bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Cytological and Histomorphological Findings in Breast Tumours- A Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Southern India
Authors: Ramamoorthy Subhashini , Sinhasan Sankappa P , Harthimath Basavanandaswami C
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in females. There is increasing awareness and the associated anxiety and stress among women, who perceive every symptom in breast as carcinoma, compels the patients to seek medical advice. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a relatively simple, reliable, atraumatic, economical and complication free technique for the evaluation of mass lesions. Aim: To study the varied spectrum of breast tumours and to evaluate the diagnostic utility of cytological findings by comparing it with histopathological findings in breast tumours. Materials and Methods: The present study was a hospital- based cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Pathology, Indira Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Pondicherry, India, from November 2017-October 2019. All cases of breast tumours, sent by surgeon, as out-patient or in- patient, who underwent FNAC followed by surgical biopsy, were included in this study. A total of 150 cases were studied. FNAC smears were stained using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Papanicolaou (Pap) stains and air-dried smears were stained using May Grunwald Giemsa (MGG) stain. The excised specimen after surgery was subjected to detailed histopathological examination. Representative bits were taken from appropriate sites and stained using H&E stains, special stains and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) were carried out wherever necessary. Results: Majority of cases were in the age group of 21-30 years. There were 149 cases of female patients and only one case of male patient with breast carcinoma during the study period. Cytology showed 117 cases of benign tumours and 33 cases were malignant. Histopathology revealed 116 cases of benign tumours and 34 cases of malignant. One case was given as Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia (ADH) in cytology, found to be malignant Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) on histopathological examination. Five cases on cytology which were given as suspicious of carcinoma (C4 category) were found to be IDC on excision biopsy. Benign lesions were common in right breast, whereas malignant lesions were common in left breast. The diagnostic value of FNAC was assessed and showed sensitivity: 97.06%, specificity: 100%, Positive Predictive Value (PPV): 100%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV): 99.15% Accuracy of 99.33%. Conclusion: The present study was an attempt to compare cytological and histomorphological findings in breast tumours to know the diagnostic accuracy of FNAC and also studying the spectrum of breast lesions. The high specificity and negative predictive value showed high accuracy of FNAC in diagnosing the malignancy. It is an established method to determine the nature of breast lesions. In the present study, fibroadenoma was the commonest benign tumour and IDC- Not Otherwise Specified (NOS) type was the commonest malignant tumour.
Clinicopathological Correlation of Non Oncological Hysterectomies at a Tertiary Healthcare Centre
Authors: Sharma Kalpana
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure for benign gynaecologic pathologies despite the availability of conservative treatment options. However, studies indicate many health and psychosexual complications following this procedure. Regular histopathological audit of hysterectomies in relation to the clinical rationale will provide valuable data and insight and thus, lead to improved knowledge and expertise. AIM: To correlate clinical and histopathological diagnosis in hysterectomies for non oncological indications and assess the agreement between the two modalities. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study with comparative clinicopathological analysis which included 702 hysterectomies for non oncological indications during a one-year period (April 2019 to March 2020) was carried out in the Department of Pathology at a tertiary healthcare centre in Ajmer, Rajasthan, India. Cohen-kappa value was determined to measure the degree of agreement between clinical and histopathological diagnosis. A comparative clinicopathological analysis was done by segregating cases into two categories-those with structural pathologies and the other with non structural/functional pathologies. Results: A total of 702 hysterectomy specimens were studied. The clinicopathological concordance for structural lesions was better than functional aetiologies (87.52% vs 57.8%). Leiomyoma (AUB-L) was the most frequent clinical and histopathological diagnosis. Histopathology revealed more structural lesions than clinically suspected (81.2% vs 75.36%). The Cohen-kappa value revealed an overall fair agreement between clinical and histopathological judgement (K=0.27). Clinicopathological- agreement was lower in adenomyosis, dual structural pathologies while it was better for polyps, leiomyomas, obstetric pathologies and procidentia. Conclusion: Although, an overall fair degree of agreement was found between clinical and histopathological diagnosis, conditions that lack a specific clinical presentation or a sensitive diagnostic test like adenomyosis showed poor clinicopathological agreement. Histopathology is a vital tool to verify the appropriateness of the clinical indication of hysterectomies. Frequent clinicopathological correlation helps in improving knowledge and expertise of the healthcare provider, thus improving future clinical judgements.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis without Eosinophilia and Lytic Lesions of Bone: A Rare Disease with Unusual Presentation
Authors: Chauhan Shruti , Sharma Sunita , Singh Smita , Mukherjee Sharmila B
Published: August 2022

LCH is a disease of abnormal clonal proliferation of langerhans cell of the bone marrow derived monocyte-macrophage lineage. Cells with characteristic coffee bean / grooved / indented nuclei with a background of histiocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils and other inflammatory cells are seen. Clinical presentation varies from unifocal unisystem to multifocal unisystem to multifocal multisystem. We present a rare case of multisystem LCH involving high risk organs in a two and a half year old child. presented with the chief complaints of fever and red raised maculopapular lesions on trunk, palm, forehead and scalp for one and a half yrs with hepatosplenomegaly. There were no lytic lesions of the bones. Hematological parameters showed anaemia with thrombocytopenia while Bone Marrow Aspirate showed increase in histiocytic cell with some cells showing characteristic coffee bean, cleaved irregularly contoured nuclei. However, eosinophilia was not seen. Sections from the skin lesions showed cells with similar morphology without usually accompanied eosinophilia. The cells were CD1a and S100 positive. So a FINAL DIAGNOSIS of langerhans cell histiocytosis was made. The emphasis here lies on thorough analysis of the clinical presentations, imaging studies and scrupulous histomorphological and immunohistochemical examination, so that early diagnosis and timely intervention is ensured in such cases where the characteristic features like lytic lesions of bone and eosinophilia is not found.
A Clinicopathological Study of Premalignant and Malignant Lesions of Oesophagus- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kala K , Sarumathy G , Prathiba A
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Oesophageal cancer is the sixth leading cause of cancer related mortality and it ranks eighth among all malignancies in the world.There are multiple factors involved in the causation of oesophageal carcinoma. Aim: To study the clinicopathological features of premalignant and malignant lesions of oesophagus including age, sex, risk factors, tumour location, histological type, grade and stage. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study of premalignant and malignant lesions of oesophagus conducted at Department of Pathology in a tertiary care centre from June 2013 to June 2014. Complete history of the cases including investigations and type of procedure done were obtained. Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stained sections were prepared and cases reported as premalignant and malignant lesions were analysed for histopathological parameters. Results: In the present study, 187 cases were studied, of which, malignant tumors accounted for 177 cases (83.49%) while premalignant lesions were 10 cases (5.34%). The mean age of oesophageal cancer is 56.4 years and that for premalignant lesions is 50.7 years. Overall male predominance was noted. Most of the malignant lesions were located in the middle third of the oesophagus. Most common histological type was squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (89.27%) followed by Adenocarcinoma (9.6%) and Neuroendocrine Carcinoma (NEC) (1.13%). The most common macroscopic type was ulcerative type (50.8%). Most of the cases presented in stage IIA (74%). Lymph node involvement was present in 25.92% of cases of SCC and 33.33% of cases of adenocarcinoma. Conclusion: In the present study, SCC was the commonest histological type with peak incidence in 51-60 years. Dysphagia was the most common clinical complaint with tobacco being the major risk factor. Esophageal carcinoma was quite common in this region. However majority of the patients presented at advanced stage due to lack of awareness and delayed symptoms causing major challenge in management. Hence, thorough investigations including histopathological examination is mandatory especially in older patients to rule out carcinoma oesophagus at the earliest, as the prognosis highly depends on histological type, grade and stage.
Analysis of Backyard Poultry Farmers' Awareness, Perceptions, and Adaptability to Climate Change in Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone
Authors: Sesay Abdul Rahman , Sesay Abdul Rahman , Kallon Sanpha
Published: August 2022

The poultry industry worldwide suffers significantly due to climate change, which may affect the chicken protein source. The study examined backyard poultry farmers' awareness, perceptions, and responses to climate change in Tonkolili, Sierra Leone. Data were collected from 232 backyard poultry farmers using a semi-structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0 Software. According to the respondents' socioeconomic profiles, the majority of farmers (53.4%) were between the ages of 31 and 40 years, and most of them were female (59.5%) and married (54.3%). The average household size was between 5-8 persons, and the majority of respondents (59.5%) lacked formal education. The poultry farmers are well aware of climate change (96.6%), and that decrease in rainfall (x̄ = 3.45) and increasing temperature (x̄ = 3.39) affects poultry production, leading to high incidences of poultry diseases (x̄ = 4.11), increases the cost of feed (x̄ = 3.99), and reduces the quantity of egg production (x̄ = 3.92). The logistic regression model results showed that the positive and significant factors that influenced climate change awareness are gender and sources of climate change information. Some of the adaptation strategies practices by the farmers are an adequate supply of drinking water, increased quantity of supplementary feed, and rearing a different variety of birds. Climate change affects backyard poultry production therefore, poultry farmers should be provided with technical training and assistance through extension services to help alleviate the impact of climate change on backyard poultry production.
A Study on Cultivation and Marketing of Organic and Conventional Vegetables in the Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Nivethitha A. S. , Prahadeeswaran M. , Rani S. Padma , Patil S. G.
Published: August 2022

Aims: To find out the cost of cultivation, marketing costs, marketing margins, price spread, marketing efficiency and constraints faced by organic and conventional Carrot and Potato growing farmers.

Study Design: Multistage Sampling was used.

Place and Duration of Study: The Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu was chosen for the research. A primary survey was conducted to gather first-hand information related to the study.

Methodology: The costs and returns, the Acharyas-Agarwal’s method and Shepherd’s method of Marketing efficiency and the Response priority index were used in this study.

Results: The cost of cultivation of organically and conventionally grown carrot were Rs.6,28,165.24 and Rs.6,50,567.84 with B: C ratios of 3.56 and 2.15 respectively. The cost of cultivation of organically and conventionally grown potato were Rs.4,97,869.79 and Rs.5,48,894.71 with B: C ratios of 2.37 and 1.71 respectively. Organic vegetable marketing was done through producer-retailer-consumer and producer-consumer channels. For conventional vegetables, producer-wholesaler-retailer-consumer and producer-retailer-consumer were the marketing channels. The Acharyas-Agarwal’s and Shepherd’s method of  marketing efficiencies in channel-I and II for organic carrot were 1.97, 7.37, 13.07 and 13.07 respectively and for conventional, the marketing efficiencies in Channel – I and II of carrot were 0.98, 2.16, 1.52 and 3.47 respectively. The marketing efficiencies measured by the Acharyas-Agarwal’s and Shepherd’s method in channel I and II of organically grown potato were 1.71, 7.59, 15.97, and 15.97  respectively and for conventionally grown potato, they were 1.21, 2.36, 1.52 and 3.08 respectively. The major constraints faced by organic and conventional farming farmers were lack of awareness on certification procedures and pests and disease incidence respectively.

Conclusion: As major inputs were prepared in the field, the cost of cultivation for organically grown carrot and potato is lower than for conventionally grown carrot and potato. They have high B:C ratios since organic produce fetches a higher price than conventional produce. The B:C ratio for conventional carrot indicates higher returns than potato. The channel – II in organic and conventional marketing of carrot and potato has higher marketing efficiency because they have less intermediaries.
Evaluation of Cookies Produced from Malted Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan)
Authors: Asouzu A. I. , Umerah N. N.
Published: August 2022

Background: Research efforts in Tropical countries are geared towards identification of non-wheat sources that could be used as an alternative to wheat flours, thus affecting saving in foreign exchange by limiting wheat importation and at the same time proffer solution to severe malnutrition caused by gluten intolerance of wheat.

Aim/Objectives: To evaluate the nutrient, physical and organoleptic properties of cookies made from malted pigeon pea.

Methodology: The sample were coded A, B, C, for 100% wheat, 70% malted pigeon pea/30% carrot and 70% raw pigeon pea/30% carrot flour respectively were used to produce cookies. The cookies produced were evaluated for chemical, physical and organoleptic properties using standard methods.

Results: The protein content of the cookies were 10.26%, 26.10% and 21.01% for A, B and C respectively. The fat was 2.46%, 2.52% and 3.21% for A, B and C respectively. The fibre content were 1.27% A, 2.68% B and 1.31% C. The energy content was 404.60Kcal A, 390.15Kcal B and 391.82Kcal C. The mineral was 47.75-62.61mg/100g Calcium, 1.32-1.91mg/100g Iron, 1.43-20.01mg/100g Zinc and 153.78-170.17mg/100g phosphorus. The vitamin contents were 2.45-4.28 mg/100 g thiamin, 0.04-1.53 mg/100 g ascorbic acid, 400-1900RE and 0.27-3.02 mg/100 g folic acid. The result of the physical properties shows that the cookies were 3cm in thickness, 6cm in length, 4cm in diameter and the weight varies from 14-20g. The spread ratio was between 1.10-2.40 and spread factor were between 3.34-5.17cm. The organoleptic scores showed that the texture, aroma and overall acceptability of sample A was rated higher compared to sample B and C. The colour of sample C was most preferable to the panelist.

Conclusion: The study revealed that acceptable cookies of nutrient dense can be produced from pigeon pea-carrot composite to improve the nutritional status of the consumers.
Appraising the State of Knowledge of the Valuation of Contaminated Freshwater Ecosystem of the Niger Delta
Authors: Christopher L. Deeyah , Victor A. Akujuru
Published: August 2022

The valuation practice utilised in valuing natural resources in the Niger Delta has shown signs of the paucity of professional knowledge, thus necessitating an appraisal of the state of knowledge possessed by valuers practicing in the Niger Delta. This paper assesses the state of knowledge among Niger Delta valuers in contaminated freshwater on the applicability of the methods of valuation for assessing damaged freshwater resources. With reference to freshwater ecosystem valuation, a survey of practicing valuation firms was conducted on 102 valuation firms using census sampling, and (11) expert valuers were interviewed purposively. Findings indicate a poor knowledge of environmental valuation techniques and a constant recourse to using a predetermined compensation rate in valuing contaminated natural resources. It thus recommends the intensive training and education of practicing valuers on methods of environmental valuation and the valuation of contaminated natural resources.
Organophosphate Poisoning in a Young Child- A Case Report
Authors: Sailan Anjana , Lekshmi Almaja , Babu Bincy
Published: August 2022

Unintentional poisoning is the most common challenge during the childhood age. Among them organophosphate, the commonly used insecticide is the most common agent related to poisoning in children. Organophosphate poisoning causes up to 25% of mortality worldwide. The present article discusses the case of a 3 year old child with accidental intake of organophosphate revealing the symptoms experienced by the patient and different treatment modalities employed and its outcomes. Also the article suggest the importance of follow up after organophosphate poisoning.
Street Games in Filipino Society in Selected Rural Towns of Ilocos Norte
Authors: Mabborang Francis Dave , Suarez Aldrich , Dacuycuy Marc Clinton , Malapira Dan Jerome , Agag Romnick
Published: August 2022

The research identified the Rural Street Games (RSG) of the chosen Municipalities of Ilocos Norte, Philippines, and the Benefits of RSG in promoting Filipino rural identity. The design of this research is Descriptive Design. The six towns of Ilocos Norte, Bacarra, Dumalneg, Pasuquin, Banna, Marcos, and Solsona, were selected to conduct the study. The researchers employed informal interviews and focus group discussions. The research mainly identified rural street games played in Ilocos Norte, Philippines: hide and seek, line crossing game, cow jumping, onion base, and kick game. Playing enhances the intellectual domain, physical domain, and some Filipino values of the players. This research's importance may also reduce to its specific aim, which is exercising socialization. Better communication starts in a simple game. Therefore, playing rural street games carries with it the best practice on how we preserve, strengthen and exercise our traits as Filipinos.
Inter and Intra Row Weeders: A Review
Authors: Balas P. R. , Makavana J. M. , Mohnot P. , Jhala K. B. , Yadav R.
Published: August 2022

One of the most important agriculture operations is to properly manage weeds. Weed management is a tedious task. If weeds aren't effectively controlled, it will negatively affect crop output, quality, and harvest costs. To grow a successful crop, weed management frequently requires significant resource inputs. Review and discussion of inter-row and intra-row mechanical weeding, two different mechanical weed control techniques. In particular, reviews and comparisons of the most popular manual inter-row mechanical weeding tools are made in accordance with their functional principles. The more challenging area of intra-row mechanical weeding is reviewed, and manually operated intra-row mechanical weed control tools are compared. Along with various cutting edge solutions for intra-row mechanical weed control discovered in industry and the research community, the state of the art in automated mechanical weeding is being explored.

Highlights:

 

The majority of mechanical weeders have weeding efficiency between 60 and 80 percent.

That functions at forward speeds ranging from 0.7-9.7 kmph (0.43-6.0 miles/hour) and depths between 1 and 2 cm (0.39 and.78 inch).

Automation is a natural next step for this concept since it has great potential to improve weed control efﬁcacy and minimize to desire the plant damage.
The Prevalence of Malaria in COVID-19 Patients among Blood Group Classification
Authors: Orevaoghene Onosakponome, Evelyn
Published: August 2022

Background: COVID‐19 is caused by SARS‐CoV‐2; it is considered a global tragedy that has astounded health care systems. Since the pandemic began, identifying the characteristics that might influence risk of infection and poor disease outcomes have been of paramount interest. Malaria is still a major global health burden particularly in the sub-Saharan Africa region with about 230 million cases annually. Blood group systems are genetically inherited features whose associations with some infectious diseases have long been debated.

Aim: This observational study was aimed at evaluating the prevalence of malaria in covid-19 patients based on blood group in Rivers State Isolation COVID-19 centers located in Rivers state Nigeria.

Methodology: 400 subjects participated and gave consent to be included in the study. Subjects were grouped ABO blood classification using commercially available anti-sera A, B. Microscopic method was used for the examination of malaria parasite and Giemsa staining technique.

Results: Out of the 400 samples, 327 subjects were infected with malaria parasite while 73 were uninfected. Furthermore,91 subjects were blood group A,85 subjects were blood group B,10 subjects were blood group AB and 214 subjects were blood group O. Additionally, the number of subjects infected with malaria among blood group A, AB, B and O are 71, 69, 7 and 180 respectively. Also the distribution of covid-19 among blood group A, B, AB and O is 78.02%, 81.17%, 70.00%, and 84.11% respectively. Furthermore, the prevalence of malaria and COVID -19 infection based on blood A, B, AB and O appeared to be 14.28%, 9.41%, 0.00% and 16.82% respectively.

Conclusion: This study has shown that most COVID-19 patients in Rivers state COVID-19 centers have blood groups O and A and had malaria co-infection. The prevalence of malaria with COVID-19 patients based on blood group was high amongst group O patient.
Assessment of Physicochemical and Metal Concentrations in Wastewater from the Industrial Zone of Cotonou Benin
Authors: Janvier Bokossa Hervé Kouessivi , Sètondji Adanlokonon Elias Alexandre , Damien Toffa , Harvey Johnson , Patrick Edorth , Didier Fiogbe Emile , Christian Johnson Roch
Published: August 2022

The present study aimed to assess the physico-chemical quality of wastewater(s) in order to better control the flow of various pollutants generated by the industries from the industrial zone of Cotonou. Water samples were collected in triplicate in each collector and analyzed for their nutrient and metal content (Cu2+, Fe2+, Cd2+, Al3+ and Pb2+) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) and a five-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) were carried out by spectrophotometry. The results revealed highly mineralized waters, indicated by average pH (6.97± 0.34), dissolved oxygen (5.16 ± 0.29 mg/L), electrical conductivity (2280.58 ± 263.97 µS/cm) and total dissolved solids (1076.04 ± 51.01 mg/L). The values of COD (482.05± 1.18 mg/L) and BOD5 (291.67 ±2.19 mg/L) were very high, exceeding the standard for industrial wastewater discharge in Benin respectively by 5 and 11 which is indicative of the presence of very poor biodegradable materials coming essentially from industrial discharge in the study area. The concentration of Cd2+, Pb2+ and nutrient salts indicative of eutrophication were relatively low in the collectors. However, the concentration of Al3+ (2.65±0.03 mg/L) and Cu2+ (10.20 ± 0.14 mg/L) were very high with the later cation being four times higher than the wastewater standard in Benin (2.5 mg/L) for the most heavily loaded collectors. In conclusion, the results of this study provide useful insights for implementation of purification system and efficient management of wastewater from industries.
Intercropping of Radish and Beetroot with Chilli under Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions
Authors: Pal Somya , Deepanshu . , Fatmi Urfi
Published: August 2022

A field experiment entitled “Intercropping of Radish and Beetroot with Chilli under Prayagraj Agro-climatic conditions” was conducted from August, 2021 to February, 2022 at the Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and 12 treatments. The experiment consisted of six cropping combinations viz., sole chilli, sole radish, sole beetroot, chilli + radish, chilli+ beetroot, chilli + radish + beetroot. The highest yield (green chilli) was obtained from treatment T1 (sole chilli @ 100 % RDN) (13.09 t ha-1). Among the intercropping treatments, the highest chilli yield (12.62 t ha-1) was obtained from treatment T10 (chilli @ 50% RDN + radish @ 50% RDN) whereas the lowest (9.45 t ha-1) was found in treatment T6 (chilli @ 75% RDN + radish @ 12.5% RDN + beetroot @ 12.5% RDN). Intercropping reduced chilli yield but total chilli with intercrop yield increased over sole chilli due to the contribution of companion crops. The highest chilli along with intercrop yield (150.71 t ha-1), gross return (1101506 Rs. ha-1), net return (817969 Rs. ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (3.88) were obtained from treatment T12 (chilli @ 50% RDN + radish @ 25% RDN + beetroot @ 25% RDN). Considering the experimental findings, treatment T12 (chilli @ 50% RDN + radish @ 25% RDN + beetroot @ 25% RDN) found the most suitable combination for higher productivity and economic return under Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions.
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Fruit Setting and Quality of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) in Meadow Orchard
Authors: Kapadnis Vaibhav Devidas , Singh Devi
Published: August 2022

The present study, "Effect of plant growth regulators on growth, fruit setting, and quality of guava (Psidium guajava L.) in meadow orchard," was carried out in the years 2021–2022, at Central Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture & Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.). Ten treatments made up the experiment with: control, three concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3) at 75, 100, and 125 ppm, three concentrations of naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 200, 250, and 300 ppm, and three concentrations of chlormequat (CCC) at 400, 500, and 600 ppm. These treatments were evaluated in Randomized Blocked Design with three replications. The results showed that a combination of different plants growth regulators had a significant impact on the guava plant's growth and yield parameters, including its height (5.81 m), total number of flowers per plant (178.6), fruiting buds per plant (151.8), number of fruits per plant (127.1), fruit set (71.2%), plant spread (E-W-6.00 m & N-S- 5.89 m), fresh fruit weight (115.5g), and dry weight (78.5g), Fruit diameter (polar-8.46cm & radial-8.16cm), total soluble solids (TSS) 10.170Brix, total sugar (9.2%), and yield/plant (14.7kg) were all found to be higher under the treatment T4 Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) @200ppm, whereas acidity (0.56%) was at its highest in T0 Control.
Screening of Effective Leaf Extracts for Weed Management in Little Millet (Panicum sumatrense Roth ex Roem. & Schult)
Authors: Varshini P. Amrutha , Arthanari P. Murali , Kumar G. Senthil , Bharathi C.
Published: August 2022

Field experiment was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore in January 2022 by seven different leaf extracts as an allelopathical compound in order to choose the best alternative to chemical herbicides by non-chemical weed management approach in little millet owing to the great surge of organic farming in millet production nowadays. Screening trail has been conducted to observe the effect of leaf extracts (Tamarind,Casuarina,Castor,Papaya, Teak,Pine,Nerium) with 20 & 30% concentration on weed control. This experiment laid out in a randomized block design and was replicated twice with 15 different treatments. The findings of this investigation demonstrated that the pre emergence (3 DAS) application of Tamarind leaf extract (30%), Casuarina leaf extract (30%). Castor leaf extract (30%). Papaya leaf extract (30%). Teak leaf extract (30%). Pine leaf extract (30%) and Nerium leaf extract (30%) pronounced the lowest weed density and highest weed control efficiency among fifteen treatments. Based on the results of the experiment, it was concluded that pre emergence application of any different leaf extract among the fifteen treatments, Tamarind, Casuarina, Castor, Papaya, Teak, Pine, and Nerium leaf extracts with 30% concentration had found the allelopathic potential to reduce the weed density and recorded high weed control efficiency with no phytotoxicity on the little millet.
Effect of Low Light Stress on Leaf Chlorophyll a, b, a+b, a/b, Catalse, Peroxidase, SOD and Yield of Long duration Rice Varieties (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Dash Deepali , Pattnaik Debasish , Panda Darshan , Dey Prajjal , Baig M. J. , Rout G. R. , Paikray R. K. , Samal K. C. , Panda R. K. , Gupta Akhilesh Kumar
Published: August 2022

Light has a significant role in growth and development of plants because of its crucial role in photosynthesis and photo morphogenesis. If the amount of light intensity reaches the plants is reduced than the optimum level then it creates low light stress for plants and this problem is identified in the eastern and north-eastern region of India which is the major rice belt in our country. Therefore the present experiment was conducted during Kharif 2019 at plot no-4, Block-V of Department of Crop Physiology and Biochemistry, NRRI, Cuttack to study the Low light effect on the biochemical changes and grain yield of long duration rice cultivars. In the present research, 9 long duration rice varieties along with 2 check varieties were exposed to 75% light and 50% light condition in comparison to control (100% light) to know the leaf chlorophyll behaviour and yield during kharif (July‒November, 2019). Plants were grown in field condition with shade installation done 15days after transplanting to impose low light stress in plants. Among the varieties, Swarnaprabha was found with the highest total chlorophyll content in 100% L (2.311 mg g-1 fresh weight), 75% L (2.705 mg g-1 fresh weight) and 50% L (3.684 mg g-1 fresh weight) at 50% flowering stage. Similarly, Swarnaprabha was recorded with the highest chlorophyll at 7 days after 50% flowering. In both the cases, low light induced more chlorophyll in plants than normal light. Among the antioxidant enzymes, Peroxidase and Catalase exhibited an increased activity under low light stress, whereas Superoxide dismutase (SOD) exhibited decreased activity in low light stress. Besides, higher yield was recorded in normal light condition than 75% light and 50% light condition. Among the varieties Nasati Sali leads with higher yield in 100% (5.10 t ha-1) and 75% (4.27 t ha-1) light condition. On the other hand Swarnaprabha (3.05 t ha-1) having highest yield at 50% light intensity.
Computational Study of Some Heterocyclic Compounds as Anti-corrosion Agents for Aluminum using DFT Method
Authors: Erteeb Manal Ahmed , Mahmoud Farah , Kareem Abdulsatar S.
Published: August 2022

DFT Calculations were performed on Oxazole, Pyrazole, Imidazole, Isoxazole, Thiazole and Isothiazole as corrosion inhibitors for Al  with full optimization of geometries in DFT-B3LYP/6-31 G*Level (d, P( to find a relation between the molecular structure and corrosion inhibition. The electronic properties such as the energy of the highest molecular orbital that is occupied (HOMO), the energy of lowest unoccupied orbital (LUMO), the energy gap (LUMO–HOMO), quantum chemical parameters such as hardness, softness, the fraction of the electron transferred, and the electrophilicity index. In order to know the relationship of molecular structure and corrosion inhibition on surface of the quantum chemical parameters, boundary orbital's isothiazole has  been  found  the highest anti-corrosion efficiency as compared to other.
Molecular Identification and Prevalence of Bacterial Isolates from Vegetables Salad Purchased from Fast Food Centres in Two Local Government Areas in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Christiana Ndukwe Ifeoma , Obioma Azuonwu , Enoch Amala Smart
Published: August 2022

Introduction: The importance of daily consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables in our diet cannot be over emphasised. The desire to eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables have driven some people to rely already prepared vegetables salad from fast food centres to meet the need.

Aim: The aim of this study was to identify bacteria associated with vegetables salad in Port Harcourt metropolis and determine susceptibility of isolated bacteria from food centres located in the Local Government Areas.

Study Design: A total of 200 samples of already prepared vegetables salad were examined which comprises of four samples from each of five different fast food centres in each of the 10 communities in Port Harcourt metropolis.

Methodology: 10 g of vegetables salad was weighed and added to 90 ml of sterile distilled water and subsequent serial dilution was made by adding 1 ml to 9 ml of diluents up to 10-3.  An aliquot of 0.1ml of last dilution was plated by spread plate technique MacConkey agar, Tryptone soy agar, Salmonella Shigella agar and mannitol soy agar in duplicate. The inoculated plates were incubated at 37°C for 18-24 hrs and examined for growth. Antibiogram of the isolates were carried out using Mueller Hinton agar. The isolates were subjected to molecular analysis for identification before susceptibility testing.

Results: The bacteria isolated from the vegetables salad were Staphylococcus aureus 114(38%), E. coli 93(31%), B. cereus 30(10%), Pseudomonas sp. 26(9%), Klebsiella sp. 12 (4%), Alcaligenes sp. 7(2%), Acinetobacter 5(2%), Lysinnibacilus 6(2%), Enterobacter sp. 4(1%) and Providencia sp. 2(1%). The resistance genes detected in the isolates were CTX-M, SHV and VanB.

Conclusion: The microbiological quality and safety of ready to eat salad sold in Port Harcourt seems to be a challenge despite the advances in technology and awareness that has been created.
Visibility of the Mandibular Canal: From Two-Dimensional Radiography to Three-Dimensional Imaging
Authors: Sharrouf Wissam , Aoun Georges
Published: August 2022

The mandibular canal (MC), located within the mandible, carries the inferior alveolar nerve and the inferior alveolar vessels. This neurovascular bundle is at risk during mandibular surgical procedures. Therefore, an adequate preoperative evaluation of the MC could lead to safer treatment with fewer postoperative complications. The purpose of this paper was to review the most commonly used radiographic techniques in dentistry (periapical, panoramic, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)) as well as their benefits and drawbacks in terms of MC visibility and, as a result, better preoperative planning in dentistry. Although panoramic radiography and CBCT technology are useful for the MC assessment, CBCT exposes the MC image more accurately and is thus regarded as the best technique for pre-surgery radiographic planning.
Performance Evaluation of Organic and Conventional Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Production in the West Region of Cameroon: An Economic Policy Review
Authors: Engwali Fon Dorothy , Ngum Neba Nancy , Chotangui Asafor Henry
Published: August 2022

Aims: To describe the socio-economic characteristics of potato producers, compare the performance and identify production challenges of organic and conventional potato production in the West region of Cameroon.

Study Design and Methodology: The study population refers to the conventional and organic potato producers in the West region of Cameroon. Purposive and snowball sampling technique were used in this study. A total sample size of 200 respondents was identified, 148 conventional farmers and 52 organic farmers. Out of 200 farmers interviewed, 55 from Mifi division (11 organic and 44 conventional) and 145 from Menoua division (41 organic and 104 conventional).

Results: Results revealed that majority of potato producers in the West region of Cameroon are male, 70.3% conventional farmers and 88.5% organic farmers. Most farmers are married (73% conventional and 78.9% organic farmers) and practiced livestock rearing in addition to potato production. Also, most farmers (59.5% conventional farmers and 59.6% organic farmers) have secondary education as their highest level of formal education. Information on yield revealed a productivity gap and production cost between conventional and organic potato farmers with a positive mean difference of 7,102.877kg and 765,184 frs respectively, significant at 5% level in favour of conventional farmers. Similarly, results showed a gap in revenue and gross margin between the two categories of farmers with a positive mean difference of 1,233,240 frs and 465,475.4 frs respectively, significant at 5% level in favour of conventional farmers. Analysis showed that 50% of conventional farmers interviewed noted rainfall variation as the main challenge faced in production while 80% of organic farmers have low seed quality as the main challenge.

Conclusion: Conventional potato farmers are better off than organic potato farmers in terms of yield and gross margins, thus bringing to limelight the question concerning the popular push of organic foods consumption as regard potato.
Variable Presentation of Foreign Body Aspiration in Children: Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Mengal Naseem , Brohi Ali Raza , Siyal Ali Akbar , Tabassum Rafia , Khaskheli Saleh , Shah Masoom Ali
Published: August 2022

Aim: To determine the frequency of common clinical presentations in children with foreign body aspiration.

Methodology: This cross sectional study was done during the period of March, 2017 to Feb, 2018 A total of 84 children with history of foreign body aspiration were included. The data was entered in the proforma which includes history and the common presentation. The study was approved by ethical review board of PUMHSW. Written informed consent was taken from parents/guardian of all participants.

Results: The average age of the children was 3.2±1.69 years. There were 52(61.9%) male and 32(38.1%) were female. Frequency of common clinical presentation was repeated attacks of cough 64.3%, respiratory distress 64.3% followed by sudden onset of choking 54.8%, non-responsive to treatment 34.5%, cyanosis 11.9% and with decrease air way breath sound in right and left as well as bilateral lung was 44%, 23.8% and 16.7& respectively. 46.4% had right, 22.6% left and 25% bilateral hyperinflation similarly 17.95 right, 15.5% left lung were collapse.

Conclusion: Beetle nut as foreign body inhalation is more common in children. Repeated attacks of cough, respiratory distress, and chocking are the commonest symptoms. FBA should be kept in differential diagnosis of persistent cough in children.
Stock Market Response to Changes in the Statutory Corporate Income Tax Rate: Comparative Analysis between Developed and Developing Economies
Authors: Daruwala Zaheda , Christopher Edmund , Antony Jaishu
Published: August 2022

In this study, the authors use an empirical approach to evaluate the impact of changes in the statutory corporate tax rate on stock market returns. The main objective is to investigate whether changes in income tax rates impact stock market returns and to examine the extent of this impact. According to the United Nations country classifications, the authors categorized the sample economies into two types: developed and developing1. The study further scrutinizes the differences in the outcomes when comparing developed with developing economies using a comparative study approach. Data on corporate tax rates and corresponding stock market returns are analyzed for developed economies of Japan, US and Italy, and developing economies of South Africa, Malaysia and India. The study uses panel data regression and correlation analysis of the variables of stock market returns and corporate tax rates from1990 to 2010. The statistical analysis revealed that the only significant impact was of tax cuts on stock market returns in general, and developed countries responded more strongly to tax cuts. For a 1% tax cut in rates, the stock markets could expect an increase in returns of 0.185% in the year of the tax change. Tax hikes, however, did not reveal any significant adverse effect on stock market returns. Hence, it is pertinent to note that developed and developing economies exhibit varied behaviors toward corporate tax policies and governments could make calculated decisions, considering the consequences of their tax policies on capital markets and corporate valuations.
cAMP‐induced decrease in cell‐surface laminin receptor and cellular prion protein attenuates amyloid‐β uptake and amyloid‐β‐induced neuronal cell death
Authors: Gopalakrishna Rayudu , Lin Charlotte Y. , Oh Andrew , Le Calvin , Yang Seolyn , Hicks Alexandra , Kindy Mark S. , Mack William J. , Bhat Narayan R.
Published: August 2022

Previous studies have shown that amyloid‐β oligomers (AβO) bind with high affinity to cellular prion protein (PrPC). The AβO‐PrPC complex binds to cell‐surface co‐receptors, including the laminin receptor (67LR). Our current studies revealed that in Neuroscreen‐1 cells, 67LR is the major co‐receptor involved in the cellular uptake of AβO and AβΟ‐induced cell death. Both pharmacological (dibutyryl‐cAMP, forskolin and rolipram) and physiological (pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide) cAMP‐elevating agents decreased cell‐surface PrPC and 67LR, thereby attenuating the uptake of AβO and the resultant neuronal cell death. These cAMP protective effects are dependent on protein kinase A, but not dependent on the exchange protein directly activated by cAMP. Conceivably, cAMP protects neuronal cells from AβO‐induced cytotoxicity by decreasing cell‐surface‐associated PrPC and 67LR.
Disruption of tp53 leads to cutaneous nevus and melanoma formation in Xenopus tropicalis
Authors: Ran Rensen , Li Lanxin , Shi Zhaoying , Liu Guanghui , Jiang Hao , Fang Liangchen , Xu Tingting , Huang Jixuan , Chen Weiqi , Chen Yonglong
Published: August 2022

In humans, germline TP53 mutations predispose carriers to a wide spectrum of cancers, which is known as Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). To date, the association of melanomas with LFS remains unestablished. No melanomas have been reported in any P53‐modified mouse models either. In this study, we show that targeted disruption of P53 at the DNA‐binding domain in Xenopus tropicalis recapitulates LFS, with the formation of soft‐tissue sarcomas and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Interestingly, 19% of the 14‐month‐old tp53Δ7/Δ7 homozygotes and 18% of tp53+/Δ7 heterozygotes spontaneously developed small nevi and non‐invasive melanomas. Large invasive melanomas were also observed in other older homozygous mutants, with about 7.9% penetrance. Our data suggest that more dermatologic investigation of LFS patients should be able to settle the association of melanoma with LFS in epidemiology. Our model is also valuable for further investigation of the molecular mechanism underlying melanoma progression upon germline alteration of the tp53 locus.
Recent Advances in the Discovery of Therapeutics to Curtail Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Aggregation for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment
Authors: Smith Alyssa A. , Moore Kendall B. E. , Ambs Patrick M. , Saraswati Akella Prasanth , Fortin Jessica S.
Published: August 2022

In humans with type 2 diabetes, at least 70% of patients exhibit islet amyloid plaques formed by misfolding islet amyloid polypeptides (IAPP). The oligomeric conformation and accumulation of the IAPP plaques lead to a panoply of cytotoxic effects on the islet β‐cells. Currently, no marketed therapies for the prevention or elimination of these amyloid deposits exist, and therefore significant efforts are required to address this gap. To date, most of the experimental treatments are limited to only in vitro stages of testing. In general, the proposed therapeutics use various targeting strategies, such as binding to the N‐terminal region of islet amyloid polypeptide on residues 1–19 or the hydrophobic region of IAPP. Other strategies include targeting the peptide self‐assembly through π‐stacking. These methods are realized by using several different families of compounds, four of which are highlighted in this review: naturally occurring products, small molecules, organometallic compounds, and nanoparticles. Each of these categories holds immense potential to optimize and develop inhibitor(s) of pancreatic amyloidosis in the near future.
Natural Polymer‐Derived Bioscaffolds for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Hui , Guo Jiahui , Wang Yu , Shang Luoran , Chai Renjie , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: August 2022

In recent decades, artificial nerve scaffolds have become a promising substitute for peripheral nerve repair. Considerable efforts have been devoted to improving the therapeutic effectiveness of artificial scaffolds. Among numerous biomaterials for tissue engineering scaffolds fabrication, natural polymers are considered as tremendous candidates because of their excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, high cell affinity, wide source, and environmental protection. With the development of engineering technology, a variety of natural polymer‐derived nerve scaffolds have emerged, which are endowed with biological properties and appropriate physicochemical performances to gradually adapt to the needs of nerve regeneration. Significantly, the intergradation of exogenous biomolecules onto the artificial scaffolds is able to avoid low stability, rapid degradation, and redistribution of direct therapeutic drugs in vivo, thereby enhancing nerve regeneration and functional reconstruction. Here, the development of nerve scaffolds derived from natural polymers, and their applications in continuous administration and peripheral nerve regeneration are comprehensively and carefully reviewed, providing an advanced perspective of the field.
Hydration Enables Air‐Stable and High‐Performance Layered Cathode Materials for both Organic and Aqueous Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xinyuan , Yang Xin , Sun Ge , Yao Shiyu , Xie Yu , Zhang Wei , Liu Chunbao , Wang Xiaoqi , Yang Rui , Jin Xu , Shen Ze Xiang , Fan Hong Jin , Du Fei
Published: August 2022

Potassium (K)‐based layered oxides are potential candidates for K‐ion storage but they suffer from chemical instability under ambient conditions that deteriorate their performance in rate‐capability and cycle life. To tackle this issue, a facile hydration strategy is employed, in which H2O molecules are introduced into the K ion layers of P3‐type K0.4Fe0.1Mn0.8Ti0.1O2, which induces a phase transition from the hexagonal to monoclinic symmetry accompanied by layer spacing expansion. The hydrated K0.4Fe0.1Mn0.8Ti0.1O2 ⋅ 0.16H2O has a strong tolerance to air and can be stored in lab air ambient for 60 days without a change in crystal structure or chemical composition. The K0.4Fe0.1Mn0.8Ti0.1O2 ⋅ 0.16H2O electrode shows improved K+ mobility and less volume change during potassiation/de‐potassiation. Owing to these merits, K0.4Fe0.1Mn0.8Ti0.1O2 ⋅ 0.16H2O as the cathodes for both organic and aqueous potassium‐ion full batteries attain outstanding rate capability and cycling stability (for example, capacity retention of 90% after 1000 cycles). This simple and potent hydration strategy has also been applied to improve the air stability of other K‐based layered oxides, including P3‐K0.4MnO2 and P2‐K0.5Cu0.1Fe0.1Mn0.8O2, illustrating its usefulness in boosting layered oxides for durable potassium‐ion storage.