bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of corticosteroid hormones in patients with moderate COVID-19: what goals can be achieved
Authors: Efremov Dmitry O. , Beloborodov Vladimir B. , Meshkov Andrey  V.
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND: There is strong evidence of the effectiveness of glucocorticoids (dexamethasone) in the treatment of critically ill patients with COVID-19. However, the condition of most of them, at the time of hospitalization, is not assessed as severe or critical, but at the same time, with dynamic observation, it may worsen. It is in this group of patients that data on the effectiveness of glucocorticoids use remain few and contradictory.
AIMS: to study the relationship between the use of a short course of corticosteroid hormones (CSH) in recommended doses and clinical and laboratory parameters of generalized inflammation in patients with a moderate course of new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) in a hospital setting.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 121 patients with probable (clinically confirmed) and confirmed (laboratory) cases of COVID-19. A retrospective analysis of the data of electronic medical records of all patients admitted sequentially from October 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021 was carried out. The demographic indicators, comorbidities, symptoms, clinical indicators, results of laboratory tests and computed tomography were studied. Statistical analysis was performed using the standard Statistica 10 software for Windows.
RESULTS: The data of electronic medical records of 121 patients were studied. Glucocorticoids were prescribed to 71 patients (58.7%), most often dexamethasone was used 70 out of 71 (98.5%). 73 (60.3%) patients had concomitant chronic diseases. 114 (94.2%) were discharged with recovery. patients, died ― 5 (4.1%), the cause of deaths was multiple organ failure. When evaluating groups of patients, in the period before the appointment of glucocorticoids and a similar period of illness in those who did not receive glucocorticoids significant differences were found in the groups in terms of generalized inflammation (body temperature, C-reactive protein concentration), indicators of respiratory disorders (respiration rate, oxygen saturation), according to indicators of the cellular composition of blood (lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia) in patients treated with glucocorticoids. After completing the course of glucocorticoids, patients showed a statistically significant increase in lymphocytes ― by 76.9%, platelets ― by 67.4%. The level of C-reactive protein significantly decreased by more than 4 times. The obtained data show a decrease in the severity of generalized inflammation, correction of the activation syndrome. acrophages, activation of bone marrow germs and positive clinical and laboratory dynamics of COVID-19.
CONCLUSION: The study demonstrated reliable data on a decrease in the activity of generalized inflammation after the use of a short course of corticosteroid hormones in recommended doses. This led to the stabilization of the state in 53 of 71 (73%) patients and the termination of the escalation of further treatment.
Comparative analysis of the effect trunk-hip-knee-ankle foot orthosis and ankle-foot orthosis on the gait biomechanical parameters in children with cerebral palsy (case report)
Authors: Koltsov Andrey A. , Aksenov Andrey Yu. , Dzhomardly Elnur I.
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND: In children with spastic forms of cerebral palsy often prescribed difference type of trunk-hip-knee-ankle foot orthosis (THKAFO). At the same time, we have not found any significant reports in the world literature dedicated to the study of the influence of these orthosis on the gait biomechanical parameters.
AIM: To demonstrate the results of a comparative analysis of the effect of trunk-hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis and ankle-foot orthosis on the gait biomechanical parameters in children with cerebral palsy.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved two 13-and 15-year-old children with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, spastic diplegia, GMFCS 3, MACS 23, Ashworth Scale 23. Six studies were conducted ― three tests for each child (barefoot, in AFO and THKAFO) using the 3D video analysis system Qualisys (Sweden). The spatio-temporal and kinematic indicators of gait, as well as the gait index, were evaluated.
RESULTS: Analysis of the results in patient D. demonstrated that using the THKAFO in comparison with AFO led to a slight improvement in spatio-temporal gait indicators (from 4.012.5%), but to a deterioration in hip kinematics and a deterioration in the gait index (2.528.1%). Whereas in patient A., it was noted that the use of the THKAFO in comparison with AFO had a negative effect on the spatio-temporal parameters of gait (4.097.6%), on the kinematics of the knee and ankle joints, and on the improvement of the hip kinematics in the sagittal plane, but the effect on the gait index was not unambiguous. According to the totality of the analyzed data, patient D. was recommended to wear AFO instead of the THKAFO. Patient A. was also recommended to wear an AFO instead of a THKAFO, even despite the ambiguous results of the biomechanical research, since the final decision on the choice of the orthosis design took into account not only accurate changes in biomechanical parameters, but also a number of other factors, in particular social and household ones.
CONCLUSION: In patients with level GMFCS 3, for improve the biomechanical parameters of gait, it is advisable to give preference to shorter and functional orthoses before prescribing orthoses that capture two or more body segments.
Diclofenac predisposes benign prostate hyperplasia in fat feed albino rats
Authors: Zaruwa Moses Z. , Abdullahi Halima S. , Muhammad Bawa Y. , Ubana Muhammad A. , Bamidele Titilato O. , Muhammad Ruqaiyat A. , Ubaoji Kingsley I.
Published: February 2022

Background: An attempt to establish the possible cause(s) of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) in fat feed albino rats treated with diclofenac (DCF)-potassium (K) was performed to ascertain its likely translational relationship in humans.Methods: Thirty-five male wistar albino rats of 24 weeks old were divided into five groups of 7 animals each were used. Group 1; the normal control (NC) was injected subcutaneously with the vehicle (olive oil) only and served normal diet. Group 2; standard group treated with testosterone propionate in olive oil (3 mg/kg b. wt.). Groups 3, 4, and 5 were fed with the standard feed mixed with animal fat (sourced from roasted meat/condiments in aluminium foils) in 20, 40 and 80% portions, then treated with DCF-K in solution as low (2 mg/kg b. wt.), mid (4 mg/kg b. wt.), and high (6 mg/kg b. wt.) doses, respectively. The blood samples collected were analysed for prostate specific antigen (PSA), hematological parameters, kidney and liver function.Results: Group 3 showed the highest PSA elevation (p<0.05) when compared to the control and the untreated group. There was a significant elevation (p<0.05) in WBC levels compared to all other groups. PCV, MCV, NEUT, MONO and EOSIN levels increased significantly (p<0.05) across all groups. Significant (p<0.05) increase was observed in liver and kidney parameters compared to the untreated groups. Significant (p<0.05) elevation in total cholesterol and LDL-C levels across the groups was observed. The DCF-K treated groups showed increase in several parameters compared to the untreated groups.Conclusions: It was obvious that fatty diet and use of DCF-K contributed to the observed hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, hence predisposed tissue damage and inflammation which conjunctly elevated PSA.
Cinemeducation: a teaching-learning tool to teach professionalism and ethics in medical undergraduates
Authors: Patel Prakruti Parth , Gandhi Anuradha Mihir , Desai Chetna Kalpan
Published: February 2022

Background: The study was undertaken in II year medical students to sensitize and make student competent for professionalism and ethics to maintain respect for patients, colleagues and society and role of Informed Consent in a clinical trial using Cinema-education Methods: A brief lecture about professionalism and ethics and hands-on training to write reflections was conducted. During session, the knowledge gained and attitudes were checked by pre-test questionnaire. In the Session the students were shown short movie clips that portray on professionalism and ethics which highlight doctor patient relationship in context of maintaining respect of patient, colleagues and society and ethical aspects of informed consent in a clinical trial. The Post session was assessed by a role play, post-test, feedback and reflection writing and analyzed using content and narrative analysis.Results: Respect towards patients and co-workers and taking informed consent were the positive reflections while treating patients as a subject and giving incomplete information about the trial were pointed out as negative aspect of the movie clip. Majority of the students agreed that cinemeducation had cleared doubts, gave better understanding, stimulated their interest and motivated to learn about professionalism and Ethics. Through role play as assessment the students were able to correctly pick up the scenario, identify the issues related to the role play and were able to give solution to the problem portrayed.Conclusions: Cinemeducation is an indispensable teaching learning tool to understand about patients feelings, role of communication and to teach empathy, ethical aspects in patient care.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic first wave on the functioning of department of otorhinolaryngology at a tertiary care teaching hospital: a retrospective study
Authors: Hubballi Ravi Kishore , Tom Tinu
Published: February 2022

Background: COVID-19 (First wave) pandemic cause significant disruptions in social, economic even medical fields in our country. So, the aim of this study to find impact of COVID-19 pandemic (First wave) in functioning of department of otorhinolaryngology at a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: Statistics of out-patients and In-patients attending otorhinolaryngology department during pre COVID period (April 1 2019-March 31 2020) and COVID (First wave) period (April 1 2020-March 31 2021)   was collected from MRD, OT records and such other departmental sources. Then statistics of inpatients were   collected from OT and IP registers and academic activities were collected from academic session

Results: There is statistically high significant difference out-patients and in-patients attending ORL department during pre-COVID and COVID period. There is statistically high significant difference in regular and emergency ORL surgeries, theory classes and clinical postings conducted for under graduates, case Presentations and journal clubs conducted for post graduate residents during pre-COVID and COVID period.

Conclusions: There was a marked reduction in number of out-patients, in-patients, and surgical procedures done. In CRHS training, they missed the opportunity as primary care doctor at the department of ORL which would have had long lasting experience dealing with a patient of ORL diseases. Due to non-departmental COVID duties of postgraduates their speciality surgical training period was cut short, one third of their course period was spend in COVID patient care. Under graduates’ academic activities also were affected.
Development of time compressed sentence test in Bengali (TCST-B)
Authors: Biswas Sushmita , Chatterjee Indranil , Dutta Palash , Narayanan Shalini S.
Published: February 2022

Background: Auditory processing of speech involves sound localization, auditory discrimination, and auditory pattern recognition, audition of temporal aspects, auditory performance in competing acoustic signals, and auditory performance with degraded acoustic signals. Time compressed sentence test is mono aural low redundancy test which helps to identify person with APD as well as neurological deficit accompanying cortical and subcortical lesion. The purpose of the present study was to develop Time Compressed Sentence Test in Bengali and establish normative data on young adults along with investigating the effect of ear, gender, reliability and the level of compression of time compressed sentence in Bengali.

Methods: 50 sentences were developed and compressed with 100% intelligibility. 100 young adults, native Bengali speaker (50male, 50 female) having normal hearing were selected for the study. The task involved repetition of monotically presented Time Compressed Sentences. The compression levels used in the present study were 0%, 40%, 50% 60% and 70%. The compressed material was administered three times (baseline, after 15 min break and after 1 week) to measure test-retest reliability.

Results: Statistical analysis revealed speech identification score (SIS) decreased with increase in compression level. There was no significant gender effect or ear difference on performance. The reliability is good for 40%, 50%, 60% and acceptable for 70% compression.

Conclusions: The study provides the normative values of Time compressed sentence test in Bengali for young adults. Understanding the effects of the temporally degraded stimulus in Bengali will help in better utilization of the test in clinical population.
Case series of benign nasal masses with epistaxis
Authors: Jayakumar Varunkumar , Jaiswal Shubhalaxmi Atmaram
Published: February 2022

Presenting a case series on the benign nasal masses with epistaxis and their mode of management of cases during the year 2016-2019. The patients coming to OPD with complaints of nasal mass with nasal bleeding were included in this series. Complete blood count, s. electrolytes, renal function tests, liver function tests, chest X-ray, ECG, CECT neck +thorax and biopsy was done. Excision biopsy was done and specimen sent for HPE. This series showed benign nasal mass of which hemangioma was the most common lesion causing epistaxis managed with complete excision of the tumor with less recurrence rate. Epistaxis is a common symptom and recurrent nasal bleeding requires precise clarification of the cause and exclusion diagnostics prior to therapy planning. It is important here to distinguish between locally induced bland epistaxis and symptomatic epistaxis of benign lesions of nose.
Pterygopalatine fossa, a hive for fungus in rhino orbital mucormycosis: a case series
Authors: Darla Prasanna , Siripalli Jaya Sandeep , Deeganta Mohanty
Published: February 2022

The study aims to evaluate the involvement of pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) in rhino orbital mucormycosis and to study various outcomes that occurred as a result of the interventions. We conducted a retrospective; observational study performed using KOH mounts, histopathology, computed tomography paranasal sinuses (CT PNS) scans from June 1 to July 31 in 2021 at Alluri Sitarama Raju academy of medical sciences and hospital, Eluru. A total of 39 cases were admitted during that period. Patients were administered with liposomal amphotericin-B injection, and surgical debridement of local tissues was performed via endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), modified endoscopic Denker's approach, orbitotomy and maxillectomy. Out of 39 patients, 29 (74.3%) patients had the involvement of PPF using CT PNS. Most of the patients were male (71.8%). The 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) mounts were found positive in 71.8%. The 94.8% of patients had a history of COVID-19 infection. ESS via modified Denker’s approach was performed in 53.8%. Our findings show that PPF involvement is the main conduit for the aggressive spread of the rhino orbital mucormycosis disease. Therefore, further treatment with medical and surgical techniques could effectively halt the fatal outcomes of the disease at the earliest stages.

 
Experiences with mucormycosis during COVID times in a government hospital in Kerala-a case series
Authors: Sreenath Sarada , Ravi Anil Kumar Arupathuparayil
Published: February 2022

Mucormycosis is a rare invasive fungal infection which is often fatal. At the time of COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a sudden increase in the number of reported cases of mucormycosis. In this case series 10 cases of mucormycosis presented in our hospital during the COVID season are discussed. Of the 10 cases, only 8 patients had history of COVID infection. The predominant comorbidity was diabetes which was detected in all except one patient. But with timely diagnosis and appropriate management majority of the patients survived. Lesser symptoms and better prognosis were observed in patients without previous history of COVID.

 
Smoldering Embers: Do State-Owned Enterprises Threaten Fiscal Stability in the Caribbean?
Authors: Reyes-Tagle Gerardo , Musacchio Aldo , Hosein Roger , Wagner Rodrigo , Pan Carolina , Yu Fernando , Park Yery , Gookool Rebeca , Escobar Bernardita , La Cruz Tamira , Araya Sergio , Figueroa Camila , Rosso Lucas , Musacchio Aldo , Pan Carolina , Park Yery
Published: February 2022

This book examines the role of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in contributing to the fiscal instability of the Bahamas, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago (CCB6), with the aim of providing tangible guidance for policymakers seeking to address this issue. Using an original dataset of SOE performance in the Caribbean, the contributors focus on the fiscal implications of unchecked growth, poor oversight, and mismanagement of SOEs, with particular focus on commercial SOEs. The authors examine the historical, economic, and socio-political context of SOEs in the CCB6 and stress the need for simultaneous fiscal reform both at the federal and firm levels. The authors analyze the SOE sectors growth and performance to date, revealing entrenched challenges, specifically around incentives and accountability. The recommendations propose adaptations of accepted international best practices and lay out long-term objectives and the more feasible points of entry for fiscal reform.
Pilot study for the Injection of Bactericides in Sands with Microbial Activity Problems in the Libertador Field, Block-57
Authors: Sánchez-Bernal Hayliz , Pucha-Ortega Paola , Arcentales-Bastidas Danilo , Escobar-Segovia Kenny , Lliguizaca-Dávila Jorge , Sagnay-Sares Fernando , Garcia-Villalba Rolando
Published: February 2022

Microbial activity can lead to problems such as corroded tubing, formation plugging, and decreased effective permeability, especially the sulfate-reducing bacteria that have the formation water as a medium that allows their proliferation. These adhere to the conductive channels of the producing sand and form biomass that restricts the flow of fluids. This work was carried out to design a non-reactive matrix stimulation by injecting biocides that clean the sand face to increase permeability, reduce formation damage, control corrosive environments, and increase daily oil production. By analyzing the total concentration of iron, sulfate, carbon dioxide, sulfide in gas and water, wells with microbial activity were identified, while the behavior of the bacteria was characterized by evaluating bacterial cultures and corrosion coupons. Using economic profitability criteria, the TTT A 011 and TAP 09 wells were selected as the most prospective in the Libertador field since, out of the 94 wells analyzed, they presented the highest index of microbial activity and recovery of oil barrels. The microbial activity in the wells of the Tetete station is more aggressive, since they reproduce in less time, clogging the porous channels at a faster rate. The THPS and GLH bactericides had better functionality against bacteria and the environment, so they were considered in this design of non-reactive matrix stimulation generating $907,976.10 as profit for the company in the 12-month projection.
Caracterización de propiedades elásticas en una muestra de roca tipo arenisca mediante elementos finitos
Authors: Rivero-Méndez Smelinyer Dariam , Ordoñez-Martínez Juan David , Correa- Díaz Carlos Sebastián , Mantilla-Hernández Hernán Darío , González-Estrada Octavio Andrés
Published: February 2022

Se propone una metodología basada en la física de roca digital para un grupo de imágenes tomográficas tomadas de un núcleo de arenisca extraído de un pozo de petróleo, considerando un modelo anisotrópico del material durante el proceso de segmentación. La muestra de roca, proporcionada por el Instituto Colombiano del Petróleo, está compuesta principalmente por minerales como el cuarzo y la calcita. Primero, se genera un modelo tridimensional a partir de las imágenes tomográficas. Luego, se crea una malla de elementos finitos considerando un modelo de material que relaciona la densidad y el módulo elástico con la escala Hounsfield. Finalmente, se realiza un estudio paramétrico del modelo numérico y los resultados se comparan con los valores de referencia. Se proponen tres ensayos diferentes para la evaluación de 2 propiedades elásticas, donde los minerales se estudian individualmente (cuarzo y calcita) y como compuesto (arenisca). Los resultados de estas pruebas se comparan con valores de referencia, mostrando porcentajes de diferencia entre 3 - 10% para el módulo de elasticidad y entre 0,7 - 2,1% para el coeficiente de Poisson.
On-Line FPGA Hardware in the Loop Validation of Based Fuzzy-STPWM Induction Motor Control
Authors: Aib Abdelghani , Khodja Djalal Eddine , Chakroune Salim , Benyettou Loutfi
Published: February 2022

This work is part of the study and implementation of a fuzzy PWM control structure (fuzzy pulse width modulation) of an induction machine (MAS) on a circuit-based platform reconfigurable FPGA type. We first presented a strategy for the hardware implementation of a fuzzy inference system on a programmable logic circuit of FPGA type, through the hardware description language (VHDL) and Xilinx generator system (XSG). Secondly we proposed Fuzzy-PWM architecture for the improvement of response time of an asynchronous machine (MAS) and finally we validate the proposed hardware co-simulation architecture in real time on the ML402 development kit (based on FPGA Xilinx Virtex-4) and Simulink / Matlab.
A Comprehensive Introduction to Synodality: Reconfiguring Ecclesiology and Ecclesial Practice
Authors: Moons Jos
Published: February 2022

This article contributes to the growing body of literature on synodality with a comprehensive introduction. Firstly, the author observes the link between the synodal approach promoted by Pope Francis and the Second Vatican Council. With the help of Myriam Wijlens’ term ‘reconfiguration,’ he then discusses the theological foundations of a synodal understanding of the Church. Synodality recontextualizes the bishop’s responsibility by situating it within the community of the faithful. In addition, as the Holy Spirit is the main actor in the synodal process, all the faithful, including bishops, have to listen to what He is saying, a task that requires discerning the spirits. In the third place, the author focuses on the reconfiguration of ecclesial practice. In a synodal way of proceeding, the traditional virtue of obedience is complemented by various other virtues, such as speaking out, listening with interest, and a deep openness to the Spirit’s newness. Finally, the author identifies practical issues that need attention.
Zbawcze pośrednictwo Chrystusa w myśli Paula Tillicha
Authors: Walczak Marcin
Published: February 2022

Zagadnienie zbawczego pośrednictwa Chrystusa jest jednym z kluczowych dla teologii dogmatycznej. Jednym z myślicieli, który w czasach współczesnych przedstawił oryginalną koncepcję soteriologiczną, był Paul Tillich. Niniejszy artykuł przedstawia jego teorię. W pierwszym kroku ukazane zostaną poglądy Tillicha na kwestię Jezusa historycznego. Następnie przedstawiona będzie właściwa koncepcja zbawienia jako zwycięstwa nad warunkami egzystencji. Wreszcie omówione zostanie zagadnienie pośrednictwa zbawczego w wydarzeniach paschalnych. Przeprowadzone analizy prowadzą do wniosku, że nie da się oddzielić chrystologii od soteriologii, a także nie da się uprawiać teologii bez operowania kategorią pośrednictwa.
Angiotensin(1-7)-Stearic Acid Conjugate: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: ACAR Tayfun , UÇAR Burcu
Published: February 2022

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, broken out as the COVID-19 epidemic, is transported into the cytoplasm by angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), a key protein of the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS). ACE2 is a protective protein that reduces angiotensin (Ang) II, the bioactive component of RAS, by converting it to its potent antagonist, Ang-(1-7) peptide, in order to provide a pathophysiological response to stimuli. Although ACE-2 is upregulated especially in pulmonary endothelial cells and alveolar epithelial cells, downregulation of ACE-2 in the lung owing to loss of key regulatory factors explains the enzyme-dependent lethality of SARS-CoV-2. The N-terminal domain (NTD) of S1, one of the protein subunits of coronaviruses, is known to recognize acetylated sialic acids on glycosylated cell surface receptors. In this study, the stearic acid-peptide conjugate mimicking the sialic acid structure was synthesized, which will be able to balance uncontrolled inflammatory response and excessive cytokine production, and depending on these to suppress pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), against SARS-CoV-2. It was expected that fatty acid acylation would greatly enhance cellular internalization and cytosolic distribution of the peptide through the cell membrane. Thus, we synthesized fatty acyl derivative of the N-Ac-Gly4-Ang (1-7) peptide. The peptide was synthesized using Fmoc/tBu solid-phase peptide chemistry and characterized by FT-IR, Zetasizer, and LC-ESI-MS. This study provided more detailed insights into understanding and meeting the basic structural requirements for optimal cellular delivery and formulation of the stearyl Ang (1-7)-peptide conjugate.
Contaminación orgánica por coliformes, Nitrógeno y Fosforo en los ecosistemas acuáticos de la cuenca del río Ayuquila-Armería, Jalisco, México
Authors: Mancilla-Villa Oscar Raúl , Gómez-Villaseñor Larissa , Olguin-López José Luis , Guevara-Gutiérrez Rubén Darío , Hernandez-Vargas Omar , Ortega-Escobar Héctor Manuel , Flores-Magdaleno Héctor , Can-Chulim Álvaro , Sánchez-Bernal Edgar Iván , Cruz-Crespo Elia , Palomera-García Carlos
Published: February 2022

La cuenca del río Ayuquila-Armería se encuentra dentro de la clasificación de cuencas prioritarias de México, dada su alta diversidad y por su alto grado de alteración de la dinámica funcional y los niveles de presión social que presenta, por ende, es necesario realizar un análisis de la calidad del agua dentro de la cuenca. El objetivo fue evaluar la contaminación orgánica, realizando dos campañas de muestreo en la temporada lluviosa (2015) y seca (2016), en 18 sitios de la cuenca. Se implemento el análisis integral de variables físicoquímicas y biológicas. El 90 % de los sitios presento eutrofización dadas las concentraciones de PTotal, el 77 % superó el límite permisible para las concentraciones de NTotal; el IIB evidencio que el 19 % de los sitios presenta un alto grado de contaminación orgánica; en la temporada lluviosa se encontraron las mayores concentraciones de UFC (18 a 190 UFC/mL) y un 50 % de los sitios superó el límite permisible (10 UFC/mL). La influencia de los afluentes tributarios al cauce principal aumenta drásticamente en la temporada de lluvias, este incrementa los caudales y empobrece la calidad del agua superficial por el arrastre de contaminantes desde las zonas rurales y urbanas
Characterization of native plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and their effect on the development of maize (Zea Mays L.)
Authors: Amezquita Aviles Carlos Fernando , Coronel Acosta Claudia Brizeida , De los Santos Villalobos Sergio , Santoyo Gustavo , PARRA COTA FANNIE ISELA
Published: February 2022

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereals for Mexico and humanity. The Yaqui Valley -located in the northwest of Mexico- is one of the most important agricultural regions worldwide, it is characterized by an indiscriminate use of inorganic fertilizers for improving crop yields, leading to an increased environmental and economic cost of maize production. Here, a morphological, metabolic, and molecular characterization of native bacteria associated with maize rhizosphere was carried out, and then positive effects of bacterial inoculation to plants under greenhouse conditions were evaluated. The evaluated strains were taxonomically affiliated –based on the 16S rRNA gene- as Bacillus sp. (13B41), Advenella incenata (22A67), Pantoea dispersa (22B45), and Rhizobium pusense (31B11). All of these strains were able to synthesize indoles, produce siderophores, and solubilize phosphates. The individual inoculation of these strains to maize plants showed a significant increment (compared to un-inoculated plants) in height (35-40 %), shoot dry weight (244-289 %), root dry weight (99-137 %), and SPAD values (40- 47 %). The native bacteria associated with maize in the Yaqui Valley are a promising alternative to promote the growth of their host plant, and contribute to a sustainable maize production.
Efecto de diferentes relaciones de luz azul:roja en el crecimiento de plántulas de chile habanero (Capsicum chinense Jacq.)
Authors: Mendoza Paredes Jorge Enrique , Castillo-González Ana María , Valdéz-Aguilar Luis Alonso , Avitia-García Edilberto , García-Mateos María del Rosario
Published: February 2022

El chile habanero es una de las especies hortícolas de mayor importancia en la península de Yucatán y la producción de plántula es la parte crucial inicial para una producción exitosa de frutos. Estas se podrían cultivar en ambiente controlado con iluminación LED y permitiría producirse en cualquier época del año libres de plagas y enfermedades. Los objetivos fue evaluar el efecto de cinco proporciones de luz LED azul:roja y un testigo fluorescente sobre crecimiento de planta y concentración de pigmentos fotosintéticos en plántulas de chile habanero ‘Mayan Ba’alché’ bajo condiciones controladas de crecimiento. Los resultados mostraron que el testigo promovió el desarrollo de la hoja, a través de una mayor área foliar, índice de área foliar, área foliar específica, peso fresco de hoja y con una menor frecuencia estomática y diámetro de tallo, mientras el tratamiento A100 promovió el desarrollo del tallo, a través de una mayor altura de planta, distancia de entrenudos y peso fresco de tallo. La combinación de luz azul y roja indujo un efecto negativo en altura de plántula, distancia de entrenudos y peso fresco de tallo. Los tratamientos no tuvieron efecto en el peso seco de la parte aérea y en los pigmentos fotosintéticos.
Bioactive compounds identification and physicochemical characterization from Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm-Dyck cladodes flour
Authors: Fabela-Illescas Héctor Enrique , Castro-Mendoza Marisol Patricia , Montalvo-González Efigenia , Anaya-Esparza Luis Miguel , Vargas-Torres Apolonio , Betanzos-Cabrera Gabriel , Hernandez-Uribe Juan Pablo
Published: February 2022

Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm-Dyck is a scarcely studied cactus; its characterization contributes to identifying the bioactive compounds it contains and its functional properties, which will allow generating information on potential uses and applications. The aim of this work was to characterize N. cochenillifera cladodes flour physicochemically and identify the phenolic compounds that it contains. In general, N. cochenillifera flour is low in calories (337%) with high total dietary fiber content (18.41%). In addition, it exhibits good water (11.04%) and oil (2.05%) absorption capacity, while swelling capacity was 25 mL/g DW. The content of soluble and hydrolyzable polyphenols were 207.92 and 647.99 mg EAG/100 g DW, respectively. In addition, they showed antioxidant activity by DPPH• (15.28 mmol TE/g DW), FRAP (20.97 mmol TE/g DW), and ABTS•+ (51.31 mmol TE/g DW) methods. Furthermore, six phenolic acids (gallic, ferulic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, syringic, and neochlorogenic) were identified by HPLC. According to the results, N. cochenillifera cladodes flour is an important source of fiber and bioactive compounds with interesting functional properties. In this context, N. cochenillifera flour could be used as an ingredient in the formulation of functional foods. However, further, studies are needed on the shelf life and optimizing its preservation process, transformation, and functional potential.
Uso de un diseño de mezclas para el desarrollo de hamburguesas de carne de bovino, con un perfil nutricional mejorado con harina de linaza, pulpa de mango y ciruela deshidratada
Authors: Valenzuela Martin , Montalvo-Navarro Carlos , Cumplido-Barbeitia Germán , González-Ríos Humberto , Montoya-Ballesteros Luz del Carmen , Pérez-Báez Anna Judith , Zamorano-García Libertad
Published: February 2022

Se estudiaron los efectos de harina de linaza (HL), pulpa de mango (PM) y ciruela deshidratada (CD) sobre la calidad fisicoquímica y sensorial de hamburguesas res, y se optimizó su incorporación para crear un producto con mejor perfil nutricional sin demérito en su calidad, usando para ello un diseño de mezclas. Se evaluó el color instrumental (L*, a*, b*), pH, rendimiento de cocción (RC), reducción de diámetro (RD) y análisis de perfil de textura (APT). Además, se evaluaron las propiedades sensoriales de sabor, textura y jugosidad. La adición de HL y PM aumentó el color (p < 0.05), mientras que la CD lo disminuyó. El pH disminuyó por la adición de PM o CD, y el RC aumentó por la adición de HL y CD. La incorporación de PM o CD incrementó el APT, mientras que la HL tuvo un efecto contrario. La incorporación de PM y CD aumentaron los atributos sensoriales. La fórmula óptima desarrollada incluyó 6 % HL, 10.5 % PM y 3.5 % CD, y tuvo mayor contenido de ácidos grasos polinsaturados, principalmente omega-3. Las hamburguesas de res adicionadas con HL, PM y CD puede ser una alternativa de alimentación para aquellos consumidores preocupados por su salud.
Evaluation of the antioxidant interaction between butylated hydroxytoluene and quercetin and their utility for beef patties preservation
Authors: Martinez-Morales Flavio , Zapata-Morales Juan Ramon , Aragon-Martinez Othoniel Hugo
Published: February 2022

The present study aimed to find a mixture of BHT and quercetin with an antioxidant synergism that would enable both compounds to be used at low concentrations and, subsequently, evaluate the preservative action of the combination selected on ground beef patties stored at 4 ºC. Our results showed that quercetin possessed a higher antioxidant activity than BHT, and of the five combinations tested, a 1:5 BHT-quercetin combination presented a synergistic antioxidant activity. For the refrigerated beef patties, the 1:5 combination (5.2 and 26.0 mg/kg of BHT and quercetin, respectively) produced a beneficial action on the redness, yellowness, antioxidant capacity, metmyoglobin content, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance value, which was similar to that produced by 100 or 36 mg/kg of BHT or quercetin (P >0.05, except the redness induced by quercetin). These benefits were compared with the data obtained from a preservative-free patty control sample (P <0.001 to <0.05). Our study shows, for the first time, that the use of a 1:5 BHT-quercetin combination was an effective, simple, and available method to preserve refrigerated beef patties, which can substitute the individual addition of high concentrations of these compounds by the meat industry.
Prevalencia y relación de mastitis con niveles séricos de vitaminas E y A y estatus microbiológico en vacas criollas doble propósito, en época de verano
Authors: Pinelli Saavedra Araceli , Perez-Morales Rosalva , González-Rios Humberto , Amavizca-Nazar Alejandra
Published: February 2022

La mastitis es una enfermedad infecciosa de las vacas y se debe a diversos factores, como la zona geográfica, el clima, periodos de sequía, nutrición e higiene en ordeña principalmente. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de mastitis subclínica en ganado de doble propósito en pastoreo a través de microbiología en leche y su asociación con niveles séricos de las vitaminas E y A durante el verano en un ejido aledaño a la comunidad rural de Cobachi, Sonora. Quinientos cuatro muestras de leche correspondientes a los cuatro cuartos de 126 vacas se analizaron para el cultivo microbiológico para las pruebas de catalasa, coagulasa y oxidasa. La sensibilidad antimicrobiana de los aislamientos se realizó por el método de Kirby-Baue. La vitamina A y E fueron analizadas por cromatografía HPLC. Los valores séricos de vitamina A (5.58 µmol/L) y E (0.59 µmol/L) fueron menores a los normales y no correlacionados (P>0.05) con mastitis. Se encontró una prevalencia del 65.80% y especies Gram positivos en racimos, coagulasa y catalasa positiva; oxidasa negativa que suponen del género Staphylococcus sp. La ceftriaxona fue el antibiótico al cual mostraron resistencia. Se encontró una alta prevalencia de mastitis subclínica no asociada a las vitaminas y también deficiencias de vitaminas E y A en verano.
Callisthenic Productivity. A Challenge for the Traditional Economic Productivity Indicators
Authors: Mihai Iris
Published: February 2022

Measuring economic productivity is a challenging task, mainly because we cannot isolate completely the effects produced by individual inputs, nor can we measure precisely how their interaction affects the overall result. In this paper we will test a new way of measuring economic productivity at country level that takes into account also the social dimension and the sustainability over time - we call it callisthenic productivity. The indicator has been built by measuring economic productivity as a sum of labor and capital productivity, which afterwards we adjust by using the Gini coefficient, the human development index, the biocapacity and the ecologic footprint of consumption. The end result is not necessarily a better way to represent a country’s productivity, but rather a better way to compare the ability of countries to generate effective, reliable and sustainable economic productivity.
Polityka Federacyjnej Republiki Jugosławii wobec konfliktu zbrojnego w Bośni i Hercegowinie (1992–1995)
Authors: Pawłowski Konrad
Published: February 2022

Autor w swojej pracy podkreślił, że Jugosławia odgrywała bardzo dużą rolę w konflikcie zbrojnym z Bośnią, mimo iż nigdy z nią oficjalnie w stanie wojny nie była. Badacz zauważył także, że Slobodan Milošević odegrał kluczową rolę podczas negocjacji w Dayton, gdy stał się jednym z gwarantów pokoju w Bośni, co stanowiło podstawę do utrzymania się przez niego przy władzy.
Bośnia i Hercegowina – upadek idei państwa multietnicznego na przełomie XX i XXI w. Zarys problemu
Authors: Gibas-Krzak Danuta
Published: February 2022

Autorka w swojej pracy wykazała, że we współczesnej Bośni i Hercegowinie nie udało się stworzyć społeczności multietnicznej, która istniała, według Badaczki, w czasach Jugosławii pod rządami Tity, kiedy Bośnia była wieloetnicza i charakteryzowała się tolerancją religijną i kulturową. W obecnych czasach problemem jest polaryzacja polityczna kraju oraz dominacja Muzułmanów (Boszniaków). Według Autorki wejście do Unii Europejskiej mogłoby pomóc w budowaniu wieloetnicznej społeczności, ale proces ten zająłby wiele lat, ze względu na powojenną traumę.
Bokser i śmierć – udana słowacko-polska koprodukcja filmowa, do której nie doszło
Authors: Hučko Tomáš
Published: February 2022

Autor obejmuje refleksją powstanie kultowego słowackiego filmu Bokser i śmierć, który młody reżyser Peter Solan zrealizował w 1962 roku, u progu czechosłowackiej nowej fali. Przygląda się uwarunkowaniom realizacji jako próbie koprodukcji w warunkach socjalizmu. Porównuje literacki pierwowzór, opowiadanie polskiego pisarza Józefa Hena, ze scenariuszem autorstwa polsko-słowackiego zespołu (Hen, Vichta, Solan) i z filmem, który powstał przy znaczącej współpracy artystów z Polski i Niemiec.
MEDITERRANEAN CYCLONES TRACKS IN EUROPE WITH SPECIAL VIEW OVER ROMANIA (1985-2015)
Authors:   “Babeș-Bolyai” University, Faculty of Geography, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, ILIE Vlad-Alexandru , CROITORU Adina-Eliza ,   “Babeș-Bolyai” University, Faculty of Geography, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, MAN Titus-Cristian ,   “Babeș-Bolyai” University, Faculty of Geography, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Published: February 2022

Mediterranean cyclones (MCs) affect not only the countries neighboring the Mediterranean basin, but also the weather conditions in regions that are not in direct contact with the Mediterranean basin such as Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, including Romania. They are associated, in general, with extreme weather events. This study considered data over a 30-yr. period (December 1, 1986 – November 30, 2015). For MCs identification and their track tracing, the mean sea level pressure, 500 hPa geopotential heights, 500-1000 hPa relative topography and 850 hPa pseudo-equivalent potential temperature were employed. The European spatial domain was delimited as 30°-60° N latitude and as 20° V - 45 ° E longitude. To select those cyclones influencing the weather in Romania a square-shaped area whose external limits are located about 500 km from the center of Romania was used. For tracing the trajectory, the low-pressure center position at every 6 hours was considered. Frequency of occurence and track density were analyzed considering two temporal approaches: i. for the entire period and for three 10-yr subperiods; ii. the annual and seasonal scale for the entire period. For track density, the anomalies for each 10-yr sub-period and for each season were calculated. The main findings of this study are: the most exposed area to MCs are central and eastern Mediterranean regions, 43.39% of the cyclones generated in the Mediterranean basin crossed the region of Romania; seasonally, the highest occurrence frequency is specific to winter and the lowest to summer; no significant changes in the annual or seasonal occurrence was detected; during the second 10-yr sub-period weak to moderate positive anomalies were detected, whereas during the first and the last ones, positive and negative anomalies were found depending on the season and region; seasonal average position of the MCs tracks revealed the largest shift from one sub-period to another in winter and the smallest in autumn.
STUDYING THE COHERENCE VALUES FOR UHI: A CASE STUDY OF IASI
Authors:   ”Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University, Iasi, Romania, MACAROF Paul , GHERASIM Paul-Marian
Published: February 2022

Thermal properties of surface, Earth’s surface energy balance and atmospheric conditions effect the land surface dramatically. Local and global change continues in the Earth’s climate since the industrial era continues. The urban heat island (UHI) represents the phenomenon of higher atmospheric and surface temperatures occurring in urban area or metropolitan area than in the surrounding rural zones due to urbanization. UHI is most noticeable during the summer and winter. The main cause of the UHI effect is from the modification of land surfaces. In this research was using MODIS and SENTINEL data. From SENTINEL images was extracted coherence maps to determine values of this parameter in areas where UHI was notice. Coherence for SUHI range from 0.20 to 0.89 for day and varies for night between 0.23-0.89.
CAPTAIN COMMANDER MICLESCU GHEORGHE, KNIGHT OF THE ROMANIAN WINGS
Authors:   General Staff of the Land Forces, Bucharest, Romania, LĂȚCAN Mihail -Cătălin
Published: February 2022

Descendant of a large family of Moldavian boyars, Lieutenant Commander Miclescu Gheorghe represents in the history of Romanian aeronautics a complex personality, the spirit of the perfect soldier, endowed with an boundless love of country and people, tireless in his desire to improve continuously, his career beginning as cavalry, later aerial observer and pilot, specializing as a fighter pilot. With an exceptional training, with studies and specializations at the great aviation schools in France, England, Germany, fearless and bold defender of the sky of his homeland Romania, he participated in all the battles for the defense of airspace in the Second World War , the liberation of Bessarabia and the defense of the Black Sea airspace, the defense against the Anglo-American bombings, the fight against the German bombings of Bucharest. Through the position he held as commander of Hounter Group in the operations on the front, he gave an admirable personal example to his comrades through his courage, patriotism and spirit of initiative.
STUDY ON THE INSTITUTION OF THE LAW INSURANCE OF MILITARY AIRCRAFT STAFF IN THE PRE-PRINCIPLE OF THE WAR OF NATIONAL REUNION
Authors:   Air Force Staff, Bucharest, Romania, MANOLACHI Cristian
Published: February 2022

Aviation in all countries, as in our country, from the moment it began to rule the sky, paid for this victory with great blood sacrifices! These sacrifices were much higher at that time in terms of flight time and performance. It was found that no matter how rigorous the selection of personnel, the human factor, along with other factors, aeronautical and meteorological material, was a major cause, and accidents could be largely reduced, but not eliminated. Appreciating the sacrifice of the aviators and their material disinterest in this ideal, the "FLIGHT", the highest forums, have taken measures in all countries to ensure the lives of disabled aviators or their descendants due to flight accidents. In line with this unanimously implemented trend at the international level, the system of insurance premiums was first legislated in our country by the Law of the Undersecretary of State for Air of June 5, 1932 and continued later, by the laws that followed, with various amendments. to this day.
TEHREEK-E-LABBAIK PAKISTAN (TLP): A RISING EXTREMIST FORCE, OR JUST THE TIP OFA LARGER RADICALISED ICEBERG IN THE AFPAK REGION?
Authors:   Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Basel University, Switzerland, MAȚOI Ecaterina
Published: February 2022

As if Afghanistan’s recent takeover by the Taliban was not a sufficiently significant development in the AfPak region, reports indicate that Pakistan’s largest sect, the Barelvi, becomes increasingly militant and aggressive by the day. Since another important movement for the history of Pakistan - the Deobandi - has generally dominated the violence scene in Pakistan starting with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, this trend within the Barelvis is a rather new one, and deserves extensive attention keeping in mind the recent regional developments. Taking a brief look at the history of the region to identify possible causes that may underlie the radicalization of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan group, it is noticeable that emergence of Barelvi and Deobandi sects in the first part of 19th century was part of a larger movement to revive Islam in the Northern part of India, but in different manners: while the Deobandi kept close to the Hanafi Sunni teachings in a strictly manner, the Barelvi sect – developed itself mostly on a Sufi legacy, as part of a larger Folk Islam inherited from the Mughal Empire, despite being itself affiliated with the Hanafi school. The differences between the two movements became critical from a political, security and social point of view, especially after the division of British India in 1947, into two states: a Muslim one – present day Pakistan, and a Hindu one - present day India, of which, the first, became the state entity that encompassed both Hanafi revivalist movements, Deobandi and Barelvi. Therefore, this research is aiming to analyse the history of Barelvi movement starting with the British Raj, the way in which Pakistan was established as a state and the problems that arose with the partition of the former British colony, the very Islamic essence of the new established state, and the potential for destabilization of Barelvi organisations in an already prone to conflict area. Consequently, the current research aims to identify the patterns of latest developments in Pakistan, their historical roots and causes, main actors active in religious, political and military fields in this important state-actor from the AfPak region, in order to project Barelvi recent in a defined environment, mainly by using a historical approach.