bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic Synthesis of Memantine (Memary) Oligosaccharides (Gluco-oligosaccharides) and their application as anti-dementia drugs that cross the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB)
Authors: Hamada Hiroki , Ishihara Kohji , Shimoda Kei , Kuboki Atsuhito , Kiriake Yuya , Hosoda Ryusuke
Published: November 2023

Memantine (memary) oligosaccharides (gluco-oligosaccharides) were synthesized by enzymatic glycosylation, using cyclodextrin glucanotransferase as a biocatalyst. Although memantine hardly crosses the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in the mouse brain, memantine oligosaccharides crossed the BBB of mouse brain and were incorporated into the mouse brain tissue. Our investigations indicated that memantine modified with oligosaccharides might have gained a BBB-crossing ability. Furthermore, during the Y-maze test using senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8, our study revealed that the time spent in the novel Y-maze arm by the memantine-oligosaccharides-treated mouse was longer than that spent in the novel arm by the memantine-treated-mouse. Therefore, this study established that since memantine oligosaccharides could penetrate the BBB of mouse brain and be incorporated into the mouse’s brain tissue, they could also enhance spatial learning.
Seed Mycoflora of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) and their Phytopathogenic Effect
Authors: Arun A. T. , Singh Mahabeer
Published: November 2023

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) which belongs to the pedaliaceae family, is one of the oldest oilseed crops cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and South America. India ranks first in both acreage and production (about 8 lakh MT) of sesame in the world. The seed mycoflora which causes deteriorative effects like reduction in seed quality and their germination in sesame. Seed samples of sesame were collected from five tehasils of Jaipur district, revealed variation in germination, seedling symptoms and incidence of seed mycoflora which finally effect seed quality. Discolouration (dirty black), deformity (Shrivelled), along with damaged seeds and impurities were commonly found in all the seed samples. A total number of eight seed mycoflora viz., Alternaria sesami, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Colletotrichum spp., Fusarium spp., Macrophomina phaseolina, Mucor spp. and Penicillium spp. were obtained in both Blotter and Agar Plate Method. The disease incidence of Alternaria sesami were found predominant in among the inoculation method. Maximum disease incidence of mycoflora was observed in seed sample ‘A’ whereas minimum observed in seed sample ‘C‘. Among these, Alternaria sesami was found to be highly pathogenic as it showed maximum reduction in seed germination and vigour index with enhanced pre and post-emergence mortality. The pathogenicity of Alternaria sesami highest was observed in seed cum foliar inoculation technique.
Assessment of Iron Fortified Spice Blends and its Sensory Attributes
Authors: Elangovan Priyadharshini , Kumaran P. Sathish , Sarkar Jayeta , Gnanavendhan S. G. , Issac D. Padmasingh , Abraham Abishek
Published: November 2023

This article was aimed at formulating iron fortified spice blends with ferrous salts for the fortification of iron in Indian diets. As iron deficiency continues to be a complex intricacy, WHO estimated that 52% of the population in India is anguished with anemia. It provides an information of iron fortification with spice blends and thus introduces a sequence of articles in this context, to delineate the current affirmation of fortification of iron with spice blends and also reviews our current knowledge of deficiency of anemia among children, women and men and the method used for iron fortification. In this case, to reach the recommended dietary allowance of iron in Indian diet, a tamarind based Indian diet Rasam was preferred, as tamarind is acidic in nature which enhances iron absorption. It summarizes the optimization of fortification of iron in Indian diets and the evaluation of iron proportion in control samples, fortified spice blends, ferrous salts and the sensory attributes of fortified spice blends. Subsequently spice blends with higher percent of iron in ferrous sulfate and ferrous fumarate was chosen, since the results showed significant higher values that ferrous fumarate with 1% of dosage had a higher proportion of iron and more palatable sensory characteristics than ferrous sulfate.
Environmental Advocacy Groups' Impact and Strategies in Waste Management: Shaping Policies and Raising Awareness, with a Focus on Food Waste
Authors: Sudheshna Aligina Anvitha , Sharma Mamta , Agarwal Sunita
Published: November 2023

Waste management is an increasingly critical environmental issue, necessitating concerted efforts to address its impact on ecosystems and human well-being. Environmental advocacy groups play a pivotal role in driving sustainable waste management policies and raising awareness about pressing challenges, such as food waste. This review paper examines the influence and strategies of environmental advocacy groups in waste management, with a specific focus on their impact on policies and initiatives and their role in combatting food waste. The concept of environmental advocacy groups and their role in waste management were discussed. Through case studies and examples, an analysis was drawn on how these groups have successfully influenced waste management policies at various levels, ranging from local communities to international forums. Moreover, it explores the strategies employed by advocacy groups, including social media campaigns, public awareness initiatives, lobbying efforts, grassroots movements, and collaborations with diverse stakeholders. With a special emphasis on food waste, the review paper unveils the role of environmental advocacy groups in tackling critical issues. The paper discusses the far-reaching implications of food waste, encompassing economic losses, social disparities, and environmental degradation. Leveraging innovative strategies will be instrumental in driving positive change.
Integration of Transcriptomic approaches towards understanding Begomovirus Infection in Plants
Authors: Lager Priya , Sharma Jyoti , Kumar Yogesh
Published: November 2023

Begomoviruses are considered as the destructive plant virus genus. During plant-virus interactions, begomovirus alters several cellular and physiological pathways by changing the gene expression. To understand these interactions with host plants, transcriptomic methods are adopted by many researchers. Significant changes in the expression of transcripts are found to be associated with biochemical pathways. Viral infection begins a complex interaction between the virus and the host. Unravelling these interactions can be helpful in the development of effective strategies for the virus control. In recent years, RNA sequencing and microarray studies have been applied extensively to know the response of plant hosts to viral infection. We aimed to identify important differentially expressed genes in host plants under begomovirus infection. In this present review, we focused on begomovirus-plat interactions with the help of transcriptomic analysis which will be helpful for scientific community to better understand the mechanisms of host against begomovirus species.
Use of ICT for Dissemination of Weather Forecast and Agromet Advisory to Farmers of Palghar District Under GKMS–Damu Project
Authors: Sayyad R. S. , Jadhav V. M.
Published: November 2023

India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi collectively started District Agromet Unit (DAMU) under Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva (GKMS) project at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to minimize the farm losses due to extreme weather events. District & block wise Agromet Advisory Bulletine (AAB) were prepared & disseminated through different Information Communication Tools (ICT). The impact of agromet advisory services of DAMU was analyzed in end of the kharif season 2022 by conducting a feedback survey through google form shared in block level what’s app groups created by DAMU. 300 farmers have given response through google form. It results that majority of the farmers responded belongs to age group of 21-40 years (43%) followed by 41-60 years (38.60), 61-80 years (16.2%). About 63% of the farmers said that these weather-based agro advisories were useful in all practices of crop cultivation, followed by 14.7% of the farmers said that the advisories were play major role while taking decision at harvesting stage of crop, 11.3% of the farmers used forecast and advisory during sowing and transplanting stage. 51% of the farmers said that they were highly satisfied with AAS, followed by 36.7% of farmers satisfied with the AAS. MEGHDOOT and DAMINI application also became an effective tool for farmer’s and 59 % of farmers using these applications in their mobile. It is concluded from the study that weather forecast, agromet advisories & extreme event alerts were disseminated through these simple communications tools play major role in effective crop management and enhanced yield of crops and farmers income too.
Changes on Nutritional Quality of Ripe Persimmon When Pre-Treated with Different Pre-Treatments and Drying Methods
Authors: Bisht Samiksha , Dhiman Anju K , Attri Surekha , Kathuria Deepika
Published: November 2023

Persimmon is also known as Japaniphal (Diospyros kaki L.) used for preparing dehydrated persimmon slices. Among different pre-treatments (blanching, potassium metabisulphite, citric acid, ascorbic acid) used prior to drying, the steam blanching for 3 min + KMS (300 ppm) + citric acid (0.3 %) immersed for 20 minutes in water found to be highest sensory scores therefore considered best. The pretreated slices of persimmon were further dried using different drying techniques sun (T1), solar (T2) and mechanical cabinet (T3). The best drying method was mechanical cabinet (T3) based on highest value of chemical characteristics and greatest scores for sensory. When stored for six months, the decrease in constituents like ascorbic acid and β-carotene (8.96 to 8.66 and 17.92 to 13.47 mg/100 g), fibre content (1.25 to 1.04 %), antioxidant activity (63.19 to 59.59 %) and total phenols (14.05 to 10.30 mg/100 g) was minimum in slices dried in dehydrator (mechanical cabinet) in contrast with dryer (solar tunnel and solar glass). The sensory scores showed acceptable limit but remained decreased during storage. The minimal changes in both (chemical and sensory) attributes generally with the result ensured that dried persimmon slices prepared surely be stored safely for the duration of 6 months.
Potential Reservoirs of Nosocomial Pathogens in a Hospital: An Investigational Study
Authors: Krishnaveni M. K. , Bilolikar Anil Kumar , Thomas Sister Mariyamma
Published: November 2023

The transmission of nosocomial pathogens in a hospital is a serious and growing concern worldwide. Environmental reservoirs could be playing a larger role in transmission than was first realized. This study evaluated environmental surveillance for nosocomial pathogens isolated from patients with hospital acquired infections. All the samples collected from the patients and environment were inoculated onto Mac Conkey Agar and 5% Sheep Blood Agar. These culture media were incubated overnight for 37°C. The growths obtained on the culture media were further processed for identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing by Vitek 2 Compact according to manufacturer’s instructions. A cluster of neurosurgical site infections post craniotomy isolated Serratia marcescens, which was associated with shaving razors contaminated by S. marcescens. In the medical ICU, 2 patients placed next to each other isolated Burkholderia cepacia in their blood cultures. Burkholderia cepacia was isolated from the rim of the sink in the handwash station. Following cardiac surgeries of two patients, both patients were infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the surgical site. The same isolate was isolated from operation theatre overhead light handle and door handle of cardiothoracic ICU. In the paediatric ICU, Acinetobacter baumanii was isolated from the endotracheal secretions of two patients. Culture of water and environmental samples grew Acinetobacter baumanii from the oxygen vacuum jar. The environment of a hospital can contribute to hospital acquired infections. Hence, a diligent housekeeping protocol would reduce the risk of transmission of nosocomial pathogens from the environment.
Eucalyptus gunni Mediated Fabrication of Silver Nanoparticles and their Biomedical Applications
Authors: Suganya S. , Vijayanand S. , Vanmathiselvi K.
Published: November 2023

Nanobiotechnology in the development of nanoparticles is of considerable prominence to enlarge their biological solicitations. At present, a wide array of metal nanoparticles has been synthesized by using biogenic enzymatic methods. In the present study, Ag nanoparticles were green synthesized by using the aqueous leaf extract of Eucalyptus gunni. Further, the NPs were characterized by UV-Visible spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The antibacterial activity of the biosynthesized Ag nanoparticles was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Maximum antagonistic activity was observed against Escherichia coli. Thus the biogenic nanoparticles can be sight seen in biomedical applications devoid of adverse side effects.
Influence of Post-harvest Chemical Treatments on Shelf Life of Crossandra
Authors: Srinivasulu G. B. , Shiragur Mukund , Shirol A. M. , Basavaraja N. , Gangadharappa P. M. , kumar Pavan
Published: November 2023

The experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, Munirabad, Koppal district Karnataka with an object to study the post harvest studies in Crossandra which was carried out under lab condition during the year 2020-21 comprising of nine treatments with three replications and design adopted was CRD. The details of chemical treatments includes T1–Sucrose – 2 %, T2–Sucrose – 4 %, T3- Boric acid – 2 %, T4- Boric acid – 4 %, T5– Aluminium sulphate - 2 %, T6-Aluminium sulphate – 4 %, T7– Ascorbic acid 100 ppm, T8- Ascorbic acid 200 ppm, T9- Control. The results indicated that spraying of ascorbic acid @ 200 ppm directly to flowers enhanced shelf life of Crossandra.
Unleashing Thermal Potential: Successes and Challenges in Steam Injection Well Completions for Thermally Assisted GOGD Heavy Oil Field
Authors: Nofali N. , Amri M. , Shaibani M. , Vandeweijer T. , Diri M.
Published: November 2023

Field-X is a heavily naturally fractured carbonate reservoir with viscous and sour oil. The recovery mechanism employed is thermally assisted gas oil gravity drainage (TA-GOGD), featuring a unique combination of a gas cap and strong aquifer influx—making it the first and only of its kind worldwide. The objective of this paper is to showcase the success stories and challenges associated with steam injection well completions in this unique and challenging producing environment. The focus is on the entire well completion process, including design, installation, remedial interventions, and operation, with a specific emphasis on maintaining well integrity and meeting field steam injection targets.

Real case studies are presented, highlighting the success stories and challenges of steam injection well completions in Field-X. The improvements made in completion design are discussed, ranging from injection through cemented casing to sophisticated completions, and the challenges encountered with each design are also emphasized. Additionally, the learnings and challenges during the workover interventions using well pulling hoist (WPH) or wireline unit (WLU) are highlighted. Furthermore, operational philosophy and best practices for well integrity are presented, drawing on cumulative field experience.

The Improved completion design has resulted in enhanced injection performance, improved well integrity, and consequently increased oil recovery and production. However, emerging issues that require further attention and mitigation are also identified. Additionally, the paper concludes by highlighting valuable lessons learned and providing recommendations concerning steam injection well interventions and operational strategies. Real case studies and valuable guidance are offered for optimizing steam injection well completions, contributing to the understanding of optimizing thermal recovery in similar carbonate reservoirs.
Recombinant Bacillus subtilis for Enhanced Production of High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid
Authors: Doumbouya Nouhan , Akkaya Alper
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to synthesize hyaluronic acid (HA) using a non-pathogenic, recombinant bacterial host, specifically Bacillus subtilis 1A752. The hyaluronic acid synthase (HAS) gene, hasA, originally isolated from Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus, was introduced into B. subtilis 1A752. This host strain already harbors tuaD, gtaB, and gcaD genes, which are functional analogues to the Streptococcus genes hasB, hasC, and hasD, respectively. The hasA operon was amplified from genomic DNA of S. zooepidemicus through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequently cloned into B. subtilis 1A752 using recombinant DNA technology. The engineered B. subtilis strain was then utilized for HA production. Post-synthesis, HA was analyzed and deproteinized using Carbazole and Sevag methods, respectively. The purified HA was characterized using chromatographic techniques, and its molecular structure was confirmed through Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Viscosimetric methods were employed to determine the HA's characterization and molecular weight. The results revealed that the engineered B. subtilis 1A752 strain could produce HA at a concentration of 195.45 mg. l-1, with molecular weights ranging from 1.7 to 2.7 MDa. Given its high molecular weight and non-pathogenic production source, the synthesized HA shows promising potential for applications in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries.
Precision Nursing Research Based on Multimodal Knowledge Graph
Authors: Xiong Liping , Zeng Qiqiao , Deng Wuhong , Luo Weixiang , Liu Ronghui
Published: November 2023

Background: Precision nursing seeks to tailor care to individual patient needs, and knowledge graphs offer a promising way to integrate diverse data for enhanced precision. However, the application of knowledge graphs in nursing remains relatively unexplored, motivating this study.
Objective: This study aims to explore and apply multimodal knowledge graph technology to facilitate the development of precision nursing, providing patients with more efficient, accurate, and personalized care services.
Methods: Firstly, we collected and integrated data sources, including clinical databases, nursing training textbooks, and internet data, to form a multimodal dataset in the field of nursing. Then, we used natural language processing techniques, data mining algorithms, and graph database technology to extract and represent knowledge from different data sources, constructing a nursing multimodal knowledge graph containing textual, image, and video data. After completing the graph construction, we used visualization tools to display and interactively query the graph to validate its accuracy and utility.
Results: We have built a multimodal knowledge graph in the nursing domain, focusing on patients and diseases, and highlighting nursing issues, nursing techniques, nursing assessments, and disease symptoms. This comprehensive multimodal knowledge graph encompasses a total of 62,909 entities and 330,285 relationships. We have effectively applied this graph in precision nursing research, yielding favorable outcomes in the domains of personalized nursing profiles generation, clinical nursing semantic search, real-time nursing question-answering, and personalized nursing decision-making.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates the value and potential applications of multimodal knowledge graph in precision nursing research. The graph provides comprehensive and precise knowledge support for nursing education, clinical practice, and decision-making, and holds the promise of further advancing and innovating nursing informatization and intelligence. And our code and databases can be accessed through the link: https://github.com/XiongLP208/NursingKnowledgePN .
Identification of a seven-gene prognostic model for kidney renal cell carcinoma associated with CD8+T lymphocyte cell
Authors: Liu Jing bang , Yin Bo
Published: November 2023

CD8 + T lymphocytes are important elements of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), hence their involvement in the development and progression of tumors is complex. Data on the precise tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) gene signature in kidney cancer (KIRC) remain limited. Therefore, this study created a TIICs-related predictive model for patients with KIRC using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The most important genes associated with CD8 + T lymphocytes were identified using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Functional categories of important genes were revealed using gene ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway analyses. A CD8 + T lymphocyte-related prognostic model with seven important genes was simultaneously created using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), univariate and multivariate Cox regressions, and the hub genes EOMES, SIRPG, PTPN7, CD3G, APOBEC3G, FASLG, and TIGIT, which were expressed particularly in CD8 + T lymphocytes according to single-cell sequencing data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Finally, we used PCR to verify the expression of hub gene in KIRC.This study identified seven genes associated with CD8 + T lymphocytes that may influence risk stratification in patients with KIRC and serve as possible CD8 + T lymphocyte-related biomarkers.
Relationship between IL-6 and IL-10 Inflammatory Cytokines and Severity Criteria in Trauma Victims.
Authors: de Oliveira Rodrigo Gonçalves , Shio Marina Tiemi , Bachi André Luis Lacerda , Ribeiro Ana Paula , Sabbion Rodrigo Olivio , Colombo-Souza Patrícia
Published: November 2023

Background: The severity of the clinical status of polytrauma patients may be associated with an increase in the systemic inflammatory state mediated by cytokines. In fact, it has been suggested that the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines can be used as prognostic indicators in trauma patients, since higher levels of IL-6 and lower levels of IL-10 are associated with worse outcomes, according to the trend shown in recent studies. Therefore, the objective of this study was to verify the relationship between the levels of these cytokines and the severity of the trauma.
Methods: Prospective and analytical study carried out with 20 patients over 18 years of age, victims of trauma, who met the criteria for transfusion of blood components according to the Shock Index (SI) and Assessment of Blood Consumption (ABC Score) as a predictor of severity, at the time of admission (T0) and 48 hours after (T1) admission to the emergency room. Blood samples were collected at these two times to assess the serum concentration of IL-6 and IL-10.
Results: Most patients were male (90%), with a mean age of 33.2 years. In total, 18 patients scored on the Shock Index (90%), 2 patients scored on the ABC Score (10%), and 6 patients (30%) received a score on both. Lower serum IL-10 concentrations were observed at T1 than at T0. IL-6 levels showed no differences between times. Significant positive correlations between IL-6 and IL-10 were evidenced at T0 (p=0.0065) and T1 (p=0.0263). There was an association of IL-6 levels with the ABC score and of IL-10 with the SI score.
Conclusion: Although IL-6 serum levels alone did not change, IL-10 levels were reduced 48 hours after patient admission. In addition, the criteria for patient selection showed a significant association with the cytokines IL-6 and IL-10, suggesting that in addition to being predictors of blood transfusion, they could also be used as markers of severity in polytrauma patients.
Efficacy and safety of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) for septic patients in ICU: A cohort study from MIMIC database
Authors: Miao ShengHui , Yang Mingkun , Yang Zhouxin , Yan Jing
Published: November 2023

Background
Sepsis is characterized by a dysregulated immune response to infection. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) is a widely used immunosuppressant and has unique properties that may be associated with beneficial outcomes of patients with sepsis by keeping down of an overactive immune response. Our research is designed to investigate whether the use of CNIs exempt septic patients from adverse prognosis and assess whether it might bring about some adverse reactions.
Methods
The Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV 2.2 (MIMIC-IV 2.2) database was searched to identify septic patients with and without the use of CNIs. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to balance the baseline characteristics between the CNIs group and the non-user group. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality, the relationship between CNIs and patient death was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression models.
Results
22517 patients with sepsis were extracted from the MIMIC IV database. In the propensity score-matched sample of 874 individuals, lower 28-day mortality risks were observed in the CNIs group compared to the non-users’ group (HR: 0.26; 95%CI: 0.17, 0.41) by univariate cox hazard analysis. In addition, the Kaplan-Meier survival curves indicated a significant superior 28- and 365-day survival rate for CNI users compared to non-users (the log-rank test p-value was 0.001). There was no significant association between the use of CNIs and an increased risk of new onset of infection (p = 0.144).
Conclusion
Calcineurin inhibitors was associated with decreased short- and long-term mortality among septic patients without increased incidence of new onset of infection, hyperkalemia, severe hypertension and AKI, but may generate undesirable reaction such as liver injury and mild hypertension.
Factors Associated with Engraftment Success of Patient-Derived Xenografts of Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Jongwon , Lee GunHee , Park Hye Seon , Jeong Byung-Kwan , Gong Gyungyub , Jeong Jae Ho , Lee Hee Jin
Published: November 2023

Background
Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models serve as a valuable tool for the preclinical evaluation of novel therapies. They closely replicate the genetic, phenotypic, and histopathological characteristics of primary breast tumors. Despite their promise, the rate of successful PDX engraftment is various in the literature. This study aimed to identify the key factors associated with successful PDX engraftment of primary breast cancer.
Methods
We integrated clinicopathological data with morphological attributes quantified using a trained artificial intelligence (AI) model to identify the principal factors affecting PDX engraftment.
Results
Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that several factors, including a high Ki-67 labeling index (Ki-67LI) (p < 0.001), younger age at diagnosis (p = 0.032), post neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) (p = 0.006), higher histologic grade (p = 0.039), larger tumor size (p = 0.029), and AI-assessed higher intratumoral necrosis (p = 0.027) and intratumoral invasive carcinoma (p = 0.040) proportions, were significant factors for successful PDX engraftment (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.905). In the NAC group, a higher Ki-67LI (p < 0.001), lower Miller-Payne grade (p < 0.001), and reduced proportion of intratumoral normal breast glands as assessed by AI (p = 0.06) collectively provided excellent prediction accuracy for successful PDX engraftment (AUC: 0.89).
Conclusions
We found that high Ki-67LI, younger age, post-NAC status, higher histologic grade, larger tumor size, and specific morphological attributes were significant factors for predicting successful PDX engraftment of primary breast cancer.
GLYCAEMIC CONTROL AND HYPOGLYCAEMIA AMONG PATIENTS WITH DIABETES IN A PHARMACIST-MANAGED INSULIN TITRATION PROGRAMME
Authors:   Pharmacy Department, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Lim Phei Ching , Wong Te Ying ,   Pharmacy Department, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Lim Yen Li ,   Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Lim Shueh Lin ,   Medical Department, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Lee Chong Yew ,   School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: November 2023

The impact of a pharmacist-managed insulin titration has never been systematically assessed among patients with diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pharmacist-managed insulin titration on glycaemic control, total daily insulin dose, hypoglycaemia, hunger and body weight. Data was collected retrospectively from patients treated with insulin under the care of a pharmacist-managed insulin titration programme at the Diabetes and Endocrine Clinic, Hospital Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Patients who followed-up with pharmacists at one month to two months intervals and completed at least eight visits were included. Ninety-one patients (59.3% male) aged 50.82 ± 17.63 years old with 13.38 ± 8.88 years of diabetes were evaluated. Glycaemic control improved significantly from baseline to 4th month (–1.19%, p < 0.001) and 8th month (–1.37%, p < 0.001). Majority of patients were on twice daily premixed insulin (44.0%) followed by basal insulin (28.5%), basal bolus (18.7%) and thrice daily premixed insulin (8.8%). Total daily insulin dose increased significantly from baseline to 8th month among patients on basal insulin (0.24 ± 0.15 versus 0.29 ± 0.18 units/kg/day, p = 0.008) whereas the opposite was seen in patients treated fully on insulin (1.06 ± 0.48 units/kg/day versus 0.96 ± 0.37 units/kg/day, p = 0.005). Total hypoglycaemia and hunger episodes reduced significantly from 160 episodes/month to 30 episodes/month, p = 0.001 and 39 cases/month to 5 cases/ month, p < 0.001, respectively, across all groups. Mean weight increased by 0.66 kg from baseline to 8th month, p = 0.045. Insulin dose had a positive correlation to hypoglycaemia, r = 0.338, p = 0.001. Pharmacist-managed insulin titration programme significantly improved glycaemic control and reduced hypoglycaemia occurrences.
Annelerin Bebeklerini Emzirme Süresi Ve Bunu Etkileyen Olasi Faktörler
Authors: GÖKTEPE Sergen Talat , ÖZTÜRK Onur
Published: November 2023

Giriş: Anne sütü bebekler için en iyi beslenme şeklidir. Bu çalışmada annelerin bebeklerini emzirme süresi ve bunu etkileyen olası faktörlerin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır.
Yöntem: Kesitsel, retrospektif türde dizayn edilen bu çalışma 1 Şubat 2022- 30 Nisan 2022 tarihleri arasında yapılmıştır. 1 Ocak 2018- 31 Aralık 2019 tarihleri arasında doğum yapmış 400 kişi katılmıştır. Veriler, literatürden hazırlanan veri toplama formu ile hastane telefonundan aranarak toplanmıştır. İstatistiksel analizler SPSS versiyon 19.0 for Windows kullanılarak yapılmıştır.
Bulgular: Çalışmaya katılanların gebelik yaş ortalaması 28,6±5,4 yıldır. Kadınların %98,8’inin gebelik şekli tekildir. Katılımcıların %55’i sezaryen ile doğum yapmıştır. Annelerin %77,3’ü doğumdan sonraki ilk 1 saat içinde emzirmiştir. Bebeklerin %55’i ilk 6 ay sadece anne sütü ile beslenmiştir. Yenidoğan döneminde annelerin %78,3’ü bebeklerini ağladıkça emzirmiştir. 24 ay ve üzerinde emzirme oranı %48’dir. Emzirme süresi ortalaması 19,4±9,7 aydır. Annelerin %20,5’i bebeği istemediği, %14,5’i sütü yetmediği, %9’u hamile kaldığı için emzirmeyi kesmiştir.
Sonuç: Emzirme süresi, doğumdan sonra ilk bir saat içindeki emzirme oranı ve sadece anne sütü ile beslenme oranı Türkiye Nüfus ve Sağlık Araştırması raporlarına göre yüksek bulunmuştur ancak WHO’nun önerdiği seviyede değildir. Emzirmeyi kesmenin en önemli nedenleri arasında ‘sürecin dolması’, ‘bebeğin istememesi’ ve ‘anne sütü yetersizliği’ yer almıştır. İlk 6 ay sadece anne sütü ile bebeğini besleyen annelerin toplam emzirme sürelerinin diğer besinlerle besleyen annelere göre daha uzun olduğu bulunmuştur.
The Role of Access to Agribusiness Microfinance Institutions (LKM-A) on Poverty Reduction: Case Study in Kuningan District
Authors: Gunawan Muhammad Ridho , Muzayanah Irfani Fithria Ummul
Published: November 2023

This study aims to determine whether the role of the Agribusiness Microfinance Institution (LKM-A) has an actual or significant effect on the poverty of farmer households. By using various financial instruments, especially Indonesia's aspirations towards an inclusive financial system for everyone, especially in the agricultural sector, it is very important to examine the agribusiness microfinance institutions (LKM-A) to see how much impact they have on farming communities so they can get out of poverty status. This study used a mixed method with a sample using a purposive sampling method with a total sample of 52 divided into three growing seasons (MT I, MT-II, and MT III). The analytical method used the logit or logistic regression method with the variable of interest, namely access to LKM-A debtors and ten other control variables, which are divided into financing characteristics indicators, farming characteristics indicators, and household characteristics indicators as well as qualitative findings from field interviews with respondents. The results showed that 4 out of 11 variables have a negative effect (coefficient below 1), which means that they have a relationship to reduce the risk of being poor, namely the variable access to LKMA debtors, Bank debtor access; land area, and marital status. The results of this study showed that banks have a significant effect on reducing the risk of possible poverty levels, so the government needs to provide convenience for vulnerable people, especially farmers, to be able to access LKM-A and banks and increase financial inclusion.
Association between comprehensive dietary antioxidant index and metabolic syndrome and its components: findings from the 2003–2018 NHANES data (Preprint)
Authors: Ren Jingyi , Sun Xiaoya , Pei Huanting , Zhu Siqi , Zhang Yadong , Wen Rui , Zhang Xiao , Liu Jiarui , Ma Yuxia
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The relationship between Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study used data from the NHANES database on 5,493 participants aged 60 years or above from 2003 to 2018 to assess the relationship between CDAI and MetS.

METHODS

MetS are defined based on criteria proposed by the third report of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Group. The scoring method established by Wright was adjusted to calculate CDAI. We divided CDAI scores into 4 quantiles and analyzed the relationship between CDAI and MetS using multiple logistic regression and restricted cubic spline.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that CDAI was inversely associated with MetS and significantly affected waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels. The highest quartile of CDAI and the multi-factor adjusted OR values and 95% confidence interval (CI) of MetS, waist circumference, blood pressure and triglycerides were 0.97 (0.94-0.99), 0.96 (0.93-1.00), 0.97 (0.95-0.99), 0.95 (0.93-0.98), respectively. In addition, subgroup analyses showed that female with high CDAI scores were less prone to develop MetS, obesity, and hypertension than male.

CONCLUSIONS

Our cross-sectional study highlighted that dietary antioxidant intake is strongly associated with MetS. Further research needs to be conducted to confirm this consequence.
Fake Review Detection Using Machine Learning
Authors: Brindha M. , Gnanamonickam A. Arulselvan
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Customer reviews on ecommerce platforms and online services are invaluable for both users and vendors. They enhance brand loyalty and provide insight into product experiences. Reviews also empower vendors by boosting sales through positive feedback. Unfortunately, this system can be exploited, with fake reviews being used to manipulate reputations. Instead of a limited dataset, it employ a diverse range of vocabulary sourced from various subjects. Raw data is collected from multiple channels and refined, removing irrelevant, redundant, and unreliable information. This application implement sentiment analysis to categorize reviews, detecting and classifying fake ones. Testing involves Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine, and Random Forest algorithms. The solution's core is machine learning, achieving highest accuracy with Random forest and sentiment analysis. Additionally, the application also extract post frequency and reviewer response times for further analysis.
Blood Test Robot
Authors: Jadhav Kunal , Kumkar Dhanraj , Kumbhar Sunandan
Published: November 2023

Abstract: In the realm of medical diagnostics, blood tests play a vital part, serving as an abecedarian approach for complaint analysis. still, the reliance on mortal prosecution introduces an implicit source of error, arising from indeed the most minute miscalculations. In order to address this challenge and enhance the delicacy and responsibility of blood testing procedures, a new approach is being pursued. This action centers on the development of a sophisticated robotic arm acclimatized for the precise prosecution of blood tests. By integrating advanced robotization and robotics technologies, the ideal is to significantly dock mortal involvement in the testing process, thereby mollifying the essential pitfalls associated with mortal error. The envisaged robotic system is poised to bring about a transformative shift in blood testing practices, icing an advanced degree of perfection and trust ability in test issues. The proposed robotic arm aims to replicate the intricate movements and dexterity of mortal technicians while circumventing the implicit risks introduced by mortal fallibility. Through scrupulous engineering and slice- edge software, the robotic arm will seamlessly maneuver the necessary outfit, conduct blood tests, and induce accurate results. This invention not only minimizes the liability of crimes but also expedites the testing process, leading to bettered effectiveness in healthcare settings. By employing the eventuality of robotics, this design strives to usher in a new period of blood testing, characterized by enhanced delicacy, reduced mortal intervention, and heightened responsibility of results. Eventually, this pursuit stands to revise the geography of individual drug, reaffirming the commitment to delivering precise and dependable healthcare results
Automatic Music Generation
Authors: Magar Anand , Acharya Adarsh , Bothe Sakshi , Bihani Harsh , Desai Tejas
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Automatic generation of music is an evolving field that harnesses artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to create musical compositions. This research paper investigates the application of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks and Markov chains for automatic music generation. We compare these two distinct models in terms of their capacity to produce creative, coherent, and musically appealing compositions. Our study involves data preprocessing, model training, and comprehensive evaluations to assess the performance of LSTM and Markov chains. The results indicate varying degrees of success and offer valuable insights into the advantages and limitations of each approach. By shedding light on the strengths and weaknesses of these models, we contribute to the ongoing discourse in automatic music generation. This research paves the way for future advancements in the field, ultimately enhancing the world of music composition and fostering creative exploration in AI-generated music.
Vein Detection using a Pulse Oximeter
Authors: Sapkal Vinay , Nandwalkar Kumar , Nama Omkar , Nanekar Apurva , Nangare Gayatri , Nangare Amarsinh , Nandane Hemant
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Two out of every five patients need to be injected during a medication process, and it becomes a very crucial task to inject the needle accurately which demands the detection of the vein. Incorrectly inserting the needle can lead to various issues for the patient, such as swelling in the injected area and other circulation problems. The idea of a vein detection device is that it would help nurses and medical practitioners to detect the vein in a more accurate form at a low cost. The vein detection proposed in the paper uses the NIR sensors and a pulse oximeter, the NIR sensors will differentiate between oxygenated and deoxygenated blood whereas the pulse oximeter will help find oxygen levels of the vein, thus we get the best vein to puncture. This would be very lucrative in the field of medical industry.
Review on Cynodon dactylon
Authors: S Ramakrishna. , Vishwas
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Through an overview of the many pharmacognostic and pharmacological activities of Cynodon dactylon, as well as information on its chemical ingredients, traditional usage, and pharmacognostic characteristics, this study aims to compile the most recent results available.
Pengaruh Kualitas Makanan dan Pelayanan terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan
Authors: Hati Adistiyani Laras , Sudiarta I Nyoman , Wirawan Putu Eka
Published: November 2023

Kawasan Loviana merupakan kawasan pariwisata dari Kabupaten Buleleng. Banyak masyarakat yang memulai membuka usaha penyajian makanan seperti bar dan restoran. Setiap manajemen restoran berusaha menawarkan produk makanan dan minuman yang berkualitas kepada pelanggan. Kualitas makanan dan Pelayanan merupakan faktor yang mempengaruhi Loyalitas Pelanggan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui seberapa besar pengaruh variabel Kualitas Makanan dan Pelayanan terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan . Penelitian ini dilakukan di Heliconia Restaurant The Lovina Bali, yaitu pada bulan Februari sampai dengan April 2021. Metode analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah regresi linear berganda, dengan penyebaran kuesioner kepada 40 pengujung sebagai sampel, dan teknik pengambilan sampel yang digunakan ialah teknik kuota sampling. Pengujian hipotesis penelitian menggunakan SPSS 25.0. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan Varibel Kualitas Makanan dan Pelayanan bersama-sama berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan yang dapatdilihat dari Uji Determinasi pada Model Summary dengan kontribusi yang di berikansebesar 71,70% dan sisanya 28,30% dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak diteliti dalam penelitian ini. Berdasarkan hasil analisis tersebut disarankan agar manajemen lebih memperhatikan Kualitas Makanan dan Pelayanan
 
Loviana area is a tourism area of Buleleng Regency. Many people are starting to open food serving businesses such as bars and restaurants. Every restaurant management strives to offer quality food and beverage products to customers. Food quality and service are factors that affect customer loyalty. The purpose of this study was to determine how much influence the variables of Food Quality and Service on Customer Loyalty had. This research was conducted at Heliconia Restaurant The Lovina Bali, from February to April 2021. The data analysis method used in this study was multiple linear regression, with questionnaires distributed to 40 visitors as samples, and the sampling technique used was the quota technique. sampling. Testing the research hypothesis using SPSS 25.0. The results of this study indicate that Food and Service Quality Variables together have a significant effect on Customer Loyalty which can be seen from theDetermination Test on the Summary Model with the contribution given by 71.70% and the remaining 28.30% influenced by other variables not examined in this study. Based on the results of the analysis, it is recommended that management pay more attention to the quality of food and service
Mental Health Status Of Lecturers In Federal University Gusau Amidst Banditry In Zamfara State: Implications For Counselling And Psychotherapy
Authors: Haruna Abubakar Sadiq , Mayanchi Mohammed Lawal
Published: November 2023

In the context of ongoing banditry incidents in Zamfara State, Nigeria, this study aimed to assess the mental health status of lecturers in Federal University Gusau (FUGUS). The purpose was to examine whether banditry prevalence has negatively or positively impacted on the psychological well-being of the university teachers. Employing a descriptive survey design, data was collected from 86 lecturers using a Self-Reporting Mental Health Inventory (SMHI). The inventory demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89) and comprised dimensions reflecting positive mental health attributes. Data analysis involved the utilization of mean scores, one-sample and independent sample t-tests. The results of the analyses revealed that the mean scores for various dimensions of mental health were consistently below 3.0, suggesting a significant level of negative mental health experienced by the participants. This observation underscores concerns about the overall mental well-being of lecturers in the face of banditry-related challenges. Furthermore, an independent sample t-test indicated that gender did not exert a significant influence on the observed negative mental health outcomes. The lack of significant gender differences in mental health status suggests that both male and female lecturers are equally affected by the adverse impact of banditry on their psychological well-being. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of the mental health challenges faced by university lecturers in the context of banditry in Zamfara State. The findings underscore the need for targeted counselling interventions and support strategies to address negative mental health outcomes among lecturers, irrespective of gender, and to cultivate a conducive academic environment that promotes their psychological well-being.
Are Board Member’s Strategic Orientations Associated with Customer Focus? Empirical Evidence from Insurance Companies in Uganda
Authors: Businge Hannington , Machuki Vincent Nyasaka , Aosa Evans , Njihia James Muranga
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the potential association between the strategic orientations of board members and customer focus within Ugandan Insurance firms. The evaluated strategic orientations encompass analysis, proactiveness, futurity, defensiveness, riskiness, and aggressiveness. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, the research was conducted among a population of 131 insurance companies licensed in Uganda for 2023. The study’s effective sample revealed a 74.7% response rate. The study findings reveal that board members’ strategic orientations are positively and statistically significantly associated with customer focus. The findings further reveal that the most important board member strategic orientations in the insurance sector in Uganda are analysis, defensiveness, and futurity with a customer focus. The study findings further reveal that futurity is negatively and statistically significant with a customer focus. The study concludes that board member strategic orientations are strongly associated with customer focus in the insurance companies in Uganda. The study recommends that top management enhance strategic orientation awareness among board members, align with customer-focused goals, select board members with diverse orientations, and conduct regular board member evaluations.