bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PARTICIPATORY ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: GROUNDED THEORY PROPOSALS
Authors: Tapia Mireya Palavecinos , Fernández Daniel Henríquez , Moranta Bartomeu Vidal
Published: November 2019

Ante a crise ambiental e o crescimento das cidades, a vida moderna tornou-se mais complexa. Gestão ambiental das instituições responsáveis viu-se enfrentada a gerar novas estratégias e comunicar com a cidadania para solucionar os problemas ambientais que enfrentam a diário. Descreve-se a metodologia utilizada e a dimensão política do comportamento de denúncia cidadã ante a administração pública. Os resultados oferecem uma opção de gestão mais eficiente, que garanta a participação cidadã como estratégia de qualidade e considere suas propostas para a solução dos problemas ambientais urbanos. Recorre-se ao método misto, e fundamenta-se a análise dos dados na Teoria Fundamentada para conhecer a realidade e as dificuldades das pessoas envolvidas, considerando suas interpretações, tendo como objeto de investigação a percepção sobre os conflitos ambientais. A investigação estruturou-se em etapas e fases sucessivas, realizaram-se entrevistas e pesquisas de especialistas. Analisaram-se  denúncias apresentadas ao município (532 fichas de sugestões e reclamações, por situações de conflitos ambientais urbanos). Entrevistas grupais a vizinhos, representantes de movimentos sociais, servidores públicos e estudantes de uma Universidade. Finalmente foram realizadas pesquisas virtuais e entrevistas individuais a participantes dos grupos. Os resultados permitem descrever e propor um Modelo de Gestão Ambiental Participativa, que considere como critérios para a efetividade, a validação do papel das pessoas na solução aos problemas, permitindo implementar soluções mais pertinentes às necessidades locais e resolver os conflitos ambientais urbanos no gerenciamento público.
SUSTAINABLE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ON THE EFFECT OF THE REUSE OF BLACK LIQUOR IN THE ALKALINE PRE-TREATMENT OF GARDEN RESIDUES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BIOGAS
Authors: Bastos Jhenifer Aline , Remor Paula Verônica , Lofhagen Janaina C. P. , Hawkins Christopher A. , Edwiges Thiago
Published: November 2019

O biogás é uma importante fonte renovável de energia, que converte material orgânico em energia. A biomassa lignocelulósica surge como uma estratégia para aumentar a produção de biogás através de pré-tratamentos que fornecem matéria orgânica ao ambiente anaeróbio. Entre os pré-tratamentos químicos disponíveis, o alcalino é o mais utilizado, pois apresenta o maior rendimento na produção de biogás. No entanto, o efluente gerado (licor negro) é um subproduto alcalino que, se descartado irregularmente, pode causar problemas ambientais. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do presente estudo é apresentar a metodologia empregada para avaliar o efeito do pré-tratamento alcalino com solução de hidróxido de potássio (KOH) aplicado a resíduos de jardim na produção de biogás e a reutilização de licor negro como novo meio alcalino. O pré-tratamento foi dividido em sete bateladas subsequentes, com a primeira batelada composta por uma solução de KOH a 5% e substrato seco e triturado (resíduo de poda de jardim). Para as demais bateladas, o licor negro da fração líquida do processo de separação foi reutilizado. Os testes de Potencial Bioquímico de Metano (PBM) foram realizados com a fração peneirada em condições mesofílicas (35°C) por 25 dias, seguindo a norma alemã VDI 4630. Os resultados mostraram que a segunda batelada teve a maior produção de biogás (620 LN biogas/SV-1 kg) e uma eficiência de 30% quando comparado com o substrato não pré-tratado. Efeito positivo também foi observado no rendimento de biogás após a reutilização do licor negro duas vezes, apresentando uma eficiência média de 20%. Nesse sentido, o estudo demonstra que o reuso do licor negro remanescente do pré-tratamento com KOH é uma técnica viável e sustentável para o pré-tratamento de resíduos de jardim e contribui para a redução de custos em escala real.
EXPERIMENTATION AND INDIRECT METHODS APPLIED TO INVESTIGATE THE CONTAMINATED AREAS
Authors: Aquino Wagner França , Tonello Paulo Sérgio , Resende Pedro Rebelo
Published: November 2019

O presente artigo tem por objetivo principal apresentar as diferentes metodologias geofísicas, suas definições, características e potencialidades, exemplificando quais seriam os mais adequados métodos para cada tipo de situação envolvida na investigação da contaminação subterrânea. No desenvolvimento do texto, é abordada a temática de áreas contaminadas e suas fontes de contaminação, os termos conceituais da metodologia geofísica, o histórico no Brasil dos estudos ambientais para investigação da qualidade do solo e água subterrânea, o enquadramento da Geofísica Ambiental no Gerenciamento de Áreas Contaminadas e apontamentos quanto às normas de referência nacionais e internacionais sobre a aplicação dos métodos geofísicos em estudos de contaminação subterrânea. Além disso, são apresentados os aspectos teóricos em que se fundamentam os métodos geofísicos aplicados aos estudos ambientais, bem como exemplos de aplicação e que se constituem em casos onde a metodologia foi empregada com sucesso e contribuiu de forma relevante para o diagnóstico ambiental dos locais investigados. A relevância deste tipo de divulgação, além do aspecto de apresentação dos métodos geofísicos e de sua importância para diferentes profissionais da área ambiental, também traduz a necessidade de atualização dos textos técnicos sobre o tema, haja vista que o Manual de Áreas Contaminadas da CETESB, que é a referência principal que congrega os métodos aqui descritos, já completa quase duas décadas de sua publicação e, atualmente, não está disponível para consultas. Ao final deste artigo técnico, são apresentadas tabelas orientativas quanto à aplicação dos métodos geofísicos para a detecção de contaminação por diversos tipos de contaminantes, e referente à influência do material geológico local e relativa às características, potencialidades e limitações dos métodos geofísicos aqui abordados.
The Statutory Duty of Customer Needs and Requirements Assessment in Liability Insurance
Authors: Serwach Małgorzata
Published: November 2019

The article aims at considering the general rules for the assessment of customer needs and requirements as well as presenting the reasons for the introduction of this obligation and showing the differences between the above-mentioned legal concepts. Furthermore, the author examines the necessity to recognize the customer needs and requirements in the civil liability insurance. She emphasizes that, due to the nature of the civil liability insurance, it is a fundamental need of the liability insurance customer to conclude an insurance contract with the insurance cover as comprehensive as possible. In contrast to other types of insurance, in the case of which the claims settlement or the amount of compensation are also important, in liability insurance customers want to obtain a guarantee that in the event of an injury to a third party they will not be obliged to compensate it personally. This obligation will be ‘taken over’ by the insurer, with whom the liability insurance contract has been signed. It is the policyholder (the insured) and not the injured who is the liability insurance customer, whose needs and requirements are analyzed.
Legal Regime of Insurance Outsourcing
Authors: Mrozowska - Bartkiewicz Beata , Wnęk Aldona
Published: November 2019

Following the Solvency II Directive, the detailed rules for delegating own activities to external providers by insurance and reinsurance undertakings have been introduced into the insurance law regime, including the requirements regarding the contents of agreements under which the outsourced services are provided (outsourcing contracts). As institutions of public trust, insurance undertakings should perform their functions properly and safely for customers. Hence, the requirements for outsourcing certain activities and functions constitute an important element of the insurance company management system. Insurance outsourcing is subject to disclosure obligations, and is supervised by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF).
The article discusses legal provisions specifying the basic outsourcing rules for insurance and reinsurance undertakings, including the principles for the development of internal policy and the fulfillment of disclosure requirements, with special emphasis on the outsourcing of certain activities and functions of the management system. Moreover, it also presents the requirements for outsourcing contracts which are imposed on insurance undertakings both by EU and Polish legislation. An appropriate formulation of the rights and obligations of the parties to the contract should ensure, in particular, both compliance with the law and the effective services supervision. More importantly, the KNF has been authorized to perform inspection activities in respect of entities providing outsourced services.
Plante uma árvore, adote essa ideia! Projeto de educação ambiental na Escola Adalgisa Mendonça Lopes, Anajatuba-MA
Authors: Costa Francisco Wendell Dias
Published: November 2019

O objetivo do artigo é analisar as experiências e os resultados da implantação do projeto Plante uma árvore, adote essa ideia! desenvolvido na Escola Municipal Adalgisa Mendonça Lopes em Anajatuba-MA. Baseado no método fenomenológico-qualitativo, tendo como procedimentos metodológicos: o levantamento bibliográfico; promoção de uma palestra sobre a preservação e conservação do meio ambiente, a percepção e Educação Ambiental e o dia da árvore; aplicação de um questionário sobre a temática da palestra e desenhos confeccionados pelos alunos. Os alunos informaram que o desmatamento é o principal problema ambiental do município e consideram que a escola é a principal forma de adquirir conhecimentos sobre as questões ambientais. Pelos desenhos, ficou evidente a preocupação dos alunos com a preservação e conservação das árvores para o ambiente local, demostraram laços de afetividade e pertencimento.
O estado e a avaliação: o nascimento da política publica em busca da equidade educacional
Authors: Quadros Melissa Jasche , Nardes Antonia Marilia Medeiros
Published: November 2019

Nesta discussão o espaço das políticas públicas de planejamento destaca instrumentos regulatórios como foco das políticas estatais; sob a influência, primeiramente do liberalismo e, posteriormente, do neoliberalismo. Estados passaram a reformular seu sistema de plano econômico prevendo a alocação de recursos. Neste contexto, as avaliações institucionais são assumidas como estratégia de administrar o bem público, controlando resultados e transmitindo a imagem do Estado que se preocupa e respeita o cidadão. No Brasil, organiza-se o Sistema Nacional de Avaliação da Educação Básica (Saeb), a Avaliação Nacional da Educação Básica (Aneb). Influenciado por este modelo, a Educação compôs seu quadro, o que suscita apontamentos de sequencia dentro de um modelo que segrega a escola.
Espaço figura materna e masculinidades no/do rap da cidade de Ponta Grossa, Paraná
Authors: Morais André De , Ornat Marcio Jose
Published: November 2019

O presente artigo analisa a relação entre Espaço, Figura Materna e Masculinidades presentes na produção musical do cenário RAP no município de Ponta Grossa, Paraná. O cotidiano vivenciado pelos sujeitos foco desta pesquisa não se dá de maneira a-espacial. Assim, as especificidades tangentes à convenções sociais são afirmadas em uma complexa sucessão histórica. Elas são abarcadas nas relações sociais, que são construídas por e a partir dos MCs entrevistados. Estas estão relacionadas ao ‘ser homem’, ‘ser mulher’ e ‘ser mãe’, fazendo-se presentes nas músicas ouvidas e produzidas por estes em Ponta Grossa, Paraná. Este trabalho concentra-se na análise de conteúdo das entrevistas realizadas com estes MCs, bem como, das letras de músicas do cenário RAP apontadas a partir destas entrevistas.
RESEÑA de: Alfredo Hidalgo Lavié, Ana Isabel Lima Fernández (coords.). 2017. Trabajo Social Sociosanitario. Claves de Salud Pública, Dependencia y Trabajo Social
Authors: Estepa Maestre Francisco
Published: November 2019

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De la caridad al desarrollo social: asociaciones y administración local en la ciudad de Segovia (España)
Authors: Acebes Valentín Rafael
Published: November 2019

La colaboración entre asociaciones de un municipio y las administraciones locales es un objetivo prioritario en los programas de desarrollo local en España. Los trabajadores sociales desempeñan un papel fundamental, ya que los servicios sociales de las administraciones desarrollan programas que promueven la participación ciudadana. En este artículo, presentamos los resultados de un proyecto para estimular alianzas en la ciudad de Segovia, España, analizando en qué medida el modelo de colaboración propuesto se basa en un modelo de desarrollo sostenible basado en la ciudadanía democrática.Collaboration between associations of a municipality and local administrations is a priority objective in local development programs in Spain. Social workers play a fundamental role, since the social services of the administrations develop programs that promote citizen participation. In this article, we present the results of a project to stimulate partnerships in the city of Segovia, Spain, analyzing to what extent the proposed collaboration model is based on a model of sustainable development based on democratic citizenship.
La formación de los trabajadores sociales en Colombia: un dilema de competencias o mercado
Authors: Valbuena Porras Mónica Liset , Pinzón Rocha Lina María
Published: November 2019

El presente artículo de reflexión busca analizar las competencias profesionales que adquiere el trabajador social en Colombia, acorde a las exigencias, necesidades e intereses que se encuentran inmersas en las comunidades con el fin de valorar la identidad profesional que se tiene con su profesión tomando como referente las competencias específicas establecidas por el Consejo Nacional para la Educación en Trabajo Social (CONETS) (2011) y por otro lado las nuevas exigencias del mercado que ha reducido la profesión a una práctica inmediata.This review article aims to analyze the professional skills acquired by the social worker in Colombia, according to the demands, needs and interests that are embedded in communities in order to assess the professional identity that is his profession taking as reference specific competencies established by the National Council on Social Work Education (CONETS) (2011) and on the other hand the new demands of the market which has reduced the immediate practical profession.
Las transferencias intergeneracionales en España y Andalucía. Una primera aproximación al estudio de los factores explicativos en el cuidado de los nietos
Authors: Ortega Gaspar Marta , Fernández Alonso Mercedes
Published: November 2019

El apoyo entre generaciones es una conducta presente en todos los países, aunque en España su intensidad o frecuencia es superior a la mayoría de los países europeos. Una de sus prácticas, concretamente el cuidado de menores por parte de la población de mayor edad es un fenómeno social cada vez más relevante (en términos, por ejemplo, de volumen, responsabilidad o ausencia de progenitores). La cantidad de abuelos que cuida nietos en España ha experimentado un crecimiento notable en la última década. Este estudio ofrece un análisis preliminar de este fenómeno en Andalucía y en el resto de España con la intención de saber si hay diferencias y conocer algunos de los factores explicativos subyacentes. Se ha utilizado como base de datos la Encuesta de Condiciones de Vida de las Personas Mayores (IMSERSO-CIS 2006). Los resultados muestran generalmente una similitud de patrones en el conjunto del territorio nacional y que la edad y el nivel de estudios son las variables más influyentes.Intergenerational support is a shared behavior in all countries. Nevertheless, in Spain its intensity or frequency is higher than most European countries. Grandparents playing childhood care activities is a social phenomenon that is increasingly relevant (in terms, for example, of volume, responsibility or absence of parents). The number of grandparents caring grandchildren in Spain has experienced remarkable growth over the past decade. This study focuses on a preliminary analysis of this phenomenon in Andalusia and the rest of Spain in order to establish a comparison and meet some of the underlying explanatory factors. It has been used the “Survey of Living Conditions of the Elderly” (IMSERSO-CIS 2006). The results show that age and education level are the most influential variables.
The Transition from School in Bhutan
Authors: Lham Kencho , Polesel John , Klatt Gosia , Suryani Anne
Published: November 2019

In Bhutan half of the population is under the age of 25 (United Nations 2017) and strengthening the pathways of all young people, regardless of their background, is one of the priorities in the Bhutan Education Blueprint 2014-2024. This study examines the transitions from school of
a sample of 895 young school completers from Western Bhutan in 2013. It considers the impact of gender, socio-economic status (SES), school type and subject stream on their destinations. The study revealed that males, public school students and higher SES students were more likely to enter
university and government vocational training institutes, while girls, private school completers and lower SES students were more likely to enter private vocational training institutions, repeat Year 12, work or enter the labour market. The study provides invaluable findings about the post-school
choices of young Bhutanese and their post-school pathways, as well as providing suggestions for policy reform and further research designed to improve the transitions of young people in Bhutan.
Effect of core size distribution on magnetic nanoparticle harmonics for thermometry
Authors: Du Zhongzhou , Sun Yi , Higashi Oji , Noguchi Yuki , Enpuku Keiji , Draack Sebastian , Janssen Klaas-Julian , Kahmann Tamara , Zhong Jing , Viereck Thilo , Ludwig Frank , Yoshida Takashi
Published: November 2019

We investigated the effect of core size distribution on the performance of a magnetic nanoparticle thermometer (MNPT) in circumstances when Néel relaxation dominates the dynamic behavior of particles. Numerical simulations revealed the effects of excitation field strength and core size distribution on the temperature dependence of the amplitude and phase of harmonics. In MNPT, the field dependences of sensitivity deviated significantly from those calculated when the core size distribution was neglected. These simulation results were compared with those from experiments for which reasonable agreement was obtained. These findings must be carefully considered when designing an optimal MNPT system.
Long noncoding RNA MEG3 suppresses podocyte injury in diabetic nephropathy by inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Che Xiajing , Deng Xin , Xie Kewei , Wang Qin , Yan Jiayi , Shao Xinghua , Ni Zhaohui , Ying Liang
Published: November 2019

Background

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the principal complications of diabetes and podocyte injury plays an important role in the DN pathogenesis. Wnt/β-catenin signaling overactivation confers podocyte injury and promotes multiple types of renal disease. However, the underlying mechanism of Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation in DN progression has not been fully elucidated. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is a large class of endogenous RNA molecules lacking functional code capacity and which participates in the pathogenesis of human disease, including DN.

Method

A diabetes model was constructed by intraperitoneal injection of Streptozotocin in rats. The MPC5 cells were used to create the in vitro model. Western blot and Quantitative reverse-transcriptase-PCR were used to examine the expression of protein and mRNA. The migrated capacity was analyzed by Transwell migration assay. The cell viability was detected by CCK8.

Results

In the present study, we revealed the association of lncRNA Maternally Expressed Gene 3 (MEG3) with aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and the role of MEG3/Wnt axis in podocyte injury. We found that high glucose (HG) treatment suppressed MEG3 expression in cultured podocytes, activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling and caused podocyte injury as indicated by the downregulation of podocyte-specific markers (podocin and synaptopodin) and the upregulation of snail1 and α-smooth muscle actin. Overexpression of MEG3 attenuated HG-induced podocyte injury by reducing Wnt/β-catenin activity, repressing cell migration, reactive oxygen species production and increasing the viability of podocytes. Furthermore, we provided evidences that restoration of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by specific agonist impeded the protective effect of MEG3 on podocyte injury. Current results demonstrated that MEG3/Wnt axis plays an important role in fostering podocyte injury and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of DN.

Conclusion

lncRNA MEG3 ameliorates podocyte injury in DN via inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
Types and Classification of Pesticides Used on Tomatoes Grown in Mwea Irrigation Scheme, Kirinyaga County, Kenya
Authors: Nakhungu Momanyi, Violet , Margaret N. Keraka, , Deborah A. Abong’o, , Peterson N. Warutere,
Published: November 2019

This study evaluated 403 farmers from the open field and greenhouse farms in Mwea Irrigation Scheme on the types and classification of pesticides used to control pests and diseases on tomatoes, in July 2017 to June 2018. Five greenhouse tomato farmers were purposively selected while sample size of 196 open field farmers, calculated using Fisher’s formula. Cross-Sectional design using a structured questionnaire, face to face interviews and focus group discussions with 201 farmers in the eight wards, Gathingiri, Tebere, Kangai, Wamumu, Murinduko, Nyangati, Mutithi and Thiba. Accuracy of the data was ensured by pre-testing the questionnaire on tomato farmers from a neighbouring Maragua sub-county, errors were corrected, and omissions added to the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was carried out for frequencies, percentages, means, standard errors, variance and data subjected to T-test at 95% Confidence Interval to determine significant differences between variables. Results from the interviews revealed that farmers applied 57 and 12 pesticides under different trade names on tomatoes in the open field and greenhouse farms respectively. Pyrethroids, carbamates, nicotinoids, organophosphates, and organochlorines were applied on tomatoes among others. The 20 and 12 pesticides mainly used in open field and greenhouse farms were WHO Class II (60%) and WHO Class III (42%), respectively. Farmers heavily relied on different types of pesticides to control a wide range of major pests and diseases as Tuta absoluta and blight respectively. Chlorantraniliprole and mancozeb are the main pesticides used in tomatoes. Most pesticides, WHO toxic class II including pyrethroids and carbamates should be used following manufacturers’ recommendations to prevent human health risks. Training and awareness by the Ministry of agriculture, Kirinyanga County government  are needed on use of less toxic pesticides equally effective in controlling pests and diseases, such as WHO  classes III and IV and bio-pesticides with minimal negative effects on human  health.
Antifungal Efficacy of Saponin Extracted from Phyllanthus niruri
Authors: Ajibade V. A. , Ajenifuja O. A. , Akinruli F. T. , Ajayi F. A. , Famurewa O.
Published: November 2019

The in-vitro and in-vivo antifungal activities of saponin extracted from Phyllanthus niruri were investigated. The proximate composition of the plant determined using the methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists showed that the moisture, dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, total ash and fat were available in 1.34 g, 98.66 g, 12.33 g 18.45 g, 7.36 g and 2.54 g/100 g respectively. The elemental analysis determined using the Flame- Photometric method reveals the presence of major, minor and trace elements in appreciable quantities. Nine elements; Zn Mn, Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe and P were present. The susceptibility of three Trichophyton species determined by the radial- mycelial methods showed that T. mentagrophytes was more susceptible to the saponin. These favourable effects point to the potential of the saponin as a remedy against mycotic infections caused by T. mentagrophytes. The fact that this extract exerted an inhibitory effect on these epidermal fungi indicates that they can potentially be further developed into antifungal clinically used agents.
Epidemiological Survey on Gastrointestinal Parasitic Zoonosis in Cattle of Sirajganj District, Bangladesh
Authors: Kabir Md. Hazzaz Bin , Islam K. B. M. Saiful , Islam Kamrul , Islam Mahfuzul , Karim Shah JungyIbna , Abdullah S. M. , Mahmud Mohammad Showkat
Published: November 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the zoonotic gastrointestinal parasitic infections in cattle at Sirajganj district of Bangladesh during the period from February, 2016 to November, 2016 by coproscopy examination. A total of 150 fecal samples of cattle were collected from the study areas, which examined and found 41 (27.33%) were positive for gastrointestinal parasitic infections that has zoonotic importance. The prevalence of parasitic infection was significantly higher in female (33.7%) than in males (19. 4%). The prevalence of parasite was recorded higher in cross breed than in indigenous cattle which are statistically significant (p≤0.05). In case of age groups, the highest rate of infection was observed in adult of >1 years (28.5%) and the lowest in calves aged ≤1 year (25.4%). Moreover, the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites were higher in poor body conditioned cattle (36.3%) than that of malnourished (34%) and healthy cattle (22.4%). In case of management system, the prevalence of parasitic infections was higher in cattle reared in free range (40.0%) than cattle reared in semi-intensive (28.5%) and intensive system (25.5%). Furthermore, parasitic infections were higher in summer (36.5%) followed by winter season (25.5%) and rainy season (15.7%). A significant correlation (P=0.00) has been found between diarrheic non-diarrhea cattle. Finally, prevalence was significantly (P=0.02) higher in cattle with no previous history of anthelmintic use. From this study, it is concluded that gastrointestinal parasitic infection is a major threat to cattle health and production at Sirajganj district irrespective of age, sex, management system, breed, season, diarrheic and anthelmintic usage.
Phytochemical Compositions and Antimicrobial Activities of Citrus sinensis and Citrus aurantifolia Peels on Selected Pathogenic Bacteria Isolated from Jollof Rice
Authors: Asowata-Ayodele Mojisola Abiola , Dabesor Peter Anani , Afolabi Bolaji
Published: November 2019

Aims: The aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial activities of aqueous and ethanolic (EtOH) extracts of orange (C. sinensis Pers.) and lime (C.aurantifolia (Christm.) Swingle) peels on some selected pathogenic bacteria isolated from jollof rice.

Study Design: Antimicrobial analysis, phytochemical analysis

Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Wesley University Ondo, Ondo State, Nigeria, between June and July 2017.

Methodology: Antimicrobial analysis of aqueous and EtOH extracts prepared from orange and lime peels were done by using the agar well diffusion method against the selected pathogenic bacteria. The extracts were screened for anti-nutrients such as alkaloids, tannins, oxalate, phytate and glycosides.

Results: The EtOH extracts of orange peel showed a remarkable zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (23.5 ± 0.1 mm) followed by Staphylococcus aureus (11.4 ± 0.0 mm) and Bacillus cereus (9.8 ± 0.0 mm). Whereas, the aqueous extracts of orange showed no zone of inhibition against the tested pathogenic bacteria. In addition the EtOH peel extract of lime showed maximum zone of inhibition against  S. aureus (15.5 ± 0.0 mm) followed by E. coli (14.3 ± 0.1 mm) and B. cereus (12.1 ± 0.2 mm), whereas its aqueous peel extract showed no zone of inhibition against K. pneumonia, S. aureus, E. coli and B. cereus. Both EtOH extracts of orange and lime peels showed no zone of inhibition against K. pneumonia. Streptomycin, the reference antibiotic, had no zone of inhibition against B. cereus and S. aureus whereas it recorded maximum zone of inhibition against E. coli (24.0 ± 0.0 mm) and K. pneumonia (25.1 ± 0.1 mm). The phytochemical analysis showed presence of oxalate, alkaloids, phytate, tannins and glycoside in the aqueous and EtOH extracts of lime and orange peels. The antimicrobial activities of EtOH extracts of both lime and orange peels demonstrated inhibitory effect against the targeted organisms such as B. cereus, S. aureus and E. coli.

Conclusion: The exploration of novel antimicrobial agents from natural resources such as plant like Lime and sweet orange as food preservative is due to the presence of various secondary metabolites.
Molecular Diversity and Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase Resistance of Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli from Patients Attending Selected Health Care Facilities in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Abimiku R. H. , Ngwai Y. B. , Nkene I. H. , Bassey B. E. , Tsaku P. A. , Ibrahim T. , Tama S. C. , Ishaleku D. , Pennap G. R. I.
Published: November 2019

Aims: This study investigated the molecular diversity and extended spectrum beta-lactamase resistance of diarrheagenic E. coli isolated from patients attending selected healthcare facilities in Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Nasarawa State University, P.M.B 1022, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria; between December 2017 and June, 2019.

Methodology: A total of 207 confirmed E. coli isolates (using standard microbiological methods) from loose stool samples of patients with suspected cases of diarrhea (69 from Federal Medical Centre Keffi [MCK] 69 from General Hospital Akwanga [GHA] and 69 from Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital Lafia [DASHL]) were included in this study.

Results: Phenotypic detection of ESBL production by β-lactam resistant isolates was done using double disc synergy test. Molecular detection of ESBL genes in phenotypically confirmed ESBL producers was done using Polymerase Chain Reaction. Out of 56 isolates jointly resistant to cefotaxime and/or ceftazidime and ciprofloxacin from DASHL, FMCK and GHA, 53.6% (30/56) were ESBL producers, distributed in relation to the hospitals as follows: blaCTX-M in DASHL was 6(66.7%), FMCK was 11(100.0%), and GHA was 10(100.0%); blaSHV in DASHL was 8(88.9%), FMCK was 7(63.6%), and GHA was 10(100.0%), and blaTEM in DASHL was 9(100.0%), FMCK was 10(90.9%), and GHA was 10(100.0%). Also, the occurrence of blaSHV was 100.0% in GHA but 88.9% in DASHL. The detection DEC was high in DASHL (88.9%) but low inGHA (58.8%). The occurrence of ETEC was high in GHA (60.0%) while EAEC was also high in FMCK (81.8%) and GHA (70.0%). The isolates were distributed into strain A – J based on RFLP pattern and the occurrence of strain A was high in GHA (70.0%) but low in DASHL (33.3%).

Conclusion: Most of the isolates were both diarrheagenic and ESBL resistant, and the predominant ESBL and pathotypes genes were blaCTX-M, blaTEM and EAEC. Further studies on molecular detection of sub-types of ESBL and sequencing of diarrheagenic pathotypes genes should be carried out.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Bacteria Isolated from Sachet-packaged Water Sold in Uyo Metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Umoessien Uduak S. , Antia Ukponobong E. , Christopher Mary , Owowo Etanguno E.
Published: November 2019

Aims: This study was aimed at determining the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacteria isolated from sachet water sold in Uyo metropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Study Design:  Sachet water was randomly sampled in Uyo Metropolis.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Akwa Ibom State University, Nigeria, between June and November 2018.

Methodology: Six different brands of sachets water sold and consumed in Uyo metropolis were studied for their physical and microbiological qualities. Thirty (30) sachets water from the six (6) different brands respectively, were serially diluted and cultured on Nutrient agar, Eosin Methylene Blue agar, MacConkey agar and Salmonella-Shigella agar, while Muller Hinton agar was used for sensitivity test. Suspensions of purified isolates were standardized with 0.5 McFarland turbidity standard and were subjected to antibiotics susceptibility testing using Agar Diffusion method.

Results: The bacterial counts obtained ranged from 2.0 x 101 cfu/ml to 1.34 x 102 cfu/ml. Species isolated from the samples analysed included: Klebsiella sp., Escherichia sp., Staphylococcus sp., Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas sp., Citrobacter sp., Bacillus sp. Bacillus sp. Was susceptible to all the antibiotics tested against it except streptomycin while Staphylococcus sp was resistant to gentamicine and ampiclox but susceptible to other antibiotics. All the gram negative isolates were susceptible to tarivia and peflacine but completely resistant to nalidixic acid. Klebsiella sp. was most resistant (70%) of all the isolates, these was closely followed bt Escherichia sp. and Salmonella sp. at 60% resistance. Some of the sachet water brands from bacteriological standpoints did not meet the World Health Organization Standard for portable water.

Conclusion: This study indicted sub-standard packaged waters as a vehicle for the spread of antibiotic resistant bacterial pathogens, and this poses a high risk to public health. Hence, routine monitoring of producers of sachet water should been enforced.
Lessons learned from adenovirus (1970–2019)
Authors: Nemerow Glen , Flint Jane
Published: November 2019

Animal viruses are well recognized for their ability to uncover fundamental cell and molecular processes, and adenovirus certainly provides a prime example. This review illustrates the lessons learned from studying adenovirus over the past five decades. We take a look back at the key studies of adenovirus structure and biophysical properties, which revealed the mechanisms of adenovirus association with antibody, cell receptor, and immune molecules that regulate infection. In addition, we discuss the critical contribution of studies of adenovirus gene expression to elucidation of fundamental reactions in pre‐mRNA processing and its regulation. Other pioneering studies furnished the first examples of protein‐primed initiation of DNA synthesis and viral small RNAs. As a nonenveloped virus, adenoviruses have furnished insights into the modes of virus attachment, entry, and penetration of host cells, and we discuss the diversity of cell receptors that support these processes, as well as membrane penetration. As a result of these extensive studies, adenovirus vectors were among the first to be developed for therapeutic applications. We highlight some of the early (unsuccessful) trials and the lessons learned from them.
A New Opportunity for 2D van der Waals Heterostructures: Making Steep‐Slope Transistors
Authors: Lyu Juan , Pei Jing , Guo Yuzheng , Gong Jian , Li Huanglong
Published: November 2019

The use of a foreign metallic cold source (CS) has recently been proposed as a promising approach toward the steep‐slope field‐effect‐transistor (FET). In addition to the selection of source material with desired density of states–energy relation (D(E)), engineering the source:channel interface for gate‐tunable channel‐barrier is crucial to CS‐FETs. However, conventional metal:semiconductor (MS) interfaces generally suffer from strong Fermi‐level pinning due to the inevitable chemical disorder and defect‐induced gap states, precluding the gate tunability of the barriers. By comprehensive materials and device modeling at the atomic scale, it is reported that 2D van der Waals (vdW) MS interfaces, with their atomic sharpness and cleanness, can be considered as general ingredients for CS‐FETs. As test cases, InSe‐based n‐type FETs are studied. It is found that graphene can be spontaneously p‐type doped along with slightly opened bandgap around the Dirac‐point by interfacing with InSe, resulting in superexponentially decaying hot carrier density with increasing n‐type channel‐barrier. Moreover, the D(E) relations suggest that 2D transition‐metal dichalcogenides and 2D transition‐metal carbides are a rich library of CS materials. Graphene, Cd3C2, T‐VTe2, H‐VTe2, and H‐TaTe2 CSs lead to subthreshold swing below 60 mV dec−1. This work broadens the application potentials of 2D vdW MS heterostructures and serves as a springboard for more studies on low‐power electronics based on 2D materials.
2D Metal‐Organic Framework Materials for Membrane‐Based Separation
Authors: Peng Yuan , Yang Weishen
Published: November 2019

Metal‐organic framework (MOF) nanosheets are promising membrane building blocks for ultimate and efficient separation because of the diversified structures, ultrathin thickness, and tunable chemical functionalities. Targeting at membrane‐based separation, representative developments of top‐down and bottom‐up methods to produce high‐quality MOF nanosheets are introduced, and the merits and demerits of each method are carefully elucidated. A summary of fabrication approaches of MOF nanosheet‐based membranes is also put forward to establish a comprehension on the relationship between membrane structure and the eventual separation performance. Moreover, classical characterization techniques to get an insight into these 2D materials are addressed. Last but not least, concerns on the challenges and opportunities for these novel membranes are demonstrated in order to provide some guidelines for the development in the future.
Recent Advances in Smart Contact Lenses
Authors: Kim Joohee , Cha Eunkyung , Park Jang‐Ung
Published: November 2019

The eyes can provide rich physiological information and offer broad diagnostic potential as a sensing site, making the use of contact lens sensors viable for noninvasive monitoring of many diseases and conditions. Therefore, extensive research efforts recently are devoted to the development of smart contact lenses for healthcare monitoring. Herein, physical biomarkers, which can be obtained from the eyes, and chemical biomarkers, which can be obtained from tears are discussed. Then, the latest advances in smart contact lenses with biosensors that diagnose diseases are reviewed. The subsequent content summarizes and classifies the techniques that can be used for the transmission of data based on the methods to deliver physiological information. In addition, representative examples of other devices for drug delivery energy storage are provided, and the challenges that should be overcome to develop smart contact lenses are discussed.
Self‐Moisturizing Smart Contact Lens Employing Electroosmosis
Authors: Kusama Shinya , Sato Kaito , Yoshida Shotaro , Nishizawa Matsuhiko
Published: November 2019

Contact lenses (CLs) can be a cause of “dry eye syndrome” that can lead to corneal wounds and inflammation as well as a feeling of discomfort. To prevent the dry eye, it is important to keep the lens moist and maintain tears between the CL and the ocular surface. Here, the use of electroosmotic flow (EOF) in a CL is reported as a novel mechanism for antidehydration. A CL made from a charged hydrogel has served as the fluid conduit for EOF generation. The charge density of the gel is optimized by varying the composition ratio of anionic monomer having carboxyl group, by taking into account the efficiency of EOF generation and the mechanical strength of the hydrogels. By in situ monitoring of conductance and by microscope observations, it is successfully demonstrated that the upward EOF within CL is effective to maintain a moist lens. Biocompatible batteries (Mg/O2 battery and fructose/O2 enzymatic battery) are mounted on the CL to demonstrate the feasibility of a smart CL with a built‐in power source for EOF‐based self‐moisturization.
Amino Acids: Nontoxic and Cheap Alternatives for Amines for the Synthesis of Benzoxazoles through the Oxidative Functionalization of Catechols
Authors: Sharghi Hashem , Aboonajmi Jasem , Aberi Mahdi , Shekouhy Mohsen
Published: November 2019

The nano magnetic Fe3O4 (NM−Fe3O4) was applied for the synthesis of benzoxazoles via a C(aryl)−OH functionalization of catechol derivatives and amines in ethanol at room temperature. In the next step, amino acids have been applied as nontoxic and cheap alternatives for amines. The obtained products were similar with the regular amines case. This is the first report about the application of amino acids as alternatives for primary amines in organic synthesis. Furthermore, the presented method was successfully applied toward the synthesis of desired products in large scales.

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Intrinsically Stretchable Fuel Cell Based on Enokitake‐Like Standing Gold Nanowires
Authors: Zhai Qingfeng , Liu Yiyi , Wang Ren , Wang Yan , Lyu Quanxia , Gong Shu , Wang Joseph , Simon George P. , Cheng Wenlong
Published: November 2019

Conventional fuel cells are based on rigid electrodes, limiting their applications in wearable and implantable electronics. Here, it is demonstrated that enokitake‐like vertically‐aligned standing gold nanowires (v‐AuNWs) can also serve as powerful platform for stretchable fuel cells by using ethanol as model system. Unlike traditional fuel cell electrodes, the v‐AuNWs have “Janus Morphology” on both sides of the film and also are highly stretchable. The comparative studies demonstrate that tail side exposed v‐AuNWs based stretchable electrodes outperform the head‐side exposed v‐AuNWs toward the electro‐oxidation of ethanol due to the direct exposure of high‐surface‐area nanowires to the fuels. Therefore, a stretchable fuel cell is fabricated utilizing tail side based interdigitated electrodes, where v‐AuNWs and Pt black modified v‐AuNWs serve as the anode and cathode, respectively. The as‐prepared stretchable fuel cell exhibits good overall performance, including high power density, current density, open‐circuit voltage, stretchability, and durability. Most importantly, a wearable fuel cell is also achieved by integrating tattoo‐like interdigitated electrodes with a thin layer of sponge as a fuel container, exhibiting good performance under various deformations (compression, stretching, and twisting). Such attractive performance in conjunction with skin‐like in‐plane design indicates its great potential to power the next‐generation of wearable and implantable devices.
How the Human Brain Sleeps: Direct Cortical Recordings of Normal Brain Activity
Authors: von Ellenrieder Nicolás , Gotman Jean , Zelmann Rina , Rogers Christine , Nguyen Dang Khoa , Kahane Philippe , Dubeau François , Frauscher Birgit
Published: November 2019

Objective

Regional variations in oscillatory activity during human sleep remain unknown. Using the unique ability of intracranial electroencephalography to study in situ brain physiology, this study assesses regional variations of electroencephalographic sleep activity and creates the first atlas of human sleep using recordings from the first sleep cycle.

Methods

Intracerebral electroencephalographic recordings with channels displaying physiological activity from nonlesional tissue were selected from 91 patients of 3 tertiary epilepsy centers. Sections during non–rapid eye movement sleep (stages N2 and N3) and rapid eye movement sleep (stage R) were selected from the first sleep cycle for oscillatory and nonoscillatory signal analysis. Results of 1,468 channels were grouped into 38 regions covering all cortical areas.

Results

We found regional differences in the distribution of sleep transients and spectral content during all sleep stages. There was a caudorostral gradient, with more slow frequencies and fewer spindles in temporoparieto‐occipital than in frontal cortex. Moreover, deep‐seated structures showed spectral peaks differing from the baseline electroencephalogram. The regions with >60% of channels presenting significant rhythmic activity were either mesial or temporal basal structures that contribute minimally to the scalp electroencephalogram. Finally, during deeper sleep stages, electroencephalographic analysis revealed a more homogeneous spatial distribution, with increased coupling between high and low frequencies.

Interpretation

This study provides a better understanding of the regional variability of sleep, and establishes a baseline for human sleep in all cortical regions during the first sleep cycle. Furthermore, the open‐access atlas will be a unique resource for research (https://mni-open-ieegatlas.research.mcgill.ca). ANN NEUROL 2020;87:289–301
The contribution of new geophysical measurements at the previously excavated neolithic rondel area near Bylany, central Bohemia
Authors: Křivánek Roman
Published: November 2019

Geophysical prospection at the site of a Neolithic rondel near Bylany has been carried out in three different stages of archaeological study of the area. The first two stages of measurements with different magnetometers were initiated as a result of previous archaeological investigation. The last survey by five‐channel fluxgate magnetometer brought more complex results of the whole area revealing three different Neolithic rondels. The results of wide area prospection helped also to identify changes in landscape and subsurface state of preservation of the archaeological site.
Natural Product‐Based Fungicides Discovery: Design, Synthesis and Antifungal Activities of Some Sarisan Analogs Containing 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole Moieties
Authors: Xu Hongyu , Jia Ao , Hou Enhua , Liu Zhiyan , Yang Rui , Yang Ruige , Guo Yong
Published: November 2019

A series of sarisan analogs containing 1,3,4‐oxadiazole moieties were synthesized by iodine‐mediated oxidative cyclization and screened in vitro for their antifungal activities at 50 μg/mL against five phytopathogenic fungi such as Valsa mali, Curvularia lunata, Alternaria alternate, Fusarium solani and Fusarium graminearum. 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole derivatives 7e, 7p, 7r, 7t and 7u exhibited potent and a broad spectrum of antifungal activities against at least three phytopathogenic fungi at the concentration of 50 μg/mL. Especially, compound 7r displayed more potent antifungal activities against five phytopathogenic fungi than the positive control hymexazol. The EC50 of 7r against V. mali, C. lunata and A. alternate were 12.6, 14.5 and 17.0 μg/mL, respectively. Additionally, some interesting results of structure‐activity relationships (SARs) were also observed.
Solvent‐ and HF‐Free Synthesis of Flexible Chromium‐Based MIL‐53 and MIL‐88B
Authors: Teo Wei Liang , Ariff Siti Khadijah Binte , Zhou Weiqiang , Jana Deblin , Phua Soo Zeng Fiona , Zhao Yanli
Published: November 2019

Flexible chromium‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) possess unique structural properties on account of their intriguing breathing effect. However, their synthesis often requires the use of corrosive HF and bulk solvents. Herein, we report a facile 2‐step synthesis of flexible MIL‐53 (Cr) and MIL‐88B (Cr) without using solvents and HF acid modulator. This methodology was highly selective based on the type of metal precursors used, giving the two MOFs separately under similar synthetic procedure. The synthesized MIL‐53 (Cr) and MIL‐88B (Cr) were fully characterized by multiple techniques to ensure their high quality. This work highlights a useful strategy to be adopted for future scale‐up production of flexible chromium‐based MOFs.