bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periodic EEG Patterns in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU): Definition, Recognition and Clinical Significance
Authors: Mesraoua Boulenouar , Abdalhalim Ali Musab , Hosni Mohamed Hashem Khodair Rola , Nofal Yazan , Theophiel O. Deleu Dirk , Jasim Al Hail Hassan , Robin Elalamy Osama , Melikyan Gayane , Athanasios Covanis , Akbar Asadi-Pooya Ali
Published: March 2021

Periodic electroencephalographic (EEG) patterns are frequently recorded during ICU EEG monitoring in patients with altered mental status; these EEG features represent electrical discharges, ictal in appearance, occuring at regular intervals. They are known as lateralized periodic discharges (LPDs), bilateral independent periodic discharges (BIPDS), generalized periodic discharges (GPDs), continuous 2/s GPDs with triphasic morphology or triphasic waves (TWs) and Stimulus Induced Evolving Lateralized Rhytmic delta activity or Si-Evolving LRDA (previously SIRPIDS); other periodic, rhythmic patterns are Occasional frontally predominant brief 2/s GRDA (FIRDA previously), Lateralized rhythmic delta activity (LRDA) and Brief potentially ictal rhythmic discharges or B (I)RDs. The role of most (not all) of these EEG patterns is controversial; there is no consensus on which patterns are associated with ongoing seizure injury, which patterns need to be treated, and how aggressively they should be treated. Many authors consider these patterns as an unstable state on an ictal-interictal EEG continuum; the aim of the present chapter is to gain knowledge of these EEG features, show their association with known neurologic pathologies/syndromes and finally how to manage them.
Endoscopy in Small Bowel Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Garrido Isabel , Lopes Susana , Macedo Guilherme
Published: March 2021

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a complex disorder with variable age of onset, disease location and behavior. It is characterized by a transmural inflammation that may involve any portion of the gastrointestinal tract. Ileocolonoscopy with biopsy is established as the first-line investigation for suspected CD. However, small bowel involvement is more difficult to assess by conventional endoscopy. Therefore, radiological imaging should also be performed to complement ileocolonoscopy in all patients with suspected CD. Recently, video capsule endoscopy and device-assisted enteroscopy have revolutionized the management of small bowel CD. In fact, video capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive test that provides the visualization of the entire small bowel mucosa, which can assist in the diagnosis of CD and assess the therapeutic response. On the other hand, device-assisted enteroscopy enables direct tissue sampling for histopathology confirmation when traditional endoscopy, video capsule endoscopy and cross-sectional imaging are inconclusive. Moreover, it allows therapeutic interventions such as balloon stricture dilation. In this chapter, we review the role of endoscopy in the diagnosis and management of patients with small bowel CD.
Management of Blood Supply and Blood Demand to Ensure International Health Security
Authors: Ibrahim Omer Yahia Amar
Published: March 2021

Maintaining international health security requires proactive and reactive activities and actions to minimise the negative impact of any health event that threatens public health. Blood transfusion services are a critical part of healthcare services, and blood and blood products can neither be synthesized nor stored for a long period. So, proper management of blood supply and blood demand is mandatory to preserve adequate safe blood. A failure to manage blood inventory and the resulting blood shortage are considered national and international health security threats because maintaining an adequate supply of safe blood is lifesaving for many patients. Blood shortages lead to the failure of blood transfusion services that ends with the collapse of the health system and health insecurity if health authorities do not take immediate corrective action. An imbalance between blood supply and blood demand is not only a threat to health security, but also poses some of the greatest threats to the national and international economy and security. The perception of health issues as an international health security threat is associated with benefits through attracting political and decision-makers’ attention and support. The global health policies and international health regulations concerning the management of blood supply and blood demand should be implemented and updated regularly. The information provided by this chapter addresses the management of blood supply and blood demand as an international health security issue and provides guidance in planning for proper management of blood inventory to avoid a sudden blood shortage and its catastrophic consequences.
Moyamoya Disease Worldwide-Global Burden East and West
Authors: Mohan Mehndiratta Man , Goyal Ishu , Aggarwal Vasundhara , Singh Gulati Natasha
Published: March 2021

The Moyamoya disease [MMD] is a cereberovascular disorder characterized by progressive stenosis of intracranial internal carotid arteries and compensatory collateral formation at the base of the brain, mainly around the circle of Willis. When no particular associated risk factors can be identified, it is termed as Moyamoya disease. However, it may be associated with other neurological and extra- neurological disorders where it is termed as Moyamoya syndrome [MMS]. The condition is predominantly seen in East Asia and has bimodal age of distribution. The clinical manifestations are also age dependant with ischemia predominating in childhood and hemorrhagic manifestations being more common in adults. The pathogenesis is not entirely known, but genetic susceptibility is believed to be an important predisposing factor. The Suzuki staging system is most widely used for evaluation and staging of Moyamoya disease. The gold standard diagnostic modality is cerebral angiography but magnetic resonance imaging [MRA] has also been employed for diagnosis. Treatment is primarily surgical revascularization which is of 3 types: direct, indirect or combined revascularization. Although the role of revascularization surgery has been well established for ischemic MMD, the ideal surgical approach and the role of surgery in hemorrhagic MMD remains controversial.
Combat Casualty Care for Children: Peculiarities, Problems, and Provisions
Authors: Jain Sunil
Published: March 2021

Armed Forces doctors are often required to treat children affected in war, combat, and disasters. Tender care & comprehensive tact is needed for children. Acquisition of these qualities comes with knowledge, its application, and practicing skills. Throughout history, children have been victims of armed conflict. War-related injuries are more severe as compared to the civilian sector injuries. Penetrating injuries are associated with significant damage to local structures, whereas blast injuries are associated with less local injury and more multisystem trauma. Children are not small adults. The differences have important practice implications. Identifying and correcting physiological compromise improves outcomes. The examination and vital sign data can be interpreted only if the caregiver has a thorough understanding of normal values. Identification & treatment of what is killing the patient is done in primary survey. Secondary survey, extremity trauma, fracture biomechanics, & burns peculiarities need attention. Care of the injured patient is a dynamic process. Frequent monitoring required for proper response. Small infants have a narrow margin for error. Combat trauma provides multiple opportunities for improvement. Continuation of research will ensure ongoing progress and further improvement in the outcomes of both military and civilian casualties.
Post-Covid-19 Era: What is Next?
Authors: Chetri Shiela
Published: March 2021

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a natural phenomenon in bacteria which becomes a threat for health-care settings around the world. A concerted global response is needed to tackle rising rates of antibiotic resistance, without it we risk returning to the pre antibiotic era. As bacteria evolve very fast according to the environment in which they inhabit via developing different defence mechanisms to combat with the noxious agents like different classes of antibiotics including carbapenems. This results into treatment failure and clinical complications. Global emergence of antibiotic resistance due to bacterial multidrug efflux pump systems are a major and common mechanism of intrinsic antimicrobial resistance employed by bacteria which are spreading rapidly due to over use or misuse of antimicrobial agents. This review mainly focusses on the transcriptional expression of efflux pump system AcrAB-TolC, local regulatory genes (AcrR and AcrS), mediating carbapenem resistance in clinical isolates of Escherichia coli under antibiotic stress, a genetic interplay study between intrinsic and acquired antibiotic resistance mechanisms along with a brief summary on high risk factors and prevalence of urinary tract infections by multidrug resistant Uropathogenic Escherichia coli.
Numerical Investigation of Rising Vapour Bubble in Convective Boiling Using an Advanced 3D Hybrid Numerical Method
Authors: Ahsan Sharif Syed , Kai Ming Ho Mark , Timchenko Victoria , Heng Yeoh Guan
Published: March 2021

This chapter introduces an advanced and new type of Three-Dimensional (3D) numerical method called the InterSection Marker (ISM) method. The ISM method - a hybrid Lagrangian–Eulerian 3D front-tracking algorithm specifically crafted for multi-phase flow simulation. The method was used to simulate rising vapour bubble behaviour in Convective boiling conditions. Two applications: bubble growth and bubble condensation due to the convective action, were investigated. Numerically obtained bubble properties, such as size, shape and velocity, are compared well against the past works, and the ISM method proved to be an efficient numerical tool for the interface tracking of multi-phase flow CFD simulations involving heat and mass transfer.
Animal Pain Models for Spinal Cord Stimulation
Authors: M. Williams Joseph , A. Kelley Courtney , Vallejo Ricardo , C. Platt David , L. Cedeño David
Published: March 2021

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an electrical neuromodulation technique with proven effectiveness and safety for the treatment of intractable chronic pain in humans. Despite its widespread use, the mechanism of action is not fully understood. Animal models of chronic pain, particularly rodent-based, have been adapted to study the effect of SCS on pain-like behavior, as well as on the electrophysiology and molecular biology of neural tissues. This chapter reviews animal pain models for SCS, emphasizing on findings relevant to advancing our understanding of the mechanism of action of SCS, and highlighting the contribution of the animal model to advance clinical outcomes. The models described include those in which SCS has been coupled to neuropathic pain models in rats and sheep based on peripheral nerve injuries, including the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model and the spared nerve injury model (SNI). Other neuropathic pain models described are the spinal nerve ligation (SNL) for neuropathic pain of segmental origin, as well as the chemotherapy-induced and diabetes-induced peripheral neuropathy models. We also describe the use of SCS with inflammatory pain and ischemic pain models.
The Use of Plants’ Natural Products in Breast Cancer: Have We Already Found the New Anticancer Drug?
Authors: de Fátima Braga Magalhães Isadora , da Silva Calabrese Kátia , Letícia Marinho Figueirêdo Ana , Lucia Abreu-Silva Ana , Almeida-Souza Fernando
Published: March 2021

The importance of a new anticancer drug for breast cancer is well established. Natural compounds that can prevent this disease or be used as an adjuvant treatment associated with conventional drugs could be the solution for this. This chapter is an overview of agents extracted from plants with outstand results in the last six years. Green tea, berberine, thymoquinone and cannabidiol are compounds isolated from medicinal plants. These agents showed action through induction of apoptosis, down regulation of inflammation, epigenetics, hormonal modulation, among other. In vitro effect against cancer cells, in vivo experiments mainly with murine model and clinical trials reassured their efficacy against breast cancer. A protective effect against recurrence cases and chemosensitization to standard drugs was also successful. The use of nanotechnology provided a optimize delivery of these therapeutical molecules. Taken together this information led us to acknowledgement that we do probably have the natural agents for a future adjuvant treatment against breast cancer.
Buddhist Monastery, Amulet, Spiritual Support and COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Mungmunpuntipantip Rujitika , Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: March 2021

COVID-19 is an important global problem. The disease causes illness and results in anxious state and panic. It also has a lot of socioeconomic impact worldwide. The supports for the affected persons are by several partners including religious unit. The religious unit can play important social welfare role to support the local people. In Indochina, many local Buddhist monasteries act this role. This is an interesting anthropological phenomenon. Many monasteries issue amulet as gimmicks for sale to the donor. The donor buys amulets for spiritual support during frustrate period and the monastery receive money for its welfare function. This is an interesting social sustainability phenomenon.
Production of 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Acetate [Bmim][Ac] Using 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium Chloride [Bmim]Cl and Silver Acetate: A Kinetic Study
Authors: I. Abu-Eishah Samir , A.A. Elsuccary Saber , H. Al-Attar Thikrayat , A. Khanji Asia , P. Butt Hifsa , M. Mohamed Nourah
Published: March 2021

Since most of the literature alternatives used to produce the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate [Bmim][Ac] are very slow and require different solvents, we have used in this work a new process to produce the [Bmim][Ac] by the reaction of the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [Bmim]Cl with silver acetate (AgAc) where silver chloride (AgCl) precipitates as a by-product. The genuine experimental work and kinetic analyses presented here indicate that the reaction rate constant k = 7.67x1012 e(−79.285/RT). That is, the Arrhenius constant ko = 7.67x1012 L/mol.s and the activation energy Ea = 79.285 kJ/mol. The very high value of the Arrhenius constant indicates that the reaction of [Bmim]Cl with silver acetate to produce [Bmim][Ac] and silver chloride is extremely fast.
What Causes Down Syndrome?
Authors: Ikbal Atli Emine
Published: March 2021

Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) is the model human phenotype for all genome gain-dosage imbalance situations, including microduplications. Years after the sequencing of chromosome 21, the discovery of functional genomics and the creation of multiple cellular and mouse models provided an unprecedented opportunity to demonstrate the molecular consequences of genome dosage imbalance. It was stated years ago that Down syndrome, caused by meiotic separation of chromosome 21 in humans, is associated with advanced maternal age, but defining and understanding other risk factors is insufficient. Commonly referred to as Down syndrome (DS) in humans, trisomy 21 is the most cited genetic cause of mental retardation. In about 95% of cases, the extra chromosome occurs as a result of meiotic non- nondisjunction (NDJ) or abnormal separation of chromosomes. In most of these cases the error occurs during maternal oogenesis, especially in meiosis I.
Corporate Governance Ideology, Human Resource Practices and Senior Staff Salaries
Authors: Black Nicholas , Stokes Peter
Published: March 2021

This chapter examines the link between corporate governance ideology and HR (human resource) practices involved in the important and ongoing issue of senior staff salaries. In the spirit of financialization and hyper-individuals, the mainstream corporate governance ideology promotes beliefs about competitive pay and managerial power. These beliefs shape the design and implementation of HR practices by legitimizing the ‘common-sense’ assumption that senior staff members should, primarily, be rewarded for meeting corporate goals. However, our discussion critiques the use of this corporate governance ideology for encouraging myopia and silence amongst remuneration committee members in response to growing inequality. This is exemplified by an inductive analysis of remuneration committee minutes taken from British universities (n = 67). Interestingly, this example also highlighted a marginalized belief about sacrificial leadership that countered this growth under alternative ideology in the spirit of altruism. The chapter recommends the radical proposal that remuneration committees should expand their remit beyond only considering senior staff salaries and promote HR practices that will embed altruism and equality.
Isotopic age and paleogeodynamic position of ultrapotassic magmatism of Central Chukotka
Authors: Efremov S. V. , Travin A. V.
Published: March 2021

The 40Ar/39Ar dating of ultrapotassic rocks from Central Chukotka shows that these rocks are Early Cretaceous, and yields a narrow range of age variations (109 to 107 Ma), which correlates fairly well with the range of age variations of granitoids typical of the study area (117–105 Ma). There are thus grounds to suggest that the ultrapotassic magmas and granitoids resulted from the same geological process that can be identified from the material characteristics of the ultrapotassic magmas.

In the modern concepts of the regional geological development, the formation of the granitoid and ultrapotassic magmas can be related to the continental lithosphere extension due to the collision of Eurasian plate and the Chukotka – Arctic Alaska continental block.

Using modern genetic models based on the interpretations of the material characteristics of ultrapotassic magmas, it is possible to limit the number of genetic hypotheses and to relate the continental lithosphere extension to the processes that took place in the upper mantle of the study area.
Deep structure of the Salair fold-nappe terrane (NW CAOB) according to magnetotelluric sounding
Authors: Zhimulev F. I. , Pospeeva E. V. , Novikov I. S. , Potapov V. V.
Published: March 2021

The Salair fold-nappe terrane (a.k.a. Salair orogen, Salair) is the northwestern part of the Altai-Sayan folded area of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. It is composed of Cambrian – Early Ordovician volcanic rocks and island-arc sedimentary deposits. In plan, Salair is a horseshoe-shaped structure with the northeast-facing convex side, which is formed by the outcrops of the Early Paleozoic folded basement. Its inner part is the Khmelev basin composed of Upper Devonian – Lower Carboniferous sandstones and siltstones. The Early Paleozoic volcanic rocks and sediments of Salair are overthrusted onto the Devonian-Permian sediments of the Kuznetsk basin. The Paleozoic thrusts, that were reactivated at the neotectonic stage, are observed in the modern relief as tectonic steps. Our study of the Salair deep structure was based on the data from two profiles of magnetotelluric sounding. These 175-km and 125-km long profiles go across the strike of the Salair structure and the western part of the Kuznetsk basin. Profile 1 detects a subhorizontal zone of increased conductivity (100–500 Ohm·m) at the depths of 8–15 km. At the eastern part of Profile 1, this zone gently continues upward, towards a shallow conducting zone that corresponds to the sediments of the Kuznetsk basin. Two high-resistance bodies (1000–7000 Ohm⋅m) are detected at the depths of 0–6 km in the middle of the section. They are separated by a subvertical conducting zone corresponding to the Kinterep thrust. The main features are the subhorizontal positions and the flattened forms of crustal conductivity anomalies. At the central part of Profile 2, there is a high-resistance block (above 150000 Ohm⋅m) over the entire depth range of the section, from the surface to the depths of about 20 km. In the eastern part of Profile 2, a shallow zone of increased conductivity corresponds to the sediments of the Kuznetsk basin. The subhorizontal mid-crust layer of increased conductivity, which is detected in the Salair crust, is typical of intracontinental orogens. The distribution pattern of electrical conductivity anomalies confirms the Salair thrust onto the Kuznetsk basin. The northern part of the Khmelev basin is characterized by high resistivity, which can be explained by abundant covered Late Permian granite massifs in that part of the Khmelev basin. The Kinterep thrust located in the northeastern part of the Khmelev basin is manifested in the deep geoelectric crust structure as a conducting zone, which can be considered as an evidence of the activity of this fault.
Papiliograptus retimarginatus n. sp., a new retiolitid (Graptolithina) from the praedeubeli/deubeli Biozone (upper Homerian, Wenlock, Silurian), the recovery phase after the lundgreni Extinction Event
Authors: KOZŁOWSKA Anna , BATES Denis
Published: March 2021

Papiliograptus retimarginatus n. sp. is reported from the praedeubeli/deubeli Biozone, upper Homerian (Silurian) of the Bartoszyce IG-1 drill core of Poland, Baltica. It is the second species of the genus Papiliograptus Lenz & Kozłowska-Dawidziuk, 2002, belonging to the new retiolitid fauna of the recovery period after the lundgreni Extinction Event. Two characteristic features of the new retiolitid fauna are the development of a geniculum and singular or paired genicular structures. The new form has extremely wide, singular, reticulated genicular processes. It is suggested that these structures may have been an adaptation to prevent the planktonic colony from sinking in the water column.
Taxonomic revision of the Campoplex difformis group (Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae), with particular reference to species of economic importance
Authors: Di Giovanni Filippo , Scaramozzino Pier Luigi , Loni Augusto , Lucchi Andrea
Published: March 2021

Despite their importance as potential biological control agents, species of the campoplegine genus Campoplex Gravenhorst, 1829 are hard to identify. Previous works provided short descriptions or poor illustrations of crucial characters, meaning it is often impossible to distinguish closely related species. We provide illustrations to identify species of the Campoplex difformis group and redescriptions of and illustrations for C. difformis (Gmelin, 1790), C. capitator Aubert, 1960, C. dubitator Horstmann, 1985, C. formosanae Horstmann, 2012, and C. unicingulatus (Schmiedeknecht, 1909). In addition, the taxonomic status of C. difformis is clarified; a lectotype is designated for C. capitator in Aubert’s collection in Lausanne and the host record for this species on Ancylis mitterbacheriana (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) is queried; Campoplex corsicator Aubert, 1960 stat. nov. is removed from synonymy with Campoplex tibialis (Szépligeti, 1916) and redescribed.
Intravital quantification reveals dynamic calcium concentration changes across B cell differentiation stages
Authors: Ulbricht Carolin , Leben Ruth , Rakhymzhan Asylkhan , Kirchhoff Frank , Nitschke Lars , Radbruch Helena , Niesner Raluca A , Hauser Anja E
Published: March 2021

Calcium is a universal second messenger present in all eukaryotic cells. The mobilization and storage of Ca2+ ions drives a number of signaling-related processes, stress–responses, or metabolic changes, all of which are relevant for the development of immune cells and their adaption to pathogens. Here, we introduce the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-reporter mouse YellowCaB expressing the genetically encoded calcium indicator TN-XXL in B lymphocytes. Calcium-induced conformation change of TN-XXL results in FRET-donor quenching measurable by two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging. For the first time, using our novel numerical analysis, we extract absolute cytoplasmic calcium concentrations in activated B cells during affinity maturation in vivo. We show that calcium in activated B cells is highly dynamic and that activation introduces a persistent calcium heterogeneity to the lineage. A characterization of absolute calcium concentrations present at any time within the cytosol is therefore of great value for the understanding of long-lived beneficial immune responses and detrimental autoimmunity.
Development of visual motion integration involves coordination of multiple cortical stages
Authors: Lempel Augusto A , Nielsen Kristina J
Published: March 2021

A central feature of cortical function is hierarchical processing of information. Little is currently known about how cortical processing cascades develop. Here, we investigate the joint development of two nodes of the ferret’s visual motion pathway, primary visual cortex (V1), and higher-level area PSS. In adult animals, motion processing transitions from local to global computations between these areas. We now show that PSS global motion signals emerge a week after the development of V1 and PSS direction selectivity. Crucially, V1 responses to more complex motion stimuli change in parallel, in a manner consistent with supporting increased PSS motion integration. At the same time, these V1 responses depend on feedback from PSS. Our findings suggest that development does not just proceed in parallel in different visual areas, it is coordinated across network nodes. This has important implications for understanding how visual experience and developmental disorders can influence the developing visual system.
Single-cell transcriptomics of the Drosophila wing disc reveals instructive epithelium-to-myoblast interactions
Authors: Everetts Nicholas J , Worley Melanie I , Yasutomi Riku , Yosef Nir , Hariharan Iswar K
Published: March 2021

In both vertebrates and invertebrates, generating a functional appendage requires interactions between ectoderm-derived epithelia and mesoderm-derived cells. To investigate such interactions, we used single-cell transcriptomics to generate a temporal cell atlas of theDrosophilawing disc from two developmental time points. Using these data, we visualized gene expression using a multilayered model of the wing disc and cataloged ligand–receptor pairs that could mediate signaling between epithelial cells and adult muscle precursors (AMPs). We found that localized expression of the fibroblast growth factor ligands, Thisbe and Pyramus, in the disc epithelium regulates the number and location of the AMPs. In addition, Hedgehog ligand from the epithelium activates a specific transcriptional program within adjacent AMP cells, defined by AMP-specific targetsNeurotactinandmidline, that is critical for proper formation of direct flight muscles. More generally, our annotated temporal cell atlas provides an organ-wide view of potential cell–cell interactions between epithelial and myogenic cells.
Effects of the cranial parasite Tylodelphys sp. on the behavior and physiology of puye Galaxias maculatus (Jenyns, 1842)
Authors: López-Rodríguez Ruby , George-Nascimento Mario , Górski Konrad
Published: March 2021

Diplostomatid digeneans are well-known manipulators of the behavior of their intermediate hosts. Unencysted metacercariae of Tylodelphys sp. inhabit the cranial cavity of the fish Galaxias maculatus; however, to date they have not been documented to alter their host behavior. The goal of this study was to evaluate the potential effects of Tylodelphys sp. inhabiting the cranial cavity of Galaxias maculatus on host physiology and swimming behavior as well as its reaction to a simulated predation attempt. Blind experiments in the lab were carried out on 56 fish that were filmed individually. The Fulton condition factor (K) was used as an approximation of nutritional status and a respirometry chamber was used to evaluate oxygen consumption rates of fish. Of the 56 fish, 21 were parasitized by Tylodelphys sp. (mean intensity = 30, range from 1 to 101). Parasitized and non-parasitized fish were similar in condition factor and oxygen consumption rates. Furthermore, the oxygen consumption rate of G. maculatus was not correlated with the abundance of Tylodelphys sp. However, parasitized fish more frequently swam close to the water surface, whereas non-parasitized fish more frequently swam at intermediate depths. When faced with a simulated predator attack, unparasitized fish showed more frequent fleeing behavior as well as a more intense post-fleeing activity. Collectively, these results suggest that Tylodelphys sp. inhabiting the cranial cavity of fish may alter their behavior predisposing them to predation by birds.
Principle of Conservation of the Administrative Act and Revocation of Public Procurement in a City in Perú
Authors: Merino Henry Díaz , Salazar Teresita Merino , Palacios Lilette Villavicencio , Alva Cecilia Mendoza , Avila Nancy Carruitero , Gastañaduy Carola Calvo , Rivas Danny Villegas
Published: March 2021

Aims: The preservation of the act as a principle must be verified objectively through a review of the errors considered non-transcendental. The objective of this research is to determine the perception of officials on the application of the Principle of conservation of the administrative act and the ex officio nullity of the contracts entered into by the La Libertad Regional Government.

Methodology: An approach quantitative, descriptive, explanatory was applied. The techniques applied were the interview, observation, documentary analysis and test on a sample of 60 workers linked to the functions of the public contracting process.

Results: The results showed an irregular application of the principle of conservation of the administrative act and a resolution of procurements on a regular basis. The perception of the La Libertad Regional Government officials was negative, because not all the valid elements were found to preserve an administrative act.

Conclusion: Deficiency was observed in the principle of the presumption of veracity, validity of the requirements to preserve the administrative act, non-existence of the judicial object and content, deficiency in the fulfillment of those prevented by law, deficiency in the fulfillment of the impediments provided for in the Law Contracting and violation of the regulations that.
Field Assessment of Some Agronomic Traits of Four Groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) Varieties from the Germplasm of Gimbi Research Station
Authors: Kalonji-Mbangila A. , Minga-Kwete S. , Mpiana-Tshimanga V. , Mukendi-Kamambo R. , Nkonika-Kabamba I. , Ngongo-Kapenga J. , Bantondisa-Kokamakanda D. , Kalonji-Kabemba N. , Ngombo-Nzokwani A. , Muengula-Manyi M. , Kalonji-Mbuyi A.
Published: March 2021

Aim: To evaluate under agro-environmental conditions of Gimbi research station, some agronomic traits of four groundnut varieties from germplasm of PNL.

Study Design: This study was conducted using a randomized complete block design with four treatments repeated three times.

Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in Gimbi research station between October 2019 and January 2020 (i.e. 4 months). 

Methodology: Trial was conducted using four treatments with three replications. Data collected concerned percentage of seedlings emerged, number of days between sowing and flowering 50%, dry pod weight, weight of unsorted seed, weight of sorted seeds, percentage of good seeds, shelling percentage, average weight of 1,000 seeds and grain yield per hectare. All data were submitted to analysis of variance at 5% probability level.   

Results: The rate of seedlings emerged recorded on each groundnut variety was overall less than 50%. All varieties flowered 32 days after sowing. The highest average weight of dry pods (410.8g) was noted on A1408, while the lowest value of dry pod weight (310.6g) was observed on JL24. The highest weight of unsorted seeds (360.9g) was recorded on A1408, while the lowest value (260.7g) was observed on JL24. Variety A1408 presented the highest weight of stored seeds (350.5g), while the lowest value (250.8g) was noted on variety JL24. The highest percentage of good seeds (97.3) was obtained on A1408, while variety Sivi presented the lowest percentage of good seeds (93.2). The highest shelling percentage of groundnut pods (87.6) was obtained on A1408, while the lowest shelling percentage (83.5) was noted on JL24. The lowest weight of 1,000 seeds was noted on Sivi variety (484.6g), and the highest value was recorded on A1408 (522.6g). The highest grain yield (912.9Kg.ha-1) was obtained on variety A1408, while the lowest grain yield was noted on JL24 (690Kg.ha-1).

Conclusion: Seeds of all varieties presented a very low rate of emergence (less than 50%). Variety A1408 was more productive than other varieties, and variety JL24 used as control should be regarded as having degenerated.
Rhizopus spp Promoting and Inducing Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) Resistance in Solanum lycopersicum L.
Authors: Agbor C. , Fotso . , Djueani A. C. , Muyang R. F. , Mbouobda H. D.
Published: March 2021

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L) which is highly consumed by humans, suffer severe attacks of various pathogens. Among these pathogens, Phytophthora infestans is the most prominent causing a devastating tomato disease called late blight. This study was aimed at evaluating the protective effects of Rhizopus spp on tomato plant growth upon infection with P. infestans. The work was partition into two phases: phase 1 delt with the effect of Rhizopus spp on tomato growth parameters while phase 2 was on the protective effects of Rhizopus spp against late blight in tomato and its attributes on biochemical parameters. In phase 1 seedlings were raised and divided into five groups of six plants each. Group I was the control while Groups II to V were treated with Rhizopus spp (2.5; 5.0; 7.5 and 10.0 mg/ml respectively) for 25 days. After every 5 days’ plants were treated and on each day of treatment, growth parameters (number of leaves and height) and chlorophyll contents measured. On day 25, samples were collected for biochemical analysis (flavonoids, phenolic content, total protein, vitamin C, catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH)). In phase 2, Rhizopus at 5 mg/ml obtained as best results in phase one was used. Raised seedlings were divided into four groups: Group 1 was healthy (H), Group 2 of plants infected with P. infestans (50 mg/ml) (I), Group 3 of plants stimulated with Rhizopus spp (5.0 mg/ml) (St), and Group 4 of plants inoculated with P. infestans after stimulation with Rhizopus spp (St + I) for 7days. Every two days, diseases incidence and severity were recorded and after 10th days samples were collected for biochemical (total protein, CAT and GSH) analysis. As results, Rhizopus spp inoculation induced an increase in the number of leaves, plant height and chlorophyll contents compared to the control group with plants of group II (Rhizopus spp 5.0 mg/ml) having the best result. A significant increase (p< 0.05) in flavonoid, phenolic content, reduced glutathione level and catalase activity were recorded. Another significant increase (p< 0.05) in disease incidence and severity in plants treated with the pathogen when compared to the control. Co-inoculation of plants with Rhizopus spp and P. infestans significantly decreased disease incidence and severity. Also a significant decrease in GSH level and CAT activity were noticed. Co-inoculation of plants with Rhizopus spp and P. infestans significantly increased (p< 0.05) GSH level and CAT activity when compared to the control group. In conclusion Rhizopus spp instigate plant growth and induce disease resistance in tomato upon infection with P. infestans causing late blight.
Development of a Computerized Automated System for Feed, Water and Sanitation Management in Animal Farms
Authors: Tangka Julius K. , EVINA Mathias N. W. , Ngah John Ngansi
Published: March 2021

Frequent visits into animal farms either for cleaning, feed or water dispensation are a possible means of viral, and bacteria propagation into and out of the farms. The need for these visits compels the farmer to live in the farm and devote considerable time to these activities. A well-controlled automatic feed dispensation/water management system can considerably reduce labor and prevent frequent farm visits. This can in turn promote social distancing especially during the outbreak of epidemics.  A solar energy powered automatic system for feed, water dispensation and sanitation management was developed for animal farms.  It was made up of an Arduino UNO board, a water level/or feed sensor, a DS1307 Real Time Clock (RTC), two potentiometers, a buffer, an sim900 mini v3, a relay module for Arduino, a display (LCD) for visual monitoring of events. It was programmed to periodically command electric motors to release a desired quantity of feed and water into different troughs as well as open hydraulic valves to spray a jet of high pressure water to clean the enclosure.  Required data was fed into the program by the farmer depending on the daily needs which in turn depend on the animal species, age and husbandry requirements. The system communicated with the farmer through a GSM card after each operation. Initial tests of the prototype revealed minimum of 83.33% efficiencies for all the units. The module was able to report to the farmer minutes after completing each task. It was concluded that such a system can considerably reduce labor in animal farms as well as disease propagation.
Cast Iron Cooling Rate Variation Using Cooling Channels: A Numerical Approach
Authors: Towoju Olumide Adewole
Published: March 2021

The cooling rate of molten cast iron can make or mar it. The cooling rate plays a significant role in the resulting mechanical properties of cast iron. It determines the grain growth and size. The mechanical properties of cast iron variation along its length are achieved either with the use of different mold materials or by sectioning to ensure varied cooling rates. Mechanical properties can, however, also be varied along its length without any of these adopted methods by the incorporation of cooling channels in the mould. This study seeks to expand the frontier of this concept with the use of different cooling fluids and fluid flow rate, and numerically investigate the impact on the cooling rate of gray cast iron (class 40). The cooling curve for the cast iron was impacted by the use of different cooling fluids with the attainment of the desired mechanical properties with the selection of an appropriate cooling fluid. Also, the flow rate of the cooling fluid has an impact on the cast iron cooling rate.
The Public Attitudes, Concerns and Behaviors towards Children Vaccination
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J. , Alrawili Abdulrahman S. , Alkhawaja Faisal Z.
Published: March 2021

Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the public concerns, attitudes and behavior towards vaccination.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study that included an online survey about the public concerns, attitudes and behavior towards vaccination in Saudi Arabia. The survey was translated to Arabic language and converted to an online form using google forms and after that it was sent to be filled by the parents.

Results: About 92% of the respondents said that children should be vaccinated in order to protect them and about 86% of them believed that vaccinations are safe for children in general. Regarding the concerns about vaccination, about 69% of the respondents were concerned about the distress to children of the injection itself and 59% of them were concerned about the increasing number of vaccines recommended for children. Furthermore, about 62% of the respondents were concerned that vaccines are not tested enough for safety.

Conclusion: The majority of respondents in this study reported positive attitude but more than half of them expressed some degree of concern regarding children vaccination. Healthcare professionals should play an active role in clarifying these concerns about vaccination with the public. Moreover, they should communicate with parents regarding the vaccinations and provide them with a trusted information about the vaccine.
The Adverse Effect of Mobile Phone Radiations on Dorsal Root Ganglion of Albino Rats
Authors: Taufiq Faisal , Babu Mohammed Bhilal , Ahmad Aqeel , Shariff Mohammed Eajaz Ahmed , Elbadawi Noureldaim Elnoman , Meerasa Semmal Syed
Published: March 2021

Objectives: To assess the effect of Mobile Phone Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation (RF-EMR) on the histological structure of dorsal root ganglia in albino rats.

Methods: Twenty-four albino rats divided into one control and three experimental groups were studied for four weeks. The experimental groups were exposed to three different levels of RF-EMR through complete missed calls of 80,120 and160 calls per day respectively, using a GSM mobile phone of 0.9GHz to1.8 GHz in silent mode. The dorsal root ganglia of the sacrificed Rats were examined under light and transmission electron microscope (TEM).

Results: Dorsal root ganglions of exposed rats showed considerable histological changes like reduction in cell size, condensation of cytoplasm, peripherally located heterochromatin nucleus, loss of nucleolus and densely packed myelinated nerve fibers. No such changes were observed in control rats.

Conclusion: Dorsal root ganglionic cells showed enduring and continuous changes when exposed to RF-EMR. The severity of histomorphological changes was dose-dependent, which increased constantly with radiation dosage increment. It might be fair to conclude that degenerative changes in the Dorsal Root Ganglion of the spinal cord, could be attributed to the long-term exposure to RF-EMR.
Comparative Study upon using Sanitizers and Personal Protective Equipment during COVID-19 Pandemic between Saudi and Egyptian Health Care Providers
Authors: Mahmoud Madiha Rabie , Almuaili Jomana Adel Jasim , Shaheen Safaa Malek , Alatifi Manal Nasser Zaben , Abdelaziz Osama Gad , Abdelaziz Sherif Gad
Published: March 2021

Wearing masks were effective in reducing the probability of infection with COVID-19, but wearing them for long time cause many problems. This paper was aimed to compare between Saudi and Egyptian HCWs upon using sanitizers and personal protective equipment (PPE) during COVID-19 pandemic. Data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire, among Saudi HCWs (online) and Egyptian HCWs through paper questionnaire interview. The questionnaire consists of 23 questions about Socio-demographic, types of masks, gloves and sanitizers they used during their works. It includes the adverse skin reactions on hands and face upon using PPE for long periods during COVID 19 pandemic. Our results revealed that most of Saudi & Egyptian HCWs wearing surgical masks (57.8% & 63.6%), > N95 (12.9% &18.2%), using latex surgical gloves (44.9% & 56.8%), > plastic gloves (11.1% &18.2%) respectively. The most affected area from wearing PPE are hands (49.8% & 54.5%) followed by Auricular area (44% & 40.9%), nasal bridge (28.9% & 22.7%), check (16.9% & 13.6%), whole face (15.6% & 25%) among Saudi & Egyptian HCWs respectively. About 70% of Egyptian HCWs from our participants used alcohol 70% in form of gel as sanitizer which was significantly higher than Saudi HCWs (59.1%). While no significant differences were found from using other sanitizers such as liquid alcohol 70% or Dettol. The most adverse reaction due to using sanitizers was skin dryness (55.1% & 63.6%) among Saudi & Egyptian HCWs respectively. We can conclude that significant increase was found among HCWs in Egypt either in wearing surgical and N95 masks or in wearing surgical and plastic gloves when compared to Saudi HCWs. According to the side effects on hands and face due to wearing PPE among HCWs either from KSA or Egypt, there were some variations by increase or decrease in the percentages. The most adverse reaction due to using sanitizers (specially alcohol 70% in form of gel) was skin dryness.
Direct, Asymmetric Synthesis of Carbocycle‐Fused Uracils via [4+2] Cycloadditions: a Noncovalent Organocatalysis Approach
Authors: Marcantonio Enrico , Curti Claudio , Battistini Lucia , Sartori Andrea , Cardinale Luana , Pelosi Giorgio , Zanardi Franca
Published: March 2021

The peculiar versatility of remotely enolizable 6‐methyluracil‐5‐carbaldehydes as useful vinylogous pronucleophiles in direct, asymmetric [4+2] cyclizations with suitable nitroolefins has been demonstrated. Under the strategic exploitation of noncovalent bifunctional organocatalysis, a dearomative remote enolization strategy was implemented, to generate oQDM‐type dienolate intermediates that were efficiently and stereoselectively trapped by either aromatic or aliphatic nitroolefins. A series of functionalized, chiral carbocycle‐fused uracils embedding three contiguous stereocenters were thus collected in one step in good yields, with generally good levels of enantioselectivity, and complete diastereocontrol. Furthermore, the ability to provide enantiopure products via simple one‐cycle recrystallizations and the possibility to further functionalize these scaffolds without losing their chiral integrity were demonstrated.

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Temporarily Epigenetic Repression in Bergmann Glia Regulates the Migration of Granule Cells
Authors: Chen Shaoxuan , Zhang Kunkun , Zhang Boxin , Jiang Mengyun , Zhang Xue , Guo Yi , Yu Yingying , Qin Tianyu , Li Hongda , Chen Qiang , Cai Zhiyu , Luo Site , Huang Yi , Hu Jin , Mo Wei
Published: March 2021

Forming tight interaction with both Purkinje and granule cells (GCs), Bergmann glia (BG) are essential for cerebellar morphogenesis and neuronal homeostasis. However, how BG act in this process is unclear without comprehensive transcriptome landscape of BG. Here, high temporal‐resolution investigation of transcriptomes with FACS‐sorted BG revealed the dynamic expression of genes within given functions and pathways enabled BG to assist neural migration and construct neuron‐glia network. It is found that the peak time of GCs migration (P7‐10) strikingly coincides with the downregulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) related genes, and the disruption of which by Setdb1 ablation at P7‐10 in BG leads to significant migration defect of GCs emphasizing the criticality of Nfix‐Setdb1 mediated H3K9me3 repressive complex for the precise regulation of GCs migration in vivo. Thus, BG's transcriptomic landscapes offer an insight into the mechanism by which BG are in depth integrated in cerebellar neural network.
Hemimegalencephaly and intractable seizures associated with the NPRL3 gene variant in a newborn: A case report
Authors: Chandrasekar Indira , Tourney Anne , Loo Kamela , Carmichael Jason , James Kiely , Ellsworth Katarzyna A. , Dimmock David , Joseph Maries
Published: March 2021

Hemimegalencephaly (HME) is a rare hamartomatous congenital malformation of the brain characterized by dysplastic overgrowth of either one of the cerebral hemispheres. HME is associated with early onset seizures, abnormal neurological findings, and with subsequent cognitive and behavioral disabilities. Seizures associated with HME are often refractory to antiepileptic medications. Hemispherectomy is usually necessary to provide effective seizure control. The exact etiology of HME is not fully understood, but involves a disturbance in early brain development and likely involves genes responsible for patterning and symmetry of the brain. We present a female newborn who had refractory seizures due to HME. Whole genome sequencing revealed a novel, likely pathogenic, maternally inherited, 3Kb deletion encompassing exon 5 of the NPRL3 gene (chr16:161898‐164745x1). The NPRL3 gene encodes for a nitrogen permease regulator 3‐like protein, a subunit of the GATOR complex, which regulates the mTOR signaling pathway. A trial of mTOR inhibitor drug, Sirolimus, did not improve her seizure control. Functional hemispherectomy at 3 months of age resulted in total abatement of clinical seizures.