bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary postpartum haemorrhage at the Libreville University Hospital Centre: Epidemiological profile of women
Authors: Ambounda Nathalie Ledaga , Woromogo Sylvain Honore , Yagata-Moussa Felicite-Emma , Ossouka Liela Agnes Okoyi , Tekem Vicky Noel Simo , Ango Eliane Okira , Kouanang Alain Jepang
Published: September 2021

In Gabon, the proportion of maternal deaths directly related to Primary PostPartum Haemorrhage (PPPH) is 15 to 25%, despite the different means that the World Health Organization has made available to the providers of Emergency Obstetrical and Neonatal Care (EmONC). The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of Primary PostPartum Haemorrhage to improve its management and reduce the rate of maternal deaths. An analytical retrospective study involved 42,728 records, whose data were collected using a chart collection form on the basis of information contained in partograms and other patient records. Sociodemographic variables were expressed using percentage. The relationship between the etiologies of PPPH and certain characteristics of the women was established using the ORs with their 95% confidence intervals. The difference was significant if p < 0.05. The prevalence of PPPH was 1.6%. Delivery haemorrhages accounted for 65.5% of PPPH. The main factors associated with delivery haemorrhages were pauci parity and multiparity (p = 0.003 and 0.051), post-term (p = 0.042), and birth weight >4,000 g (p = 0.006). Those associated with genital tract injuries were young maternal age (p = 0.008) and multiparity (p = 0.028). The most common etiology was haemorrhage from delivery. Multiparity remains the most common risk factor and the young age of the patients. It is important to improve management through better assessment of blood loss in the primary postpartum period as well as capacity building of health providers on EmONC.
Humans as geomorphic agents: Lidar detection of the past, present and future of the Teotihuacan Valley, Mexico
Authors: Sugiyama Nawa , Sugiyama Saburo , Catignani Tanya , Chase Adrian S. Z. , Fernandez-Diaz Juan C.
Published: September 2021

As humans are the primary geomorphic agents on the landscape, it is essential to assess the magnitude, chronological span, and future effects of artificial ground that is expanding under modern urbanization at an alarming rate. We argue humans have been primary geomorphic agents of landscapes since the rise of early urbanism that continue to structure our everyday lives. Past and present anthropogenic actions mold a dynamic “taskscape” (not just a landscape) onto the physical environment. For example, one of the largest Pre-Columbian metropolitan centers of the New World, the UNESCO world heritage site of Teotihuacan, demonstrates how past anthropogenic actions continue to inform the modern taskscape, including modern street and land alignments. This paper applies a multi-scalar, long durée approach to urban landscapes utilizing the first lidar map of the Teotihuacan Valley to create a geospatial database that links modern and topographic features visible on the lidar map with ground survey, historic survey, and excavation data. Already, we have recorded not only new features previously unrecognized by historic surveys, but also the complete erasure of archaeological features due to modern (post-2015) mining operations. The lidar map database will continue to evolve with the dynamic landscape, able to assess continuity and changes on the Teotihuacan Valley, which can benefit decision makers contemplating the stewardship, transformation, or destruction of this heritage landscape.
Unifying information theory and machine learning in a model of electrode discrimination in cochlear implants
Authors: Gao Xiao , Grayden David , McDonnell Mark
Published: September 2021

Despite the development and success of cochlear implants over several decades, wide inter-subject variability in speech perception is reported. This suggests that cochlear implant user-dependent factors limit speech perception at the individual level. Clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of the number, placement, and insertion depths of electrodes on speech recognition abilities. However, these do not account for all inter-subject variability and to what extent these factors affect speech recognition abilities has not been studied. In this paper, an information theoretic method and machine learning technique are unified in a model to investigate the extent to which key factors limit cochlear implant electrode discrimination. The framework uses a neural network classifier to predict which electrode is stimulated for a given simulated activation pattern of the auditory nerve, and mutual information is then estimated between the actual stimulated electrode and predicted ones. We also investigate how and to what extent the choices of parameters affect the performance of the model. The advantages of this framework include i) electrode discrimination ability is quantified using information theory, ii) it provides a flexible framework that may be used to investigate the key factors that limit the performance of cochlear implant users, and iii) it provides insights for future modeling studies of other types of neural prostheses.
Knowledge of mothers regarding children’s vaccinations in Cyprus: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kyprianidou Maria , Tzira Eleana , Galanis Petros , Giannakou Konstantinos
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Vaccine hesitancy is identified as one of the top threats to global health. A significant drop of childhood vaccine coverage is reported worldwide. One of the key reasons that influenced mothers’ choice to postpone, or avoid children’s vaccination, is knowledge. This study aimed to assess the level of Cypriot mothers’ knowledge on certain aspects of vaccination of their children, examine the association between vaccination knowledge and selected socio-demographic factors, and lastly assess the association of mothers’ knowledge about vaccination with vaccination coverage and delay, compliance to the recommended schedules, vaccination during pregnancy and mother-pediatrician relationship.

Methods

An online-based cross-sectional study conducted to collect information about socio-demographic characteristics, child’s characteristics, vaccination, and vaccine knowledge, using a self-administered questionnaire. The survey was conducted between April 2020 and June 2020 and the study population included mothers over 18 years old with at least one child (<18 years old) living in Cyprus.

Results

A total of 703 Cypriot mothers participated in the study. Most of the participants stated that they vaccined their children (97%) and the most popular source of information about vaccination was their pediatrician (90%). More than half of the participants (57%) have delayed their child/children vaccination with their pediatrician’s suggestion being the main reason. 36% of mothers had low knowledge while the overall correct rate was 13.6% and the median (IQR) knowledge score was 11 (9–12). Having a medium knowledge about vaccination was associated with having a medium or high income, whilst high knowledge compared to low knowledge was associated with completed a higher education and having a high income. Our analysis showed that the correct knowledge by mothers with regards to vaccination increases the probability of vaccinating their children, following the local recommendations for vaccine dosages, and acquiring and trusting vaccination-related information from their children’s pediatrician.

Conclusion

Our findings show that the majority of mothers in Cyprus had positives perceptions regarding childhood vaccination, as reflected with the high vaccination rate, however, some aspects of mothers’ knowledge of vaccination need to be improved. Public health strategies to promote vaccination, education programs as well as improved communication tools between pediatricians and mothers need to be considered to achieve favorable vaccination attitudes and practices for all mothers in Cyprus.
Preferences, trust, and performance in youth business groups
Authors: Holden Stein T. , Tilahun Mesfin
Published: September 2021

We study how social preferences and norms of reciprocity are related to generalized (outgroup) and particularized (ingroup) trust among members of youth business groups in northern Ethiopia. The Ethiopian government promotes youth employment among land-poor rural youth by allocating them rehabilitated communal lands for the formation of sustainable businesses. The typical sustainable production activities that the groups can invest in include apiculture, forestry, horticulture, and livestock production. Our study used incentivized experiments to elicit social preferences, trust, and trustworthiness. We use data from 2427 group members in 246 functioning business groups collected in 2019. Altruistic and egalitarian preferences were associated with stronger norms to reciprocate, higher outgroup and ingroup trustworthiness and trust while spiteful and selfish preferences had opposite effects. The social preferences had both direct and indirect effects (through the norm to reciprocate) on trustworthiness and trust. Ingroup trust was positively correlated with a number of group performance indicators.
Phase separation of a plant virus movement protein and cellular factors support virus-host interactions
Authors: Brown Shelby L. , Garrison Dana J. , May Jared P.
Published: September 2021

Both cellular and viral proteins can undergo phase separation and form membraneless compartments that concentrate biomolecules. The p26 movement protein from single-stranded, positive-sense Pea enation mosaic virus 2 (PEMV2) separates into a dense phase in nucleoli where p26 and related orthologues must interact with fibrillarin (Fib2) as a pre-requisite for systemic virus movement. Using in vitro assays, viral ribonucleoprotein complexes containing p26, Fib2, and PEMV2 genomic RNAs formed droplets that may provide the basis for self-assembly in planta. Mutating basic p26 residues (R/K-G) blocked droplet formation and partitioning into Fib2 droplets or the nucleolus and prevented systemic movement of a Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) vector in Nicotiana benthamiana. Mutating acidic residues (D/E-G) reduced droplet formation in vitro, increased nucleolar retention 6.5-fold, and prevented systemic movement of TMV, thus demonstrating that p26 requires electrostatic interactions for droplet formation and charged residues are critical for nucleolar trafficking and virus movement. p26 readily partitioned into stress granules (SGs), which are membraneless compartments that assemble by clustering of the RNA binding protein G3BP following stress. G3BP is upregulated during PEMV2 infection and over-expression of G3BP restricted PEMV2 RNA accumulation >20-fold. Deletion of the NTF2 domain that is required for G3BP condensation restored PEMV2 RNA accumulation >4-fold, demonstrating that phase separation enhances G3BP antiviral activity. These results indicate that p26 partitions into membraneless compartments with either proviral (Fib2) or antiviral (G3BP) factors.
PCV2 targets cGAS to inhibit type I interferon induction to promote other DNA virus infection
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Chen Jing , Wu Xingchen , Ma Dan , Zhang Xiaohua , Li Ruizhen , Han Cong , Liu Haixin , Yin Xiangrui , Du Qian , Tong Dewen , Huang Yong
Published: September 2021

Viruses use diverse strategies to impair the antiviral immunity of host in order to promote infection and pathogenesis. Herein, we found that PCV2 infection promotes the infection of DNA viruses through inhibiting IFN-β induction in vivo and in vitro. In the early phase of infection, PCV2 promotes the phosphorylation of cGAS at S278 via activation of PI3K/Akt signaling, which directly silences the catalytic activity of cGAS. Subsequently, phosphorylation of cGAS at S278 can facilitate the K48-linked poly-ubiquitination of cGAS at K389, which can been served as a signal for recognizing by the ubiquitin-binding domain of histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), to promote the translocation of K48-ubiquitinated-cGAS from cytosol to autolysosome depending on the deacetylase activity of HDAC6, thereby eventually resulting in a markedly increased cGAS degradation in PCV2 infection-induced autophagic cells relative to Earle’s Balanced Salt Solution (EBSS)-induced autophagic cells (a typical starving autophagy). Importantly, we found that PCV2 Cap and its binding protein gC1qR act as predominant regulators to promote porcine cGAS phosphorylation and HDAC6 activation through mediating PI3K/AKT signaling and PKCδ signaling activation. Based on this finding, gC1qR-binding activity deficient PCV2 mutant (PCV2RmA) indeed shows a weakened inhibitory effect on IFN-β induction and a weaker boost effect for other DNA viruses infection compared to wild-type PCV2. Collectively, our findings illuminate a systematic regulation mechanism by which porcine circovirus counteracts the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to inhibit the type I interferon induction and promote DNA virus infection, and identify gC1qR as an important regulator for the immunosuppression induced by PCV2.
Finding the drummer: A reflection during isolation
Authors: Archibald Paul
Published: September 2021

Drummers, in providing a cohesive role in a group setting, are generally valued by other instrumentalists depending on their ability to accompany sensitively and supportively; while important to all forms of popular music in which the drum kit features, the part itself is usually not created to exist independently. In recent times of lockdown and enforced isolation during the first half of 2020, drummers have found themselves deprived of the ability to make music with other people in a traditional live setting. This article examines the drummer’s reliance on the group, the value that this gives the drum kit, and the implications for identity and purpose of the drummer. In reflecting on the author’s own situation of musical ‘standstill’, and in conversation with other drummers, this article discusses the consequences this has for the drum kit (creative autonomy as an instrument) and for the drummer (implications for drummer’s self-identity), in how it may be taught, learned and viewed in the wider context of music making.
Injury prevention education provided during formal drum kit training is associated with lower frequency reporting of playing-related musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Azar Nadia R.
Published: September 2021

This study explored the relationship between receiving ergonomics/injury prevention education (PrevEd) during formal drum kit training and drummers’ histories of playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) and their engagement in PRMD prevention behaviours. It also explored what they were taught with respect to PrevEd. A mixed-methods analysis of a subset of previously collected survey data (N = 831) revealed that while 81 per cent of the respondents had completed formal training, only 42 per cent had received PrevEd from their instructors. Respondents who had not received PrevEd were nearly twice as likely to report both lifetime and seven-day histories of PRMD than those who had. They also engaged in warm-ups, cool-downs and exercise significantly less often. Overall, the findings suggest that including PrevEd within drum kit curricula, while reinforcing the importance of regular engagement in optimal PRMD prevention behaviours, warrants further consideration as a primary PRMD prevention strategy.
Chinese toms in the making of the drum kit: Localization and exoticism
Authors: Johnson Henry
Published: September 2021

The late nineteenth century and early decades of the twentieth century saw the drum kit emerge as an assemblage of musical instruments that was central to much new music of the time and especially to the rise of jazz. This article is a study of Chinese drums in the making of the drum kit. The notions of localization and exoticism are applied as conceptual tools for interpreting the place of Chinese drums in the early drum kit. Why were distinctly Chinese drums used in the early drum kit? How did the Chinese drums shape the future of the drum kit? The drum kit has been at the heart of most popular music throughout the twentieth century to the present day, and, as such, this article will be beneficial to educators, practitioners and scholars of popular music education.
Coronavirus disease 2019 and future pandemics: Impacts on livestock health and production and possible mitigation measures
Authors: Haque Md. Hakimul , Islam Md. Aminul , Karim Md. Rezaul , Kayesh Mohammad Enamul Hoque , Sarker Subir , Nazir K. H. M. Nazmul Hussain , Anwer M. Sawkat
Published: September 2021

The World Health Organization declared coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic on March 11, 2020. COVID-19, the current global health emergency, is wreaking havoc on human health systems and, to a lesser degree, on animals globally. The outbreak has continued since the first report of COVID-19 in China in December 2019, and the second and third waves of the outbreak have already begun in several countries. COVID-19 is expected to have adverse effects on crop production, food security, integrated pest control, tourism, the car industry, and other sectors of the global economy. COVID-19 induces a range of effects in livestock that is reflected economically since human health and livelihood are intertwined with animal health. We summarize the potentially harmful effects of COVID-19 on livestock and possible mitigation steps in response to this global outbreak. Mitigation of the negative effects of COVID-19 and future pandemics on livestock requires the implementation of current guidelines.
HONORÁRIOS ADVOCATÍCIOS NA TUTELA PROVISÓRIA
Authors: Santos Silas Silva , Strasser Francislaine de Almeida Coimbra
Published: September 2021

O texto aborda a possível incidência de honorários advocatícios sucumbenciais no âmbito da tutela provisória, tal como regulada pelo Novo Código de Processo Civil. Defende-se que, em certos casos, o regime da tutela provisória atua como mero fator de mensuração dos honorários advocatícios fixados na sentença, ao passo que, em outros casos, o instituto da tutela provisória faz surgir, por si só, a obrigação de pagar honorários advocatícios de sucumbência.
JUSTIÇA RESTAURATIVA E ASSÉDIO MORAL
Authors: Rolim Marcos
Published: September 2021

O artigo discute as possibilidades da aplicação da justiça restaurativa para a superação de conflitos no ambiente de trabalho, notadamente para as dinâmicas que envolvem assédio moral. O texto relata os resultados de estudo de revisão, cuja metodologia envolveu a busca online em plataformas acadêmicas e em revistas científicas de artigos publicados em inglês e português a respeito do tema. A abordagem da restauração é situada com um método para a superação de conflitos, mas também como um conjunto de valores. Os limites do Direito Penal são referidos, destacando-se a necessidade de se encontrar, sempre que possível, formas alternativas e efetivas de resolução de conflitos. O estudo encontrou evidências que sugerem que a justiça restaurativa pode ser empregada com êxito nos ambientes de trabalho para superar casos de assédio moral e para criar um ambiente de prevenção a esse tipo de ocorrências.
A DESTERRITORIALIZAÇÃO DO PODER: ESTADO E CONSTITUCIONALISMO
Authors: Saraiva Bruno Cozza
Published: September 2021

O presente trabalho tem como escopo discorrer, na primeira parte, acerca da formação do Estado a partir dos dilemas-transformações surgidos historicamente. Nesta mesma lógica, para a compreensão da construção desta instituição moderna, isto é, para a compreensão da construção do Estado, analisar-se-á, na segunda parte, a sua edificação através da territorialização do poder como limite espaço-tempo. Por fim, na terceira parte, discutir-se-á sobre a desterritorialização do poder e o Constitucionalismo na era global. Será utilizada uma metodologia de abordagem fenomenológico-hermenêutica, métodos de procedimento histórico e monográfico, juntamente com a técnica de pesquisa por documentação indireta. Uma primeira conclusão, que sobrevêm deste trabalho, é que os dilemas inicialmente verificados permanecem, não mais a partir de uma perspectiva somente territorial-nacional, na perspectiva contemporânea global.
Effect of Heating on Tensile Strength and Elongation at Break of Bioplastic
from Taro Starch Filled Chitosan (Colocasia esculenta) with Glycerol Plasticizer
Authors: Ginting M.H.S. , Hasibuan R. , Lubis M. , Sirait T.P. , Sidabudar T.
Published: September 2021

Taro starch is a potential raw material for bioplastics by adding glycerol and chitosan. The casting
method is used for making bioplastics with 30%w/v starch solution. Moreover, the variation added
volume of glycerol (1%, 2% and 3% v/v), addition of chitosan (1% w/v, 2%w/v and 3%w/v) and
pasting temperature was 75 ºC. Taro starch with particle size 100 mesh has 93.55% starch, 17.9%
amylose, 75.66% amylopectin. Analysis of plastice properties showed that taro starch has a gelatinization
temperature of 74.52 ºC with high peak viscosity 5953.5 cP. FTIR analysis show bands due to presence
of O-H, C-H, C=H, C-O-H and C-O. The best of bioplastic in this study was 30% w/v on starch, 1%
v/v glycerol and 2% w/v chitosan at 75 ºC produces 42.86% water absorption, 8.297 MPa tensile
strength and elongation at break was 45.846%.
Investigating Potential Part of α-Santonin in the Treatment of
SARS-CoV-2 and Cervical Cancer based on Molecular Docking Strategy
Authors: Jeyavijayan S. , Ramuthai M. , Murugan Palani
Published: September 2021

The widespread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been posturing
extraordinary dangers globally. Additionally, cervical cancer is also the most predominant threatening
tumor among ladies around the world. The investigation has progressively centered on improving
treatments, such as anti-angiogenic and anti-hepatoma drugs. The conceivable inhibitory action of
α-santonin, which has a good interacting affinity with the active protein sites of human SARS-COV-2
and cervical cancer was screened in this work. The molecular properties such as NBO, MEP,
HOMO-LUMO, Mulliken charge and NMR studies have been performed by the DFT-B3LYP strategy.
Present computational outcomes explain that α-santonin particle can be utilized as a specialist within
the worldwide fight against SARS-CoV-2 and cancer treatment.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Novel Amide Tagged
Trifluoromethyl Indole and Pyrimido Indole Derivatives
Authors: Mandadi Manoj Kumar , Bobbala Ramana Reddy , Kolli Balakrishna , Gundla Rambabu
Published: September 2021

A series of novel amide tagged trifluoromethyl indole and pyrimido indole derivatives 4a-e & 5a-e
and 6a-d & 7a-d were synthesized from 4-methyl-2-(methylamino)-6-(trifluoromethyl)isophthalonitrile
(1) on reaction with bromoethyl acetate to obtain 2a and 2b isomers. Compound 2a treated with
hydrazine hydrate followed by Schiff base reaction to get compounds 4a-e. In another way, compound
2a on reaction with aliphatic primary amine to get compounds 6a-d. For cyclization, compounds 4a-e
& 6a-d treated with trifluoroacetic acid to obtain compounds 5a-e and 7a-d, respectively. All the
synthesized compounds 4a-e & 5a-e and 6a-d & 7a-d were tested for anticancer activity against four
human cancer cell lines such as A549-lung cancer (CCL-185), MCF7-breast cancer (HTB-22),
DU145-prostate cancer (HTB-81) and HeLa-cervical cancer (CCL-2). Compounds 9e and 9f were
found to have promising anticancer activity at micromolar concentration.
Determination of Protonation Constants of Viral Inhibitor, Aurintricarboxylic Acid in SDS and CTAB Micellar Media: A Potentiometric Study
Authors: Bhargavi K. , Shyamala P. , Rao G. Nageswara
Published: September 2021

Protonation constants of a viral inhibitor, aurintricarboxylic acid were determined using potentiometric method of data acquisition followed by chemometric modelling methods of analysis in the presence of two different kinds of micellar media, CTAB, a cationic micelle and SDS, an anionic micelle. MINIQUAD75 program was used for the determination of the plausible species and their corresponding formation constants at 303 ± 0.1 K and 0.01 M ionic strength. Five formation constants were identified corresponding to five ionizable hydrogens. Species concentration distribution diagrams were generated using Origin software. Best-fit chemical models were selected on the basis of statistical parameters like standard deviation (SD), U (sum of the squares of the residuals in mass balance equations) and chi-square test. It was found that the formation constants are lower in CTAB micellar medium while there is no significant change in the presence of SDS compared to aqueous medium.
Electronic Transitions, Inter- and Intra-Bond
Interactions of an Azabicycle Single Crystal using DFT
Authors: Dineshkumar J. , Subashchandrabose S. , Niaz S. , Parthiban P.
Published: September 2021

2,4-Diphenyl-3-azabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan-9-one O-benzyloxime (ABN-OBn) was synthesized by
modified Mannich condensation, purified by recrystallization and single crystals were grown by slow
evaporation from ethanol. The empirical formula of the molecule is C27H28N2O as witnessed by HRMS,
elemental analysis and the X-ray diffraction. The crystal belongs to triclinic system (α = 73.640, β =
78.505, γ = 87.078) with P-1 space group. The electronic excited states of ABN-OBn have been
calculated using TD-DFT/B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level of theory, in order to investigate the electronic
transitions within the molecule. Frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) of ABN-OBn have been studied
to understand the electronic charge distributions and its band gap (5.0514 eV/245.45 nm). Density of
states (DOS), partial density of states (PDOS) and total density of states (TDOS) with respect to
functional groups were computed to investigate the electron densities of functional groups in the
molecule. Natural bond orbital (NBO) has been performed to explore the intramolecular π-π* interaction
of the compound.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Thiazolidinone Derivatives
Authors: Sathyanarayana Reshma , Poojary Boja , Kumar B. Sukesh , Kumar Vasantha , Shastry Rajesh P. , Raghu Shamprasad Varija
Published: September 2021

In present study, the novel thiazolidinone derivatives were designed and synthesized. The formation
of the target compounds was confirmed by the elemental analyses, FT-IR, mass spectroscopy and 1H
NMR spectroscopy. These derivatives were subjected to antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The
antibacterial results revealed that these derivatives were selectively active against Gram-negative
Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Also, these derivatives displayed a good DPPH radical scavenging
effect. Drosophila melanogaster flies were used for evaluating the toxic impact of novel thiazolidinone
derivatives.
Physico-Chemical Properties of Binary Mixture of
2,3-Dichloroaniline and Carbon Tetrachloride at 300 K
Authors: Kumar Mahendra , Yadav Chandreshvar Prasad , Pandey Dharmendra Kumar , Singh Dhananjay
Published: September 2021

The physico-chemical properties of binary mixture of 2,3-dichloroaniline (2,3-DCA) and carbon
tetrachloride (CCl4) have been studied in the present work by the measurement of density, viscosity,
ultrasonic velocity and estimation of thermo-physical parameters at 300 K. The density, compressibility,
free length, relative association and free volume were found to increase while viscosity, ultrasonic
velocity, acoustic impedance and internal pressure were received to decay with an increase in mole
fraction of solvent in the binary mixture. The thermal relaxation time and Gibb’s free energy were
found to decay with a slow rate up to 50% mole fraction of the solvent, after that these quantities
decay very fast in chosen binary mixture. The ultrasonic absorption was also found to increase slowly
up to 50% mole fraction of solvent and after that a fast decay was observed in the present binary
mixture. The molecular interaction, structural ordering, stability and related features of the prepared
binary mixture were also analyzed based on measured and estimated parameters.
Graphene Oxide-Polyaniline Coating on Ionic Polymer Blend Membrane for Actuation
Authors: Rachna Km. , Mehra R.M. , Singh Pramod K. , Singh N.B. , Choudhary Bhasker Pratap , Bag Dibyendu Sekhar
Published: September 2021

Ionic polymer metal composites (IPMC) can be used as actuators and sensors and intrinsically have
low activation voltage and large bending strain, which help to transform electrical energy to mechanical
energy and can be utilized as bidirectional material. In this study, the ionic polymeric blend
films/membranes of PVDF:PSSS:PVP in the blend ratio of 40:30:30; 50:30:20 and 60:15:25 (wt.%)
is presented. The membranes were prepared by solution cast technique and coated with graphene
oxide (GO)-polyaniline (PANI). Membranes were characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical
microscopy. Electrical conductivities at different frequencies and water uptake properties were also
determined. The actuating performance of PVDF:PSSS:PVP and water uptake of blend membrane
was found to be maximum for the blend ratio of 60:15:25. PVDF:PSSS:PVP with blend ratio (60:15:25)
also exhibited highest actuation at 10 V DC. Graphene oxide was prepared and characterized by using
FTIR and Raman spectra. A brief account of the fabrication of IPMC and its actuation application was
also presented.
Grain Processing Methods’ Effectiveness to Eliminate Mycotoxins: An Overview
Authors: Awuchi Chinaza Godswill , Ondari Erick Nyakundi , Ofoedu Chigozie E. , Chacha James S. , Rasaq Waheed A. , Morya Sonia , R. Okpala Charles Odilichukwu
Published: September 2021

Mycotoxins like aflatoxins, ochratoxins, patulin, citrinin, deoxynivalenol (DON), fumonisins,
trichothecenes, etc., produced by molds (Aspergillus avus, A. parasiticus, Penicillin spp, etc.) could
occupy such grains as peanuts, millet, sunower, cassava, beans, sesame, sorghum, maize, etc. In order
to either eliminate and or reduce the levels of mycotoxins, as well as detection limits, there are a
number of grain processing techniques that have been reported in the literature. In this article, an
overview of the effectiveness of grain processing methods to eliminate mycotoxins was performed.
Specifically, the grain processing techniques considered include: extrusion, alkaline cooking, flaking,
roasting, frying, baking, milling, cooking, cold plasma, cleaning, trimming, sorting, as well as chemical
treatments like the use of sodium hydroxide, citric acid, sodium bisulfite and ammonia. Overall, while
most methods seem effective in reducing some mycotoxins over others, more studies are required to
identify how these methods particularly their combinations would elevate the removal/degradation of
mycotoxins in grains, particularly to safer levels.
Synthesis, Optical, Photocatalytic and Electrochemical
Properties of Cobalt Doped ZnS Nanoparticles
Authors: Sumadevi K.R. , Krishnamurthy G. , Bhojya Naik H.S. , Walmik Prabhaker , Pari Malathesh , Ranjitha N. , Priya Rani R.S. , Naik P. Parameshwara
Published: September 2021

Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) capped and uncapped Co:ZnS nanoparticles have been synthesized by
co-precipitation method. These synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using spectral techniques
and the optical and photoluminescence properties of nanoparticles were also studied. Poly(vinyl
pyrrolidone) capped nanoparticles has been studied for the electrochemical sensing of various
biomolecules. The Co:ZnS modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) proved to be effective nanoparticles
composite electrode to detect biomolecules electrochemically with a wide linear detection range of
0.2 to 1.6 μmol/L, Also a low detection limit (LOD) of 0.06 μM/L and excellent sensitivity of 4.366
μA μM-1 has been obtained. It is observed that the particle size of nanoparticles is affected by the
capping agent. It is therefore the modified electrode has become a good electrode material with a
greater stability without leaching. The optical band gap was determined by UV-visible spectra and the
value is found to be in the range of 3.75 to 4.00 eV. The photocatlytic activity on Eriochrome black T
dye in the visible region using nanoparticles has been determined. It was found that the capped
nanoparticles are more effective in photocatalytic degradation due to low energy consumption and
safe recovery of it after catalytic performance from polluted water.
Impact of Waste and Industrial Effluent on Ground Water Quality
Index in Rabigh Area, Makkah Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alansari Rawan H. , Alrajhi Rawan N. , Alghamdi Rana A.
Published: September 2021

The quality of surface water and groundwater has deteriorated as a result of increased industrialization,
urbanization and agricultural practices during the last few decades. Contaminated groundwater can
cause major health problems in humans, such as typhoid and other infections. Similar in the case of
Rabigh Governorate, the groundwater is one of the main sources of water for domestic and agriculture
purposes in its villages situated in western Saudi Arabia. Many factories have been established in
Rabigh region in recent years and day to day input of numerous untreated/partially treated water
resulting in major environmental problems, one of which is the low quality of groundwater causing
serious environmental and health issues. The presented study discusses the ground water as the main
available and usable source in extremely climatic condition of arid area of Saudi Arabia. The article
proceeds with the brief introduction of ground water, its contamination sources and health hazards.
For this, 13 water samples were from the randomly selected wells in Rabigh Governorate for quality
examine. Water quality index analysis was conducted, which is a useful technique for fast assessment
of the quality of any water resource. Various physical and chemical parameters of water quality index
such as pH, temperature, conductivity, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids
(TSS), total solids (TS), dissolved oxygen (DO), arsenic and E. coli are measured and analyzed. The
values of all groundwater samples are compared with the standard WHO permissible values. The
water quality of the wells were classified into “good, poor, very poor and unsuitable for drinking”
based on physico-chemical parameters. According to the observed study, water quality range (WQR)
for 5 samples (38% of the samples) are of poor quality, 3 samples (23%) are recorded with a very poor
quality and 5 samples (38%) are not suitable for drinking purpose due to presence of high conductivity
and TDS values. After taking into consideration the presence of E. coli in 31% of the samples (n = 4),
about 62% of the samples (n = 8) are not suitable for drinking purpose, only 23% (n = 3) samples are
of poor quality and 15% (n = 2) are very poor quality. The findings reveal a decrease in water quality
(unsuitable for drinking purpose) in 8 out of 13 collected samples. It is believed that waste and industrial
activities have an impact on groundwater quality in the study area, however, a nationwide investigation
should be conducted to validate this finding.
Brief Considerations On Living Law Relations Between Prefectural Interdictive And Voluntary Judicial Control Of Mafia Smell Companies
Authors: Di Florio Mattia
Published: September 2021

The paper investigates the phenomenon of mafia infiltrations into theentrepreneurial fabric, a danger that can exponentially increase in the period of Covid-19 pandemic. Among the tools which the so-called anti-mafia code (Legislative Decree no.159/2011) provides to prevent the danger of mafia infiltrations, the “voluntary” judicialcontrol aims at cleaning up “mafia smell companies”, addressees of prefectural disqualification orders. The research perspective aims to highlight critical issues causedby possible “overlapping” between the judgment of prevention on requests for“voluntary” judicial control, and the subsequent administrative judgement on legitimacyof the prefectural disqualification order.
Proteolytic potential of psychrotrophic microorganisms isolated from fresh cheese
Authors: Rodrigues Dara Elizabeth Barbosa , Da Paixão Leonardo Lima , Santana Valdirene Rodrigues , Cardozo Roberta Magalhães Dias , Machado Solimar Gonçalves
Published: September 2021

Devido a importância econômica da indústria de laticínios, a qualidade dos derivados lácteos deve ser uma preocupação constante. Algumas propriedades sensoriais e tecnológicas do leite e derivados estão relacionadas à microbiota deterioradora contaminante, representada, principalmente, por bactérias psicrotróficas proteolíticas que produzem enzimas termoresistentes. Os queijos frescos produzidos artesanalmente são geralmente fabricados com leite cru, por isso, é de grande importância conhecer a microbiota desses produtos. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi enumerar e isolar as bactérias psicrotróficas proteolíticas além de avaliar o potencial deteriorador desses microrganismos isolados de queijos frescos artesanais comercializados em Salinas, MG, Brasil. Após o isolamento das bactérias psicrotróficas proteolíticas presentes no queijo fresco, os isolados foram caracterizados em termos de coloração de Gram, forma e atividade de oxidase. A atividade proteolítica dos isolados foi confirmada pela formação de halo de hidrólise em meio de cultura específico. Os resultados destacaram a predominância de bactérias proteolíticas psicrotróficas Gram-positivas quando foi avaliada a microbiota deterioradora das amostras de queijo fresco. Considerando o potencial proteolítico, 34% dos isolados foram classificados como altamente proteolíticos. Os resultados mostraram que a contaminação inicial de queijos frescos pode interferir na qualidade microbiológica destes produtos.
Extraction, chemical composition of peel and kernel mango extracts and their antimicrobial effect on the production and characteristics of Minas frescal cheese
Authors: Posseti Taila , Santos Wanderson De Oliveira , Malpass Geoffroy Roger Pointer , Okura Mônica Hitomi , Granato Ana Cláudia
Published: September 2021

O queijo Minas Frescal é um dos produtos mais comercializados no Brasil, e por possuir alta umidade é muito perecível. Para aumentar a vida útil dos alimentos, muitos extratos bioativos têm sido utilizados como conservantes, pois apresentam ação antimicrobiana. A casca e caroço de mangas são resíduos industriais que possuem compostos fenólicos com atividade antimicrobiana. Este estudo teve como objetivo o desenvolvimento de queijos Minas Frescal incorporando extratos de casca e caroço de manga, avaliar suas características físico-químicas e microbiológicas, bem como sua aceitação sensorial. A adição dos extratos não alterou as características físico-químicas do produto, exceto pelo pH que apresentou redução significativa e aumento da acidez titulável. Assim, conclui-se que, quanto menor o pH e maior o número de compostos fenólicos presentes no extrato, maior o efeito da atividade antimicrobiana. As médias atribuídas pelos participantes na análise sensorial indicaram preferência por queijos com extrato de manga Espada e Tommy Atkins, demonstrando o potencial de uso desses extratos na produção de queijo Minas Frescal.
Using the Multi-metric Index of Biotic Integrity methodological approach to determine the major river catchment that most pollutes a lake
Authors: Mulanda Aura Christopher , Nyamweya Chrisphine S. , Njiru James M. , Omondi Reuben , Manyala Julius , Musa Safina , Owiti Horace , Guya Fredrick , Ongore Collins , Ogari Zachary , Mwamburi Job
Published: September 2021

We present the Multi-metric Index of Biotic Integrity methodological approach that allows for the ranking of major river catchments based on pollution status in the Kenyan portion of Lake Victoria, Africa. The study has a broader applicability to all of Lake Victoria, other African Great Lakes, and all lakes that have riverine discharge. The method presented utilizes water quality and environmental data, local knowledge, and pre-existing literature. The parameters considered were sampled from 2016 to 2018 during the dry season (July sampling) and the wet season (March sampling). Separation power of Mann-Whitney U test (p < 0.05) qualified 11 discriminant metrics for both macroinvertebrate and fish samples into the scoring system of 1, 3 and 5 in the formulation of final Multi-metric Index of Biotic Integrity methodological approach. Rivers in the northern section had lower Multi-metric Index of Biotic Integrity methodological approach scores, as compared to southern counterparts. The Multi-metric Index of Biotic Integrity methodological approach ranking herein was validated by community perceptions on pollution levels. River Nzoia catchment emerged as the most polluted, followed by River Yala, River Kuja, and Sondu-Miriu. Siltation, domestic washing, litter and refuse emerged as the main agents of pollution. Management authorities ought to reinforce a balanced utilization of the vital water resources to minimize future impacts, and promote catchment wide practices that ensure ecological health sustainability of the lake ecosystem.
Fish feeds and feed management practices in the Kenyan aquaculture sector: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Munguti Jonathan , Odame Hannington , Kirimi James , Obiero Kevin , Ogello Erick , Liti David
Published: September 2021

Feeds and feed management practices are key to the development of the aquaculture sector. To achieve high levels of aquaculture production, fish farmers need nutritionally adequate and cost-effective feeds, which are coupled with good feed management practices. Access to high quality and cost-effective feeds is one of the prerequisites to successful fish farming. This paper reviews the current status of the Kenyan fish feed industry and feed management practices. The review includes constraints and opportunities in fish feeds from a farmer’s perspective. The review shows that the fish feed industry has been boosted by the development of fish feed standards, which has ensured access to high-quality fish feeds by all farmers. Feed management practices considerably impact on the economic performance in fish production. Thus, adopting appropriate feed management technologies and feeding strategies is instrumental in maximizing aquaculture productivity. Some of the major challenges faced by fish farmers in the feed sector including limited access to finance, lack of appropriate technical innovations, limited knowledge in feed formulation and processing and poor feed handling and storage are discussed. These challenges pose limitation in investment opportunities for a viable and sustainable fish feed processing and manufacturing to meet the rising demand occasioned by increased demand for fish food in Kenya. There is a huge potential to develop public-private partnerships with farmer groups to improve access to training and information dissemination on feeds availability and quality. Training fish farmers on feed formulation using locally available feed ingredients provide an opportunity to reduce feed costs, increase feeding efficiency and improve profitability. This paper reviews the current status of the Kenyan fish feed industry and feed management practices including constraints and opportunities from a farmer’s perspective.
PATRONES ESPACIALES DE LOS CONSULTORIOS MÉDICOS ADYACENTES A FARMACIAS: ANÁLISIS DE DOS CIUDADES MEXICANAS
Authors: Castañeda Giovanna Santana , Lobato José Antonio Álvarez
Published: September 2021

Los consultorios adyacentes a farmacias (CAF) son parte de un modelo de negocios corporativos, cuyos servicios de carácter privado brindan asistencia médica a las personas. El presente estudio busca analizar la distribución espacial de los CAF en dos Zonas Metropolitanas (ZM) de México, la de Querétaro y la de Toluca, ambas con una dinámica territorial similar, aunque en desfase, que han respondido a estímulos económicos e industriales. El propósito es conocer si existe una distribución espacial, y si es concentrada, dispersa o es producto del azar (aleatoria) y como se ha comportado del 2010 al 2019. Para ello, se realizó un análisis de patrones de puntos, mediante tres indicadores, el promedio de vecinos más cercanos, la autocorrelación espacial del Índice de Moran y por último el agrupamiento alto/bajo de Getis-Ord. Los principales resultados muestran una distribución que tiende a la concentración de los CAF, sobre todo en las localidades urbanas de ambas ZM, dejando desprotegidas a las localidades rurales. Además de ello, se muestra una concentración a inicios del año 2010, coherente con la regulación sanitaria en México en ese mismo año, pero comienzan a descentralizarse sobre todo en la ZM de Toluca a medida que se acercan al 2019.
Changes in the perception of school climate and self-identified race in two Toronto cohorts
Authors: George Rhonda C. , Romo Alice , Robson Karen
Published: September 2021

Drawing on Toronto District School Board (TDSB) Student Census data (2006 and 2011), we examine if there have been changes in the perceptions of school climate between two cohorts of high school students. First, we contextualize our study and review relevant policy changes to student inclusion and equity to set the stages for examining, by way of a sort of “natural experiment”, to see if there was a change in the perception of school climate by students after these policy changes occurred. We then review the scholarship on school climate, its relationship to race, and its relationships to educational experiences and outcomes. We then examine how self-identified race is associated with students’ perceptions of school climate in both cohorts, interpreting our results within a Critical Policy Analysis framework. We find evidence of improved school climate from 2003 to 2008, although the changes have not been uniform by self-identified race, and in some cases have worsened, particularly for self-identified Black and Latin American students.
Enfoques de diversidad en los programas de formación docente de educación primaria en Chile
Authors: Millán Cecilia Paz
Published: September 2021

Esta investigación analiza cómo se abordan las demandas de inclusión y diversidad cultural en los procesos de formación inicial docente de 68 carreras de Educación Primaria en Chile. Se analizan los perfiles de egreso y la malla curricular: cantidad de cursos orientados a la temática de diversidad y/o necesidades educativas especiales; los títulos de los mismos cursos, y el año de la carrera en que se cursan. Es un estudio cualitativo, con un alcance exploratorio y descriptivo de la información que proveen los sitios web de las instituciones de educación superior, con un análisis de contenido. Los resultados muestran que la mayoría de las universidades dictan un curso asociado a diversidad y/o necesidades educativas especiales, que se integra de manera secundaria y aislada en la malla curricular. Las palabras más utilizadas en los títulos son diversidad e inclusión. En cuanto a los perfiles de egreso el 65% de las carreras ofrecen aprendizajes genéricos en diversidad, lo que no permite evidenciar de manera clara enfoques y prioridades. Predomina el uso de la palabra “contexto” que no es precisado ni problematizado y una focalización en las relaciones interpersonales sin considerar aspectos estructurales de desigualdad, discriminación y de conflictos que median la diversidad.