bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drought events analysis and spatial distribution for the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Paraiba, Brazil
Authors: Juliani Bruno Henrique Toná , Pompeu Cássia Rocha , Okawa Cristhiane Michiko Passos
Published: July 2019

The application of the Standardized Precipitation Index was established for 13 rain gauge stations selected in the catchment sub-basins of number 37 and 38, which correspond to the area of the states Rio Grande do Norte and Paraiba. The monthly rainfall data of the stations was analyzed, and the missing data was filled by simple linear regression. A 6-month time scale was adopted for the method; the data was organized in a moving cumulative distribution of precipitation and applied to the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). In the application of the method, the cumulative values are processed into a normal distribution with the mean zero and variance one. That way, a drought event begins when the cumulative precipitation in the historical data series reaches an SPI value smaller than or equal to -1.00. Between 22 and 26 events for the stations of the sub-basin 37, and between 18 and 22 events for the stations of sub-basin 38 were identified. Medium-term tendencies were observed, with the occurrence of events every year or two, proving certain seasonality. The obtained values were then transformed into a return period of 20 years, and an isohyetal map was developed with the purpose to show the spatial variation of the event precipitation. By the outlined map, becomes evident an area of higher precipitation rates, situated on the coast along the states, and a drier region, located in the inland territory.
Characterization and evaluation of potential impacts in the environment of residual fiber from cellulose
Authors: Zonta Neto Alvaro João , Oliveira Mariana Gomes , Skoronski Everton , Alves Maurício Vicente
Published: July 2019

The search for alternative final destinations for residue from industrial processes is a growing problem. Pulp and paper industries generate large amounts of residue, which are not always reused or do not receive adequate final destination. An alternative is its reuse, using the final disposal of the residue in the soil, for its potential to inactivate part of the chemical compounds, allowing its use as agricultural inputs of low cost. The purpose of this study was to analyze the final residue of the treatment plant of a pulp and paper industry using the kraft pulping method, which allows a high resistance and low lignin cellulose pulp with the advantage of recovering the chemicals used, reducing costs. In order to pre-evaluate this disposal possibility, this study carried out the classification of the waste classifying the hazardousness of the cellulose fiber, and its behavior under solubilization and leaching tests. The results of the analysis showed that the reactivity characteristics and solubilization of substances in water above the maximum permissible value (MPV), characterizing the residue as non-inert and Hazardous Class I due to the presence of S2- releasing H2S in concentrations above than those established by the regulations.
Water quality assessment of an urban stream in Lages, Brazil, through analysis of water physicochemical properties and study of benthic macroinvertebrate communities
Authors: Cardoso Josiane Teresinha , Girotto Sandy Bernardi Falcadi Tedesco , Silva Flávia Arcari da , Schein Viviane Aparecida Spinelli , Leite Daiana Petry
Published: July 2019

Urban growth causes environmental problems such as water contamination which, in turn, affects aquatic organisms and human populations. This work presents a study of an urban stream in Lages, SC, Brazil, hit by continued sewage discharge along part of its course. Through analysis of physicochemical and biological parameters, the water was classified according to the CONAMA Resolution 357/05 and the BMWP’ index. Samples were collected 5 times over one year at 5 sites: 2 sites upstream the area of sewage discharge, 2 sites in the area, and 1 site downstream the area. Dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, phosphate, colour, and turbidity were the analysed physicochemical parameters. Benthic mocroinvertebrates were utilized for the biologic analyses. The sites upstream the area of sewage discharge presented the highest BMWP’ and diversity indices, highest dissolved oxigen rates, and the lowest concentration of total phosphorus. Water at these sites was ranked class 1. The other sites, in and downstream the area of sewage discharge, presented the lowest dissolved oxygen rates, high total phosphorus and turbidity values, and the lowest diversity and uniformity values. Water at these sites was ranked class 4 (polluted). Data analysis is in agreement with the degree of pollution observed along the stream, which undergoes anthropogenic impacts from source to canalization.
El «statu quo» y las perspectivas del programa de movilidad internacional de estudiantes chinos con las universidades españolas
Authors: Xing Chen , Zixin Li
Published: July 2019

In the context of globalization and internationalization of higher education, increasing international students’ exchange has become an important strategy for countries to participate in international development competition. The exchanges between international universities are enormously strengthened, among which the student exchange program is one of the most important forms of cooperation. What’s more, students of foreign language universities have always been particularly active in these intercultural exchanges due to their special academic nature. This article takes Chinese students of Spanish major as an example to illustrate the current situation of Chinese students in the exchange programs with Spanish universities. This paper uses various research methods such as surveys, questionnaires and SPSS Statistics, with the aim of reviewing the problems existing in the current exchange programs and analyzing the relations between some certain variables, which helps us put forward corresponding measures and suggestions for further development and look into a broader and richer future of the exchanges and cooperation between universities worldwide in the new situation.
Dialéctica platónica y metodología
Authors: Pons Dominguis Jesús
Published: July 2019

The objective of this work is to apply the analogical dialectic developed by Plato as an adequate methodology to understand his thinking. In this sense, I will first address the terminological clarifications necessary to delimit the approach to the issue and pay special attention to the notion of symploké introduced by Plato and later developed by Jesus G. Maestro as one of the central hermeneutical criteria that the Critique of literature must take into account to avoid falling into the interpretative univocity or the own equivocality of postmodernity. Second, I will make a methodological approach to the reading of the dialogues of Plato in order to show the necessary articulation of the dramatic and doctrinal aspects to understand the Platonic philosophy from the notions of dialectic and analogy. From this perspective, I will present in third place the notion of dialectics in some dialogues of Plato and the use of analogy to show to what extent dialectical methodology can be the instrument capable of guiding reason in the process of ascension towards the search for truth.
Energy Consumption and Economic Growth: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Ha Minh , Bui Ngoc Hoang , Vo Duc Hong , McAleer Michael
Published: July 2019

The importance of non-renewable, renewable and sustainable energy sources and energy consumption in the economic development strategy of a country is undeniable. The purpose of the paper is to investigate the impacts of energy consumption on the economic growth of Vietnam during the 1980-2014 period. By applying the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model of Pesaran et al. (2001), and the Granger causality test of Toda and Yamamoto (1995), the empirical results provide evidence that electricity consumption has positive impacts on Vietnam's economic growth in both the short run and long run. For public policy prescriptions, the empirical evidence suggests that an exploration of new sources of renewable and sustainable energy is essential for long run economic development.
Relação entre índice de qualidade das águas e densidade demográfica dasimétrica em igarapés urbanos Amazônicos
Authors: Rocha Victor Nathan Lima da , Andrade Nara Luísa Reis de
Published: July 2019

A urbanização insustentável acarreta números impactos ambientais, o que acaba repercutindo na depleção da qualidade ambiental, particularmente nas águas superficiais urbanas. Estudos relacionando a densidade demográfica à qualidade da água ainda são escassos. Diante disso, o objetivo da presente pesquisa foi avaliar a qualidade das águas urbanas em Ji-Paraná (RO) e identificar as relações existentes entre a densidade demográfica dasimétrica e o Índice de Qualidade das Águas (IQA) em seus igarapés urbanos. Nas etapas metodológicas foram selecionados 10 diferentes postos de amostragem em setores censitários de distintas classes de densidade demográfica, resultantes da interpolação de dados orbitais e censitários, sendo que para cada posto foram aferidos os IQA nos períodos chuvoso, vazante, estiagem e enchente, perfazendo 8 campanhas de coletas. As amostras foram caracterizadas por meio de análises físicas, químicas e microbiológicas consoantes com normas nacionais (NBR/ABNT) e internacionais (SM/APHA). Por fim, os valores de densidade demográfica dasimétrica foram correlacionados estatisticamente com os de IQA, por meio da correlação de Pearson. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, a área de estudo possui uma amplitude na densidade demográfica dasimétrica de 6976 habitante/km²; foi evidenciada baixa qualidade dos igarapés urbanos, grande parte dos postos apresentaram IQA na classe péssima e ruim nos quatro períodos, sobretudo nos de enchente e chuvoso, e o período vazante apresentou maior sensibilidade de correlação, com valor de ρ=-0,75, enquanto os demais períodos apresentaram fraca correlação negativa. As correlações negativas da densidade demográfica dasimétrica com o IQA indicam uma relação de depleção na qualidade da água superficial urbana em decorrência do aumento da concentração populacional, conquanto sejam diversos e complexos os aspectos envolvidos nesse vínculo.
Reproductive biology of Hybopsis amblops, the Bigeye Chub, in the Flint River of Alabama
Authors: Tarver Crissy L , Stallsmith Bruce W
Published: July 2019

Background. The purpose of this study was to establish a reproductive schedule and examine reproductive traits that shape fecundity of the Bigeye Chub, Hybopsis amblops Cyprinidae, in the Flint River system of north Alabama.

Methods. Life history traits associated with reproduction, growth, and maturation were assessed. Fish collections were made monthly from August, 2013, through July, 2014.

Results. The Bigeye Chub in Alabama primarily spawns in April and May as indicated by gonadosomatic index (GSI), ovarian condition and clutch size. Average GSI values began to rise in February, peaked in April and May at over 13% for females and 1.6% for males, and showed a steep decline from May to June for both sexes. Average clutch size was highest in April at 812. Diameter of the most mature oocyte stage averaged 0.74 mm, relatively small compared to other cyprinids found in the Flint River.

Discussion. The Bigeye Chub’s relatively large clutch size as a measure of fecundity places the species intermediate between opportunistic and periodic in the trilateral life history scheme of Winemiller and Rose. The species is apparently responding to a flow regime with a defined seasonality as well as predictability of flow and resources.
Integrating the extracellular, intracellular, and intercellular metabolic processes of Escherichia coli through glucose saturation, inhibition of the acetyl-CoA carboxylase subunit accA with asRNA, and through quantifying cell to cell quorum-sensing
Authors: Hillman Tatiana , Tobin Cory
Published: July 2019

The study aims to demonstrate the link between bacterial cell metabolism and virulence through integrating the environmental, genetic, and cell to cell signaling molecular processes. Dietary fiber metabolized into glucose, increases the proliferation of intestinal microflora, which augments the outputof the Short Chain Fatty Acids. Bacteria ferment the glucose, from fiber, into Short Chain Fatty Acids, which help regulate many biochemical processes and pathways. Each SCFA maintains colonic pH, promotes cell differentiation, and the apoptosis of colonocytes. To model a high-fiber diet, increasing the synthesis of Acetyl-CoA carboxylase, an enzyme that catabolizes glucose into SCFAs, Escherichia coli was cultured in Luria Broth enhanced with a high to low concentration of glucose. The 15mM, a high concentration of glucose, yielded qPCR products measured, for the target gene accA, which was 4,210ng/µL. The 7.5mM sample produced a concentration equaled to 375 ng/µL, and the 0µM sample measured an accA concentration of 196 ng/µL. The gene accA, 1 of 4 subunits for the Acetyl-CoA Carboxylase enzyme, was suppressed by asRNA, producing a qPCR concentration of 63ng/µL. Antisense RNA for accA reduced the amount of Lux-S, a vital gene needed for propagating quorum-sensing signal molecules. The Lux-S gene, responsible for releasing autoinducer 2 for cell to cell quorum sensing, was reduced by the gene inhibition of accA with asRNA. The increase in Lux-S transcription increases biofilm production for spreading virulence. The further implications of the study propose designing antibiotics that target bacterial cell metabolic processes to block bacterial antibiotic resistance.
OLA1 is responsible for normal spindle assembly and SAC activation in mouse oocytes
Authors: Xie Di , Zhang Juan , Ding JinLi , Yang Jing , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2019

Background. OLA1 is a member of the GTPase protein family, unlike other members, it can bind and hydrolyze ATP more efficiently than GTP. OLA1 participates in cell proliferation, oxidative response and tumorigenesis. However, whether OLA1 is also required for oocyte meiosis is still unknown.

Methods. In this study, the localization, expression, and functions of OLA1 in the mouse oocyte meiosis were examined. Immunofluorescent and confocal microscopy were used to explore the location pattern of OLA1 in the mouse oocyte. Moreover, nocodazole treatment was used to confirm the spindle-like location of OLA1 during mouse meiosis. Western blot was used to explore the expression pattern of OLA1 in the mouse oocyte. Microinjection of siRNA was used to explore the OLA1 functions in the mouse oocyte meiosis. In addition, chromosome spreading was used to investigate the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) activity.

Results. Immunoﬂuorescent staining showed that OLA1 evenly distributed in the cytoplasm at germinal vesicle (GV) stage. After meiosis resumption (GVBD), OLA1 co-localized with spindles, which was further identified by nocodazole treatment experiments. Knockdown of OLA1 impaired the germinal vesicle breakdown progression and finally resulted in a lower polar body extrusion rate. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that knockdown of OLA1 led to abnormal spindle assembly, which was evidenced by multipolar spindles in OLA1-RNAi-oocytes. After 6 h post-GVBD in culture, an increased proportion of oocyte which has precociously entered into anaphase/telephase I (A/TI) was observed in OLA1-knockdown oocytes, suggesting that loss of OLA1 resulted in the premature segregation of homologous chromosomes. In addition, the chromosome spread analysis suggested that OLA1 knockdown induced premature anaphase onset was due to the precocious inactivation of SAC. Taken together, we concluded that OLA1 plays important role in GVBD, spindle assembly and SAC activation maintenance in oocyte meiosis.
Clinical and Sociodemographic Characteristics of Patients with Ingrown Nails
Authors: Arica Ibrahim Etem , Bostanci Seher , Kocyigit Pelin , Arica Deniz Aksu
Published: July 2019

Background:

Ingrown nail is a common health problem that significantly affects daily life due to its painful nature. The purpose of this study was to reveal the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of ingrown nails.

Methods:

The clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of patients older than 18 years presenting with ingrown nail were investigated.

Results:

Two hundred six patients aged 18 to 77 years (mean age, 39 years; female to male ratio, 1.45) were included in the study. A total of 729 lesions were evaluated (718 ingrown nails were on the feet and 11 were on the fingers). A family history of ingrown nail was present in 7.6% of the participants. Of the 206 patients, 26.7% were treated with surgical methods for ingrown nails previously and experienced recurrence. Ingrown toenails were in the hallux in 81.3% of patients, and 52% were on the lateral margin. Incorrect nail-cutting habits (73.5%), poorly fitting shoes (46.2%), excessive angulation of the nail plate (35.8%), obesity (34.1%), trauma to the feet (24.3%), pregnancy (23.8% of women), hyperhidrosis (16.8%), and lateral deviation of the nail plate (9.9%) were closely associated with ingrown nails.

Conclusions:

This study revealed the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of ingrown nails. The study data will be useful in preventing the development of ingrown nail and recurrences after treatment by identifying and then eliminating conditions establishing a predisposition to it.
Traumatic Hallux Varus in Association with Agenesis of the Fibular Sesamoid: A Case Study
Authors: Lee Tracy , Monson Erik
Published: July 2019

Hallux varus is most commonly seen iatrogenically following overaggressive lateral release, removal of the fibular sesamoid, or overaggressive removal of the medial eminence. There are several reported cases of traumatic hallux varus, although this is much less common. We present a case of traumatic hallux varus in a patient who was later found to have bilateral absence of her fibular sesamoids. We postulated that lack of her fibular sesamoid led to weakness of her lateral capsular ligaments, thereby making her more susceptible to this injury. We performed a repair using a split extensor hallucis longus tendon transfer that was transected proximally, rerouted the tendon under the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament, and secured it to the first metatarsal with a Bio-Tenodesis (Arthrex, Inc, Naples, Florida) screw. At 22 months postoperatively, she has demonstrated maintenance of correction and has resumed use of normal shoe gear and participation in activities. Our goal was to demonstrate a repair for this condition that successfully maintained correction over time while still allowing for functionality of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
Reliability of a New Method to Determine Foot Arch Height for Clinicians
Authors: Charles James A. , Mignot Clare , Jelinek Herbert F.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Arch height is an important indicator of risk of foot pathology. The current non-invasive gold standard based on footprint information requires extensive pre-processing. Methods used to obtain arch height that are accurate and easier to use are required in routine clinical practice.

Methods:

The proposed arch index diagonals (AId) method for determining the arch index (AI) reduces the complexity of the preprocessing steps. All footprints were first prepared as required by the Cavanagh and Rodgers method for determining the AI and then compared to the proposed diagonals method. Results were classified according to the Cavanagh and Rodgers cut-off values into three groups of low, normal and high AI. ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests were applied to identify significant differences between AI groups. Linear modeling was applied to determine the fit of the new AId method compared to the Cavanagh and Rodgers AI.

Results:

One hundred and ninety-six footprints were analyzed. The ANOVA indicated significant differences between the groups for AId (F1,194=94.49, p<0.0001) and the Tukey post hoc tests indicated significant differences between the pair-wise comparisons (p<0.001). Linear modeling indicated that the AId ratio classified more footprints in the high arch group compared to Cavanagh and Rodgers results (R2=32%, p< 0.01). Intra- and inter-rater correspondence was above 90% and confirmed that the AId results provided a better indication of arch height.

Conclusions:

The proposed method simplifies current processing steps to derive the arch height.
Distal Fibular Osteochondroma Resulting in Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: DeHeer Patrick A. , Thompson Nicholas
Published: July 2019

Background:

Osteochondromas are benign osseous tumors encountered most routinely by physicians responsible for diagnosing musculoskeletal disorders. Often, these osseous lesions are identified following symptoms related to their impingement on adjacent soft tissue or bone.

Methods:

This article presents a unique case of an asymptomatic osteochondroma of the distal fibula in a 29-year-old Caucasian woman that manifested clinically as an impingement on the tibial nerve.

Results:

After resection of the osteochondroma, the patient's tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms resolved.

Conclusions:

This case report demonstrates a never-before-described osteochondroma of the distal fibula traversing posterior to the ankle joint and impinging on the tibial nerve. After resection, the patient's symptoms resolved.
Ancient origins of arthropod moulting pathway components
Authors: de Oliveira André Luiz , Calcino Andrew , Wanninger Andreas
Published: July 2019

Ecdysis (moulting) is the defining character of Ecdysoza (arthropods, nematodes and related phyla). Despite superficial similarities, the signalling cascade underlying moulting differs between Panarthropoda and the remaining ecdysozoans. Here, we reconstruct the evolution of major components of the ecdysis pathway. Its key elements evolved much earlier than previously thought and are present in non-moulting lophotrochozoans and deuterostomes. Eclosion hormone (EH) and bursicon originated prior to the cnidarian-bilaterian split, whereas ecdysis-triggering hormone (ETH) and crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP) evolved in the bilaterian last common ancestor (LCA). Identification of EH, CCAP and bursicon in Onychophora and EH, ETH and CCAP in Tardigrada suggests that the pathway was present in the panarthropod LCA. Trunk, an ancient extracellular signalling molecule and a well-established paralog of the insect peptide prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH), is present in the non-bilaterian ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi. This constitutes the first case of a ctenophore signalling peptide with homology to a neuropeptide.
Non-Wettable Surfaces – From Natural to Artificial and Applications: A Critical Review
Authors: Tyowua Andrew Terhemen , Targema Msugh , Ubuo Emmanuel Etim
Published: July 2019

Non-wettable surfaces have recently attracted significant attention due to their enormous promising applications. These applications are primarily due to their ability to repel liquid drops and remain unwetted. In this review, the various names used in describing non-wettable surfaces
are given. This is followed by the fundamental theories of wetting. Natural non-wettable surfaces are then considered, along with their importance. Thereafter, we discuss how artificial non-wettable (biomimetic) surfaces are prepared. Next, the basic properties of non-wettable surfaces, which
make them promising candidates for a wide range of applications, are discussed. Furthermore, the various applications of non-wettable surfaces are discussed, with references made to review articles with specific coverage of named applications. We conclude with a summary, challenges limiting
the application of non-wettable surfaces to some real-life situations and possible suggestions to mitigate them as well as opportunities for future work.
A possible new spawning area for Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus): the first histologic evidence of reproductive activity in the southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Cruz-Castán Roberto , Saber Sámar , Macías David , Gómez Vives María José , Galindo-Cortes Gabriela , Curiel-Ramirez Sergio , Meiners-Mandujano César
Published: July 2019

The number of studies of reproductive biology for Atlantic bluefin tuna carried out in the Gulf of Mexico is significantly lower than those undertaken in the Mediterranean Sea. Four spawning areas have been found for the eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna stock in the Mediterranean Sea, so it is not implausible that there is more than one spawning area in the Gulf of Mexico for the western Atlantic bluefin tuna stock. The individuals used in this study were caught as bycatch by the Mexican surface longline fleet between January and April 2015. A total of 63 individuals ranging between 192 and 293 cm LF (mean = 238 ± 22.52 cm) were measured. Gonads from 46 fish (31 females and 15 males) were collected for histological examination. All the individuals were classified as mature; 25 were reproductively active (in spawning capable and spawning stages). The histological analysis indicates spawning activity in Mexican waters (the southern Gulf of Mexico). Spawning occurred in March and April, when the sea surface temperature was 25.57 °C ± 0.69 in March and 27.03 °C ± 0.69 in April. Information on the location of the spawning areas is necessary for a correct management of species. The present study provides the first histological evidence of reproductive activity in Mexican waters, and indicates a wider spawning area, beyond just the northern zone, potentially encompassing the entire Gulf of Mexico.
RAD genotyping reveals fine-scale population structure and provides evidence for adaptive divergence in a commercially important fish from the northwestern Pacific Ocean
Authors: Zhang Bai-Dong , Xue Dong-Xiu , Li Yu-Long , Liu Jin-Xian
Published: July 2019

Exploring factors shaping genetic structure of marine fish is challenging due to fewer barriers to gene flow in the ocean. However, genome-wide sequence data can greatly enhance our ability to delineate previously unidentified population structure as well as potential adaptive divergence. The small yellow croaker (Larimichthys polyactis) is a commercially important fish species with high gene flow and its overwintering populations experience heterogeneous environment, suggesting possible population differentiation and adaptive divergence. To delineate patterns of population structure as well as test for signatures of local adaptation, a total of 68,666 quality filtered SNP markers were identified for 80 individuals from four overwintering populations by using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq). Significant genetic differentiation among overwintering populations from the Central Yellow Sea, the South Yellow Sea and the North East China Sea were detected (Pair-wiseFST: 0.00036–0.00390), which were consistent with population division of overwintering groups inferred from traditional ecological approaches. In addition, a total of 126 unique SNPs were detected to be significantly associated with environmental parameters (temperature, salinity and turbidity). These candidate SNPs were involved in multiple pathways such as energy metabolism and phagocytosis, suggesting they may play key roles in growth and innate immunity. Our results suggested the existence of hitherto unrecognized cryptic population structure and local adaptation in this high gene flow marine fish and thus gain new insights into the design of management strategies.
Farmers Attitude towards Organic Farming: A Case Study in Chapainawabganj District
Authors: Ghosh Mithun Kumar , Sohel Mehedi Hashan , Ara Nazmin , Zahara Fatima Tuj , Nur Sajid Bin , Hasan Md. Mahamudul
Published: July 2019

The main purpose of the study was to evaluate farmers socio-economic status, attitude and relationship among them towards organic farming. The study was conducted in five upazilas of Chapainawabganj district in Bangladesh. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 40 respondents. Attitude of respondents toward organic farming was measured with twenty statements using five point likert type scales. To explore the relationship between the concerned variables correlation coefficient (r) was computed. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the variables. Majority of the respondents were male (90%), average age was 44 years. 45% respondents were illiterate, had average 4 years of farming experience. Majority of the respondents (80%) had positive attitude towards organic farming. Relatives and Extension Agents were found as the main information source of organic farming for most of the respondents. Cosmopoliteness and Extension contact had positive and significant relationship with their attitude (.461 and .377 respectively). It was concluded that farmers were knowledgeable about organic farming and also had favourable attitude toward its practices. Efforts should therefore be made to promote and increase the practice of organic farming. By promoting organic farming practice, farm income is increased than conventional farming.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among Blood Donors at Madhya Pradesh, India: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Gupta Prakriti , Sharma Dharmesh Chandra , Yadav Umesh Chandra , Bindal Jyoti , Pandey K. K.
Published: July 2019

Background: Viral hepatitis is a global health problem with 170 million Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) carriers worldwide, and 12-13 million HCV carriers in India.

Unscreened blood and components play a significant role in transmission of HCV apart from reuse of injection needles, unsterilized surgical equipments and vertical transmission from mother to child.  Unsafe blood transfusion not only poses risk to patients, causing significant morbidity and mortality, but also adds to the economical burden on healthcare system.

Aims and Objectives: Aim of this study is to estimate the seroprevalence of HCV infection among the voluntary and relative donors over a period of 7 years at blood banks of Madhya Pradesh with collaboration of Madhya Pradesh State AIDS control Society (MPSACS) Bhopal, India from 2011 to 2017.

Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study of blood donation at blood banks, of Madhya Pradesh, India.  Blood units were screened for TTIs from January 2011 To December 2017. HIV, HCV and HBV tests were done by ELISA. Data of HCV was collected and compared statistically by frequency distribution and percentage proportion. Chi Square (χ 2) test was used to determine the significant difference statistically.

Results: The mean age of donors was 32.4 2 ± 8.63 years. Major contribution was from male donors (93.8%). Majority of donation was done voluntarily (87.3 %).  Out of the total 1,876,219 donors tested for TTIs over 7 years, 1980 (0.11%) were positive to anti HCV (p=.000001).

Conclusion: The prevalence of HCV infection was 0.11% among blood donors of Madhya Pradesh, with geographic variation among districts. Aiming to provide safe blood to the patients, prevention of transmission of HCV by proper donor counseling and screening of the unit is required.
How Political Events Can Motivate Some Risk Mitigation Activities for Climate Change
Authors: Farrooz Maliha , Dillon Robin , Hydock Chris
Published: July 2019

Aim: To stem the risks of future climate change, more people need to be motivated to take actions that will mitigate the release of greenhouse gases into the environment. Important to this discussion was that these actions include both public and private sphere behaviors.

Duration of Study: April 2016 to March 2017.

Methodology: We surveyed individual’s beliefs about climate change and their stated willingness to take different actions to mitigate the risks of climate change.

Results: Public sphere behaviors affect the environment only indirectly by influencing either public policies or other private sphere behaviors. Private sphere behaviors have direct environmental consequences but the consequences are small. Individual private sphere behaviors have environmentally significant impacts only in the aggregate when many people independently do similar things.

Conclusion: Our study replicated many of the results from the literature, in particular, that individuals are most willing to engage in small private actions to mitigate climate change, and that at least for large private acts and public acts, individuals who describe themselves as Democrats are also more willing to engage in more costly acts. Our survey also showed an important effect from the 2016 election of President of USA. Following the election, Democrats stated an increased willingness to engage in public sphere acts over time. If more individuals engaging in more public acts can influence public policy and can convert other individuals to engage in more private acts over time, then electing leadership who is negative toward climate change can ultimately result in motivating more individual mitigation activity for climate change.

Summary: This work shows that electing leaders who are negative toward climate change could provide a strong motivation for some individuals to be more willing to engage in public sphere acts over time to mitigate climate change.
The Potential of Benefiting Variation between the Same Species of Artemisia Herba-alba from Different Location in Northeast of Libya
Authors: Ali Rania. F. M. , Alaila Ahlam K. , Aldaaiek Gebreel. A. A.
Published: July 2019

The medicinal plants (Artemisia herba-alba) were subjected to mineral analysis, total protein and the phenolic contents. Couple plants were collected from AL-Gabal AL-Akhder region in Northeast of Libya (Coastal and Desert) Artemisia herba-alba 1 Artemisia herba-alba 2 respectively during November (2018).  Results showed that mineral content found to vary significantly. Appreciable amounts of calcium Ca was recorded 84.930 ppm in Artemisia herba-alba 1 while 30 ppm in Artemisia herba-alba 2, potassium (K) was 43.3 and 27.6 ppm in Artemisia herba-alba 1 and Artemisia herba-alba 2 respectively. Meanwhile, Fe was recorded as 0.39, 0.52 ppm in Artemisia herba-alba1 and 2. Level of total protein was 9.95 and 7.79 (mg/g) in Artemisia herba-alba 1 and Artemisia herba-alba 2 respectively. Present study found that the phenolic compounds were determined in both plants with high levels. The available data indicate the two plants were found to contain Alkaloids, essential oils, flavonoids, glycosides, phenolic compounds, sterols/triterpenes, and tannins. However, sterols/ triterpenes and coumarins were found in herba-alba 1  significantly, while Alkaloids, flavonoids, and Saponins found highest in herba-alba 2 compared to herba-alba 1 on the other side the quantity of essential oils was higher in the herba-alba 2.
Genetic Variability and Character Association for Oil Yield and Its Components in Physic Nut (Jatropha curcas L.)
Authors: Odiyi A. C. , Alegbeleye E. F.
Published: July 2019

The need to find suitable alternative to fossil fuel necessitated the search for non-food oil crops like physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.). Improvement of the crop requires adequate knowledge of extent of genetic variability present. Therefore, a study was carried out to determine genetic variability and character association among forty local and exotic accessions of physic nut. The accessions were evaluated in two years in randomized complete block design with three replications. Results indicated highly significant variation among the accessions for all characters studied except plant height and number of seeds per fruit. High estimates of heritability were observed in number of leaves (84.10%) and seed oil (94.97%) while heritability was low in number of seeds (11.30%) and plant height (13.36%), other characters had moderate heritability. High heritability estimates were accompanied by relatively low genetic advance in all the traits except kernel oil, an indication that the character has high selection value with less environmental influence. Correlation analysis showed that tall plants produced bigger seeds because of the positive association between plant height and seed weight. Therefore, seed weight can be used as selection index.
Fatores que propiciam o desenvolvimento de Staphylococcus aureus em alimentos e riscos atrelados a contaminação: uma breve revisão
Authors: Andrade Júnior Francisco Patricio de , Lima Brenda Tamires De Medeiros , Alves Thiago Willame Barbosa , Menezes Maria Emília da Silva
Published: July 2019

O Staphylococcus aureus é um coco Gram-positivo encontrado em pele e mucosas de seres humanos. Em alimentos, pode produzir toxinas termo-estáveis capazes de causar intoxicação estafilocócica. O presente estudo teve como objetivo fazer uma revisão bibliográfica acerca da contaminação de alimentos pela bactéria S. aureus, ressaltando fatores que propiciam o seu desenvolvimento em alimentos e riscos atrelados a essa contaminação. Houve a consulta das bases de dados Medline/Pubmed, Lilacs e Scielo, utilizando-se artigos publicados entre os anos de 2000 à 2017. O S. aureus tem a capacidade de se multiplicar em diversos alimentos, se comparado a outros microrganismos, em decorrência de sua presença na microbiota normal, o que facilita a dispersão em alimentos pelos manipuladores, e por apresentar características oportunas de desenvolvimento, como aw= 0,86 e pH= 4,0, indicando grande capacidade de adaptação aos mais diversos alimentos. Este desenvolvimento pode propiciar a produção das enterotoxinas estafilocócicas que causam a intoxicação estafilocócica a partir da ingestão mínima de 100 ng, raramente leva a morte, contudo exige especial cuidado em crianças, idosos e pacientes imunocomprometidos. Mais estudos acerca do desenvolvimento de S. aureus nos alimentos são necessários, uma vez que, podem propiciar o surgimento de novas estratégias de armazenamento e processamento específicas de acordo com as particularidades de cada alimento.
Percepção de cuidadores quanto aos riscos de acidentes na infância
Authors: Caricchio Milena Braga Maia , Castro Martha Moreira Cavalcante , Daltro Carla Hilário da Cunha
Published: July 2019

Objetivo: Compreender como cuidadores de crianças menores de dez anos percebem os riscos de acidentes no ambiente doméstico. Método: Estudo do tipo transversal. Foram entrevistados 60 (sessenta) responsáveis por alunos de uma escola pública municipal. A coleta de dados ocorreu em dezembro de 2014 e de julho a outubro de 2015. Resultados: Quanto a amostra houve a prevalência de mulheres entre 18 e 40 anos de idade, com companheiro e ensino médio. A maior parte relatou não trabalhar e possuir renda média familiar de até 1 salário mínimo. A percepção geral dos entrevistados foi a de que a queda é o acidente não letal mais comum e o acidente automobilístico é o que causa mais mortes de crianças no país. Afirmaram ainda que os maiores riscos em casa são a queda seguida da queimadura, mas apenas uma pequena parcela acreditava que os riscos são passíveis de prevenção. Conclusão: Acidentes com crianças em casa ainda são subestimados e pouco valorizados pelos adultos. Assim é fundamental que esforços sejam empreendidos para conscientizar os cuidadores quanto ao tema e a necessidade do seu comprometimento para que haja uma efetiva redução desses índices no país.
A ocorrência da Síndrome de Burnout em universitários de cursos da área da saúde de uma instituição privada na região Norte de Minas Gerais: um estudo transversal
Authors: Assunção Darah , Gonçalves Fábio , Andrade Alisson , Rocja Josiane , Gonçalves Fernando
Published: July 2019

A Síndrome de Burnout é definida como uma desordem mental, caracterizada por esgotamento de energia, falta de realização profissional, desgaste emocional, e sentimento de incompetência, que acomete principalmente profissionais que estão em constante contato com pessoas, como acadêmicos da área de saúde. O objetivo do estudo é analisar a presença da Síndrome de Burnout relacionado a variáveis sociodemográficas, acadêmicas e psicossociais em universitários da área da saúde. Utilizou-se o Inventário de Burnout de Maslach – versão estudantes – que foi aplicado a 540 acadêmicos de 5 cursos da área da saúde. Realizou-se análise descritiva com média e desvio padrão. Para averiguar a comparação entre as variáveis qualitativas e a síndrome de Burnout foi usado teste T de student. Sendo considerado como nível de significância, o valor de (p<0,05), estabelecido pelo pacote SPSS versão 14.0. Entre os participantes 66,5% eram do sexo feminino e 33,1% do sexo masculino, a maioria, 59,3%, vive com a família, 73,9% declararam renda familiar superior a 3 salários, 71.3% não consomem bebidas alcoólicas, 96,3% negaram tabagismo e 64,9% negaram o uso de medicação devido aos estudos. Dos estudantes, 14,44% apresentaram a Síndrome de Burnout. Observou-se significância estatística entre a síndrome e desempenho do estudante no curso, ano que o estudante cursava, condições de materiais, uso de medicações devido aos estudos e pensamento de desistência em relação ao curso. Os resultados apontam para associação entre dimensões de burnout e variáveis sóciodemográficas, acadêmicas e psicossociais. Assim, torna-se necessário a implantação de estratégias para amenizar essa problemática.
Realização de interação mediada por telefone com idosos após a alta hospitalar:experiência de um programa de residência multiprofissional
Authors: Júnior Nelson Machado do Carmo , Da Costa Josiane Moreira , Viudes Matheus Araújo Assis , Pereira Rachel Cristina Cardoso , De Toledo Ingrid Silva Bremer , Machado Carla Jorge , Reis Adriano Max Moreira
Published: July 2019

trodução: A transição do cuidado da alta hospitalar é considerada um momento crítico e de muita ansiedade para o paciente. Destaca-se, nesse contexto, problemas relacionados ao uso de medicamentos, principalmente ao considerar mudanças realizadas na prescrição de medicamentos durante a internação, e que devem ser continuadas após a alta hospitalar. Isso pode gerar comprometimentos no uso de medicamentos após a alta, principalmente quando nos referimos aos pacientes idosos, ao considerar os aspectos limitadores fisiológicos e cognitivos relacionados à senescência. Com o intuito de identificar esses problemas e propiciar segurança durante a continuidade do cuidado, um grupo de farmacêuticos propôs a realização de Interação Mediada por Telefone (IMT) com pacientes idosos que receberam alta hospitalar, e que encontravam-se no ambiente domiciliar. Objetivo: Identificar por meio da Interação Mediada por Telefone (IMT), as dificuldades relatadas por idosos em relação ao uso de medicamentos após a alta hospitalar, considerando as diferenças entre sexos. Método: Considerou-se o presente estudo como um estudo transversal de caráter exploratório, onde os registros em prontuários eletrônicos, e planilha do serviço de IMT foram analisados, seguido de realização de análise estatística. Resultados: 89 pacientes idosos participaram do IMT, sendo que 50,56% (n=45) eram do sexo masculino, sendo a média da idade foi 73,89 anos. Cerca de 52,27% dos pacientes relataram procurar a Atenção Primária após a alta hospitalar, e aproximadamente 24,14% dos pacientes abordados relataram dificuldade no acesso, e 13,85% dos pacientes relataram uso de medicamentos diferentes dos prescritos na alta. Não foram identificadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas ao compararmos os grupos de pacientes do sexo feminino, com aqueles do sexo masculino. Conclusão: Entende-se que o serviço de IMT apresenta-se como interessante ferramenta para identificação de problemas farmacoterapêuticos após a alta hospitalar, e que o mesmo pode contribuir para a garantia da continuidade do cuidado no âmbito da Atenção Primária em Saúde. Não identificou-se diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre as informações obtidas pelo serviço de IMT ao compararmos idosos do sexo masculino, com aquelas do sexo feminino.
Estudo morfológico do efeito do trauma mecânico sobre a amelogênese em incisivos de ratos
Authors: Neves Ilana Dantas , Aguiar Marcio Cajazeira
Published: July 2019

 

Introdução: A amelogênese compreende a formação do esmalte por células especializadas denominadas ameloblastos. Os ameloblastos secretam proteínas da matriz e são responsáveis pela criação de um ambiente extracelular que favorece a mineralização do esmalte. Contudo, diversos fatores, como o trauma dentário, podem interferir na amelogênese, contribuindo para a formação de um esmalte defeituoso. O trauma dentário tem sido responsável por muitos casos de hipoplasia que podem fragilizar o dente, além de trazer desconforto estético. Objetivo: Examinar as alterações morfológicas sobre o epitélio odontogênico e a matriz de esmalte de incisivos de ratos, produzidas por um trauma dentário. Metodologia: Incisivos de ratos foram extruídos e depois reposicionados em seus alvéolos originais. Decorridos 3, 7, 10, 20, 30 e 60 dias do procedimento cirúrgico, os dentes foram fixados em uma solução de formaldeído e glutaraldeído, processados histologicamente e corados com azul de toluidina. Resultados: A análise morfológica revelou a formação de uma matriz de esmalte bastante heterogênea, com espessura irregular, particularmente na porção mais apical dos incisivos. Algumas matrizes de esmalte expostas mostravam pequenas lacunas de reabsorção, muitas vezes com deposição de um material cementoide. Conclusão: O presente estudo mostrou que o trauma foi suficiente para produzir alterações hipoplásicas e de hipomineralização importantes no esmalte que se relacionaram com a fase funcional dos ameloblastos na região afetada.             

 
Fabrication of a Piezoelectric ZnO/ZnMgO Coaxial Nanorod Force Sensor on Ti‐Wire for Intravascular Intervention Monitoring
Authors: Ali Asad , Kim Han Ik , Lee EunSu , Yoo Dongha , Oh Hongseok , Yi Gyu‐Chul
Published: December 2024

The fabrication of force sensors is reported using ZnO/ZnMgO coaxial nanorod arrays grown on a titanium (Ti) wire and their application for force monitoring inside a blood vessel during catheterization procedures. The core‐shell nanorod arrays are grown using catalyst‐free metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), enabling precise control over the growth and morphology of the nanorod arrays. The ZnO/ZnMgO heterostructures grown on Ti‐wires are characterized using various techniques and confirmed for suitability for force sensing applications. The force sensor is fabricated by creating Schottky metal contacts at the nanorod tips, while an insulating polyimide layer fills the gaps between the nanorod arrays, electrically separating the top metal contact from the bottom Ti‐wire. The sensor's performance is evaluated under various force conditions using a voice coil motor with a soft polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)  pressure stamp to mimic the contact force between the sensor and the blood vessel. The sensor demonstrated high sensitivity, stable, and fast force responses under periodic applied forces. Furthermore, the force sensor is integrated with catheter for contact force monitoring inside an artificial blood vessel. The fabrication of force sensor on a Ti‐wire substrate creates a flexible, biocompatible sensing element suitable for implantation and real‐time force monitoring in vascular environment.