bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lairage periods on temperament score and meat quality of beef cattle
Authors: Moura Sandra Vieira de , Silveira Isabella Dias Barbosa , Ferreira Otoniel Geter Lauz , Mendonça Fábio Souza , Moreira Sheilla Madruga , Restle João , Garcia Javier Alexander Bethancourt , Vaz Ricardo Zambarda
Published: November 2021

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of lairage periods on the temperament, physiological indicators of stress, and meat quality of beef cattle. Thirty-two castrated Aberdeen Angus x Nellore crossbred steers were distributed into four lairage periods: 12, 18, 24, and 48 hours. The following variables were evaluated: serum levels of the physiological indicators of stress glucose and cortisol (upon arrival at the slaughterhouse, after the lairage period, and at bleeding), animal temperament (movement, resistance to approach, and aggressiveness), and meat quality (final pH, water-holding capacity, color parameters, and tenderness). With a longer lairage period, the temperament score was higher, indicating that the animals were more agitated and resistant to human approach. Serum cortisol and glucose levels correlate positively with animal temperament and negatively with meat quality. At bleeding, an increase was observed in glucose and cortisol levels, respectively, for lairage periods longer than 24 hours and of 12 hours. The lairage of 48 hours reduces meat tenderness and water-holding capacity.
Variáveis que influenciaram o IDEB do ensino fundamental das redes públicas municipais paulistas em 2017
Authors: Crozatti Jaime
Published: November 2021

Resumo Considerando a contínua necessidade de melhorar a condição da educação brasileira e o momento da renovação da principal Lei de financiamento da educação nos municípios no ano de 2020, este artigo tem como objetivo identificar as variáveis do contexto educacional das redes do ensino fundamental dos municípios paulistas, as quais têm correlação significativa com o IDEB, do ano de 2017. Utiliza-se de 33 variáveis, dentre as indicadas pela literatura, as quais têm dados disponíveis em sites oficiais do governo e os analisa com o método dos Mínimos Quadrados Ordinários (MQO) e o procedimento stepwise. A equação de regressão obtida no estudo mostra que o gasto médio por aluno com o pessoal próprio das redes municipais, o esforço docente, o abandono escolar bem como o índice de desenvolvimento da dimensão renda explicam, com significância estatística de 5%, mais de 66% do IDEB, do ano de 2017 das redes municipais no estado de São Paulo. Os resultados corroboram a literatura nacional e internacional para a figura do professor, sua remuneração e a gestão do processo escolar como os elementos-chave para o desenvolvimento da educação. O momento pede postura de melhores investimentos, com planejamento e execução coerentes no contexto social e econômico, específicos do desenvolvimento da atividade educacional, com atenção para os espaços escolares, os recursos financeiros e os profissionais que ali trabalham.
Atividades nos espaços abertos públicos: edificações com diferentes recuos frontais, níveis de permeabilidade e usos
Authors: Knapp Chrystiane , Silva Gabriela Costa da , Reis Antônio Tarcísio da Luz
Published: November 2021

Resumo Este artigo investiga os efeitos de edificações com diferentes recuos frontais, níveis de permeabilidade visual e funcional e usos nos térreos, na intensidade de atividades opcionais e necessárias, em movimento e estacionárias nos espaços abertos públicos. O estudo foi realizado em sete quadras no Bairro Cidade Baixa, Porto Alegre, RS, selecionadas com base nas seguintes características: predominância de edificações no alinhamento frontal do lote e de edificações recuadas em relação a ele; e térreos predominantemente residenciais e não residenciais. Os dados foram coletados mediante observações comportamentais, levantamentos físicos e aplicação de questionários respondidos por 194 moradores das sete quadras, e analisados no programa SPSS/PC. Os resultados revelam que quadras com térreos com uso predominantemente não residencial e com maior diversidade de usos, localizados junto à calçada e com portas e janelas para a calçada tendem a atrair maior quantidade de pessoas para o espaço aberto público. Ainda, todas as atividades opcionais, em pé e sentadas, e quase todas as necessárias nesse tipo de quadra, independentemente do período, são maiores do que nas demais quadras analisadas.
Determinação de padrões comportamentais na operação dos sistemas de iluminação e climatização em edifícios comerciais
Authors: Ciappina Jéssica Castoldi Picchi , Urbano Mariana Ragassi , Giglio Thalita Gorban Ferreira
Published: November 2021

Resumo O comportamento do usuário é um dos principais responsáveis pela divergência entre o consumo de energia real e o estimado em simulações computacionais. O presente trabalho identifica e categoriza os padrões de uso existentes na operação de sistemas da climatização e da iluminação em edificações comerciais. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa de campo em Londrina, Paraná, em um edifício de fachadas em vidro de controle solar, layout flexível, core central e ventilação híbrida. Os dados foram levantados por meio de entrevistas com 100 usuários, abordando 72 fatores de influência na operação do edifício. Mediante o método de análise de cluster, identificou-se cinco padrões que diferem sobretudo no uso da ventilação natural e de persianas. Os testes estatísticos qui-quadrado de Pearson e de Kruskal-Wallis indicaram que os clusters são influenciados por aspectos contextuais e características projetuais, como exposição à radiação solar, preferências, hábitos, proximidade com as janelas e atividade laborativa. Além disso, o excesso de área envidraçada na fachada leste resultou na frequência de uso do ar-condicionado 20% maior. De forma geral, constatou-se que as ações dos usuários são heterogêneas, não sendo adequado representá-las perante um único padrão de uso.
Effects of termal treatment on the physical properties of Buchenavia sp. (branquilho) wood
Authors: Vollbrecht Laysa Teles , Mascarenhas Adriano Reis Prazeres , Melo Rafael Rodolfo de , Lima Maúcha Fernanda de Mota , Soteil Ricardo Pereira , Pimenta Alexandre Santos
Published: November 2021

Abstract This work aimed to evaluate the effect of heat treatment on the physical properties of wood from Buchenavia sp. The heat treatments were carried out at temperatures of 180 °C and 200 °C for 2 h. Apparent density (AD), basic density (BD), porosity (Ф), mass loss, longitudinal (LS), radial (RS), tangential (TS) and volumetric (VS) shrinkages and anisotropic factor (AF) were determined. The lowest values of basic density (0.67 g cm-3), apparent density (0.77 gcm-3), and porosity (43.3%) were observed for the wood treated at a temperature of 200 °C. Mass losses increased with increasing temperature and the highest values were observed under the condition of 200 °C (9.3%). The LS and AF was not affected by heat treatments. The mean values for RS (3.1%), TS (5.1%), and VS (9.1%) were reduced after the performance of heat treatments at temperatures of 180°C and 200°C, which did not differ from each other. The thermal treatments were able to reduce the dimensional instability of Buchenavia sp. Thermal treatments enhance the use of less prestigious Amazonian woods in the civil construction market.
Isolamento ao ruído de impacto de laje pré-fabricada nervurada com vigotas protendidas e lajotas cerâmicas
Authors: Haas Alessandra , Lourenço Willian Magalhães de , Santos Joaquim Cesar Pizzutti dos , Santos Jorge Luiz Pizzutti dos
Published: November 2021

Resumo O ruído de impacto é um dos principais fatores de desconforto entre os usuários de edificações de múltiplos pavimentos. Assim, a realização desta pesquisa busca: determinar as propriedades acústicas de isolamento ao ruído de impacto no sistema de laje pré-fabricada nervurada composta de vigotas protendidas e lajotas cerâmicas, em três composições de montagem; avaliar o desempenho para ruído de impacto da técnica em piso flutuante sobre a laje, com uso de quinze materiais resilientes diferentes; comparar os resultados obtidos para as diversas composições de montagem com os critérios da norma de desempenho 15575-3:2013. Os ensaios foram realizados no laboratório da UFSM, em conformidade com parâmetros da ISO16283-2:2020 e ISO 717-2:2020, para determinar o nível de pressão sonora de impacto padrão ponderado ( L' nT,w ) de cada composição ensaiada. Pode-se concluir que a tipologia construtiva, com contrapiso de 4 cm e revestimento cerâmico, necessita de tratamento acústico para se enquadrar na normativa brasileira, e que a utilização da técnica em piso flutuante se apresenta como uma boa solução, visto que a grande maioria das composições com materiais resilientes alcança nível intermediário da norma entre 56 dB e 65 dB.
Use of glass waste in the production of metakaolin-based geopolymer submitted to room temperature and thermal curing
Authors: Alvarenga Cristiane do Bom Conselho Sales , Sales Rosemary do Bom Conselho , Caldas Rodrigo Barreto , Cetlin Paulo Roberto , Aguilar Maria Teresa Paulino
Published: November 2021

Abstract Metakaolinis the principal raw material utilized in the synthesis of geopolymers, although its ratio of silica and alumina contents is not ideal. Normally, the SiO2 content is adjusted with the use of silicates present in the activating solution. An eco-efficient alternative would be the use of glass waste as an additional source of silica.This work evaluates the efficiency of the alkaline activation of metakaolin, using potassium hydroxide and silicate, with and without the substitution of 12.5% of metakaolin by microparticles of glass. The efficiency of the alkaline activation was evaluated by X ray diffractometry, spectroscopy in the infrared region with the Fourier transform, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy of 27Al and 29Si, specific mass and compressive strength. The results indicate the occurrence of geopolymerization with and without the use of glass waste. It was observed that the substitution of 12.5% favors the mechanical performance of the compounds at 28 days, with increases by 37% and 47% in the mechanical strength of the material with thermal curing and ambient temperature curing, respectively.
Estudo comparativo entre os parâmetros reológicos de tintas acrílicas arquitetônicas
Authors: Machado Amanda Moreira Lima , Noberto Camila Carvalho , Damasceno Filho Francisco Estevão , Silva Wyoskynaria Mihaly Maia da , Babadopulos Lucas Feitosa de Albuquerque Lima , Medeiros Júnior Marcelo Silva
Published: November 2021

Resumo Tintas acrílicas são amplamente utilizadas em construção para fornecer proteção e tonalidade. Para garantir seu desempenho nas diferentes condições de uso (cisalhamento) a que são submetidas, pode-se estudar sua reologia. Um estudo foi realizado com seis tintas comerciais, classificadas como Econômica, Standard e Premium, de dois fabricantes (A e B), nas diluições, em volume, de 0%, 10% e 20%. Foram realizados ensaios de fluxo, de varredura de frequência e de tixotropia. No ensaio de fluxo, houve bastante variabilidade nos valores de viscosidade aparente até a taxa de 1 s-1. Por meio da caracterização de tixotropia, observou-se que as tintas do fabricante B recuperam a viscosidade inicial mais rapidamente, após serem submetidas a uma alta taxa de cisalhamento. Demonstrou-seuma associação entre o rendimento das tintas, que é um indicador prático utilizado na indústria, e a viscosidade aparente a 3.000 s-1 (R2= 86%). A varredura de frequência mostrou que as tintas da classe Premium possuem menor estabilidade, devido ao seu elevado módulo de perda (G”). Conclui-se que a reologia é uma ferramenta útil e necessária para melhorar a compreensão do comportamento das tintas e adaptá-las para uso e aplicação.
Flow behavior of cementitious-like suspension with nano-Fe3O4 particles under external magnetic field
Authors: Jiao Dengwu , Lesage Karel , Yardimci Mert Yücel , Shi Caijun , De Schutter Geert
Published: November 2021

The flow behavior of cementitious-like (limestone powder) suspension containing nano-Fe3O4 particles at constant shear rate of 10 s−1, characterized by the evolution of apparent viscosity over time, is investigated under various magnetic fields. Results show that the limestone powder suspension at flow-state exhibits remarkable magneto-rheological responses, reflected by a significant increase in the apparent viscosity after applying an external magnetic field. A higher field strength corresponds to a more rapid and pronounced response. The apparent viscosity experiences a sudden alteration with the stepwise change of the magnetic field due to the formation or disintegration of magnetic clusters. Linearly increasing magnetic field strength at low ranges (e.g. 0 T–0.3 T) shows less influences on the evolution of apparent viscosity, while at relatively high magnetic field, the apparent viscosity gradually increases with the magnetic field strength and the increase rate is comparable to that obtained under constant high magnetic field of 0.75 T. When the magnetic field is removed, the apparent viscosity exhibits a sharp reduction. If the magnetic field strength linearly decreases to zero, however, the apparent viscosity continuously increases until reaching a peak and then gradually decreases. This research shows in different ways how a desired apparent viscosity level of a cementitious-like suspension can be reached by means of an external magnetic field.
Wet etching of AZ31B magnesium alloy with nitric acid
Authors: Çakır Orhan
Published: November 2021

Wet etching is a micromachining process in which a material is immersed in liquid chemicals or etchants to remove unwanted sections from the surface. The process is generally known as cost-effective, reliable and suitable for high-production environments. Magnesium alloys are presenting a strong popularity in recent years since it is one of the lightest engineering alloys. Hence, the micromachining of these materials is becoming an important research area. One of the promising methods is wet etching. In this experimental study, two different concentrations (10 and 20 ml) of a nitric acid solution are used at room temperature. The wet etching characteristics of a selected magnesium alloy is determined by analysing the thickness reduction and surface roughness as well as colour degradation on the machined surfaces.
The depth of the diffusion of nitrogen in 16MnCr5 steel after gas nitriding
Authors: Syla Naim , Aliaj Fisnik , Dalipi Bashkim , Elezaj Njomza , Zeqiraj Arbër
Published: November 2021

This research aims to determine the depth of diffusion of nitrogen in steel 16MnCr5 after gas nitriding. Nitriding was performed in the ammonia atmosphere at three temperatures (510, 550 and 590°C), with four different durations for each temperature. The research techniques were metallographic and electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA). According to the first method, with the optical microscope Neophot 30 of the firm Carl Zeiss Jena, the surfaces of all samples were observed. The nitriding layers were photographed with the help of a microscope, from which the depths of nitrogen diffusion were determined. The hardness-depth profiles of nitride specimens were determined with a Vickers automatic micro-hardness tester from LECO, and the distance between two consecutive points was 50 μm. The depth of nitrogen diffusion into the nitride samples was determined from the hardness curves. The nitrogen concentration-depth profiles of the nitrided specimens were determined with EPMA using a Joel JXA-8900RL microanalyser operated at 20 kV. A comparison of the results of the different experimental methods was made, which allowed conclusions to be made as regards the depth of nitrogen diffusion in 16MnCr5 steel.
The Phenomenon of Cosmism in the Context of the Formation of an Anthroponatural Paradigm
Authors:   Belarusian State Pedagogical University named after Maxim Tank, Minsk, Selitskii Aleksandr
Published: November 2021

The article considers the problem of transition to the anthroponatural paradigm of development, which is relevant for the modern stage of the world civilization process. It is noted that the global environmental crisis, the signs of which were clearly identifi ed at the turn of the 20th – 21st centuries, was the result of unbalanced transformative activities of people, as a result of which the very possibility of life on the planet was threatened. The current situation has shown the need for fundamental changes both in the existing type of management, based on unregulated consumption of natural resources, and in public consciousness in the direction of reorienting it to a rational attitude towards the environment, which would ensure the survival and further progressive movement of civilization. In the development of a coevolutionary strategy for the interaction of society and nature, based on a new system of moral values, the natural scientific, religious, philosophical and literary and artistic heritage of cosmism has significant spiritual potential. Based on the analysis of the works of representatives of Russian cosmism, it is concluded that the idea of the active role of humanity in transforming the environment involves, in addition to improving the scientifi c and technical sphere, the development of worldview attitudes focused on understanding a man as an organic part of natural (cosmic) unity, developing according to general evolutionary laws. The current sociocultural situation, characterized by a number of global problems (environmental, raw materials, food, etc.), indicates the need to move to an anthroponatural paradigm of civilizational development, which could ensure the joint evolution of people and nature, the formation of appropriate ethical standards and principles of ecological thinking. Clearly, the future of mankind, the prospects of which were outlined by the representatives of cosmism, is impossible without reliance on a solid moral foundation, thanks to which the population of the Earth has the opportunity not only to overcome the crisis consequences of its own activities on the planet, to carry out rational and balanced environmental management, but also to enter the next round of its development – the active exploration of outer space.
Oblique Stagnation-Point Flow Past a Shrinking Surface in a Cu-Al2O3/H2O Hybrid Nanofluid
Authors: Yahaya Rusya Iryanti , Md Arifin Norihan , Mohd. Nazar Roslinda , Pop Ioan
Published: November 2021

To fill the existing literature gap, the numerical solutions for the oblique stagnation-point flow of Cu-Al2O3/H2O hybrid nanofluid past a shrinking surface are computed and analyzed. The computation, using similarity transformation and bvp4c solver, results in dual solutions. Stability analysis then shows that the first solution is stable with positive smallest eigenvalues. Besides that, the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles into the Cu-H2O nanofluid is found to reduce the skin friction coefficient by 37.753% while enhances the local Nusselt number by 4.798%. The increase in the shrinking parameter reduces the velocity profile but increases the temperature profile of the hybrid nanofluid. Meanwhile, the increase in the free parameter related to the shear flow reduces the oblique flow skin friction.
A Duty to Protect and Respect: Seneca Opposition to Incorporation during the Removal Period
Authors: Haake Claudia Bettina
Published: November 2021

When pressured to remove after the 1830 Indian Removal Act, some from among the Seneca appealed to the federal government to prevent displacement. In these letters and petitions, their authors periodically invoked the notion of protection, an instrument of cross-cultural diplomatic encounters of the previous century. Seneca authors sought to defend their tribe against settler takeover by invoking two different kinds of protection, external and internal. They further drew upon a civil right, petitioning, although originally it had been a method of exclusion from full political rights, and rejected the legal incorporation forced upon American Indians through the “domestic dependent nations” ruling.
Medicines at Standing Rock: Stories of Native Healing through Survivance
Authors: Hedlund Selma
Published: November 2021

In 2016, a historically large gathering of Indigenous peoples, tribal nations, and allies took place at the Standing Rock reservation, North Dakota, in response to the proposed construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). Under the assertion of Mni Wičoni (Water Is Life), a social movement emerged with the purpose of protecting clean drinking water and Indigenous lands. Drawing on Gerald Vizenor’s theoretical framework that emphasizes storytelling and active presence over settler resistance, this study argues that Indigenous water protectors’ collective action in the movement, as well as their stories and remembrance of Standing Rock, are acts of survivance, in which they are able to denounce othering and challenge the colonizer’s gaze. While water is often described as a first medicine by Indigenous peoples, the water protectors’ stories in this essay suggest that the movement itself represented another remedy as well. Specifically, this movement represents a pivotal moment of cultural revitalization and community across what participants refer to as “Indian country,” in which individuals are able to engage in large scale grassroots decolonizing praxis rooted in spirituality and ceremony, and suspend genocidal traps of victimry that they have long battled.
Evaluation and management of wilderness injuries and acute illness in Iceland during the years 2017-2018
Authors:   Emergency Department, Landspítali, Árnadóttir Ragna Sif , Björnsson Hjalti Már ,   The National University Hospital of Iceland
Published: November 2021

INTRODUCTION: In Iceland, wilderness search and rescue services are provided by volunteer members of the Icelandic association for search and rescue (ICE-SAR). The rescue teams respond to about 1200 calls every year, with a significant proportion of them involving injured and sick individuals. No previous studies have been done on the service provided by ICE-SAR teams. The aim of this study was to obtain information about the health services provided by ICE-SAR in Iceland. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data was obtained from the ICE-SAR‘s and the National emergency call service‘s (112) databases. Cases that occurred during the years 2017 and 2018 that required transfer and treatment at a health clinic or hospital were included in the study. All cases with no involvement of sick or injured and minor injuries managed on scene without tranport were excluded. Treatment on scene and during transport and preliminary diagnosis made by ICE-SAR teams was reviewed. The medical report at each treating medical facility in Iceland was reviewed for treatment provided and final diagnosis. RESULTS: A total of 189 operations with 239 individuals were included in the study. A majority of the operations were recorded in the South region of Iceland. The average age of individuals was 44,4 years, just over half of cases involving men. Accidents accounted for 86% of all cases where the most common incident was a fall resulting in lower extremity injury. Cardiac disease was the most common cause for acute medical illness. On-scene treatment and use of equipment was not recorded in over 70% of cases. CONCLUSION: The ICE-SAR teams provide health care on regular basis, most commonly after accidents involving the lower extremities. Illness treated by the ICE-SAR volunteers most commonly involves cardiac symptoms. Documentation of on-site treatment and equipment use is incomplete.
Factors affecting general practitioners’ choice of drug therapy: A study in primary healthcare in Iceland
Authors:   Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Iceland, Ívarsdóttir Yrsa , Jónsson Jón Steinar ,   Development Centre for Primary Healthcare in Iceland, Department of Family Medicine, University of Iceland, Linnet Kristján ,   Development Centre for Primary Healthcare in Iceland, Blöndal Anna Bryndís ,   Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Iceland, Development Centre for Primary Healthcare in Iceland
Published: November 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to analyse several factors that influence the decision-making of primary care physicians in Iceland in their choice of drug therapy for their patients. Also, to find which factors can act as a hindrance in making the best choices. Finally, to analyse which elements could be most important in facilitating decisions. Material and methods: A questionnaire was sent by e-mail to physicians working in primary care in Iceland. The questionnaire comprised closed questions, open text boxes, and ranking questions. The data was processed and analysed using Microsoft Excel. Results: The total number of primary care physicians who responded to the questionnaire was 93, a response rate of 40.7% of all the primary care physicians. The results reveal that physicians working in primary care consider clinical guidelines, the Icelandic National Formulary, and personal experience to be the most important factors when choosing a medication. Primary care physicians strongly agree that the lack of drug interaction software connected to medical records is a shortcoming. The most important factors that need improvement to facilitate primary care physicians' decision-making are drug formularies and interaction software. Conclusion: The results suggest some factors that support physicians in primary care in making decisions when choosing drug therapy, such as a drug formulary, drug interaction software, information about patients’ drug therapy, variable length in face-to-face consultations, evidence based information on new drugs, and counselling provided by clinical pharmacists.
ROLE OF SUBSTANCE P IN PANCREATITIS AND ASSOCIATED DISEASES
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India., Sundar Vaishnavi , Ramasamy Shalini ,   Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India., Vimal Sanjana ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India., Dutta Anupam ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India., Joshi Kshitija ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India., Manickam Venkatraman ,   Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India., Tamizhselvi Ramasamy ,   Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
Published: November 2021

Substance P (SP) is a neuropeptide that has its place in the tachykinin family and helps in the transmission of neurogenic signals. SP is also a neuromodulator that plays a crucial part in pain during inflammatory processes. It is produced by the capsaicin-sensitive unmyelinated C fibers sensory neurons by the central and peripheral nervous systems. Substance P is known as a critical primary responder to most of the extreme stimuli, i.e., specifically those with the ability to destabilize the biological integrity. Hence, SP can be considered as an instantaneous system for defense, stress, healing, etc. SP is known to perform a vital role in neurogenic inflammation and the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis. Out of these, neurogenic inflammation is responsible for acute interstitial pancreatitis as a result of oedema. SP binds itself to the G-protein coupled neurokinin-1 receptor and causes plasma leakage, cell proliferation, and invasion resulting in pancreatic cancer. SP along with comparable neuropeptides seems to be crucial targets with the capability of satisfying several unfulfilled medical requisites. This review article mainly focuses on compiling the available evidence to show that SP could be a novel therapeutic target for pancreatic diseases, and more exploration into the SP signaling pathways is the call of the hour.
PRELIMINARY STUDY ON POTENTIAL EDIBLE COATINGS DERIVED FROM CARBOXYL METHYLCELLULOSE AND FUNGI CULTURED METABOLITES ON THE SHELF-LIFE EXTENSION OF SWEET-ORANGE (CITRUS SINENSIS)
Authors:   Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, Omomowo Iyabo O , Adedayo Afeez A ,   Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, Omomowo Olawale I ,   Department of Microbiology, University of Maiduguri, P.M.B. 1069 Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, Majolagbe Olusola N ,   Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria, Ogundola Adijat F ,   Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
Published: November 2021

This study focused on assessing the potential of formulated edible coatings derived from a metabolite of Trichoderma viride and Penicillium chrysogenum, combined with carboxyl methylcellulose (CMC) on the postharvest storage quality of orange fruits. The cultured metabolite of fungal bioagents combined with CMC, as well as glycerol (plasticizer), inadequate solution ratio based on wettability, was evaluated for microbiological quality and shelf-life extension of sweet orange. Thereafter, ascorbic acid, total soluble solids, pH, percentage weight loss, among other parameters were assessed for 7 weeks. The results of the study revealed that the pH of CMC + Trichoderma viride and CMC + P. chrysogenum coatings had 3.8 ± 0.02 and 3.17 ± 0.06 respectively, while it was reported 2.90 ± 0.04 for uncoated treatment. Also, the ascorbic acid and total soluble solids of the edible coated oranges were higher than the control. In addition, the percentage of weight loss was higher in the uncoated control compared to the potential edible coated oranges. Further, the microbial load count of the potential edible-coated oranges was less compared to the un-coated oranges. In conclusion, this formulated potential edible coating could be further improved upon and optimized for use in prolonging the storage of sweet oranges.
In vitro ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND ANTIOXIDANT EVALUATION OF AN INDIGENOUS MEDICINAL PLANT – Pterospermum rubiginosum
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala, Trivandrum, India, Anish Rajamohanan J , Rauf Arun A ,   Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala, Trivandrum, India
Published: November 2021

The current study was carried out to determine the antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory activity, and cellular viability of Pterospermum rubiginosum (PR), a tropical tree endemic to the Western Ghats. The antioxidant activities of the PR bark methanolic (PRME) and aqueous extract (PRAQ) were tested using ABTS as well as superoxide, nitric oxide, and hydroxyl radical assays. Total antioxidant activity was evaluated by adopting the colorimetric method and correlation with their antioxidant activities was derived by Pearson co-efficient analysis. The PRME showed the highest ABTS radical scavenging activity, EC50 (46.09µg/ml) followed by PRAQ (52.08µg/ml). Furthermore, the PRME exhibited the highest scavenging activity against superoxide, nitric oxide, and hydroxyl radicals. The MTT assay results revealed good cellular viability up to a concentration of 100µg/ml with an EC50 (106.869µg/ml). The inflammatory mediators such as Cox-2, IL-1β, IL-6, and NF-kB were reduced during the treatment of PRME in LPS stimulated RAW cells. The stress marker in rat liver cells such as glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels was found in normal levels when compared to the untreated group of rats. The antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase and catalase also exhibited notable bioactivity in PRME treated groups up to a concentration of 1000µg/ml. The present study showed excellent In vitro and In vivo antioxidant activity; the potent anti-inflammatory ability of PRME in reducing the LPS induced inflammation in cell culture conditions.
Optimal algorithm for distinguishing radio navigation signals by a set of “spaced” correlators
Authors: Kharisov V.N. , Eremeev D.A.
Published: November 2021

The classical algorithm for signal distinction, signal detecting and estimating signal parameters consists in analyzing discrete parameter values using a correlator. The value of the parameter with the maximum absolute value of the correlator is taken as an estimate. Obviously, this is accompanied by losses in sensitivity and noise immunity, since the specified discrete parameter values do not accurately correspond to the true parameter values of the real signal. In this case, the accuracy of the parameter estimation, even at large signal-to-noise ratios, is limited by the value of the correlators placement interval. Therefore, it is of interest to optimally use the entire set of correlators for parameter estimation and signal detection. The article presents the derivation of algorithm for distinguishing signals by a given parameter by a set of "spaced" correlators. Unlike the classical algorithm, it uses decisive statistics not by one, but by a pair of neighboring correlators, detuned by the correlation interval. In this case, at first, the number of the interval between correlators is estimated according to the maximum of the decisive statistics, and then the value of the parameter is refined within this interval. Additionally, the algorithm allows you to estimate the signal amplitude. The proposed algorithm is compared with the classical one. By means of simulation, the dependences on the energy potential of the average probability of signal distinction for both algorithms are plotted. It is shown that the proposed algorithm has a higher probability of correct distinction than the classical algorithm. It is also shown that the maximum and average energy losses of the distinction algorithm based on a set of "spaced" correlators are less than the losses of the classical algorithm. Thus, the proposed algorithm for distinction signals by a set of "spaced" correlators has greater noise immunity and accuracy of estimating the desired parameter than the classical distinction algorithm.
Effects of Muscle Energy Technique on Daily Activities and Lumbar Stiffness in Women With Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Vaseghnia Ashraf , Shadmehr Azadeh , Attarbashi Moghadam Behrouz , Olyaei Gholamreza , Hadian Mohammad Reza , Khazaeipour Zahra
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Lumbar stiffness is a common complaint of patients with low back pain. The Muscle Energy Technique (MET) is a common intervention to treat the spine and sacroiliac joint dysfunctions and their resulting disability in daily activities. This research aimed to evaluate the effects of MET on pain, functional disability, and lumbar stiffness of patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunctions by considering the type of dysfunction and the orientation of the correcting maneuver.
Materials and Methods: Fifty women with ant innominate or post innominate dysfunctions were recruited for the research and randomly divided into two groups (n=25). One group received one session of MET, and the other group received the sham position. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), lumbar Stiffness Disability Index (SDI) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were used for the evaluation of the participants before, 24 hours after and one week after the intervention.
Results: According to the results, MET significantly decreased the mean range of VAS and ODI, 24 hours, and a week after the intervention (P<0.01). We did not see any significant difference in SDI values before, 24 hours, and one week after MET in the patients (P>0.01).
Conclusion: Applying MET regarding the kind of dysfunction may reduce the patient’s pain and disability.
Dietary intakes and body mass indices of non-pregnant, non-lactating (NPNL) women from the Coastal and Guinea savannah zones of Ghana
Authors:   University of Ghana, Kobati GY , Lartey A , Marquis GS ,   McGill University, Colecraft EK , Butler LM ,   Iowa State University
Published: November 2021

Adequate maternal nutrition prior to pregnancy is important for maternal health and favourable pregnancy outcomes. However, information on the dietary intakes of NonPregnant, Non-Lactating (NPNL) women in Ghana is lacking. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken to compare the dietary intakes of NPNL women of children aged 2 to 5 years who are either living in the Coastal (n=79) or Guinea Savannah (n=89) zones. Data were collected using various methods namely interviewer administered socio-demographic questionnaire, 24hr dietary recall records, with data collected on one working and one non-working day within a week, and a 1-week food frequency questionnaire. Body mass index was derived from height and weight measurements. Women in the Coastal Savannah zone had significantly (p=0.05) more formal education (3.9 ± 2.5 years) and earned a higher (p<0.001) weekly income (Gh¢ 6.8 ± 2.7) than women in the Guinea Savannah zone with educational level and incomes of 2.2±1.6 years and Gh¢ 3.9±2.4 respectively. More women in the Coastal zone had significantly (p<0.05) fewer births and were heads of their households. Cereal-based foods were consumed daily by all women during the two-day observation period. Fish was the predominant animal source food in the diet in both zones. Significantly (p<0.05) more women in the Guinea Savannah zone did not meet their Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for protein (81%), vitamin A (94.4%), and vitamin C (72%) compared to women in the Coastal zone (44%, 22%, and 31% respectively).The diets of both groups of women were low in calcium. Generally, women in the Coastal zone had a significantly (p<0.001) higher BMI (24.2 ± 4.6 kg/m2) than their counterparts in the Guinea Savannah zone (21.3± 2.4 kg/m2).The overall quality of dietary intakes and nutritional status of women in the Guinea Savannah zone was poorer than that of Coastal women. Dietary deficiencies are also present in NPNL women in Ghana. Efforts are needed to improve diet quality and to increase access to resources especially for women in the Guinea Savannah zone of Ghana.
Microenterprise development coupled with nutrition education can help increase caregivers' incomes and household accessibility to animal source foods
Authors:   University of Ghana, Homiah PA , Sakyi-Dawson O , Bonsu AM , Marquis GS ,   McGill University
Published: November 2021

Low income and lack of knowledge about child nutrition have been identified as key constraints to the use of Animal Source Foods (ASF) in the diets of young Ghanaian children. To improve ASF consumption among children in Ghana, the Enhancing Child Nutrition through Animal Source Food Management (ENAM) project introduced an intervention that combined women’s microenterprise development activities with nutrition education on the importance of ASF in children’s diets. The present study assessed the effects of the intervention on the participants’ enterprise performance, their contribution to key household and child-related expenditures as well as their households’ purchases of ASF. Additionally, household ASF consumption was assessed in monetary terms (measured in Ghana cedis (GH¢):1GH¢ = US$ 0.92).A structured questionnaire was used to interview 80 caregivers who participated in the ENAM project activities in four intervention communities and 80 non-participant caregivers in four control communities. Information solicited included household characteristics, profits from microenterprises and contributions to household food and non-food expenditures. Significantly more participant caregivers expanded (P=0.004) and diversified (P=0.004) their enterprises and, as a result, tended to have higher average enterprise profits (GH¢19.3 ± 2.2 vs. GH¢12.2 ± 1.9; P=0.08) and significantly higher savings (GH¢62.9 ± 2.2 vs. GH¢26.3 ± 1.9; P<0.05) than non-participant caregivers. In addition, the intervention was associated with significantly higher percentage of monetary contributions by caregivers towards children’s health expenses (P<0.05), school expenses (P<0.01) as well as expenses on clothing and footwear (P<0.01). Caregivers’ mean percentage contribution to household food expenses also tended to be higher (P<0.1) for participants (50.8 ± 3.5%) then for non-participants (41.8 ± 4.1%). Participant households also tended to spend more money (P<0.10) and consumed significantly more amounts (in monetary value) of ASF (P<0.01) than non-participant households. Being a participant in the ENAM project’s microenterprise development and nutrition education activities was associated with higher enterprise profits, savings deposits, contributions to household and children-related expenditures, and ASF consumption at the household level.
Participation in communal day care centre feeding programs is associated with higher diet quantity but not quality among rural Ghanaian children
Authors:   Micronutrient Initiative, Harding KB , Marquis GS ,   McGill University, Colecraft EK ,   University of Ghana, Lartey A , Sakyi-Dawson O
Published: November 2021

Communal School Feeding Programs (SFP) are based on local foods brought by children from home which are cooked and shared at school. These programs may be a sustainable food-based strategy for improving children’s diets in low-resource areas. The objective of this study was to compare the dietary intakes of children who attend Day Care Centres (DCC) with communal SFP to children who do not attend any DCC or school in rural Ghana. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to collect dietary and other household information for 104 DCC and 89 non-DCC children aged two to five years living in two communities. In addition, the DCC lunches (ingredients and servings of each food preparation) were weighed. The Day Care Centres’ lunch was higher in energy (by 64 kcal; p<0.001), but lower in calcium (by 18 mg; p=0.002), iron (by 1.3 mg; p<0.001) and zinc (by 0.2 mg; p=0.046) than the non-DCC lunch. DCC children ate more times in a day (4.2 ± 0.8 vs. 3.4 ± 0.6, p<0.001), had greater dietary diversity (7.2 ± 0.6 vs. 6.7 ± 1.0 food groups, p<0.001) and had higher daily intakes of energy (1140 ± 320 vs. 878 ± 240 kcal; p<0.001), calcium (282 ± 139 vs. 244 ± 118 mg; p=0.048), iron (12.4 ± 6.4 vs. 10.7 ± 4.7 mg; p=0.048) and zinc (0.40 ± 0.15 vs. 0.35 ± 0.11 mg; p=0.019) than non-DCC children. However, after controlling for total energy intake and other dietary, health and sociodemographic variables, daily iron and zinc intakes were lower in the DCC compared to the non-DCC group. Participation in the communal SFP was associated with higher quantity but not quality of children’s diets. Communal SFP offer an opportunity to address specific population’s micronutrient needs, using interventions to improve dietary quality such as point-of-use fortification, commercially fortified foods, or processed animal source food products.
Nutritional status of children in food insecure households in two districts of North Showa Zone, Ethiopia
Authors:   Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute (EHNRI), Aweke KA , Habtamu F , Akalu G ,   Action Against Hunger, ACF-USA, Republic of South Sudan
Published: November 2021

Malnutrition is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality of children in Ethiopia. However, little information is available on nutritional status of the lower socioeconomic segment of the community to devise targeted tackling solutions and overcome severe malnutrition. Therefore, the objective of this study is to assess nutritional status of children and other related information in food insecure households. Two hundred food insecure households (HHs) were selected from two districts of North Showa zone of Amhara in 2007. The criteria for inclusion were being landless, oxen-less, and/ or female headed. Anthropometric and clinical data were collected from a total of 239 (151 < 5yrs and 88, 6-12yrs) children. Data on demographic, childcare, feeding practices and morbidity status of children were collected using an interview, community focus group discussion and secondary data from district offices. The overall prevalence of stunting, underweight and wasting was 54.2%, 40.2% and 10.6 %, respectively. Prevalence of night blindness and Bitot's spot were 3.1% and 3.5%, respectively. The median level of urinary iodine excretion by 6-12 years children was 1.5μg/L. Seventeen percent of the children were found iron deficient. Exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 month was practiced by less than 20% of the households. About fifty six percent of the households have cropland less than half a hectare and 50.8% of the households are getting water from unprotected well or spring. The main type of toilet facility being used was open bush/field (84.5%). The main income of the households was agriculture. The majority (45-50%) of the household heads in both districts are in the age ranges of 20-30 years. Fifty percent of the household heads can read and write. Lack of enough arable land, unreliable rain fall, extension of desertification, lack of scientific agricultural knowledge, absence of irrigation schemes, and shortage of skill in land use and management are some of the problems reported to contribute to food insecurity. The households are under severe malnutrition, food insecurity and poor childcare. Therefore, improvement of household resources by initiation of income generating livelihood options and knowledge based agriculture is needed.
Histopathological Changes in Small Intestine of Rotavirus Infected Poultry
Authors: Yaduvanshi Shalini , Singh Rashmi , Prabhu Shyama N. , Singh Ajay Pratap , Singh Renu , Malik Yashpal Singh
Published: November 2021

Background: Rotaviruses are important cause of acute gastroenteritis. Group A and D rotavirus are the predominant enteric viruses groups in birds. Outbreaks of rotavirus may lead to significant economic losses in poultry industry. Rotavirus infection alters the function of the small intestinal epithelium, resulting in diarrhea. Methods: Poultry intestinal samples were collected in 10% formalin and duodenum, jejunum and ileum were processed for histopathological examination by H and E staining. Result: Histopathological changes were noticed in all the three parts of the small intestine namely duodenum, jejunum and ileum in poultry intestinal content sample positive for AvRVD in RT-PCR. Duodenum showed necrosis, desquamation and loss of enterocytes from the villi. The jejunum showed severe disruption of villous architecture with vacuolation and separation of mucosal epithelial layer. Ileum showed a complete loss of enterocytes from the villous surface, congestion at the villous tips and infiltration of lymphocytes throughout the mucosa as well as submucosa.