bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsupervised AI reveals insect species-specific genome signatures
Authors: Sawada Yui , Minei Ryuhei , Tabata Hiromasa , Ikemura Toshimichi , Wada Kennosuke , Wada Yoshiko , Nagata Hiroshi , Iwasaki Yuki
Published: March 2024

Insects are a highly diverse phylogeny and possess a wide variety of traits, including the presence or absence of wings and metamorphosis. These diverse traits are of great interest for studying genome evolution, and numerous comparative genomic studies have examined a wide phylogenetic range of insects. Here, we analyzed 22 insects belonging to a wide phylogenetic range (Endopterygota, Paraneoptera, Polyneoptera, Palaeoptera, and other insects) by using a batch-learning self-organizing map (BLSOM) for oligonucleotide compositions in their genomic fragments (100-kb or 1-Mb sequences), which is an unsupervised machine learning algorithm that can extract species-specific characteristics of the oligonucleotide compositions (genome signatures). The genome signature is of particular interest in terms of the mechanisms and biological significance that have caused the species-specific difference, and can be used as a powerful search needle to explore the various roles of genome sequences other than protein coding, and can be used to unveil mysteries hidden in the genome sequence. Since BLSOM is an unsupervised clustering method, the clustering of sequences was performed based on the oligonucleotide composition alone, without providing information about the species from which each fragment sequence was derived. Therefore, not only the interspecies separation, but also the intraspecies separation can be achieved. Here, we have revealed the specific genomic regions with oligonucleotide compositions distinct from the usual sequences of each insect genome, e.g., Mb-level structures found for a grasshopper Schistocerca americana. One aim of this study was to compare the genome characteristics of insects with those of vertebrates, especially humans, which are phylogenetically distant from insects. Recently, humans seem to be the “model organism” for which a large amount of information has been accumulated using a variety of cutting-edge and high-throughput technologies. Therefore, it is reasonable to use the abundant information from humans to study insect lineages. The specific regions of Mb length with distinct oligonucleotide compositions have also been previously observed in the human genome. These regions were enriched by transcription factor binding motifs (TFBSs) and hypothesized to be involved in the three-dimensional arrangement of chromosomal DNA in interphase nuclei. The present study characterized the species-specific oligonucleotide compositions (i.e., genome signatures) in insect genomes and identified specific genomic regions with distinct oligonucleotide compositions.
Perspectivas y desafíos de las sanciones por delitos económicos en Cuba
Authors: Medina Cuenca Arnel , Rodríguez García Mariano
Published: March 2024

El presente trabajo valoró el sistema de sanciones a imponer frente al fenómeno de la delincuencia económica, tomando en cuenta el método histórico jurídico, para estudiar la génesis de nuestro objeto de estudio y sus variaciones a lo largo del tiempo. Asimismo, se utilizó el método jurídico-doctrinal, en tanto implica análisis de conceptos e instituciones involucradas en los procedimientos y en sus aristas doctrinales, jurisprudenciales y prácticas para la profundización y aporte de información. A través de estos métodos se ahondó en las investigaciones precedentes y actuales sobre la delincuencia económica y las diferentes posiciones teóricas e ideológicas sobre un problema, que se encuentra en la actualidad en el centro de los debates, por las serias consecuencias que acarrea.
Successful Resolution of Messianic Delusion following Bi-temporal Modified Electroconvulsive Therapy in a Patient with Treatment-resistant Schizophrenia
Authors: Kharb Aakanksha
Published: March 2024

Messianic delusion comprises a delusional system centered on the patient’s conviction that he has been selected by God for a special task or mission and has unique abilities to carry it out. The present case report describes a case of Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia (TRS) with Messianic delusion in a 23-year-old unmarried male who presented to the Emergency Department with complaints of muttering to himself, decreased sleep, suspiciousness, socio-occupational dysfunction, aggressive behaviour, and a recent suicide attempt. Key interventions offered during the ward stay included rapid tranquilisation, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines. The patient completely recovered with the concurrent use of clozapine and Modified Electroconvulsive Therapy (MECT). The patient received 16 sessions of MECT. He achieved both short-term and long-term remission with the therapy, as observed during regular follow-ups in the next six months. The present case emphasises the need for a multidisciplinary approach to the management, early detection, and adequate treatment of this challenging illness.
Mechanochemical Ablation: Current Status in the Management of Varicose Veins: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kalwaniya Dheer Singh , Singh Yogendra , . Jyoti , Lakkireddy Venkata Bharath Kumar Reddy
Published: March 2024

Varicose veins, a common venous disorder, often lead to significant discomfort and a reduced quality of life. Over the years, numerous treatment approaches have been explored to alleviate the associated symptoms. Surgical interventions such as saphenofemoral junction ligation and Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) stripping were transformative in their time, but the emergence of endovenous techniques like Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) marked a significant shift. While these endovenous techniques have shown exceptional clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness, they do come with the drawback of pain due to the application of heat for ablation and the necessity of infiltrating tumescent anaesthesia around the vein. In recent years, non thermal, non tumescent methods have arisen as effective alternatives that reduce patient discomfort. These methods encompass procedures such as Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA) and endovenous cyanoacrylate glue, which minimise heat generation and eliminate the need for tumescent anaesthesia. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current status of MOCA. It covers its mechanism of action, clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and safety profiles in managing varicose veins.
Management of Shambukavarta Bhagandara (Horseshoe Fistula in Ano) by Using Interception of Fistulous Tract with Application of Ksharsutra (IFTAK) Technique: A Case Report
Authors: Mavale Abhishek Dattatray , Dasar Devyani , Kumar Akshay , Jayvarsha Pavitra , Singh Naveen
Published: March 2024

Bhagandara is a well known ailment due to its high recurrence rate and complexity in management. Sambukavarta Bhagandara classifies it as an Asadhyaya ailment and describes it as a Tridoshaj Bhagandara. In present terminology, it is a synonym for Fistula in Ano. Here, the authors present a 45-year-old female with an anal fistula who had never received therapy or undergone surgery. In her case, an innovative technique called ‘Interception of Fistulous Tract with Application of Ksharsutra (IFTAK)’ was used for the Ksharasutra application. Five mL of Chandanbalalakshadi Tail Basti was administered every day. The patient was completely cured four to six weeks after the procedure. In situations with a horseshoe-shaped anal fistula, Ksharasutra therapy utilising the Windows (IFTAK) technique is exceptionally successful, resulting in less scar development, a shorter hospital stay, allowing patients to return to work sooner, causing fewer complications following surgery, and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Assessing the Role of MAPH Score in Predicting Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Athira KP , Devadiga Madukara , Rao Sharadashri , Vaidya Kuladeepa Ananda
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Incorporating the concepts of hyperviscosity, platelet hyperactivity, and age-related risk of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), a new score has been put forward-the Mean platelet volume-Age-total Protein-Haematocrit (MAPH) score, which can determine the increased thrombotic tendency associated with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). The MAPH score includes parameters such as Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), age, total protein, and haematocrit. Researchers have found that a high MAPH score is associated with a high thrombus burden in cases with STEMI and Non ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI). However, the association between MAPH score and ACS is undefined. Aim: To assess the role of MAPH score in predicting ACS. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pathology, Srinivas Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre Mangalore, Karnataka, India for six months. The study included 100 clinically diagnosed cases of ACS and 100 healthy controls. The demographic data, MPV, total protein, and haematocrit values of all cases and controls were collected and tabulated, and statistical analysis was performed. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed on each MAPH score parameter, and cutoff values for each parameter were obtained based on the Youden index. After calculating the MAPH score of cases and controls, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the role of the MAPH score as an independent predictor of ACS. Results: A statistically significant increase in MPV (p-value =0.017) and total protein (p-value<0.001) was noted among the cases. The calculated cut-off values for MPV, age, total protein, and haematocrit were 8.4 fL, 54 years, 6.8 g/dL, and 49.1%, respectively. A statistically significant increase in the MAPH score was noted among the cases compared to the controls. Finally, multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the MAPH score as an independent predictor of ACS. Conclusion: This was the first study investigating the association between MAPH scores in patients with ACS. The MAPH score was identified as an independent predictor of ACS and can be used as a screening tool to predict and diagnose the condition in primary healthcare settings. This helps to ensure early coronary revascularisation and reduce Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)- related mortality and morbidity to a greater extent.
Efficacy of Natural Coconut Water, Pre-packaged Coconut Water, and Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution as Storage Media in Maintaining Periodontal Ligament Cell Viability: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Sara Samreen , Kesri Rituraj , Ukey Ankita , Surana Pratik , Sahu Anshuta , Agrawal Pankaj , Owais Rahman
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Avulsion of teeth is one of the most complex forms of dental injury, and the selection of an appropriate storage medium greatly influences the preservation of Periodontal Ligament (PDL) cell viability, which is crucial for the successful re-implantation of avulsed teeth. Therefore, identifying effective storage options such as natural coconut water and prepackaged coconut water holds significant promise in improving outcomes for this challenging dental injury. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of natural coconut water, prepackaged coconut water, and Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) as storage media in maintaining PDL cell viability. Materials and Methods: A total of 32 non-carious freshly extracted human premolars were randomly divided into four study groups (n=8) and stored in the following storage media respectively: Group I-Natural coconut water group, Group IIPre-packaged coconut water group, Group III-Bench dry group, and Group IV-HBSS groups for 30 minutes. The PDL cells were collected and incubated in phosphate buffer saline for 30 minutes and then centrifuged at 800 rpm for five minutes. Following this, the cells were stained with trypan blue to observe their viability. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s post-hoc test was used for analysing the data. Results: The mean percentage of viable cells in natural coconut water (80.6250) was higher than in HBSS (79.8750), prepackaged coconut water (79.2500), and the bench dry group (6.1250). Meanwhile, the mean percentage of non-viable cells was highest in the bench dry group (93.8750), followed by the pre-packaged coconut water (20.7500), HBSS (20.1250), and natural coconut water (19.3750). Conclusion: Natural coconut water and pre-packaged coconut water are equally effective in maintaining the viability of PDL cells. Therefore, pre-packaged coconut water can be used as a substitute for natural coconut water for tooth storage, depending upon availability.
Evaluation of the Outcome of Interventions for Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome at a Tertiary Level Health Institution in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Amadi Christian Emeka , Alegbeleye Justina Omoikhefe
Published: March 2024

Background: Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome (TES) is a clinical condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue within the thoracic cavity, catamenial pneumothorax, catamenial haemothorax, catamenial haemopneumothorax, catamenial haemoptysis and or endometrial nodular lung mass. The management can be challenging as treatment is fraught with recurrence.

Aim: To evaluate the outcome of interventions for Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome.

Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study of 14 patients with thoracic endometriosis syndrome who were managed at the university of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital between August 1, 2017, and July 31, 2023. A proforma was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, type of intervention and evidence of recurrence of chest symptoms and entered into a spread sheet. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 28. Results are presented as frequency tables and percentages.

Results: The age of the patients ranged between 20 and 44 years. Of the 14 patients, 11 (78.6%) were married, and 3 (21.4%) of the patients had established abdominal endometriosis with symptoms of thoracic endometriosis, while 4 (28.6%) had a histologic diagnosis of thoracic endometriosis. Pneumothorax was observed in 9 (64.23%) patients, 3 (21.43%) had haemopneumothorax, 2 (14.29%) with cyclical haemoptysis and haemothorax, and 4 (28.57%) of the patients had thoracic endometriotic nodules, while all the married patients had primary infertility. Twelve (85.7%) of the patients had closed tube thoracostomy drainage (CTTD) with chemical pleurodesis, while 4 (28.6%) had thoracotomy, decortication, bleb, and nodules resection with chemical pleurodesis. All the patients had hormonal therapy using luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogues. There was recurrence in 2 (14.3%) of the patients after a one-to-six-year period of follow-up.

Conclusion: The treatment of TES using CTTD with pleurodesis, thoracostomy, decortication, bleb resection and or hormonal therapy with appropriate patient selection is effective as only two cases of recurrences were recorded.
Community Engagement in Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Analysis at the Grassroots in Rural Tanzania: A Case of Visual Problem Appraisal for AIDS and Rural Development
Authors: Busindeli Innocent Mathias
Published: March 2024

Missed grounded analysis of Human Immune Deficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Analysis (HIV/AIDS) at the grassroots level has led to the persistence of the pandemic in rural areas. This pseudo-experimental study aimed to explore the potentiality of Visual Problem Appraisal of AIDS and Rural Development (VPA A & RD) in supporting grassroots capacity to make informed choices through grounded analysis of the HIV/AIDS problem. Primary data were collected through VPA A & RD workshops, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews, physical visits and observations. The secretariat of Matombo Division Farmers Groups’ Local Network (MVIWATAMA) was involved directly in a strategic selection of 20 (14 males and six females) workshop participants from Kifindike, Tawa, Uponda, Kiswira and Konde villages. The collected data, narratives and observations were verified and compared with relevant literature for interpretation and interrelations. The tool was found to be useful in engaging, empowering and supporting small-scale farmers’ informed choices. In addition, findings indicate that the persistence of HIV/AIDS in rural areas is due to improper analysis of the problem and review of HIV/AIDS policy. The study, among other things, recommends the establishment of an HIV/AIDS policy working paper and the incorporation of VPA potential in Tanzania universities’ curricula to enhance critical thinking among graduates.
Awareness of Rural Customers about Different Green Banking Services in Punjab, India
Authors: Gupta Neeraj , Gupta Ritu Mittal , Negi Anjali
Published: March 2024

Environmental degradation has become the major concern nowadays being faced by mankind. The role of banks in energy saving and cutting emissions is well established in developed economies. Green banking is a vital step in this direction which enriches economic growth without compromising environmental health. Thus the present study was conducted to investigate the awareness regarding green banking services among rural customers. Two public banks (Punjab National Bank and State Bank of India) were selected randomly from five districts, i.e., Ludhiana, Mansa, Patiala, Amritsar and Hoshiarpur, of Punjab state, India. From each district fifty customers from each bank were selected as respondents. Thus, from each district a sample of 100 respondents was selected. Total sample size for the study was 500. Data was collected through the interview of the respondents. The results of the study revealed that overall awareness was highest for ATM (95%), followed by debit card (90%), mobile banking (76%), net banking (69%) and credit cards (61%). Respondents fully aware about ATM services namely balance inquiry, cash withdrawal, cash deposit, getting cash receipt. The findings indicated that respondents were partially aware about credit cards and services related to credit cards as well as regarding debit cards and related services. Thus, the study suggests that there is a need to create awareness among rural customers about different green banking services.
Evaluating the Varied Impacts of Conventional Versus Nano Fertilizers on Soil Nutrient Levels, Utilization Efficiency and Biological Activity in Acidic Soil
Authors: Rohitha D. S.  , Mamatha B.  , Channakeshava S.  , Sathish A.  , Lalitha B. S.  , Srinivas Reddy K. M.
Published: March 2024

A two-season field experiment was conducted at zonal agricultural research station, GKVK, Bengaluru during Kharif season in 2021 and 2022 with test a crop sunflower. The soil was sandy loam (Alfisol) in texture and experiment was laid out in RCBD with 3 replications and comprised of 14 treatments. Results revealed that the available soil nutrients like nitrogen (307.25 kg ha-1), sulphur (13.28 mg kg-1) and zinc (1.23 mg kg-1) content differed significantly, with treatment T2 (Package of practice). However, all other major, secondary and micro nutrients did not vary significantly. Nutrients use efficiency of nitrogen (72.01 kg kg-1), phosphorus (26.47 kg kg-1) and potassium (35.29 kg kg-1) were recorded higher with nano fertilizers than conventional one. Urease activity (22.42 µg NH4-N g-1 hr-1) was found to be significantly higher in treatment T2 (Package of practice) and enzyme activity like dehydrogenase activity and acid phosphatase activity not significantly varied, the numerical difference was regulated by pH of soil. Combination of conventional and nano fertilizers can be effectively utilized in enhancing the nutrients use efficiency while sustainably managing the soil properties.
Evaluation of the Effects of Alpha-Tocopherol, Quercetin and their Combination on Ethanol-Induced Pancreatic and Duodenal Mucosal injuries: An Experimental Study
Authors: Akinrinde A. S.  , Ajibade T. O.
Published: March 2024

Aim: In this study, the effects of alpha-tocopherol (AT), quercetin (QT) or their combination on ethanol-induced pancreatic and duodenal mucosal damage were investigated in rats using morphological and biochemical evaluations.

Study Design: Experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Methodology: Ethanol-induced injuries were produced by oral administration of 40% ethanol (0.2 ml/day) for 40 consecutive days, while a control group of rats was served distilled water. Other groups received AT (2.5 mg/kg), QT (50 mg/kg) or their combination with 40% ethanol during the experimental period.

Results: Blood glucose level was significantly (p<0.05) increased in ethanol-treated rats relative to controls. Ethanol administration caused shrinkage of insulin-secreting islets tissues in the pancreas, while lesions such as erosions, loss of villi and severe inflammatory cell infiltrations of the mucosa and sub-mucosa were observed in the duodenum. These changes were accompanied by significant elevation in the levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in the pancreas and duodenum, along with reduced activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Treatment of rats with AT, QT, and especially their combination, yielded profound reversal of ethanol-induced effects indicated by restoration of blood glucose to control levels, preservation of pancreatic and duodenal morphology and the inhibition of ethanol-induced oxidative stress.

Conclusion: Overall, dietary supplementation with AT and/or QT could potentially counteract the adverse effects associated with chronic alcohol consumption.
Enhancing Industrial Control System Security: An Isolation Forest-based Anomaly Detection Model for Mitigating Cyber Threats
Authors: Mahmud Md. Saif , Islam Md. Ashikul , Rahman Md. Maruf , Chakraborty Debashon , Kabir Shaharier , Shufian Abu , Sheikh Protik Parvez
Published: March 2024

In the evolving landscape of industrial control systems (ICS), the sophistication of cyber threats has necessitated the development of advanced anomaly detection mechanisms to safeguard critical infrastructure. This study introduces a novel anomaly detection model based on the Isolation Forest algorithm, tailored for the complex environment of ICS. Unlike traditional detection methods that often rely on predefined thresholds or patterns, our model capitalizes on the Isolation Forest's ability to efficiently isolate anomalies in high-dimensional datasets, making it particularly suited for the dynamic and intricate data generated by ICS. Leveraging the HAI dataset, which encompasses operational data from a realistic ICS testbed augmented with a Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) simulator, this research demonstrates the model's effectiveness in identifying both known and novel cyber threats across various ICS components. Our findings reveal that the Isolation Forest-based model outperforms traditional anomaly detection techniques in terms of detection accuracy, false positive rate, and computational efficiency. Furthermore, the model exhibits a remarkable ability to adapt to the evolving nature of cyber threats, underscoring its potential as a robust tool for enhancing the security posture of ICS. Through a detailed analysis of its application in detecting sophisticated attacks represented in the HAI dataset, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on improving ICS security and presents a compelling case for the adoption of machine learning-based anomaly detection solutions in industrial settings.
The Application of Water Alternating Gas Injection to Maximize Oil Recovery in the Niger Delta
Authors: Ita Okon, Edet , Ndubuka Chinedu Ikenna , Livinus Aniefiok , Ini-Obong Asuquo , Umana Mfonobong , Idiok Ubong Thompson
Published: March 2024

One of the most significant challenges for extending production life in mature waterflood fields is high water cut. Couple with high reservoir heterogeneity, extensive layering and faulting, these fields often developed irregular flood patterns after decades of production which compounded the challenge of optimizing recovery from these fields. The severity of this problem has been observed in the Niger Delta oil fields, where several matured fields are producing at high water cut after many years of waterflooding. This study aimed to determine the viability of Water Alternating Gas (WAG) injection in comparison with Waterflooding and Gas injection methods for optimum oil recovery of an oil field in Niger Delta. WAG injection had a maximum field oil efficiency (FOE) of 31%, a field oil production total (FOPT) of 4,944 MMSTB, a plateau time of 14 years and a total field water production (FWPT) of 18,356 MMSTB. Waterflooding had a FOE of 23%, a FOPT of 37,466 MMSTB, a plateau time of 9 years and a FWPT of 96,895 MMSTB. Whereas gas injection had an FOE of 15%, a FOPT of 36,063 MMSTB, a plateau time of 3.2 years, and a FWPT of 13,444 MMSTB, respectively. From the comparative analysis of the three recovery methods, WAG injection outperformed both waterflooding and gas injection with the highest FOE of 31% and the longest plateau time of 14 years, respectively.
An Automatic Sliding Door: Leveraging Locally Sourced Materials for Innovation
Authors: Nwafor Solomon C. , Nwobi-Okoye Chidozie C. , Okafor Benjamin E. , Nwankwo Kenneth K. , Onwuchekwa Chinenye
Published: March 2024

A door is an essential component of a building. It provides security and access to the different parts of a building. In the modern era, when people want everyday life to be completely automated so that work can be done easily in a short amount of time without wasting energy, automatic doors have continued to be fashionable. In addition to being effective and efficient as automation continues to develop rapidly, automatic doors are essential to curbing the transmission of infectious diseases like Ebola and COVID-19. While automatic doors are available in Nigeria, they are imported, thereby shrinking the nation’s foreign exchange. Not only that, but they also cost more when imported compared to when they are manufactured locally. In this work, therefore, a cost-effective automatic sliding door was developed using locally sourced materials from Nigeria. The door uses a passive infrared sensor (PIR) to detect a human or an object in a doorway and automatically opens and closes the door by signalling a microcontroller to activate a DC motor, which drives a belt pulley mechanism. The conceptual design of the system was designed and simulated using SolidWorks. Based on the design, calculations were made to determine the appropriate materials to source. The DC motor model was simulated using MATLAB SIMULINK as a physical model to observe how it would behave in the presence of noise, and the PID controller was tuned to give optimal performance using MATLAB Auto tuning. Some materials were locally purchased, while others were constructed through standard workshop methods. A cost-saving advantage of 95.77% and 89.13% were achieved when compared to imported equivalent types from the USA and China, respectively. The siding door was assembled and subjected to a functionality test, and it was observed that the automatic sliding door successfully detects humans and objects and actuates the motor to open and close the door after the object is out of the set sensing range of 50cm. This work is a step forward in boosting local innovation in Nigeria.
Optimizing Banana Crop Productivity: Effects of Nitrogen Levels and Plant Growth Regulators on Chlorophyll Dynamics in Ney Poovan Cultivar
Authors: Tamilselvi C. , Vijayashanthi V. A. , Preethi T. L. , Sivagamy K. , Sathish G. , Yogameenakshi P. , Banumathi S.
Published: March 2024

The present study highlights the Effect of different nitrogen levels and plant growth regulators on Total chlorophyll content and chlorophyll stability index of banana cv. Ney Poovan. A field experiment in banana cv. Ney Poovan was conducted with various levels of nitrogen and plant growth regulators at Orchard, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The experiment was laid out in the complete Randomized Block Design with four main plot and eight sub plot treatments which are replicated thrice. Significant differences among the different treatments in growth and physiological parameters was observed. The results reveled that application of various levels of nitrogen and plant growth regulators 200 g N plant-1 (60g + 100g + 40g N plant-1 at 3,5 and 7 MAP respectively + Urea 2% foliar spray + Salicylic acid (SA) 100 ppm @ 3,5 and 7 MAP respectively i.e. M4S5 recorded the highest chlorophyll content (1.40 mg g-1)  and chlorophyll stability index (72.58) which was on par with the M3S5 : 200 g N plant-1 (60g + 100g + 40g N plant-1 at 3,5 and 7 MAP respectively)+ Salicylic acid (SA) 100 ppm @ 3,5 and 7 MAP.
ENTRE CONFINAMENTO E DESLOCAMENTOS
Authors: Silva Humbelina Santos , Lima Elizabeth Gonzaga de
Published: March 2024

Este artigo examina uma experiência de leitura de literatura antirracista na educação básica com base na narrativa Namíbia, não!, de Aldri Anunciação (2020), texto dramático que possibilita a reflexão sobre a literatura negra, a reafirmação identitária, a constituição de uma consciência crítica e uma oportunidade de repensar as relações raciais dentro do espaço escolar. A intervenção pedagógica com turmas do nono ano da Escola Municipal de Pituaçu, uma unidade de ensino de Salvador que atende aos Anos Finais do segmento Fundamental, é parte de uma pesquisa de cunho autoetnográfico Rotas literárias: o que ensinar nas aulas de literatura no ensino fundamental, desenvolvida no Programa de Mestrado Profissional (PROFLETRAS) - UFBA, em 2020. Para o estudo, utiliza a análise da ação pedagógica e o processo metodológico bibliográfico, ao considerar as contribuições de pensadores sobre o racismo, Gomes (2014, 2017) e Kilomba (2020); a literatura negra com Evaristo (2009); a importância da dramaturgia negra, Nascimento (2004), a poética da dramaturgia em debate, Martins (1995, 2020), Mendes (2020), Anunciação (2020) e leitura literária na escola, Cosson (2016, 2018), Dalvi (2013).
POLÍTICAS DE MEMÓRIA E LITERATURA NEGRA NA BAHIA
Authors: Duarte Rosinês de Jesus
Published: March 2024

Um estudo dos processos de produção, transmissão e circulação de textos de mulheres negras evidenciou uma produção potente e diversa entre as décadas de 1970 e 1990, na Bahia. A partir de um mapeamento inicial desses escritos, foi possível inventariar a produção de treze escritoras negras. No entanto, percebemos uma dispersão desses escritos e uma falta de política de arquivamento que contribuíram para o apagamento dessas obras no cenário da história da literatura na Bahia. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do artigo é refletir sobre a necessidade de estabelecer políticas de memória para escritoras negras, provocando, assim, uma reversão da política de esquecimento que insiste em rodear produções de sujeitos negros. Desse modo, esperamos revisar a historiografia literária, introduzindo atores sociais que foram sonegados dos espaços de memória escrita em nosso país.
COMPARAÇÃO ENTRE AS PROPRIEDADES DE DOIS BIOCARVÕES, PARA APLICAÇÃO EM SOLO AGRÍCOLA
Authors: Souza Débora de , Lima Karine Cavalheiro de , Kappler Genyr , Modolo Regina Célia Espinosa , Brehm Feliciane Andrade , Moraes Carlos Alberto Mendes
Published: March 2024

O cenário da economia brasileira apresenta forte influência do setor de agronegócio no PIB do país. Entre os principais cultivos estão a produção de cana-de-açúcar, do café, da laranja, da soja, do cacau, do arroz, do coco verde, entre outros. No entanto, simultâneo ao impacto positivo da economia do país, há o impacto negativo, com a geração crescente das biomassas oriundas dos processos de cultivo, colheita e beneficiamento. O destino dessas biomassas nem sempre é o mais adequado e muitas vezes acabam se tornando passivos para as empresas do setor. O biocarvão vem se tornando uma alternativa viável no sentido de agregar valor a essas biomassas, além de contribuir com os ciclos biogênicos de cada cultivo. Nesse sentido, este trabalho tem como objetivo comparar dois biocarvões produzidos por biomassas de fontes diferentes, nas mesmas condições de operação de pirólise, visando à sua aplicação em solo agrícola. Os biocarvões foram avaliados quanto a sua massa específica, composição química elementar, potencial hidrogeniônico, carbono total e capacidade de troca catiônica. Foi possível concluir que o biocarvão produzido a partir de fibra de coco possui maior pH, o que o torna mais adequado para a incorporação em solos que se encontram com nível de acidez inviável ao cultivo. O biocarvão de fibra de coco também apresentou maior capacidade de troca catiônica importante parâmetro em solos cultiváveis, pois contribui para a retenção de cátions como magnésio, cálcio e potássio, evitando que sejam lixiviados.
Conceptions and experiences of sexuality and the efects on the lives of elderly women / Concepções e vivências da sexualidade e seus efeitos nas vidas de mulheres idosas
Authors: Stefany Dias de Jorge Bianca , Linares Villa Nova Cristiane , Beatriz Corrêa Karen , Ammari Lourenço Victoria , Gomes da Silva Tânia Maria , De Lima Santos Aliny
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: desvelar os conceitos e percepções da sexualidade de mulheres idosas e os impactos em suas vidas. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo qualitativo exploratório-descritivo, com onze entrevistadas, mulheres entre 60 e 80 anos de idade, usuárias de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde, localizada no noroeste do Paraná. Resultados: observou-se que as mulheres idosas, em sua maioria, relacionam a sexualidade ao ato sexual e, consequentemente, depende de seu parceiro e percebem o ato como algo exclusivo do casamento e que depende do marido para acontecer. Conclusão: conclui-se que a sexualidade, apesar do conceito ter relação direta com o ato sexual, podem produzir influência em sua autoestima, na dinâmica familiar e busca pela assistência de saúde.
Overview of Protein Glutathionylation
Authors: Filipovska Aleksandra , Murphy Michael P.
Published: June 2006

Many proteins contain free thiols that can be modified by the reversible formation of mixed disulfides with glutathione. Protein glutathionylation is of significance for defense against oxidative damage and in redox signaling. Here we outline the mechanisms and possible significance of protein glutathionylation.
Detection of Stress Proteins as Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Agnew Linda L. , Watson Kenneth
Published: June 2006

Heat shock or stress proteins are constitutively expressed redox‐sensitive proteins, the synthesis of which is induced in almost all organisms exposed to a range of stressors, including oxidative stress, heat shock, free radicals, UV radiation, and heavy metals. This unit details three methods, with supporting protocols, for their measurement in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, plasma, and serum. These are [35S]methionine protein labeling, immunoblotting, and ELISA.
Wheat Germ Cell‐Free Expression System for Protein Production
Authors: Vinarov Dmitriy A. , Newman Carrie L. Loushin , Tyler Ejan M. , Markley John L. , Shahan Mark N.
Published: June 2006

The Center for Eukaryotic Structural Genomics, in cooperation with Ehime University and CellFree Sciences, has developed a novel wheat germ cell‐free technology for the production of eukaryotic proteins. Protein production and purification are robust and scalable for high‐throughput applications. The protocols have been used to express and purify proteins fromArabidopsis thaliana, human, mouse, rat and zebra fish. This unit describes expression and purification protocols for both small‐scale testing (microgram) and large‐scale production (milligram) of N‐His6‐ and N‐GST‐tagged proteins. The methods described in this unit can be used to produce both unlabeled and labeled proteins required for structure‐based determinations by NMR spectroscopy or X‐ray crystallography.
Analysis of Protein Sumoylation
Authors: Hilgarth Roland S. , Sarge Kevin D.
Published: June 2006

The covalent attachment of small ubiquitin‐like modifier (SUMO) proteins to specific lysine residues of target proteins, a process termed sumoylation, is a recently discovered protein modification that plays an important role in regulating many diverse cellular processes. For this reason there is significant interest in identifying new sumoylated proteins and the lysine residue(s) within these target proteins where SUMO attachment occurs. Such knowledge will allow determination of the functional consequences of sumoylation through mutation of the relevant sequences. This unit describes two different experimental approaches for ascertaining specific protein sumoylation: the first is based on immunoprecipitation of the protein of interest followed by SUMO immunoblotting. The second involves incubation of the protein (either an in vitro translation product or a purified recombinant protein) in a reconstituted in vitro sumoylation enzymatic reaction followed by visualization of sumoylated protein as a higher than normal molecular‐weight band in SDS‐PAGE.
Combinatorial Recombination of Gene Fragments to Construct a Library of Chimeras
Authors: Meyer Michelle M. , Hiraga Kaori , Arnold Frances H.
Published: June 2006

Recombination of distantly related and nonrelated genes is difficult using traditional PCR‐based techniques, and truncation‐based methods result in a large proportion of nonviable sequences due to frame shifts, deletions, and insertions. This unit describes a method for creating libraries of chimeras through combinatorial assembly of gene fragments. It allows the experimenter to recombine genes of any identity and to select the sites where recombination takes place. Combinatorial recombination is achieved by generating gene fragments with specific overhangs, or sticky ends. The overhangs permit the fragments to be ligated in the correct order while allowing independent assortment of blocks with identical overhangs. Genes of any identity can be recombined so long as they share 3 to 5 base pairs of identity at the desired recombination sites. Simple adaptations of the method allow incorporation of specific gene fragments.
Newcastle Disease Virus: Propagation, Quantification, and Storage
Authors: McGinnes Lori W. , Pantua Homer , Reitter Julie , Morrison Trudy G.
Published: June 2006

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a prototype paramyxovirus used to define basic steps in the life cycle of this family of viruses. NDV is also an ideal virus system for elucidating determinants of viral pathogenicity. Some strains of this virus are important agricultural pathogens that cause disease in poultry with a high mortality while other strains are avirulent and used for vaccines. Methods for preparation and titration of virus stocks are essential for all of these purposes. Procedures for growth and purification of NDV stocks in embryonated chicken eggs as well as in tissue culture cells are described. Use of embryonated chicken eggs to grow the virus is the superior method since infectious stocks of all strains of NDV result. Stocks of avirulent NDV prepared in tissue culture are noninfectious. Virus stocks are routinely titered using plaque assays or hemagglutination assays, both of which are described.
Using Viral Vectors to Silence Endogenous Genes
Authors: Caplan Jeffrey , Dinesh‐Kumar S.P.
Published: June 2006

Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a fast but transient method for knocking down expression of endogenous genes in plants. Replicating plant viruses activate a defense mechanism called post‐transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS), which protects the plant by silencing viral transcripts. VIGS of endogenous genes is accomplished by inserting a gene of interest into a viral vector. When the virus replicates in the plant, PTGS silences both the viral genome and the corresponding endogenous gene. The most robust and widely implemented VIGS system uses tobacco rattle virus (TRV) vectors and N. benthamiana as the plant host. This unit will explain how to introduce TRV‐based VIGS vectors into N. benthamiana plants by two methods: syringe infiltration or the Agrobacterium drench method. Furthermore, it will provide two alternate protocols optimized for VIGS in tomato plants: spray inoculation and vacuum infiltration.
Behavioural coherence in group robbery: a circumplex model of offender and victim interactions
Authors: Porter Louise E. , Alison Laurence J.
Published: June 2006

The behaviour of offenders and victims in 116 cases of group robbery (61 commercial, 55 personal) was examined. Four interpersonal themes were evident: dominance, submission, co‐operation and hostility. These themes are governed by the principles of complementarity such that offender dominance elicits victim submission (reciprocity) and vice versa, while co‐operative offenders tend to elicit victim co‐operation (correspondence). Hostile offences were hypothesised as eliciting hostility in victims, but few victims in the sample demonstrated active resistance. The existence of behavioural themes suggests that offenders within the same group behave in a homogenous fashion, which is explained by reference to group norms and processes of modelling. Further, differences in interpersonal themes were evident between commercial and personal robberies. Commercial robberies tend to involve greater levels of co‐operation than personal robberies, while personal robberies involve more hostility than commercial robberies. This is discussed in terms of situational and motivational elements of the robberies. Aggr. Behav. 32:330–342, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A developmental perspective on bullying
Authors: Pepler Debra J. , Craig Wendy M. , Connolly Jennifer A. , Yuile Amy , McMaster Loren , Jiang Depeng
Published: June 2006

In this paper, we examined the forms and relationship contexts of bullying in adolescence. Using cross‐sectional data, we assessed grade and sex differences in self‐reports of bullying and sexually harassing peers, as well as reports of dating aggression from1896 students from early to late adolescence. Reports of bullying others were highest around the school transition, with lowest levels at the end of high school. Boys reported more bullying and sexual harassment than girls. Sexual harassment of same‐ and opposite‐sex peers increased over the early adolescent years and leveled off in later high‐school years. There were no sex differences in the prevalence of indirect or physical aggression with a dating partner. Adolescents who bullied were at increased risk for the other forms of relationship aggression. These data highlight bullying as a relationship problem and point to the need for prevention programs to curtail the use of power and aggression in adolescent relationships. Aggr. Behav. 32:376–384, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exposure to maternal vs. paternal partner violence, PTSD, and aggression in adolescent girls and boys
Authors: Moretti Marlene M. , Obsuth Ingrid , Odgers Candice L. , Reebye Pratibha
Published: June 2006

Adolescents who witness interparental violence (IPV) are at increased risk for perpetrating aggressive acts. They are also at risk for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this study, we examined the relation between exposure to maternal vs. paternal physical IPV and adolescent girls' and boys' aggressive behavior toward mothers, fathers, friends, and romantic partners. We also assessed the influence of PTSD (as assessed by the Diagnostic Interview for Children and Adolescents‐IV (DICA‐IV)) on the relation between exposure to IPV and aggressive behavior. Participants were 63 girls and 49 boys, ages 13–18, consecutively admitted to a youth correctional facility or assessment facility designated to serve aggressive and delinquent youth. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate unique relations between exposure to maternal vs. paternal IPV and youth aggression in relationships. Girls who observed their mothers' aggressive behavior toward partners were significantly more aggressive toward friends. Similarly, boys who witnessed their fathers' aggression were significantly more aggressive toward friends. Adolescent girls and boys who observed aggression by mothers toward partners reported significantly higher levels of aggression toward their romantic partners. Approximately one third of our sample met PTSD criteria; the relation between exposure to parental IPV and aggression was stronger for individuals who met criteria for PTSD. The implications of understanding the relations between parents' and their daughters' and sons' use of aggression are discussed within the context of providing support for families in breaking intergenerational patterns of violence and aggression. Aggr. Behav. 32:385–395, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sex differences in the personal costs and benefits of relational and physical aggression in high school
Authors: Leadbeater Bonnie J. , Boone Erin M. , Sangster Nadia A. , Mathieson Lindsay C.
Published: June 2006

While recent research using peer ratings demonstrates positive relations between youth's reputations for aggression and popularity, it is not clear whether aggressive youth themselves make these links. Using youth's self‐reports, this study assessed the associations of relational and physical aggression with indicators of both personal gains in peer relations (perceived popularity and receipt of prosocial attention) and personal costs in terms of retaliation or depressive responses (peer victimization and depressive symptoms) in a large sample (n=455) of eighth‐ to tenth‐grade students. Regression analyses reveal that more relationally aggressive youth report more prosocial attention but also more relational (but not physical) victimization. In contrast, more physically aggressive youth report more depressive symptoms and physical (but not relational) victimization. Findings suggest that some costs of aggression (victimization) are higher for boys while others (depressive symptoms) are greater for girls. Group differences were also found for aggressive, victimized, and aggressive/victimized youth compared to the typical low aggressive/low victimized youth. These data suggest that the costs of relational and physical aggression may outweigh benefits except for aggressive non‐victimized boys. Aggr. Behav. 32:409–419, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nanocrystalline Metal Oxides from the Injection of Metal Oxide Sols in Coordinating Solutions: Synthesis, Characterization, Thermal Stabilization, Device Processing, and Gas‐Sensing Properties
Authors: Epifani M. , Díaz R. , Arbiol J. , Comini E. , Sergent N. , Pagnier T. , Siciliano P. , Faglia G. , Morante J. R.
Published: June 2006

Metal oxide (SnO2, TiO2, In2O3, ZnO) sols are prepared by various sol–gel processes in such a way as to hinder the condensation reactions. The obtained sols are injected at 160 °C into a solution of tetradecene and dodecylamine, and kept under heating for different periods of time. Depending on the starting sol, variously crystallized oxide nanoparticles are obtained, whose phase compositions and chemical structure have been studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy. The elimination of the organic residuals has been carried out by thermal treatment, and the thermal evolution of the nanoparticles has been studied by thermal analyses and Raman spectroscopy. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy studies coupled with XRD measurements show that the thermal treatment does not markedly affect the particle size, which remains in the nanometer‐sized regime (from 3.5 to 8.5 nm, depending on the system), except in the case of ZnO. The thermally purified and stabilized powders, drop‐coated onto alumina substrates with pre‐deposited electrical contacts, have been tested as gas‐sensing devices, displaying outstanding sensing properties even at room temperature.