bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terahertz electrometry via infrared spectroscopy of atomic vapor
Authors: Chen Shuying , Reed Dominic J. , MacKellar Andrew R. , Downes Lucy A. , Almuhawish Nourah F. A. , Jamieson Matthew J. , Adams Charles S. , Weatherill Kevin J.
Published: April 2022

In recent years, the characterization of radiation falling within the so-called “terahertz (THz) gap” has become an ever more prominent issue due to the increasing use of THz systems in applications such as nondestructive testing, security screening, telecommunications, and medical diagnostics. THz detection technologies have advanced rapidly, yet traceable calibration of THz radiation remains challenging. In this paper, we demonstrate a system of electrometry in which a THz signal can be characterized using laser spectroscopy of highly excited (Rydberg) atomic states. We report on proof-of-principle measurements that reveal a minimum detectable THz electric field amplitude of

1.07
±
0.06

V

/

m

at 1.06 THz (3 ms detection), corresponding to a THz power at the atomic cell of approximately 3.4 nW. Due to the relative simplicity and cryogen-free nature of this system, it has the potential to provide a route to a SI traceable “atomic candle” for THz calibration across the THz frequency range, and provide an alternative to calorimetric methods.
A retrospective study on the socio-demographic factors and clinical parameters of dengue disease and their effects on the clinical course and recovery of the patients in a tertiary care hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Prattay Kazi Milenur Rahman , Sarkar Md. Raihan , Shafiullah Abu Zar Md. , Islam Md. Saiful , Raihan Sheikh Zahir , Sharmin Nahid
Published: April 2022

Dengue, a mosquito transmitted febrile viral disease, is a serious public health concern in Bangladesh. Despite significant number of incidences and reported deaths each year, there are inadequate number of studies relating the temporal trends of the clinical parameters as well as socio-demographic factors with the clinical course of the disease. Therefore, this study aims to associate the clinical parameters, demographic and behavioral factors of the dengue patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh during the 2019 outbreak of dengue with the clinical course of the disease. Data were collected from the 336 confirmed dengue in-patients and analyzed using SPSS 26.0 software. Majority of the patients were male (2.2 times higher than female) who required longer time to recover compared to females (p < 0.01), urban resident (54.35%) and belonged to the age group of 18–40 years (73.33%). Dengue fever (90.77%) and dengue hemorrhagic fever (5.95%) were reported in most of the dengue patients while fever (98%) was the most frequently observed symptom. A significantly positive association was found between patient’s age and number of manifested symptoms (p = 0.013). Average duration of stay in the hospital was 4.9 days (SD = 1.652) and patient’s recovery time was positively correlated with delayed hospitalization (p < 0.01). Additionally, recovery time was negatively correlated with initial blood pressure (both systolic (p = 0.001, and diastolic (p = 0.023)) and platelet count (p = 0.003) of the patients recorded on the first day of hospitalization. Finally, a statistical model was developed which predicted that, hospital stay could be positively associated with an increasing trend of temperature, systolic blood pressure and reduced platelets count. Findings of this study may be beneficial to better understand the clinical course of the disease, identify the potential risk factors and ensure improved patient management during future dengue outbreaks.
Assessment of environmental contamination with soil-transmitted helminths life stages at school compounds, households and open markets in Jimma Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Tadege Bamlaku , Mekonnen Zeleke , Dana Daniel , Sharew Bizuwarek , Dereje Eden , Loha Eskindir , Verweij Jaco J. , Casaert Stijn , Vlaminck Johnny , Ayana Mio , Levecke Bruno
Published: April 2022

Background

It remains largely unknown where and how infections with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs; Ascaris, Trichuris, Necator and Ancylostoma) occur. We therefore aimed to identify possible sources of infection by assessing the environmental contamination in an STH-endemic area.

Methods

We first performed a series of laboratory experiments designed to optimize a soil straining-flotation method to detect and quantify Ascaris and Trichuris eggs in soil, and to validate the diagnostic performance of the optimized method when followed by microscopy and qPCR. In a second phase, we applied this method to assess the level of STH contamination in 399 environmental samples collected from 10 school compounds, 50 households and 9 open markets in Jimma Town (Ethiopia). Subsequently, we explored associations between the environmental contamination and both the corresponding STH epidemiology at the level of the schools and the household characteristics. Finally, we assessed the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards STHs in school children.

Principal findings

Our soil straining-flotation method has an analytical sensitivity of 50 eggs per 100 grams of soil and egg recovery rate of 36.0% (Ascaris) and 8.0% (Trichuris). The analysis of field samples with both microscopy and qPCR revealed the presence of 8 different helminth species of medical importance, including but not limited to the human STHs. There was a significant association between the environmental contamination and prevalence of any STH infections at the school level only. The KAP indicated a lack of knowledge and awareness of STHs.

Conclusions/Significance

Our optimized straining-flotation method has a moderate diagnostic performance and revealed that life stages of helminths are ubiquitous in the environment, which might be due to the poor sanitary facilities at both the schools and the households, and a poor level of KAP towards STHs. Further research is required to gain more insights into the contribution of these life stages to transmission.
Comparison of different sequencing techniques for identification of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern with multiplex real-time PCR
Authors: Ranasinghe Diyanath , Jayadas Tibutius Thanesh Pramanayagam , Jayathilaka Deshni , Jeewandara Chandima , Dissanayake Osanda , Guruge Dinuka , Ariyaratne Dinuka , Gunasinghe Dumni , Gomes Laksiri , Wijesinghe Ayesha , Wijayamuni Ruwan , Malavige Gathsaurie Neelika
Published: April 2022

As different SARS-CoV-2 variants emerge and with the continuous evolvement of sub lineages of the delta variant, it is crucial that all countries carry out sequencing of at least >1% of their infections, in order to detect emergence of variants with higher transmissibility and with ability to evade immunity. However, due to limited resources as many resource poor countries are unable to sequence adequate number of viruses, we compared to usefulness of a two-step commercially available multiplex real-time PCR assay to detect important single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the variants and compared the sensitivity, accuracy and cost effectiveness of the Illumina sequencing platform and the Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ (ONT) platform. 138/143 (96.5%) identified as the alpha and 36/39 (92.3%) samples identified as the delta variants due to the presence of lineage defining SNPs by the multiplex real time PCR, were assigned to the same lineage by either of the two sequencing platforms. 34/37 of the samples sequenced by ONT had <5% ambiguous bases, while 21/37 samples sequenced using Illumina generated <5%. However, the mean PHRED scores averaged at 32.35 by Illumina reads but 10.78 in ONT. This difference results in a base error probability of 1 in 10 by the ONT and 1 in 1000 for Illumina sequencing platform. Sub-consensus single nucleotide variations (SNV) are highly correlated between both platforms (R2 = 0.79) while indels appear to have a weaker correlation (R2 = 0.13). Although the ONT had a slightly higher error rate compared to the Illumina technology, it achieved higher coverage with a lower number or reads, generated less ambiguous bases and was significantly less expensive than Illumina sequencing technology.
Mandibular full-arch fixed prostheses supported by three-dental-implants: A protocol of an overview of reviews
Authors: Afrashtehfar Kelvin I. , Moawad Rosalin A. , F.-Eddin Afaf W. , Wang Hom-Lay
Published: April 2022

Introduction

To minimize trauma and cost of treatment, oral health practitioners have successfully rehabilitated full arches by supporting the prostheses on four implants. However, there is no consensus whether less than four implants supporting full mandibular arches would provide similar clinical outcomes to other well-established all-on-four alternative.

Objective

To identify, summarize, appraise, and compare the clinical outcomes evidence of three-implant fixed full-arch prostheses in completely edentulous mandibular patients.

Materials and methods

This overview of systematic reviews (OoSRs) will include secondary synthesis studies (i.e., systematic reviews with or without a meta-analysis). A three-step search strategy will be conducted in MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS Core Collection), and Google Scholar. Grey literature and a manual search in 12 specialized journals will also be conducted. Three independent reviewers will screen all retrieved articles for eligibility, extract data and assess the methodological quality of the included studies. The results will be presented as tables or narrative synthesis. The studies will be evaluated for risk of bias by ROBIS and methodology quality by the AMSTAR-2 tool. If new primary studies are identified, a meta-analysis will be conducted. Certainty of the evidence will be assessed to answer the following focused research question: In edentulous mandibular patients, what are the implant and prostheses clinical outcomes of three-implant fixed full-arch prostheses compared to other all-on-x solutions?

Discussion

There are some systematic reviews about the use of fixed complete dental prostheses supported by three implants; however, their clinical outcomes related to the other all-on-four plus solutions are conflicting. So, an overview on this topic is required to provide recommendations.

Review registration number

International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO) ID#:CRD42021262175. National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, United Kingdom.
Perceived risks of COVID-19, attitudes towards preventive guidelines and impact of the lockdown on students in Uganda: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Niba Rawlings Ngwa , Akwah Emmanuela Ambe , Musisi James , Awanchiri Kimonia , Babirye Rachel , Emalieu Diana , Nduhukyire Lawrence , Kakeeto Ronald , Ngongalah Lem
Published: April 2022

Background

This study explored students’ perceptions of COVID-19 risks and preventive measures and assessed the impacts of the national lockdown on students in Uganda.

Methods

A web-based survey was conducted to explore students’ perceived risks of COVID-19 and preventive measures; sources of COVID-19 information and impacts of the lockdown. Both undergraduate and post-graduate students (n = 398) participated in the study. Data were analysed using IBM-SPSS-26.

Results

Students acknowledged COVID-19 as a health risk, and their preventive behaviours were influenced by age, gender, marital status and living situation. Most students followed face mask guidelines but did not comply with lockdown restrictions. Social distancing was not always possible due to overcrowding. Students’ main sources of COVID-19 information were local media (e.g., TV, radio) and social media. Most students (especially females) were unable to access online learning platforms due to poor internet connectivity, high costs and no access to computers. Meanwhile, a majority of those who studied online did not enjoy the experience. Students experienced depression, frustration, stress and anxiety during the lockdown; became less physically active and spent most of their time on social media, sleeping, eating or watching movies. Some students indulged in smoking, drinking alcohol, taking drugs and gambling for their first time, while others did them more often than before.

Conclusion

The increase in sedentary activity, poor mental health and substance use over the lockdown period puts students at risk of health complications and poses a potential threat to the healthcare system. These risks may also negatively impact their future learning and academic potential. Further research is needed to understand the transitional experiences of students between physical and virtual learning, and how they can be supported. There is also a need to ascertain the feasibility of guidelines such as social distancing in developing countries, to increase compliance.
Trajectory-based characteristic analysis and decision modeling of the lane-changing process in intertunnel weaving sections
Authors: Zhao Yi , Wang Zhiqi , Wu Yuxuan , Ma Jianxiao
Published: April 2022

Existing lane-changing models generally neglect the detailed modeling of lane-changing actions and model lane-changing only as an instantaneous event. In this study, an intertunnel weaving section was taken as the background, the lane-changing duration and distance in the lane-changing process were taken as the main research objects. The detailed modeling of a lane-changing action was emphasized. Aerial videos of intertunnel weaving sections were collected, and accurate vehicle trajectory data were extracted. Basic data analysis shows that the lane-changing duration has a lognormal distribution and the lane-changing distance has a normal distribution. To analyze the difference of the lane-changing behavior characteristics in different lane-changing environments, based on the lead spacing and lag spacing in the target lane, a hierarchical clustering algorithm was applied to classify the lane-changing environment into six different types. Then, a deep neural network regression model was applied to model the lane-changing process for each environment type. The results show that the horizontal distribution, vertical distribution and statistical characteristics of the lane changing points under different lane-changing environments are significantly different. The prediction accuracy of the lane-changing distance after classification is improved by at least 61%, and the prediction accuracy of the lane-changing duration after classification is improved by at least 57%. It is also found that lane-changing behavior characteristics with large or small lag spacing are easier to predict, while in the other cases, the randomness of the lane-changing behavior characteristics is more obvious. The research results can be incorporated into lane-changing decision assistance systems and micro traffic simulation models to make the assistance system safer and more effective, and the simulation outputs should be more realistic and accurate.
Mental health disorders among post graduate residents in Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ali Sayed K. , Shah Jasmit , Du Katie , Leekha Nidhi , Talib Zohray
Published: April 2022

Background

Healthcare workers, including residents, are prone to various mental health disorders especially given the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents, particularly, are already under undue stress due to their respective training program demands.

Methods

This cross-sectional, online survey-based study from August to November 2020 collected demographic and mental health measurements from all residents at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi. The questionnaire investigated demographic variables, information regarding direct care of COVID-19 patients, prior history of mental health and mental health outcomes using the Patient Health Questionnaire, Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale, Insomnia Severity Index, Impact of Event Scale–Revised Questionnaire and Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index Questionnaire.

Results

A total of 100 residents completed the survey (participation rate 77.5%). Participants were about equal in gender (women [53%]), with a median age of 31.28 years, and majority were single (66.7%). A total of 66 participants (66%) were directly engaged in COVID-19 care. Depression: 64.3%, anxiety: 51.5%, insomnia: 40.5%, distress: 35.4%, and burnout: 51.0% were reported in all participants. Statistical significance was found in median depression, professional fulfillment and interpersonal disengagement when comparing frontline resident directly involved in care of COVID-19 patient versus second line residents.

Conclusion

Residents directly involved with caring for COVID-19 patients had statistically higher incidences of depression and interpersonal disengagement and lower professional fulfillment compared to second line residents. Keeping in mind the limited resources in sub-Saharan Africa, urgent and geographically specific strategies are needed to help combat mental health disorders in this specific population.
High-resolution structures of malaria parasite actomyosin and actin filaments
Authors: Vahokoski Juha , Calder Lesley J. , Lopez Andrea J. , Molloy Justin E. , Kursula Inari , Rosenthal Peter B.
Published: April 2022

Malaria is responsible for half a million deaths annually and poses a huge economic burden on the developing world. The mosquito-borne parasites (Plasmodium spp.) that cause the disease depend upon an unconventional actomyosin motor for both gliding motility and host cell invasion. The motor system, often referred to as the glideosome complex, remains to be understood in molecular terms and is an attractive target for new drugs that might block the infection pathway. Here, we present the high-resolution structure of the actomyosin motor complex from Plasmodium falciparum. The complex includes the malaria parasite actin filament (PfAct1) complexed with the class XIV myosin motor (PfMyoA) and its two associated light-chains. The high-resolution core structure reveals the PfAct1:PfMyoA interface in atomic detail, while at lower-resolution, we visualize the PfMyoA light-chain binding region, including the essential light chain (PfELC) and the myosin tail interacting protein (PfMTIP). Finally, we report a bare PfAct1 filament structure at improved resolution.
Endoscopia bajo sueño inducido en la apnea obstructiva del sueño (DISE). Estudio comparativo entre las clasificaciones NOHLy VOTE
Authors: Pérez-Martín Nuria , Bosco-Morales Gabriela , Morato-Galán Marta , Hernández-García Estefania , O´Connor-Reina Carlos , Plaza-Mayor Guillermo
Published: April 2022

Introducción y objetivo: Varias clasificaciones han sido propuestas para expresar los resultados de la endoscopia bajo sueño inducido (DISE) en la apnea obstructiva del sueño (AOS), pero ninguna está globalmente aceptada. El objetivo del estudio es analizar las clasificaciones más utilizadas: NOHL y VOTE, para valorar cuál de ellas aporta más ventajas.

Método: Se diseñó un estudio de cohortes prospectivo de 100 pacientes a los que se les realizó una DISE por AOS. Tres otorrinolaringólogos evaluaron de forma ciega los videos de las DISE y codificaron los resultados de acuerdo a las escalas NOHL y VOTE, anotando qué hallazgos determinaban la indicación de cirugía.

Resultados: Según el investigador principal, en un 64% se indicó cirugía de un solo nivel, de estos, el paladar fue el más predominante, en el 26% se indicó cirugía multinivel y en un 10% se desestimó cirugía. La concordancia global para expresar los resultados de la DISE según las escalas NOHL y VOTE, en cuanto al grado de obstrucción es moderada / regular a nivel de la epiglotis (k = 0,467) y baja en el resto de estructuras (k = 0,097).

Discusión: A pesar de que el grado de acuerdo interobservador es similar en ambas escalas, para VOTE es ligeramente superior.

Conclusiones: La DISE es una prueba segura, reproducible y fácil de realizar. Recomendamos el uso de la escala VOTE porque ha demostrado tener un grado de acuerdo interobservador superior, es la escala más utilizada en la literatura y la recomendada en los documentos de consenso.
Manifestaciones laríngeas de la enfermedad relacionada con IgG4. Revisión sistemática
Authors: Bedia-Cadelo Jorge , Morales-Angulo Carmelo
Published: April 2022

Introducción y objetivos: La enfermedad relacionada con IgG4 (ER-IgG4) es un trastorno sistémico autoinmune caracterizado por la infiltración tisular por células plasmáticas positivas para IgG4, aparición de fibrosis y disfunción orgánica. Puede dar afectación a muchos niveles del organismo. El objetivo de este trabajo es identificar las posibles manifestaciones de esta enfermedad a nivel laríngeo. Material y métodos: Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura médica publicada entre 2003 y abril de 2021, en busca de los casos descritos de ER-IgG4 con afectación laríngea. La búsqueda se realizó a través de las bases de datos Pubmed, Web of Science y Scopus. Se seleccionaron 23 casos, todos ellos con demostración histológica de la enfermedad a ese nivel. Resultados: La mayoría de los pacientes eran varones, con edades comprendidas entre los 41 y los 60 años. Las lesiones a nivel de la laringe mayoritarimaente tenían un aspecto pseudotumor. La zona de aparición preferente de estas fue la supraglotis. Con tratamiento corticoideo los pacientes suelen evolucionar favorablemente. Sin embargo, gran parte de estos sufrió importantes retrasos en el diagnóstico, así como cirugías agresivas. Conclusiones: La afectación laríngea es infrecuente en la ER-IgG4. Se debe tener en mente esta entidad ante lesiones pseudotumorales con biopsias negativas para malingnidad, dado que un diagnóstico temprano y un tratamiento adecuado son efectivos para prevenir secuelas importantes a largo plazo.
Fístula traumática de líquido cefalorraquídeo tras realización de test PCR mediante hisopo nasal para el diagnóstico de COVID-19. Revisión sistemática
Authors: Martínez-Ruiz-Coello Maria del Mar , Miranda-Sánchez Estefania , Bosco-Morales Gabriela , García-Chillerón Raimon , Pardo-Maza Adriana , Arenas-Brítez Óscar , Rodríguez-Uribe Tamara , Plaza-Mayor Guillermo
Published: April 2022

Introducción y objetivo: Las fístulas de líquido cefalorraquídeo (LCR) pueden producirse tras un traumatismo, esto conlleva una disrupción entre la aracnoides y la duramadre, frecuentemente asociado a un defecto óseo. La epidemia mundial producida por la COVID-19 ha generado la necesidad de disponer de test rápidos para la detección del virus en mucosa nasal y orofaríngea. Los hisopos nasales (HN) han demostrado ser útiles a la hora de recoger muestras nasofaríngeas y por lo tanto se ha generalizado su uso. Este método diagnostico se considera seguro, pero existen una serie de posibles complicaciones entre las que se encuentra una de las más temidas; la fístula de LCR. El objetivo de este artículo es realizar una revisión bibliográfica exhaustiva de artículos disponibles que describan esta complicación, investigando los factores predisponentes y a su vez describir una técnica segura para evitarla.
Método: Se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos de PubMed, Web of Science y Scopus de acuerdo con las pautas de PRISMA desde marzo de 2020 hasta noviembre de 2021. Se revisaron los estudios que informaron datos clínicos de pacientes con fistulas de LCR tras ser sometidos a frotis nasales mediante hisopos. Nos centramos en los síntomas de alarma presentados, las estrategias diagnosticas y el manejo terapéutico. Resultados: Hasta la fecha se han reportado once casos publicados de pacientes con diagnostico de fistula de LCR segundaria a la realización de test PCR mediante HN. En esta revisión sistemática se incluyen estos artículos. Cada artículo describe esta complicación en un paciente diferente, por lo que en total disponemos de once pacientes. La edad promedio al diagnostico fue de 45 años, siendo 8 mujeres y 3 hombres. La lámina cribosa fue la localización anatómica más frecuentemente afectada. En cinco pacientes (45,5%), se conocía la preexistencia de una malformación a nivel de la base de cráneo, lo cual corresponde un factor de riesgo a la hora de sufrir una fístula de LCR tras HN. Conclusiones: Aunque la prueba de HN para diagnostico de la COVID-19 se considera segura, en ocasiones puede conllevar complicaciones. La aparición de rinorrea clara unilateral o goteo post nasal de sabor salado o metálico tras la realización de un HN nos debe poner en alerta a la hora de diagnosticar una posible fístula de LCR. Es de suma importancia instruir adecuadamente al personal sanitario que realiza el test, indicando la dirección y orientación correcta del hisopo. Además, se debe informar al paciente sobre los síntomas y signos de alarma. En pacientes con alteraciones previas de la base del cráneo, distorsión de la anatomía nasal o cirugías previas nasosinusales puede ser recomendable utilizar en ellos otro tipo de pruebas disponibles para diagnosticar la COVID-19.
revista biomédica tiene una función importante como herramienta docente
Authors: Pardal-Refoyo José Luis
Published: April 2022

La transmisión del conocimiento científico ha evolucionado desde la forma oral y los manuscritos en distintos soportes a la difusión mediante el libro facilitado por la imprenta a partir del siglo XV.
Does land-use affect the temperature distribution across the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, México?
Authors: Castro-Mendoza Itzel , Valdez-Lazalde José René , Donovan Geoffrey , Martínez Trinidad Tomás , Plascencia Escalante Francisca Ofelia , Vázquez Morales Williams
Published: April 2022

A combination of natural (tropical latitudes) and human induced (Climate Change, Urban heat island) conditions give rise and exacerbate extreme hot temperatures, but mechanisms are unclear. Land use and land cover change (LULC) is considered one of the main causes of Urban Heat Island (UHI) but its contribution varies depending on local conditions. This study focuses on determining the influence of land use change on the UHI effect in Tuxtla Gutiérrez City by investigating the relationship between LULC and land surface temperature (LST). Through Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 imagery, this study analyzes historical LST. In 2017, the highest LST (>40 °C) occurred in the metal ceiling land class, which is made up of malls with open-air parking zones. This coverage occupied less than 3% of the total city area. Bare agriculture soil (BAS) class, located mainly on the periphery of the city, represented 11% of the city, and reported a mean LST of 35 °C, followed by asphalt roads with 34 °C and concrete ceiling with 32 °C. The lowest LST (< 28 °C), occurred in contiguous areas of trees greater than 3 ha. The LST variation when land use changed from trees to another coverage (1.3 to 3.1 °C) is higher than in the opposite direction (0.1 to 1.2 °C). The elimination or replacement of tress with impervious surfaces are the main causes for LST increase in Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
Financiarización subordinada. El mercado hipotecario de la vivienda social en México
Authors: Salinas Arreortua Luis Alberto
Published: April 2022

La inserción de las economías subdesarrolladas al proceso global de financiarización se ha realizado en un contexto de dependencia, cuyas diferencias se discuten bajo el concepto de financiarización subordinada. En este escenario, se analiza el proceso de titulización a partir de la emisión de bonos respaldados por hipoteca emitidos por los fondos públicos de vivienda en México, lo cual ha dinamizado el mercado inmobiliario de vivienda social. A partir de la revisión de los informes financieros sobre los certificados bursátiles (CEDEVIS y TFOVIS), se establece que la venta de deuda hipotecaria ha servido para poder otorgar más créditos hipotecarios a los derechohabientes, lo que forma parte de la subsidiaridad estatal que respalda al sector inmobiliario privado, situación que caracterizó la política de construcción masiva de las últimas dos décadas.
Reconstrucción dendrogeomorfológica de procesos de remoción en masa y lahares en las Barrancas Seca y Ojo Salado, Pico de Orizaba, México
Authors: Vázquez-Ríos Mireya , Franco-Ramos Osvaldo
Published: April 2022

El análisis de los anillos de crecimiento de árboles se ha usado para reconstruir espacial y temporalmente procesos geomorfológicos del pasado reciente en diferentes ambientes. Los árboles, han demostrado ser una fuente confiable de información en sitios de difícil acceso donde los datos son escasos o nulos, como en el caso de varias barrancas volcánicas del centro de México. Esta investigación se realizó en las barrancas Seca y Ojo Salado localizadas al noreste del volcán Pico de Orizaba, donde se analizaron procesos de remoción en masa (deslizamientos y caída de rocas) y lahares a partir de muestras de tres coníferas: Pinus hartwegii, Pinus patula y Abies religiosa. El número de disturbios en los árboles por procesos de remoción en masa fue 29 y los más comunes fueron: cicatrices de impacto (45%) y Filas Tangenciales de Ductos de Resina Traumáticos o TRD (21%). En el caso de los lahares, el total de disturbios fue 70, y los más frecuentes fueron: TRD (61%) y cicatrices de impacto (20%). La reconstrucción de procesos geomorfológicos se realizó de 1983 al 2018 en los sectores A y B. En el sector A se dataron 11 eventos por caída de rocas y en el sector B se identificaron 6 procesos de remoción en masa y 11 lahares. Los datos históricos de huracanes y tormentas tropicales, permitieron identificar los posibles detonadores de los procesos geomorfológicos estudiados. Los resultados obtenidos en esta investigación, aportan información que puede ser relevante para la gestión del Parque Nacional el Pico de Orizaba.
Humboldt, von A. (2019 y 2021), Escritos 1789-1859 editados por primera vez
Authors: Olivares Sandoval Omar
Published: April 2022

Edición de Oliver Lubrich y Thomas Nehrlich, traducción de José Aníbal Campos, Laura Cecilia Nicolás y Orestes Sandoval, México: Herder, AvH, Goethe Institut. 2 vols. Vol. I. 640 pp., ISBN 978-607-7727-82-8 Vol. II. 648 pp., ISBN 978-607-7727-84-2
De la Torre de Lara, O. A. (2019). Maíz, autonomía y territorio. Dimensión constituyente de derechos humanos en México
Authors: Jacobo-Marín Daniel
Published: April 2022

México: Akal. 480 pp. ISBN: 978-607-8683-02-4
Navigating the Unknown Treasures of Guangzhou, China: Ghanaian Traders' Networks and Strategies
Authors:   University of Ghana, Obeng Mark Kwaku Mensah
Published: April 2022

Using multiple ethnographic methodologies spanning a period of 13 months and collecting data across borders, this paper suggests that African importers' participation in the burgeoning economy of China is more nuanced than previously reported. It argues that approaches, motives and strategies employed by these importers are subject to their trading capacities such as the size of capital, trading experiences and locations of their imports. For instance, whereas experienced large-scale traders procure the services of visa agents for convenient purposes, the small-scale trader's need the â€˜visa agents to be able to undertake their business in China.
Migration of Pastoralists in Africa: Reflections on Practical and Policy Implications
Authors:   Benue State University, Adzande Patience
Published: April 2022

In recent years, there has been increased migration of pastoralists from countries in Central and West Africa into Nigeria. Such movements are supported by the ECOWAS Transhumance Protocol and the Nigerian Constitution respectively. The movement of pastoralists has been associated with multi-dimensional practical and policy implications. This paper reflects on the policy implications of the migration of pastoralists across and within the borders of Nigeria and presents pointers to the areas for future policy intervention and research. The paper relied on existing policies like the ECOWAS Transhumance Protocol, the Nigerian Constitution and the Open Grazing Prohibition Law enacted by the Benue State government to draw inferences about the relevance and effectiveness of such laws in Nigeria. Interviews with farmers and pastoralists were conducted in 2017 to augment the policy analysis. The paper reports that the provisions of the ECOWAS Transhumance Protocol, like the possession of the International Transhumance Certificate as a mandatory entry requirement, have not been implemented in Nigeria.
Experiences of Female Migrants in the Informal Sector Businesses in the Cape Coast Metropolis: Is Target 8.8 of the SDG 8 Achievable in Ghana?
Authors:   University of Cape Coast, Achana Fabian Sebastian , Tanle Augustine ,   University of Cape Coast
Published: April 2022

Situated within the neoclassical micro-economic and migration networks theories, this study used in-depth interviews to explore the circumstances, lived experiences, risk and vulnerabilities of female migrants in selected informal sector businesses in the Cape Coast Metropolis of Ghana. The data was processed and analyzed thematically using the QSR Nvivo qualitative software version 11. Participants reported varied and complex lived experiences. Poverty, the search for employment, parental irresponsibility and marital instability were the dominant explanations for their decisions to migrate. Most participants intimated that their health and economic rights were often violated, that they endured verbal abuse, physical injury, sexual harassment, and were compelled to work even when sick. Their daily or monthly earnings were at the mercy of their employers, and their work, living and sleeping environments were unsafe. Considering that these findings reflect what generally prevails in other parts of the country, Ghana is unlikely to achieve Target 8.8 of the Sustainable Development Goal 8. There is therefore an urgent need to enforce the relevant laws and policies to protect the fundamental human rights, safety, health and well-being of females in these and similar livelihood activities in Ghana.
Is Voluntary Repatriation the Preferred Durable Solution? The View of Refugees in South Africa
Authors:   University of Cape Town, Khan Fatima
Published: April 2022

Voluntary repatriation as the preferred durable solution for refugees has attracted much scholarly attention and the existing literature highlights the complexities of the process. This paper attempts to answer the question of when return can be considered as truly voluntary and preferred. To answer this question, the paper considers reasons offered by refugees themselves. The percentage of voluntary repatriation applications by refugees living in South Africa is low in relation to the number of refugees living in the country. However, reasons why refugees might choose to repatriate are still worthy of interrogation if we are to truly establish whether it is a preferred solution. Refugeesâ€™ answers illustrate that they are not always completely free to make choices. They may indicate consent, but consent does not necessarily indicate a preference. This paper incorporates a study which reveals that refugees choosing to repatriate from South Africa are indeed very small in number, despite the vigorous attempts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) at promoting voluntary repatriation. It further reveals that this can be partly attributed to the fact that in an urban setting such as South Africa with a rights-based framework, refugees are often able to better integrate into their host society without the direct assistance of the UNHCR as they would do in a camp-based setting. As such, assumptions that voluntary repatriation is a preferred durable solution for all refugees, need to be interrogated.
European Immigrants in Johannesburg: Perceptions, Privileges and their Implications for Migration Experiences
Authors:   African Centre for Migration and Society, Last Tamara , Jones Terry-Ann ,   Lehigh University
Published: April 2022

This paper presents qualitative data from two independent studies on South African attitudes towards immigrants and European immigration to South Africa, respectively. The data demonstrate that many South Africans perceive Europeans to be unproblematic and even contribute to the country, and that European immigrants in Johannesburg enjoy a privileged experience of immigration, especially as compared to their African counterparts. The visible outcomes of European privileges such as international mobility and access to resources accumulated in and by European states, contextualised in experiences and legacies of the Apartheid regime, are reflected in perceptions of European immigrants in South Africa. Moreover, perceptions of European immigrants shape their privileged experience and enable their social mobility in a deeply segregated country by exempting them from migration politics and xenophobia and facilitating their economic integration.
Spontaneous Multivessel Coronary Spasm During Diagnostic Coronary Angiography
Authors: Damera Ramses Ramirez , Ijlal Khan Muhammad , Oliynyk Volodymyr , Javaid Aamir
Published: April 2022

Acute vasospastic angina, formerly known as Prinzmetal angina, is characterized by transient electrocardiographic changes that are not related to exertion. Its atypical presentation makes it difficult to establish the diagnosis, so it is probably underrecognized and therefore mismanaged. We treated a 49-year-old woman who presented with a 2-day history of chest pain associated with palpitations. Abnormal radionuclide stress test results prompted diagnostic coronary angiography, during which the patient reported chest pain and became hemodynamically unstable. Active coronary vasospasm at multiple sites was treated with intracoronary nitroglycerin and nicardipine, leading to immediate recovery.

Our case highlights the importance of accurate, timely diagnosis of vasospastic angina, and of early recognition and management of spontaneous coronary spasm during angiography.
Resistance screening of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata Poir.) accessions against Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White, 1919) Chitwood, 1949 using yam vines
Authors: ADOMAKO Josep , OTOO Emmanuel , DANSO Yaw , ALHASSAN David Kwadwo , ADEBOLA Patrick , ASFAW Asrat
Published: April 2022

Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) is an economically important phytoparasitic nematode species. In yam production, therefore, breeding for nematode resistance is an important environmentally friendly tool to manage root-knot nematodes damage. The aim of this study was to determine the reaction of 18 yam accessions to M. incognita inoculation under screen house conditions using single node vine cuttings. Vines of each accession were planted in sterilized soil and inoculated with 1000 infective juveniles of M. incognita. Resistance level of yam accessions were based on both galling index score and reproductive factor. There were a significant differences in final infective stage nematodes population, galling index, reproduction factor and yield of mini tuber among the accessions tested. Sixteen (89 %) of the accessions showed moderate resistance (GI ≥ 2, Rf ≤ 1) to the test pathogen with two accessions classified as susceptible. Accession TDr1515OP16/0030 recorded the highest mini tuber yield mass of 19.4 g, which was 74 % higher than accession ‘TDr1515OP16/0108’ which recorded the lowest yield of 10.4 g. The moderately resistant accessions identified in the study can be utilized to reduce nematodes reproduction and help manage root-knot nematode in yam production.
Effect of different grain spawn materials on Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm. mushroom cultivation under unregulated and regulated fruiting conditions
Authors: BANDURA Iryna , MAKOHON Serhii , TSYZ Oleksandr , IVANOVA Iryna , KHAREBA Olena , KHAREBA Volodymyr , SERDYUK Maryna , BISKO Nina , KULYK Alina , ISIKHUEMHEN Omoanghe S. , CHAUSOV Serhii
Published: April 2022

Quality spawn, which is also dependent on grain composition, is a critical factor that must be optimized to achieve successful and profitable mushroom farming. The characteristics of grain spawn composition (Factor A) and two microclimatic fruiting conditions (Factor B) were studied in the cultivation of Pleurotus ostreatus. Eight different grain material combinations (GMC1-8) made from wheat, barley, oat, and millet were used to prepare spawn and tested for mushroom cultivation under unregulated and regulated fruiting conditions. The physicochemical characteristics of the different grain spawn, substrate, time to attain the first flush, and BE (biological efficiency) in the different GMCs under the two fruiting conditions were determined. The differences in nutrient compositions of the GMCs tested did not result in a significant difference in the nutrient composition of the cultivation substrate. GMCs containing barley and oat gave BE values that were not significantly different under the two microclimatic conditions tested. GMCs containing 100 % wheat and millet resulted in the poorest BE recorded. However, equal combination of wheat, barley, and oat (GMC8) gave the best results among GMCs tested. Furthermore, it is more cost-efficient to use the GMC8 combinations since wheat is cheaper than all other grains tested.
Production and bromatological analysis of the oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. ex Fr.) P.Kumm.) grown with cocoa, banana, coconut and African palm husk substrates
Authors: LINDAO-PÉREZ Jocelyn Daniela , CEDEÑO Alex Jacinto Roca , VILLAMAR-TORRES Ronald Oswaldo , ZAPATIER SANTILLÁN Aurelio David , MERA-PÉREZ Helen Alisson , JAZAYERI Seyed Mehdi
Published: April 2022

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. ex Fr.) P.Kumm. (1871) is a rich food source. It is cultivated on compost and plant waste material. Choosing adequate substrate is essential for oyster production as the substrate can change oyster production in terms of mass and metabolite composition. The different medium substrates for oyster production including T1 (PDA, potato-dextrose-agar), T2 (CCA: PDA + Cocoa Shell), T3 (APR: PDA + African Palm Rachis), T4 (BP: PDA + Banana Peel), T5 (CCO: PDA + Coconut Peel) were used. Based on mycelial diameter, CCO treatment was the best treatment with growth measures of 66.83 mm at 168 hours. CCA treatment with 164.13 g kg-1 yield had the highest production that was significantly different from other treatments. For APR treatment, trace production was observed. The bromatological analysis determined that the highest levels of crude total protein were obtained in CCO treatment (30.08 %) while CCA treatment exceeded significantly dry matter (94.05 %), ethereal extract (6.52 %), crude fiber (12.34 %), non-nitrogen matter (56.15 %) and titratable acidity (3.32 %). The substrates with more lignocellulosic compounds like banana and coconut residues are better for producing oyster with a higher percentage of total protein, while substrates that retain moisture like cocoa residues lead to an excellent production. It is recommended to keep fibrous residues moist constantly when they are used in oyster production because of their low absorbent capacity as they quickly lose moisture.
Preliminary research on seed yield and nutritional traits of desi chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) grown in Central Italy in spring sowing
Authors: CASINI Paolo
Published: April 2022

In Italy, chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivation of the kabuli type is predominant, with local landraces of the desi type, including the Apulian black chickpea, occurring almost exclusively in the south. However, increasing interest in the desi type on the part of farmers and consumers is based on the nutritional properties constituting a niche area in the market health sector. Information pertaining to both field evaluation of desi chickpea in Central Italy and the chemical composition is scarce. Therefore, the aim of this preliminary research was to evaluate the agronomic performance to the agroclimatic environment of Central Italy of thirteen lines of desi chickpea accessions of different origins, as well as the ‘Apulian Black Chickpea’ (ABC). Accessions were sown on March 21 in 2019, without the use of irrigation. The principle qualitative characteristics, namely protein content and raw fiber were determined. Yield was excellent for 57 % of the accessions, some of which exceeded 3.0 t ha-1 with the maximum value of 4.1 t ha-1 recorded for ‘PI598080’ (brown seeds of Indian origin). ‘W617611’ (black seeds of Turkish origin) was the earliest flowering line at 74 days after sowing, permitting this accession to escape the onset of drought and high temperatures. Additional early flowering lines included ‘PI533676’ (black seeds of Ukrainian origin) and ‘PI567850’ (black seeds of Pakistani origin), respectively. Plant structure relating to the average height of the plants (47.0 cm), the height of the first pod (30.8 cm) and the number of branches per plant (2.6) rendered most accessions suitable to combine harvesting, an indispensable prerequisite in the maintenance of an economically sustainable crop. The average protein content was 22.7 % with maximum values exceeding 24 % (‘PI572520’ - black seeds of Syrian origin -, ‘W617614’ - black seeds of Turkish origin - and ‘PI572850’). The fiber content was very heterogeneous ranging from 4.6 % to 12.0 %.The present study provides the basis towards the future introduction of desi chickpea in Central Italy, with the potential for sustainable yield and quality.
Morphological and molecular characterization and new distributional record of Tetrastichus miser (Nees, 1834) (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae) from Kashmir
Authors: RASOOL Ajaz , GANAI Bashir A. , SANTHOSH Shreevihar , AHMAD Tariq
Published: April 2022

Tetrastichus miser (Nees, 1834) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae: Tetrastichinae) is a parasitoid of Curculioninae and Scolytinae infesting various trees of economic importance. In the present study, it was collected from dried Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G. Don (Pinaceae) infested with Scolytus beetles using sweep net and aspirator. The species is reported first time from Kashmir valley. Identification of a parasitoid is of paramount significance for studying its behavior, ecology, life cycle and usage in various biological control programmes. In addition to morphological description, molecular analysis using Cytochrome C Oxidase Subunit I was carried out to complement morphotaxonomy and to facilitate its easier identification for future studies. Phylogenetic analysis by Bayesian inference (BI) and Maximum Likelihood (ML) method  showed Isolates of Tetrastichusmiser species clustering in same clade and separated from its closest match Tetrastichinae sp.Inter-specific divergence between Tetrastichusmiser and Tetrastichinae sp. was evident and ranged from 0.09 to 0.10 % (0.05 % mean). No overlap was observed between maximum distance within species and minimum distance between species.
Evaluation of biocidal activity of four Lamiaceae leaves on the black bean aphid Aphis fabae Scopoli, 1763 (Homoptera: Aphididae)
Authors: BOUABIDA Nadia , BENOUFELLA-KITOUS Karima , AIT AMAR Samia , MEDJDOUB-BENSAAD Ferroudja , GRAICHE Farid
Published: April 2022

The objective of our work was the valorisation of four aromatic plants growing spontaneously in Kabylia (Algeria) by the evaluation of their insecticidal activity against the black bean aphid Aphis fabae Scopoli, 1763. These are oregano, thyme, rosemary and lavender. The plants were subjected to a phytochemical analysis to determine their secondary metabolites composition. The results obtained showed that the four extracts are toxic to A. fabae and can significantly reduce its populations. LD50s of 7.76 %; 8.91 %; 9.72 % and 12.88 % were recorded for extracts of oregano, rosemary, thyme and lavender respectively. In addition, the phytochemical screening shows the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins and polyphenols. The polyphenols extraction indicates that the oregano extract is the richest with a polyphenol content of 218.73 (± 0.22) µg GAE ml-1. This substance has significant biocidal power.