bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy big data demand prediction model based on fuzzy rough set
Authors: Duan Zhimei , Yuan Xiaojin , Zhu Rongfei
Published: July 2020

Energy is an indispensable material resource for human production and life. It is a powerful engine and an important guarantee for human survival, economic and social sustainable development and world change. The economy is developing rapidly, the demand for energy continues to grow, energy consumption has increased sharply in a short period, and the security of energy supply and demand has also shown a severe trend. Predicting energy demand is especially important. However, due to the many influencing factors and the lack of energy data, the energy demand prediction has great uncertainty in the prediction results. Because of the above problems, this paper proposes an energy big data demand prediction model based on a fuzzy rough set model. Firstly, according to the data, the factors affecting the energy demand are determined, and the fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm is used to discretize the data according to the characteristics of the fuzzy rough set. Then the decision table is established and the attribute importance is calculated, and then the neighborhood rough set is used for attribute reduction. Then extract the correlation rules to establish a prediction model. Compare the prediction model proposed in this paper with the existing gray prediction method and energy elasticity coefficient method. The results show that this method can more scientifically predict the changes in energy big data demand. Finally, based on the experimental results, the corresponding strategies for optimizing the energy structure are proposed to provide reference for the optimization and development of energy demand.
Diagnosis of colorectal cancer based on imperialist competitive algorithm
Authors: Ratna Raju B , Swamy G.N , Padma Raju K.
Published: July 2020

The Colorectal cancer leads to more number of death in recent years. The diagnosis of Colorectal cancer as early is safe to treat the patient. To identify and treat this type of cancer, Colonoscopy is applied commonly. The feature selection based methods are proposed which helps to choose the subset variables and to attain better prediction. An Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA) is proposed which helps to select features in identification of colon cancer and its treatment. Also K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classifier is used to retain a minimal Euclidean distance between the feature of query vector and all the data in the nature of prototype training. Experimental results have proved that the proposed method is superior when compared to other methods in its metrics of performance. Better accuracy is achieved by the proposed method.
Multicriteria correlation preference information (MCCPI) with nonadditivity index for decision aiding
Authors: Huang Li , Wu Jian-Zhang , Beliakov Gleb
Published: July 2020

MCCPI (Multiple Criteria Correlation Preference Information) is a kind of 2 dimensional decision preference information obtained by pairwise comparison on the importance and interaction of decision criteria. In this paper, we introduce the nonadditivity index to replace the Shapley simultaneous interaction index and construct an undated MCCPI based decision scheme. We firstly propose a diagram to help decision maker obtain the nonadditivity index type MCCPI, then establish transform equations to normalize them into desired capacity and finally adopt a random generation MCCPI based comprehensive decision aid algorithm to explore the dominance relationships and creditable ranking orders of all decision alternatives. An illustrative example is also given to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed decision scheme. It’s shown that based on some good properties of nonadditivity index in practice, the updated MCCPI model can deal with the internal interaction among decision criteria with relatively less model construction and calculation effort.
Disorders of phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism
Authors: Alsharhan Hind , Ficicioglu Can
Published: July 2020

This article provides a review of the inborn errors of phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism including the diagnostic approach, dietary and pharmalogical management and emerging therapies. Hyperphenylalaninaemia results mainly from defects in either phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) (resulting in phenylketonuria (PKU)) or the production or recycling of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). Untreated PKU results in irreversible neurocognitive impairment. Five inherited disorders of tyrosine metabolism are known, which include tyrosinemia type I, type II, type III, hawkinsinuria and alkaptonuria. Newborn screening for these disorders has enabled their early detection and decreased the associated morbidity and mortality.
INDONESIAN ISLAMISM: THE WAR OF ISLAMIC LITERACY FROM MILLENNIALISM TO RADICALISM
Authors: Tambunan Elia
Published: July 2020

This paper shows another dimension of the phenomenon of Islamism Indonesia. By doing the interpretation of a number of circumstantial historical Islam literacy with traces of the historical aspect as the research methodology, the authors found one important factor that gave birth to Islamism Indonesia is literacy not just ideology as believed by many scholars. The resulting literacy evolved in various forms of media, and thus generated by the Indonesia who settled in the Middle East, Islamic Indonesia elite, and ustad virtual at the estuary of the society in the war on Islam. This paper contributes to the efforts of Islamic Studies scholars from Indonesia to include literacy in Islamic Indonesia as part of the phenomenon of global Islamism manifestation in the development of the study of contemporary Islamist movements.

Keywords: Indonesian Islamism, Milleniarism, and Radicalism
Efek Protektif Jus Buah Nanas (Ananas Comosus (l.) Merr.) Terhadap Kadar Enzim SGOT dan SGPT Mencit (Mus Musculus L) Jantan Yang Dipapari Tuak Lokal Lombok
Authors: Khusuma Ari
Published: July 2020

Traditional alcoholic drinks are made traditionally or conventionally and simply packed. One of the traditional alcoholic drinks in Indonesia and commonly consumed is Tuak (Palm wine). Several indigenous communities in Lombok have fermented drinks popularly known as Tuak or Arak. Palm sap which is the basic ingredient in making palm wine containing alcohol. The most common liver diseases due to alcohol abuse include fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis. Ethanol metabolism in liver cells can cause an increase in the production of free radicals with various mechanisms so that oxidative stress will damage liver tissue. The supply of pineapple can prevent and repair liver damage due to oxidative stress processes, especially those caused by alcohol. Markers of liver damage are SGOT and SGPT enzymes. This research is a true experiment. The total number of experimental animals used was 21 individuals, negative control rats were only given standard feed, positive control rats were given palm wine without pineapple extract and treatment group were given palm wine and pineapple extract. Palm wine and pineapple were given together with standard feed for 14 days and on day 15th, the blood of the rats was taken to check the levels of SGOT and blood SGPT. The results showed the average SGOT enzyme levels in the negative control group 117.85 U / L, in the positive control group 126.14 U / L, and the treatment group 110.71 U / L. ANOVA test shows SGOT levels of white rats have significant differences in the experiments conducted (p <0.05). Examination of SGPT enzyme levels in the negative control group obtained an average yield of 25.42 U / L, positive control 30.42 U / L, and treatment 29.14 U / L. The ANOVA test results of SGPT levels in white rats show significant differences in the experiments conducted (p <0.05).
Senam Prolanis Menurunkan Tekanan Darah Lansia Penderita Hipertensi
Authors: Fahlevi Adha Reza , Riyadi Agung , Mardiani Mardiani
Published: July 2020

Hypertension is the cause of death of about 12.8% of total deaths in the world. Based on data obtained from Talang Tinggi Public Health Center in 2017 the number of elderly people with hypertension reached 223 people, one of the handling that can control blood pressure is gymnastics. The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of Prolanis gymnastics (Chronic Disease Management Program) to blood pressure elderly patients with hypertension.This research was an analytic study with quasi experiment. The sample was a mild hypertension patient with age ≥ 60 years old, amounting to 34 people consisting of 17 people in the intervention group and 17 people in the control group. The sampling technique was simple random sampling. Data analysis was used wilcoxon and mann-whitney test.The results of this study showed that there was an effect between Prolanis gymnastics on decline blood pressure of elderly hypertension patients in the intervention group before and after Prolanis gymnastics with p value of systolic blood pressure (p=0.001), p value of diastolic blood pressure (p=0.001). Prolanis gymnastics beneficial for elderly people with hypertension to control and manage the disease experienced. Prolanis gymnastics is expected to be active as a hypertension control program.
Kepuasan Self Monitoring Blood Glucose dengan Kualitas Hidup pada Pasien Diabetes Tipe 2
Authors: Chloranyta Shanty , Yulia Yulia , Sodikin Masfuri
Published: July 2020

Self monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) is an integral part of diabetes self management. SMBG is effective in improving the quality of life there is a 40.6% increase in physical and emotional functioning of patients, and 39.13% confidence. SMBG is not effective in improving the quality of life of patients experiencing frustration, depression and suffering. The purpose of this study was to analyze SMBG satisfaction with quality of life. Cross sectional research design. The population of this study were 51 type 2 diabetes patients with purposive sampling technique. The instruments used were Glucose Monitoring Satisfaction Survey (GMSS), Diabetes Quality of Life Brief (DQoL Brief), Diabetes Self Management Questionnaire (DSMQ). Data analysis used Pearson test. The results showed respondents (78.4%) were female, (58.8%) had hypertension complications, (84.3%) financial support using BPJS, (62.7%) using insulin binding 32. The average age of 50.73 years, SMBG satisfaction 49.43, quality of life 49.84 , diabetes self management 28. There was a significant relationship between SMBG satisfaction and quality of life (p = 0.000). Satisfaction of SMBG improves quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Efektifitas Akupresure dalam Menurunkan Skala Nyeri Pasien Hipertensi Diwilayah Kerja Puskesmas Perumnas
Authors: Haryani Sri , Misniarti Misniarti
Published: July 2020

Acupressure is a non-pharmacological therapy that can be used to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients and can be included in the nursing care plan. Hypertension in Indonesia is 44.1% and the mortality rate due to hypertension is 34.1%. Hypertension data in Perumnas Public Health Center are 790 cases. This study aimed to determine the effect of acupressure on pain scales in hypertensive patients. This study used a quasi-experimental design with a sample size of 55 respondents with pre-post intervention. The results showed that there were differences in average pain scores between before and after acupressure intervention. Acupressure can be used to reduce pain better with a p value of 0.001. Acupressure therapy has many functions for physical health, one of which is to reduce acute and chronic pain. Pain occurs due to an imbalance of “qi” energy flow in the body. Acupressure will balance the body's “qi” energy flow so that it will relieve pain while curing diseases. This study recommended that health promotion measures be carried out on families and patients so that they can carry out routine blood pressure measurements and alternative treatments with acupressure therapy to reduce complaints due to hypertension.
Hijabophobia: A Closed Eye Challenge towards Muslim Friendly Hospitality Services in Malaysia
Authors: MOHD. ZAIN NOR RAZINAH , Hasan Rusni , Finieli Salsabilla Terra
Published: July 2020

This research analyses the existence of hijabophobia in relation to Muslim friendly hospitality services in Malaysia. By looking into the current practices of hospitality industry (specifically by looking into customer services of hotels) in Malaysia, this research investigates: (i) what is meant by hijabophobia? (ii) nature of hijabophobia under the purview of Malaysian laws; (iii) the impacts of hijabophobia in the employment and customer services; and (iv) the countermeasures to eliminate hijabophobia in the hospitality industry in Malaysia. This exploratory research utilises the doctrinal legal methods and the collected real experiences that are obtained through qualitative interviews. Based on the researchers’ preliminary investigation, there is existence of hijabophobia in the customer services of hotels and their employment in Malaysia. Such existence of hijabophobia is promoted through the hotels’ policies; and sometimes under unwritten but well acceptable standard of operations and practices. Unfortunately, since this research is carried out only based on preliminary findings, the researchers are unable to provide the frequency of occurrences for the hijabophobic practices in their customer services or employments. Here, the researchers suggest for an in-depth investigation on the policies and standard of operation or practices of each and every hotel in Malaysia. This is also necessary to evaluate the extent of Muslim friendly hospitality services are applied in these hotels.
Directions for strengthening cooperative ties in pig production
Authors: Pidhornyi A. , Ibbatulin M.
Published: July 2020

Possible directions of development of cooperation in the feld of pig breeding have been investigated in the article. The analysis of import and export of pig production in Ukraine in recent years has been carried out, which showed that today there is a need to improve integrated relations in the pig industry. The features of the cooperation process in highly developed countries (USA, Denmark, Netherlands, China, Poland) are highlighted.
It is proved that the organization of a cooperative association can be accomplished by the acquisition of processing facilities at the expense of fnancial resources of the cooperative shareholders or the cooperative introduction under the terms of an equal member-shareholder of the meat processing enterprise. In order to increase the effciency of pork production in small farms with livestock up to 50 heads, it is advisable to involve them in competitive pork supply chains based on an agricultural cooperative for the production and marketing of pig production.
It is substantiated that pig production cooperative can bring small agricultural enterprises together, individual agribusiness entrepreneurs, owners of private farms, processing enterprises and wholesale and retail establishments.
Analysis of tendencies and features of development of cooperation in agriculture on the basis of a survey of managers and leading experts of agricultural enterprises for the production of pig meat, as well as generalizations of the results of studies of Ukrainian scientists give reason to recommend certain models of production cooperation in pig production: 1) the establishment of agricultural production cooperatives on the basis of high-value personal farms that hold three pig heads and more land use area more 1 hectare within a settlement that will integrate land in a single array for the purpose of mechanized cultivation and growing crops to feed pigs; 2) creation of highly concentrated agricultural production cooperatives on the basis of unproftable enterprises of the corporate sector of other organizational and legal forms of management with a clear separation of specialized structural units, which operate on the basis of internal economic calculation.
In order to identify ways to improve the functioning of agricultural production cooperatives-producers, approaches to improving the management system are considered.
Key words: pig breeding, production efciency, cooperation, typology of corporate sector farms, approaches to improving the management system, model of relations between the subjects of cooperation.
Evaluation of varieties and local forms of winter garlic for their economic characteristics in the conditions of right bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine
Authors: Sych Z. , Kubrak S.
Published: July 2020

Garlic production for the local market and for export lacks a suffi cient amount of high-yielding varieties with large bulbs and small amount of cloves, resistant to pests, diseases and stressful cultivation conditions. In addition to industrial varieties, adapted local forms of self-breeding are currently cultivated. Winter garlic is a plant with vegetative reproduction and it is reproduces with cloves, single clove and air bulbs, Therefore, the varieties brought from other regions degenerate quickly. Two and three times reproduction leads to a gradual reduction in yield and quality. The transfer of local forms from one region to another requires further study. Researches were carried out in conditions of right bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine. We studied 60 samples of winter garlic. The working collection of winter garlic was composed of varieties and local forms brought from Kyiv, Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd and Cherkassy regions. Some samples (45 pcs.) were received from the National Center of Plant Genetic Resources of Ukraine. The variety of Prometey created at Uman University of gardening was used as the control. The research was conducted according to the "Methods of experimental work in vegetable growing and melon-plot fi eld" (G. L. Bondarenko, K. I. Yakovenko, Kharkiv 2001). The plants density was 340 thousand plants ha.
On the average for 2017-2020 the heads formed the largest diameter in the variants of IOB00003-Biryuchekutskiy local (55 mm) and IOB00117 (53 mm). Their average weight was the highest in the sample of IOB00117 – 41 g. The smallest heads were formed in the variant of IOB00083 Spas – 17 g. Essentially higher yield of heads of winter garlic was collected from cultivation of plants of the variant IOB00117 – 12,6 t/ha. The greatest share of commodity heads was observed for samples IOB00003-Biryuchekutskiy local and IOB00117 (92 %).
Thus, samples of IOB00003-Biryuchekutskiy local and IOB00117 were the best in the diameter, weight of a head and productivity among the samples studied in the research carried. They yielded 9.6 and 12.6 t/ha, respectively, with head weights of 31 and 41 g and the diameter of 55 and 53 cm.
Key words: varieties, local forms, collection, winter garlic, weight of the bulb, marketability.
Dugong (Dugong dugon) movements and habitat use in a coral reef lagoonal ecosystem
Authors: Cleguer C , Garrigue C , Marsh H
Published: July 2020

Little is known about how the Vulnerable dugong Dugong dugon uses coral reef lagoons despite the importance of these habitats throughout much of its vast range. We used GPS satellite tracking systems to explore the space use of 12 dugongs at 3 locations in the coral reef lagoons of the main island of New Caledonia in the southwest Pacific: Cap Goulvain, Ouano and Nouméa. The movements of the tracked dugongs varied among individuals and all except one animal undertook large-scale movements (>15 km; mean [±SE] 37.7 ± 5.2 km) from their capture location (maximum waterway distance range: 13.8 to 72.9 km). The straight-line distances between the furthest GPS locations during each animal’s tracking period ranged from 21.3 to 74.5 km. We identified areas used intensively by dugongs in all 3 study areas, some of which were areas where seagrass presence has not been verified, or where dugongs have not been observed during past aerial surveys. Dugongs spent most of their tracking time within the lagoons, with 99.4% of GPS locations found inside the barrier reef. Nonetheless, where the lagoon was narrow and confined, 3 tracked dugongs used the fore reef shelf outside the barrier reef in the open ocean to commute between bays. Our findings can inform conservation and management initiatives in New Caledonia as well as other countries within the dugong’s range which have similar habitat geomorphology but where dugongs occur in numbers too low to be tracked and are considered Critically Endangered.
THE EFFECT OF THE CREATIVITY LEARNING MODEL ON NATURAL SCIENCE LEARNING OUTCOMES AND SELF EFFICACY
Authors: Rahmayanti Ayu Ari , Agustiana I Gusti Ayu Tri , Simamora Alexander Hamonangan
Published: July 2020

The research was conducted with the aim: (1) identify the effect of creativity learning model toward natural science subject’s learning outcomes and self-efficacy, (2) identify the effect of creativity learning model toward natural science subject’s learning outcomes, and (3) identify the effect of creativity learning model toward self-efficacy. This research was quasi-experimental research designed of Non-Equivalent Posttest Only Control Group. All fifth-grade classes of cluster I Buleleng district were the research population in total of 209 fifth-grade students from 8 schools. The research sample was determined through simple random sampling technique, obtained 2 schools in total of 59 students that was contained 29 students of SDN 1 Banyuning as the experiment class and 30 students of SDN 8 Banyuning as the control class. Essay test was used the research instrument to gather learning outcomes data, while questionnaire was used to measure self-efficacy. The data analysis was done descriptively to identify mean and standard deviation further tested through MANOVA test. The research findings portrayed: (1) simultaneously, creativity learning model effects in enhancing natural science subject’s learning outcomes and self-efficacy; (2) creativity learning model is able to improve natural science subject’s learning outcomes; and (3) creativity learning model is able to improve self-efficacy. Conclusively, creativity learning model presents has an influence on the aspects studies.
"GRASSLANDS 4707": A NEW TETRAPLOID WESTERN WOLTHS RYEGRASS
Authors: Barclay P.C. , Vartha E.W.
Published: July 2020

WESTERN WOLTHS, the extreme annual form of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), is a fodder grass which orginated in the Netherlands (De Haan, 1955). Thirty to forty years ago it was widely used in Canterbury but its use died out with the advent of the certification scheme and the availability of good perennial ryegrass-white clover pastures. Saxby (1956) states that the questionable value of Western Wolths ryegrass has not warranted its inclusion in the certification scheme, and that in 1956 genuine seed was practically non-existent on the New Zealand market.
IMPLEMENTASI DATA MINING UNTUK MENGETAHUI POLA PEMBELIAN OBAT MENGGUNAKAN ALGORITMA APRIORI
Authors: Ulfha Nadya Febrianny , Amin Ruhul
Published: July 2020

Competition in the business world requires entrepreneurs to think of finding a way or method to increase the transaction of goods sold. The purpose of this research is to provide drug stock data that is widely purchased by pharmacy customers at Kimia Farma, Green Lake branch in Jakarta. The algorithm used in this study is a priori to determine the relationship between the frequency of sales of drug brands most frequently purchased by customers. The association pattern formed with a minimum support of 40% and a minimum value of 70% confidence produces 17 association rules. The strong rules obtained are that if you buy a 500Mg Ponstan KPL @ 100, you will buy an Incidal OD 10Mg Cap with a support value of 59% and a confidence value of 84%. A priori algorithm can be used by companies to develop marketing strategies in marketing products by examining consumer purchasing patterns.
PENGARUH PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM SOLVING BERBANTUAN PhET TERHADAP PENGUASAAN KONSEP SISWA PADA MATERI MOLARITAS
Authors: Indrawati
Published: July 2020

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian eksperimen kuasi dengan posttest only design. Pengambilan data dilakukan dengan tes penguasaan konsep sebanyak 20 soal setelah diberikan perlakuan pada 3 kelompok kelas. Kelompok pertama adalah siswa yang belajar dengan pembelajaran problem solving berbantuan PhET, kelompok kedua adalah siswa yang belajar dengan pembelajaran problem solving, dan kelompok ketiga adalah siswa yang belajar dengan pembelajaran konvensional. Sebelum diberikan perlakuan dan pengambilan data, instrumen penelitian yang digunakan telah melalui uji ahli dan uji coba. Teknik analisis data menggunakan uji Manova satu jalur dilanjutkan dengan uji Tukey. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat perbedaan signifikan penguasaan konsep antara siswa yang belajar dengan pembelajaran problem solving berbantuan PhET, pembelajaran problem solving, dan pembelajaran konvensional. Perbedaan ini disebabkan adanya proses pembelajaran yang berbeda antara ketiga kelompok kelas. Penguasaan konsep siswa yang menggunakan pembelajaran problem solving berbantuan PhET lebih tinggi dari siswa yang menggunakan pembelajaran problem solving dan pembelajaran konvensional

Kata Kunci: Problem Solving, PhET, Molaritas, Penguasaan Konsep
Efficacy of Edible Coatings in Alleviating Shrivel and Maintaining Quality of Japanese Plum (Prunus salicina Lindl.) during Export and Shelf Life Conditions
Authors: Fawole Olaniyi Amos , Riva Shannon Claudia , Opara Umezuruike Linus
Published: July 2020

The effect of six edible coatings were investigated on the ability to alleviate shrivel and extend shelf life of plums. Fruit were subjected to a simulated shipping period (−0.5 ± 2 °C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity (RH)) for five weeks and a subsequent shelf life period (20 ± 2 °C and 80 ± 5% RH) for 20 d. Overall, the study showed that it is possible to alleviate shrivel and also extend shelf life of plum (‘African Delight™’) at export and shelf life conditions. Amongst the edible coatings investigated, the findings in fruit coated with gum arabic and the commercial products were comparable and promising for postharvest preservation of the investigated plum cultivar. The coatings showed a moderate delay of fruit ripening, significantly reduced weight loss and shrivel development, allowing for the export of fruit over a long distance (five weeks) and up to 20 d of shelf life.
Analysis of Proteomic Profile of Contrasting Phosphorus Responsive Rice Cultivars Grown under Phosphorus Deficiency
Authors: Tantray Aadil Yousuf , Ali Hayssam M. , Ahmad Altaf
Published: July 2020

Phosphorus (P) deficiency is one of the major limiting factors for crop productivity. The yield of rice (Oryza sativa L.) is severely limited by phosphorus deficiency. An attempt has been made in this study to identify P deficiency responsive differentially expressed proteins of rice through analysis of leaf proteome of contrasting P-responsive rice cultivars under P deficiency conditions because genetic variability has been found in the rice cultivars for adaptive response to P deficiency and a controlled regulatory system is involved in the P deficiency adaptation response. Phosphorus-efficient (cv. Panvel) and P-inefficient (cv. Nagina 22) rice cultivars were hydroponically grown in the nutrient medium under control environmental conditions at low-P level (2.0 µM) and optimum-P level (320 µM) treatments. Expression patterns of the proteins of the leaves of both the cultivars were analyzed in 30-day-old plants. The identification of these proteins through mass spectrometry and MASCOT software (Matrix Science Inc., Boston, USA) revealed that these differentially expressed proteins were homologous to known functional proteins involved in energy metabolism, biosynthesis, photosynthesis, signaling, protein synthesis, protein folding, phospholipid metabolism, oxidative stress, transcription factors, and phosphorus metabolism. It has been observed that rice cultivars responded differently to low-P treatment through modification in protein expressions pattern to maintain the growth of the plants. Therefore, the expression patterns of proteins were different in both of the cultivars under low-P treatment. Higher potential of protein stability, stress tolerance, osmo-protection, and regulation of phosphorus uptake was observed in cv. Panvel than cv. Nagina 22. This study could help to unravel the complex regulatory process that is involved in adaptation to P deficiency in rice.
Effect of Water Stress on the Physiological Characteristics of Five Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Cultivars
Authors: Kalamartzis Iakovos , Menexes George , Georgiou Pantazis , Dordas Christos
Published: July 2020

Water stress in one of the most important abiotic stresses that affects the productivity of many crop species worldwide. In addition, the climate change creates new challenges for crop adaptation especially as water resources become limited and the increase in water stress becomes more pronounced even in areas where there is adequate water supply. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of water stress on physiological characteristics of five cultivars of basil under field conditions. Water stress affected leaf temperature, dry herb yield, leaf water potential, assimilation rate and gas exchange parameters, quantum yield, instantaneous water use efficiency (WUE), and essential oil content. From the physiological characteristics water potential and assimilation rate can be used for the selection of basil cultivars tolerant to water stress. In addition, essential oil content was lower under water stress indicating that essential oil content is correlated with water availability. From the present study it is obvious that there are tolerant basil cultivars to water stress and can be found using physiological traits such as water potential and assimilation rate and can be used to save and use water more sustainable and also conserve the water resources.
Effect of Salt-Tolerant Bacterial Inoculations on Rice Seedlings Differing in Salt-Tolerance under Saline Soil Conditions
Authors: Shultana Rakiba , Tan Kee Zuan Ali , Yusop Mohd Rafii , Mohd Saud Halimi , Ayanda Arolu Fatai
Published: July 2020

Salt-tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) could be an alternative to alleviate salinity problems in rice plants grown in the coastal areas. This study was conducted to isolate and characterize salt-tolerant PGPR and observe their effects on the physiological and biochemical properties of rice plants grown under non-saline and saline glasshouse conditions. Three strains were selected based on their salt-tolerance and plant growth-promoting properties under in vitro saline conditions. These strains were identified as Bacillus tequilensis (UPMRB9), Bacillus aryabhattai (UPMRE6), and Providencia stuartii (UPMRG1) using a 16S rRNA technique. The selected strains were inoculated to three different rice varieties, namely BRRI dhan67 (salt-tolerant), Putra-1 (moderate salt-tolerant), and MR297 (salt-susceptible) under glasshouse conditions. Results showed that the MR297 rice variety inoculated with UPMRB9 produced the highest total chlorophyll content, with an increment of 28%, and lowest electrolyte leakage of 92%. The Putra-1 rice variety also showed a 156% total dry matter increase with the inoculation of this bacterial strain. The highest increase of relative water content and reduction of Na/K ratio were found upon inoculation of UPMRE6 and UPMRB9, respectively. The biggest significant effects of these bacterial inoculations were on relative water content, electrolyte leakage, and the Na/K ratio of the BRRI dhan67 rice variety under saline conditions, suggesting a synergistic effect on the mechanisms of plant salt-tolerance. This study has shown that the application of locally-isolated salt-tolerant PGPR strains could be an effective long-term and sustainable solution for rice cultivation in the coastal areas, which are affected by global climate change.
From Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Immune Responses to COVID-19 via Molecular Mimicry
Authors: Kanduc Darja
Published: July 2020

Aim: To define the autoimmune potential of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Methods: Experimentally validated epitopes cataloged at the Immune Epitope DataBase (IEDB) and present in SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed for peptide sharing with the human proteome. Results: Immunoreactive epitopes present in SARS-CoV-2 were mostly composed of peptide sequences present in human proteins that—when altered, mutated, deficient or, however, improperly functioning—may associate with a wide range of disorders, from respiratory distress to multiple organ failure. Conclusions: This study represents a starting point or hint for future scientific–clinical investigations and suggests a range of possible protein targets of autoimmunity in SARS-CoV-2 infection. From an experimental perspective, the results warrant the testing of patients’ sera for autoantibodies against these protein targets. Clinically, the results warrant a stringent surveillance on the future pathologic sequelae of the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ribes diacanthum Pall Mediated via Regulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB Signaling Pathways in LPS-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages and a TPA-Induced Dermatitis Animal Model
Authors: Kim Na Yeon , Cheong Sun Hee , Lee Kun Jong , Sok Dai-Eun , Kim Mee Ree
Published: July 2020

Ribes diacanthum Pall (RDP) is a Mongolian traditional medicine used to treat renal inflammation. In the present study, we initially investigated the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanisms of action of ethylacetate extract of RDP (EARDP) in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced dermatitis in mice. We demonstrated that EARDP protected against LPS-induced cell death by inhibiting intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) production, as well as the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, such as nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1β. EARDP inhibited the phosphorylation and degradation of inhibitory κB-α (IκB-α) and the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, indicating that the anti-inflammatory effect of EARDP was mediated via the suppression of NF-κB nuclear translocation. In addition, EARDP induced the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), indicating that EARDP induced HO-1 via the Nrf2 pathway in RAW 264.7 cells. Furthermore, EARDP significantly suppressed the protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. However, ZnPP, a specific inhibitor of HO-1, reversed the EARDP-mediated inhibition of NO and TNF-α production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. EARDP blocked the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In the in vivo animal model, EARDP significantly and dose-dependently reduced TPA-induced secretion of TNF-α and IL-6 in mouse ear. Based on these results, EARDP represents a promising natural compound, protective against oxidative stress and inflammatory diseases.
The Role of Glutathione in Protecting against the Severe Inflammatory Response Triggered by COVID-19
Authors: Silvagno Francesca , Vernone Annamaria , Pescarmona Gian Piero
Published: July 2020

The novel COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the world’s population differently: mostly in the presence of conditions such as aging, diabetes and hypertension the virus triggers a lethal cytokine storm and patients die from acute respiratory distress syndrome, whereas in many cases the disease has a mild or even asymptomatic progression. A common denominator in all conditions associated with COVID-19 appears to be the impaired redox homeostasis responsible for reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation; therefore, levels of glutathione (GSH), the key anti-oxidant guardian in all tissues, could be critical in extinguishing the exacerbated inflammation that triggers organ failure in COVID-19. The present review provides a biochemical investigation of the mechanisms leading to deadly inflammation in severe COVID-19, counterbalanced by GSH. The pathways competing for GSH are described to illustrate the events concurring to cause a depletion of endogenous GSH stocks. Drawing on evidence from literature that demonstrates the reduced levels of GSH in the main conditions clinically associated with severe disease, we highlight the relevance of restoring GSH levels in the attempt to protect the most vulnerable subjects from severe symptoms of COVID-19. Finally, we discuss the current data about the feasibility of increasing GSH levels, which could be used to prevent and subdue the disease.
K2O Doped Dolomite as Heterogeneous Catalyst for Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Production from Palm Oil
Authors: Yahaya Muhammad , Ramli Irmawati , Muhamad Ernee Noryana , Ishak Nor Shafizah , Idris Nda-Umar Usman , Taufiq-Yap Yun Hin
Published: July 2020

Biodiesel obtained from palm oil over an environmentally friendly catalyst is highlydesirable. For that matter, dolomite, a natural material was used as a catalyst in this work, and this included potassium oxide (K2O)-doped dolomite, 5 wt% K/D, 10 wt% K/D, 15 wt% K/D, and 20 wt% K/D. X-ray diffraction analysis of dolomite revealed the CaO and MgO phases with high crystallinity, in which intensity reduced after doped with varying concentrations of K2O. When the catalysts were evaluated, the K2O-doped dolomite exhibited a better catalytic activity for palm oil transesterification. In the presence of K2O, the methyl ester reached 98.7%, with the highest being displayed by 15 wt% K/D as compared to 87% over dolomite at reaction temperature of 60 °C, 12:1 methanol to palm oil ratio, 1 wt% catalyst amount and 1 h reaction time. SEM revealed that as more K2O was doped on dolomite, the particles became more agglomerated, with a reduced BET surface area of 1.3 m2/g in 20 wt% K/D as opposed to homogeneously small-sized MgO and CaO particles in dolomite with a high BET surface area of 19.0 m2/g. However, the high activity of the doped catalyst was dictated by the high amount of basic site, as evidenced in TPD-CO2 which showed an increase in the capacity of the basic site with an increased amount of K2O. The catalyst was also reusable up to six times with a negligible decrease in activity due to K+ leaching.
Facile Synthesis of Tin Dioxide Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Degradation of Congo Red Dye in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Ma Chih Ming , Hong Gui Bing , Lee Shang Chieh
Published: July 2020

This research work reports an approach used to prepare a SnO2 photocatalyst by precipitation and calcination pathways and describes an investigation of the effects of preparation parameters on SnO2 yield. The SnO2 photocatalyst was further used for the photocatalytic degradation of Congo red (CR) dye, and the removal efficiency was optimized using response surface methodology. The results indicate that the SnO2 photocatalyst yield was the highest in 0.05 M of the precursor, stannous chloride and 28 wt % ammonia as the precipitant, pH 10, at 30 °C. The transmission electron microscopy results of the SnO2 photocatalyst illustrate that the average particle size was mainly around 30–50 nm and had a solid spherical shape. The X-ray diffraction results reveal that the prepared sample had a highly crystalline SnO2 rutile crystal structure. The prediction and experimental results of the Response surface methodology (RSM) indicate that, when the reaction time was 97 min, the operating temperature was 47 °C, the photocatalyst dosage was 751 mg/L, and the optimal degradation rate of the CR dye was 100%. After five consecutive photodegradation reactions, the degradation rate remained at 100%. The results demonstrated that the SnO2 photocatalyst prepared in this study possesses excellent reusability.
Limits of Solid Solutions and Thermal Deformations in the L-Alanine–L-Serine Amino Acid System
Authors: Kotelnikova Elena , Sadovnichii Roman , Kryuchkova Lyudmila , Lorenz Heike
Published: July 2020

The limits of solid solutions and thermal deformations in the L-alanine–L-serine (L-ala–L-ser) amino acid system have been determined. Thirteen amino acid mixtures with various proportions of the components L-ser/L-ala were studied using powder X-ray diffraction techniques. It was found that the regions of solid solutions in the system are rather limited and cover less than 10 mol. % from each component side. The thermal behavior of the components L-ser and L-ala and the composition L-ser/L-ala = 90/10 were studied by temperature-resolved powder X-ray diffraction. The heating of L-ser and L-ala only causes thermal deformations, while two-phase mixtures with the 90/10 L-ser/L-ala ratio form solid solutions at elevated temperatures. Additionally, the parameters of the thermal deformation tensor for L-ser and L-ala were calculated, and the figures of their thermal expansion coefficients were plotted and analyzed. The study conducted is of high applicability, since amino acids are active components of various biological, geological, and technological processes, including those at elevated temperatures, and have numerous applications in life-science industries.
Growth of Lu2O3 and HfO2 Based High Melting Temperature Single Crystals by Indirect Heating Method Using Arc Plasma
Authors: Kim Kyoung Jin , Kamada Kei , Murakami Rikito , Horiai Takahiko , Ishikawa Shiori , Kochurikhin Vladimir V. , Yoshino Masao , Yamaji Akihiro , Shoji Yasuhiro , Kurosawa Shunsuke , Toyoda Satoshi , Sato Hiroki , Yokota Yuui , Ohashi Yuji , Yoshikawa Akira
Published: July 2020

A novel single-crystal growth method was developed, using arc plasma and metal melt, for a quick survey of high melting point materials. Single crystals of Yb-doped Lu2O3, Lu0.388Hf0.612O1.806, and Lu0.18Hf0.82O1.91, with melting points of 2460, 2900, and 2840 °C, respectively, were grown by an indirect heating method using arc plasma. We refer to this indirect heating growth method as the core heating (CH) method. The CH-grown Yb1%-doped Lu2O3 sample showed a full width at half maximum of 286 arcsec in the X-ray rocking curve. This value is better than the 393 arcsec obtained for the crystal grown by the micro-pulling-down (μ-PD) method. The Yb charge transfer state (CTS) emission was observed at 350 nm in the Yb1%-doped Lu2O3 and Lu0.18Hf0.82O1.91. In the case of the μ-PD method, using a rhenium (Re) crucible, absorption due to Re contamination and a resulting reduction in the Yb CTS emission were confirmed. However, contamination did not influence the properties observed in the crystals grown by the CH method.
Macroeconomic Growth in Vietnam Transitioned to Market: An Unrestricted VES Framework
Authors: Ngoc Thach Nguyen
Published: July 2020

The Vietnamese economy has increased at high speed over the transformation decades; however, most recent studies on the economic growth of this country used the Cobb-Douglas or CES (Constant Elasticity of Substitution) production functions, which are unable to explore the relationship between the elasticity of capital-labour substitution and development process, and hence, are not relevant to accessing a dynamic economic system. For that reason, this study is conducted to specify an unrestricted VES (Variable Elasticity of Substitution) production function in a one-sector growth model of Vietnam, highlighted by two characteristics: successful transition from plan to market and rapid progress. The VES is given preference over the CES and the Cobb-Douglas having the elasticity of substitution between capital and labour varying with economic development. By employing a Bayesian nonlinear regression through MCMC methods, the study reported the following findings: (1) the above-unity variable elasticity of capital-labour substitution in an aggregate unrestricted VES function specified for Vietnam shows that the model generates the possibility of endogenous economic growth; (2) the capital share tends to increase, while the labour share faces a downward trend along with the development of Vietnam; (3) the VES is empirically proven through a Bayes factor test to be superior to the CES and Cobb-Douglas for analysis of the growth process of Vietnam, an emerging transition economy.
Characterization of Potential Micrometeorites by Synchrotron Analysis
Authors: Esposito Madison , Souhrada Kevin , Garland Erin , Kroll Mary , Bolen Robert , Hernandez Victoria , Kaczmarek Janet , Meisel David , Swiss Anya , Northrup Paul , Stojanoff Vivian , Thieme Juergen , Perez Aleida
Published: July 2020

Micrometeorites (MMs) are small particles that account for most of the extraterrestrial material deposited on Earth. Synchrotron X-ray fluorescence and diffraction allowed for chemical and mineral characterization to distinguish MM from atmospheric particulate. The relative components of iron, nickel, and other elements were considered in the identification of ferrous MM while high amounts of titanium were considered an indication that the particles were of atmospheric origin. Out of 100 samples collected by high school students and teachers, eight were taken to a synchrotron for analysis. Of those eight, three exhibited extraterrestrial compositions. X-ray absorption near-edge structure analysis revealed that the same three samples contained sulfide, the main sulfur form constituent in MM. X-ray microdiffraction analysis showed the presence of the minerals pentlandite and forsterite. Collectively, these results support the extraterrestrial nature of the three particles.
Prevalence Rates of Loneliness and Its Impact on Lifestyle in the Healthy Population of Madrid, Spain
Authors: Cuesta-Lozano Daniel , Simón-López Leticia Carmen , Mirón-González Rubén , García-Sastre Montserrat , Bonito-Samino Daniel , Asenjo-Esteve Ángel L.
Published: July 2020

Background: The Spanish population presents higher levels of loneliness than citizens of countries in Northern Europe. Numerous studies have linked loneliness to increased morbidity and mortality, but very few studies have associated loneliness with healthy lifestyles. The objectives of this research are to identify the feeling of unwanted loneliness in various age and gender groups in the city of Alcalá de Henares (Madrid, Spain), to determine lifestyle habits in the areas of diet and physical exercise, and to examine the association between lifestyle habits and perceived loneliness. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational and analytical study on the perception of loneliness among men (59.06%) and women (60.06%) in a sample (n = 611) of the general population (N = 198,945), by means of random assignment of a health survey, was conducted. The data were collected using an ad hoc questionnaire. The data were stratified and analyzed with the IBM SSPS® v.25 software package. Results: The frequency of loneliness is stratified by sex and age, and healthy lifestyle habits in terms of diet and physical exercise are analyzed. Conclusions: People with perceived loneliness do not have worse lifestyle habits. However, women living with other people have a higher perception of loneliness than those living alone. Specifically, the perception of loneliness in young adult women could suggest a low level of moderate physical exercise.