bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genius Logi: Towards the Phenomenology of Gated Community
Authors: Yıldız Özlem , Alkan Bala Havva
Published: November 2022

Gated communities have emerged around the world for a variety of reasons including increased fear of crime, security, prestige, and a desire to be different. In Turkey, gated communities have emerged because of neoliberal policies that promotes high-income segment seeking prestige. Gated communities are constructed not only in metropolitan cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir, but also in Anatolia. One of these cities is Aydın. Gated communities in Aydın have a unique infrastructure. They are based on the cooperative process that was widely established after 1950. this study aims to investigate whether there is a meaningful connection between the characteristics of Aydın and the gated communities. In order to determine the phenomenon of place in the city of Aydın, a hermeneutic method was used to interpret information about the location and its spirit and transferred to the table through Norberg Schulz (1976)'s work "Genius Loci: Towards a Phenomenology of Architecture". According to the table, the phenomenon of place is divided into phenomena as image, identity and meaning. The table was designed to analyze the place identity of the city of Aydın and the phenomenon of place.
Works of Art in the Turkish Grain Board (TMO) General Directorate Building
Authors: Özyıldıran Güler
Published: November 2022

Turkish Grain Board (TMO) General Directorate Building was designed by Vedat Özsan, Cengiz Bektaş and Oral Vural (Özsan-Bektaş-Vural Architects) in 1964 and constructed between 1964 and 1968 in Ankara. One of the significant aspects of the building is the involvement of works of art. One percent of the building cost was allocated to the works of art. Moreover, the architects get inspired by some artists during the building design. Such kind of art and architecture synthesis was common in modern architecture between 1950 and 1980 both in Turkey and in the world. However, this aspect of the TMO building is not known enough in the literature. The aim of this study is to analyze the works of art in TMO General Directorate building in terms of art and architecture synthesis. The research method was mainly based on the analysis of the building on site and the evaluations of existing artworks with the literature about art and architecture synthesis, individual writings of architect Cengiz Bektaş and some artists (Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu, Burhan Alkar etc.). These works of art vary from wall ceramic to stained glass, and after 1988, a monumental sculpture was added to the building via competition. Moreover, after this sculptor competition, TMO established a plastic arts application center in 1989.
Causes and Effects of Flooding in Nigeria: A Review
Authors: Ifiok Enobong Mfon  , Michael Chukwuemeka Oguike  , Salvation Ubi Eteng  , Ndifreke Moses Etim
Published: November 2022

Flooding is an environmental hazard that needs appropriate measures to be instituted to stem the tide of occurrence. The study relied on previous academic/scholarly articles in achieving the aim.  It was noted in the study that flooding is caused by natural and human activities. For instance, excessive rainfall, terrain and nature of soils are natural causes of flooding. Furthermore, poor environmental planning/monitoring, housing development in flood prone areas, deforestation, haphazard developments resulting in the blockage of drains, poor waste disposal practices, negligence by government in designing and implementing policies at various levels as well as poor environmental planning and weak enforcement of policies contribute to flood occurrence. To this end, the present study suggested that government should ensure that environmental management policies are properly enforced in the country. Equally, development control activities should be taken seriously to avoid erecting developments on flood plains and flood prone areas. Finally, regular environmental education should be given priority in the society.
Microbial basis of organic farming systems with special reference to biodynamic preparations
Authors: Vaish Supriya , Garg Neelima , Ahmad IffatZareen
Published: November 2022

Organic agriculture systems aim primarily at use of naturally occurring ecological processes rather than external inputs, to manage crops and livestock. These farming systems emphasize on ecofriendly methods of insect, pest and weed control. Biodiversity is the key component of organic agrisystems responsible for its efficacy. According to IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements) organic production methods are those where at least 95% of the ingredients used for agriculture purposes are organic in nature. Latter content less than 70% may not refer to organic production methods. Organic farming systems work on nature’s principles; improve agro ecosystem health including soil biological activity and product quality. The most followed organic farming systems are Permaculture, Panchagavya farming, Rishi Krishi, Natueco farming, Zero budget natural farming, Biodynamic farming etc. Enormous literature and supportive materials are available to justify the use of these farming systems to combat soil pollution created by use of various chemicals. However, when it comes to scientific explanation, the work is scattered. A common person may develop the assumption that these systems might possess some supernatural or magical curing ability. However, these preparations work on scientific principles mostly powered by microbes and their metabolic products. In the present review, research on various organic preparations, with special reference to their microbial properties, has been compiled and analysed. The review will be of immense benefit to students, researchers and strategy planners working in the field of organic farming.
Effect of INM in aromatic rice (Oryza sativa) under SRI and its residual effect on wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: KUMAR ABHINAV , SINGH J K , UPADHYAY P K
Published: November 2022

The field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India during two consecutive rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 2015-16 and 2016-17 in split plot design to study the effect of integrated nitrogen management (INM) [100% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN: 120 kg N/ ha), 75% RDN + 25% N through Azolla microphylla, 75% RDN + 25% RDN through NADEP compost, 75% RDN + 25% RDN through sewage sludge and 75% RDN + 25% RDN through vermicompost] in aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties (HUR-4-3, HUR-105, NDR-6093 and Rajendra Kasturi) under system of rice intensification and its residual effect on productivity of succeeding wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The results of the study revealed that the variety HUR-4-3 and the INM with 75% RDN + 25% N through Azolla microphylla were found superior in terms of enhanced growth, yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake, milling quality and length-breadth ratio (L/B) before cooking as compared to rest of the varieties and integrated nitrogen management, respectively. It was found that soil microbial population get improved when 75% RDN was coupled with 25% N through Azolla microphylla. Further, higher gross income, net return and output-input ratio were attributed to the variety Rajendra Kasturi (177.47×103 `,₹130.35×103 `/ha and 3.79, respectively) and the application of 75% RDN + 25% N through Azolla microphylla (162.21×103 `,₹117.14×103 `/ha and 3.6, respectively). Moreover, varieties did not show marked effect on yield of the succeeding wheat while significant yield enhancement was evident as a result of nitrogen management in preceding rice with 75% RDN + 25% N through Azolla microphylla.
How profitable climate smart agricultural practices are? Voice of farmers from rice-wheat ecologies
Authors: RAI MUNMUN , CHAND PREM , KALVANIYA K C , JAT H S , AGARWAL T , SHARMA P C , JAT M L
Published: November 2022

Farm record keeping can provide a look into the health of farm business, its profitability, and a snapshot in time of its present equity. However, farmers in developing country seldom maintain written records of farm operations. In many cases, farmers consider it worthless exercise. They feel overwhelmed by record keeping because it takes time, a change in behavior and for some, the requirement to learn a new skill. This study assesses the role of record keeping, particularly among women and youth using data collected in afarmers participatory research undertaken under the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS). Farmers (both male and female) in climate smart villages (CSVs) of Haryana were acquainted with farm Lekha Jokha (farm budgeting) booklet designed by CIMMYT-CCAFS partners and training to fill the information was given by the field staff including male and females (CIMMYT-CCAFS 2014). The study was undertaken during 2014-15 and 2015-16. Based on the data recorded through Lekha Jokha, the study also estimated the adoption and economics of different climate smart agricultural practices (CSAPs). The farm budgeting found to be very effective tool for increased awareness among women and men farmers especially youth which lead to accelerated adoption of CSAPs. With adoption of CSAPs proven reduced climatic risk was observed in terms of yield penalty, income and distress. The results identifies a platform for social inclusive development in agriculture to promote evidence based informed policy decisions for investment prioritization.
The different aspects of attractive toxic baits containing fipronil for control of the German cockroach (Blattella germanica)
Authors: Khoobdel Mehdi , Dehghan Hossein , Oshaghi Mohammad Ali , Saman Esmail Amiri Ghannat , Asadi Abouzar , Yusuf Mustapha Ahmed
Published: November 2022

The use of Attractive Toxic Baits (ATBs) is considered to be a low-risk practical method for controlling cockroaches. This study evaluates the attractiveness of a lab-made, fipronil-containing bait, and its effect on the food consumption and mortality of the German cockroach Blattella germanica, under field and laboratory conditions. Different developmental stages of the cockroach were used to determine their preferred carbohydrate/protein rich foods and examine the effectiveness of lab-made baits. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s Test was determined using SAS 9.1 and GraphPad Prism software programs. The significance level was considered at p<0.05. The most-consumed foods were carbohydrate-rich foods (biscuit and banana powder) and food consumption rate was highest in non-gravid females. The most attractive bait ingredients were 20% roasted peanut butter, 50% biscuit and 30% banana powder. The highest lethality was recorded from the baits containing 0.02% fipronil under laboratory conditions, while infested houses baited with the lab-made bait showed 76.5% and 100% decline, respectively, in cockroach numbers in the first- and fourth-week post-baiting. In conclusion, palatable foods with a pleasant odour, like biscuit powder, banana powder and peanut butter were the most effective ingredients for the ATBs. The ATBs impregnated with 0.02% fipronil provide a promising approach for control of the German cockroach. However, there is a need to evaluate the potentials of the lab-made baits, under laboratory and field conditions, in the control of other health-important cockroaches.
مقاصد الشريعة الإسلامية في ضوء السنة النبوية الشريفة
Authors: الريسوني أحمد
Published: November 2022

سيجد القارئ بين طيّات هذا الكتاب بحوثا أكاديمية مُحكَّمة متعلقة بفعاليات الدورة العلمية الأولى في موضوع «السنة النبوية الشريفة في ضوء مقاصد الشريعة الإسلامية: منهجية فهم السنة النبوية الشريفة ومقاصدها»، التي نظّمها مركز دراسات مقاصد الشريعة الإسلامية بمؤسسة الفرقان للتراث الإسلامي بلندن، بالتعاون مع مركز المقاصد للدراسات والبحوث بالرباط، وبتنسيق مع مختبر الدراسات الشرعية والعمران البشري، وماستر المذهب المالكي وتدبير الخلاف -كلية الآداب والعلوم الإنسانية بمكناس، وذلك من ـ2 إلى 4 ماي 2018م، بمدينة مكناس، بالمملكة المغربية. مما لا شك فيه أن مقاصد القرآن والسنة هي جماع مقاصد الشرع ومصدرها ومادتها. ولذلك فالبحث عنها وفيها يجب أن يكون هو المبتدأ والمنتهى لكل باحث ومتطلِّـب للمقاصد الشرعية. ومن مقاصد هذه الدورة تمكينَ المسلمين - عامتهم وخاصتهم - من الوصول إلى الأمد الأقصى من الاستثمار العلمي والعملي للسنة وكنوزها في مختلف مجالات الحياة. ولقد تناولت الدورة جملة من الأسس والقواعد المنهجية الضرورية للفهم السليم والتقصيد الحكيم والاستثمار المتوازن للسنة النبوية. تناولت البحوث الأكاديمية المُحكَّمة مختلفَ جوانب موضوع الدورة، وقد تمحورت حول: السنة المقاصدية؛ و العلاقة بين القرآن والسنة على ضوء المقاصد الشرعية الكبرى للسنة النبوية؛ ومقامات التصرفات النبوية؛ والنَّظرُ المقاصدي وضوابطُه وأثره في إثبات الرواية الحديثية وتأويلها؛ وتقديم العمل على الحديث: رؤية مقاصدية؛ وقضايا الأعيان.. دلالاتها، صفاتها، مقاصدها؛ وقصد الاعتياد في سنن خير العباد؛ والتنزيل: مقصدا للسنة النبوية؛ وجدل الفقه والحديث وأثره في فهم مقاصد السنة: التأسيس والفهم؛ وإعمال الكليات الشرعية في فهم السنة النبوية.
Spectroscopic Discrimination and Characterization of Bee Propolis from the Philippines
Authors: Alvarez Paul Lloydson , Micor Jose Rene , Angelia Mark Rickard , Brescia Tyler , Symczak Kevin , Mojica Elmer-Rico
Published: November 2022

Propolis or bee glue is gaining popularity in the market as a potential source of bioactive components that can be used in different health products. In this study, the ethanolic extracts of propolis samples from stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi Friese) colonies collected from Los Baños (in Laguna), Tayabas (in Quezon), and San Roque (in Albay) were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques such as absorbance, fluorescence, and infrared. Spectroscopic results showed differences in the chemical composition of the propolis samples. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy showed similarities and differences in terms of the functional groups present in the samples. Lastly, the phenol content of the ethanolic extracts was obtained using the FolinCiocalteu assay. Samples from Laguna yielded the highest phenolic content, followed by Albay and Quezon. Differences in chemical composition specifically in phenolic content will have an effect on the biological activities of the propolis extracts. The results of this study can be used as an initial screening for propolis samples for possible use in different health products.
Assessment of Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity of Leached Chemicals from HDPE Plastic Commonly Used by Ambulant Vendors
Authors: Babaran Hannah , Florita Mary Hazel , Garcia Lex Aaron , Yanza Elliard Roswell , Lloren Ana Victoria , Hipolito Ralph
Published: November 2022

Plasticizers and additives in plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles have been found to leach – especially when exposed to certain stresses, including temperature. Frequent exposure to these chemicals is associated with a higher risk of developing developmental and reproductive disorders and cancer. In this study, water at varying temperatures (28, 65, 75, and 85 °C) was contained in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic “labo,” a food packaging material common in the Philippines. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed that the leached chemicals were derivatives of plastic additives and compounds or degradation compounds of these chemicals. Notable leachates include dimethyl sulfoxide, isosorbide, and cyclohexene derivatives. Different compounds leached at different temperatures. The Allium cepa test revealed chromosomal aberrations such as anaphase with bridge, sticky chromosomes, and chromosomal breaks. These signify that the compounds may be genotoxic to Allium cepa root tip cells. The Allium cepa test, brine shrimp lethality assay, and MTT assay on MCF-7 cells were also conducted as preliminary cytotoxicity tests. Results showed an increase in mitotic activity for Allium cepa root tip cells and induced proliferation of MCF-7 cells. Moreover, the mortality rates of Artemia salina were low after 24 h of exposure. These findings provide additional information regarding the leaching from plastic labo – the identity of leached chemicals and the effects of exposure on various cell lines and organisms. These findings may be used as a basis for existing policies regarding the use of plastic as food packaging material.
Diversity of Bacteria in Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Canopy and Understory of Selected Trees at Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, Laguna, Philippines
Authors: Gatpatan Michael , Amoranto Mia Beatriz , Ballesteros Alfredo Jose , Sabino Noel , Zarate Jocelyn , Bautista Ma. Anita , Villegas Lucille
Published: November 2022

The Mount Makiling Forest Reserve (MMFR) is a biodiversity hotspot and listed as one of the 170 conservation priority areas established by the Philippine government. Its flora and fauna diversity has been reported, but knowledge gap has been identified concerning the bacterial communities associated with the flora and fauna. This study focused on ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), which are dominant in forest canopy and play essential roles in the ecosystem functionality. A metagenomic sequencing approach based on amplified V3–V4 regions of the 16S rRNA was employed to investigate the bacterial communities associated with five arboreal ant species collected from MMFR. The collected ants were identified as Dolichoderus thoracicus, Myrmicaria sp., Colobopsis leonardi, Polyrhachis mindanaensis, and Polyrhachis semiinermis. The sequence analyses revealed that Proteobacteria, Spirochaetes, Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Actinobacteria were the most abundant phyla. Individual analysis of the bacterial genera associated with the five ant species showed that unclassified members of Rhizobiaceae, Orbaceae, and Burkholderiaceae were dominant in D. thoracicus. Unclassified members of Rhizobiaceae, Spirochaetaceae, and Ruminococcaceae were dominant in Myrmicaria sp. On the other hand, Candidatus Blochmannia, and Wolbachia were abundant in Camponotini ants C. leonardi, P. mindanaensis, and P. semiinermis. Bray-Curtis distance and UPGMA cluster analyses showed that the microbiomes of the Camponotini group clustered together, while D. thoracicus and Myrmicaria sp. exhibited unique bacterial profiles. Predictive gene profile analysis showed that the most functional categories were those associated with metabolism and biosynthesis of amino acids, pathways for metabolism of nucleotide, amino sugars and nitrogen, and utilization of different carbon sources.
Diversity of Echinoderms in Intertidal and Shallow-water Areas of Samal Island, Philippines
Authors: Fortaleza Maybelle , Lanutan Joemarie , Consuegra Junissa , Nañola Jr. Cleto
Published: November 2022

Echinoderms are immediately observable around the coastal shores of Samal Island. Unfortunately, studies on echinoderm diversity are lacking despite its relevance to coastal and marine ecosystems management. This study attempts to update the existing records of echinoderms in Samal Island, however, limited to the intertidal and shallow-water areas. Field surveys from January 2018 to January 2019 yielded a total of 30 echinoderm species belonging to 17 families. Most of the echinoderms encountered belonged to Classes Asteroidea (sea stars, nine species) and Ophiuroidea (brittle stars, nine species), followed by Echinoidea (regular and irregular urchins, six species) and Holothuroidea (sea cucumbers, six species). Of the 1,015 individuals, sea urchins comprised the majority of the total individuals recorded (43.15%), succeeded by sea stars (30.44%), brittle stars (18.04%), and sea cucumbers (8.37%). Richest diversity was observed in Catagman with 23 echinoderm species recorded. This was followed by Camudmud (14 species), Pangubatan (eight species), Balet (seven species), Aundanao (six species), and Kaputian (three species). The five most commonly occurring species were the Echinometra mathaei (Blainville, 1825), Archaster typicus (Müller and Troschel, 1840), Ophiocoma scolopendrina (Lamarck, 1816), Diadema setosum (Leske, 1778), and Linckia laevigata (Linnaeus, 1758). Differences in distribution and abundance may be attributed to the variability of habitats available across sites. An intensive biodiversity assessment is recommended to evaluate how the physicochemical parameters and extent of anthropogenic activities shape the diversity and distribution of echinoderms on the island. The current work also provides the first documentation of ophiuroid diversity and the first record of the brittle stars, Breviturma krohi (Stöhr, Boissin & Hoareau, 2013) and Ophiocoma cf. cynthiae (BenavidesSerrato and O’Hara, 2008) in Samal Island, Philippines.
Quality Index of Borehole Water in Marmara and New Site Communities of Wukari, Nigeria
Authors: Yerima Emmanuel Amuntse , Kamba Emmanuel Alhassan , Egah Godwin Ogbaji , Ma'aji Sheba Paul , Ibrahim Ibrahim Adamu , Zulkifli Sumaiya
Published: November 2022

The fitness of groundwater has continued to deteriorate due to increasing population, commercialization, and urbanization, among others. Water quality can be assessed on physical, chemical and biological basis. This study evaluates the physicochemical properties and quality index of borehole water in Marmara and New site community of Wukari Local Government area using standard procedure. Result showed that the mean pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), alkalinity, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and nitrates were 6.6 and 6.9; 111.6 and 385 mg/L; 34.6 and 33.4 mg/L; 102.4 and 150 mg/L; 21.69 and 8.42 mg/L; 31.51 and 16.85 mg/L; 8.98 to 18.30 mg/L for Marmara and New site borehole water samples respectively and are within the permissible limit of the World Health Organization. Marmara recorded the highest pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, TDS, alkalinity and nitrate while New site had higher total suspended solids, COD and BOD. WQI values of 86.03 and 80.22 were obtained in borehole water sourced from New site and Marmara respectively, rating the quality of borehole water in this study good and, on further purification, can serve for drinking and other domestic applications.
Trust, Inquiry and Partiality: Comments on Goldberg’s Conversational Pressure
Authors: Santos Breno R. G. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2022

In this brief comment, I aim to engage with Sandy Goldberg’s fruitful discussion of the doctrine of epistemic partiality in friendship (EPF), as it appears in his new book Conversational Pressure: Normativity in Speech Exchanges (2020), and to explore a seemly small distinction that I think could complicate things for the way Goldberg sees the pressures that are put on us when we are confronted with speech acts that come from or relate to friends of ours. If my distinction is shown to be successful, I believe it will impact the efficacy of Goldberg’s response to EPF. My main argument focuses on the way Goldberg argues against EPF and the tension it supposedly creates with the demands of epistemic rationality. I believe that Goldberg’s argument fails to capture an important distinction between our epistemic behaviors in the face of a friend’s say-so and our epistemic behaviors when we encounter third-party reports about a friend. I’ll argue that the route from the valuing of friendship to the epistemic reasons in support of differential doxastic outcomes when our friends are involved is not satisfactory, given that it involves what I see to be an unauthorized move from our desire to preserve a friendship to a differential doxastic reaction when someone reports negatively about our friends.
Proper Social and Epistemic Expectations In Speech Exchange: Reply to Goldberg
Authors: Peels Rik ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2022

I first list what I consider to be the main virtues of Goldberg’s novel and challenging account of epistemic pressure in speech exchange. I then zoom in on proper doxastic responses to assertions in conversations and argue that they comprise four things: (1) one believes the position that is testified to rather than just seeking, ensuring, trying, or aiming to believe the testifier on that proposition; (2) one believes the testifier; in other words, one wrongs the speaker not only if one disbelieves her but also when one simply fails to believe her; (3) one believes the relevant proposition rather than merely accepting, presuming, assuming, or displaying some positive propositional attitude that does not imply belief; (4) one believes the proposition in question to a sufficiently high degree. Finally, I explore how we should make sense of the epistemic partiality that friendship seems to come with. I argue that it is not merely that one seeks evidence in support of the assertion of one’s friend or an interpretation that affirms the testimony of one’s friend. It is also that one actually lowers the evidential bar for rationally or epistemically justifiedly believing their testimony.
The efficacy of photodynamic therapy for herpes simplex lesions in immunocompetent and oncologic individuals
Authors: Mello Fernanda W , Mariani Taimara , Lisboa Mariah L , Durigon Giovanna S , Camargo Alessandra R , Munhoz Etiene A
Published: November 2022

Aims: To investigate the efficacy of antibacterial photodynamic therapy (APDT) for the treatment of herpes simplex oral and perioral lesions in immunocompetent and oncologic individuals. Methods and Results: APDT was applied in G1 (immunocompetent, n=26) and G3 (oncologic, n=6) with methylene blue 0.01% followed by 660ηm low level LASER in all the lesion area. In G2, immunocompetent patients received Acyclovir cream 50mg/g prescription. Lesion stage, size, edema, and pain degree were obtained at the beginning of the treatment (T0), after 24 hours (T1), 48 hours (T2), 72 hours (T3), and 7 days (T4). Intra-group analyses showed significant improvement in all criteria for G1 and G3 between T0 and T4 (p<0.05), while for G2 no differences were found in lesion stage and pain level between study times (p>0.05). Most of G1 individuals showed crust stage in T2 and T3, while most of G3 individuals presented papule or vesicle at the same times (p<0.05); and G2 presented higher scores of edema in T2 than G1 and G3 at the same time (p<0.05). Conclusions: It is possible to conclude that APDT is an effective adjuvant treatment for HSV oral and perioral infections in both immunocompetent and oncologic individuals.
Thymomodulin enhances vaccination responses against Streptococcus agalactiae in Nile tilapia
Authors: Salvador Rogério , Marcusso Paulo Fernandes , Claudiano Gustavo Silva , Marinho-Neto Fausto Almeida , Yunis-Aguinaga Jefferson , Ramos-Espinoza Fernando Carlos , Cueva-Quiroz Victor Alexander , Moraes Julieta Rodini Engracia de
Published: November 2022

Streptococcosis caused by Streptococcus agalactiae is a major economic problem for Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus production worldwide. Inactivated vaccines are considered an efficient method for controlling streptococcosis. However, during the vaccination process, stress during fish handling could affect the immune response. Immunomodulators, such as thymomodulin, act on the immune system and can improve vaccination responses. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the immunomodulatory effect of thymomodulin in O. niloticus vaccinated against S. agalactiae. For this, fish were distributed in a factorial design (2x2x6), corresponding to two levels of thymomodulin supplementation (0.0 and 0.3%), two treatments (sterile phosphate buffered saline and inactivated S. agalactiae vaccine). Initially, fish received thymomodulin supplementation for 30 days. Next, fish were vaccinated by injection intraperitoneal (i.p.) of heat inactivated S. agalactiae vaccine. 15 days after vaccination, all fish were challenged i.p. with S. agalactiae and blood samples were collected at 7, 14, 21 days post infection (DPI). Results revealed that fish supplemented with thymomodulin vaccinated or not developed better protection against S. agalactiae than vaccinated fish without thymomodulin. Furthermore, fish vaccinated and supplemented with thymomodulin presented high levels of antibodies after 14 and 21 DPI, suggesting that thymomodulin can promote the immune response in Nile tilapia.
Eficiência do método de saturação por bases para recomendação de calagem em um Latossolo Amarelo na Amazônia Oriental
Authors: Sousa Mateus Alves de , Reis Iolanda Maria Soares
Published: November 2022

Alta acidez do solo, baixa capacidade de troca catiônica e baixa fertilidade são os principais gargalos das atividades agrícolas na região amazônica, o que torna a calagem uma técnica essencial para a produção agrícola. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência de dois métodos de calagem, a saber, a lanço e incorporado ao solo, para atender às exigências da saturação por bases (V%) em diferentes profundidades e intervalos de tempo em um Latossolo Amarelo na Amazônia oriental. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento de blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 5 × 2, com cinco doses de calcário recomendadas para elevar o V a 0, 40, 80, 160 e 320% e dois métodos de aplicação (a lanço e incorporado). Após a aplicação do calcário, amostras de solo foram coletadas em três profundidades (0,00-0,05, 0,05-0,10 e 0,10-0,20 m) em três períodos (30, 60 e 90 dias após a aplicação, DAA) para determinação do V%. Os maiores valores de V% foram observados aos 30 DAA com incorporação. O valor de V% esperado foi obtido pela incorporação da dose de 40%, mas foi limitado às camadas de 0,00-0,05 e 0,05-0,10 m. A incorporação de cálcario é o método mais eficiente para atingir os níveis recomendados de V% aos 30 DAA. Aos 90 DAA, a maioria das doses não forneceu valores de V% iguais ou superiores aos valores calculados. Portanto, análises de regressão são recomendadas em experimentos de campo respeitando o limite de 80% V.
Development of the organic production in Ukraine: problems and perspectives
Authors: Fedchyshyn Dmytro , Ignatenko Iryna , Danilik Daria , Chyryk Alyona
Published: November 2022

This review article examines the legal support and proper state support of organic production in Ukraine, substantiation of the potential and obstacles to the development of organic production, as well as proposals for improving the current legislation. This review also analyzes the modern market of organic products, which, in terms of growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly and safe for human health, is very perspective for Ukraine. The increase in the area of agricultural land allocated for organic production, the number of domestic organic operators, and the ever-increasing volume of exports of organic products to other countries indicate a steady trend of growth and further development of this market. However, it is noted that the need to form the infrastructure of the organic products market still remains important. In addition, the problem of improving the system of standardization and certification of production, processing, storage and transportation of organic products, as well as the introduction of an effective control system over the sale of organic raw materials, are the main challenges to be solved.
Concentration and moment of niacin application on Urochloa brizantha in relation to nitrogen fertilization
Authors: Silva Higor Jonathan de Oliveira , Souza Maria Ingrid de , Vendruscolo Eduardo Pradi , Rochetti Ana Carolina Alves , Rodrigues Sant’Ana Gabriela
Published: November 2022

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of applying different concentrations of niacin, at different times in relation to nitrogen fertilization, on the characteristics of Urochloa brizantha. The treatments consisted of applying three concentrations of niacin (0, 100, and 200 mg L-1) and three different moments (two days before, together, and two days after nitrogen fertilization). It was found that there was variation in response, mainly concerning the moment of application of the vitamins, in which the joint and subsequent application of fertilization generally exceeded the application performed previously, and of both concentrations used (100 and 200 mg L-1), in relation to the control without vitamin application. In this way, the application of niacin at a concentration of 100 mg L-1, carried out jointly or after nitrogen fertilization, provides better conditions for developing and producing dry matter of Urochloa brizantha due to the presence of nitrogen.
Efficiency improvements in U.S. manufacturing :
Authors: Thomas Douglas
Published: November 2022

Manufacturers and manufacturing research organizations make investments to advance efficiency and competitiveness. Understanding the return for previously made investments can guide both manufacturers and researchers in identifying future investments with a high return. This paper examines trends in data from U.S. Department of Energy Industry Assessment Centers, which make technical assessments to reduce waste at small and medium sized manufacturers, to facilitate identifying potentially high return investments for manufacturers and researchers. The results show that the net present value is disproportionally distributed among investments, where 20 % of the investment categories represent 82 % of the net present value (i.e., net benefits). For individual investments, 20 % of the cumulative investment cost accounts for 74 % of the net present value. Regression analysis identified those investments with a high return when controlling for a selection of factors. The results suggest that over time, the average Internal rate of return (IRR) decreases, larger firms tend to receive higher IRR, and some investment categories tend to have higher IRR than others. The highest IRR investments were related to bottleneck reduction, scheduling, and just-in-time inventory. The highest concentration of net present value was found in heat recovery with the second highest concentration being in cogeneration and the third highest in lighting. The most common high IRR investment type that was statistically significant in a regression analysis was related to heat recovery with the second relating to space conditioning and the third most common was related to cogeneration.
Intracranial human recordings reveal association between neural activity and perceived intensity for the pain of others in the insula
Authors: Soyman Efe , Bruls Rune , Ioumpa Kalliopi , Müller-Pinzler Laura , Gallo Selene , Qin Chaoyi , van Straaten Elisabeth CW , Self Matthew W , Peters Judith C , Possel Jessy K , Onuki Yoshiyuki , Baayen Johannes C , Idema Sander , Keysers Christian , Gazzola Valeria
Published: November 2022

Based on neuroimaging data, the insula is considered important for people to empathize with the pain of others. Here, we present intracranial electroencephalographic (iEEG) recordings and single-cell recordings from the human insula while seven epilepsy patients rated the intensity of a woman’s painful experiences seen in short movie clips. Pain had to be deduced from seeing facial expressions or a hand being slapped by a belt. We found activity in the broadband 20–190 Hz range correlated with the trial-by-trial perceived intensity in the insula for both types of stimuli. Within the insula, some locations had activity correlating with perceived intensity for our facial expressions but not for our hand stimuli, others only for our hand but not our face stimuli, and others for both. The timing of responses to the sight of the hand being hit is best explained by kinematic information; that for our facial expressions, by shape information. Comparing the broadband activity in the iEEG signal with spiking activity from a small number of neurons and an fMRI experiment with similar stimuli revealed a consistent spatial organization, with stronger associations with intensity more anteriorly, while viewing the hand being slapped.
High-resolution imaging of the osteogenic and angiogenic interface at the site of murine cranial bone defect repair via multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Schilling Kevin , Zhai Yuankun , Zhou Zhuang , Zhou Bin , Brown Edward , Zhang Xinping
Published: November 2022

The spatiotemporal blood vessel formation and specification at the osteogenic and angiogenic interface of murine cranial bone defect repair were examined utilizing a high-resolution multiphoton-based imaging platform in conjunction with advanced optical techniques that allow interrogation of the oxygen microenvironment and cellular energy metabolism in living animals. Our study demonstrates the dynamic changes of vessel types, that is, arterial, venous, and capillary vessel networks at the superior and dura periosteum of cranial bone defect, suggesting a differential coupling of the vessel type with osteoblast expansion and bone tissue deposition/remodeling during repair. Employing transgenic reporter mouse models that label distinct types of vessels at the site of repair, we further show that oxygen distributions in capillary vessels at the healing site are heterogeneous as well as time- and location-dependent. The endothelial cells coupling to osteoblasts prefer glycolysis and are less sensitive to microenvironmental oxygen changes than osteoblasts. In comparison, osteoblasts utilize relatively more OxPhos and potentially consume more oxygen at the site of repair. Taken together, our study highlights the dynamics and functional significance of blood vessel types at the site of defect repair, opening up opportunities for further delineating the oxygen and metabolic microenvironment at the interface of bone tissue regeneration.
Comparison of epiphytic and intestinal bacterial communities in freshwater snails (Bellamya aeruginosa) living on submerged plants
Authors: Liu Fucai , Li Kejun
Published: November 2022

The combination of submerged plants and snails can combat eutrophication of freshwater systems by suppressing algal growth and assimilating nutrients. By consuming epiphytes, snails can benefit the growth of submerged plants. However, the efficiency of this phytoremediation strategy may depend on the microbes associated with the plants and snails. In this study, we compared the epiphytic bacterial communities on submerged plants (Vallisneria natans and Cabomba caroliniana) and intestinal bacterial communities of a snail, Bellamya aeruginosa, found on these plants using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Epiphytic bacterial communities were similar between the two plant species and snails shared a high proportion of snail intestinal bacterial OTUs (75%) and genera (85%) with plants they grazed on. However, significant variations of Bray-Curtis distances differentiated epiphytic and intestinal bacterial communities. In addition, between the top 50 genera shared by intestinal and epiphytic bacterial communities, more Spearman correlations were detected within bacterial communities associated with snails than between communities associated with plants (190 vs. 143), and the correlations in epiphytic bacterial networks were more concentrated on certain genera, indicating they possessed distinct bacterial networks. This suggests the bacterial communities associated with snails do not depend strongly on the plant they graze on, which may be important for better understanding the role of snails in aquatic eco-restoration.
Publication delays and associated factors in ophthalmology journals
Authors: Yu Yinglin , Li Wei , Xu Chaoqun , Tan Yuan , Zhu Weining , Zhang Bowen , Zou Yingshi , Hu Leyi , Jin Guangming , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: November 2022

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the publication delays and correlative factors of peer-reviewed ophthalmology journals.

Methods

The ophthalmology journals listed in the Journal Citation Report 2020 were retrieved from the Web of Science database. The first original research article of each journal issue from January to December 2020 was extracted, and its submission, final revision, acceptance, and publication dates were obtained. Information on impact factors, advance online publication (AOP) status, open access (OA) rate and acceptance rate in 2020 was also collected. The correlations between publication delays and potential associated factors were analyzed.

Results

A total of 58 ophthalmology journals were included and information on 685 articles was collected. The median times from submission to acceptance, from acceptance to publication, and from submission to publication were 118.0 (IQR, 74.0–185.0) days, 31.0 (IQR, 15.0–64.0) days, and 161.0 (IQR, 111.0–232.0) days, respectively. A higher impact factor was correlated with shorter delays of acceptance and publication (P < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between acceptance rates and publication delays (r = 0.726, P = 0.007). Forty-seven (81.03%) journals provided AOP. There was no statistically significant difference for impact factors and publication delays between journal with and without AOP (all P > 0.05). No correlation between OA rate and publication delays or impact factors was detected (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Journals with higher impact factors and lower acceptance rates tend to have quicker publication processes. No significant associations were detected between publication delays and AOP or OA rate.
Clinical Evaluation of Intradermal Platelet Rich Plasma Administration along with Oral Biotin Supplement for the Management of Androgenetic Alopecia in Adult Males: A Randomised Clinical Tria
Authors: Gupta Neha
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Androgenetic Alopecia (AA) is characterised by progressive-patterned hair loss from the scalp affecting males and females alike. Miniaturisation of the hair follicle with associated hereditary tendency is one of the major primary causal factors for the pathogenesis of AA. Various treatment modalities have been proposed for the management of AA including minoxidil, finastride, etc.; however, they are associated with known side-effects. Aim: To evaluate the effect of intradermal Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) administration, along with oral biotin supplement for the management of AA in males. Materials and Methods: The present randomised clinical study was conducted at Department of Dermatology, B.J. Medical College and Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India from January 2012 to May 2013. A total of 40 healthy adult males of Indian origin, with a history of hair loss, completed the 12 month trial. They were equally randomised into two groups. Subjects enrolled in group A (n=20) received intradermal administration of autologous PRP, every 15 days for three months along with oral biotin tablets, once daily for three months, while those in group B (n=20) received oral biotin tablets, once daily for three months. Hair regrowth was evaluated using a standardised 7-point rating scale at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months intervals, by the same investigator. Chi-square test was used to statistically assess the data. The p-value for significance was established at <0.05. Results: Individuals in group A had mean age of 32.3±6.1 years and showed statistically significant (p-value <0.05) increase in hair regrowth at 6 months, 9 and 12 months; compared to Group B with mean age of 30.7±5.2 years. Conclusion: Intradermal administration of PRP along with oral biotin tablet supplementation resulted in a statistically significant increase in hair regrowth, without any remarkable side-effects. PRP is a safe and effective treatment modality in adult males, with AA.
COVID-19: Lifestyle, CoVesity and ExerciseTime to Identify and Defeat the Real Culprits with Clinical Physiological Interventions
Authors: Sharma Hanjabam Barun
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic. Morbidity-mortality is related with hyper-immuno-thrombo-inflammation. Unhealthy lifestyle and obesity with high inflammation, should be prone for increased morbidity-morbidity in COVID-19. Hence, physical-activity, exercise and positive lifestyle are beneficial. The review explored this relationship. Literature search was done for association of physical-inactivity, obesity, fitness, exercise and other lifestyle-factors with COVID-19. Relevant articles (~43) were selected, the core-information was then incorporated. The complications of COVID-19 are associated with modifiable lifestyle riskfactors: physical-inactivity, obesity and low-fitness etc, which are the real culprits. There is bidirectional, reciprocal and positive association between pandemic of physical-inactivity/obesity and that of COVID-19. Obesity and inactivity are associated with high COVID-19 incidence, viral shedding-duration, vaccine-inefficiency; hospital and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, duration-ofstay and death. These real culprits need effective management using various Clinical Physiological Interventions (CPIs) including fitness, nutritional and lifestyle improvement. Cardiorespiratory-fitness (CRF), physical-activity and exercise have protective role in COVID-19. Moderate aerobic-exercise of ≥150-300 minutes/week, or ≥75 minutes/week of vigorous-activity (or combination), with ≥2 days/week of strength-training should be done. Unexplained alterations in physical-activity Ratings-of-Perceived-Exertions (RPE) may indicate Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Early mobilisation from passiveto-active movements to light-to-moderate activity should be part of multidisciplinary, phased, and symptom-led rehabilitation. Asymptomatic positives should restrain from intense-exercise for ≥2 weeks. Return-to-Play (RTP), with ≥2 weeks of minimalexertion reaching preCOVID activity after ≥4-5 weeks, may be done for recovered players (no-symptoms for ≥7-10 days and ≥10 days of symptom-onset). There should be no sports for ≥3 and ≥6 months for players with pericarditis and myocarditis, ≥4 weeks for pneumonia, and ≥2-4 weeks for symptomatic players with no myocarditis and pneumonia. Medical evaluation and relevant cardiac-pulmonary-ergometry-biochemical and other investigations are needed before RTP. Optimal, individualised, nutrient-dense, natural and whole food based chrono-nutrition with no metaflammation is a must. Good sleep, healthy circadian-rhythm, limiting sedentary-behaviour, coping-skills with no mental/ psychological/ emotional stress and addiction, meditation, healthy-relationship and positive social-connections are other key lifestyle-factors to be prioritised.
An Integrated Polymeric mRNA Vaccine without Inflammation Side Effects for Cellular Immunity Mediated Cancer Therapy
Authors: Huang Pei , Jiang Lingsheng , Pan Hui , Ding Lingwen , Zhou Bo , Zhao Mengyao , Zou Jianhua , Li Benhao , Qi Meiwei , Deng Hongzhang , Zhou Yongfeng , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: November 2022

Among the few available mRNA delivery vehicles, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the most clinically advanced but they require cumbersome four components and suffer from inflammation‐related side effects that should be minimized for safety. Yet, a certain level of proinflammatory responses and innate immune activation are required to evoke T‐cell immunity for mRNA cancer vaccination. To address these issues and develop potent yet low‐inflammatory mRNA cancer vaccine vectors, a series of alternating copolymers “PHTA” featured with ortho‐hydroxy tertiary amine (HTA) repeating units for mRNA delivery is synthesized, which can play triple roles of condensing mRNA, enhancing the polymeric nanoparticle (PNP) stability, and prolonging circulation time. Unlike LNPs exhibiting high levels of inflammation, the PHTA‐based PNPs show negligible inflammatory side effects in vivo. Importantly, the top candidate PHTA‐C18 enables successful mRNA cancer vaccine delivery in vivo and leads to a robust CD8+ T cell mediated antitumor cellular immunity. Such PHTA‐based integrated PNP provides a potential approach for establishing mRNA cancer vaccines with good inflammatory safety profiles.