bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artist in Residence: Christian Kosmas Mayer
Authors: Mayer Christian Kosmas
Published: March 2022

Der erste Teil des Interviews behandelt Christian Kosmas Mayers Aktivitäten als Artist in Residence beim Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden sowie seine Überzeugung, dass neueste Entwicklungen in der Gentechnik und der Künstlichen Intelligenz mit dem uralten Begehren nach Unsterblichkeit zusammenhängen. Der zweite Teil befasst sich mit Mayers aktuellem und viel Aufmerksamkeit erregenden Kunstprojekt Maa Kheru: Auf Basis von CT-Daten einer 2000 Jahre alten Mumie wird deren Stimme in einem vom Künstler angeregten wissenschaftlichen Forschungsvorhaben rekonstruiert und dabei entstandene Audioaufnahmen werden als Material für die Komposition eines 8-Kanal Soundstücks verwendet.
(Y)OUR DATA IS A BATTLEGROUND
Authors: Klipphahn Michael
Published: March 2022

Die Ausstellung Y(OUR) DATA IS A BATTLEGROUND des Kunstvereins Meißen e. V. widmet sich dem Thema Künstliche Intelligenz mit Werken des Moving Target Collective (Amelie Goldfuß, Natalie Sontopski und Alexa Steinbrück), von Fabian Hampel, Simone C. Niquille/Technoflesh und Maximilian Stühlen. Die von Michael Klipphahn, Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden, kuratierte Ausstellung ist vom 5. März bis 23. April 2022 zu sehen.
University-industry Interoperability Framework for Developing the Future Competences of Industry 4.0
Authors: Kusmin Kadri-Liis , Tammets Kairit , Ley Tobias
Published: March 2022

The article explores how higher education institutions could engage employers and industry representatives into more systematic collaboration by creating environments for developing future skills of the workforce needed for Industry 4.0. We propose that dynamic work-integrated curriculum has the potential for productive outcomes by allowing learners to quickly contextualize the study content within the functional environment of the workplace, and develop field-specific and self-regulated learning competences through workintegrated learning study process. Research-based design and iterative design cycles were followed to develop the framework and prototyping a supplementing web-service to act as a central layer to facilitate stakeholder cooperation. The results of the study indicated that the implementation of the framework would provide several opportunities for inter-stakeholder cooperation, including accelerating the competency-related feedback loop between the stakeholders, and promoting development of work-integrated learning models to provide possibilities for self-regulated learning and career development.
Inquiry when doing research and design: Wearing two hats
Authors: Verne Guri , Bratteteig Tone
Published: March 2022

Based on different kinds of research, the paper suggests a conceptual framework for characterising, planning, evaluating and reporting the knowledge produced when doing research and design of digital technologies. Methods for data collection in research and design seems very similar, but lead to different results. We characterise the research based on the three paradigms positivist, interpretive and critical. We suggest simple questions that will be helpful for reflecting on the possible underlying philosophical assumptions and methodologies. We ask 1) who owns the problem, 2) whose meaning is represented, and 3) who delineates the fieldwork as a way to characterise research paradigms and methodologies. These questions help in addressing similarities and differences in research methodologies and what kind of knowledge is produced. We discuss how this conceptual framework allows for clarity and flexibility in research design.
Knowing through relations. On the Epistemology and Methodology of Being a Reflexive Insider
Authors: Geirbo Hanne Cecilie
Published: March 2022

Empirical studies of information and communication technology (ICT) is often done by researchers who work closely with practitioners. Acquiring a role as an insider researcher gives the researcher performative knowledge of the phenomenon that is being studied. Performative knowledge can provide valuable insight into a design process, but this requires that the researcher records her practical experiences, including the sensory, and subject them to analysis. In this paper, I propose that a commitment to a relational epistemology and the positioning as a reflexive insider can open for attending to the performative knowledge gained in the field as a source of data. I will call for attending to the relation to things and places, as well as to people during fieldwork, in analysis and in writing up the research. I will draw on an ethnographic study of a pilot project in Bangladesh to discuss this.
Rethinking the Accessibility of Digital Content with Perceptual Supplementation System through the Lens of an Ethics of Care
Authors: Tixier Matthieu , Lenay Charles , Garibaldi Gaëlle , Aubert Dominique
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we discuss the tension between the ethical perspectives of Justice and Care for technology design research. We first introduce the ideal project of universal accessibility bared upon standards and rules that leave broadly open the complexity of their application in practices. By contrast, we present the ethics of Care as a critic as well as a complementary perspective needed for the realization and negotiation of shared values. We ground the debate in the case of the accessibility of digital spaces for the visually impaired and blind persons. Through our research work on the design of perceptual supplementation systems, we propose to account for two possible places of dialog between Care and Design, on one hand the product of design, and on the other hand the design approach itself.
Sense and Sensibility: Designing a museum exhibit with Visually Impaired People
Authors: Di Loreto Ines , Lan Karine
Published: March 2022

As a Participatory Action Research project stands at the crossroad between scientific investigation, design, and social change, we argue that to answer when and whatthis kind of project can be considered “successful” we have to reflexively analyze a Participatory Design action as a never ending process. The hypothesis discussed in this paper is, thus, that the result of a Participatory Action Research project is more the journey that led to a design than the “results” of a research or the “products” created by the project (them being of material of immaterial substance). In this paper, we will illustrate our point through the description of SmartArt, an action research project whose aim is to reduce inequalities by allowing access to art and culture to Visually Impaired People.
Gestural interaction with 3D objects shown on public displays: an elicitation study
Authors: Du Guiying , Degbelo Auriol , Kray Christian , Painho Marco
Published: March 2022

Public displays have the potential to reach a broad group of stakeholders and stimulate learning, particularly when they are interactive. Therefore, we investigated how people interact with 3D objects shown on public displays in the context of an urban planning scenario. We report on an elicitation study, in which participants were asked to perform seven tasks in an urban planning scenario using spontaneously produced hand gestures (with their hands) and phone gestures (with a smartphone). Our contributions are as follows: (i) We identify two sets of user-defined gestures for how people interact with 3D objects shown on public displays; (ii) we assess their consistency and user acceptance; and (iii) we give insights into interface design for people interacting with 3D objects shown on public displays. These contributions can help interaction designers and developers create systems that facilitate public interaction with 3D objects shown on public displays (e.g. urban planning material).
Association Between Paraoxonase1 (Q192R and L55M) Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Breast Cancer: A Meta-analysis of 12 Studies
Authors: Tolooi Niloofar
Published: March 2022

Background: The paraoxonase1 gene (PON1) is part of the paraoxonase family of multifactorial antioxidants (EC 3.1.1.2). The functional single-nucleotide polymorphisms L55M and Q192R are located in the coding site of this gene. The association between these polymorphisms and breast cancer risk has been investigated, with contradictory results. Objectives: A meta-analysis was done to find the association between PON1 (L55M and Q192R) gene polymorphisms and breast cancer risk. Methods: We searched Embase, Pubmed, and Web of Science for related articles. Twelve eligible studies before December 2021 were selected. Statistical analysis was done by STATA 14.0. Result: We summarized 12 studies of L55M and Q192R polymorphisms and breast cancer risk, involving 5,769 subjects (2,519 controls and 3,250 patients). In all genetic models, PON1-L55M polymorphisms were significantly associated with breast cancer risk. Besides, PON1-Q192R polymorphisms decreased breast cancer risk. The PON1-Q192R allele reduced the cancer risk, particularly breast cancer (OR (R vs. Q): 0.7932). However, an association was found between the PON1-L55M allele and increased breast cancer risk (OR (M vs. L): 1.6041). Discussion: The results of 11 out of 12 studies were consistent with our results. In a non-conforming study, this was probably due to errors in conducting experiments. Nonetheless, well-designed studies with more samples are needed to confirm our findings at protein levels.
An Intelligent Ensemble Classification Method For Spam Diagnosis in Social Networks
Authors:   Department of Computer Engineering, Liyan Institute of Education, Bushehr, Iran, Ahraminezhad Ali , Mojarad Musa , Arfaeinia Hassan
Published: March 2022

In recent years, the destructive behavior of social networks spammers has seriously threatened the information security of ordinary users. To reduce this threat, many researchers have extracted the behavioral characteristics of spam and obtained good results based on machine learning algorithms to identify them. However, most of these studies use a single classification technique that often works differently for different spam data. In this paper, an intelligent ensemble classification method for social networks spam detection is introduced. The proposed heterogeneous ensemble learning framework is based on stack generalization and uses an evolutionary algorithm to improve the modeling process and reduce complexity. In particular, particle swarm optimization has been used as an evolutionary algorithm to optimize model parameters to reduce model complexity. These parameters include a subset of effective features and a subset of the most appropriate single classification techniques. The SPAM E-mail dataset used in this article contains the correct and effective features in spam prediction. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm effectively improves the detection rate of spam and performs better than the methods used.
Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inferential Approach for the Diagnosis of Prostate Diseases
Authors:   College of Science, Computer Science Department, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi- Ghana, Cobbinah Matthew , Abdulrahman Umar Farouk Ibn , Emmanuel Abaidoo Kwame
Published: March 2022

In this study, Adaptive Neuro-fuzzy Inferential System (ANFIS) is adapted for diagnosing prostate diseases. The system involves generating and tuning a fuzzy inference system to handle the imprecise terms used for describing prostate cases and severity. Several diagnostic variables were used to learn the feature statistics present in a typical data, while the trained model was validated and adapted for testing new prostate cases. A total of 335 data from patients’ records were collected at the Medi Moses Prostate Centre, Kumasi Ghana. The dataset was partitioned into 70% which was used for model training, and the other 30% was utilized in the validation phase. The proposed model was implemented in the MATLAB environment. Evaluation result from the proposed system demonstrated that the system achieved an accurate diagnostic result with an RMSE value of 11%. This indicates that the system has a relatively high accuracy and could be accepted for prostate diagnosis. Furthermore, the model was able to learn well and generalize the features in the data set, making the proposed ANFIS model suitable for new cases. Performance analysis showed that the ANFIS is well suited for handling the crispy values used in prostate diagnosis; thus, it can be extensively employed in other similar areas of medical diagnosis.
Data Quality for AI Tool: Exploratory Data Analysis on IBM API
Authors:   U & P U. Patel Department of Computer Engineering, Chandubhai S. Patel Institute of Technology, Charotar University of Science And Technology (CHARUSAT), India, Jariwala Ankur , Chaudhari Aayushi , Bhatt Chintan , Le Dac-Nhuong
Published: March 2022

A huge amount of data is produced in every domain these days. Thus for applying automation on any dataset, the appropriately trained data plays an important role in achieving efficient and accurate results. According to data researchers, data scientists spare 80% of their time in preparing and organizing the data. To overcome this tedious task, IBM Research has developed a Data Quality for AI tool, which has varieties of metrics that can be applied to different datasets (in .csv format) to identify the quality of data. In this paper, we will be representing how the IBM API toolkit will be useful for different variants of datasets and showcase the results for each metrics in graphical form. This paper might be found useful for the readers to understand the working flow of the IBM data purifier tool, thus we have represented the entire flow of how to use IBM data quality for the AI toolkit in the form of architecture.
On the Structure of the Virtuous Ethics Center
Authors: Spino Joseph ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: March 2022

When evaluating the success of an ethics center, one can look to the center’s level of engagement and achievement with affiliated institutions and communities. Such criteria are appropriate. What can be overlooked, however, is the internal structure and processes that help constitute the ethics center itself. In short, it is not merely the results an ethics center may claim that should be of interest for evaluating institutional health and longevity, but the very character of the organization itself. Using criteria offered in support of corporate agency and character, I argue that ethics centers can possess organizational agency and a “character” of their own. While not the same sense of character we associate with human beings, the “character” (and “virtue”) I describe is still a meaningful and identifiable feature that can and ought to be developed within the structure of ethics centers.
Ilustres ordinários do Brasil
Authors: França Jean Marcel Carvalho
Published: March 2022

Este livro reúne ensaios sobre a história do Brasil a partir da descrição de uma galeria de tipos sociais e de tiques comportamentais que a sociedade brasileira construiu e consolidou para si ao longo do tempo. É, em outras palavras, um livro sobre pequenas permanências, sobre pequenos traços do país e do seu povo que, de tanto serem repetidos, lembrados, discutidos, por vezes cantados em verso e prosa, ganharam ares de verdade e produziram impactos sociocomportamentais mensuráveis.
Métodos de alfabetização no Brasil: uma história concisa
Authors: Mortatti Maria do Rosario
Published: March 2022

"Aqui estão reunidos sete artigos publicados de 1998 a 2018. Tratam da história (concisa) da alfabetização no Brasil, suas circunstâncias e seus métodos. […] Maria do Rosario Mortatti dá a saber os estreitos vínculos entre os modelos pedagógicos para o ensino da leitura e da escrita, propugnados por diversos setores sociais direta ou indiretamente ligados à instrução, e os diferentes projetos de nação. A coletânea […] é excelente estímulo à pesquisa acadêmica tanto sobre o passado quanto sobre o presente do ensino do ler e escrever, do mesmo modo que é um exemplo de clareza, precisão e elegância; portanto, um convite a muitos. Professores ou futuros professores do ensino inicial ganharão ao lê-la, tanto quanto mestrandos, doutorandos e pesquisadores que se vêm debruçando sobre a história da escolarização primária e daquele ensino inicial, que foi denominado usualmente de ‘alfabetização’ […]. Ganhariam, também, com a sua leitura os atuais dirigentes do ensino; os ‘policy makers’, os que elaboram políticas, os que definem as diretrizes para educação neste país.” MIRIAN JORGE WARDE
Research progress of single quantum-dot spectroscopy and exciton dynamics
Authors: Li Bin , Zhang Guo-Feng , Chen Rui-Yun , Qin Cheng-Bing , Hu Jian-Yong , Xiao Lian-Tuan , Jia Suo-Tang ,   Key Laboratory of Spectral Measurement and Analysis of Shanxi Province, College of Physics and Information Engineering, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan 030031, China,   State Key Laboratory of Quantum Optics and Quantum Optics Devices, Institute of Laser Spectroscopy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Extreme Optics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
Published: March 2022

Colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) have strong light absorption, continuously adjustable narrowband emission, and high photoluminescence quantum yields, thereby making them promising materials for light-emitting diodes, solar cells, detectors, and lasers. Single-QD photoluminescence spectroscopy can remove the ensemble average to reveal the structure information and exciton dynamics of QD materials at a single-particle level. The study of single-QD spectroscopy can provide guidelines for rationally designing the QDs and giving the mechanism basis for QD-based applications. We can also carry out the research of the interaction between light and single QDs on a nanoscale, and prepare QD-based single-photon sources and entangled photon sources. Here, we review the recent research progress of single-QD photoluminescence spectroscopy and exciton dynamics, mainly including photoluminescence blinking dynamics, and exciton and multi-exciton dynamics of single colloidal CdSe-based QDs and perovskite QDs. Finally, we briefly discuss the possible future development trends of single-QD spectroscopy and exciton dynamics.
Trigonella foenum graecum (Fenugreek): An Herb with Impressive Health Benefits and Pharmacological Therapeutic Effects
Authors: Gawade Mahesh B. , D. Shejul Dhanashri , Jagtap Swapnil
Published: March 2022

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) is a medicinal herb and a green leafy vegetable used all over the world. It is mostly grown in India, Africa, Egypt, Pakistan, and other parts of the world. Vitamins, minerals, proteins, alkaloids, flavonoids, fibers, gums, and volatile chemicals are all found in abundance in fenugreek. It's been employed as a preservative in foods including pickles, chips, and bakery goods. Fenugreek has anti-cancer, anti-obesity, cardiac protective, gastroprotective, antifungal – antimicrobial properties, cholesterol-lowering agent, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, and helps in lowering blood sugar levels, improving sexual function, and galactogogue functions, among other therapeutic pharmacological effects. The purpose of this page is to examine the many investigations, papers, and publications that look into fenugreek's therapeutic pharmacological effects, health advantages, and chemical ingredients.
Effectiveness of Tick Berry (Lantana camara) in Controlling Larger Grain Borer (Prostephanus truncatus) in Stored Maize
Authors: Cathrine Sakarombe , Lovejoy Tembo , Reason Rumbidzai Charachimwe
Published: March 2022

The larger grain borer, Prostephanus truncatus is a devastating storage pest of maize and cassava which was introduced in Africa from America in the early 1980s through imports of maize. An experiment was carried out to determine the effectiveness of tick berry, Lantana camara in controlling the larger grain borer in stored maize. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with 6 treatments replicated 3 times. The treatments were; 1 control, 2 Actellic gold, 3. 10g Lantana camara, 4. 7.5g Lantana camara, 5. 5g Lantana camara and 6. 2.5g Lantana camara applied to 200g maize. Significant differences (p<0.001) were observed amongst all treatments with respect to mortality. The highest mortality of 100% was observed in the Actellic gold followed by 83.3% from 10g of Lantana camara at 21days after application. A significant difference (p<0.001) was also noted amongst treatments with respect to frass accumulation which translates to grain damage. At 21 days of observation, the control treatment had the highest grain damage (10.05%) followed by 2.5g Lantana camara (1.70%). No significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between 10g Lantana camara (0.18) and Actellic gold (0). Reproduction was significantly (p<0.001) inhibited by Lantana camara with failure of adults to emerge between day 21 and 42 after removal of adults. The control treatment had the highest number of adults emerging (177) followed by 2.5g Lantana camara (84) at 42 days in storage, no adults emerged in the Actellic gold treatment and no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed between 10g Lantana camara and Actellic gold. Lantana camara effectively controlled P. truncatus and the effectiveness was correlated to concentration and period of exposure. Lantana camara is recommended as a control option against P. truncatus.
Physico-Chemical, Functional and Antioxidant Evaluation of Some Gluten-free Flours Formulas Compared with Available Commercial Formula
Authors: Hussein Abdelmegiud Mahmoud , El-Soukkary F. A. H. , EL-Naggar E. A. , Abdelsalam R. R.
Published: March 2022

Gluten-free (GF) products are made using commercial flours formulas and are poor in protein, fiber, minerals and have weak physical properties that affect the quality of the final products. These factors are responsible for hampering adherence to the GF diet and for general dissatisfaction. The aim of this work was to evaluate the physio-chemical, functional and antioxidant evaluation of some combinations of GF flours formulas that have been prepared compared with available GF commercial flour formula in the local market. The moisture content of Gluten-free flour (GFF) formula sold in the local market used in the research was 12.60%. On the other hand, the prepared formulas' moisture content ranged from 12.23% (F2) to 12.90% (F3). The highest protein content was recorded with F2 and F4 formulas with no significant difference (p<0.05). Gluten-free flour formula had the lowest protein content (5.07% on a dry weight basis (DWB). In comparison to control (GFF), the amount of ash and crude fiber recorded in F2 doubled. The ash and crude fiber contents of the various formulas differed significantly. The GFF had the lowest ash and crude fiber content (0.51 and 0.31%, respectively on DWB). The highest values of total phenolic compound and antioxidant activity was observed in the F2 formula (313.15 mg/100g and 7.95%, respectively), followed by the F4 formula (226.56 mg/100g and 7.22%, respectively), then the F1 formula (223.57 mg/100g and 6.62%, respectively) on DWB. While, the lowest value was in the commercial flour formula sold in the local market (GFF) (75.10 mg/100g and 3.23%, respectively) on DWB. Gluten-free flours formulas exhibited high values for the water holding capacity in samples F2 (164.98%) and F1 (134.17%). While, GFF commercial flour formula showed lower water binding capacity in comparison to other GF flours formulas. Significant differences in the oil holding capacity of GF flours formulas were also observed. The mean values showed higher oil holding capacity for F2 (145.92%), followed by F4 (138.51%), F1 (130.11%) and F3 (126.64%), whereas, the lowest 75.43% was for GFF. The GF composite flour samples have close values and non-significant variations at p≤0.05 in the protein solubility. The increase in the values of emulsion stability and foam stability determined for GF flours formulas were significant at p≤0.05 as compared with those determined for the GFF commercial flour formula sample.
Propagation, Growth and Haematology of Fish Cultured in Water from a Natural Stream and Underground Tubewell Sources
Authors: Uka A. , Okoro G. G.
Published: March 2022

Propagation, growth and haematology of Clarias gariepinus bred and reared in water from a natural stream at 5o28’N, 7o32’E (Nature stream) and two wells at 5.4810N, 7.5370E (well-1) and 5.4770N, 7.5390E (well-2) were studied. The study was carried out in search of suitable water within close proximity for fish propagation. Growth was evaluated once in two weeks. Haematological parameters of the fingerlings were examined at 70 day post hatch. There was significant difference (P<0.05) in egg fertilization, hatchability, larval survival, growth and blood parameters among the treatments. Fish exposed to water from the natural stream impacted best propagation indices including fastest growth and highest values of Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC).  Fish for well-1 and well-2 were not statistically different (P>0.05) in PCV and MCHC. Apart from these two parameters, values of all the other blood parameters including growth were significantly lower (P<0.05) in fish for well-2 than those for well-1. The disparities observed signifies differences in water quality which is indicative for the presence of contaminant not identified in this study. The report recommended inclusion of heavy metals and organic mineral analysis in future study to identify the cause of the observed alterations.
Updates in Diagnosis and Management of Melasma : A Simple Review Article
Authors: Alenizi Dhaifallah , A. Alanazi Shahad Fahis
Published: March 2022

Melasma is a long-term skin condition characterized by bilateral, hyper pigmented, irregularly shaped macules on the cheeks, forehead, and jaw. It's a broad-minded, macular, nonscaling hypermelanosis of sun-exposed skin that mostly affects the face and forearms. It's usually linked to pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives or anticonvulsants (such as phenytoin [Dilantin]), but it can also be idiopathic. Melasma can be identified based on the patient's normal clinical symptoms. Some patients may object to the use of products with strong smells or an oily foundation, as well as the use of camouflaging proxies. Furthermore, some patients may find applying skin care products multiple times a day or smoothing once a day unattractive, and physicians should be aware of this.
Deep Learning in Agriculture: A Review
Authors: Bharman Pallab , Ahmad Saad Sabbir , Khan Sajib , Jahan Israt , Ray Milon , Biswas Milon
Published: March 2022

Deep learning (DL) is a kind of sophisticated data analysis and image processing technology, with good results and great potential. DL has been applied to many different fields, and it is also being applied to the agricultural field. This paper presents a wide-ranging review of research with regards to how DL is applied to agriculture. The analyzed works were categorized in yield prediction, weed detection, and disease detection. The articles presented here illustrate the benefits of DL to agriculture through filtering and categorization. Farm management systems are turning into real-time AI-enabled applications that give in-depth insights and suggestions for farmer's decision support by using the proper utilization of DL and sensor data.
Serum Hepcidin Level among Chronic Kidney Disease Subjects Accessing Healthcare in Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital Port Harcourt
Authors: Tamunonengiye-Ofori Lenox-Prince, , Mgbeoma Eze Evelyn , Ngozi Mordi, Augustina , Zacchaeus Jeremiah, Awortu
Published: March 2022

Hepcidin is the major controller of systemic iron homeostasis and the role of the kidney in regulating hepcidin level is vital in the whole process of iron and hepcidin relationship. This study was aimed at evaluating serum Hepcidin level among Chronic Kidney Disease subjects accessing Healthcare in BMSH Port Harcourt Metropolis. The study was conducted in Port Harcourt at Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital among 55 CKD subjects and 33 normal individuals making up the control group. Subjects were selected randomly and 5mls of blood was collected in plain bottle using venipuncture technique for laboratory assessment of hepcidin. Hepcidin was assayed using competitive ELISA method.  T-test was used to compare the mean difference oh hepcidin between both groups. Result showed that there was a significant difference in hepcidin level between CKD and control groups; 52.00±36.00ng/ml for CKD group and 16.00±13.00ng/ml for control group, p<0.05. This study has shown that CKD has a significant impact in hepcidin level blood and consequently on iron regulation.
Genetic Variability and Association Analysis of Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf) Shinn) Advanced Lines Under Mid Hill Conditions of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Dhiman M. R. , Kumar Raj , Parkash Chander , Kumar Sandeep
Published: March 2022

The present investigation was designed to assess the extent of variability, genetic advance, heritability and interrelation of different traits of 19 lisianthus genotypes at ICAR-IARI Regional Station, Katrain, Kullu, HP during 2019–2021. The mean performance of different genotypes exhibited considerable range together with large value for most of the characters. The trend of variability at genotypic level was similar to that of at phenotypic for some of the characters. The path analysis clearly indicated that total number of flowers per plant was directly associated with plant height and number of shoots per plant. It is imperative that these traits should be prioritized while improving number of flowers per plant in lisianthus. The cluster analysis revealed existence of diversity among the evaluated genotypes. The first principal component analysis (PCA) score explained 33.798% of the total variation mainly associated to genotype and flower yield. The PCA biplot was effective in showing the genetic distance among the genotypes and their discrimination based on key traits of importance in lisianthus. Genotypes Ktlis-1, Ktlis-17, Ktlis-5, Ktlis-9 and Ktlis-7 were superior among the tested genotypes therefore could be exploited in lisianthus breeding to improve flower yield. Hence, the characters showing high heritability along with high genetic gain should be given due attention in the development of desirable genotypes through simple selection. Further, Genotypes from different clusters identified for specific characters may be used as parent for lisianthus breeding programme with an objective to improve the specific traits.
Diversity in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Genotypes Based on Morphological Yield Traits with Protein Profiling
Authors: Singh Ahirwar Chandan , Singh D. K.
Published: March 2022

In this research, fortyfour genotypes with two check varieties of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) were studied that were collected from different geographical regions of India. Biodiversity is one of the most important factors in the survival and improvement of any species. Therefore, germplasm collection is the first step for plant improvement. To investigate their genetic and morphological relationships morphological traits of genotypes of cucumbers were evaluated with check varieties. We found that the traits, the total yield varied during first season from 48.80-144.48 (q/ha) with average of 89.81(q/ha). During second season, it varied from 46.30-202.00 (q/ha) with an average of 104.90 (q/ha). The single fruit weight varied during first season from 182.98 to 371.87 gm. with average of 287.89 gm. During second season, it varied from 180.16 to 380.11 gm. with an average of 281.75gm. Fruit length varied during first season from 6.43 to 25.28 cm. with average of 16.22 cm. During second season, it varied from 6.06 to 25.26 cm. with an average of 16.25 cm. The number of fruits per plant varied during first season from 3.30-8.30 with average of 5.60. During second season, it varied from 2.80-10.56 with an average of 6.69. The distinct genotypes found in this study based on morpho-molecular characters will great interest to cucumber breeder for selection of diverse parent or production of mapping population.
Vitamin D Deficiency Associated with Staying Indoors during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Report of Two Infants
Authors: Yokoyama Koji , Yoshida Akira
Published: March 2022

Aims: The world is in the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we report two infant cases of vitamin D (VD) deficiency associated with a lack of sunlight.

Presentations of case: Patients and their families stayed indoors according to orders issued by the public administration.

Conclusion: Physicians should be aware that many health problems are associated with long stays at home, including VD deficiency, which may be associated with a lack of sunlight.
Effect of Seed Rate and Spacing on Nutrient Uptake in Chickpea
Authors: Loria Kajal , Kumari Manju , Sood Yachna , Vikas . , Lalita . , Rani Saroj , Himangini .
Published: March 2022

The research experiment comprising of three levels of seed rate, i.e., 60, 75 and 90 kg/ha and three line spacing, i.e., 20, 30 and 40 cm was conducted at Research Farm of the Department of Agriculture, Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Sadopur, Ambala during winter season of 2020-21 to study the effect of seed rate and spacing on uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potash in chickpea. The seed rate was kept in main plot and spacing in sub-plot. The total nine treatment combinations of seed rate and line spacing were laid out in Split Plot Design (SPD) and replicated thrice. The interaction between seed rate and line spacing significantly influenced the uptake of N, P and K in plants and their status in soil. The maximum available NPK was registered with seed rate 75 kg/ha. Irrespective of the seed rate, the maximum NPK content was recorded under line spacing of 30 cm. Similar observations were also recorded for NPK content (%) in seed and straw of chickpea. The maximum NPK uptake and protein content was also observed when the crop was sown at row spacing of 30 cm using a seed rate 75 kg/ha.
Formulation of Entomopathogenic Nematode, Steinernema kushidai, their Survival and Infectivity
Authors: George Jisna , Devi Gitanjali , Bhattacharyya Badal
Published: March 2022

The commercialization and large-scale use of EPNs are limited by their short shelf life in formulations and in storage, thus leading to poor quality and reduced efficacy against insects in the field. This study explored the effects of some formulations on survival and infectivity of infective juveniles (IJs) of entomopathogenic nematodes , Steinernema kushidai at 5 and 25°C for 6 weeks. In the formulations, the survival and virulence rate differed at different temperature with decrease over the period of time. The alginate retained most of the IJs and can be stored for a longer time at 5°C followed by sawdust formulation .From the economic point of view sawdust formulation shows better results.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Treatment of Bonny Pipe Borne Water
Authors: Ezekiel-Hart H. , Dike P. E. , Mba U. E.
Published: March 2022

The research was aimed at evaluating the microbiological, physical and chemical quality of Bonny Pipe borne water. The pipe borne water from Bonny Island in Rivers State was screened to evaluate the effectiveness of its treatment by Bonny water Board Company. The microbiological status of the water was determined by using basic growth media to isolate microorganisms present in the water and identifying the organisms using its morphological characteristics. Antibiotic susceptibility was then carried out to ascertain the resistance and sensitivity of the isolates. Swabs of the water outlet taps were also taken at each point of collection from source to delivery. The results were compared with the microbiological status of Omoku's pipe borne water. Chemical analysis was also carried out on the Bonny pipe borne water to determine the level of chemical contamination. The Bonny pipe borne water complied with the microbiological regulations of WHO as there was no bacterial and fungal growth on any of the media used. However, the total heterotrophic bacteria count of the Omoku's water was 2.10 × 10^2 thus exceeding the limit of 1.0 × 10^1 cfu/ml of water, the MPN count for total coliforms was 5MPN/100ml, there was no Faecal coliform present and isolated organisms were Vibrio sp., Micrococcus sp., Salmonella sp., and Bacillus sp.,. The Physicochemical composition analysis revealed the following result for untreated and treated Bonny pipe borne water samples respectively: pH (7.0 and 7.5), Conductivity (60 mg/L and 268mg/L),Total Dissolved Solids (30mg/L and 34mg/L), total hardness (12.012mg/L and 120.12mg/L), chloride (10mg/L and 12mg/L) and Chlorine (Nil and 7.1mg/L) amongst others. The chlorine level for the treated water was above the regulatory standard of WHO (5mg/L), this resulted in increased hardness, taste and odour of the water, which were also above WHO's regulatory limits. Therefore, the Bonny water is not within the regulatory standard of potable drinking water.
Existence of Positive Solutions for the Kirchhoff Type Equations Involving General Critical Growth in \(\mathbb{R}\)\(^{N}\)
Authors: Xiao Ting , Zhang Qiongfen
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we consider the following nonlinear Kirchhoff type problem

− ( a + \(\lambda\) \(\int\) \(\mathbb{R}\)\(^{N}\) |∇u|2dx ) Δu + V (x)u = f(u), x ∈ \(\mathbb{R}\)\(^{N}\),

where N ≥ 3, a is a positive constant, \(\lambda\) \(\ge\) 0 is a parameter. Under some sufficient assumptions on V (x) and f(u), the existence of positive solution to the above problem is proved by variational methods and Mountain Pass Theorem. Specially, with the aid of a cut-off function and a monotonic trick, we obtain the boundedness of Palais-smale sequences. In this paper, we consider variable potential V (x) and more general f without Ambrosetti-Rabinowitz condition and the monotonicity of f(u)/u. Thus, our results improve the previous results in the literature.
Artificial Gorilla Troop Optimization for Optimization Operation of a Complicated Hydrothermal System
Authors: Yen Nguyen Van , Hieu Tran Trung
Published: March 2022

This study implements a novel meta-heuristic method called artificial gorilla troop optimization (AGTO) to handle the short-term fixed-head hydrothermal scheduling problem (ST-HTS). In the study, the constraints of reservoir and the fuel function of total generating electricity cost for thermal power plants are taken into account. AGTO is a newly published method and the main inspiration is based on the living practice of gorilla in nature. While tested by the hydrothermal power system, AGTO have demonstrated its striking performance to other state-of-the-art meta-heuristic algorithms and other popular algorithms. In this study, AGTO is implemented alongside with improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) and tunicate swarm algorithm (TSA) for assessing the raw performance. The results obtained by these methods see that AGTO is a highly effective computing method for an engineering problem such ST-HTS besides IPSO and TSA in all compared criteria.
Validation of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support on Nigerian Female Undergraduates
Authors: Bello Ibukunoluwa B. , Akinnawo E. Olutope , Akpunne Bede C. , Onisile Deborah F.
Published: March 2022

Social support is a vital factor in promoting physical and psychological well-being. The cross-sectional survey research design was adopted to validate the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support on Nigerian Female Undergraduates using a sample of 450 Nigerian female undergraduates. Participants responded to the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (shortened version -12 item). The item-total statistics of the scale indicates that all items present good discrimination. Also, the scale's internal consistency among the Nigerian sample reveals positively significant reliability coefficients. Paired with ISEL-Short Form, MSPSS has good concurrent validity. The authors conclude that MSPSS has appropriate psychometric properties for assessing social support in Nigeria and similar cultural contexts.
Teledentistry and Advancements in Traditional Dental Care
Authors: Jha Kunal , Mandal Yagnaseni , Jnaneswar Avinash , Kumar Gunjan , Suresan Vinay , Singh Arpita
Published: March 2022

Health care affordability, accessibility, availability, and quality have long been a major concern for humanity. Telemedicine has emerged as a new promise for alleviating health care constraints. It is the use of tele-communications and information technology for consultations, education, and public awareness, with the goal of improving patient care and time management. Teledentistry is a form of telemedicine that is used in the field of dentistry. It is beneficial in improving services to underserved people, such as those in rural or less developed areas. The recent spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its associated coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused widespread public health concerns However, due to restrictions in movement, it was difficult for the patients to visit the clinics for routine check-ups. This was overcome by the advent of INTERNET OF DENTAL THINGS (IODT) which has a major impact on and have tremendously transformed teledentistry. Dental health app platforms using AI have made teledentistry more accessible and user-friendly. The advent of sensor and camera technologies has opened up new possibilities and breakthroughs. Furthermore, teledentistry can be a beneficial tool for peer education, consultations, and ensuring proper referral channelizing.
Teachers’ Attitudes and Knowledge toward Child Maltreatment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhabrti Ali Mustafa , Alherz Ahmed Hussain , Alghirash Raed Abdulaziz , Almisbah Mahdi Hassan , Ammar Ali Fadhel Bin
Published: March 2022

Background: Child abuse, along with the negative impact of it has affected many aspects of children’s lives. It is now prevalent that its prevention has become a global healthcare priority. Teachers have a great role to play, as integral part of the community, in the prevention of this phenomenon.

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate teachers’ knowledge regarding their roles, their opinions on physical punishment, signs of abuse in children, and reporting policies.

Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted to 320 participants who teach in different educational stages and school levels located in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing the ability to recognize and evaluate different types of child maltreatment, knowledge of reporting procedures, and participants’ opinions on corporal punishment as a method of child discipline.

Results: Results showed a considerable improvement regarding the issue of child maltreatment among teachers. Female gender was associated with the level of significance in reporting procedures and other important legal issues surrounding child abuse.

Conclusion: Teachers reported having an awareness of their roles, the signs of child abuse and reporting procedures. Since the majority of them possessed a good level of awareness regarding the occurrence of child abuse, we encouraged them to take appropriate steps to learn how to identify different types of abuse and apply the knowledge gained through training and practical.
Evaluation of Anti Estrogenic Activity and Anti-Osteoporotic Activity of Extracted Quercetin from Bambusa arundinacea Leaves on Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Awasthi Akankasha , Juyal Divya , Singh Mamta F. , Sharma Saurabh
Published: March 2022

Phytoestrogens has now become a emerging era of interest for the researchers. The mimicking effects of phytoestrogens had lead to its wide use in reproductive system. In this study it was aimed to study the estrogenic activity and anti-osteoporotic activity of isolated quercetin female Wistar rats. The estrogenic effect was analyzed by uterotropic assay, vaginal cytology and measurement of vaginal opening in female Wistar rats. The administration of isolated quercetin in ovariectomized immature and mature female Wistar rats in a dose of 30 mg/kg b.w. resulted in significant increase in the uterine wet weight when compared with ovariectomized control rats. The treated rats, showing only Cornified epithelial cells was an indication of the presence of the estrogen and also showed 100% vaginal opening. Thirty six female albino Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n=6). After 60 days of Ovariectomy, animals were treated with of isolated quercetin for the next 45 days. Finally femur bone length, weight, bone ash calcium level, and bone mineral density (BMD) were estimated. The levels of serum alkaline phosphates (ALP), calcium, and phosphorous, and bone histopathology were also evaluated. OVX-induced increased serum ALP, calcium, and phosphorous levels were impaired in of isolated quercetin treated rats. The isolated quercetin which was evident by uterotropic assay, measurement of vaginal opening, and histopathological changes. It also exhibited a significant anti-osteoporotic effect in the experimental model of OVX-induced osteoporosis in rats, indicating advantageous effect in postmenopausal osteoporosis. Thus it concludes the Anti Estrogenic activity and Anti-Osteoporotic activity of extracted Quercetin from Bambusa arundinacea leaves on ovariectomized rats.
Antimicrobial Therapy: An Important Risk for Acquired Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Syed Muhammad Asif , Qazi Nasreen , Jamali Shah Nawaz , Arain Ashique Ali , Memon Sadat , Kumar Ganesh
Published: March 2022

Background: Aplastic anemia although a rare hematological disorder but it is associated with poor prognosis and high mortality. It is a matter of greater public health concern for the Asian population with prevalence 3 times greater than other part of the globe. Exposures of specific drugs, chemicals and others have been connected with an AA etiology. We aimed to examine the association of antimicrobial drugs exposures with AA.

Methods: We conducted a case-control study in Karachi, Pakistan, selecting the patients with two blood lineages depressed on bone marrow biopsy as the cases while patients without any hematological disorder as controls. For each case four age-sex matched control were enrolled. Information associated to socio-demographics and exposure to antibiotics was collected on a questionnaire during personal interview.

Results: We identified 191 cases with an age range of 1-66 years and 696 controls. Predominant participants were male (67%), female being 33%. Antimicrobial drugs were used by 49.74% of aplastic anemia cases whereas the use was reported in 29.31% controls. Beta-lactam antibiotics, chloramphenicol, macrolides, Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole, tetracycline and others were the drug categories evaluated.

Conclusion: Antimicrobials were reported to be used more frequently in aplastic anemia cases as compared to their normal controls