bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronobiological Patterns of White-Tailed Deer in Suburban Maryland: Implications for Deer Population Management, Human-Deer Conflict, and Zoonotic Disease Mitigation
Authors: Roden-Reynolds Patrick , Kent Cody , Li Andrew , Mullinax Jennifer Murrow
Published: June 2021

Understanding the ecology of the often dense white-tailed deer populations in urban and suburban landscapes is important for mitigating a variety of conflicts that arise with dense human populations, especially issues surrounding zoonotic disease mitigation and impacts to existing understory vegetation. We collared white-tailed deer in highly suburban areas of Howard County, Maryland. High-resolution GPS data enabled us to create autocorrelated kernel density home ranges and model deer speed, rates of activity, and proximity to residential buildings over time. Home ranges encompassed approximately 35% residential land and an average of 71 and 129 residential properties were found within female and male core ranges, respectively. Sex, time of day, and day of year all influenced deer speed, activity, and proximity to residences. Deer moved into residential areas nightly, especially in winter, and exhibited bouts of increased speed and activity shortly after sunrise and sunset, though with distinctive seasonal changes. We discuss how variation in home ranges and movements may influence population management success and explore year-round periods of increased risk of deer transporting ticks to residential areas. These findings focus our broad understanding of deer movements in suburban landscapes to improve deer population management, limit human-wildlife conflict, and manage against the spread of ticks and tick-borne disease in suburban areas.
Quantifying Contact Lens-Related Changes in Keratoconic Corneal Topographic Indices: An Updated Pentacam Scheimpflug Imaging Analysis
Authors: Kaşıkçı Murat , Karalezli Aylin , EROĞUL ÖZGÜR , Gobeka Hamidu Hamisi
Published: June 2021

PurposeSlowing ectasia progression is critical for maintaining visual potential in keratoconus (KC), for which various therapeutic approaches have been implemented. We used a Pentacam Scheimpflug imaging device to quantify contact lens (CL)-related changes in keratoconic corneal topographic indices.MethodsThirty KC patients (group 1; 60 eyes) were using one of the three CL (rigid gas-permeable CL (RGPCL)-10; hybrid CL (HCL)-10; and scleral CL (SCL)-10 patients). A control group included 30 KC patients (group 2; 60 eyes) not using CLs due to intolerance or inappropriateness. The Pentacam® HR Scheimpflug imaging device was used to measure topographical indices such as Km anterior, Km posterior, K max, corneal thickness (CT; corneal central, apex, and thinnest), corneal volume (CV), anterior chamber volume (ACV), and anterior chamber depth (ACD) at baseline, 3rd, 6th, and 12th months.ResultsMean ages for groups 1 and 2 were 32 ± 10 and 31 ± 90 years, respectively. Group 1 had lower but statistically significant change in K max than group 2 (p < 0.038). Also, group 1 had a minor but non-significant decrease in anterior and posterior keratometry values compared to group 2 (pKm ant. right/left eye = 0.063/0.065 and 0.087/0.094, respectively). RGPCL users had significant changes in central CT, thinnest CT and ACD (p < 0.041). SCL users had more stable changes than other CLs for the thinnest CT along with significant changes in K max, pachy apex and ACV (p < 0.036). HCL users had significantly higher K max stability (p < 0.039).ConclusionRegular use of appropriate therapeutic CLs may help to stabilize corneal deformity, thereby slowing changes in corneal topographic indices in KC.
Experimental Evidence for Opposing Effects of High Deer Density on Tick-Borne Pathogen Prevalence and Hazard
Authors: Gandy Sara Louise , Kilbride Elizabeth , Biek Roman , Millins Caroline , Gilbert Lucy
Published: June 2021

Background: Identifying the mechanisms driving disease risk is challenging for multi-host pathogens, such as Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., the tick-borne bacteria causing Lyme disease. Deer are tick reproduction hosts but do not transmit B. burgdorferi s.l., whereas rodents and birds are competent transmission hosts. Here, we use a long-term deer exclosure experiment to test three mechanisms for how high deer density might shape B. burgdorferi s.l. prevalence in ticks: increased prevalence due to higher larval tick densities facilitating high transmission on rodents (M1); alternatively, reduced B. burgdorferi s.l. prevalence because more larval ticks feed on deer rather than transmission-competent rodents (dilution effect) (M2), potentially due to ecological cascades, whereby higher deer grazing pressure lowers vegetation which decreases rodent abundance thus reducing transmission (M3).Methods: In a large enclosure where red deer stags were kept at high density (32.5 deer/km²), we used an experimental design consisting of eight plots of 0.23ha, four being fenced to simulate the absence of deer and four that were accessible to deer. In each plot we measured the density of questing nymphs and nymphal infection prevalence in spring, summer and autumn and quantified vegetation height and density, and small mammal abundance Results: Prevalence tended to be lower, though not conclusively so, in high deer density plots compared to exclosures (predicted prevalence of 1.0% vs 2.2%), suggesting that the dilution (M2) and cascade (M3) mechanisms might outweigh the increased opportunities for transmission (M1). Presence of deer at high density led to lower vegetation and fewer rodents, consistent with an ecological cascade. However, Lyme disease hazard (density of infected I. ricinus nymphs) was five times higher in high deer density plots due to tick density being 18 times higher.Conclusion: High densities of tick reproduction hosts such as deer can drive up vector-borne disease hazard, despite the potential to simultaneously reduce pathogen prevalence. This has implications for environmental pathogen management and for deer management, although the impact of intermediate deer densities now needs testing.
Environmental drivers of plankton communities in coastal waters: the central role of temperature revealed by co-occurrence networks
Authors: Trombetta Thomas , Vidussi Francesca , Roques Cécile , Mas Sébastien , Scotti Marco , Mostajir Behzad
Published: June 2021

To identify the environmental factors that drive plankton community composition and structure in coastal waters, a shallow northwestern Mediterranean lagoon was monitored from winter to spring in two contrasting years. The campaign was based on high-frequency recordings of hydrological and meteorological parameters and weekly samplings of nutrients and the plankton community. The collected data allowed the construction of correlation networks, which revealed that water temperature was the most important factor governing community composition, structure and succession at different trophic levels, suggesting its ubiquitous food web control. Temperature favoured phytoplanktonic flagellates (Cryptophyceae, Chrysophycea, and Chlorophyceae) and ciliates during winter and early spring. In contrast, it favoured diatoms, dinoflagellates, phytoplankton < 6 µm and aloricate Choreotrichida during spring. The secondary drivers were light, which influenced phytoplankton, and wind, which may regulate turbidity and the nutrient supply from land or sediment, thus affecting benthic species such as Nitzschia sp. and Uronema sp. or salinity-tolerant species such as Prorocentrum sp. The central role of temperature in structuring the co-occurrence network suggests that future global warming could deeply modify plankton communities in shallow coastal zones, affecting whole-food web functioning.
Significance of Selenium Supplementation in Root- Shoot Reactions Under Manganese Stress in Wheat Seedlings – Biochemical and Cytological Studies.
Authors: Sieprawska Apolonia , Skórka Magdalena , Bednarska-Kozakiewicz Elżbieta , Niedojadło Katarzyna , Janiak Agnieszka , Telk Anna , Filek Maria
Published: June 2021

Purpose
Agronomic practices are one of the reasons for the increasing accumulation of elements in the soil, including manganese (Mn). Our previous studies have shown that selenium (Se) ions can reduce the toxic actions of metal stress. Those, we studied the effects of Mn - treated as a stressor and Se – as a potential defense in plants.
Methods
Mn ions (10 mM) or/and Se (15 µM) were added into hydroponic nutrients of two wheat cultivares. The evaluation of the stress-generating and protective actions were analyzed by biochemical methods and microscopic observations in leaves and roots. Moreover the level of DNA methylation for these tissues was determined.
Results
Mn application caused an increase of lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide content in both leaves and roots and was accompanied with a greater absorption of this element by the roots. For other elements (K, Fe, S, P), with the exception of Ca, the reduced their uptake was registered, especially in roots. For roots, Mn stimulated greater, microscopically observed, desorganization in cell structure as compared to leaves, which was accompanied by a quantitative increase in 5-metC in root meristem. Se application diminished the effects of Mn-stress.
Conclusions
These studies is the first in which indicated that global 5-metC level in roots enhancing from dividing meristematic cells to elongating cells of the axial cylinder and cortex. It was suggested that the rise in Ca level can lead to modification of root cells differentiations what may be one of the steps in defense mechanisms.
Cross-cultural Collaboration in Health Campaigns in Tanzania: A Qualitative Study.
Authors: Hovland Olav Johannes , Hole Ane Falnes , Chiduo Mercy Grace , Johannessen Berit
Published: June 2021

Background: Health campaigns are an important aspect of preventive health work. The aims of health campaigns can be to improve health literacy in rural areas where residents lack access to health information and knowledge, and to improve both local and global health through cross-cultural collaboration. In Tanga District, Tanzania, exchange students and local youths participate together with Tanga International Competence Center (TICC) to plan and accomplishing health campaigns in local communities.Objective: The objective of this study was to explore participants’ experiences with cross-cultural collaboration in the planning and accomplishing the Health Campaign Program (HCP) at the TICC.Methods: This study used a focused ethnographic approach. Five weeks of fieldwork included four observations of health campaigns and nine interviews: three individual interviews with employees at TICC (all Tanzanians), two group interviews with nine Norwegian nursing students, two group interviews with five local youths enrolled in the TICC’s Youth Program, one interview with a local village leader, and one interview with a local primary school teacher. The interview material was analysed using systematic text condensation.Results: All parties involved, including the residents, achieved learning outcomes from the health campaigns, and the HCP participants perceived the cross-cultural collaboration as successful. Through the HCP, people gained access to health information. Having enough time, adapting to local conditions, and the needs of the target groups were perceived as essential to the campaigns' successful outcome. Music and role-play, which are dominant within Tanzanian culture, created excitement and motivation among the audiences. The interviewees identified changes in people’s health behaviour in the aftermath of the campaigns.Conclusion: Both the local Tanzanian participants and the Norwegian nursing students experienced the cross-cultural collaboration as beneficial. The collaboration helped to strengthen the quality of the health campaigns and increased the residents’ learning outcomes in attending the performance of the health campaigns.
The Role of Cultural, Community and Natural Assets in Addressing Societal and Structural Health Inequalities in the UK: Future Research Priorities
Authors: Thomson Linda JM , Gordon-Nesbitt Rebecca , Elsden Esme , Chatterjee Helen J
Published: June 2021

Background: Reducing health inequalities in the UK has been a policy priority for over 20 years, yet, despite efforts to create a more equal society, progress has been limited. Furthermore, some inequalities have widened and become more apparent, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. With growing recognition of the uneven distribution of life expectancy and of mental and physical health, the current research was commissioned to identify future research priorities to address UK societal and structural health inequalities.Methods: An expert opinion consultancy process comprising an anonymous online survey and a consultation workshop were carried out to investigate priority areas for future research into UK inequalities. The seven-question survey asked respondents (n=170) to indicate their current role, then identify and prioritise areas of inequality, approaches and evaluation methods. The workshop was held to determine areas of research priority and attended by a closed list of delegates (n=30) representing a range of academic disciplines and end-users of research from policy and practice. Delegates self-selected one of four breakout groups, to participate in determining research priority areas in four categories of inequality (health, social, economic, and other) and to allocate hypothetical sums of funding (half, one, five, and ten million pounds) to chosen priority areas. Responses were analysed using mixed methods.Results: Survey respondents determined the main areas of inequality as ‘health’, ‘social care’, ‘living standards’, and ‘economic factors’. The highest research priorities were ‘access to creative and cultural opportunities’, ‘sense of place’ and ‘community’. Approaches seen to benefit from more research were ‘health/social care’, ‘advice services’ and ‘adult education/training’. Preferred evaluation methods were ‘community/participatory’, ‘action research’, ‘questionnaires/focus groups’ and ‘ethnographic studies’. The key workshop finding was that health equity could only be achieved by tackling societal and structural inequalities, environmental conditions and housing, and having an active prevention programme.Conclusions: Research demonstrates a clear need to assess the impact of cultural and natural assets in reducing inequality. Collaborations between community groups, service providers, local authorities, health commissioners, GPs and researchers using longitudinal approaches are needed within a multi-disciplinary approach to address societal and structural health inequalities.
The Mediation Role of Sleep Quality in the Relationship Between Cognitive Decline and Depression
Authors: Liu Xiaolei , Xia Xin , Hu Fengjuan , Hao Qiukui , Hou Lisha , Sun Xuelian , Zhang Gongchang , Yue Jirong , Dong Birong
Published: June 2021

ObjectivesAssociations between cognitive decline and depression have been inconclusive. We examined 1) whether sleep quality mediates these relationships and 2) which factor of sleeping quality mediates these relationships.MethodsThis study utilized baseline data from the 2018 West China Health and Aging Trend study (WCHAT), a large cohort data-set that including participants aged over 50 years old. We defined depression using the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Cognitive status was measured using the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ) and sleeping quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). Direct relationships between cognitive decline, sleep quality and depression were assessed using multiple linear regression. Mediation models and structural equation model (SEM) pathway analysis were used to test the mediating role of specific aspects of sleep (e.g., quality, duration) in the relationship between cognitive decline and depression.ResultsOf 6828 participants aged 50 years old or older, the proportion of depression was 17.4%. Regression analysis indicated a direct association between cognitive scores (β= 0.251, 95% CI 0.211 to 0.29, p < 0.001) and depression status. After adjusted PSQI scores, the association between cognitive scores and depression status was still significant (β= 0.242, 95% CI 0.203 to 0.281, p < 0.001), indicating a partial mediation effect of sleeping quality. Mediation analysis verified sleep quality partially mediate the associations between cognitive decline and depression (indirect effect estimate = 0.0308, bootstrap 95% CI 0.0231 to 0.04; direct effect estimate = 0.3124, bootstrap 95% CI 0.2692 to 0.35). And daytime dysfunction had a highest mediation effect with a proportion of mediation up to 14.56%. Conclusions Sleep quality partially mediated the relationship between cognitive decline and depression. Daytime dysfunction had a highest mediation effect. Further research is necessary to examine the effects of sleep quality on the relationship of cognitive decline and depression.
Unveiling the crystal structure of ‘antimonic acid’: short- and long-range perspectives
Authors: Mayer S. F. , Rodrigues J. E. , Sobrados I. , Gainza J. , Fernández-Díaz M. T. , Marini C. , Asensio M. C. , Alonso J. A.
Published: June 2021

The elusive crystal structure of the socalled “antimonic acid” has been investigated by means of robust and state-of-the-art techniques. The synergic results of solidstate magicangle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and a combined Rietveld refinement from synchrotron X-ray and neutron powder diffraction data reveal that this compound contains two types of protons, in a pyrochloretype structure of stoichiometric formula (H3O)1.20(7)H0.77(9)Sb2O6. Some protons belong to heavily delocalized H3O+ subunits, while some H+ are directly bonded to the oxygen atoms of the covalent framework of the pyrochlore structure, with O − H distances close to 1 Å. A proton diffusion mechanism is proposed relying on percolation pathways determined by bondvalence energy landscape analysis. Xray absorption spectroscopy results corroborate the structural data around Sb5+ ions at shortrange order. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry endorsed the conclusions on the water content within antimonic acid. Additional 0.7 water molecules per formula were assessed as moisture water by thermal analysis.
PEX-168 Improves Insulin Resistance, Inflammatory Response and Adipokines in Simple Obese Mice: A Mechanistic Exploration
Authors: Guo Zeyuan , Wu Yuting , Xiaofang Sun
Published: June 2021

Background: Polyethylene glycol losenatide (PEX-168) is a new antidiabetic drug; as such, there are not yet any reports on its weight loss effect. Therefore, this trial was designed to investigate the effect of PEX-168 on simple obese mice.Methods: Thirty healthy male C57BL/6 mice were randomly selected and divided into a control group (NC, n=6) and an obesity model group (n=24). The high-fat diet-induced simple obesity mice were divided into a model control group (HF) and three intervention groups receiving different doses of PEX-168 (low (LD), medium (MD) and high (HD), receiving PEX-168 doses of 0.03 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, respectively), with 6 animals in each group. The intervention groups were injected with different doses of PEX-168 intraperitoneally once a week for 12 weeks. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), body weight and food intake were measured from 1 to 12 weeks after PEX-168 injection. The activity of the mice was observed, and serum insulin (INS), C-reactive protein (CRP) chemerin and omentin levels were measured after 12 weeks.Results: Compared with the HF group, the low dose of PEX-168 reduced the body weight of the mice in a short period of time (8 weeks), and the mice in the LD and HD groups showed a significant decrease in body weight (P < 0.05). The low dose of PEX-168 could effectively improve the blood glucose and insulin resistance index (Homa-IR) of the mice (FBG P < 0.05 INS, Homa-IR P < 0.001), but there was no significant difference between different doses (P > 0.05). CRP levels in the HD and LD groups were significantly improved (P < 0.05). The levels of serum chemerin and omentin in the intervention groups were also significantly improved (P < 0.01), but there was no significant difference between the different doses (P > 0.05).Conclusion: PEX-168 significantly reduced the body weight of simple obese mice and prevented the development of diabetes. PEX-168 may regulate the expression of chemerin and omentin mainly through its hypoglycaemic effect, and the weight-reducing effect of PEX-168 is unlikely to be the reason for the changes in both.
Outcome of Four Point Fixated Open Loop Polymethyl Methacrylate Anterior Chamber Intraocular Lens: A Ten-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Sahoo Sonali , Parida Priyadarsini , Mohanty Amrita , Das Sujata , Mohamed Ashik , Sahu Srikant
Published: June 2021

PurposeTo study long term visual and refractive outcomes and complications in eyes with anterior chamber intraocular lens (ACIOL) implantationMethodsData of patients who underwent primary and secondary ACIOL implantation at L V Prasad Eye Institute, Bhubaneswar between 2011-2020 was collected, including details of post-operative visits. For analysis, sample was divided into: group Ia (primary ACIOL in cases without risk factors, n=104); group Ib (primary ACIOL in cases with pre-existing risk factors, n=49); and group II (secondary ACIOL, n=40).ResultsA total of 293 eyes of 288 patients were included. Mean pre-operative and last visit corrected distance visual acuity were 1.65±0.79 and 0.49±0.65 logMAR units in group Ia (p<0.001), and 1.46±0.74 and 0.52±0.72 logMAR units in group Ib (p<0.001). The mean spherical equivalent (MSE) for last refraction was -0.37 ± 1.05 dioptres (D) and -0.57 ± 1.04 D in groups I and II, respectively. Of 76 eyes in which addition of 2.5 D (over the near emmetropic posterior chamber intraocular lens power) was taken for ACIOL, 40 (52.6%) had MSE within ±0.5 D. Most common complications were transient corneal edema and anterior chamber reaction. Eyes on anti-glaucoma medications at last visit were eight (7.7%), 15 (30.6%), and two (5.0%) in groups Ia, Ib, and II respectively.ConclusionsWe observed that ACIOLs have good visual and refractive outcomes. Raised IOP is a concern in eyes with pseudoexfoliation, but can be managed with close monitoring. Hence ACIOL can be a good option for managing aphakia after cataract surgery.
Prediction of 90-day mortality among sepsis patients based on a nomogram integrating diverse clinical indices
Authors: Zeng Qing-Bo , He Long-Ping , Zhang Nian-Qing , Lin Qing-Wei , Zhong Lin-Cui , Song Jing-Chun
Published: June 2021

Background

Sepsis is prevalent among intensive care units and is a frequent cause of death. Several studies have identified individual risk factors or potential predictors of sepsis-associated mortality, without defining an integrated predictive model. The present work aimed to define a nomogram for reliably predicting mortality.
Methods

We carried out a retrospective, single-center study based on 231 patients with sepsis who were admitted to our intensive care unit between May 2018 and October 2020. Patients were randomly split into training and validation cohorts. In the training cohort, multivariate logistic regression and a stepwise algorithm were performed to identify risk factors, which were then integrated into a predictive nomogram. Nomogram performance was assessed against the training and validation cohorts based on the area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC), calibration plots and decision curve analysis.
Results

Among the 161 patients in the training cohort and 70 patients in the validation cohort, 90-day mortality was 31.6%. Older age and higher values for the international normalized ratio, lactate level, and thrombomodulin level were associated with greater risk of 90-day mortality. The nomogram showed an AUC of 0.810 (95% CI 0.739 to 0.881) in the training cohort and 0.813 (95% CI 0.708 to 0.917) in the validation cohort. The nomogram also performed well based on the calibration curve and decision curve analysis.
Conclusion

This nomogram may help identify sepsis patients at elevated risk of 90-day mortality, which may help clinicians allocate resources appropriately to improve patient outcomes.
Notch1 down-regulation in lineage-restricted niches of mouse eccrine sweat glands
Authors: Wang Yuzhen , Yao Bin , Duan Xianlan , Li Jianjun , Song Wei , Jirigala Enhe , Li Zhao , Yuan Xingyu , Kong Yi , Zhang Yijie , Fu Xiaobing , Huang Sha
Published: June 2021

BackgroundEccrine sweat gland (SG) restrictedly exists in mouse foot pads indicating that mouse plantar dermis (PD) contains the SG lineage-restricted niches. However, it is still unclear how niches can affect stem cell fates.MethodsIn this study, we tried to find the key cues by which stem cells sense and interact with the SG lineage-specific niches. Briefly, we used transcriptomics RNA sequencing analysis to screen differentially expressed genes between SG cells and epidermal stem cells (ES), and then we used proteomic analysis to screen differentially expressed proteins between PD and dorsal dermis (DD).ResultsWe found that Notch1 is not only closely related to embryonic SG morphogenesis based on Gene Ontology enrichment analysis but also differentially down-regulated during SG formation in the levels of genes and proteins. Furthermore, immunochemistry and immunofluorescence staining verified that Notch1 was continuously down-regulated along with the process of SG morphogenesis. Especially, Notch1 positive cells almost disappeared neither in the emerging SG buds or in the newly-formed glandular structures.ConclusionHence, we speculated that Notch1 possibly acts as the role of “gatekeeper” during embryonic SG development and is the promising key cue that regulates the interactions between stem cells and the SG lineage-specific niches. Our attempts highlighted the role of Notch1 during embryonic SG organogenesis.Trial registration Not applicable.
Adverse Drug Reactions in COVID-19 patients admitted to Intensive care unit: Analysis of individual case study reports
Authors: Nazir Nazia , Chopra Deepti , Sidhu Jaspreet Kaur , Bhandari Bharti
Published: June 2021

Background

Occurrence of adverse drug reactions in COVID-19 patients has not been extensively studied. Thus the present study was conducted to analyze the pattern of suspected Adverse Drug Reactions in COVID-19 patients admitted in Intensive Care Unit.
Methods

In this observational study, all the individual case study reports of patients admitted to the COVID ICU from August to October 2020 were analyzed. The type of ADR, the system involved, drug history, the suspected drug, reaction time and time to revert and management of ADR were recorded. ADRs were classified as serious and non-serious and causality was assessed using the WHO-UMC scale. The severity of ADRs was determined using Hartwig Scale.
Results

From 395 patients admitted to the COVID ICU during the study period, 44 individual case reports were received of 36 patients. Dermatological manifestations were the most frequent ADRs reported in this study, followed by gastrointestinal. Remedesivir was the most common drug associated with ADRs. The female gender, use of more than 5 drugs and presence of comorbidities were the independent risk factors for the occurrence of ADRs in patients with COVID-19.
Conclusion

The use of many of these drugs in this pandemic is experimental and so far the data available in the literature does not guarantee the safety and efficacy for COVID-19 treatment. Therefore, during these times of uncertainty, the results from present study reinforce the importance of monitoring patients. Early diagnosis and management of ADRs is warranted.
Structure, thermoelectric and electrical properties of bismuth-manganese oxide prepared by mechanochemical method
Authors: El-Desoky M.M. , Hannora Ahmed E. , Fareed Shereef A. , Ibrahim Makram , Ali A M.
Published: June 2021

Production of nanomaterials by mechanochemical synthesis is one of the important modern methods in new technology. Mechanochemical technique followed by heat treatment has been used to produce bismuth-manganese oxide from bismuth oxide and manganese dioxide. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis is conducted evaluate the structure changes during the mechanochemical process. Structure transformation from crystalline to complete amorphous phase was observed after short time of milling. The amorphization mechanism and reaction kinetics are examined in the light of the processing parameters and materials composition. Interdiffusion and distraction of the long rang order structure are the proposed mechanisms for amorphization. Bismuth manganese oxide phase with chemical formula Bi2Mn4O10 was formed after heat treatment at 1073 K. Bi2Mn4O10 partially decomposed to γ-Bi12.8O19.2 and α-Mn2O3. Crystallite size (47.6–102.4 nm) of the formed phases after heat treatment is significantly affecting the electrical properties. Thermoelectric power (S) of present samples was reported and the fraction C of reduced transition metal ions was calculated. The manganese ions concentration N were calculated and found to be increasing from 1.11 X1022 cm− 3 to 1.38 X1022 cm− 3, while the average distance between manganese ions R increased from 0.623nm to 0.647nm. The hopping carrier mobility (µ) of the prepared samples was also calculated at fixed temperature. From studying the conduction mechanism, the present work was found to agree with non-adiabatic process of small polaron hopping.
On the Structure of the Political Party System in Indian States, 1957 - 2018
Authors: Ferris John Stephen , Dash Bharatee Bhusana
Published: June 2021

What accounts for the large and ever-changing number of political parties that contest Indian state elections? In this paper we test an equilibrium model of political parties where the number of parties depend on the average size of state constituencies, the heterogeneity of the state’s electorate, state per capita income as well as constitutional and legislative rules that directly affect party numbers. Extending the analysis to consider the effects on entry and exits highlights those factors that have affected party turnover instead of or in addition to changing aggregate party numbers. Comparison of the effects on numbers with those on the effective number of parties (ENP) suggests that the model explains variations in the number of smaller sized parties that are a more transitory part of the electoral process. Whether this implies that the model is more applicable to the lesser developed Indian states is examined by re-testing the model against a subdivision of states that differ by their stage of development. While most variables work in the same way, increases in the proportion of reserved seats have decreased both party numbers and ENP in lower income states, with the opposite occurring in higher income states. The effect of state partition has been to decrease party vote fragmentation more than party numbers.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ACTIVE PROBIOTIC ORGANISMS IN FERMENTED ZEA MAYS, PENTADETHRA MACROPHYLLA BENTH,AND RICINUS COMMUNIS
Authors:   Department of Biology, Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., S. Agbem Sunday
Published: June 2021

Active probiotic organisms are good bacteria considered to be live micro-organisms that are obtained from fermented foods. Evidence has shown that probiotics are essential in human health. This studys primary objective is to isolate and characterize the active probiotic organisms present in certain fermented food samples. Maize, African oil bean, and castor oil were subjected to analysis. The result found the presence of active probiotic organisms such as Pedioccocus, Lactobacillus, Micrococcus, and Bacillus species. The study concluded that these organisms are responsible for the fermentation of carbohydrates and protein-rich seeds.
PHYTOCHEMICAL CONTENT OF SPONDIASMOMBINAND ITS EFFECT ON THE RED BLOOD CELLS OF MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE (MSG) INDUCED FIBROID ON EXPERIMENTAL ANIMAL
Authors:   Department of Agricultural Education, Federal College of Education, Eha Amufu, Enugu State Nigeria., Kelvin Eze
Published: June 2021

There has been a notable increase in the area of field of herbal medicine. The medicinal herbs and crops are gaining popularity in developing and developed countries because of their natural origin and fewer side effects.The current study investigated Spondiasmombins phytochemical content and its effect on the Red Blood Cells of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) induced fibroid on experimental rats. The animals were grouped into three groups of five rats each. The extract was orally administered at varying dosages for 28 days at the expiration of which the hematological parameter was carried out. The findings revealed a significant decrease in the red blood cell of the rat (7.24Â±0.26b) compared to the control group.
TECHNOLOGICAL SKILLS AND ITS INFLUENCE ON EMPLOYEES PERFORMANCE IN MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA
Authors:   Department of Economics, Federal College of Education Eha Amufu, Enugu State, Nigeria., a Eucharia , Nwodo O. ,   Department of Economics, Federal College of Education Eha Amufu, Enugu State, Nigeria., U. Nnorom Uchechukwu ,   Department of Economics, Federal College of Education Eha Amufu, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Published: June 2021

The current study aimed to ascertain employees technological skills in the manufacturing firms in South-East Nigeria and their influence on performance outcomes. Eighty-six participants drawn from different departments in the manufacturing firms responded to the research instruments designed to measure ICT skills and job performance. A simple linear regression was conducted on the data. The result indicated a statistically significant association between ICT skills and employee job performance. the finding, implications, and conclusions are discussed.
TETFUND GRANTS: EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF TETFUND FUNDING ON THE SCHOLASTIC SKILLS OF SCHOLARS
Authors:   Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria., O. Asogwa Vincent, , N. Ezugwu Emmanuel ,   Department of Basic Sciences, Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria.
Published: June 2021

The establishment of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund is aimed at promoting education in Nigeria. It is achieving its objectives today by providing funding that enhances teaching and learning in tertiary institutions. This study aims to examine the impact of this funding on Nigerian scholars teaching and research abilities. Seventy-two academic staff of two Institutions of Higher Learning participated in the study. Data was collected using a self-developed instrument designed to ascertain Tetfund fundings influence on the lecturers motivation and commitment to teaching and research. The result of the simple regression analysis conducted revealed that Tetfund funding statistically significantly predicted teaching and research. The study concludes that Tetfund financing is crucial in teaching research in Nigerias academia. It is recommended that tertiary institutions encourage their academic staff to access the funding fully.
IMPACT OF CORONAVIRUS ON DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors:   Student, BBA Entrepreneurship, World of Work-Jain (Deemed to be) University â€“ Center for Management Studies, India., N Manish , Abhay Narayan Singh Kumar ,   Student, BBA Entrepreneurship, World of Work-Jain (Deemed to be) University â€“ Center for Management Studies, India., Mehta Yash ,   Student, BBA Entrepreneurship, World of Work-Jain (Deemed to be) University â€“ Center for Management Studies, India., Venkteshwar Abhishek ,   Assistant Professor and Course Facilitator Jain (Deemed to be) University â€“ Center for Management Studies, India.
Published: June 2021

Aim: To research on the impact and implications of coronavirus on developing countries Background: Coronavirus has affected the entire world causing disruption in the growth of many countries. The countries which have been critically affected are the developing countries. It is important for us to study the impact of coronavirus on developing countries as it would help us understand the vulnerabilities a country possessed. The developing countries could use this knowledge to prepare themselves in case of another event of this magnitude. Design: Research paper Data sources: A search of published evidence from 1990â€“2020 using key words(as outlined below) was undertaken from which relevant sources were selected tobuild an informed discussion. Implications for developing countries: Understanding the extent of the impact would help developing countries create better systems to adapt to the challenges of the future. Conclusion: This paper discusses the impact of coronavirus on developing countries. The virus has caused significant degradation of growth and has shaken the foundations of many countries. Developing countries are critically challenged as they do not possess the right infrastructure in health care or technology to cope with it.
TEACHERS PERCEPTIONS AND PRACTICES OF AUTHENTIC (PERFORMANCE-BASED) ASSESSMENT AT THE BASIC SCHOOL LEVEL IN GHANA
Authors:   Student _ Department of Education & Psychology Faculty of Educational Foundations University of Cape Coast, Ghana., Arhin David , Gideon Yanney Emmanuel ,   Tutor _ BiaLamplighter College of Education, Debiso., Kwakye Kwabena ,   Tutor _ Bonwire Senior High/Technical School., Abaidoo Angelina ,   Tutor _ BiaLamplighter College of Education, Debiso., Bonsu Opoku Winifred ,   Student _ Department of Education & Psychology Faculty of Educational Foundations University of Cape Coast, Ghana.
Published: June 2021

As a unique form of assessment, authentic assessment tends to focus on contextualised tasks that enable learners to exhibit their proficiency in a more realistic setting. The study was aimed at exploring teachers perceptions and practices of authentic (performance-based) assessment at the basic school level in Ghana. A descriptive survey design was adopted with an accessible population estimated at 1,000. However, 286 respondents were sampled for data collection using the purposive and accidental sampling technique. A 10-item questionnaire with r = .90 was used to collect data which were analysed using mean and standard deviation. The findings of the study revealed that most teachers at the basic school level have positive perceptions about authentic assessment. Also, it was revealed that most teachers practise authentic (performance-based) assessments at the basic school level. The researchers recommended that the education agencies and heads of schools should periodically organise in-service training, workshops, and seminars to equip teachers with contemporary issues on an authentic assessment like computer-assisted programs. Again the government should liaise with other stakeholders to make available adequate funds and instructional time for teachers to facilitate the smooth practice of authentic assessment in schools.
TO STUDY THE EFFECT OF ANTENATAL MAGNESIUM SULPHATE FOR NEUROPROTECTION IN PRETERM BABIES
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Patna Medical College and Hospital Patna., Sharma Kanchan , a Ranideepa ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Patna Medical College and Hospital Patna., b Anamika ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Patna Medical College and Hospital Patna.
Published: June 2021

Background: Antenatal administration of magnesium sulfate is an important part of the neuroprotective strategy for preterm infants. Strong evidence from five randomized controlled trials and five meta-analyses has demonstrated that magnesium sulfate, when administered before preterm delivery, significantly reduces the risk of neurological disabilities. In our study, we aimed at assessing the effectiveness and safety of antenatal magnesium sulphate for neuroprotection in the preterm babies. Methods: This was a prospective randomized controlled trial conducted on 586 women in preterm labour during the period of January 2019 to 2020 attending opd in the department of obstetrics & gynecology at Patna medical college and hospital in 2019.They were randomly allocated into 2 groups. Group A : received magnesium sulphate as neuroprotective agent Group B: received sodium chloride solution. Procedure efficacy(defined as incidence of neurological disabilities, mortality and resuscitative measures in both groups), safety and side effects were assessed in both groups. Results: Babies developing neurological disabilities were less in magnesium sulphate group than sodium chloride groupwhich is statistically insignificant.Total mortality in group A was 137 whereas in group B is 169 which is statistically insignificant.1 neonatehad intraventricular hemorrhage in group A while 4 in group B which is statistically insignificant.. Conclusion: Although various studies have suggested that magnesiumsulphateis cost effective and efficient neuroprotective agent in preterm babies but in our study we could not find significant difference between magnesium and placebo group , but it is proved to be efficient in preventing intraventricular hemorrhage .
Distance Has a Minimum Limit, Size, and Inertia, as It Turned Out Connected to This
Authors: Velgas Lev Borisovich , Iavolinskaia Liya Lvovna
Published: June 2021

The article states, given that Nature has distance limit, that the ancient paradox with the infinity of outrunning in the race between tortoise and Achilles can be successfully resolved and clarifies, first, why, how and where, with respect to zero starting point, a faster body will always outrun a slower one. Second, why objects maintain rest, and third, yet another prove that the existence of neutron star is unlikely.
Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIF-8) for Biomedical Applications: A Review
Authors: Abdelhamid Hani Nasser
Published: June 2021

Beyond being an excellent protective material for bioentities, zeolitic imidazolate
frameworks (ZIF-8) have advanced several applications, including biomedical applications.
The straightforward synthesis of ZIF-8 at mild conditions improved the biomineralization
of several biomolecules, e.g., protein, peptides, carbohydrate, and biological
cells, such as viruses and bacterial cells. Bioinspiration of ZIF-8 enhanced and improved
the material's applications for biomedicine. This review article summarized the recent
achievements of ZIF-8 for biomedical applications such as cancer therapy, antimicrobial,
biosensing, and biocatalysis. ZIF8-based materials advanced cancer therapy via drug delivery
of chemotherapeutic drugs, photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy
(PDT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT), gene therapy, and starvation therapy. Antibacterial
agent encapsulated ZIF-8 exhibited superior biological activity compared to the free
antibacterial agents. ZIF-8 based materials enhanced the selectivity and sensitivity for analytes'
biosensing, ensuring their potential for electronic devices. Biocatalysis of enzyme
encapsulated ZIF-8 offered high catalytic performance with robust properties for recycling.
ZIF-8 acts as a protective host for enzymes, proteins, and drugs from degradation
induced due to temperature, solvents, and proteolytic agents. The first part of the review
discussed the structure, chemistry, and bioinspiration of ZIF-8. The second part reviewed
the biomedical applications of ZIF-8. The potential risks and current challenges of using
ZIF-8 for biomedical applications were also reviewed.
An Overview of β-Amyloid Cleaving Enzyme 1 (BACE1) in Alzheimer's
Disease Therapy: Elucidating its Exosite-Binding Antibody and
Allosteric Inhibitor
Authors: Ugbaja Samuel C. , Lawal Monsurat M. , Kumalo Hezekiel M.
Published: June 2021

:

Over decades of its identification, numerous past and ongoing research has focused on β-
amyloid cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) therapeutic roles as a target in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD).
Although the initial BACE1 inhibitors at phase-3 clinical trials tremendously reduced β-amyloidassociated
plaques in patients with AD, the researchers eventually discontinued the tests for lack of potency.
This discontinuation has resulted in limited drug development and discovery targeted at BACE1,
despite the high demand for dementia and AD therapies. It is, therefore, imperative to describe the detailed
underlying biological basis of the BACE1 therapeutic option in neurological diseases. Herein, we
highlight BACE1 bioactivity, genetic properties, and role in neurodegenerative therapy. We review research
contributions on BACE1 exosite-binding antibody and allosteric inhibitor development as AD
therapies. The review also covers BACE1 biological function, the disease-associated mechanisms, and
the enzyme conditions for amyloid precursor protein site splitting. Based on the present review, we
suggest further studies on anti-BACE1 exosite antibodies and BACE1 allosteric inhibitors. Non-active
site inhibition might be the way forward to BACE1 therapy in Alzheimer's neurological disorder.
Immunoadjunctive Therapy against Bacterial Infections Using Herbal Medicines Based on Th17 Cell-mediated Protective Immunity
Authors: Tomioka Haruaki , Tatano Yutaka , Shimizu Toshiaki , Sano Chiaki
Published: June 2021

One of the major health concerns in the world is the global increase in intractable bacterial infectious
diseases due to the emergence of multi- and extensively drug-resistant bacterial pathogens as well as increase in
compromised hosts around the world. Particularly, in the case of mycobacteriosis, the high incidence of tuberculosis
in developing countries, resurgence of tuberculosis in industrialized countries, and increase in the prevalence
of Mycobacterium avium complex infections are important worldwide health concerns. However, the development
of novel antimycobacterial drugs is currently making slow progress. Therefore, it is considered that
devising improved administration protocols for clinical treatment against refractory mycobacteriosis using existing
chemotherapeutics is more practical than awaiting the development of new antimycobacterial drugs. The
regulation of host immune responses using immunoadjunctive agents may increase the efficacy of antimicrobial
treatment against mycobacteriosis. The same situations also exist in cases of intractable infectious diseases due
to common bacteria other than mycobacteria. The mild and long-term up-regulation of host immune reactions
in hosts with intractable chronic bacterial infections, using herbal medicines and medicinal plants, may be beneficial
for such immunoadjunctive therapy. This review describes the current status regarding basic and clinical
studies on therapeutic regimens using herbal medicines, useful for the clinical treatment of patients with intractable
bacterial infections. In particular, we focus on immunoadjunctive effects of herbal medicines on the
establishment and manifestation of host antibacterial immunity related to the immunological roles of Th17 cell
lineages.
Exosomal MicroRNA: Diagnostic Marker and Therapeutic Tool for Lung Diseases
Authors: Hua Yu , Ding Yan , Hou Yapeng , Liu Yanhong , Mao Kejun , Cui Yong , Nie Hongguang
Published: June 2021

Lung diseases are common clinical illnesses with high morbidity and mortality, which seriously
threaten human health. In recent years, increasing evidence suggests that exosomes play a pivotal role in intercellular
communication by delivering their cargo to pulmonary target cells, such as microRNAs. Physiologically,
exosomes have been shown to be a critical mediator in maintaining homeostasis function in the complex
thin-walled lung tissue and airway structure. Apart from being a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker, exosomes
also participate in the progression of some lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, acute lung injury, lung cancer, interstitial lung disease, and tuberculosis. Here, we
summarize the recent findings on the involvement of exosomes and exosomal microRNAs in the pathogenesis,
diagnosis, and therapy of lung diseases, aiming to provide more information to discover novel diagnostic methods
and treatment strategies for these disorders.