bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency of chitosan synergism with clove essential oil in the coating of intentionally contaminated Tambaqui fillets
Authors:   Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Vieira Brenda Borges , Carvalho Elaine Araújo de ,   Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Bispo Aline Simões da Rocha ,   Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Ferreira Mariza Alves ,   Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Evangelista-Barreto Norma Suely ,   Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia
Published: October 2020

The edible coating of chitosan with clove essential oil (CEO) was studied for its ability to reduce the microbial growth of pathogens (Escherichia coli O157:H7 CDCEDL933, Listeria monocytogenes CERELA, Salmonella Enteritidis ATCC13076, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC43300, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC27853) in Tambaqui fillets kept under refrigeration. In in vitro tests, chitosan showed higher antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes (MIC 0.5%), and CEO for L. monocytogenes (MIC 0.08%). Based on the antimicrobial activity of chitosan and CEO, Tambaqui fillets were subjected to different treatments, T1: chitosan 2%; T2: chitosan 2% + CEO 0.16%, and T3: chitosan 0.5% + CEO 0.08%, kept at 4 ºC for 72 h. The chitosan coating, incorporated with CEO, inhibited microorganisms in Tambaqui fillets and enhanced coating efficiency (p < 0.05). It was most effective against L. monocytogenes and S. aureus at the lowest CEO concentration (0.08%). Chitosan coating in combination with CEO enhanced the antimicrobial effect of pathogens on Tambaqui fillets, increased their shelf life under refrigeration, and was more effective against Gram-positive pathogens than Gram-negative pathogens.
Identification of sorghum hybrids for silage production in the semiarid (BSh) region of northeastern Brazil
Authors:   Universidade Federal do Piauí, Nascimento Romilda Rodrigues do , Edvan Ricardo Loiola ,   Universidade Federal do Piauí, Pereira Filho José Morais ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Rodrigues José Avelino Santos ,   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Araújo Marcos Jácome de ,   Universidade Federal do Piauí, Silva Alex Lopes da ,   Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Nascimento Keuven dos Santos ,   Universidade Federal do Piauí, Santos Caio Oliveira ,   Universidade Federal do Piauí
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study was to identify the hybrids of sorghum most suitable for the production of silage in the semiarid regions of northeastern Brazil. Twenty-three hybrids were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replicates. The dry mass yield; dry mass of leaf, stem, panicle, grains, and senescent matter; and chemical composition of the plant were evaluated. The pH, ammoniacal nitrogen (N-NH3), and chemical composition of the silage were also assessed. The hybrids 947252, FEPAGRO 18, 12F042226, and SF 11 performed best in terms of morphological characteristics, with the highest mass of leaves and grains. The hybrid FEPAGRO 19 had the highest dry matter value (443.3 ± 17.0 g kg-1), whereas the hybrid 12F042496 had the lowest value (271.3 ± 17.0 g kg-1). The dry matter (DM) content of the other hybrids was within the recommended values for silage production (280 to 400 g kg-1). High levels of crude protein were observed in the grouped hybrids 12F042496, 947254, and 12F042422. The hybrid 12F042496 had the highest neutral detergent fiber content. The hybrids 9929036, 9929030, 9929012, 947254, 947072, PROG 134 IPA, 12F042226, 12F042422, and BRS 506 had pH values ranging between 3.8 and 4.2, indicating good quality silage. Overall, the sorghum hybrids 9929030, 12F042224, 12F042150, FEPAGRO19, and FEPAGRO11 had the best growth and production characteristics, and plant and silage chemical composition, and are thus recommended for the production of silage in the semiarid of northeastern Brazil.
Characterization of associative diazotrophic bacteria in torch ginger
Authors:   Universidade José do Rosário Vellano, Oliveira Alexandre José de , Franco Thaís Cristina ,   Universidade José do Rosário Vellano, FLorentino Ligiane Aparecida ,   Universidade José do Rosário Vellano, Landgraf Paulo Roberto Corrêa ,   Universidade José do Rosário Vellano
Published: October 2020

Associative diazotrophic bacteria perform several processes that promote increased plant development and production, allowing a reduction in the use of agricultural inputs and costs. However, for some species, such as torch ginger, there are still no reports of studies aimed at identifying diazotrophic bacteria associated with this species. On this basis, this study proposes to isolate and characterize associative diazotrophic bacteria in rhizospheric soils and roots of torch ginger as well as analyze the potential of these isolates in solubilizing phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) and producing indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Soil and roots samples of torch ginger were inoculated into five different semi-solid and semi-selective culture media, namely, NFb, JNFb, LGI, JMV and FAM, where bacterial growth was diagnosed by the formation of a characteristic film on the surface of the media. Subsequently, the bacterial isolates were analyzed for their ability to solubilize P and K in liquid medium, using phosphate rock powder (AO-15) and potassium rock powder (phonolite) as sources of P and K, respectively. All culture media showed bacterial growth, making this the first report of isolation of diazotrophic bacterial strains in this species. Eight of the obtained strains originated from rhizospheric soils and four from roots of torch ginger. Of these, 10 solubilized P, with the UNIFENAS 100-340, UNIFENAS 100-342 and UNIFENAS 100-348 strains standing out. Six strains showed K solubilizing ability, UNIFENAS 100-346 being the most efficient. All strains were able to produce the IAA phytohormone, both in the presence and absence of tryptophan, with superior results obtained by UNIFENAS 100-344 and UNIFENAS 100-351.
High-strain tests on lead-rubber bearings for earthquake loadings
Authors: Tyler R. G. , Robinson W. H.
Published: October 2020

Dynamic tests on two lead-rubber bearings, 280 x 230 x 113 mm, are described in which a dynamic actuator was used to apply shear displacements of ±10 to ±140 mm at frequencies of 0.1 to 3 Hz, giving shear strains in the rubber of up to ±200%. The weight of the structure on the bearing was applied by a vertical jacking system and ranged from 35 to 455 kN. Sequences of cycles were performed to simulate earthquake conditions and force-displacement hysteresis loops were obtained. It was concluded that at strains approaching 200% in the rubber, the force-displacement hysteresis loop could be represented by the linear elastic slope of the rubber component plus a rectangle appropriate to the plastic shear of the lead, with some rounding of the corners of the hysteresis loop. There was a decrease in the area of the hysteresis loop of 20% after six cycles at 1 Hz with a maximum shear strain of 125% in the rubber; but recovery followed within minutes. In one bearing an attempt was made to locally confine the lead by screwing external plates to the first internal plate within the bearing at the top and the bottom, but no difference in performance between the two bearings was noted. The scope of the tests indicated that, with peak strains in excess of 100% in the rubber, the bearings would continue to perform satisfactorily for a sequence of very large earthquakes.
POTENTIAL FOR EXPANDING THE RANGE OF FLUID FRICTION
WHILE MINIMISING FRICTION RESISTANCES AND IMPROVING
AN OIL FILM ’S LOAD BEARING CAPACITY
Authors: Krawczyk Krzysztof , Nowiński Emil , Wronka Grzegorz , Żurowski Wojciech , Edwardowna Burłakowa Wiktoria
Published: October 2020

Traces of mechanical wear appear on co-working surfaces in the operation of precision fluid bearings. This
should not be the case, since fluid friction and uninterrupted oil film should be present in a friction pair, which
is a concept that this paper attempts to outline. The way friction forces, resistance, and oil film vary as unit
pressure rises linearly is discussed. Three stages of the variations are distinguished. At the first stage, the
oil film thickness and force of friction remain steady while the resistance declines. Stage two is temporary:
Triboelectrical phenomena already escalate considerably and begin to decide effects of the friction process
while a lubricant loses rheological properties of the Newtonian fluid. Hydrodynamic friction continues at
the third stage, yet the triboelectrical effects are decided by stabilised triboelectrical phenomena. The third
range can be identified as boundary friction where the layer separating surfaces is thicker than in the area of
Newtonian rheology. This is very good in respect to wear, but higher-energy (not electrically neutral) particles
cause increases in friction resistances. This range seems to exhibit a very high potential for being controlled
with an adequate selection of oil based additions.
USO DE HIPERPLASIA GENGIVAL FIBROSA EM REGIÃO DE TUBER COMO ALTERNATIVA PARA CORREÇÃO DE DEFEITO ALVEOLAR: RELATO DE CASO
Authors: Ribeiro Aline Colnago , Silva Letícia Melluzzi Babolin da , Faleiros Paula Lazilha , Venturim Rosalinda Tanuri Zaninotto
Published: October 2020

The various preprosthetic periodontal surgical techniques proposed currently, provide a future prosthetic work with better aesthetic results and functional.The objective of this study was to report a clinical case of periodontal surgery for correction of the defect in the alveolar border, by means of the subepithelial connective tissue graft. Patient presented fibrous hyperplastic growth, in the region of the maxilla túber and lip defect in the region of the upper central incisor. After planning the event,were carried out, concomitantly, two plastic surgeries prosthetic periodontal lunches. In the first surgery, a connective tissue graft was removed from the donor area, the maxila túber and then was adapted in the anterior region, receiving area where the defect of flange. Thoughtout a postoperatory period of 45 days, that the choice of surgical technique, the type of graft used for correction of the defect of rim, were pre-requisites for the future success in aesthetic and functional prosthetic rehabilitation.
Detection of Human Papillomavirus 33 in Erosive Oral Lichen Planus
Authors: Farhadi Sareh , Sadri Donia , Bandehpour Mojgan , Akbari Mana , Jafarzadeh Elnaz , Hashemi Mehrdad
Published: October 2020

Background: A correlation is suggested between oral lichen planus (OLP) and the human papillomavirus (HPV) with possible malignant transformation potential in OLP. Objectives: The present study aimed at evaluating the prevalence of HPV-16 and HPV-18 as the most recognized oncogenic subtypes and relatively recently introduced subtype HPV33 in OLP samples. Methods: This retrospective study was carried out on 32 OLP samples (consisting of 12 reticular and 20 erosive forms) and 20 healthy oral mucosa samples. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was undertaken to identify HPV Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). Subsequently, the samples positive for HPV DNA underwent PCR analysis again with the specific primers. The data were analyzed statistically by Fisher’s exact test regarding the significance level of lower than 0.05. Results: Eight out of 32 OLP samples (25%) and none of the 20 normal mucosa samples (0%) exhibited HPV DNA. The presence of HPV in the OLP group was significantly higher than that in the normal mucosa (P = 0.014). Also, all the samples that exhibited HPV DNA were registered as the erosive form. Besides, one sample (3.12%) exhibited the 873-bp band, which was attributed to HPV-18, and 7 samples (21.87%) exhibited the 300-bp band, which was attributed to HPV-33. Conclusions: Based on the recent findings in the current study of the Iranian population, the presence of high-risk HPV subtypes, whether primarily or as a secondary infection, can suggest the malignant transformation potential for the studied OLP samples. The exclusive presence of these subtypes in the erosive type of this lesion and the noticeable presence of HPV-33 might reflect this issue’s importance. However, further studies are necessary to evaluate the possibility of a higher proliferation rate of HPV in erosive lichen planus and identify its possible malignant transformation mechanism.
Application of Gemstone CT Spectroscopy in the Evaluation of Abnormal Enhancement of Lesion Margin After Radiofrequency Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yan Yuchang , Jiang Tao , Yang Zhenghan , Wang Zhenchang , Jin Erhu , Pan Zhenyu
Published: October 2020

Background: Accurately assessing the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and early detection of tumor residues or recurrence after radiofrequency ablation is important to improve the prognosis of patients with HCC. Objectives: To investigate the application of gemstone spectral imaging in the evaluation of abnormal enhancement of the edge of HCC after radiofrequency ablation. Patients and Methods: From November 2013 to April 2019, patients with HCC admitted to the department underwent regular gemstone spectral imaging and energy spectrum analysis after radiofrequency ablation. The abnormal enhancement within and around the radiofrequency ablation lesion was observed, and the energy spectrum data of the radiofrequency ablation lesion and the abnormal enhancement focus were measured. Results: A total of 133 lesions with marginal enhancement following radiofrequency ablation were included. Of these lesions, 62 were eventually diagnosed as inflammatory reaction zone, and 71 were diagnosed as residual or recurrent HCC. The results of energy spectrum analysis showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the iodine concentration between the inflammatory reaction zone and the residual or recurrent HCC (P < 0.001). The iodine concentration in the inflammatory reaction zone was lower than the iodine concentration in the residual or recurrent HCC (9.70±3.00 100 µg/mL vs. 13.24 ± 4.51 100 µg/mL). In the enhanced arterial and portal venous phases, the difference between the slope of the energy spectrum curve of the inflammatory reaction zone and the residual or recurrent HCC was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Gemstone spectral imaging can effectively differentiate residual or recurrent HCC from the inflammatory reaction zone after radiofrequency ablation. It is conducive to early detection of residual or recurrent tumors, helps clinicians formulate the next treatment plan, and improves the prognosis of patients.
First endemic arachnid from Isla Sala y Gómez (Motu Motiro Hiva), Chile: a new species of tube-dwelling spider (Araneae: Segestriidae)
Authors: Giroti André Marsola , Cotoras Darko D. , Lazo Pedro , Brescovit Antonio Domingos
Published: October 2020

The Isla Sala y Gómez or Motu Motiro Hiva is located 415 km northeast of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and 3420 km from the coast of northern Chile. It is a small oceanic island (2.5 km2) dominated by volcanic rock with very little vegetal cover. Here, we describe the first endemic arachnid for the island, Ariadna motumotirohiva sp. nov. Females are similar to those of Ariadna perkinsi Simon, 1900 from Hawaiʻi and Ariadna lebronneci Berland, 1933 from the Marquesas in the dorsal dark abdominal pattern, but they differentiate from the latter in the anterior receptaculum, promarginal cheliceral teeth and leg IV macrosetae. A recent survey of the arachnid fauna of Rapa Nui, which included Motu Nui and the rocky shores, did not record the presence of the family Segestriidae, neither has it been found during previous surveys. However, it is not possible to discard the possibility of a local extinction on Rapa Nui and survival on Sala y Gómez. This study suggests other endemic terrestrial arthropods could be present on this very small and remote island.
Sustainable mining towards accomplishing circular economy principles
Authors: Petronijević Nela , Alivojvodić Vesna , Sokić Miroslav , Marković Branislav , Stanković Srđan , Radovanović Dragana
Published: October 2020

Today human society is already witnessing rapid depletion of non-renewable ore resources. As the distribution of raw material resources globally is very off-balance, and preassure on environment as the consequence of ore exploatation is not negligible, re-utilization and recycling of industrial side-streams gaining on importance. Finding new potentially anthropogenic resources of material (at first place critical raw materials) are inline with sustainable waste management goals, and in correlation with boundaries given by the circular economy principles. Side-streams from mines can become source for recovery of these materials. The aim of this paper was to analyze position of mining waste in correlation with circular economy principles, as well potential for implementation of them within extraction industry in the Republic of Serbia.
Constitutional politics as an interdisciplinary category
Authors: Dzhankezov Batyr Makharovich
Published: October 2020

This article is dedicated to interdisciplinary, institutional and comparative analysis of the terminological construct of “constitutional politics”. Analysis is conducted on correlation between the legal and political components of constitutional politics. The author indicates the peculiarities of legalistic and macro-sociological approaches towards the essence of the phenomenon in question; determines key peculiarities of the American and European models of constitutional politics; as well as examines the correlation between constitutional politics and state (public) policy. The article presents an original definition and outlines the object field of the Russian constitutional politics as an interdisciplinary term. This work is first to apply the terminological inter-paradigm construct of “constitutional politics” in terms of the analysis of corresponding processes within the history of Russian legal and political science. to apply the terminological inter-paradigm construction "constitutional policy", widely spread in Western thought, to the analysis of relevant processes. A brief overview is presented on the European and American approaches towards constitutional politics is presented. The author draws conclusions on the prospects of the indicated interdisciplinary approach, and proposes the subject of research with regards to the Russian constitutional politics.
On the nature of American classical legal realism
Authors: Gruzdev Vladimir Sergeevich
Published: October 2020

The subject of this research is one of the trends in the American legal thought – legal realism in the context of clarification of its specificity, key theoretical-methodological perspectives formed in the classical period, represented by the founders of this direction O. W. Holmes, R. Pound and K. Llewellyn. Studying the heritage of the classical American realists is important for the purpose of elucidation of their views, since many aspects remain unclear or simplified, and interpreted in form of patterns and schemes; as well as due to the fact that in the modern American legal science and well beyond it, more popularity multiple variations of “clarification” of realism in form of “neo-“ versions, and realism itself is declared the symbol of modern age. Main attention is given to the question of overcoming simplifications with regards to legal views of the classical American realists. The scientific novelty of this work consists in elucidation of the perceptions of the nature and specificity of legal views of the representatives of classical American legal realism. This is primarily associated with the fact that orientation towards demythologization of conceptualism in the works of legal realists of the period of establishment of this trend is erroneously identified with the rejection of moral arguments in substantiation of law, which to a large extent was justified by the desire of some researchers to substantiate the meaning of radical pragmatism as a philosophical foundation of the modernized legal theory. Secondly, unjustified broadening of the concept of legal realism and its identification with naturalization of conceptual apparatus of law is one of the factors that led to multiple simplifications and distortions of the methodological importance of the fundamental principles of legal realism.
Constructions for t-conorms and t-norms on interval-valued and interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets by paving
Authors:   Slovak University of Technology, Kalina Martin
Published: October 2020

Paving is a method for constructing new operations from a given one. Kalina and Kral in 2015 showed that on the real unit interval this method can be used to construct associative, commutative and monotone operations from particular given operations (from basic ‘paving stones’). In the present paper we modify the construction method for interval-valued fuzzy sets. From given (possibly representable) t-norms and t-conorms we construct new, non-representable operations. In the last section, we modify the presented construction method for interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets.
A new intuitionistic fuzzy definiteness norm
Authors:   Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Atanassov Krassimir , Vassilev Peter ,   Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences
Published: October 2020

In the present paper we introduce a new intuitionistic fuzzy norm over intuitionistic fuzzy pairs and study some of its properties.
A low affinity cis-regulatory BMP response element restricts target gene activation to subsets of Drosophila neurons
Authors: Berndt Anthony JE , Othonos Katerina M , Lian Tianshun , Flibotte Stephane , Miao Mo , Bhuiyan Shamsuddin A , Cho Raymond Y , Fong Justin S , Hur Seo Am , Pavlidis Paul , Allan Douglas W
Published: October 2020

Retrograde BMP signaling and canonical pMad/Medea-mediated transcription regulate diverse target genes across subsets ofDrosophilaefferent neurons, to differentiate neuropeptidergic neurons and promote motor neuron terminal maturation. How a common BMP signal regulates diverse target genes across many neuronal subsets remains largely unresolved, although available evidence implicates subset-specific transcription factor codes rather than differences in BMP signaling. Here we examine thecis-regulatory mechanisms restricting BMP-inducedFMRFaneuropeptide expression to Tv4-neurons. We find that pMad/Medea bind at an atypical, low affinity motif in theFMRFaenhancer. Converting this motif to high affinity caused ectopic enhancer activity and eliminated Tv4-neuron expression. In silico searches identified additional motif instances functional in other efferent neurons, implicating broader functions for this motif in BMP-dependent enhancer activity. Thus, differential interpretation of a common BMP signal, conferred by low affinity pMad/Medea binding motifs, can contribute to the specification of BMP target genes in efferent neuron subsets.
Revalidation of morphological characteristics and multiplex PCR for the identification of three congener invasive Liriomyza species (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in China
Authors: Chang Ya-Wen , Chen Jing-Yun , Zheng Si-Zhu , Gao Yuan , Chen Yunfang , Deng Yanfeng , Du Yu-Zhou
Published: October 2020

Due to varietal differences, diminutive size, and similar morphological characters, it is difficult to classify and identify Liriomyza spp., a genus comprised of economically-important, highly-polyphagous insect pests. In this study, we reconfirmed the morphological characteristics of three closely-related invasive leafminers, L. trifolii, L. sativae, and L. huidobrensis. Morphological results showed that characteristics imparted by the male genitalia were the most reliable morphological features for identification. The colors exhibited by vertical setae were variable among species, and the ratio of the length of the ultimate section of vein CuA1 divided by penultimate section also varied within species. Although the patterns of abdominal tergites were diverse among Liriomyza spp., L. trifolii exhibited a unique pattern with a yellow patch at the 5th black visible tergite; this pattern can be profiled as a prominent characteristic for morphological identification. In order to identify the three Liriomyza spp. quickly and accurately, we developed an improved molecular identification method using multiplex PCR based on the gene encoding mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI); this method enabled direct identification based on the size of amplified products. The results of this study provide a valuable reference for the identification of Liriomyza spp., which will ultimately improve our ability to control individual species.
Organic Farming: Paradigm Shift during Pandemic to ‘Food Safety” Complying ‘Food Security” in India
Authors: Mishra Durga Prasad , Mishra Siba Prasad
Published: October 2020

The organic farming is gaining worldwide acceptance since the conventional farming gratifies the demand of both food security and the food safety especially during the pandemic year 2020 of COVID 19. Though demographic rise demands for high yielding grains, fruits and spices but under present scenario it fails to satisfy the food safety. The high yielding highbred seeds, chemical fertilizers and pesticides are degrading the fertility gradually and raising health concerns and do not meet the cosmetic standard. The organic farming is labour intensive with higher input costs and lower yields as compared to conventional farming yet it is in demand for its food safety. The search is to uncover whether the yields from Organic farms in India is capable to ameliorates manage pests and diseases, economic feasibility, food safety, nutrient requirement, environmental sustainability, augment food quality. The influence of shut downs are revealed. The producers face the challenges of certification, beating income during transition, seeds and manures and marketing etc. In India, the end produce of organic products are highly expensive and have high end consumers. The cost amelioration needs to be attended by government institutions as tribal and hilly areas in India like Sikkim, Meghalaya and other tribal areas. The tribal population has high organic farming inputs, logistics facilities and huge organic produces from food grains to fishes and cosmetics and spices. But the novice cropping pattern needs “cluster approach for organic lands (ODOP)”, “compensation for incomes losses during transition phase”, “active participation of Corporate houses and NGOs”, “assuring adequate return on investments”, for registering phenomenal rise in the organic farming in India.
Comparative Studies on Gonad Development, Fecundity and Oocyte Maturation of Spotted Snakehead, Channa punctatus (Bloch, 1793) in Different Water Bodies
Authors: Farid Md. Almamun , Rahman M. Anisur , Aktar Shammi , Choudhury Moumita , Yeasmin Syeda Maksuda , Biswas Anusree , Rahman M. Aminur
Published: October 2020

The present study was carried out to compare gonad development, oocyte maturation and fecundity of the spotted snakehead (Channa punctatus) fish during January to November 2015 in different water bodies (such as pond, Joghati baor and Bhairab river) in Jashore, Bangladesh. Mean GSI (gonadosomatic index) values of the female C. punctatus during January, March, May, July, September and November were significantly highest in pond, followed by those in Joghati baor and the lowest in Bhairab river. Absolute fecundity during the month of July in pond, baor and river was 30,006±2,027, 23,629±2,356 and 16,659±2,486, respectively, and the relative fecundity was 5064±183, 4865±106 and 4641±138 eggs, respectively. Mean ova diameter in pond, baor and river in March was 0.25±0.04 mm, 0.16±0.02 mm and 0.21±0.03 mm; in May was 0.36±0.03 mm, 0.29±0.03 mm and 0.23±0.04 mm; in July was 1.06±0.06 mm, 0.95±0.05 mm and 0.87±0.03 mm; and in September was 0.84±0.04 mm, 0.82±0.03 mm and 0.72±0.05 mm, respectively. Mean GSI values of the male C. punctatus during January, March, May, July, September and November were significantly higher in pond than those in baor and river, respectively. The mean highest GSI for female was found to be 6.06±0.11 in pond during the month of July, while the lowest GSI of 0.30±0.08 was in Bhairab river during November. The highest GSI value for male was obtained to be 0.70±0.16 in pond during the month of July, while the lowest GSI of 0.12±0.03 was found in Bhairab river during January. However, significant differences (P<0.05) were found in GSI values, absolute fecundity, relative fecundity and ova diameter of C. punctatus during different months in pond, Joghati baor and Bhairab river. The findings from the present research would immensely be useful for captive breeding and seed production techniques of C. punctatus for aquaculture production, sustainable management and species conservation.
Effect of Plant Density and Nitrogen Management for Realizing Higher Cane Yield under Bud Chip Method of Planting in Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum)
Authors: Swapna N. , Reddy T. Prabhakar , Rakesh G. , Reddy G. Eswara , Naik P. Jalender , Venkataiah M.
Published: October 2020

A field experiment was conducted at Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur, during 2018-19 to study the effect of plant density and nitrogen management for realizing higher cane yield under bud chip method of planting in sugarcane (Saccharum officinerum). The treatments were plant geometry and nitrogen doses with three and four splits of application in split plot design. The recommended dose of nitrogen was 250 kg N ha-1. Among the geometry, 150 x 60 cm spacing recorded significantly higher cane length which was statistically at par with 150 x 30 cm. 150% RDN (375 kg N ha-1) with four splits of application recorded significantly higher cane length. Among the split application of nitrogen, four splits with 150% RDN at basal, 60, 90 and 120 DAP recorded significantly higher number of tiller at 90 and 120 DAP. Significantly higher single cane weight was recorded in 150% RDN  with four splits of application in 150 x 60 cm. Significantly higher cane yield was recorded in 150% RDN with four splits of application in 150 x 60 cm spacing and was statistically at par with 150 x 30 cm spacing. This was followed by 100% RDN with four splits of application in 150 x 60 cm spacing.
Chemical Composition of Anthocleista vogelii and Anti-oxidant Effect of Its Methanolic and Acetone Extracts
Authors: Ikpe E. E. , Archibong U. D. , Michael C. U. , Ukpong E. G.
Published: October 2020

This study entailed determination of chemical composition of Anthocleista vogelii and anti-oxidant effect of its methanolic and acetone extract. The phytochemical screening of Anthocleista vogelii showed quantitatively the presence of alkaloids, Tannins, Flavonoids, Saponins, Glycoside and phenols. The results from the proximate analysis indicated that the plant contained some important nutrient such as carbohydrate with percentage content of 16.07 – 34.67%, lipid 5.40 – 7.35%, and crude protein 2.23 – 2.41%. The mineral element analysis showed that potassium (K) was 32.6 – 41.1 mg/kg, sodium (Na) 5.41- 6.21 mg/kg, calcium 9.74 – 17.81 mg/kg, magnesium (mg) 5.71 – 32.0 mg/kg and Zn 0.32 – 0.68 mg/kg. The acetone and methanol leaves, stem bark and roots extracts of Anthocleista Vogelii exhibited reasonable scavenging activity in the DPPH (1, 1- diphenyl – 2- picrlhydrazyl) assay. The methnaolic extracts had a better inhibiting ability than acetone extract which could be attributed to higher content of tannin and Saponin in methanolic than acetone extract. The results were discussed with referenced to World Health Organization (WHO) standard of nutritional and medicinal values.
Field Performance Evaluation of Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) to the Application of Different Organic Wastes under Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Adeosun S. A. , Togun A. O.
Published: October 2020

Aims: To assess the field establishment of two tea cultivars under Cocoa Pod Husk (CPH) and Poultry Manure (PM).

Study Design: Randomized complete block design arranged in Split-plots (cultivars as main plots and organic amendments as sub-plots) with four replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria stations in Ibadan and Owena, Southwest Nigeria between May 2016 and November 2017 (Rainy and dry seasons of 2016; Rainy season of 2017). 

Methodology: Milled CPH and cured PM were applied each at the rates of 150 and 300 kg Nha-1 to established C143 and C318 tea cultivars on the field; unfertilized tea cultivars served as control. Data on number of leaves, number of branches, leaf area, plant height and stem diameter were collected on monthly basis; while dry matter was assessed at 15 months after transplanting. The data were analyzed with ANOVA and correlation at α.05.

Results: The C143 performed better than C318 and 150 kg Nha-1 of CPH and PM enhanced the vegetative growth and dry matter of tea better than 300 kg Nha-1 in Ibadan and Owena. Cultivar 143 was significantly (P=0.05) better than cultivar 318 in number of leaves, number of branches and stem diameter in Ibadan; and in number of leaves and leaf area in Owena. CPH at 150 kg Nha-1 increased number of leaves, number of branches, leaf area, plant height and total dry matter by 135.11, 88.19, 346.12, 65.33 and 428.11% at Ibadan; and by 349.09, 245.41, 376.89, 80.89 and 231.49% at Owena, compared to control. On the interaction, tea cultivar 143 that received 150 kg Nha-1 CPH produced significantly (P=0.05) higher number of leaves, leaf area and total dry matter at Ibadan and Owena. Leaf area was positively correlated with number of leaves (r=0.87) in Ibadan and stem diameter (r=0.80) in Owena.

Conclusion: CPH at 150 kg Nha-1 enhanced the growth and dry matter content of C143 tea established on the field in Ibadan and Owena, and is therefore recommended for tea cultivation in Southwest of Nigeria.
Preparation and Characterization of Dog Erythrocytic Membrane Antigen
Authors: Kalaiselvi G. , Tirumurugaan K. G. , Raj G. Dinakar , Vijayarani K. , Baranidharan R. , Nandhini K. N. Usha
Published: October 2020

Dog erythrocytic membrane antigen plays a major role for determining blood group. Structural and molecular characterization of erythrocytic membrane antigen improves the production of blood typing antisera, to study the auto antibody production in canine autoimmune haemolyticanemia. The proteins in the lipid domain arranged from the inside of the erythrocyte to the outside. The integral membrane proteins include membrane protein 3 visible in coomassie Brilliant blue-stained polyacrylamide gels. The erythrocyte cytoskeleton consists of spectrin, ankyrin, actin, and protein 4.1 form a filamentous network under the lipid bilayer of erythroctic membrane. The cytoskeletal proteins interact with integral proteins and lipids of the bilayer forms network for maintaining membrane integrity. The external clustering of membrane protein 3 creates a recognition site for auto antibodies. The auto antibodies from the erythrocytes of dogs with acute immune haemolytic anemia have similar electrophoretic mobility to the human erythrocyte Rh related proteins and glycoproteins and able to immunoprecipitate membrane proteins that on SDS-PAGE and western blotting.  The DEA 1 blood group system consists of antigens 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 which are most significant in terms of transfusion reactions and alloantibodies produced against DEA 3, 5 and 7 are not much clinical significance. Blood samples collected from registered donor dogs and RBC membrane were isolated by hypotonic freeze thaw method. The ghost membrane and cytoplasmic marker were identified in western blot.
Physical Exercise as a Modulator of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: Bizuti Matheus Ribeiro , Meneghel Débora , Schwede Eduardo de Camargo , Jost Laura Nyland , Silva Débora Tavares de Resende e
Published: October 2020

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death and reduced quality of life worldwide. One of the main risks to the development of cardiovascular diseases is inflammatory diseases, which are related to oxidative stress, among them, atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis consists of a process of chronic inflammation, in which the accumulation of lipids occurs in the subendothelial space of the tunica intima of large caliber vessels. This is due to the accumulation of fibrous elements and inflammatory cells. Thus, regular physical exercise contributes to improving the body's immune defenses, while modulating inflammatory processes. In addition, physical activity is responsible for increasing the production of antioxidant enzymes, increasing the synthesis of nitric oxide, decreasing oxidative stress and decreasing systemic inflammation. Thus, physical exercise directly changes the genesis of atherosclerosis.
Performance and Stability Analyses of TCP Queue Based Computer Network
Authors: Aririguzo Marvis Ijeaku , Mbachu C. B.
Published: October 2020

This research work centers on the performance and stability analysis of the TCP queue based network system. The TCP is a vital organ in every wireless network and due to the increasing reliance on the wireless network by most human activities, it has suffered from different forms of disturbances most especially traffic congestion which eventually results to data loss or total collapse of the network. Many works were reviewed on the TCP model and the methods proposed to improve the performance of the TCP networks. However, from the review, the TCP queue model was not examined based on its performance and reliability, to ascertain the real behavior of the system without the control measures. The step function time domain plot and bode frequency domain plot analyses measures were employed in this work.  From the simulation results, the TCP queue with time delay model recorded a 0% overshoot and settling time of 1.96e+03 seconds. With the high settling time the system performance will be very poor as a result of very slow response and it cannot support the recent high data traffic. Therefore, the system will not be able to solve the problem of congestion due to its slow response. The system also recorded a negative gain margin of -71.9dB, hence; the system is unstable and not reliable.
COVID-19: The Effect of Lockdown on Children’s Remote Learning Experience – Parents’ Perspective
Authors: Briggs Datonye Christopher
Published: October 2020

Aims: This online survey was done to explore parents’ perspectives on education of their children affected by the stay-at-home measures still ongoing in the country.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study design.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: All six Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria, from May 9 to June 8, 2020 among parents residing in Nigeria.

Methodology: A non-probability sampling technique was used in the recruitment of participants. The study questionnaire on a Google Doc Form was administered through WhatsApp instant messaging. Chi-square was used to test for differences, and statistical significance was set at p-value less than 0.05.

Results: The 260 respondents who participated in the survey, had a median age of 38 years (IQR=9); including 40.4% (105) males, and 64.2% (167) with tertiary education, 77.7% (202)  possess a computer device, 93.2% (234) have internet services and 55.0% (143) spend between N5,000 – N9,999 (13.1 – 26.2 USD) per month for internet services. Only 35.4% (92) had their children participate in the ongoing radio/TV learning sessions, 46.1% (120) educate their children with their computer devices at home, however, 40.0% (104) preferred an online based method of homeschooling. Overall, 70.0% (182) were dissatisfied with the level of homeschooling their children received. Respondents with higher education and income level were significantly more likely to possess a computer device, have internet access at home and prefer online classes when compared to low-income earning parents with secondary education and below.

Conclusion: There is a considerable lack of ongoing learning activities among children in Nigerian homes during the COVID-19 lockdown. Strategic context-specific blended learning approaches (including the provision of infrastructure for remote teaching and learning) are needed to mitigate the negative effect of school closures on the education of children.
Affordable Housing in the Wake of Global Pandemics: A Reality or a Mirage the Kenyan Perspective?
Authors: Kiganda Evans Ovamba , Shavulimo Paul Mbiti
Published: October 2020

Aim: This was an investigative study on affordable housing in the wake of global pandemics: A reality or a mirage the Kenyan perspective? 22 % of Kenyans stay in towns and the inhabitants in these cities continue to grow at the rate of 4.2 % annually. This growth rate has outstripped the supply of housing units built. For instance, Nairobi needs a minimum of 120,000 new houses per annually to satisfy the demand but a paltry 35,000 units are constructed annually. The excess demand is likely to continue pushing the housing prices beyond the reach of many Kenyans. Studies conducted in Kenya on housing prices focused on non-macroeconomic determinants and more importantly none of the studies globally envisaged how global pandemics can influence housing prices. Therefore, the influence of global pandemics like Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) and macroeconomic factors on housing prices in Kenya remains unknown.

Study Design: Correlational research design.

Methodology: The study employed unrestricted Vector Autoregressive analysis involving quarterly time series from quarter 1 of 2014 to quarter 1 of 2020 with a dummy variable measuring the influence of COVID-19.

Results: Results indicated that the total money supply had a positive influence on inflation that was highly influenced by extended broad money.

Conclusion: From the results, it was concluded that some macroeconomic factors, time trends and global pandemics like COVID-19 influence housing prices in Kenya. Professional, administrative and support services, time trend, transport and storage, information and communication, real estate and housing prices at lag 1 increased housing prices in Kenya by 0.41%, 0.41%, 0.94%, 0.37% and 0.59% respectively given unrestricted VAR coefficients and t-statistics of 0.41(4.184), 1.27 (9.862), 0.19 (2.740), 0.94 (10.178) and 0.59 (6.055) for the variables. Housing prices at lag 1 and 4, COVID-19, other services and tax on products reduced housing prices in Kenya by 0.26%, 0.99%, 3.29%, 1.01% and 0.05% respectively given unrestricted VAR coefficients and t-statistics of -0.26(-2.366), -0.99 (-8.770), -3.29 (-4.550), -1.01 (-6.568) and -0.05 (-2.807) for the variables respectively. Economic growth, financial and insurance activities and previous housing prices at lag 5 had no influence on housing prices in Kenya.
Commissioning and clinical implementation of the first commercial independent Monte Carlo 3D dose calculation to replace CyberKnife M6™ patient‐specific QA measurements
Authors: Milder Maaike T. W. , Alber Markus , Söhn Matthias , Hoogeman Mischa S.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

To report on the commissioning and clinical validation of the first commercially available independent Monte Carlo (MC) three‐dimensional (3D) dose calculation for CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system® (Accuray, Sunnyvale, CA).

Methods

The independent dose calculation (IDC) by SciMoCa® (Scientific RT, Munich, Germany) was validated based on water measurements of output factors and dose profiles (unshielded diode, field‐size dependent corrections). A set of 84 patient‐specific quality assurance (QA) measurements for multi‐leaf collimator (MLC) plans, using an Octavius two‐dimensional SRS1000 array (PTW, Freiburg, Germany), was compared to results of respective calculations. Statistical process control (SPC) was used to detect plans outside action levels.

Results

Of all output factors for the three collimator systems of the CyberKnife, 99% agreed within 2% and 81% within 1%, with a maximum deviation of 3.2% for a 5‐mm fixed cone. The profiles were compared using a one‐dimensional gamma evaluation with 2% dose difference and 0.5 mm distance‐to‐agreement (Γ(2,0.5)). The off‐centre ratios showed an average pass rate >99% (92–100%). The agreement of the depth dose profiles depended on field size, with lowest pass rates for the smallest MLC field sizes. The average depth dose pass rate was 88% (35–99%). The IDCs showed a Γ(2,1) pass rate of 98%. Statistical process control detected six plans outside tolerance levels in the measurements, all of which could be attributed the measurement setup. Independent dose calculations showed problems in five plans, all due to differences in the algorithm between TPS and IDC. Based on these results changes were made in the class solution for treatment plans.

Conclusion

The first commercially available MC 3D dose IDC was successfully commissioned and validated for the CyberKnife and replaced all routine patient‐specific QA measurements in our clinic.
The variable influence of confession inconsistencies: How factual errors (but not contradictions) reduce belief in suspect guilt
Authors: Holt Glenys A. , Palmer Matthew A.
Published: October 2020

Wrongful conviction statistics suggest that jurors pay little heed to the quality of confession evidence when making verdict decisions. However, recent research indicates that confession inconsistencies may sometimes reduce perception of suspect guilt. Drawing on theoretical frameworks of attribution theory, correspondence bias, and the story model of juror decision‐making, we investigated how judgments about likely guilt are affected by different types of inconsistencies: self‐contradictions (Experiment 1) and factual errors (Experiment 2). Crucially, judgments of likely guilt of the suspect were reduced by factual errors in confession evidence, but not by contradictions. Mediation analyses suggest that this effect of factual errors on judgments of guilt is underpinned by the extent to which mock‐jurors generated a plausible, alternative explanation for why the suspect confessed. These results indicate that not all confession inconsistencies are treated equally; factual errors might cause suspicion about the veracity of the confession, but contradictions do not.