bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic effect of Lipophilic Antioxidants Extracted from Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) with Vitamin E on the Stability of Cotton Seed Oil during Frying of Plantain Chips
Authors: Tonfack Djikeng Fabrice , Ngangoum Serge Eric , Achidi Aduni Ufuan , Bidias à Koul Ophelie Leonce , Eyoum Alima Erika Audrey , Tiencheu Bernard
Published: March 2022

Aims: This study was conducted in order to evaluate the synergistic effect of the ethanolic extract and powder of cloves buds (Syzygium aromaticum) with vitamin E in delaying cotton seed oil oxidation during frying of plantain chips.

Study design:  Purchase of clove buds, cleaning, preparation of clove buds ethanolic extract and powder, supplementation of cotton seed oil enriched with vitamin E with the extract and powder at different concentrations and evaluation of oil stability during frying of plantain chips.

Place and Duration of Study: General  Science  Laboratory,  School  of  Agriculture  and  Natural Resources,  Catholic  University  Institute  of  Buea-Douala Campus,  Littoral   Region,  Cameroon,  from  January  to June 2019.

Methodology: In refined cotton seed oil (2.5 L) containing vitamin E as preservative was respectively added 0.30, 0.60, 1.00 and 1.30% of Syzygium aromaticum (SA) buds ethanolic extract and 0.5, 1, 1.50% of buds powder. After ensuring the good dispersion of the antioxidants added, oil samples were used for the deep-frying of plantain chips for 10 and 20 min respectively. Oil sample without clove served as control. The stability of the various oil samples was evaluated through the determination of peroxide, thiobarbituric acid, iodine and acid acid (% oleic) values.

Results: Results showed that the natural plant extract and powder increased the stability of the oil compared to the control. Oil samples supplemented with the extract at concentration 0.30 and 0.60% presented good stability compared to the control, while the same extract at higher concentrations (1.00 and 1.30%) tend to behave as prooxidant. Concerning the powder it exhibited better good preservative properties on the oil and at all levels.

Conclusion: Clove ethanolic extract at concentration < 0.60% and its powder at concentration 0.50-1.5% can be used to delay cotton seed oil alteration during frying of plantain chips.
Geophysical Evaluation of Central Nigeria Earth Tremor Activities using High Resolution Airborne Magnetic Data
Authors: David Oyibo , Aurelius Ojaina Omali , Umar Afegbua Kadiri , Kelvin Uche Iduma
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate the actual causes of earth tremors in Central Nigeria using geophysical technique. Since 1933 till date (over 88 years), small to moderate magnitude earthquakes have either been observed or instrumentally recorded in Nigeria. However, the specific causes of the intra plate earthquakes in Nigeria is still not well known. In this study therefore, a high-resolution aeromagnetic data analysis was performed to evaluate the various theories proposed as the causes of tremor activity in central Nigeria with a view to ascertaining the actual causes of earthquakes in the West African country that lies on a stable crust. The total magnetic intensity data acquired from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) in the Central Basement complex of Nigeria, was processed and filtered using the tilt derivative, lineament analysis, and advanced Analytic Signal- Hilbert Solution filter. To define the trends of both major and minor structure, a lineament plot was extracted and plotted. The analysis revealed a dominant NE-SW and NW-SE trending structure that is distributed throughout the study area. The regional North Atlantic Romanche fault system, which extends from the offshore (Niger Delta) into the continental crust, was mapped and is thought to extend from Gwagwalada in the study area's south, through Gwarinpa and Mpape, to Kwoi, and beyond Kafanchan.Findings from our study have indicated that, areas prone to Earth tremors are linked to the Romanche fault by numerous NE-SW and NW-SE faults that act as conduits for seismic energy that causes tremor. Using lineament density analysis, tremor active areas have been interpreted to be highly deformed; thus, seismic energy induced into the environment would result in tremors. This study demonstrates that the regional North Atlantic Romanche fault system is the primary source of seismic energy that causes the earth tremors in central Nigeria.
Cost and Returns of Milk Production from Dairy Animals in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Rao B. V. V. Satyanarayana , Anitha A. , Rao S. Jagadeeswara , Subrahmanyeswari B.
Published: March 2022

An investigation was conducted to study the cost of milk production in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. A total of 300 dairy farmers were selected from the Godavari delta, the upland and the agency areas of the district. The study revealed that the gross cost (Rs/-) of milk production per animal per day was higher in graded Murrah buffalo (167.17) followed by cross bred cow (140.61), local buffalo (96.22) and local cow (58.32). The cost of milk production per litre was higher in graded Murrah buffaloes (22.75) followed by local buffalo (22.82), local cow (18.89) and crossbred cow (14.02).  The gross income (Rs/-) per animal per day was higher in graded Murrah buffaloes (292.78) followed by crossbred (236.51), local buffalo (154.84) and local cow (71.45).  The net income (Rs/-) per animal per day was higher in graded Murrah buffaloes (125.61) followed by crossbred (95.90), local buffalo (58.62) and local cow (13.13). The average cost of milk production was Rs/- 23.03  and net income per litre was Rs/- 146.85 in graded Murrah buffaloes which was significantly (p ≤ .01) higher in the Godavari delta. The average cost of milk production was Rs/- 23.73 and net income per litre was Rs/- 71.77 in local buffalo which was significantly (p ≤ .01) higher in the upland area. The average cost of milk production and net income per litre in local cow was significantly (p ≤ .01) higher in the Godavari delta (20.14 and 15.46, respectively) than that in upland and agency areas.
Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Yield and Yield Contributing Characters of Mustard (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Selim Reza Md. , Babul Akter Md. , Moshiur Rahman Md. , Ibrahim Ali Md. , Bulbul Ahmed Md.
Published: March 2022

Bangladesh is a densely populated country where the oil crisis is one of the major issues. On the other hand, the balanced fertilizer used is lacking until now. The purpose of the study is to investigate the yield of Mustard (Brassica napus L.) Binasarisha-9 is influenced by the different applications of organic fertilizers. The experiment was conducted at Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), substation, Satkhira during the rabi season of 2020-2021 to observe the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the yield of mustard (Brassica napus L.) viz Binasarisha-9 and determine the best dose of combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers for optimum yield of mustard (Brassica napus L.) viz Binasarisha-9. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising five treatments (T1= Absolute control, T2=recommended dose chemical fertilizer (RDCF), T3=50% RDCF+ 5t/ha vermicompost, T4= 50% RDCF+ 5t/ha poultry manure, T5= 50% RDCF+ 5 ton/ha cow dung) with three replications were executed to conduct the study. Mustard (Brassica napus L.) was responded significantly to T3 treatment (50% RDCF+ 5t/ha vermicompost). The highest mustard yield was recorded (2.14 tons/ha) from T3 treatment whereas the lowest mustard (Brassica napus L.) yield (0.81 ton/ha) was obtained from T1= (absolute control) treatment. Balanced nutrient management application significantly increased mustard yield compared to the imbalanced treatment. Organic fertilizers (vermicompost, poultry manure, cow-dung) showed better nutrient uptake compared to chemical fertilizers. However, vermicompost tends to be the most suitable organic source for higher yield and thus is the proper substitute of the most commonly used nutrient sources for the production of mustard.
Influence of Seedling Age and Training on Yield Performance of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
Authors: Sumi Mst. Arjuara , Mostarin Tahmina , Khatun Khaleda , Samad Md. Abdus , Akter Sufia , Khanom Amina , Khan Md. Rafi , Touhidujjaman Md.
Published: March 2022

An experiment was conducted during the period of April to July 2019 at Horticulture farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh to evaluate the yield performance of cucumber influenced by seedling age and training. The experiment was laid out in the Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Treatment as three different age of seedling i.e. S1=15 days old seedling, S2=20 days old seedling, S3=25 days old seedling; and four levels of training i.e. T0=Control, T1=Removal of all branches up to 40 cm height, T2=Removal of all branches up to 80 cm height and T3=Removal of all branches up to 120 cm height which in combination made 12 treatment combination. ‘Baromashi’ (local variety) was used in this experiment. Different seedling age and levels of training showed significant variations on most of the parameters. In case of seedling age, the maximum average fruits per plant (17.18), individual fruit weight (174.33 gm) and fruit yield (41.63 ton/ha) was recorded from S3 treatment, whereas the lowest was recorded from S1 treatment. On the other hand, the maximum average fruits per plant (15.93), individual fruit weight (160.87 gm) and fruit yield (35.97 ton/ha) was recorded from T1 treatment, while the lowest was recorded from T0 (control) treatment. In case of combined effect S3T1 produced the maximum average fruits per plant (19.45), weight of individual fruit (177.91 gm) and the highest yield (47.73 t/ha) while the lowest were (10.47, 132.40gm and 19.16 ton/ha) recorded from S1T0treatment combination respectively. The highest net income (730827 tk/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.58) was noted from S3T1 treatment. It may therefore be concluded that the 25 days old seedling and removal of all branches up to 40 cm height showed more economical than rest of the combinations in cultivation of cucumber.
Half-Metric Spaces
Authors: Kodekalmath Veeresh
Published: March 2022

In this paper, I have introduced half-metric spaces on normed vector spaces over \(\mathbb{R}\) or \(\mathbb{C}\), which are similar to metric spaces by relaxing a few conditions of metric space.I have also introduced even half-metric spaces,established some properties and discussed completeness in the context of half-metric space and even half-metric space.
The Role of Diet in the Pathogenesis of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Agarwal Shashi K.
Published: March 2022

Erectile dysfunction (ED), characterized by a man’s constant or recurrent disability to obtain and/or maintain penile erection sufficient to achieve and complete satisfactory sexual intercourse, is a common ailment. Its incidence and prevalence increases with age. ED is caused by several factors -psychological factors, organic factors, and metabolic factors. ED may also be iatrogenic and related to some drugs, pelvic surgery, or radiotherapy. The main etiology is vascular in nature, with risk factors that are common to other cardiovascular diseases. Several drugs, mechanical and prosthetic devices, and surgical procedures are used to alleviate ED. Lifestyle modulation is increasingly being added as first-line treatments for ED. These include lack of physical activity and cigarette smoking. Obesity and an unhealthy quality of diet are also lifestyles that affect ED. This manuscript narratively reviews the impact of excessive caloric intake, various dietary ingredients, and special diets on ED.
Microbial Biomass and Enzymatic Activity of Major Cropping Systems in Soils of Inceptisols and Vertisols at Northern Telangana
Authors: Shalini V. , Chaithanya A. Krishna , Chandrashaker K. , Kumari C. H. Aruna
Published: March 2022

Under cropping systems, microbial biomass plays a major role in nutrient and energy flow of soil. Similarly, urease and dehydrogenase activities are essential for nitrogen cycle and determining biological index of soils, respectively. However, their information is minimal at major cropping systems of this region. Therefore, surface soil (00-15 cm) samples were collected after 8 years from rice-rice, rice-maize, cotton and turmeric-sesame cropping systems at soils of Inceptisols and Vertisols of Northern Telangana zone during kharif 2019. A five replicated soil samples were collected, assessed and statistically analyzed with factorial randomized block design. The results revealed that the forms of microbial biomass carbon (14%) and nitrogen (22%), urease (29%) and dehydrogenase (20%) activity were found to be higher in cropping systems under Vertisols compared to Inceptisols. Among the cropping systems, rice-rice showed significantly higher biological properties than others. The interactions are significant for urease activity. Urease and dehydrogenase activity is positively correlated with soil available nitrogen and organic carbon content of soils, respectively of cropping systems.
Phytochemical Screening and in vitro Antibacterial Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Phyllanthus muellerianus (Kuntze) Exell from Kasaï Oriental (DRC) on a Few Bacterial Strains
Authors: Musuasua M. M. , Kabena O. N. , Kalanda L. K. , Kangudia B. G. M. , Mutembue D. B , Masens D. M. Y. , Mpiana P. T.
Published: March 2022

Aims: To carry out a preliminary phytochemical study and to evaluate in vitro the antibacterial activities of aqueous extracts of different parts of P. muellerianus, a plant widely used traditionally in Kasai Oriental to treat various pathologies including several bacteriosis.

Study Design: Based on the results of an ethnobotanical survey in Kasaï Oriental, P. muellerianus was selected because of the diversity of recipes involving it, its frequency of citation, its level of preference as well as the diversity of diseases treated and the plebiscite of its effectiveness by traditional healers. To contribute to the enhancement of this plant traditionally used against various bacteriosis and to confirm its therapeutic power, the phytochemical screening of its different parts was carried out and the antibacterial potential of various aqueous extracts was evaluated in vitro.

Place and duration of Study: Analyzes were carried out from February to September 2017 at the Physico-chemical and microbiological analysis laboratories of the Congolese Office of Control of Mbujimayi as well as at the Biology and Chemistry laboratories of ISP Mbujimayi.

Methodology: Fourteen bioactive chemical groups were investigated in the leaves, stem barks and those of the roots of this plant according to standard methods of characterization based on precipitation, coloring and moss reactions. In vitro, the diameters of the zones of inhibition as well as the MIC and MBC of each of different aqueous extracts were determined against 20 bacterial strains of 13 species responsible for bacterial diseases in humans.

Results: The phytochemical screening revealed that all three parts of P. muellerianus contain abundant and diverse bioactive chemical groups. This species contains alkaloids, quinones, steroids, terpenes, saponins, tannins, and flavonoids. In vitro bacteria-aqueous extract interaction tests demonstrated that all three aqueous extracts have inhibitory activity on several of the 20 bacterial strains tested. According to MIC and MBC, inhibitory performance varies depending on the germs and extracts. The sensitivity of different bacterial strains to an extract is also variable; each extract having its spectrum of inhibitory actions.

Conclusion: The results confirm the therapeutic potential of P. muellerianus by the presence of several bioactive substances in all its parts and by the diversity of the inhibitory activity of different extracts on several of a few bacterial strains submitted to the tests.
Soil Carbon Dynamics, Sequestration and Productivity of Predominant Cropping Systems under Long Term (9 years) Inorganic and Organic Fertilization in Semi-Arid Deccan Plateau, India
Authors: Reddy G. Kiran , Sridevi S. , Goverdhan M. , Venkataramana M. , Kumari Ch Pragathi , Pasha Md Latheef , Kumar M. Santhosh , Vinay G.
Published: March 2022

Soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration in agricultural soils is one of major agricultural strategies to mitigate the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as it is a potential sink for atmosphere carbon. Cropping systems and management practices adopted will affect the SOC sequestration. Dynamics of SOC is very important for understanding the pathways of C stabilization into different SOC pools. An attempt was made to assess the importance of different cropping systems on C sequestration and its stabilization in a 9 year old experiment at PJTSAU, Hyderabad, India. In comparison to initial TOC, cropping system perennial super napier fodder showed greater C build up (46.5%) followed by maize intercropped with pigeonpea followed by sunhemp (23.1%). In fact, all the cropping systems there were net increases in TOC. There was only 6.86% of C applied through various sources was stabilized as SOC. A minimal input of 1.24 Mg C ha-1 yr-1 is needed to maintain SOC level. Cropping system perennial super napier fodder showed a higher carbon management index (145.9), sustainable yield index (64.1), BC ratio (16.99) and least amount is required to sequester the kg of carbon to soil (Rs. 59).
Effect of Date of Sowing and Nitrogen Levels on Spot Blotch Disease of Wheat Caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana
Authors: Tiwari Pankaj , Singh Ramesh , Shukla D. N. , Tiwari Rohit
Published: March 2022

In India, wheat is grown in the Rabi season mostly under irrigated condition. The main constraints responsible for less yield of wheat in comparison to other country seem to non-availability of seeds of improved high yielding varieties to farmers, poor fertility, unirrigated land and other inputs. Experimental findings clearly indicates that yield loss due to spot blotch varied between 7 to 30 per cent and loss in 1000-grain weight between 3 to 23 per cent, depending upon the levels of disease. Delayed sowing favored incidence of spot blotch irrespective of nitrogen level and more disease developed at higher nitrogen level in all the three date of sowing. Higher levels of nitrogen at all the three date of sowing increased yield and 1000-grain weight and with delay in sowing, yield and 1000-grain weight decreased significantly at all the three nitrogen level.
Genetic Variability Studies for Yield and Its Attributing Traits in Dark Brown Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Ranjithkumar Gangishetti , Bisen Rajani , Kumar Vinod
Published: March 2022

The present experiment was carried out during Kharif, 2019 at Jawaharlal Nehru krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. A total of 500 accessions were evaluated and observations were recorded on twelve traits viz., days to flower initiation, days to fifty percent flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, capsule length (cm), 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield per plant (g) and oil content (%).  REML analysis revealed significant differences among the 500 accessions for all the traits. It indicates an adequate amount of genetic variability present among the accessions for yield and yield attributing traits. Phenotypic coefficients variation values were higher than Genotypic coefficients variation values under the study. High heritability was recorded for all the traits under experiment. Genetic advance as percentage of mean recorded low for traits days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity. Medium for traits oil content (%), plant height, number of seeds per capsule, whereas traits capsule length, number of capsule per plant,  thousand seed weight, number of primary branches per plant, seed yield per plant, number of secondary branches per plant recorded in high magnitudes. This result indicates preponderance of additive gene effect, which will help to make selection in early segregating generation.
Cerebral Small Vessel Disease – A Longitudinal 10 Years Evidenced Study
Authors: Subramanian S. S.
Published: March 2022

A Cluster of geriatric health issues which can lead to many neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. All these carry along with it a potential decline in quality of life, health care expenses; a larger amount of disability. An early identification of risk factors, along with treatment using due medication coupled with non – pharmacological treatment using physiotherapy were analyzed with evidence in a Ten year follow up of a subject with cerebral small vessel disease. Outcome of the research can be beneficial for geriatric subjects and to further the continuation of the findings of the research.

Cerebral small vessel diseases, with risk arising from ageing, hypertension, and diabetes can better be medically diagnosed treated and duly followed up as it could lead to cognitive decline, dementia, falls physical dysfunctions resulting physical and psychological challenges lowering an elderly subjects quality of life. A holistic intervention, including regular physiotherapy can do a larger extent can minimize progression CSVD as well be beneficial by maximizing functional independence among the subjects.
A Survey on Factors Influencing COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Bamenda-Cameroon
Authors: Abongwa Lem Edith , Sumo Laurentine , Ngum Ntonifor Helen , Muhammed Njoya Ngoucheme , Synthia Njiwale Mungwi , Miriam Nakuh Nembo , Nayah Mughom Nora
Published: March 2022

Aims: Vaccine hesitancy has been a longstanding and complex public health attitude amongst the population. Despite the numerous benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy remains a major problem. While the importance of vaccine hesitancy is widely acknowledged, comparatively little is known about vaccine hesitancy in Bamenda. We, therefore, sought to examine individuals’ willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccines in-order to understand and address the community-specific concerns and misconceptions.

Study Methodology: This was a community-based cross-sectional study carried out in Bamenda-Cameroon from April to May 2021. Paper-based, pre-tested open-close questionnaires were administered to consented participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.

Results: A total of 2,531 participants of both sexes were included in the study with a mean age of 23.63±7.52 years. Vaccine hesitancy was 97.6% (2,161). The main reason for vaccine hesitancy was safety concerns 72.3% (1,786). Univariate analysis showed significant differences among the age groups, towns, marital status, monthly income, and religion. The multivariate model identified age group 20-29 years (OR 4.8, CI 1.82-12.53), Christians (OR 21.61, CI 4.92-94.94), Muslims (OR 8.67, CI 1.42-52.82), rural area (OR 2.9, CI 1.58-5.38), monthly income >100,000 FCFA (OR 0.28, CI 0.09-0.87) and those who attained primary education (OR 0.36, CI 0.14-0.92) as predictors of vaccine hesitancy (p<0.05). 

Conclusion: The major reasons for vaccine hesitancy were misinformation and lack of trust. Therefore a reduction in the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy rate mandates collaborative efforts of governments, health policymakers, and media sources to provide useful information that will address the people’s concerns and misconceptions.
Anticancer and Apoptotic Potentials of Gliricidia sepium Leaf Extract on Breast HCC1395, Prostate DU145 and Colorectal CT26 Cell Lines
Authors: Muhammed Abdurrasheed Ola , Nakalembe Immaculate , Olila Deogracious , Afodun Adam Moyosore , Mbugua Regina Wachuka
Published: March 2022

Background: Plants have become a household name in the quest for effective and safe cancer chemotherapy in the Pharmaceutical industry. We studied the Brine shrimps lethality, antiproliferative and apoptotic potentials of Gliricidia sepium leaf extract against some selected cancer cell lines.

Methodology: Plant leaves extraction was done with 70% ethanol and petroleum ether. Twenty four hours old shrimp’s larvae exposure to different concentrations (1 mg/ mL, 100 µg/ mL, 10 µg/ mL and 1 µg/ mL) of the extracts were used to evaluate the cytotoxicity in Brine shrimps lethality assay (BSLA). Three cancer cell lines: Breast (HCC1395); Prostate (DU145); Colorectal (CT26) and one normal cell line (Vero E6) were used for the in-vitro cytotoxicity testing using MTT assay. IC50, CC50 and Selectivity Index (SI) were determined respectively, using standard methods. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was carried out on HCC1395 and DU145 cell lines. Primers for the genes p53 and BAX were generated and amplified for apoptotic evaluation. The fold change relative to GADPH, the house­keeping gene, was calculated using double delta Ct analysis [2ˉΔΔCT].

Results: The results of BSLA showed that both extracts of G. sepium are strongly toxic (LC50 < 100 µg/ml). However, petroleum ether extract (PGS) exhibited the highest toxicity to the shrimps, with LC50 of 11.95 µg/ml. This is about 8 times more cytotoxic than cyclophosphamide (LC50 of 98.76 µg/ml). On cancer cells, PGS exhibited varying antiproliferative activities; it was high on prostate (IC50 = 12.76 µg/ml), antiproliferative (IC50 = 23.55 µg/ml) and moderately antiproliferative (IC50 = 77.58 µg/ml) on breast and colorectal cancer respectively. PGS CC50 value was greater than 100 µg/ml. Ethanol extract (EGS) showed very high toxicity to all the tested cancer cells (IC50 <20µg/ml) with low cytotoxicity (CC50 = 41.81 µg/ml) to the normal cells. It exhibited a significant difference and high selectivity index across all the cell lines used in this study.  EGS also upregulated both p53 and BAX biomarkers in the qRT-PCR apoptotic study.

Conclusion: The leaf extracts of G. sepium is a potential anticancer agent. The 70% ethanol extract selectively induced antiproliferative activities on cancer cells and upregulated apoptotic genes. The Petroleum ether extract also showed very low cytotoxicity to the normal cells. The plant should be considered a novel candidate for further studies.
Systemic Granulomatosis in the Context of Solid Tumors: A Study of 10 Cases
Authors: Fares M. , Benzakour M. , Al-Azhari A. , Echchilali K. , Moudatir M. , Elkabli H.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The association between solid cancers and sarcoidosis is well-known, however,we shouldn’t quickly link a granulomatous lesion to sarcoidosis in a patient suffering from a solid tumor, hence, a granuloma in the context of a solid cancer presents a diagnostic and a therapeutic challenge.

Methods: It’s a retrospective monocentric study of 10 cases, suffering from solid tumors, with granulomatous lesions. The type of cancer, the temporal relation between the granulomatous lesion and the cancer, the associated symptoms, the final diagnosis and the disease progression are reported. The patients were separated into three sub groups based on the time of appearance of the granulomatous lesions in relation to the solid tumor.

Results: Discovery of granulomatous lesions preceded the diagnosis of cancer in 1 case, discovered concomitantly with cancer in 5 cases and finally after the cancer in 4 cases. The main solid cancer in our study was breast invasive ductal carcinoma (40%), the other cancers were: squamous cell carcinoma of the breast, colorectal adenocarcinoma, ovarian epithelial cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, thyroid papillary carcinoma and uterine sarcoma.

Conclusion: A granuloma in the course of solid cancers maybe associated with multiple etiologies. Therefore, the clinician may face many difficulties, ranging from failing to diagnose a cancer to a wrong conclusion of treatment failure or a relapse. The biopsy is still the only guiding element.
Microwave Scanning Technology as a Non-destructive Testing Method for Detecting Black Heart in Potato
Authors: Nyitamen D. S. , Oladipupo S. O. , Ja’afaru S.
Published: March 2022

In recent decades, food scientists and engineers have attempted to develop an improve technologies that can detect the internal damages of agricultural produce under postharvest conditions using a various methods of destructive and non-destructive technologies. This study presents the technique of microwave scanning as a non-destructive technology for application in agriculture to detect black heart in potato tubers in a non-destructive way. A bi-static antenna configuration of microwave scanning setup operating at 2.45GHz was assembled, with a customized slotted rectangular microstrip antenna designed and simulated with CST, thereafter fabricate the antenna to be used as a microwave sensor in the setup, a miniVNA tiny double as a RF generator and S-parameter measurement was used to measured transmission coefficient  through samples of real potato, the analysis was based on the differences in the wave spectrum obtained between the good potato sample and the sample with black heart. The result obtained from the analysis of wave spectrum shows that there is a significant difference up to 5dB in the wave pattern of a good potato sample and the sample with internal damages. Accuracy up to 86% of true state of the tested sample was achieved using the technology. Hence, the method can be adequately used as a scientific way of grading and sorting a batch of potato non-destructively.
Nomophobic Prevalence and Social Intelligence of Higher Secondary Students during COVID-19
Authors: Elias Jijish , Mirunalini M. , Paul Issac
Published: March 2022

Aim: To identify the nomophobic prevalence and extent of social intelligence among adolescent students and identify the correlation between these variables.

Study Design: Descriptive survey method.

Place and Duration of Study: Various Higher Secondary schools in Kerala between June 2021 and December 2021.

Methodology: 1068 higher secondary students were drawn for the study and the social intelligence and nomophobic prevalence of those students were identified using two standardised tools. The data collected wereanalysed to identify the level of their social intelligence and nomophobic prevalence, The correlation between these two factors was also studied.

Results: The scores achieved by the sample were analysed appropriately and the quartile values on comparison show that the higher secondary students are having a moderate social intelligence and nomophobic prevalence. The correlation studies show that these factors are negatively correlated.

Conclusion: Higher secondary students show moderate nomophobic prevalence, It should not be allowed to become an addiction. The negative correlation implicates that nomophobic prevalence decreases the social intelligence of adolescents.
Seroprevalence of Rubella Virus among Pregnant Women in the Red Sea Region of Sudan
Authors: Abbas Anass M. , Shalabi Manar G. , Muzamil Magdi B. , Alkhanjaf Abdulrab Ahmed M. , Mohamed Hatem , Ejaz Hasan
Published: March 2022

Aims: We aimed to investigate the occurrence of the rubella virus among pregnant women, including those who had a history of abortions in the Red Sea region of Sudan.

Study design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Port Sudan referral tertiary hospital.

Methodology: Blood samples were collected at random from 100 participants who were pregnant or had a history of abortion and who were referred to the hospital. Side flow chromatography immunoassay was used for detection, and the Elisa technique was used for confirmation.

Results: From a total of 100 participants, rubella virus Immunoglobulin G (IgG) was detected in 20 (20%), and 80 were seronegative (80%). The seronegative Immunoglobulin M (IgM) was 0 (00.0%), with no participant had a recent infection. The prevalence of 11 rubella virus IgG was significantly high (P = .003) among the females who had abortions 61 (61%). However, no statistically significant relationship was found with the frequency of IgG of rubella virus and age, gestational age, level of education, or occupation.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the prevalence of rubella infections was higher among pregnant females and who had a history of abortions in the Red Sea region. The detection of human rubella virus IgG previous infection was higher than IgG recent infection.
Comparison of Visual Acuity and Surgically Induced Astigmatism after Phacoemulsification by Temporal Clear Corneal Incision & Superior Clear Corneal Incision
Authors: Bele Aakanksha , Tidake Pravin
Published: March 2022

Background- The primary goal of cataract extraction surgery is immediate visual recovery and the best uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) post operatively. Aim: To compare the surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after phacoemulsification surgery with superior clear corneal incision (SCCI) and temporal clear corneal incision (TCCI). Materials & method: 11 articles were reviewed on PubMed related to SIA & a review was made on the factors that are responsible to reduce the post-operative astigmatism. The outcome measures were SIA and UCVA at 2 and 6 weeks, post‐operatively. Results - In this study we expect to have better visual outcome and reduce incidence of SIA in TCCI than SCCI. Conclusion: TCCI appears to have better visual outcome and reduced incidence of SIA.
Analysis on the Import Quality of China's Agricultural Products
Authors: Yinguo Dong , Yihao Shen , Jiayu Chen
Published: March 2022

Since China’s accession to WTO, the agricultural imports have been growing considerably, but China has also met various concerns with the safety of imported agri-food. Therefore, enhancing the quality of imported agricultural products has become an imperative problem in China. Based on the HS6-digit data from 2002 to 2017, this paper uses the nested logit model to construct the comparable quality indicators of imported agricultural products. The paper found that the quality of imported agricultural products has been steadily improving. By 2017, the relative weighted quality of importing countries had mainly settled in the range of 0.6-0.9. It is worth noting that the quality of agricultural products from Brazil and America was greater than 0.9. In terms of product quality, vegetable products have the highest relative weighted quality, followed by live animals, animal products, prepared foodstuffs, beverage and other products.
archaeology of the streets of North Berwick and implications for the development of the burgh
Authors: Dingwall Kirsty , Franklin Julie
Published: March 2022

Replacement and upgrading of the mains water system in North Berwick provided an opportunity to identify and record deposits and structures across the core of the medieval burgh. The methods of trench excavation used meant that archaeological features were largely only seen in section, however, a large amount of information about the development of the burgh, and its layout, was collected despite this. Over much of the central core of the medieval burgh, layer upon layer of occupation deposits and more mixed material were interspersed with obvious inundations of wind-blown sand. The existence of a rough surface running east-west along much of the High Street could suggest that this is the more likely candidate for the earliest focus for the burgh, rather than the north/south running Quality Street further to the east. Road surfaces were also seen along East Road, running out of the town. The density of occupation deposits markedly lessened along Westgate, the continuation of the High Street, indicating the limits of the medieval core. A number of structures were also identified, including a wall at the east of the town that may represent the town wall, or at least define the limit of settlement to the east. The data collected from the watching brief will allow better assessments for future planning decisions, and also shows the importance of archaeological monitoring of this type of construction work.
Gazetteer of Arran pitchstone sources
Authors: Ballin Torben Bjarke , Faithfull John
Published: March 2022

The main element of the present paper is a gazetteer of exposed pitchstone sources across the Isle of Arran. In the paper's final chapter, the archaeological relevance of these outcrops is discussed. The gazetteer includes approximately 100 pitchstone sources, and the authors hope that it will become a useful tool to prehistorians working on and outwith Arran, thus adding to our understanding of how pitchstone was perceived, exchanged and used in northern Britain. In general terms, the gazetteer should provide a more rigorous basis for archaeological and geological assessment of pitchstone artefacts and sources.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Characterization of Petroleum
Authors: Rakhmatullin Ilfat Z. , Efimov Sergej V. , Klochkov Vladimir V. , Varfolomeev Mikhail A.
Published: March 2022

1
H and
13
C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is well‐known recognized technique for establishing structural formulas, spatial and electronic structure of organic compounds which can be either first synthesized or isolated from natural raw materials. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using NMR spectroscopy for studying various objects in petroleum chemistry. In the case of oil and petroleum products containing typically hundreds of compounds, mainly hydrocarbons, an important feature of NMR spectroscopy is a strict correlation of integral intensities of separate signal groups in certain chemical shifts ranges in
1
H and
13
C NMR spectra with the content of the corresponding molecular fragments. The modern NMR spectroscopy technique is based not only on increased sensitivity and resolution but also applies two‐dimensional methods, which provide additional information on the composition of the studied samples.
Solid‐Phase Extraction and Clean‐Up Procedures in Pharmaceutical Analysis
Authors: Campíns‐Falcó P. , Herráez‐Hernández R. , Molins‐Legua C. , Moliner‐Martínez Y. , Verdú‐Andrés J.
Published: March 2022

Solid‐phase extraction (SPE) using small cartridges filled with sorbents of a small particle size has rapidly established itself as an important sample clean‐up technique since the 1980s. It has prospered at the expense of traditional liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) which is considered labor‐intensive and frequently plagued by problems, such as emulsion formation and use of large volumes of hazardous solvents. A remarkable characteristic of SPE is its easy adaptation to on‐line mode by column switching techniques; switching can be affected manually or by automated controllers.

The same analyte/sorbent interactions that are exploited in liquid chromatography (LC) are of use in SPE, but particle sizes employed are generally greater. Chemically bonded silica (SI), usually with C
18
and C
8
organic groups, is by far the most commonly used material. Cross‐linked polystyrene and other polymeric resins and mixed‐mode SPE sorbents are also widely used. Recently, different sorbents have been introduced in order to improve the selectivity such as molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) and immunoaffinity sorbents or to improve the extraction capacity through the increment of the surface‐to‐volume ratio (i.e. hypercross‐linked resins). Advances in material science in general and in nanomaterials in particular mark a trend in this field. Also, ionic liquids (ILs), carbon‐based materials, sol‐gel‐based compounds, and metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), among others, are being introduced.

Current trends in SPE are aimed toward the development of miniaturized systems which facilitate its automation and increase its precision, throughput, and cost‐effectiveness. Its compatibility with the goals of sustainable chemistry is remarkable. Examples of such trends are the new formats of SPE such as solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) including in‐tube solid‐phase microextraction (IT‐SPME) and tip‐based microextraction, between other formats.

There are different approaches to automation for both off‐line and on‐line SPE, which involve different levels of apparatus cost. SPE is generally easier and cheaper than LLE for achieving this last goal. The precision obtained is similar for both techniques, while the recoveries obtained by SPE are generally better than those obtained by LLE.

Enrichment, derivatization, and fractionation can also be carried out by use of SPE sorbents as supports.
Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Borges Daniel L.G.
Published: March 2022

Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) enjoys excellent elemental selectivity and widespread usage with documented methodologies for a wide range of samples and matrices. Replacing the traditional flame atomizer with a graphite furnace (or ‘electrothermal atomizer (ETA)’) adds significantly to the flexibility of AAS and provides significantly lower detection limits. The basic principles of atomic absorption (AA) and the use of a graphite furnace as a means of generating the free atoms that are used in the spectrometric analysis are presented in this article. We must begin by understanding the basic chemical and physical transformations that occur from the moment a sample is placed on the graphite surface until the atomic vapors generated by heating of the graphite furnace diffuse from the tube and the absorption signal terminates. The path leading to the production of free gas‐phase atoms within the measurement volume within the graphite tube is a fascinating tale with many twists depending on sample and matrix. The chemical knowledge of various compounds has led to logical and innovative methodologies for particular analytes in specific matrices. All the efforts are in an attempt to permit interference‐free analyzes using simple aqueous standards in the preparation of calibration curves. Limits of detection in the parts per billion range (picogram, absolute), microsampling capabilities, and methods for solids and slurries analysis have made this a popular analytical technique for ultratrace metal analysis. Additional discussion on latest developments associated to electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS), such as the possibility to monitor diatomic molecules for the quantification of nonmetals and the significant contribution posed by the use of high‐resolution (HR) instruments is available.
Three‐dimensional printers applied for the production of beam blocks in total body irradiation treatment
Authors: Maerz Manuel , Treutwein Marius , Nabo Jan , Dobler Barbara
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Total body irradiation (TBI) in extended source surface distance (SSD) is a common treatment technique before hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The lungs are organs at risk, which often are treated with a lower dose than the whole body.

Methods

This can be achieved by the application of blocks. Three‐dimensional (3D) printers are a modern tool to be used in the production process of these blocks.

Results

We demonstrate the applicability of a specific printer and printing material, describe the process, and evaluate the accuracy of the product.

Conclusion

The blocks and apertures were found to be applicable in clinical routine.
Optimal Physicochemical Properties of Antibody–Nanoparticle Conjugates for Improved Tumor Targeting
Authors: Mittelheisser Vincent , Coliat Pierre , Moeglin Eric , Goepp Lilian , Goetz Jacky G. , Charbonnière Loic J. , Pivot Xavier , Detappe Alexandre
Published: March 2022

Tumor‐targeted antibody (mAb)/fragment‐conjugated nanoparticles (NPs) represent an innovative strategy for improving the local delivery of small molecules. However, the physicochemical properties of full mAb–NPs and fragment–NPs—that is, NP material, size, charge, as well as the targeting antibody moiety, and the linker conjugation strategies—remain to be optimized to achieve an efficient tumor targeting. A meta‐analysis of 161 peer‐reviewed studies is presented, which describes the use of tumor‐targeted mAb–NPs and fragment−NPs from 2009 to 2021. The use of these targeted NPs is confirmed to result in significantly greater tumor uptake of NPs than that of naked NPs (7.9 ± 1.9% ID g−1 versus 3.2 ± 0.6% ID g−1, respectively). The study further demonstrates that for lipidic NPs, fragment–NPs provide a significantly higher tumor uptake than full mAb–NPs. In parallel, for both polymeric and organic/inorganic NPs, full mAb–NPs yield a significant higher tumor uptake than fragment–NPs. In addition, for both lipidic and polymeric NPs, the tumor uptake is improved with the smallest sizes of the conjugates. Finally, the pharmacokinetics of the conjugates are demonstrated to be driven by the NPs and not by the antibody moieties, independently of using full mAb–NPs or fragment–NPs, confirming the importance of optimizing the NP design to improve the tumor uptake.
Semiconductor Contact‐Electrification‐Dominated Tribovoltaic Effect for Ultrahigh Power Generation
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Wang Zhaozheng , Chen Yunkang , Feng Yuan , Dong Sicheng , Zhou Han , Wang Zhong Lin , Zhang Chi
Published: March 2022

The semiconductor direct‐current triboelectric nanogenerator (SDC‐TENG) based on the tribovoltaic effect is promising for developing a new semiconductor energy technology with high power density. Here, the first SDC‐TENG built using gallium nitride (GaN) and bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) for ultrahigh‐power generation is reported. During the friction process, an additional interfacial electric field is formed by continuous contact electrification (CE), and abundant electron–hole pairs are excited and move directionally to form a junction current that is always internally from Bi2Te3 to GaN, regardless of the semiconductor type. The peak open‐circuit voltage can reach up to 40 V and the power density is 11.85 W m−2 (average value is 9.23 W m−2), which is approximately 200 times higher than that of previous centimeter‐level SDC‐TENGs. Moreover, compared to traditional polymer TENGs under the same conditions, the average power density is remarkably improved by over 40 times. This study provides the first evidence of CE on the tribovoltaic effect and sets the normalized power density record for TENGs, which demonstrates a great potential of the tribovoltaic effect for energy harvesting and sensing.
The Intrinsic Thermodynamic Difficulty and a Step‐Guided Mechanism for the Epitaxial Growth of Uniform Multilayer MoS2 with Controllable Thickness
Authors: Dong Ruikang , Gong Xiaoshu , Yang Jiafu , Sun Yueming , Ma Liang , Wang Jinlan
Published: March 2022

Multilayer MoS2 shows superior performance over the monolayer MoS2 for electronic devices while the growth of multilayer MoS2 with controllable and uniform thickness is still very challenging. It is revealed by calculations that monolayer MoS2 domains are thermodynamically much more favorable than multilayer ones on epitaxial substrates due to the competition between surface interactions and edge formation, leading accordingly to a layer‐by‐layer growth pattern and non‐continuously distributed multilayer domains with uncontrollable thickness uniformity. The thermodynamics model also suggests that multilayer MoS2 domains with aligned edges can significantly reduce their free energy and represent a local minimum with very prominent energy advantage on a potential energy surface. However, the nucleation probability of multilayer MoS2 domains with aligned edges is, if not impossible, extremely rare on flat substrates. Herein, a step‐guided mechanism for the growth of uniform multilayer MoS2 on an epitaxial substrate is theoretically proposed. The steps with proper height on sapphire surface are able to guide the simultaneous nucleation of multilayer MoS2 with aligned edges and uniform thickness, and promote the continuous growth of multilayer MoS2 films. The proposed mechanism can be reasonably extended to grow multilayer 2D materials with uniform thickness on epitaxial substrates.