bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gobernanza y ecología política en la gestión del regadío multifuncional. Aplicación al corredor agroecológico El Hondo-Los Carrizales (Alicante)
Authors: Ricart Casadevall Sandra , Rico Amorós Antonio Manuel
Published: February 2020

La gestión del regadío multifuncional se viene debatiendo en términos que incorporan tanto la preocupación por su impacto socioeconómico y ambiental, como discusiones acerca de los intereses público-privados que emanan de su promoción. Con ello, las cuestiones sobre quién forma parte de la toma de decisiones y en qué medida participa o ejerce cierto control o influencia sobre el conjunto de actores centran el debate sobre su legitimidad y gobernanza. El presente artículo profundiza en estos aspectos de la mano de un caso de estudio, el corredor agroecológico que conforma el Parque Natural El Hondo y el Parque Natural Agrario Los Carrizales (Elche, Alicante). En base a la realización de entrevistas semi-estructuradas y cuestionarios y con el fin de profundizar en su modelo de gestión y las relaciones de poder entre partes interesadas, este artículo analiza 1) las cuestiones que generan mayor preocupación y debate en el sistema agroecológico El Hondo-Los Carrizales y 2) el nivel de gobernanza en la toma de decisiones que emana de su gestión. Los resultados muestran un reconocimiento social escaso del carácter multifuncional de ambos parques, así como la necesidad de afianzar su gestión de forma integrada y adaptativa para con ello aumentar su resiliencia frente a los impactos del cambio climático y maximizar su potencial agronómico, ambos dos aspectos clave para la supervivencia del sistema El Hondo-Los Carrizales.
Ozone therapy in burns: our experience in Egypt [abstract]
Authors: El_Tobgy Khaled
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND: Burn injuries are one of the major health problems all over the world. The problem of infection in burn wounds is considered a major problem and the main cause of death in many burned patients. Ozone has been used with good results in the treatment of patients with diabetic foot, because of its germicidal properties and its influence on the processes of oxygen metabolism, and other effects.

PURPOSE: We report the effect of Ozone therapy on the healing process of recent burns in the Burn unit of the Alexandria Main University Hospital and Plastic Surgery Department Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University.
Patients and methods: A review of two RCTs of 140 patients with recent burns done to investigate the effects of topical application of ozonized water, ozone gas (Sauna or Bagging), and ozonized olive oil in the treatment of recent burns.

RESULTS: All patients manifested clinical improvement by Topical Ozone therapy. The healing time of the ozone treated wounds was significantly lower than that of the control wounds. The full-thickness infected necrotic wounds that were treated with ozone showed earlier clearance of necrotic tissue and infection than the control wounds and became ready for skin grafting in a significantly lower time than the control wounds. Histopathological studies revealed marked increase in the expression of the fibronectin and transforming growth factor-B after treatment in comparison to the control wounds.

CONCLUSION: Topical application of ozone causes a highly significant reduction in the healing time of the recent burn injuries.
Guidelines for a better management of all forms of topical ozonetherapy in diabetic foot ulcer [abstract]
Authors: Farina Michele Angelo , Cardoso Claudia , Dall’Aglio Roberto
Published: February 2020

Foot ulcers result in substantial morbidity, reduced quality of life, and increased mortality in patients with diabetes. The risk of these ulcers becoming chronically infected is well above 60%. About 50% of patients undergoing non-traumatic lower limb amputations have diabetes. These patients have a high mortality following amputation, ranging from 39% to 80% at 5 years. Some developments have been made towards the treatment of this complication with surgical intervention, topical antiseptics, and systemic antibiotic therapy; however, outcomes continue to remain poor and lead to limb amputation in 15% to 20% of patients within 5 years of the time of initial infection. As an additional alternative, topical ozone therapy could be done by following the main steps: hydrate and start the debridement of the lesion with ozonized water to enable the penetration of the ozone oxygen mixture. Afterwards, start the bagging with the gas mixture, beginning with high concentrations, more frequently in the initial phases, and reduce as the process proceeds. The water or oil prepared with ozone can be useful to control infection inside the wound and accelerate the metabolism in surrounding soft tissues. Therefore, facilitate healing. The patient can thus underwent conservative surgery for removing the necrotic area or osteomielitys. No side effects have been noticed during treatment. Neither allergies nor skin dermatitis were found and frequently the utilization of this therapy shortened the healing period.
Ozone injections therapies for temporo-mandibular joint disorders/disfunctions [abstract]
Authors: Harris Robert E
Published: February 2020

INTRODUCTION: Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/Dysfunctions (TMJD) were first described in ancient Egyptian literature. The condition has been reported in the medical/dental literature under a variety terms and syndromes. TMJD is the currently accepted term for a variety of conditions in the head, neck and temporomandibular joint areas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review and search of the literature produced the following results:
1. TMJ Infection 2,080,000 Google
2. TMJ Injections 32,900 Google
3. TM Joint 24,839 PubMed
4. TMJ Disorders 16,511 PubMed
5. TMJ Dysfunction 6,439 PubMed
The information obtained from these sources in conjunction with clinical training was the basis for the development of the currently described protocols.

RESULTS: The current treatment protocols for TM Joint injections utilize homeopathic solutions, B vitamins, procaine and gaseous ozone. These protocols have been used and modified since 2001. The results have demonstrated a significant reduction in the pain levels and improved function of the TM Joint.

CONCLUSIONS: Using gaseous ozone in therapeutic combinations of anesthetics, homeopathics and B vitamins have produced positive outcomes in the management of the majority of the very difficult to treat population of head, neck and TMJD patients
Results of the combined use of Ozone and PRP with a novel skin rejuvenation system called the OxyPin [abstract]
Authors: Holmes Julian
Published: February 2020

INTRODUCTION: Facial aesthetics enjoys a huge commercial market in every country around the world. To date, chemical peels, laser treatment, the dermal roller and so on have all had a part to play in skin renewal and the quest for a younger looking face and body. Both Ozone and PRP have a role to play in tissue rejuvenation and repair, and when used in conjunction with fillers, new exciting possibilities open to the clinician.

PURPOSE: Show the synergistic effects of PRP, ozone and a new skin treatment device called The OxyPin.

METHODS: Clients were asked to take part in either conventional needling or use of the new OxyPin device.

RESULT and DISCUSSION: The ease of use and low learning curve with this technology makes it accessible for a wide range of therapists in the beauty industry. The OxyPin device is easy to set up, use and clean. The combination of PRP and ozone therapy with the OxyPin, has resulted in outstanding results.
Pain reliefe in viral infections. What role does ozone play? [abstract]
Authors: Imperiale Carmela , Morselli Araimo Fabio Silvio Mario , Tordiglione Paolo
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE: This preliminary study aim to investigate the role of ozone in ameliorating quality of life in patient affected by herpes infections thus reducing post herpetic neuralgia.

BACKGROUND: Zoster-associated pain is experienced by approximately 90% of patients. Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common consequence of an HSV infection. It is a chronic neuropathic pain condition that persists 3 months or more following an outbreak of shingles. Current interventions for PHN, such as lidocaine patches, opioids, antidepressants, anti-epileptics, electric stimulating catheters, are palliative and often fail to treat the underlying disease. Because multiple contributing factors seem to determine the severity of PHN, the management of chronic pain requires an integrated approach.

MATERIAL and METHODS: twelve patients (8 men/ 4 women) suffering for a burning pain in correlation with herpetic infection were electively treated with a Systemic Ozone Therapy on a blood volume of 120 ml mixed with equal volume of ozone/oxygen mixture at 25 mcgr/mL twice a week, following once a week for 2nd and 3rd week. VAS and health questionnaire were measured.

RESULTS: the majority of patients showed a VAS reduction in burning pain between 6 (T1) and 12 hr (T2) . At 48 hr (T3) every patient showed an amelioration in quality of sleep. Results at 3 months were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS: clarifying the mechanism of action triggered by ozone in reducing pain during viral infection is under investigation. We hypothesize that the moderate oxidative stress induced by Ozone enhances the antioxidant elements giving a final protection of damaged cells, renewing of neural system.
Being easy to perform, giving an improvement of night rest with no side effect and well accepted by patients.
Ozone therapy for vial hepatitis. What can be expected? [abstract]
Authors: Konrad Heinz
Published: February 2020

Patients with acute viral hepatitis (type A, B, C) should receive high dosage OT at least twice weekly, expecting a fast decline of transaminases and bilirubins, as well as a fast clinical (subjective) recovery. On average, six sessions of OT will suffice. In the author’s experience, this program will avoid the possible chronification of the disease.
Patients with chronic viral hepatitis (type B, C) normally require longer treatment, with two OT sessions weekly, for at least six weeks, after which the laboratory work should be remade. A reduction of transaminases is expected to occur, signifying a reduction in the intensity of the ongoing inflammatory process. An OT “maintenance” program is then recommended for at least six months, testing the transaminases regularly. Viral load negativization may or may not occur, but should not be THE goal of this treatment. During the OT, the viral load may vary immensely, and we have no sure explanation for this as yet. The author considers the viral load not to be a reliable criterion for the evaluation of the efficacy of ozone therapy for chronic viral hepatitis.
For legal as well as medical reasons, the author recommends NOT to apply ozone therapy and Interferon / Ribavirin treatments at the same time.
The real efficacy and long term safety of the newer medicines for acute and chronic viral hepatitis seem very positive, but may / should still be observed / cleared.
Adaptive hypothesis of system ozone therapy or why the ozone shifts always physiological and biochemical parameters of the organism towards the standard level? [abstract]
Authors: Nazarov Eugene
Published: February 2020

INTRODUCTION: The ozone as pharmacological factor could be characterized as a substance with an extremely broad range of physiological activity and an extremely high efficacy.
Another distinctive feature is an invariable normalizing effect on physiological and biochemical parameters of organism (higher values are decreased, reduced values are increased); this feature is uncommon for pharmacotherapy.
Under the adaptive hypothesis the ozone is a signal factor which initiates the transition of the adaptive system to one of certain states; a considerable part of ozone system effects (immunotropic, vasodilator, anti-inflammatory and others) result from the change of hormonal status of organism.

MATERIAL and METHODS: For verification of this hypothesis we have evaluated the state of the organism adaptive system of 24 conditionally healthy volunteers at the age between 20 and 80 years.

RESULTS: On basis of received data a mathematical model has been developed. It was established that this model prognosticates satisfactorily the patient’s age under the data of leukoformula and / or psychosomatic testing. The soft O3 Navigator was used for state monitoring of patients suffering from deceases of various aetiology during of 85 courses of ozone therapy. All patients received a standard course of autohemotherapy major every two days. We have shown that the ozone therapy provokes a sharp and typical evolution of blood leukoformula.

CONCLUSION: On the basis of received data a new tactic of system ozone therapy is proposed.
Ozone Therapy in Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Biochemical, Neurophysiological and Clinical Aspects [abstract]
Authors: Rascaroli Marco , Borghi Barbara
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE: Idiopathic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy.
The aim of the paper was to design a prospective study to evaluate clinical and neurophysiological outcome following Ozone Therapy .
We also focusing the attention on the evidences concerning the role of Subsynovial Connective Tissue (SSCT )in the pathogenesis of CTS and the ozone pre-conditioning effects linked to pain pathways and to fibrosis induced by Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

MATERIALS and METHODS: Thirty-one patients, aged between 36 and 86 23 women and 8 men), were stratified clinically by Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (B.C.T.Q.) and Neurophysiologically by Padua’s Gravity Scale classifying patients into five Electro-myographic categories (Minimal, Slight, Moderate, Severe and Extreme) . The mean symptom duration was also recorded.
The patients included in the B.C.T.Q. underwent diagnostic neurophysiological tests, strictly standardized in stimulation parameters, electrodes distances and skin temperature, before and after treatment.
The Ozone Therapy was performed by injecting 4 ml of O3-O2 mixture at 10 mcrg/mL concentration under the transverse carpal ligament twice a week for eight sessions.

RESULTS: We compared the B.C.T.Q. scores and the neurophysiological parameters obtained before and after O2-O3 treatment: the improvement of symptoms was significantly greater than the improvement of motor and sensory nerve conduction.
The highest clinical improvement degree was found in patients classified in Slight and Moderate Groups.

DISCUSSION: Chemical mediators, neo-angiogenesis and Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury lead to oxidative stress and non-inflammatory fibrosis that play a central role at various stages in CTS pathogenesis that can be recognized by clinical and neuro-physiological tests.
Further studies have to be carried out to better understand these relationships and optimize timing of Ozone Therapy.
Effect of adding Ozone Sauna in Low Back Pain treatment [abstract]
Authors: Tanbouli Tarek , Al-Qanni Mazen
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of adding ozone sauna with local ozone (O3)
injection in low back treatment and comparing it to local O3 injection alone.

MATERIAL and METHODS: This study was conducted on 40 patients suffering from chronic low back pain ( < 6 month), (Age: 35-65 years.), (L1/L2 to L5/S1), and Pain Assessment depends on Pain Scale before treatment and after 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 sessions.

Patients are divided randomly into 2 groups; each is 20 patients
12 males and 8 females.
Group (A): received local O3 injection (7-12 mcg./ml.) for 12
sessions twice weekly.
Group (B): received local O3 injection as group (A) followed by
OZONE SAUNA for 12 sessions twice weekly.

RESULTS:
0 4 16 - - - - - - -
2 4 8 5 3 - - 8 = (40%) 3 = (15%) -
4 4 6 4 4 - - 8 = (40%) 4 = (20%) -
6 3 4 4 4 1 - 9 = (45%) 5 = (25%) 1 = (5%)
8 2 3 3 6 6 - 15 = (75%) 12 = (60%) 6 = (30%)
10 2 2 1 7 6 2 16 =(80%) 15 = (75%) 8 = (40%)
12 2 1 2 4 8 3 17 =(85%) 15 = (75%) 11 = (55%)
0
Pain Scale
(A)
Ozone therapy can be considered as an integrative therapy in oncology? [abstract]
Authors: Tordiglione Paolo , Araimo Fabio Silvio Mario , Imperiale Carmela , Zancla S.
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND: Our group in Policlinic Umberto I - University Hospital of Sapienza Rome - has decided to further investigate if Ozone therapy can be of support in oncology.
In literature it has been reported that ozone applications in oncology or in cancer cells is associated with: high efficiency in preventing chemotherapy complications (nausea, vomiting, opportunistic infections, asthenia) as well as confining or restricting the expansion of tumours.(1-5)

PURPOSE: The aim of our study in to evaluate and eventually confirm the validity of ozone treatments in order to consider such procedures as a possible and concrete support therapy for oncology patients undertaking chemotherapy. A statistical significance and clinical evaluation of our work would finally give a scientifically validation, still missing, to officially consider ozone therapy as one of the many possible integrative therapy in oncology.

DESIGN: It is a pilot study designed and approved by the Ethical Committee of the University of Rome, La Sapienza (March 2017) to evaluate quality of life and reduction of side effects of adjuvant chemotherapy in 20 breast cancer patients.

METHODS: The selected patients will be treated with systemic ozone treatment: Ozonated autohemotherapy will be performed according to the following method: 200 ml venous blood will be exposed an equal amount of O2 /O3 (200 ml) The ozone concentration will be gradually increased as follows: 20-30-40 mcrg/mL with a specific schedule until each patient will receive 15 applications overall. The sessions will be scheduled according to a specific timetable during the administration of adjuvant chemotherapy by means of Epirubicin and Cyclophsphamide (EC) every 3 weeks for 4 cycles followed by Paclitaxel for 12 consecutive weeks.

Ozone therapy will not be applied on days of chemotherapy in order to avoid interaction between chemotherapeutics and ozonides. Biochemical blood analysis and stress oxidative blood test will be used as parameters for activity of antioxidant defence system. Quality of life will be evaluated with Fact G Test.

It is the first study to have been evaluated and approved by an official university ethical committee and we will be glad to publish our result as soon as possible. On this behalf it would be great if any other centre could be interested in cooperating with us so to transform this pilot study into a multicentre study with larger numbers and therefore, with a greater impact on the international community.

Our aim is to give cancer patients a better life quality in general and especially help them overcome all the side effects during the chemotherapy. This could open a new scenario in the alternative complementary treatments in oncology.
Manifiestos para un arte comprometido en la época digital
Authors: Lázaro Francisco Javier , Henar Jacobo
Published: February 2020

La aparición de las prácticas artísticas asociadas a los medios tecnológicos digitales, y más aún a partir de la implantación de internet, en la última década del siglo pasado, ha motivado el surgimiento de una abundante serie de textos teóricos con la pretensión de definir dichas actuaciones y, a la vez, justificar su existencia. Textos que no hacen sino reactualizar la abundante literatura artística –los manifiestos– que se dio durante el primer tercio de siglo xx con las vanguardias históricas. Asimismo, algunos de los manifiestos más recientes reenfocan los conceptos ya esbozados en aquella época, en torno al papel y la misión del artista, su capacidad de influencia para el cambio (activismo), el público receptor y las propias manifestaciones (características de la obra de arte, más allá de las cuestiones formales, y su difusión en un sentido masivo), en un contexto mucho más complejo y rico, asociado con un cambio de paradigma sociocultural, como fue el surgimiento de la denominada sociedad de masas. Nuestro trabajo se ha centrado en la consideración de los aspectos más substanciales arriba citados, algunos de ellos coincidentes, de varios de los más significativos textos, partiendo de La conciencia de un hacker (1986), a cargo de Loyd Blakenship, y terminando con la Redefinición de las prácticas artísticas (2000-2001), por parte de la Société Anonyme.
Education Demand Versus Work-family Demand: Married Female Graduate Students in a Higher Education Institute in Sri Lanka
Authors: Kodagoda Thilakshi , Samangika Damithri
Published: February 2020

Changes in the global economy and cultural norms have given the opportunity for women to be employed and attain higher education. This study aims to explore the work-family-education balance of the married female graduate students. It examined how work-family-education affects the daily
lives of married female graduate students and posed the question whether they manage to balance those three spheres, if so what are the ways they have developed to manage the difficulties emerging from each sphere. The sample comprised of 15 participants who were pursuing graduate degrees
at a state university. The findings resulted from a qualitative research, using thematic analysis based on in-depth interviews indicated that the daily lives of the married female students are affected in several ways where they are placed in a shortage of time to meet with the demands in
work, family and education, and they sacrifice their personal satisfaction to meet with the demands of the multiple roles.
Previously undetected super-spreading of Mycobacterium tuberculosis revealed by deep sequencing
Authors: Lee Robyn S , Proulx Jean-François , McIntosh Fiona , Behr Marcel A , Hanage William P
Published: February 2020

Tuberculosis disproportionately affects the Canadian Inuit. To address this, it is imperative we understand transmission dynamics in this population. We investigate whether ‘deep’ sequencing can provide additional resolution compared to standard sequencing, using a well-characterized outbreak from the Arctic (2011–2012, 50 cases). Samples were sequenced to ~500–1000x and reads were aligned to a novel local reference genome generated with PacBio SMRT sequencing. Consensus and heterogeneous variants were identified and compared across genomes. In contrast with previous genomic analyses using ~50x depth, deep sequencing allowed us to identify a novel super-spreader who likely transmitted to up to 17 other cases during the outbreak (35% of the remaining cases that year). It is increasingly evident that within-host diversity should be incorporated into transmission analyses; deep sequencing may facilitate more accurate detection of super-spreaders and transmission clusters. This has implications not only for TB, but all genomic studies of transmission - regardless of pathogen.
Metabolism makes and mends the heart
Authors: Martik Megan L
Published: February 2020

Experiments in zebrafish have shed new light on the relationship between development and regeneration in the heart.
The Psychology of Open Access
Authors: Moksness Lars , Lieungh Erik
Published: February 2020

In this episode, we talk about the psychology of publishing Open Access. What are the main factors for not choosing OA-publications, and how could institutions and policymakers better understand the choice of the researcher.

Organizational psychologist and PhD candidate Lars Moksness at the Tromsø School of Business and Economics at UIT - The Arctic University of Norway, is today's guest. The host of this episode is Erik Lieungh.

This episode was first published 12 November 2018.
No Deal with Norway
Authors: Magnussen Mona , Lieungh Erik
Published: February 2020

Norway does not have a deal with the publisher Elsevier anymore and follows in Sweden and Germany's footsteps. But why didn't Norway renew their deal? And how will the Norwegian institutions and libraries cope with a future without the largest publisher of academic literature? Also, what does the newly signed deal with Wiley contain? Is that a "perfect" Open Access deal? The guest of this episode is Mona Magnussen, Head of the Collection Department at the University Library at UiT The Arctic University of Norway. The host of this episode is Erik Lieungh.

This episode was first published 15 March 2019.
Sweden made a new deal
Authors: Widmark Wilhelm , Lieungh Erik
Published: February 2020

Sweden has made a new deal with the publisher Elsevier. The previous agreement with Elsevier was terminated in 2018, as the Bibsam Consortium & Elsevier were unable to reach a solution that met both parties' requirements for prices and open access. In this episode, we talk to Wilhelm Widmark, Library Director at Stockholm University, who has also been a part of the negotiation team. He shares his thoughts on the new deal and how Sweden has experienced being without an agreement since 2018.

The host of this episode is Erik Lieungh.

This episode was first published 3 December 2019.
Open Access in Latin America
Authors: Becerril-García Arianna , Lieungh Erik
Published: February 2020

There are other ways of doing Open Access than the model in Europe and North-America. So what can we learn from colleagues in Latin America? Dr. Arianna Becerril-García is a professor at the Autonomous University of the state of Mexico, and the chair of AmeliCA and Executive Director and co-founder of Redalyc.org. She shares her opinion on the value of the scholarly-led, non-profit business model to achieve Open Access.

The host of this episode is Erik Lieungh.

This episode was first published 9 December 2019.
Identification and validation of key modules and hub genes associated with the pathological stage of oral squamous cell carcinoma by weighted gene co-expression network analysis
Authors: Hu Xuegang , Sun Guanwen , Shi Zhiqiang , Ni Hui , Jiang Shan
Published: February 2020

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a major lethal malignant cancer of the head and neck region, yet its molecular mechanisms of tumourigenesis are still unclear.

Patients and methods

We performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) on RNA-sequencing data with clinical information obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The relationship between co-expression modules and clinical traits was investigated by Pearson correlation analysis. Furthermore, the prognostic value and expression level of the hub genes of these modules were validated based on data from the TCGA database and other independent datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and the Human Protein Atlas database. The significant modules and hub genes were also assessed by functional analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA).

Results

We found that the turquoise module was strongly correlated with pathologic T stage and significantly enriched in critical functions and pathways related to tumourigenesis. PPP1R12B, CFD, CRYAB, FAM189A2 and ANGPTL1 were identified and statistically validated as hub genes in the turquoise module and were closely implicated in the prognosis of OSCC. GSEA indicated that five hub genes were significantly involved in many well-known cancer-related biological functions and signaling pathways.

Conclusion

In brief, we systematically discovered a co-expressed turquoise module and five hub genes associated with the pathologic T stage for the first time, which provided further insight that WGCNA may reveal the molecular regulatory mechanism involved in the carcinogenesis and progression of OSCC. In addition, the five hub genes may be considered candidate prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for the precise early diagnosis, clinical treatment and prognosis of OSCC in the future.
Climate Change and Migration: Adapting to Crisis
Authors: Singh Surendra , Singh Alka , B. Singh C.
Published: February 2020

The present study is attempted to identify the determinants of migration in India. The National Sample Survey data of 64th round (July 2007-June 2008) was used and decoded to elicit household-level information. A multi-criteria approach was adapted to the analysis of the data. The study’s findings revealed that about 70% of migrated people are illiterate, while 57% of migrated people were agricultural laborers. The multi-criteria analysis results for permanent migration revealed that farmers belong to the rural area, having a land size less than two hectares, belonging to the Hindu religion, are likely to migrate permanently. Also, illiteracy, marital status, low consumption expenditure in rural areas, rainfall, and minimum temperature motivate farmer’s decision to adopt migration as an ultimate coping strategy against climate change. As far as grass-root policy interventions are concern, it is suggested that in rural areas, where unemployment has the main driver for migration, a proactive social protection programme, i.e., MGNREGA can be part of a proactive approach to managing climate-induced migration. Climate change as a cause of migration is uncertain and contextual. This necessitates the inclusivity of local populations in decision-making wherein their perceptions and responses are democratically represented and not merely channeled into participatory processes.
Genetic Variability in Seed Traits Considering Some Genotypes of Wheat
Authors: Mandal Sudip , Biswas Utpal , Chakraborti Prabir
Published: February 2020

To evaluate the superior genotype (s) with the authenticate selection procedure, twenty (20) various wheat genotypes were undertaken utilizing their qualitative seed attributes like morphology and biochemical action through studies on genetic variability. The statistical design CRD was followed to analyse those seed traits on collected seed from the farms. Considering the seed morphology, V14 (HD3218) genotype showed prominence effect though an inconsistent leaning was observed for biochemical activities considering diverse genotypes in addition to wide range of variable expression for all characters among genotypes. Coefficient of variation provided a relative measure on variance among different traits. GCV and PCV were found highest in thousand seed weight followed by seed volume, length-breadth ratio, seed breadth etc. In biochemical parameters, the GCV and PCV specified its maximum difference for certain characters like soluble protein, peroxidase etc. but the values were very near in other cases representing high heritability. Heritability played a vital role in deciding the aptness and approach for selection of the character. Water absorption potential at initiation and after 24 hours, thousand (1000) seed weight, seed volume, peroxidase activity of fresh seed had high heritability (broad sense) coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean specified the multitude of additive gene action. These characters could be upgraded through selection procedure and these were most significant characteristic of seed. Hence, the assortment built on these traits would be very active for wheat genotype grown under West Bengal condition.
Isolation and Characterization of an Amide, (2S)2-Hydroxy-N-((3R,4R)-1,3,4-Trihydroxytridecan-2-YL)Undecamide, from the Root Bark of Ficus exasperata (Vahl)
Authors: E. Famobuwa O. , A. Adekunbi E. , O. Oloyede H. , Oyebade A.
Published: February 2020

Silica gel (70-230 mesh ASTM) was packed into a column (45 cm × 3 cm) using the dry method. About 7 g of extract was mixed with 30 g of silica gel and allowed to dry. It was then loaded onto the column and successively eluted initially with pet ether 100%, followed by 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% chloroform in pet-ether; followed by 100% chloroform; 20%, 50% ethyl acetate in chloroform; followed by 100% ethyl acetate and then 20% and 50% methanol in ethyl acetate. 25 fractions were collected in 50 ml aliquots and bulked together according to their TLC profiles and Rf.                                                                                                               The bulked fraction was further column chromatographed over silica gel (70-230 mesh) using a pipette and isocratically eluting with pet-ether: chloroform: methanol 67:25:8. 30 fractions of 2 ml each were collected. Compound C-3 (200 mg) was obtained from the fractions 1-15 as an off-white amorphous powder. The combination of IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, gCOSY, HMBC, HSQC and Mass spectral data on this off-white powder has led to an unambiguous assignment and the compound, an amide, isolated from the bioactive fraction of F. exasperata has the chemical name (2S)2-hydroxy-N-((3R,4R)-1,3,4-trihydroxytridecan-2-yl)undecamide. The acclaimed medicinal uses of this plant such as antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-microbial and anti-oxidant, among others made it attractive to the authors.
Improving Diagnostic Approaches to Predicting Stroke Complications
Authors: M. Toshkenov E. , Rakhimboeva G. S. , Abdukodirov U. T.
Published: February 2020

Introduction: This article provides a brief description of the possibility of using reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome as a possible predictor of stroke development. As you know, the main subtypes of ischemic stroke are: atherothrombotic. Cardiogenic embolic, lacunar, hemodynamic, hemorheological. To date, the pathophysiological mechanisms of the development of stroke have not been fully studied, so the search for new diagnostic criteria that expand the clinical diagnosis of acute circulatory disorders remains an urgent issue in clinical neurology.

 Materials and Methods: 36 patients aged 30 to 77 years (mean age 53.5 ± 11.4 years) were examined at the Department of Neurology of the ASMI. The diagnosis was made based on anamnestic information, the results of the clinical and neurological examination and MRI data in the T-1, T-2, T2-FLAIR, MPA modes.

Results: According to the results of the study, a mild stroke (NIHSS less than 7 points, Bartel index more than 75 points, mRS less than 2 points) was observed in 36% of subjects, moderate severity (NIHSS 7-14 points, Bartel index 70-60 points, mRS 2-3 points) in 52% of patients with severe severity (NIHSS more than 14 points, Barthel index less than 50 points, mRS - 4 points) in 12% of patients. In neurological status, in all patients, motor (contralateral hemiparesis or monoparesis and sensory disturbances in combination with impaired innervation of the facial and sublingual nerve were determined to vary degrees. Speech disorders in the form of aphasia and dysarthria, slightly expressed disorders of gnosis and praxis were also detected.

Conclusion: The most significant factors affecting the course and outcome of the disease in patients with stroke can be considered the presence of cerebral angiospasm.
Thermoresponsive Inverted Colloidal Crystal Hydrogel Scaffolds for Lymphoid Tissue Engineering
Authors: Kwak Jun‐Goo , Lee Jungwoo
Published: February 2020

Inverted colloidal crystal (ICC) hydrogel scaffolds represent unique opportunities in modeling lymphoid tissues and expanding hematopoietic‐lymphoid cells. Fully interconnected spherical pore arrays direct the formation of stromal networks and facilitate interactions between stroma and hematopoietic‐lymphoid cells. However, due to the intricate architecture of these materials, release of expanded cells is restricted and requires mechanical disruption or chemical dissolution of the hydrogel scaffold. One potent biomaterials strategy to release pore‐entrapped hematopoietic‐lymphoid cells without breaking the scaffolds apart is to transiently increase the dimensions of these materials using stimuli‐responsive polymers. Having this mindset, thermoresponsive ICC scaffolds that undergo rapid (<1 min) and substantial (>300%) diameter change over a physiological temperature range (4–37 °C) by using poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) with nanogel crosslinkers is developed. For a proof‐of‐concept study, the stromal niche by creating osteospheroids, aggregates of osteoblasts, and bone chips is first replicated, and subsequently Nalm‐6 model hematopoietic‐lymphoid cells are introduced. A sixfold increase in cell count is harvested when ICC hydrogel scaffolds are expanded without termination of the established 3D stromal cell culture. It is envisioned that thermoresponsive ICC hydrogel scaffolds will enable for scalable and sustainable ex vivo expansion of hematopoietic‐lymphoid cells.
A Graphene‐Based Flexible Device as a Specific Far‐Infrared Emitter for Noninvasive Tumor Therapy
Authors: Yu Tingting , Hu Yimin , Feng Guanping , Hu Ke
Published: February 2020

Noninvasive treatments are emerging as a promising strategy not only due to their non‐invasive nature, but also due to their additive effects to traditional radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Herein, specific far‐infrared rays generated from single‐layer, graphene‐based devices are applied to tumors as a novel noninvasive therapeutic strategy. In MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cell xenograft and metastasis models, irradiation generated from this flexible device reduces the rate of tumor growth and the number of metastatic nodules per lung by 42% and 55%, respectively. This result might be induced by the similarity between the emission spectra of the device and the absorption spectra of the living tissue. With its high energy conversion and safety, the graphene‐based device can serve as an adjuvant therapeutic instrument for combined tumor treatment.
Oxygen‐Deficient Blue TiO2 for Ultrastable and Fast Lithium Storage
Authors: Hao Zhongkai , Chen Qi , Dai Wenrui , Ren Yinjuan , Zhou Yin , Yang Jinlin , Xie Sijie , Shen Yanbin , Wu Jihong , Chen Wei , Xu Guo Qin
Published: February 2020

Developing a titanium dioxide (TiO2)‐based anode with superior high‐rate capability and long‐term cycling stability is important for efficient energy storage. Herein, a simple one‐step approach for fabricating blue TiO2 nanoparticles with oxygen vacancies is reported. Oxygen vacancies can enlarge lattice spaces, lower charge transfer resistance, and provide more active sites in TiO2 lattices. As a result, this blue TiO2 electrode exhibits a highly reversible capacity of 50 mAh g−1 at 100 C (16 800 mA g−1) even after 10 000 cycles, which is attributable to the combination of surface capacitive process and remarkable diffusion‐controlled insertion revealed by the kinetic analysis. The strategy of employing oxygen‐deficient nanoparticles may be extended to the design of other robust semiconductor materials as electrodes for energy storage.
Dynamics of corn dry matter content and grain quality after physiological maturity
Authors: Parvej Md Rasel , Hurburgh Charles R. , Hanna H. Mark , Licht Mark A.
Published: February 2020

Delayed corn (Zea mays L.) harvest after physiological maturity (PM) is a universal practice in the U.S. Corn Belt to reduce grain drying cost. However, corn yield is speculated to be lost due to kernel dry matter loss from seed respiration. We evaluated the impact of in‐field dry down on corn dry matter content and grain quality after PM at two locations in Iowa during 2016 and 2017. Each site‐year consisted of two planting dates and three hybrids where ears were collected six to eight times from PM to harvest. Regardless of site‐year and hybrid, grain moisture decreased and test weight increased linearly with harvest dates and plateaued, on average, at 118 g kg–1 moisture and 752 kg m–3 test weight. Test weight was strongly associated with grain moisture. The standard test weight of 722 kg m–3 coincided with calendar dates around the first to second week of October. Kernel weight was unchanged and ear loss from lodging was minimal across harvest dates but differed among hybrids for each harvest date. These differences were not influenced by hybrid relative maturity (RM). Grain protein, oil, and starch concentrations were almost unchanged between PM and harvest though they were affected by the main and/or interaction effects between harvest dates and hybrids for most site‐years. Results suggest that corn can be harvested at any time after PM without any dry matter and quality penalties and harvest should be done based on grain moisture and standard test weight to minimize in‐field grain loss.
Quality‐of‐life and olfaction changes observed with short‐term medical management of chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Thomas Andrew J. , Mace Jess C. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Alt Jeremiah A. , Mattos Jose L. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Soler Zachary M. , Smith Timothy L.
Published: February 2020

Background

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) commonly experience both reduced quality of life (QOL) and olfactory dysfunction (OD). Literature on the impacts of appropriate medical therapy (AMT) for CRS on QOL and OD is limited, and the focused design of these studies may limit their applicability to usual clinical practice.

Methods

Adults with symptomatic CRS were prospectively enrolled (November 2016 to October 2018) into an observational, multi‐institutional study. Individualized AMT was initiated using standard practice according to evidence‐based guidelines. Endoscopy examination (Lund‐Kennedy), olfactory function (Sniffin’ Sticks) testing, and QOL survey responses (22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test [SNOT‐22], Questionnaire of Olfactory Disorders―Negative Statements [QOD‐NS]) were obtained at enrollment and follow‐up.

Results

Baseline measures demonstrated heterogeneity of QOL and OD. After an average of 7.8 weeks, within‐subject median SNOT‐22 total improved by 39.5% (n = 39, p < 0.001) relative to baseline, including 50% (p = 0.014) improvement for item #21, “Sense of smell/taste.” QOD‐NS improvement was also statistically significant (p = 0.044). Sniffin’ Sticks score relative improvement of 10.9% (n = 33, p = 0.109) was not statistically significant and lacked correlation with SNOT‐22 total scores (R = −0.247, p = 0.165) or QOD‐NS total scores (R = −0.016, p = 0.930), but correlated moderately with endoscopy score (R = −0.436, p = 0.018).

Conclusions

Participants with varied impacts of CRS, treated with individualized short‐term AMT, demonstrated significant improvements in CRS‐ and olfactory‐specific QOL measures, without corresponding improvement in clinically measured olfactory function. Olfactory function changes moderately correlated with endoscopy score changes, but lacked an association with QOL measurements.
Element‐Element‐Bindungsbildung durch Oxidation und Reduktion
Authors: Piesch Martin , Graßl Christian , Scheer Manfred
Published: February 2020

Die Redoxchemie von [(Cp′′′Co)2(μ,η2:η2‐E2)2] (E=P (1), As (2); Cp′′′=1,2,4‐Tritertbutyl‐cyclopentadienyl) wurde untersucht. Beide Verbindungen können jeweils zweimal oxidiert bzw. reduziert werden. Auf diese Weise wurden die monokationischen Verbindungen [(Cp′′′Co)2(μ,η4:η4‐E4)][X] (E=P, X=BF4 (3 a), [FAl] (3 b), E=As, X=BF4 (4 a), [FAl] (4 b)), die dikationischen Verbindungen [(Cp′′′Co)2(μ,η4:η4‐E4)][TEF]2 (E=P (5), As (6)) und die monoanionischen Verbindungen [K(18‐c‐6)(dme)2][(Cp′′′Co)2(μ,η4:η4‐E4)] (E=P (7), As (8)) isoliert. Eine weitere Reduktion von 7 führt zum dianionischen Komplex [K(18‐c‐6)(dme)2][K(18‐c‐6)][(Cp′′′Co)2(μ,η3:η3‐P4)] (9), in dem sich der cyclo‐P4‐Ligand zu einem ketten‐artigen P4‐Liganden umlagert. Die weitere Reduktion von 8 lässt sich mittels eines Kaliumüberschusses unter Bildung von [K(dme)4][(Cp′′′Co)2(μ,η3:η3‐As3)] (10) und der Eliminierung einer As1‐Einheit erreichen. 10 stellt das erste Beispiel eines in einem Tripeldecker‐Komplex enthaltenen allylischen As3‐Liganden dar.
Polymer nanocomposites containing β‐Bi2O3 and silica nanoparticles: Thermal stability, surface topography and X‐ray attenuation properties
Authors: Jayakumar Sangeetha , Saravanan Thangavelu , Philip John
Published: February 2020

Silicone polymer‐based nanocomposites containing β‐Bi2O3 nanoparticles with varying concentrations of silica nanoparticles are successfully prepared and characterized for thermal stability, surface topography, and X‐ray attenuation property. Of all the samples studied here, silicone polymer of higher density (S1) containing β‐Bi2O3 (50 wt%) and silica (0.025 wt%) nanoparticles is found to be thermally stable upto 424 and 375°C in argon and oxygen atmosphere, respectively. The atomic force microscopy image of top and cleaved surface of this nanocomposite exhibits an average roughness of 12 and 506 nm, respectively. It also exhibits the highest X‐ray attenuation property, among the samples analyzed here, against X‐rays of energies in the range of 30–66 keV. Therefore, S1 silicone polymer containing β‐Bi2O3 and silica (0.025 wt%) nanoparticles is a potential material for the development of lead‐free and X‐ray opaque aprons, gloves, thyroid collar, gonad shield, and so on.
Photocurable bulk epoxy resins based on resorcinol derivative through cationic polymerization
Authors: Nguyen Quoc‐Bao , Nguyen Nhu‐Hai , Rios de Anda Agustín , Nguyen Vu‐Hieu , Versace Davy‐Louis , Langlois Valérie , Naili Salah , Renard Estelle
Published: February 2020

Bio‐sourced epoxy resins from resorcinol diglycidyl ether (RDGE) have been obtained by using cationic photopolymerization under UV‐light exposure. The photoinduced bulk resin samples were characterized by three‐point bending tests, dynamic mechanical analysis, as well as differential scanning calorimetry analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The influence of processing parameters, that is, reactant contents, UV irradiation time, and postcuring conditions on the thermomechanical behavior has been pointed out. For instance, the flexural modulus of the most performing materials reaches 4.1 GPa with the flexural strength and the glass‐transition temperature of around 105 MPa and 99°C, respectively. Interestingly, our optimized protocol has led to the synthesis of new bio‐based materials with more valuable thermal and mechanical properties than those of thermocured materials obtained from petroleum‐based commercial epoxy resins. Focus has been given on processing parameters to optimize the final properties of the material and to open an interesting alternative for sustainable building materials.
Aberrant Salience? Brain Hyperactivation in Response to Pain Onset and Offset in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Hubbard Catherine S. , Lazaridou Asimina , Cahalan Christine M. , Kim Jieun , Edwards Robert R. , Napadow Vitaly , Loggia Marco L.
Published: February 2020

Objective

While much brain research on fibromyalgia (FM) focuses on the study of hyperresponsiveness to painful stimuli, some studies suggest that the increased pain‐related brain activity often reported in FM studies may be partially explained by stronger responses to salient aspects of the stimulation rather than, or in addition to, the stimulation's painfulness. Therefore, this study was undertaken to test our hypothesis that FM patients would demonstrate elevated brain responses to both pain onset and offset—2 salient sensory events of opposing valences.

Methods

Thirty‐eight FM patients (mean ± SD age 46.1 ± 13.4 years; 33 women) and 15 healthy controls (mean ± SD age 45.5 ± 12.4; 10 women) received a moderately painful pressure stimulus to the leg during blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging. Stimulus onset and offset transients were analyzed using a general linear model as stick functions.

Results

During pain onset, higher BOLD signal response was observed in FM patients compared to healthy controls in dorsolateral and ventrolateral prefrontal cortices (DLPFC and VLPFC, respectively), orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), frontal pole, and precentral gyrus (PrCG). During pain offset, higher and more widespread BOLD signal response was demonstrated in FM patients compared to controls in frontal regions significantly hyperactivated in response to onset. In FM patients, some of these responses were positively correlated with pain unpleasantness ratings (VLPFC, onset; r = 0.35, P = 0.03), pain catastrophizing scores (DLPFC, offset; r = 0.33, P = 0.04), or negatively correlated with stimulus intensity (OFC, offset; r = −0.35, P = 0.03) (PrCG, offset; r = −0.39, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the increased sensitivity exhibited by FM patients in response to the onset and offset of painful stimuli may reflect a more generalized hypersensitivity to salient sensory events, and that brain hyperactivation may be a mechanism potentially involved in the generalized hypervigilance to salient stimuli in FM.