bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pragian conodont zonal classification in Nevada, western North America
Authors: Murphy Michael A
Published: March 2021

A tripartite global zonal scale for the Pragian Stage (Devonian) was recommended by the Subcomission on Devonian Stratigraphy in 1989. Since that time, additions to the data on the two primary lineages used for the subdivision of the Pragian, Eognathodus and early Polygnathus, have shown: 1) that the Lochkovian-Pragian boundary criterion is useable as defi ned and is applicable on a global scale, but that the boundary-stratotype section in the Barrandian region of the Czech Republic has serious limitations as a reference section; 2) the criteria for the internal subdivision of the Pragian are not globally applicable; and 3) that the taxon that we have used in Nevada to mark the base of the Emsian is Polygnathus lenzi, whose range may be different from that of Australian P. dehiscens, the supposed criterion for the base of the Emsian.
This paper reviews the Pragian of Nevada and compares it with Alaska, Canada, eastern Australia, and central Europe and suggests a regional scale for use in the western North American Cordillera.
The subdivisions proposed here (irregularis-profunda Zone; profunda–brevicauda Zone; brevicauda-mariannae Zone; mariannae-lenzi Zone) are not the same of the SDS and cannot be applied on a global scale. The first two are based on evolutionary appearances; the last two on the lowest occurrences of distinctive and widespread taxa in North America.
One new genus, Masaraella and four new species, Masaraella epsilon, Masaraella riosi, Gondwania profunda, and Pedavis longicauda, are described.
Los primeros descubrimientos de dinosaurios en España
Authors: Pereda Suberbiola Xabier , Ruiz-Omeñaca José Ignacio
Published: March 2021

El hallazgo más antiguo conocido de un dinosaurio en España es un supuesto diente de terópodo del Jurásico Superior de Asturias. Fue descrito en 1858 como un diente de tiburón por el ingeniero de minas alemán Guillermo Schulz y asignado en 1873 al dinosaurio Megalosaurus por el geólogo navarro Justo Egozcue. Se desconoce el paradero actual de este fósil.
El naturalista valenciano Juan Vilanova publicó en 1872 y 1873 las primeras citas de dinosaurios en España. Vilanova mencionó el descubrimiento de restos fósiles del ornitópodo Iguanodon en el Cretácico Inferior de Utrillas (Teruel) y Morella (Castellón). La colección Vilanova depositada actualmente en el Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales de Madrid se compone de cinco especímenes fragmentarios de Morella y, con reservas, uno de Utrillas. Ninguna de las piezas puede atribuirse a Iguanodon. Uno de los fósiles de Morella se interpreta como un centro vertebral de un posible terópodo, y otro de ellos como la extremidad distal de una espina neural perteneciente a un saurópodo diplodocoideo; los otros tres fósiles son fragmentos de huesos indeterminados. Los dos «huesos largos» de Utrillas citados por Vilanova corresponden a dos fragmentos de una tibia de terópodo, actualmente desaparecida, de la que se conserva un dibujo realizado en torno a la década de 1920 por el paleontólogo castellonense José Royo Gómez. El estudio de los dinosaurios recibió poca atención en España durante el siglo XIX y los primeros descubrimientos relevantes no se realizaron hasta finales de la década de 1910.
Dientes de un enigmático dinosaurio ornitópodo en el Cretácico Inferior de Burgos (España)
Authors: Torcida Fernández-Baldor Fidel , Ruiz-Omeñaca José Ignacio , Izquierdo Montero Luis Ángel , Montero Huerta Diego , Pérez Martínez Gustavo , Huerta Hurtado Pedro , Urién Montero Víctor
Published: March 2021

Se describen dientes premaxilares, maxilares y mandibulares procedentes del yacimiento de El Peñascal, próximo a Salas de los Infantes (Burgos, Norte de España), y datado en el Cretácico Inferior, Formación Castrillo de la Reina (Barremiense superior-Aptiense). De la comparación con dientes de todos los grupos de ornitópodos, se deduce que son de euornitópodo, y que podrían pertenecer tanto a un “hipsilofodóntido” como a un “rhabdomorfo”; sin embargo, se aprecian diferencias con las características presentes en todos los géneros descritos de estos grupos, por lo que se asignan provisionalmente a Euornithopoda indet. Se propone que este taxón representa un euornitópodo no descrito hasta ahora para el Cretácico Inferior de Europa, y posiblemente constituya un nuevo género y especie.
Fauna de vertebrados del Cretácico Inferior del yacimiento de “Zorralbo” en Golmayo (Soria, España)
Authors: Fuentes Vidarte Carolina , Meijide Calvo Manuel , Meijide Fuentes Federico , Meijide Fuentes Manuel
Published: March 2021

El yacimiento de “Zorralbo” en el municipio de Golmayo (Soria, España), perteneciente al Cretácico Inferior(Hauteriviense superior/Barremiense inferior), ha proporcionado un conjunto faunístico formado por los restos de cinco taxones de dinosaurios (Ornithopoda, Sauropoda, Theropoda y Thyreophora), una tortuga Criptodira y un cocodrilo “Mesosuquio”, fauna que nos ayuda a comprender la composición de los ecosistemas europeos en el Cretácico Inferior y que constituye una aportación importante al conocimiento de los vertebrados del Cretácico Inferior de España.
A new species of Praemichelinia (Tabulata) from the Emsian (Lower Devonian) of Colle (Cantabrian MountainS, NW Spain) and the occurrence of solenia-like pores in the genus
Authors: Fernández-Martínez Esperanza , Plusquellec Yves
Published: March 2021

This paper comprises a detailed systematic study of material corresponding to Tabulate corals found in the Upper Emsian (Lower Devonian) strata of the locality of Colle, on the southern slope of the Cantabrian Mountains (NW Spain) which is assigned to a new species of the genus Praemichelinia. This species is characterized by the large size attained by its main corallites and by the occasional development of complete concave tabulae, disposed in series coexisting with incomplete tabulae and tabellae. In addition, solenia-like corner pores are reported in the genus for the first time. The description of this new species allows to reaffirm the validity of the genus Praemichelinia, as also its peri-Gondwanic distribution during the Lower Devonian.
Nuevos fósiles de sirenios en el Eoceno medio de la Cuenca de Pamplona (Navarra)
Authors: Astibia Humberto , Pereda-Suberbiola Xabier , Bardet Nathalie , Payros Aitor , Berreteaga Ana , Badiola Ainara
Published: March 2021

En este trabajo se describen nuevos fósiles de sirenios eocénicos de la Cuenca de Pamplona (Navarra), permitiendo ampliar el registro conocido de estos mamíferos en los Pirineos occidentales. Los fósiles provienen de dos pequeñas localidades cercanas a la capital navarra, Uztarrotz y Ardanatz, ubicadas en formaciones litoestratigráficas diferentes (Margas de Pamplona y Areniscas de Ardanatz), de edad Bartoniense inferior. El material estudiado presenta un buen estado de conservación y consiste en restos de vértebras y costillas, con el aspecto robusto y la estructura compacta del hueso paquiosteosclerótico, característico, aunque no exclusivo, de los sirenios. Morfológica y biométricamente los fósiles de la Cuenca de Pamplona son comparables a las piezas homólogas asignadas por diversos autores a varias especies del género Prototherium en algunas localidades del Eoceno pirenaico y otras áreas del margen norte del Tethys mediterráneo. Algunas de las piezas también son parecidas a las de Halitherium taulannense del Priaboniense de Provenza. Sin embargo, las vértebras de Navarra son notablemente más robustas y presentan otras diferencias con respecto al género Protosiren del margen suroriental del Tethys. Las evidencias morfológicas, biogeográficas y cronológicas actualmente disponibles apuntan a que los restos de la Cuenca de Pamplona pertenecen a un dugónguido basal próximo a Prototherium.
Análisis documental de la distribución geográfica y estratigráfica de los conuláridos (Cnidaria) de Gondwana
Authors: Sendino María C , Domínguez Patricio
Published: March 2021

En este trabajo se sintetiza el registro estratigráfico de los conuláridos (Familia Conulariidae Walcott, 1886, Orden Conulariida Miller & Gurley, 1896, Phylum Cnidaria Hatschek, 1888) de Gondwana para mostrar la importancia estratigráfica de estos organismos fósiles. Se ha elaborado una base de datos documental que permite identificar los períodos y épocas en los que los conuláridos se diversifican más y en los que son más abundantes.
Effect of depth gradient and temperature on Zostera marina vegetative and reproductive phenology in the first year of the 1997–1998 El Niño
Authors: Meling-López Alf Enrique , Ibarra-Obando Silvia Emilia , De la Cueva Horacio , Ortega-Romero Pedro , Navarro-Verdugo Adriana Leticia
Published: March 2021

Does Zostera marina exhibit phenotypic plasticity, maximizing fitness in traits responding to environmental factors, i.e., depth and temperature? We compared the vegetative and sexual phenology and reproductive effort of Z. marina by analyzing vegetative and reproductive shoot density, biomass, and reproductive stages to determine structural features of vegetative and reproductive shoots from subtidal and intertidal environments in San Quintín Bay, Baja California, a year before and after the 1997–1998 El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO). We found significant differences in vegetative and reproductive biomass between intertidal and subtidal environments driven by temperature differences between ENSO and non-ENSO years. Subtidal plants had lower density of long reproductive shoots and a shorter reproductive cycle. Seed release occurred from May to October in the subtidal environment, and from May to November in the intertidal environment. Maximal recorded values were 219.5 (±45.8) seeds per reproductive shoot in the subtidal environment and 151.3 (±21.5) in the intertidal environment. We observed higher sexual activity and lower vegetative biomass in the intertidal environment, the most stressful environment. Both vegetative and reproductive biomass were affected by the increase in temperature during ENSO, but vegetative and reproductive shoot densities were not affected.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Maxillofacial Defects and their Prosthetic Rehabilitation among Dental Undergraduate Students in Belagavi District- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Shreya S , Nayakar Ramesh P
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Maxillofacial defects are facial disfigurements resulting from congenital abnormalities, surgical resection of tumours, trauma, or a combination of these. The resulting deformity often leads to a difficult path of recovery with lifelong consequences, causing both physical disability and mental distress. Prosthetic rehabilitation is not only a solution to cover the physical deficit, but also a way to improve function as well as the quality of life for such patients. However, the knowledge amongst undergraduate dental health professionals about the same has been at sparse. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding maxillofacial defects and their prosthetic rehabilitation amongst dental undergraduate students. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January 2020 and June 2020, amidst the third year, fourth year undergraduate students, and interns of Belagavi city, Karnataka, India. The data was collected using a 16-item custom designed proforma, comprising of questions evaluating student’s basic knowledge about the diagnosis, treatment procedures, and treatment planning of maxillofacial defects and their prosthetic rehabilitation. Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test in each group, using SPSS version 22 p-value <0.05 to be considered significant. Results: A total of 286 participants answered the questionnaire, of which 117 (40.9%) were interns, 116 (40.6%) were third year students, and 53 (18.5%) were fourth year students. 279 (97.6%) participants had an understanding regarding maxillofacial defects. Of those who had witnessed cases, only 18.2% had observed more than three cases (p-value <0.001). Out of respondents with treatment understanding, 184 (64.3%) answered that it required a multidisciplinary approach (p-value <0.001). 197 (68.9%) of the respondents felt that silicone was the most commonly used material (p<0.003). 165 (57.7%) answered that waxes were the most commonly used impression material (p-value <0.001). Out of the respondents awared about treatment modalities, 120 (42%) respondents majority answered that CAD-CAM would contribute the most to maxillofacial rehabilitation. Conclusion: Comprehensive understanding and clinical application of prosthodontic rehabilitation of maxillofacial defects among undergraduate students was found to be lacking. This awareness should be initiated at an early stage of the clinical training for undergraduate training programme, as it will help to understand the basic aspects involved in the prosthodontic rehabilitation of maxillofacial defects.
Effect of Chicken Manure and Mulch Types to Growth and Yield of Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) in Lowland
Authors: Azwardi Dedi , Dwipa Indra , Dipinto Malin
Published: March 2021

Aims: The research aimed to study the interaction between chicken manure dose and mulch type to growth and yield of shallot in lowland.

Study Design:  Factorial design in Randomized complete block design.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in experimental garden of Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University, West Sumatera, Indonesia from September-December 2019.

Methodology: Factorial design with 3 factors in block randomized design was used in the research. The first factor chicken manure dose that consisted of three degrees (30 ton/ha, 40 ton/ha and 50 ton/ha). The second factor was type of mulch that consisted of two degrees (black plastic mulch and silver plastic mulch). The observed parameters were height of plant, number of leaves, number of bulb per clump and dry weight per hectare. The data was analyzed by using F test in 5% and followed by Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test in 5%.

Results: The result showed that the interaction between chicken manure and mulch type did not affect the growth and yield of shallot.

Conclusion: Chicken manure and mulch type were not effective to use for increasing the growth and yield of shallot in same time.
Empowerment of Rural Tribal Women through Value Addition of Carambola
Authors: Devi Y. Prabhabati , Bembem Khwairakpam , Devi Th Bidyalakshmi
Published: March 2021

Carambola is one of the highly perishable underutilized fruit wildly available in the hillocks of Chandel district which goes wasted every season. In order to reduce the post-harvest losses, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel took initiative to convert the underutilized carambola in to value added products. For this study, primary and secondary information were collected in order to assess the indigenous knowledge for the preparation and consumption of different carambola products. Five value added products namely, carambola squash, ready to drink juice, jam, candy and salted preserves were standardized. Rural tribal women were empowered through training and demonstrations on the preparation of value added carambola products. Lamjing Shelf Help Group (SHG) was formed by a group of women and started an enterprise on processing and value addition of carambola. The standardized products were organoleptically tested for acceptability before marketing. Value added products were sold at the local melas and markets enabling SHG members to generate additional income and making them financially empowered.
Strategy for the Development of Seaweed Cultivation in Karawang Regency, West Java Province
Authors: Pratama M. F. A. , Nurhayati A. , Rizal A. , Suryana A. A. H.
Published: March 2021

Seaweed is one of the leading commodities in the marine sector which has a high selling value. However, this potential is currently not optimally utilized in Karawang Regency. Karawang Regency has a large enough potential for aquaculture ponds, has a pond area of 18,273.30 hectares, and only 1% is cultivated for seaweed. This research aims to formulate a seaweed cultivation business development strategy that has not developed optimally. The respondents in this research were all 60 seaweed cultivators in Karawang Regency. The data used were primary and secondary data. Primary data were obtained through an interview with seaweed cultivators and using the questionnaire. Secondary data were obtained from institutions/agencies related to research, such as the Karawang Regency Fisheries Service The data analysis method used in this research is qualitative analysis. Qualitative analysis was used to determine a seaweed cultivation development strategy using a SWOT analysis. The results showed that the relative position of seaweed cultivation development based on the SWOT analysis is in the first quadrant which means the strategy used is a progressive or aggressive. The progressive strategy of developing seaweed cultivation can be carried out with strategies such as increasing production to meet the demand for seaweed, expanding the area for seaweed cultivation, empowering local communities about seaweed cultivation and diversifying processed seaweed products.
The Romanian Philatelic issue "Hunting", Appeared in 1956
Authors: Cioruța Bogdan-Vasile , Pop Alexandru Leonard , Coman Mirela , Helindian Andrei Nicolae
Published: March 2021

Because Romania is placing an increasing emphasis on biodiversity conservation, it is appropriate to bring into discussion a series of aspects that alter the idea of conservation. One of the activities in question is hunting. Therefore, continuing the extensive project to promote protected natural heritage and biodiversity, we decided to focus this time on the hunting act and its pure artistic interpretations, introducing the idea of hunting associated with philately. In this sense, the first topic addressed is the first issue of Romanian postage stamps dedicated exclusively to hunting, which appeared at the beginning of 1956. Since then and until now, at the beginning of 2021, philately has been constantly enriched with issues between the most interesting and unique at the same time. The aim of this paper is to make known to the public and to promote nationally and internationally the term sustainable hunting, as an alarm signal for the deplorable state in which game species are treated, some of which even reach endangered. The results of the research undertaken emphasize the mass character of thematic philately and the fundamental role - as an ambassador of knowledge promotion - that it has had over time. Regarding the first philatelic issue that addresses this issue, we can say that it was a welcome one among the collectors of philatelic effects, as well as among those who used the postal service of the time. At the same time, from the large mass of pieces identified as belonging to the issue in question, the key findings are that the hunt was fully felt and known, at least locally and regionally, through the philatelic circulations exposed.
Strategies for Suppression and Elimination of Onchocerciasis in Endemic Countries: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Elom Michael O. , Okpara-Elom Ifeoma A.
Published: March 2021

Onchocerciasis is one of the neglected tropical diseases with great public health importance in the Americas and in many African countries. River blindness, can lead to severe dermatologic and ophthalmologic complications that may terminate in blindness and other associated social stigmatizations. Preventive chemotherapy with the use of annual mass drug administration with ivermectin (Mectizan®) has been the only sustainable management and control measure of the disease in Africa, though with limited efficacy. Based on those limitations, there is doubt that suppression and elimination of the disease targeted to take place in 2020 and 2025 respectively may be actualized. The aim of the review is to update knowledge on existing strategies relevant to achieving suppression and probable elimination of onchocerciasis in endemic countries and to highlight identified obstacles militating against such strategies. Review of past and recently published relevant literature on the topic was carried out using electronic databases such as Google scholar. For feasible suppression and elimination in the stipulated years, some strategies may have to be carried out. The suggested strategies include incorporation of insecticides with chemotherapy, adoption of semi-annually or quarterly ivermectin in-take compliance, inclusion of every member of endemic communities in treatment, avoidance of interruption in drug distribution, correction of misconception of onchocerciasis and use of gold standard diagnostic techniques. With adherence to the suggested strategies of control, the story of onchocerciasis as a public health problem would become a history and the disease could be elimination in all transmission foci.
Growth Efficiency of Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Under Elevated Carbondioxide Condition
Authors: Aziz Tarique , Das Ranjan , Das Sangita
Published: March 2021

The CO2 concentration in the atmosphere is rising and anticipated to be doubled by the end of the current century. Agricultural crop production is one of the key sectors that might be affected by rising atmospheric CO2 through its effect on photosynthetic rates and thus productivity. It was reported that C3 plants respond to elevated CO2 by modification of morpho-physiological traits. The crop selected for the present study was Green gram (Vigna radiate L. Wilczek). Though it is an important crop, the availability of pulses has declined. So, a study of the plant responses to high atmospheric CO2 is important since it regulates productivity and quality. Moreover information about genotypic variation of crops under elevated CO2 is lacking in legumes. The general aim of the study is test whether Green gram can adapt to such a change and to explore mechanisms underlining the adaptive response.

Six genotypes of green gram used in the study were SML1827, SML832, SML1831, PM1533, Pusa M-19-31, and Pant M-5. Three different levels of CO2 concentration namely 390ppm, 600 ppm and 750ppm under open top chambers along with an ambient concentration were maintained to assess the response of growth, physiological and yield parameters. The purpose of Open Top Chamber was to study the response of plants in high CO2 environment with precise control and regulation of desired CO2, temperature and humidity.

The results obtained for this experiment showed that elevated CO2 has a positive effect on crop growth and development. Results indicated that 600ppm CO2 enhanced some growth parameters viz. leaf area, number of branches per plant, number of effective root nodules and total biomass of plant which ultimately influenced the yield. Under 750 ppm CO2, An opposite trend was recorded where yield was significantly reduced. Genotypes like Pant M-5, Pusa M-19-31 could be considered as better genotypes when grown under elevated levels of CO2 as they have better N acquisition capability because of greater nodule formation in addition to biomass accumulation. Therefore, such genotypes may be utilized as future breeding materials for adaptation to the changed climatic condition.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Fertility and Yield of Kharif Greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] in Bundelkhand Region
Authors: Sahu Sandeep , Singh Narendra , Chaubey A. K. , Halhapure Aniket H. , Shukla Gaurav
Published: March 2021

An agronomic investigation was conducted during Kharif season 2019 at the research farm of Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda (U.P) to study the effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on soil fertility and yield of Kharif Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) in Bundelkhand region. An experiment was laid out in randomized block design replicated thrice with 10 treatments comprised with application of organic and inorganic fertilizers and their combinations. Application of Rhizobium culture @ 25 g/kg of seed along with Vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1; FYM @5 t ha-1and 100% RDF was found to be responsible for highest availability of nitrogen (233.90 kg ha-1), phosphorous (21.19 kg ha-1) and potassium (239.20 kg ha-1) in soil after harvest of crop. It was also resulted in higher grain yield (11.41 q ha-1), straw yield (27.45 q ha-1) as compared to other combinations and control.
Biohardening of Tissue Cultured Banana Plantlets of cv. Ney Poovan for the Management of Fusarium wilt of Banana with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (VB7) Triggers Defence Gene Products and Growth Promotion
Authors: Udaya C. Y. Shalini , Nakkeeran S. , Soorianathasundaram K.
Published: March 2021

Fusarium wilt of banana is the most devastating disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense (Foc). In order to combat the early onset of Fusarium wilt disease, an experiment was carried out on biohardening of tissue cultured plantlets. Six bacterial endophytes were observed to inhibit the growth of Foc in vitro. Among the six bacterial endophytes, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (VB7) inhibited mycelial growth of Foc to an extent of 70.58% over control. Further, these bacterial endophytes were used for biohardening of the tissue cultured banana plantlets cv. Ney Poovan (AB) during primary and secondary hardening stages. Among the bacterial endophytes, B. amyloliquefaciens was found to significantly enhance plant height, leaf production, root numbers and root length compared to untreated control. Activity of defense enzymes were  also enhanced and such increase in activity was observed to be to an  extent of 93.67% in peroxidase, 92.39% polyphenol oxidase, 97.60% phenylalanine ammonia lyase  and 26.23% in β-1, 3-glucanase defence enzymes in plants biohardened with B. amyloliquefaciens (VB7) over untreated control after inoculation of Foc. Tissue cultured plants of Ney Poovan biohardened with B. amyloliquefaciens   (VB7),   B.   paraconglomeratum   (YEB   PT2) and S. maltophilia (YEB RH2) were completely free from wilt incidence symptoms upto planting stage when challenged with Foc inoculum under pot culture conditions. As among these three endophytes, B. amyloliquefaciens (VB7) also influenced favourable growth promotion, it can serve as a potential biocontrol agent for management of Fusarium wilt of banana.
Design, Analysis and Fabrication of High Clearance Self- Propelled Foliar Applicator
Authors: Malkani Pankaj , Rathod Sunil Kumar , Asha K. R. , Khura Tapan Kumar , Khuswaha H. L.
Published: March 2021

In this paper Finite element method (FEM) for design and development of self- propelled foliar applicator is presented. Foliar application is a method for feeding nutrients directly to plants for enhancing nutrient use efficiency through foliar applicator. The major components of the foliar applicator were engine (3.5 kW), gearbox (4F+1R), chassis (1.2 x 0.96 m2), sub-frame assembly, spraying diaphragm pump (Model-SFWP1-055-070-31, capacity 20 lm-1 at 4.4 bar), fertilizer storage tank (225 l). The main objective of this FEM simulation analysis is to find out the stress, deformation and strain induced in chassis and sub-frame assembly of foliar applicator for given boundary condition.  A Computer Aided Design of foliar applicator was developed using Creo-parametric 1 software and then analyzed in FEM mode by using Creo simulation1 software. FEM static analysis resulted in maximum von mises stress 200.750MPa and182.638MPa, maximum deformation 2.81 mm and 1.29 mm and max strain 0.001047 and 0.000636 for chassis and sub-frame assembly respectively. Maximum stresses in both didn’t exceed the respective yield points which signified designs, can be used for fabrication.
Oils Variability of Pectis elongata in the Amazon and an Overview of the Neotropical Pectis Species
Authors: Massing Lais T. , Suemitsu Chieno , Sarrazin Sandra Layse F. , Tremea Agnaldo , Maia José Guilherme S. , Mourão Rosa Helena V.
Published: March 2021

Aims: Pectis species, belonging to Asteraceae, are aromatic and medicinal herbaceous plants, distributed in the Americas, the West Indies, and the Pacific islands, with lemon, cumin, or oregano aroma, used in infusions to treat several diseases or as spices.

Methodology: In this study, the composition of Pectis elongata from the Amazon was correlated with other Neotropical Pectis oils, including their traditional uses and biological properties. Pectis elongata oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC and GC-MS.

Results: Citral (39.1% of neral and 47.7% of geranial), perilla aldehyde (51.7% to 81.8%), and limonene (33.7% to 43.7%) were identified as their primary constituents of the Pectis elongata oils from the Amazon. It is assumed the existence of at least two chemotypes for the variability of the oils of P. elongata: Citral (neral plus geranial) and perilla aldehyde plus limonene. The main C10-skeletal monoterpenes found in Pectis oils can be depicted according to their biosynthetic pathways: neral and geranial arranged in an acyclic-type skeleton, and limonene, perilla aldehyde, cumin aldehyde, carvone, p-cymene, and thymol in a p-menthane-type skeleton.

Conclusion: There is a particular interest in the world's citral-rich essential oils, such as Pectis elongata oil and other similar Pectis oils, given their application in human health and food preservation.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contents, and Probable Health Risks of Some Staple Vegetables in Enugu Metropolis
Authors: Madu D. Ibegbu , Anthonius A. Eze , Vivian Atuadu , Nonso C. Ejiofor , Ikechukwu E. Ezeagu
Published: March 2021

Heavy metals naturally are non-biodegradable constituents of the earth’s crust that accumulate and persist indefinitely in the ecosystem as a result of both human and natural activities. Their contamination of vegetables remains an issue of public health interest due to the frequency, and quantity of consumption. The over exposure to these heavy metals continues to pose serious health threat globally. This study was aimed to assess the heavy metal contents of staple vegetables [Telfairia occidentalis, Amaranthus hybridus and Ocimum gratissimum] within Enugu metropolis; the leaves were screened for heavy metals [Arsenic As, Lead Pb, Cadmium Cd, Nickel Ni, Chromium Cr and Cobalt Co], by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Results (Mean±SD,  mgkg-1 ) showed that Amaranthus hybridus: contained [Pb-0.109±0.350, Cr -0.161±0.004]; Ocimum gratissimum: [Ni-0.179±0.028, Cd-0.033±0.006, Cr-0.176±0.036], and Telfairia occidentalis: [Pb-0.153±0.139, Co-0.198±0.148]; of which some values were slightly above WHO/FAO standards. Although, the estimated daily intakes (EDIs) were below referenced tolerable daily intakes (TDIs). The hazard quotients (HQs) were below 1 (HQ<1), but As and Cd, were exceptions; while the hazard index (HI) values were all above 1 (HI>1). The slightly above standard references of some of these heavy metals, and HI>1 values in this study are a concern, as potential health risks may arise amidst the population over a period of time, therefore, there is need to eliminate the likely sources of the latent contamination.
α-Klotho as A Novel Biomarkers in Chronic Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: EL-Fattah Mohy Eldin Abd , El-abaseri Taghrid B. , Mohamed Hegazy Mohamed Abd Elaziz
Published: March 2021

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common cause of end- stage renal disease. Albuminuria is the foremost commonly utilized marker to anticipate onset of diabetic nephropathy (DN) without sufficient affectability and specificity to identify early DN.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate plasma α-Klotho as a new biomarker for chronic diabetic nephropathy.

Methods: This cross sectional study included 125 Egyptian subjects attending the out Patients Clinic of the Department of Internal Medicine, 10Th of Ramadan city Health Insurance Hospital and divided into:-control group, patient with diabetic mellitus, patients with Diabetic nephropathy and patient with diabetic nephropathy and other complications. Patients were subjected to measurement of plasma α- Klotho, FBS, HbAIC, serum creatinine, serum urea, serum uric acid, k, Na, serum phosphorus, Albumin: Creatinine Ratio, GFR, Chol, TG, LDL HDL, AST, ALT, T.BIL, D.BIL ALB, TP, GLB and A/G ratio.

Results: Results showed that plasma a-klotho was significantly correlated with hemoglobin A1C, potassium, GFR, Albumin, TP and GLB. Meanwhile, plasma a- klotho was negatively correlated with duration of DM, CR, Urea, UR.A, Na, phosphorus, ACR, Chol, TG, LDL, AST, ALT, T.BIL, and D.BIL. However, there were no significant correlations between plasma α -klotho and FBS, HDL and A/G

ratio. At cut-off level ≥2.6, plasma α -klotho had 95% sensitivity and 81% specificity for diagnosing diabetic nephropathy.

Conclusion: α-klotho may be the chronic diabetic nephropathy markers for predicting renal injury in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Virologic Outcomes Following Enhanced Adherence Counselling among Treatment Experienced HIV Positive Patients at University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Awolude Olutosin A. , Olaniyi Oluwatobi , Moradeyo Mary , Abiolu Josephine
Published: March 2021

Aims: To explore the impact of enhanced adherence counseling (EAC) in achieving viral suppression among our patients unsuppressed viral load in a large Anti-retroviral therapy (ART) program in South West Nigeria.

Study Design: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional review of patients’ records.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Program located in Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria involving review of data of patients with unsuppressed viral loads between 1st March 2017 – 30th September 2018.

Methodology: We described the viral loads (VL) outcomes of patients with VLs >1 000 copies/ml after at least 6 months on ART and a comprehensive 3 monthly EAC support programme. We calculated adherence using pharmacy refill data. Patients with one VL measurement after the EAC sessions were eligible for analysis.

Results: Out of 400 patients with VL >1 000 copies/ml reviewed during the study period, only 204(51.0%) were virally suppressed at the end of the 3 EAC sessions. Those with initial VLs between 1000-5000cp/ml had the highest adherence rate (73.0%) and VL suppression rate (68%). The youngest age group (16-30 years) had the least adherence (55.2%) and the least viral suppression (44.8%) while the oldest age groups (61-80years) were the most adherent (69.0%) and the most virally suppressed (55.2%). The proportion of patients on second line regimen were significantly more virally suppressed than those on the first line regimen (P <0.002).

Conclusion: This study showed the role EAC in accomplishing VL suppression and the need to intensify adherence counseling at commencement of highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) to strengthen adherence in people living with HIV (PLHIV) and consequently preventing raised VL at the next laboratory testing of viral load. We strongly advocate for better measurement of adherence to antiretroviral therapy that will be accessible and reliable as this was a limitation of this study.
Anthill Inhibiting Bacteria, a Promising Source of Bio Efficacy
Authors: Katun A. A. , Abdulmumin A. R. , Yahaya M. U. , Habeeb N. K. , Bala A.
Published: March 2021

The investigation into soil bacteria has been widely studied and becoming increasingly appreciated as an exceptional reservoir of unique naturally occurring biologically active metabolites with pharmaceutical applications. This article aimed to isolate, identify and biochemically characterize antibiotic-producing bacteria from anthill soils in the permanent site of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), Niger State, Nigeria. The sum of ten samples were collected from five sampling sites, the sampling was done in threefold (morning, noon and evening) and analyzed adopting standard microbiological protocols. The obtained result revealed that the total bacteria count in the morning ranges from 2.1×107 cfu/mL to 1.4×106 cfu/mL, noon count ranges from 3.1×107 to 2.6×106 cfu/mL while evening count was in the range of 2.1×107 cfu/mL to 1.7×106 cfu/mL. A total number of five (5) bacteria were isolated as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus lentus and Micrococcus reseus. The total prevalence of the bacterial isolates in the morning, noon and evening were calculated as B. subtilis (109.08%), S. epidermidis (36.36%), M. reseus (36.36%), B. lentus (63.63%), and S. aureus (54.54%) respectively. These isolates were further assayed against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus. The antibacterial outcome showed that two (2) (40%) anthill isolates exhibited antibacterial activity against three (3) tested bacteria (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus). This research study has showcased that the production of inhibitory substances are common among some of the bacterial strains isolated from anthills.
Antimicrobial Activity of Coriander sativum
Authors: Ali Samina Amin Qurban , Malik Arif
Published: March 2021

The increasing rate of drug-repellent pathogens and poisonousness of existing antiseptic compounds has strained attention toward activity of antimicrobial products which are natural. Main purpose of this research was to assess antimicrobial activity of seeds and leaves of Coriandrum sativum’s essential oil, antioxidant, antimicrobial activity and chemical composition of Coriandrum sativum’s ethanol extracts and essential oils. Numerous approaches were used in reviewing the antioxidant activity such as, p-anisidine test – malonaldhyde, DPPH and peroxide value. Antimicrobial activity of the extracts towards six microbial strains; two bacterial strains (Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus), one yeast (Candida tropicals) and three fungal strains (Aspergillus flavus, Mucor sp and Emericella nidulans) was assessed by determination of inhibition zone and count of bacteria, yeast and spares of fungus. The antimicrobial mechanisms found in these essential oils have been explained on the basis of their content in natural compounds such as carvacrol, thymol, p-cymene and c-terpinene, among others. Although these two essential oils have received much attention, scientists working in the fields of biomedicine and food science are paying increasing attention to a wider variety of aromatic natural oils in an effort to identify original and natural applications for the inhibition of microbial pathogens. In conclusion, utilization of coriander or their components as food additives will increase the antioxidant and the antimicrobial potential of the food which prevent food deterioration and improve the shelf-life of food beside its nutritional value. The results revealed that the leaves extracts have high levels of phenolics than the seeds extract. Concerning antioxidant activity, significant decreases (p>0.001) were observed in peroxide, P- anisidine and TBA values as compared to control oil. On the other hand, scavenging activity % of the four extracts on DPPH radical were higher than that of butylated hydroxyl toluene (BHT) especially with high concentration (1000 μg/ ml). Regarding antimicrobial activity, the results showed that the extract of coriander seeds has the highest reduction percent in growth of all the examined microorganisms. The result also revealed that Mucor sp was resistant to the action of parsley extracts while Aspergillus flavus has the highest resistance against coriander extracts.
Evaluating the Frequency of Histopathological Features of Oral and Cutaneous Lichen Planus Lesions: A Retrospective- Comparative Study
Authors: Zamanzadeh Maryam , Montazer Fatemeh , Shiva Atena , Moosazadeh Mahmood , Sadeghi Taravat , Dezfouli Mohammad Koochak
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim: Lichen planus (LP) is an immunological disease of skin and mucous membranes. Cutaneous and oral LP (CLP and OLP) have almost similar histopathological changes determined microscopically with symptoms such as basal cell layer degeneration, hyperkeratosis, band-like infiltration of lymphocytes, and saw tooth ridges. The present study aimed to determine the frequency and compare the histopathological features of OLP and CLP samples.

Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive-analytical, and cross-sectional research performed on 91 paraffin-embedded tissue blocks (41 OLP lesions and 50 CLP lesions). The frequency of histopathological features was determined by an optical microscope, and data analysis was performed in SPSS version 21 using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and Chi-square.

Results: In this study, the frequency of LPs was higher in female subjects, compared to male participants. The frequency of histopathological features of hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, spongiosis, and epithelial hypertrophy was significantly higher in CLP samples, compared to OLP lesions (P<0.005). Meanwhile, the frequency of saw tooth ridges was higher in OLP lesions, compared to CLP samples (P<0.008).

Moreover, there was a severe frequency of basal cell layer degeneration and the presence of civatte bodies (CBs) in most CLP lesions while they were moderate in most OLP samples.

Conclusion: According to the results of the study, histopathological features of OLP and CLP lesions were not completely similar and had different frequencies in the two groups. It is recommended that more comprehensive studies be performed on these differences and their causes.
Evaluation of the Use of Intraoperative Subconjunctival Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide and Limited Peritomy during Bare Scleral Pterygium Excision
Authors: Abdelhafez Alaa M. , Saleh Samir Yehia , Mohamed Abdelsalam Abdalla , Omar Ahmed F.
Published: March 2021

Aims: To evaluate the efﬁcacy and safety of subconjunctival injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and limited peritomy during bare scleral pterygium excision in preventing pterygium recurrence.

Study Design: A prospective non-randomized interventional case series.

Place and Duration of Study: All surgeries were done at the department of ophthalmology of Assiut university hospital (27 eyes) and Alforsan eye center in Assiut (3 eyes), Egypt, between November 2017 to December 2019.

Methodology: Thirty eyes of 26 patients who underwent pterygium excision with bare sclera combined with intraoperative subconjunctival TA injection and limited peritomy primary pterygium grade 2 (T2, 3 eyes) and grade 3 (T3, 30 eyes). All patients were followed up for 12 months after surgery. Pterygium recurrence and complications were the key outcome steps.

Results: Pterygium recurrence was seen in 3 eyes (10.0%) as following: grade 2 in one eye (3.3%) and grade 3 in two eyes (6.7%). Intraocular pressure elevation was observed in 9 eyes (30%). The IOP rise ranged from (22.4 to 37 mmHg). All eyes were successfully treated medically and reached normal values by the end of postoperative sixth month.

Conclusion: This procedure appears to be reasonably safe and successful in reducing pterygium recurrence.
Ferroptosis inducer erastin sensitizes NSCLC cells to celastrol through activation of the ROS–mitochondrial fission–mitophagy axis
Authors: Liu Ming , Fan Yumei , Li Danyu , Han Bihui , Meng Yanxiu , Chen Fei , Liu Tianchan , Song Zhiyuan , Han Yu , Huang Liying , Chang Yanzhong , Cao Pengxiu , Nakai Akira , Tan Ke
Published: March 2021

Despite recent progress in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment, treatment outcomes remain poor, mainly because of treatment resistance or toxicity. Erastin is a ferroptosis inducer that has shown promising cytotoxic effects in various types of cancers, including NSCLC. Celastrol is a triterpene extracted from the Tripterygium wilfordii that exhibits potential anticancer activity. However, the side effects of celastrol are severe and limit its clinical application. Combination therapy is a promising strategy to overcome the compensatory mechanisms and unwanted off‐target effects. In the present study, we found that erastin synergized with celastrol to induce cell death at nontoxic concentrations. The combined treatment with celastrol and erastin significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, disrupted mitochondrial membrane potential, and promoted mitochondrial fission. Furthermore, cotreatment with erastin and celastrol initiated ATG5/ATG7‐dependent autophagy, PINK1/Parkin‐dependent mitophagy, and the expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in an HSF1‐dependent manner. HSF1 knockdown further enhanced cell death in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Our findings indicate that the combination of celastrol with erastin may represent a novel therapeutic regimen for patients with NSCLC and warrants further clinical evaluation.
Depression in childhood may increase vulnerability to opioid euphoria
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2021

Researchers have found that childhood depression as well as tobacco use were associated with later opioid use in general, weekly opioid use and heroin use. The cohort study, “Prevalence and Childhood Precursors of Opioid Use in the Early Decades of Life,” based on the Great Smoky Mountains Study (GSMS), concluded that children with chronic depression may take opioids to alleviate the physical symptoms — including pain — that often accompany depression. While depression may not be an evident cause of such symptoms, these complaints may lead to unnecessary opioid prescriptions and the child's first exposure to opioid‐associated euphoria. Childhood somatic complaints — and elevated inflammation and injury — were associated with progression from any to weekly nonheroin opioid use.
Health system documents steep increase in alcohol withdrawal during pandemic
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: March 2021

Early on in the COVID‐19 pandemic, reports of soaring alcohol sales generated concern over what kinds of impacts might surface later. A nonprofit health system has now been able to leverage data on its hospitalized patients to demonstrate that for many, drinking to cope with stress likely led to a full‐blown substance use disorder.
OTP partners with county sheriff for jail‐based MAT
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2021

Rhode Island–based CODAC Behavioral Healthcare is partnering with the Hampden County Sheriff's Department (HCSD) to provide medications for opioid use disorder (OUD) — methadone, buprenorphine or naltrexone — as well as counseling and behavioral therapy to people in the county jails. The partnership, announced last week, strengthens an already‐existing medication‐assisted treatment (MAT) program in the county.
Addiction MAT sales leader dies unexpectedly
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2021

Edward R. Ryan, 60, died unexpectedly on Jan. 21. Manager of national accounts for the Addiction Treatment Sales Team of Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Ryan joined Mallinckrodt in 2001. “It was a great privilege to know Ed personally and to work alongside him through the years,” said Dan Alexander, director of national accounts for the Addiction Treatment Sales Team, in an email to customers, a copy of which was obtained by ADAW. “Ed had more than 20 years of experience in Addiction Treatment sales for Mallinckrodt and cared deeply for the patients and customers.” We knew him and he was a great asset to the field, and we send condolences to his family.
JAMA Viewpoint says removing the x‐waiver isn't enough
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2021

In a Viewpoint published in JAMA online Feb. 25, three authors say it's not going to be enough to remove the x‐waiver for buprenorphine prescribing. The guest editorial, “Removing One Barrier to Opioid Use Disorder Treatment: Is It Enough?” is by Melissa B. Weimer, D.O.; Sarah E. Wakeman, M.D.; and Richard Saitz, M.D., M.P.H. All three have been strong supporters of greater access to buprenorphine treatment.