bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Literacy on Skin-to-Skin Contact
Authors: del Carmen Gangotena María
Published: May 2022

Strong scientific evidence supports the importance of practicing skin-to-skin contact immediately after childbirth. It is considered a unique time that provides vital advantages and short- and long-term health benefits for infants and mothers. Skin-to-skin contact has proved to enhance social and emotional development and attachment. Other benefits of skin-to-skin contact are the high impact on promoting breastfeeding and healthy eating behaviors. It promotes neurophysiological adjustment to postnatal life. Newborn infants who received SSC cry less, and mothers experience fewer maternal depression symptoms. The newborn infants experienced less pain responding to vitamin K intramuscular injections. This practice has a great value, and it is a natural and instinctive behavior; therefore, it is essential to convey understandable information to pregnant women and their families, permitting them to follow health-informed decisions to support SSC as the best start for their babies.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Racemic α-Heterocyclic α,α-Diaminoester and α,α-Diamino Acid Carboxylic: 2-Benzamido-2-[(Tetrahydro-Furan-2-Ylmethyl)Amino]Acetate and 2-Benzamido-2-[(Tetrahydro-Furan-2-Ylmethyl)Amino] Acetic Acid
Authors: Houssine Mabrouk El
Published: May 2022

We reported here the synthesis of new α,α-diaminoester and α,α-diamino acid derivatives, as 2-benzamido-2-[(tetrahydro-furan-2-ylmethyl)amino] acetic acid through alkaline hydrolysis reaction of corresponding N-benzoylated methyl α,α-diamino ester. The α,α-diaminoester derivative was synthesized by nucleophilic substitution of methyl α-azido glycinate N-benzoylated with 2-tetrahydrofuran-2-ylmethan-amine. The structure of these products were established on the basis of NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C), and MS data.
Phytocosmetics and Phytopharmaceuticals from African Medicinal Plants
Authors: Ahmad Warra Aliyu
Published: May 2022

Africa contains some of the richest biodiversity in the world, blessed with bountiful plants of economic importance and plants of medicinal importance which when developed would reduce our expenditure on imported drugs to meet our health needs. Plants are source of phytochemicals that possess emollients, humectants and medicinal properties. A complex mixture derived from plant sources are also used as a medicine or drug (phytomedicine, or phytopharmaceuticals). The demand for phytocosmetics and phytopharmaceuticals is increasing. Due to growing global market demand for phytocosmetics such as skin care, toiletries, perfumes and other cosmetics, there are greater opportunities through participation of local community in processing the plant resources to extract the products at subsistence level for industrial needs especially now that Africa needs local source of raw materials for the development of local industries for contribution to continental and interbational development. However, little or no research was conducted on the cosmetic potential of such plant resources. Plant-based cosmetics have an important role in modern society, natural based cosmetics, fragrances, and personal care products have increasingly become the greener alternative to nonherbal preparations. In this chapter, African perspective of phytocosmetics and phytopharmaceuticals are covered. Aspects of phytochemistry, botanicals for cosmetic use and formulation, the importance of phytocosmetic in traditional medicine, efficacy, safety research and patent among other areas are discussed in details. Applications of nanobiomaterials in phytocosmetics and phytopharmaceuticals, functional herbal cosmetics, emerging technologies in phytocosmetics phytopharmaceuticals development, and pharmaceutical phytocosmetics were explicated. Entrepreneurial platform for phytocosmetics is captured using the selected African medicinal plants.
Spectrofluorimetric Method for Monitoring Methotrexate in Patients’ Plasma Samples and Cell Lysates Using Highly Fluorescent Carbon Dots
Authors: Molaparast Morteza , Eslampour Pooya , Soleymani Jafar , Shafiei-Irannejad Vahid
Published: May 2022

: For the first time, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and boron-doped carbon dots (N, S, P, B-codoped CDs) were synthesized through a hydrothermal reaction. The produced CDs were utilized to develop an optical sensor to determine methotrexate (MTX) in cell lysates and patients’ plasma samples. Basically, in the presence of MTX, the fluorescence emission of the CD-based probe was quenched. Under optimum conditions, a good proportional relationship was obtained between the quenched fluorescence signal and MTX concentrations from 74.9 ng/mL to 99.9 µg/mL with a limit of detection of 74.9 ng/mL. The developed nanoprobe provided a wide linear range and high accuracy and was successfully utilized in the routine therapeutic drug monitoring of MTX in plasma samples. The obtained results proposed the developed nanoprobe for the on-time and specific detection of MTX in blood samples. As another application, N, S, P, B-codoped CDs were utilized for bioimaging MCF-7 cancer cells and could be proposed as efficient bioimaging agents for tumor cells.
New species of the cuckoo bee genus Austrosphecodes Michener, 1978 (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Sphecodini) and a key for Brazilian species
Authors: Gonçalves Rodrigo Barbosa , Pereira Felipe Walter
Published: May 2022

The bee genus Austrosphecodes Michener, 1978 comprises 29 obligatory cleptoparasitic species distributed from Chile to Mexico. Currently, three species are known to occur in Brazil, Austrosphecodes brasiliensis (Schrottky, 1910), A. inornatus (Schrottky, 1902), and A. minarum (Schrottky, 1910). Here, we describe nine new species, Austrosphecodes asmodeus sp. nov., A. balrog sp. nov., A. cerberus sp. nov., A. gorgon sp. nov., A. jurupari sp. nov., A. krampus sp. nov., A. lucifer sp. nov., A. orcus sp. nov., and A. tartarus sp. nov. An identification key for the 12 known species from Brazil is presented. Specimens of A. asmodeus sp. nov. and A. brasiliensis were observed near nest aggregations of Caenohalictus incertus (Schrottky, 1902) in Curitiba (State of Paraná).
Eating and swallowing disorders in children with cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Todorović Jelena , Zelić Mirna , Jerkić Lana
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Cleft lip and palate are complex congenital anomalies of the orofacial system of children. Feeding and swallowing problems occur with varying degrees in children with cleft lip and/or palate. Aim. The aim of this paper was to review the literature and available evidence regarding the types of eating and swallowing disorders that can be identified in children with cleft lip and/or palate, as well as a description and types of compensatory strategies and interventions to alleviate difficulties. Methods. Insight into the relevant literature was performed by specialized search engines on the internet and insight into the electronic database. Results. The extent of the cleft is related to the severity of eating and swallowing disorders, so the most common problems are decreased oral sensitivity, cough, choking, nasal regurgitation, difficulty in sucking, laryngotracheal aspiration due to inadequate airway protection during swallowing, which may result in pneumonia and lung damage. Feeding and swallowing difficulty is also a source of stress for parents. Conclusion. Choking, coughing, nasal regurgitation, laryngotracheal aspiration, excessive air intake can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, but also the need for alternative feeding methods Therefore, it is of great importance to identify the problems of feeding and swallowing in a timely manner, along with modifications of the feeding method.
Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes and Vernix Caseosa Peritonitis: A case report
Authors: Mihajlović Dejan , Đoković Novica , Vitković Leonida , Šulović Nenad , Mijović Milica
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Vernix caseosa peritonitis (VCP) is a rare postpartum complication rarely recognized by clinicians despite an increased incidence of cesarean sections. Case report: A 23-year-old patient, who had not had any prior medical examination during pregnancy and with preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM), gave birth by cesarean section. On the 4th day after the cesarean section, the patient developed fever and abdominal pain. Laboratory parameters showing inflammation were increased. Two bacteria were found in the swab of the lochia: Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis. After relaparotomy was performed inside the abdominal cavity, hemorrhagic-purulent contents and multiple cheesy fibrin deposits on the intestines were visible. After peritoneal lavage and triple antibiotic therapy prescribed in duration of seven days, the patient completely recovered. Histopathological analysis showed a mixture of inflammatory cells concentrated around non-nuclear cells with wrinkled edges, which primarily corresponded to the inflammatory-altered vernix. Conclusion: Early recognition of vernix caseosa peritonitis is very important because it can prevent the resection of the abdominal organs that are altered with inflammation.
Cipargamin could inhibit human adenosine receptor A3 with higher binding affinity than Plasmodium falciparum P-type ATPase 4: An In silico study
Authors: Fatoki Toluwase , Awofisayo Oladoja , Faleye Bolanle
Published: May 2022

Aim: This study aimed to predict the molecular targets of cipargamin in humans and estimate the structural dynamics and binding affinity of their interactions compared to that of Plasmodium falciparum P-type ATPase 4 (PfATP4). Methods: In silico methods were used in this study which include target prediction, structure modeling and dynamics, and molecular docking. Results: The results showed that cipargamin had 100% probability of binding to the human adenosine A3 receptor (ADORA3) and about 15% for other human targets which include tyrosine-protein kinase JAK2, adenosine A2a receptor, phosphodiesterase 5A and cathepsin K. The results of molecular docking showed that binding energy of cipargamin to PfATP4 and hADORA3 were-12.40 kcal/mol-1 and-13.40 kcal/mol-1 respectively. The docking was validated by the binding of enprofylline and fostamatinib to PfATP4 and hADORA3. Overall, the binding of cipargamin was closely similar to that of fostamatinib. This study shows the potential of cipargamin to modulate the activities of PfATP4 of the parasite (P. falciparum) as well as ADORA3 of the host (Homo sapiens). Conclusion: All the previous studies of cirpagamin have not implicated its action on hADORA3, thus this study provides an insight into a possible role of hADORA3 in the mechanism of malarial infection.
Clinical and simple laboratory data associated with fatal outcomes in patients with acute pancreatitis
Authors: Formanchuk Tetiana , Shaprinskiy Volodymyr , Formanchuk Andrii
Published: May 2022

Aims. The aim of the study was to evaluate the association of mortality in acute pancreatitis with clinical and simple laboratory data received on the day of admission. Patients and methods. In our retrospective study, the clinical and laboratory parameters of 99 patients with moderate and severe acute pancreatitis were analyzed. All patients were divided into two groups: deceased and survivors. Results. We did not find a significant difference in age and gender distribution between the comparison groups. However, a significant predominance of alcoholic etiology of acute pancreatitis, early hospitalization (up to 6 hours from the onset of the disease) of patients, and the number of necrotizing infected type in the deceased group were found. Concomitant pathology did not significantly differ in comparison groups. In patients from the deceased group, the total number of all complications was significantly higher than in the group of survivors-21 (100%) and 42 (53.8%) (p = 0.0001), respecting. Among the laboratory parameters determined on the day of admission, in the deceased group, there was a significant increase in stabs to 19.8 ± 9.8 and ESR, AST to 225.3 ± 47.5 U/L, urea to 11.2 ± 7.7 mmol/L, and creatinine to 173.6 ± 26.1 mmol/L. Conclusion. The alcoholic genesis of acute pancreatitis, necrotizing infected type of inflammation of the pancreas, presence of late complications, and comorbidities were significantly higher in the deceased group. The levels of stabs, ESR, AST, urea, and creatinine determined on the admission significantly dominated in the deceased group, which requires further study for the prediction of mortality of acute pancreatitis.
Gastrocytoprotective properties of cryopreserved placenta extract in combined action of low temperatures and inhibition of cyclooxygenase
Authors: Hladkykh Fedir
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are ranked first among the world's effective anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs with anticipated side effects. That is why the prevention of development of adverse reactions associated with NSAIDs, in particular, of those related to their ulcerogenicity, remains a serious global problem. Aims. To characterize the mechanisms of gastrocytoprotective activity of cryopreserved placenta in combined action of low temperatures and diclofenac sodium. Material and methods. The study was performed on 42 male rats weighing 200-220 g. Acute diclofenac sodium-induced gastropathy was reproduced by a single injection of the latter in rats at the dose of 50 mg/kg. The content of malonic dialdehyde, catalase activity, prostaglandin synthase activity and the content of nitrogen monoxide metabolites in homogenates of gastric mucosa were determined by spectrophotometric method. Results and discussion. The study showed that prophylactic administration of placental cryoextract in rats with diclofenac sodium-induced gastropathy is associated with increased activity of antioxidant system in gastric mucosa as demonstrated by an elevated catalase activity by 40.0% as compared with control rats. Modulation of antioxidant-prooxidant homeostasis is believed to be one of the principal mechanisms of gastrocytoprotective action in combined action of low temperatures and cryoextract of the placenta. This is shown by a statistically significant (p < 0.05) 2.2-fold increase of antioxidant-prooxidant index in the study group as compared with rats with diclofenac sodium-induced gastropathy. Administration of placental cryoextract was found to increase prostaglandin synthase activity in rats with diclofenac sodium-induced gastropathy by two times as compared with control rats, which would reduce iatrogenic prostaglandin deficiency in gastric mucosa. Also, the combined action of low temperatures and of placenta cryoextract was associated with a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increase in the level of metabolites of nitrogen monoxide (by 70.1%) as compared with rats with diclofenac sodium-induced gastropathy. Conclusions. Modulation of prooxidant-antioxidant homeostasis in gastric mucosa and increase in contents of nitrogen monoxide metabolites and prostaglandin synthase activity are the leading mechanisms of gastroprotective activity of cryopreserved placental extract in diclofenac sodium-induced gastropathy.
Mechanical in the novel One flew over the cuckoo's nest
Authors: Banković Nevena
Published: May 2022

The paper compares people and the living world with the mechanical and inanimate world in Ken Kesey's novel One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest. The use of mechanical terminology, comparison of men to robots, and human behavior and human relations to the work of a machine in an industrial environment is not unusual for the twentieth-century literature, especially science fiction, given the development of technology and science: connection of distant parts on the planet, conquering of the space, and splitting of the atom. The man has made a remarkable progress in the field of science, but the question arises whether he has remained the same during that process, or whether he has "gazed into the abyss" for too long. The analysis that follows raises the question whether the use of mechanical in the novel One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest is a metaphor or something more. To talk about metaphorical use, we will refer to the paper Metaphor and Mind Style in Ken Kesey's One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by authors Elena Semino and Kate Swindlehurst. On the other hand, we will refer to the ideas of Erich Fromm from a number of his books to show that the mentioned comparison is not only a stylistic figure, but the refection of the process of changing of human nature.
Volumetric analysis of hippocampus and amygdala in animal model of PTSD
Authors: Ivanišević Milica , Knežević Milica , Kojović Natalija , Starčević Ana
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) represents a mental disorder that occurs after life threatening situations. Animal models in psychiatry studies represent a base from which results and conclusions can be translated to human population. Amygdala and hippocampus are important neuroanatomical substrates possibly relevant to PTSD pathogenesis. Aim: The aim of study was to investigate volumetric changes that occur in hippocampus and amygdala related to PTSD animal model. Material and methods: Experiment was conducted on adult male Wistar rats. They were two groups, experimental and control. Experimental paradigm lasted for 31 days during which animals were exposed to acute and chronic stress. Acute stress was performed on the first day and ten days later. In between, animals were exposed to chronic social stress by pair rotations. Before second acute stress exposure, experimental group was divided in two subgroups from which one received dexamethasone dose. After the experiment ended, animals were sacrificed and the brain was extracted. Following the freezing process, brain tissue samples were cut and prepared for microscopy using. This was followed by volumetric analysis of hippocampus and amygdala. Measurements were performed bilaterally using Image Tool 3.0 Software. Results: Results showed volumetric changes in these structures. Hippocampus had smaller volume in the experimental subgroup without dexamethasone (x̄ = 0.6144) compared to the control group (x̄ = 0.9688). Amygdala, as well, had smaller volumes in same subgroup compared to the control (x̄ = 10.0156 compared to x̄ = 11.5041). Conclusion: Our study provided results in agreement with several previous studies on rodents and contributes to the assumption that hippocampus and amygdala have significance in PTSD etiology. Further goal is to expand our study which will help us to better understand the disorder itself.
Citing literature in biomedical research
Authors: Pavlović Vedrana , Milić Nataša
Published: May 2022

Even though it is considered to be the least demanding part while writing a paper, significant attention should be devoted to citing literature. By using citation, original authors are acknowledged, readers are directed to the used material, validity of the used sources is confirmed, evidence of current research is provided, and plagiarism is avoided. Numerous shortcomings in the citation of scientific literature have been recognized in recent times. Results of a recent meta-analysis showed that 25.4% of published scientific papers consisted of citation errors. The academic community encounters the problems of incorrect citations on a daily basis, and assessing the accuracy of citations requires considerable effort. Most researchers are aware of the presence of various citation errors, but few respect their presence, i.e., the consequences of the identified problem. Assessing the presence and type of inaccurate citations in the biomedical scientific literature, as well as identifying factors associated with their presence, is important for preserving the integrity of the academic community. To improve citation accuracy in the biomedical scientific literature, recommendations for authors, mentors, readers and editors should be implemented in academic environment. These recommendations would encourage good citation practice, prevent errors and promote progress throughout the scientific community.
Application of shock wave therapy in the treatment of calcific tendinopathies
Authors: Topalović Ivana , Nešić Dejan
Published: May 2022

Tendons are the soft tissue that connects muscles to bones. They are made of collagen and elastin, they are strong and solid, and have no possibility of contraction. Their strength helps us to move. Recovery of tendon injuries is long-lasting and can take more than six months. If a tendon is shed during a time injury, calcification occurs at the site of the injury and the disease is called calcifying tendinopathy. The very existence of calcifications is an indication for treatment with a mechanical shock wave (Shock wave). Mechanical shock waves can act in focus or radially. The difference between focused and radial waves is primarily in their physical basis. Focused shock waves differ from radial shock waves in terms of therapeutic depth of penetration into the tissue. The basic biological effect of a mechanical shock wave is stimulating. The energy of the mechanical shock wave acts at the cellular level by stimulating the reduction of inflammation and pain in the tissue. Using mechanical shock wave in the treatment of calcified tendinopathies, a safe method for breaking calcifications was obtained. Shock wave can be applied to using: different frequency, different number of strokes, as well as different strength of strokes in their studies. The choice of parameters for the application depends on whether it is calcified or non-calcified tendinopathy. Indications for the use are: painful shoulder, heel spur, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendon tendinopathy, jumping knee, patellar tendinitis, myalgia, myogelosis and muscular tendon overstrain syndrome. Contraindications for the use are: the existence of prostheses, knees and hips, as well as various orthopedic material, pacemaker, as well as the presence of chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or tumors. The application of a mechanical shock wave is new, non-invasive method, easy to apply, always reduces pain and practically without side effects. This method has a special role in the treatment of chronic inflammation of diseased tendons, with or without calcification. The only dilemma in the application of a mechanical shock wave can be in the number of applications as well as the time break between the applications of two consecutive mechanical shock waves therapy.
Sensações, misturas e plasticidade: quando as crianças experimentam e descobrem a Arte Contemporânea
Authors: Borges Camila Bettim
Published: May 2022

O presente artigo visa discutir as aproximações das crianças com a arte contemporânea em contextos escolares apontando para possibilidades de proposições que fomentem este encontro.
Escola Popular de Artes
Authors: Scheid Darlan Gebing , Galvani Mara Aparecida Magero
Published: May 2022

O presente artigo discute uma experiência docente efetivada durante a disciplina Estágio em Artes Visuais IV pelo acadêmico do Curso de Licenciatura em Artes Visuais da Universidade de Caxias do Sul (UCS), Darlan Gebing Scheid, no segundo semestre de 2021. O trabalho foi desenvolvido em um projeto social chamado Escola Popular de Artes realizado pela Escola Tem Gente Teatrando, em Caxias do Sul – RS. No decorrer do semestre foi proposto ao grupo de estudantes participantes do projeto a realização de uma Cartografia de Si, propondo que os adolescentes olhassem para si, para o coletivo e para a localidade onde moram para que pudessem criar a partir desses elementos.
Danske fremmedkrigeres tilslutning til Islamisk Stat og al-Qaeda
Authors: Jørgensen Kathrine Elmose
Published: May 2022

Siden 2012 er 161 personer udrejst fra Danmark til krigszonen i Syrien eller Irak for at tilslutte sig islamisk ekstremistiske grupperinger (Politiets Efterretningstjeneste 2022). Forskning inden for islamisk radikalisering og terrorisme har i en årrække beskæftiget sig med, hvordan fremmedkrigeres vej til salafi-jihadisme kan forklares. Kun en meget lille del af denne litteratur beskæftiger sig med fremmedkrigernes pårørende og deres indblik i, hvordan deres familiemedlemmer endte i et salafi-jihadistisk miljø. Baseret på kvalitative interviews med fire kvindelige pårørende til fire danske, mandlige fremmedkrigere har denne artikel til formål at undersøge, hvordan de pårørende forklarer deres familiemedlemmers vej til og fortsatte engagement i salafi-jihadisme. Blandt andet mændenes svære livssituationer, personlighedstræk og mentale lidelser er med til at gøre dem åbne over for en række rekrutteringstaktikker, som samlet set er afgørende for deres vej til salafi-jihadisme. Negative og positive følelsesmæssige oplevelser er derudover essentielle for den forsatte tilknytning til terrororganisationerne. Artiklen analyserer desuden den måde, hvorpå informanterne forholder sig til fremmedkrigernes egne retfærdiggørende narrativer. Artiklen viser, at de pårørendes indsigter skal forstås som vidneudsagn snarere end som forsøg på at retfærdiggøre og normalisere fremmedkrigernes handlinger.
Har de skandinaviske ISIS- kvinder indtaget operative militære roller i Kalifatet?
Authors: Esholdt Henriette Frees
Published: May 2022

Denne artikel bidrager til de aktuelle diskussioner af, hvorvidt skandinaviske ISIS-kvinder har indtaget aktive roller i Kalifatet, ved at levere et overblik over den eksisterende forskning specifikt omhandlende kvinders operative militære roller hos ISIS. Således fokuserer artiklen på diskussionerne omkring, hvorvidt ISIS-kvinderne har deltaget i væbnet jihad som kvindelige krigere på slagmarken eller som selvmordsbombere. Desuden ses der nærmere på, hvad kvinderne har foretaget sig i det kvindelige moralpoliti Al-Khansaa, som er kendt for at være ekstremt brutale i deres håndhævelse af sharia, ligesom der har været diskussioner af, hvorvidt dannelsen af Al-Khansaa skal ses som et skridt mod, at kvinder kunne opnå en mere aktiv militant rolle hos ISIS. Artiklen konkluderer på baggrund af den eksisterende forskning, at det er stærkt tvivlsomt, at de skandinaviske ISIS-kvinder har været krigere i slagmarken eller selvmordsbombere. Derimod er det sandsynligt, at skandinaviske ISIS-kvinder har været en del af Al-Khansaa, hvor de har modtaget militær- og efterretningstræning.
Danske moskéer og salafisme
Authors: Larsen Malik , Kühle Lene
Published: May 2022

Selvom den akademiske såvel som den offentlige og politiske interesse for salafisme er i vækst i disse år, mangler der fortsat studier af, hvordan salafisme indgår i bredere muslimske kontekster, herunder moskéer. Af en række forskellige årsager var teologiske positioner – og dermed salafisme – ikke et integreret element i den seneste danske kortlægning af moskéer fra 2017 (Kühle & Larsen 2017; Kühle & Larsen 2019). I denne artikel reflekterer vi over, hvordan kortlægningen alligevel kan bidrage til en mere nuanceret forståelse af salafisme i Danmark, samt fremlægger en model for forskellige typer af relationer mellem moskéer og salafisme. Modellen bruges dernæst til at drøfte, hvordan en fremtidig undersøgelse af salafistiske miljøers tilknytning til og brug af moskéer kunne tage sig ud. Artiklen diskuterer således både forståelsen af salafisme i en dansk/europæisk kontekst og de metodiske muligheder for en sådan konceptualisering.
Pensar la transversalidad de género en la universidad
Authors:   Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Esquirol Meritxell
Published: May 2022

La transversalización de género no es un reto fácil. Ni en los órganos de poder o gobernanza, ni en la elaboración de políticas públicas y sus aplicaciones prácticas. Pues, sin presupuestos, diseños y aplicación de tácticas específicas, pensadas desde lo comunitario, transversalizar el género es susceptible de ser reducido a una idea o, peor, a un ideal. Evidentemente, dentro del ámbito y de la institución universitaria, el reto existe y es mayúsculo.
On certain rational perfect numbers
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Babeș-Bolyai University, Sándor József
Published: May 2022

We study equations of type $\sigma(n) = \dfrac{k+1}{k} \cdot n+a,$ where $a\in \{0, 1, 2, 3\},$ where $k$ and $n$ are positive integers, while $\sigma(n)$ denotes the sum of divisors of $n.$
Non-destructive monitoring of 3D cell cultures: new technologies and applications
Authors: Cortesi Marilisa , Giordano Emanuele
Published: May 2022

3D cell cultures are becoming the new standard for cell-based in vitro research, due to their higher transferrability toward in vivo biology. The lack of established techniques for the non-destructive quantification of relevant variables, however, constitutes a major barrier to the adoption of these technologies, as it increases the resources needed for the experimentation and reduces its accuracy. In this review, we aim at addressing this limitation by providing an overview of different non-destructive approaches for the evaluation of biological features commonly quantified in a number of studies and applications. In this regard, we will cover cell viability, gene expression, population distribution, cell morphology and interactions between the cells and the environment. This analysis is expected to promote the use of the showcased technologies, together with the further development of these and other monitoring methods for 3D cell cultures. Overall, an extensive technology shift is required, in order for monolayer cultures to be superseded, but the potential benefit derived from an increased accuracy of in vitro studies, justifies the effort and the investment.
Clinical Association of TSH Receptor Antibody and Related Autoimmune Markers with Subclinical Graves’ Disease: A Study from Eastern Indian Population
Authors: Mondal Rajani Kanta , Bhattacharjee Rana , Mukherjee Kheya , Bhattacharjee Debojyoti , Chowdhury Shubho
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Graves’ Disease (GD), the leading cause of hyperthyroidism is caused by interaction between various autoantibodies generated as a result of autoimmune dysregulation in genetically suspected individuals. Aim: To study the prevalence of serum levels of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Receptor Antibody (TRAb), Anti Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (Anti TPOAb) and Anti Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti TgAb) in subclinical cases of GD. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital based crosssectional study conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, in a tertiary care hospital, over a period of one and half years from January 2019 to June 2020. A total of 120 patients with subtle symptoms of GD of age 30 to 60 years and same number of age and sex matched healthy controls were enrolled for the study. Collection of data was done and serum TRAb was estimated by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), while AntiTPO and AntiTg antibodies were measured using Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA). Results: Serum levels of all the three antibody titres were found to be significantly higher in cases compared to controls. When diagnosis and differentiation of GD was done between cases and controls based on TRAb positivity (80.0%) or negativity (18.0%), it was found to have a sensitivity of 80.0% and specificity 98.3%. TRAb also had positive and negative predictive values of 97.9% and 84.3%, respectively. TRAb positive cases also had higher levels of Anti TPO and Anti TgAb in comparison to TRAb intermediate or negative group. Conclusion: Prevalence of high titres of autoantibodies especially TRAb are pathognomonic of early GD. Their detection in covert stages of disease shall provide insight into predicting outcome and frame management strategies in patients with this thyroid disorder.
Molecular Mechanisms behind the Regulation of Rice Tiller Angle: An Update
Authors: Rehman Rao Saad , Pasha Asad Nadeem , Zafar Syed Ali , Ali Mujahid , Bashir Hassan , Saeed Muhammad Usama , Ashraf Naveed Ali , Javed Abdullah
Published: May 2022

Crop plant architecture is an important agronomic trait that contributes greatly to crop yield. Tiller angle is one of the most critical components that determine crop plant architecture, which in turn substantially affects grain yield mainly owing to its large influence on plant density. Gravity is a fundamental physical force that acts on all organisms on earth. Plant organs sense gravity to control their growth orientation, including tiller angle in rice (Oryza sativa). This review summarizes recent research advances made using rice tiller angle as a research model, providing insights into domestication of rice tiller angle, genetic regulation of rice tiller angle, and shoot gravitropism. Finally, we propose that current discoveries in rice can shed light on shoot gravitropism and improvement of plant tiller angle in other species, thereby contributing to agricultural production in the future.
Efficacy of Some Biorational Approaches against Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)
Authors: Rahman M. M. , Akter Sonia , Hossain M. S. , Hossain Md. Emam
Published: May 2022

Aims: The aim of the study was to test the effectiveness of several biorational techniques against two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. in bitter gourd.

Study Design: The study used a single component Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University's central farm in Dhaka, Bangladesh from March 2021 to July 2021.

Methodology: The study included seven treatments. T1= Spinomax (0.4ml/L water); T2= Neem Oil (5ml/L water); T3= Biomax (1.2ml/L water); T4= Ripcord (1ml/L water); T5= Trichoderma spp (200mg/L water); T6= Mehogany Leaf Extract (200mg/L water); T7= Absolute (Control). All the treatments were applied at 15 days interval.

Results: Treatments for mite infestations showed varying responses in experiments with various biorational control techniques. Trichoderma spp. had the highest results, followed by neem oil, which was effective against mite pests infesting bitter gourd. The results showed that when Trichoderma spp. was used to treat leaf infestation, the total number of fruit set, % healthy fruit, and % infested fruit were all greater. Ripcord had the lowest outcomes against mite pests in most circumstances, with the exception of control treatment.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that Trichoderma spp. @200mg/L of water can be used to treat two spotted spider mites in an environmentally acceptable manner.
An Economic Assessment of Production and Marketing of Winter Vegetables in Selected Char Areas of Mymensingh District
Authors: Susaad Sajia Afruz , Mishu Mahbuba Akther , Moniruzzaman Md. , Uddin Gazi Tamiz
Published: May 2022

The aim of the present study was to examine the cost and return of selected winter vegetables (bitter gourd, sweet gourd and brinjal). The main objective of the study was to find out the marketing costs and margins at different marketing stages through examining the marketing system. Primary data on production and marketing costs and problems of 30 vegetables producers and 30 vegetables traders were collected by face-to-face interview method. For estimating profitability and marketing margins, mainly descriptive statistics were used in this study. Results revealed that among these three vegetables, per acre total cost of production was highest for brinjal and lowest for sweet gourd. On an average, Benefit cost ratio (BCR) was highest for brinjal (2.65) and lowest for sweet gourd (1.28). This indicates that brinjal was the most profitable vegetables in selected char areas. On the other hand, four different channels were identified in vegetables marketing system. However, the net marketing margin was highest for retailers in channel 4 for sweet gourd and lowest for faria for bitter gourd. The producers share in consumer taka was highest i.e., 65.48 percent for bitter gourd in channel 4 and price spread was lower in the same. The study also found out some production and marketing problems and constraint faced by winter vegetables producers and traders. Among them lack of capital, higher transportation cost, lack of training facilities, lack of market information, price instability etc. were main. The study also suggested some necessary measures to reduce these problems, one of which is transportation cost would be reduced by constructing a bridge over the river Brahmaputra. The bridge would also be the solution of the backwardness of char Iswardia and char Nilakshmia.
Redundancy of Respiratory Humidification & Dysfunction of Defence Mechanisms at Upper Airways of Large Number of People Due to Cumulative Adverse Effects of Climate Change -The Root Cause of the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Mechanical Makarand Anand Phadke. B. E.
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 has returned in the form of an outbreak of new variants. Viruses have evolved and accompanied mankind from times immemorial but seem to be increasingly threatening the survival of the human race especially in the last four decades. Various theories are available with respect to initial transmissions to humans yet none is endorsed in totality. At the same time climate change poses the greatest threat to human health and its effects are more pronounced in the last four decades than ever before. The purpose of this perspective is to establish scientifically a correlation between the outbreak of COVID-19 or its variants and climate change. This presentation is based on hitherto overlooked yet proven physics and engineering involved in the human respiratory humidification. Respiratory humidification is a uniquely evolved process of Natural Selection to withstand complex and dynamic environments. As COVID-19 is a respiratory viral disease, the gas exchange mechanism and human body’s normal temperature and alveolar air parameters are first explained to justify its uniqueness. A step by step review of physics and engineering involved in respiratory humidification is also done. It is then analyzed in context of Climate Change of a location and its impact on inspired air parameters. Based on Meteorological Data of Wuhan; the place of COVID-19 outbreak; it is established that the Climate Change resulted in redundancy of respiratory humidification and dysfunction of associated immune defence mechanisms of many inhabitants and facilitated viruses like SARS-CoV-2 an unchallenged access to the lungs. The outbreak of COVID-19 and subsequent pandemic was its outcome.
Performance of Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea under Shade net within Coastal Environment
Authors: Daniel Kengere Atambo , Muindi Esther M. , Gogo Elisha Otieno , Muti Simon
Published: May 2022

Cabbages are important for income generation, human nutrition, and health promotion. Its production in the tropics is constrained by soil moisture stress and high temperatures. Sustainable production requires the adoption of technologies that modify growth environment. A study was conducted to evaluate the performance of Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea under shade nets within coastal environments. Randomized complete block design, with three replications, was used. Treatments were: 0%, 50% and 70% shading, using black shade net. Data collected include plant height, stem diameter, crown diameter, leaf chlorophyll, number of open leaves and quality heads, and fresh head weight. Data obtained were subjected to ANOVA and means separated using Tukey’s test at 5%. 70%, and 50% shading significantly increased plant height than open field by 7.1cm and 5.3cm respectively. Number of open leaves and leaf chlorophyll content in both cabbages decreased with increase in shading intensity. Brassica rapa under 70% and 50% shading had 55% and 47.5% more yield than open field respectively, while Brassica oleracea under 70% and 50% shading had 62.5% and 53% more yield than open field respectively.  Brassica rapa under 70% shading had 0.8 kg more fresh weight per plant than open field while 50% had 1 kg. Brassica oleracea had 1 kg more fresh weight per plant than open field in both 70% and 50% shading. Therefore, black shade net of 50% and 70% shading favoured cabbage production in a coastal environment and they can be used in areas with similar ecological conditions.
Identification of Alien Introgression Lines Resistant to White Backed Planthopper, Sogatella furcifera (Horvath) in Rice
Authors: Rath Prakash Chandra , Bose Lotan Kumar , Jambhulkar Nitiprasad Namdeorao , Kar Meera Kumari , Subudhi Hata Nath
Published: May 2022

Introgression lines of wide cross derivatives were screened to identify resistant/tolerant entries for WBPH biotypes under artificial condition. The main objective of this study is to provide breeders with more ‘attractive’ plant genetic resources that are easier to use, i.e. resistance sources in acceptable genetic background; or inbreeding tolerant forms disomic lines for inbred or hybrid rice breeding programme. Forty six pre-breeding lines were evaluated against White Backed Plant Hopper (WBPH) under glasshouse condition over a period of two years (2019 and 2020). Out of these, seven pre-breeding lines are moderately resistant to WBPH having score 5. Three pre-breeding lines are moderately susceptible to WBPH having score 7 and rest thirty four pre-breeding lines are highly susceptible to WBPH with a score of 9.
Distribution of Toxic Metals in Biota, Sediments and Water from a Polluted Mangrove Swamp in Rivers State
Authors: Davies I. C. , Odekina U. M. , Akoko S.
Published: May 2022

Concentrations of Pb, Cd, and As were investigated in the tissues of mudskippers (Periophthalmus papilio), water, and sediments from Isaka-Bundu mangrove swamp in the Upper reach of Bonny Estuary, Niger Delta, Nigeria. The samples were collected from three stations every week for three months. The trace metals and physicochemical parameters were determined according to APHA 2000 methods. The concentration of trace metals by stations followed the order: station III (Dockyard) > station II (Bundu-Ama) > station I (Isaka). The trace metal distribution sequence in the fish, water and sediment according to their stations followed this sequence: Dockyard (Sediment = Pb > Cd > As; Water = Pb > Cd > As; Fish = Pb > As > Cd); Isaka (Sediment = Pb > Cd > As; Water = Pb > Cd > As; Fish = Pb > As > Cd); Bundu Ama (Sediment = Pb > Cd > As; Water = Pb > Cd > As; Fish = Pb = As > Cd). The overall, trace metal concentrations by samples followed this sequence; (Sediment = Pb > Cd > As; Water = Pb > Cd >As; and the mudskippers (P. papilio) = Pb > As > Cd) across the stations. The study revealed that all sampled sites in the Isaka-Bundu mangrove swamp had heavy metal values within Joint FEPA/WHO recommended biota load limits. High significant values of Pb and Cd were observed in sediment and water across the three stations, while tissue concentration of all three metals was relatively low and uniform. If proper measures are not taken to curb the excess discharges into the river given the activities in the catchment, the condition of the river will deteriorate badly and become a menace to its inhabitants and the host community which depends on it directly or indirectly.
Association between Raised Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Madhudas Chandra , Khursheed Farkhunda , Zaheen Zakia , Nadeem Ilsa , Wasi Rabia , Akbar Rashida
Published: May 2022

Objective: To determine the association between raised serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Material and Methods: This case control study was conducted in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, at Liaquat University of Medical and health Sciences Jamshoro, Hyderabad, for a period of six months from July 2021 to December 2021. All the pregnancy hypertensive disorder women as cases and normotensive women as control of ages between 18 and 45 years with gestational age >28 weeks, irrespective of parity and booking stratus were included. Under aseptic conditions, from each woman of both groups around a 2 ml venous blood sample was taken (before treatment) for the assessment of serum LDH levels. Serum LDH levels more than 280 U/L was considered as raised. All the informations were noted on predesigned proforma by the researcher herself. SPSS version 26 was used for the data analysis.

Results: A total of 100 cases were included, particularly 50 women having hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and 50 normotensive pregnant women were studied. The overall mean age of the female’s was 25.76+5.39 years and average BMI was 32.7+2.02 kg/m2. Out of all 65.0% were primiparous. Most of the females 76.0% were poor socioeconomically. LDH was raised among 62.0% of the women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and it was normal among all normotensive pregnant women. Average serum LDH level was significantly higher in cases as compared to the controls (0.001).

Conclusion: Raised serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was observed to be significantly linked to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Careful monitoring of serum LDH concentrations during pregnancy in high-risk cases may play a role in early detection and treatment to decrease the morbidity and mortality.
O DISCURSO PRESIDENCIAL NA MANIFESTAÇÃO DO DIA DO EXÉRCITO: SENTIDOS DE LIBERDADE, DEMOCRACIA E POVO
Authors: Arraz Fernando Miranda , Sena Fagner Ribeiro
Published: May 2022

Este artigo tem como propósito trazer uma reflexão sobre os conceitos de Formação Discursiva e de Memória Discursiva, na perspectiva da Análise do Discurso de linha francesa, (AD), por meio do discurso de Jair Messias Bolsonaro, presidente do Brasil. O objetivo deste trabalho consiste em analisar, através de uma abordagem discursiva, uma das manifestações, ocorrida no dia 19 de abril de 2020, o dia do Exército, na cidade de Brasília, e que contou com a participação do presidente Jair Bolsonaro que, diante de uma unidade militar do exército, fez um discurso aos manifestantes presentes. O pronunciamento do chefe de Estado, material linguístico a ser submetido à análise, não pode ser visto dissociado de um todo complexo de elementos políticos, sociais e discursivos. Sendo assim, constata-se que as duas funções enunciativas do sujeito do discurso presidencial, examinadas na pesquisa, sinalizam de modo inequívoco a natureza autoritária desse discurso que não hesita em silenciar o discurso-outro no mesmo movimento que simula sua representação.
RELEITURA DO EVENTO CPI DA COVID-19 A PARTIR DO GÊNERO DISCURSIVO CHARGE À LUZ DA ANÁLISE DE DISCURSO CRÍTICA
Authors: Amaral Eleni Gentil , Colares Leonardo de Oliveira , Nunes Marcílio José Ferreira
Published: May 2022

Como indivíduos dotados de linguagem, os seres humanos se comunicam a partir de gêneros discursivos. Partindo disso, tem-se como objetivo neste trabalho analisar como o gênero discursivo charge representa e (re)constrói, discursivamente, o evento da Comissão Parlamentar de Inquérito (CPI). Para isso, o presente texto apoia-se nos pressupostos da Análise de Discurso Crítica (FAIRCLOUGH, 2003), ao compartilhar da ideia de discurso como prática social. Na análise de duas charges que tratam do evento CPI da Covid-19, percebe-se que a (re)construção de uma dada situação sociodiscursiva se dá a partir da mobilização de recursos semânticos como a ironia e a metáfora, como modo de fomentar uma reflexão crítica acerca do negacionismo e do anticientificismo do discurso bolsonarista. Conclui-se que o uso de gêneros discursivos não se dá de modo aleatório, mas sim como ações que geram criticidade e mudanças na estrutura social.
ESTUDOS FORMAIS NO BRASIL: O III ENCONTRO DE GRAMÁTICA GERATIVA
Authors: Sousa Lílian Teixeira de , Pinto Carlos Felipe , Cavalcante Sílvia
Published: May 2022

Este dossiê reúne alguns dos textos completos de trabalhos apresentados no III Encontro de Gramática Gerativa, realizado entre 1-3 de setembro de 2021 na Universidade Federal da Bahia. Na primeira parte, fazemos um breve resumo da história dos estudos formais no Brasil; em seguida, apresentamos nossas homenageadas; por fim descrevemos os trabalhos selecionados para essa coletânea.