bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Aqueous Extract of Costus afer Stems on the Liver and Cardiac Enzymes Activities of High Fat Diet Induced Hyperlipidemic Rats
Authors: Chioma Anyiam C. , Albert Anyiam. C. , Bassey Essien, E. , Jeremiah Danladi G.
Published: December 2020

Aim: The present study was carried out on the effect of aqueous extract of Costus afer stems on the liver and cardiac enzymes activities of diet induced hyperlipidemic rats.

Methodology: Wistar albino male rats (100-135g) were randomly distributed into 7 groups of 12 rats each. Group I was fed with standard diet as normal control rats and all the other groups were fed with high fat diet (10g eggyolk/day) for 2 weeks. The plant extract was administered orally at different concentrations of 400, 800 and 1600mg/kg b.w alone and also in combination with the reference drug, Atorvastatin® (0.26mg) to the treatment groups for four weeks.  The liver and cardiac enzymes activities were observed at specific intervals (2 weeks).

Results: Results showed a significant (p<0.05) difference in the plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities after two weeks of feeding with egg yolk supplemented diet in all the test groups when compared with the normal and hyperlipidemic control rats. After 2 and 4weeks treatment, there was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the plasma AST, ALT and ALP activities of rats in groups IV, V and VII when compared with the normal and hyperlipidemic control rats (groups I and II). There was also a significant (p<0.05) difference in the creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activity of all the test groups when compared with the normal control rats after feeding with high fat diet for 2 weeks. After 2 and 4weeks of treatment, rats in groups III, IV and VI (HTR on atorvastatin, 0.26mg, HTR on aqueous extract, 400 mg/kg and 1600 mg) significantly decreased when compared with the normal and hyperlipidemic control rats.

Conclusions: Hence, this shows that Costus afer stem extract may prevent hepatocyte injury or also maybecardioprotective against myocardial injury.
Cladode Pruning Affects Yield and Fruit Quality of ‘Roja Lisa’ Cactus Pear [Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.]: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Zegbe Jorge A.
Published: December 2020

Aims: This study assessed the initial effect of experimental pruning (EP) or grower’s pruning (GP) of cactus pear fruiting cladodes on fruit yield (FY), fruit size distribution (FSD), and fruit quality (FQ) at harvest and after storage.

Study Design: Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design with eight or ten replicates, with a single plant as replicate, for EP or GP, respectively.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was set up in a drip-irrigated commercial orchard of ‘Roja Lisa’ cactus pear [O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill.] plants located at Santa Fe, Jerez, Zacatecas, México, from February to August 2006.

Methodology: The EP considered two agronomic practices: 1) exposing the center of each plant while eliminating unproductive cladodes and those shading other cladodes and 2) concentrating fruiting cladodes in the outer part of the plants. The GP randomly eliminated some cladodes from the central part and around the plants only. Treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design with eight or ten replicates, with a single plant as replicate, for EP or GP, respectively. The response variables were: FY, FSD, and FQ at harvest and after storage. The FQ attributes were: mean fruit mass (MFM), flesh firmness (FF), total soluble solids concentration, pulp and peel mass, dry matter concentration, and fruit water loss (FWL) during storage.

Results: EP increased MFM by 42% over GP and produced 15% more marketable fruit (fruit equatorial diameter from 5.0 to 7.0 cm), but FY was reduced by 39%. The FF was higher in EP fruit than GP fruit after storage. The other FQ attributes were similar in both pruning treatments, both at harvest and after three weeks at room temperature. The FWL was also similar under both pruning systems. More targeted pruning has the potential to increase the productivity of cactus pear orchards.

Conclusion: Experimental pruning increased fruit size and the percentage of commercial fruit, but reduced both overall and commercial fruit yields. After three-week storage at room temperature, flesh firmness remained greater in EP fruit. Fruit water loss was not influenced by pruning treatments during the storage.
Change, Challenge, and Complexity in the College Curriculum
Authors: Sukornyk Nancy L. , Smale William T.
Published: December 2020

This paper explores the growing need for integrated arts education at the college level. Specifically, the authors describe the need for an arts program which incorporates multiple disciplines and connects them to other, non-creative disciplines. Arts education affords students invaluable lessons in critical thinking, creativity, and communication, all of which are essential for the successful navigation of 21st-century challenges. The authors conclude that, contrary to current trends wherein arts education is being marginalized at the post-secondary level, an integrated approach to college arts education offers indispensable skill and enlargement of perspective for the general education of successful balanced individuals.
Deeper, Larger, More Common: Cryptic Coral Species Podabacia Benefits from Reef Recovery
Authors: Kunzmann Andreas , Samsuardi . , Johan Ofri , Springer Karin
Published: December 2020

In 2000 a protected area of 20,000 ha was established in West Sumatra, Indonesia (MPA Pulau Pieh) and the partial reef recovery is well documented. During monitoring of destructed reefs, a new cryptic mushroom coral species, Podabacia kunzmanni, was detected. It is not common, with rather occasional occurrence and most specimens are small. During recent visits in 2018 and 2019, the authors detected numerous specimens, mainly at three locations within the MPA Pulau Pieh, mainly at Pulau Pandan. Most individuals were found in greater depth, down to 18 m, reaching diameters of up to 20 cm. With regard to size, depth distribution and abundance, three new records can be established for this species. There are two potential explanations for finding them mainly on dead reefs: either they are better survivors or they are better colonizers of dead coral substrata. The team is presently collecting more data on the distribution and the reasons behind the sudden rise in visibility.
Efficacy of Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics and Productivity of Blackgram
Authors: Meher Lipi , Jena Satyananda , Satapathy Manoranjan , Patra Bishnupriya
Published: December 2020

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2018 at the Agronomy Main Research Farm, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar to study the effect of Integrated weed management in blackgram. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with a total of eight treatments replicated thrice. Important predominant grass, sedge and broad-leaved weeds found in the experimental field were Eleusine indica (12.6%), Cyperus rotundus (8.9%) and Celosia argentea (9.7%), respectively. Severe weed competition in kharif blackgram recorded a yield loss of 66.7% in this experiment. Post Emergence application of Imazethapyr @ 0.75 kg/ha at 120 Days after sowing followed by one Hand Weeding at 30 DAS recorded lowest weed density (25.33 no./m2), weed dry weight (38.98 g/m2); highest weed control efficiency (83.4%) and lowest weed index (7.0%) at harvest.
Effect of Humic Acid Application Methods on Yield and Some Yield Characteristics of Corn Plant (Zea mays L. indentata)
Authors: Oktem Ayse Gulgun , Oktem Abdullah
Published: December 2020

Aims: This study was aimed to determination of humic acid application methods on yield and some yield characteristics of corn plant (Zea mays L. indentata) as grown second crop conditions.

Study Design: Study was set up according to randomized complete blocks experimental design with 3 replicates.

Place and Duration of Study: Research was conducted under Harran Plain conditions as second crop conditions in 2017, Sanliurfa, Turkey

Methodology: Capuzi hybrid corn variety was used as a plant material. Humic Acid (HA) applications  were 0 (control), to soil (4 L da-1 HA, before sowing), to seed (%2 HA), to foliar (%0.7 HA,  when the plants have 4, 8, 12 leaves),  to soil + seed (4 L da-1 HA before sowing + %2 HA  to seeds), to soil + foliar (4 L da-1 HA to soil  before sowing, %0.7 HA, when the plants have 4, 8, 12 leaves), to seed + foliar (%2 HA to seeds + %0.7 HA  when the plants have 4, 8, 12 leaves) and to soil, seed and foliar (4 L da-1 HA to soil  before sowing + %2 HA  to seeds + %0.7 HA  when the plants have 4, 8, 12 leaves).

Results: Humic acid treatments effected positively tassel flowering day, grain number per ear, grain yield, protein ratio, leaf surface temperature and chlorophyll content (SPAD) values (P≤0.05). The longest tassel flowering duration value was seen at control application whereas the shortest tassel flowering duration value was found at soil+foliar treatment. Grain number per ear value ranged from 602.8 to 655.9 numbers. The highest grain yield value obtained from seed+soil+foliar treatment of humic acid (1325.54 kg da-1) while the lowest value was seen at control parcel (1165 kg da-1). Protein ratio (%) values ranged from % 8.33-9.40. The highest protein ratio was obtained from Seed+Soil+Foliar treatment of humic acid while the lowest protein ratio value was found at control parcel. Leaf surface temperatures decreased with all humic acid applications. The highest chlorophyll content (SPAD) value was obtained from seed+ foliar treatment of humic acid whereas the lowest value was at control parcel.

Conclusion: The highest grain number per ear, grain yield, protein ratio values were found in soil+seed+foliar application of humic acid. And also, the highest chlorophyll content (SPAD) values were obtained from seed+foliar treatment of humic acid. Tassel flowering duration decreased with humic acid applications. The lowest leaf surface temperature value was found at soil +foliar application. All applications of humic acid affected positively on corn plant yield characteristics.
Determinants of Delayed Presentation of Patients with Primary Malignant Musculoskeletal Tumours Managed in a Tertiary Referral Hospital
Authors: Naomi Amuron , Geoffrey Madewo , Patrick Sekimpi , Gonzaga Waiswa , Buunaaim Alexis D. B.
Published: December 2020

Background: Malignant musculoskeletal tumours are comparatively rare tumours and delays in diagnosis and treatment are common. Understanding the factors that influence delay is important so as to improve the outcomes for cancer patients.

Aim: To describe factors associated with delay in presentation of patients with primary musculoskeletal tumours.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Setting: The study was conducted in a tertiary referral hospital from July to December 2014.

Methodology: 56 patients with a confirmed histopathological diagnosis of a primary malignant musculoskeletal tumour and who had consented to the study were included.

Data was collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. The clinical findings, laboratory results and radiographs of the lesions and the chest, as well as histopathological results were used to stage the musculoskeletal tumour.

Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 20.0. Univariate and bivariate analysis was done for associations and results presented in the form of tables, pie charts and bar graphs.

Results: A total of 56 patients were studied, 34 (60.7%) males and 22 (39.3%) females with a male to female ratio of 1.5:1. 73.2% (41) of the patients were adults while children comprised 26.8% (15). The age range was 4yrs-78yrs, with a mean of 32.25yrs.

The mean patient delay was four months with 50% (28) of the patients seeking care for the first time after three months.

Males were twice as likely to present late compared to females (OR 2.5, P=0.10) while patients younger than 40 years were more likely to present late (OR 1.4, P=0.59). Low educational level (OR 3.7, P=0.15) and low family income (OR 2.3, P=0.38) were associated with delayed presentation.

Conclusion: Delayed presentation of patients with MS tumours is influenced by a multitude of factors ranging from the socio-demographics (age, sex, education level), socio-economic status and tumour knowledge, beliefs and perception.
Prevalence of Dermatophytosis in Badaun, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Saxena Pankaj , Dholia Neeraj
Published: December 2020

Dermatophytoses is a superficial fungal infection of tissues having keratin. The responsible fugus are dermatophytes. The infection is usually designated as ring worm or “tinea”. It is observed worldwide with higher prevalence in tropical countries and areas due to high rates of humidity, moisture and high sweating in summer. Recurrent dermatophytosis is a challenge for dermatologists in India and constituted 9.3% of all patients of dermatophytosis. The present study is conducted to reveal the prevalence of dermatophytosis in patients attended in the Maheshwari Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in Badaun. A survey was done for a period of one and half year. The samlples were obtained from Maheshwari Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, Badaun, Uttar Pradesh. A total of 300 patients were included in the study. Physical observation, KOH test, Microscopy and culture tests were performed for screening and confirmation of various fungal infections. Clinically the prevalence of dermatophytosis was 60% that was observed more in males. Patients with age group 16–30 and 31–40 years were more affected.
Phytochemicals, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Potential Study of Tinospora cordifolia
Authors: Barua Anik , Hossain Md. Rabiul , Barua Labonno , Md. Sayem Abu Sadat , Abedin Md. Zainul , Hossain Rashadul
Published: December 2020

Aims: Tinospora cordifolia is a herb used in the traditional folk medicine due to their health benefits. Studies reported the biochemical composition and some biological properties of the plant stem. The aim of the current study was to investigate the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties from the extract of Tinospora cordifolia stem.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was accomplished by eleven months in the Department of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology Chittagong (USTC), Bangladesh. 

Methodology: Presence of phytochemical constituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids and tannins, saponins were evaluated. Antimicrobial activity of the stem extract was assayed separately using an agar diffusion method against some gram negative and gram positive bacteria. The cytotoxic potential of the stem extract was evaluated by the Brine-Shrimp Lethality Assay mathod. 

Results: The zone of inhibition formed by the methanolic extract in the antimicrobial assays was significant. In addition, cytotoxicity of the extract was found to be significant as compared to the standard gallic acid in Brine-Shrimp lethality assay.

Conclusion: The methanolic extract of Tinospora cordifolia may possess significant antimicrobial property which requires more studies to isolate the specific bioactive compound for developing a new antimicrobial agent from this plant.
Artificial Sweeteners and Metabolic Syndrome: Paradox of Physiological Behavior or Neuroendocrine Mechanisms
Authors: Mallu Maheswara Reddy , Naredla Kusuma , Meesala Maha Lakshmi , Karyamsetty Kamala Vasanthi , Dudekula Shaheena , Boppa Haritha , Thota Trishanthi , Akula Niranjan Babu
Published: December 2020

Artificial sweeteners owing to their non-caloric nature were proposed as a healthful means with the prospective benefits. Epidemiological data indicate direct relationship between artificial sweetener intake and increase in body weight, glycemic status, and adiposity. Despite strong association, evidence is still lacking in establishing the causal relationship between artificial sweeteners and various risk factors for the development of metabolic syndrome. In vitro studies have disclosed that artificial sweeteners similar to glucose/fructose bind to sweet-taste receptors on the tongue and intestinal mucosa stimulating enhanced sugar absorption, through glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion. Human studies failed to recapitulate these effects, advocating that artificial sweeteners rather serve to promote food consumption rather than improving satiety. Therefore, enhanced         food consumption, disallowance of caloric adjustments could in some measure explain body   weight gain with the use of artificial sweeteners. However, the physiological behavior and neuroendocrine mechanisms by which the non-caloric sweeteners may stimulate appetite needs further scrutiny.
Antiemetic Effect of Fruit Extracts of Trapa bispinosa Roxb. in Chick Emesis Model
Authors: Bokhari Syed Waleed Ahmed , Gul Sabiha , Fatima Rida , Sarfaraz Sana , Hasan Muhammad Mohtasheemul , Abbbas Afshan
Published: December 2020

Background: Vomiting and nausea are common symptoms associated with many diseased conditions. They also occur as side effects due to intake of certain medications. Natural remedies are nowadays being considered as a better alternate compared to allopathic medicine.

Aim: The current study was designed to evaluate the antiemetic effect of hexane and ethanolic extracts of Trapa bispinosa Roxb fruit.

Methodology: The study was conducted on young chicks aged 6-7 days using Copper sulfate (50 mg/kg) for the induction of emesis using oral route. Antiemetic effect was determined by observing the reduction in the number of retches in different groups of chicks. Metoclopramide and Chlorpromazine (150 mg/kg) were used as standard antiemetic agents. Chicks were treated with both extracts (ethanolic and hexane) at the dose of 150 mg/kg.

Results: Hexane extract was found to be most effective when compared with all the groups. The results showed that T.bispinos Roxb. hexane extract was able to effectively prevent the copper sulfate induced emesis in chicks. Phytochemical analysis was also performed and it was predicted that the antiemetic effect of hexane extract might be due to the presence of alkaloids and triterpenoids.

Conclusion: The positive effects obtained from this study showed that natural remedy might also be used as an alternate to allopathic medicine for nausea and vomiting.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Gram-negative Uropathogens Isolated in Public Hospital Establishment «Saad Guermech Saoudi Amar Hmaida» Skikda-Algeria
Authors: Khelfaoui Mohamed Sabri , Zeroug Rayane , Yousfi Maroua , Satha Bouchra
Published: December 2020

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a serious world-wide health problem whose treatment becomes highly difficult due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

Aims: Herein, a retrospective study was conducted with the aim to determine the prevalence, the identification of the bacteria responsible of UTIs, and the antimicrobial resistance profile.

Study Design: All Patient samples, including either external samples or samples taken from patients admitted to Public Hospital Establishment “Saad Guermech Saoudi Amar Hmaida” in Skikda-Algeria were used in this study for a period extending from January 2018 – March 2020.

Methodology: The identification of bacterial strains and the antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out using Analytical Profile index galleries (API) system and disk diffusion method.

Results: Among the 1203 samples, 206 (17.12%) were positive, and 997 (82.88%) were negative for bacterial growth. Regarding the pathogenic strains, 26 (12.62%), and 180 (87.38%) were found respectively, Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. Among the 180 Gram negative strains, 104 (57.83%) were reported in female patients, 68 (37.72%) were in male patients, and 8 (4.45%) whose gender was not mentioned. The most representative Gram-negative strains are Escherichia coli (E. coli) (43.33%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) (13.33%), Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis) (7.77%), Enterobacter sp (E. sp) (6.66%), since the other strains were less frequent. Moreover, 6 bacterial strains belonging to 3 genera (Escherichia, Klebsiella, and Enterobacter) were ESBLs producers with an overall prevalence of 3.33% of pathogenic strains isolated from urine. ESBLs were produced in 4.00%, 5.88%, and 6.25% of E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and E. cloacae strains respectively.

Conclusion: E. coli was found to be the most predominant strain, while most of the Gram- negative strains were highly resistant to Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, Ampicillin, penicillin and tobramycin.
In vitro Anticancer and Antimicrobial Proprieties of Carica papaya against Biochemically Characterized Clinical and Standard Microbes
Authors: Zahra Nureen , Ansari Farheen , Shaheen Sumaira , Parveen Gulshan , Rasool Rabia , Mazhar Modasrah , Akram Qaiser , Rasheed Muhammad Sajid , Ali Qurban , Mailk Arif
Published: December 2020

The bacterial pathogens have established various defense system against antimicrobial agents. The main mechanism of action of antibiotic resistance is obtained by pathogenic microorganisms, which directly involved in the diagnosis of various therapeutic plants with their significant antimicrobial properties. The current study investigated the antimicrobial and anticancer properties of Carica papaya. Fresh sample of C. papaya was collected in the native area of Punjab and selected isolate were tested against the aqueous, chloroform, ethanol, methanol extracts of C. papaya and anti-microbial activity by disc diffusion method. Anticancer activity was carried out in the HeLa cell line in above mention fractions of the extract at different concentration. The present study concluded, the extracts of the specific plants, particularly the ethanol and methanol extracts established the potential role against bacterial strain and HeLa cell line. It has also been concluded that these extracts might be implicated as natural products and serve to mediate as novel pharmaceuticals and therapeutic drugs.
Bio-Fabrication of ZnO-CuO Nanoporous Composite and Its Application as Nanolarvicidal Agent for Malaria Vectors
Authors: Shehu Zaccheus , Abba Ezra , Lamayi Danbature Wilson , Yoriyo Kennedy Poloma , Abubakar Zainab Adamu , Kenneth Zungi Namau , Usiju Zirmba , Abubakar Amina
Published: December 2020

Bio-fabrication of ZnO-CuO nanoporous composite was successfully synthesized using Gum Arabic. The morphology, elemental composition, surface plasmon resonance and functional groups bonds of the ZnO-CuO nanoporous composite were confirmed by SEM, EDX, UV-Visible and FTIR techniques respectively. Nanolarvicidal activity of ZnO-CuO nanoporous composite was tested against 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th instars of malaria vectors for 24 hours using different concentrations. The lethal concentrations (LC50) of ZnO-CuO nanoporous composite against 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th instars were found to be 8.841, 8.734, 8.963 and 10.557 mg/L respectively. Whereas, the LC90 of ZnO-CuO nanoporous composite against 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th instars were found to be 19.062, 28.063, 40.888 and 79.567 mg/L respectively. For all instars, the correlation coefficients were found in the range of 0.945 to 0.999 and it indicates concentration dependent larvicidal activity. It was observed that the lower the instar, the higher the larvicidal activity and conversely. Therefore,  ZnO-CuO nanoporous composite could be used as nanolarvicidal agent especially for malaria vectors.
Erraticism in the Cannibal – A Study of the Work of Thomas Harris
Authors: Sooryah N. , Soundarya Dr.K.R.
Published: December 2020

Literature is the key to human life that resurrects and gives space for introspection, retrospection and various remembrances which are hued by overjoy, pain and trauma. Nowadays crime literature became one of the most popular genres in this era which centers mostly on murder and violence. It started from Edgar Allen Poe’s most famous fictional character Auguste Dupin, whose first appearance was on The Murders in the Rue Mogue, considered to be the first crime fiction, followed by Dr. John Watson, Sherlock Holmes and the like. The genre crime fiction has contributed innumerable number of works in both fiction and non-fiction. Thomas Harris’s Hannibal Rising is one such fiction which tells about the life of a serial killer who is a psychiatrist as well as a cannibal. It is a series of novels about the famous character Hannibal Lecter. Cannibalism and Psychiatry are two extremes which rarely meet. This novel is intertwined with a mix of violence, emotions and childhood trauma. Trauma studies nowadays became a key aspect in literature. In this specific work of Thomas Harris, he describes how the centralized character is affected with psychological trauma, in particular, Acute and Separation trauma. Trauma theory became popularized in 1980s and played major role in Atwood’s novels. This study tries to explain how childhood shapes a person and how behaviorism plays a vital element in one’s life and it also tries to analyze the psychological issues, trauma and defense mechanism through the central character of the novel.
Gamification as a Tool in English Language Teaching
Authors: Samson Sharon , Karthiga Dr.S.V.
Published: December 2020

Gameography or Edutainment, Teaching – learning actions refer to some kind of play with lucid ad knowledge. This requires the use of elegant, interactive and non- digital games to decisive opinion and analytic decipher. Gamification is relatively new but in the corporate world it has been used effectively. Gamification not only incorporates game mechanics and game design strategies in non-game situations, but also empowers and integrates the learner with motivational skills towards a learning attitude and a comfortable environment to maintain. This cram offers catalogue of influential study and problems occurring from the use of Edutainment and staid games for learning language. Gamification as a philosophy, principle of motivation, the educational consequences for successful adoption of the technique and the latest applications used. This also calls for the Strategy to include objective evidence and analysis.
Inclusion Schools in the Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia: Regulations, Facilities and Aspirations of Teachers
Authors: Arlinwibowo Janu , Retnawati Heri , Kartowagiran Badrun , Mustaqim Yunus
Published: December 2020

This study aims to describe regulations and identify school readiness and aspirations of teachers for the progress of organizing inclusive schools. This research is qualitative research with a phenomenological approach. The research informants were 16 teachers consisting of 9 subject teachers in inclusive schools and 7 Special Companion Teachers (GPK). Data collection methods used were in-depth interviews and observations. The process of data analysis is data reduction, identifying themes, mapping interrelationships between themes, and concluding findings. The conclusions of this study are (1) a common problem that occurs in inclusive schools is that the role of the teacher is not yet optimal. This is due to the system and competence, the culture of citizens in several schools that have not yet been developed, and the school still does not optimally facilitate the talents of students with disabilities. (2) Government participation is needed in providing various regulations related to GPK recruitment rules, increasing teacher competence and inclusive school management, providing facilities, and building synergies with various stakeholders so that the implementation of the learning process in inclusive schools is better.
Ilhas de calor urbano em cidade do semiárido nordestino
Authors: Silva Juliana Maria Oliveira , Moura Marcelo De Oliveira , Luna Vinicius Ferreira
Published: December 2020

A pesquisa pautou-se nas concepções do Sistema Clima Urbano de Monteiro (1976) e procurou identificar e mapear as ilhas de calor urbano na cidade do Crato-CE, em dois períodos sazonais do ano. Para isso, foram selecionados 10 pontos experimentais distribuídos em bairros na zona urbana da cidade, e aferiram-se dados de temperatura do ar com termohigrômetros instalados em abrigos meteorológicos durante os meses de abril (mês chuvoso) e outubro (mês seco). A partir da coleta de dados, a categoria predominante de intensidade das Ilhas de Calor intra e interurbana para a cidade do Crato foi o de ‘Média magnitude’. O horário que ocorre a maior intensidade da ilha de calor é pela tarde, 14h, com valores superiores a 5ºC de diferença de um local para o outro. Os bairros mais densamente ocupados e com baixa cobertura vegetal apresentaram os maiores valores de temperatura, enquanto que, nos que se localizam mais próximos da encosta da chapada e com vegetação mais densa, ocorreram as temperaturas mais amenas.

Abstract

URBAN HEAT ISLANDS IN CITY OF THE NORTHEAST SEMIARID

The research was based on the conceptions of the Monteiro Urban Climate System (1976) and sought to identify and map the urban heat islands in the city of Crato/ Ce in two seasonal periods of the year. For this, 10 experimental points were selected and distributed in neighborhoods in the urban area of the city and air temperature data was measured with thermohygrometers installed in meteorological shelters during the months of April (rainy month) and October (dry month). From the data collection, the predominant intensity category of the intra and interurban Heat Islands for the city of Crato was that of ‘Medium magnitude’. The time that occurs the greatest intensity of the heat island is in the afternoon, 14h, with values above 5ºC of difference from one place to another. The most densely occupied neighborhoods and with low vegetation cover had the highest temperature values, while those located closer to the slope of the plateau and with more dense vegetation, the milder temperatures occurred.
Zonas de amortecimento em Unidades de Conservação urbanas. Dois casos em Salvador-BA-Brasil
Authors: Santos Jacileda Cerqueira
Published: December 2020

A Zona de Amortecimento tem por função criar um espaço-anteparo a fim de minimizar efeitos antrópicos negativos impostos pela ocupação urbana desordenada, sobretudo aquela já consolidada, sobre as áreas protegidas. Unidades de Conservação urbanas precisam ser manejadas de maneira diferenciada das áreas protegidas rurais. Sendo assim, estabelecer uma Zona de Amortecimento em áreas urbanas ou em centros metropolitanos traz, como desafio principal, a mediação entre garantir a integridade dos objetivos da UC e, ao mesmo tempo, oferecer benefícios ambientais e sociais, não apenas no que diz respeito às amenidades proporcionadas pela proximidade com elementos naturais. Deste modo, faz-se de suma importância que uma Zona de Amortecimento de uma Unidade de Conservação em área urbana seja delimitada, considerando-se critérios ambientais, sociais, culturais e institucionais.

Abstract

The Buffer Zone has the function of creating a bulkhead in order to minimize negative anthropic effects imposed by the disorderly urban occupation, especially that already consolidated, on the protected areas. Urban Conservation Units need to be managed differently from rural protected areas. Thus, establishing a Buffer Zone in urban areas or metropolitan centers brings, as a main challenge, the mediation between ensuring the integrity of the objectives of the PA and, at the same time, offering environmental and social benefits, not only as regards the amenities provided by the proximity to natural elements. Thus, it is of utmost importance that a Buffer Zone of a Conservation Unit in an urban area be delimited considering, environmental, social, cultural and institutional criteria.
Acumulação por espoliação e redes de transporte público: o Corredor Metropolitano Noroeste em Campinas-SP
Authors: Da Silva Valderson Salomão
Published: December 2020

Este artigo objetiva relacionar aspectos do processo de acumulação por espoliação com dinâmicas de desenvolvimento de redes de transporte público, a partir do recorte empírico do Corredor Metropolitano Noroeste, na Região Metropolitana de Campinas (SP). Grandes projetos de infraestrutura como esse corredor implicam uma diversa trama de intencionalidades políticas, dentre as quais há as que têm como finalidade a acumulação de caráter rentista. Discursos do planejamento tecnocrático se colocam como neutros e comprometidos com o bem comum e, por isso, são usados para legitimar propostas de intervenção nas redes de transporte coletivo. A viabilidade dessas transformações na organização do espaço está condicionada, no entanto, a diferentes objetivos especulativos. Em torno do Estado, a promoção imobiliária e a privatização do patrimônio público são determinantes para que propostas de renovação das materialidades avancem ou desvaneçam.

Abstract

ACCUMULATION BY DISPOSSESSION AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORKS: THE CORREDOR METROPOLITANO NOROESTE IN CAMPINAS-SP

This article relates the process of accumulation by dispossession with the development of public transport networks, with Corredor Metropolitano Noroeste in Campinas metropolitan area (SP) as case study. In the plot of political intentions that orbit projects like that, there are those that are rent-seeking. Discourses of technocratic planning are supposed to be neutral and committed to the common good and, therefore, legitimate proposals for intervention in collective transport networks. Nevertheless, the viability of these transformations in the organization of the space is actually committed to speculative objectives. Surrounding the State, real estate and privatization of public properties hold the capacity for those proposals to advance or to fade away.
Premissas lefebvreanas para um novo romantismo: a totalidade, os momentos da vida e a Geografia
Authors: Sousa André Nunes de
Published: December 2020

Este artigo busca discutir as premissas lefebvreanas acerca de um novo Romantismo, entendido como retorno ao (e superação do) movimento artístico-político-filosófico surgido na Prússia no final do século XVIII e revisitado por Lefebvre no seu empenho em teorizar sobre a relação entre a totalidade e os momentos da vida na modernidade. O esforço aqui é o de tentar demonstrar que a fundamentação teórico-analítica lefebvreana, ancorada na interpretação da sociedade moderna, da cidade e do urbano, está também relacionada a uma base filosófica ainda pouco discutida entre os geógrafos brasileiros que nele se referenciam. Para tanto, trataremos das asserções gerais do Romantismo e de sua assimilação e seu declínio na teoria geográfica, de modo que possamos compreender o que a releitura lefebvreana pode trazer de inovação/superação a esse respeito e quais as contribuições que esse referencial tem a oferecer à Geografia.

Abstract

LEFEBVRE’S PREMISES FOR A NEW ROMANTICISM: THE TOTALITY, THE MOMENTS OF LIFE AND GEOGRAPHY

This paper seeks to discuss the Lefebvre’s premises about a new Romanticism, understood as a return to (and overcoming) the artistic-political-philosophical movement that arose in Prussia at the end of the 18th century and revisited by Lefebvre in his efforts to theorize about the relationship between the moments of life in modernity. The effort here is to try to demonstrate that the Lefebvre’s theoretical-analytical foundation, anchored in the interpretation of modern society, the city and the urban, is also related to a philosophical basis still little discussed among Brazilian geographers who refer to it. For that, we will deal with the general assertions of Romanticism and its assimilation and decline in geographic theory, so that we can understand what the Lefebvre’s rereading can bring about innovation / overcoming in this respect and what contributions this reference has to offer to Geography.
Does the cognitive approach to lie detection improve the accuracy of human observers?
Authors: Mac Giolla Erik , Luke Timothy J.
Published: December 2020

The current meta‐analysis examines the cognitive approach to lie detection. Our goal was to assess the practical utility of this approach by examining whether it improves the lie detection ability of human observers. The cognitive approach to lie detection led to an average accuracy rate of 60.00%, 95% CI [56.42; 63.53] and a bias corrected average accuracy rate of 55.03%, 95% CI [48.83; 61.16]. Critically, this result is moderated by whether observers were informed, or not, about which cues to focus on. Naïve observers had average accuracy rates of 52.37%, 95% CI [48.80%; 55.93%], little better than chance. In contrast, informed observers had average accuracy rates of 75.81%, 95% CI [71.52%; 79.86%]. This promising result is qualified by indications of publication bias, considerable heterogeneity between studies, and a lack of research on important practical issues, such as the influence of counter‐measures. Although these shortcomings raise a note of caution, we remain optimistic about future research on the topic.
TiN @ Co5.47N Composite Material Constructed by Atomic Layer Deposition as Reliable Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Guo Daying , Wan Zhixin , Li Yan , Xi Bin , Wang Chengxin
Published: December 2020

An efficient and durable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalyst consisting of TiN @ Co5.47N is constructed by the integration of plasma nitriding and a delicate atomic layer deposition (ALD) CoxN process. Representative results of comprehensive study are: 1) the material is electrocatalytically active in universal medium. The OER overpotentials are 398, 248, and 411 mV in acidic, basic, and neutral electrolyte, respectively, at a current density of 50 mA cm−2; 2) the material records an impressive long‐term stability of continuous catalysis for 1500 h, during which the overpotential increases by only 1.3%. The synergistically electronic interaction between TiN and ALD Co5.47N, as well as a protective yet active CoTi layered double hydroxides (CoTi LDH) layer formed simultaneously at the interface/surface of TiN @ Co5.47N during the electrocatalytic process, is speculated to be responsible for the superior OER performance; 3) the surface Co atoms other than Ti of CoTi LDH, exhibit electrocatalytic activity with dramatically low overpotential based on density functional theory calculations.
Normalizing the Microenvironment Overcomes Vessel Compression and Resistance to Nano‐immunotherapy in Breast Cancer Lung Metastasis
Authors: Mpekris Fotios , Panagi Myrofora , Voutouri Chrysovalantis , Martin John D. , Samuel Rekha , Takahashi Shinichiro , Gotohda Naoto , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Papageorgis Panagiotis , Demetriou Philippos , Pierides Chryso , Koumas Laura , Costeas Paul , Kojima Motohiro , Ishii Genichiro , Constantinidou Anastasia , Kataoka Kazunori , Cabral Horacio , Stylianopoulos Triantafyllos
Published: December 2020

Nano‐immunotherapy regimens have high potential to improve patient outcomes, as already demonstrated in advanced triple negative breast cancer with nanoparticle albumin‐bound paclitaxel and the immune checkpoint blocker (ICB) atezolizumab. This regimen, however, does not lead to cures with median survival lasting less than two years. Thus, understanding the mechanisms of resistance to and development of strategies to enhance nano‐immunotherapy in breast cancer are urgently needed. Here, in human tissue it is shown that blood vessels in breast cancer lung metastases are compressed leading to hypoxia. This pathophysiology exists in murine spontaneous models of triple negative breast cancer lung metastases, along with low levels of perfusion. Because this pathophysiology is consistent with elevated levels of solid stress, the mechanotherapeutic tranilast, which decompressed lung metastasis vessels, is administered to mice bearing metastases, thereby restoring perfusion and alleviating hypoxia. As a result, the nanomedicine Doxil causes cytotoxic effects into metastases more efficiently, stimulating anti‐tumor immunity. Indeed, when combining tranilast with Doxil and ICBs, synergistic effects on efficacy, with all mice cured in one of the two ICB‐insensitive tumor models investigated is resulted. These results suggest that strategies to treat breast cancer with nano‐immunotherapy should also include a mechanotherapeutic to decompress vessels.
The 2D/2D p–n heterojunction of ZnCoMOF/g‐C3N4 with enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation
Authors: Lv Pan , Duan Fang , Sheng Jialiang , Lu Shuanglong , Zhu Han , Du Mingliang , Chen Mingqing
Published: December 2020

Construction of heterojunction is an important means to improve photocatalytic performance. In this work, 2D/2D ZnCoMOF/g‐C3N4 heterojunction photocatalyst was designed and successfully obtained by electrostatic assembly. Combing the complementary advantages of two‐dimensional MOFs and g‐C3N4, the obtained composite samples showed superior photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance. By optimizing the composite ratios and metal centers of MOFs, g‐C3N4 composited with 5 wt% bimetallic ZnCoMOF (CNZnCo5) was obtained and exhibited the highest hydrogen production rate of 1,040.1 μmol/g/h, which was 33.2 times of bulk g‐C3N4 and 3.5 times of 2D g‐C3N4. Besides, the reasons for the improvement of photocatalytic hydrogen production were analyzed by a series of optical and photoelectrochemical measurements. The formation of ZnCoMOF/g‐C3N4 p–n heterojunction enhanced the absorption of visible light, and the 2D/2D heterojunction shortened the distance of charges migration to the surface, thus accelerating the charges separation and transfer. This work may provide some insights into design and preparation of specific 2D/2D heterojunction with enhanced photocatalytic performance.
Advanced Carbon Materials for Sodium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Wang Baowei , Gao Xu , Xu Laiqiang , Zou Kangyu , Cai Peng , Deng Xinglan , Yang Li , Hou Hongshuai , Zou Guoqiang , Ji Xiaobo
Published: December 2020

Nonaqueous sodium‐ion capacitors (SICs), as a new type of energy storage cell, can potentially achieve high energy‐power densities, long cycling lifespan, and low cost in one device. Given this, developing suitable carbonaceous electrode materials for carbon‐based SICs is of great significance. Unlike lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) that have been successfully commercialized, SICs are still at an early stage. As a result, rational electrode material design for SICs is needed to meet the requirements of electrochemical energy‐storage systems. Carbon materials with a wide range of sources and low toxicity deliver significant potential applications in high‐performance SICs, whether as positive or negative parts. Various carbonaceous electrode materials have been explored and investigated for developing SICs over the past years. This Review firstly introduces the classical and widely used configurations and corresponding energy‐storage mechanism in detail for SICs. Then, recent progress on carbonaceous electrode materials, including cathode and anode materials, are summarized. Finally, the challenges and some suggestions on the future development of carbon‐based SICs are proposed.
Understanding disparities in cancer prognosis: An extension of mediation analysis to the relative survival framework
Authors: Syriopoulou Elisavet , Rutherford Mark J. , Lambert Paul C.
Published: December 2020

Mediation analysis can be applied to investigate the effect of a third variable on the pathway between an exposure and the outcome. Such applications include investigating the determinants that drive differences in cancer survival across subgroups. However, cancer disparities may be the result of complex mechanisms that involve both cancer‐related and other‐cause mortality differences making it difficult to identify the causing factors. Relative survival, a commonly used measure in cancer epidemiology, can be used to focus on cancer‐related differences. We extended mediation analysis to the relative survival framework for exploring cancer inequalities. The marginal effects were obtained using regression standardization, after fitting a relative survival model. Contrasts of interests included both marginal relative survival and marginal all‐cause survival differences between exposure groups. Such contrasts include the indirect effect due to a mediator that is identifiable under certain assumptions. A separate model was fitted for the mediator and uncertainty was estimated using parametric bootstrapping. The avoidable deaths under interventions can also be estimated to quantify the impact of eliminating differences. The methods are illustrated using data for individuals diagnosed with colon cancer. Mediation analysis within relative survival allows focus on factors that account for cancer‐related differences instead of all‐cause differences and helps improve our understanding on cancer inequalities.
Mindfulness as a way to cope with COVID‐19‐related stress and anxiety
Authors: Weis Robert , Ray Sullivan D. , Cohen Tema A.
Published: December 2020

COVID‐19 brought significant challenges to college students in Spring 2020. Mindfulness‐based interventions might help students cope with COVID‐19‐related stressors in at least three ways: by cultivating attention that is self‐directed rather than reactive to a rapidly changing situation; by teaching the acceptance and regulation of negative thoughts and feelings; and by encouraging individuals to view adverse events non‐judgementally and as opportunities for growth. The purpose of our study was to determine whether Koru Mindfulness (KM), a four‐week, mindfulness‐based group therapy designed for emerging adults, could help students cope with COVID‐19‐related stress and anxiety. Students were assigned to either KM or waitlist at the beginning of the 2020 Spring semester. Assessment of students’ functioning occurred at baseline before the onset of COVID‐19, mid‐semester at the height of the COVID‐19 crisis on campus, and the end of the semester after students had returned home and transitioned to remote learning. After treatment, KM participants reported greater mindfulness and self‐compassion and less stress, anxiety and sleep problems than controls. KM participants also showed superior functioning on performance‐based measures of attention. Most gains were maintained over time. Increased mindfulness mediated the relationship between KM and reductions in stress and anxiety. KM can help students cope with academic and COVID‐19‐related stressors by improving mindfulness.
Redo mitral valve replacement through minithoracotomy on ventricular fibrillation: Bailout for a nightmare Redo
Authors: Monteiro João Pedro , Costa Sara Simões , Paulo Nelson Santos , Pereira Rodolfo
Published: December 2020

A 56‐year‐old woman entered the emergency department due to worsening dyspnea. Severe mitral regurgitation and pulmonary artery dilation with flow compatible with fistula were observed by transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. The patient had history of an ALCAPA (anomalous left coronary artery from pulmonary artery) syndrome having undergone coronary artery bypass grafting (saphenous venous graft to left anterior descending artery) 30 years before. Coronary angiography and computed tomography revealed patency of the graft, with the dilated vein running across the front of the ascending aorta and being responsible for the perfusion of the left anterior descending artery and circumflex artery. We resent this case for discussion of which surgical strategy/options are available in order to treat the mitral valve and avoid injuring the patent graft.