bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nível de alfabetização financeira dos servidores públicos estaduais de Minas Gerais
Authors: Vicente Carolina Gonçalves , Da Silva Jussara Goulart
Published: October 2023

O presente estudo buscou verificar o nível de conhecimento da educação financeira e a atitude financeira dos servidores públicos estaduais, que atuam diretamente em quatro escolas estaduais, de uma cidade do Triângulo Mineiro, e seus determinantes. Através da pesquisa quantitativa, foram aplicados 201 questionários, baseado nos estudos de Halles, Sokolowski e Hilgemberg (2007) com adaptações para a pesquisa. Foram feitas análises dos dados através da estatística descritiva, com análise da média, frequência, desvio padrão e percentual. Os resultados enfatizaram que o nível de conhecimento financeiro é baixo diante dos construtos analisados, já as questões do comportamento e atitude financeira não são influenciadas pela alfabetização financeira. Considerando que a amostra apresenta baixo nível de educação financeira, porém o comportamento e atitude está em um nível mais elevado.
Perception of First Year Medical Students towards a New Histology Module in a Medical College in Eastern India: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Basu Rituparna , Roy Tapati
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The post-COVID (Coronavirus) era, the transition of our country towards a competency-based curriculum, and our fundamental goal to improve students’ learning experience and academic performance expedite the need to introduce new strategies to the existing teaching-learning method based on principles of medical education in the form of a structured module. Among all subdivisions of anatomy, this is especially relevant for histology because microscopic anatomy poses a basic difficulty associated with the comprehension of microscopic details of human tissues through the novice, untrained eyes of the freshly-admitted first-year medical students. Aim: To study the perception of first year medical students towards the new histology teaching module. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted among 85 first year medical students of Medical College, Kolkata, from May 2022 to October 2022, on histology teaching methods, comparing new histology modules versus traditional histology methods. A student survey was conducted to study their perception regarding the difficulties faced by them during their first-semester histology practical examination. After conducting a literature search, a new learner-centered histology module was designed and implemented among students to address these difficulties. Forty-eight histology sessions were conducted using the new module over a total duration of six months. Students’ feedback regarding the new module was recorded at the end of the sixth month. The collected data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) software version 22.0 (trial version). Results: A total of 84 (98.8%) of students strongly agreed that because of the preliminary self-study time followed by discussions, quizzes, and brainstorming during the histology sessions, they had an improved understanding of the assigned learning areas. Additionally, 81 (95.3%) of students strongly agreed that their drawing skills of histology diagrams had improved due to drawing practice during the sessions. Furthermore, 83 (97.6%) of students reported an improvement in focusing and correctly identifying slides. Moreover, 82 (96.4%) of students felt that the regular formative assessments and immediate feedback improved their readiness for histology examinations. All of them agreed to the continued practice of the new module in future histology sessions. Conclusion: The students’ response towards the module was found to be positive. Addressing the students’ recommendations in the future would increase the chances of generating more support for it and enhancing their motivation towards improved academic performance in histology examinations.
Comparison of Clinical Efficacy of Bromelain with Paracetamol on Postoperative Sequelae after Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molar: A Split-mouth Randomised Clinical Study
Authors: Mittal Ananya , Ramanojam Shandilya , Khandelwal Saurabh , Pawar Sudhir , Nair Vivek , Valiulla Mohamed Umer , Medankar Apurva
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The most frequent oral and maxillofacial surgical operation carried out in an outpatient setting is the surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. The removal of impacted mandibular third molars involves surgical trauma in a highly vascularised area, which causes inflammatory changes referred to as “sequelae,” including pain, swelling, and trismus. These symptoms gradually appear, peaking two days after the extraction. To limit these postsurgical inflammatory complications, surgeons have advised the patients to use proteolytic enzymes, such as bromelain, along with routine antibiotics, analgesics, and corticosteroids. Aim: To compare the clinical efficacy of bromelain with that of paracetamol on pain, swelling, and trismus after the surgical removal of bilateral impacted mandibular third molars with similar difficulty indices. Materials and Methods: The present study was a split-mouth randomised clinical trial conducted at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Bharati Vidyapeeth DU Dental College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India, over a period of six months from August 2022 to January 2023. Twenty subjects requiring surgical extraction of an impacted mandibular third molar were selected for the study. All subjects were randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments for five days after surgery: Cap. bromelain 500 mg-BD 24 hours preoperatively and continued until the 4th day postoperatively (n=10, Group A) or Tab. paracetamol 500 mg-TDS (n=10, Group B). Pain scores were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) on postoperative days 1, 2, and 3. Swelling and mouth opening were assessed on postoperative days 2 and 7. Intergroup comparison was done using Student’s t-test. Results: The mean VAS scores for pain evaluation were 6.60, 5.80, and 5.20 for bromelain on days 1 (p=0.001), 2 (p=0.001), and 3 (p=0.001), respectively. The difference between the swelling values for the bromelain group was significant, while there were no significant differences in the values of trismus. Conclusion: It was concluded that bromelain is a better analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug compared to paracetamol. There were no significant differences in the values of trismus.
Perceived Stigma among Injecting Drug Users: New Evidence from an Observational Study in an Opioid Substitution Therapy Centre of Kolkata, India
Authors: Pal Manika , Dobe Madhumita , Goswami Dipendra Narayan
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) are one of the highrisk groups for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) is a targeted intervention for IDUs. Substance abuse, coupled with the risk of contracting HIV, makes them feel stigmatised. There can be little doubt that IDUs face discrimination and stigma in various forms, which could be a potential barrier for them to seek professional help. Aim: To estimate the magnitude of stigma perceived by IDUs and to identify the associated factors. Materials and Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted on IDUs attending the OST centre of Calcutta National Medical College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India from April 2016 to March 2018. A total of 168 IDUs were recruited using the census method. The Perceived Stigma of Substance Abuse Scale (PSAS) was used to determine the perceived stigma faced by the study subjects. Factors such as living arrangements, finances for addiction, level of education, emotional attachment, and religiosity were chosen as the predictor variables. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data. Logistic regression was employed to examine the associated factors with perceived stigma. The Odds Ratio (OR) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was computed, and a p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Out of 168, 107 (64%) IDUs reported perceived stigma above the mean value of PSAS. A significant association between perceived stigma and immoral means of finance for addiction (AOR [CI] 4.056 [1.617-10.174]), presence of emotional attachment with any of the family members (AOR [CI] 5.652 [2.588-11.9]), and lack of religiosity (AOR [CI] 5.685 [2.588-12.489]) was observed. Conclusion: There was an alarmingly high proportion of IDUs with perceived stigma. Immoral means of finance for addiction, lack of religiosity, and emotional attachment to family were associated with higher perceived stigma. Hence, appropriate emphasis should be given to information, education, and communication activities to address perceived stigma among IDUs in order to improve treatment adherence to OST among them. Moreover, there is a need for stigma reduction interventions in the larger community. Further research should explore the dynamics between perceived stigma and other predictor variables.
Influential Factors that Affect Farmers' Intention toward Farming
Authors: Jaman Shekh Md. Sahiduj , Babu Md. Asaduzzaman , Uddin Md. Jamal , Sharmin Mst. Rasna , Zabin Sakila
Published: October 2023

The service and manufacturing sectors grew as mainstream farming declined. Only mainstream farmers contributed to the economy. Agricultural specialties followed. Technology has enhanced grain output for human use, but farmers' satisfaction is crucial. A major goal of this research is to understand the farmer's intentions towards farming. The study is quantitative in nature and takes a deductive, positivist approach. Data were gathered from 350 participants through a structured questionnaire and nonprobability convenience sampling methods. SPSS version 25 and SEM-Amos version 24 were used to analyze the data. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model was used to measure the farmer’s intention, where price risk, biological risk, and climate risk were shown to have a significant negative effect on farmers' intentions toward farming. The calculated value supported the hypothesis. Marketing risk also has a negative impact, but it was found to be insignificant, and the hypothesis was not supported. This study provides valuable insight for policymakers looking to understand why farmers are discouraged from farming when a country must focus on farming to become self-sufficient in its supply of food. Additionally, the study provides some avenues for academics to pursue further research in order to understand why abnormalities occur for such a controllable factor (price risk) and what strategic actions the concern relevant to the nation's farming will take.
Documenting and Analyzing Targeted Interventions of State Fishery Department of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Katta Sravan Naga Parimala , Ansari Mohammad Aslam
Published: October 2023

Aims: Though Andhra Pradesh acts as an aquaculture hub, several targeted interventions were implemented by the State Fishery Department of Andhra Pradesh for the benefit of farmers. But lack of awareness among the fish farmers about these interventions leads to severe economic loss. Hence, this study aims to document and describe the interventions implemented by the Andhra Pradesh Fisheries Department which helps the fish farmers to make well-informed decisions.

Study Design: Descriptive study design was used to describe the purpose of documented interventions

Place and Duration of Study: Interventions provided by State Fishery Department of Andhra Pradesh for fish farmers were documented from Fish Development Officers during March 2023.

Methodology: The study collects data from various sources, including fish development officers, government reports, and other publications to document the interventions provided by Fisheries department of Andhra Pradesh. Focus Group Discussion was conducted with the fish development officers to critically analyze these interventions.

Results: The interventions can be categorized into five broad categories; which were, fisheries inputs, infrastructure, capacity-building programs, financial assistance, and others/ miscellaneous. Under fisheries inputs; fish seed, fish feed and aerators were given. Infrastructural interventions such as feed analysis, water analysis, soil analysis, microbial analysis, PCR, fish hatchery units, fish processing units, mobile aqua labs, fish kiosks, Fish Andhra Fit Andhra, Traditional fish farming implements were provided. Simultaneously, capacity building programmes like training, demonstration, workshops, FFPO, extensive awareness programmes, training for other interns and other professionals were also conducted. Financial assistance was provided through KCC, YSR pension kanuka scheme, Electricity subsidy, Matya Kara Barosa and other facilities like licensing, assistance to new fish farmers were also carried out.

Conclusion: Interventions of State Fisheries department was classified into five categories for better understanding and to make effective use of the interventions by the farmers. Lack of awareness about the interventions lead to severe economic loss among fish farmers. Hence, this study aims to address the information gap and empower the stakeholder through proper documentation of fisheries interventions by State Government which enables the fish farmers to make well-informed decisions.
Human Capital Development and Economic Growth: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Eniekezimene Francis Ariayefa , Wodu Ebimowei , Anda-Owei Joseph Peres
Published: October 2023

This study examined the impact of human capital development on economic growth in Nigeria from 1981 to 2021using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) method. Annual time series data on the dependent variable, real gross domestic product growth rate (RGDPG), alongside the independent variables, including government expenditure on education, government expenditure on health as well as gross fixed capital formation were sourced and collected from Central Bank of Nigeria [1] Statistical Bulletin, while the annual time series data on primary, secondary and tertiary school enrolments were collected from UNESCO [2] Institute for Statistics. The series were tested for stationarity using the Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) unit root test. The result showed a mix of variables integrated of order one, I(1) and of order zero, I(0). The Bounds test for cointegration showed the existence of long run relationship amongst the variables as the F-statistic value of approximately 3.43 was found to be higher than the 5% upper bounds value of 3.28. The results of the ARDL method of analysis revealed that in the long run, government expenditure on education and tertiary school enrolment had insignificant negative impact on economic growth while government expenditure on health, gross fixed capital formation, primary and secondary school enrolments had insignificant positive impacts on economic growth. On the other hand, in the short run, while government expenditure on education exhibited significant negative impact on economic growth, government expenditure on health had significant positive impact on economic growth. Gross fixed capital formation impacted positively on economic growth, primary school enrolment had negative impact while secondary and tertiary enrolments had positive impact on economic growth. Consequently, the study recommended among others that the government should set incremental annual targets expenditure on health aimed at achieving the Abuja agreement of 15% of total public expenditure in the health sector. This will create multiplier effect in the long run and serve as a boost to economic growth in the country.
Knowledge Management and Its Role in the Innovative Performance of the Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports
Authors: Affes Habib Salem , Abed Faris Ahmed
Published: October 2023

The study aimed to determine the role of knowledge management and its dimensions (knowledge creation - knowledge sharing - knowledge application - knowledge storage) in the innovative performance of the Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports in terms of connection and influence, as well as defining Levels of awareness, practice, and application of the study variables and their dimensions. To achieve the objectives, two main hypotheses were built. (H1-H2). The study dealt with the youth and sports sector represented by the Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports. The target community represented the directors and middle and senior leadership in the ministry with a total of (82) directors and a sample of (77) directors from various formations and levels of the ministry. Data were collected using several methods, including questionnaires, personal interviews, field experience, personal observation, reports, and official statements. To analyze the data, statistical program were used (SPSS_V.26) A set of statistical tools were used to reach the results, the most important of which is (mean - coefficient of variation - Standard deviation - Content validity - Simple linear regression - Pearson correlation coefficient), and one of the most important findings of the study is that there is a positive impact of knowledge management on innovative performance, and the knowledge application dimension was the most closely linked and Influencing innovative performance.
Experimental Study of Biochar Production Process Using a Pilot Carbonization Kiln as a Biofuel’s Properties Improvement Module
Authors: Oriaku, J. C.  , Mong, O. O.  , Onyeocha, C. E.  , Kalu P. N.  , Ndubuisi C. O.  , Srinivasan Gokul Raghavendra , Onwukwe I. E.
Published: October 2023

Pyrolysis is a thermo-chemical process of biomass conversion to a carbon neutral or better fuels and materials from biomass. It is a thermal decomposition of organic material in a controlled (insufficient) oxygen at a high temperature thereby producing solid (biochar), liquid (oil) and gaseous products. Biochar produced during this process is a very valuable material that can be utilized as soil additive and in carbon sequestration, where the carbon can be stored (locked) in the soil. The result is improved soil structure, pH, water and nutrient retention and the mitigation of climate change. Biochar can also be utilized as biofuel in energy generation directly or converted to biomass briquettes thereby, improving its energy and economic value. Therefore, the present study, involved the production of biochar from an improvised 100 litres volume pilot carbonization kiln and experimentally studied the biochar yield. The result showed a yield of 2505g at average charring ratio of 33.9 % from 7396g of composite wastes, comprising of 1844g of mixture of Maize cob and coconut husk, 1030g of mixed vegetable stem and discarded fruits (sundried watermelon and fruits, 3321g of peeled yam, cassava peels, potatoes peels and discarded food materials, and 1201g of plantain bunches and peels. This results is an indication of good performance outcome of the carbonization kiln in biochar production for soil nutrient improvement and (or) for energy supply applications as refuse derived fuels (RDF).
Using of Eggenberger–Polya Distribution as an Alternative Model for Dry Spell Analysis in Northern Odisha, India
Authors: Malik Tapan Kumar , Mangaraj A. K. , Sahoo L. N.
Published: October 2023

In this paper, Eggenberger–Polya distribution has been preferred as an alternative to a 2-state Markov Chain model for characterizing persistence behaviour of dry spell for Northern Odisha, India during south-west monsoon season. An attempt has been made to compare performance of the two competing models with reference to their strength to fit the empirical distribution of dry spell length under two goodness-of-fit criteria.
Antioxidant Properties Evaluation of Trunk's Barks of 10 Plants used in Traditional Medicine against Hepatic Pathologies
Authors: Traoré Kadiatou Tata , Sombié Nogma Ernest , Nignan Nouhoun , Boly Gilchrist A. L. , Kabré Leïla M. E. W. , Coulibaly Adjaratou , Atchadé Constantin Boladé , Ouédraogo Salfo , Tibiri André , Ouédraogo Sylvin , Ouédraogo Noufou
Published: October 2023

Aims: Herbal remedies are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant activities of the aqueous extracts of the bark of the trunk of 10 medicinal plants used in traditional medicine for the management of hepatic pathologies. This is Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Delile (Fabaceae – Mimosoideae), Adansonia digitata L. (Bombacaceae), Bombax costatum Pellegr. & Vuill. (Bombacaceae), Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile (Balanitaceae), Cassia sieberiana DC. (Fabaceae – Caesalpinioideae), Piliostigma reticulatum (DC.) Hochst. (Fabaceae – Caesalpinioideae) Tamarindus indica L. (Fabaceae – Caesalpinioideae), Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) Hutch. & Dalziel (Fabaceae – Caesalpinioideae), Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A.Juss. (Meliaceae) and Gymnosporia senegalensis (Lam.) Loes.) (Celastraceae)..

Methodology: In this study, the total phenolic and flavonoid content of the aqueous extracts of the trunk bark of 10 plants were determined and their antioxidant activities by the DPPH and FRAP methods were evaluated. The link between phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity was sought through a regression curve.

Results: Acacia nilotica had the best contents of total phenolics and flavonoids respectively with 21.28 ± 0.18 g ETA / 100 g DM and 0.207 ± 0.003 g EQ / 100 g DM. For the evaluation of antioxidant activity, Acacia nilotica also gave the best activities by the DPPH method with a percent inhibition of 1.08 ± 0.03 AAE and a reducing capacity of Fe3 + to Fe2 + of 0.107 ± 0.03 AAE. A strong correlation was found between FRAP and total phenolics (r2 = 0.9559).

Conclusion: This study shows that all the plants used for the treatment of liver pathologies had an interesting antioxidant capacity but among these 07 plants had the best activities. In-depth studies on the anti-inflammatory and even hepatoprotective activity of these extracts would justify their use in traditional medicine.
Microvascular Complications Associated with Advanced Glycation End Products in Diabetes
Authors: Reddy N. V. L. Suvarchala , Raju M. Ganga , Papani Jyothi , Keerthana Edunoori
Published: October 2023

Diabetes is a frequent metabolic complaint associated with increasing blood sugar levels, it also has a connection to long- term vascular problems that can damage blood vessels, urinary tract, sight, and neurons. By adding amino acid breakdown and ultimately accumulating complex end products of glycation in the organs, hyperglycemia is a crucial factor in the progression of complications related to diabetes. The breakdown process, which entails free of enzymes couplings of polysaccharides to lipids, proteins, or inheritable material, produces miscellaneous motes known to be sophisticated glycation end products. The root cause of diabetes-related difficulties such as atherosclerosis, retinopathy, nephropathy, and nephropathy are greatly impacted by the development of complex end products of glycation and the glycation of proteins. Glycation of proteins hinders molecules from behaving as anticipated by altering the functioning of enzymes, altering the structure of molecules, and impeding sensory interaction. In order to aid in the development of diabetes problems. Recent research suggests that AGEs interact with RAGEs on the plasma membrane to change gene expression, intracellular signaling, and the release of free radicals and pro-inflammatory chemicals. The formation of several AGE types from the glycation of plasma proteins is covered in the current review. The pathogenesis of diabetes sequelae such as retinal degeneration, glaucoma nerve damage, kidney failure, and myocardium are also discussed in relation to AGEs. This study includes an update on the disease's vascular consequences, underlying causes, and available therapeutic options. A summary of illness management techniques is also provided in this article.
The Impact of Varied Levels and Application Methods of Boric Acid on the Performance and Protein Content
Authors: Kardoni Fakher , Karami Somayeh , Andarzgoo Farzad Jame , Dashti Sana
Published: October 2023

This research investigates the influence of boron (B) application on the yield and protein content of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), a crop of significant importance due to its high protein and essential amino acid content. The study underscores boron's crucial, albeit still unclear, role in plant growth, and notes the damage boron deficiency and excess can cause, such as thickened stems, rough leaf tissues, stunted growth, and leaf scorching. Highlighting the plant species-dependent variance in optimal boron requirements, with legumes including common bean often needing more, the study reveals that a foliar application of 0.05% boric acid concentration, applied twice post-emergence, maximizes seed yield, while higher concentrations are detrimental. The research thus emphasizes the necessity of striking a balance in boron application to avoid either deficiency or toxicity, offering insights into appropriate boron dosage and application method for effective common bean cultivation. By contributing to a broader understanding of boron's role in common bean production and offering directions for optimized fertilization practices, this study helps improve both crop yield and quality. However, it also signals the need for further exploration of the long-term effects of boron application and its interaction with other nutrients under different environmental conditions.
Review of the Epilepsy, Including Its Causes, Symptoms, Biomarkers, and Management
Authors: Srivastav Yash , Prajapati Akhandnath , Agrahari Prachi , Kumar Madhaw
Published: October 2023

Epilepsy is a long-term medical disorder that frequently causes unpredictable, unprovoked repeated seizures that have an impact on both physical and mental abilities. It is among the most prevalent neurological conditions. Greek term epilambanein, which is the root of the English word epilepsy, means "to be seized." Both the sickness and the one-time attack were meant by this. The word refers to the magical beliefs of the time, which led to the stigma associated with epilepsy because people with epilepsy were seen to be dirty or bad. A recent study found that nearly 90% of the 70 million epileptics worldwide live in developing countries. Genetic testing has expanded the possibility of figuring out the aetiology of different types of epilepsies. It needs some prior clinical application knowledge to complete this challenging endeavour. Genetic testing techniques include chromosome microarray analysis, karyotyping, single-gene testing, gene panel testing, whole exome sequencing, and whole genome sequencing. The allegedly first documented account of epilepsy, as it was then perceived and understood, may be found in one of the earliest Babylonian medical manuals, Sakikku (English translation: "All Diseases"), which dates from around 1050 BC. The pathogenesis, aetiology, treatment, biomarkers, and risk factors for epilepsy are reviewed in this review article.
Effect of Phosphorous and Boron on Growth and Yield of Rice Bean
Authors: Sanskriti Sunhara , Umesha C.
Published: October 2023

A field experiment titled “Effect of Phosphorus and Boron on Growth and Yield of Rice Bean” conducted during the Zaid season of 2022 at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) India. To study the Response of Phosphorus and Boron on the growth and yield of Rice Beans. The treatments consist of Phosphorus 20, 40, 60 kg/ha and Boron (Borax 0.01% 20 DAS, Borax 0.02% 40 DAS, and Borax 0.03% 60 DAS). The experiment was laid down in a Randomized Block Design with ten treatments which are replicated thrice. The soil of the experimental plot was sandy loamy in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.8), and low in organic carbon (0.35%). Results obtained that the higher plant height (106.90 cm), higher number of nodules (30.94), higher number of branches (8.84) higher plant dry weight (49.25 g/plant), a higher number of pods/plant (26.25), higher number of seeds/pod (7.19), higher 1000 seed weight (58.19 g), higher seed yield (2.10 t/ha) and higher stover yield (4.66 t/ha) were significantly influenced with application of Phosphorus 60 kg/ha + Boron 0.03% at 60 DAS. Higher gross return (INR 1,15,500.00 /ha), higher net return (INR 84,155.70/ha) and higher B:C ratio (2.68) were also recorded in treatment-9 (Phosphorus 60 kg/ha + Boron 0.03% 60 DAS).
Frustrations of Parents/ Guardians of Children Living with Sickle Cell Disease: A Case Series
Authors: Osei-Djarbeng Samuel N. , Osei-Asante Samuel , Asamoah Natasha
Published: October 2023

Aim: To present some frustrations and problems parents/guardians of children living with Sickle Cell Disease go through.

Presentation of Reports: We present series of cases of parents and guardians whose children are less than fourteen (14) years of age and have sickle cell disease (SCD). In two of such cases the parents wished that their wards were dead to relieve them (the parents) of the challenges they go through to take care of the children. In the third report, the husband divorced the wife, blaming her for the plight of their two children; and the final one presents a couple who contemplated withdrawing their wards from school, so they would not have to spend money to educate them and lose them eventually to death.

Discussion: The case series give clear indications of the challenges guardians with children living with SCD go through. The disease which is hereditary affects the haemoglobin of the red blood cells, making the cells sickle-shaped. The clinical hallmarks of frequent infection, bone-pain crisis, anaemia, fatigue, organ failure and many other symptoms associated with the condition lead to frequent hospitalization. This is where the frustrations of the parents come from. With proper management of the condition and education to the guardians, SCD patients can go through normal life and the guardians can also have relative peace of mind to support such children.

Conclusion: Individuals who are carriers of the sickle cell traits should be discouraged from getting married to other carriers; and if they do, they should be cautioned about the challenges they stand to face if they decide to have children. By doing this, perpetuation of this condition and its attendant problems may be reduced. Newborn babies should be tested for the condition and proper management given from the onset to minimize crisis.
Inhibitory Effect of Nano-Fungicides and Fungicides on Radial Mycelial Growth of Bipolaris sorokiniana Causing Spot Blotch of Wheat under in vitro Condition
Authors: Verma Bipin , Biswas Samir Kumar , Pratap Gajendra , Kumar Naimish , Kumar Saurabh , Singh Vivek
Published: October 2023

Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoem, causing spot blotch of wheat is most important disease of wheat in north eastern plains zone (NEPZ) representing warm and humid climate in India as well as in other South Asian countries. The disease is known to cause yield losses up to 50% as well as deterioration in seed quality. The present study is carried out to check inhibitory effect of nanofungicides and fungicides against Bipolaris sorokiniana. Among nanofungicides, silver nanofungicide at 100 ppm was found highly effective and inhibit the growth by 86.10% followed by agritec nanofungicide (81.41%) and selenium nanofungicide (77.01%). Among fungicides, maximum inhibition (82.57%) was observed in propiconazole at 0.2% followed by hexaconazole (78.96%) and folicure (75.92%) under in vitro condition.
Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management of Biochemical Attributeson Aonla (Ebmblica officinallis Garetn.)
Authors: Singh Sneha , Pratap Bhanu , Singh Nimit , Singh Alok Kumar , Singh Vivekanand
Published: October 2023

The investigation was carried out with the aim of knowing the effect of integrated nutrient management on the fruiting of Aonla cv. Francis. The Experiment was conducted in two consecutive years. The experiment comprised of thirteen treatments, with three replications with randomized block design. The study revealed the Ascorbic acid, acidity, Organic carbon, Available nitrogen, Available phosphorus, and available potassium per cent for both year was noted maximum with the use of T7, which was at par withT4, T5, T6 and both treatment was significantly superior over rest of the treatment. The study concluded that applying 5% RDF + 30 kg Vermicompost+ 250 g Azotobacter+ 250g PSB, produced good quality fruit, yield and physiochemical attributes of Aonla for sustainable production.
Assessment and Health Risks of Glyphosate Residues and Traces Metals Elements in Groundwater Arround Abidjan Region, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Thibaut Béa Gouanda , Sébastien Ouffoué Koffi , Bernard Yapo Ossey , Lassiné Ouattara
Published: October 2023

Hydraulic networks from groundwater are the resources most exploited by the population for their daily needs. These water tables are constantly under pressure from pollution caused by human activities. In the tropical zone, more particularly in Ivory Coast, very few studies have been carried out on glyphosate, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), glufosinate and metallic trace elements (ETM) in groundwater. This study aims to determine the level of vulnerability of groundwater by these compounds. The study covered the waters of thirteen boreholes with an average depth of 69.26 meters near the Abidjan region (5°25'0" N / 4°1'60" W ) and the analyzes were carried out using the chromatographic method with detection by spectrophotometry. The results revealed the presence of glyphosate in all the samples analyzed at average concentrations of: 0.12±0.02 µg/L (minimum) and 1.9 ±0.1 µg/L (maximum), all higher than the water potability threshold value (0.1 µg/L) defined by the WHO. As for ETM, they are present in these boreholes at high concentrations of: 39±2 µg/L (As), 130±3 µg/L (Pb), 80±1 µg/L (Cu), 73±3 µg /L (Ni), 200±3 µg/L (Zn) at FILTISSAC, 20±2 µg/L (Cr) at Vridi and 21000 ±200 µg/L (S) in the Koumassi borehole. The health risk linked to the consumption of groundwater by the population, according to the mathematical calculation model used, is not acceptable. This study deserves to be conducted throughout the national territory.
Water Typology in the Amazon: Close Correlation with the Hydrogeochemistry of River Basins
Authors: Aprile F.  , Darwich A. J.  , Siqueira G. W.
Published: October 2023

A study on the typology of Amazonian waters was developed in the North Geographic Region of Brazil, considering a set of historical data from 1995 to 2022. The objective was to discuss and point out which environmental parameters are considered preponderant within the classification criteria of Amazonian waters. Historical data on temperature, density, pH, conductivity, oxygen, transparency, light attenuation, turbidity, color, total and dissolved solids, hardness, alkalinity, CaCO3, BOD, COD, main cations and anions, iron, C, N and P fractions, silicate, trace elements (Al, Cu, Zn and Mn) and chlorophyll a were analyzed. The analysis comprised water samples from the National Hydrometeorological Network (Sub-Basins 10 to 19), with a total of 36 basins, including tributaries, lakes and adjacent streams. The historical series was statistically analyzed through the techniques of Cluster, Principal component analysis (PCA), Piper Diagram and image interpolation by the ordinary kriging method. The results indicated a strong seasonal trend, with an evident distinction between the flood and ebb periods. The typology of white, black and clear waters was also evidenced, this last group being an intermediate class to the others, due to the physical-chemical standards. The PCA highlighted the parameters conductivity, pH, calcium, bicarbonate and Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) (Factor 1), and turbidity and alkalinity (Factor 2) as preponderant in the water classification. The ionic balance demonstrated that the white waters stood out for the highest concentrations of calcium and magnesium. The results suggest a pattern of calcic waters oscillating towards sodic and carbonated waters, with a subgroup in the northern eastern region of seasonally sodic-chlorinated waters, due to the influence of ocean tides. Image interpolation suggested a predominance of white waters in the western southern zone (Western Amazon) and white waters transitioning to clear waters in the eastern zone (Eastern Amazon). The analysis also showed a predominant strip of black and clear waters in the northern zone, and a strip of white waters in the central Amazon.
Medical Students' Perception of Colors Influence on the Learning Process
Authors: Shah Syed Sajid Hussain , Syed Asmara , Makhdoom Amin Khalid , Alshammari Dhari Atallah , Syed Saima
Published: October 2023

Background: Human being are affected by the surrounding environment. One of the component of the environment is presence of various colors. Different colors exert different impact on human psychology and the state of human psychology affects the learning process.   

Aims: We aimed to evaluate the perception of medical students about the different colors employed for the text and background that ease the process of readability and learning.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Medicine at Northern Border University (NBU) between 1/1/2023 and 1/2/2023.

Methodology: After the ethical approval, the questionnaire was circulated among the willing participants from the students of the Faculty of Medicine – NBU.  There are two components of the questionnaire. The 1st part comprised a color chart in which there were one hundred different combinations of text and background colors. The 2nd part contains basic information such as the study year of MBBS and gender along with the questions regarding the color text that is easier to read & understand and the background color that they like most.

Results: One hundred and seventeen (117) medical students participated in this study (72 females and 45 males).The majority of students liked the black text with a white background while a small number liked the other text and background colors such as black and cyan, yellow and black, white and green, and black and yellow, respectively.

Conclusion: The perception of the majority of medical students is that the most easily read text is the text written with black color on a white background.
Exploring Fungi-mediated Biodegradation Pathway of Polymers in Environmental Systems(Dump Sites)
Authors: Olaide Z.  , Patricia O. N.  , Esther C. A.  , Obiefoka S. O.  , Temitope S.  , Mustapha S.  , Adeyemi A. K.  , Yahaya R. A.
Published: October 2023

Context: The growing presence of environmental plastic has garnered escalating attention and worry in recent decades. While ease of production, durability, cost-effectiveness, and resistance to corrosion are valued attributes for consumer goods, they contribute to the persistent environmental presence, leading to a widespread surge in plastic pollution.

Aim: To find out various microbial- mediated biodegradation pathway of polymers (black nylon and white nylon).

Settings and Design: The research was carried out by obtaining dump soil from a mechanic dump site and a hospital dump site in Ibadan, Oyo state.

Materials and Methodology: Dump soil were obtained, diluted(serial) and Cultered and morphological and microscopic observation were carried out while polythene bags which are black nylon and white nylon were also degraded at Day 5, 10 ,15 and 20.

Results: Biodegradation of polymers is influenced by both polymer characteristics and the presence of specific microorganisms in the environment. Fungi,  with species like A. niger, A. flavus, and C. fungus were identified in a dump site. Weight analysis of polythene bags (black nylon and white nylon) over days revealed slight changes, indicating some degradation. PCR analysis confirmed genetic material from fungal isolates, highlighting the specificity and sensitivity of the chosen primers.

Conclusion: The presence of Aspergillus species in the dump site suggests their potential for bioremediation efforts in challenging environments
Fitness Trackers to Guide Advice on Activity Prescription
Authors: Lee I-Min , Keadle Sarah K. , Matthews Charles E.
Published: October 2023

This Viewpoint discusses whether older self-report questionnaire studies and newer studies of fitness-tracking devices reach different conclusions about the dose of physical activity needed for health.
Follow-Up Timing After Discharge and Suicide Risk Among Patients Hospitalized With Psychiatric Illness
Authors: Che Song Ee , Gwon Yeong Geun , Kim Kyoung-Hoon
Published: October 2023

Importance

Although early outpatient follow-up after psychiatric inpatient discharge may prevent suicide, the association between early follow-up care and a reduced risk of suicide after discharge has not been fully explored.

Objectives

To investigate outpatient follow-up care after psychiatric inpatient discharge and determine whether the timing of the first outpatient follow-up is associated with a reduced risk of suicide.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based, retrospective cohort study used the National Health Claim Database from 2017 to 2018 in Korea. Patients were observed until December 31, 2021, to confirm the occurrence of suicide. The study population included all patients aged 18 years or older who were newly admitted to hospitals with psychiatric illness except for dementia from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2018. Statistical analysis was performed from January to May 2023.

Exposure

The timing of the first mental health outpatient care follow-up within 30 days after discharge.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The outcome of interest was suicide after hospital discharge. The timing of the first follow-up visit was observed within 30 days after discharge. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to explore the association between the risk of suicide and the timing of outpatient follow-up.

Results

Of the 76 462 patients admitted to hospitals from 2017 to 2018, 225 (52.6%) were male; 21 313 (27.9%) had a primary diagnosis of substance use disorder, 17 608 (23.0%) had schizophrenia, and 15 018 (19.6) had depression; mean (SD) age was 46.4 (16.3) years. A total of 49 319 patients (64.5%) received follow-up outpatient care within 30 days of discharge. The mean (SD) follow-up period was 30.8 (20.2) months, and 1536 patients died of suicide during the study period. The hazard ratio for suicide risk in patients who received outpatient care within 7 days compared with those who did not receive any care within 30 days after discharge was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.80–0.83). The earlier the time of outpatient follow-up care, the lower the risk of suicide for those with substance use disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of patients with psychiatric illness, early follow-up outpatient care after discharge was associated with a lower risk of suicide. These results suggest that those at high risk of suicide during hospitalization need intensive follow-up immediately after discharge.
Broad group of substance use patients susceptible to developing schizophrenia
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: October 2023

New research suggests that a large number of individuals who present at hospital emergency departments for substance use are at significant risk of developing schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. The study found a higher‐than‐expected magnitude of risk for patients who did not exhibit symptoms of psychosis during their emergency visit.
Uncovering the Printability, Morphological, and Functional Properties of Thick Ferroelectric Composites for Next‐Generation Low‐Cost Scalable Sensors
Authors: Tsikriteas Zois Michail , Roscow James I. , Bowen Chris R. , Khanbareh Hamideh
Published: October 2023

Herein, new insights into the printability, rheological, morphological, dielectric, and piezoelectric characteristics of microscale thick‐film particulate ferroelectric composites are provided. This is achieved by the fabrication and printing of diethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate (DGMEA)/DI7025/barium titanate (BaTiO3) inks with varying filler content. The effects of DGMEA and BaTiO3 microparticles on the rheological response are investigated using shear, stress frequency dependence, and three‐part recovery tests. The structural and morphological characteristics are analyzed using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The functional sensing behavior is investigated through impedance spectroscopy, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric experiments. The dependences of the dielectric and piezoelectric properties of the composites on BaTiO3 volume fraction are reported and analyzed in terms of Yamada model. The best performance is obtained from the composites with 40 vol% BaTiO3 with parallel‐layered structured connectivity. The results offer important insights for the future development of new and improved thin film sensors.
A Porous Skeleton‐Supported Organic/Inorganic Composite Membrane for High‐Efficiency Alkaline Water Electrolysis
Authors: Liao Yiwen , Deng Guoxiong , Wu Haoyu , Ding Li , Wang Haihui
Published: October 2023

Hydrogen energy is a truly renewable and clean energy source. Alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) is the most promising technology for green hydrogen production currently. In the AWE process, the critical part of an alkaline electrolyzer is the membrane, which acts to conduct hydroxide ions and block gases. However, developing low area resistance, high bubble point pressure and highly stable membrane for high‐performance AWE is still a challenge. Herein, porous skeleton‐supported composite membranes via the blade‐coating method for advanced AWE are prepared. The porous composite membranes, besides having hydrophilic surface, also show ultra‐low area resistance (≈0.15 Ω cm2), ultra‐high bubble point pressure (≈27 bar) and excellent mechanical properties (tensile stress, ≈14 MPa). By using commercial catalysts, the composite membranes exhibit a current density of up to 1.9 A cm−2 at the voltage of 2 V in 30 wt% KOH solution at 80 °C and achieve ultra‐high H2 purity (up to 99.996%) when applied in AWE. Notably, the composite membrane can operate for more than 1600 h without performance attenuation, demonstrating excellent stability. This study opens up the feasibility of preparing high‐performance AWE membranes for large‐scale hydrogen production.
Industrial Kraft Lignin Based Binary Cathode Interface Layer Enables Enhanced Stability in High Efficiency Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Qilun , Liu Tiefeng , Wilken Sebastian , Xiong Shaobing , Zhang Huotian , Ribca Iuliana , Liao Mingna , Liu Xianjie , Kroon Renee , Fabiano Simone , Gao Feng , Lawoko Martin , Bao Qinye , Österbacka Ronald , Johansson Mats , Fahlman Mats
Published: October 2023

Herein, a binary cathode interface layer (CIL) strategy based on the industrial solvent fractionated LignoBoost kraft lignin (KL) is adopted for fabrication of organic solar cells (OSCs). The uniformly distributed phenol moieties in KL enable it to easily form hydrogen bonds with commonly used CIL materials, i.e., bathocuproine (BCP) and PFN‐Br, resulting in binary CILs with tunable work function (WF). This work shows that the binary CILs work well in OSCs with large KL ratio compatibility, exhibiting equivalent or even higher efficiency to the traditional CILs in state of art OSCs. In addition, the combination of KL and BCP significantly enhanced OSC stability, owing to KL blocking the reaction between BCP and nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs). This work provides a simple and effective way to achieve high‐efficient OSCs with better stability and sustainability by using wood‐based materials.