bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perennial Fodder Crops as a Tool for Soil Carbon Management in Agroecosystems
Authors: S. Fathima Umkhulzum , S.R. Sharu , V.S. Sethulakshmi , P. Shalini Pillai
Published: October 2024

Carbon sequestration, typically referred to as carbon storage is defined as the “long-term storage of carbon in plants, soils, geologic formations and the ocean, which occurs both naturally and as a result of anthropogenic activities”.  With respect to agricultural sector, carbon sequestration is viewed as the capability of agriculture lands to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Out of the different ways in play, cultivation of fodder crops turns out to be promising due to its high biomass production, root proliferation, mostly perennial nature, suitability for wastelands and most importantly as the feed for livestock. Restoration of degraded lands, adoption of pasture-based agroforestry systems, inclusion of grasses, sowing of improved forage species, grazing management, nutrient and water management are strategies that aid in improving carbon sequestration in fodder production systems. Perennial fodder grasses and fodder legumes such as alfalfa are excellent for carbon storage as they do not require replanting after each harvest which avoids soil disturbances that usually associate with annual crops. Carbon neutral methods of cultivation is greatly hoped to convert agriculture from a source of carbon to a permanent sink of carbon at a faster pace.
Effect of Different Planting Dates and Spacing on Growth Parameters of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.)
Authors: Anushruti  , Kumar Sanjay , Sonkar Vikash Kumar , Yadav Shatrunjay , Kumar Lalit , Mitra Diksha Sangh , Meena Dinesh Kumar , Pal Ratan Kumar , Rawat Sunil Kumar
Published: October 2024

Aim: To investigate the effect of various planting dates and spacing on cabbage growth.
Study Design: The experimental design Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) was used.
Place and Duration of Study: An experiment was conducted in the rabi seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at the Horticulture Research Farm, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow (U.P.)
Methodology: There were twelve treatments with three replications. The variety selected for experiment was Pusa Mukta.
Results: The combined data of two years showed that treatment P1 (30 November) had significantly higher plant survivability (95.28%), plant height (14.67 cm, 21.31 cm and 28.39 cm) at 30, 45 and 60 DAT, respectively, stem diameter (2.11 cm), no. of non-wrapper leaves (16.28), no. of wrapper leaves (27.19), plant spread E-W (49.40 cm) and plant spread N-S (52.63 cm). Among spacings. The findings showed that the S4 (60 cm x 60 cm) plant spacing achieved maximum plant survivability at 91.59%. It also led to the greatest plant height at 30, 45 and 60 days after transplanting (DAT) with measurements of 15.73 cm, 22.45 cm and 31.12 cm, respectively. Additionally, this spacing resulted in the largest stem diameter (2.31 cm), the highest no. of non-wrapper leaves (17.40), no. of wrapper leaves (28.30), greatest plant spread in both East-West (52.79 cm) and North-South (56.08 cm) directions.
Conclusion: The results obtained from pooled data of two years showed that treatment P1 (30 November) and Spacing 60 cm x 60 cm had significantly higher growth parameters.
Post Facial Restructuring Bariatric Surgery: Case Report
Authors: Jordan Juliana Minho , Guedes Raissa Leitão , Leal Marilia de Oliveira Coelho Dutra , Oliani Silvia Aparecida Gimenes Cantele , Barros Tarley Eloy Pessoa de , Jodas Cláudio Roberto Pacheco
Published: October 2024

Aims: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity is considered a chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease that poses an excessive health risk. One of the proposed treatments for obesity is bariatric surgery. However, one of the consequences of this rapid weight loss due to surgery is fat loss in the face, which is associated with facial aging.
Presentation of Case: In 2020, a 57-year-old female patient complained of loss of volume and a sagging face. In 2018, the patient underwent bariatric surgery (25% weight reduction). Treatment was carried out with injectables from 2020-22, based on calcium hydroxyapatite, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), hyaluronic acid (HA), and botulinum toxin (TxA) type A.
Discussion: Autologous fat grafting offers good long-term results in patients with midface deficiency. Conversely, a disadvantage concerns the fat maintenance range of 20% to 80% (unpredictable number of cells surviving). In the present study, the patient preferred non-autologous injectable fillers over surgeries and autologous grafts in treating tissue sagging.
Conclusion Combined therapies provide facial volumetric replacement and improve sagging. They directly impact the self-perception and quality of life of patients who have undergone bariatric surgery using minimally invasive approaches and performed fractionally without the need for facial surgery.
Technology Intervention through Cluster Frontline Demonstration in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) in Arid Region of Western Rajasthan
Authors: Puniya Manmohan
Published: October 2024

During this study, cluster front-line demonstrations (CFLDs) were promoted to assess their contribution to yields, improve technology adoption, and enhance mustard growers' profitability during, 2019-20 and 2020-21, the on-farm demonstrations (n=108) were conducted, covering 140 ha area in Kolhu, Unthwalia, Dayakor, Palli-1, Gajja,Vijaynagar and Siyo ka baas (seven Villages) of Jodhpur district of Rajasthan and these were compared with existing farmer’s practices of mustard cultivation. The improved production technologies consisting high yielding varieties (DRMRIJ-31 (Giriraj) and RH-0749, sowing methods, nutrient management, weed management and use of plant protection measures were included. The findings revealed that the package of improved production technologies recorded a mean yield of 18.4 q/ha which was 27.9 % higher than the farmers’ practices (14.4 q/ha). Comparatively average higher net returns (₹71533/ha) and with a B:C ratio of (4.93) were recorded with improved technologies as compared to farmers’ practices (₹ 51210). Adoption of improved technologies significantly increased the yield as well as yield attributing traits of the mustard than the farmers’ practices. So, there is a need to disseminate the improved technologies among the farmers with effective extension methods like training and demonstrations. The farmers should be encouraged to adopt the improved crop production technologies as discussed in this paper. So the higher productivity and economic returns from mustard cultivation could be realized. Overall, the study highlights the positive impact of implementing demonstrated agricultural technologies in mustard cultivation. These results indicate that the adoption of improved practices can lead to higher yields, better economic returns, and improved cost-benefit ratios compared to traditional practices.
Isolation, Characterization and Molecular Identification of Bacteria Associated with Green and Brown Seaweeds
Authors: Saha Somnath , Kumar Sanath H. , Nayak Binaya Bhusan , Lekshmi Manjusha
Published: October 2024

Aims: The co-existence of bacterial communities along with macroalgae in marine environment develops a mutualistic relationship resulting in functional advantages for both the groups. The present research studied the composition of epiphytic bacteria associated with green (Ulva spp.) and brown seaweeds (Sargassum spp. and Padina spp.) sampled off Maharashtra coast, India, and their physiological and bioactive properties.
Study Design:  Green and brown seaweeds were collected from three locations along Maharashtra coast and analyzed for the associated bacteria.
Place and Duration of Study: Seaweed samples analyzed in this study were from Kelwa, Manori and Ratnagiri along the Maharashtra coast. The analysis was performed during June to  September 2021.
Methodology: Bacteria from freshly collected seaweed samples were homogenized in saline, 10-fold serially diluted and plated on Zobell marine agar. Distinct colonies were selected and identified by a series of biochemical tests, followed by partial 16SrRNA gene sequencing. The physiological characteristics of the isolated bacteria were studied by screening for temperature and salinity tolerance, production of protease, lipase, agarose, amylase and biosurfactants.
Results: The total seaweed bacterial count ranged from 4.5 ×103 to 2.9 × 104 CFU/g. Seventy-seven bacteria were isolated, 44 (57.14%) and 33 (42.85%) isolates from green and brown seaweeds respectively. The 16SrRNA sequencing of 20 representative isolates revealed the dominance of Bacillus spp., followed by Vibrio spp. Growth at 0°C was exhibited by all bacteria except Bacillus tequilensis, Bacillus altitudinis, Oceanobacillus iheyensis and one isolate of Vibrio spp. A majority of the isolates grew at 45°C. Vibrio spp. exhibited protease, amylase, gelatinase, and agarase activities, whereas the biosurfactant activity was commonly associated with Bacillus spp.
Conclusion: The results of this study illustrate the occurrence of seaweed-associated beneficial bacteria exhibiting bioactive properties with potential biomedical applications.
Comparative Evaluation Of Different Anatomical Sites In Buccal Shelf Region For Mini Screw Insertion In Skeletal Class II And Class III Patients-A CBCT Study
Authors: Varghese Shaji.T. , Kc Suparna , Jose Lijo .K. , Unni Megha C , P.P Shafeequdheen
Published: October 2024

Background: To evaluate different anatomical sites in buccal shelf region at different levels (4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm) from cemento-enamel junction for mini screw insertion in skeletal class II and class III patients using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: The sample consists of cone beam computed tomography images of 48 subjects (24 skeletal class II and 24 skeletal class III) were evaluated. Mandibular buccal shelf area was evaluated at the regions (i) mesial to lower first molar (ML6) (ii) between the mesiodistal roots of the first molar (iii) distal to lower first molar (DL6) (iv) mesial to lower second molar (ML7) (v) between mesiodistal roots of the second molar (vi) distal to lower second molar (DL7) and cortical bone thickness was determined at 4, 6, 8, 10 mm level from cemento-enamel junction Results: Mandibular buccal shelf bone thickness increases from mesial surface of first molar to distal surface of second molar and from cemento-enamel junction to 8 mm level. Comparative evaluation between class II and class III shows significant differences (p<0.05) at the level of 8mm distal to second molar in the mandibular buccal shelf region. Conclusion: Skeletal class III subjects have more cortical bone thickness than class II subjects at the level of 8mm distal to second molar in the buccal shelf region.
Isolation and Identification Of Candida Albicans In Smokers With Epithelial Dysplasia And Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Histopathological Correlation
Authors: H Dr Supriya , M Dr Shaila , Sreeshma Dr Padiyath , PD Dr Suhasini , PP Dr Jaseela
Published: October 2024

Background:Greater adaptability of Candida to the host niche makes it the most common opportunistic pathogen. Its role as a commensal or pathogen in development of premalignancies and its progression to malignancies is of considerable debate. Present study was undertaken to determine the role of Candida albicans(CA)in progressionof oral cancer by isolation and identification by mycological methods in smokers without oral lesions and histopathologically diagnosed cases of epithelial dysplasia (ED) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methodology:The study comprised of 120 cases that included study group of 40 smokers with oral lesions, 40 smokers without oral lesions and 40 non-smokers as control group. Clinical examination was followed by oral rinse sample collection and biopsy for histopathological confirmation. Sedimented oral rinse was inoculated on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar (SDA). Isolated Candida colony after identification with Gram stain was subjected to germ tube and chlamydospore formation test for confirmation of CA. The data was statistically analysed using chi square test. Results:Colonisation of CA was 52.5% in the study group and 5% in the control group, was found to be statistically significant (p<0.001).Association of CA in smokers with varying histopathologic grades of oral lesions showed no evidence of a correlation. However, positive correlation was found in OSCC (n=19, 95%) and showed statistical significance (p<0.001). Conclusion:The present study showed an increase in colonization of CA in malignant lesions suggesting that CA in conjunction with tobacco usage may play a role in oral carcinogenesis.
Knowledge, Attitude, And Perception Of Health Workers Towards Electronic Health Record System (A Case Study Of Uduth, Sokoto)
Authors: I.J Nkwoka , Z. F Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Background: Electronic Health Records System (EHRS) has shown a lot of advantages over the conventional paper based medical records. Its use has grown rapidly in the developed world and yet most African nations are still lagging behind. In Nigeria, the penetration of EHRS is low with less than 10.0% of hospitals embracing it.Factors responsible for this low penetration or use of EHRS in Nigeria include interoperability issues, epileptic power supply, cost of installation, resistance to change, health providers' and patients' poor orientation. This study aimed to assess level of knowledge, attitude and perception of health care workers on the use of EHRS in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto. Methodology: Cross sectional study was conducted in June, 2023 among 132 healthcare workers that were randomly selected using stratified sampling technique. Pre-tested structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was cleaned and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 21.0. Univariate analysis to generate summary statistics, proportions and frequency tables was conducted. While Bivariate analysis was conducted to identify variables that were significantly associated with respondents knowledge, attitude and perception at a P-value of <0.05. Results: Majority (70%) of the respondents had good knowledge of EMR and 30% had bad knowledge. 84% of the respondents had positive attitude towards EHRS while 86% of them had positive perceptions on EHRS. Doctors were 85.0% less likely to be knowledgeable about EMR than other healthcare workers (aOR 0.150; 95% CI 0.030 - 0.748). Respondents that were computer literate were 30.0% more likely to be knowledgeable than those who were not (aOR 1.297; 95% CI 3.885 – 4.330) and those that had computer training were 13.0% more likely to be knowledgeable than those who were not (aOR 1.126; 95% CI 0.032 – 0.501). A greater proportion of respondents with good knowledge 90(96.8%) had a good attitude, the result was statistically significant (X2<37.85, p=0.01) A greater portion of the respondents with good attitudes had good perception 108(95.6%) as compared to respondents, with poor attitudes 16(46.2%) the association was statistically significant (χ2=77.39, p <0.01). A greater proportion of respondents with good knowledge had good practice compared to those with poor knowledge. However, the result was not statistically significant feχ2=2.330, p=0.169). Conclusion: majority of the respondents had good knowledge 92(70%), good attitude110 (84%) and good perception towards EHR 114(86%). As such government support and funding of electronic health system in health facilities is recommended.
Perception And Attitude Of Undergraduate Medical Students Towards Rural Health Services – A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Bhavana Dr. J. , Prathap Dr. S.S.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Medical students are under immense pressure and competition to advance in their career. 65% of Indian population resides in rural area and their health care needs are to taken care of. Understanding perception and attitude of undergraduate medical students towards rural health service will help in better provision of rural healthcare services. Objectives: 1) To assess the perception and attitude of medical students towards rural health services 2) To understand the factors influencing willingness and unwillingness of medical students towards serving in rural areas Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 students of first, second and final MBBS studying in a private medical college in Andhra Pradesh. A predesigned semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection and the data was analyzed in Epi Info 7 Results: A total of 467 completed questionnaires were returned with participation rate of 78% out of which 67.9% were females and 32.1% were males. 44.3% of the respondents had a family member working in rural area. 81.4% of respondents believed that rural services should be made compulsory for doctors. 79.9% of respondents expressed willingness to work in rural areas. The commonest reason for willingness to work in rural areas was to gain experience (62.2%) while the commonest reason for unwillingness to work in rural areas was limited infrastructure (57.5%).Conclusions: Rural health services can be improved by employing young medical graduates.
Pattern Of Antibiotic Resistance In Urinary Tract Infections: Insights From A Tertiary Care Hospital In Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Helalur , Ahammad Mostaque , Uddin Muhammad Jamal , Nafe Sayed Younus , Faruk Md Redwan
Published: October 2024

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections, with increasing rates of antibiotic resistance complicating treatment. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns of uropathogens in patients with UTIs at a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted from June, 2023 to July, 2024 involving 60 UTI patients. Clinical and microbiological data, including urine cultures and antibiotic susceptibility tests, were collected. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Results: Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated pathogen (50.0%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (20.0%). Both pathogens exhibited high resistance to ciprofloxacin (66.7%) and amoxicillin (83.3%) (p < 0.05). Pseudomonas spp. showed 66.7% resistance to ceftriaxone, and Proteus spp. exhibited 75.0% resistance to nitrofurantoin. However, E. coli and Klebsiella spp. demonstrated higher susceptibility to nitrofurantoin and gentamicin, with 50.0% and 66.7% susceptibility, respectively. Conclusion: The findings indicate a high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant uropathogens, particularly E. coli and Klebsiella spp., in the study population. Nitrofurantoin and gentamicin remain effective treatment options. These results highlight the urgent need for updated empirical treatment protocols and regular monitoring of resistance patterns to guide UTI management in Bangladesh.
Vitamin D Insufficiency In Type 2 Diabetics: AHospitalBased Evaluation Of Incidence And Severity
Authors: Azees Dr Surumi , Shetty Dr Balachandra A , Kamal Dr Aswathi , Anto Dr Anju
Published: October 2024

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the frequency and intensity of vitamin D insufficiency in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: This retrospective investigation was carried out in the Department of Medicine over a one-year period. After receiving the consent of the patients and approval from the Ethical committee, a total of 200 participants were recruited for the study. Out of them, 100 healthy individuals were included as the case group (Group-A) and 100 patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus were enrolled as the control group (Group-B). Results: A total of 120 individuals (60% males and 40% females) were included in the study. Our study revealed that 38% of the participants fell within the age range of 40-50, while 32% were between 50-60 years old. Additionally, 16% were below the age of 40, and 14% were above the age of 60. Out of the total sample, 35 individuals (35%) had been diagnosed with diabetes for a duration of 1-5 years, 45 individuals (45%) for 6-10years, and 20 individuals (20%) for more than 10 years. Out of the total sample, 6 individuals (6%) werediagnosed with ischemic heart disease, whereas 18 individuals (18%) had hypertension as a result of vitamin D insufficiency. Diabetes patients with well-managed HbA1C levels had 10 instances of adequate, inadequate, and insufficient levels of Vitamin D, while uncontrolled diabetes patients had 8 instances, 34 instances, and 18 instances respectively. Conclusion: Diabetic patients have a higher prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency compared to the general healthy population. The majority of afflicted patients were male, and the deficit was most commonly identified in the uncontrolled group
A Comparitive Study Of Microalbuminuria Between Prehypertensive And Normotensive Individuals
Authors: Yoganandini Mangalagiri , Bharadwaj Chintada , Mishra Prahallad Chandra , Jujjuvarapu Madhuri
Published: October 2024

Background: prehypertension is asymptomatic and yet a warning sign that the patient may develop hypertension and its complications in his near future. Micro-albuminuria in these cases is a predictor of higher risk of cardiovascular and renal dysfunction and hence early detection will help us to control the development of htn and its complications. Aim: to evaluate the presence of microalbuminuria between pre hypertensive and normotensive individuals and to explain its presence with complications development Material and method: it is a comparative study, the subjects are divided into 2 groups. Results: the study found the presence of microalbuminuria in most of the prehypertensive patients. Conclusion: the presence of microalbuminuria in prehypertensive patients significantly than in normotensive patients and that will also associated with hypertension complications.
A Study On Haematological Abnormalities In Decompensated Chronic Liver Disease At Government General Hospital, Vijayawada
Authors: Lakshmi Dr.B.V.Sai , Priyanka Dr. Penumatsa , Kudurupaka Dr. Prasad , Sai Dr.Jannu Chandana Kumara
Published: October 2024

Background: chronic liver failure is usually associated with hypersplenism and diminished erythrocyte survival is frequent. Dietary deficiencies, alcoholism, bleeding and defective hepatic synthesis of proteins used in blood formation or coagulation worsen the problem. Plasma volume is increased in patients with cirrhosis,particularly in those with ascites ,this hypervolemia may account for a low peripheral hemoglobin or erythrocyte level. Materials and methods: this is a crosssectional,analytical study of 100 patients conducted in patients with decompensated chronic liver disease admitted in siddhartha medical college hospital during the period january 2023 to december 2023. Results: our study included 100 patients with decompensated chronic liver disease,upon performing haematological profile ,anemia is seen in 88%,thrombocytopenia is seen in 80%,elevated pt,inr in 37% patients which predict the chances of upper gi bleed.derangements in these parameters can ultimately lead to grave complications
“Role Of Caroto-Vertebral Duplex Ultrasonography In Patients With Cerebro-Vascular Accident - Hemodynamic Characterisation & Etiological Stratification”
Authors: Bakshi Vipin Kumar
Published: October 2024

Introduction: cerebrovascular accident is defined as a sudden, non convulsive focal neurological deficit resulting due to brain ischemia predominantly caused by the thrombo-embolism or with atheromatous carotid plaque as the embolic source1 . Cerebrovascular accident is the leading cause of morbidity in elderly patients with varying degrees of neurological deficit. Since it is a preventable condition and with timely intervention, the severity of the disease can be minimized. Hence, the aim of the present study was real time visualization of vascular lesions to characterize the morphology of vessels for intimal-media complex & for any plaque or stenosis, to quantify the degree and percentage of stenosis in the caroto-vertebral arteries and to correlate the degree of stenosis with severity of clinical disease. Materials and methods: prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients presenting with cva with or without persistent neurological deficit referred to department of radio-diagnosis and imaging from indoor and outdoor departments of jan sewa hospital of dr. S. S. Tantia medical college, sri ganganagar. Results: the majority of patients were in the age group of 60-69 years with 56% being male, 47% presenting with transient ischemic attack, commonest clinical feature being coronary artery disease (29%) followed by haeadache (17%), nausea vomiting (4%), hemiplegia (2%) patients and coma (1%). Hypertension was the most commonest risk factor (59%) followed by diabetes mellitus (18%), hyperlipidemia (14%), atrial fibrillations (5%) and smoking (4%). Majority of plaques were seen in the carotid bulb with variable laterality & echopattern. It was seen that as the degree of stenosis increases the various velocities and their respective ratios (ica psv/ cca psv, ica edv/cca edv, ica psv/cca edv) tend to increase in proportion to the stenosis suggestive of a positive co-relation between them. Conclusion: caroto-vertebral duplex ultrasonography provides a “road map” for carotid endartectomy and/or carotid angioplasty and stenting due to direct visualization of plaque morphology & surface configuration, measurement of the length of stenosed segment, precise determination of grade of stenosis and to get an insight into hemodynamic disorders.
The Knowledge, Perception And Practices Of Myths Encountered Among Caregivers In Enugu, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nzeduba Chiesonu Dymphna , Maduka Nonyelum Chikaodili , Nduka Ugochukwu Franklin , Elizabeth Obiora-Izuka Chinelo , Eneh Chizoma
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Many beliefs concerning child care abound and these vary across all walks of life. Assessed the knowledge, perception and practice of these myths among care- givers of children living in Enugu. Our survey found that, there is still a high level of belief in myths and local practices among caregivers in Enugu. Methods:Study population- caregivers visiting paediatric outpatient clinics in Enugu. Sampling method- a hospital-based, cross-sectional study. Self- administered questionnaires were used to obtain information from the caregivers. Analysis-Data collected was analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 Results: shows that 83.7% of the study participants are females while 16.3% are males, giving the male to female ratio as 1:5. Most of the study participants (75.2%) were within the age bracket of 21 and 40 years and the mean ± SD age was 32.42 ± 9.83. The most prevalent belief is that the breast nipple must be washed before every feeding, reported by 64.2% of participants. The most commonly practiced belief is that teething causes symptoms, reported by 49.2% of respondents. This is followed by the belief that breast milk can become sour if not consumed for a long period, practiced by 46.6% of respondents. The third most practiced belief is related to "Jedi jedi" (30.6%), a condition locally associated with gastrointestinal distress.These findings highlight that, while traditional beliefs are pervasive across all age groups, younger participants are more likely to adhere to certain beliefs, particularly those related to dietary restrictions and traditional remedies for convulsions. Conclusion: It can be inferred from the findings of this survey that, there is still a high level of belief in myths and local practices among caregivers of children in Enugu, despite efforts to educate the general public about childhood illnesses. This study also shows that maternal education is an important factor for improved outcomes in paediatric care in our environment
Hands-On And Mobile App-Based Training Of Second Phase MBBS Students Regarding Blood Sample Collection For Routine Tests And Culture
Authors: Bhattacharya Susmita , Lahiri Arista , Das Debalina , Banerjee Ankush
Published: October 2024

Background Aseptic measures during blood sampling should be strictly enforced as identification of the true pathogen can act as life-saving measure in patients. Contamination during collection can produce erroneous results which can lead to unnecessary antibiotic usage. Thus, adequate training must be imparted so that the MBBS students can learn the correct technique and develop appropriate skills. This pre-post interventional study thus assessed the students’ and faculties’perception on venous blood sampling through hands on exercises on a simulated model and learning through digital module among MBBS students. Methodology The knowledge of the students was assessed through a questionnaire while practical skills through OSPE using a pre-validated checklist in the pre-intervention phase. The intervention comprised of students being trained in small batches regarding blood sample collection on a mannequin followed by biomedical waste disposal and spillage management. A digital intervention module for self-directed learning was shared with the students to reinforce their learning. This was followed by post interventional assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Results Paired sample t-test showed a statistically significant improvement in the knowledge scores and OSPE skills in the post-intervention phase. About 91% students opined that they were well trained. All the faculty opined that this training was immensely useful to students for future practical applications. Conclusion The current study demonstrated effectiveness of intervention among the medical students under the new curriculum through hands-on and digital module-based training on accurate blood sampling procedure.
A Case Series On Tracheal Atresia
Authors: R M Dr Apoorva , Matti Dr S.G. , Hiremath Dr Girish
Published: October 2024

Background: Agenesis, aplasia or atresia of the trachea is a rare congenital anomaly that to date seems to be incompatible with life. Tracheal atresia is a congenital absence of a normal passage that does not imply a particular length of involvement. Tracheal atresia encompasses cases of agenesis (total absence of trachea) as well as varying lengths of tracheal mal-development1 . We describe here 3 cases of tracheal agenesis. Materials and Methods: It is a descriptive case series done with three neonates in tertiary care teaching hospital in Department of Paediatrics. Conclusion: tracheal atresia is a rare anomaly and clinicians need to be aware of this condition to provide adequate supportive management at the time of delivery and subsequently
Proximal Linear Extension of Skin Hypopigmentation After Ultrasound‐Guided Corticosteroid Injection for de Quervain Tenosynovitis: A Case Presentation
Authors: Milani Carlo , Lin Cindy
Published: March 2018

de Quervain tenosynovitis is a stenosing tenosynovitis of the first dorsal compartment of the wrist that can lead to painful functional impairment of the upper limb. This case presentation describes a rare adverse effect of corticosteroid injection (CSI) involving local skin atrophy and hypopigmentation with proximal linear extension. In this case, hypopigmentation developed from the wrist to beyond the elbow after CSI with ultrasound guidance and targeted placement of the injectate in the extensor tendon sheath of the first dorsal compartment. Dermal complications of CSI are rare but notable and potentially disfiguring events that should be discussed with every patient during the informed consent process before soft tissue CSIs.

Level of Evidence

V
Decolonizing the New Town: Roy Gazzard and the Making of Killingworth Township
Authors: Meredith Jesse
Published: March 2018

What better laboratory for an experiment in racial integration could there be than the nascent community of a new town? The architect Roy Gazzard posed this question in 1969, as he embarked on designing the new town of Killingworth in northern England. A self-proclaimed “social engineer,” Gazzard applied his experience as a town planner in colonial Uganda to shaping a new community in the postimperial metropole. Historians have long recognized the way that built forms were translated from metropole to colony, but the reverberations of colonial planning in the postwar European welfare states have received little attention. In this article I use intellectual biography to chart the trajectory of notions of community, spirituality, space, and place as they migrated from colonial Uganda to postimperial Britain. I focus on the career of Roy Gazzard, an outspoken social engineer and devout Christian, who hoped to use his colonial urban planning experience to counter what he saw as the increasingly secular and centrifugal forces in modern British society. An examination of letters, private paper, lectures, planning documents, and diagrams held in the newly opened archive of Gazzard's work illuminates the course of colonial expertise as it was refracted back into the postcolonial metropole.
Confound It!
Authors: Kulas John T. , Klahr Rachael , Knights Lindsey
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Many investigators have noted “reverse-coding” method factors when exploring response pattern structure with psychological inventory data. The current article probes for the existence of a confound in these investigations, whereby an item’s level of saturation with socially desirable content tends to covary with the item’s substantive scale keying. We first investigate its existence, demonstrating that 15 of 16 measures that have been previously implicated as exhibiting a reverse-scoring method effect can also be reasonably characterized as exhibiting a scoring key/social desirability confound. A second set of analyses targets the extent to which the confounding variable may confuse interpretation of factor analytic results and documents strong social desirability associations. The results suggest that assessment developers perhaps consider the social desirability scale value of indicators when constructing scale aggregates (and possibly scales when investigating inter-construct associations). Future investigations would ideally disentangle the confound via experimental manipulation.
The Making of Violent Extremists
Authors: Kruglanski Arie , Jasko Katarzyna , Webber David , Chernikova Marina , Molinario Erica
Published: March 2018

The authors outline a psychological model of extremism and analyze violent extremism as a special case of it. Their significance quest theory identifies 3 general drivers of violent extremism: need, narrative, and network. The theory asserts that the need for personal significance—the desire to matter, to “be someone,” and to have meaning in one's life—is the dominant need that underlies violent extremism. A violence-justifying ideological narrative contributes to radicalization by delineating a collective cause that can earn an individual the significance and meaning he or she desires, as well as an appropriate means with which to pursue that cause. Lastly, a network of people who subscribe to that narrative leads individuals to perceive the violence-justifying narrative as cognitively accessible and morally acceptable. The authors describe empirical evidence for the theory, which was tested on a wide variety of samples across different cultures and geopolitical contexts. They go on to offer a general road map to guide efforts to counter and prevent violent extremism in its various forms.
Correction: Publisher correction: Functional characterization of a multi-cancer risk locus on chr5p15.33 reveals regulation of TERT by ZNF148
Authors: Fang Jun , Jia Jinping , Makowski Matthew , Xu Mai , Wang Zhaoming , Zhang Tongwu , Hoskins Jason W. , Choi Jiyeon , Han Younghun , Zhang Mingfeng , Thomas Janelle , Kovacs Michael , Collins Irene , Dzyadyk Marta , Thompson Abbey , O'Neill Maura , Das Sudipto , Lan Qi , Koster Roelof , Stolzenberg-Solomon Rachael S. , Kraft Peter , Wolpin Brian M. , Jansen Pascal W. T. C. , Olson Sara , McGlynn Katherine A. , Kanetsky Peter A. , Chatterjee Nilanjan , Barrett Jennifer H. , Dunning Alison M. , Taylor John C. , Newton-Bishop Julia A. , Timothy Bishop D , Andresson Thorkell , Petersen Gloria M. , Amos Christopher I. , Iles Mark M. , Nathanson Katherine L. , Teresa Landi Maria , Vermeulen Michiel , Brown Kevin M. , Amundadottir Laufey T.
Published: March 2018

Nature Communications 8: Article number: 15034 (2017); Published: 27 May 2017; Updated: 5 March 2018 The original version of this Article contained an error in the spelling of two members of the GenoMEL Consortium, Joan Anton Puig-Butille and Pol Gimenez-Xavier, which were incorrectly given as Joan-Anton Puig Butille and Pol Gimenez Xavier respectively.
Correction: Publisher Correction: Base excision repair AP endonucleases and mismatch repair act together to induce checkpoint-mediated autophagy
Authors: SenGupta Tanima , Torgersen Maria Lyngaas , Kassahun Henok , Vellai Tibor , Simonsen Anne , Nilsen Hilde
Published: March 2018

Nature Communications 4: Article number: 2674 (2013); Published online 24 October 2013; Updated 29 March 2018 The original HTML version of this Article had an incorrect article number of 2578; it should have been 2674. This has now been corrected in the HTML; the PDF version of the Article was correct from the time of publication.
Lipid binding promotes the open conformation and tumor-suppressive activity of neurofibromin 2
Authors: Chinthalapudi Krishna , Mandati Vinay , Zheng Jie , Sharff Andrew J. , Bricogne Gerard , Griffin Patrick R. , Kissil Joseph , Izard Tina
Published: March 2018

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a tumor-forming disease of the nervous system caused by deletion or by loss-of-function mutations in NF2, encoding the tumor suppressing protein neurofibromin 2 (also known as schwannomin or merlin). Neurofibromin 2 is a member of the ezrin, radixin, moesin (ERM) family of proteins regulating the cytoskeleton and cell signaling. The correlation of the tumor-suppressive function and conformation (open or closed) of neurofibromin 2 has been subject to much speculation, often based on extrapolation from other ERM proteins, and controversy. Here we show that lipid binding results in the open conformation of neurofibromin 2 and that lipid binding is necessary for inhibiting cell proliferation. Collectively, our results provide a mechanism in which the open conformation is unambiguously correlated with lipid binding and localization to the membrane, which are critical for the tumor-suppressive function of neurofibromin 2, thus finally reconciling the long-standing conformation and function debate.
Transposon-modified antigen-specific T lymphocytes for sustained therapeutic protein delivery in vivo
Authors: O’Neil Richard T. , Saha Sunandan , Veach Ruth Ann , Welch Richard C. , Woodard Lauren E. , Rooney Cliona M. , Wilson Matthew H.
Published: March 2018

A cell therapy platform permitting long-term delivery of peptide hormones in vivo would be a significant advance for patients with hormonal deficiencies. Here we report the utility of antigen-specific T lymphocytes as a regulatable peptide delivery platform for in vivo therapy. piggyBac transposon modification of murine cells with luciferase allows us to visualize T cells after adoptive transfer. Vaccination stimulates long-term T-cell engraftment, persistence, and transgene expression enabling detection of modified cells up to 300 days after adoptive transfer. We demonstrate adoptive transfer of antigen-specific T cells expressing erythropoietin (EPO) elevating the hematocrit in mice for more than 20 weeks. We extend our observations to human T cells demonstrating inducible EPO production from Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) antigen-specific T lymphocytes. Our results reveal antigen-specific T lymphocytes to be an effective delivery platform for therapeutic molecules such as EPO in vivo, with important implications for other diseases that require peptide therapy.
Publisher Correction: Biodiversity conservation gaps in the Brazilian protected areas
Authors: Oliveira Ubirajara , Soares-Filho Britaldo Silveira , Paglia Adriano Pereira , Brescovit Antonio D. , de Carvalho Claudio J. B. , Silva Daniel Paiva , Rezende Daniella T. , Leite Felipe Sá Fortes , Batista João Aguiar Nogueira , Barbosa João Paulo Peixoto Pena , Stehmann João Renato , Ascher John S. , de Vasconcelos Marcelo Ferreira , De Marco Paulo , Löwenberg-Neto Peter , Ferro Viviane Gianluppi , Santos Adalberto J.
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Highly-sensitive capture of circulating tumor cells using micro-ellipse filters
Authors: Chen Hongmei , Cao Baoshan , Sun Bo , Cao Yapeng , Yang Ke , Lin Yu-Sheng
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Toxic fluoride gas emissions from lithium-ion battery fires
Authors: Larsson Fredrik , Andersson Petra , Blomqvist Per , Mellander Bengt-Erik
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Atomistic scale investigation of cation ordering and phase stability in Cs-substituted Ba1.33Zn1.33Ti6.67O16, Ba1.33Ga2.66Ti5.67O16 and Ba1.33Al2.66Ti5.33O16 hollandite
Authors: Wen Yi , Xu Yun , Brinkman Kyle S. , Shuller-Nickles Lindsay
Published: March 2018

The titanate-based hollandite structure is proposed as an effective ceramic waste form for Cs-immobilization. In this study, quantum-mechanical calculations were used to quantify the impact of A-site and B-site ordering on the structural stability of hollandite with compositions BaxCsy(MzTi8-z)O16, where M = Zn2+, Ga3+, and Al3+. The calculated enthalpy of formation agrees with experimental measurements of related hollandite phases from melt solution calorimetry. Ground state geometry optimizations show that, for intermediate compositions (e.g., CsBaGa6Ti18O48), the presence of both Cs and Ba in the A-site tunnels is not energetically favored. However, the decay heat generated during storage of the Cs-containing waste form may overcome the energetics of Ba and Cs mixing in the tunnel structure of hollandite. The ability of the hollandite structure to accommodate the radioparagenesis of Cs to Ba is critical for long term performance of the waste. For the first time, B-site ordering was observed along the tunnel direction ([001] zone axis) for the Ga-hollandite compositions, as well as the intermediate Al-hollandite composition. These compositionally dependent structural features, and associated formation enthalpies, are of importance to the stability and radiation damage tolerance of ceramic waste forms.
First insights of peptidoglycan amidation in Gram-positive bacteria - the high-resolution crystal structure of Staphylococcus aureus glutamine amidotransferase GatD
Authors: Leisico Francisco , V. Vieira Diana , Figueiredo Teresa A. , Silva Micael , Cabrita Eurico J. , Sobral Rita G. , Ludovice Ana Madalena , Trincão José , Romão Maria João , de Lencastre Hermínia , Santos-Silva Teresa
Published: March 2018

Gram-positive bacteria homeostasis and antibiotic resistance mechanisms are dependent on the intricate architecture of the cell wall, where amidated peptidoglycan plays an important role. The amidation reaction is carried out by the bi-enzymatic complex MurT-GatD, for which biochemical and structural information is very scarce. In this work, we report the first crystal structure of the glutamine amidotransferase member of this complex, GatD from Staphylococcus aureus, at 1.85 Å resolution. A glutamine molecule is found close to the active site funnel, hydrogen-bonded to the conserved R128. In vitro functional studies using 1H-NMR spectroscopy showed that S. aureus MurT-GatD complex has glutaminase activity even in the absence of lipid II, the MurT substrate. In addition, we produced R128A, C94A and H189A mutants, which were totally inactive for glutamine deamidation, revealing their essential role in substrate sequestration and catalytic reaction. GatD from S. aureus and other pathogenic bacteria share high identity to enzymes involved in cobalamin biosynthesis, which can be grouped in a new sub-family of glutamine amidotransferases. Given the ubiquitous presence of GatD, these results provide significant insights into the molecular basis of the so far undisclosed amidation mechanism, contributing to the development of alternative therapeutics to fight infections.
Author Correction: Deep sequencing reveals the first fabavirus infecting peach
Authors: He Yan , Cai Li , Zhou Lingling , Yang Zuokun , Hong Ni , Wang Guoping , Li Shifang , Xu Wenxing
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Characterization of Sex-Based Dna Methylation Signatures in the Airways During Early Life
Authors: Nino Cesar L. , Perez Geovanny F. , Isaza Natalia , Gutierrez Maria J. , Gomez Jose L. , Nino Gustavo
Published: March 2018

Human respiratory conditions are largely influenced by the individual’s sex resulting in overall higher risk for males. Sex-based respiratory differences are present at birth suggesting a strong genetic component. Our objective was to characterize early life sex-based genomic signatures determined by variable X-chromosome methylation in the airways. We compared male versus female genome-wide DNA methylation in nasal airway samples from newborns and infants aged 1–6 months (N = 12). We analyzed methylation signals across CpG sites mapped to each X-linked gene using an unsupervised classifier (principal components) followed by an internal evaluation and an exhaustive cross-validation. Results were validated in an independent population of children (N = 72) following the same algorithm. X-linked genes with significant sex-based differential methylation in the nasal airway of infants represented only about 50% of the unique protein coding transcripts. X-linked genes without significant sex-based differential methylation included genes with evidence of escaping X-inactivation and female-biased airway expression. These genes showed similar methylation patterns in males and females suggesting unbalanced X-chromosome dosage. In conclusion, we identified that the human airways have already sex-based DNA methylation signatures at birth. These early airway epigenomic marks may determine sex-based respiratory phenotypes and overall predisposition to develop respiratory disorders later in life.