bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience Factors, the School-Based Universal Prevention Program “Unplugged” and Healthy Behavior among Early Adolescents
Authors: Abrinkova Lenka , Orosová Oľga , De Jesus Saul Neves , Gajdošová Beata , Bacikova-Sleskova Maria
Published: December 2021

The paper investigates the role of the internal asset (IA), perceived external resources (PER) of resilience, and the school-based universal prevention program known as ‘Unplugged’ in explaining persistent healthy behavior among early adolescence. A sample of 425 adolescents was collected in a repeated measure design study with a baseline (T1) and a six-month follow-up (T2) after the Unplugged implementation. Persistent healthy behavior was assessed by a change in the cumulative index of substance use created by combining alcohol use and cigarette smoking in the past 30 days and their change between T1 and T2. Four categories were created: non-users, permanent users, new users and ex-users. A multinominal logistic regression revealed that non-users were more likely to show higher self-esteem when compared to permanent users. Females had a higher probability of being non-users than either being permanent users or new users. Moreover, Unplugged intervention increased the probability of being a non-user rather than a new user. Regarding PER of resilience, non-users were more likely to have higher home support, prosocial peers, and school connectedness compared to permanent users. Non-users were also more likely to have higher levels of prosocial peers compared to new users. In summary, higher self-esteem, home support, prosocial peers and school connectedness are associated with persistent healthy behavior. To maintain this persistent healthy behavior, the school-based universal prevention program Unplugged has been effective; thus internal assets and external resources of resilience, and prevention program Unplugged, play an important role in the absence of alcohol or cigarette use in early teenage years.
Sedentary lifestyle may contribute to the risk of depression during the COVID-19 pandemic : A snapshot of Hungarian adolescents
Authors: Berki Tamás , F. Pikó Bettina
Published: December 2021

Background: Social exclusion usually contributes to an increased vulnerability to mental health problems and risky health behaviors. This study aims to identify the role of health behavior in the increased risk of depressive symptoms among adolescents during the coronavirus pandemic in Hungary. Methods: A total of 705 high school students participated in our study (M = 15.9 years; SD = 1.19). The self-administered questionnaire included items about sociodemographics, eating habits, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and substance use. Depressive symptoms were measured using the short version of the Child Depression Inventory. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used to analyze our results. Results: Daily fruit and vegetable consumption was reported by 21.7% and 22.4% of respondents, respectively. The proportion of the respondents reporting daily sweets consumption stood at 13.2%, daily soft drinks consumption was 12.3%, and daily energy drink consumption tallied to 4.5%. More than one-third of the sample (35.5%) reported having breakfast every school day, which rose to 68.1% of the sample reporting breakfast on both weekend days. The rate of students engaged in daily physical activity was 6.5%, while 86.1% of them reported more than four hours screen time in a day. In addition, despite the mandatory confinement, a notable percentage of adolescents engaged in substance use. Consistent with previous studies, girls had a higher risk of depression. Low levels of physical activity and high levels of screen time – as well as alcohol and drug use – were associated with a high risk of depression. Conclusions: We believe our study provided useful information on adolescent health behaviors that can lead to adolescents’ depression, and that maintaining physical activity can prevent it even in these unusual circumstances.
Mental Health Problems and Patterns of Self-Care Associated with the Use of Digital Devices among University Students
Authors: Joshi Dirgha Raj , Singh Jitendra Kumar , Neupane Umesh
Published: December 2021

Background: Digital devices such as computers, laptops, television (TV) and mobile phones were originally designed to support human beings’ daily activities; however, they may produce several limitations as well as benefits. The main concern of the study was how the utilization of digital devices like laptops, computers and TVs affect the mental health of Nepal’s university students and what are the self-care practices utilized to manage problems? Method: 326 MPhil scholars of Nepal Open University (NOU) participated in this cross-sectional study. Digital devices pattern of use (i.e., TV, laptop and computer), mental health problems, and self-care practices among university students were assessed through a semi-structured questionnaire. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were major statistical techniques used in the research. Results: The study’s researchers found the following mental health problems: depression (21.5%), loneliness (39.9%), anxiety (30.7%), and a loss of the sense of control (47.5%). Significant associations were found between sitting position with loneliness, age and anxiety and the daily use of computer with sense of control, loneliness, and anxiety. Additionally, computer use two to three times a week, laptop use in the evening and sitting on a chair or stool when using digital devices, stood as the main predictors respectively of the sense of control, loneliness, and depression. Few participants with mental health problems used medicine and meditation for self-care. Conclusion: The use of digital devices was associated with mental health problems. Patterns of using computers and the preferred time to use laptops were major contributing factors for one’s sense of control and loneliness, respectively. Therefore, an awareness programme concerning the use of digital devices and their effects on mental health should be communicated among university students.
Potential Risk Factors for Length of Hospitalization in COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Talebi-Ghane Elaheh , Khazaei Salman , Tapak Leili , Soltanian Ali Reza , Bashirian Saeed , Keramat Fariba , Amini Payam , Ramezani Doroh Vajiheh
Published: December 2021

Background: Identifying the potential risk factors of the length of stay in hospital (LOSH) in COVID-19 patients could help the health system meet future demand for hospital beds. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the length of stay in hospital in COVID-19 patients in Hamadan, the west of Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 512 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Hamadan city. Demographic, clinical, and medical laboratory characteristics of the patients and their survival status were assessed by a checklist. Univariate and multiple negative binomial regressions were used by Stata 12. Results: The median hospitalization length for COVID-19 patients was five days (range: 0 to 47). In the discharged patients, the adjusted incidence rate ratios (95% CI) of LOSH for females, rural residents, patients with a history of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, SPO2 less than 88%, prothrombin time higher than 13 s, platelet count lower than 130 × 1000 µL, blood sugar higher than 105 mg/dL, and intensive care unit experience were 1.16 (1.03, 1.44), 1.22 (1.03, 1.44), 1.43 (1.07, 1.92), 1.41 (1.23, 1.61), 0.82 (0.71, 0.93), 1.32 (1.11, 1.56), 1.18 (1.03, 1.36), and 1.85 (1.59, 2.17) compared to their references, respectively. Conclusions: Our study added new insight into LOSH determining factors that could be used for future planning in combating the need for hospital beds. The present study revealed that some demographic, social, and clinical variables could increase the IRR of a more extended hospital stay.
Christian Moral Freedom and the Transgender Person
Authors: Sweeny Block Elizabeth ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: December 2021

A false sense of freedom is often blamed for gender nonconformity. Transgender and genderqueer persons are accused of manipulating their bodies according to their will and due to a mistaken sense of freedom. This paper challenges this assumption and suggests that it is cisgender persons who ought to adopt a posture of genuine Christian moral freedom, which requires taking risks, seeing that new possibilities of life exist, and recognizing truth in the experiences and bodies of transgender persons. The paper begins by surveying recent theological scholarship on gender fluidity and gender transitions, which offers robust resources but does not address moral freedom, and Catholic magisterial responses to “gender ideology,” which hinge on the assumption that radical autonomy is to blame. The paper then draws on James Gustafson’s rich description of Christian freedom, which he pairs with hope, to suggest that cisgender persons should adopt the posture of Christian freedom that transgender and genderqueer persons already live.
Innovativity in Legislative, Political and Organizational Frameworks of Sustainable Land Management in Benin
Authors: Dosso Faridah , Idrissou Latifou , Moussa Ismail Moumouni
Published: December 2021

Agricultural lands are increasingly degraded due to various human actions (overgrazing, intensive use of chemical inputs) and the consequences of climate change. In Benin, 62% of agricultural land were degraded in 2017. In this regard, Sustainable Land Management measures are highlighted by various public decisions. This study analyzed the political, legislative, and organizational frameworks of Sustainable Land Management in Benin. It was carried out through content analysis of laws, decrees, and Sustainable Land Management policy documents to highlight the place of innovativity in institutional and organizational framework in Sustainable Land Management in Benin. Results reveal that the various frameworks analyzed are oriented towards developing practice-based innovations through the implementation of Sustainable Land Management measures, support to actors in the implementation of Sustainable Land Management innovations and the monitoring and evaluation of Sustainable Land Management strategies. The capacity to innovate is also promoted through the strengthening of the technical, institutional, material, and financial capacities of the actors. On the other hand, the propensity to innovate component of Innovativity is hardly addressed in Sustainable Land Management public policies in Benin. It is therefore necessary to direct agricultural policies towards an institutionalization of the strengthening of the propensity to innovate of agricultural producers for a long-term appropriation of Sustainable Land Management measures in Benin.
Molecular Dissection for Boll Shedding in Upland Cotton Using Microsatellites
Authors: Zia Kanwal , Hussain Syed Bilal
Published: December 2021

DNA markers application in marker-assisted breeding of cotton is handicapped due to low genetic diversity in cotton germplasm. The present study was designed to identify DNA markers, predominately simple sequence repeats (SSRs), associated with tolerance/resistance to heat stress as a consequence of boll shedding. To find out the genetic diversity a total of 24 cotton genotypes and 50 SSR primers were used. Total 288 alleles were produced with an average of 5.7 alleles per primer. Bootstrap cluster analysis used to generate a dendrogram that cluster the 24 accessions into two main clusters. Eleven out of 24 genotypes fall in a single cluster. Phenotypically H-4074 gives more diversity, while genotypically H-4074 sheared the same genetic background as H-4070, H-4091 and H-4090. Low genetic diversity was observed among both genotypic and phenotypic as maximum varieties fall in single group. This study helps for selecting diverse accessions with multiple phenotypic traits, which were drought to boll shedding. It suggests further elaborating the molecular genetic diversity by using new SSR marker to improve the yield of cotton cultivars. These preliminary results set the stage for initiating in depth marker-trait association studies, which will be instrumental for initiating marker-assisted breeding in cotton.
Response of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.) to Varying Levels of Plant Density and Nitrogen
Authors: Niharika M. , Vidya Sagar G. E. C. H. , Rekha K. Bhanu , Anjaiah T.
Published: December 2021

A field experiment was conducted during kharif, 2019 at College Farm, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Telangana. The present study was conducted to know the effect of different planting densities and nitrogen levels on the growth and yield of Finger millet. The soil of experimental site was loamy sand type, slightly acidic in pH (6.43), non-saline in EC (0.15 dSm-1), low in organic carbon (0.42%), low in available N (201.6 kg ha-1), medium in available P (25.3 kg ha-1), low in available K (236.25 kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with factorial concept and replicated thrice with 12 treatments combinations consisting of four nitrogen levels (0 %, 50%, 100% and 150% RDN) and three levels of planting density (S1-solid rows × 15 cm, S2- 30 cm × 15 cm, S3- 25 cm × 15 cm). Results indicated that S1-solid rows × 15 cm recorded highest plant height, number of tillers m-2, dry matter production (g m-2) and S3- 25 cm × 15 cm recorded highest leaf area plant-1 and yield. Application of 150% RDN recorded highest plant growth parameters, grain yield and straw yield. However, it was on par with 100% RDN. It was concluded that planting density of 25 cm × 15 cm among spacings and 100% N among nitrogen levels proved to be a viable option for getting higher productivity and profit under rainfed conditions of central agro climatic zone of Telangana.
Evaluation of the Impacts of Oil Pollution and a Sustainability Assessment: A Focus Group Case Study of Ogoniland, Nigeria
Authors: Ben Ime , Nwankpa Chigozie , Baird Jim
Published: December 2021

The growing impact of climate change has piqued public interest in determining the effects of people's actions on future generations. However, while environmentalists continue to advocate for accountability, most people in the places where the majority of these pollutions occur, particularly in oil-producing communities, have no say in their future. The study proposes a qualitative approach and the creation of a focus group environmental matrix as a unique technique for oil spill management that considers people's perceptions. This study takes a qualitative approach, relying on a focus group discussion of 12 open-ended questions about oil spills effects on the ecosystem. The questions were all about the spills' impact on residents. The qualitative study was performed between March and May 2018 in Gio, Ogale, Kwakwa, and KeDere Local Governments in Ogoniland. Gender-based strategies were studied with pre-determined questions and a total of 48 participants. Participants were indigenous who were conversant with the chosen topic and were asked leading questions. Finally, matrix analysis was used, which matched the people's perspectives. As a result, the total environmental components were affected. The following are the effects of oil pollution recognised by the focus group matrix: unsustainable income, devalued economy, devalued culture, weathering mangrove, respiratory disorders, inaccuracy in reaction, communication barrier, and economic deterioration. It ascertained that the focus group technique to promote environmental restoration and sustainability is vital. It allows for a more direct connection with the most vulnerable and provides policymakers with potential solutions.
Enhancing Growth and Yield Parameters in Mulberry through Different Levels of Drip Irrigation and Mulching
Authors: Ranjitha H. O. , Chandrashekhar S.
Published: December 2021

The experiment was conducted to find out the impact of levels of drip irrigation and mulching on growth, yield and quality parameters of mulberry. Among different levels of irrigation 0.8 CPE recorded higher values for growth and leaf yield (47613 kg ha-1 year-1) parameters. Compared to lower levels of irrigation 0.5, 0.6 and 0.7 CPE. Also, mulberry plants mulched with black plastic polythene cover recorded higher values for growth and leaf yield (45143 kg ha-1 year-1) compared to plants without mulching. The interaction effect 0.8 CPE along with mulching (T8) recorded higher values for all the growth and yield parameters compared to other combination of treatments and lower values for the same were recorded in 0.5 CPE along in without mulching plot. The study revealed that adoption of drip irrigation in mulberry at 0.8 CPE along with mulching is appropriate to enhance the growth parameters (plant height, number of shoots, number of leaves, leaf area and total dry matter content) and leaf yield.
Performance of Heat Tolerant Maize Genotypes under Moisture Stress during Rainy Season in Karnataka
Authors: Shwetha B. N. , Chittapur B. M. , Kuchanur P. H. , Koppalkar B. G. , Halepyati A. S. , Mahadevaswamy . , Veeresh H. , Ramesh Y. M.
Published: December 2021

This research was formulated to study the response of heat tolerant genotypes to prolonged period of water stress prevalent under rainfed situation. The trial was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Dhadesugur, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India, during rainy season (kharif) 2019. The present study comprised of three stress tolerant genotypes (RCRMH 2, RCRMH 3 and RCRMH 4) with four moisture stress stages (imposed between 20-40, 40-60, 60-80 and 80-100 DAS) which were sown during June, July and August, and the design employed was Randomized complete block design. The results revealed that superior performance of RCRMH 3 (5321 kg ha-1) over other genotypes whether stressed or not, but all the genotypes were on par with each other in terms of physiological parameters viz., proline accumulation, relative water content, canopy temperature, NDVI, relative chlorophyll content and ASI, and these parameters exhibited good correlation with yield and hence found ideal for stress studies. The present study indicated that these cultivars sustain maize production under moisture stress condition and therefore, are suitable to semiarid region characterized by inclement weather.
Evaluation of Rock Phosphate Enriched Compost on Soil Nutrient Status after Harvest of Finger Millet-Cowpea Cropping Sequence in High Phosphorus Soils of Cauvery Command Area, Karnataka
Authors: Jagadeesha G. S. , Prakasha H. C. , Shivakumara M. N. , Govinda K. , Yogananda S. B.
Published: December 2021

A field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, VC Farm, Mandya during kharif 2017, summer 2018, kharif 2018 and summer 2019 to study the effect of rock phosphate enriched compost on soil nutrient status after harvest of finger millet-cowpea cropping sequence. Prior to initiation of the field experiment, three different composts viz., urban solid waste compost (USWC), vermicompost and farm yard manure (FYM) were enriched with rock phosphate at 5 per cent. Field experiment consisting of eleven treatment combinations comprising recommended N and K, and P through varied levels of enriched composts. The experiment was laid out in RCBD design with three replications and the test crops were finger millet and cowpea. The initial P2O5 of the experimental site was very high (133.58 kg ha-1). The results revealed that application of recommended N and K + 75 per cent P supplied through enriched USWC (T5) had significantly higher organic carbon (0.56 and 0.58%) in pooled data of both finger millet and cowpea, respectively. Available N (241.94 and 224.86 kg ha-1), P2O5 (138.69 and 120.99 kg ha-1) and K2O (153.92 and 135.31 kg ha-1) were recorded significantly higher in T5 of finger millet and cowpea, respectively. Similarly, in pooled mean, exchangeable Ca [4.15 and 4.04 C mol (P+) kg-1] and Mg [2.16 and 2.05 C mol (P+) kg-1] were recorded significantly higher in treatment which received recommended N and K + 75 per cent P supplied through enriched vermicompost (T8) in both finger millet and cowpea, respectively. The decrease of available P2O5 was 20.98 per cent from initial (133.58 kg ha-1) to final crop (summer 2019) (105.55 kg ha-1).
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern and ESBL Prevalence of Bacteria Isolated from Street Vended Snacks
Authors: Anab-Atulomah Chidiebere , C. Oji Ngozi , N. Kanu Vivian
Published: December 2021

Aims: The objective of the study was to ascertain the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and ESBL prevalence of bacteria isolated from snacks.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology (Laboratory Unit) Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike.

Methodology: The snacks were mashed aseptically, serially diluted and inoculated onto nutrient agar and MacConkey agar. Isolates were identified using standard microbiological procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates and ESBL detection was done using disk diffusion method. ESBL production was confirmed using Double Disc Synergy Test (DDST) method following CLSI recommendations.

Results: Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the bacteria isolated with Escherichia coli as the most prevalent isolate with 42% occurrence in the samples screened. There was significant difference in the sensitivity of the bacteria isolates to the different antibiotics used at P=0.05. Salmonella Typhi isolates exhibited highest resistance to an antibiotic with 86% resistance to ciprofloxacin while Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates exhibited the lowest resistance to an antibiotic with 10% resistance to cefotaxime. Among the Gram-negative bacteria, 36% of suspected ESBL producing E. coli isolates were confirmed as ESBL producers indicating the highest occurrence.

Conclusion: The study confirmed the presence of bacteria in street vended snacks which exhibited high resistance to antibiotics that could be attributed to the presence of ESBL producers among the isolates.
Analyticity of the Resolvent Function
Authors: Simiyu Achiles Nyongesa , Alosa Philis , Olege Fanuel
Published: December 2021

Analytic dependence on a complex parameter appears at many places in the study of differential and integral equations. The display of analyticity in the solution of the Fredholm equation of the second kind is an early signal of the important role which analyticity was destined to play in spectral theory. The definition of the resolvent set is very explicit, this makes it seem plausible that the resolvent is a well behaved function. Let T be a closed linear operator in a complex Banach space X. In this paper we show that the resolvent set of T is an open subset of the complex plane and the resolvent function of T is analytic. Moreover, we show that if T is a bounded linear operator, the resolvent function of T is analytic at infinity, its value at infinity being 0 (where 0 is the bounded linear operator 0 in X). Consequently, we also show that if T is bounded in X then the spectrum of T is non-void.
Prospects and Challenges of Geothermal Energy in Uganda
Authors: S. Mutumba Geoffrey , Echegu Simon , S. Adaramola Muyiwa
Published: December 2021

This paper explores geothermal energy use as a renewable energy option in Uganda. It is discussed in pursuit of sustainable development. Uganda has been undergoing fast economic growth particularly as demonstrated by its resilience against the effects of COVID-19, it must develop its renewable energy resources to match this growth. In this paper, we present the findings of an exploratory research to ascertain potential of geothermal energy for Uganda of 1500MW (3.6% of overall energy potential). The prospects and challenges of geothermal energy development are discussed. In concluding remarks good policies with strong political will, manpower training, financial support for research, and financial and subsidy incentive programs.
Qualitative and Quantitative Determination of Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Potential of Plumbago indica Root Extracts
Authors: Mane Kavita , Patil Rajendra , Pandey Aditya Nath
Published: December 2021

Due to their well-known attribute of having minimal side effects as compared to medicines, natural items with medical potential are progressively gaining prominence in clinical research. The roots of Plumbago indica (P. indica, Plumbaginaceae) are commercially significant since they are the primary source of plumbagin and its derivatives. Plumbagin is well-known for its many pharmacological properties. P. indica roots yielded three naphthoquinones: plumbagin, 3, 30-biplumbagin, and elliptinone, which were employed as standard markers for quantitative HPLC analysis. The goal of this research was to screen phytochemicals, assess alkaloids, phenolic and flavonoid content, and measure the antioxidant potential of P. indica roots. The well-known test methodology was used to determine qualitative analysis of several phytochemical ingredients as well as quantitative analysis of total alkaloids, phenol, and flavonoids. The antioxidant activity of an ethanolic extract of P. indica roots was investigated in vitro using the 1,1-diphenyl, 2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) test technique. Alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, phenolics, proteins, and glucose were found in the ethanol and aqueous extracts, according to phytochemical study. P. indica roots ethanolic extract had 5.55, 0.930, and 3.940 mg of total phenolic, flavonoids, and alkaloids respectively. For comparative purposes, ascorbic acid was employed as a benchmark. In the investigated models, the extract showed dose-dependent free radical scavenging properties. For the DPPH technique, P. indica roots extract had an IC50 value of 23.02 µg/ml, which was equivalent to that of ascorbic acid (IC50=17.68 µg/ml). These researches contributed to the accurate identification of this plant material. The plant's broad variety of phytochemicals implies that it has medicinal potential, which might be investigated in the pharmaceutical sector as well as in traditional medicine.
Alteration in the Efficacy of in Vitro Vancomycin and Ceftazidime Prepared in Normal Saline Versus Balanced Salt Solution in the Management of Ocular Infections
Authors: Khaqan Hussain Ahmad , Hassan Laraib , Eric Sabah , Buksh Hasnain Muhammad , Naz Raheela , Haider Muhammad Ali
Published: December 2021

Objective: The purpose of this review article is to highlight the efficacy of Vancomycin and Ceftazidime formulated in different solutions for ocular use in the management of microbiological Ocular infections varies.

Methodology: To locate and assess all relevant literature, we employed systematic review as a search approach, utilizing punctilious and unambiguous methodologies. We initiated by stipulating key terms and selecting appropriate databases for your literature search. To find replicable and reportable publications from high-quality peer-reviewed journals, we used Google Scholar, PubMed, and Research Gate.

Results: Ceftazidime precipitated at 37 degree Celsius, but not at room temperature, however it did not show any effect on the pH of the medium. In both the media of Normal Saline and Balanced Salt Solution, it precipitated on its own or when coupled with vancomycin. Ceftazidime was initially prepared in Balanced Salt Solution rather than Normal Saline, which resulted in further precipitation. Ceftazidime prepared in Normal Saline precipitated to 54% after 168 hours in the dialysis chambers, compared to 88% in Balanced Salt Solution. Ceftazidime synthesized in Normal Saline declined from an initial concentration of 137.5 to 73.4 µg/ml  after 48 hours, while ceftazidime prepared in Balanced Salt Solution decreased to 6.3µg/ml. Vancomycin precipitation was inappreciable.

Conclusion: Vancomycin did not precipitate in Normal Saline or Balanced Salt Solution, according to this systemic study. Regardless of the presence of vancomycin, ceftazidime precipitated, and it precipitated more expeditiously if it was produced in Balanced Salt Solution rather than Normal Saline.
Frequency of Overweight Women and Ovarian Enlargement among Females Presented with Pelvic Pain Complains
Authors: Soomro Rukhsana , Brohi Zahida Parveen , Jabeen Asma , Rehman Afra , Rana Mehreen Yousaf
Published: December 2021

Objective: To determine the frequency of overweight females and ovarian enlargement among women presenting with pelvic pain complaints at rural Health facilities of district Tando Muhammad Khan.

Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted at physiology department of Sindh University with the collaboration of different rural health facilities of Tando Muhammad Khan, Sindh. All the females presented with pelvic pain and age more than 18 and up to 45 years were included. Body mass index (BMI) was assessed by the ratio of the individual's weight in kilograms divided by the height in meters squared (BMI = kg/m2). All the patients underwent ultrasound examination. Data collection was done by structured study proforma. Analysis of the data was done by the SPSS version 20.

Results: A total of 239 women with pelvic pain complaints were studied, their mean age was 32.79+4.31 years. Neoplastic ovarian lesions were seen amogn12.54% of the cases. Cystic ovarian lesions were among 30.54% of the females, 5.01% had ovarian mass and 21.33% females had mixed pathologies. BMI was normal among 62.76% cases, while 20.08% women were overweight, 03.34% were obese and 13.8%females were underweight.

Conclusion: Overweight females and ovarian enlargement were observed to be highly frequent among females presented with pelvic pain complaints. Cystic enlargement was observed to be the commonest cause of ovarian enlargement.
A Case Report: A 37 Years-old Women with Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Sheikh Shakib H. , Raut Arti , Pohekar Savita , Ghungrud Dipali , Morey Swapna
Published: December 2021

Background: A rarity of form of vasculitis, also known as TAK, induces inflammation in the walls of the major arteries in the body: the aorta and its main branches. The disease results from a body attack and inflammation of the walls of the arteries caused by the body's own immune system.

Case Presentation: A 37-years-old women had complaints of fever, giddiness, weakness of right upper limb and lower limb since1 day. After undergoing whole blood count, liver function examination, renal and MRI function checks, CT scan, angiography, etc. was studied. She was diagnosed with takayasu arteritis.  She had past medical history of neck pain and numbness since January 2020. For these complaints her family members referred her in private hospital. There is no significant history of surgery in present, lower segment caesarean section and piles operation was done previously. Physical findings were normal except the Glasgow Coma Scale score was 11 that is, patient  was semi-conscious, In General appearance patient activity was dull and weak due disease condition, Patient’s all routine investigations were normal except few like Total WBC count was increased (21,500cell /cm) due to increased infection, Granulocytes were increased  that is 75 % due to infection and autoimmune disease, ESR was increased  that is52mm/h. Angiography showed block in the right common carotid artery, MRI- showed Acute infract in left fronto  temporo parietal region involving insular par ventricular white matter,  absent flow in distal M1 segment of MCA.

Conclusion: The most frequently involved arteries and the angiographic trends in this Takayasu Arteritis study were subclavian arteries and carotid arteries. The difference between angiographic characteristics may lead to clinical differences. Operations and surgery should be carried out at various points in the course of the disease.
Determination of Patient Characteristics and Role of Physician Intervention for Uncontrolled Hypertension: A Risk for Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Memon Waseem Raja , Memon Shahzad , Makwana Dayaram , Rashid Abdul , Memon Beenish Ghafar , Aamer Nasrullah
Published: December 2021

Objective: Our research was designed to evaluate the association of uncontrolled hypertension with coronary artery disease and analyze the role of intervention in preventing CAD mortality ratio.

Methodology: This case controlled single-center study was conducted in department of Medicine, Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences Nawabshah Pakistan from January 2020 to September 2021. In this study, BP screening was done among the adult population aged 50 years or over. All the recruited patients of coronary artery disease were divided into two main groups for a clinical trial; case (identified cases of uncontrolled hypertension) and the control group (without history of cardiovascular disorders and used medication for hypertension). For evaluating physician intervention, both groups were divided into two main groups for treatments; the standard Bp control (having <140 mm Hg SBP level) and the intensive blood pressure control (whose SPB <120 mm Hg). we used BP-lowering medication which adjusted the systolic blood pressure around 135–139 mm Hg in the standard group and less than 120 in intensive group.

Results: Overall the female prevalence was comparatively high (63.2%) than males (37%). No significant differences were found in the baseline characteristics of participants.  In 42% of cases, we found coronary artery calcification. Univariate logistic analysis of our study demonstrates the association of CAD with age, smoking, and BMI. We also found a positive association of CAD with higher CRP, and uncontrolled hypertension.

Conclusion: Our study observed a significant association between uncontrolled hypertension and coronary artery disease. The results of our study concluded that interventions in terms of BP control might be affected due to pre-existing cardiovascular diseases. However, intensive BP treatment would help to reduce the mortality ratio of CAD patients.
Tertiary Care Orthopedic Hospital Experience to Find Effect of Dynamisation in Delayed Union Tibia Shaft Fracture
Authors: Adil Syed Salman , Khan Imran , Pahore Muhammad khan , Maheshwari Lachman Das , Lal Madan , Keerio Niaz Hussain , Noor Syed Shahid
Published: December 2021

Objective: Our study was designed to evaluate the effect of dynamisation in delayed union tibia shaft fractures.

Methodology: This prospective study was conducted at the Orthopedic Department, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College, from March 2020 to March 2021. During this timeframe total of 20 patients who underwent dynamisation for reamed intramedullary nailing were recruited. After two successive visits, those patients whose fracture failed to show progressive signs of callus formation underwent dynamisation. We removed the single static screw from the longer fracture segment to perform the dynamisation procedure. We inserted a poller screw slightly medial to the nail from anterior to posterior to provide additional stability to the proximal fragment. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS 23.0. For evaluating the success of dynamisation Chi-square test was used.

Results: The mean age of recruited patients was reported as 35.92 years ranging from 16 years to 63 years old. Out of these twenty cases, 17 were male (85%). The mean time duration of nailing was reported as 35.4 hours. Total fourteen patients were immediately treated with nailing within 20 hours of injury, while the rest six underwent delayed nailing. Total four cases of tibial fracture were turned out as failure because the patient failed to achieve union after dynamisation and underwent augmentation plating with bone grafting for the complete union.

Conclusion: Delayed dynamisation is a convenient and cost-effective technique to achieve union in femoral shaft fractures. Overall, our study reported an 80% success rate but failed to achieve early dynamisation in comminuted fractures.
Ecological Risk Assessments of Heavy Metal Contamination in Water, Sediment and Biota of Otamiri and Imo Rivers, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbonna D. N. , Ndukwu O. O. , Abam T. K. S. , Ngah S. A.
Published: December 2021

Heavy metals pollution of the environment is a serious concern because of the hazardous effects they pose to human health, ecosystems and other biological receptors. The aim of this study was to assess the ecological risk of exposure to heavy metals and physicochemical parameters around Otamiri and Imo rivers in Etche and Oyibo Local Government Areas of Rivers State. Water, sediment, arrow head plant (Sagittaria latifolia) and christmas bush Plant (Ceratopetalum gummiferum), tilapia fish samples (Oreochromis niloticus) and cat fish (Clarias gariepinus) were collected at different points from five sample stations for wet and dry seasons. These samples were analyzed quantitatively to assess the levels of contamination in the samples using the ecological risk assessment models associated with exposure to these contaminants. The results of the heavy metal analysis show that the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for biota samples ranged from 0.000 – 1.254 mg/kg/day while water ranged from 0.000 -0.322 mg/kg/day. The target hazard quotient (THQ) ranged from 0.000 – 69.228 for both biota and river water samples for Otamiri and Imo rivers The hazard index values indicated significant public health risk with values of 1.42 was recorded for Tilapia and 33.14 for Christmas bush plant. Cancer risk due to heavy metals exposure had a peak value of 1.04 x10-1 for wet season. The bioaccumulation of the metals showed that the pollution load index values ranged from 2.467- 5.822 in wet season and 9.708 – 99.853 in dry season. The presence of these heavy metals above threshold values suggest that the aquatic life that inhabit such rivers risk bioaccumulation which may affect the human population that depends on Otamiri/Imo rivers for fishing, drinking or irrigation. These poses a danger if bioaccumulation was to take place over a long period of time.
Does working at home compromise mental health? A study on European mature adults in COVID times
Authors: Perelman Julian , Serranheira Florentino , Pita Barros Pedro , Laires Pedro
Published: December 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed working at home (WAH) into the exclusive mode of working for many European workers. Although WAH will likely remain after COVID-19, its consequences on workers’ health are unclear. This study examines the association of WAH and the change of four mental health (MH) domains.

Methods

We used data from the last wave of the Survey on Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe, collected in June and July 2020 on European people aged 50 and older. We restricted our analysis to people aged 50–65 who were working before COVID-19 (N = 7065). We modeled the risk of worsening of depression and anxiety feelings, sleeping trouble, and feelings of loneliness as a function of the working situation (usual setting, at home and usual setting, at home only), using logistic regressions. A first model adjusted for sociodemographic variables, a second one adding country fixed effects, and the last one adding the stringency of COVID-19-related restrictions.

Results

WAH was significantly associated with a worsening of all MH symptoms. Nevertheless, when the stringency index was factored in, no significant association of WAH was found with any of the health outcomes except for anxiety feelings (+4.3% points). However, the increased anxiety feelings among people in WAH were not greater than the one observed among nonworkers.

Discussion

Our findings show that WAH was not a major cause of mental health deterioration among European mature adults during the first month of the pandemic. Further evidence is needed on WAH under post-COVID-19 “normal” circumstances.
Virus‐Inspired Hollow Mesoporous Gadolinium‐Bismuth Nanotheranostics for Magnetic Resonance Imaging‐Guided Synergistic Photodynamic‐Radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Zongjunlin , Wang Peiyuan , Xie Fang , Chen Jianhao , Cai Meimei , Li Yang , Yan Jianghua , Lin Qin , Luo Fanghong
Published: December 2021

The anti‐tumor efficacy of single photodynamic therapy (PDT) and radiotherapy (RT) has been greatly affected by inadequate tumor uptake of photo/radiation sensitizers, limited laser penetration depth, and radiation sickness caused by high doses of X‐rays. Here, the authors report a biomimetic coronavirus‐inspired hollow mesoporous gadolinium/bismuth nanocarrier loaded with a new NIR photosensitizer HB (termed as HB@VHMBi‐Gd) for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided synergistic photodynamic‐RT. HB@VHMBi‐Gd displayed a faster cellular uptake rate than the conventional spherical HMBi‐Gd loaded with HB (HB@SHMBi‐Gd) because of rough surface‐enhanced adhesion. After intravenous injection, HB@VHMBi‐Gd is efficiently delivered to the tumor and rapidly invades the tumor cells by surface spikes. Interestingly, lysosomal acidity can trigger the degradation of VHMBi‐Gd to produce ultrasmall nanoparticles to amplify the X‐ray attenuation ability and enhance MRI contrast and radiosensitization. Under laser and X‐ray irradiation, HB@VHMBi‐Gd significantly enhances 1O2 generation from HB to induce activation of caspase 9/3 and inhibition of C‐myc, while enhancing hydroxyl radical generation from Bi2O3 to induce intense DNA breakage. By synergistically inducing cell apoptosis by distinct reactive oxygen species (ROS), HB@VHMBi‐Gd exhibits superior anticancer efficacy with ≈90% tumor inhibition. They envision that biomimetic virus‐inspired hollow hybrid metal nanoparticles can provide a promising strategy for imaging‐guided synergistic photodynamic‐RT.
Double‐Side‐Coated Grid‐Type Mechanical Membrane Biosensor Based on AuNPs Self‐assembly and 3D Printing
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Dong Zhao , Dong Xiushan , Duan Qianqian , Ji Jianlong , Liu Yan , Pei Zhen , Ji Chao , Sang Shengbo
Published: December 2021

The membrane based on receptor functionalization provides a new paradigm for the development of mechanical biosensors. However, improvement of sensitivity and test accuracy is still a challenge for mechanical biosensors in practical application. Herein, a surface stress mechanical biosensor (MBioS) based on double‐side‐gold nanoparticale (AuNP)‐coated grid‐type polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane (D‐G‐MBioS) and 3D printing for human serum albumin (HSA) detection is developed. The surface stress is amplified by the grid coupling sandwich immune structure to improve the sensitivity of the MbioS, successfully reducing limite of detection (LOD) by two orders of magnitude. By self‐assembly of AuNPs, the double‐side‐coated PDMS membrane is prepared, and the detection accuracy of the sensor is improved. The 3D printing is employed to improve the consistency of the MBioS. The D‐G‐MBioS system is constructed, realizing the HSA detection in range of 0–50 µg mL−1 with a LOD of 20.6 ng mL−1. In addition, the D‐G‐MBioS based on sandwich assay is exhibited the high specificity, selectivity, stability, and repeatability. Especially, the D‐G‐MBioS can detect the HSA in real samples. This study provides a way to improve the sensitivity of mechanical biosensor.
Tailoring of Visible Light Driven Photocatalytic Activities of Flower‐Like BiOBr Microparticles Towards Wastewater Purification Application
Authors: Wang Can , Du Peng , Duan Xiangmei , Luo Laihui , Li Weiping
Published: December 2021

Photocatalysis acts as an important role in controlling wastewater purification. However, it is still a huge challenge to obtain highly‐efficient visible light driven photocatalysts. Herein, flower‐like BiOBr microparticles with splendid photocatalytic activities are developed. The electronic structure of BiOBr host is explored via the first‐principles density function theory. Besides, the impact of some external factors on the photocatalytic properties of BiOBr compounds is studied. In comparison, the flower‐like BiOBr microparticles have the best photocatalytic behaviors and they can degrade RhB within 10 min with a high K value of 0.498. Moreover, via using heat treatment, the light harvest ability and phase structure of flower‐like BiOBr microparticles are hardly altered, while their photocatalytic capacity is tailored due to the modified specific surface area and pore volume as well as the diverse charge separation efficiency. Furthermore, through altering the pH value of solvent, the resultant compounds exhibit totally different photocatalytic behaviors, and these products achieved at pH = 7 exhibit the best properties. Additionally, the designed photocatalysts have excellent recyclability and the photocatalytic mechanism is determined by h+, ·O2−, and ·OH. These achievements imply that the flower‐like BiOBr microparticles are promising candidates for visible light driven photocatalysts to realize wastewater purification.
Growth of Hybrid Chiral Thin Films by Molecular Layer Deposition Zinc/Cysteine as a Case Study
Authors: Yemini Reut , Blanga Shalev , Aviv Hagit , Perelshtein Ilana , Teblum Eti , Dery Shahar , Gross Elad , Mastai Yitzhak , Noked Malachi , Lidor‐Shalev Ortal
Published: December 2021

Atomic and molecular layer deposition (ALD and MLD) are techniques based on surface‐directed self‐limiting reactions that afford deposition of films controlled at the monolayer level and with extreme conformality, even on ultra‐high‐aspect‐ratio and porous substrates. These methodologies are typically used to deposit thin films with desirable physical properties and functionality. Here, the MLD process is harnessed to demonstrate the growth of molecularly thin chiral films that inherit a desirable chemical property directly from the source precursor: using this innovative technique, enantioselective nanosurfaces are managed to be grown. Specifically, the formation of a Zn/Cysteine nanostructure by MLD is demonstrated for both the l‐ and d‐ enantiomers. The reaction and growth mechanism of these chiral hybrid inorganic‐organic nanosurfaces are studied via various experimental procedures; their enantioselectivity is also demonstrated. The findings contribute to the understanding of the structure and chiral nature of hybrid inorganic‐organic nanosurfaces and open the path to the bottom‐up synthesis of diverse chiral nanosurfaces. These chiral nanostructures may play a key role in many aspects of chiral chemistry and are valuable for both fundamental science and practical applications.
SymPhas—General Purpose Software for Phase‐Field, Phase‐Field Crystal, and Reaction‐Diffusion Simulations
Authors: Silber Steven A. , Karttunen Mikko
Published: December 2021

This work develops a new open source application programming interface (API) and software package called SymPhas for simulations of phase‐field, phase‐field crystal, and reaction‐diffusion models, supporting up to three dimensions and an arbitrary number of fields. SymPhas delivers two novel program capabilities: 1) User specification of models from the associated dynamical equations in an unconstrained form and 2) extensive support for integrating user‐developed discrete‐grid‐based numerical solvers into the API. The capability to specify general phase‐field models is primarily achieved by developing a novel symbolic algebra functionality that can formulate mathematical expressions at compile time; is able to apply rules of symbolic algebra such as distribution, factoring, and automatic simplification; and support user‐driven expression tree manipulation. A modular design based on the C++ template meta‐programming paradigm is applied to the symbolic algebra library and general API implementation to minimize application runtime and increase the accessibility of the API for third party development. SymPhas is written in C/C++ and emphasizes high‐performance capabilities via parallelization with OpenMP and the C++ standard library. SymPhas is equipped with a forward Euler solver and a semi‐implicit Fourier spectral solver. Sample implementations and simulations of several phase‐field models are presented, generated using the semi‐implicit Fourier spectral solver.