bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors for a Cure Rate of Severe Acute Malnutrition 6-59 Month Children in Stabilizing Center at Pawe General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kebede Fassikaw , Eticha Nemera , Negese Belete , Giza Mastewal , Tolossa Tadesse , Wakuma Bizuneh
Published: March 2021

Malnutrition (over and undernutrition) is a major public health problem across the globe, especially undernutrition is responsible for one-third of the death of children in underprivileged populations. Each year more than 25 to 35 million under-five children have suffered from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM). The sub-Saharan African countries account for the lion's share of this case fatality rate. The case in Ethiopia is not different from other countries. This study's main aim is to assess predictors for the cure rate of Severe Acute Malnutrition in 6-59 month Children in stabilizing center at Pawe General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. A retrospective cohort study.
Methods: Hospital-based retrospective cohort study was employed among 454 admitted under-five SAM children from Januarys1st 2015-to December 30, 2019. Data were cleaned, coded, and entered into Epi-Data 3.1; then exported to STATA/SE- 14/R for analysis. Survival analysis was used to check each variable's proportional hazard assumption and no variable Schoenfield test <0.05. Variable with AHR at 95 % CI at P-value less than 0.05 considered as significant. Final model adequacy was checked by Nelson Alana and Cox Snell residual plot test.
Result: Totally 454 (90.4%) individual data were included for final analysis; Sixty-five percent of 65.4% (95%CI: 50.1- 69.2) admitted children declared as cured, 16.52 % of them defaulted and 11.5% of children reported as dead. The median age and median cure time of SAM children were found at 2.2 years and 13 days (±7), respectively. Children diagnosed marasmus (AHR=1.56: 95% CI 1.08--2.2, p<0.018), with No nasal-gastric intubation (NGT) during admission (AHR= 1.31: 95%CI (1.04 --1.67, P<0.029) and taking F-100 milk (AHR=5.42 95% CI (2.92--9.85, p<0.001) were associated with treatment cure rate.
The conclusions: The overall treatment cure rate of this study was remaining low at 65.4% compared to the sphere standard sets reference (i.e., >75-77.9 %). Concerning associated factors addressing F-100 milk, making SAM under-five children with no NGT and increased treatment cure rate was independently associated with treatment cure rate.
Sociobiodiversity of non-wood forest products at open fairs in Rio Machado territory, Rondônia
Authors: Possimoser Dalvan , Ribeiro Sylviane Beck , Sccoti Marta Silvana Volpato , Quadros Kenia Michele de
Published: March 2021

The Amazon Forest is represented not only by biological diversity, but also by cultural variety, appropriation, exploitation and management of natural resources. However, the Amazon rainforest has been undergoing vast destruction, without considering the various possible uses of forest. In this sense, this research aims to evaluate the socioeconomic aspects and the diversity of non-wood forest products (PFNMs) commercialized in open fairs situated in the Rio Machado Territory, Rondônia/Brazil. The research was carried out in four municipalities: Cacoal, Espigão do Oeste, Pimenta Bueno and Primavera de Rondônia. Data collection took place through interviews employing a semi-structured form, in which socioeconomic issues, PFNMs traded at fairs and supplier species were demanded. The Shanonn Index (H '), Sorensen Similarity (S) and the Importance Value (VI) for the species were generated. 41 fair dealers were interviewed. Labor force is predominantly familiar (92.68%) and the average monthly income from the commercialization of PFNMs was R$ 251.70 (reais), in which the main commercialized PFNM was the Brazil Nut (Castanha-do-pará – Bertholletia excelsa). Eleven forest species were cited, which indicated low species diversity (H’: 1.92), and it was verified a high similarity of PFNMs commercialized among the municipalities (S: 0.69). The species Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa), Açaí palm (Açaí – Euterpe oleracea) and Cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum) showed higher indicating (VI), demonstrating that PFNMs commercialization is still concentrated in few species.
Neuromuscular block induced by Bothrops moojeni snake venom and the effect of Jatropha elliptica starch
Authors: Rodrigues Sára Cósta Ferreira , Yoshida Edson Hideaki , Franco Yoko Oshima , Santos Marcio Galdino dos , Seibert Carla Simone
Published: March 2021

This research evaluated the effect of Bothrops moojeni venom on neuromuscular activity and verified the anti-phallic potential of the J. elliptica starch in this model. The venom was obtained from snakes collected in the state of Tocantins, the protein profile evaluated in electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and the activity on the phrenic-diaphragm nerve of mice determined in 50 µg/mL of venom. The JeP, obtained by hand, was sieved in a sieve for granulometric analysis and concentrations of 100 and 1000 µg/mL were tested to verify its anti-phallic potential on the action of the poison. The following models were used: pre-venom - addition of venom and after 15 min addition of JeP; post-poison - addition of JeP and after 15 min the addition of poison; and pre-incubation - for 30 min, of poison with JeP or commercial antivenom. The poison had proteins from 10 to 60 kDa, which induced 50% of neuromuscular activity block in 71.5 ± 8.9 min (T50). The pre-venom and post-venom models with JeP 100 µg/mL prolonged phrenic nerve activity time (100.9 ± 7.6 min and 97 ± 6.1 min, respectively). The results obtained for 1000 µg/mL and in the model of pre-incubation of the venom with JeP 100 (78.2 ± 9.2); 1000 µg/mL (86.5 ± 8.9) and with commercial botropic antivenom (80.2 ± 14.1), did not interfere with the activity of the venom on the phrenic nerve. Bothrops moojeni venom induces neuromuscular block and the lower concentration of the starch caused a protective effect on the junction, before and after the administration of the venom.
La pluralité des expériences historiques dans le passé du Québec et du Canada
Authors: Moisan Sabrina , Warren Jean-Philippe , Zanazanian Paul , Hirsch Sivane , Maltais-Landry Aude
Published: March 2021

Alors que les repères usuels de l’historiographie « nationale » se trouvent mis à mal par les travaux postcoloniaux, antiracistes et autres histoires alternatives, cet article propose d’éclairer l’état de la situation au Québec en posant la question suivante : comment la communauté historienne québécoise considère-t-elle l’écriture d’une histoire du Québec et du Canada plurielle et plurivoque ? L’article présente les résultats d’une enquête qualitative menée auprès de 22 historiens et historiennes du Québec. Les résultats montrent une communauté historienne qui, tout en étant sensible aux enjeux de la diversité, pose certaines conditions à l’intégration de ces perspectives. Au terme de l’analyse, force est d’admettre que deux sous-groupes se distinguent au sein de la communauté historienne québécoise. Le premier sous-groupe se dit attaché au récit national canadien-français ou québécois ainsi qu’à la trame politique traditionnelle ou à une version modifiée de celle-ci. Le deuxième sous-groupe est, au contraire, enclin à faire éclater les cadres nationaux pour mieux embrasser les multiples trajectoires des populations composant les sociétés québécoises et canadiennes. Le débat entre les deux sous-groupes n’est, à l’évidence, pas terminé, et son analyse permet par conséquent de mieux mesurer les défis auxquels est confrontée l’écriture contemporaine de l’histoire du Québec et du Canada.
La réflexivité en archivistique et l’objet « archives de la recherche »
Authors: Le Brech Goulven
Published: March 2021

La question de la réflexivité est centrale dans le domaine des sciences humaines et sociales en tant qu’approche critique des méthodes et enjeux de la science. Appliquée à la gestion des archives, la réflexivité pose la question de la valeur heuristique des grands principes archivistiques : notions de source documentaire, de principe de respect des fonds et de cycle de vie de l’information consignée. Dans cet article, l’auteur applique la méthode réflexive à la gestion des archives produites dans le cadre de la recherche en sciences sociales. Dans le contexte contemporain de l’émergence des données de la recherche, les notions d’archives, de producteur et de cycle de vie sont à réévaluer.
Time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography reveals early structural changes in channelrhodopsin
Authors: Oda Kazumasa , Nomura Takashi , Nakane Takanori , Yamashita Keitaro , Inoue Keiichi , Ito Shota , Vierock Johannes , Hirata Kunio , Maturana Andrés D , Katayama Kota , Ikuta Tatsuya , Ishigami Itsuki , Izume Tamaki , Umeda Rie , Eguma Ryuun , Oishi Satomi , Kasuya Go , Kato Takafumi , Kusakizako Tsukasa , Shihoya Wataru , Shimada Hiroto , Takatsuji Tomoyuki , Takemoto Mizuki , Taniguchi Reiya , Tomita Atsuhiro , Nakamura Ryoki , Fukuda Masahiro , Miyauchi Hirotake , Lee Yongchan , Nango Eriko , Tanaka Rie , Tanaka Tomoyuki , Sugahara Michihiro , Kimura Tetsunari , Shimamura Tatsuro , Fujiwara Takaaki , Yamanaka Yasuaki , Owada Shigeki , Joti Yasumasa , Tono Kensuke , Ishitani Ryuichiro , Hayashi Shigehiko , Kandori Hideki , Hegemann Peter , Iwata So , Kubo Minoru , Nishizawa Tomohiro , Nureki Osamu
Published: March 2021

Channelrhodopsins (ChRs) are microbial light-gated ion channels utilized in optogenetics to control neural activity with light . Light absorption causes retinal chromophore isomerization and subsequent protein conformational changes visualized as optically distinguished intermediates, coupled with channel opening and closing. However, the detailed molecular events underlying channel gating remain unknown. We performed time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallographic analyses of ChR by using an X-ray free electron laser, which revealed conformational changes following photoactivation. The isomerized retinal adopts a twisted conformation and shifts toward the putative internal proton donor residues, consequently inducing an outward shift of TM3, as well as a local deformation in TM7. These early conformational changes in the pore-forming helices should be the triggers that lead to opening of the ion conducting pore.
Inducible mechanisms of disease tolerance provide an alternative strategy of acquired immunity to malaria
Authors: Nahrendorf Wiebke , Ivens Alasdair , Spence Philip J
Published: March 2021

Immunity to malaria is often considered slow to develop but this only applies to defense mechanisms that function to eliminate parasites (resistance). In contrast, immunity to severe disease can be acquired quickly and without the need for improved pathogen control (tolerance). Using Plasmodium chabaudi, we show that a single malaria episode is sufficient to induce host adaptations that can minimise inflammation, prevent tissue damage and avert endothelium activation, a hallmark of severe disease. Importantly, monocytes are functionally reprogrammed to prevent their differentiation into inflammatory macrophages and instead promote mechanisms of stress tolerance to protect their niche. This alternative fate is not underpinned by epigenetic reprogramming of bone marrow progenitors but appears to be imprinted within the remodelled spleen. Crucially, all of these adaptations operate independently of pathogen load and limit the damage caused by malaria parasites in subsequent infections. Acquired immunity to malaria therefore prioritises host fitness over pathogen clearance.
Time-resolved phosphoproteomics reveals scaffolding and catalysis-responsive patterns of SHP2-dependent signaling
Authors: Vemulapalli Vidyasiri , Chylek Lily A , Erickson Alison , Pfeiffer Anamarija , Gabriel Khal-Hentz , LaRochelle Jonathan , Subramanian Kartik , Cao Ruili , Stegmaier Kimberley , Mohseni Morvarid , LaMarche Matthew J , Acker Michael G , Sorger Peter K , Gygi Steven P , Blacklow Stephen C
Published: March 2021

SHP2 is a protein tyrosine phosphatase that normally potentiates intracellular signaling by growth factors, antigen receptors, and some cytokines, yet is frequently mutated in human cancer. Here, we examine the role of SHP2 in the responses of breast cancer cells to EGF by monitoring phosphoproteome dynamics when SHP2 is allosterically inhibited by SHP099. The dynamics of phosphotyrosine abundance at more than 400 tyrosine residues reveal six distinct response signatures following SHP099 treatment and washout. Remarkably, in addition to newly identified substrate sites on proteins such as occludin, ARHGAP35, and PLCγ2, another class of sites shows reduced phosphotyrosine abundance upon SHP2 inhibition. Sites of decreased phospho-abundance are enriched on proteins with two nearby phosphotyrosine residues, which can be directly protected from dephosphorylation by the paired SH2 domains of SHP2 itself. These findings highlight the distinct roles of the scaffolding and catalytic activities of SHP2 in effecting a transmembrane signaling response.
Convalescent COVID-19 patients are susceptible to endothelial dysfunction due to persistent immune activation
Authors: Chioh Florence WJ , Fong Siew-Wai , Young Barnaby E , Wu Kan-Xing , Siau Anthony , Krishnan Shuba , Chan Yi-Hao , Carissimo Guillaume , Teo Louis LY , Gao Fei , Tan Ru San , Zhong Liang , Koh Angela S , Tan Seow-Yen , Tambyah Paul A , Renia Laurent , Ng Lisa FP , Lye David C , Cheung Christine
Published: March 2021

Numerous reports of vascular events after an initial recovery from COVID-19 form our impetus to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on vascular health of recovered patients. We found elevated levels of circulating endothelial cells (CECs), a biomarker of vascular injury, in COVID-19 convalescents compared to healthy controls. In particular, those with pre-existing conditions (e.g., hypertension, diabetes) had more pronounced endothelial activation hallmarks than non-COVID-19 patients with matched cardiovascular risk. Several proinflammatory and activated T lymphocyte-associated cytokines sustained from acute infection to recovery phase, which correlated positively with CEC measures, implicating cytokine-driven endothelial dysfunction. Notably, we found higher frequency of effector T cells in our COVID-19 convalescents compared to healthy controls. The activation markers detected on CECs mapped to counter receptors found primarily on cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, raising the possibility of cytotoxic effector cells targeting activated endothelial cells. Clinical trials in preventive therapy for post-COVID-19 vascular complications may be needed.
Allosteric communication in class A β-lactamases occurs via cooperative coupling of loop dynamics
Authors: Galdadas Ioannis , Qu Shen , Oliveira Ana Sofia F , Olehnovics Edgar , Mack Andrew R , Mojica Maria F , Agarwal Pratul K , Tooke Catherine L , Gervasio Francesco Luigi , Spencer James , Bonomo Robert A , Mulholland Adrian J , Haider Shozeb
Published: March 2021

Understanding allostery in enzymes and tools to identify it offer promising alternative strategies to inhibitor development. Through a combination of equilibrium and nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, we identify allosteric effects and communication pathways in two prototypical class A β-lactamases, TEM-1 and KPC-2, which are important determinants of antibiotic resistance. The nonequilibrium simulations reveal pathways of communication operating over distances of 30 Å or more. Propagation of the signal occurs through cooperative coupling of loop dynamics. Notably, 50% or more of clinically relevant amino acid substitutions map onto the identified signal transduction pathways. This suggests that clinically important variation may affect, or be driven by, differences in allosteric behavior, providing a mechanism by which amino acid substitutions may affect the relationship between spectrum of activity, catalytic turnover, and potential allosteric behavior in this clinically important enzyme family. Simulations of the type presented here will help in identifying and analyzing such differences.
Taming the beasts inside
Authors: Ryu Erica P , Davenport Emily R
Published: March 2021

Changes in diet associated with domestication may have shaped the composition of microbes found in the guts of animals.
Brote de Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Give asociado con enfermedad transmitida por alimentos en Vichada, Colombia, 2015
Authors: Flórez Nancy Yaneth , Arévalo Stefany Alejandra , Rodríguez Edna Catering , Guerrero Jaime , Valverde Kelly Paola , Díaz Paula Lucía , Montaño Lucy Angeline , Gartner Doris Mabel , Duarte Carolina , Moreno Jaime Enrique
Published: March 2021

Introducción. Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Give se encuentra en mamíferos rumiantes, cerdos, aves y ambientes acuáticos, pero rara vez en humanos. En Colombia este serotipo ocupó el decimoprimer lugar en frecuencia en la vigilancia por laboratorio de la enfermedad diarreica aguda entre el 2000 y el 2013.Objetivo. Caracterizar el fenotipo y el genotipo de S. Give en aislamientos relacionados con un brote de enfermedad transmitida por alimentos en el departamento de Vichada en la quinta semana epidemiológica del 2015.Materiales y métodos. Se buscó Salmonella spp. en 37 muestras de materia fecal con el método de estudio del Instituto Nacional de Salud. La muestra de sardinas enlatadas fue procesada según la norma ISO6579:2002 Cor.1:2004. Se determinó el serotipo en los aislamientos confirmados mediante serología o PCR en tiempo real, y se hicieron pruebas de sensibilidad a antimicrobianos y electroforesis en gel de campo pulsado con las enzimas Xbal y BlnI.Resultados. Todos los aislamientos de origen humano (11) y el aislamiento del alimento (1), se identificaron como S. Give y este último presentó resistencia a la tetraciclina. El análisis por PFGE-XbaI agrupó bajo el patrón COIN15JEXX01.0005 diez aislamientos de origen humano y a los restantes bajo el COIN15JEXX01.0006, con un 96,3 % de similitud. Los resultados de todos los aislamientos se confirmaron con la enzima BlnI; cuatro de ellos (tres humanos y el del alimento) se agruparon bajo el patrón COIN15JEXA26.002, con un porcentaje de similitud del 95,65 %.Conclusión. El estudio confirmó que las sardinas enlatadas se relacionaron con la transmisión de S. Give en el brote, que es el tercero ocasionado por este serotipo en Colombia.
Efectos adversos de las sustancias modelantes en Cali, Colombia
Authors: Castro Claudia Marcela , Ríos Carlos Alberto , López Carlos Alejandro , Ospina Martha Lucía , Ortiz Yamileth
Published: March 2021

Introducción. El deseo de mejorar la apariencia física mediante métodos sencillos y económicos, ha generado la aplicación indiscriminada de sustancias modelantes y, con ello, el surgimiento de la alogenosis iatrogénica, enfermedad cada vez más prevalente en Latinoamérica.Objetivo. Describir las características epidemiológicas y los efectos adversos de las sustancias modelantes en un grupo de pacientes de Cali, Colombia.Materiales y métodos. Se hizo una revisión retrospectiva de las historias clínicas de los pacientes que acudieron a consulta por complicaciones producidas por sustancias modelantes durante un sexenio.Resultados. Se incluyeron 1.322 pacientes, 95,5 % de ellos mujeres. Las edades oscilaron entre los 19 y los 83 años, con una media de 39 años. El sitio anatómico de infiltración con sustancias modelantes con mayor frecuencia de efectos adversos, fueron los glúteos. La asimetría y el aumento del volumen en el sitio infiltrado fueron los signos más comunes, en tanto que el dolor, las alteraciones del ánimo y la depresión o la ansiedad fueron los síntomas más percibidos. El 33,6 % de los pacientes desconocía la sustancia aplicada y el 28,1 % refirió haberse aplicado biopolímeros. La mayoría de estos procedimientos estuvo a cargo de personal sin la debida formación.Conclusiones. Estos pacientes requieren la atención de equipos multidisciplinarios para establecer alternativas de tratamiento que mejoren su calidad de vida. Además, se necesitan la regulación de los establecimientos, y las medidas de vigilancia, inspección y control en la importación y el uso de estas sustancias.
Valorization of discarded industrial fish processing wastes for the extraction of gelatin to use as biodegradable fish bait matrix using RSM
Authors: Masilan Karunanithi , Neethiselvan Neethirajan , Jeya shakila Robinson , Sivaraman Balasubramanian , Ravikumar Thangaraji , Nagarajan Muralidharan , Karthy Arjunan , Sukumar Durairaj
Published: March 2021

Extraction of gelatin from fish wastes and the development of artificial fish bait matrix using the extracted gelatin were attempted in the study. Biochemical composition of fish wastes (heads, skins, fins and scales) and the gelatin derived from the wastes of corresponding body parts and physicochemical properties of fish gelatin were analyzed. Considering high yield (19.8–22.4%), good gel strength (1.99–2.3 N), high melting point (27 °C) and simple extraction process, the scale gelatin was selected for the development of artificial fish bait matrix. To optimize the levels of gelling agent, cross linker and solvent for the preparation of bait matrix, RSM was adopted. Gel strength and insolubility ratio were analyzed to know the suitability of the bait. They were found to have the gel strength ranging from 1.3 N to 23.5 N, insolubility ratio from 55–83%, and melting point from 34.3 °C to 41.1 °C. The optimum levels of ingredients for the preparation of ideal bait matrix were standardized as: gelatin-25.5%, sucrose-22.5% and water-52%. The curing temperature and curing duration were optimized based on the optimum gel strength of 20.84 N and insolubility ratio of 74.5% was 5 °C and 25 h respectively. The study revealed that a developed fish bait matrix suitable for fishing can be made from gelatin derived from fish wastes.
The effect of carbon monoxide on meiotic maturation of porcine oocytes
Authors: Němeček David , Chmelikova Eva , Petr Jaroslav , Kott Tomas , Sedmíková Markéta
Published: March 2021

Oxidative stress impairs the correct course of meiotic maturation, and it is known that the oocytes are exposed to increased oxidative stress during meiotic maturation in in vitro conditions. Thus, reduction of oxidative stress can lead to improved quality of cultured oocytes. The gasotransmitter carbon monoxide (CO) has a cytoprotective effect in somatic cells. The CO is produced in cells by the enzyme heme oxygenase (HO) and the heme oxygenase/carbon monoxide (HO/CO) pathway has been shown to have an antioxidant effect in somatic cells. It has not yet been investigated whether the CO has an antioxidant effect in oocytes as well. We assessed the level of expression of HO mRNA, using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The HO protein localization was evaluated by the immunocytochemical method. The influence of CO or HO inhibition on meiotic maturation was evaluated in oocytes cultured in a culture medium containing CO donor (CORM-2 or CORM-A1) or HO inhibitor Zn-protoporphyrin IX (Zn-PP IX). Detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was performed using the oxidant-sensing probe 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. We demonstrated the expression of mRNA and proteins of both HO isoforms in porcine oocytes during meiotic maturation. The inhibition of HO enzymes by Zn-PP IX did not affect meiotic maturation. CO delivered by CORM-2 or CORM-A1 donors led to a reduction in the level of ROS in the oocytes during meiotic maturation. However, exogenously delivered CO also inhibited meiotic maturation, especially at higher concentrations. In summary, the CO signaling molecule has antioxidant properties in porcine oocytes and may also be involved in the regulation of meiotic maturation.
The Effects of Pine Tree Sawdust on the Volume Compressibility of Expansive Soils
Authors: Kalkan Ekrem , Yarba Necmi
Published: March 2021

Expansive soils are very important natural geological materials used in the geotechnical applications in the worldwide. After compacting, they are used as hydraulic barriers in earth structures, such as core of earth fill dams, landfill liners, and etc. However, these soils have some defects from technical points of view. To remove the defects, one of the soil improvement methods is mixing of these soils with granular materials. In this study, pine tree sawdust was used as granular additive material to stabilize the expansive soils. The effects of pine saw dust on the volume compressibility of expansive soils were investigated by using experimental studies under laboratory conditions. The test results showed that the pine saw dust positively affected the geotechnical properties in term of volume compressibility manner. As a consequently, the geotechnical properties of the expansive soil when blended with pine tree sawdust indicates that the pine tree sawdust is a good modification material for this problematic soil.
Antioxidant Enzymes and Germination Pattern: Upshot of High Salinity on Soluble Protein and Average Weight of Spinacia oleracea (Spinach) Seedlings
Authors: Bano Saeeda , Iqbal Samina , Naqvi Beena , Abbasi Kanwal , Siddiqui Kauser , Sattar Hafsa , Aman Afsheen
Published: March 2021

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is widely considered as a functional food mainly due to its various beneficial components including vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, bioactive and antioxidant compounds that stimulate health beyond basic nutrition. The overwhelming agricultural crop at salinity conditions faced several abiotic and biotic stresses that unfortunately reduced the potential applicability of highly nutritious plants. Therefore, in this study the response of antioxidant enzymes were studied at different germination stages of the seedlings and results suggested that all antioxidant enzymes play a crucial role during oxidative stress. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) seedlings had the potential to germinate remarkably well up to 800 mM NaCl concentration and the average weight of seedlings and soluble protein content was efficiently increased at high salinity. During oxidative stress, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase significantly showed tolerances to salinity stress conditions. Among them, Ascorbate Peroxidase presented significant activity even at 600 mM of NaCl in germination stage 1. The antioxidant defense mechanism of Spinacia oleracea is activated at the very early stage of germination which perhaps helps the plant to survive under harsh conditions thus maintaining the nutritional components of the plant.
Optimisation of Rice-Kidney Beans Composite Flours Incorporated with Fermented and Unfermented Sorghum Flours for the Production of Ready-to-Eat Extruded Snacks
Authors: Awolu Olugbenga Olufemi , Akintade Adeyanmola Oluwaseyi
Published: March 2021

Aims: Rice-based ready-to-eat extruded snack was developed by incorporating the rice flour with kidney bean, fermented surgum and unfermented sorghum flours with the sole aim of accessing the effect of the addition of the kidney bean and sorghum on the nutritional quality of the extruded snack developed.

Methodology: Rice-dried kidney bean composite flours were supplemented with fermented and unfermented sorghum grains were optimized using optimal design model of response surface methodology; the dependent variables were the proximate and mineral compositions. The extrusion process was also optimized using central composite design of response surface methodology. The sensory evaluations of the extrudates were carried out.

Results: The result of the product optimization of the composite flours gave the R-squared and adjusted R-squared of the ash, crude fibre and crude protein to be between 0.9961 and 0.9987. R-squared and adjusted R-squared close to unity is an indicated of statistical model that is fit, and hence, show that the independent variables support the dependent variables strongly. So, we can deduce that the independent variables strongly supported the ash, crude fibre and crude protein contents. The extrusion results showed that screw speed was the most potent factor required for the extrusion process, followed by temperature. Sample 19 having independent variables of 21.7% screw speed, 80oC temperature and 105 rpm resulted in extruded snack with the highest overall sensory acceptability.

Conclusion: Acceptable snacks with over 70% sensory qualities were developed. Addition of fermented sorghum flour resulted in composite flour with protein content were well above 100%.
Assessment Study on Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) and Its Services for Farmers in Khandwa District of Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Rawat Subhash , Jaiswal Monika , Bhalave Kunal , Vani D. K. , Rahangdale C. P.
Published: March 2021

The study was conducted in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh during the year 2017-2019. At present there are 50 CHCs working at different locations to make available various farm machinery/equipment to small and marginal farmers and to improve farm mechanization in place with low farm power availability in Khandwa district. The present study was carried out to find out the factors affecting smooth functioning of CHCs and record the views of custom hiring farmers on of CHCs services in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh. The data were collected through personal interview method with the help of pre-structured scheduled designed. On the farmers response basis, it was revealed that the adoption by the farmers of the relevance of technologies i.e. CHCs was not only affected by the basic characteristics of CHCs but also by its owner’s level of education, land holding, previous experience, requirement and availability of implements and machinery. On farmers response basis, it was also revealed that, CHCs is 100% beneficial to farmers, 90% farmers were satisfied with CHCs services, 75% farmers responded that there is nearby availability of CHCs, 70% farmers were satisfied with machinery of CHCs and 64% of them agree with Govt. rates of CHCs.
Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds, in Vitro Antioxidant Activity and Acute Toxicity of Ethanol Extract of Morinda lucida Leaves
Authors: Idih F. M. , Alagbe O. V. , Sheneni V. D. , Ebune J.
Published: March 2021

Plants are known to contain phytochemicals of pharmacological relevance and as such have been utilized in the treatment and management of various diseases. Morinda lucida, a medium size tropical tree belonging to the rubiaceae family and widely distributed in Africa is one of these plants. It has been reportedly used in the traditional treatment and management of diseases. This study is aimed at identifying compounds with pharmacological relevance in the ethanol extract of Morinda lucida leaves, the antioxidant activity and lethal dose determination of the extract. The leaves of Morinda lucida was extracted with ethanol; phytochemical and bioactive compounds analysis, in vitro antioxidant activity and lethal dose (LD50) determinations were carried out. It was observed in the study that the extract contains alkaloids, quinines, quinones, flavonoids and tannins. The gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified phenol 2, 4-bis (1,1-dimethylethyl) (2.82%), Stilbenes (12.32%), Phenoxazine (2.60%) and Benz(cd) indol-2(1H)-one, 1-methyl- (2.60%) amongst other compounds in the extract. The in vitro antioxidant activity evaluation of the extract revealed that it possesses a significant antioxidant activity which increased with increasing concentration. The LD50 determination revealed the extract was safe as there was no death recorded even at a dose as high as 5000 mg/kg. This study shows that Morinda lucida possesses enormous pharmacological potentials.
Physicians’ Attitude towards Patients’ Spirituality at a Tertiary-Care Health Facility in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Eke G. K. , Onodingene N.
Published: March 2021

Background: It has been shown that patients would like to discuss their spiritual beliefs with their physicians and that they have spiritual needs which are often under addressed by health care professionals. Whereas, addressing those needs in clinical practice is a component of the holistic care that every patient deserves, the attitude of physicians towards addressing them has not been ascertained in our environment.

Objectives: To explore physicians' attitude and self-reported behavior towards patients’ spirituality in clinical practice at a tertiary health facility in Southern Nigeria.

Methods: In this cross-sectional survey carried out between August and November 2020, a semi-structured and self-administered questionnaire was completed by the participating physicians which were of various ranks and working in various departments of the hospital. Their attitude towards their patients’ spirituality in clinical practice and self-reported behavior were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0.

Results: A total of 200 physicians participated in the study, 90% of them were residents of various cadres, two-third (n=122; 61%) had less than 10 years work experience. Majority of respondents (n=163; 81.5%) considered it appropriate to make inquiries about their patients’ spirituality and less than half of them (n=98; 49%) were aware that there is a religious leader in the hospital who offers pastoral care. Half of the respondents (n=104; 52%) reported they rarely take spirituality history of patients, 18 (9%) often pray with the patient while 100 (50%) rarely refer patients for pastoral care. Insufficient time was the most frequent barrier to discussing spiritual issues with patients. However, only 5 (2.5%) respondents were able to name 3 common tools a health worker can use to assess patients’ spiritual needs.

Conclusion: Physicians enquiry into patients’ spirituality was inconsistent, and there were gaps between their attitudes to discussing these issues with their patients and its practice. Incorporating spiritual care courses into physicians’ training is recommended to overcome the barriers to both patient and physician spiritual inquiry.
Analysis of Biofilms from Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Dagalea Flyndon Mark S. , Cui – Lim Karina Milagros R.
Published: March 2021

Abstract: Kappa-carrageenan, a natural polymer that is a product derived from seaweeds has been gaining vast attention on researches because of its biodegradability and low cost production. On the side, Nanotechnology, the emerging Science of nanoparticles has been indulging the world with its new approaches on improving the characteristics of the medium used. This study differentiated the physicochemical properties of the films without and with the incorporation of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnOnps) to kappa-carrageenan (kc).

Materials and Methods: Incorporation of ZnOnps to kc was prepared, the physicochemical properties: moisture content, degradation time, structural composition, and surface morphology were differentiated between bio composite films with and without the ZnO nps.

Results and Conclusion: After several tests, zinc oxide nano particles incorporated to kappa-carrageenan exhibited some changes to its physicochemical properties, that is the lowering of moisture content and longer degradation time was observed; using SEM magnifications ZnOnps was seen in the surface of the biocomposite film. However, structural composition analysis showed that no new formation of the functional group was seen. The biocomposite films could be a substitute with the existing drug capsule because of its longer decomposition, low water content and secured safety of the drug's quality.
Rice Production under the System of Rice Intensification and Conventional Methods: Which is more Profitable in Ghana?
Authors: Abankwah Vincent , Tutu Lucy Asantewaa
Published: March 2021

Some studies consider the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method of rice production as more profitable than the Conventional method. Others, however, claim that there is no significant difference in yields between the two methods. The mixed representation of the economic value of the two methods of rice production by various authorities demands an empirical examination of the profitability of the two methods in Ghana. The study was, therefore, designed to identify which of the two methods of rice production is more profitable in Ghana. Two-stage sampling technique was used to select 220 farmers, comprising 110 farmers under each of the two methods of rice production which are predominant in Ejura-Sekyedumase Municipality and Sekyere East District of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The data collected from farmers were summarized using descriptive statistics including arithmetic mean, standard deviation, minimum, maximum, frequencies and percentages. Gross margin and gross profit ratio were used to estimate profitability per acre of rice production under each method. The study revealed that, while farmers under the SRI method obtain GH¢60.68 for every GH¢100.00 sale of rice, farmers under the conventional method obtained GH¢44.04 per every GH¢100.00. The study, therefore, concludes that SRI method of rice production, though a little more costly, is more profitable resulting from a higher yield brought on by the adoption of best agronomic practices associated with the method. Based on the empirical results, the study recommends for the promotion of the System of Rice Intensification method of production in Ghana through awareness creation, extension services and training.
Impact of Change in Land Use Land Cover on Water Resources in Gundlakamma Sub Basin
Authors: Hari N. , Mani A. , Kumar H. V. Hema , Rao V. Srinivasa , Edukondalu L.
Published: March 2021

The present study was conducted to investigate the impact of land use cover change on water resources availability in Gundlakamma Subbasin. The Gundlakamma subbasin is predominantly agricultural based and Gundlakamma is a seasonal river. Hence, a study has been conducted to simulate the availability of water resources in the subbasin using SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) model. The database was generated like DEM, soil map and land use/cover using the secondary data and field survey. The SWAT model was calibrated three years (2010-2012) and validated with four years (2013-2016) with the observed discharges from reservoir outflow. The values of NSE and R2 was found as 0.79 and 0.87 during calibration, 0.65 and 0.72, respectively during validation. The modelled values showed reasonably good agreement with the observed values of reservoir outflow, both during calibration and validation periods. The reservoir outflow in the subbasin was quantified under the change land use conditions.
Antidiabetic Property of a Fraction of the Methanol Extract of the Seeds of Abrusprecatorius in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Iloanya Ebele Lauretta , Nwodo Okwesili Fred Chiletugo , Ezeigwe Obiajulu Christian , Ngwu Ogochukwu Rita , Nwobodo Valentine Osita Godwin , Obayuwana Erhunmwense Ann
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects of insulin secretion and/or increased cellular resistance to insulin. Abrusprecatoriushas been used for the treatment of various ailments including diabetes mellitus. This study is aimed at evaluating the possible anti-diabetic effect of the methanol fraction 2 (F2) of the seeds of Abrusprecatoriusin alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar albino rats.

Methods: The methanol extract of the seeds of A. precatorius Linn Fabaceae was fractionated by Sephadex G15. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal administration of 150 mg/kg bodyweight of alloxan. Acute toxicity (LD50) study was done using Lorke’s method. The antidiabetic activities of Fraction 2 (F2) and the biochemical parameters were investigated using standard diagnostic methods.

Results: The value of the LD50 is 529.2 mg/kg bw. Oral doses (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg bw.) of the extract caused a dose-dependent significant (p<0.05) reductions in blood glucose concentrations compared with diabetic untreated controls. There were significant decreases (p<0.05) in the total cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels of rats in the treatment groups compared with the diabetic untreated group. The groups that were treated with glibenclamide, 5 mg/kg of the fraction, 20mg/kg of the fraction and the group that was pre-treated with 10mg/kg of the fraction before the induction of diabetes showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in the concentration of low-density lipoprotein and significant increase (p<0.05) in high-density lipoprotein concentrations compared with the diabetic untreated group. The protein level increased non-significantly (p>0.05) in all the test groups compared with the diabetic untreated control group except the pre-treated group which increased significantly (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The results obtained from this study revealed that the methanol fraction of A. precatorius has antidiabetic property which can be as a result of the important phytochemicals found in the F2 fraction. Fraction 2 (F2) however showed improvement in lipid profile.
Comparison of the Robustness of Spectrophotometric Method and High-Performance Liquid Chromatographic Method for the Determination of Pioglitazone in Solid Dosage Form
Authors: Zahid Sara , Zahid Fatima , Ahmed Asma , Safir Waqas
Published: March 2021

Pioglitazone is a drug that reduces the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is included in the class of anti-diabetic drugs called “thiazolidinedione” that are used in the treatment of type II diabetes. It attaches to the peroxisomes proliferated- activated receptor gamma (PPARϒ) on tissues throughout the body and causes the cells to become more sensitive to insulin. As a result, more glucose is removed from the blood.The aim of the study is more precisely to find out the better analytical method for the quantitative measurement of the content of pioglitazone in commercially available drugs using two analytical methods i-e Spectrophotometric method and HPLC method.The analytical method for the pioglitazone hydrochloride was developed by HPLC, and then validated the method according to compendial requirements. Pioglitazone in various Dowglit and Gliden tablets was determined by this developed methodPrecision, Accuracy and stability of Pioglitazone was checked which came out to be100.40% and 100.19% respectively. The analysis of pioglitazone hydrochloride in solid dosage form using the HPLC method shows the results are more sensitive, accurate, validated and economical and can be easily applied to raw materials and finished goods compared to the Spectrophotometer method.
Nuclear Actin
Authors: Green Nicole M , Kimble Garrett C , Talbot Danielle E , Tootle Tina L
Published: March 2021

While actin is a highly evolutionarily conserved protein that has been extensively studied for its role in the cytoskeleton, it also localises and functions within the nucleus. Tight regulation of both the level and form (monomeric vs filamentous) of nuclear actin is essential for many nuclear processes. Nuclear actin regulates transcription at multiple steps, including initiation, elongation and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) processing. It also regulates chromatin organisation by controlling chromatin modifiers and mediating chromatin movement during transcription, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) repair and DNA replication. Finally, nuclear actin is a critical component of the nucleoskeleton, where it regulates nuclear structure and organisation, cellular response to mechanical signalling and nucleolar structure and function. These functions of nuclear actin are critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis, responding to cellular stress and mediating cell fate decisions.

Key Concepts

Different forms of nuclear actin regulate distinct aspects of transcription: G‐actin promotes the initiation of transcription and mediates the escape from pausing, whereas dynamic actin polymerisation is required for transcriptional elongation.

Nuclear G‐actin acts as a scaffold to regulate the entire RNA biogenesis pathway from initiating transcription to translation.

Both cytoplasmic and nuclear actin dynamics regulate SRF/MAL‐dependent transcription.

Nuclear G‐actin directly interacts with histone modifiers and chromatin remodelling complexes to regulate chromatin accessibility for transcription, DNA repair and replication.

Nuclear actin plays critical roles in the repair of DNA double‐strand breaks both by regulating chromatin remodelling complex activity and by F‐actin‐dependent chromatin movement or stabilisation of repair machinery.

Nuclear F‐actin is also required for moving chromatin to and maintaining transcription factors and mediating DNA replication and chromosome segregation.

Mechanotransduction impacts the nucleoskeleton to regulate the level and form of nuclear actin to mediate changes in transcription and chromatin organisation that drive the cell‐specific response to force.

Actin localises and functions within the nucleolus and may mediate the nucleolar stress response.

Tight regulation of nuclear actin level and/or polymerisation plays critical roles in cell fate transitions.
Evolutionary History of Syngnathid Fishes
Authors: Lin Qiang
Published: March 2021

The family Syngnathidae diverged from other teleosts approximately 48 Mya; they originated from Indo‐Pacific regions and then diversified and spread globally. Subsequently, a unique animal group, fishes with ‘male pregnancy’, emerged. Together with their morphological traits, syngnathid fishes established a specialised evolutionary position. Interestingly, all 300 species in this family lost their pelvic fin, which is directly correlated to the absence of the
tbxt4
gene. In this family, pregnancy relies on the attached brood pouch in males, and the structure of the pouch varies dramatically within the family owing to their independent evolutionary history. Some species, such as seahorses, have a fully enclosed brood pouch with robust functions. The phylogenomics and adaptive evolution of the species in the family Syngnathidae might elucidate further mechanisms involved in their morphology and male pregnancy.

Key Concepts

Phylogeny and evolutionary morphology in the family Syngnathidae.

Syngnathidfishes represent the endless beauty of the evolution of marine organisms.

Syngnathids origin from the Indian‐Pacific and spread globally.

Comparative genomics elucidate the genetic basis of the specialized morphology of syngnathids.

‘Male pregnancy’ could be implemented in syngnathids by evolving a complex brood structure and the evolution of genes.
Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors
Authors: Dani John A , Lester Robin AJ , Papke Roger L
Published: March 2021

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are members of a superfamily of ligand‐gated ion channels, all of which play significant roles in synaptic function throughout the nervous system. Additionally, some of the same genes are expressed in nonneuronal cells and modulate intracellular signalling and inflammation.

Key Concepts

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are structurally related to receptors of the neuromuscular junction.

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are part of a superfamily of receptors that includes the receptors that mediate inhibition in the CNS.

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors assemble as pentamers with homologous subunits of several different functional types.

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors expressed in neurons function as ligand‐gated ion channels activated by the transmitter acetylcholine and drugs such as nicotine.

Different types of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors have specialised functions based on subcellular location and specific biophysical properties including ion selectivity.

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor genes may also be expressed in nonneuronal cells where they may serve other functions including intracellular signal transduction.