bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De novo assembly and characterisation of the transcriptome of the Beringian pseudoscorpion
Authors: Lebenzon Jacqueline E. , Toxopeus Jantina , Anthony Susan E. , Sinclair Brent J.
Published: February 2021

Pseudoscorpions are microarthropods that are distributed from the equator to beyond the Arctic circle. Wyochernes asiaticus (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones: Chernetidae) is the northernmost species of pseudoscorpion and is broadly distributed in Beringia, an Arctic and sub-Arctic region that remained unglaciated during the last glacial maximum. Wyochernes asiaticus is anoxia tolerant and has moderate cold tolerance, but nothing is known about the molecular basis of their survival in Canadian polar environments. We de novo assembled and characterised the transcriptome of W. asiaticus collected from the Yukon Territory in northwestern Canada. We assembled an approximately 62.6-million base-pair transcriptome with a mean contig length of 1277, which was 76% complete, according to a benchmark universal single copy orthologue (BUSCO) analysis. We identified 1100 transcripts encoding proteins associated with stress tolerance in these pseudoscorpions, including heat shock proteins, antioxidants, ubiquitination and proteosomal proteins, and sirtuins. We also identified transcripts encoding putative venom proteins. We highlight eight transcripts with high sequence similarity to sequences of venom proteins (ctenitoxins and agatoxins) described from other pseudoscorpions. Our study yields the first transcriptome of a Beringian arthropod, providing important sequence information that will allow future investigation of how W. asiaticus survives in Canadian polar environments.
Small dose of ephedrine for prevention of hypotension following propofol and fentanyl administration during induction of general anesthesia
Authors: Ejaimi Gamal , Saab Abla , Ahmed Sittelnissa , Ahmed Areeg , Abujamilah Hussain , Satyanarayana Bhanuprakash
Published: February 2021

Induction of general anesthesia with propofol and fentanyl could result in hypotension and bradycardia. Various methods are being used to prevent these adverse effects. The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy and safety of a small dose of ephedrine in prevention of hypotension following administration of propofol and fentanyl. This prospective, randomized, comparative study was conducted among a total of 50 patients, both genders, age 18 years up to 60 years with ASA grade Ι and ΙΙ and some of class ΙΙΙ, presented for elective surgery under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly allocated into one of two groups (25 patients in each): CG (the control group), which received propofol in a dose of 2 mg/kg, intravenously, over 20–30 s mixed with 2 mL normal saline: and EphG (Ephedrine group), while received propofol in a dose of 2 mg/kg, intravenously, over 20–30 s mixed with 2 mL of ephedrine (10 mg). The Mean Arterial Blood Pressure (MAP) and Heart Rate (HR) were recorded before induction and then every 1 min up to 6 min after induction. The categorical data are presented as a number and percentage and were subjected to Fisher’s exact or Chi-square test for analysis. The statistical significance was p≤0.05. The significant differences in HR were observed in the 3rd,4th, and 5th minutes with P-value, 0.018, 0.000, 0.000, respectively. However, no patient in the study participants had bradycardia. The significant differences in MAP were observed in the 2nd, 3rd,4th, and 5th minutes with P-value, 0.035, 0.000, 0.000, and 0.000, respectively. The percentage of patient in CG who developed hypotension in the 3rd and 4th is 44% and 32% compared to 8% and 0% in EphG, with significant differences (P-value 0.004 and 0.002, respectively). Administration of small dose of ephedrine with propofol could attenuate propofol/fentanyl hypotensive and bradycardic effects.
Retrospective trend analysis of HIV viral load suppression among antiretroviral therapy clients in Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Zainab Gambo , Danladi Saba’atu Elizabeth , Misau Yusuf Abdu , Magaji Shehu Yakubu , Dambam Sani Muhammad , Jibrin Yusuf Bara , Danladi Abdul Mohammed , Gwalabe Sabi’u Abdu , Abdu Saminu , Sabitu Kabiru , Maigoro Aliyu , Mohammed Rilwanu
Published: February 2021

The negative effects of HIV have affected all spheres of public lives such as individual health, economy and the employment opportunity globally. The most common way to tackle the disease is the use of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), this has proved to be an effective way to manage HIV worldwide. The use of ART has substantially suppressed the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Viral Load (VL) and reduced the risk of HIV infection. This study evaluates the trends analysis of HIV Viral load suppression among ART Clients in Bauchi State Nigeria for the year 2017. The study used 18 healthcare facilities providing Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Bauchi State. The population comprises all people living with HIV/AIDS who are residents in the study area of the 18 healthcare facilities and a convenient sampling method were used. The study found that highest number of viral load suppression existed in Toro General Hospital, even though all the sample health facilities considered in the study recorded viral load suppression. The study also tested for percentage proportion of TB/HIV coinfection among people on ART with suppressed viral loads (1000c/mL) and found that in all the 18 healthcare facilities except Jama’are General Hospital, presumptive TB/HIV co-infection recorded higher proportion compare to active TB/HIV co-infection among people on ART with suppressed viral loads (1000c/mL). The study recommends that for UNAIDS target of 90-90-90 to be achieved to help end the HIV epidemics, aggressive strategies should be put in place to improve adherence to ART by patients and access to viral load monitoring should also be improved in order to detect the patients with risk of HIV.
Evaluation of the toxic effects of ammonia dispersion
Authors: Yarandi Mohsen Sadeghi , Mahdinia Mohsen , Barazandeh Javad , Soltanzadeh Ahmad
Published: February 2021

Ammonia is a toxic compound and has many toxic effects on humans and the environment. This study was designed to model the consequences of ammonia leakage in an industrial slaughterhouse. Given the potential hazard of ammonia, only the toxic dimension of this gas was evaluated. The scenarios were evaluated in the worst possible condition and in the case of the complete rupture. Findings showed that in case of a catastrophic rupture scenario in reservoir 1 in the first and second 6 months of the year, the distances of 920.37 and 569.38 m from the reservoir in the wind direction were at Emergency Response Planning Guidelines, level 3 (ERPG3), respectively. In reservoir 2, in the first and second 6 months of the year, the distances of 699.58 and 384.86 m from the reservoir were at the ERPG3 level, respectively. In reservoir 3, in the first and second 6 months of the year, the distances of 203.48 and 748.28 m from the reservoir were at the ERPG3 level, respectively. Examination of the probit values showed that in reservoirs 1 and 2, the probit values were more than 4.28 up to 100 m from the reservoirs, and in the reservoir 3, the mortality rates were lower. The findings revealed that the catastrophic rupture of ammonia reservoirs in the studied slaughterhouse and the release of ammonia could lead to the fatality of large numbers of people in ERPG2 and ERPG3 areas. Therefore, it is necessary to take control measures to reduce the vulnerability against such accidents.
Therapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen
Authors: Sen Suman , Sen Sheuli
Published: February 2021

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy refers to inhalation of pure oxygen in a closed chamber. Hyperbaric oxygen has a therapeutic effect in numerous pathological conditions, such as decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation, osteomylitis, osteoradionecrosis and wound healing. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used for treating underlying hypoxia. This review indicates the action of hyperbaric oxygen on biochemical and various physiological changes in cellular level. Narrative review covers the current indications and contraindications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The review also focuses on the therapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen pretreatment and precondition in different pathological conditions. The complications and side effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy are discussed.
Prognostic utility of inflammation-based biomarkers, neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and change in neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, in surgically resected lung cancers
Authors: Thompson Daniel , Perry Luke A. , Renouf Jesse , Vodanovich Domagoj , Hong Lee Adele Hwee , Dimiri Jahan , Wright Gavin
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE:

Given the poor overall survival (OR) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates for lung cancers managed with surgical resection, there is a need to identify the prognostic markers that would improve the risk stratification of patients with operable lung cancer to inform treatment decisions. We investigate the prognostic utility of two established inflammation-based scores, the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the change in neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (ΔNLR), throughout the operative period in a prospective cohort of patients with lung cancer who underwent surgical resection.

METHODS:

Demographic, clinical, and treatment details for 345 patients with lung cancer who underwent surgical resection between 2000 and 2019 at multiple centers across Melbourne, Victoria (Australia), were prospectively collected. Preoperative NLR and ΔNLR were calculated after which Cox univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted for OS and PFS against the known prognostic factors.

RESULTS:

Both univariate and multivariate analyses showed that preoperative NLR >4.54, as well as day 1 and day 2 postoperative NLR (P < 0.01), was associated with increased risk for postoperative mortality (hazard ratio 1.8; P < 0.01) and PFS (P < 0.05), whereas ΔNLR was not a significant predictor of OS or PFS.

CONCLUSION:

Elevated NLR among patients with lung cancer who underwent surgical resection was prognostic for poor OS and PFS, whereas ΔNLR was not found to be prognostic for either OS or PFS. Further research may yet reveal a prognostic value for ΔNLR when compared across a greater time period.
The Effects of Internet Gaming and Social Media Use On Physical Activity, Sleep, Quality of Life, and Academic Performance among University Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Kwok Carrie , Leung Pui Yu , Poon Ka Ying , Fung Xavier C. C.
Published: February 2021

Introduction:

With the rapid increase in the prevalence of the Internet and/or smartphone usage worldwide in the last decade, engagement in internet gaming and social media may be problematic and may lead to negative consequences on mental and physical health among young adults. The main objectives of the present study are (1) to investigate how internet gaming and social media impact on physical activity, sleep quality, quality of life (QoL), and academic performance of university students in Hong Kong and (2) to investigate how physical activity and sleep associate with QoL and academic performance of university students in Hong Kong.

Methods:

This study employed a longitudinal design with 3-month duration. Hong Kong university students (n = 15; 4 males; mean age = 26.87 years) completed the questionnaires, wore a device to measure their physical activity and sleep, provided screen time data showing the time usage of applications on gaming and social media categories, and academic transcript for the study.

Results:

Internet gaming was negatively correlated with physical activity and psychological QoL (r
s = −0.49 to −0.62); social media use was negatively correlated with physical activity and sleep quality (r
s = −0.48 to −0.63); internet gaming and smartphone addiction were negatively correlated with academic performance (r
s = −0.51 to −0.53); physical activity was positively correlated with psychological QoL (r
s = 0.49).

Conclusion:

The results emphasized that internet gaming and smartphone addiction tend to have negative impact on physical activity, psychological QoL, sleep, and academic performance. The findings may be regarded as a direction for health-care providers to develop and evaluate the intervention to treat the specific type of internet/smartphone overuse.
Comparative evaluation of efficacy and safety of drotaverine versus mebeverine in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Rai Ramesh R. , Nijhawan Sandeep
Published: February 2021

Background:

Drotaverine and Mebeverine are used for alleviating the pain of IBS, but the evidence for their efficacy is scarce. In this randomised control study, we evaluated and compared their efficacy in improving severity, frequency of pain and its associated symptoms.

Methods:

Patients fulfilling the ROME III criteria of IBS were evaluated in this randomised control trial during 4 weeks of treatment. Group A (n = 100) received 80 mg Drotaverine and Group B (n = 100) received 135 mg Mebeverine three times a day, 1 hour before meals. Primary outcome measure was, the reduction in severity of pain (>30% reduction) assessed by VAS (0 to 10 scale) & PSS (patient symptoms scores).

Results:

The pain severity score fell from 6.02 to 4.8 on day 3 in Group A as compared to decrease from 6.72 to 6.62 in Group B (p < 0.01). This significant reduction in pain severity was observed till the end of the study, reducing from 6.02 to 1.78 (74% reduction) in Group A compared to 6.72 to 3.62 (46.1% reduction) in Group B (p < 0.05). There was a significant reduction in pain frequency, straining on stool, a change in one score in Bristol stool chart (BSC), achievement of complete spontaneous smooth bowel movement in Group A, compared to Group B patients. A significant improvement in Patient's evaluation of Global Assessment of Symptoms (p < 0.05) and Patient Assessment of Constipation – Quality Of Life (PAC-QOL) (p < 0.01) was observed in Group A compared to Group B.

Conclusion:

Drotaverine was significantly superior in efficacy as compared to Mebeverine in alleviating pain severity (starting from day 3), frequency and stools-elated symptoms of IBS.
On the third moment of $L(\frac{1}{2}, \chi_{d})$ {II}: the number field case
Authors: Diaconu Adrian , Whitehead Ian
Published: February 2021

We establish a smoothed asymptotic formula for the third moment of quadratic Dirichlet

L

-functions at the central value. In addition to the main term, which is known, we prove the existence of a secondary term of size

x^{\frac{3}{4}}.

The error term in the asymptotic formula is on the order of

O(x^{\frac{2}{3}+\delta})

for every

\delta > 0.
Advanced Introduction to Global Administrative Law
Authors:   Professor of Global Law, LUISS Guido Carli University, Rome, Justice Emeritus of the Italian Constitutional Court and Professor Emeritus, Scuola Normale Superiore of Pisa, Italy, Cassese Sabino
Published: February 2021

Sabino Cassese presents an incisive introduction to the essential principles of global law, exploring the central theories of globalization through an analysis of the main developments in this area. The Advanced Introduction concludes that despite the ongoing dialectic between national governments and international institutions, globalization and states are progressing in parallel, while civil societies are increasingly involved in the machinery of globalization.
Advanced Introduction to Empirical Legal Research
Authors:   Marvin J. Sonosky Chair of Law and Public Policy, University of Minnesota Law School, US, Kritzer Herbert M.
Published: February 2021

Herbert Kritzer presents a clear introduction to the history, methods and substance of empirical legal research (ELR). Quantitative methods dominate in empirical legal research, but an important segment of the field draws on qualitative methods, such as semi-structured interviews and observation. In this book both methodologies are explored alongside systematic data analysis. Offering an overview of the broad ELR literature, the institutions of the law, the central actors of the law, and the subjects of the law are each addressed in this highly readable account that will be essential reading for legal researchers.
Relações de trabalho no Polo de Confecção em Goiânia, GO: a informalidade persiste?
Authors: Silva Selma Maria
Published: February 2021

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar as relações de trabalho no Polo de Confecção da Região da Rua 44 em Goiânia, Goiás, a fim de verificar a persistência ou não da informalidade na região. O estudo é de caráter descritivo, com abordagem qualitativa e quantitativa. Engloba a pesquisa bibliográfica e aplicação de questionários (240) e entrevistas (21). Os resultados revelam que a transferência da Feira Hippie para a região da Rua 44 impulsionou o comércio local, dando origem ao Polo de Confecção. Na atualidade, o Polo se constitui como um aglomerado de microempresas atacadistas de confecção, a maioria de produção própria. Todavia, a inserção dos trabalhadores na atividade ainda é marcada pela informalidade, tanto nas relações de trabalho quanto na atividade. Por certo, ainda que a atividade tenha se reconfigurado, o que se evidencia é a persistência da informalidade.
IMPLEMENTING THE PATHWAYS COMMISSION RECOMMENDED FIRST ACCOUNTING COURSE: A PROFILE OF EARLY ADOPTERS
Authors: Bryan Timothy G. , McKnight Mark A.
Published: February 2021

The primary purpose of the current research is to explore the extent to which schools and colleges of business have adopted Pathways Commission recommendations for a new first accounting course. This paper explores the extent to which schools of business and accounting programs have implemented curriculum revisions made by the Pathways Commission, as well as provide a profile of the early adopters of one of these recommendations. This study investigated common traits and characteristics of colleges and schools that had adopted the curricular changes.  Specifically, the research focuses on the fourth recommendation from this list, which calls for a new first accounting course to be integrated into business and accounting programs.  For the study, 68 faculty members from a cross-section of universities and programs answered questions about their institutions and the Pathways Commission recommended a new first course in accounting.  Results indicate some ambivalence toward the curricular changes but also allowed for a profile of the early adopters of this specific change.  Thus, the secondary purpose of the research is to identify environments in which the changes have been implemented and to provide a foundation for further research into best practices for implementing these types of curricular revisions.

JEL Classification Codes: M40, M41, M49, I20.
Análisis del castellano andino de aimarahablantes del distrito de Vilquechico (Puno)
Authors: Gonza Huaraya Mariluz
Published: February 2021

En el presente artículo, se tiene como objetivo analizar el castellano de los pobladores de los centros poblados de Poquera, Sacacani y Putira Jutipata, los cuales se ubican en el distrito de Vilquechico, dentro de la provincia de Huancané en el departamento de Puno. Para la recopilación de la información, se llevó a cabo una entrevista, en la cual se empleó
un cuestionario semiestructurado, que también abarcó las anécdotas, las costumbres y las historias de los centros poblados referidos, a fin de que la conversación fuera espontánea. Luego, se creó un corpus de palabras a partir de la información recolectada y se realizó un análisis para determinar qué procesos fonológicos y sintácticos se presentan en el castellano andino de los aimarahablantes del distrito de Vilquechico.
Morfología del sistema fitonímico medicinal en Tupe (Lima)
Authors: Cruz Ríos Samantha Liz
Published: February 2021

El pueblo de Tupe, también llamado «comunidad campesina» por el Ministerio de Cultura, está ubicado en la provincia de Yauyos, a 2 840 m s. n. m., en la zona andina del departamento de Lima, a 240 km de distancia. Según Parodi y MacKay, Tupe «tiene una población de 800 habitantes aproximadamente» (2008, p. 266). En dicho pueblo, al igual que en las comunidades campesinas de Cachuy y Aiza, se habla la lengua originaria jaqaru, perteneciente a la familia lingüística Aru (Ministerio de Cultura, 2019).
Growth, Fatty Acids, and Protein Profiles of Carp (Cyprinus carpio L. 1758) Fed Diets with Incremental Levels of Sunflower Seed Meal
Authors: Demir Nilsun , Meriç İlknur
Published: February 2021

This study evaluates the growth performance and nutritive value of carp fed diets containing moderate levels of sunflower seed meal in partial replacement of fishmeal. Four isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets were formulated with 0% (control), 15%, 30%, or 45% sunflower seed meal and fed to triplicate groups of carp (993.82±11.68 g). Growth was assessed using a range of biometric parameters and nutrient utilization was determined by muscle content, fatty acids, and electrophoretic protein profiles of tissues. Condition factor and survival were unaffected by the sunflower seed level butweight gain, protein efficiency rate, and absolute and specific growth ratessignificantly declined as the inclusion level rose. Feed conversion ratio negatively correlated with SGR and reflected feed intake. There were no significant effects on protein, lipid, or pH content of fish, but there were slight alterations in dry matter and ash values. Total saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) dropped as the incorporation of sunflower seed meal increased, contrary to total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) of both diets and flesh. Minor differences existed in the fractions of sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar proteins, independent of the dietary treatment. In conclusion, sunflower seed inclusion beyond 15% can lead to changes in growth performance and fatty acid composition.
Effects of Stocking Density on Growth, Nonspecific Immune Response, and Antioxidant Status in African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Authors: Chen Yitong , Li Xiaoqin , Pan Baoping , Xu Min , Dai Wei , Wang Xiaomei
Published: February 2021

African catfish were stocked at densities of 35, 65, 95, and 125 kg/m3 for 60 days. The effects of the stocking density on growth, non-specific immune response, and antioxidant status were investigated on days 30 and 60. Serum cortisol levels were assayed on day 60. Increased stocking density led to decreased growth. Most non-specific immune indices (total number of leukocytes, differential leukocyte count in percent, respiratory burst activity, C3 and C4 complements, spleen and head kidney mass indices) were unaffected by the stocking density (p>0.05). There were significant differences between the 35 and 125 kg/m3 treatments in lysozyme activity on day 60 (p<0.05) but no significant effects of stocking density on malondialdehyde (MDA) level on either day 30 or day 60 (p>0.05). On day 30, only glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was stimulated by increased stocking density while, on day 60, increased stocking density resulted in increased glutathione (GSH), GSH-Px activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The serum cortisol level on day 60 was unaffected by stocking density (p>0.05). Findings suggest that high physiological welfare standards were maintained in African catfish reared in high stocking densities.
Withdrawal Period of Oxolinic Acid in Cobia (Rachycentron canadum): Validation of an LC-MS/MS Method
Authors: Chou CH , Wang JH , Kuo TF , Liu CH , Wang CY , Xue YJ , Sheu SY , Chen RS
Published: February 2021

Oxolinic acid (OXO) has been routinely used in aquaculture as both prophylactic and chemotherapeutic agents, principally against systemic bacterial infections. The residue depletion of OXO was investigated in cobia following multiple (5 days) in-feed dosing (30 and 60 mg/kg body weight/day) at 25°C; we assessed OXO concentrations of liver and muscle (+skin) samples post-treatment for three weeks. The OXO residues were quantified using a validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatographytandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method and the results indicated recoveries of 86.6-95.8%, with relative standard deviations (RSD) less than 8.5% for intra- and inter-day precisions. Within the range of 10−500 ng/g, the calibration curves for all matrices presented a determination coefficient greater than 0.99. Limit of detection and quantification were estimated at 6 and 10 ng/g, respectively. In order to account for the high variability of the residue data, a safety span corresponding to 50% of depletion time could be seen as appropriate. Considering a maximum residue limit (MRL) of 50 ng/g established by the Taiwan FDA for OXO in muscle with skin in natural proportions, a withdrawal period of 15 days was calculated for the sum of 10day depletion time and 5-day safety span. These results revealed that the analytical method is developed for residue OXO and that the withdrawal period is appropriate.
Effects of Fish Meal Replaced by Maggot Culture on Growth Performance, Body Composition, and Antioxidant Responses of Hybrid Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus × O. aureus)
Authors: Ai Q , Mai K , Qiao Y
Published: February 2021

This present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing fish meal with maggot culture, on growth performance, body composition, and antioxidant enzyme activity in hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus × O. aureus). Five isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated to contain graded levels of maggot culture (0%, 1%, 2%, 4% and 5%), which replaced 0% (the control), 20%, 40%, 80% and 100% fish meal, respectively. Each diet was randomly fed to triplicate groups of 30 hybrid tilapia (initial mean body weight: 2.12 ± 0.01g) per tank for 8 weeks. Fish were fed to satiation twice daily (08:00 and 16:00). Results showed that the inclusion of maggot culture did not significantly influence survival, weight gain, feed conversion rate, and morphological parameters of tilapia. Catalase and superoxide dismutase activity were not significantly affected by the supplementation of maggot culture. Also, the inclusion of maggot culture did not significantly influence moisture, protein, lipid, and ash contents of whole body and muscle. Based on these above observations, fish meal could be totally replaced by maggot culture without a negative influence on growth performance, body composition, and antioxidant capability in hybrid tilapia.
The Effect of Diet on Ovarian Development and Nutritional Tissue Composition of Portunus trituberculatus
Authors: Hou Wenjie , Liu Meimei , Wu Xugan
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the effects of feeding trash fish (TF), formulated diet (FD), and mixed diets (MD) on ovarian development, fattening performance, and nutritional quality of P. trituberculatus. Formulated diet treatment resulted in lower gonadosomatic index, hepatosomatic index, meat yield, and total edible yield than the other treatments. It also showed lower protein (7.88%), lipid, and ash content in hepatopancreas and muscle, compared to the other treatments. Different diets significantly affected the contents of C16:0, C18:1n9, C18:2n6, C18:3n3 and C20:5n3 of hepatopancreas. FD treatment resulted in lower essential amino acids and non-essential amino acid contents in the muscle compared to TF and MD treatments. The highest and the lowest essential amino acids scores were found in the TF and FD treatments, respectively. In conclusion, these results indicated that FD is not suitable and requires further development for sub-adult crabs, while MD would be the recommended for fattening female P. trituberculatus.
Fermented Copra Meal as Replacement for Dietary Fish Meal Protein in Grow-Out Culture of Black Tiger Shrimp, Penaeus monodon Juveniles
Authors: Corre VL Jr. , Libo-on JB. , Felarca KGA. , Apines-Amar MJS.
Published: February 2021

Feeding trials were conducted to assess the effects of diets containing fermented copra (FCM) as an alternative to fish meal (FM) on growth, survival, and feed efficiency, in Black Tiger Shrimp, Penaeus monodon. A diet was formulated where 40% of the FM protein was replaced by FCM protein, and compared with a commercial shrimp diet. The feeding experiments were carried out using 10-ton capacity circular outdoor tanks. Three hundred and fifty (350) shrimp were stocked in each tank at a density of 35 shrimp per m3. They were fed the diets at a rate which decreased from 15% down to 4% of average body weight (ABW) per day. The results demonstrated that growth, survival, and feed performance, in P. monodon in outdoor tanks were not affected by replacing 40% of the dietary FM with FCM protein. Furthermore, no difference was found in proximate composition of the shrimp carcass fed the commercial and experimental diets. Although protein efficiency ratio (PER) of the commercial and FCM-based diets were similar, protein productive value (PPV) was significantly higher in the FCM than the commercial diet. Hence, we concluded that FCM is a promising alternative protein source for Black Tiger shrimp and can replace 40% of the fish meal protein without adversely affecting growth, survival, and feed efficiency.
Inhibition of Anabaena flos-aquae by Galla chinensis
Authors: Qi H , Nie J , Yang N , Xin W , Pei Y
Published: February 2021

Galla chinensis is a traditional herbal medicine in China with detoxification, bacteriostatic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we exposed Anabaena flos-aquae to different concentrations of Galla chinensis aqueous extracts. As the exposure concentrations and duration increased, chlorophyll a of Anabaena flos-aquae was significantly reduced. After 72 h of exposure, protein content, MDA content, and superoxide dismutase activity in Anabaena flos-aquae gradually decreased with increasing concentrations of Galla chinensis aqueous extracts. Electron microscopy for ultrastructural analysis showed that compared to the control group, as the concentration of Galla chinensis increased, the Anabaena flos-aquae cell walls exhibited plasmolysis with blurred basic structures in the cytoplasm, deformation of algal cells, collapse, and rupture of cell walls, and most cells died. Galla chinensis can effectively inhibit the growth of Anabaena flos-aquae and exhibits significant allelopathy.
Ocular Problems among Video Display Terminal Users in a Software Company of Sector V, Kolkata
Authors: Basu Rivu , Dasgupta Aparajita
Published: February 2021

Background: Video Display Unit use and Information Technology creates a host of problems like Ocular Problems and Work Related Musculo Skeletal Problems. Many experience visual symptoms including eyestrain, headaches, ocular discomfort, dry eye, diplopia and blurred vision either at near or when looking into the distance after prolonged computer use. Very few and sporadic studies have been done in this part of the world especially in India, to address the issue in all its scope. Aim & Objective: To find out the proportion of different ocular problems among the study population and to find out the association of their ocular problems with the socio-demographic, work related and ergonomic factors. Materials and methods: It was an institution based, cross sectional, analytical epidemiological study and was conducted over one-year period. The study population comprised of persons working with Video Display Terminals. A predesigned, semi-structured instrument for elaborating the socio-economic, lifestyle related and a few job-related health behaviors were used. Combination of few instruments to elicit different morbidities like and many ergonomic checklists to evaluate office workspace were also used. Results: Of the total 79.1 % had any kind of ocular problems currently, with around 65% of them reporting to be having problem constantly in the last 12 months. Headache (63.6%) seemed to be the most important problem, followed by Eye fatigue (52.4%). Repetition of work and poor ergonomic practices turned out to be the statistically significant factors. Increased Years of working and female sex were also found to be important factors. Screen Character was found to be the most important risk factor of eye problems. Conclusion: A simple model was proposed where interaction of Individual factors and factors related to workstation was identified as the main culprit, which exaggerated by the repetition of work.
A Population Based Survey on the Association Between Tobacco Smoking and Cardiovascular Risk Using WHO Risk Prediction Algorithm Among a Rural Population in Mangalore, Karnataka
Authors: Nesan Shiny chrism queen , Kundapur Rashmi , Maiya G Rakesh
Published: February 2021

Background: Higher proportion of people die in India due to Cardiovascular diseases. Smoking causes about 10% of all CVD and 6 million people die from tobacco smoking every year through CVD, cancer and other causes. Aims & Objectives: To determine the risk of developing cardiovascular events (fatal and non-fatal MI or Stroke) among the individuals above 40 years of age in next 10 years and to assess its magnitude of association with the smoking patterns among the study subjects. Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted at Rural Mangalore among 230 residents above 40 years who were selected by simple random sampling. Pretested & pre validated proforma for sociodemographic details, WHO/ISH cardiovascular risk prediction algorithm and GATS (Global Adult Tobacco Survey) Questionnaire was used. Statistics used: Chi square test and Multiple logistic regression was used. Data was analysed using SPSS version 22 software. Results: Out of 230 participants, 64% were males and 36% were females. WHO colour coding shows that 64.8% had low risk, 25.7% had moderate risk and 9.5% had high risk of getting CVD. 58.3% consumed chewable tobacco. Current smokeless tobacco users had moderate risk of CVD and Current smokers, current and past smokeless tobacco users had high risk of getting CVD independently. Conclusion: An increased risk of nonfatal myocardial infarctions among tobacco chewers was relatively lesser than for smokers and the highest increase in risk of acute myocardial infarction was in smokers who also chewed tobacco.
Violence against health care workforce in COVID and non COVID times: Analysis of predisposing factors
Authors: Garg Neeraj , Garg Ruchi , Sharma Devender Kumar , Gupta Shakti Kumar , DUDEJA Puja
Published: February 2021

Background: The prevalence of violence against Health Care Workers (HCW) is showing a rising trend. Various studies have been done in the recent past shows that the prevalence of violence against HCW s ranged from 27.4% to 67%. The present study was done to compare and analyze the underlying causes of violence against HCW in a Non COVID and COVID situation to identify the commonality if any, and to suggest any remedial measures. Methodology: This was cross-sectional analytical design and was carried out in inpatient care areas of a tertiary care hospital. The study subjects comprised of Doctors, Nurses, Group C employees. Data was collected using direct interview method on a standard questionnaire. In addition, various media reports were collected and analyzed through internet. Results: Maximum incidents were experienced in emergency and OPD, where staff patient’s ratio is less. 39.4% incidents were experienced by the staff who were providing care to the Terminally ill patients, Mentally and Physically disabled persons & Psychiatric patients. Suggestion which emerged to reduce WPV are, triage in casualty, availability of trained security guards, CCTV, restricted visiting hours and limited attendants with the patients, improvement in patient amenities etc. Whereas in COVID situation the major reason is the religious and social belief, poor dietary services and lack of hygiene and sanitation. Conclusion: There is an urgent and inescapable requirement that the healthcare administrators should address the underlying precipitating factors of violence, for delivery of quality healthcare services to the patients in a safe environment.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practices towards hydroxy chloroquine pre-exposure prophylaxis among health care professionals.
Authors: Singh Arpita , Kumar Hemant , Gupta Preeti , Verma Ajay Kumar , Jain Atul , Kant Surya , Pandey Anuj Kumar , Singh Shivendra Kumar
Published: February 2021

Background: There is an urgent need for developing potential drug targets to protect the health care professionals (HCPs) who are at high risk of infection from coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) as they are directly and/ indirectly involved in treatment facility. We aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices towards hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) among HCPs directly and/ indirectly involved in COVID-19 treatment. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was multi-centric, and data was collected from HCPs (only doctors and nurses) involved directly or indirectly with COVID-19 patient treatment. The study questionnaire consisted of socio-demographic profile; assessment of HCQ knowledge, attitude, practices, and related adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Results: Of the recruited 374 HCPs, 302 fulfilled the study criteria. Mean age of participants was 33.30 {±standard deviation 7.65}. 64.2% of the participants were male. 16.9% of the individuals (n=51) had co-morbidities. All the HCPs had basic knowledge of COVID-19 and 87.42% were aware of the role of HCQ as PEP. Further, 269 participants (89.07%) were aware that HCQ can cause ADRs.  56.6% participants agreed that HCQ had a protective role against COVID-19 and 54.3 % participants considered that PEP with HCQ had ‘more benefit’ than risk. 52.32% (n=158) HCPs had used HCQ as PEP and 52.53 % (n=83) of these participants had completed the recommended drug course. Twenty participants (12.67%) had experienced ADR, and 12 had reported it to ADR monitoring centre. Conclusion: Our data shows that HCPs are aware of COVID-19 and HCQ prophylaxis. Approximately 57% of the participants agreed that HCQ has a protective role against COVID-19 and 50% of the participants had taken HCQ prophylaxis. Only 12.67% of the participants reported an ADR and in none of them, it was serious enough to discontinue the drug.
Plant based Indigenous Dietary Calcium supplementation on Bone turnover markers among Peri and Postmenopausal women: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Gayathri G. , Hemamalini AJ
Published: February 2021

Background: Indigenous plant based dietary supplement that is accessible and safer may help to combat the more proclaimed calcium deficiency among Indian population and improve bone strength. Aim & Objective: To formulate an indigenous calcium rich food supplement and study its impact on markers of bone resorption and formation. Settings and Design: Sixty subjects (80% power, α = 0.05) including 30 perimenopausal and postmenopausal women each were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups. Methods and Material: Experimental postmenopausal and perimenopausal women received 1200mg and 800mg per day of calcium respectively from a plant based supplement comprising Sesamum indicum, Eleusine coracana, Glycine max Vigna mungo and Sesbania grandiflora as a midmorning and evening snack. Measures like serum calcium, betacrosslaps (bone resorption marker), total P1NP (bone formation marker) were assessed at baseline, 3rd and 6th month. Results: Fifty-seven subjects were analysed with no adverse events were reported. Results showed that after supplementation betacrosslaps reduced from 0.32±0.130 ng/ml to 0.25±0.130 ng/ml and 1.11±0.290 ng/ml to 0.42±0.263 ng/ml in perimenopausal and postmenopausal subjects significant at (P=0.008) and (P=0.012) respectively. Conclusions: Adequate dietary calcium intake using locally available foods is recommended as a strategic option in reducing risk of osteoporosis.
Harnessing the potential of tobacco cessation programme amidst COVID-19 pandemic in India
Authors: Bhatt Garima , Goel Sonu
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic of the 21st Century continues to spread, and tobacco users are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. As a measure to contain its spread, many nations have called for various measures like maintaining social distancing norms, the prohibition of spitting in the public place, partial or complete lockdown, and many more. This shutdown episode has disrupted the entire supply chain in our country, and it is quite natural that tobacco users are also experiencing a scarcity of tobacco products, like others. This adverse situation is an opportune moment for the Indian health systems to target tobacco users to motivate, facilitate, and support the cessation process. Additionally, social distancing can be achieved by utilizing and optimizing our existing health services. In our country, we have dedicated regional & national quitlines and m-Cessation facilities for tobacco users who are willing to quit. These initiatives could reduce the risk of COVID among tobacco users, facilitate the tobacco cessation movement, and provide credence to the advocacy for increasing taxes on tobacco products in the country.
ESTIMATION AND SOURCES OF POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS (PAHs) IN DUST AT FUEL FILLING STATIONS IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS, GHANA
Authors: Cobbina S. J. , Ofori A. S. , Bakobie N.
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study was to identify and quantify the concentrations and potential sources of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in dust particles at fuel filling stations in the Tamale Metropolis. Sixteen USEPA recognised PAHs were identified after samples were analysed and their potential sources identified using PAH isomeric ratios. Sample extraction was conducted using an Accelerated Solvent Extractor (ASE) and PAH levels in samples were further analysed using the GC-MS system. The total PAHs concentrations in the High-Vehicular Traffic Areas fuel filling stations ranged from 38.70 µg/kg to 1,423,280 µg/kg with an average concentration of 158,080 ± 102,650 µg/kg, while that of the Low-Vehicular Traffic Areas ranged from 305 µg/kg to 3,176,400 µg/kg with an average concentration of 370,220 ± 218,140 µg/kg. Amongst the 16 PAHs identified, Benzo(a)Anthracene had the highest concentration for both Traffic Areas. The average concentration of Benzo(a)Pyrene was 39,310 µg/kg and this was 200 times higher than that recorded from the US urban background soils. The PAH isomeric ratios indicated a strong influence from petroleum and combustion sources on PAH concentration in the fuel filling stations. It is therefore necessary that appropriate measures are taken with regards to pollution control and risk management at fuel filling stations.
Keywords: Benzo(a)Anthracene, Benzo(a)Pyrene, Pyrene, Source Identification, Fuel Filling Stations
COMMON GRAMMATICAL ERRORS IN WRITING THESIS PROPOSALS
Authors: Afifuddin Afifuddin , Bewa Ibrahim
Published: February 2021

Penelitian ini berjudul Analisis Kesalahan Umum Tata Bahasa Dalam Penulisan Proposal Skripsi (Studi Kasus Mahasiswa Semester Akhir Jurusan Bahasa Inggris pada Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan IAIN Lhokseumawe). Berdasarkan pengamatan yang dilakukan oleh peneliti diketahui bahwa sebagian besar mahasiswa masih mengalami kesulitan dalam menulis, terutama dalam penulisan proposal skripsi. Kesulitan mereka terkait dengan beberapa sudut pandang tata bahasa. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui jenis kesalahan tata bahasa yang dibuat oleh mahasiswa Semester akhir jurusan bahasa Inggris pada Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan IAIN Lhokseumawe yang mengajukan proposal skripsi sebagai persyaratan terakhir untuk gelar sarjana. Selanjutnya, peneliti mencoba untuk mengidentifikasi dan menggambarkan jenis kesalahan dan kemudian menguraikan jenis kesalahan tata bahasa yang paling banyak dibuat oleh para mahasiswa. Para peserta penelitian adalah seluruh mahasiswa Jurusan Bahasa Inggris yang menulis proposal skripsi pada tahun akademik 2017/2018. Jumlah  mahasiswa yang ingin mengajukan proposal skripsi sebanyak 32 orang, namun dengan menggunakan teknik acak, peneliti memilih 15 dari mereka untuk menjadi subjek penelitian. Selain itu, peneliti melakukan penelitian Perpustakaan untuk menemukan beberapa buku dan referensi terkait dengan istilah Analisis, Kesalahan Tata Bahasa dan Proposal Skripsi. Untuk mendapatkan data dari lapangan, para peneliti mengamati dan mengidentifikasi mahasiswa semester terakhir yang ingin menulis proposal skripsi dan meminta mereka untuk menyelesaikan proposal skripsi mereka dan Smenyerahkan satu set kepada peneliti. Untuk menganalisis data, peneliti menggunakan model analisis kualitatif Miles dan Huberman. Data dianalisis melalui analisis bentuk kalimat yang salah secara gramatikal dengan menandai kesalahan, merekonstruksi kalimat yang benar, mengklasifikasikan jenis-jenis kesalahan dan menghitung kesalahan untuk mengetahui jenis kesalahan tata bahasa yang paling umum. Sebagai hasilnya, peneliti menemukan bahwa para siswa membuat 216 kesalahan dalam proposal skripsi mereka. Kesalahan terjadi pada semua jenis kesalahan yang diselidiki, yaitu kata kerja  kalimat, bentuk kata kerja, kesesuaian subjek-kata kerja, jamak, infleksi posesif, artikel tertentu, artikel tak tertentu, susunan kata, run-on, dan fragmen. Dan para siswa membuat kesalahan terbanyak 74 kali kesalahan atau 34, 26% dari semua kesalahan dalam jenis kesalahan Run-on.
PEMANFAATAN ARITMATIKA SOSIAL DALAM MENUMBUHKAN MINAT KEWIRAUSAHAAN MAHASISWA
Authors: Hasibuan Eka Khairani
Published: February 2021

Pembudayaan dan pemasyarakatan kewirausahaan sangat penting untuk diterapkan di kalangan universitas, khususnys pada mahasiswa. Salah satu upaya untuk menumbuhkan jiwa wirausaha adalah melalui pembelajaran matematika khususnya aritmatika sosial, melalui pembelajaran yang selalu mengdepankan nilai-nilai kewirausahaan dalam setiap mata pelajaran. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan pendekatan quasi eksperimen, dimana akan diukur minat wirausaha mahasiswa sebelum dan sesudah pemberian mata kuliah aritmatika sosial. Sampel penelitian ini adalah 48 responden dan dijadikan dua sampel sebelum dan sesudah perlakuan dengan menggunakan uni wilcoxon. Hasil penelitian Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, nilai Z yang didapat sebesar -6,019 dengan p value (Asymp. Sig 2 tailed) sebesar 0,000. Program studi juga perlu mengembangkan metode khusus misalnya kuliah umum yang menghadirkan tokoh wirausaha baik tingkat lokal maupun nasional yang dapat menjadi role model mahasiswa dalam mengembangkan wirausaha di linkungan universitas.
110 години от рождението на чл.-кор. проф. Любомир Андрейчин / On the Occasion of the 110th Anniversary of the Birth of Corresponding Member Prof. Lyubomir Andreychin
Authors: Zlateva Zhaneta , Tomov Milen Tomov , Aleksandrova Tatyana
Published: February 2021

The paper deals with the main contributions to Bulgarian linguistics made by Prof. Lyubomir Andreychin. The authors highlight his innovative methods of research in Modern Standard Bulgarian and his understanding of the grammatical categories of the Bulgarian verb system, in particular. They go on to outline his theoretical views on orthography and the normativisation of Bulgarian spelling, emphasising his exceptional contribution to this area. Finally, the authors discuss Prof. Andreychin’s contributions to the study of the history of Modern Standard Bulgarian.
Keywords: Prof. Lyubomir Andreychin, Bulgarian language, Bulgarian grammar, history of Modern Bulgarian, orthography