bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of Microwave Electric Field on Power Coupling to Plasma during Ignition Phase
Authors: Mallick Chinmoy , Bandyopadhyay Mainak , Kumar Rajesh
Published: June 2020

During the gas ignition process, the plasma and the microwave electric fields are evolved with time together in the plasma volume. The spatio-temporal evolution pattern of microwave-radiated plasma parameters is reported here, highlighting the role of these electric fields on power coupling processes. Evolutions of electric field and so power coupling processes are calculated using the finite element method (FEM). It is observed that the main power coupling mechanism is electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) method; however, with the evolution of plasma, the mode shifts from ECR to off-ECR-type heating with time. Off-ECR heating in the form of upper hybrid resonance (UHR) method, electrostatic (ES) ion acoustic wave heating method is important heating mechanisms during highly dense plasma condition, when density is above critical density for launched frequency, 2.45 GHz. The conclusions on the shifting of heating mechanisms are also drawn based on the 3D maps of spatio-temporal plasma density and hot electron temperature evolution.
Vitamins
Authors: Mousa Kareem Mohanad , S. Jabir Majid
Published: June 2020

This chapter is going to explain a part of the nutrients the human body needs. They are organic compounds called vitamins. Those compounds will be clarified, as well as their benefits, deficiencies, chemical structure, and why the body needs them crucially. Vitamins is an exceptionally vital recognized name required in certain amounts in the body, some of them exist as a complicated natural compounds found in herbal meals. It plays a key function in regular metabolism, the absence of which in the diet causes deficiency and several diseases. Vitamins are differentiated from the trace elements, also found in the weight-reduction plan in small quantities for health, growth, replica, and other crucial metabolism.
The End of the Retirement “Age”: How the New World of Work Is Transforming the Old World of Retirement
Authors: Sheen Veronica
Published: June 2020

The nature of work is undergoing fundamental transformation in the twenty-first century with drivers including digitalization, automation, and new forms of work organization. This chapter explores how the concept of retirement itself is increasingly redundant in relation to the new world of work. Of course, working lives inevitably do come to an end, but for whom, and at what point, and under what personal and social financial conditions, is this end point? Many people will want, and be required by public policy, to continue their working lives well into later life. In addition, the new dynamics of work and employment unfolding may enable this later life engagement. But in the “post-work” world predicted by many scholars, will later life employment be a possibility for them, and even for many people in their middle and younger years? This chapter explores the implications of the future of work for how traditional models of working lives and retirement need to be restructured and examines the one vital reform to ensure everyone can sustain a decent life in the new highly volatile world of work.
Satellite Control System: Part I - Architecture and Main Components
Authors: V. Kim Yuri
Published: June 2020

This chapter provides introductory material to satellite control system (SCS). It is based on the author’s experience, who has been working in areas of SCS development, including designing, testing, operating of real SCS, as well as reviewing and overseeing various SCS projects. It briefly presents SCS generic futures and functional principles: tasks, architecture, basic components and algorithms, operational modes, simulation and testing. The chapter is divided into two parts, namely, Part I: SCS Architecture and Main Components and Part II: SCS Simulation, Control Modes, Power, Interface and Testing. This chapter focuses on Part I. Part II will be presented as a separate chapter in this book.
The Importance of Autophagy and Proteostasis in Metabolic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Cristina Islas-Carbajal María , Rosa Rincón-Sánchez Ana , Arturo Nava-Valdivia Cesar , Lisette Charles-Niño Claudia
Published: June 2020

Metabolic cardiomyopathy and other heart disorders are associated with proteostasis derailment and subsequent autophagy. Proteostasis is a process of protein homeostasis, and autophagy is a mechanism of self-degradation for surviving cells facing stressful conditions. Metabolic challenges have been linked to excess reactive oxygen species. Cardiomyocyte proteotoxicity, an important underlying pathologic mechanism in cardiac disease, is characterized by chronic accumulation of misfolded or unfolded proteins that can lead to proteotoxic formation or aggregation of soluble peptides. Autophagic processes are mediated by the ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy-lysosome systems, fundamental for cardiac adaptation to physiological and pathological stress. Cellular proteostasis alterations in cardiomyopathy are represented by myocardial remodeling and interstitial fibrosis with reduced diastolic function and arrhythmias. Autophagy regulation may be a potential therapeutic strategy for metabolic cardiomyopathy necessary for the treatment of fibrosis and cardiac tissue remodeling alterations. Furthermore, autophagy has been shown to be active in the perimeter of cardiovascular fibrotic tissue as mechanism of fibrosis recovery and scarring secondary to cell apoptosis. In the present work, we review the current knowledge on the role of autophagy and proteostasis in the pathogenesis of heart failure to resolve the ever-expanding epidemic of metabolic cardiomyopathy and heart failure associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.
Inner Navigation and Theta Activity: From Movement to Cognition and Hypnosis According to the Sphere Model of Consciousness
Authors: Paoletti Patrizio , Dotan Ben-Soussan Tal , Glicksohn Joseph
Published: June 2020

EEG theta (4–7 Hz) activity is closely related to hypnosis and hypnotic analgesia, as well as to meditation and absorption. Research further indicates that theta oscillatory power is involved in different cognitive functions, such as spatial navigation, memory, creativity, and divided attention. The current manuscript will provide a synthesis of current knowledge regarding the importance of theta’s different roles in relation to hypnosis and their connections to movement. Indeed, several movement paradigms, such as Quadrato Motor Training, have been found to modulate theta activity, significantly improving cognition and emotional well-being. The utility of such movement paradigms as a therapeutic vehicle closely related to hypnosis, and the underlying characteristics allowing these neuromodulations, will be discussed. Finally, the relationships between diagonal movement and other psychological phenomena, especially intentionality, attention, and the Sphere Model of Consciousness, will be highlighted.
Parallel Algorithm Analysis in Reactor Core Calculation
Authors: Ming Pingzhou
Published: June 2020

The reactor core system consists of many materials, involving multi-physics processes, and can be analyzed and simulated at multi-scales. With the evolution of cluster computer, traditional programs and models could be translated into new program structure and modified in detail, so that more complex problems can be solved. Based on existing theory, programs of sub-channels analysis, two-dimensional (2D) method of characteristic (MOC), fuel temperature approximation, and three-dimensional (3D) discrete ordinate method (SN) are developed and analyzed. The different approach is that the reusable software structure of core calculation is established, with more well-defined storage of nuclear data, control layers, and more effective parallel algorithm for computation. The features of parallel algorithm for these programs are listed succinctly in the discussion. Additionally, the corresponding testing on parallel algorithm and computing results are given.
Fabrication and Characterization of Nanoscale Shape Memory Alloy MEMS Actuators
Authors: R. Knick Cory
Published: June 2020

The miniaturization of engineering devices has created interest in new actuation methods capable of large displacements and high frequency responses. Shape memory alloy (SMA) thin films have exhibited one of the highest power densities of any material used in these actuation schemes and can thermally recovery strains of up to 10%. Homogenous SMA films can experience reversible shape memory effect, but without some sort of physical biasing mechanism, the effect is only one-way. SMA films mated in a multi-layer stack have the appealing feature of an intrinsic two-way shape memory effect (SME). In this work, we developed a near-equiatomic NiTi magnetron co-sputtering process and characterized shape memory effects. We mated these SMA films in several “bimorph” configurations to induce out of plane curvature in the low-temperature Martensite phase. We quantify the curvature radius vs. temperature on MEMS device structures to elucidate a relationship between residual stress, recovery stress, radius of curvature, and degree of unfolding. We fabricated and tested laser-irradiated and joule heated SMA MEMS actuators to enable rapid actuation of NiTi MEMS devices, demonstrating some of the lowest powers (5–15 mW) and operating frequencies (1–3 kHz) ever reported for SMA or other thermal actuators.
The Treatment of Acute Stroke
Authors: Alexandrovna Savvina Irina , Olegovna Petrova Anna
Published: June 2020

Stroke is a major public health issue, because of its high incidence rate, high case fatality rate, risk of residual physical and neuropsychological disabilities, and direct and indirect costs. Many strokes are preventable and treatable in the acute stage, provided that patients are admitted soon enough. The term stroke covers a wide range of heterogeneous disorders, depending on the severity of the clinical presentation, from transient deficits to severe cases with coma and early death; the underlying mechanism, i.e., cerebral ischemia, parenchymal hemorrhage, subdural hemorrhage, or subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH); and the cause, i.e., atherosclerosis, cardioembolism, small-vessel occlusion, rare vasculopathies and undetermined causes in cerebral ischemia, or vascular malformations, cerebral amyloid angiopathies, small-vessel diseases, rare vasculopathies and undetermined causes in parenchymal hemorrhages. This chapter will focus only on acute cerebral ischemia and parenchymal hemorrhage. We will cover the general assessment of stroke patients, the complications that can occur in the acute stage, the treatment of acute stroke, and finally a few situations that require specific managements and where evidence-based data are scarce.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) Treatment: Past and Present Perspectives
Authors: O. Mousa Nahla , Osman Ahmed , Fahmy Nagia , Abdellatif Ahmed , K. Zahra Waheed
Published: June 2020

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the fatal X-linked disorders that are characterized by progressive muscle weakness and occur due to mutation in the largest human gene known as the DMD gene which encodes dystrophin protein that is mandatory for keeping the muscles structurally and functionally intact. The disease always affects boys (1 from every ~5000), and in some cases the female carriers are symptomatic. The disease usually leads to impairment in cardiac and pulmonary functions leading to the death of the patients in very young ages. Understanding DMD through precise molecular diagnosis will aid in determining the suitable therapeutic approach for the cases like designing exon-skipping antisense oligonucleotides (AOs) or stem cell-based therapies in conjunction with gene editing techniques (CRISPR/Cas9). Such therapies can correct the genetic defect in the DMD gene and ameliorate the symptoms. In this chapter, we will illustrate the past and current strategies for DMD disease treatment.
Aerodynamics of Low-Rise Buildings: Challenges and Recent Advances in Experimental and Computational Methods
Authors: Mousaad Aly Aly , Khaled Faiaz , Gol-Zaroudi Hamzeh
Published: June 2020

Buildings are bluff bodies, compared to streamline objects, such as airfoil. Wind flow over buildings leads to separation and hence a complex spatial and temporal mechanism that governs the nature and intensity of aerodynamic forces. This complexity mainly comes from the transient nature of incident turbulent winds and the fluctuating flow pattern in the separation bubble. The study of building aerodynamics is vital for the evaluation of cladding pressures, drag, shear, and uplift forces that are essential for safe and economic design. Flow separation makes it challenging to estimate loads without referring to direct physical and/or computational simulation. For several decades, aerodynamic testing has been employed for the estimation of wind pressures and forces on buildings. However, for residential homes and low-rise buildings, it has been always a challenge to predict full-scale pressures by traditional wind tunnel testing, as per the lack of large turbulence and Reynolds number effects, among other factors. The mismatch in flow physics makes it difficult to scale up wind-induced loads as the process can be highly nonlinear, which is the case when full-scale pressure coefficients do not meet those from small-scale aerodynamic testing. This chapter presents the challenges in the modeling and evaluation of aerodynamic forces on low-rise buildings, along with recent advances in both experimental and computational methods.
Virtual Prototyping Platform for Designing Mechanical and Mechatronic Systems
Authors: Alexandru Cătălin
Published: June 2020

The chapter deals with the description of a virtual prototyping platform that facilitates the design process of the mechanical and mechatronic systems. The virtual prototyping stages are defined and then integrated in a block diagram, highlighting how the data are transferred between these stages in order to finally obtain a valid and optimal virtual model, close (as structure and functionality) to the real one. The whole process is guided by the basic principle for successful virtual prototyping: as complicated as necessary and as simple as possible. The real modeling case, the specific simplifying assumptions, and the validity (viability) fields of the simplifying assumptions are discussed with reference to the main components of a mechanical or mechatronic system (bodies, connections between bodies, actuating elements). The purpose is to manipulate the simplifying assumptions in a way that reduces the complexity of the virtual model, but without altering the accuracy of the results. The basic types of analysis/simulation are depicted by considering their particularities, highlighting their role in the process of designing mechanical/mechatronic systems, and then the optimization is conducted by the use of parametric design tools. Finally, a case study is developed following those mentioned above.
Corrosion Resistance of Precipitation-Hardened Al Alloys: A Comparison between New Generation Al-Cu-Li and Conventional Alloys
Authors: Donatus Uyime , Oluwatosin Bodunrin Michael , Olayinka Ayotunde , Xavier Milagre Mariana , Rasaq Oloyede Olamilekan , Aribo Sunday , Victor de Sousa Araujo João , de Souza Carvalho Machado Caruline , Costa Isolda
Published: June 2020

The corrosion resistance of conventional (AA2024-T3, AA6082-T6 and AA7050-T7451) and the new generation (AA2050-T84, AA2098-T351, AA2198-T8, and AA2198-T851) precipitation-hardened alloys has been studied and compared using electrochemical and non-electrochemical approaches. The AA6082-T6 was the most resistant alloy followed by the new generation Al-Cu-Li alloys, except the AA2050-T84. All the alloys exhibited pseudo-passivity, except for the AA2024-T3 alloy which presented the highest number of pitting sites per cm2 and also exhibited the most insidious form of corrosion amongst the alloys tested. However, the alloy with the highest corrosion depth was the AA2050-T84 alloy followed by the AA2024-T3 and AA7050-T7451 alloys. Intergranular corrosion was associated with rapid rates of penetration. In addition to the microstructural features of the alloys before corrosion, the modes of localized corrosion in the alloys were also influenced by evolving microstructural features (such as re-deposited Cu) during corrosion.
Rehabilitation Therapies in Spinal Cord Injury Patients
Authors: Rodríguez-Mendoza Brenda , A. Santiago-Tovar Paola , A. Guerrero-Godinez Marco , García-Vences Elisa
Published: June 2020

Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a neurological life-changing condition that causes devastating physical, social, psychological, and economic consequences in the injured patient. It is due to traumatic causes that affect the motor and sensory functions, limiting daily life activities. Since rehabilitation is a fundamental process of recovery, this chapter will review diverse approaches in rehabilitation to restore or improve patients’ capability. In the first section, functionality and quality of life tools will be discussed. Subsequently, rehabilitation strategies and their adoption will be explained. Ultimately, rehabilitation goals, according to the level of injury, will be reviewed.
Application of Vortex Control Principle at Pump Intake
Authors: Harun Zambri , Ariffin Norizan Tajul , Hanna Melini Wan Mohtar Wan
Published: June 2020

Vortex flow in a pump intake could affect a pump operation significantly if not treated appropriately. Many researches have been conducted to determine the best control method for vortex flow in pump sumps so that the pump lifespan can be maximized. In this study, a vortex control principle designed to minimize the impact of submerged vortex flow in pump sump on major pump components is presented. This principle employs a device called the plate type floor splitter which serves the function of eliminating vortices formed on the sump floor and reduces the intensity of swirling motion in the intake flow. A pump sump model was built to carry out the study by installing a floor splitter plate sample under the pump suction inlet and the corresponding parameters used to quantify the swirl intensity known as the swirl angle was measured. Procedures for the measurement were conducted based on ANSI/HI 9.8-2018 standard. A numerical simulation was performed to study the flow in a full-scale pump sump. The results showed that the installation of floor splitter plate can eliminate vortices efficiently and reduce swirl angle significantly. However, optimization of floor splitter design is needed to achieve a reduction effect that can reduce swirl angles to an acceptable value of lower than 5° according to ANSI/HI 9.8-2018 standard.
Stability Analysis of Long Combination Vehicles Using Davies Method
Authors: Guillermo Moreno Contreras Gonzalo , de Souza Vieira Rodrigo , Martins Daniel
Published: June 2020

The cargo transportation in the world is mostly dominated by road transport, using long combination vehicles (LCV’s). These vehicles offer more load capacity, which reduces transport costs and thus increases the efficiency and competitiveness of companies and the country. But the tradeoff of LCV’s is their low lateral stability and propensity to roll over, which has been the focus of many studies. Most vehicle stability models do not consider the longitudinal aspects of the vehicle and the road, such as the stiffness of the chassis, the gravity center location, and the longitudinal slope angle of the road. But, the use of three-dimensional models of vehicles allows a more rigorous analysis of vehicle stability. In this context, this study aims to develop a three-dimensional mechanism model representing the last trailer unit of an LCV under an increasing lateral load until it reaches the rollover threshold. The proposed model considers the gravity center movement of the trailer, which is affected by the suspension, tires, fifth-wheel, and the chassis. Davies method has proved to be an important tool in the kinetostatic analysis of mechanisms, and therefore it is employed for the kinetostatic analysis of the three-dimensional mechanism of the trailer.
Arsenomolybdates for Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dyes
Authors: Zhao Zhi-Feng
Published: June 2020

Polyoxometalates (POMs) have fascinating structures and promising properties. The arsenomolybdates, as an important branch of POMs, are outstanding photocatalysts for organic dyes. In this work, we selected organic dyes to evaluate the photocatalytic activity of arsenomolybdates under UV light, containing compared with photocatalytic activity of different structural arsenomolybdates, stability, and the photocatalytic reaction mechanism of arsenomolybdates as photocatalyst. The arsenomolybdates may be used to as environmental photocatalysts for the degrading of organic dyes and solving the problem of environmental pollution.
Reseña del libro: Comunicación Interna Total
Authors: Matilla Kathy
Published: June 2020

Book review: Total internal communication. Strategy, practice and case studies. Written by Joan Cuenca and Laura Verazzi. Edited by UOC (2020).
Postmortem Swabs in the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Pandemic: Report on 12 Complete Clinical Autopsy Cases
Authors: Dell'Aquila Marco , Cattani Paola , Fantoni Massimo , Marchetti Simona , Aquila Isabella , Stigliano Egidio , Carbone Arnaldo , Oliva Antonio , Arena Vincenzo
Published: June 2020

Context.—

Clinical autopsies have historically provided a fundamental contribution in the definition of the clinicopathologic basis of infectious diseases. Even though we are witnessing the decline of the clinical autopsy, its importance remains unchanged as it is the most exhaustive way to investigate diseases. The identification of the virus in postmortem tissues is a fundamental step in the definition of its clinical features.

Objective.—

To investigate the presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in postmortem examination with swabs.

Design.—

We performed postmortem swabs in 12 autopsy cases of patients with a clinical diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2–related pneumonia. Our protocol consisted of a rhinopharyngeal and a tracheal swab in order to search for the virus in the upper airways, and of 2 swabs on the parenchyma of each lung. We also performed a fifth swab on the parenchyma of both lungs in order to search for other viruses that could evolve in a clinical picture of interstitial pneumonia.

Results.—

Overall, we found 9 of 12 cases had at least 1 postmortem swab positive for SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, we evaluated the time between the antemortem and postmortem swabs, the time between death and the postmortem swabs, and the time between the postmortem swabs and acceptance to the microbiology laboratory. Of note, we did not find a relationship between the results of the swabs and either the time elapsed from their collection or the time elapsed before their acceptance in the microbiology laboratory.

Conclusions.—

A thorough knowledge of the eventual persistence of pathogens in deaths related to infectious diseases is fundamental for the safety of the operators during the autopsy practice, especially when referring to emergent pathogens, such as SARS-CoV-2. Our study highlights the importance in performing multiple swabs in the postmortem examination, because SARS-CoV-2 swab positivity can be limited to only a single swab.
Adolfo Blanco Lucas: “Un festival o es con público o no es un festival”
Authors: Clares-Gavilán Judith
Published: June 2020

Os presentamos la primera parte de la entrevista que mantuvimos con Adolfo Blanco Lucas, CEO de A contracorriente Films, sobre la huella que dejará la crisis del COVID-19 en la industria del cine, sobre el impacto de las plataformas de SVOD en el mercado nacional y sobre las nuevas formas de celebrar festivales y mercados en el entorno digital. Y en concreto sobre cómo es el BCN Film Fest que se celebra este año entre el 25 de junio y el 2 de julio en los Cines Verdi de Barcelona.
Líneas de investigación futuras en diseño: movilidad urbana (III)
Authors: Foglia Efraín
Published: June 2020

Desde todos los frentes se grita «Sí a la bicicleta». Por diversos motivos, como el cambio climático, la tendencia en los sistemas de movilidad urbana en las ciudades se decanta hacia nuevos caminos alejados del universo automóvil. Sin lugar a duda, la pandemia actual acelera algunos procesos en curso y abre nuevas e interesantes ventanas de oportunidad. Ahora depende de la visión política la posibilidad de cristalizar avances hacia una movilidad sostenible y más humana, o bien de regresar a la «vieja normalidad» que diezma cada vez más nuestro entorno vital y llena las ciudades de máquinas de emisiones CO2.
Longitudinal monitoring of the nutritional status of schoolchildren in a public school
Authors: Medeiros Adriana Jesus de , Palmeira Poliana de Araújo , Lima Jackson Silva , Cardoso Vanille Valério Barbosa Pessoa
Published: June 2020

Introduction: The nutritional transition in Brazil has also reached the infant population. In this context, studies have demonstrated high prevalence of overweight and obesity in school-aged children.
Objective: analyze the nutritional and anthropometric status of children in a public school between the years of 2013 and 2015.
Methods: for which a longitudinal study was developed using a 2013 baseline study. The final sample consisted of 73 students with initial age between 3 and 9 years. Socioeconomic, anthropometric and school feeding practices were collected using questionnaires according to the school age. The nutritional status was determined by the collection of measures of weight and height, later these were used for expression z Weight / Age and Height / Age scores. SPSS was used for statistical analysis.
Results: The results showed that a significant percentage of schoolchildren remained overweight and obese from the Weight / Age index (21.8%) and at low weight risk by the Height / Age and Weight / Age (4.1% and 3%, 6%). These students presented a growth and weight gain within the norms of normality and the majority presented adequate weight for the age, nevertheless there was an expressive portion of schoolchildren who are underweight and overweight / obese.
Conclusions: The nutritional status of children is related to several factors that should be addressed through actions to develop food and nutrition surveillance and food and nutrition education with students to promote healthy eating habits.
Dietary habits, anthropometric and metabolic profile of adolescents born prematurely
Authors: Lopes Mírian Nara , Grassiolli Sabrina , Veríssimo Maria de Lá Ó Ramalho , Toso Beatriz Rosana Gonçalves de Oliveira , Favil Pamela Talita , Paula Ana Cláudia Ramos de , Viera Cláudia Silveira
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Prematurity may be related to the early onset of obesity and metabolic syndrome in adolescence. Breastfeeding and feeding are crucial factors in the genesis of cardio metabolic risk.
Objective: To analyze the relationship between the type of breastfeeding and eating habits with the blood pressure, lipid, glycemic and anthropometric profile of adolescents born prematurely.
Methods: Cross-sectional study with 50 adolescents born prematurely in western Paraná, Brazil, aged 10 to 19 years. Data on birth, breastfeeding and feeding were evaluated using the 24-hour Food Consumption Marker. Weight, height, abdominal circumference (AC), blood pressure (BP) were verified; concentrations of glucose, total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) were measured by capillary puncture. Data analysis using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance.
Results: Out of total, 78%   eat in front of screens and 52% do not take the main meals during the day. Regardless of the amount of meals a day, the lipid, glycemic and AC profiles did not show a statistically significant difference between the groups. There is a statistically significant association between BP and number of meals (p = 0.01), TC and breastfeeding (p = 0.03) and TG with consumption of sausages (p = 0.02) and products rich in carbohydrates (p = 0.01). Most of them (72%) consumed cow’s milk before completing one year and only 30% received exclusive breastfeeding until the age of six months. Related other values, 30% had high BP, 22% and 41% high TC and TG, respectively. Of the 30% overweight, 60% had high BP, 53% high TG, 33% high TC and 33% percentile AC ?90.
Conclusion: Breastfeeding did not influence the metabolic profile, but it was evidenced as risk factors for adolescents to develop future cardiovascular problems due to prematurity, inadequate eating habits, overweight, abdominal circumference, and alterations in both blood pressure and lipid profile.
Effects of an interdisciplinary intervention on insulin resistance indicators in overweight and obese adolescents
Authors: Tornquist Debora , Tornquist Luciana , Reuter Cézane Priscila , Horta Jorge André , Renner Jane Dagmar Pollo , Burgos Miria Suzana
Published: June 2020

Introduction: Overweight children and adolescents are more susceptible to metabolic disorders. However, changes in lifestyle can prevent or delay the appearance of risk factors, highlighting the importance of intervening early in this population.
Objective: To analyze the effects of a six months interdisciplinary intervention program on the indicators of insulin resistance and uric acid levels in overweight and obese students.
Methods: This is an interventional study in overweight adolescents, composed of a control group (n=19) and an intervention group (n=20). The group participated in a six-month program with nutritional, psychological and physical exercise intervention, three times a week. The values of waist circumference, glucose, insulin, uric acid assessment and HOMA-IR index, were evaluated before and after the program.
Results: After 6 months, the intervention group had a significant reduction in waist circumference (p=0.007), HOMA-IR index (p=0.048) and uric acid (p=0.036); the control group did not present differences in the pre and post evaluation.
Conclusion: The intervention program was effective in reducing waist circumference, HOMA-IR and uric acid levels in overweight adolescents.
Diversity-decomposition relationships in forests worldwide
Authors: Kou Liang , Jiang Lei , Hättenschwiler Stephan , Zhang Miaomiao , Niu Shuli , Fu Xiaoli , Dai Xiaoqin , Yan Han , Li Shenggong , Wang Huimin
Published: June 2020

Plant species diversity affects carbon and nutrient cycling during litter decomposition, yet the generality of the direction of this effect and its magnitude remains uncertain. With a meta-analysis including 65 field studies across the Earth’s major forest ecosystems, we show here that decomposition was faster when litter was composed of more than one species. These positive biodiversity effects were mostly driven by temperate forests but were more variable in other forests. Litter mixture effects emerged most strongly in early decomposition stages and were related to divergence in litter quality. Litter diversity also accelerated nitrogen, but not phosphorus release, potentially indicating a decoupling of nitrogen and phosphorus cycling and perhaps a shift in ecosystem nutrient limitation with changing biodiversity. Our findings demonstrate the importance of litter diversity effects for carbon and nutrient dynamics during decomposition, and show how these effects vary with litter traits, decomposer complexity and forest characteristics.
New Technology and Professional Work
Authors: Lester Stan
Published: June 2020

Until recently, the main effect of technology on professional or knowledge-based work has been to augment and expand it, partly as described in Autor, Levy and Murnane’s 2003 analysis.  There are now increasingly instances of knowledge-based work being automated and substituted, developments that are more familiar from factory and basic administrative settings.  Two widely-quoted studies, by Frey and Osborne (2013) and Susskind and Susskind (2015), point towards significant technology-driven job losses including in professional fields.  Subsequent analyses indicate that while some occupations will disappear or be deskilled, others will be created.  The argument made here is that the most significant effect will be occupational transformation, necessitating different types of skills in a net movement towards work that is more digitally-oriented but also complex, creative and value-based.  These changes have implications that are already beginning to affect the way that professions are organised and how practitioners are educated and trained.
Evaluation of Different Germplasms of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) for Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal
Authors: Das S. , Rahman F. H. , Mukherjee S. , Nag K.
Published: June 2020

A field experiment on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) was conducted to study and evaluate different germplasms for growth, yield and quality characters under New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal at Instructional Farm, Jaguli, Faculty of Horticulture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal during 2013-14 and 2014-15. The design adopted was Randomised Block Design (RBD) having three replications with seven germplasms namely Rajendra Sonia, Alleppy Supreme, Roma, Pratibha, Kedaram, Rashmi and Midnapur local as check. Among seven germplasms evaluated, the genotype Pratibha was found superior in terms of maximum plant height (100.93 cm), highest number of primary fingers (24.0), highest value for the trait weight of primary fingers (204.10 g) as well as secondary fingers (60.23 g), maximum yield/ plant (369.9 g) and maximum yield (25 ton/ha). Minimum plant height (82.60 cm) and lowest number of primary fingers (9.3) were recorded in case of Midnapur local. Maximum leaf length was recorded in Roma (52.29 cm). In respect of number of mother rhizome/plant, Rajendra Sonia recorded the highest quantity (1.98 nos.) whereas Kedaram recorded the lowest (1.42 nos.). Kedaram also produced minimum trait weight of secondary fingers (33.89 g). In qualitative character, the curcumin percentage was recorded highest with germplasm Alleppy Supreme (5.2%) followed by Rajendra Sonia (4.1%) and it was minimum in Kedaram (3.4%). The germplasms Pratibha and Alleppy supreme recorded with highest oleoresin (11.9%) and  essential oil (7.0%) content, respectively.
Clamping Down the Activities of SSCE Miracle Centres for Quality Secondary Education in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Faith Ogechukwu Okoye, , Ogochukwu Adaku Onwuzuruoha,
Published: June 2020

The study was a descriptive survey that investigated clamping down the activities of Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) miracle centres for quality secondary education in Anambra state, Nigeria. Two research questions and two hypotheses guided the study. The population of the study comprised 2,850 students from 18 public secondary schools in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, while 570 students representing 350 females and 220 males (20%) were drawn as the sample using simple random technique. The instrument for data collection was a 21 item questionnaire, validated by three experts, two from Educational Management and Policy department and one from Measurement and Evaluation Unit of Educational Foundations department, all in Faculty of Education Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Cronbach Alpha reliability test was used to determine the internal consistency of the instrument which yielded co-efficient value of 0.85. Data obtained were analyzed through mean and t-test statistic at 0.05 level of significance. The findings indicate that various types of SSCE miracle centres activities should be clamped down like shutting down of all miracle centres and enforcement of examination malpractice Act 33 of 1999 as sanction to defaulters. Gender and location do not differ significantly in SSCE miracle centre types of activities and methods of clamping down. Based on the findings, the study recommended inter alia that, miracle centres should be clamped down, and enforcement of Policy Act 33 of 1999 upheld to sanction defaulters.
Public Workers’ Perception towards Contributory Pension Scheme: Evidence from Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Unachukwu J. C. , Adesola A. Oladeji, , Grace O. Egunjobi,
Published: June 2020

This study examines the perception of public workers towards contributory pension scheme with specific reference to Lagos State, Nigeria. The descriptive research design was adopted, while the simple random sampling technique was employed to select 398 respondents as the sample size for the study. Data analysis was performed with the aid of mean and chi-square. The result reveals that perception of workers towards contributory pension scheme encourages workers to save towards future, is convenient for them in the event of changing jobs, their benefits at retirement will not be affected in the event their employer becomes insolvent, it empowers contributor to choose who administers his/her retirement benefits account and provides the opportunity of enjoying some modicum of pension on retirement. Furthermore, the result reveals that non-remittance of pension contribution into retirement saving account and non-compliance of the pension reform as amended by the government at all levels, are the major challenges facing the successful implementation of the scheme. The study concludes that the contributory pension scheme looks bleak for the sustainability in Nigeria. Therefore, government at all levels should do the needful to ensure the full implementation of the scheme.
Pedagogic Lapses in Problem-solving Model and the Professional Development of Secondary School Philosophy Teachers in Yaoundé VI Municipality
Authors: Eric Len Kibinkiri , Bati Faison Yaya
Published: June 2020

The professional development of teachers most especially Philosophy teachers has been a major concern of the Government of Cameroon. The ministry of secondary education has experimented several approaches and methods such as the New Pedagogic Approach and the Competence Based Approach. However, the Problem-Solving Model (PSM) could have an influence on the professional development of secondary school philosophy teachers. On this premise, this study sought to find out how the Problem-Solving Model influences the professional development of secondary school philosophy teachers in Yaounde VI Municipality. The investigation was anchored on authors like J. Dewey, E. Kant, C. S. Pierce and K. Nkrumah on their constructivist and pragmatic views. The qualitative approach with the aid of a semi-structured interview and semi- structured observation were employed. A total of ten teachers were selected to participate in this study using the non-probability sampling technique from two secondary schools; G.B.H.S. Etoug-Ebe and G.B.H.S. Mendong in the Yaounde VI municipality. Data was analyzed descriptively using tables, graphs and thematic content analysis. The results revealed that PSM influenced the professional development of secondary school philosophy teachers except for some few elements like stating the problem, contextualizing and rephrasing the problem, recalling the problem and contextualizing the solution that need to be relooked into because teacher practices do not conform to Dewey’s pragmatic model. The results of this study led to the proposed pragmatic triadic model to guide teacher practices.
Development of Land Management Technology for Continuous Jhum Cultivation in Hilly Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Zonayet Md. , Paul Alok Kumar
Published: June 2020

The experiments were conducted in three hill district of Bangladesh i.e. Bandarban, Khagrachari and Rangamati under the Agro Ecological Zone (AEZ) 29 (Northern and Eastern Hills Tract) during March 2018 to November 2019 to study the fertilizers packages, NPK briquette and residual effect of fertilizers for continuous jhum cultivation. In this experiments, jhum crops were used as the test crop. The experiment was designed on Randomized Completely Block Design. The treatments consider as normal fertilizers packages (N60P20K30 S12 kg/ha), NPK briquette (N50P20K30 S12 kg/ha) and residual effect of fertilizers instead of farmers practice. By different fertilizers packages the results showed that the highest yield of Jhum rice was 3.81 tha-1 at Khagrachari, Maize (0.436 tha-1) at Rangamati, Sweet gourd (1.679 tha-1) at Bandarban, Chili (0.348 tha-1) at Khagrachari, Sesame (0.361 tha-1) at Bandarban and Marpha (Cucumis sativus) (0.742 tha-1) at Bandarban over farmers’ practice. Instead of normal fertilizer application, fertilizer NPK briquette was used with the highest yield of rice was 4.18 t ha-1 at Khagrachari, Maize (0.674 tha-1) at Bandarban, Sweet gourd (1.06 tha-1) at Bandarban, Chili (0.514 tha-1) at Khagrachari, Sesame (0.753 tha-1) at Khagrachari and Marpha (0.316 tha-1) at Khagrachari. After cultivation of jhum crops another short duration leguminous crops could be cultivated without fertilizers management. The highest yield of cowpea (1.043 tha-1) was obtained at Bandarban site. Yard long bean and Bean yield was also obtained 1.02 and 1.5 tha-1 respectively.
Evaluation of Cherry Tomato Genotypes for Qualitative Traits under Open Field and Protected Condition
Authors: Chandni . , Singh Deepti , Akhtar Shirin , Mahesh Shiv Shankar
Published: June 2020

Vegetable, due to higher neutraceutical component, are termed as protective food against various major and minor diseases. Scientific agro-techniques under optimum growing condition like temperature, relative humidity and light intensity, positively influence the qualitative and quantitative attributes of most of the vegetable crops including cherry tomato. It is one of potential vegetable crop, which is extensively utilized for table purpose and for preparing recipies in five star restaurants. Cherry tomato fetches higher prices in market due to good taste and higher nutrients, thus making qualitative attributes as an important factor to give higher returns to the farmers. Thus, this experiment was conducted to estimate the qualitative attributes in eighteen genotypes of cherry tomato grown under both open field and polyhouse conditions. The result of the study revealed that under open field condition, BRCT-30 was the best genotype with maximum value for lycopene content (6.62 mg 100-1 g FW) and β-carotene (2.30 mg 100-1 g FW), second maximum value for total soluble solids (7.85°Brix), third maximum value for reducing sugar and fourth highest position for ascorbic acid content (43.65 mg/100 g FW). Under polyhouse condition, the best genotype for quality parameters was BRCT-36 with maximum total soluble solids (10.81°Brix), lycopene (7.48 mg 100-1 g FW) and β-carotene (2.49 mg 100-1g FW) along with average range of values for ascorbic acid (72.36 mg 100-1 g FW) and titrable acidity (0.55 mg 100-1 g FW).
Total and Available Micronutrient Status in Soils of Derived Savanna Ecology of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Oviasogie P. O. , Okoro D.
Published: June 2020

The potentially available and total micronutrient status in soils of derived savanna ecology of Oyo State, Nigeria were assessed and compared with standard critical values in soils. Soil samples were collected from a land measuring 285m2 on a line transect with the aid of a stainless soil auger. The sampling depths were 0 -15 cm, 15 – 30 cm, 30 – 45 cm and 45 – 60 cm respectively. The Physico-chemical properties and micronutrient content of the soil were determined using standard methods. The mobility factor of the micronutrients revealed the following trends Zn > Fe > Mn > Cu. In all, the concentration of Mn was relatively constant irrespective of the soil depth. This study revealed that the micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) were adequate and well supplied in the soils of the area, and therefore, deficiencies of the elements are quite unlikely. Generally, the soils contained Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu above the critical level for crop production. The application of organic matter would help to improve the overall fertility of the soil. Activities that hastens up mineralization of organic materials should be minimized in managing soil health for optimum nutrient availability. Soil testing is recommended before fertilizer use to prevent nutrient imbalance or toxicity.
Customized Fertilizers- All in One a Review
Authors: Choudhary S. K. , Kumar Rajesh , Kumar Arun , Ranjan Rakesh Deo
Published: June 2020

Blanket fertilizer recommendations for different crops have caused poor nutrient supply, low nutrient use efficiency and limited crop response. Customized fertilizers may help to sustain soil health by ensuring appropriate fertilization. Hence, specific customized fertilizers should be promoted to counteract the problem of expanding multi-nutrient deficiencies in soils. In India, among the nutrients, NPK remain the major ones for increased and sustained productivity. However, the development of high yielding systems will likely exacerbate the problem of secondary and micronutrient deficiencies, not only because larger amounts are removed, but also because the application of large amounts of N, P and K to achieve higher yield targets, as a result in the intensive systems there is every possibility to build up of negative balance and deficiency of secondary and micronutrients. To attain high future targets, customized fertilizers will play a very important role. The development of site and crop specific readymade customized fertilizers based on scientific principles may prove to be more effective to meet the plant requirement and enhance nutrient use efficiency. Such an approach is also likely to boost crop yields and arrest soil fertility decline in a long-run. Thus, this article discusses the manufacturing methodologies, eligibility criteria, success in Indian fertilizer industry, adoption of fertilizer recommendations and problems in marketing of customized fertilizer.
Processing and Microbial Profile of “Soudamouka” a Sun-dried Fish from Sudano-Sahelian Zone of Cameroon
Authors: Daoudou Bakari , Ronald Bayoï James , Roger Darman Djoulde , Toua Vroumsia , Farikou .
Published: June 2020

Fish is an extremely perishable food item and requires preservation for future use. Several methods including drying, are used round the world for preserving fish and to extend its shelf-life. The microbial quality of sun-dried fish locally called “soudamouka” was investigated. Commercially available “soudamouka” samples were collected from retailers within the Far North region of Cameroon. Three different retailers (S1, S2 and S3) were sampled, then, the collected samples were screened for their microbial load. The highest level of Escherichia coli (62.104 cfu.g-1) was recorded in S3 soudamouka sample while the lowest count (5.102 cfu.g-1) was obtained in S1 soudamouka. The fungal load varied from 0, 1.102 to 5.102 cfu.g-1 while the C. perfringens load for different samples were found to be S1 = 16.104 cfu.g-1, S2 = 20.104 cfu.g-1 and S3 = 55.10 4cfu.g-1. These high microbial loads and presence of pathogens could be attributed to the poor handling practices and storage temperature by retailers. Although, drying may reduce water activity and consequently microbial load, post processing contamination may occur during post handling and transportation of processed fish to the sale points.
Presentation of a Case Report and Literature Review on Granular Cell Tumour of the Breast
Authors: Vhriterhire Raymond Akpobome , Ngbea Joseph Aondowase , Gyenger David , Eke B. A.
Published: June 2020

A 21 years old woman presented with a breast swelling of 4 years duration and with an associated pain of a more recent onset. On clinical examination, the mass was found to be firm, mobile and without attachment to the skin or surrounding structures. An excisional biopsy was performed based on a provisional clinical diagnosis of fibroadenoma. However, histological evaluation showed the tumour to be a granular cell tumour. The clinical features of this rare tumour may mimic a variety of conditions and cause a diagnostic dilemma.