bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refonte de la Loi sur les archives : point de discordance ou réelle concordance ?
Authors: Ricard Benjamin , Scraire Jérémy
Published: September 2021

Depuis sa mise en place en 1983, la Loi sur les archives pose les bases de la législation archivistique au Québec. Or, face à la nouvelle réalité numérique et au statu quo quant à sa mise à jour depuis les années 1980, plusieurs éléments de cette loi sont tombés dans la désuétude. De ce fait, de plus en plus de voix s’élèvent dans le milieu archivistique pour revendiquer une actualisation de la Loi. Par conséquent, en novembre 2020, Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec orchestra un appel de textes portant sur cet enjeu. À la suite de ce dernier, 13 mémoires et 2 lettres ont été déposés dans le cadre de cette consultation. Dans ces textes, quelles sont les modifications revendiquées auprès de la Loi sur les archives ? Quatre thématiques émergent de cette analyse : le numérique, le patrimoine, le rôle de la Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec et la gestion. Toutefois, le statu quo législatif entourant la Loi sur les archives n’engendre pas uniquement des recommandations, mais cela aide le milieu archivistique à envisager l’avenir de façon critique et d’adresser l’enjeu non seulement au niveau législatif, mais aussi au niveau politique.
Hybrid protein assembly-histone modification mechanism for PRC2-based epigenetic switching and memory
Authors: Lövkvist Cecilia , Mikulski Pawel , Reeck Svenja , Hartley Matthew , Dean Caroline , Howard Martin
Published: September 2021

The histone modification H3K27me3 plays a central role in Polycomb-mediated epigenetic silencing. H3K27me3 recruits and allosterically activates Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), which adds this modification to nearby histones, providing a read/write mechanism for inheritance through DNA replication. However, for some PRC2 targets, a purely histone-based system for epigenetic inheritance may be insufficient. We address this issue at the Polycomb target FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) in Arabidopsis thaliana, as a narrow nucleation region of only ~three nucleosomes within FLC mediates epigenetic state switching and subsequent memory over many cell cycles. To explain the memory’s unexpected persistence, we introduce a mathematical model incorporating extra protein memory storage elements with positive feedback that persist at the locus through DNA replication, in addition to histone modifications. Our hybrid model explains many features of epigenetic switching/memory at FLC and encapsulates generic mechanisms that may be widely applicable.
Modeling spinal locomotor circuits for movements in developing zebrafish
Authors: Roussel Yann , Gaudreau Stephanie F , Kacer Emily R , Sengupta Mohini , Bui Tuan V
Published: September 2021

Many spinal circuits dedicated to locomotor control have been identified in the developing zebrafish. How these circuits operate together to generate the various swimming movements during development remains to be clarified. In this study, we iteratively built models of developing zebrafish spinal circuits coupled to simplified musculoskeletal models that reproduce coiling and swimming movements. The neurons of the models were based upon morphologically or genetically identified populations in the developing zebrafish spinal cord. We simulated intact spinal circuits as well as circuits with silenced neurons or altered synaptic transmission to better understand the role of specific spinal neurons. Analysis of firing patterns and phase relationships helped to identify possible mechanisms underlying the locomotor movements of developing zebrafish. Notably, our simulations demonstrated how the site and the operation of rhythm generation could transition between coiling and swimming. The simulations also underlined the importance of contralateral excitation to multiple tail beats. They allowed us to estimate the sensitivity of spinal locomotor networks to motor command amplitude, synaptic weights, length of ascending and descending axons, and firing behavior. These models will serve as valuable tools to test and further understand the operation of spinal circuits for locomotion.
Tissue environment, not ontogeny, defines murine intestinal intraepithelial T lymphocytes
Authors: Brenes Alejandro J , Vandereyken Maud , James Olivia J , Watt Harriet , Hukelmann Jens , Spinelli Laura , Dikovskaya Dina , Lamond Angus I , Swamy Mahima
Published: September 2021

Tissue-resident intestinal intraepithelial T lymphocytes (T-IEL) patrol the gut and have important roles in regulating intestinal homeostasis. T-IEL include both induced T-IEL, derived from systemic antigen-experienced lymphocytes, and natural T-IEL, which are developmentally targeted to the intestine. While the processes driving T-IEL development have been elucidated, the precise roles of the different subsets and the processes driving activation and regulation of these cells remain unclear. To gain functional insights into these enigmatic cells, we used high-resolution, quantitative mass spectrometry to compare the proteomes of induced T-IEL and natural T-IEL subsets, with naive CD8+ T cells from lymph nodes. This data exposes the dominant effect of the gut environment over ontogeny on T-IEL phenotypes. Analyses of protein copy numbers of >7000 proteins in T-IEL reveal skewing of the cell surface repertoire towards epithelial interactions and checkpoint receptors; strong suppression of the metabolic machinery indicating a high energy barrier to functional activation; upregulated cholesterol and lipid metabolic pathways, leading to high cholesterol levels in T-IEL; suppression of T cell antigen receptor signalling and expression of the transcription factor TOX, reminiscent of chronically activated T cells. These novel findings illustrate how T-IEL integrate multiple tissue-specific signals to maintain their homeostasis and potentially function.
Estimation of Forensic Sex Based on Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Skull in Korean: Non-metric Study
Authors: Shim Yun Taek , Jeong Ye Hwon , Kim Yi-Suk , Aum Nahyun , Choi Seung Gyu , Oh Se-Min , Park Ji Hwan , Kim Dong Yeong , Koo Hyung Nam
Published: September 2021

This study performed the forensic anthropological sex estimation of Koreans in a non-metric way by reconstructing three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) images of skulls. The skull CT images used in this study were 100 (51 males, 49 females), and all CT images were taken with a slice thickness of 0.75 mm and then reconstructed into 3D images using the MIMICS 23.0 program. Using the reconstructed 3D image, measurements were repeated twice. The sex determination was male if the 4 point to 5 point was relatively more in five landmarks, and female if the points of 1 to 2 were relatively more. Results of the study show that, 88 of the 100 cases matched the actual sex. Among the 12 discrepant cases, ten cases were mismatched with the actual sex even though the estimation and repeated estimation readout of sexestimating were the same. Two cases, were “unknown,” showing different sexes in the first and repeated estimations. In conclusion, this study indicated that a forensic anthropological analysis from 3D images provided accurate point information on the landmarks of skulls, showing as high an accuracy as the sex estimation method using real bones. The ten cases of sex mismatch, except the two “Unknown” cases, are considered to be errors that did not consider differences in population groups. In further studies, further establishing a nonmetric, specifically Korean methods to increase the accuracy and reliability of sex estimation is need.
Sudden Unexpected Deaths due to Multiple Metastasis of Colon Cancer: With a Focus on Cardiac and Dural Metastasis
Authors: Na Joo-Young , Kwon Hee Joo , Heo Jin-Haeng , Park Young-Il , Im Sang-Beom
Published: September 2021

A malignancy is a fatal condition that could occur through various mechanisms. Forensic pathologists sometimes find unexpected findings during autopsy and post-mortem (PM) tests. Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The deceased was a 64-year-old man with a medical history of right hemicolectomy due to colon cancer approximately two years earlier. He was found dead at his home. He was admitted to the hospital due to subdural hemorrhage (SDH) two days prior to his demise and was discharged without the permission of the doctor after one day of hospitalization. An autopsy was performed within two days of his death. After gross dissection, the cause and manner of death were assumed to be SDH and unnatural death, respectively. Microscopic examination revealed fresh SDH and dural metastasis of signet-ring cell carcinoma. Furthermore, metastasis was identified in the heart, stomach, and peritoneum. Immunohistochemical examination revealed cancer cells to originate from the colon. After meticulous PM examination, including gross dissection, microscopic examination, PM computed tomography, and PM laboratory tests, the cause and manner of death were determined as SDH and natural death, respectively. This case report highlights the importance of comprehensive PM evaluation for investigating death.
Neonatal Sudden Death Due to Histiocytoid Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ha Hongil , Koo Hyun Lyoung
Published: September 2021

Histiocytoid cardiomyopathy, an extremely rare heart disease in infants and children, usually occurring in girls under the age of 2 years, is characterized by cardiomegaly, ventricular arrhythmia, and sudden death. In the present study, we report a case of a 2-day-old female neonate who suddenly showed cyanosis and cardiac arrest in the neonatal unit and died without resuscitation. Autopsy revealed multifocal nodular lesions in the left ventricle wall and papillary muscles. Microscopically, these lesions were composed of discohesive round or polygonal cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and were positive for desmin and negative for CD68. Electron microscopy findings displayed abnormal swollen mitochondria with disorganized cristae, dense granules, and diminished myofibrils in the periphery of the cytoplasm.
Association of VDR gene ApaI polymorphism with obesity in Iranian population
Authors: Rashidi Farzad , Ostadsharif Maryam
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Identifying obesity risk factors as a health problem facing communities is crucial given its complexity. The vitamin D receptor gene has been reported as a possible cause of this disease.Objective: To study the association of the VDR gene ApaI, BsmI, and TaqI polymorphisms with obesity in an Iranian population.Material and methods: We analyzed the genotypes of 348 obese (BMI≥30 kg/m2) and 320 non-obese people (BMI: 18.5-24.9 kg/m2) using PCR-RFLP. We measured FBS, TG, total cholesterol, and HDL and LDL cholesterol levels in an automatic biochemical analyzer.Results: We found significantly higher BMI, FBS, and TG levels in the obese group compared to the control. In the obese individuals, the frequency of genotype AA was 47.1% and that of the combined Aa+aa genotype, 52.9% while in the control group they were 30% and 70%, respectively (p=0.024, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.100-3.933, odds ratio (OR)=2.08). A and a alleles frequencies for the ApaI polymorphism were statistically significant in the two groups (allele A vs. a; p=0.017). No significant relationship was observed between TaqI genotypes and alleles in the control and obese subjects.Conclusion: We found that VDR ApaI (rs7975232 C/A) polymorphism appeared to be a risk factor for obesity. Especially, the A allele and the AA genotype in ApaI were associated with the obesity phenotypes.
Up-regulation of Arl4a gene expression by broccoli aqueous extract is associated with improved spermatogenesis in mouse testes
Authors: Jazayeri Omid , Farahmand Araghi Setareh , Aghajanzadeh Tahereh A. , Mir Moammadrezaei Fereshteh
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) is well known for its properties as an anticancer, antioxidant, and scavenger of free radicals. However, its benefits in enhancing spermatogenesis have not been well established.Objective: To study broccoli aqueous extract effects on sperm factors and the expression of genes Catsper1, Catsper2, Arl4a, Sox5, and Sox9 in sperm factors in mice.Material and methods: Male mice were divided randomly into six groups: (1) Control; (2) cadmium (3 mg/kg of mouse body weight); (3) orally treated with 200 μl broccoli aqueous extract (1 g ml-1); (4) orally treated with 400 μl of broccoli aqueous extract; (5) orally treated with 200 broccoli aqueous extract plus cadmium, and (6) orally treated with 400 μl of broccoli aqueous extract plus cadmium. We analyzed the sperms factors and Catsper1, Catsper2, Arl4a, Sox5, and Sox9 gene expression.Results: An obvious improvement in sperm count and a slight enhancement in sperm motility were observed in mice treated with broccoli extract alone or with cadmium. Sperm viability was reduced by broccoli extract except for the 200 μl dose with cadmium, which significantly increased it. Interestingly, Arl4a gene expression increased in the 400 μl broccoli-treated group. Likewise, the Arl4a mRNA level in mice treated with cadmium and 200 μl of broccoli extract was higher than in the cadmium-treated mice. Furthermore, broccoli extract enhanced the mRNA level of Catsper2 and Sox5 genes in mice treated with 200 μl and 400 μl broccoli extract plus cadmium compared with the group treated solely with cadmium.Conclusion: The higher sperm count in broccoli-treated mice opens the way for the development of pharmaceutical products for infertile men.
un Identification of enteric viruses from raw water using fluoro-immuno-magnetic separation coupled to RT-PCR
Authors: Villamizar Raquel , Peláez-Carvajal Dioselina , Acero Luis Felipe
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Enteric viruses have been associated with the production of a variety of diseases transmitted by the fecal-oral route and carried through contaminated food and water. Given their structure and composition, they are highly resistant to environmental conditions and most of the chemical agents used in the purification processes. Therefore, the systematic monitoring of raw water is necessary to ensure its quality especially when it is used for producing drinking water for human consumption.Objective: We identified the presence of rotavirus and hepatitis A virus by means of the fluoro-immuno-magnetic separation technique (FIMS) in raw water taken from four purification plants and their water supplies in the department of Norte de Santander.Materials and methods: The viruses were captured and separated from the water samples using magnetic microparticles functionalized with monoclonal anti-Hepatitis A and anti-Rotavirus antibodies. Confocal microscopy was used to monitor the viral concentration process and transmission electron microscopy for the morphological visualization of the separated viruses. The reverse transcriptase-coupled polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was applied to confirm the presence of pathogens.Results: The two enteric viruses were identified in the majority of the analyzed water samples including water supply sources.Conclusion: We determined that the FIMS technique together with RT-PCR is highly effective for the detection of viral pathogens in complex matrices such as raw water.
Organic soil amendments using vermicomposts under inoculation of N2-fixing bacteria for sustainable rice production
Authors: Ghadimi Mehdi , Sirousmehr Alireza , Ansari Mohammad Hossein , Ghanbari Ahmad
Published: September 2021

Organic and biological fertilizers are considered as a very important source of plant nutrients. A field experiment was conducted during 2017−2018 in paddy soil to investigate the effect of vermicomposting of cattle manure mixture with Azolla and rice straw on soil microbial activity, nutrient uptake, and grain yield under inoculation of N2-fixing bacteria. Experimental factors consisted of organic amendments at six levels (vermicomposts prepared from manure (VM); manure + rice straw (VRM); manure + Azolla mixture (VAM); manure + rice straw + Azolla mixture (VRAM); raw manure without vermicomposting (M), and a control) and N2-fixing bacteria at three levels (Azotobacter chroococcum, Azospirillum brasilence, and non−inoculation). The results showed that, vermicompost treatments compared to control and raw manure significantly increased the number and biomass−C of soil microorganisms, urease activity, number of tillers hill−1, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) uptake, and grain and protein yield. Inoculation of plants with N2-fixing bacteria, especially Azotobacter increased the efficiency of organic amendments, so that the maximum urease activity, soil microbial activity, P and N uptake, and grain yield (4,667 (2017) and 5,081 (2018) kg/h) were observed in vermicompost treatments containing Azolla (VAM and VRAM) under inoculation with Azotobacter. The results of the study suggested that, using an organic source along with inoculation with appropriate N2-fixing bacteria for vermicompost has a great effect on enzyme activity, soil biology, nutrient uptake and grain yield has a synergistic interaction on agronomic traits under flooded conditions. Therefore, this nutrient method can be used as one of the nutrient management strategies in the sustainable rice production.
Weak spatial-genetic structure in a native invasive, the southern pine beetle (Dendroctonus frontalis), across the eastern United States
Authors: Garrick Ryan C. , Arantes Ísis C. , Stubbs Megan B. , Havill Nathan P.
Published: September 2021

The southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis, is a native pest of pine trees that has recently expanded its range into the northeastern United States. Understanding its colonization, dispersal, and connectivity will be critical for mitigating negative economic and ecological impacts in the newly invaded areas. Characterization of spatial-genetic structure can contribute to this; however, previous studies have reached different conclusions about regional population genetic structure, with one study reporting a weak east-west pattern, and the most recent reporting an absence of structure. Here we systematically assessed several explanations for the absence of spatial-genetic structure. To do this, we developed nine new microsatellite markers and combined them with an existing 24-locus data matrix for the same individuals. We then reanalyzed this full dataset alongside datasets in which certain loci were omitted with the goal of creating more favorable signal to noise ratios. We also partitioned the data based on the sex of D. frontalis individuals, and then employed a broad suite of genotypic clustering and isolation-by-distance (IBD) analyses. We found that neither inadequate information content in the molecular marker set, nor unfavorable signal-to-noise ratio, nor insensitivity of the analytical approaches could explain the absence of structure. Regardless of dataset composition, there was little evidence for clusters (i.e., distinct geo-genetic groups) or clines (i.e., gradients of increasing allele frequency differences over larger geographic distances), with one exception: significant IBD was repeatedly detected using an individual-based measure of relatedness whenever datasets included males (but not for female-only datasets). This is strongly indicative of broad-scale female-biased dispersal, which has not previously been reported for D. frontalis, in part owing to logistical limitations of direct approaches (e.g., capture-mark-recapture). Weak spatial-genetic structure suggests long-distance connectivity and that gene flow is high, but additional research is needed to understand range expansion and outbreak dynamics in this species using alternate approaches.
Genomic analysis of early transmissibility assessment of the D614G mutant strain of SARS-CoV-2 in travelers returning to Taiwan from the United States of America
Authors: Jian Ming-Jr , Chung Hsing-Yi , Chang Chih-Kai , Hsieh Shan-Shan , Lin Jung-Chung , Yeh Kuo-Ming , Chen Chien-Wen , Chang Feng-Yee , Hung Kuo-Sheng , Liu Ming-Tsan , Yang Ji-Rong , Chang Tein-Yao , Tang Sheng-Hui , Perng Cherng-Lih , Shang Hung-Sheng
Published: September 2021

Background

There is a global pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Information on viral genomics is crucial for understanding global dispersion and for providing insight into viral pathogenicity and transmission. Here, we characterized the SARS-CoV-2 genomes isolated from five travelers who returned to Taiwan from the United States of America (USA) between March and April 2020.

Methods

Haplotype network analysis was performed using genome-wide single-nucleotide variations to trace potential infection routes. To determine the genetic variations and evolutionary trajectory of the isolates, the genomes of isolates were compared to those of global virus strains from GISAID. Pharyngeal specimens were confirmed to be SARS-CoV-2-positive by RT-PCR. Direct whole-genome sequencing was performed, and viral assemblies were subsequently uploaded to GISAID. Comparative genome sequence and single-nucleotide variation analyses were performed.

Results

The D614G mutation was identified in imported cases, which separated into two clusters related to viruses originally detected in the USA. Our findings highlight the risk of spreading SARS-CoV-2 variants through air travel and the need for continued genomic tracing for the epidemiological investigation and surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 using viral genomic data.

Conclusions

Continuous genomic surveillance is warranted to trace virus circulation and evolution in different global settings during future outbreaks.
The spleen bacteriome of wild rodents and shrews from Marigat, Baringo County, Kenya
Authors: Liyai Rehema , Kimita Gathii , Masakhwe Clement , Abuom David , Mutai Beth , Onyango David Miruka , Waitumbi John
Published: September 2021

Background

There is a global increase in reports of emerging diseases, some of which have emerged as spillover events from wild animals. The spleen is a major phagocytic organ and can therefore be probed for systemic microbiome. This study assessed bacterial diversity in the spleen of wild caught small mammals so as to evaluate their utility as surveillance tools for monitoring bacteria in an ecosystem shared with humans.

Methods

Fifty-four small mammals (rodents and shrews) were trapped from different sites in Marigat, Baringo County, Kenya. To characterize their bacteriome, DNA was extracted from their spleens and the V3–V4 regions of the 16S rRNA amplified and then sequenced on Illumina MiSeq. A non-target control sample was used to track laboratory contaminants. Sequence data was analyzed with Mothur v1.35, and taxomy determined using the SILVA database. The Shannon diversity index was used to estimate bacterial diversity in each animal and then aggregated to genus level before computing the means. Animal species within the rodents and shrews were identified by amplification of mitochondrial cytochrome b (cytb) gene followed by Sanger sequencing. CLC workbench was used to assemble thecytbgene sequences, after which their phylogenetic placements were determined by querying them against the GenBank nucleotide database.

Results

cytbgene sequences were generated for 49/54 mammalian samples: 38 rodents (Rodentia)and 11 shrews (Eulipotyphyla). Within the order Rodentia, 21 Acomys, eight Mastomys, six Arvicanthis and three Rattus were identified. In the order Eulipotyphyla, 11 Crucidura were identified. Bacteria characterization revealed 17 phyla that grouped into 182 genera. Of the phyla, Proteobacteria was the most abundant (67.9%). Other phyla included Actinobacteria (16.5%), Firmicutes (5.5%), Chlamydiae (3.8%), Chloroflexi (2.6%) and Bacteroidetes (1.3%) among others. Of the potentially pathogenic bacteria,Bartonellawas the most abundant (45.6%), followed byAnaplasma(8.0%),Methylobacterium(3.5%),Delftia(3.8%),Coxiella(2.6%),Bradyrhizobium(1.6%) andAcinetobacter(1.1%). Other less abundant (<1%) and potentially pathogenic includedEhrlichia,Rickettsia,Leptospira,Borrelia,Brucella,ChlamydiaandStreptococcus. By Shannon diversity index,Acomysspleens carried more diverse bacteria (mean Shannon diversity index of 2.86,p = 0.008) compared to 1.77 forCrocidura, 1.44 forRattus, 1.40 forArvicathisand 0.60 forMastomys.

Conclusion

This study examined systemic bacteria that are filtered by the spleen and the findings underscore the utility of 16S rRNA deep sequencing in characterizing complex microbiota that are potentially relevant to one health issues. An inherent problem with the V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA is the inability to classify bacteria reliably beyond the genera. Future studies should utilize the newer long read methods of 16S rRNA analysis that can delimit the species composition.
Hemin attenuates response of primary rat adipocytes to adrenergic stimulation
Authors: Szkudelski Tomasz , Frąckowiak Karina , Szkudelska Katarzyna
Published: September 2021

Hemin is an activator of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an enzyme catalyzing heme degradation. Up-regulation of HO-1 is observed in response to various pathological conditions. Moreover, pharmacological activation of HO-1 is associated with numerous beneficial effects in the organism. Hemin was shown to exert, among other, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties. These effects are strongly linked with adipose tissue. However, the direct influence of hemin on metabolism of the fat cells have not been explored. The present study aimed to determine the short-term effects of hemin on metabolism of the primary rat adipocytes. We focused on processes directly related to lipid accumulation, such as lipogenesis and lipolysis. For this purpose, the isolated cells were subjected for 2 h to 40 µM hemin, and effects of this compound on insulin-stimulated glucose conversion to lipids, lactate release, lipolysis induced by various stimuli, and also on the antilipolytic action of insulin were determined. It was shown that hemin did not affect insulin-induced lipogenesis and lactate release. However, hemin significantly decreased lipolysis stimulated by epinephrine. The inhibitory effect of hemin on epinephrine-induced lipolysis was not abolished in the presence of SnMP, an inhibitor of HO-1, which suggests hemin action irrespective of this enzyme. Similar inhibitory effects on epinephrine-induced lipolysis were observed in the presence of 3 and 12 mM glucose. Moreover, hemin was shown to reduce epinephrine-induced lipolysis also when glucose was replaced by alanine or by succinate. Apart from changes in epinephrine action, it was found that the lipolytic response of the adipocytes to isoproterenol was also diminished by hemin. However, hemin failed to affect lipolysis stimulated by dibutyryl-cAMP (a direct activator of protein kinase A), forskolin (an activator of adenylate cyclase), and also by DPCPX (an adenosine A1 receptor antagonist). Additionally, epinephrine-induced lipolysis was shown to be decreased by insulin, and this effect was deepened in the presence of hemin. These results indicate that short-term exposure of the adipocytes to hemin does not affect processes related to glucose metabolism, such as lipogenesis and lactate release. However, hemin was found to decrease the lipolytic response to adrenergic stimulation, which is associated with reduced lipid release from adipocytes. Moreover, our results indicate that hemin is also capable of diminishing the exaggerated lipolysis, which occurs in the presence of supraphysiological concentrations of glucose.
Extending density surface models to include multiple and double-observer survey data
Authors: Miller David L. , Fifield David , Wakefield Ewan , Sigourney Douglas B.
Published: September 2021

Spatial models of density and abundance are widely used in both ecological research (e.g., to study habitat use) and wildlife management (e.g., for population monitoring and environmental impact assessment). Increasingly, modellers are tasked with integrating data from multiple sources, collectedviadifferent observation processes. Distance sampling is an efficient and widely used survey and analysis technique. Within this framework, observation processes are modelledviadetection functions. We seek to take multiple data sources and fit them in a single spatial model. Density surface models (DSMs) are a two-stage approach: first accounting for detectabilityviadistance sampling methods, then modelling distributionviaa generalized additive model. However, current software and theory does not address the issue of multiple data sources. We extend the DSM approach to accommodate data from multiple surveys, collectedviaconventional distance sampling, double-observer distance sampling (used to account for incomplete detection at zero distance) and strip transects. Variance propagation ensures that uncertainty is correctly accounted for in final estimates of abundance. Methods described here are implemented in thedsmR package. We briefly analyse two datasets to illustrate these new developments. Our new methodology enables data from multiple distance sampling surveys of different types to be treated in a single spatial model, enabling more robust abundance estimation, potentially over wider geographical or temporal domains.
Design and Cost Analysis of an Off-grid Solar Grain Mill
Authors: Nshimyumukiza Théogène , Bananeza Christophe , Niyodusenga Jean Marie Vianney , Munyaneza Jean De Dieu , Iraguha Etienne
Published: September 2021

Solar Energy in Rwanda is one of renewable energy sources that is being utilized nowadays in different remote regions of the country due to its considerable social-economic impact. The off-grid solar photovoltaic system turns solar irradiance into electricity to be used in remote areas without being connected to the national grid. Normally people living in those areas use diesel engines to perform their daily activities which require electricity and this has a crucial negative effect on the environment as they are contributing much to the environmental pollution. To address this problem and to reduce these effects caused by thermal engines, this project designs a solar system that will replace those thermal engines by not only reducing their environmental effects but also by allowing the households living in vicinity of system location to have easy access to the electricity. An off-grid solar grain mill provides the grain mill services to those people in remote areas far from the national grid. The system designed will use the solar home system components such as photovoltaic modules, charge controller, batteries and an inverter as generation components and grain mill machine. It has the capacity of 13.56kW whereby 7.5kW of them are used to run grain mill machines and the remaining are used by the local community for lighting purposes. Electrical design and simulation were done by using MATLAB SIMULINK for solar systems. The research method includes weather condition, site survey, data collected from different organizations related to agriculture and energy sector. The system designed and simulated via software has shown good characteristics in terms of both performance and running grain mill machines. The overall system provided ways of getting services to people who don’t have access to electricity especially whose daily life is agriculture based. The total cost of the project was estimated to be $29,690 with its annual income of $9,720 and then a payback period of 3.05years.
Smilax zeylanica: A Promising Antilipidemix and Antiobesity Agent
Authors: Mishra Rosaline , Juyal Divya , Kumar S. Sadish
Published: September 2021

Background: It is well established fact that obesity has now said to be a disease status.The phytochemicals have always been looked for their enormous stored potential. Similax zeylanica is a naturally occurring flavonoid known for its pharmacological potential. In this study it was aimed to determine the antiobesity and antilipidemic effect of various Similax zeylanica extract.

Materials and Methods: The pharmacological screening of Cyclohexane extract of Smilax zeylanica (SZH), ethyl acetate extract Smilax zeylanica (SZE) and methanolic extract of Smilax zeylanica (SZM) was performed. The acute toxicity studies were performed on various animal groups. Obesity was diet induced.The plasma samples were investigated for various biochemical parameters such as glucose, lipid profile (Cholesterol, TG, HDL, LDL and VLDL), Liver function test (SGPT, SGOT).

Results and Conclusion: The various parameters studied showed that the methanolic extracts of Similax zeylanica showed enormous antiobesity potential and concluded for the supplementation for antilipidemic effect.
Evaluation of Post-operative Pain by using Calcium Hydroxide Based Root Canal Sealer: A Clinical Study
Authors: Ujjan Sadaf , Saeed Nourain , Soomro Saba Parveen , Manzoor Faryal , Malhi Permanand , Iqbal Zafar
Published: September 2021

Objective: To assess the post-operative pain by using calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2 based root canal sealer, a clinical study at tertiary care Hospital

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed at operative dentistry department of Liaquat University of Medical and health Sciences Jamshoro Pakistan. Study duration was 6 months from March 2020 August 2020. Total 60 patients, those having permanent anterior teeth with irreversible pulpitis, teeth restoration after root canal treatment and either of gender were included. Multiple visits of endodontic treatment were performed by obturating the canals using calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2 (sealapex, Sybron endo). Patients were recalled next day, after 3rd day and after one week of obturation to assess the severity of post-operative pain (POP) via visual analogue scale (VAS). All the information was recorded via study proforma. Data analysis was done by using SPSS version 20.

Results: Mean age of the study participants was 26.77+8.72 years. males were in majority 36(60.0%). On the next day as per severity of pain, mostly patients were presented with severe pain as mean visual analogue scale was 8.7+0.3. On third day pain was markedly decrease among almost all of the cases as average of visual analogue scale was found 2.6+0.2. However after one all the patients were seen without pain as average of visual analogue scale was 0.65+0.7. Pain was statistically insignificant according to gender.

Conclusion: Calcium hydroxide based root canal sealer found to be feasible and effective for endodontic treatment in terms of lower postoperative pain.
Studies of Some Haemostatic Variables in Preeclamptic Women in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Emeka-Obi Obioma Raluchukwu , Ibeh Nancy C. , Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Okorie Hope M.
Published: September 2021

Preeclampsia is a serious and life-threatening pregnancy complication. In this study, the levels of haemostatic parameters were measured in preeclamptic women in Owerri, Imo State. A total of 120 pregnant women aged 18-45 years at 20-40 weeks of pregnancy were recruited; 60 were preeclamptic women (test group) while 60 were normotensive pregnant women (control group). Preeclampsia was determined by the presence of ≥2+ protein in the urine using combi 2 dipstick for urinalysis and sphygmomanometer blood pressure reading of ≥ 140/90 mmHg. From the demographic data obtained in the studied subject through questionnaire, it showed that nulliparity and family history of high blood pressure were the most dominant risk factor of preeclampsia. The mean haemostatic parameters (PT, APTT, Fibrinogen, D-dimer and t-PA) of the test group were 12.3±0.94sec, 32.17±3.38sec, 627.31±106.93mg/ld, 2.23±0.50mg/l, 2.65±0.57ng/ml respectively, while the control group were 11.76±0.97sec, 28.69±2.64sec, 554±124.81 mg/dl, 1.89±0.44mg/l and 2.37±0.66 ng/ml respectively. There was a significant difference between the haemostatic parameter of the test group when compared with the control group. The results indicated that although anaemia and activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis occur within the peripheral circulation of both preeclamptic and normotensive pregnancy, an abnormal pattern of haemostasis occurs more in preeclamptic women.
Subdural Hygroma- A Case Report
Authors: Rodge Hina Y. , Thawakar Ashwini , Kurian Bibin , Maurya Archana
Published: September 2021

Introduction: An accumulation of Cerebrospinal fluid in subdural spaces is known as subdural hygroma. It is encountered in all age-groups but overall, most common in elderly. The exact pathogenesis of Subdural Hygroma is still unclear.

Presentation of Case: A 03 months old female child was brought to Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, Maharashtra, India on date 02/10/2020 with the complaints of breathing difficulty, elevated body temperature, excessive enlargement of head with bulged and tense fontanel, high pitch shrill cry, restlessness, nausea and vomiting. On physical examination, it is found that head circumference was 44 cm, head size was enlarged, bulged anterior fontanel, angular cheilitis, pale conjunctiva as well as peripheral cyanosis were present. The child was diagnosed at birth and child was brought to Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha for surgical management of subdural hygroma.

Intervention: The treatment of patients was started immediately after admission.Burr-Hole Evacuation was done on 4th October 2020 and the patient was discharged on 08th October 2020. 

Conclusion: In this report, we mainly focus on expert surgical management and excellent nursing care helped in managing the complicated case very nicely. The patient response was positive to conservative and nursing management. The patient was discharged without postoperative complications and satisfactory with recovery.
Prevalence of Obesity and Hypertension among Rural School Adolescents: A School Based Pilot Study in Kerala, India
Authors: Ravi Ramya Kundayi , Vineetha R.
Published: September 2021

Aim: The prevalence of hypertension and obesity is increasing worldwide. Recent data on sustained hypertension and obesity among school-going children and adolescents from the state of Kerala, India are limited. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of obesity and hypertension among apparently healthy school going adolescents.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 252 school going adolescents aged 11-16 years (173 boys and 79 girls) selected from two private aided rural schools of Thrissur, District, Kerala, India. Measurements like height, weight, and blood pressure were done using standard guidelines. Guidelines of Indian Academy of Pediatrics and standard guidelines of blood pressure measurement using gender height specific blood pressure percentile charts were used to identify the overweight/obese and pre-hypertensive/ hypertensive adolescents respectively. Analysis was done using SPSS version 27.0. Gender wise differences were checked using chi-square and t-test.

Results: Among 252 adolescents, 83 (20.7%) were either overweight or obese and pre-hypertensive or hypertensive. The overall prevalence of obesity and overweight was found to be 9.5% and 15.1% respectively. The overall prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension was found to be 15 (6.0%) and 24 (9.5%) respectively. Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure was found to be statistically lower (P<0.001) among those with normal BMI, than those with overweight or obesity. The mean systolic and diastolic BP was slightly more among boys than girls and it was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of hypertension, obesity and the strong association between obesity and high blood pressure seen among school-going adolescents necessitates immediate attention. Strategies should be designed and implemented for prevention, early identification, and treatment of pediatric obesity and hypertension in forestalling the morbidity/mortality from non communicable diseases and its complications.
Awareness of Stammering Disorder among Related Fields University Students, Lahore Pakistan
Authors: Noor Aqsa , Khan Muhammad Azam , Saeed Bareera , Nareen Hafsa , Massod Fahad
Published: September 2021

Aims: To determine the awareness of stammering disorder among university students of related fields that are Speech Language Pathology, Psychology, and Allied Professionals.

Study design: Cross sectional survey is used as research design in this study.

Place and Duration of Study: University of Central Punjab, The University of Lahore. Superior University, Lahore campus between June 2020 and July 2021.

Methodology: Sample (N=333) was drawn through purposive sampling technique from various universities of Lahore with age range of 17 – 35 years of 44% male and 56% female students of related fields( Speech Language Pathology, Psychology, Allied Professionals).Standardized questionnaire was used to determine the awareness. Data was analyzed through SPSS with descriptive statistic of frequency and percentages.

Results: Majority of participants 59.6% had accurate awareness regarding stuttering is more common in male and stuttering is not hereditary.

Conclusion: It was concluded that majority university students of related fields have accurate awareness regarding stammering disorder in Lahore, Pakistan.
Assessment of Hepatoprotective Potential of Manilkara hexandra STEM Bark: An In-vitro Analysis
Authors: Saxena Prasoon Kumar , Nanda Deepak , Gupta Ritu
Published: September 2021

Background: Manilkara hexendra (Bignoniaceae) is tree species, privately known as Rohida, found in Thar Desert districts of northwest and western India. The bark acquired from the stem is utilized as a solution for syphilis, urinary issues, amplification of spleen, gonorrhea, leucoderma, and liver infections. The point of this work is to consider the hepatoprotective impact of unrefined Methanolic removal from the bark portions of Manikara hexendra. The methanolic extricate got from bark portions of Manikara hexendra was assessed via cell line study in HepG2 cell line followed in for hepatoprotective movement in rodents by initiating liver harm via paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride.

Results: The methanolic extricate at an oral portion of 200 mg/kg displayed a critical (P < 0.05) defensive impact. These biochemical perceptions were enhanced by histopathological assessment of liver areas. The action might be a consequence of the presence of flavonoid mixes. Moreover, the intense harmfulness of the concentrates gave no indications of poisonousness up to a portion level of 2000 mg/kg.

Conclusion: It could be inferred that the methanolic concentrate of Manikara hexendra has huge hepatoprotective properties.
Home peritoneal dialysis: interlocations between users and health care network services / Diálise peritoneal domiciliar: interlocuções entre usuários e serviços da rede de atenção à saúde
Authors: Leone Denise Rocha Raimundo , Farah Beatriz Francisco , Castro Edna Aparecida Barbosa de
Published: September 2021

Objetivo: compreender as interlocuções entre os usuários que realizam a diálise peritoneal domiciliar e os serviços da Rede de Atenção à Saúde. Método: pesquisa desenvolvida em um serviço de diálise e domicílios com 19 pessoas em tratamento dialítico distribuídas em três grupos amostrais conforme o método da Grounded Theory realizando-se observação participante e 23 entrevistas abertas. Análise através da codificação aberta, axial e seletiva. Resultado: o contexto assistencial estudado expõe a descontinuidade do cuidado dialítico nas esferas da atenção primária e hospitalar, analisada pela categoria “Realizando a Diálise Peritoneal no domicílio, estando inserido na Rede de Atenção à Saúde”. Conclusão: na ótica dos entrevistados a principal interlocução é com o serviço de terapia renal substitutiva, principal referência para o cuidado e intercorrências com a dialise domiciliar. As interlocuções com os outros pontos assistenciais da Rede visam obter serviços de apoio, não implicados com o procedimento de dialise peritoneal domiciliar.
Nursing consultation mellitus diabetes: satisfaction of users cared for in the family health strategy / Consulta de enfermagem no diabetes mellitus: satisfação dos usuários atendidos na estrategia de saúde da familia
Authors: Sousa Kelvane Maria Macêdo de , Falcão Danielle Alves , Carvalho Gerdane Celene Nunes , Macêdo Juliana Bezerra , Moura Karine Rafaela de , Pereira Katyane Leite Alves
Published: September 2021

Objetivo: verificar a satisfação dos usuários com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 acerca da consulta de enfermagem na Estratégia Saúde da Família. Método: estudo descritivo, desenvolvido na Estratégia Saúde da Família da zona urbana de um município do Piauí, com 27 usuários, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. Resultados: predominou-se o sexo feminino (19), idade entre 42 e 80 anos. A consulta de enfermagem foi tida como satisfatória (13). Emergiram-se três categorias: o cuidado continuado e integral ao usuário com Diabetes mellitus na Estratégia Saúde da Família; Motivação para procura da Consulta de Enfermagem e Satisfação dos usuários em relação à Consulta de Enfermagem. Conclusão: avaliar a satisfação do usuário com diabetes em relação à consulta de enfermagem torna-se crucial para o profissional replanejar suas ações em saúde e assim, direcioná-las para as reais necessidades desse público.
Preventive strategies against violence at work from the perspective of pre-hospital care nurses / Estratégias preventivas contra a violência no trabalho sob a ótica dos enfermeiros do atendimento pré-hospitalar
Authors: Sé Aline Coutinho Sento , Machado Wiliam Cesar Alves , Gonçalves Raquel Calado da Silva , Da Silva Paulo Sérgio , De Araújo Silvia Teresa Carvalho , De Figueiredo Nébia Maria Almeida
Published: September 2021

Objetivo: identificar estratégias de prevenção contra a violência nos serviços de atendimento pré-hospitalar. Método: estudo descritivo, qualitativo, realizado com 67 enfermeiros do atendimento pré-hospitalar no município do Rio de Janeiro, em 2018. Utilizou-se instrumento semiestruturado com enfoque na violência no ambiente de trabalho. Os dados foram analisados destacando-se valores absolutos e relativos e à luz da análise de conteúdo. Resultados: foram apontadas estratégias preventivas contra a violência no trabalho relacionadas aos atendimentos em áreas de risco, comunicação eficaz, estrutura organizacional e capacitação profissional. Obteve destaque o desenvolvimento de sistema de gerenciamento de eventos que alerte área de risco, assinalado por 61 (91,04%) participantes. Conclusão: precisa-se considerar a experiência dos profissionais do atendimento pré-hospitalar para a construção de um processo de trabalho baseado em um ambiente seguro, com elaboração e implementação de estratégias que minimizem a vulnerabilidade e os riscos de violência no local de trabalho.
Quality of life and well-being of college university workers / Qualidade de vida e bem-estar de trabalhadores de colégio universitário
Authors: Lima da Silva Jorge Luiz , De Souza Lorrany Viana , Abreu Larissa Murta , Da Mota Cristina Portela , Messias Cláudia Maria , Monnerat Mayara Souza
Published: September 2021

Objetivo: conhecer fatores relacionados à qualidade de vida e saúde de trabalhadores de um colégio universitário. Métodos: pesquisa quantitativa, realizada por meio de inquérito epidemiológico, utilizando-se questionário autoaplicado e dados clínicos. Resultados: participaram da pesquisa 106 trabalhadores, 74,5% do sexo feminino, com média de idade de 38 anos (DP±12,4), onde 92,5% relataram não fumar e 58,5% não beber álcool; 50,9% afirmou ser sedentário.  Os dados clínicos demonstraram que 44,9% apresentaram pressão alterada e 11,3% glicemia elevada. Na análise dos quadrantes de exposição ao estresse, o trabalho ativo alocou maior número de profissionais (50%) e a suspeição de transtorno mental comum entre os trabalhadores foi de 22,6%. Na análise bivariada, observou-se associação entre ser solteiro e trabalho ativo (p=0,040). Conclusão: observa-se que há predominância de grau mediano de estresse no trabalho e hábitos de vida pouco saudáveis. Sabe-se que esses achados contribuem para maior ocorrência de problemas de saúde.