bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histone Glutamine Modification by Neurotransmitters: Paradigm Shift in the Epigenetics of Neuronal Gene Activation and Dopaminergic VTA Reward Pathway
Authors: PATRA Samir
Published: September 2020

Normal brain function means fine-tuned neuronal circuitry with optimum neurotransmitter signaling. The classical views and experimental demonstrations established neurotransmitters release-uptake through synaptic vesicles. Current research highlighted that neurotransmitters not merely influence electrical impulses; however, contribute to gene expression, now we know, by posttranslational modifications of chromatinised histones. Epigenetic modifications of chromatin, like DNA methylation, histone methylation, acetylation, ubiquitilation etc., influence gene expression during neuronal development, differentiation and functions. Protein glutamine (Q) modification by tissue transglutaminase (TGM2) controls a wide array of metabolic and signaling activities, including neuronal functions. Dopamine neurons are central element in the brain reward system that controls the learning of numerous behaviours. The ventral tegmental area (VTA) consists of dopamine, GABA, or glutamate neurons. The VTA and adjacent substantia nigra are the two major dopaminergic areas in the brain. In view of this, and to focus insight into the neuronal functions caused by TGM2 mediated histone modifications at the Q residues, either serotonylation (for example, H3K4me3Q5 to H3K4me3Q5ser) in the context of cellular differentiation and signaling, or dopaminylation (for example, H3Q5 to H3Q5dop) in the dopaminergic VTA reward pathway and the precise role of cocaine withdrawal in this scenario are summarized and discussed in this contribution.
The Bitter the Taste, The Better is the Medicine: Is Caffeine the Answer to COVID-19?
Authors: Sharma Devyani , Bansal Ashutosh
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. The virus is mainly transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales. The firsthand reason for COVID 19 is upper respiratory dysfunction which allows the entry of viruses in the respiratory system and leads to severe problems in the human body. Thus, Bitter taste receptor, TAS2Rs on human airway smooth muscle (ASM) found in the respiratory system can play a big role in providing immunity against COVID-19. Activation of TAS2Rs by bitter agonists activates host defense pathways through calcium signaling. Cytokines storms is the another reason for COVID -19 that can be prevented by TAS2Rs because it can regulate natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, chemokine signaling pathways, T cell receptor signaling pathways, TNF signaling pathways, and others. Since, we propose to utilize caffeine, the bitter agonists to stimulate the TAS2Rs, activating host defense mechanisms and also suppressing the cytokine storms due to its anti-inflammatory action, altogether leading to an ameliorated effects of COVID-19.
An Effective Approach to Reduce the Penetration Potential of SARS-CoV-2 and other Viruses by Spike Protein
Authors: Rakshit Kausik , Chatterjee Sudip , Bandyopadhyay Durjoy , Sarkar Somsekhar
Published: September 2020

The objective of this paper is to provide a mathematical model to construct a barrier that may be useful to prevent the penetration of different viruses (e.g. SARS-COV-2) as well as charged aerosols through the concept of electrostatic charge negotiation. (Fusion for the opposite types of charges and repulsion for the similar types of charges). Reviewing the works of different authors, regarding charges, surface charge densities (?), charge mobility (?) and electrostatic potentials of different aerosols under varied experimental conditions, a similar intensive study has also been carried out to investigate the electron donating and accepting (hole donating) properties of the spike proteins (S-proteins) of different RNA and DNA viruses, including SARS-COV-2. Based upon the above transport properties of electrons of different particles having different dimensions, a mathematical model has been established to find out the penetration potential of those particles under different electrostatic fields. An intensive study have been carried out to find out the generation of electrostatic charges due to the surface emission of electrons (SEE), when a conducting material like silk, nylon or wool makes a friction with the Gr IV elements like Germanium or Silicon, it creates an opposite layer of charges in the outer conducting surface and the inner semiconducting surface separated by a dielectric materials. This opposite charge barriers may be considered as Inversion layers (IL). The electrostatic charges accumulated in the layers between the Gr IV Ge is sufficient enough to either fuse or repel the charges of the spike proteins of the RNA, DNA viruses including COVID-19 (RNA virus) or the aerosols.
Production and quality of zucchini seeds after applying sulphur as top dressing and organic compost at planting
Authors: Bardiviesso Estefânia Martins , Lanna Natália de Brito Lima , Aguilar Ariel Santivañez , Bezerra Sara Raissa Brito , Pelvine Raíra Andrade , Freitas Pâmela Gomes Nakada , Silva Francisca Zildélia da , Silva Marcela Sant’ Anna Cordeiro da , Cardoso Antonio Ismael Inácio
Published: September 2020

The recommendation of fertilization for zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) cultivation is usually made with no differentiation from the other cucurbit crops. Thus, there is a need to examine the doses of fertilizers used for zucchini production, as well as the suitability for cultivars, seasons, and cultivation regions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of sulfur doses at topdressing fertilization and the supply of organic compost at planting on the production and quality of zucchini seeds. A total of eight treatments were studied in a randomized block design with a factorial scheme 4x2, corresponding to four sulfur doses at topdressing (0, 57, 114 and 173 kg ha-1 of S), in the presence (30 t ha-1) and absence of organic compost at planting. The fruits were harvested 62 DAT, and after harvest, the fruits remained in rest for 15 days in order to reach the uniformity of the physiological maturity of the seeds. The production characteristics evaluated were average fresh weight, diameter, dry weight and length of the fruits, fruit yield per plant, weight of a thousand seeds, number and seed weight. Regarding the seed quality, the percentage of germination, germination speed index, first count of the germination test, and electric conductivity, were evaluated. The supply of organic compost at planting had a positive effect on the production and physiological quality of the seeds of zucchini produced. The sulfur applied at topdressing improved the presence of the organic compost and also the production of seeds. Hence, it is recommended to apply 30 t ha-1 of organic compost at planting in association with 57 kg ha-1 of S at topdressing for higher seed yield and quality.
The application of zinc fertilizer reduces Fusarium infection and development in wheat
Authors: Alsamir Muhammed , Samir Esraa Al , Kareem T A , Abass Mohammed , Trethowan Richard
Published: September 2020

Fusarium pseudograminearum and Fusarium graminearum commonly cause crown rot (FCR) and head blight (FHB) in wheat, respectively. Disease infection and spread can be reduced by the deployment of resistant cultivars or through management practices that limit inoculum load. Plants deficient in micronutrients, including zinc, tend to be more susceptible to many diseases. On the other hands, and zinc deficiency in cereals is widespread in Australian soils. Zinc deficiency may have particular relevance to crown rot, the most important and damaging Fusarium disease of wheat and barley in Australia. Four wheat genotypes; Batavia, Sunco and two lines from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) were tested for response to FHB and FCR under differing levels of Zn,1 and 2 g/kg and its correlation with disease severity. Sunco and CIMMYT line 146 were previously rated resistant to crown rot and Zn efficient. Zn application 2 g/kg soil enhanced resistance to FCR of the disease susceptible and Zn in-efficient in Batavia and 48 as its recorded 0.75 and 0.5 respectively compared to Sunco and CIMMYT line 146 as it recorded 0.2 and 0.3 respectively, but did not increase resistance to FHB. However, Zn application did enhance the resistance of Zn efficient genotypes to FHB. Results suggest that higher levels of Zn fertilization could reduce the expression of Fusarium diseases in wheat.
Post-emergence application of glufosinate on maize hybrids containing the phosphinothricin acetyltransferase gene (pat)
Authors: Krenchinski Fábio Henrique , Carbonari Caio Antonio , Castro Edicarlos Batista de , Rodrigues Danilo Morilha , Cesco Victor José Salomão , Costa Renato Nunes , Velini Edivaldo Domingues
Published: September 2020

Several maize hybrids that present the phosphinothricin acetyltransferase gene (pat) are available in the market. However, these hybrids have different resistance levels to glufosinate herbicides. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the resistance of maize hybrids containing the pat gene (as a selection marker) to glufosinate. Field experiments were conducted in two sites in the 2016/2017 crop season, using a randomized block design with a 2×7 factorial arrangement and four replications. The treatments consisted of two glufosinate rates (0 and 500 g ha-1) and seven maize hybrids, six containing the pat gene as a selection marker (Herculex®, Agrisure-TL®, Herculex Yieldgard®, Leptra®, Viptera-3®, and Power-Core®) and one without the pat gene (VT PRO®). Two field experiments were conducted in different sites. The analyzed variables were: ammonia accumulation, electron transport rate (ETR), percentage of injuries, 100-grain weight, and grain yield. The glufosinate-susceptible maize hybrid presented higher ammonia accumulations, lower ETR, and high percentage of injuries (100%), which caused total loss of grain production. Considering the evaluated glufosinate-resistant maize hybrids, Viptera-3 and Agrisure-TL presented the highest ammonia accumulations and percentages of injuries, and lower ETR than the other hybrids. The grain yield of glufosinate-resistant maize hybrids was not reduced due to the application of the 500 g ha-1 of glufosinate. Thus, glufosinate-resistant maize hybrids containing the pat gene are resistant to the application of 500 g ha-1 of glufosinate, and this practice can be recommended for maize crops.
An econometric model for demand of pulpwood market in Brazil
Authors: Angelo Humberto , Angelo Tomas V. , Almeida Alexandre N. de , Vasconcelos Pedro G. A. , Magliano Mauro , Brasil Alexandre A. , Souza Álvaro N. de , Miguel Eder P.
Published: September 2020

The pulp industry has a great importance to the economy of Brazil and despite of being one of the biggest producer in the world this industry is still expanding in the country. In spite of the importance of the planted forests as main source for the pulp industry and other products, pulpwood for the cellulose market has received little attention in Brazil. Therefore, the objective of this research is the study of pulpwood demand in Brazil from 1994 to 2016, using econometric tools, where the demand equation was specified and adjusted by the Ordinary Least Squares method. The results showed that pulpwood price and the capacity of the pulp industry explain the pulpwood demand with good econometric results. The pulpwood demand is inelastic to price fluctuations and elastic to installed capacity. These results are consistent with the international estimations and they can assist projecting policies that promote more rational and sustainable management of the wood and consequently the forests.
Phenotypic response of barley landrace and its wild progenitor Hordeum spontaneum from Jordan to salt stress
Authors: Ghani Adel H. Abdel , Abbsi Khalid Al , Thaher Nael , Dalain Saddam Al , Rabadi Ghaid Al , Nasir Farah Al
Published: September 2020

Populations of barley landrace [Hordeum vulgare (L.)] and wild barley progenitor [Hordeum spontaneum (L.)] were collected from 13 diverse eco-geographical regions in Jordan. In addition to two check varieties (Rum and Acsad 165) were collected from farmers’ fields. In total, 28 genotypes were evaluated during germination, early seedling and maturity stages for salt tolerance. Barley populations were exposed to tap water of 0.85 dS m-1 and saline solutions (NaCl, CaCl2 and MgSO4) of 4, 8, 12 and 16 dS m-1. Final germination percentage, the lengths of shoot and seminal root, growth and yield related traits were significantly decreased by increasing the level of salinity. Proline content was increased by increasing the level of salinity. A high level of salinity of 16 dS m-1 had a strong impact on reduction of grain yield and other agronomic traits in the examined populations. A considerable variation among populations was detectable. Barley landrace and wild barley that were collected from Tafila region were the most tolerant grown populations in Jordan. Interestingly, the ranking pattern of these two populations at the germination and seedling related-traits was consistent with the ranking pattern at the maturity phase. In conclusion, this study indicates that barley landrace and wild barley populations are potential donors for genes of salt tolerance that can be used to enhance salinity tolerance in barley.
Soil compaction affects the silage quality of sunflower and Paiaguas palisadegrass (Brachiaria brizantha) grown on a Latosol in the Brazilian savanna
Authors: Linhares Adalto José de Souza , Gonçalves Wainer Gomes , Cabral Savio Menezes , Brito Marlete Ferreira de , Brandstetter Eduardo Valcacer , Silva José Fausto Guimarães , Costa Kátia Aparecida de Pinho , Souza Wender Ferreira de , Severiano Eduardo da Costa
Published: September 2020

On the basis of the natural seasonality of pastures during the dry season, preservation of forage, especially silage, is necessary. However, the effects of soil compaction within sunflower and grass crop fields on the nutritional quality of the silage produced are unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the fermentation and nutritional quality characteristics of sunflower silage under both monocropping and intercropping systems [with Paiaguas palisadegrass (Brachiaria brizantha)] under various degrees of soil compaction. A split-plot randomized complete block design was adopted. In the main plots, the treatments were bulk density values affected by the following traffic intensities: 0, 2, 10 or 30 passes of a tractor with tire wheels weighing 4.9 Mg. The subplots involved forage systems composed of sunflower as a monocrop or intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass. The fermentation, nutritional characteristics and in vitro digestibility of the silage were evaluated. Under the various aforementioned conditions, the agronomic characteristics of the forage were affected by increased soil compaction, resulting in changes in the fermentation and nutritional characteristics of the silage. The results showed that intercropping with Paiaguas palisadegrass and adequate proportions of sunflower allow good fermentation. This study recommends the adoption of practices that mitigate soil compaction and intercropping because of the increased forage productivity and the possibility of indirect renewal of the pasture.
Vegetative characteristics of soybean (Glycine max L.) as bioindicator parameter of herbicide in the soil
Authors: Oliveira Maria Aparecida Peres , Silva Edna Maria Bonfim , Silva Tonny José Araújo da , José Jefferson Vieira , Martins Káritta Saldanha , Engelberg Pedro Alberto Giovanne
Published: September 2020

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the presence of the herbicide 2,4-D in the Neosol. We conducted the experiment in a greenhouse using the soybean crop as a bioindicator. A randomized block design with 5 x 3 factorial scheme composed of five application periods before sowing (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 days) and three simulated rain (0 mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm), with four repetitions was conducted. The herbicide dose was 1500 g a.i. ha-1, the rainfall was simulated one hour after pulverization. Twelve hours after the last rain simulation, Cv. TMG® ANTA 82 RR was sown, and pot moisture remained at 80% of pot capacity throughout the experiment. Herbicide in the soil was evaluated by visual plant phyto-intoxication, plant height, shoot fresh mass and root fresh mass, and shoot dry mass and root dry mass at 26 days after sowing. Statistical analysis was performed according to the polynomial regression model. The application of herbicides in dry soils that remained without rain during the first hours resulted in greater residual effect on the soil (0 mm of rain). The occurrence of higher humidity accelerated the degradation of the herbicide in the soil (30 mm of rain). Longer periods between application and sowing provided more significant increments. The herbicide’s toxic effects reduced linearly as started from 12 days before sowing. The 2,4-D showed low persistence in the soil, and 12 days was observed to represent a safe time length between spraying and sowing, regardless of the occurrence of rainfall. The soybean was a good indicator of 2,4-D.
Effect of reduced spacing on relationship of physiological, morphological and productive traits of corn yield
Authors: Nascimento Luan de Oliveira , Ferreira Josimar Batista , Nascimento Gleisson de Oliveira , Santos Vanderley Borges dos , Souza Clemeson Silva de , Lima Antonia Fabiana Barros de , Nascimento Francisco Ian de Oliveira
Published: September 2020

Increasing corn grain production without devastating new forest areas is a viable alternative to controlling deforestation. However, increasing plant density in the area may alter plant morphophysiological and productive traits. The objective of this study was to characterize relationships between physiological, morphological and yield traits of corn plants, as well as the cause, effect and relationship of the traits on grain yield. The experiment was carried out in randomized complete block design with four replications. The corn hybrids (2B655PW, AG7088PRO3 and P4285YHR) were grown with row spacing of 40 cm, 60 cm, 80 cm, 95 cm. The evaluated traits physiological were: net photosynthesis (PN), stomatal conductance (Gs), intercellular concentration of CO2 (Ci), leaf transpiration (E), water use efficiency (WUE) and carboxylation efficiency (CE). The morphological were: plant height (PH) and ear insertion height (EIH), stem diameter (SD), and leaf area (LA) and the productive traits were the total number of ear per hectare (NE), number of grains per ear (NGE), grain mass per ear (GME), 100 grain weight (100GW) and grain yield (GY). The characteristics of maize hybrids cultivated in environment with reduced spacing (40cm, 60cm, 80cm, 95cm) of the 2016/2017 crop were investigated through the multicollinearity path analysis. The physiological, morphological and productive traits are considered sources of variation of cause and effect of corn yield in reduced spaced. This traits are essential for observations in maize breeding programs to obtain high yielding varieties in reduced spacing. In conclusion, the physiological (PN, CE, WUE, Ci, Gs), morphological (EIH, SD, LA) and productive (NE, GME) traits provide gains in maize grain yield via indirect selection when the crop is subjected to 40 cm row spacing.
Selection of Saccharum spp. rhizobacteria with growth-promoting properties using PCA analysis
Authors: Santos Roberta Mendes dos , Rigobelo Everlon Cid
Published: September 2020

The search for plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria is an ongoing need for the development of new bioinoculants for use in various crops, including sugarcane. Bacterial strains with various plant growth-promoting properties can contribute to sustainable agricultural production. The present study aimed to isolate, characterize and select sugarcane rhizobacteria from six different varieties through principal components analysis. This study selected 167 bacterial strains with the ability to fix nitrogen, produce indolacetic acid, exhibit cellulolytic activity, and solubilize phosphate and potassium were isolated. Of these 167 bacterial strains, seven were selected by principal component analysis and identified as belonging to the genera Staphylococcus, Enterobacter, Bacillus and Achromobacter. Bacillus thuringiensis IP21 presented higher potential for nitrogen fixation and CaPO4 and AlPO4 solubilization and a lower potential for K solubilization in sugarcane. Enterobacter asburiae IP24 was efficient in indolacetic acid production and CaPO4 and FePO4 solubilization and inefficient for Araxá apatite solubilization.
Associations between microorganism and maize plant to remedy mercury-contaminated soil
Authors: Lavezzo Letícia Fernanda , Delarica Denise de Lima Dias , Fostier Anne Hélène , Rigobelo Everlon Cid , Kandasamy Saveetha , Lazarovits George , Almeida Camila Chioda de , Souza Danilo Olandino , Melo Wanderley José de
Published: September 2020

Mercury (Hg) is one of the most toxic metals and is not essential for any organism. In this study, the potential of maize plants in association with bacteria to treat oxisol contaminated with Hg (II) was evaluated. The experiment was conducted in a controlled environment, and pots with 2 kg of oxisol were contaminated with HgCl2 solution at a dose of 36 mg kg-1 of Hg in a 7x4 factorial scheme: control (soil without Hg(II) and microorganisms), T2= (soil with Hg(II) and without microorganisms), and T3= soil with Hg(II) + Enterobacter cloacae, T4= Hg(II) + Bacillus subtilis, T5= Hg(II) + Enterobacter sp., T6= Hg(II) + Staphylococcus epidermidis, and T7= Hg(II) + Bacillus sp. Total Hg quantification was performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. At the end of the experiment, the soil pH was significantly lower (0.3 to 0.4 pH unit) in the T2 (no inoculation), Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter sp. and Bacillus sp. treatments. Neither contamination of soil with Hg nor plant associations with bacteria led to differences in the root dry mass of maize plants. Maize plants associated with Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus sp. bacteria had lower shoot biomass (71 and 50%) compared to the treatment 2. The best remedial effect was observed with the association of maize plants with Bacillus sp., which recovered 19.67% of Hg(II) in the soil when compared to control and treatment 2 and treatment with B. subtilis. The recommendation is the use of B. subtilis to decrease the toxicity caused by Hg(II).
Simple sequence repeat markers revealed genetic divergence and population structure of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus] collections of diverse geographic origin
Authors: Mohammed Wassu , Amelework Beyene , Shimelis Hussein
Published: September 2020

The study was carried out to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of okra collections from diverse geographic origin using selected polymorphic simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Thirty-two okra accessions collected from three geographic regions were genotyped using 16 selected SSR markers. The SSR markers generated a total of 71 loci of which 67% were polymorphic. Genetic distances among accessions ranged from 2.2 to 7.1, with a mean of 4.65. Gene diversity ranged from 0.10 to 0.78 with a mean of 0.52. Genetic clustering classified the accessions into three major clusters and four sub-clusters. Each cluster and sub-cluster consisted of accessions derived from different sources. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that 67%, 81% and 83% of the total genetic variation detected was found within populations of geographic origin, altitude and collection district, respectively. The observed moderate to high population differentiation could partly be attributed to limited germplasm exchange, agro-ecological differences, and partly by selection pressure. The present study revealed the presence of high genetic diversity and population divergence among okra collections from Ethiopia. The study demonstrated that a collection strategy for conservation of okra genetic resources should focus on sampling of representative genotypes covering wide geographic regions and altitudinal ranges of target agro-ecologies.
Özel Gereksinimli Çocuğu Olan Ebeveynlerin Açık Hava Oyun Parklarına İlişkin Görüşleri
Authors: TENİKECİ Zeliha , CEVHER KALBURAN Nilgün
Published: September 2020

Bu
nitel araştırmanın amacı, okul öncesi eğitime devam eden özel gereksinimli (ÖG)
çocuğu olan ebeveynlerin açık hava oyun parklarına ilişkin görüşlerinin
incelenmesidir. Araştırmaya Denizli ilindeki özel eğitim kurumlarına devam eden
0-6 yaş çocuğu olan toplam 12 ebeveyn dahil edilmiştir. Veriler içerik analizi
yöntemiyle analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada elde edilen bulgulara göre,
ebeveynlerin açık hava oyun parkları ile ilgili görüşleri olumsuz görüşler,
kaygılar, beklentiler, olumlu görüşler olmak üzere dört ana kategoride
toplanmıştır. Ebeveynlerin fiziksel çevre ve sosyal çevreye ilişkin olumsuz
görüşleri ve beklentileri olduğu saptanmıştır. Ayrıca, ebeveynlerin açık hava
oyun parkları ile ilgili olumlu görüşlerinin ÖG çocuğunun parkta sergilediği
duygu ve davranışlar ile ilişkili olduğu belirlenmiştir. Araştırmanın bulguları
ilgili alanyazın ışığında tartışılmış; uygulayıcılar ve araştırmacılara yönelik
birtakım önerilerde bulunulmuştur.
Kafā’ah in Kiai Ṣāliḥ Darat's Perspective
Authors: Irfan Agus , Amri Muhammad Saeful
Published: September 2020

According to Kiai Ṣāliḥ Darat, kafā’ah means equal or similarity between the prospective bridegroom and bride in their perfect nature and lack. There are five categories of kafā’ah, 1) survivors of marital defects, 2) independence, 3) noble people, 4) fair and ‘iffah in religion, 5) good limbs and work. For him, property is not included in the category of kafā’ah because it cannot be measured and can be lost at any time. Using library research with the primary source of the book Majmu’āt al-Sharī'ah al-Kāfiyah li al-‘Awam by Kiai Ṣāliḥ Darat, the concept of kafā’ah will be elaborated. The collected data were analyzed using interpretive descriptive methods. This study concludes that treasure is not a priority in the kafā’ah category because it is not a gift but a trial. Treasure is not something noble, because it is not the legacy of noble people such as prophets, apostles, and previous salih people but the inheritance of despicable people like Qarun, Hamman, and Pharaoh. An ahlul ‘ilmi who married his daughter to ahlul arto, because of his wealth, he changed from ahlul ‘ilmi to ahlul jahli.
From Hybrids to New Scaffolds: The Latest Medicinal Chemistry Goals in Multi-target Directed Ligands for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Alarcón-Espósito Jazmín , Mallea Michael , Rodríguez-Lavado Julio
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic, progressive, and fatal neurodegenerative disorder
affecting cognition, behavior, and function, being one of the most common causes of mental deterioration
in elderly people. Once thought as being just developed because of β amyloid depositions
or neurofibrillary Tau tangles, during the last decades, numerous AD-related targets have
been established, the multifactorial nature of AD became evident. In this context, the one drug-one
target paradigm has resulted in being inefficient in facing AD and other disorders with complex etiology,
opening the field for the emergence of the multitarget approach. In this review, we highlight
the recent advances within this area, emphasizing in hybridization tools of well-known chemical
scaffolds endowed with pharmacological properties concerning AD, such as curcumin-, resveratrol-,
chromone- and indole-. We focus mainly on well established and incipient AD therapeutic targets,
AChE, BuChE, MAOs, β-amyloid deposition, 5-HT4 and Serotonin transporter, with the aim
to shed light about new insights in the AD multitarget therapy.
The Updated Role of the Blood Brain Barrier in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: From Basic and Clinical Studies
Authors: Chen Sheng , Xu PengLei , Fang YuanJian , Lenahan Cameron
Published: September 2020

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a type of hemorrhagic stroke associated with high
mortality and morbidity. The blood-brain-barrier (BBB) is a structure consisting primarily of cerebral
microvascular endothelial cells, end feet of astrocytes, extracellular matrix, and pericytes.
Post-SAH pathophysiology included early brain injury and delayed cerebral ischemia. BBB disruption
was a critical mechanism of early brain injury and was associated with other pathophysiological
events. These pathophysiological events may propel the development of secondary brain injury,
known as delayed cerebral ischemia. Imaging advancements to measure BBB after SAH primarily
focused on exploring innovative methods to predict clinical outcome, delayed cerebral ischemia,
and delayed infarction related to delayed cerebral ischemia in acute periods. These predictions are
based on detecting abnormal changes in BBB permeability. The parameters of BBB permeability
are described by changes in computed tomography (CT) perfusion and magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI). Kep seems to be a stable and sensitive indicator in CT perfusion, whereas Ktrans is a reliable
parameter for dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI. Future prediction models that utilize both the
volume of BBB disruption and stable parameters of BBB may be a promising direction to develop
practical clinical tools. These tools could provide greater accuracy in predicting clinical outcome
and risk of deterioration. Therapeutic interventional exploration targeting BBB disruption is also
promising, considering the extended duration of post-SAH BBB disruption.
Therapeutic Applications of Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Samadi Pouria , Saki Sahar , Manoochehri Hamed , Sheykhhasan Mohsen
Published: September 2020

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are one of the most promising tools for cell therapy,
that are isolated from bone marrow and many other adult tissues such as liver, cord blood, placenta,
dental pulp and adipose tissue. Due to the lack of MHC class II expression on the surface of
MSCs, they can also be used as a potent cell source for tissue regeneration in non-autologous cell
therapy applications. Many advantages of MSCs such as their self-renewal, in vitro proliferation,
rapid cell doubling capacity, anti-fibrotic, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory
and immunosuppressive effects, and also paracrine nature have been demonstrated in various pre--
clinical studies and clinical evidence. The ability of MSCs to differentiate into multiple cell lineages,
as well as the lack of ethical issues in comparison with embryonic and induced Pluripotent
Stem Cells (iPSCs), has introduced them as a suitable candidate for cell therapy. This review provides
a comprehensive overview of various clinical trials based on MSCs for the treatment of a variety
of diseases, demonstrating their capability in the treatment of dermatological, musculoskeletal,
neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, gastroenterological and urological conditions, etc.
An Innovative School Building Design in the Town of Montemiletto
Authors: Miano Andrea , Chiumiento Giovanni
Published: September 2020

Background:

This paper presents an innovative design for a school building, awarded in the concourse “Scuole innovative”, published by the italian Ministry of Education, University and Research. The new school building is located in a newly built urban area of Montemiletto (Avellino, Italy), at the south-east of the Leonessa castle and the ancient nucleus of the town. The Comprehensive Institute that includes a kindergarten, a primary school and a secondary school, is proposed as a Civic Center, an “urban place”, characterized by new spaces of relationship and aggregation.

Objective:

The main idea of the project design is the creation of an innovative school with respect to the architectural, structural and plant system aspects and to the energetic efficiency and characterized by the presence of new environments of learning and openness to the territory.

Materials and Methods:

The project proposals can be summarized in the different points: a) unit of the morphological-settlement solution and the articulation of the Civic Center, to be identified as new reference point in the city; b) adherence of the characters of the school to the landscape and visual connection with the castle; c) urban and architectural role of the system of the paths and connections, which surround and enter in the intervention area; d) extension and permeation between the natural and artificial environments assigning to the roof the task of increasing open spaces; e) accentuation of the public and multi-functional character of the different spaces, so that the school can be a place for meeting and comparison, in which it is possible to test new ways of teaching; f) use of different types of green open spaces as gardens, flowerbeds, educational vegetable gardens that change with the seasons, sporting fields, cycle-forgave routes among the green. Moreover, with respect to the structural aspects, seismic isolation at the basis of the building is proposed. This paper focuses mainly on the aspects related to energy and environmental sustainability and life cycle cost with reference to the case study design. The goal is to reduce the impact on the ecosystem, trying to make the school building organic to the existing environment. The containment of energy consumption for the air conditioning of the rooms is done through the isolation of the massive walls of the façade, covered with local stone (Irpinia breccia) and polycarbonate. Water-saving is obtained by reusing rainwater for the irrigation of vegetable gardens, vegetation and sanitary use.

Results and Conclusion:

The use of recycled materials and components is proposed: the Irpinia breccia covering the façade and, with different grain sizes, the external roofing and flooring; the polycarbonate; the polyester insulation; the outdoor furniture in recycled wood. In addition, dry reinforced concrete construction technologies are chosen. Definitively, the main concept is to have “a school in the park”.
Pediatric Pseudotumor Cerebri: Epidemiological Features.
Authors: Monteu Francesca , D'Alonzo Gabriella , Nuzzi Raffaele
Published: September 2020

Objective:

The purpose was to study the epidemiological and clinical features of Pediatric Pseudotumor Cerebri; we especially evaluated age, sex, sexual maturity, weight, symptoms, duration of the episode, visual acuity, correlation with systemic diseases or drugs.

Methods:

We investigated a population of 40 children (80 eyes), aged between 2 and 18 years, that referred to our Centre (Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino - presidio Ospedale Regina Margherita) from 2000 to 2018.

All the patients were monitored with visual field exam, fundus exam and Frisen classification, pupillary reflexes, best corrected visual acuity, orthoptic exam.

Then, the demographic characteristics, BMI (body max index) and weight changes, the correlation with systemic diseases or drugs, the Relative Afferent Pupillary Defect (RAPD), the VI cranial nerve deficit, the time required for the diagnosis, the modality of onset, the correlation between diagnosis delay and best corrected visual acuity, the resolution time and the probability of recurrence were studied.

Results:

We observed 2 age peaks in our population, one consisting of adolescents (aged between 11 and 14 years) and one consisting of younger children aged between 4 and 7 years, with a statistically significant correlation between age and BMI.

The deficit of the VI cranial nerve and the diplopia were resolved within the first month, despite the longer time of resolution of the papilledema.

Headache was the main onset symptom, but after reclassifying onset symptoms per weight classes, in overweight children, we found an increased variability of symptoms (dizziness, postural instability, photophobia, nausea, vomit, strabism and diplopia, visual fogging, drowsiness, irritability). Moreover, we found only one totally asymptomatic case, during a routine visit, in a 6 years old overweight child with Down syndrome.

Conclusion:

The Pediatric Pseudotumor Cerebri is, even nowadays, a little known pathology.

To provide a correct diagnostic assessment, it will be imperative to recollect the epidemiological features of this disease.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Free Opioid Anesthesia for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Prospective, Randomized Double-blinded Study
Authors: Luong Nguyen V. , Giang Nguyen T. , V. Chuong Hoang , Cuong Nguyen M. , V. Dinh Ngo , Anh Vũ , Hanh Mai D. , Thuy Nguyen L.P. , Son Le T. , Kien Nguyen T.
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

To evaluate efficacy and side effects of free opioid anesthesia for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods:

A prospective study was performed on 94 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Military Hospital 103 from May 2018 to February 2019. These patients were randomly allocated into two groups: patients in FOA (free - opioid anesthesia) group were administered lidocaine (2 mg/kg before induction and 1.5 mg/kg/h for maintenance), magnesium (30 mg/kg before induction and 1.5 g infusion for maintenance) combined with Intravenous (IV) injection of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg), and ketorolac (30 mg); while patients in OA group (opioid anesthesia) were provided with IV fentanyl (5 mcg/kg for induction and 1.5 mcg/kg every 30 minutes for maintenance of anesthesia). Both groups received total intravenous anesthesia by propofol. The depth of anesthesia was monitored by the entropy module during surgery. Neuromuscular blockade was reversed by sugammadex 2 mg/kg at the end of surgery. The postoperative analgesia was delivered using IV fentanyl for 48 to 72 hours. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score was measured 10 mins, 20 mins, 1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours after surgery.

Results:

All patients had an excellent quality of anesthesia with RE (Respond Entropy), SE (State Entropy) always under 60 from induction to abdominal closure without intraoperative awareness and postoperative recall of the operation; 100% of the patients were extubated immediately after surgery. In the first three postoperative hours fentanyl consumption in Group FOA was significantly lower than in Group OA (31.91 ± 3.98 mcg versus 34.47 ± 7.17 mcg, p=0,035). In the OA group, the rate of intraoperative hypotension was higher compared to its counterpart. Despite the higher risk of hypersalivation, group FOA had a significantly lower incidence of nausea and vomiting.

Conclusion:

Free opioid anesthesia provided adequate sedation and amnesia and may be an alternative approach to opioid anesthesia for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Patients under free opioid anesthesia experienced a lower incidence of intraoperative hypotension, lower rate of nausea, vomiting and lower demand for analgesia in the early postoperative period (0 - 3 h) compared to those receiving opioid anesthesia.
Employees’ Perception Regarding Performance Appraisal Practices in Insurance Sector; A Case Study of Bharti AXA Life Insurance Company Ltd.
Authors: Srivastava Pallavee , Srivastava Priyanka
Published: September 2020

nsurance sector competes by innovating and developing the core competencies of their human resources. The human resource system can be made effective by having a valid appraisal system that also acts as a true motivator. In order to ensure that the right number of staff with the right capacities is available at the right time and for the right places, appraisal is one of the key factors of organizational ability which is the focus of this study. The purpose of the paper is to know the impact of performance appraisal on the reward, motivation, job satisfaction, superior- subordinate relationship which will finally lead to customer satisfaction and better performance by the insurance sector.
As we know that performance appraisal is one of the most widely used methods for measuring the value of employee performance. The success of performance appraisal depends on how effectively it is implemented. It also depends on how well the employees have understood the performance appraisal system and how positively they are oriented towards their system.
Идентификация дефектов в слоистых композитах с помощью импульсного вихретокового метода
Authors: Кокуров А.М. , Малушин Д.С. , Чичигин Б.А. , Субботин Д.Е. , Кузнецов А.О.
Published: September 2020

This paper describes the practical possibility of determining the size and depth of the delamination in non-metallic multilayer weakly conducting materials using a unique pulsed eddy-current equipment. The efficiency of the developed methods and technical solutions is confirmed by the results of experimental investigation. The objects of control were carbon fiber reinforced plastic specimens with artificially created delaminations in the material structure. Defects had different sizes and shapes.
Определение времени продольной релаксации текущей жидкости ядерно-магнитным спектрометром дифференциального типа
Authors: Давыдов В.В. , Мязин Н.С. , Дудкин В.И. , Давыдов Р.В.
Published: September 2020

The necessity of simultaneous measurement of the longitudinal T1 and transverse T2 relaxation times for monitoring the state of the flowing liquid during the study in the range of flow rate q changes by at least two orders of magnitude has been substantiated. A new method for measuring T1 has been developed. For its implementation, the design of a differential nuclear magnetic spectrometer has been proposed, which makes it possible to measure T1 in the entire range of measurement of flow rate q. The results of experimental studies are presented.
VA Video Connect for Clinical Care in Older Adults in a Rural State During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Padala Kalpana P , Wilson Kerrie B , Gauss C Heath , Stovall Jessica D , Padala Prasad R
Published: September 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for telehealth at home. Although the Department of Veterans Affairs is a leading provider of telehealth, disparities may exist in reaching older veterans living in rural areas. VA Video Connect (VVC) is a video conferencing app that enables veterans to connect with their health care provider via a secure and private session.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the capability and willingness of older veterans to participate in a VVC visit during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on older veterans (N=118) at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. Participants were interviewed over the phone and responses to the following items were recorded: availability of internet, email, and an electronic device with a camera; veterans’ willingness to complete an appointment via a VVC visit; and availability of assistance from a caregiver for those who were unable to participate in a VVC visit alone.

Results

Participants’ mean age was 72.6 (SD 8.3) years, 92% (n=108) were male, 69% (n=81) were Caucasian, 30% (n=35) were African Americans, and 36% (n=42) lived in a rural location. The majority reported having access to the internet (n=93, 77%) and email service (n=83, 70%), but only 56% (n=67) had a camera-equipped device. Overall, 53% (n=63) were willing and capable of participating in a VVC visit. The availability of internet access was significantly lower in rural compared to nonrural participants (P=.045) and in those with or less than a high school education compared to those who pursued higher education (P=.02). Willingness to participate in the VVC visit was significantly lower in rural compared to nonrural participants (P=.03). Of the participants who reported they were able and willing to partake in a VVC visit (n=54), 65% (n=35) opted for VVC and 35% (n=19) preferred a phone visit. In total, 77% (n=27) of the scheduled VVC visits were successful.

Conclusions

Despite advances in technology, and willingness on the part of health care systems, there are some lingering issues with capability and willingness to participate in video telehealth visits, particularly among older adults residing in rural areas.
Adapting an Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic to Telehealth During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Practice Perspective
Authors: Sasangohar Farzan , Bradshaw Major R , Carlson Marianne Millen , Flack James N , Fowler James C , Freeland Diana , Head John , Marder Kate , Orme William , Weinstein Benjamin , Kolman Jacob M , Kash Bita , Madan Alok
Published: September 2020

As the demand for telepsychiatry increases during the COVID-19 pandemic, the strengths and challenges of telepsychiatry implementation must be articulated to improve clinical practices in the long term. Currently, observations within US contexts are lacking; therefore, we report on the rapid implementation of telepsychiatry and workflow experiences in a psychiatric practice based within a large health care system in southeast Texas with a national catchment area. We discuss the logistics of the implementation, including modes of communication, scheduling, coordination, and capacity; the psychological effects of web-based services, including both the loss of the physical therapeutic environment and the unique interpersonal dynamics experienced in the virtual environment; and postadoption patterns of engagement with our services and with other clinical functions affected by the rapid adaptation to telemedicine. Our art therapy group programming serves as an applied case study, demonstrating the value of a well-managed web-based program (eg, patients were receptive and well-engaged, and they appreciated the continuity of accessible service) as well as the challenges (eg, the need for backup plans and technological fallbacks, managing interruptions and telecommunication learning curves, and working around the difference in resources for art and music therapy between a well-stocked clinical setting versus clients’ home spaces). We conclude from our experience that the overall strengths of telepsychiatry include receptive and well-engaged responses from patients as well as the expansion of boundaries, which provides a directly contextualized view into patients’ home lives. Challenges and corresponding recommendations include the need for more careful safety planning for high-risk patients; maintaining professional boundaries in the newly informal virtual setting; designing the physical space to both frame the patient encounter and maintain work-life balance for the therapist; allowing for delays and interruptions (including an initial acclimation session); and preserving interprofessional care team collaboration when the physical locations that normally facilitate such encounters are not accessible. We believe that careful observations of the strengths and challenges of telepsychiatry during this pandemic will better inform practices that are considering telepsychiatry adoption both within pandemic contexts and more broadly thereafter.