bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pesticide Consumption Trends in India
Authors: Mounika R. , Saravanakumar V. , Karunakaran K. R. , Suganthi A.
Published: July 2022

Aims: The main aim of this study is to examine the growth rate of consumption of pesticides in India and Tamil Nadu.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out using the time series data on pesticide consumption collected from secondary sources from 1990 to 2020 for India and for Tamil Nadu, the data were collected from 2011 to 2021.

Methodology: The compound annual growth rate is used to calculate the growth rate of consumption of pesticides. The data is segmented for every 10 years and decadal growth rate was also examined.

Results: The overall compound annual growth rate of pesticide consumption is negative(-0.44 per cent) and the decadal average was found to be -5.27%, -0.73% and 1.81% for the decades 1990-2000, 2001-2010 and 2011-2020 respectively for India. The growth rate for different types of pesticides was found to be declining (-2.26 per cent) for insecticides, however it is increasing for fungicides (2.65 per cent) and herbicides (0.99 per cent). CAGR indicates that there is no change in growth of pesticide consumption in Tamil Nadu.

Conclusion: The trend in the pesticide use has been decreasing over the period and it shows that the total quantity of pesticides used in the country has been continuously decreasing which is a healthy sign for the environment. It may due to increase in the area of organic farming, practices like IPM  and increase in the use of biopesticides.
Carbon Footprints and Conventional Rice Cultivation; A Case Study in Thanjavur District
Authors: Mohan S. Megha , Vidhyavathi A. , Padmarani S. , Balaji P.
Published: July 2022

Aims: The study aimed to analyse the carbon footprint of conventional rice cultivation and also the carbon economic efficiency.

Study Design: Multi-stage random sampling was used.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu between April and May 2022.

Methodology: Both primary and secondary data were used in the study. The main methodology used in finding the carbon footprint is LCA (Life Cycle Analysis). A well-structured interview schedule was used in the collection of data. Various kinds of literature were referred to find emission factors which were used in the study. A sample of 60 farmers was selected and data was collected. Also, 5 mills were visited to understand the process of milling, storage and transport of rice.

Results: A total carbon footprint of 6720.46 Kg CO2e/ha was determined from the study for the cultivation, harvest, and post-harvest operations of rice production. Harvest and post-harvest processes result in a carbon footprint of 1851.46 Kg CO2e/ha, while the carbon footprint of cultivation is 4869 Kg CO2e/ha. In addition, the carbon economic efficiency was shown to be 23.39, meaning that the economic worth of rice production is 23.39 Rs per kg of carbon emission.

Conclusion: An important factor in greenhouse gas emissions and a bigger carbon footprint is the use of fertilizers, irrigation techniques, and straw management. An important recommendation to reduce the carbon footprint is the alternate wetting and drying method of irrigation. A further way to lessen the environmental impact of rice farming is to use fewer fertilizers and pesticides.
A Study of the Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Personality Development of Rural Adolescents
Authors: Poonam . , Singh Chandrakala , Sunita .
Published: July 2022

“Adolescence” is a dynamically evolving theoretical construct informed through physiologic, psychosocial and cultural lenses. This critical developmental period is usually understood as the years between the onset of puberty and the establishment of social independence [1]. Personality development is not only about changes in traits but also about changes in other layers of the self, such as the identity layer. Forming one's identity is thought to be the key developmental task of adolescence, but profound changes in personality traits also occur in this period [2]. Emotional intelligence is a set of qualities and competencies that captures a broad group of individual skills and dispositions, usually referred to as soft skills that are outside the traditional areas of specific knowledge, general intelligence, and professional skills [3]. Emotional Intelligence plays an important role in the job performance, enthusiasm, decision making, successful management and leadership. This research examines emotional intelligence in relation to personality development of rural adolescents. The study was conducted in rural areas of Bhiwani district and Gurugram district of Haryana State. From each district sample constituted of randomly selected 120 adolescents including 60 males and 60 females of 14-16 years. Personality Development Scale by John and Srivastava [4] was used for assessing personality development. Emotional intelligence was assessed by Emotional Intelligence Scale (EIS) of Hyde, Pethe and Dhar [5]. The results revealed that majority of the adolescents had average level of emotional intelligence and personality.  Emotional intelligence was found to be positively and significantly correlated with personality. The collected data was classified and tabulated as per the objectives. For analysis of data a frequency, percentages, mean, standard deviation and independent sample ‘z’ test were used.
Bioactive Components and Antioxidant Properties of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Fresh and Processed Camellia sinensis in Alloxan-induced Albino Rats
Authors: E. Andrew Ivo , G. Sunday Haruna , A. Ukamaka Ijeomah , O. Bamidele Titilayo
Published: July 2022

The plant, Camellia sinensis (leaves) is popularly known for its usage as tea in many parts of the world, including Nigeria. The purpose of this study was to screen for the bioactive compositions and to determine the endogeneous antioxidant potentials of fresh and processed (tea) C. sinensis aqueous leaf extract. Phytochemicals, minerals and vitamins analysis were carried out following standard procedures. The extracts were further administered to alloxan-induced albino rats and its effects on serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), acetyl cholinesterase (AchASE) activity and glucose concentrations were determined following standard procedures. The rats were randomly divided in to different groups thus; Group A: Normal control, Group B; Untreated toxic, Treatment Groups were further divided into four subgroups (1, 2, 3 and 4), Group C; Metformin Treated test (MTT), Group D; Fresh Leaves Treated Test, Group E; green tea, Group F; Black tea. Results showed the presence of presence of Saponin, Tannin, Flavonoid, Steroid, Terpenoid, Quinone, Alkaloid, cardiac glycosides, Proteins and phenol, vitamin C, Ca and Zn in all the extracts. Glucose concentrations significantly (p<0.05) increased upon induction with alloxan. MDA and AChE decreased while SOD, CAT and GSH increased significantly (p<0.05) when treated with the extracts. The aqueous extracts of C. sinensis was found to be rich in bioactive compounds and possess antioxidant properties, hence its continued usage could be encouraged.
Impact of Educational Sector on Human Capital Development in Nigeria
Authors: A. Okonkwo, Ogochukwu , Uzonwanne Maria Chinecherem , Florence Ezenwobi Ngozi
Published: July 2022

The main objective of this study is to ascertain the impact of educational sector on human capital development in Nigeria. Given the co integrated nature of variable of the model, error correction medoel was adopted to ascertain the role of education sector on human capital formation. A variable such as human capital (HCAP) is used as dependent variable while Education Funding (EDUF), School Enrolment (SER), Graduate Turnout (GROT), School Drop Out Rate (SDR) and Health Expenditure (HEE) are independent variables. Findings from the study shows that Education funding and school enrolment increase and graduate turn-out rate has significant positive impact on human capital development while School drop has a negative impact. The study recommends that Governments should adopt necessary measures to empower its people productively through education as a means of putting their economies on the path of transformation. Stepping up investment in education and skill training is a key step to achieving improved human capital base in the region.
The Assessment of Environmental and Socio Economic Benefits of River Siti Hydropower Scheme in Mount Elgon Biosphere Reserve, Uganda
Authors: Adonia Bintoora Kamukasa Kakurungu
Published: July 2022

The study was carried out to assess the perceptions and responses of targeted beneficiaries of Siti Hydropower on the impact and benefits of the renewable energy scheme. Households in proximity to the power supply line were purposefully selected as a sample population. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 38 randomly selected household heads living on both sides of the power supply line. Face to face interviews with staff working with hydropower project and Mt. Elgon National Park (Biosphere Reserve) as well as the District Natural Resource Managers were conducted. In addition, nine focused group discussions involving 72 people, (eighteen of whom were women) were held. The results show that 78.9% of the respondents were of the view that the hydropower project had caused significant environmental problems and 21.1 % of the respondents did not think that the project had any significant negative impact on the environment. About 47.4% of the respondents associated the project with soil erosion along the water channel as the most negative environmental impact of the project, while 21.4% of the respondents highlighted the disruption of the water flow of R. Siti and R. Nyalit and 13.2% of the respondents identified deforestation especially inside Mt. Elgon National Park where the weir (intake) of the power station was located. However, 18.4% of the respondents did not believe that the project caused any negative environmental problem. Regarding the anticipated benefits, 42.1% of the respondents associated the project with social economic improvement of residents, 36.8% reduction on the reliance on fuel wood energy and 21.1% protection of R. Siti and R. Nyalit banks.
Overcrowded Classrooms: Effect on Teaching and Learning Process in Public Secondary Schools in Ilemela Municipality, Tanzania
Authors: C. Likuru Laurian , M. Mwila Prospery
Published: July 2022

With parents, teachers, and policymakers, reducing class size is a favoured education policy approach. Cursory studies had suggested that overcrowded classroom results in relatively modest in students’ academic achievement. Underpinned by the Social Cognitive Theory, this study assessed how overcrowded classrooms affect the teaching and learning process in Ilemela Municipality, Mwanza -Tanzania. The study adopted a mixed research approach and convergent parallel research design. The sample consisted of 110 respondents including 1 MSEO, 1 Quality Assurance, 8 heads of school 40 teachers and 60 students. Structured questionnaires and interview guide were used as research instruments. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The synthesis of the findings revealed that classrooms in Ilemela municipality are overcrowded –against the access bargain of 45 students per class; students exceeded 90 within a single stream. On the basis of the findings it was concluded that overcrowded classrooms has an effect on the teaching and learning process, since it limits the application and implementation of competence based curriculum and supportive classroom management practices which aid effectiveness of teaching and learning process. The study recommends that there is a need to enforce the policy on classroom size and to construct more classroom school so as to remedy the situation.
Fortification of Red Tilapia Bone Flour as a Source of Calcium on Doughnut Preference Level
Authors: Ashila Yasyfa , Pratama Rusky Intan , Mulyani Yuniar , Rostini Iis
Published: July 2022

This research aims to determine the percentage of addition of red tilapia bone flour as a source of calcium in the most preferred doughnut. The research was conducted on January until February 2022 at the Fishery Product Processing Laboratory, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran and the Test Services Laboratory, Faculty of Agricultural Industrial Technology, Universitas Padjadjaran. The research method used was experimental method, that made doughnuts with different levels of addition of red tilapia bone flour, which consists of 5 treatments (0%; 2.5%; 5%; 7.5%; and 10%) with 20 panelists semi-trained as a test to determine the preference level of the panelists to doughnuts. Observations were made on organoleptic tests and chemical tests. The most preferred fortification of red tilapia bone flour on doughnut was the 5% treatment with the value of the preference level on appearance, texture, and aroma being 7 (preferred) and taste was 9 (very preferred). The results of chemical test analysis on 5% treatment for moisture content is 18,91%, ash content is 2,97%, protein content is 6,29%, fat content is 27,95%, carbohydrate content is 43,88%, and calcium content is 0,1007% or 1006,60 mg/kg.
Bioherbicide Effect of Effluent from Processed Manihot esculentus Tubers
Authors: Ganyam M. M. , K. Zikora Anyaegbunam , Omeje N. O. , Atsembe D. M. , Nelson Christian , C. Kemmeth Ugwuoke , Samuel Cosmas
Published: July 2022

Effluents from processed bitter cassava (Manihot esculentus) tubers as bioherbicide was applied on the leaves of Beans, Broom weed, Maize, and Itch grass and investigated. Quantitative and qualitative characterization of microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) was done both in effluent and test soil. Mineral analysis using atomic absorption spectrum (AAS), cyanide quantification in the effluent, and quantification of chlorophyll (a and b) from the leaves of test plants (Beans, Broom weed, Maize, and Itch grass) were carried out. The result from the microbial characterization of effluent, test soil, and control soil revealed the effluent had the highest microbial load. The isolated bacteria were Staphylococcus spp, Bacillus spp, Lactobacillus, and E. coli. Test soil had 16.13% Staphylococcus, 9.68% Bacillus spp, 16.13% Lactobacillus, and 6.45% E. coli. The isolated fungi were Saccharomyces, Mucor, and Aspergillus in the effluent, while Saccharomyces and Mucor were in the test soil and only Aspergillus in the control soil.The fungal count revealed a high total viable count (TVC) in the effluent (7.0×104 cfu/ml) followed by test soil (6.6×104 cfu/ml) while control soil had the least (4.5%×104 cfu/ml). Cyanide analysis of effluent revealed 1.0 mg/ml, while metal analysis revealed potassium (40.221 mg/kg), sodium (32.009 mg/kg), Manganese (0.057 mg/kg) and Copper (-0.004mg/kg).The chlorophyll(a and b) concentration expressed in µg/mlof the experimented plants (Beans, Broom weed, Maize, and Itchgrass) further revealed a significant (p≤0.05) decrease concerning the volume of effluent applied (50 ml and 25 ml).Dicotyledonous plants; beans (0.461 + 0.025 and 0.609 + 0.013chlorophyll (a) compared to a control of 7.698+ 0.100.Chlorophyll(b) on the other hand revealed 5.507 + 0.141and 11.599 + 0.282 when compared with control of 16.426 + 0.016). Broom weed (0.291 + 0.071 and 0.457 + 0.068 for chlorophyll (a) when compared to the control with 0.595 + 0.071 and 1.549+0.141 and 1.683+0.353 for chlorophyll(b) when compared to the control with 22.252 + 0.282. Other plants analyzed revealed various significant (p≤0.05) decreased levels of chlorophyll (a and b). All the results revealed this effluent may be selectively used as a potential bioherbicide especially when applied to the leaves.
Two Sample Test for Censored Data Based on Sub-Sample Medians
Authors: Ayushee . , Kumar Narinder , Goyal Manish
Published: July 2022

In hypothesis testing, the purpose of two-sample problem is to determine the statistical significance of the difference between two independent populations. This paper proposes a nonparametric test statistic based on U -statistic, useful for two-sample scale problem when dealing with randomly right censored data. Proposed test concentrates on comparing the medians of sub-samples from two populations. A simulation study is given for critical values and power of the proposed test statistic at various sample sizes and considering different lifetime distributions. Asymptotic relative efficiencies show that the proposed test is more efficient in comparison to some existing tests available in literature. A real-life data application is also given.
Effect of Type and Dose of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi to Growth and Yield of Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus L.) in Former Mining Area Land in Sawahlunto
Authors: Ramadhano Agung , Dwipa Indra , Swasti Etti
Published: July 2022

Aims: The study aimed to determine the type and dose of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) to growth and yield of citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus L.) in former mining area land in Sawahlunto, West Sumatera, Indonesia.

Study Design:  Factorial completely randomized design.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in shade net house of Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University, Padang, West Sumatera, Indonesia from September 2021-January 2022.

Methodology: Two factors were used in the study. First factor was types of  Arbuscular mychorrhizal fungi (AMF), Glomus sp., Gigapora sp. dan multispores (Glomus sp. + Gigaspora sp.) and the second factor was AMF doses that consisted of  four degrees, 5 g, 10 g, 15 g and 20 g/plant. The experiment result was analyzed by using Analysis of variance (ANOVA) in 5% and continued  by using Duncan’s New Multople Range Test (DNMRT) in 5%.

Results: Type of AMF multispores in 20 g/ plant could number of tiller. Dose 20 g/plant could plant height and number of leaves. AMF multispores only increased number of tiller and net assimilation rate.

Conclusion: Type and dose of AMF affected the agronomy parameter of citronella grass in former mining area land.
Security Pact in Indo-Pacific: Resolution of Conflict or Power Struggle from SWOT Analysis?
Authors: Roedyati Joevi
Published: July 2022

There are some main threats to security in the regional context that are identical to the catalog based on the guidelines of many contemporary security strategies: A. Possibility of the break of war, B. International terrorism existence, C. Organized crime existence Illegal immigration occurred, D. Social tensions E. Environmental disasters F. Epidemic or pandemic outbreak G. Demographic threats associated with low population growth, H. Aging population.
Isolation of Biosurfactant Producing Pediococcus pentosacaeus from Laboratory Controlled (Simulated) Fermentation of Indian Wheat-based Seera
Authors: Kaundal Tamanna , Sharma Anjali , Batra Navneet
Published: July 2022

Biosurfactants are amphiphilic molecules produced by certain micro-organisms that have numerous applications in diverse sectors. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are preferred over other biosurfactant producing micro-organism due to their Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status. The current study aims to isolate and screen biosurfactant producing LAB from laboratory controlled fermentation of Indian wheat-based Seera. Biosurfactant-producing isolates were screened by a battery of tests including drop collapse assay, surface activity, hemolytic activity, and emulsifying activity. The strain S-2 with better emulsification index i.e. 63.27±0.08, surface activity i.e 42.32±0.17, and biosurfactant yield i.e. 1.2±0.02g/L was chosen for further characterization. Morphological characterization of the strain S-2 was carried out and the strain was found to be gram-positive, coccus shaped, and lack endospore. Biochemical characterization and 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed the selected strain as Pediococcus pentosacaeus.
Population Dynamics of Sucking Pests in Dual Season Cotton Ecosystem and Its Correlation with Weather Factors
Authors: Kiruthika A. , Murugan M. , Jeyarani S. , Sathyamoorthy N. K. , Senguttuvan K.
Published: July 2022

Population dynamics of sucking pests in cotton ecosystem were studied at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during winter (2021) and summer (2022) seasons. Weekly observations were recorded on 20 randomly selected plants representing top, middle and bottom canopy of the crop which was raised in regular planting dates of winter and summer and were maintained as per the recommended regular agronomic practices except insect management interventions. During winter season, sucking pests viz., leafhopper, aphids, thrips, and whitefly were first observed in field from 39th SMW i.e. one month after sowing. Mealybugs were first observed during 41st SMW i.e. 43 days after sowing (DAS) of crop. The highest population of leafhopper, aphids, thrips, whitefly and mealybug recorded was 4.7, 18.7, 4.6, 2.45 no. per 3 leaves and 13.7 no. per 3 twigs, respectively. The mean population of sucking pests was high in October, 2021 and coincided with square formation to flowering stage except mealybug, which attained peak during January, at the boll bursting stage of crop. During summer season, the sucking pests were found to colonize from 8th SMW, corresponded to 20 DAS crop, while the mealybug occurred at 11th SMW, 40 DAS crop. The peak population of leafhopper, aphids, thrips, whitefly and mealybug registered was 5.4, 38.4, 4.9, 7.07 no./ 3 leaves and 2.4 no./ 3 twigs, respectively. The mean population of sucking pests was high from mid march to first fortnight of april 2022, and by that time the crop was at square formation to flowering stage. On comparison of both the season, summer season crop was infested by intensive level of sucking pests. Correlation results revealed that maximum temperature (0C) showed positive correlation, whereas rainfall (mm) showed negative correlation with population growth of sucking pests. Results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed that all the weather parameters collectively caused 51.1% – 88.4% influence on the population fluctuation of sucking pests.
Organic Carbon Stored in the Aerial Phytomass of Fire-threatened Andean Grassland Species
Authors: Yaranga Raúl M. , Quiñonez Vilma F. , Orellana Javier A.
Published: July 2022

The practice of burning Andean grasslands in uncontrolled conditions and dry seasonal periods affects the sustainability of the ecosystem with the loss of native grasslands species with superficial roots, the volatilization of organic matter and superficial soil nitrogen, and greater susceptibility to wind and rain erosion, which affects the forage supply of grazing areas that affect the economy of the cattle rancher in addition to emitting abundant CO₂ into the atmosphere. The objective was to quantify the loss of organic carbon contained in the aerial phytomass of burned grasslands and the dynamics of recovery of their shoots, for which seven grasslands with different dominant species and the exclusion of grazing were chosen from five plots of 900 m² with five subplots of 64 m², whose aerial phytomass was harvested, and the shoots were measured in their leaf height for nine months. As a result, variable amounts of carbon were obtained according to dominant grassland species for p: 0.001 from 5.02±1.05 to 20.02±0.95 t/ha, equivalent from 22.09 to 73.47 t.CO₂/ha. The recovery of shoot phytomass barely reached 37.32% to 55.94% concerning the initial amount obtained in the mother plants. It was concluded that each grassland has its performance of storage and recovery of stored carbon and the findings should be cause for reflection and be the basis for public policies to promote the protection of grasslands.
Hang-Back Technique versus Conventional Lateral Rectus Recession in Exotropia
Authors: Elamary Amira Abou-Elnaga , Shafik Heba Mohamed , Arfa El-Sayed Samir , Ali Ahmed Lotfi
Published: July 2022

Background: Exotropia is a type of eye misalignment. About 90 % of all exodeviations are intermittent exotropia. Management options are non-surgical as correction of refractive error and surgical, here we discussed two surgical techniques: the conventional recession and the Hang-back recession. This study evaluated the result of both techniques in management of exotropia and investigate the longitudinal change in the lateral rectus muscle insertion by AS-OCT imaging of the muscle new insertion site.

Methods: The prospective randomized study included 40 eyes with exotropia. All cases underwent two types of surgery (the conventional recession and the Hang-back recession) and complete ophthalmological and strabismus examination before and after surgical treatment and completed six months follow up at one day, one week, one month, three months, six months.

Results: The success rate for conventional recession technique was 85%. There was no consecutive esotropia as a complication, but a long period of follow up may show delayed consecutive esotropia. There were no significant complications as slipped muscles or infection.

Conclusions: Conventional recession and hang back technique are two surgical options for lateral rectus muscle recession, results of both techniques are compared. The result showed that conventional recession technique success rate is higher than the hang back technique. Our study showed the effectiveness of both techniques as there were no cases that showed limitation of abduction.
A Comparative Study of the Performance of Typhoid Diagnostic Tests among Suspected Patients at the University of Cape Coast Hospital, Ghana
Authors: Prah James Kojo , Amoah Samuel , Banson Cecil , Nyane Benjamin , Arthur Rudolf Aaron , Amoah Godfrey Yeboah , Derban Isaac , Nkrumah Sobre Kwasi , Dadzie Isaac , Donkoh Irene Esi
Published: July 2022

Introduction: the World Health Organization recommends that the gold standard for diagnosing typhoid fever is the use of blood cultures. However, under real-world conditions in low-resource settings, there are lack of culture facilities as well as expertise, and usually, patients report late after prior antibiotic exposure. This study sought to evaluate the performance of typhoid rapid diagnostic tests, blood, and stool cultures as well as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) under such settings.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved the use of blood and stool samples from 400 consenting outpatients suspected of typhoid fever by attending clinicians at the University of Cape Coast Hospital, Ghana.

Results: out of the 400 participants, 171 (42.8%) tested positive to at least one of the RDTs. Even though many of the participants had a history of fever, all of them were afebrile as none presented with a temperature of 380C and above. There was a high (48.0%) history of antibiotic use within two weeks before presentation. No participant was a culture or PCR positive for S. typhi and paratyphi. However, in 7(1.8%) participants, other salmonella species were detected by PCR. Also, citrobacter and proteus vulgaris were cultured in 13(3.3%) and 10(2.5%) participants respectively using stool samples. In blood samples, there was a 7(1.8%) growth of Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusion: under real-world conditions where patients usually present without typical symptoms such as high temperatures probably after prior antibiotic use, cultures and PCR perform poorly. There is therefore a need for further studies aimed at improving the yields of these important diagnostic tests in such settings.
Sub-Classification of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer using Androgen Receptor and Cytokeratin 5/6
Authors: Derkyi-Kwarteng Leonard , Fondjo L. Ahenkorah , Akakpo P. Kafui , Aidoo Eric , Brown Ato , Ola Ellen , Adjei Stephanie K. A. , Agyemang Francis
Published: July 2022

Background:  Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a unique heterogenous subtypes of breast cancer which is characterized by negative estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER-2) status. TNBC displays different molecular phenotype with which basal-like tumour can be identified using high molecular weight basal cytokeratin 5/6 (CK5/6).

Methods: Ninety-five (95) formalin fixed cases from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Ghana’s (KBTH) archives were sampled in a retrospective study from 2012-2016. Blocks of these triple-negative breast cancer was subclassified using CK5/6 and Androgen Receptor (AR) antibodies. Subclasses were also identified.

Results and Conclusion: In all ninety-five (95) TNBC cases, hormonal subtyping was sub-classified using CK 5/6 and AR. The mean ±SD of these cases was recorded as 53.96 (±13.56) years and the age range of these cases was 22-104 years. The average size (±SD) of the tumour was recorded to be 14.43(±7.62) and it had a range of 2.4-45cm. lymph nodes retrieved also had a mean ± SD of 10.35(±6.05) with an average tumour lymph nodes involvement of 2.6(± 3.697).

Invasive Ductal carcinoma was identified as the commonest histologic type of TNBC with approximately 95% of the cases. This was followed by invasive lobular (2.1%), medullary carcinoma (2.1%) and metaplastic carcinoma (1.1%).

Approximately 30% of TNBC stained positive for CK5/6.

It can however be concluded that, most TNBC are not basal-like when the basal marker CK5/6 is used.
Management of a Mutual Health Organization on the Accessibility of Members to Medical Care
Authors: Raymond Assani Ramazani , Désiré Isetcha Tawiti , Edouard Lokatunga Emaleke , Colette Bwanandeke Tshite , Brigitte Tabu Singa , Jérôme Lilemo Losembe , Martin Likilo Dangondje
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The management of a mutual health insurance company presents many challenges. The implementation of effective strategies is essential for its proper functioning. The Bishop Grison Centre and the Saliboko Primary School were the subject of this investigation, which aimed to identify the major management problems of mutual health insurance that prevent it from functioning properly, to determine the consequences of the dysfunction of mutual health insurance on members' access to care and to identify strategies to be put in place for good medical care thanks to the mutual health insurance.

Methodology: We opted for a descriptive method with a cross-sectional focus; a study carried out at the Bishop Grison Centre and the Saliboko Primary School, which involved 50 members of the two mutual health organisations of the two mutual health organisations studied, selected according to the LYNCH formula, and two key informants. The interview is the technique that enabled us to collect the data.

Results: With regard to the problems related to the management of the Mutual Health Organisations, 46% of the respondents made a judgement on the low income, 38% of the subjects mentioned the poverty that characterises the leaders of the Mutual Health Organisation and 58% of the subjects stated that the management is done within the institutions. In addition, 54% of respondents said that bills are paid by the head of the Mutual Health Organisation, characterised by mistrust (48%), refusal to contribute is linked to the poor access to medical care of members (64%) and 44% over-billing by the health care provider is the main reason for the dysfunction of the Mutual Health Organisation in terms of access to care. As strategies to be put in place for better management of the Mutual Health Organisation, 64% of respondents proposed a re-explanation of the rationale for the Mutual Health Organisation and 22% wanted recourse to donors.

Conclusion: The chaotic and non-transparent management of Mutual Health Organisations does not favour accessibility to health care for their members. This situation deserves to be treated with great consideration in order to promote the accessibility of the population to health care. Thus, the unfailing support of the government is indispensable.
Molecular Characterization of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria from Soil within Rivers State University, Nigeria
Authors: Chilaka C. , Akani N. P. , Sampson T.
Published: July 2022

Antibiotic resistance has become a subject of global concern to health systems all over the world and the shedding of antibiotic resistant bacteria from humans and animals into the soil is a threat to public health. This research was carried out to molecularly characterize and assess antibiotic resistant bacteria from soil in Rivers State University. Bacteria from soil in four locations; waste dump site, fish farm, poultry farm and home soil were enumerated and identified using standard microbiological techniques such as serial dilution, plating and incubation, isolation, biochemical testing and molecular identification. Sensitivity testing on the bacterial isolates was done using Kirby-Bauer Disk diffusion method. These resistant isolates were also subjected to molecular testing to ascertain the presence of resistant genes. The results revealed mean total Heterotrophic Bacterial Counts (THBC) for 32 samples ranged from 1.05±0.72 x 107 to 3.63±2.58x 107 CFU/g in fish farm and waste dump samples respectively. Total Coliform Counts (TCC) ranged from 3.65±2.91 x105 to 6.92±4.41 x105 CFU/g in Fish farm and Waste dump samples while Total Staphylococcal count ranged from 3.80±1.71 x104 to 11.46±9.21 x104 CFU/g in Fish farm and Waste dump samples respectively. Total Pseudomonad Count (TPC) ranged from 0.09±0.09 x 103 to 2.47±1.67x 103 CFU/g in Home soil and Fish farm samples. There was a difference (p≤0.05) in total heterotrophic bacterial, Staphylococcal and Pseudomonad counts, but no difference (p≥0.05) in total coliform. Seventy-nine (79) bacterial isolates were identified in this study belonging to the following genera; Bacillus spp, Staphylococcus spp., Micrococcus spp, Pseudomonas spp, Serratia spp, Proteus spp, Klebsiella spp, Salmonella spp and Escherichia spp with Staphylococcus (58.83%) having the highest occurrence and Pseudomonas (11.11%) had the least occurrence from the samples. Antibiotic sensitivity revealed that most isolates were resistant to many antibiotics tested with the highest resistance observed for Cefuroxime, Ceftazidime and Cefixime (100%) for the gram negative organisms and also Cefuroxime, Ceftazidime and Cloxacillin for gram positive bacteria. However, all bacteria showed sensitivity to gentamicin. Multiple Antibiotic resistance (MAR) index for all bacteria were above 0.2. Resistant bacterial isolates were identified molecularly as S. aureus, S. sciuri, M. luteus, B. cereus, B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa, S. mercescens, P. vulgaris, E. coli and Salmonella typhimurium. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia mercescens, Proteus vulgaris and E. coli had CTX-M gene present in their genome while Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus sciuri, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis had the mecA gene present in their genome. This study has highlighted the rise in antibiotic resistance in bacteria from soil, hence, there is need to checkmate indiscriminate use of antibiotics in agriculture.
Instrumentos necessários: escravidão e posse de escravos no Sul da Bahia no século XIX, 1822-1889
Authors: Mahony Mary Ann
Published: July 2022

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No Caminho de Aruanda: a umbanda candanga revisitada
Authors: Serra Ordep
Published: July 2022

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Teatro negro: a realidade de um sonho sem sono
Authors: Douxami Christine
Published: July 2022

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Lateral ventricular atrium: larger in male than female fetuses
Authors: Nadel A.S. , Benacerraf B.R.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To attempt to detect the presence of a gender difference in the size of the fetal lateral ventricular atrium. Methods: The width of the lateral ventricular atrium was measured sonographically on 543 consecutive fetuses scanned at 17–40 weeks, with a normal structural survey and documented gender assignment. Lateral ventricular measurements of male and female fetuses were compared. Results: The mean width (± S.D.) of the lateral ventricular atrium for the entire study population of 543 fetuses was 6.5 ± 1.4 mm. The measurement was 6.7 ± 1.3 in male and 6.3 ± 1.4 in female fetuses (P < 0.001). The atrial measurements were ≥ 8.5 mm in 10% of the male and 7% of the female fetuses (P > 0.05, NS). Conclusion: Male fetuses have slightly larger cerebral lateral ventricles than female fetuses.
α1‐Antitrypsin can increase insulin‐induced mitogenesis in various fibroblast and epithelial cell lines
Authors: She Qing-Bai , Mukherjee Jagat J , Crilly Karan S , Kiss Zoltan
Published: July 2002

α1‐Antitrypsin (AT), the archetypal member of the superfamily of serine proteinase inhibitors, inhibits leukocyte elastase activity and thereby can prevent lung damage. Here we show that in fibroblasts from human fetal lung and mouse embryo as well as in certain epithelial cells AT can also enhance the stimulatory effects of insulin on DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. Warming of AT at a moderate (41°C) temperature for a longer time (21 h) or at a higher (65°C) temperature for 30 min before treatment increased its stimulatory effects on both DNA synthesis and activating phosphorylation of p42/p44 mitogen‐activated protein kinases. The results suggest that AT may promote regeneration of damaged tissues under pathophysiological conditions which are associated with fever.
Inhibition of telomerase activity by a cell‐penetrating peptide nucleic acid construct in human melanoma cells
Authors: Villa Raffaella , Folini Marco , Lualdi Susanna , Veronese Silvio , Daidone Maria Grazia , Zaffaroni Nadia
Published: July 2002

We investigated the effect of two peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), which are complementary to the RNA component of human telomerase, on the catalytic activity of the enzyme. PNAs induced a dose‐dependent reduction of telomerase activity in cell extracts from human melanoma cell lines and surgical specimens. To down‐regulate telomerase in intact cells, we generated a chimeric molecule synthesized by coupling the 13‐mer PNA to the Antennapedia peptide. The PNA construct induced a dose‐ and time‐dependent inhibition of telomerase activity. However, a 20‐day exposure to the PNA construct only caused a slight increase in melanoma cell doubling time and failed to induce any telomere shortening.
Polyhydroxyalkanoic Acids and Rhamnolipids Are Synthesized Sequentially in Hexadecane Fermentation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145
Authors: Chayabutra Chawala , Ju Lu‐Kwang
Published: July 2002

Rhamnolipids and poly(β‐hydroxyalkanoic acids) (PHAs) are important fermentation products of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Both contain β‐hydroxyalkanoic acids as main constituents. To investigate the possible relationship between their syntheses, we studied the n‐hexadecane fermentation by P. aeruginosa (ATCC 10145). PHA synthesis was found to occur only during active cell growth, while substantial rhamnolipid production began at the onset of the stationary phase. The specific synthesis rate of β‐hydroxyalkanoic acids was estimated as 12.6 mg HA/(g dry cells·h) from the PHA formation during the exponential‐growth phase. A similar rate was obtained from the β‐hydroxyalkanoic acid incorporation in the rhamnolipids produced during the early stationary phase. A regulatory switch of the flow of β‐hydroxyalkanoic acids from PHA polymerization to rhamnolipid synthesis is clearly indicated to occur when the culture reaches the stationary phase. Five rhamnolipid structures were identified using HPLC‐MS. Three are monorhamnolipids, two dirhamnolipids. All have a chain of two β‐hydroxyalkanoic acids. The two major components contain only β‐hydroxydecanoic acids; the three minors also have a β‐hydroxydecanoic acid linked to the sugar but a β‐hydroxydodecanoic acid or β‐hydroxydodecenoic acid as the second acid. The PHA accumulation reached about 7.5% of the cell dry weight. The monomer composition was relatively constant at different stages of production: in weight fractions, β‐hydroxyoctanoic acid, 0.25 (±0.05); β‐hydroxydecanoic acid, 0.41 (±0.06); β‐hydroxydodecanoic acid, 0.11 (±0.05), β‐hydroxytetradecanoic acid, 0.11 (±0.06), and β‐hydroxyhexadecanoic acid, 0.12 (±0.06). β‐Hydroxydecanoic acid was clearly the primary monomer.
Factors associated with asthma in Albania
Authors: Priftanji A. V. , Qirko E. , Burr M. L. , Layzell J. C. M. , Williams K. L.
Published: July 2002

Background: This study was undertaken to see whether asthma in Albania (where it is particularly uncommon) is associated with certain ‘western’ characteristics, and with dietary and lifestyle factors that affect its occurrence elsewhere.

Methods: A screening survey was conducted among 2653 persons aged 20–44 years. A more detailed enquiry was conducted among a random subsample plus all others whose response indicated possible asthma. Three groups were compared: 495 probable nonasthmatics (‘nonsymptomatics’); 106 with asthma‐like symptoms and positive skin tests (‘possible allergic asthmatics’); and 116 with similar symptoms and negative skin tests (‘other symptomatics’).

Results: The possible allergic asthmatics were less likely than the nonsymptomatics to have attended school or nursery under the age of 5 years or to have shared a bedroom with an older child before that age. Continued education after the age of 18 years also appeared to be protective. Allowing for other factors, a strong negative relation was found with fruit and vegetable consumption, and weak positive relations with prepackaged food and fizzy drinks. Symptoms in skin prick test‐negative subjects were associated with personal and parental smoking habit.

Conclusions: This survey provides limited evidence linking asthma with aspects of western lifestyle. It supports the hypothesis that opportunities for infection during early childhood and the consumption of fruit and vegetables protect against asthma.
Lack of association between atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome and polymorphisms in the promoter region of RANTES and regulatory region of MCP‐1
Authors: Kozma G. T. , Falus A. , Bojszkó Á . , Krikovszky D. , Szabó T. , Nagy A. , Szalai C.
Published: July 2002

Background: Chemokines play an important role in the pathophysiology of atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome (AEDS) and allergy. Recently polymorphisms in the promoter region of RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted) and in the gene regulatory region of MCP‐1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1) have been found, which increase the expression of these chemokines. The − 403A allele of the RANTES promoter region was found associated with AEDS in German children. We investigated whether the presence of these polymorphisms was associated with AEDS or allergy in Hungarian children.

Methods:  One hundred and twenty‐eight children with AEDS, 102 allergic children without AEDS and 303 children of comparable ages without allergic disorders were screened for genotype with a PCR‐based assay.

Results: There were no significant differences in the frequency of these polymorphisms, or in the distribution of genotypes between the groups. The total IgE concentration, the white blood cell count and the blood eosinophil cell count did not differ between the genotypes.

Conclusion: In this cohort of Hungarian children there was no association between − 28G, and − 403A alleles in the RANTES promoter, − 2518G polymorphism in the distal regulatory region of the MCP‐1 and AEDS, or allergy.
Transgenic pigs designed to express human CD59 and H‐transferase to avoid humoral xenograft rejection
Authors: Costa Cristina , Zhao Lisa , Burton Willis V. , Rosas Cristina , Bondioli Kenneth R. , Williams Barry L. , Hoagland Thomas A. , Dalmasso Agustin P. , Fodor William L.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: Research in pig‐to‐primate xenotransplantation aims to solve the increasing shortage of organs for human allotransplantation and develop new cell‐ and tissue‐based therapies. Progress towards its clinical application has been hampered by the presence of xenoreactive natural antibodies that bind to the foreign cell surface and activate complement, causing humoral graft rejection. Genetic engineering of donor cells and animals to express human complement inhibitors such as hCD59 significantly prolonged graft survival. Strategies to decrease the deposition of natural antibodies were also developed. Expression of human α1,2‐fucosyltransferase (H transferase, HT) in pigs modifies the cell‐surface carbohydrate phenotype resulting in reduced Galα1,3‐Gal expression and decreased antibody binding. We have developed transgenic pigs that coexpress hCD59 and HT in various cells and tissues to address both natural antibody binding and complement activation. Functional studies with peripheral blood mononuclear cells and aortic endothelial cells isolated from the double transgenic pigs showed that coexpression of hCD59 and HT markedly increased their resistance to human serum‐mediated lysis. This resistance was greater than with cells transgenic for either hCD59 or HT alone. Moreover, transgene expression was enhanced and protection maintained in pig endothelial cells that were exposed for 24 h to pro‐inflammatory cytokines. These studies suggest that engineering donor pigs to express multiple molecules that address different humoral components of xenograft rejection represents an important step toward enhancing xenograft survival and improving the prospect of clinical xenotransplantation.
Anti-proteinase-3 (PR3) antibodies (C-ANCA) recognize various targets on the human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) membrane
Authors: DE BANDT M , MEYER O , DACOSTA L , ELBIM C , PASQUIER C
Published: July 2002

Numerous studies suggest that C-ANCA are directly pathogenic in vasculitis by activating leucocytes (oxidative burst, enzyme release, endothelial cytotoxicity, etc.). We and others have shown that C-ANCA can also directly activate HUVEC, but the precise target on HUVEC is unknown. We show in this study that C-ANCA recognize various targets on the HUVEC membrane (different from PR3 in our model), leading to secondary cell activation. Polyclonal affinity-purified C-ANCA recognized targets on the unfixed endothelial membrane in fluorescent ELISA, flow cytometry, and immunoprecipitation studies. C-ANCA did not react with Fcγ receptors. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) experiments showed that HUVEC did not express PR3. The targets of polyclonal and monoclonal anti-PR3 antibodies on the endothelial membrane were not the same. Some epitopes were lost after trypsin–EDTA digestion and formaldehyde fixation of cells, whereas anti-PR3 targeted unfixed HUVEC. This suggests that anti-PR3 react with the endothelial membrane and recognize conformational epitopes shared with PR3. Endothelial cells may thus participate in the inflammation associated with Wegener's granulomatosis and contribute to the emergence of clinical manifestations.
Advances in cardiac surgical transfusion practices during the 1990s in a Finnish university hospital
Authors: Capraro L. , Syrjälä M.
Published: July 2002

Background and Objectives

Recent transfusion practices in coronary artery bypass (CABG) operations in a Finnish university hospital were evaluated, utilizing the data stored automatically in hospital registers.

Materials and Methods

The register‐based transfusion data on all 2363 CABG patients operated on during a 2·5‐year period, from 1997 to 1999, were analysed and compared with a review of surgical transfusion practices in Finland from 1993 to 1994.

Results

The rate of allogeneic transfusion showed a decrease from 76% in 1993–94 to 48% in the time‐period January to June 1999, and the mean number of donor exposures decreased from 3·3 to 2·0 units per patient. The mean blood product purchase costs per patient almost halved from 1993–94 to 1997–99.

Conclusion

Hospital registers provide a good means for prompt evaluation and reporting of large‐scale transfusion data. Since 1993, transfusion rates and costs in CABG operations have decreased markedly. Further development of transfusion registers is warranted.