bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A monocultura da mente e o etnocídio na Bacia do Xingu: pela defesa de uma ecologia de saberes
Authors: Hoffmeister Guilherme Pittaluga , Chelotti Júlia De David , De Araujo Luiz Ernani Bonesso
Published: July 2021

O atual quadro da modernidade, marcado pela globalização, impõe inúmeros desafios à garantia e efetivação de direitos em várias esferas. O presente trabalho objetiva demonstrar que nesse contexto impera uma forma específica de racionalidade que tem como reflexo o extermínio de outras formas de saber e, em última medida, o massacre de etnias inteiras. Como exemplo, utiliza-se o caso do etnocídio decorrente da construção da usina de Belo Monte, na região da bacia do rio Xingu, no norte do Brasil. Desde uma abordagem complexa, o artigo também visa a refletir acerca dos limites e das possibilidades para a superação dessa racionalidade definida enquanto monocultura do pensamento por um novo paradigma. A aposta é na ideia de hermenêutica diatópica como uma forma de cosmopolitismo insurgente, e enquanto possibilitadora de uma ecologia de saberes. A partir disso, busca-se avaliar em que medida este poderia ser um caminho para a consolidação de um estado democrático de direito capaz de proteger efetivamente os direitos de populações em posição de vulnerabilidade, como, por exemplo, os segmentos indígenas.
Intraoperative near-infrared spectroscopy for pedicled perforator flaps: a possible tool for the early detection of vascular issues
Authors: Marchesi Andrea , Garieri Pietro , Amendola Francesco , Marcelli Stefano , Vaienti Luca
Published: July 2021

Background Pedicled perforator flaps can present postoperative complications similar to those encountered in free flap surgery. Beyond a clinical evaluation, there is still no reliable technical aid for the early prediction of vascular issues. The aim of this study was to assess the support of near-infrared spectroscopy technology as an intraoperative tool to anticipate postsurgical flap ischemia.Methods We prospectively enrolled 13 consecutive patients who were referred to our hospital from March 2017 to July 2018 and required a reconstructive procedure with a pedicled fasciocutaneous perforator flap. We measured flap peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) in each patient with a Somanetics INVOS 5100C Cerebral/Somatic Oximeter (Medtronic), both before and after transposition. Patient demographics, operative data, and complications were then recorded during the following 6 months. We analyzed the data using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and linear regression.Results The mean flap SpO2 before and after transposition was 92%±3% and 78%±19%, respectively. The mean change in SpO2 was 14%±17%, with a range of 0% to 55%. The change in saturation and mean saturation ratio were significantly different between patients with and without postoperative flap necrosis.Conclusions An immediate quantitative analysis of flap peripheral capillary SpO2 after transposition has never before been described. In our experience, an intraoperative drop in SpO2 equal to or greater than 15%–20% predicted vascular complications in pedicled perforator flaps. Conversely, flap size and rotation angle were not correlated with the risk of flap necrosis.
Algorithmic approach to the lymphatic leak after vascular reconstruction: a systematic review
Authors: Nicksic Peter John , Condit Kevin Michael , Nayar Harry Siva , Michelotti Brett Foster
Published: July 2021

Background To date, there are no consensus guidelines for management of lymphatic leak in groin vascular reconstruction patients. The goal of this study is to review the relevant literature to determine alternatives for treatment and to design an evidence-based algorithm to minimize cost and morbidity and maximize efficacy.Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Two independent reviewers applied agreed-upon inclusion and exclusion criteria to eligible records. Studies that included patients who underwent groin dissection for oncologic diagnoses and level 5 data were excluded. Interventions were then categorized by efficacy using predetermined criteria.Results Our search yielded 333 records, of which eight studies were included. In four studies, the success of lymphatic ligation ranged from 75% to 100%, with average days to resolution ranging from 0 to 9. Conservative management in the form of elevation, compression, and bedrest may prolong time to resolution of lymphatic leak (14–24 days) and therefore cost.Conclusions The majority of patients should be offered early operative intervention in the form of lymphatic ligation with or without a primary muscle flap. If the patient is not an operative candidate, a trial of conservative management should be attempted before other nonsurgical interventions.
Evaluation of pedicled flaps for type IIIB open fractures of the tibia at a tertiary care center
Authors: Vathulya Madhubari , Dhingra Mohit , Nongdamba Hawaibam , Chattopadhyay Debarati , Kapoor Akshay , Dhingra Vandana Kumar , Mago Vishal , Kandwal Pankaj
Published: July 2021

Background Soft tissue coverage plays a vital role in replacing the vascularity of the underlying bone in Gustilo type IIIB fractures. The aim of this article was to evaluate the feasibility of local pedicled flaps in type IIIB fractures at a tertiary care center.Methods We included all cases of open Gustilo-Anderson type IIIB fractures of the tibia treated with local flap coverage from January 2017 to February 2019. We carried out a retrospective analysis to investigate the relationships of complications, hospital stay, and cost-effectiveness with the choice of flap, infective foci, site and size of the defect, and type of fixation.Results Out of 138 Gustilo type IIIB fractures analyzed in our study, 27 cases had complications, of which 19 (13.76%) involved flap necrosis, four (2.89%) were infections, three (2.17%) involved partial necrosis, and one (0.72%) was related to bone spur development. Flap complications showed a statistically significant association with the perforator flap category (propeller flaps in particular) (P=0.001). Flap necrosis showed a significant positive correlation with cases treated within 3 weeks after trauma (P=0.046). A significant positive correlation was also found between defect size and the duration of hospital stay (P=0.03).Conclusions Although local flaps are harvested from the same leg that underwent trauma, their success rate is at least as high as microvascular flaps as reported from other centers. Amidst the local flaps, complications were predominantly associated with perforator flaps.
A population-based study of breast implant illness
Authors: Magno-Padron David A. , Luo Jessica , Jessop Terry C. , Garlick Jared W. , Manum Joanna S. , Carter Gentry C. , Agarwal Jayant P. , Kwok Alvin C.
Published: July 2021

Background Despite evidence supporting the safety of breast implants, some women associate their implants with adverse health effects and have called this syndrome “breast implant illness.” We sought to characterize breast implant illness symptoms and to report how implant removal affects their symptoms.Methods An anonymous 20 question survey was administered to the Facebook group: “UTAH Breast Implant Illness” to characterize the symptoms these women attributed to their breast implants. Several questions allowed us to evaluate how implant removal affected women’s symptoms.Results Of the 182 respondents, 97% report that implants negatively affect their health and 95% identify these symptoms with breast implant illness. Ninety-six percent of respondents had implants placed for cosmetic reasons and 51% had silicone implants. The most common symptoms associated with breast implant illness are brain fog (95%), fatigue (92%), joint pain (80%), and hair loss (74%). Sixty percent of respondents learned about breast implant illness from family/friends and/or social media platforms (56%), 40% of respondents had their implants removed, and 97% report relief of their symptoms post-removal (23% complete, 74% partial). Following explantation, there was a significant improvement in all but one reported symptom. An association was found between the number of symptoms reported prior to explantation and the number of symptoms resolving following explantation.Conclusions Breast implant illness is a syndrome characterized by fatigue, decreased focus, hair loss, and joint pain after the placement of breast implants. Nearly all patients report improvement of symptoms after implant removal. Significant efforts should be made to better understand breast implant illness and its etiology.
Brown preadipocyte transplantation locally ameliorates obesity
Authors: Takaya Kento , Matsuda Naruhito , Asou Toru , Kishi Kazuo
Published: July 2021

Background Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a potential target for anti-obesity treatments. Previous studies have shown that BAT activation causes an acute metabolic boost and reduces adiposity. Furthermore, BAT and BAT-derived cell transplantation reportedly help treat obesity by regulating glucose and fatty acid metabolism. However, since BAT transplantation leads to whole-body weight loss, we speculated that earlier approaches cause a generalized and unnecessary fat tissue loss, including in breast and hip tissues.Methods We transplanted white adipose tissue-derived or BAT-derived preadipocytes prepared from C57BL/6 mice into one side of the inguinal fat pads of an obese mouse model (db/ db mice) to examine whether it would cause fat loss at the peri-transplant site (n=5 each). The same volume of phosphate-buffered saline was injected as a control on the other side. Six weeks after transplantation, the inguinal fat pad was excised and weighed. We also measured the concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, fatty acids, and total cholesterol in the peripheral blood.Results BAT-derived preadipocytes showed abundant mitochondria and high levels of mitochondrial membrane uncoupling protein 1 expression, both in vivo and in vitro, with a remarkable reduction in weight of the inguinal fat pad after transplantation (0.17±0.12 g, P=0.043). Only free fatty acid levels tended to decrease in the BAT-transplanted group, but the difference was not significant (P=0.11).Conclusions Our results suggest that brown adipocytes drive fat degradation around the transplantation site. Thus, local transplantation of BAT-derived preadipocytes may be useful for treating obesity, as well as in cosmetic treatments.
The role of rapid tissue expansion in separating xipho-omphalopagus conjoined twins in Vietnam
Authors: Son Tran Thiet , Dung Pham Thi Viet , Thuy Ta Thi Hong , Kien Vu Duy , Liem Nguyen Thanh
Published: July 2021

Conjoined twins are rare, and each set of conjoined twins has a unique conjoined anatomy. It is necessary to perform separation to increase the chance of patient survival. Tissue expansion is an advanced technique for providing sufficient soft tissue and skin for wound closure. We report the successful application of rapid tissue expansion in 10-month-old xipho-omphalopagus conjoined twins in Vietnam. A tissue expander was placed on the anterior body between the sternum and umbilicus with a baseline of 70 mL sterile saline (0.9% NaCl). The first injection into the tissue expander began on the 6th day after expander insertion, and injections continued every 2 days with approximately 30–70 mL per injection according to the expansion of the skin. The expander reached 335 mL after six injections and within 10 days. In order to prepare for surgical separation, expansion was completed on the 15th day after insertion. The expanded skin area was estimated to be 180 cm2, which was sufficient to cover both patients’ skin deficiencies. The twins presented for surgical separation 6 days following the completion of tissue expansion. Both babies were discharged in good health 1 month after separation.
Impaction of a continuous glucose monitoring sensor
Authors: Park Kyong Chan , Choi Hwan Jun
Published: July 2021

A 33-year-old man presented to the plastic surgery department for foreign body removal 1 month after the insertion of a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor (Dexcom G5) in the left upper arm. The patient had used the CGM system for 5 years, and the insertion was done in the usual manner. The entire sensor wire was visible on simple radiography and ultrasonography. In the operating room, and the sensor wire was identified in the intermuscular septum and removed. No foreign body reaction or inflammatory signs were found around the CGM, and the extracted wire measured 2.5 cm. Thus, it was assumed that the whole sensor wire was detached from the transmitter, not fractured. No remnant foreign body was observed on follow-up simple radiography.
The management of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma in the setting of pregnancy: seeking for clinical practice guidelines
Authors: Elia Rossella , Maruccia Michele , Pascale Aurelia De , Napoli Arianna Di , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Giudice Giuseppe
Published: July 2021

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a recently described form of T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma now formally recognized by the World Health Organization classification of lymphoid neoplasms. The aim of this paper is to report the first case of BIA-ALCL diagnosed in a pregnant patient. It is well known that BIA-ALCL appears as an indolent lymphoma with a good prognosis when diag-nosed at early stages and clinical guidelines for its management have been clearly published. Nevertheless, they lack a standardized approach for BIA-ALCL during pregnancy. With limited experience in our case, treatment has been safely postponed after term without affecting patient’s overall prognosis and without fetal complication. The fact that the disease was diagnosed at an early stage (stage I) undoubtedly influenced the course of treatment. A multidisciplinary approach weighing the risks and benefits of treatment is of paramount importance in order to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and her child and clinical update guidelines should be issued.
Care for the Environment and Environmental Crime Based on Theravada Buddhist Philosophy
Authors: Tititampruk Dittita , Ketsil Tanet
Published: July 2021

From past to present, global compressions on human and environmental systems are more likely to increase than ever before in human history. With the science and technology advancement, we are living in the age of the global village that enables more convenient and brings us closer together. However, this also means that human being is suffering from global environmental crisis including the threat of war, economic crises, racial conflicts, environmental degradation, and environmental crime. This paper represents library-based work to date in Buddhist contemporary and useful perspectives and strategies on environmental protection and prevention in the backdrop of growing consumerism and capitalism influenced by western cultural in post-globalization era. Comparing to other countries, Thailand faces various environmental problems and some of them could become to environmental crime such as illegal wildlife trade; smuggling ozone-depleting substances; illicit trade in hazardous waste and pollution; illegal mining; illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing; illegal logging and associated trade in stolen timber. Since Thailand is one of largely Buddhist practical countries, measures to conserve the environment can draw on the principles and precepts of Lord Buddha’s teachings, known as Tripitaka. In Lord Buddha’s lifetime, environmental problems were not salient, but surprisingly, Lord Buddha recognised such problems because they are related to natural law. Accordingly, he established disciplinary rules for monks to live as models of not destroying the environment. The five precepts of Buddhism are the examples of the main principals in Buddhism which is regulations regarding the relation with environmental crime protection and humanity.
Case series of skin symptoms possibly related to SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to Heim Pál Children’s Hospital and review of the literature
Authors:   Heim Pál Children’s Hospital Department of Dermatology, Budapest, Veres Klára , Gál Andrea Izabella , Szabó András , Pataky Borbála , Szentirmai Réka , Zsigmond Borbála , Martonosi Ágnes Rita , Szalai Zsuzsanna Zsófia
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic, which started in China in December2019, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In addition to severe, even life-threatening respiratory symptoms caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a number of systemic and atypical skin symptoms have developed in young patients. This article presents cases of skin symptoms possibly provoked by SARS-CoV-2 virus attended to Pál Heim Children’s Hospital from 15 November to 31 December 2020. Four chilblain-like acral lesions and one case of multiple organ failure similar to Kawasaki disease are presented. The SARS-COV-2 PCR test was negative in all cases, however, high antibody titer was found by serologic testing for antibodies in two cases. In another case, the frst antibody test found doubtful positivity, however, high antibody levels were confrmed one month later. Based on our fndings, it is presumed, that pernio-like symptoms and multiple organ failure similar to Kawasaki disease could be late symptoms of COVID-19. The authors also summarize the most common skin symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, highlighting the diferent pediatric aspects from adult cases.
Diferential diagnostic difculties of fgurate erythemas -a case report
Authors:   University of Debrecen – Medical Center – Department of Dermatology, Ványai Beatrix , Veres Imre , Szegedi Andrea , Sawhney Irina
Published: July 2021

The authors describe the case of a 42-year-old woman with typical targetoid lesions of erythema multiforme. The histopathological examination confrmed the diagnosis, local and systemic corticosteroid were started. Following the treatment initiation, symptoms showed regression. While tapering the systemic therapy, symptoms recurred and showed slightly changed clinical picture as well. Second histopathological examination confrmed. The diagnosis of erythema annulare centrifugum. After ophthalmological examination systemic chloroquine therapy was started, which resulted in gradual improvement of the symptoms. The authors summarized by evaluating this patient’s case the diferential diagnostic difculties of fgurate erythemas.
Dermatitis artefacta
Authors:   Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology Semmelweis University, Faculty of Medicine, Joura Marie Isolde , Koszorú Kamilla , Sárdy Miklós
Published: July 2021

Dermatitis artefacta is a psychocutaneous illness that afects especially women, adolescents and patients with an underlying psychiatric illness or personality disorder (especially borderline), as well as patients with external stress. Patients infict injuries in various ways, most often mechanically. The clinical signs are characteristic and are usually combined with psychological disorders. In the diferential diagnosis organic causes of dermatitis must be ruled out. The therapy should be carried out by a psychodermatological team to treat both the skin lesions and the patient’s psyche. We report on a patient with dermatitis artefacta who produced skin lesions using dye-stuf because of psychological stress.
Systemic viral infections in adulthood causing dermatological symptoms Excerpts
Authors:   University of Debrecen – Medical Center – Department of Dermatology, Tósaki Ágnes , Remenyik Éva
Published: July 2021

Viral infections are increasingly a global health problem, but not only because of the current COVID pandemic and acute diseases, but also because of the long-term consequences. The authors shortly describe the main characteristics of hepatitis B and C and tropical viral diseases (dengue, Zika, chikungunya), focusing on dermatological symptoms and also provide a brief current literature review, as well as national aspects related to each pathogen.
Clinical manfestation of dermatomyositis and difficulties in its differential diagnosis
Authors:   University of Pécs Medical School Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Oncodermatology, Kinyó Ágnes , Hanyecz Anita , Gyulai Rolland
Published: July 2021

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an idiopathic inflammatory myopathy with muscle weakness and specific cutaneous findings. The proximal weakness of the limb muscles is present in the majority of the patients, in a proportion of them however the muscle inflammation is preceded by the skin symptoms with several months, and in 40%, skin symptoms are the only manifestations of the disease. While, there may have many difficulties in differential diagnosis of DM without myositis, dermatologists have a major role in the early recognition of the disorder and in the initiation of the proper therapy
Endless forms. Evolutionary scenarios to unravel biodiversity
Authors: Carazo Pau
Published: July 2021

In this monograph we set out to explore this complex relationship through a series of singular evolutionary scenarios. Some of these scenarios will shed light into phenomena that may at first glance appear inscrutable through the lens of evolution. Our aim is to illustrate the power harnessed by evolutionary biology to tackle some of the most pressing challenges we face as a species, from the diseases that threaten our survival to the recent anthropogenic changes that endanger the only planet we inhabit.
Editorial
Authors: Domínguez Martí
Published: July 2021

By the end of 2018 we learned about the birth of two twins that had been genetically engineered using CRISPR to be immune to HIV. Despite the doubts regarding the veracity of the claims of the Chinese scientist in charge of the project, the news confirmed the urgent need to open a debate on the ethical, legal, and social dimensions of genetics, but also on other scientific advances that will undoubtedly impact our lives directly in the near future. 
From Mètode Science Studies Journal we have always been committed to opening a space for science reflection and debate, which must provide society with the necessary tools to have an informed understanding to serve as a starting point when making decisions. These pages include a monograph focusing on the communication of biotechnology, which deals with how advances such as CRISPR, the use of animals in research, and biotechnological applications have been explained to society.
Biotechnology is not the only scientific breakthrough that will have consequences for our lives. The development of artificial intelligence in the fields of security, medicine, or transport makes it necessary to reflect on the application of these advances in our daily lives as well, as outlined in another of the special monographs in this volume.
Finally, the present issue of Mètode SSJ also includes a monograph on the concept of biodiversity. A new term to describe the era we are living at the moment, the Anthropocene, has been suggested. It is characterised by the deep footprint humans are leaving in the environment.
Once again, a few pages in which to reflect, analyse, and debate, a new opportunity to build a better science from the ground up.
La Metacrítica de Herder: Kant visto desde otra Ilustración
Authors: Ribas Ribas Pedro
Published: July 2021

Este escrito intenta resumir la crítica que Herder hace de la Crítica de la razón pura en su Metacrítica de 1799. Para ello se analiza cuál es la tesis básica de Herder frente a la obra de Kant poniendo de relieve la manera en que Herder subraya el papel activo de los sentidos en el proceso cognitivo. Igualmente se esboza la posibilidad de que exista en la obra de Herder una propuesta alternativa al criticismo kantiano, tal como muestra Marion Heinz en algunos de sus trabajos.
Pablo Moscón y Natalia Lerussi (Eds.): Estudios sobre Antropología Kantiana. Buenos Aires, RAGIF, 2019
Authors: Tomassini Fiorella
Published: July 2021

Reseña: Pablo Moscón y Natalia Lerussi (Eds.): Estudios sobre Antropología Kantiana. BuenosAires, RAGIF, 2019, 279 pp. ISBN: 978-987-46718-9-9
Distinct skeletal stem cell types orchestrate long bone skeletogenesis
Authors: Ambrosi Thomas H , Sinha Rahul , Steininger Holly M , Hoover Malachia Y , Murphy Matthew P , Koepke Lauren S , Wang Yuting , Lu Wan-Jin , Morri Maurizio , Neff Norma F , Weissman Irving L , Longaker Michael T , Chan Charles KF
Published: July 2021

Skeletal stem and progenitor cell populations are crucial for bone physiology. Characterization of these cell types remains restricted to heterogenous bulk populations with limited information on whether they are unique or overlap with previously characterized cell types. Here we show, through comprehensive functional and single-cell transcriptomic analyses, that postnatal long bones of mice contain at least two types of bone progenitors with bona fide skeletal stem cell (SSC) characteristics. An early osteochondral SSC (ocSSC) facilitates long bone growth and repair, while a second type, a perivascular SSC (pvSSC), co-emerges with long bone marrow and contributes to shape the hematopoietic stem cell niche and regenerative demand. We establish that pvSSCs, but not ocSSCs, are the origin of bone marrow adipose tissue. Lastly, we also provide insight into residual SSC heterogeneity as well as potential crosstalk between the two spatially distinct cell populations. These findings comprehensively address previously unappreciated shortcomings of SSC research.
Differential conditioning produces merged long-term memory in Drosophila
Authors: Zhao Bohan , Sun Jiameng , Li Qian , Zhong Yi
Published: July 2021

Multiple spaced trials of aversive differential conditioning can produce two independent long-term memories (LTMs) of opposite valence. One is an aversive memory for avoiding the conditioned stimulus (CS+), and the other is a safety memory for approaching the non-conditioned stimulus (CS–). Here, we show that a single trial of aversive differential conditioning yields one merged LTM (mLTM) for avoiding both CS+ and CS–. Such mLTM can be detected after sequential exposures to the shock-paired CS+ and -unpaired CS–, and be retrieved by either CS+ or CS–. The formation of mLTM relies on triggering aversive-reinforcing dopaminergic neurons and subsequent new protein synthesis. Expressing mLTM involves αβ Kenyon cells and corresponding approach-directing mushroom body output neurons, in which similar-amplitude long-term depression of responses to CS+ and CS– seems to signal the mLTM. Our results suggest that animals can develop distinct strategies for occasional and repeated threatening experiences.
Structure-guided microbial targeting of antistaphylococcal prodrugs
Authors: Miller Justin J , Shah Ishaan T , Hatten Jayda , Barekatain Yasaman , Mueller Elizabeth A , Moustafa Ahmed M , Edwards Rachel L , Dowd Cynthia S , Hoops Geoffrey C , Johnson R Jeremy , Planet Paul J , Muller Florian L , Jez Joseph M , Odom John Audrey R
Published: July 2021

Carboxy ester prodrugs are widely employed to increase oral absorption and potency of phosphonate antibiotics. Prodrugging can mask problematic chemical features that prevent cellular uptake and may enable tissue-specific compound delivery. However, many carboxy ester promoieties are rapidly hydrolyzed by serum esterases, limiting their therapeutic potential. While carboxy ester-based prodrug targeting is feasible, it has seen limited use in microbes as microbial esterase-specific promoieties have not been described. Here we identify the bacterial esterases, GloB and FrmB, that activate carboxy ester prodrugs in Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, we determine the substrate specificities for FrmB and GloB and demonstrate the structural basis of these preferences. Finally, we establish the carboxy ester substrate specificities of human and mouse sera, ultimately identifying several promoieties likely to be serum esterase-resistant and microbially labile. These studies will enable structure-guided design of antistaphylococcal promoieties and expand the range of molecules to target staphylococcal pathogens.
Analysis of the PcrA-RNA polymerase complex reveals a helicase interaction motif and a role for PcrA/UvrD helicase in the suppression of R-loops
Authors: Urrutia-Irazabal Inigo , Ault James R , Sobott Frank , Savery Nigel J , Dillingham Mark S
Published: July 2021

The PcrA/UvrD helicase binds directly to RNA polymerase (RNAP) but the structural basis for this interaction and its functional significance have remained unclear. In this work, we used biochemical assays and hydrogen-deuterium exchange coupled to mass spectrometry to study the PcrA-RNAP complex. We find that PcrA binds tightly to a transcription elongation complex in a manner dependent on protein:protein interaction with the conserved PcrA C-terminal Tudor domain. The helicase binds predominantly to two positions on the surface of RNAP. The PcrA C-terminal domain engages a conserved region in a lineage-specific insert within the β subunit which we identify as a helicase interaction motif present in many other PcrA partner proteins, including the nucleotide excision repair factor UvrB. The catalytic core of the helicase binds near the RNA and DNA exit channels and blocking PcrA activity in vivo leads to the accumulation of R-loops. We propose a role for PcrA as an R-loop suppression factor that helps to minimize conflicts between transcription and other processes on DNA including replication.
Knowledge of Aromatic Black Rice Growers Regarding Benefits Provided under Mission Organic Value Chain Development Scheme
Authors: Shijagurumayum Meghajit Sharma , Lakshminarayan M. T. , Krishnamurthy B.
Published: July 2021

The present study was carried out during 2020-21 in Thoubal and Bishnupur districts of Manipur state to assess the knowledge of aromatic black rice growers regarding the benefits provided under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development Scheme (MOVCDS). One hundred eighty aromatic black rice growers were interviewed for the study using a pre-tested interview schedule. The results revealed that a vast majority of over 85.00 per cent of the aromatic black rice growers had correct knowledge regarding the various benefits provided under MOVCDS. Education, organic farming experience, livestock possession, crop productivity, achievement motivation, aspiration, management orientation, economic motivation, risk orientation, innovative proneness, mass media exposure, training on organic farming, extension agency contact, and extension participation of aromatic black rice growers have significantly contributed in increasing the knowledge level of aromatic black rice growers regarding the benefits provided under MOVCDS. Further, extension agency contact, extension participation, and training on organic farming of aromatic black rice growers were found to be having the direct effect, indirect effect, and largest indirect effect in increasing the knowledge regarding the benefits provided under MOVCDS. The research finding validates the importance of training, extension participation, and extension agency contact in any social intervention to enhance the knowledge of the beneficiaries regarding the scheme or intervention.
Socio-economic and Socio-personal Characteristics of Agri-Entrepreneurs: A Study of Uttarakhand and Punjab State of India
Authors: Ahmad Taufiq , Haneef Rifat
Published: July 2021

This study investigated the Socio-economic and Socio-personal characteristics of agripreneurs. The study was conducted in Uttarakhand and Punjab states. Data for the investigation were collected from 120 respondent trainees, 60 each from the selected state. The study discovered that the majority of respondents (65.83) belonged to middle age group of 29-40 years, were married (75.83%) and had a low level of experience (0-5 years) in the agri enterprises. It was found that the majority of the respondents (50.83%) were engaged in agriculture belonged to the General caste and had education up to graduation (57.50%). A maximum number of the respondents were involved in social and political institutions holding more than one position (35.83%), belonged to medium family size (49.17%), possessed 5-10 animal (biogas plant, pump set, two-wheeler (36.67%). The majority of the respondents (81.17%) had a medium level of socio-economic status (SES).
Engaging Students in the Development of an Atmospheric Science Course: A Discourse Analysis
Authors: Tang Kuok Ho Daniel
Published: July 2021

Aims: With increasing emphasis on learners-centered approach in teaching and learning, engaging students in course development and refinement is crucial. This study aims to foster a participatory approach in course development by engaging students in meaningful discourse at the early stage of an atmospheric science course.

Study design:  This is a qualitative study which employed the grounded theory for data analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in March 2021 in an international higher learning institution located in the Guangdong Province of China.

Methodology: This qualitative study invited a year 3 cohort of environmental science students taking an atmospheric science and pollution course in an international higher learning institution in China to participate in a meaningful discourse about the course in week 2 of the semester. Their responses were transcribed and the transcripts analyzed with NVIVO based on the grounded theory. The transcripts were coded, the themes were drawn and the relationship was probed.

Results: This study identified three overarching themes from the codes, namely assessment, course contents and learning activities, whose codes covered 4.5%, 17.8% and 23.1% of the text respectively. Codes for assessment comprise practical assignment and multiple-choice question, while those for course contents include black carbon, modelling, greenhouse gases, zero-carbon, and removal of Freon. Codes for learning activities include case studies, debate, field trips and quizzes. The words most frequently appeared in the transcripts are learning and field. The findings reflect expectations for interactive learning, simulation-based learning, authentic assignments and activities, experiential learning via field trips and problem-based learning. These are in line with the established pedagogies for environmental science.

Conclusion: This study shifts the paradigm of students’ engagement in the increasingly learner-centered educational setting where students are proactively involved in course development in the early stage of teaching and learning instead of reactively involved through feedback collection at advanced stages.
Emerging Aspects of Coxiella burnetii and Molecular Identification along with Treatment Approaches
Authors: Habib Arslan , Ashraf Zeeshan , Nabeel Muhammad , Quainoo Dominic Kwesi , Principe Umutumwa Eric , Khalil Naeem Ullah , Ullah Muhammad Rizwan , Khalid Bilal
Published: July 2021

Q fever is an infectious disease caused by Coxiella burnetii which is an obligatory intracellular parasite. Globally Q fever is a widespread zoonosis. It is characterized by headaches, sudden fever and atypical pneumonia. In the rural environment, the main reservoir includes goats, sheep, cows, dogs, cats and rabbits. The main reservoir of this bacteria is considered domestic animals. They produce in a large number in amniotic fluid and placenta during childbirth. The main route of infection is inhalation. Q fever can cause both acute and chronic infection, mostly asymptomatic in humans and animals. Inactivated whole-cell bacteria vaccination strategy has been performed which provides effective outcomes in humans and animals but many side effects have been observed. The recombinant vaccine has been developed and provides many effective results in experimental conditions. One of the major challenges is the lack of accurate diagnosis facilities if it becomes possible, the prognosis of disease development can be reduced. Direct detection of bacteria is the accurate test for the diagnosis. Different procedures are involved in this method such as immunodetection, PCR amplification and shell vial cell culture. Due to the severe infectivity of C. burnetii all these procedures require a biosafety level 3 lab and qualified staff. Q fever is a challenging disease for scientists to reduce its burden globally. The review discloses the Coxiella burnetii genome, the clinical manifestation of Q fever as well as emerging issues, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and future directions.
Chemical Constituents from Wood of Zanthoxylum rigidum Hum. and Bonpl. Ex Willd (Rutaceae) and Antileishmanial Activities
Authors: Santos Carlos H. C. dos , Sousa Mayara C. , Jr. Paulo T. de Sousa , Ribeiro Tereza A. N. , Jacinto Marco J. , Silva Virgínia C. Paulino
Published: July 2021

In this study was reported the structural elucidation by means of nuclear magnetic resonance (1D and 2D), FT-IR and mass spectrometry of lupeol (1), a mixture of the steroids campesterol (2), b-sitosterol (3) and stigmasterol (4), sesamin (5), trans-dimethylmatairesinol (6), trans-methylpluviatolide (7), quercetin (8), and d-mannitol (9) isolated from wood of Zanthoxylum rigidum. The lignans 5, 6 and 7 were tested for their ability to inhibit the proliferation of the promastigote forms of Leishmania braziliensis and Leishmania chagasi. Only sesamin (5) and trans-methylpluviatolide (7) showed moderate inhibitory activity with IC50 = 22.4 and 33.6, SI = 3.87 and 2.41 and CC50 = 86.9 and 81.2, for L. braziliensis and L. chagasi, respectively, compared to the positive control (amphotericin B).
Physico-Chemical Properties of Biscuits Enriched with Dried Microwave-Blanched Fruit Peelings
Authors: Romelle Feumba Dibanda , Emmanuel Panyoo Akdowa , Bernard Tiencheu , Rani Aswhini , Moses Mbofung Carl
Published: July 2021

Aims: To investigate the dough rheological properties as well as physical, nutritional, antioxidant and sensory properties of biscuits supplemented   with dried microwave-blanched orange, apple and pomegranate peels at various levels (0-10%, wheat ﬂour substitution).

Methodology: Water absorption capacity and pasting properties of wheat flour blended with   fruit   peels   were   assessed   using   farinograph   and   micro   viscoamylograph. Physico-chemical properties as well as antioxidant activities were measured using standard methods. The sensory analysis was performed by trained panelists.

Results: Water absorption capacity of the dough increased significantly with increasing levels of orange and apple peels while it decreased with pomegranate peels. However, peak,  hot  paste,  cold  paste  and  breakdown  viscosities  of  the  dough  significantly decreased with increasing proportions of apple and orange peels while they increased with pomegranate peels. The breaking force and weight of the biscuits supplemented with pomegranate peels were the lowest.  Supplementation of biscuits with fruit peelings enhanced the ash and fibre content of the biscuits but had no significant effect on their antioxidant activities except for biscuits containing 10% apple peels which had higher antioxidant activity compared to biscuit controls. Biscuits supplemented with 5% of fruit peels were the most appreciated in terms of surface character, crumb colour and texture.

Conclusion:  This study showed that dried microwave-blanched apple peels can be incorporated into biscuits to enhance both their nutritional and antioxidant properties.
Effects of Different Types of Fertilizers on Rice Productivity in the Irrigated Perimeter of Toula (Niger)
Authors: Halidou Djabri Hassimiou , Abdou Maman Manssour , Mayaki Zoubeirou Alzouma
Published: July 2021

AIM: Assessment of various fertilizers type effects on rice productivity in Niger.

Study Design: The experiment was laid by using a complete randomized block design with different types of fertilizers and was replicated four times.

Place and Duration of Study: The field experiment was conducted during the dry and wet season of 2020 on the irrigated perimeter of Toula (Niger).

Methodology: The experiment was performed with four treatments in complete randomized blocks. The treatments applied are: T1=Bokashi, T2=Compost, T3=Biochar and T4=NPK-Urea. The monitored parameters were the rice plant development cycle and agronomic characteristics. Observations of the crop evolution during the experimentation were recorded at regular intervals. The significance of treatment impact was examined by the statistical test. 

Results: The results showed that bio-fertilizers had significant effects on 1000 grain weight and the length of the vegetative cycle. As for the chemical treatments, the effects were significant on most of the rice growth parameters (height, number of grains per panicle, number of tillers per rice plant) as well as on paddy and feed biomass yield. These results also showed a positive correlation between rice growth parameters and yield irrespective of the type of treatment.
Phenotypic and Genetic Study on Native Pigeonpea Germplasm of Chhattisgarh for Yield Attributing Traits
Authors: Pandey Vipin Kumar , Singh M. K. , Meshram Prakriti , Gupta Vishal Kumar , Singh Namita , Banjare Ashish Kumar
Published: July 2021

Aims: To find out genetic variation of pigeon pea Germplasms population on Chhattisgarh, with H. armigera, M. vitrata Larvae Population.

Study Design: Augmented RBD Design in 4 block with 3 check varieties.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Agriculture Raipur, IGKVV, Chhattisgarh. During Kharif 2019-2020.

Methodology: The experimental materials were used 100 local landraces of Pigeonpea and three popular standard checks. The Morphological observations on various agro-morphological characters including qualitative and quantitative characters and Incidence of major insects of Pigeonpea were recorded.

Results: outcome of the study reviled that Incidence of major insect of Pigeonpea 10 genotypes of pigeonpea are resistant and 10 are susceptible occurred. Analysis of variance indicated that the mean sum of squares due to genotypes were highly significant for all the characters with p-value of 0.001 and some traits check varieties 0.001. Results of genetic variability analysis state that’s highest genetic advance as percent of the mean for traits are days to fifty percent flowering, plant height, seed protein content, and days to maturity.

Conclusion: The Pigeonpea accession used in the study revealed significant variability for most of the morphological traits. Amongst the genotypes studied, high coefficients of variation were observed for most of the characters studied indicating the existence of sufficient variability.
Interactive Influence of Location and Variety on Physiological Quality of Cowpea Seeds (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp.)
Authors: Awosanmi F. E. , Ogunleye M. , Awosanmi G. O. , Olisa B. S. , Ajayi S. A.
Published: July 2021

The production environment plays a significant role in the production of high-quality seeds. Therefore, the knowledge of the relative contributions of the different factors that impact seed quality will be important for the management of seed production. The objective of this study was to assess the relative contribution of location and variety to the physiological quality of the cowpea seeds. Seeds of two varieties of cowpea, IT97K-918-118 and 977K-1499-35 were produced at three locations: Ikenne, Ilora, and Ballah. Hundred seed weight, seed moisture content, standard germination, accelerated ageing germination and electrical conductivity tests were carried out on the seeds. The results indicated that the location effect was highly significant (P<0.05) for hundred seed weight, germination percentage, germination rate index, accelerated ageing germination percentage and accelerated ageing germination rate index, while the varietal effect was highly significant for only hundred seed weight. However, location alone contributed more than 50% to the observed variability in hundred seed weight, germination percentage, germination rate index and accelerated ageing germination percentage. Seeds from Ballah had the highest viability (germination percentage = 84.67%) but also the lowest vigour (accelerated ageing germination = 11%; electrical conductivity = 64.10µscm-1g-1). Thus, the modulating effect of the environment on the quality of cowpea seeds is not the same for the different components of quality and the choice of location for the production of cowpea seeds should be given a higher priority than a choice of variety per se.
Teacher Perceptions on In-School Care and Support for Children with Intellectual Disability and a History of Sexual Abuse
Authors: Mdikana Andile Alfred
Published: July 2021

This study investigated teachers’ perceptions on in school-based care and support for children with intellectual disabilities and a history of sexual abuse. The participants were a convenience sample of 28 teachers from four special educational needs schools in Gauteng Province, South Africa (females = 80%, age range = 30 to 55 years). The teachers participated in a focus group discussion on school-based quality of care and support for intellectually disabled children with a history of sexual abuse. A focus group interview schedule was designed and administered to collect the data. A thematic method of data analysis was used to collect the data.Two themes resulted from the data analysis: infrequency (80%) and short duration of support, and educator sensitivity. The most important point to consider is that the affected children are referred to the relevant structure and that parents are frequently consulted throughout the process. It is highly recommended that the issue of sexual abuse of children with disability should be handled with great care and sensitivity.
Studies of Mixed Ligand Lanthanum Complexes: Synthesis, Spectral Interpretations and Antibacterial Study
Authors: Patil Sunil , Langi Bhushan , Gurav Minakshi , Patil Digambar
Published: July 2021

The mixed ligand lanthanum complexes have been synthesized using polydentate ligands. The (2Z)-2-(N-hydroxyimino)-1,2-diphenylethan-1-ol (cupron) was used as a primary ligand and L-isolucine, L-threonine, L-lysine and L-glycine were used as secondary ligands for the synthesis. Conductometry, elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility measurements, complexometric estimation, UV-Visible spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, thermal analysis and XRD methods were used for structural interpretation of all synthesized complexes. All complexes were solid and white and slight yellow in colour. They are non-electrolytic and diamagnetic in nature, as confirmed by conductometric and magnetic susceptibility methods respectively. All the complexes were synthesized by combination of lanthanum metal ion, primary ligand and secondary ligands in 1:2:1 ratio which was confirmed by elemental analysis. During reaction between lanthanum ion, primary ligand and secondary ligands there was transition of electrons which was confirmed by UV-Visible spectroscopy. Identification of functional group in the complexes was carried out and confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The decomposition temperature and thermal behaviour of the complexes have been concluded by thermal and XRD techniques. Tube dilution and agar cup methods have been employed to study antibacterial activities of all synthesized lanthanum complexes. The inhibition potential was seen to some extent.