bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social behavior of musk deer during the mating season potentially influences the diversity of their gut microbiome
Authors: Li Jianmei , Luo Wei , Zhu Yudong , Dai Qinlong , Liu Guoqi , Zheng Chengli , Zhou Lei , Li Shengqiang , Chen Zhu , Wang Jianming , Feng Dayong , Yang Kunlin , Yang Zhisong , Zhu Lifeng
Published: February 2021

An increasing body of research has revealed that social behavior shapes the animal gut microbiome community and leads to the similarity among the same social group. However, some additional factors (e.g., diet and habitat within each social group) may also contribute to this similarity within the social group and dissimilarity between social groups. Here, we investigated the potential correlation between social behavior and the gut microbiome community in 179 musk deer from four breeding regions in the Maerkang Captive Center, Sichuan. The dominant gut microbiome phyla in the musk deer in this study were Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Proteobacteria. We found significant effects on the alpha and beta diversity of the gut microbiome due to the breeding regions. The similarity within breeding regions was higher than that between the breeding regions. Due to their solitary lifestyle, captive musk deer are raised in single cages with no direct social contact most of the time. Deer in all of the breeding regions have the same diet and similar living conditions. However, during each mating season from November to January, in each region, one adult male and about six adult females will be put together into a large cage. Social behavior happens during cohabitation, including mating behavior, grooming within the same sex or between different sexes, and other social contact. Therefore, we speculated that high similarity within the breeding region might be associated with the social behavior during the mating season. This was a simple and straightforward example of the relationship between animal social behavior and the gut microbiome.
Processing of a Nutrient-Rich Cereal Butter an Alternative to Peanut Butter
Authors: El-Sisy T. T. , Ali Jehan B.
Published: February 2021

Cereal butter were made from sunflower, pumpkin, garden cress, corn, rye and peanut butter served as control. Chemical, physical, microbiological, textural and sensory evaluation of cereal based butter poduced from different types of cereal were analzed using a standard method. Pumpkin had highest protein (30.23%), while sunflower, pumpkin and peanut cereals had the highest amounts of fats (51.46, 49.05 and 48.00%, respectively). Also, corn had the highest amounts (72.56%) of carbohydrate. For microbiological evaluation, data show that total mould count ranged between 1.10 to 1.80 log cfu/g for rye and peanut, respectively. Garden cress is a good source of potassium, calcium, iron, and sodium. Also, Pumpkin is a good source of Magnesium, zinc, Phosphor and Selenium.  Sunflower had the highest value of Vitamin B1, B2, B6, B9 and E but garden cress had the highest value of B2, K and C vitamins. The fatty acid composition of cereals reported that palmitic acid was the highest value in rye 21.80%. The Palmitoleic acid ranged from 0.22 to 12.50%, the lowest was peanut and highest occurred in sunflower. The highest of oleic acid was peanut 46.80%.  Sunflower had highest Linoleic acid (69.0%) and garden cress had highest of linolenic acid 32.18%. Rye had highest value (20.69%) in Arachidic acid and garden cress scored highest in Eicosenoic acid (13.40%). The microbiological quality of cereals butter samples are total aerobic bacterial counts (TAB) ranged between 1.09 log cfu/g (rye butter) to 1.91 log cfu/g (peanut butter). Garden cress was obtained the higher for viscosity value (16100, 15900 and 15700 cp/s) at 25, 40, 60°C than other cereals butter. In texture analysis, garden cress butter had the highest significant amounts of hardness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness and adhesiveness. Sensory evaluation of sunflower butter had the highest significant amounts of overall acceptability, peanut butter then pumpkin butter (96.30, 88.40 and 79.20, respectively) in all samples. Results could be useful in improving cereal butter processing and delivering sunflower butter to consumers who are more concerned as a functional food, high fat content and peanut allergy.
Exceeding Potassium and Zinc Application Rate above Farmers Practiced Rate Improves Dry Matter Partitioning, Photosynthetic Attributes, Yield and Quality of Maize (Zea mays L.) under Dryland Condition
Authors: Bhattacharjee Subhradip , Bhale V. M. , Kumar Pramod , Kumar Sheilendra , Kumar Deepak , Bairwa Bhagchand
Published: February 2021

Aims: This field experiment was conducted to compare the combined application of different rates of potassium and zinc application against the standard farmers practised application rate based on dry matter distribution, net photosynthesis, transpiration rate, sub stomatal C02 concentration, stomatal conductance, grain yield and quality attributes (protein and carbohydrate content and yield). 

Place and Duration of Study: This short-term field trial was conducted on the Agronomy Research Farm of Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra, India on the Kharif (Post monsoon) season of 2016.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with two factors i.e., potassium and zinc, each having three levels. The experiment was replicated thrice. The three potassium levels were 30, 60 and 90 kg K2O ha-1 while the zinc was applied 20, 30 and 40 kg ZnSO4.7H2O ha-1 as three distinctive levels.  A short duration dwarf maize cultivar Ravi-81 was used for the experiment.

Results: Perusal of experiment results confirmed that potassium and zinc have positive interaction even in short duration crop under dryland condition. The higher dry matter accumulation, crop growth rate, photosynthetic attributes, yield, protein content, protein yield, and carbohydrate yield has been recorded with the application of potassium at a rate of 60 kg K2O ha-1 along with zinc application of 30 kg ZnSO4.7H2O ha-1 which has been found to be statistically superior over farmers adopted practice (30 kg K2O ha-1 along with zinc application of 20 kg ZnSO4.7H2O ha-1).

Conclusion: Combined application of potassium and zinc has positive interaction on each other, and the increased rate is needed to meet the demand for short duration high yielding maize crop for enhanced growth, yield and quality attributes.
Optimizing the Community’s Supports in Counter-Terrorism Operations: A Sticks – Carrots Game Theoretic Model
Authors: Oladejo M. O. , Udoh I. J. , Abam A. O.
Published: February 2021

A terrorist group’s (TG) ability to withstand attacks and recovered from sudden high strength depreciation after a major counterterrorism operation, as well as the Security Agencies’ (SA) ability to execute successful credible counter-terrorism operation is a function of both their individual bureaucratic structures and the level of community’s supports each organization is able to optimize within the period of operation. To study the security implications of undermining a given community’s optimal supports, we present and analysed a two-person two-periods evolutionary game theoretic model for an interaction between the SA and the TG; each playing either the “Sticks” or the “Carrots” or mixed strategies to win the community’s optimal supports. In the symmetric game variant, the result of the analysis shows that if the operational cost drops by 80%, then the SA playing the “Stick” may enjoy 50:50 chance of winning the community’s optimal supports. But if the cost rises by at least 30%, then SA playing the “Sticks” would be at-most 33.3% advantageous, while the “Carrots” approach would yield at-least 66.7% advantage. In the asymmetric variant, if the operational cost drops by 80%, then SA playing the “Sticks” would enjoy 100% chance of winning the community’s optimal supports, while the “Carrots” would yield at most 20% advantage. But if the cost rises by at least 30%, then SA playing the “Sticks” would enjoy 50:50 advantage. Comparatively, the TG would enjoy 50:50 chance of winning the community’s optimal supports by playing the “Sticks” if the cost of operation drops by 90%. But if the cost rises by at least 20%, then TG playing the “Sticks” would enjoy at most 33.3% while the “Carrots” would yield at least 66.7% advantage. Thus, the cost of operation is the major determinant of either player’s strategic approach. Under the mixed strategy, if the benefit of operation exceeds its cost, then SA playing the “Sticks” is an evolutionary stable strategy (ESS), otherwise, combining the “Sticks and Carrots” simultaneously would yield an ESS. Summarily, the SAs’ stake in terrorism prevention and control using the “Sticks” approach is proportional to its operational cost and vice versa. Therefore, considering the capital intensive as well as the intelligence deficient characteristics of the “Sticks” approach, the SA cannot prevent/control terrorism using the “Stick” instruments only. Rather a viable “Carrots” approach or its combination with credible “Sticks” instruments would be necessary and sufficient to win the community’s optimal supports for effective terrorism prevention and control.
Knowledge, Perception and Practices of Coronavirus amongst Female Farmers in Nigeria
Authors: Ogubuike Chigozirim , Azeez Falilat
Published: February 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 [1] is an emerging public health problem threatening the life of millions of people. Farmers and cultivators in countries like Nigeria are rapidly starting to bear the impact of the pandemic. The study was conducted to assess the knowledge, perception and practices to COVID-19 among female farmers. A descriptive cross sectional design was used for this study, employing multistage sampling technique to recruit respondents. About (39%) of the respondents fell between 30-39 years with the median age of 35 years; majorities (56.9%) had attended secondary education and (49.2%) were married. More than half (56.4%) were into subsistence farming and they planted mostly tubers and vegetables. About (32.3%) of them did not believe in the existence of COVID-19. To (43.6%) of the farmersCOVID-19 was perceived as a virus, (32.3%) as a deadly disease, (12.8%) as political means of making money and (4.6%) as a high fever just like malaria and typhoid. Around (34.4%) reported the symptoms of COVID 19 as dry cough, (23.6%) as fever, (9%) as sneezing and (7.3%) as difficulty in breathing. Also, about (17.9%) reported that COVID 19 spreads through handshaking, (16.9%) through droplets (sneezing and coughing), (3.1%) through airborne and (20%) don’t know how COVID 19 spreads. With regards to practice, (25.6%) wash their hands 4 to 6 times per day and 5(2.6%) rarely washed their hands, about (28.2%) always wore their facemask and (36.4%) always used alcohol based sanitizer. There was a statistical association between age, level of education and the perception of female farmers to COVID-19 (P < 0.005).Also, an association was found between perception of COVID-19 and practices (P < 0.005). The study revealed poor perception and knowledge to COVID-19, which affects their adherence to public health hygiene. Since majority (73.3%) of the female farmers sourced information from radios/televisions, more awareness should be made in these platforms especially using their local dialect.
Impact of Vermicompost, Poultry Manure and Jeevaamrit on Growth Parameters of Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) cv. Allison
Authors: Garg Ashok K. , Kaushal Rajesh , Rana Vishal S.
Published: February 2021

The present investigation was conducted on 6 years old kiwifruit vines cultivar ‘Allison’ at a spacing of 4.0 m × 6.0 m for two consecutive years 2018-19 and 2019-20 at experimental block of Department of Fruit Science, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP). The experiment was laid out in triplicate in Randomized Block Design with 8 treatments under three farming systems viz., Inorganic Fertilizer Based System (IFBS), Organic Farming Based System (OFBS) and Subhash Palekar’s Natural Farming System (SPNFS). The maximum leaf area (158.1 cm2), leaf area index (4.36), chlorophyll index (51.2), comparative photosynthetically active radiation (612 µ mol quanta m-2 s-1) was found in the treatment (T8) receiving 30 liters of jeevaamrit (JM) + 3 kg ghana jeevaamrit and 40 kg FYM per vine under SPNFS. Among OFBS, the treatment T2 (100% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through vermicompost and poultry manure on 50:50 basis) observed maximum leaf area (151.8 cm2), leaf area index (4.35), comparative photosynthetically active radiation (642 µ mol quanta m-2 s-1) but lower significantly lower chlorophyll index (51.2) over T1 (Recommended dose of inorganic fertilizers + FYM) treatment of IFBS. Hence application of 30 litres jeevaamrit and 3 kg ghana jeevaamrit (both in 3 equal splits first in end of January, second in February and third in the month of April) along with 40 kg FYM per vine or alternatively substitution of 100% RDN through vermicompost and poultry manure on 50:50 basis along with 40 kg FYM were found to be best and alternate different option in place of inorganic fertilizers to ‘Allison’ cultivar of kiwifruit under mid-hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh, India. Furthermore, the research emphases mainly on improving soil health without compromising growth and yield of kiwifruits in the region. By using alternative sources of nutrients, farmers can obtain the comparable growth and yield of kiwifruits.
Effectiveness of Three Fruit Seed Extracts as Larvicide against Three Major Mosquito Vectors Aedes aegypti Linnaeus, Culex quinquefasciatus Say and Anopheles gambiae Giles (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Younoussa Lame , Oumarou Kary Mallam , Kowa Theodora Kopa , Enama Serge Eteme , Agbor Gabriel Agbor , Nukenine Elias Nchiwan
Published: February 2021

The CH2Cl2-MeOH (30:70 v/v) extracts of the seeds of Mangifera indica (Mango), Persea americana (Avocado) and Dacryodes edulis (African plum) were evaluated for potential mosquito larvicidal activity against 3rd and 4th instar larvae of Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles gambiae. Extracts were diluted with 1 mL of methanol and concentrations ranging from 1000 to 125 mg/L in 4 replicates each, were prepared in the volume of 100 mL in the plastic cups (250 mL). A volume of 1 mL of methanol added to 99 mL of tap water was prepared as negative control and Bi-one (1000 mg/L) constituted a positive control. In each test solution, 25 larvae of each mosquito species were separately transferred and larval mortality was recorded after 24 h post-treatment. As results, the three plant seed extracts applied at 1000 mg/L caused for at least 79% mortality of each mosquito species larvae assessed. The seed extract of P. americana (LC50 of 98.31, 129.24 and 136.26 mg/L, respectively against An. gambiae, Ae. aegypti and Cx. quiquefasciatus larvae) was the most potent followed by D. edulis (LC50 of 176.87 mg/L for An. gambiae, 198.68 mg/L for Ae. aegypti and 201.70 mg/L for Cx. quinquefasciatus) and M. indica (LC50 of 258.98 mg/L for An. gambiae, 297.35 mg/L for Ae. aegypti and 435.45 mg/L for Cx. quinquefasciatus).  Globally, all the seed extracts were more toxic against An. gambiae larvae compared to other mosquito species and need further exploration for the development of a new botanical larvicide to reduce mosquito densities.
In Vitro Antileishmanial Activities of Olea europaea, Kigelia africana, Terminalia mollis, Croton Macrostachyus and Bridella micrantha, Kenyan Medicinal Plants
Authors: Wafula Mukhwana Dennis , Cyrus Ayieko , Collins Mweresa , Johnstone Ingonga , Damaris Matoke-Muhia
Published: February 2021

Leishmaniasis is a major public health problem globally. Visceral leishmaniasis is known to be fatal if left untreated, while cutaneous leishmaniasis is the most neglected. The first-line treatment of leishmaniasis is based on pentavalent antimonial drugs which are expensive, requiring inpatient treatment and toxic. The Plants containing active compounds against other protozoan diseases may offer alternatives against leishmania parasites. This study determined the in vitro antileishmanial activity of Olea europaea, Kigelia africana, Terminalia mollis, Croton macrostachyus and Bridella micrantha extracts. The plant samples were dried, pulverized into fine powders and extracted using ethanol at the Center for Traditional Medicine and Drugs Research, KEMRI. The in vitro assays were carried out at the Leishmania laboratory, Centre for Biotechnology Research and Development, KEMRI. In in- vitro assays the inhibitory concentrations (IC50) and Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) on L. major promastigotes, percentage rates of macrophages infected by amastigotes and cytotoxicity on Vero cells were determined. For each parameter analyzed, differences among treatment groups exposed to different drugs were tested by logistic regression. Results showed that promastogote and amastigote growth inhibition was significantly affected by the crude extracts from the plants (P < 0.05) after 24 hours of exposure where the most effective drug was the standard drug (Amphotericin B) while among the crude extracts of the herbal drugs, T. mollis was the most effective against amastigote followed by C. macrostachyus while O. europaea was the least effective. Mammalian cell viability was significantly affected by the various test compounds (P < 0.05) after 24 hours exposure where % cell viability of herbal drugs, B. microstachyus, O. africana resulted to the most toxic effects by reducing the % cell viability to less than 50%. The study recommends the use of T. mollis in management of leishmaniasis in areas they occur. Further analysis of the active compounds that that affect efficacy of the plant extracts is advised.
Assessment of Health Related Quality of Life Using EORTC QLQ BR-23 among Breast Cancer Patients in Pakistan
Authors: Malik Madeeha , Inam Naziha , Hussain Azhar
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer among all other Asian countries.Late presentation of breast cancer negatively impact health related quality of life among patients.

Objective: The present study was designed to assess health related quality of life using EORTC QLQ-BR23 among patients of breast cancer in Pakistan.

Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used to assess health related quality of life among 382 breast cancer patients using EORTC QLQ-BR23. Data was collected and statistically analysed using SPSS version 21.

Results: The results highlighted that the lowest scores for HRQoL were observed in the domain of functional scale i.e. sexual enjoyment (7.18, ±16.84) while highest scores were observed in the domains of body image (55.82, ±29.07) followed by systemic therapy side effects (50.88, ±18.47).

Conclusion: The current study concluded poor HRQoL with a negative impact on its all domains among breast cancer patients in Pakistan. Lowest scores for HRQoL were observed in the domain of functional scale i.e. sexual enjoyment and sexual functioning while, highest scores were observed in the domains of body image followed by systemic therapy side effects.
Influence of the Soil Preparation Method on the Aerial and Root Development of the Clone GT 1 of Hevea brasiliensis, Mull. Arg (Euphorbiaceae) in the South-West of Cote D’ivoire
Authors: Djézou Konan , Kouadio Ballo Espérence , Serge T. Vawa Otro , Alban P. Kouakou Yao , Samuel Obouayeba , Bernard Dea Goué
Published: February 2021

Objective: The study was carried out on the plots of the Southwest Agricultural Civil Society (SCASO) in southwestern Côte d'Ivoire. the objective of this study is to evaluate the aerial and root development of rubber plants of Gondang Tapen 1 (GT 1) clone, through the method of land preparation

Methodology and Results: The methodology focused on plougheds soils of the experimental plots according to a toposequence (summit, mid-slope and low-slope). This treatment was compared with control plots on unploughed soil. The results obtained showed that ploughed soil favoured good aerial development of plants of the GT 1 clone, especially in the lower slopes of plots installed on a toposequence gradient. This cultivation technique also allows a good elongation of the main root of the rubber plants of the GT 1 clone, mainly at the summit and bottom of the toposequence, thus ensuring good fixation in the soil, and thus resistance to windthrow and water supply in the dry season. The study indicated a close relationship between the development of the aerial and underground parts of the GT 1 clone plants on undisturbed (unploughed soil) soils.

Conclusion and Application: Evaluation of the influence of the mode of land preparation on the aerial and root development of the GT 1 a clone showed that mechanical soil preparation by ploughed soil in rubber cultivation is an appropriate cultivation technique to boost the development of rubber trees in plantations, when soil characteristics require it.
Comparative Evaluation of the Performance of Students of Rural and Urban Primary Schools in the Prefecture of Arta, Greece, in the 1st Grade of Secondary School (Gymnasium) During 2012/2013
Authors: Gkoros Dimitrios
Published: February 2021

Αim: To investigate whether and to what extent students attending small rural primary schools are "disadvantaged" compared to students attending urban schools as well as what are the differences in their performance and consistency in their attendance in the 1st  grade of secondary school (gymnasium).

Methodology: we chose for our research the quantitative research approach, to study a large number of cases and analyze statistically the research data. More specifically, the choice of the sample which included all the students who studied in the secondary schools of the Prefecture of Arta and specifically in the 1st grade, after collecting their report cards , was considered more reliable. The sample of the research, therefore, consists of 364 students who used to study during the school year 2012-2013 in the prefecture of Arta in the 1st grade of secondary school (gymnasium) and was made by simple random sampling.

Results: As evidenced by the research findings, students who attended urban primary schools, achieve better performance in the first class of secondary school. In particular their average grade of achievement is higher especially in Mathematics and Modern Greek Language & Literature where they achieve also higher grades. However, as far as Science classes are concerned, no difference in grades is observed. Finally, regarding the continuous attendance of students, those who attended small primary schools had more absences during the school year.

Conclusion: The results of the research show a number of differences in the performance of students who have previously attended urban and rural primary schools, with those of urban schools being superior. However, the factors that constitute an obstacle to the proper and smooth operation of a rural school are numerous and also, the advantages of a rural school are difficult to be measured quantitatively.
The Comparison Production Growth of Potato Plants (Solanum Tuberesum, L) between Various Dosages of Biochar and Coffee Skin Compost
Authors: Khadijah . , Eliyin . , Mulyono . , Basyirah . , Amiruddin .
Published: February 2021

Potatoes (Solanum tuberesum, L) are one of the main foods for the needs of the world community. Therefore, increasing potato crop production is considered important. For this purpose, the utilization of a mixture of rice husk biochar with compost can provide the best results up to three times the planting season. Coffee skin can also be found in form of compost for the utilization process. However, due to the lack of farmer’s knowledge about the benefits that can be provided by skin compost to maintain the level of soil fertility. This study aims to analys the effect of biochar and coffee skin compost on the growth and yield of potato crops. Plant height, number of shoots, number of tubers per clump, and per plot tuber weight was a parameter of observation. This experiment used a factorial randomized planting block design using several doses of biochar and coffee skin compost.  The treatment of biochar dosage did not significantly affect all parameters observed. The treatment of the effect of doses of coffee skin compost had a very significant effect on plant height at all ages of observation. The average plant height increases with the higher doses of red coffee skin compost given has a very significant effect on the number of tubers per clump and the weight of per plot tubers. There was no real interaction between the biochar dose and the red coffee skin compost dosage against all observed parameters.
Importance Performance Analysis of Factors Causing Reworks in the Construction Industry
Authors: Andi Andi , Rahardjo Jani , Fendy Fendy
Published: February 2021

Rework can bring negative effect to construction project. This research aims to identify the importance level of factors causing reworks in structural, finishing, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works by a way of importance performance analysis (IPA). In order to reach this objective, the research evaluates the degree of occurrence the factors in each type of works and analyzes the level of difficulty in preventing the occurrence of the factors. The results are based on questionnaire survey, involving general and MEP contractors in Surabaya. Design related factors are the most frequent and most difficult to prevent in structural and finishing works. In MEP works, the most frequent factors are tight construction duration and unclear instructions from owner and designer; whilst insufficient owner’s capital is the most difficult to prevent. The research finds two factors that have high importance level, i.e. design changes and insufficient detail drawings.
A Survey of Energy Psychology Practitioners: Who They Are, What They Do, Who They Help
Authors: Feinstein David
Published: February 2021

Abstract: An online survey of the members of the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP) was completed by 294 of the organization’s 1,220 members (24%) in March 2016. The majority of respondents reported using acupoint tapping protocols as a core component in the successful treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, and depression. All 106 of the respondents who had applied acupoint tapping for facilitating “peak performance” in contexts such as business, education, and sports reported the approach to have been “of great value” (68%) or “moderate value” (32%) for this objective, with none of the respondents having reported it to be of “little value.” The survey also asked participants to estimate the number of sessions that are typically required to achieve each of seven “process outcomes” that are shared among various clinical approaches. For instance, the elimination of an unwanted physiological/emotional reaction to a specified trigger could typically be achieved in three or fewer acupoint tapping sessions according to 94% of the respondents, and within a single session according to 71% of the respondents. Two thirds of the licensed mental health professionals who reported that they use acupoint tapping protocols said they integrate them into existing therapeutic frameworks rather than use acupoint tapping as an independent modality. This finding suggests that the approach is portable and is being applied within the context of established therapeutic systems with the intention of more rapidly facilitating targeted neurological, emotional, and cognitive changes. In brief, the practitioner reports generated in the survey corroborate clinical trials and meta-analyses that suggest acupoint tapping protocols are rapid and effective with a range of conditions. Keywords: acupoint tapping, biofield, chakra, Emotional Freedom Techniques, EFT, energy psychology, meridian, survey, Thought Field Therapy
Differential Gene Expression after Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Treatment: A Novel Pilot Protocol for Salivary mRNA Assessment
Authors:   Department of Applied Psychology, Akamai University, Hilo, HI, Maharaj Marjorie
Published: February 2021

You are here: Home › Differential Gene Expression after Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Treatment: A Novel Pilot Protocol for Salivary mRNA Assessment doi 10.9769/EPJ.2016.8.1.MM Marjorie E. Maharaj, Department of Applied Psychology, Akamai University, Hilo, HI Abstract: Biopsychology is a rapidly expanding field of study since the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003. There is little data measuring the effect of psychotherapeutic interventions on gene expression, due to the technical, logistical, and financial requirements of analysis. Being able to measure easily the effects of therapeutic experiences can validate the benefits of intervention. In order to test the feasibility of gene expression testing in a private practice setting, this study compared messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and gene expression before and after psychotherapy and a control condition. With four non-clinical adult participants, it piloted a novel methodology using saliva stored at room temperature. A preliminary test of the interleukin- 8 (IL8) gene in both blood and saliva was performed in order to determine equivalency in the two biofluids; convergent validity was found. Following saliva test validation, a broad, genome-wide analysis was performed to detect differential gene expression in samples collected before and after treatment with Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), an evidence-based practice combining acupressure and cognitive exposure. The control treatment was non-therapeutic social interaction. To establish a baseline, participants received the control first, followed a week later by EFT. Analysis of samples was performed at three time points: immediately before treatment, immediately after, and 24 hours later. Differential expression between EFT and control was found in numerous genes implicated in overall health (p < 0.05). Further, the differentially expressed genes in this study were shown to be linked to immunity, pro or anti-inflammatory, as well as neuronal processes in the brain. Ten of the 72 differentially expressed genes are identified as promising targets for downstream research. The data show promise for the future use of salivary samples to determine the effects of therapy; this pilot protocol also illustrated the challenges and limitations of novel technologies employed in biopsychology. Keywords: epigenetics, DNA, mRNA, gene expression, protein synthesis, brain plasticity, neurogenesis, biopsychology
Use of medicines by people bearing arterial hypertension and/or diabetes who were assisted by a family health strategy
Authors: Freitas Aliny Fernanda K , Tormas Daniele Prado , Paula Gabriela Neves , Santos Débora Aparecida Silva , Goulart Letícia Silveira
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Analisar o perfil de utilização de medicamentos por hipertensos e/ou diabéticos de uma Estratégia de Saúde da Família do Sul de Mato Grosso. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa quantitativa e transversal com usuários cadastrados em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde. Os dados foram coletados em visitas domiciliares. Resultados: Os usuários consumiram uma média de 2,9 medicamentos. Não houve diferença estatística no consumo médio de medicamentos entre homens e mulheres. Os idosos utilizavam mais medicamentos. Os fármacos que atuam no sistema cardiovascular foram os mais consumidos. Conclusão: Os resultados apontam para a necessidade da promoção do uso racional de medicamentos, sobretudo na população idosa.
Veiled transphobia: nurses-created meanings vis-à-vis the user embracement of transvestites and transgenders
Authors: Reis Pamela Suelen de Oliveira , Neves André Luiz Machado das , Therense Munique , Honorato Eduardo Jorge Sant´Ana , Teixeira Elizabeth
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Compreender os sentidos produzidos por enfermeiros (as) sobre o acolhimento de pessoas travestis e transexuais na atenção básica. Método: Estudo qualitativo, realizado com quatro enfermeiros (as) que atuam em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde na Zona Sul Oeste de Manaus. Os dados foram coletados de maio a junho de 2016. Utilizou-se estudos socioantropológicos para a análise e discussão dos dados e teve como referencial metodológico a pesquisa de campo. Os dados foram analisados por meio da técnica de análise Construtivo-interpretativa. Resultados: Os sentidos produzidos por enfermeiros (as) sobre o acolhimento às pessoas travestis e transexuais na atenção básica se alicerçam em questões como constrangimento, neutralidade e desconhecimento frente às questões de gênero para além do binarismo de gênero. Conclusão:Existe uma formação dominante de base biomédica, e o cuidado de enfermagem não dá conta de aspectos socioculturais e políticos das pessoas, dos seus corpos e da sua saúde.
Conjuncture of colostomized clients of na integrated health center, reference in the state of piauí
Authors: Carvalho Herica Emilia Félix , Neta Benvinda Maria da Conceição , Silva Flaviana Pereira da , Ribeiro Ivonizete Pires , Sousa Bruna Sabrina de Almeida
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Analisar a real conjuntura que os clientes colostomizados atendidos, pelo Centro Integrado de Saúde, estão inseridos, quanto ao conhecimento sobre importância da colostomia, as mudanças ocorridas na sua vida e as dificuldades enfrentadas frente à qualidade de vida. Método: Trata-se de uma pesquisa de campo de natureza exploratória, descritiva com abordagem qualitativa realizada no Centro Integrado de Saúde referência no estado do Piauí, com 17 clientes que utilizavam bolsa de colostomia. Os dados foram coletados nos meses de março e abril de 2015, por meio de entrevistas com um roteiro semiestruturado. Para a análise dos dados, utilizou-se a Estratégia Metodológica Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Resultados: As pessoas que utilizavam a bolsa de colostomia desenvolveram formas de enfrentamento, dentre essas se destacaram a reflexão, o conhecimento sobre o problema de saúde, o isolamento social e a adaptação. Conclusão:Dessa forma, é necessário orientar e fortalecer as estratégias de enfrentamento, pois as mesmas contribuem para diminuir as complicações relacionadas às mudanças físicas e psicológicas do paciente.
Application of the vignette technique in nursing research with the elderly
Authors: Agulho Daniela Luzia Zagoto , Blaz Bruna Soares Vasques , Cardoso Joana Darc Chaves , Oliveira Adriana Delmondes de , Silva Kátia Moreira da , Cunha Carla Rafaela Teixeira
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Descrever a elaboração, validação e aplicação de vinhetas em pesquisas sobre percepção de risco de quedas de idosos. Metodologia: Estudo metodológico de elaboração de instrumento de coleta de dados e validação por um comitê de 15 juízes do Brasil e Portugal. Resultados: O processo de validação de conteúdo do instrumento com as 20 vinhetas resultou em um IVC de 0,90. Destas optou-se por excluir 08 (oito) que apresentaram cálculo individual, com valores abaixo de 0,90. Foram aplicadas aos idosos, 12 vinhetas cujo IVC individual variou de 0,96 a 1,0. Conclusão:A técnica de vinheta foi adequada para avaliar a percepção de risco de quedas de idosos residentes da comunidade.
Medication error: conceptions and behaviors of the nursing team members
Authors: Siman Andreia Guerra , Tavares Amanda Tamires Drumond Vilas Boas , Amaro Marilane Oliveira Fani , Carvalho Camilo Amaro de
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: Compreender concepções e condutas da equipe de enfermagem frente ao erro de medicação na clínica médica. Método: Estudo de abordagem qualitativa, descritivo, realizado em um hospital de ensino. Foram entrevistados dois enfermeiros e dezessete técnicos de enfermagem da clínica médica. A coleta de dados se deu por meio de entrevistas e observação não participante, analisados pela técnica de análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Foram elaboradas três categorias: concepções da equipe de enfermagem sobre o erro de medicação; aspectos que acentuam a ocorrência do erro; e estratégias e condutas adotadas para a melhoria do processo de medicação. Conclusão: Foram identificadas lacunas no conhecimento sobre o erro de medicação e segurança do paciente. Faz se necessário à implementação de medidas de melhorias no processo de medicação.
Peripheral synucleinopathy in Parkinson disease with LRRK2 G2385R variants
Authors: Yang Jing , Wang Hao , Yuan Yanpeng , Fan Shiheng , Li Lanjun , Jiang Chenyang , Mao Chengyuan , Shi Changhe , Xu Yuming
Published: February 2021

Objective

Recent studies demonstrated cutaneous phosphorylated α synuclein (p‐syn) deposition in idiopathic and some monogenetic Parkinson disease (PD) patients, suggesting synucleinopathy identical to that in the brain. Although the LRRK2 Gly2385Arg (G2385R) variant is a common PD risk factor in the Chinese population, the pathogenesis of PD with G2385R variant has not been reported. We investigated whether synucleinopathy and small fiber neuropathy (SFN) are associated with the G2385R variant.

Methods

We performed genotyping in 59 PD patients and 30 healthy controls from the skin biopsy database. The scale of SFN was assessed, as well as bright‐field immunohistochemistry against antiprotein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) and double‐labeling immunofluorescence with anti‐PGP9.5 and anti‐p‐syn.

Results

(1) p‐syn deposited in the skin nerve fibers of G2385R carrier PD patients, which was a different pattern from noncarriers, without no difference observed between proximal and distal regions; (2) decreased distal intraepidermal nerve fiber density was found in both the G2385R carrier and the noncarrier PD group, and was negatively correlated with composite autonomic symptom score‐31 item (COMPASS‐31) scores; (3) PD patients with the G2385R variant showed a more peculiar clinical profile than noncarriers with a higher nonmotor symptoms scale, COMPASS‐31 score, and levodopa equivalent dose, in addition to an increased prevalence of certain autonomic symptoms or rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorders.

Interpretation

Synucleinopathy is related to the LRRK2 G2385R genotype and implies a different pathogenesis in G2385R variant carriers and noncarriers. This study also extended the clinical profiles of PD patients with the G2385R variant.
Spatio‐Chemical Heterogeneity of Defect‐Engineered Metal–Organic Framework Crystals Revealed by Full‐Field Tomographic X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Ferreira Sanchez Dario , Ihli Johannes , Zhang Damin , Rohrbach Thomas , Zimmermann Patric , Lee Jinhee , Borca Camelia N. , Böhlen Natascha , Grolimund Daniel , van Bokhoven Jeroen A. , Ranocchiari Marco
Published: February 2021

The introduction of structural defects in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), often achieved through the fractional use of defective linkers, is emerging as a means to refine the properties of existing MOFs. These linkers, missing coordination fragments, create unsaturated framework nodes that may alter the properties of the MOF. A property‐targeted utilization of this approach demands an understanding of the structure of the defect‐engineered MOF. We demonstrate that full‐field X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure computed tomography can help to improve our understanding. This was demonstrated by visualizing the chemical heterogeneity found in defect‐engineered HKUST‐1 MOF crystals. A non‐uniform incorporation and zonation of the defective linker was discovered, leading to the presence of clusters of a second coordination polymer within HKUST‐1. The former is suggested to be responsible, in part, for altered MOF properties; thereby, advocating for a spatio‐chemically resolved characterization of MOFs.
Tuning Overall Water Splitting on an Electrodeposited NiCoFeP Films
Authors: Kan Shuting , Xu Mengying , Feng Wenshuai , Wu Yufeng , Du Cheng , Gao Xiaohui , Wu Yimin A. , Liu Hongtao
Published: February 2021

The regulation of geometric and electronic structures is very important to transition metal phosphides with high catalytic properties. Herein, nanofilms consisting of NiCoFeP nanospheres were electrochemically deposited onto 3D Ni foam for the catalysis of water splitting. Depending on the amount of iron, the NiCoFeP nanocatalysts exhibit different surface topographies and chemical binding energies, which have a great influence on electrochemical performances. The optimal NiCoP‐0.01 M Fe films show robust bifunctional electrocatalytic activities with an overpotential of 118 mV (10 mA cm−2) for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and 300 mV (50 mA cm−2) for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The overall water splitting employing this proposed nanocatalyst at both electrodes only presents a cell voltage of 1.60 V at the current density of 10 mA cm−2, far lower than that (1.73 V) with the commercial Pt/C cathode and RuO2 anode combination.
Reconciling carbon‐cycle processes from ecosystem to global scales
Authors: Ballantyne Ashley P , Liu Zhihua , Anderegg William RL , Yu Zicheng , Stoy Paul , Poulter Ben , Vanderwall Joseph , Watts Jennifer , Kelsey Kathy , Neff Jason
Published: February 2021

Understanding carbon (C) dynamics from ecosystem to global scales remains a challenge. Although expansion of global carbon dioxide (CO2) observatories makes it possible to estimate C‐cycle processes from ecosystem to global scales, these estimates do not necessarily agree. At the continental US scale, only 5% of C fixed through photosynthesis remains as net ecosystem exchange (NEE), but ecosystem measurements indicate that only 2% of fixed C remains in grasslands, whereas as much as 30% remains in needleleaf forests. The wet and warm Southeast has the highest gross primary productivity and the relatively wet and cool Midwest has the highest NEE, indicating important spatial mismatches. Newly available satellite and atmospheric data can be combined in innovative ways to identify potential C loss pathways to reconcile these spatial mismatches. Independent datasets compiled from terrestrial and aquatic environments can now be combined to advance C‐cycle science across the land–water interface.
Correlation between albuminuria and tissue Doppler‐derived left ventricular myocardial performance index in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Parsaee Homa , Nabati Maryam , Azizi Soheil , Yazdani Jamshid
Published: February 2021

Background

Albuminuria is considered as a significant predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes mellitus. The main purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between albuminuria and global left ventricular (LV) function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

This observational study was conducted on 80 consecutive asymptomatic patients with T2D and an LV ejection fraction ≥55%. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the presence or absence of albuminuria. Echocardiography‐derived indices of the LV function were then compared between these groups.

Results

The patients with albuminuria were older (mean ± SD: 60.37 ± 9.05 vs 54.52 ± 10.26 years of age, P = .01) and had higher hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels (8.45 ± 1.97 vs 7.25 ± 1.93 mg/dL, P = .012) than those without albuminuria. Among the echocardiographic variables, the patients with albuminuria had higher LV Tei‐index (median [lower‐upper quartile]: 0.620 [0.455‐0.824] vs 0.441 [0.336‐0.586], P < .001), more prolonged early filling (E)‐wave deceleration time (274.87 ± 75.97 vs 239.40 ± 61.35 ms, P = .032), increased interventricular septal wall thickness (1.11 ± 0.31 vs 0.95 ± 0.21 cm, P = .012), and lower mean early diastolic mitral annular velocity (7.57 ± 2.34 vs 8.68 ± 2.46 cm/s, P = .046) than those without albuminuria. Among risk factors, only albuminuria and HbA1c levels were associated with a significant increase in LV Tei‐index (Beta = 0.426 and P < .001, Beta = 0.226 and P = .042, respectively).

Conclusion

The LV Tei‐index was significantly higher in diabetic patients with than without albuminuria. Low HbA1c levels were correlated with a decrease in LV Tei‐index.
A graphic guide to the percutaneous tripod acetabular reconstruction for metastatic cancer
Authors: Yang Rui , Wang Jichuan , Mizera Megan M. , Tarpada Sandip P. , Seetharaman Mani , Sen Milan K. , Hoang Bang , Geller David S.
Published: February 2021

Symptomatic peri‐acetabular metastatic lesions are often treated with open surgery such as modified Harrington procedures. In an effort to avoid surgical complications inherently associated with open surgical approaches, we developed and recently reported a novel Tripod percutaneous screw technique. The tripod technique is minimally invasive and was found to yield excellent outcomes regarding both pain control and functionality. The procedure is performed in a standard operative theater using fluoroscopic guided percutaneous screws. Despite the simplicity of intraoperative set‐up and instrumentation, it is technically demanding. Obtaining the correct fluoroscopic views and troubleshooting intraoperative hurdles can be challenging for even an experienced orthopedic surgeon. The technique and bony conduits were previously described in the trauma literature, however, there are key points of difference in the setting of metastatic disease. Here we provide a compilation of a stepwise graphic guide for the tripod model in the setting of metastatic peri‐acetabular lesions, as well as the tips and tricks based on our own experience. These encompass preoperative preparation, operating room settings, intraoperative fluoroscopic guidance, postoperative care, and subsequent conversion to a cemented total hip arthroplasty, if needed.
Asymptotic dynamics on the worldline for spinning particles
Authors: Bonocore Domenico
Published: February 2021

Abstract

There has been a renewed interest in the description of dressed asymptotic states à la Faddeev-Kulish. In this regard, a worldline representation for asymptotic states dressed by radiation at subleading power in the soft expansion, known as the Generalized Wilson Line (GWL) in the literature, has been available for some time, and it recently found applications in the derivation of factorization theorems for scattering processes of phenomenological relevance. In this paper we revisit the derivation of the GWL in the light of the well-known supersymmetric wordline formalism for the relativistic spinning particle. In particular, we discuss the importance of wordline supersymmetry to understand the contribution of the soft background field to the asymptotic dynamics. We also provide a derivation of the GWL for the gluon case, which was not previously available in the literature, thus extending the exponentiation of next-to-soft gauge boson corrections to Yang-Mills theory. Finally, we comment about possible applications in the current research about asymptotic states in scattering amplitudes for gauge and gravity theories and their classical limit.