bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changing Structure and Composition of Rice Seed Sector: Insights from Seed Villages in Telangana State, India
Authors: Kaviraju S. , Janaiah Aldas , Kumari R. Vijaya
Published: August 2022

The purpose of the study was to understand the recent developments in the seed industry as well as farm-level information from seed villages on the structure and composition of the of the rice seed system in the Telangana state. A focussed group discussion approach was adopted to collect the primary data needed for the study with 8 to 10 progressive and experienced seed farmers in 30 selected seed villages of two predominant seed producing districts of the state in two points of periods 2014 and 2021. The results indicated that the sizeable portion of seed business has been shifted to other neighbouring states specially to Chhattisgarh in case hybrid paddy due to special incentive is being given to seed growers. Similarly, cotton seed production area is being shifted to Karnataka due to less cost of production compared to Telangana. As a result, the relative share of Telangana in India’s seed business has declined from about 30 per cent to 18 per cent between 2014 and 2020. The commission paid to intermediators (organisers) by companies has increased by 40 per cent while the procurement price paid to seed growers increased merely 14 per cent in the case of inbred paddy seed and less than 1 per cent in the case of hybrid paddy seed. The MNCs' participation in both inbred and hybrid rice seed production has decreased substantially. The average yield of hybrid rice seed has decreased, and there is no improvement in its procurement price offered by companies between 2014 and 2021. The per cent of farmers who entered into a contract without specifying a price has been increased in last seven years. The companies reduced their services like insurance to farmers, supply of critical inputs like GA3 for free and prolonged payment period after procurement, and limited compensation in the event of crop loss, which influenced the farmers to convert from hybrid rice seed production to other crops.
Delineation and Mapping of Groundwater Quality in Coastal Blocks of Tiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu Using GIS
Authors: Reethika D. , Baskar M. , Janaki D. , Rathika S. , Jagadeeswaran R.
Published: August 2022

An investigation was carried out to assess the quality of groundwater in coastal blocks of Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu. Approximately fifty groundwater samples were obtained from the coastline blocks in May 2022, particularly Minjur (25 Nos), Puzhal (7 Nos,) and Gummidipoondi (18 Nos). The groundwater samples were tested for physio-chemical (pH and EC) and chemical characteristics like cations-Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+ and anions- CO32-, HCO3-, Cl-, and SO42- ; and the resultant properties were computed (SAR and RSC). The pH of Minjur, Puzhal, Gummidipoondi blocks ranged from 7.66 to 8.78, 7.77 to 8.36 and 7.35 to 8.76 respectively.The EC of Minjur ,Puzhal,Gummidipoondi were 0.3 to 3.56 dS m-1,0.76 to 2.91 dS m-1 and 0.2 to 2.07 dS m-1 respectively. The SAR of Minjur, Puzhal, and Gummidipoondi ranged from 1.60 to 11.73 ,1.67-10.01, 0.6 to 6.87 respectively. . The RSC of Minjur ,Puzhal, Gummidipoondi ranged from -4 to 8.4 meq l -1 ,-0.8 to 3.4 meq l -1, -4.4 to 4.8 meq l -1 respectively. In the Minjur block, the majority quality of groundwater was characterized as good quality water (32 per cent), salty water (24 per cent), and alkali water (36 per cent). While in the Puzhal block, the majority quality of groundwater was characterized as good quality water (28.57 per cent), saline water (14.28 per cent), and alkali water (57.14 per cent). In the Gummidipoondi block, the majority quality of groundwater was assessed as good quality water (38.8 percent), and alkali water (50 per cent).
Energy Dynamics of Aerobic Rice Cultivation in India
Authors: Tuti Mangal Deep , Kumar R. Mahender , Sreedevi B. , Nirmala B. , Senguttuvel P. , Sundaram R. M.
Published: August 2022

Aerobic rice needs 30% less total water for land preparation, 50% saving on labour requirement and 50% less GHG emission compared to transplanted rice. Energy use efficiency of aerobic rice cultivation also varies due to varieties. However, a detailed study on various energy inputs components of aerobic rice cultivation (variety, water management, spacing, fertilizer dose and weed management) is lacking. To confirm the energy dynamics of aerobic rice cultivation, a combined study was taken up to find out the energy input, output and energy use efficiency of aerobic rice cultivation consisting of various trials conducted at research farm of ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research and few other trials conducted at other places. Gayatri variety performed well in terms of higher energy use efficiency at eastern part of India. Further higher energy use efficiency (output/input ratio) was recorded at 100% RFD. Crop spacing also affects the total energy output of aerobic rice. It was seen that the total output energy is highest at optimum spacing of 20 x 10 cm compared to 25 x 10 and 30 x 10 cm. Apart from need based hand weeding, Pendimethalin 1.0 kg /ha + Bispyribac sodium 35 g/ha resulted higher energy use efficiency (2.75) compared to those of other chemical weed management practices. It was observed that aerobic rice based systems maintained higher productivity and profitability in comparison to transplanting based rice cropping systems. The study revealed that varieties, fertilizer dose and spacing played crucial role in enhancing the energy use efficiency of aerobic rice cultivation. So, farmers have to strike a balance among the input resources specially variety, water, fertilizer to achieve higher energy use efficiency in aerobic rice based cropping systems.
Influence of Nutrient Management on Growth, Lodging and Yield of Transplanted Rice
Authors: Abarajitha P. , Rathika S. , Avudaithai S. , Balasubramaniam P. , Ramesh T.
Published: August 2022

Aim: To study the Influence of nutrient management on growth, lodging and yield of transplanted rice.

Study Design: The study comprised of eight treatments viz.,T1- 100% NPK, T2- 100% NP + 125% K, T3- 75% N + 100% PK, T4- 75% N + 100% P + 125% K, T5- 100% NPK + K2SiO4 at 50 kg ha­-1, T6- 100% NPK + Ca2SiO4 at 50 kg ha­-1, T7- 100% NPK + Na2SiO3 at 50 kg ha­-1 and T8- absolute control in randomized block design.

Place and Duration of Study: This research trail was conducted during the late samba (September – February) of 2021-22 at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute. TNAU, Trichy, Tamil Nadu, India.

Methodology: The study consisted of combination of 8 treatments in RBD which was replicated thrice. The rice variety of IW Ponni was used for this study. The observation have been recorded during the different phases of growth at regular intervals.

Results: The results revealed that the application of 100% NPK + K2SiO4 at 50 kg ha­-1 has recorded significantly taller plant height (131.7 cm), higher dry matter production (11360 kgha­-1), grain (4535 kg ha-1) and straw yield (7259 kg ha-1) over absolute control. Minimum bending moment and lodging score were reported with 100% NPK + K2SiO4 at 50 kg ha­-1 and it was on par with 100% NPK + Ca2SiO4 at 50 kg ha­-1.
Bioefficacy of Insecticidal Nematodes against Stored Grain Pests: An Overview
Authors: Devi Gitanjali
Published: August 2022

For protection of stored agricultural products in ware house, grain store and food processing factory from insect damage, control measures should be taken. Stored grain insect pests are difficult to control. Though chemical insecticides are effective in controlling pests, other environment friendly methods have been advocated. Entomopathogenic nematodes are potential bio control agent for management of insect pests. In this review research work done so far for management of stored grain pests has been highlighted so that further wok can be preceded.
Evaluation and Selection of Elite Cassava Varieties for Storage Root Yield in the Transition and Guinea Savannah Ecologies of Ghana
Authors: Adjebeng-Danquah Joseph , Asante Stephen Kwasi , Agbenyega Olivia , Adogoba Desmond Sunday , Yeboah Joseph
Published: August 2022

This study was carried out to identify and select local and improved cassava varieties suitable for cultivation in the transition and Guinea savannah agroecology of Ghana against climate change. Two agroecologies; transition and Guinea savannah ecologies were considered for the study. Four cassava growing communities were chosen in the transition zone whilst three cassava growing communities were chosen for the Guinea savannah ecology. The cassava varieties representing the treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications at each location. A total of 13 cassava varieties were used for the study. Cassava cuttings measuring 20-25 cm were planted using a spacing of 1m × 1m. Harvesting was done at 12 months after planting to assess storage root yield of the cassava varieties at the different locations. Analysis of variance indicated significant (P≤ 0.05) varietal differences among the local varieties for root yield (11.25 - 29.27 t/ha), harvest index (0.46 – 0.75), storage root number per plant (2 - 8 roots/plant) and mean storage root weight (307.0 - 972.4 g) in Transition zone. However, there were no significant varietal differences between the improved varieties for root yield. The best performing improved varieties in the transition zone were Bankyehemaa (28.06 t/ha), Eskamaye (27.76 t/ha) and Nkabom (26.99 t/ha) whilst Filindiakong (22.65 t/ha) and Nyerikobga (31.17 t/ha) were identified to be suitable for the Guinea savannah ecology. Therefore, these cassava varieties can be cultivated to mitigate the effects of climate change on cassava and ensure food security.
Evaluation of Interspecific Hybrids for Yield and Quality Characteristics in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)
Authors: Poornima V. , Rajasree V. , Thangamani C. , Boopathi N. Manikanda , Manoranjitham S. K.
Published: August 2022

Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia ) is one of the most nutritional and commercially important vegetable crops of the family cucurbitaceae. In the present study, hybrids and parents of bitter gourd were assessed to study the per se performance for yield and quality attributes. A wide range of significant variation was observed among all parents and hybrids under study. Among the parents assessed, Preethi and CO-1 was found highly significant with regard to yield attributing characters viz., fruit weight, fruit yield per plant, fruit yield ha-1 and MCM-1, MCM-2 with regard to number of fruits per plant. The hybrids CO-1 x MCM-2 followed by Preethi x MCM-1 and MCM-1 x Preethi were recorded to be the top performing hybrids for all the quantitative characters like node of first female flower appearance, days taken to first flower appearance, days to 50% flowering, fruit length(cm), fruit girth(cm), fruit weight(g),  internodal length(cm), vine length(cm), sex ratio, No of seeds per fruit, No. of fruits per plant, No. of harvest and yield per plant.  High ascorbic acid and iron content was recorded in parents MCM-2 and Preethi while it was found maximum in hybrids, Preethi x MCM-1, CO-1 x MCM-2 and MCM-1 X Preethi. Hence based on performance of yield and quality, the hybrids, CO-1 x MCM-2, Preethi x MCM-1 and MCM-1 x Preethi were found to be superior and can be exploited for further studies.
New Advances in Diabetes Care Group Education Research
Authors: Zhang Ling , Liu HongMei , Zhang Jing , Niu Qian
Published: August 2022

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of health education in diabetes.

Methods: This study investigated 40 diabetic patients treated in a tertiary A hospital from February 2022 to May 2022 through convenient nearby sampling. Eligible patients were evaluated by the general basic information questionnaire, diabetes self-behavior management scale through the number of lectures.

Results: Through the questionnaire survey, it was found that the average self-behavior management score of patients who have been in diabetes care group was 63.3, which was much higher than the 41.3 points for patients without group education. And patients participating in diabetes group education scored higher than those who did not participate in group education in terms of diet, exercise, and foot care.

Conclusion: Group education can improve the self-behavior management ability of diabetic patients.
The Efficacy of an Oral Diazepam Based Protocol in Improving Care and Reducing Duration of Hospitalization in Alcohol Withdrawal
Authors: Chronakos John , Ramakar Aashutosh , Shah Rutvik , Alharbi Ahmad , Ogunnaike Rahila , Hurissi Eman
Published: August 2022

Background: Complications from alcohol abuse are the fourth leading preventable cause of death in the United States. Hospital length of stay (LOS) for patients experiencing alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) has become of particular concern and effective treatment protocols are needed. 

Objective: At Danbury Hospital, a 371-bed community hospital in Danbury, Connecticut, the average LOS for AWS was historically nine days. We therefore designed a protocol for the treatment of AWS to provide effective treatment and thereby reduce LOS.

Design: Our study was a single centre, retrospective observational study of patients who were admitted to Danbury Hospital with a diagnosis of AWS.

Setting:  Danbury Hospital.

Subjects and Methods: A total of 307 patients were included in this study. All patients 18 years and older admitted to Danbury Hospital between June 2015 and December 2016, with a primary diagnosis of AWS were included. A loading dose regimen was used whereby 20mg of oral Diazepam was given hourly for a total of eight doses within the first 24 hours until clinical improvement or mild sedation was achieved. The comparison group consisted of patients treated with a symptom-triggered regimen using Lorazepam.

We compared the primary outcome of LOS and secondary outcomes including need for transfer to a critical care unit, restraint use for aggressive behaviour related to withdrawal, the need for a safety companion, and the need for Psychiatry consultation between the two groups.

Main Outcome Measures:  Hospital length of stay for patients experiencing alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Results: In the Diazepam group versus the comparison group, LOS was reduced to about four days, and fewer Psychiatry consultations were needed. 

Conclusion: We conclude that a loading dose regimen of Diazepam may be used to safely reduce LOS in AWS patients.
The Efficacy of Ultrasound Guided Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Versus Perineural Dextrose Injection in the Treatment of Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Shandal Manar Elsayed , Hablas Shaimaa Ahmed , Elbarbary Amal Mohamed , Kassem Elham Mohammed
Published: August 2022

Aims: To compare the ultrasound-guided platelet rich plasma efficacy to ultrasound guided 5% dextrose perineural   injection therapy in severe idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome patients. Patients and Methods: This research involved 60 patients with severe idiopathic CTS diagnosed by electrophysiological study. Patients were evaluated at three months after injection   clinically, electrophysiological, and US examinations.

Patients were divided into 2 groups according to line of treatment:

Group I: 30 patients (34 hands) treated by two ultrasound guided injection with 3 mL PRP two weeks apart.

Group II: 30 patients (35 hands) treated by two ultrasound guided perineural injection therapy with 3 ml of 5% dextrose two weeks apart.

Results: There was significant clinical improvement (BCTQ and, VAS), electrophysiological improvement (DML, AMP, sensory amplitude and sensory conduction velocity of median nerve) and, ultrasonic improvement (CSA and FR) 3 month after treatment as compared to before treatment in both groups with better improvement in group 1.

There was significant difference between the 2 groups regarding VAS for pain and VAS for paresthesia 3 months after treatment with better improvement in PRP group. There was significant difference between the 2 groups regarding BCTQ 3 months after treatment with better improvement in PRP group.

Conclusion: Ultrasound guided injection of PRP or dextrose 5% is an effective and safe treatment for severe idiopathic CTS. 

-Both modalities lead to significant reduction in pain, paresthesia, disability and also significant improvement in electrophysiological and ultrasound parameters of the median nerve with better improvement in PRP group.
Effects of Clomiphene Citrate Versus Letrozole on Semen Count and Motility in Men with Oligoasthenozoospermia in Osogbo, South- Western Nigeria: A Randomised Study
Authors: Akin Akinyele Akinbowale, , Temilola Akinbowale, Busayo , Damilola Akinwale, Oladayo , Monisayo Komolafe , Shekinat Bola-Oyebamiji , Adegboye I. Isawumi , Johnson Komolafe
Published: August 2022

Background: Infertility is a major cause of socio-emotional and psychological burden world-wide and nearly half of all cases of infertility were as a result of male partner’s related factors of which oligoasthenozoospermia is a major contributor. Currently, different treatments have been developed to manage this deficiency and improve semen parameters but no substantial results have been documented.

Aims: This study therefore aims at evaluating the effects of clomiphene citrate versus letrozole on semen count and motility in men with oligoasthenozoospermia in Osogbo, south-western Nigeria

Study Design: A randomized control study carried out at the gynaecology clinic of LAUTECH teaching hospital, State specialist hospital and Ayomide Women’s Health Specialist Hospital and IVF Centre Osogbo, Osun State.

Methodology: One hundred and forty (140) participants were randomized into the letrozole group and the clomiphene citrate group, with 70 participants in each arm of the study. The outcome measure includes the improvement in sperm concentration and motility (assessed at 4 and 8 weeks) following 3 months of alternate day administration of clomiphene citrate and letrozole by the participants. The study compared the improvement in semen concentration and motility following administration of Clomiphene citrate versus Letrozole among men with oligoasthenozoospermia. Data collected were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Statistics (SPSS-21) software and the level of significance was set at < 0.05.

Results: Letrozole and clomiphene caused significant improvement in sperm motility and concentration with letrozole having higher improvement in both sperm concentration and motility when compared to clomiphene citrate. There was 43.65% increased sperm concentration at 4 weeks and 48.24% increased at 8 weeks post-treatment in the letrozole group, while increased sperm concentration of 17.68% at 4 weeks post-treatment and 26.27% increment at 8 weeks post-treatment in the clomiphene citrate group was observed. Also, there was 33.24% increased sperm motility at 4 weeks and 42.09% at 8 weeks post-treatment in the letrozole group, and 14.30% increased sperm motility at 4 weeks and18.56% at 8 weeks post-treatment.

Conclusion: Sperm concentration and motility in men with oligoasthenozoospermiacan be improved with Letrozole and clomiphene citrate. Higher effect was observed in Letrizole group compared to clomiphene.
Maternal Mistreatment in Healthcare: The Way Forward
Authors: Odeyemi Joseph , Ezeano Chimezirim
Published: August 2022

Despite the ethical principles that guide medical practice, patient abuse and mistreatment still occur. Certain populations, including pregnant women, experience mistreatment by healthcare professionals more than others. The concept of maternal mistreatment has received increased attention in recent years. However, there have been limited attempts to measure its prevalence or health consequences. This paper explores the currently available data related to maternal mistreatment and makes recommendations to collect valuable information about this emerging public health issue in Texas. This paper presents information from one of the first large-scale national studies that collected data on maternal mistreatment in the United States. In addition, the core and standard questions of the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) survey for Texas were analyzed, and questions and measures assessing maternal mistreatment and its association with social risk factors were proposed to be added to the Texas PRAMS questionnaire. Two survey questions were proposed. The first question is built on the definition of maternal mistreatment by the “Giving Voice to Mothers Study,” while the social risk assessment question is an adaptation of the “Core 5 assessment questions” created by the Ohio Action Coalition. Four measures were proposed to describe the prevalence of maternal mistreatment and the relationship between mistreatment and the social determinants of health. Collecting data on maternal mistreatment and its associated factors is the first step to preventing negative outcomes from this public health menace. The support of governmental agencies and other stakeholders is required to make this issue a priority and ensure that maternal satisfaction is considered an important maternal and child health indicator.
Risk Factors and Mechanism of Hemorrhagic Transformation of Acute Ischemic Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Akinade Omotola , Alugba Gabriel , Chukwudum Chidinma , Urhi Alexsandra , Adedoyin Adewale Mark , Babalola Funmilola , Adesuyi Ayobami , David Favour , Okereke Obiamaka Pamela , Arisoyin Abimbola Eunice , Kolajo Benedicta , Unedu Ojali Ruth , Aladejare Adeyinka , Oboasekhi Aduwa , Anugwom Gibson O.
Published: August 2022

A feared complication of ischemic cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is hemorrhagic transformation and it increases the length of hospital admissions, results in poor clinical outcomes and increases mortality. This study aims to identify risk factors of hemorrhagic transformation, discuss the pathogenesis of transformation and prognosis of the condition from original studies conducted within the past 10 years. PubMed and EMBASE are the major databases used. Eight articles met the inclusion criteria and are a mixture of retrospective and prospective studies. The sample size ranges from 32 to 1484 patients. Generally, the mechanism of hemorrhagic transformation identified involves the release of reactive oxygen species and metalloproteinase as a result of cerebral ischemia. Metalloproteinase further causes a breakdown of the extracellular matrix, thereby giving rise to the extravasation of cellular components. Some identified risk factors include: age, use of antithrombotic, the subtype of ischemic stroke, the severity of stroke and hypertension. Prognosis is linked to the type of hemorrhagic infarctions according to the European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study II (ECASS II) with patients with either hemorrhagic infarct type 2 (HI2) and parenchymal hematoma type 2 (PH2) having the worst functional outcome.
Profitability of Using Different Rates of Farmyard Manure and Potassium Fertilizer for Cassava Production in Bukoba, Missenyi and Biharamulo Districts, Tanzania
Authors: Merumba Mgeta Steven , Semu Ernest , Semoka Johnson Mashambo , Msanya Balthazar Michael , Kibura Jojianas Kokulamka , Blandes Joyce Siima
Published: August 2022

The resolution of using or not using a particular technology in crop production is governed by the profitability of that technology being used. A study was conducted in Bukoba, Missenyi and Biharamulo districts in the Kagera region during the 2018/19 and 2019/20 cropping seasons to determine the economic benefit of using different rates of farmyard manure (FYM) and potassium (K) fertilizer in cassava production. One village potential for cassava production was selected in each district for establishment of cassava trials. Three tillage methods [flat tillage, tied ridging and open ridging] and eleven fertilizer rates [FYM at 4 or 8 MT ha-1, N40P30 + K at 40, 80 or 120 kg ha-1, FYM at 4 or 8 MT ha-1 + K at 40, 80 or 120 kg ha-1] and the control, were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications using a split-plot design. Tillage methods were the main plots and fertilizer rates were the subplots. Cassava yields (MT ha-1) were collected at harvesting (12 months after planting). Partial budget analysis was carried out to estimate the gross values using the adjusted yields at market price for cassava and fertilizers. Costs and benefits were calculated on a hectare basis, in Tanzania Shillings (TShs) ha-1, and converted to USD ha-1 based on the prevailing exchange rate of 1 USD, equivalent to 2 300 TShs. All variable costs were summed up to total variable cost (TVC). The net benefits (NB) [gross benefit (GB) - TVC] ha-1 of the tested treatments were calculated and used to assess the profitability of each treatment. Moreover, the benefit-cost ratios (BCR) [net benefit ÷ TVC] of the tested treatments were compared to the acceptable value of greater than 2 for the technology to be adopted by farmers. The results indicated that in both cropping seasons, and in all studied sites, all the tested fertilizer types and rates gave acceptable BCR of greater than 2, implying that all the fertilizer types and rates could be used for cassava production in the study area. The results on net benefit indicated that the combined use of FYM at 8 MT ha-1 and potassium fertilizer at 80 kg K ha-1 gave higher net benefit (3 020 500 – 9 168 000 TShs ha-1 (1 313.3 – 3 986.1 USD ha-1) than the other fertilizer types and rates (1 915 000 – 9 024 500 (832.6 – 3 923.7 USD ha-1) and is therefore, desirable for increasing cassava root yield and net benefit. However, for the resource-poor farmers, the combined use of farmyard manure at 8 MT ha-1 and potassium fertilizer at 40 kg K ha-1 can still be adopted because, for some reason, not all the famers can afford the best treatment.
Research on Fuzzy Control System of Intelligent Irrigation Based on Soil Moisture
Authors: Zhang Xunying , Zhao Yafei
Published: August 2022

Smart irrigation for sustainable agricultural water supply has been a critical initiative. In this paper, a fuzzy control system is designed to realize intelligent and precise irrigation by combining fuzzy control with traditional feedback control based on the features that soil moisture has significant influence and ease of detection and adjustment in practical irrigation. The opening time of solenoid valve is decided by the control system in real time, and the deviation and deviation rate of change for soil moisture are regarded as input variables. The model of intelligent irrigation fuzzy control system is built and compared with the model of PID control by Simulink for simulation. The results show that the fuzzy control system operates stably and achieves real-time precise irrigation with faster response and stronger robustness. The issue of reduced accuracy in irrigation due to the coupling between human and environmental factors is effectively solved by this design.
Computed Tomography Scan Imaging in Head Trauma Patients Based on Glasgow Coma Scale Score at Christian University of Indonesia General Hospital July 2015-June 2017
Authors: Marvellini Richard Yan
Published: August 2022

Head trauma is one of the most trauma found in the emergency department. Many patients who suffer from head trauma die before arriving in the hospital. The head trauma patient evaluation is determined based on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), the cause of trauma, and CT Scan results. Aim: The research is designed to know the image of CT Scan on Head Trauma patients by observing the early assessment of GCS.

Methods: The method of the study used was qualitative with descriptive qualitative design.

Population and Sample: The research population is all of the patients diagnosed with head trauma from July 2015-June to 2017 in UKI General Hospital. The data is processed by using SPSS 24.

Findings: The results from 83 patients examined found that 65 patients with a mild head injury which most CT Scan findings were normal (27,69%); 10 patients with a moderate head injury which most CT Scan findings were multiple lesions in the form of SAH and ICH (30%); and eight patients with a severe head injury which most CT Scan images are multiple lesion in the form of cranial fracture and EDH (37,5%).

Conclusion: Head trauma mostly happens to men aged 17-25 years old, and the most often etiology is a traffic accident.
Psychological Assessment using Modified DASS-21 Scale during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Priya K. Bharathi , Anilkumar Alwin , Alexander Sona Elsa E , Dinesh T. , Akash S.
Published: August 2022

Aims: To assess the levels of stress, anxiety, depression among the general population during COVID-19 pandemic and to compare the levels of psychological morbidities, between two different geographical locations in India.

Study Design: Cross-sectional observational study

Place and Duration of Study: Kerala and Tamil Nadu, between March 2021 and August 2021.

Methodology: A total of 522 participants got enrolled for the study, while 505 participants comprising 256 males and 249 females were selected, based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was used to assess the level of distress experienced by the study population.

Results: The sample size was calculated to be around 385 fixing a 95% confidence interval, 5% margin of error with a population proportion of 50% and of unlimited population size. Depression level among male (38%) was slightly higher than female population (37%). Anxiety levels were similar among the male (42%) and female (42%). Stress level was found to be slightly higher in female (22%) than in male (19%). State wise comparison showed that the people of Tamil Nadu had slightly higher level of depression (44%), anxiety (49%) and stress (26%) than the people of Kerala. The parameter of anxiety seemed to be higher when compared with depression and stress. 38% of the population suffered from all the 3 mental health conditions. 32% had at least 2 mental health related trouble. 11% had no mental health issue.

Conclusion: The study reveals that COVID pandemic had definitely created a lot of psychological instability amongst the general public. Our findings propose that constructing a sense of self-management among the general population through providing proper awareness about psychological morbidities and develop necessary interventions that can improve the mental health of vulnerable groups which may be crucial in ensuring preparedness for high contesting environments and adjustments during such pandemic experiences.
Comparison of the OSDI Questionnaire, the Tear Film Break-up Time and Schirmer Tests for the Evaluation of Tear Film in Computer users and Contact Lenses without Dry Eye Symptoms
Authors: K. Gialelis Themistoklis , E. Mouzaka Aikaterini , Chouzouris Michail
Published: August 2022

Aims: To compare the diagnostic values of the OSDI, the Schirmer’s and tear film breakup time test to check for dry eye in healthy adult students using computers and contact lenses.

Methodology: Our sample consisted of hundred (100) eyes from fifty (50) healthy adults aged 18-24 years students at the University of West Attica (25 participants were contact lens wearers, while the remaining 25 were not). All participants were exposed to a computer screen or a mobile screen. Qualitative tear measurement was performed with Tear Break-Up Time Test (TBUT), quantitative measurement of tears with Schirmer Test and use of the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI).

Results: During the analysis of the results, it was found that OSDI was inversely proportional to the TBUT test and the Schirmer test. 60% did not have dry eye, 34% had a mild dry eye, 4% had moderate dry eye and 2% had severe dry eye. Α statistically significant relationship  existed between OSDI and the other variables as well as the TBUT test with Schirmer test (p-value <0.05).

Conclusion: The OSDI questionnaire, used in conjunction with the TBUT test, was easy to perform and could be helpful in supporting the diagnosis of dry eye syndrome.
External Validation of the Lupus Multivariable Outcome Score for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Trials
Authors: Abrahamowicz Michal , Abrahamowicz Maria Izabela , Lipsky Peter E.
Published: August 2022

Objective

Development of new systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treatments requires an effective responder index. Toward this end, we have recently developed a new Lupus Multivariable Outcome Score (LuMOS) to optimize discrimination between actively treated patients and those on placebo. We now report on external validation of LuMOS in two independent clinical trials.

Methods

Validation was performed with the Illuminate data sets that evaluated tabalumab (TB) in SLE. To accommodate laboratory results assessed on different platforms, we developed a standardized LuMOS 2.0 model that uses z score transformations of biomarker values. For validation, we calculated LuMOS 2.0 scores at week 52 for all participants. Effect size (ES), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), compared the ability of LuMOS and the SLE Responder Index‐5 (SRI‐5) to discriminate between outcomes in patients randomized to TB dosage and outcomes in those randomized to a placebo.

Results

Mean LuMOS 2.0 scores were significantly higher (P < 0.0001) for the TB groups than the placebo group, including the Illuminate‐1 trial, in which the SRI‐5 did not identify significant treatment effects. For both TB groups in both trials, LuMOS 2.0–based ES indicated moderately strong treatment effects (>0.4) in contrast to weak SRI‐5 effects (<0.25). For monthly TB, LuMOS 2.0–based ES were 0.44 (95% CI: 0.30‐0.59) and 0.54 (95% CI: 0.39‐0.68) for the Illuminate‐1 and Illuminate‐2 trials versus corresponding SRI‐5‐based ES of 0.13 (95% CI: −0.02 to +0.27) and 0.15 (95% CI: 0.01‐0.30).

Conclusion

LuMOS 2.0 detected significantly greater treatment effects compared with the SRI‐5 in the Illuminate trials. Additional validation of LuMOS 2.0 in trials of non–B cell–directed therapies will be necessary to document its universality as an outcome measure.
Microrobots with Antimicrobial Peptide Nanoarchitectonics for the Eradication of Antibiotic‐Resistant Biofilms
Authors: Milosavljevic Vedran , Kosaristanova Ludmila , Dolezelikova Kristyna , Adam Vojtech , Pumera Martin
Published: August 2022

Bacterial biofilms are composed of a consortium of bacteria that communicate with each other through quorum sensing. Therefore, bacteria can form an extracellular matrix, which is a mucus composed of exopolysaccharides, peptidoglycans, and extracellular DNA, through these communication molecules. The matrix protects the community of bacteria from the adverse effects of the external environment, including antibiotics, biocides, and eradicating agents. Self‐propelled functional microrobots offer great promises in the biomedical field. The self‐propelled microrobots represent an innovative platform in microrobotic research, aiming to have an important role in the biomedical field. One of the potential applications is removal of bacterial biofilms. Herein, the specific design of multifunctional microrobots is demonstrated using antimicrobial‐designed peptides for eradication of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)‐produced biofilms. The designed microrobots can perform various tasks, including autonomous navigation toward bacterial cells, mechanical entry into bacterial biofilms, and blockage of the replication of bacterial DNA by indolicidin peptides. The implemented design extends the microrobot applications not only to the removal of biological aggregates but also to the delivery and release of drugs or even target manipulation, demonstrating their great potential for use in biomedical research.
Non‐Invasive Transdermal Delivery Systems with Deep Tissue Penetrating Ability for Local ROS‐Modulating Chemotherapy
Authors: Deng ChengYu , Zhuang Rong , Ying ZhuoYang , Tu Jiasheng , Xu Xianghui , Sun Chunmeng , Jiang Lei
Published: August 2022

Cutaneous melanoma is the deadliest malignant skin cancer due to its poor prognosis, rapid local growth, and high metastasis. Transdermal administration for local drug delivery would be one of the most appropriate therapy regimens. However, promoting drug penetration into deep tumor tissue and maintaining the balance of redox homeostasis during the antitumor treatment to inhibit melanoma progression remains a great challenge in melanoma treatment. Herein, non‐invasive transdermal delivery systems are reported for melanoma treatment, which is composed of biocompatible hydrogel and penetrating nanocarriers. Highly penetrating nanocarriers can co‐deliver paclitaxel and coenzyme Q10 for inhibiting melanoma and reducing side effects, which are attributed to drug encapsulation, deep tissue penetration, high cellular uptake, and organelle targeting. More importantly, biocompatible hydrogels serve as nanocarriers platforms for melanoma location and transdermal delivery. This hierarchical nanoparticle‐hydrogel system achieves high‐efficiency non‐invasive transdermal delivery for inhibiting melanoma, blocking adverse effects, and restraining melanoma development.
Enabling High‐Voltage “Superconcentrated Ionogel‐in‐Ceramic” Hybrid Electrolyte with Ultrahigh Ionic Conductivity and Single Li+‐Ion Transference Number
Authors: Zhai Yanfang , Hou Wangshu , Tao Mingming , Wang Zhongting , Chen Zongyuan , Zeng Zhong , Liang Xiao , Paoprasert Peerasak , Yang Yong , Hu Ning , Song Shufeng
Published: August 2022

High room‐temperature ionic conductivities, large Li+‐ion transference numbers, and good compatibility with both Li‐metal anodes and high‐voltage cathodes of the solid electrolytes are the essential requirements for practical solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries. Herein, a unique “superconcentrated ionogel‐in‐ceramic” (SIC) electrolyte prepared by an in situ thermally initiated radical polymerization is reported. Solid‐state static7Li NMR and molecular dynamics simulation reveal the roles of ceramic in Li+local environments and transport in the SIC electrolyte. The SIC electrolyte not only exhibits an ultrahigh ionic conductivity of 1.33 × 10−3S cm−1at 25 °C, but also a Li+‐ion transference number as high as 0.89, together with a low electronic conductivity of 3.14 × 10−10S cm−1and a wide electrochemical stability window of 5.5 V versus Li/Li+. Applications of the SIC electrolyte in Li||LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2and Li||LiFePO4batteries further demonstrate the high rate and long cycle life. This study, therefore, provides a promising hybrid electrolyte for safe and high‐energy lithium‐metal batteries.
Tropocollagen‐Inspired Hierarchical Spiral Structure of Organic Fibers in Epoxy Bulk for 3D High Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Chen Xin , Wu Kai , Zhang Yongzheng , Liu Dingyao , Li Runlai , Fu Qiang
Published: August 2022

Polymers are usually considered thermal insulators; however, significant enhancements in thermal conductivity (k) have been observed in oriented fibers and films. Despite being advantageous in real‐world applications, extending the linear thermal‐transport advantage of polymers into the 3D space in bulk materials is still limited due to the spatially interfacial phonon‐conduction barriers. Herein, inspired by the structure of tropocollagen, it is discovered that weaving hierarchically arranged poly(p‐phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) fibers with a spiral configuration into an epoxy matrix can yield a 3D continuous thermal pathway. This achieves both a through‐plane k of 10.85 W m−1 K−1 and an in‐plane k of 7.15 W m−1 K−1. Theoretical molecular simulations in combination with classical nonlinear modeling attribute the above spatially thermally conductive achievement to not only the hierarchical molecular, spiral and weaving structure of PBO, but also the noncrystalline chains that carry overlapping phonon density of states, thus thermally bridging adjacent high‐k crystals in the PBO fiber. Consequently, the interfacial thermal resistance among high‐k PBO crystals is suppressed to be on the order of 10−10 m2 K W−1 in both the through‐plane and in‐plane directions. Other advantages include being lightweight, mechanically strong, flexible, and non‐combustible. This material creates opportunities for organic polymers in high‐performance thermal management applications.
Dewetting‐Assisted Interface Templating: Complex Emulsions to Multicavity Particles
Authors: Yandrapalli Naresh , Antonietti Markus
Published: August 2022

Interfacial tension‐driven formation of intricate microparticle geometries from complex emulsions is presented in this work. Emulsion‐templating is a reliable platform for the generation of a diverse set of microparticles. Here, water‐in‐styrene‐in‐water complex emulsions undergo reproducible metamorphosis, i.e., from liquid state emulsions to solid structured microparticles are employed. In contrast to the traditional usage of glass‐based microfluidics, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) swelling behavior is employed to generate complex emulsions with multiple inner cores. In the presence of block copolymer surfactant, these emulsions undergo gravity‐driven dewetting of styrene, to transform into membranous structures with compartments. Further polymerization of styrene skeletal remains resulted in microparticles with interesting geometries and intact membranes. Mechanical and confocal microscopic studies prove the absence of polystyrene within these membranes. Using osmotic pressure, membrane rupture and release of encapsulated gold nanoparticles from such polymerized emulsions leading up to applications in cargo delivery and membrane transport are promoted. Even after membrane rupture, the structured microparticles have shown interesting light‐scattering behavior for applications in structural coloring and biosensing. Thereby, proving PDMS‐based swelling as a potential methodology for reproducible production of complex emulsions with a potential to be transformed into membranous emulsions or solid microparticles with intricate structures and multiple applications.
Reappraisal of telesurgery in the era of high‐speed, high‐bandwidth, secure communications: Evaluation of surgical performance in local and remote environments
Authors: Takahashi Yoshiya , Hakamada Kenichi , Morohashi Hajime , Akasaka Harue , Ebihara Yuma , Oki Eiji , Hirano Satoshi , Mori Masaki
Published: August 2022

Aim

Communication and video transmission delays negatively affect telerobotic surgery. Since latency varies by communication environment and robot, to realize remote surgery, both must perform well. This study aims to examine the feasibility of telerobotic surgery by validating the communication environment and local/remote robot operation, using secure commercial lines and newly developed robots.

Methods

Hirosaki University and Mutsu General Hospital, 150 km apart, were connected via a Medicaroid surgical robot. Ten surgeons performed a simple task remotely using information encoding and decoding. The required bandwidth, delay time, task completion time, number of errors, and image quality were evaluated. Next, 11 surgeons performed a complex task using gallbladder and intestinal models in local/remote environments; round trip time (RTT), packet loss, time to completion, operator fatigue, operability, and image were observed locally and remotely.

Results

Image quality was not so degraded as to affect remote robot operation. Median RTT was 4 msec (2‐12), and added delay was 29 msec. There was no significant difference in accuracy or number of errors for cholecystectomy, intestinal suturing, completion time, surgeon fatigue, or image evaluation.

Conclusion

The fact that remote surgery succeeded equally to local surgery showed that this system has the necessary elemental technology for widespread social implementation.
Low‐dose dasatinib 50 mg/day versus standard‐dose dasatinib 100 mg/day as frontline therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase: A propensity score analysis
Authors: Jabbour Elias , Sasaki Koji , Haddad Fadi G. , Issa Ghayas C. , Skinner Jeffrey , Dellasala Sara , Yilmaz Musa , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Bose Prithviraj , Thompson Philip , Alvarado Yesid , Jain Nitin , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Takahashi Koichi , Borthakur Gautam , Pemmaraju Naveen , Pierce Sherry , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: August 2022

Low‐dose dasatinib is safe and effective in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase (CML‐CP). No randomized trials have compared the outcome with standard‐dose dasatinib. This study aims to compare the outcome of patients with CML‐CP treated with frontline dasatinib 50 versus 100 mg/day. We analyzed 233 patients with newly diagnosed CML‐CP treated with low‐dose dasatinib (N = 83) or standard‐dose dasatinib (N = 150). Propensity score analysis with 1:1 matching was performed and identified 77 patients in each cohort without significant baseline differences. Response rates were reported as the cumulative incidences of complete cytogenetic response, major molecular response (MMR), molecular response (MR)4, and MR4.5. Failure‐free survival (FFS), event‐free survival (EFS), transformation‐free survival (TFS), and overall survival (OS) were also compared. Patients on low‐dose dasatinib with suboptimal response by European LeukemiaNet (ELN) 2013 criteria had the option to increase the dose to 100 mg/day. The overall median follow‐up time was 60 months. The 3‐year MMR rates were 92% and 84% for low‐dose and standard‐dose dasatinib, respectively (p = .23). Dasatinib 50 mg/day induced higher cumulative incidence of MR4 (77% vs. 66%; p = .04) and MR4.5 (77% vs. 62%; p = .02) at 3 years. The 4‐year FFS, EFS and OS rates were 89% versus 77% (p = .04), 95% versus 92% (p = .06), and 97% versus 96% (p = .78) with low‐dose and standard‐dose dasatinib, respectively. The rate of any grade pleural effusion was 5% with dasatinib 50 mg/day compared to 21% with 100 mg/day. Dasatinib 50 mg/day is at least as effective as 100 mg/day with a better safety profile and drug exposure.
Cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations between gut microbiota composition and cognition in the second year of life: Findings from the Child Health and Resident Microbes study
Authors: Matsuyama Misa , Murtaza Nida , Morrison Mark , Davies Peter S.W. , Hill Rebecca J. , Loughman Amy
Published: August 2022

The relationship between the gut microbiota and brain function are receiving increasing research attention. Studies investigating gut microbiota and early childhood neurocognition are limited, particularly in longitudinal measurements. We examined cross‐sectional relationships between gut microbiota of a cohort of otherwise healthy children using 16S rRNA sequencing and their cognitive development measured with Bayley's Scales of Infant Development III at 24 months of age (n = 43), and longitudinal relationships between gut microbiota composition at 12 months (n = 41) of age and neurodevelopment at 24 months of age. Associations between gut microbiota characteristics and cognitive development were observed both cross‐sectionally and longitudinally, notably with butyrate producing bacteria among some children. Bacterial diversity varied between cross‐sectional and longitudinal observations, where the gut microbiota community of children with lower cognitive scores had a trend toward higher alpha diversity, whereas, in the longitudinal observation, a trend toward reduced alpha diversity was observed. This study is limited by a small sample size and its exploratory nature. Yet, the study contributes to knowledge in the gut microbiota characteristics and early life neurodevelopment, a field of study which is underexplored, presenting opportunities for future larger specific studies.