proposed to describe the processes of heat and mass transfer during the film flow of crystallizing solutions, which are accompanied by a change in the physical characteristics of the solution and the formation of deposits.

The model considers a three-phase liquid suspension with a varying phase content. Two stages of vaporization including vaporization on the surface of the liquid and on the surface of heat exchange are presented.

The mathematical model involves the equations of continuity, energy and heat transfer, as well as the equations of motion of a three-phase flow with a changing phase content for both stages of vaporization, taking into account that solid phase turbulizes the flow and intensifies the heat transfer process.

This mathematical model makes it possible to study the effect of the solid phase on heat transfer processes and the rate of incrustation in evaporators with reuse of secondary vapor heat.
CRITICAL VARIABLES OF MORPHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL RICE PLANT UNDER STAGNANT FLOODING CONDITIONS
Authors: Agustiani Nurwulan , Sujinah Sujinah , Rumanti Indrastuti Apri
Published: July 2021

Stagnant flooding (SF) stress has contributed decreasing rice production in Indonesia. The study aimed to explore critical variables of rice growth that contribute to the decreasing grain yield under SF conditions and a common irrigation system (control). The experiment was arranged in a complete randomized block design with four replications to test 10 rice genotypes (Inpari 30 Ciherang Sub-1, Inpara 3, Inpara 4, Inpara 8, IRRI119, IRRI154, IR42, IR14D121, IR14D157, and Tapus). The water depth was managed according to the farmer’s practices for control, while for SF plots the standing water depth was gradually increased from 35 days after transplanting and was maintained at 50 cm until harvest. Results showed that plant height, tillering ability, leaf greenness, panicle number per hill and grain filling percentage were critical growth variables that affect grain yield at optimal conditions. The yield of the 10 genotypes decreased by 25–50% under SF conditions. Inpara 3 had the stable yield in those two watering conditions. Therefore, it could be used as a check variety for SF condition. Inpara 9 and IRRI119 experienced decreased yield of more than 50% under SF conditions. The key factors determining the decreased yield were tillering ability and green leaf level. Optimization of the two variables at SF conditions will largely determine rice yield associated with panicle number per hill and grain number per panicle. Results of the study are useful as preliminary recommendations for designing new variety and cultivation techniques to reduce the impact of SF stress on rice yield.
Information Tecnology Based Decision Support System for Integrated Pest Management on Rice
Authors: Widiarta I Nyoman
Published: July 2021

Pest and disease are important biotic obstacles to increase rice yield and production in Indonesia since adoption of green revolution to increase rice yield. This is partly due to the irrational use of pesticides. This paper is a review on information technology (IT) based decision support system (DSSs) in line to the integrated pest management (IPM) implementation strategy for extensionists and farmers in the fields. IPM integrates compatible control techniques to manage pest populations below the economic injury level. IT based DSSs ultimately needed so that extension workers and farmers can quickly access sources of information about pests and diseases as well as prediction of development and control techniques to implement IPM. Web based DSSs to grow healthy rice plant, pest observation and monitoring, cyber extension to make famers an expert on IPM were available, except on how to identify and utilize natural enemies are still lacking. Indonesia need to develop more IT based DSSs which accessible on web as well as on smartphone and create enabling environment for improving IPM implementation on rice not only by officer but also gradually by farmers it self to control pests and diseases of rice which are still an obstacle in increasing production.

Keywords: Rice, pest, diseases, integrated pest management, information technology

 

Abstrak

SISTEM PENDUKUNG PENGAMBILAN KEPUTUSAN HAMA TERPADU PADA TANAMAN PADI BE RPBEANSGIESNDALIAN TEKNOLOGI INFORMASI

Sejak inovasi revolusi hijau diintroduksikan di Indonesia, hama dan penyakit tanaman semakin berkembang sehingga menghambat upaya peningkatan produktivitas dan produksi padi. Hal ini antara lain disebabkan oleh penggunaan pestisida yang tidak rasional. Tulisan ini mengulas kesiapan sistem pendukung pengambilan keputusan (SPPK) berbasis teknologi informasi (TI) dalam pengendalian hama terpadu (PHT) oleh penyuluh maupun petani di lapangan. PHT mengintegrasikan berbagai teknik pengendalian hama dan penyakit agar tetap berada di bawah ambang ekonomi. TI diperlukan agar penyuluh dan petani dapat dengan cepat mengakses sumber informasi tentang jenis hama dan penyakit tanaman serta perkiraan perkembangan dan teknik pengendalian untuk penerapan PHT. SPPK berbasis TI yang bertujuan menjadikan tanaman tumbuh sehat, pengamatan dan monitoring perkembangan hama dan penyakit, serta penyuluhan berbasis web sudah tersedia, kecuali identifikasi dan cara pemanfaatan musuh alami. Oleh karena itu perlu dikembangkan SPPK berbasis TI yang dapat diakses melalui web maupun telepon pintar dan menciptakan lingkungan yang memungkinkan untuk meningkatkan implementasi PHT tidak hanya oleh petugas tetapi juga petani secara bertahap dalam upaya mengendalikan hama dan penyakit padi yang masih menjadi kendala dalam peningkatan produksi.

Kata kunci: Padi, hama, penyakit, pengendalian hama terpadu, teknologi informasi
Biochar-Materials for Remediation on Swamplands: Mechanisms and Effectiveness
Authors: Annisa Wahida , Mukhlis Mukhlis , Hairani Anna
Published: July 2021

Abstract. The purpose of this paper is to synthesize all research results qualitatively to explore the potential of biochar as a remediation agent in swamps, including its mechanism, and effectiveness. The soil in swampland is characterized by the presence of pyrite (FeS2) which results in high acidity (soil pH <3.5). The reduction process in swamps produces high amounts of ferrous iron (Fe2+) which is then released into the environment. The mechanism of iron (Fe) poisoning is indicated by the inhibition of nutrient uptake because the roots are covered with iron. This disturbes the root function as a nutrient absorber. Recent research shows that biochar could be used as an approach to reduce soil pollution in swamps through metal immobilization processes. This review paper uses a qualitative method with meta-aggregation approach based on the Francis-Baldesari method (2006). Principally, the soil remediation mechanism using biochar does not remove metals but accumulate them into hydroxide or carbonate deposits with the help of existing microorganisms. Provision of rice husk Biochar can increase the pH value reaching ≥5.0 and grain yield by 20% in intensively cultivated tidal swamps. Increasing the pH value of the soil will supports the formation of Fe hydroxide deposits which are accumulated on rice roots.

 

Abstrak. Tujuan penulisan paper ini adalah mensintesis seluruh hasil penelitian secara kualitatif untuk menggali potensi biochar sebagai bahan remediasi pada lahan rawa meliputi mekanisme, dan efektivitasnya. Tanah di lahan ini dicirikan oleh keberadaan pirit (FeS2) yang menghasilkan keasaman tinggi (pH tanah <3,5). Proses reduksi di lahan rawa menghasilkan besi ferro (Fe2+) dalam jumlah tinggi dan dilepaskan ke lingkungan. Mekanisme keracunan besi (Fe) ditunjukkan dengan terhambatnya serapan hara karena perakaran diselimuti oleh besi sehingga fungsi akar sebagai penyerap unsur hara terganggu. Penelitian terbaru menunjukkan bahwa pemanfaatan biochar sebagai salah satu pendekatan untuk mengurangi pencemaran tanah di lahan rawa melalui proses immobilisasi logam. Paper review ini menggunakan metode kualitatif berdasarkan metode Francis-Baldesari (2006) dengan pendekatan metaagregasi (meta-aggregation). Mekanisme remediasi tanah menggunakan biochar prinsipnya tidak menghilangkan logam tetapi mengakumulasinya menjadi endapan hidroksida maupun karbonat dengan bantuan mikroorganisme yang ada. Pemberian Biochar sekam padi dapat meningkatkan nilai pH mencapai ≥5,0 dan hasil gabah sebesar 20% di lahan rawa pasang surut yang intensif dibudidayakan. Peningkatan nilai pH tanah mendukung pembentukan endapan hidroksida Fe yang diendapkan pada akar padi.
POLUSI TANAH DAN DAMPAKNYA TERHADAP KESEHATAN MANUSIA
Authors: Amin Mirawanty
Published: July 2021

Polusi tanah merupakan masalah lingkungan yang sering dihadapi. Polusi tanah mengacu pada keberadaan bahan kimia atau zat atau hadir pada konsentrasi yang lebih tinggi dari batas normal serta memiliki dampak negatif pada makhluk hidup dan lingkungan. Sumber polusi tanah tentunya berasal dari kegiatan pertambangan, limbah rumah tangga, kegiatan pertanian dan masih banyak lagi. Apablia tidak dilakukan Tindakan pencegahan atau remediasi dapat memberikan dampak negative terhadap lingkungan terutama bagi Kesehatan manusia. Berbagai macam metode remediasi dapat dilakukan dengan metode berbasis sains seperti peningkatan aktivitas mikroba (Bioremediasi) dan Fitoremediasi dianggap dapat  menjadi teknik pengendalian tanah tercemar karena mudah dan ekonomis untuk dilakukan.
Peran Analisis Neraca Air untuk Perencanaan Pertanian di Kabupaten Konawe Selatan
Authors: Fathnur Fathnur alam , Kunta Thamrin , Musyadik Musyadik
Published: July 2021

Abstrak. Air merupakan sumberdaya alam yang memiliki beragam fungsi baik sebagai konsumsi air bersih maupun kegiatan perekonomian seperti industri, pertanian, dan pariwisata. Ketersediaan air tanah yang sebagian besar berasal dari curah hujan merupakan factor pembatas yang penting bagi peningkatan produksi suatu tanaman. Konsep siklus hidrologi lingkungan menyatakan bahwa jumlah air disuatu luasan tertentu di permukaan bumi dipengaruhi oleh besarnya air yang masuk/meresap (input) dan keluar (output) pada jangka waktut ertentu. Neraca  masukan dan keluaran air disuatu tempat dikenal sebagai neraca air (waterbalance). Neraca air merupakan suatu metode yang dapat digunakan untuk melihat ketersediaan air tanah bagi tanaman pada waktut ertentu. Salah satu prosedur perhitungan neraca air adalah berdasarkan metode Thorntwaite dan Mather (1957) dengan satuan tinggi air (mm). Tujuan dari penulisan makalah ini adalah menelaah penggunaan neraca air umum untuk perencanaan pertanian berdasarkan hasilpenelitian di Kecamatan Lamooso Kabupaten Konawe Selatan, Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara.

 

 
Not Virtual Enough: A Virtual Library’s Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Askin Nicole , Babb Maureen , Darling Pamela , Dingwall Orvie , Finlay Lenore , Finlayson Kathy , Haas Cheryl , Osterreicher Angela
Published: July 2021

As part of the University of Manitoba Libraries Outreach Services, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) Virtual Library provides library services to hospitals, health centres, community health agencies, and personal care homes throughout the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba. All services of the WRHA Virtual Library, including the collection, are entirely virtual, though staff are physically located in the University’s health library.  In March 2020, shortly after the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, libraries around the world started closing their doors and staff were required to work from home.  The virtual infrastructure of our services and collections required no changes in how our patrons accessed the Virtual Library and a smooth transition was expected, but the sudden shift to working from home revealed gaps. This article discusses the unique experience of the WRHA Virtual Library transitioning to a completely virtual environment, the previous reliance on the University’s physical infrastructure, and the inequities identified between librarians and library technicians.
La falta de personal médico en México en el contexto de la pandemia de Covid-19: ¿El programa de medicina para graduados es la solución?
Authors: Cortés-González Raúl Ernesto
Published: July 2021

No disponible.
Sanitary barriers as educative and preventive´s action for the control of Covid-19 dissemination in a big city at southeastern Brazil
Authors: Sernizon-Guimarães Nathalia , Barros-de Melo Maria do Carmo , Lima-Carvalho Taciana Malheiros , Machado-Pinto Jackson , Ribeiro-Paiva Ana Otávia , Ribeiro Soares Bertoni Karine Aparecida , França Chaves Elisa , Morais-Albuquerque Ronniel , Tadeu de Carvalho Ricardo , Lage-Vieira Carmem , Dos Santos João Eduardo , Rezende-de Almeida Luís Felipe , Tupinambás Unaí
Published: July 2021

Not available.
COFFEE CONSUMPTION MAY DECREASE THE SERUM CREATININE AND PLASMA MALONDIALDEHYDE LEVELS IN RATS WITH HYPERURICEMIA INDUCED BY A HIGH PURINE DIET
Authors: Sudiarto Hilmi Ardian , Yuantari Rahma , Nur Ahsani Dwi
Published: July 2021

The aim of this research was to determine the effect of coffee on creatinine and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level in rats fed on high purine diet. A total of 24 male Wistar rats divided into 4 groups of 6 rats each. Beef broth were given to 3 groups (K1, P1, P2) for thirty days. Beef broth administration were followed by giving coffee (caffeinated= P1 or by a decaffeinated= P2, 144 mg/200 g BW). Serum creatinine levels and plasma MDA were examined periodically on day 0, 15, and 30. Data were analyzed by multivariate analysis of variance or MANOVA test (CI= 95%, P0.05). Coffee administration (caffeinated and decaffeinated) may decrease the serum creatinine (day-30, K1= 3.17+ 0.69; P1= 1.63+0.11; P2= 1.14+0.08) and MDA levels (day-30, K1= 9.8+0.28; P1= 5.80+0.55, P2= 3.87+3.26) after 30 days of treatment (P= 0.000 for creatinine and MDA levels in K1, P1, P2 groups). A lower serum creatinine and MDA levels can be found in decaffeinated coffee grup. Coffee consumption for 30 days (especially decaffeinated) may decrease serum creatinine and plasma MDA in rat induced by a high purine diet.
Gestão Socioambiental: Adesão à Agenda Ambiental da Administração Pública em Instituições Federais de Ensino Superior
Authors: Oliveira Lizy Manayra Santos , Dos Santos Sandra Maria , Cabral Augusto Cézar de Aquino
Published: July 2021

Este artigo objetiva investigar as ações socioambientais das instituições federais de ensino superior no Ceará, tendo como parâmetro os eixos temáticos da Agenda Ambiental na Administração Pública (A3P). Foi realizado um estudo qualitativo em quatro Instituições Federais de Ensino Superior situadas no Estado do Ceará. Os resultados indicam que as ações e práticas mais incidentes estão relacionadas ao eixo qualidade de vida no ambiente de trabalho. Na análise referente às construções sustentáveis, foi evidenciada a preocupação com a realização de adaptações sustentáveis. Por fim, constata-se que o corte orçamentário dificulta a inserção de ações e práticas socioambientais. Como contribuição, este estudo evidência que a A3P é adequada para o tratamento da questão ambiental no âmbito das instituições de ensino, ao passo em que possibilita uma reflexão crítica sobre o tema na medida em que traz uma análise sobre como estas instituições têm trabalhado suas ações socioambientais.
Transcrptome analysis via photo-isolation chemistry
Authors: Honda Mizuki , Oki Shinya , Kimura Ryuichi , Harada Akihito , Maehara Kazumitsu , Tanaka Kaori , Meno Chikara , Ohkawa Yasuyuki
Published: July 2021

To gain insights into tissue-specific gene expression in multicellular systems, gene expression profiles are required to be precisely linked with spatial information. Here, we establish a hight-depth spatial transcriptomics method, photo-isolation chemistrty (PIC), which is able to isolate gene expression profiles only from UV-irradiatied region out of whole tissue section. This method performs reverse transcription on tissue sections using photocaged oligo DNAs. After the UV irradiation, the cDNAs in the irradiated regions are allowed to be amplified and sequenced, thereby providing gene expression profiles linked with spatial information.
Changes in Chemical Composition of Dissolved Organic Matter in Solar Ponds From Salt Lake Brine
Authors: Yang Keli , Zhang Yaoling , Dong Yaping , Peng Jiaoyu , Li Wu
Published: July 2021

The abundance and chemical composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the brine of solar ponds influence efficiency of mineral extraction and rates of brine evaporation, and cause undesired odor and color of the products. In this paper, we report an investigation on changes of DOM compositions in solar ponds from salt lake brine through different approaches. The results showed that the DOM was primarily composed of carbohydrates, aliphatic and aromatic compounds. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) analysis revealed that the concentration of DOC in solar pond increased with exposure time, and up to 15−fold upon evaporation/irradiation of salt lake brine. Analyses with the elemental composition, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and cross polarization magic angle spinning (CP/MAS) 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) indicated that the relative abundance of aliphatic compounds (including functionalized ones) increased in solar pond process, while an opposite phenomenon was observed for carboxylic acid moieties, aromatics and carbohydrates. Pyrolysis−gas chromatography−mass spectrometry (Py−GC−MS) revealed that most of the DOM in salt lake brine contained methylene chain, terpenoid-like, carbohydrate and/or aromatic structures. The presence of some sulfur-containing organics implied some anaerobic biotic decays, but microbiological processes were probably subordinate to photo-induced DOM transformations. In the salt lake brine, exposure-driven decay decreased the abundance of polysaccharides and increased that of mono- and polyaromatic pyrolysis products. Finally, the implications and guidelines for removing DOM from brine in the process of brine resource exploitation were discussed.
Tip Trajectory Characteristics and Nonlinear Stability Analysis of Robotic Manipulator With Flexible Links-joints
Authors: Kumar Pravesh , Pratiher Barun
Published: July 2021

An efficient and new dynamic model of two-link flexible manipulator connected and controlled by flexible joints i.e., prismatic and revolute pairs has been developed to explore the modal analysis to study tip-trajectory characteristics and subsequently investigate the nonlinear steady-state responses under harmonic motion at flexible joints. The governing equations including joint dynamics have been derived using extended Hamilton’s principle. Modal parameters have been graphically presented to highlight the influences of various system parameters on the determination of eigenfrequencies and eigenspectrums. Obtained reduced order equations have then used to study the trajectory characteristics of tip displacements, angular and actuator positions by imparting the appropriate actuator force and joint torque. Further, nonlinear studies have been carried out to compute the steady state responses and their stability and local bifurcation by using 2nd order method of multiple scales. Investigation of the influences of various design parameters on the nonlinear stability and local bifurcation of steady state responses have been demonstrated and those results have been found to be in good agreement with numerically obtained findings. The obtained results find very useful in the applications of long-reach robot manipulators performing complex operations assigning with translating and rotary motion together.
Exercise Training Alleviates Cognitive Functions in Diabetic Rats through HMGB1/RAGE/NF-kB Pathway
Authors: yan Wang , chengji wang
Published: July 2021

Objective: To observe the effect of exercise training on cognitive functions of diabetic rat model. Methods: Male SD rats were given a high fat and high sugar diet, except for control group. After 4 weeks, 35 mg /kg STZ was intraperitoneally injected to establish type 2 diabetes model rats. After successful modeling, rats were randomly divided into the model group, model + exercise group. Animals performed 5 days of consecutive treadmill exercise (60 min/day) with 22 m/min speeds for 60 days. After 60 days, behavioral tests were conducted by Morris water maze method. then rats were weighed and blood samples were obtained to detect blood glucose. Some animals were sacrificed to prepare serum to detect glycosylated hemoglobin. Brain tissues were taken to detect the protein expressions of HMGB1-/RAGE-/NF-κB signal pathway by Western Blot. The brains of other animals were perfused and taken for RAGE and NF-κB immunohistochemical staining.Results: Compared with control group, escape latency and probe distance in the model group were significantly prolonged, swimming time in the target quadrant was significantly shortened, and the number of crossing platform was significantly reduced. The average grayvalues of NF-κB and RAGE were significantly decreased. Expressions of HMGB1,RAGE,p-NF-кBp65 and p-IкBα were significantly up-regulated(P<0.05 or P<0.01). Compared with the model group, escape latency and probe distance were significantly shortened, swimming time in the target quadrant was prolonged and increased the number of crossing platform, it also reduced the fasting blood glucose, increased body weights, reduced the level of glycated hemoglobin, and significantly increased the mean grayvalues of NF-κB and RAGE. The protein expressions of HMGB1, RAGE, p-NF-кBp65 and p-IкBα were decreased in model + exercise group.Conclusion: Exercise training can ameliorate the cognitive dysfunction of diabetic rats, its mechanism may be related to reducing blood glucose, reducing the level of glycated hemoglobin and improving the HMGB1 /RAGE/NF-κB pathway in the brain tissue.
Malaria Knowledge and Infection Among Migrant Population in the China-vietnam Border: A Questionnaire-based Survey
Authors: TU HONG , Zhang Li , Yu Chenghang , Lin Kangming , Peiyu Wang , Shaomi Xiang , Lingyun Luo , Jian Li , Yan He , Feng Jun
Published: July 2021

BackgroundBorder malaria remain as one of the greatest challenges facing elimination in China. Malaria control interventions among migrant population across border relies on personal protection from mosquito bites. Understanding the knowledge of the link between mosquitoes and malaria will inform malaria control and elimination programmes on those targeted risk population.MethodsFrom March 2018 to September 2019, 108 migrant workers from Vietnam were enrolled conducted in Ning Ming County in Guangxi. Each people were interviewed using the structured questionnaires. Blood samples were collected and sent to the PCR detection and sequenced.ResultsMalaria knowledge was poor with 19.4% on transmission, 23.2% on clinical symptoms, 7.4% on awareness of the risk of death, and 14.8% on awareness of prevention methods. No significant difference was found among occupations except for migrant workers, whose knowledge rate were higher than other occupations. Most of the participants (80.6%) had mosquito nets and 73.2% of them had 2 persons who were under the bed net at night. The usage rate of bed-nets accounted for over 49.1%. For parasitological study, 5.6% (n = 6) of all participants infected tested positive for malaria, and no statistically significant differences in the positive rate among different age, sex, family size, nationality, occupation and different behaviors.ConclusionThe health education focus on the high risk population such as migrant workers and forest goers should be strengthened. Therefore, health education based on verbal communication such as web, radio, and mobile phone may be required under the COVID-19 pandemic situation. Further risk assessment of importation and proactive case detection should also be carried out, not only in Ningming County, but also in other border counties in Guangxi, which aimed to timely detect the patients, as well as the asymptomatic infections that could cause the re-establishment of malaria.
Assessing Socioeconomic Risks of Extreme Weather Events: Lessons from El Niño-Related Road Damages in Peru
Authors: Montaud Jean-Marc , Davalos Jorge , Pecastaing Nicolas
Published: July 2021

Periodically, heavy rainfall associated with extreme El Niño events severely damage the Peruvian road-network. This study aims to assess the socio-economic effects of these non-frequent but recurrent climate shocks. For this purpose, we build a Computable General Equilibrium model that addresses the consequences of El Niño-related damages through an increase in interregional transportation costs and a negative externality effect on activities’ output, which has been estimated beforehand using a firm database. For designing simulation scenarios over a ten-year period where extreme El Niño events occurs at random as observed in the past in Peru, we model the occurrence of these events as a stochastic process with a VAR representation based on historical climatic data. Within this framework, we first show that such events constitute a significant one-off disaster risk for the country, threatening shifts of − 2.8% in GDP and + 1.9% in poverty rates with an annual probability p = 1.4%. We further show that they also present a longer-term risk, leading to average annual deviations from normal trend by − 0.8% in GDP and + 0.4% in poverty rate with a probability p = 12.6% over a ten-year period. However, we finally show that Peru might reduce these risks in constructing more disaster-resilient road infrastructure.
Large-Scale Analysis and Clinical Samples Reveals the Specific Clinical and Immune Features of KDM4B in UCEC
Authors: Zhang Mengjun , Liu Yuan , Hou Siyu , Wang Yiru , Wang Can , Yue Yin , Chen Xiuwei
Published: July 2021

Background: Uterine Corpus Endometrial Carcinoma (UCEC) ranks fourth among female cancers in the world. Frustratingly, the 5-year survival rates for advanced patients are only 17%. KDM4B is overexpressed or dysregulated in a variety of cancers and could be associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. Therefore, we performed bioinformatics analysis and in vitro assays to assess the role of KDM4B in UCEC. In addition, its relevance to immune cells in the tumor microenvironment was explored.Methods: The mRNA level and protein level of KDM4B in UCEC was evaluated using the TCGA, HPA and GEO database. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting were used to verify the protein expression level of KDM4B in two batches of clinical samples. Kaplan-Meier curves, Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to assess the correlation between KDM4B expression and prognosis. GO and KEGG were used to predict the function and mechanism of KDM4B, and four immunity related database were used to explore their relevance to the tumor immune microenvironment.Results: Firstly, the present study showed that KDM4B was significantly overexpressed in UCEC from several databases at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting confirmed the abnormally overexpression of KDM4B. In addition, upregulation of KDM4B was associated with different clinicopathological prognostic factors. Secondly, overexpression of KDM4B was also associated with shorter OS and PFS. Univariate and multivariate analyses confirmed that KDM4B was an independent prognostic factor for poor prognosis. Then, GO and KEGG analysis revealed that KDM4B is enriched in biological processes and cellular signaling pathways closely related to immunity. Finally, KDM4B expression was closely associated with immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoints and it may be a new immune-related potential oncogene in UCEC.Conclusions: KDM4B may be a new potential oncogene for UCEC patients. It is of clinical significance that KDM4B may not only be used to assess the clinical prognosis of UCEC patients but may also be a target for immunotherapy or gene targeted therapy.
Treatment Patterns and Outcomes Among Elderly Glioblastoma Patients at KFMC, Riyadh.
Authors: Maire Amal , Maklad Ahmed M. , Altwairqi Abdullah , AlShakweer Wafaa , Senosi Mohamed , Elyamany Ashraf , Balbaid Ali
Published: July 2021

IntroductionManagement of elderly patients with cancer is a controversial scenario and needs careful assessment and selection for aggressive radical treatment and chemotherapy protocols versus short-course radiotherapy without chemotherapy. Of note, definitions of the elderly vary in the glioblastoma (GBM) literature, with most of the randomized trials including patients aged 60, 65, or 70 years or older.Aim of the workTo evaluate treatment patterns and outcome among elderly GBM patients treated in KFMC, Riyadh. The primary endpoint is overall survival (OS) and the Secondary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS) in relation to different treatment options and prognostic factors. MethodsThis is a retrospective study, included elderly GBM patients treated at KFMC, Riyadh, KSA between 1/2008 till 1/2018. 59 patients diagnosed with GBM ≥ 60 years were reviewed regarding radiotherapy (Rth) fractionation modalities, surgery, and chemotherapy (CTR) given in correlation to PFS, OS.Results59 patients were recruited in our study with median age 66 range (60-81) years, 47 (80%) were males. 37 patients (62.7%) had Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) ≥2, and 22 patients (37.3%) had PS < 2. Gross total resection (GTR) and subtotal resection (STR) was done in 49 (82.9%) patients, and the median follow-up was 12 months.38 (64%) patients received conventional Rth 60 Gray (Gy)/30 fractions or equal doses and 21 (36%) patients received hypofractionation Rth (40 Gy/15, 25 Gy/5 or 30 Gy/10 fractions).The median OS was 12 months (95% CI,9.52-14.48). For univariate analysis, receiving a conventional Rth and completion of 6 months adjuvant CTR were significant factors for O.S (P= 0.043 and 0.026) respectively. For multivariate those were also significant (P=0.035 and 0.002) respectively.The median PFS was 9 months (95% CI, 6.13-11.87). For univariate analysis PS, time to start adjuvant treatment, and completion of 6 months CTR were significant factors for PFS. For multivariate analysis starting adjuvant treatment within 2 months and completed CTR 6 months were significant factors (P=0.032 and 0.04) respectively. ConclusionElderly GBM patients who received conventional Rth and completed adjuvant 6 months CTR achieved a better OS, while starting adjuvant treatment earlier than 2 months and completed adjuvant CTR 6 months were associated with a better PFS, further prospective studies are needed to confirm our finding.
Diverse Soliton Structures for Fractional Nonlinear Schrodinger Equation, KdV Equation and WBBM Equation Adopting a New Technique
Authors: Islam Md. Tarikul , Gomez Francisco , Akbar Md. Ali
Published: July 2021

Nonlinear fractional order partial differential equations standing for the numerous dynamical systems relating to nature world are supposed to by unraveled for depicting complex physical phenomena. In this exploration, we concentrate to disentangle the space and time fractional nonlinear Schrodinger equation, Korteweg-De Vries (KdV) equation and the Wazwaz-Benjamin-Bona-Mahony (WBBM) equation bearing the noteworthy significance in accordance to their respective position. A composite wave variable transformation with the assistance of conformable fractional derivative transmutes the declared equations to ordinary differential equations. A successful implementation of the proposed improved auxiliary equation technique collects enormous wave solutions in the form of exponential, rational, trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. The found solutions involving many free parameters under consideration of particular values are figured out which appeared in different shape as kink type, anti-kink type, singular kink type, bell shape, anti-bell shape, singular bell shape, cuspon, peakon, periodic etc. The performance of the proposed scheme shows its potentiality through construction of fresh and further general exact traveling wave solutions of three nonlinear equations. A comparison of the achieved outcomes in this investigation with the results found in the literature ensures the diversity and novelty of ours. Consequently, the improved auxiliary equation technique stands as efficient and concise tool which deserves further use to unravel any other nonlinear evolution equations arise in various physical sciences like applied mathematics, mathematical physics and engineering.
miR-372 (rs12983273) and LncRNA HULC (rs7763881) Genetic Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection
Authors: talaat roba , Shahen Samar M. , Elshenawy Soha Z. , Mohamed Salwa E.
Published: July 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are two major types of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with regulatory roles. Genetic variation in the miRNAs and lncRNAs has been involved in the initiation and progression of many diseases. miRNA-LncRNA interactions are implicated in the regulation of many diseases, such as hepatitis infection. In this study, we assumed that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miR-372 (rs28461391 C/T) and HULC (rs7763881 A/C) might participate in HBV infection risk. SNPs rs28461391 in miR-372 and rs7763881 in HULC were genotyped in 100 HBV patients and 100 healthy controls using the Polymerase chain reaction sequence-specific primer technique (PCR-SSP). Our results showed no significant difference in miR-372 rs12983273 genotype distribution between both controls and HBV patients. On the other hand, there was a significant increase in HULC rs7763881 CC genotype (P<0.05) coincides with a significant decrease in AC genotype distribution (P<0.05) in HBV patients as compared to controls. Our results showed that the CC genotype is associated with an increased risk of HBV infection (OR= 3.43; CI: 1.3-9.07) while AA genotype is a protective one (OR= 0.3; CI: 0.13-9.07). Our results suggest that HULC rs7763881 A/C might be a biomarker for HBV susceptibility. However, larger sample studies are recommended to verify our preliminary data. To the best of our knowledge, the present study was the first to investigate the relevance of miR-372 (rs28461391 C/T) and HULC (rs7763881 A/C) gene polymorphisms to the risk of HBV infection in the Egyptian population.
Determination With QSAR of Biological Activity and Relations of Between Molecular Descriptions of 5,8-Quinolinequinones Derivatives
Authors: SIDIR Yadigar GÜLSEVEN , SIDIR İsa
Published: July 2021

In this study, some electronic, hydrophobic and termochemical parameters of 28 different 5,8-quinolinequinones derivatives having diversity substituents have been calculated by using DFT (B3LYP) / 6-31G (d, p) method and basis set. Relationships between different molecular descriptives have been studied with used like molecular polarizability (α), dipole moment (μ), EHOMO, ELUMO, molecular volume (Vm), ionization potential (IP), electron affinity (EA), electronegativity (χ), molecular hardness (η), molecular softness (S), electrophilic index (Ꞷ), molar refractivity (MR), octanol–water partition coefficient (logP), thermochemical properties (entropy (Se), capacity of heat (C)); as to investigate activity relationships with molecular structure. In addition, The QSAR/QSPR between molecular properties and biological activity (Anti-proliferative and Anti-inflammatory activity) has investigated, where R, R2, F and P have taken into account in order to find a statistically correct model in QSAR studies. The dependence of the electronegative parameter on both electronic and thermochemical parameters was the most correlated parameter.
A Hierarchical Analysis On Ecosystem Classification of Land
Authors: Qing Zhang Yan
Published: July 2021

Background: The ecosystem classification of land (ECL) has been studied for a couple of decades, from the beginning of the perfect organism system “top-down” approach to a reversed “bottom-up” approach, defining micro-ecological unit. After reviewing two study cases of the ecosystem classification of land, the ecosystem classification framework implements in different ecoregions were examined and analyzed. Results: Theoretically, Bailey’s upper levels ECL (1995) was applied to the United States, and world continents. China's Eco-geographic classification was most likely fitted into Bailey’s Ecosystem Classification regime. With a binary decision tree analysis, it demonstrated that the top-level, Domain has an empty entity between the US and China ecoregion framework. Based on the biogeoclimate condition, vegetation distribution, landform, and plant species feature, classified HIIC1 into two subsections ( labeled as i, ii ), and delineated iia of QiLian Mountain East Alpine Shrub and Alpine Tundra ecozone into iia-1 and iia-2 zone.Conclusions: 1) The Plateau Domain 500 should be added into the top-level Bailey’s ecoregion framework, coordinately it includes HI and HII Divisions, and humid, dub-humid, semiarid, and arid provinces. 2) Two case comparisons recommend using a practical approach, objectively defined ecosystem classification for the lower-level ECLs in matter of time and project cost.
Characterization and antimicrobial sensitivity of biofilm producing Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli from broiler chickens and their environment in India.
Authors: Grakh Kushal , Mittal Dinesh , Prakash Anand , Jindal Naresh
Published: July 2021

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is responsible for colibacillosis in poultry. APEC remains a constant problem for the poultry industry, despite the use of antibiotics and disinfectants at farms. The endemicity of APEC in poultry farms is associated with its biofilm forming ability, which is further aggravated by various virulence factors harbored by this pathogen and resistant to multiple drugs which help bacteria to thrive under different environmental conditions. To characterize APEC from affected broiler chickens and their environments, samples (n=114) were collected and subjected to microbial isolation using MacConkey Lactose agar (MLA) and Eosin Methylene Blue agar (EMB), which led to the isolation of 62 E. coli isolates, confirmed using uspA gene amplification and Vitek 2 Compact system. These isolates were characterized using a set of five virulence genes (hlyF, ompT, iroN, iss, iutA) which yielded 47 (75.80%) isolates as APEC and the remaining as non-APEC. Furthermore, all the 62 isolates were subjected to microtiter plate assay for biofilm detection and the result showed that 36 (58.06%) isolates were able to form moderate to strong biofilms in Trypticase soy broth (TSB) at 72h of incubation. Of the 36-biofilm forming isolates, 30 were APEC. Biofilm related genes (crl, csgA, fimH, luxS, and papC) were also detected with higher prevalence among APEC isolates. Antimicrobial sensitivity test using Vitek2 system revealed 43 (91.48%) of 47 APEC isolates as multiple drug resistant (MDR) and 8 (17.02%) as ESBL positive. This study reveals that APEC with biofilm formation ability are present in poultry farms. Further studies are needed to understand the role of biofilms in the pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance of APEC.
Deterioration of Contemporary Kaihua Handmade Paper: Evolution of Molecular, Supermolecular and Macroscopic Structures
Authors: Yao Jingjing , Zhang Ruohong , Luo Chan , Yan Yueer , Bi Ning , Tang Yi
Published: July 2021

Valued for its toughness and durability, Kaihua paper has been famous in China since the Qing Dynasty and is in the focus of the study on paper life extension. Understanding of the complex degradation behavior of handmade paper under various aging conditions is an essential precondition for preparing contemporary long-life handmade paper. However, reactions sequence and quantitative analysis of microstructure of cellulose and its relation to macroscopic deterioration of handmade paper still are difficult to interpret. Herein, different types of Kaihua handmade papers, produced by various raw materials and crafts, were artificially aged to study the different evolution of their multi-scale structures in dry-heat (DH) and wet-heat (WH) conditions systematically. Two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2D-COS) distinguished possible carbonyl vibrations involving hydrolysis and oxidation of cellulose and gave sequential changes of various carbonyl groups, illustrating different evolution behaviors of molecular structure of papers in DH and WH aging process. The energy and distance of hydrogen bond, crystal size and microfiber accessibility were quantitatively calculated during the degradation of cellulose. The dual roles of water molecules, as plasticizers for fibers and as carriers of protons, continuously promoting the hydrolysis of cellulose at molecular and supramolecular scales were elucidated further. In addition, correlations between microstructural evolution and macroscopic deterioration of handmade papers involving reduced mechanical properties and yellowing were revealed.
Christia Vespertilionis Extract Induced Antiproliferation and Apoptosis in Breast Cancer (MCF7) Cells
Authors: Ismail Noor Zafirah , Adebayo Ismail Abiola , Mohamed Wan Ahmad Syazani , Zain Nur Nadhirah Mohamad , Arsad Hasni
Published: July 2021

Background: C. vespertiliomis extracts were evaluated for antiproliferative and apoptosis effect on breast cancer (MCF7) cells. Methods and Results: The leaves extracts were analysed for its antiproliferative effect on breast cancer (MCF7) cells and normal epithelial breast (MCF 10A) cells using Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. The selective extract was evaluated for its ability to induce apoptosis using Annexin V-FITC apoptosis staining and the expression of molecular genes using qualitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) against MCF7 cells. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used to identify the compounds from the selective extract. The findings showed that dichloromethane fraction (CV-Dcm) extract had high antiproliferative effect against MCF7 cells (IC50 = 24 µg/mL, selective index (SI) = 8.17). The percentages of apoptosis cells in CV-Dcm-treated MCF7 cells was 58.8%. The CV-Dcm extract induced downregulation of PCNA level. The apoptotic genes were also triggered in both extrinsic and intrinsic signaling pathways, affecting a 1.5-fold increase in BAX, 1.4-fold increase in cytochrome c, 1.3-fold increase in caspase-8, 1.7-fold increase in caspase-3 and 0.5-fold-decrease in BCL-2. Treated MCF7 cells also activated P53-dependent apoptotic death pathway. Conclusions: The present work strongly suggests that high efficacy of CV-Dcm extract was attributed to its antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing activation in MCF7 cells, most likely due to its favourable compounds.