bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kant’s Reformulation of the Concept of Ius Naturae
Authors: Tomassini Fiorella ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: May 2019

Like previous theorists of natural law, Kant believes in the possibility (and necessity) of a rational theory of ius, but also claims that the very concept of ius naturae and the method of investigation of its principles must be thoroughly reformulated. I will maintain that Kant solves the methodological problem of natural law theories by stating that a rational doctrine of Right concerns pure rational knowledge. Right must be conceived as a metaphysical doctrine in which its principles and laws are determined a priori. By conceiving the idea of a “metaphysics of morals” and linking Right with it, he finds a way both to conserve the notion of ius naturae (i.e., rational and “immutable principles for any giving of positive law” (RL, AA 06: 229)) and to purify it from any empirical or anthropological element.
What Is Eternity?
Authors: Badalamenti Anthony F. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: May 2019

This paper presents a model for the human experience of eternity based upon an integration of the known properties of the infinities and the creation centered spirituality of Meister Eckhart. The model presents man’s movement through eternity as an ascent of ever greater infinite ontological increases that is asymptotic to God. It implies that time is part of the experience of eternity but to an ever decreasing degree. It also implies that death as a transforming event is recurring but that fear of death is only associated with its first occurrence.
RESÍDUOS URBANOS: DESAFIOS PARA IMPLANTAÇÃO DA POLÍTICA NACIONAL DE RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS NO MUNICÍPIO DE MOSSORÓ-RN
Authors: Barros Hilquias Sabino , Souza Francisca Leidiana
Published: May 2019

A adequação à Política Nacional dos Resíduos Sólidos tem sido um grande desafio para grande parte dos municípios brasileiros. Diante disto, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo, analisar a situação do município de Mossoró-RN, por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica e registros fotográficos em bairros representativos da cidade para verificar como o município tem realizado o gerenciamento dos seus resíduos. Para isto, foram visitados órgãos públicos, empresas e associações de catadores de materiais recicláveis, para entender a dinâmica do município diante a gestão e o gerenciamento dos resíduos. Os resultados obtidos diagnosticaram que a situação do município é bem superior aos demais municípios do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte, mas que ainda apresenta fragilidades quanto ao destino final de seus resíduos
Introduktion
Authors: Oxlund Bjarke , Grøn Lone , Bregnbæk Susanne
Published: May 2019

Vi lever længere og længere. Ifølge Danmarks Statistik er middellevetiden for danskere i 2019 på 81 år (79 år for mænd og 82, 9 år for kvinder) (DST 2019). Det er en fremgang på mere end fire år i danskernes middellevetid siden årtusindeskiftet (ibid.), hvilket vidner om, at livets længde er foranderlig. Hver dag udvikles der nye medicinske teknologier, og velfærdssamfundet byder ind med nye sociale teknologier, der ligeledes søger at forbedre og forlænge livet. Alene derfor er livet som ældre med andre ord ikke, hvad det plejede at være. Faktisk ved vi dårligt nok, hvem vi skal opfatte som ”de ældre”. I en tid hvor aldringslandskaber både i Danmark og globalt er under stærk forandring, hvordan skal vi da anskue aldring – som kronologisk, social, biologisk, fænomenologisk, funktionel eller institutionel aldring (Kertzer and Keith 1984, Beall 1984, Fortes 1984, Kaufman 1987, Katz 2006, Grøn og Olesen 2017)? Mange spørgsmål trænger sig på. Har vi erstattet en entydigt negativ fortælling om aldring som forfald med en entydigt positiv fortælling om sund, aktiv og vellykket aldring? Hvordan influerer det i så fald på forholdet mellem pædagogiske tiltag og pleje og omsorg for ældre?
Søvn som aktiv deltagelse
Authors: Larsen Trine
Published: May 2019

Søvn i et klinisk perspektiv får (igen) opmærksomhed. I det ortopædkirurgiske indlæggelsesforløb er opmærksomheden rettet mod søvn, som et middel i recovery, men søvn er også en hverdagslivspraksis, som udføres i en relation mellem krop, rumlig og tidslig struktur. En relation, som er særligt intensiveret for ældre mennesker og mennesker med funktionsnedsættelse. Gennem et sociomaterielt perspektiv på tilblivelse udfolder og diskuterer artiklen, hvordan søvn som fænomen bliver til, og som praksis får mulighed for at være i den institutionelle sammenhæng mellem søvn som en hverdagslivs- og en medicinsk praksis for den ældre ortopædkirurgiske patient. Analysen peger på, at søvn bliver til gennem et medicinsk og organisatorisk deltagelsesperspektiv, som en social performance under indlæggelse.
DigestiFlow - reproducible demultiplexing for the single cell era
Authors: Holtgrewe Manuel , Nieminen Mikko , Messerschmidt Clemens , Beule Dieter
Published: May 2019

An ever-increasing number of NGS library preparation protocols used in biomedical research requires complex barcoding schemes. In combination with the economic urge to use deep multiplexing on high volume sequencing devices this has turned the once mundane task of demultiplexing into a complex and error prone analysis step. We present an easy to implement, efficient, flexible, and extendable open source solution to address this challenge. All software is available under the permissive MIT open source license.
“Before the Door that Opens on my Story”: Samuel Beckett and Narrative as Detritus
Authors: Chattopadhyay Arka
Published: May 2019

The article weaves Lacanian psychoanalysis with narratology. It explores the Beckettian logic of narrative detritus in The Trilogy by examining stories, progressively “worsened” with every act of narration. Reading these obsessive-compulsive moments of narrative as failure, it sheds light on the various techniques and implications of this experiment that range from freezing a narrative into stasis to pushing it toward the limits of speculation and from forcing the narrative to revolve around its exterior to underlining its artifice through narratorial intrusions. The article focuses on the vestigial story-function to underscore the paradoxical status of Beckett’s narrative impulse and demonstrates how the drift of these narrations relocates storytelling from the subjective pole of the “I” to the opacity of language as a field of the Other and finally into the originary and the terminal silence that conditions narrative. The article reads Beckett’s assaults on the realistic narrative logic of the novel in tandem with an aporetic narrative logic that emerges from Lacanian psychoanalysis with its emphasis on the Real, as opposed to realism.
University Curriculum in Special Teacher Education in Finland and Sweden
Authors: Takala Marjatta , Nordmark Marie , Allard Karin
Published: May 2019

The education of special teachers’ is seldom studied, and when it is examined, it is compared primarily with general teacher education. The written academic curricula reflect scientific, professional, social, and ethical values, goals, and competences in education, school and society. This study analyses the special teacher education (STE) curricula from six Finnish and seven Swedish universities. The results show that Finnish STE curricula consists of 60 credits over one year , while the Swedish curricula comprises 90 credits over 1.5 years. Finnish STE can be called a “combo degree,” which addressed various learning difficulties, and Swedish STE transformed it into a specialization, with five different options. Teaching practice is essential in Finnish education, but does not exists as such in Sweden. Inclusive elements are somewhat present in the curricula, often in the form of co-operation. The core contents in these two countries are discussed and compared.
PubMed Search: How to get Optimum Results?
Authors: Mahobia Ashish , Vyas Sonal , Deshmukh Shubhangi
Published: May 2019

There are many articles published regularly in the literature dealing with various aspects of “Research Methodology”. Techniques of manuscript writing and various strategies for statistical analysis have been very well documented in the past. However, when it comes to conducting a thorough literature search using the most comprehensive online database i.e. PubMed, the literature is surprisingly scant. Pubmed (Medline) is the primary source of literature search for research citations in medicine. However, getting the optimum result is a difficult task. Often the search results are either too voluminous or not to the point. This article illustrates strategies using which the PubMed search engine can be used optimally to perform a thorough and exhaustive literature search, thereby yielding the desired papers published previously.
Expanded Indications of Plaque Brachytherapy
Authors: Singh Rashmi , Lomi Neiwete , Chawla Bhavna
Published: May 2019

Radiotherapy is now a widely accepted treatment modality in oncology. Plaque brachytherapy is an effective eye and vision sparing alternative to enucleation for patients with intraocular tumours. The most common indication for brachytherapy is malignant tumours like retinoblastoma and uveal melanoma. Over the years, brachytherapy is being increasingly used for other conditions affecting the eye and ocular adnexa. These include ocular surface tumours and some benign lesions where traditional methods of treatment have failed such as retinal capillary hemangiomas, vaso-proliferative tumours, choroidal hemangiomas and choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration. The expanded applications of plaque therapy are summarized in this review.
Linear versus Torsional Phacoemulsification: A Comparative Study
Authors: Mehra Rohan , Gupta Manisha , Shakeel Tarannum , Dasgupta Sushobhan
Published: May 2019

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to compare the efficacy between Linear and Torsional Phacoemulsification and the impact on the outcome of surgery based on corneal endothelial cell count, central corneal thickness, post operative inflammation and visual acuity.

Methods:

Patients having senile cataract with grade NS2-NS3 according to Lens Opacities Classification System III were included. Exclusion criteria included any disease that could hamper vision other than cataract. 108 eyes of 108 patients were studied. Of these, 54 patients were operated by the Torsional technique and 54 patients by the linear technique. Pre operative and post operative Day 1, Day 7, Day 15, Day 28 readings were taken.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 60.54 ± 7.06 (SD) years. On postoperative day 28, the endothelial cell loss was less in patients of torsional phacoemulsification technique (97.41 ± 28.61) as compared to linear technique (99.04 ± 26.09) (difference was not significant). Similarly, central corneal thickness in patients of torsional phacoemulsification technique (26.80 ± 11.07) on day 28 was statistically same as those who underwent linear technique (27.37± 6.76). 7.4% patients in the linear group and 7.4% patients in the torsional group had postoperative inflammation on day 1, which resolved on subsequent visits. BCVA on postoperative day 1 in patients of torsional group was 6/9 whereas linear group was 6/12.

Conclusion:

The torsional technique gives faster visual recovery than the linear technique. Although there was no statistically significant difference in terms of visual acuity, endothelial cell loss, postoperative corneal edema and postoperative inflammation between the two techniques as compared preoperatively and on post operative day 28.
Bilateral Superior Oblique Tenectomy for Exotropia with Vertical and Lateral Incomitance
Authors: Sharma Manasvini , Rath Soveeta , Ganesh Suma
Published: May 2019

Bilateral superior oblique overaction is usually associated with A pattern strabismus and in some cases, a compensatory head tilt can be present. We report a case of a 9 year old girl who presented to our outpatient department with complaints of outward deviation of eyes since 2 years. On examination, she had a compensatory face turn to the right. Her visual acuity was 6/6 in both eyes. Cover test showed exotropia with A pattern, lateral incomitance and an asymmetric superior oblique overaction (SOOA) in both eyes. Fundus examination showed intorsion in both eyes. Bilateral asymmetric superior oblique tenectomy was performed which corrected the compensatory head posture and incomitant exotropia along with collapse of A pattern. Hence, bilateral superior oblique tenectomy is an effective tool for SOOA presenting with A pattern.
Epithelial Basement Membrane Dystrophy and Visual Rehabilitation Using Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses: A Case Report
Authors: Chukwuemeka Obinwanne , Taneja Mukesh
Published: May 2019

A 45 year old Indian male presented with complaints of monocular diplopia, blurry vision and burning sensation in each eye. On initial slit lamp biomicroscopy evaluation no overt abnormality was noted, but on instillation of sodium fluorescein dye a floral pattern was noted. After careful evaluation of the cornea using the iris retro-illumination technique, this so called floral pattern was found to be centrally located maps, dots and finger print patterns. Corneal topography confirmed the presence of astigmatism which had an irregular pattern in the left eye and on anterior segment optical coherence tomography sub epithelial linear hyper-reflectivity was noted in both eyes. The patient was diagnosed with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy.

He was managed conservatively with lubricants and rigid gas permeable contact lenses were prescribed to correct the astigmatism and corneal irregularity making use of fitting characteristics specific to the nature of the condition which completely resolved the patients symptoms.
Bilateral Disciform Keratitis with Immune Corneal Ring in a Patient with HLA-B27 Positive Reactive Arthritis
Authors: Narayanan Niveditha , Murthy Pavani
Published: May 2019

Purpose:

To report a presentation of bilateral disciform keratitis with immune corneal ring in a young male with HLA B 27 positive reactive arthritis.

Case Report:

A 21 year old man suffered an attack of bacterial UTI a month back with concurrent self-limited bilateral scleritis for 3 days. A week later, he developed multiple joint aches and a rheumatologist diagnosed HLAB27 associated reactive arthritis for the first time, though he had occasional mild joint aches for 8 years and was on irregular aurvedic medication. Specific treatment led to remission of arthritis. About 2 weeks later, he had second episode of bilateral red eye with blurry vision along with self-limited genital ulcer. With no improvement using topical and systemic antivirals for 3 days, he reported to us with bilateral disciform keratitis with incomplete immune rings. Preliminary smear reports of corneal scraping and conjunctival swab were negative and the patient was started on topical antibiotics and later tapering dose of topical steroids were added that led to complete resolution in 45 days.

Conclusion:

This is the first report of immune corneal ring in bilateral disciform keratitis in a patient with HLAB27 positive reactive arthritis to the best of our knowledge.
Congenital Bilateral Ectropion in Collodion Baby: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Gupta Aruna K.R. , Patel Kashyap , Nathwani Yashvi , Amin Nikunj , Makwana KIshan
Published: May 2019

A baby born with normal full term vaginal delivery to a healthy mother aged 30 years was admitted to Neonatal intensive care unit at our tertiary care centre. On ophthalmological examination, the patient had bilateral ectropion of both the upper and lower eyelids. The eyelashes of the lower eyelids were missing. There was no evidence of discharge, corneal opacities or keratitis. No other ocular abnormality was found. Collodion baby is a rare disease; and there is no established management protocol. We managed the patient conservatively by the use of 0.05 % Clobetasol ointment for local application over the eyelids and lubricant (Carboxy methyl cellulose 1%) eye drops. Thus, the case was managed successfully with no requirement for surgical intervention.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices about Glaucoma among Glaucoma Patients at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Goa
Authors: Raiturcar Tanvi Poy , Cacodcar Jagadish A. , Vernekar Preksha
Published: May 2019

Background:

The global prevalence of glaucoma is about 67 million, and it is responsible for 6.6 million blind individuals in the world. It is important that the patients are fully aware of the nature of the disease and importance of adherence to therapy in order to prevent irreversible damage. We conducted this study to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices about glaucoma among patients suffering from glaucoma.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted among 200 consecutive glaucoma patients presenting to the out-patient department at Goa Medical College and Hospital. The patients were administered a pre-tested proforma which contained 12 closed-ended questions by study investigators, in order to assess their knowledge, attitude and practices about glaucoma. The demographic and socio-economic details of the study participants were also studied.

Statistical Analysis:

SPSS version 22 and expressed as simple percentages and proportions.

Results:

The study showed that 79% patients were aware that they were suffering from glaucoma, 10% participants could briefly describe their disease, 66% were aware of the irreversible nature of glaucoma, 18% were aware of the familial nature of the disease, 56% felt the need for regular medications, 22% felt the need for regular visits to the ophthalmologist, 72% were using the antiglaucoma medications regularly, and 70% were following up regularly. Only 32% had brought their family members for glaucoma screening.

Conclusion:

Irreversible damage from glaucoma can be prevented with early detection and patient compliance. This is only possible by increasing the level of awareness about glaucoma and health education.
Cup Reversal in a Steroid Responder Post-Trabeculectomy
Authors: Gudimetla Jayamadhury , Konana Vinaya Kumar , Potti Sudhakar , R Madhu Kumar , Kanakamedla Ashok , Poluri Swarnalatha
Published: May 2019

An 18 year old male presented with diminution of vision in right eye since 4 days. Fundus of the right eye examination revealed a cup disc ratio of 0.4:1 and occlusion of superior and inferior branch retinal vein. The patient received sub tenon Triamcinolone acetonide elsewhere in the right eye. On follow up visit IOP was 48 mm of Hg and the cup disc ratio was 0.7:1 in right eye. The patient was started on maximum anti-glaucoma medications despite which the IOP was not under control. Patient underwent trabeculectomy in the right eye. One month post trabeculectomy, the cup disc ratio decreased from 0.7:1 to 0.4:1 and the IOP was 10 mm of Hg. Our case reemphasizes that prompt treatment of young patients with raised IOP can achieve cup reversal.
Bee Sting Injury to Cornea: A Case Report
Authors: Kularia Anand Kumar , Vyas C. S.
Published: May 2019

We report a case of bee sting injury to the cornea presenting with endothelial keratitis and hypopyon, its pathogenesis, treatment and outcome. A young male of 24 years reported in the emergency department with acute painful red eye and sudden loss of vision. It looked like a case of corneal ulcer with hypopyon, but further inquiry and slit lamp examination revealed bee sting on the cornea and its reaction. It was managed with hospital admission and topical and oral corticosteroid as mainstay of therapy. Along with, it mydriatic atropine eye drop and topical antibiotic was also given. The corneal infiltration and edema reduced gradually, hypopyon disappeared completely. After 4 weeks of follow up, the visual acuity was 6/9, and the cornea was clear and bright, leaving behind only a small peripheral corneal opacity.
Mixed Retinopathy: A Unique Presentation
Authors: Dhir Pushkar , Das Dipankar , Bawankar Pritam , Soibam Ronel , Bhattacharjee Harsha , Bharali Gayatri , Misra Divakant , Chiraniya Palak
Published: May 2019

We describe the case of a 24-year-old male with transplant-associated retinal thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) secondary to hemodynamic instability following renal transplant. Presenting symptoms were ocular and examination findings were consistent with a Purtscher-like retinopathy. This case demonstrates mixed retinopathy picture of ocular TMA following hypertensive crises post renal transplant along with viral retinitis.
Responses of Cucumber Fruit to Aqueous 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) Application
Authors: Ergun Muharrem , Kareem Najat Ghareeb
Published: May 2019

Aims: The objectives of the present study were to evaluate effects of aqueous 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on quality of cucumber fruit, and to compare with/to gaseous 1-MCP and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) applications.

Study Design: A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was set up for the experiment.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Horticulture, Bingol University, Turkey; between September - December 2017. 

Methodology: Cucumber fruits (ErdemliF1) were either treated with aqueous or gaseous 1-MCP (1 ppm), or left untreated for MAP storage or controls. The fruits were afterwards put into PET clamshell containers except for MAP application and stored 23 ± 1°C for 10 days for simulating retail shelf-life conditions. Samples of cucumbers were then tested periodically to record changes in quality as determined by weight loss, firmness, color, gas composition (O2, CO2 and N2), total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, chlorophyll content, and decay during the storage time.

Results: Neither aqueous nor gaseous 1-MCP application had a significant effect on weight or firmness loss. According to peel color values recording during the storage period, there were no significant differences among the treatments. Total soluble solids, pH or titratable acidity did not show a significant change or variation among treatments during the storage. Fruits stored in modified atmosphere packages showed higher chlorophyll a amount than fruit treated with 1-MCP.  

Conclusion: The study revealed that neither aqueous 1-MCP application nor gaseous 1-MCP application is effective for retaining quality loses and consequently for extending shelf life of the cucumbers kept at 23°C.
Optimization of Process Parameters for Production of Alkaline Protease by OVAT Method Using Isolated Strain Alternaria alternata TUSGF1
Authors: Polley Tapasi , Ghosh Uma
Published: May 2019

Aim: The current study aimed at studying the optimum fermentation conditions and nutritional conditions for alkaline protease production by submerge fermentation using Alternaria alternata TUSGF1, isolated from poultry farm soil.

Study Design: The results of environmental and nutritional parameters for protease production by OVAT method was analyzed by origin 6.1 software.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Food technology and Biochemical Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India between March 2017 and May 2017.

Methodology: A protease producing microorganism was isolated from a poultry farm soil and identified as Alternaria alternata TUSGF1. Various environmental and nutritional process parameters such as volume of medium, fermentation time, temperature, age of inoculums, agitation and carbon sources and nitrogen sources were standardized for the maximum yield of alkaline protease.

Results: The optimum conditions of protease activity was 30°C at volume of medium 60 ml with 7 days age of inoculum in the medium containing 168 h of incubation and 120 rpm agitation rate. Peptone, casien, skimmed milk, urea and yeast extract were good nitrogen sources whilst maltose, fructose, starch, and sucrose were appropriate for enzyme production by submerge fermentation.

Conclusion: Alkaline protease production by a newly isolated Alternaria alternata TUSGF1 from poultry farm soil was studied in shake flask conditions by submerge fermentation. It was established that the optimum protease production was recorded at 30°C, 60 ml volume of medium leaves and incubation time of 168 h. The best carbon and nitrogen sources for protease production were fructose and casein, respectively.
Corporate Governance Mechanisms and Value Creation: An Empirical Evidence
Authors: Kabir Musa Usman , Aripin Norhani Binti , Ali Al-Dhamari Redhwan Ahmed
Published: May 2019

The study examines the perceived effects of corporate governance mechanisms on the value of manufacturing firms in Nigeria by adopting economic value added as the measure of firm value. Corporate governance mechanisms such as concentrated ownership, managerial ownership, the board size, board independence, and foreign ownership as they influence corporate valuation were empirically investigated. 89 listed manufacturing firms in Nigeria were selected for 5 years (2012-2016) for the analysis. The study utilized different tests such as OLS panel data regression and multiple regression model to establish the relationship with panel corrected standard error (PCSE). The study is guided by resource enrichment theory and agency theory. The finding of the study shows that ownership concentration, the board size, and board independence positively impacted on firm value as measured by economic value added. However, managerial ownership and foreign ownership reported negative and insignificant impacts on the value of Nigerian manufacturing firms.
Comparative Analysis of Health Risk Associated with Occupational Exposure to Formaldehyde in Public and Private Mortuaries in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Roland Obed-Whyte, , Douglas K. E. , Alice Nte,
Published: May 2019

Background: Formaldehyde (FA) is a well-known chemical widely used in mortuaries in Nigeria for the preservation of human cadavers, yet little is known of the potential health risk associated with occupational exposure to formaldehyde in mortuaries. This study evaluated the potential health risk associated with occupational exposure to formaldehyde in mortuaries in Rivers State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The study was carried out in 7 public and 8 private mortuaries and the concentrations of formaldehyde to which the morticians are exposed were measured during the embalmment process. Modeling of health related risk was carried out in accordance with methods recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA).

Results: The results showed that the lethal concentrations of formaldehyde in the mortuaries far exceeded the “No Significant Risk Levels” (LC50 = 3.3 ppm for public mortuaries; and 3.46 ppm for private mortuaries). Analysis showed that 77.2% of workers in the public mortuaries have high daily formaldehyde exposure index, while 88.24% of the workers in the private mortuaries have high daily formaldehyde exposure index. The difference between the formaldehyde daily exposure index and daily potential dose in public and private mortuaries was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Computed hazard quotients for both public and private were 1.25 and 3.0 respectively (> 1). Computed cancer related risk values for public and private mortuaries were 1.5x10-3 and 1.9x10-3 respectively.

Conclusion: The study showed that embalmers in both the public and private mortuaries in Rivers State occupationally exposed to formaldehyde have significant risk of developing carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic related health problems. It is therefore, recommended that operators of mortuaries and Rivers State Government should provide FA monitoring device and continuous health education for workers.
Mathematical Modeling to Estimation Leaf Area of Pimenta dioica from Linear Dimensions
Authors: Souza Oliveira Vinicius De , Gonçalves Lucas Caetano , Costa Amanda , Santos Karina Tiemi Hassuda dos , Santos Jéssica Sayuri Hassuda , Santos Gleyce Pereira , Chisté Hérica , Schmildt Omar , Czepak Marcio Paulo , Leandro da Vitória Edney , Romais Schmildt Edilson
Published: May 2019

The objective of this work was to obtain regression equations and to indicate the most appropriate from different mathematical models for the estimation of the leaf area of ​​ Allspice (Pimenta dioica) by non - destructive method. 500 leaves of plants located in the municipality of São Mateus, North of Espírito Santo State, Brazil, were collected, 400 of which were used to adjust the equations and 100 for validation. The length (L) along the main midrib, the maximum width (W), the product of the length with the width (LW) and the observed leaf area (OLA) were measured from all leaves. We fitted models of linear equations of first degree, quadratic and power, where OLA was the dependent variable in function of L, W and LW. From the 100 sheets intended for validation, and using the adjusted equations for each mathematical model, the estimated leaf area (ELA) was obtained. Subsequently, a simple linear regression was fitted for each model of the proposed equation in which ELA was the dependent variable and OLA the independent variable. The mean absolute error (MAE), the root mean square error (RMSE) and Willmott's index d also determined. The best fit had as selection criterion the non-significance of the comparative means of ELA and OLA, MAE and RMSE values ​​closer to zero and value of the coefficient of determination coefficient (R2) close to one. Thus, the power model (ELA = 0.7605(LW)0.9926, R2 = 0.9764, MAE = 1.0066, RMSE = 1.7759 and d = 0.9950) based on the product of length and width (LW) is the most appropriate for estimating the leaf area of ​​Pimenta dioica.
Efficacy of Tithonia diversifolia and Momordica charantia Leaves Extracts against Malaria Vector, Anopheles gambiae Gile (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Ileke K. D. , Obimakinde E. T. , Anthony C. M. , Olayinka-Olagunju J. O.
Published: May 2019

Aim: Resistance of mosquito vectors and harmful effects of chemicals on human and its environment have been major problems encountered in vector control through the use of synthetic insecticides, thus there is a need for alternative insecticides of plant derivatives. This research is aimed at using extracts of Tithonia diversifolia and Momordica charantia against the developmental stages of Anopheles gambiae.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria between the months of March to June, 2017.

Methodology: Larvae and pupae of Anopheles gambiae were reared in the laboratory at ambient temperature of 28±2°C and relative humidity of 75±5%. The leave extracts of T. diversifolia and M. charantia were extracted with methanol and were prepared at concentrations, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5%. The larvae and pupae of A. gambiae were exposed to these concentrations of the plant extract for 24 hours. Mortality of the larvae and pupae was monitored and recorded. Probit analysis was used to determine the LC50.

Results: Date of this research revealed that at all levels of concentrations, mortality of both the larvae and pupae of this insect increased with increase in the concentrations regardless the type of plant extract used.  The leave extract of T. diversifolia having a lower value of LC50 (larvae: 0.20%; Pupae: 0.27%) was more potent than extract from M. charantia having a higher value of LC50 (larvae: 0.31%; Pupae: 0.44%) after 24 hours Post Treatment of larvae and pupae of A. gambiae. T. diversifolia had significant effect on the larvae of A. gambiae with percentage mortality ranges from 23.33-100% within 24 hrs of exposure when compared with M. charantia that had 16.67-100% of mortality larvae of A. gambiae.

Conclusion: The obtained results from this research revealed that extracts from the two plants exhibited great insecticidal properties against larvae and pupae of A. gambiae. Therefore, more exploration on the use of these plants for the development of insecticides at commercial level should be done.
Protective Role of Lycopene on Hormonal Profile and Posttesticular Functions of Male Rat Exposed to Sublethal Doses of Cyermethrin
Authors: Obulor Adetutu Olubunmi , Orlu Eme Efioanwan
Published: May 2019

Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the Protective role of Lycopene on hormonal profile and posttesticular functions of male rats exposed to sublethal doses of Cypermethrin.

Study Design: The study was a completely randomized design employing relevant statistical tools for analysis and interpretation.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Reproductive Physiology and Genetics Research Laboratory of the Department of Applied and Environmental Biology, Rivers State University, Rivers State. The experiment lasted for 35 days.

Methodology: For the sperm morphology assay, sperm reserves and hormonal profiling, semen samples were drawn from the caudal epididymis with a syringe and placed on a clean glass slide. A drop of freshly prepared eosin-Y was added to make a thin smear and examined under the microscope for morphological abnormalities. A portion of the testis and epididymidis was homogenized separately with sharp pointed scissors in normal (physiological) saline. The suspension was mixed and strained through a double layer of sterile cheese cloth into graduated test tubes. All the samples were covered and stored for 24 hours at 40C. A dilution was made for counting in Neubauer haemocytometer. The hormonal concentration was determined using the Randox Monza Laboratories assay kit from Co-Atrim, United Kingdom. 

Results: Results of oral administration of Cypermethrin and co-administration of lycopene in rats showed Group G co-administered pure Lycopene had the lowest sperm head abnormalities of 3.5%, group B administered Cypermethrin only had the highest head abnormalities of 44.7%. Similarly, Group G, co-administered pure Lycopene had the lowest percentage of tail abnormalities of 10.1%  while Group B had the highest percentage of sperm tail abnormalities of 32.4%. There was a was significant (p<0.001) decrease in concentration of all androgens considered in group B administered Cypermethrin only.

Conclusion: Exposure to Cypermethrin only as in group B disrupted the production of all androgens considered, increased the percentage of abnormal spermatozoa, reduced sperm motility, viability and sperm reserves. However, results recorded from the co-administration of Solanum lycopersicum and pure lycopene, in groups C-G indicate the protective role of this potent antioxidant on spermatogenesis and hormonal profile.
Ascertainment of In vivo Antidiarrheal and In vitro Thrombolytic Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Leaves of Amomum dealbatum
Authors: Islam Md. Azimul , Sayeed Mohammed Aktar , Barek Md. Abdul , Shetu Enama Nabi , Faisal Md. Nurul
Published: May 2019

Aims: The present study aimed to investigate antidiarrheal and thrombolytic effect of ethanolic extract of leaves of A. dealbatum in mice.

Study design: Antidiarrheal effect was evaluated by castor oil-induced diarrhea method at two different concentrations in mice and in vitro thrombolytic activity was analyzed with clot lysis assay of human blood.

Place and duration of study: Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Kumira, Chittagong-4318, Bangladesh, between December 2018 and February 2019.

Methodology: The male Swiss mice’s were divided into four groups (n = 5). First group was orally treated with 1% Tween-80 (10 ml/kg) and second group was orally treated with loperamide (5 mg/kg). Third and fourth group were orally treated with ethanolic extract of leaves of A. dealbatum at 200 and 400 mg/kg accordingly. Human RBCs were collected for conducting thrombolytic assay. During this study, 1.5 ml of venous blood was drawn from healthy volunteers (n = 10) and Streptokinase was employed as positive control and distilled water was employed as negative control.

Results: In castor oil induced diarrhea model, ethanolic extract of leaves of A. dealbatum at 200, 400 mg/kg and loperamide (5 mg/kg) significantly reduced the number of feces and increase percent of inhibition of defecations compared to negative control. The extract showed percent of inhibition of defecation of 16.67 and 37.50 for 200 and 400 mg/ml respectively where the positive control loperamide showed 66.67%. Percentage of clot disruptions were 4.51 (p<.001), 75.69 (p<.001) and 26.07 (p<.001) for water, streptokinase and 10 mg/ml extract respectively.

Conclusion: Based on the results from in vivo and in vitro activities, the leaves of A. dealbatum were found to be a potential source of new antidiarrheal and thrombolytic agents.
Aperture Maximization with Half-Wavelength Spacing, via a 2-Circle Concentric Array Geometry that is Uniform but Sparse
Authors: Kinyili Musyoka , Kitavi Dominic Makaa , Ngari Cyrus Gitonga
Published: May 2019

This paper proposes a new sensor-array geometry (the 2-circle concentric array geometry), that maximizes the array's spatial aperture mainly for bivariate azimuth-polar resolution of direction-of-arrival estimation problem. The proposed geometry provides almost invariant azimuth angle coverage and oers the advantage of full rotational symmetry (circular invariance) while maintaining an inter-sensor spacing of only an half wavelength (for non-ambiguity withrespect to the Cartesian direction cosines). A better-accurate performance in direction nding of the proposed array grid over a single ring array geometry termed as uniform circular array (UCA) is hereby analytically veried via Cramer-Rao bound analysis. Further, the authors demonstrate that the proposed sensor-array geometry has better estimation accuracy than a single ring array.
Uptake and Distribution of Natural Radionuclides in Cassava Crops from Nigerian Government Farms
Authors: Ononugbo C. P. , Azikiwe O. , Avwiri G. O.
Published: May 2019

Radioactivity distribution and transfer factor (TF) in plants are crucial parameters used to assess radioactive contamination in the environment, impact of soil radioactivity on agricultural crops and its risks to humans.  The root crop cassava (Manihot esculenta) provides about 50 percent of the calories consumed in Nigeria. Gamma - ray spectroscopy was used to measure activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in cassava root and soil. The average activity concentration of 40K, 226Ra and 232Th in cassava was 565.31± 13.17, 21.89±5.94 and 817.28±2.52 Bqkg-1 respectively. The mean activity concentration   40K, 226Ra and 232Th in soil range from 92.07±35.08 to 689.28±14.35 Bqkg-1with a mean value of 413.64±21.22 Bqkg-1, 5.37 ± 8.90 to 64.93 ± 7.23 Bqkg-1 with a mean value of 54.43 ± 3.22 and BDL to 928.15 ± 2.36 Bqkg-1 with a mean value of 561.67 ± 2.21 Bqkg-1. The transfer values for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were in the range of 0 to 1.81, 0 to 3.41 and 0.68 to 4.5 respectively. The high value of transfer factor for 40k may be due to its importance in plant growth, fertilization and adaptability of plant to environmental pressures. It may have also been enhanced by the application of NPK fertilizers in those farms. Thorium showed the highest mean transfer factor which may be due to its higher accumulation in soil and higher uptake by plants (Figure 3). The average transfer factors of 226Ra (0.99) < 40K (1.55) < 232Th (1.66) show that although activity concentration of the natural radioisotopes in the area under study are high, the rate at which they are transferred to cassava are still moderate.  The average values of radium equivalent activity (Raeq), absorbed dose rate (D), annual effective dose rate (AEDE), internal hazard index and excess life cancer risk (ELCR) are 1009.27 Bqk-1, 346.50 nGyh-1, 1.51 mSvy-1, 2.78 and 3.92 x 10-3 for respectively. These values were higher than their corresponding permissible values of 370Bqk-1, 55nGyh-1, 1.0 mSvy-1, 1.0 and 0.29 x 10-3 respectively. The mean values of Hex and Hin are greater than unity and may, therefore, constitute a significant radiological health risk. The mean annual gonad dose estimated value of 2943.90 mSvy-1  was above the world acceptable value of 300 mSvy-1 and the annual effective dose in all the samples except in few locations as shown in Figure 2, exceeded the safe value of 1.0 mSvy-1. The use of soil from these farms and the crops may constitute a threat to the bone marrow and general health conditions of the inhabitants.
Structural basis of inhibition of the human serine hydroxymethyltransferase SHMT2 by antifolate drugs
Authors: Scaletti Emma , Jemth Ann‐Sofie , Helleday Thomas , Stenmark Pål
Published: May 2019

Serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) is the major source of 1‐carbon units required for nucleotide synthesis. Humans have cytosolic (SHMT1) and mitochondrial (SHMT2) isoforms, which are upregulated in numerous cancers, making the enzyme an attractive drug target. Here, we show that the antifolates lometrexol and pemetrexed are inhibitors of SHMT2 and solve the first SHMT2‐antifolate structures. The antifolates display large differences in their hydrogen bond networks despite their similarity. Lometrexol was found to be the best hSHMT1/2 inhibitor from a panel antifolates. Comparison of apo hSHMT1 with antifolate bound hSHMT2 indicates a highly conserved active site architecture. This structural information offers insights as to how these compounds could be improved to produce more potent and specific inhibitors of this emerging anti‐cancer drug target.
Two‐step induction of cdsA promoters leads to upregulation of the glycolipid MPIase at cold temperature
Authors: Sawasato Katsuhiro , Sekiya Yusei , Nishiyama Ken‐ichi
Published: May 2019

Glycolipid MPIase, essential for membrane protein integration into the cytoplasmic membrane of Escherichia coli, is upregulated at cold temperatures. This upregulation is rapid and sustainable. CdsA, a CDP‐diacylglycerol synthase, is a rate‐limiting enzyme for MPIase biosynthesis. Upregulation of CdsA is responsible for the increase in the MPIase level at low temperature. Investigation of cdsA regulatory regions revealed at least two cold‐inducible promoters, a cold‐shock promoter that functions transiently and immediately in the cold, and one that is sustainable in the cold. The stability of the cdsA transcript was comparable with that of tufA, which is not cold‐inducible. Thus, cdsA is induced through two‐step cold‐induction to maintain MPIase at a high level rapidly and sustainably in the cold.
Feasibility study on mental health‐care effects of plant installations in office spaces
Authors: Genjo Kahori , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Ogata Nobuaki , Nakano Takaoki
Published: May 2019

Offices may have different indoor environmental quality related problems, such as space, indoor air quality, office workers’ thermal comfort, productivity, and mental stress. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of indoor plants on physiological/psychological responses and productivity, and to examine the mental healthcare status of office workers. To clarify the effect of indoor plants, we conducted a demonstration experiment in two rooms of an office. The experiment was performed in two office spaces (Office A and Office B) located in Kyoto, Japan. Office A was a call center and Office B was a general office. Subjects were office workers working in one of the above two office spaces. In the experiment, nine cycles were conducted while changing the type of plants including vegetables and foliage plants. A preliminary experiment without plants was conducted as a reference case. Results indicated that plant installations in office spaces have certain mental health‐care effects, namely, relaxation of visual fatigue and the feelings of drowsiness of five groups of work‐related fatigue feelings, and the effects by installations of plants depend on the type of plant and industry, although this study had some limitations because of the demonstration experiment.
Predicting long‐term clinical stability in amyloid‐positive subjects by FDG‐PET
Authors: Iaccarino Leonardo , Sala Arianna , Perani Daniela ,   the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2019

Imaging biomarkers can be used to screen participants for Alzheimer's disease clinical trials. To test the predictive values in clinical progression of neuropathology change (amyloid‐PET) or brain metabolism as neurodegeneration biomarker ([18F]FDG‐PET), we evaluated data from N = 268 healthy controls and N = 519 mild cognitive impairment subjects. Despite being a significant risk factor, amyloid positivity was not associated with clinical progression in the majority (≥60%) of subjects. Notably, a negative [18F]FDG‐PET scan at baseline strongly predicted clinical stability with high negative predictive values (>0.80) for both groups. We suggest [18F]FDG‐PET brain metabolism or other neurodegeneration measures should be coupled to amyloid‐PET to exclude clinically stable individuals from clinical trials.
Peripheral neuropathy and cognitive impairment associated with a novel monoallelic HARS variant
Authors: Royer‐Bertrand Béryl , Tsouni Pinelopi , Mullen Patrick , Campos Xavier Belinda , Mittaz Crettol Lauréane , Lobrinus Alexander J. , Ghika Joseph , Baumgartner Matthias R. , Rivolta Carlo , Superti‐Furga Andrea , Kuntzer Thierry , Francklyn Christopher , Tran Christel
Published: May 2019

Background

A 49‐year‐old male presented with late‐onset demyelinating peripheral neuropathy, cerebellar atrophy, and cognitive deficit. Nerve biopsy revealed intra‐axonal inclusions suggestive of polyglucosan bodies, raising the suspicion of adult polyglucosan bodies disease (OMIM 263570).

Methods and Results

While known genes associated with polyglucosan bodies storage were negative, whole‐exome sequencing identified an unreported monoallelic variant, c.397G>T (p.Val133Phe), in the histidyl‐tRNA synthetase (HARS) gene. While we did not identify mutations in genes known to be associated with polygucosan body disease, whole‐exome sequencing revealed an unreported monoallelic variant, c.397G>T in the histidyl‐tRNA synthetase (HARS) gene, encoding a substitution (Val133Phe) in the catalytic domain. Expression of this variant in patient cells resulted in reduced aminoacylation activity in extracts obtained from dermal fibroblasts, without compromising overall protein synthesis.

Interpretation

Genetic variants in the genes coding for the different aminoacyl‐tRNA synthases are associated with various clinical conditions. To date, a number of HARS variant have been associated with peripheral neuropathy, but not cognitive deficits. Further studies are needed to explore why HARS mutations confer a neuronal‐specific phenotype.