bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of Neutron Flux at Thermal Column Using Gold Foil Activation Analysis and TLD Detector: Technical Review
Authors: Safwan Shalbi  , Norazlianie Sazali  , Wan Norharyati Wan Salleh
Published: June 2021

The thermal column at the TRIGA PUSPATI (RTP) research reactor can produce thermal neutron. However, the optimization on the thermal neutron flux produced should be performed to gain a sufficient thermal neutron for boron neutron capture therapy purpose. Thus, the objective of this review is to optimize the thermal neutron flux by designing the collimator with different materials at the thermal column. In order to fulfil the requirement, set by the IAEA standard, the study of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) around the world was being reviewed to study the suitable measurement, material, design, and modification for BNCT at the thermal column of TRIGA MARK-II, Malaysia. Initially, the BNCT mechanisms and history was review. Then, this paper review on the design and modifications for BNCT purpose around the world. Based on this review, suitable material and design can be used for the BNCT in Malaysia. Moreover, this paper also reviews the current status of BNCT at the RTP with the measurement of the thermal neutron flux was conducted along the thermal column at 250 kW. The thermal column of RTP was divided into 3 phases (Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3) so that an accurate measurement can be obtained by using gold foil activation method. This value was used as a benchmark for the neutron flux produced from the thermal column. The reviewed demonstrated that the final thermal neutron flux produced was significantly for BNCT purpose.
Železnodobni stolp na Ostrem vrhu in severne kraške zapore
Authors: Teržan Biba , Turk Peter
Published: June 2021

Niz kamnitih gomil na severnem kraškem robu je C. Marchesetti v začetku 20. stoletja razložil kot bronastodobne grobne gomile. S. Gabrovec jih je vključil v kaštelirsko kulturo srednje bronaste dobe in jih primerjal s podobnimi is- trskimi grobnimi gomilami. Zaščitna izkopavanja gomile na Ostrem vrhu so l. 1992 razkrila ovalno zgradbo premera 11 m, grajeno v suhozidni tehniki. Obodni zid je bil širok med 1,5 in 2,5 m, v višino pa je bil ohranjen do 1,9 m. V zidu so se ohranile zunanje in notranje niše za nosilne lesene tramove, kar kaže na leseno nadgradnjo kamnite zgradbe, verjetno stolpa. Jama za nosilni tram v osrednjem delu stolpa dokazuje, da je bil tudi nadstrešen. Niz radiokarbonskih datacij kaže na mlajšehalštatsko starost izgradnje in uporabe stolpa. Verjetno je bila vzdolž severnega kraškega roba zgrajena vrsta stolpov, ki so bili skupaj z nizom manjših, močno utrjenih gradišč namenjeni nadzoru dostopa in obrambi ozemlja centralnih gradišč kraške kulturne skupine med 6. in 4. st. pr. n. št.
Deschmann’s pile-dwelling sites near Ig and the cultural-chronological attribution of the Late Copper Age Ljubljana culture
Authors: Leghissa Elena
Published: June 2021

The contribution presents the results of a comprehensive study of the Late Copper Age Deschmann’s pile-dwelling sites near Ig in the Ljubljansko barje, central Slovenia. It opens with a history of research and goes on to tackle the main topics associated with the cultural attribution of the sites. A re-examination of the recovered pottery and available archival records, coupled with a new typological and chronological analysis of the small finds has enabled a cultural and chronological redefinition of the Ljubljana culture and its characteristic pottery. In addition to the typical vessel forms, usually decorated with whipped-cord impressions, the newly-defined Ljubljana culture includes common ware that reveals influences primarily from the Somogyvár-Vinkovci culture in the Carpathian Basin. Some of the vessels of the Ljubljana culture also follow the tradition of the Vučedol culture, while others reflect the influences and maybe contacts with the Corded Ware, Globular Amphora and Bell Beaker cultures.
Živalske fibule zgodnjelatenske sheme: novoodkriti primerki iz delavnic svetolucijske skupine
Authors: Nanut Tina
Published: June 2021

Nove primerke živalskih fibul zgodnjelatenske sheme, ki so v prispevku podrobneje obravnavani, je glede na obliko osnovne sheme in značilen okras mogoče opredeliti kot samostojno vrsto. Ta je v okviru latenskih živalskih fibul iz Posočja ena izmed zgodnejših, datirana je v zadnjo stopnjo svetolucijske kulture (Sv. Lucija IIc). Po vzoru sočasnih južnoalpskih fibul zgodnjelatenske sheme z visokim lokom so jo razvile delavnice svetolucijske skupine, ki so prevzeto obliko obogatile z okrasom, značilnim za lokalne delavnice mlajšega halštatskega obdobja.
Women, Sheep, and Textiles: The social significance of ram’s head beads in Early Iron Age Slovenia
Authors: C. Frie Adrienne
Published: June 2021

Ram’s head beads are well-known items of personal adornment in the Dolenjska Hallstatt cultural group. Recent analysis has demonstrated that they are the most common zoomorphic artefacts in this region with 187 currently known. This article updates the list of known beads and contextualizes their significance in the Dolenjska Hallstatt cultural group. It is argued that the sheep imagery of these beads and their distribution in female graves is related to local textile production. It is proposed that beads signalled aspects of personal and economic identity for Dolenjska Hallstatt women related to the production of high-quality textiles. In addition, the distribution of these beads demonstrates Iron Age community networks on the western frontier of Dolenjska, and perhaps even reflects the movement of women between communities.
Die Gründe von Straßenerneuerungen im Spiegel lateinischer Inschriften auf Meilensteinen
Authors: Ehmig Ulrike
Published: June 2021

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Cerklje ob Krki: novosti v poselitvi Dolenjske v zgodnjem srednjem veku
Authors: Pavlovič Daša , Vojaković Petra , Toškan Borut
Published: June 2021

Cerklje ob krki je najdišče z najstarejšimi ostanki zgodnjeslovanske poselitve na Dolenjskem. Analize lončenine in radiokarbonskih datacij so nakazale dve fazi poselitve, prvo v 6. st. in v prvi polovici 7., drugo med sredino 10. in sredino 12. st. Tri pridobljene radiokarbonske datacije nakazujejo naselitev Slovanov v dolino krke v času med letoma 585 in 660, verjetno povezano z odselitvijo langobardov v Italijo leta 568 in prihodom Avarov v Panonsko nižino. najdbe kosti visokoraslega goveda italskega porekla morda kažejo na roparske pohode na ozemlje pod upravo Bizanca, ki jih omenjajo pisni viri. četrta radiokarbonska datacija in lončenina praškega tipa z arhaičnimi ustji pa dopuščata možnost, da so manjše skupine Slovanov tu bivale pred sredino 6. st., kar povezujemo z možnim angažmajem Slovanov pri varovanju meje vzhodnorimskega cesarstva ali pri pohodih bizantinske vojske z območij južne Donave proti Italiji, v katerih so služili kot najemniški vojaki. Mlajšo fazo poselitve v Cerkljah povezujemo z agrarnim zaledjem gospostva Starega gradu v Podbočju.
Notranjsko-kraška halštatska skupina
Authors: Teržan Biba
Published: June 2021

notranjsko-kraška skupina se na osnovi vseh dosedanjih arheoloških raziskav, zlasti najnovejših (arheološka izkopavanja, lidarska snemanja s terenskimi preverjanji), kaže kot izredno kompleksno strukturirana socialna tvorba, kar zadeva tako značilnosti njene poselitve kot družbeno sfero. Svojo vlogo so zagotovo igrale geografska razgibanost prostora in naravne danosti za poselitev, kot so na eni strani notranjska polja in podolja s svojimi obrobji ter na drugi strani Kraška planota, kar je pogojevalo boljšo ali slabšo povezanost posameznih lokalnih skupnosti v okviru celotne kulturne skupine. novejše raziskave so pokazale, da so bile skupnosti teritorialno dobro organizirane in so svoj teritorij nadzorovale in varovale, kar najbolj jasno nakazujejo obrambne zapore na severnem kraškem robu. Glede na različnost v načinu pokopavanja ter na specifičnosti v nošnji/nakitu pridejo do izraza tudi druge fasete njene identitete, njene družbene strukturiranosti. Po samosvojem kulturnem izrazu se jasno razlikuje od sosednjih kulturnih skupin.
Notranjska v pozni bronasti in starejši železni dobi
Authors: BAVDEK Alma
Published: June 2021

Prispevek v uvodnem delu prinaša pregled zgodovine raziskav prazgodovinskih najdišč na Notranjskem. V nadalje- vanju so predstavljene tri arheološke lokacije, ki dobro zaobjamejo pozno bronasto in starejšo železno dobo notranjske halštatske skupnosti. Strateško pozicijo v sklopu Postojnskih vrat je imela v pozni bronasti dobi ali morda še nekoliko prej naselbina na Soviču nad Postojno. Naselbina na Cvingerju pri Dolenji vasi pri Cerknici je verjetno nastala med 10. in 9. st. pr. n. št. nad ponikalnico Velika Karlovica na obrobju Cerkniškega jezera. Prispevek se zaključi s predstavitvijo najdišča na Trnovem pri Ilirski Bistrici, kjer je bilo leta 1978 raziskano grobišče. Predstavljeni so grobovi, ki nakazujejo časovni okvir pokopovanja med 9. in 6. st. pr. n. št.
Naselbina na Soviču nad Postojno iz bronaste in železne dobe
Authors: Omahen Gruškovnjak Manca
Published: June 2021

V prispevku predstavljamo rezultate arheoloških raziskav, ki so v letih 2016, 2017 in 2020 potekale na najdišču Sovič nad Postojno, že znano prazgodovinsko in rimsko naselbino. Pri tem so bili odkriti naselbinski ostanki iz bronaste in starejše železne dobe, poznega latena, rimskega obdobja in novega veka.

Prispevek se osredotoča na najdbe iz bronaste in starejše železne dobe. najstarejše najdbe segajo v čas srednje bro- naste dobe, najmlajše pa na konec starejše železne dobe. Lončenina kaže na povezave s severovzhodno Italijo, zahodno Slovenijo in Istro, pa tudi z Ljubljansko kotlino.
Ulaka nad Starim trgom pri Ložu v starejši železni dobi
Authors: Laharnar Boštjan , Murgelj Ida
Published: June 2021

članku obravnavamo skupino predmetov iz starejše železne dobe, ki so jih v devetdesetih letih 20. stoletja nestro- kovno izkopali na območju Ulake nad Starim trgom pri Ložu. Predmeti so bili grobni pridatki in del jih izvira iz dekli- škega skeletnega groba. Datacijo v starejšo železno dobo nakazujejo v prvi vrsti fibule – čolničasta, kačasta in certoške. Grobovi in posamične najdbe z območja naselbine nakazujejo, da je bilo v starejši železni dobi na Ulaki gradišče, ki je verjetno po zatonu Križne gore prevzelo vodilno vlogo v Loški dolini.
Gradišča vzdolž gornjega toka Reke
Authors: Vidojević Tanja
Published: June 2021

V članku je na podlagi arheoloških najdišč, objavljenih v strokovni in poljudni literaturi, ter lidarskih posnetkov ne- katerih gradišč predstavljena poselitvena slika doline Reke in Zgornje Pivke, Podgrajskega podolja in Brkinov v železni dobi. Z ovrednotenjem lidarskih posnetkov in topografskih pregledov terena so na novo opisana gradišča: Gradišče/ Trnovo in Stražica nad Ilirsko Bistrico, Sv. Ahac nad jasenom pri Ilirski Bistrici in Sv. Katarina pri jelšanah. Na osnovi novih podatkov o posameznih gradiščih ter kronoloških pokazateljev materialne kulture so kartirana vsa gradišča in predstavljena okvirna poselitvena in komunikacijska mreža za obravnavano območje v pozni prazgodovini.
Gradišča Komenskega Krasa v starejši železni dobi
Authors: BRATINA Patricija
Published: June 2021

Prispevek prinaša nova spoznanja o poselitvi Komenskega Krasa v starejši železni dobi. Podrobneje so obravnavana tri v arheološki literaturi že znana najdišča, to so Tomaj, Štanjel in Zagrajec, kjer so bile v zadnjih desetletjih izvedene arheološke raziskave v povezavi z gradbenimi in kmetijskimi posegi na najdišču. Članek podaja preliminarne ugotovitve teh raziskav in izbor železnodobnega gradiva iz sočasnih gradišč na Komenskem Krasu: z Gradine pri Brestovici in z Debele griže pri Volčjem Gradu.
Naselbinska keramika starejše železne dobe na Krasu
Authors: Vinazza Manca
Published: June 2021

V prispevku je obravnavano keramično gradivo s treh gradišč starejše železne dobe, kjer so potekale raziskave zadnjih trideset let in ki pomenijo izhodišče za vzpostavitev kronološke slike naselbinske keramike na Krasu. Poleg stratigrafskih podatkov predstavljamo ugotovitve makroskopske analize tehnologije keramike in primerjalne študije najdb z drugimi sočasnimi najdišči na prostoru Caput Adriae. Vzpostavljena kronološka slika naselbinske keramike je prvi tovrsten poskus pregleda keramike za obravnavani prostor.
Bogovom vojne
Authors: Guštin Mitja , Božič Dragan
Published: June 2021

V brezno Mušje jame pri Škocjanu na Krasu so v okviru kultnih obredov metali najmanj štiri stoletja bronasto orožje, zaščitno bojno opremo, posode in drugo. Ob prenehanju teh obredov na območju Škocjana so se v zaledju Caput Adriae pojavili posebni depoji vrste Tržišče-Porpetto z železnim orožjem, med katerim prevladujejo sulične osti. Razlikovati je mogoče med starejšo in mlajšo skupino teh depojev, ki se ločita tudi po sestavi in razprostranjenosti.

Za starejšo skupino, ki jo zasledimo v Istri, na Krasu in na Notranjskem, je značilno, da so v depojih zastopane tudi še maloštevilne bronaste sulične osti in sekire, med železnim orožjem pa so poleg suličnih osti in sekir tudi kratki ukri- vljeni meči – mahaire. V dveh depojih so bile pridane tudi čelada in tri konjske brzde. Ta skupina je datirana v obdobje med koncem 8. in sredino 6. st. pr. n. št.

Mlajšo skupino depojev najdemo v Posočju in Furlaniji. V njih ni več bronastega orožja in mahair, pač pa nove oblike železnega orožja (sekire z enostranskimi plavutmi, uhata sekira, železno bodalo) in konjske opreme (brzda z železnima psalijama U-oblike). Zakopani so bili v drugi polovici 6. oziroma v 4. st. pr. n. št.
Istra kroz željezno doba
Authors: Mihovilić Kristina
Published: June 2021

[Istra v železni dobi]

Predstavljen je kratek pregled arheoloških raziskav železne dobe v Istri, od začetkov v 19. stoletju do najnovejših arheoloških izkopavanj. Ob tem je poudarjen doprinos prof. Staneta Gabrovca k poznavanju istrske železne dobe, ki ga je prispeval z raziskavami, zgledom in spodbudami svojim študentom na Filozofski fakulteti Univerze v ljubljani. Sledi prikaz kronološke sheme za istrsko kulturno skupino, njen kulturni razvoj je razčlenjen na šest časovnih stopenj (I–VI). Značilno je, da se v pogrebnem obredju obdrži sežiganje umrlih od začetkov v 12. st. pr. n. št. (Istra I) pa vse do rimskega podjarmljenja konec 3. oz. na začetku 2. st. pr. n. št. (Istra VIa). Čeprav se v kulturnem razvoju nakazuje kontinuiteta, je v materialni kulturi posameznih kronoloških stopenj zaslediti spremembe. Na eni strani odsevajo stike Istre z drugimi kraji, ki so bili osnovani predvsem na pomorsko-trgovskih povezavah, na drugi kulturne vplive sosednjih in tudi bolj oddaljenih ekspanzivnih kulturnih skupin na Apeninskem polotoku (Piceni, Etruščani) in v severnojadranskem zaledju (Bologna, Este) ter jugovzhodnih Alpah (svetolucijska in dolenjska kulturna skupina). K boljšemu poznavanju istrske skupine v železni dobi so pripomogla nova odkritja izredno dobro ohranjenih naselbinskih ostalin in grobov v Pulju, Rovinju, Bermu in na Sv. Martinu nad limskim zalivom in Monbrodu ter lesena šivana ladja pri Zambratiji, radiokarbonsko datirana v čas 1120–930 pr. n. št.
Psychological distress, challenges and perceived needs among doctors and nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, in a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Alles P. S. , Rohanachandra Y. M. , Amarakoon L. , Prathapan S.
Published: June 2021

Background: Studies done around the world since the onset of the pandemic have shown high levels of psychological morbidity among healthcare workers (HCW). Psychological impact of COVID-19 on HCW in Sri Lanka has not been assessed.

Objectives: To assess the psychological distress, challenges and perceived needs among healthcare workers (HCW) during COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka

Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was done among 394 HCW. A specifically designed questionnaire was used to assess socio-demographic details and challenges faced by HCW. Depression, anxiety stress scale (DASS-21) was used to measure psychological impact.

Results: Anxiety was the commonest psychological squeal. High levels of anxiety were present in 15.7% and in 4.8% the anxiety was severe. High levels of depression were seen in 13.9%, with 4.3% showing severe symptoms. Elevated stress was seen in 11.4% with 2.6% experiencing severe stress. Females, nurses and those aged between 25-34 years had higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress (p
Validity and clinical utility of a Sinhalese version of the abnormal involuntary movement scale (AIMS)
Authors: Baminiwatta A. K. A. B. , Harshini M. L. , Bandara T. R. , Gunesekara T. , Perera K. M. N. , Kuruppuarachchi K. A. L. A. , Hapangama A.
Published: June 2021

IntroductionTardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder caused by long-term treatment with dopamine antagonists such as antipsychotics. As there is no medication universally effective for TD, prevention is important. We propose that non-medical clinicians working in psychiatry can also be trained and involved in a screening programme for TD. To facilitate such a programme, validation of a standard tool translated to Sinhala is a need. AimsTo translate and validate the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) into Sinhala. MethodsTranslation and pilot testing followed standard guidelines. The translated version was administered by five raters (two registrars in psychiatry, a medical officer, a community psychiatry nurse (CPN) and a psychiatric social worker) amongst patients treated with antipsychotic medication for a minimum of one year. The goldstandard diagnosis was the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)-5 criteria, applied by a psychiatrist. ResultsOf the 137 patients screened (53.3% male; mean age = 49 years), the percentage of patients diagnosed with TD using AIMS and DSM-5 were 33% and 34%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of AIMS in detection of TD were 67% and 83.4% respectively. The degree of agreement between the AIMS and DSM- 5 indicated moderate criterion validity (Cohen's kappa= 0.5). For different raters, the agreement with the psychiatrist's diagnosis (kappa) ranged from 0.41 (CPN) to 0.63 (registrar), indicating modest reliability between raters. ConclusionsOur findings provide preliminary evidence for the validity of AIMS in detecting TD among Sinhalaspeaking patients, when administered by a range of mental health professionals.
Caring for the carer: Are we doing enough?
Authors: Perera S. R. , Fonseka T. P. M. , Amarasinghe D. K. , Williams S. S.
Published: June 2021

In Asian societies, the family carer has a pivotal role in ensuring the wellbeing of a person with mental health needs. In the absence of adequate mental health professionals and services, they take on the responsibility of identifying any changes in emotions and behaviour, convincing the person to seek medical help, accompanying the person on the visits to the doctor, and ensuring treatment compliance, follow up and rehabilitation. They have to buffer the stigma, find the financial resources and even manage the risks. In such situations, the burden on the carer is manifold. The physical and emotional strain can be enormous. Therefore, the treating physicians have to go out of their way to support the carer and ensure that they are adequately educated, supported and comforted on their journey of caregiving. Without their partnership, the care of the patient is destined to fail.
Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with burns referred for psychiatric assessment to a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Galhenage J. S. , Perera I. C. , Amarasuriya M. , Hanwella R. , Dayabandara M.
Published: June 2021

IntroductionBurns are associated with significant psychological morbidity. The relationship between burns and psychiatric conditions is bidirectional. There are hardly any Sri Lankan studies describing psychological morbidity among adults with burns. AimsTo describe the psychological morbidity and associated factors in patients with burn injuriesreferred to the University Psychiatry Unit, National Hospital of Sri Lanka. MethodsA retrospective record-based study was carried out by extracting demographic and clinical data from records of all patients with burns, referred for psychiatric assessment to the University Psychiatry Unit, for two years from 1st January 2018 onwards. Associations were explored using the chi-square test. ResultsEighty-seven records were analysed; 56.3% were females. The mean age was 37.8 years (SD=15.8). The mean burn surface area was 36.2% (SD=16.6). The cause of the burn was accidental in 55%, self-inflicted in 31% and homicidal in 3.4%. Among all patients with burns, a past diagnosis of mental illness was detected in 35.6% (95% CI 25.6-46.6), substance use in 11.5%, and personality disorders in 10.3%. Current psychiatric morbidity after burn injury was diagnosed in 59.8% (95% CI 48.7-70.1), the most frequent being depressive disorder (32.2%), followed by adjustment disorder (16.1%) and delirium (6.9%). Female gender, being aged <30 years and a history of psychiatric illness were significantly associated with selfinflicted burns. ConclusionsBurn injuries were associated with psychological morbidity, particularly depression.
The successful treatment of coprophagia in resistant schizophrenia: a case report
Authors: Jayakodi D. , Perera S. R.
Published: June 2021

Coprophagia is a condition described as the compulsive consumption of faeces. It is an uncommon manifestation associated with several underlying mental health conditions. We present the case of a 32-year old male, diagnosed to have schizophrenia and on treatment with clozapine, who developed coprophagia in response to command auditory hallucinations. His condition responded to a combination of pharmacological and psychological therapy.
Dementia – care until cure: an update on management
Authors: Wickramasinghe A. , Perera S. R.
Published: June 2021

No abstract available
Ecology of breeding habitats of mosquito population and screening for virus of Japanese encephalitis and West Nile in the coastal area of Kerala, India
Authors: Balasubramanian R , Nadh V Arathy , Sahina S
Published: June 2021

Background & objectives: Japanese encephalitis (JE) and West Nile virus (WNV) are two mosquito-borne diseases of medical and veterinary importance. Climate impacts in certain ecosystems are better understood; however, coastal brackish water ecosystems and their role in vector borne viral diseases have not been well studied. Hence, the aim of this study is to evaluate the distribution, spatial pattern as well as the screening of these mosquitoes for JE and WN virus in coastal area of Alappuzha district, Kerala, India.

Methods: Immature mosquitoes were collected using dipper methods along the coastal wetlands areas. Adult mosquitoes were collected in four sampling sites with light trap filled with dry ice, operating overnight. The collected mosquitoes were identified by species, using the taxonomic keys. Mosquitoes were pooled for virus detection. Water samples were collected using standard methods.

Results: The total quantity of rainfall and salinity varied from zero to 365.2 mm and from 1.5 to 28 ppt respectively. A total of 10,695 adult mosquitoes and 38,083 immatures revealed the presence of five genus and 23 species. The most predominant species was Culex tritaeniorhynchus. Immature collections Cx. sitiens was the only one species collected during the summer season and in the monsoon season the pond was replaced by fresh water mosquitoes such as Cx. tritaeniorhynchus and Cx. gelidus. A total of 186 pools were screened for JEV and WNV. However, none of the pools were found as positive for the virus.

Interpretation & conclusion: The major vector of JEV Cx. tritaeniorhynchus and Cx. gelidus have adapted to immature development in coastal brackish water habitats. The public health authorities need to recognize thepotential impact on human health of brackish water-adapted mosquito vectors that weretraditionally considered to be freshwater species, and take appropriate surveillance and control measures.
An analytical review of vector- and pathogen-based transmission-blocking vaccine for malaria control
Authors: Jakhar Renu , Sehrawat Neelam , Gakhar S. K.
Published: June 2021

Malaria is a vector borne disease, considered to be one of the most serious public health problems. The present review focused on the blocking of parasite development in mosquito vectors; one broad strategy for achieving this is Transmission Blocking Vaccines (TBV). The TBVs usually rely on immunization of vertebrate hosts with molecules derived from the vector or pathogen to reduce pathogen transmission from infected to uninfected hosts. Most of the studies on the TBVs are based on the antibodies targeted against the surface antigens of sexual stages of malaria parasite, but it is meagre to develop mosquito-based vaccine in this regard. Vector-based TBVs include surface proteins that are expressed by the mosquito midgut digestive enzymes which are induced upon blood-feeding, and receptors expressed on the epithelial line of the tissue. Many proteins are reported that can act as candidates for transmission-blocking vaccines. This review aims to summarize the vector midgut-based proteins identified till date, that can block the development and maturity of sexual stages of the parasite within mosquitoes as targets for transmission-blocking vaccine development. The TBVs intervention can block transmission of different malaria parasite species in various species of mosquitoes with future application perspective worldwide.
Malaria parasite density and plasma apolipoprotein A1 in symptomatic and asymptomatic infections in Nigerian children
Authors: Orimadegun Bose E. , Odaibo Georgina O. , Orimadegun Adebola E. , Agbedana Emmanuel O. , Falade Catherine O.
Published: June 2021

Background & objectives: Alterations in plasma apolipoproteins in individuals with malaria infection and their potential roles in the pathogenesis are known but the link between the malaria parasite density and apolipoprotein A1 (apo-A1) level is insufficiently understood. This study was conducted to determine whether the plasma apo-A1 level is influenced by the degree of parasitaemia in malaria infections.

Methods: In a case-control study, a convenient sample of children aged 2–10 years with uncomplicated malaria cases (UMC), asymptomatic parasitaemia cases (APC) and healthy children without parasitaemia (HCP) was recruited. The cases consisted of 61 UMC and 21 APC, while the controls consisted of 24 HCP. Levels of apo-A1 was determined using immunoturbidimetric assay and compared among the different degrees of parasite density. Results: Of the 82 participants with parasitaemia, density was ≤1000/μL in 12, 1001-10000/μL in 21 and >10000/μL in 49 children. There was significant difference among the mean values of apolipoprotein A1 of the three groups, viz: UMC [91.4 (95% CI: 81.3, 101.5) mg/dL], APC [67.0 (95% CI: 48.9, 84.9) mg/dL] and HCP [99.0 (95% CI: 76.6, 121.3) mg/dL], p=0.029. Post-hoc analysis revealed that the mean plasma level of apo-A1 in HCP was significantly higher than APC by 32.0±12.4 mg/dL and UMC by 7.5±4.2 mg/dL. However, there were no differences in the mean apolipoprotein A1 levels among the three groups of parasite density.

Interpretation & conclusion: The presence of parasitaemia causes a remarkable reduction in apolipoprotein A1 level that was not influenced by the degree of parasitaemia.
Predictors of severe dengue amongst children as per the revised WHO classification
Authors: Arora Shilpa Khanna , Nandan Devki , Sharma Anu , Benerjee Pronita , Singh Dhirendra Pratap
Published: June 2021

Background & objectives: World Health Organization (WHO) revised its guidelines for classification and management of dengue in 2009. This revised system was found out to have good sensitivity and negative predictive value but poor specificity as well as positive predictive value.

Methods: This retrospective study was carried out in a tertiary care hospital of Delhi, India to assess factors predicting the occurrence of severe dengue in children as per the revised classification. A total of 647 suspected dengue cases were admitted in the hospital in the year 2015. Detailed clinical and epidemiological data of 170 patients who were confirmed as dengue either by NS1 antigen test or by serology (Ig M positive) were recorded and statistically analyzed. Results: The number of laboratory-confirmed cases was 170 and included thirty (17.65%) dengue fever (DF), 106 (62.35%) dengue with warning signs (DWS) and 34 (20.0%) severe dengue (SD) patients. Regression analysis revealed that presence of vomiting, altered sensorium, shock, peri-orbital edema, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, severe anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated urea and creatinine, decreased total protein and globulin were significantly associated with occurrence of severe disease.

Interpretation & conclusion: The addition of clinical features (peri-orbital edema and splenomegaly); and laboratory findings (elevated urea and creatinine, decreased serum protein and globulin) might help improve the sensitivity and specificity of the revised WHO dengue classification in predicting severe dengue.
Human and plant volatiles; lures for mosquito, vectors of dengue virus and malaria
Authors: Owino Eunice A
Published: June 2021

Increased outbreaks of mosquito borne diseases like the deadly parasitic disease, malaria and arboviruses like Zika, yellow fever and dengue viruses around the world have led to increased interest in traps that could effectively be used against mosquitoes. For example, a Google search at the time of this writing, asking, ‘which is the best way of trapping mosquitoes?’ produced 35.5 million search results. Regardless of the interest in the subject, scientists have yet to find a definitive answer to these questions. One area that has been exploited as a potential source of efficient traps for mosquitoes is host odour baits. Since mosquitoes are attracted to their hosts through odours produced by the hosts, it’s highly likely that synthetic chemical blends based on host odours could provide a solution. Most mosquito species have 2 hosts: vertebrate animals and vascular plants. Amongst the vertebrates, most diseases spread by mosquitoes are to humans. Considerable research has therefore been conducted on human odours that elicit attraction in mosquitoes, with emphasis on compounds from sweat and skin. Interest on plant volatiles is currently gathering pace because unlike human odours that only attract host seeking female mosquitoes, plant odours can attract both male and female mosquitoes of all gonotrophic stages. This review article concentrates on some of the chemical compounds in human and plant host odours that have shown a potential as attractants to mosquitoes especially Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae s.l.
Diversity of native larvivorous fish fauna during pre- and post-tsunami in Car Nicobar, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India
Authors: Das Manoj Kumar , Rao M. Rajesh Kumar , Singh S S
Published: June 2021

Background & objectives: Malaria is a serious public health problem in Car Nicobar Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India. Using larvivorous fishes has proved to be the cheapest method for vector management approach, with long suppression of mosquito population. This study aims to scale-up the diversity of larvivorous fishes and their potential larvivoracity to evolve an appropriate biological intervention strategy against the immature stages of malaria vectors.

Methods: During 2003 (pre-tsunami) and 2014–2016 (post-tsunami), an ecological descriptive survey was carried out in the water bodies around Car Nicobar Island. Fishes were captured using fishing nets and cast nets; and placed in plastic jars and preserved in formalin solution. Fishes were identified and classified according to the available keys. Their abundance and data on the current conservation status was recorded and analyzed. Their potential larvivoracity was graded according to their feeding intensity.

Results: Pre-tsunami, a total of 27 larvivorous fish species belonging to 11 orders, 23 families and 23 genera were identified. Order Perciformes and the family Cyprinidae were the most ascendant group constituting 51.9 and 11.1%, respectively. While, 80.8% of species were preferred to inhabit the freshwater region, only 37% of species were surface feeders (SF). According to the conservation, assessment and management plan (CAMP, 1998), 44.4% species were at lower risk least concern (LRlc), while 55.6% species were at least concerned (LC) as per the IUCN, 2017 categorization. However, after the tsunami, 17 fish species had gone extinct and 10 fish species were found to remain alive in the local water bodies.

Interpretation & conclusion: Post-tsunami, the larvivoracity analysis indicated that Ophiocara aporos, Ophiocara procephala, Valamugil seheli, Channa punctata, Kuhlia rupestris, Khulia mugil, and Terapon jarbua possess high-level larvivorous potentiality in nature and are recommended for vector control in the study area. These fish species were facing several anthropogenic threats, such as human interference, loss of habitat, trade, overexploitation, and fishing. Therefore, it is important to protect the water bodies from external impact and implement the conservation strategies. Further, periodic fish fauna surveys, identification of breeding sites, scale-up of the larvivorous potentiality at the field level, creating public awareness through health education on establishment of larvivorous fish ponds and planning for mass rearing of the native fish species should be adopted as part of vector management approach in the endemic malarious region of Car Nicobar Island.
Scrub typhus associated acute kidney injury
Authors: Bal Madhusmita , Kar Chitta Ranjan , Behera Himanshu K. , Kar Purna Chandra , Biswas Subhojeet , Dixit Sujata , Khuntia Hemant K , Pati Sanghamitra , Ranjit Manoranjan
Published: June 2021

Background & objectives: Acute kidney injury associated with scrub typhus is an emerging health problem in the tropics including India. This study intended to find out the incidence, clinical outcome, cytokine response and genotypes of Orientia tsutsugamushi associated with AKI patients in Odisha, a state in eastern India. Methods: Acute febrile illness or history of acute fever with various degrees of kidney involvement admitted to SCB Medical College Hospital, Cuttack were included in the study. A detailed demographic characteristics and clinical features were recorded with pre-tested questionnaire at the time of admission. Scrub Typhus was detected by ‘IgM ELISA’ test (OD > 0.5) and PCR. Routine urine, haematological and biochemical tests were performed. Genotyping of the Orientia tsutsugamushi was done using 56-kDa gene for Orientia species and phylogenetic tree by neighbor-joining method. The plasma level of the IFN-γ (pro-inflammatory cytokine) and IL10 (anti-inflammatory) were measured by commercially available ELISA kit. The statistical analysis was performed using Graph Pad Prism software (version 4).

Results: Out of 140 acute febrile illness or history of acute febrile illness patients with AKI admitted to hospital, 32.14% were confirmed to be scrub typhus positive; eschar was seen in 17.8% of them. Of the total scrub typhus positive cases, 24.4% were having multi organ dysfunction. Majority of the AKI patients (60%) were in the “failure” category under RIFLE criteria. The mortality rate was 20.0%. Risk of dialysis requirement and mortality increases with RIFLE classification. “Karp” was the predominant circulating genotype. IFN-γ and IL10 level was high among the scrub typhus associated AKI patients.

Interpretation & conclusion: The study shows a high incidence of scrub typhus associated AKI and high case fatality rate. Hence, emphasis should be given on differential diagnosis. RIFLE classification is applicable with increment risk of dialysis requirement and death. An in-depth study is required to determine the role of O. tsutsugamuchi KARP strain and INF-γ/ IL-10 in disease severity so as to identify a prognostic marker.
The use of Instrumental Enrichment as a method to teach the analysis of the population pyramid to Grade 7 Geography students
Authors: Brandt Juliet
Published: June 2021

Action research was conducted to improve the teaching of the analysis of the population pyramid to Grade 7 female Geography students. Instrumental Enrichment was selected as a tool to teach the analysis of the population pyramid. Firstly, the concept of a population pyramid was introduced and taught using an existing teaching method and a baseline assessment was conducted. Instrumental Enrichment was then introduced, and students used the tool to analyse four population pyramids. A concluding assessment measured the improvement in students’ ability to analyse the population pyramid. The use of Instrumental Enrichment did enhance the students’ understanding of the population pyramid. However, they were not able to use it consistently and independently. This agrees with Willingham (2009) that students remember what they think about and the findings of Bellaera (2017) and Adams (1991) that students are not able to develop critical thinking purely by interacting with the subject matter. A refinement of Instrumental Enrichment was proposed considering these principles.
Using ArcGIS Portal to inform decision making for Integrated Coastal Management, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Goble Bronwyn , Hill Trevor
Published: June 2021

The coastal environment is one of the most utilised for human activities; providing a diverse range of goods and services such as fisheries, water purification and coastal erosion protection. This results in the need for effective, ongoing management and informed decision making, to ensure long-term sustainability of the coastal environment. However, Goble et al. (2017) highlight that institutional knowledge and capacity are currently limited to achieve the objectives of effective coastal management. This research considers the use of ArcGIS Portal as a component of a Decision Support System (or Info-portal) for coastal management in KwaZulu-Natal, through the development of an online, interactive mapping platform. This platform offers a portal to decision makers to access and interrogate data and information, thus informing decision making. The development of this tool followed a participatory approach, and engagement with end-users throughout the process to ensure that the tool meets users’ requirements. To date, the info-portal has been well utilised by both decision makers and members of the public that are interested in the coast. It offers an excellent example of the power of a spatial tool in improving decision making.
Neurociencia y lactancia materna
Authors: Salvador Ajcuc Ingrid Carolina , Ruiz Zamora Linda Sofía , Caña Ambrocio Zulma Aracely
Published: June 2021

La lactancia materna permite al lactante recibir las vitaminas, minerales y fuentes necesarias de energía y vitalidad de parte de la madre, este es su primer alimento y el necesario para su óptimo desarrollo. En todo el proceso de lactancia materna, tanto antes, durante y después de la misma, se potencia la fisiología del cuerpo humano y en su transcurso influye también la neurociencia. Ante ello, se justifica que el estudio de la lactancia materna y su relación con la neurociencia es fundamental para identificar las hormonas influyentes en el desarrollo de la leche materna y deducir el proceso neurológico de la misma. 

La metodología aplicada para el mismo responde a la investigación descriptiva mediante consultas bibliográficas y entrevistas a expertos sobre la temática. Dentro de la estructura del cuerpo humano en especial el de la mujer, al enterarse que se encuentra en estado de gestación, se estimula las hormonas de la prolactina y la oxitocina, las cuales juegan un papel importante en el desarrollo y la producción de la leche materna, otro elemento importante es el surgimiento del apego de la madre hacia el bebé, base importante del sentimiento de la seguridad y el cariño del ser humano.
Repercusión mental de los cuidadores expuestos al trato con pacientes geriátricos
Authors: Mariscal Chacón Jorge Alberto , Barahona Vargas Brenda Saraí , Linares Reyes Rosa María , Castañeda Argueta Luz Andrea , Mejía Bethancourt Kateryn Morelia , Hernández Aldana Alex Ovidio
Published: June 2021

Definir el rol del cuidador en el área personal y profesional describiendo todos los actos que tienen como fin el proporcionar apoyo a una persona que posee algún nivel de dependencia para cubrir sus necesidades básicas de la vida diaria. Es por ello que se puede observar cada vez más en el entorno familiar y laboral cuidar de un adulto mayor. El organismo legislativo emitió el decreto 80-96 del Congreso de la República de Guatemala, ley de protección para las personas de la tercera edad, se considera adulto mayor a cualquier persona con más de 60 años. Las consecuencias que conlleva ser cuidador, no les permite armonizar con una jornada laboral optando por reducir sus labores o abandonar su trabajo para dirigir su atención al cuidado del adulto mayor concentrándose en su bienestar, y perdiendo el cuidado propio. En el ámbito profesional se le denomina cuidadores, dividiéndolos en primarios y secundarios, pueden verse influidas de forma negativa y positiva tanto en lo personal, social, profesional y económico, en ocasiones presentan síntomas pertenecientes al síndrome del cuidador cansado, siendo la ansiedad, depresión, estrés, insomnio, irritabilidad, apatía, pérdida de apetito, cefalea, dificultad para la concentración, o el abuso de sustancias.
Enfoque de la valoración neurogeriátrica integral en el envejecimiento saludable
Authors: Bran Girón Jorge Eduardo
Published: June 2021

El envejecer de manera exitosa esta relacionado con llevar una vida saludable y modificar estilos de vida que puedan reflejar enfermedades crónicas degenerativas; la población adulta mayor que se define en Guatemala como persona de sesenta años. Este grupo  poblacional  necesita de una atención para la promover el  envejecimiento saludable con el fin de aplicar modelos neurocientíficos orientados a la detección temprana de enfermedades crónicas y al tratamiento adecuado integrado por profesionales de las neurociencias de enfoque multidisciplinario que conforman planes de prevención y ejecución para el éxito del envejecimiento que es dar calidad de vida. La atención oportuna para el envejecimiento saludable es valorada mediante el vínculo de la capacidad visual, auditiva, cognitiva, locomotriz, psicológica y vital relacionada con estrategias de calidad de atención que se encargan de brindar el bienestar físico, mental y emocional de las personas mayores enfocándolos a un mundo más inclusivo hacia las diferentes disciplinas de las neurociencias. El enfoque de la valoración geriátrica mediante un equipo multidisciplinario es la visión estratégica de éxito del envejecimiento saludable desde el punto de vista de las neurociencias.
Referral Pattern and Haematological Disorders in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Onoja AM , Nwannadi AI , Onoja AT , Aba IH , Jatau E , Osho PO , Alao OO , Ogli SA
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to determine the pattern of referrals and haematological disorders at Benue State University Teaching Hospital. This was a retrospective study of records of a total of 222 adults and Paediatric patients suspected to have haematological disorders, seen and referred from different clinics and wards within and outside the study facility to the Haematologists for evaluation between June 2012 to July 2019 inclusive. These patients were clerked by the Haematologists, peripheral blood samples were taken for full blood count, red cell indices, reticulocyte count and peripheral blood film examination. Bone Marrow Aspiration was done on all the patients and the slides examined. Where indicated, further flowcytometry was done for complete diagnosis. Of the 222 referred, 127 (57.2%) were males while 95(42.8%) were females, with M:F ratio of 1.3:1. The age range of patients was 3 to 95 years with median age of 36.5 years. Those in the age group of 16-35 years constituted the majority 81(36.5%), while the least 5(2.3%) referred cases were in the age group of 76 years and above. The highest referral to the Haematologists was 40(18%) in 2015 and 2018 each. The bulk of referrals to the Haematologist was from Medicine 103(46.4%), followed by referrals from General Outpatient Department (GOPD) 29(13.1%) and then Paediatrics 27(12.2%), the least was from Ear Nose and Throat (ENT). The main indication for referral was Unexplained Anaemia 68(30.6%), followed by Splenomegaly 26(11.7%). One hundred and eighty (81.1%) of the total referred cases had at least an established haematological disorder. The most common haematological disorder established from the total referred cases was Combined Iron Deficiency Anaemia and Megaloblastic Anaemia (IDA/MA) 52(23.4%). This was followed by Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) 23(10.4%). In conclusion, referrals from other physicians to the Haematologists have very high likelihood of haematological disorder. We recommend that attending Haematologists treat all referred cases with very high index of suspicion so as not to miss a potentially life threatening haematological disorder.
Methodology for assessing the effectiveness of the development of small and medium-sized businesses in Kazakhstan
Authors: Imanbay I. A. , Kalenova S. A. , Orazalinova M. N.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the article is to reveal the current topics on the development of small and medium-sized businesses in the country and support provided to them from the state. In this article, analytical work is carried out on the branches of small and medium-sized businesses, and several types of methodological guidelines are given. The definitions and concepts expressed by several authors regarding social business were presented, as well as the types of business used in foreign practice. The purpose of the study is to present the research and author's proposals of scientists related to the development and effective functioning of small and medium-sized businesses in accordance with the topic, and to present the results of the analysis and research. Often, business development in regional regions is lagging behind. For its development, it is necessary to solve the issues of informatization on the part of the state and local authorities. Therefore, we believe that this methodological guide and several proposed solutions will be taken into account. We expect that Kazakhstan will develop the informatization base, increase access to various programs and legislative acts related to small and medium-sized businesses. The results of several analyses were presented, examining the support provided by the state to the development of small and medium-sized businesses in Kazakhstan. The assessment of the effectiveness of state support for small and medium-sized businesses is carried out according to the indicators of the economic efficiency of the allocated funds. The increase in the indicator of social efficiency indicates the interest and involvement of small and medium-sized businesses in state support programs in Kazakhstan.