bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Housing Management Practices and Microclimate of Cattle Shed in Cauvery Delta Region of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Henry A. Clement Ebenezer , Sivakumar T. , Ramesh V. , Ramachandran M. , Rajarajan G.
Published: March 2022

Background: In India, most of the farmers are shifting towards organized dairy cattle farming system from paddy cultivation and extensive system of rearing due to scarcity of water resources and intense variance in climatic conditions. Hence, the present study provided valuable information about the existing dairy cattle housing in Cauvery delta region of Tamil Nadu. Methods: The study on existing management practices of dairy cattle was conducted randomly among 90 farmers of Cauvery delta region, Tamil Nadu. A structured interview schedule was developed and pre-tested and the data on existing management practices were collected with the help of a pre-tested interview schedule. The data were collected by personal interview of the respondents individually at their animal house. The information on dairy production system and management practices were collected and the micro climate of different dairy cattle shed were recorded and analyzed. Result: In Cauvery delta region, the majority of farmers (48.89%) engaged in rearing crossbred dairy cattle were in the middle age group and educated. Further, animal husbandry is either the primary (25.56%) or secondary (74.44%) profession of the farmers. From the study, it is understood that more than 70 per cent of farmers housed their dairy cattle in loose type of housing, adjacent to their home with east-west orientation. The most common roofing pattern adopted for their cattle sheds is gable type (54.45%), with a roofing material of galvanized iron sheet (30.00%). The black globe humidity index (BGHI) and heat load index (HLI) calculated for dairy cattle shed with different roofing structures showed significant difference (P less than 0.05) between thatched and tiled shed.
Impact of ASCI Sponsored Skill Development Trainings on Dairy Farming Practices: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Thakur Devesh , Sharma Manoj , Dinesh Krishanender
Published: March 2022

Background: The present study assessed the impact of Agricultural Skill Council of India (ASCI) funded dairy training programme conducted at CSKHPKV Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. These skill development training programs of 200 contact hours trained 40 participants in two trainings conducted in 2018 and 2019. Impact of these trainings was understood by studying changes in adoption, herd size, milk production and capital investments made before and after the trainings. Methods: A semi-structured interview schedule was designed for the collection of data before the start of training programme to assess socio-economic profile, herd size, milk production and adoption of various dairy farming practices. Post training data in March 2021 was collected to study the impact of trainings. The adoption index was calculated by procedure laid out by Mande and Thombre (2009) and Godara et al. (2018). Result: Significant differences in adoption of various practices before and after training were observed with few notable practices such as silage making, castration of male calves, screening of animals for sub clinical mastitis, cattle insurance and biogas production which scored lower adoption even post training. Lack of proper financial support from the banks, poor milk marketing and other socio-psychological factors prevented farmers from reaping full benefits post training.
Respiration Behavior and Heat of Respiration of Mango (cv. Alphonso) under Different Storage Conditions
Authors: Prajapati Divyang M. , Jagalan Vipul , Dave Kripali D.
Published: March 2022

Background: The rate of respiration of each agricultural commodity varies significantly from commodity to commodity and cultivar to cultivar. To build a controlled, modified or cold storage system and determine shelf life, it is necessary to quantify the rate of respiration and the heat generated as a result of respiration. Methods: A scientific study was carried out to determine the effect of different storage conditions on the rate of respiration and heat of respiration of mango fruits (cv. Alphonso). An air-tight multi-chamber temperature and RH control system was developed to experiment with various temperatures. Mango fruits were stored at 10, 15, 20, 25°C and ambient temperature in the developed air-tight multi-chamber system. The rate of respiration and heat of respiration was determined for different storage conditions. Result: At the beginning maximum rate of respiration, 63.22, 72.56, 81.13, 86.33, 101.55 ml CO2/kg/h and heat of respiration, 7096.53, 8322.05, 9119.29, 9589.19, 10547.55 kcal/metric ton/day was observed at 10, 15, 20, 25°C and ambient temperature respectively. It was found that under steady-state storage conditions the rate of respiration and heat of respiration was increased with an increase in temperature whereas decreased with time for all storage conditions.
Factors Affecting Primiparous Women’s Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Levels
Authors: Erkal Aksoy Yasemin , Bay Habibe , Dereli Yilmaz Sema
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The aim of this study is to reveal the factors affecting primiparous pregnant women’s breastfeeding self-efficacy levels. This is a descriptive correlational study.

Method

The sample included 512 primiparous pregnant women. A personal information form, the Prenatal Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (PBSES), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire–Revised (PRAQ-R2) were used for data collection.

Results

The pregnant women’s mean total PBSES scores were found to differ significantly based on their descriptive and obstetric characteristics. There was a positive correlation between their mean PBSES scores and their MSPSS total and subscale mean scores. Additionally, there was a negative correlation between the participants’ mean total PBSES scores and their mean total PRAQ-R2 and “concern about own appearance” subscale scores. Place of residence for the longest time, pregnancy risk group, folic acid use before pregnancy, perceived family support, perceived support from friends and concern about own appearance were significant factors in explaining the variance in the pregnant women’s PBSES total scores.

Discussion

Both descriptive and obstetric characteristics of the primiparous pregnant women affected their breastfeeding self-efficacy levels. Social support was also determined to affect the participants’ breastfeeding self-efficacy levels positively, and whereas anxiety affected these levels negatively.
Breastfeeding During Travel: Barriers and Informational Support for Mothers Traveling With or Without Infants
Authors: Hirani Shela Akbar Ali
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Although breastfeeding during air travel is recommended, mothers often face various challenges when doing so.

Methods

A review of evidence-based and grey literature was undertaken to examine key considerations surrounding breastfeeding during air travel, barriers encountered by breastfeeding mothers while traveling, and need-based informational support for breastfeeding mothers traveling with or without their infants.

Results

Regardless of whether breastfeeding mothers are traveling with or without their children, they require adequate information on airport screening processes, ways to maintain breastfeeding practices during travel, safe storage of expressed breastmilk, airport lactation amenities, the cultural context and breastfeeding laws of the country of travel, and infection protection measures, to assure safety and reduce health risks.

Conclusion

The role of informational and social support is essential for promoting, protecting, and supporting the breastfeeding practices of mothers during air travel.
WORK-RELATED PROBLEMS AND PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS
Authors:   MAED, DDM, LPT., Instructor III, College of Education, Universidad de Manila, Manila, Philippines, Reyes Ricardo Carreon III , Reyes Jennifer P. ,   MAN, EdD., RN, Associate Professor 2, College of Nursing, University of the City of Manila, Manila, Philippines, Martinez Ma. Cecilia O. ,   MAN, EdD., RM, RN, Associate Professor 2, College of Nursing, University of the City of Manila, Manila, Philippines
Published: March 2022

This descriptive correlational study determined the impact of work-related problems on the performance level of the 81 teachers in the Senior High School Department of a Local Government Funded University. Results showed: a combination of teachers, experienced to less experienced, mostly holding MA units, experienced work-compensation-related problems as their major problem. However, there were no significant relationship between the impact of their work-related problems experienced and their performance level in terms of classroom management skills, communication skills, instructional skills, knowledge of the subject matter, methods of evaluation, and teacher’s characteristics. In addition, there were no significant differences in the performance level in terms of classroom management, communication skills, instructional skills, knowledge of the subject matter, methods of evaluation, and teacher’s characteristics when grouped according to the length of work experience and highest educational attainment.
INFLUENCER MARKETING AS EXPLOITATION OF CUSTOMERS FOR BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
Authors:   Faculty of Humanities, Management, and Social Science, Department of Business and Entrepreneurship, Kwara State University, Nigeria, Ishola Abdulfatai Idomi
Published: March 2022

Influencer marketing has become inherent for every business that wants to thrive, using social media as a marketing communication strategy. In Nigeria, entrepreneurship is fraught with many challenges which entrepreneurs are facing in the course of doing business. As a result of these challenges, stimulating customer interest is becoming of utmost importance. This study investigates influencer marketing as a marketing communication tool to encourage customer patronage. The research consists of customers that buy and patronized small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) firms within Kwara State in Nigeria. The questionnaire was conveniently distributed among 300 participants, but 268 was used for the study. Regression analysis was used to survey the data collected. The findings revealed that influencer marketing has a positive significant impact on business performance. Further findings showed that social influence and e-WOM play an important role in stimulating customer interest, desire, willingness, and readiness to buy and patronize products or services. It was therefore recommended that influencer marketing should be explored by the entrepreneur due to its potential benefit and the consequence of its absence on the business performance.
EMOTIONAL ABUSE AS HUMAN INSECURITY: A MYTH OR REALITY?
Authors:   PhD., Department of Politics & International Relations, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Afolake Alade Adebola , Oziofu. Ala Modupe ,   PhD., Department of Sociology, Psychology, & Criminology, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Published: March 2022

The paper is focused on emotional abuse on both genders in intimate relationships as human insecurity, how it is being under-reported and perceived by many in the Nigerian society as an insignificant issue since it is not physical, and where many are advised to bear it in silence or even accused of being the cause of it most of the times. The study examines the signs, causes, and effects, which makes it a form of human insecurity. The study is anchored on Attachment Theory. Secondary data were employed in gathering information and content data analysis was used in analysing the data for the study. The paper concluded that emotional abuse is a reality that many are not accepting and that speaking out to the right people (such as talking to trusted family members, friends, associates and therapists) is the first and main strategy in which the problem can be solved.
DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF DIGITAL INTERACTIVE OBJECTS IN ELECTRONIC TEACHING MATERIALS
Authors:   Head of Department of digital systems and technologies, Institute of Business of Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus, Tkalich Dr., Prof. Tatsiana , Makovskaja Elena ,   Senior Lecturer of Department of digital systems and technologies, Institute of Business of Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus, Jaskevich Svetlana ,   Senior Lecturer of Department of digital systems and technologies, Institute of Business of Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus, Silkovich Yuri ,   PhD, Professor of Department of digital systems and technologies, Institute of Business of Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus
Published: March 2022

The article reveals the significance of creating flexible scenarios for individual lessons in modern education. Analysis of scientific publications and the existing experience of business education has shown the need to increase the role of organizing the interaction and communication between subjects of the learning process. Traditionally, these are webinars, binary lectures, virtual tutorials, creative activities, work in small groups, etc. The article defines digital interactive objects (DIO) as the means to apply various interactive teaching methods using e-learning technologies. Considering the DIO as a didactic teaching tool, we distinguish several interactivity levels of teaching tools that allow us to choose the required form of educational content and to achieve learning goals. In the current study, DIO of business education has been developed. They are represented by sets of interactive objects for the implementation of various interactive methods and didactic teaching techniques according to the certain pedagogical scenario of the distance learning course. The relevance of the new pedagogical and technological scenarios for DIO results in the development of algorithms and methodological recommendations to be used by organizing training sessions in economic and business disciplines.
AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR EM TEMPOS DE PANDEMIA DO COVID-19
Authors: Pacheco Porto Carmem Rejane , Lagassi Tiago Ribeiro
Published: March 2022

A COVID-19 é uma doença causada por um vírus da família dos coronavírus, mais precisamente pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2, afetou e vem afetando o modo de vida de todas as pessoas no mundo inteiro, caracterizando-se como uma pandemia ao qual é altamente contagiosa. Este trabalho busca fazer um apanhado sobre os problemas gerados pela COVID-19, visando compreender os impactos sobre a agricultura familiar no Brasil. A metodologia adotada foi a realização de uma pesquisa básica de caráter exploratória. Como procedimento foi empregada a pesquisa bibliográfica e se configurou com a finalidade qualitativa. Os locais de pesquisa incluíram sites, periódicos, revistas, livros e diversos tipos de artigos disponíveis para acesso online. Cada região brasileira foi impactada de forma diferente, umas mais devido ao território ser pouco valorizado politicamente e outras menos por já terem um histórico maior de desenvolvimento político e econômico. Portanto, se faz necessária pesquisas mais aprofundadas e locais, levando em consideração a situação do município em questão e as políticas adotadas pelos governos estaduais e municipais.
GEOGRAFIA DA DIVISÃO SOCIAL DO TRABALHO
Authors: Sousa Filho Hudson Nascimento de , Lemos Wemerson Cavalcante , Araújo Gabriel Henrique Macêdo de
Published: March 2022

Busca-se certa análise focada em apreender a totalidade resultado da dinâmica espacial animada pela divisão social do trabalho responsável por organizar a hierarquização entre lugares dada materialização dos diversos modos de produção que territorializam-se no espaço geográfico – máxime a problemática da monopolização abrangente em vigência de um modo de produção em dominância, o capitalista. Com tanto objetiva-se construir compreensão síntese dos aspectos expressos na territorialização da divisão social do trabalho nas relações campo-cidade a parir das características e especificidades da realidade concreta do estado do Tocantins. Ora o presente texto surge para compreensão de sabermos que encargos esse mais novo estado da federação brasileira “recebe” e “desenvolve” por fazer parte da fronteira agroindustrial de expansão da agricultura moderna? a do MaToPiBa a partir de sua inserção nos anos 2015 até os dias atuais. Para isto opta-se em capturar o movimento dialético (contraditório) que exprime a realidade concreta apreendida mediante análise geográfica da divisão do trabalho no Tocantins/Brasil/América Latina. Visto a lógica produtiva imperante, onde os países de capitalismo atrasado tem seu processo de desenvolvimento contido para a bonança dos países imperialistas; esta apenas pode ser resolvida com uma ruptura com a ordem capitalista estabelecida e a imposição de uma derrota ao imperialismo.
Penilaian Kualitas Hidup Pasien Kanker Nasofaring Dengan Menggunakan EORTC QLQ-C30 di RSUP dr. Kariadi Semarang
Authors: Permata Agung , Perwitasari Dyah Aryani , Candradewi Susan Fitria , Septiantoro Bayu Prio , Purba Fredrick Dermawan
Published: March 2022

Biaya perawatan pasien kanker nasofaring masih tinggi di Indonesia, penilaian kualitas hidup dan evaluasi ekonomi pasien kanker sangatlah penting, karena penyakit dan pengobatannya mempengaruhi kesejahteraan psikologis, sosial dan ekonomi, serta integritas biologis individu. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kualitas hidup pasien kanker nasofaring yang menjalani kemoterapi di RSUP Dr. Kariadi Semarang. Penilaian kualitas hidup dilakukan menggunakan instrumen EORTC QLQ-C30. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian observasional dengan desain cross sectional. Sampel penelitian ini merupakan pasien kanker nasofaring di RSUP dr. Kariadi, Semarang, Jawa Tengah, tepatnya di unit rawat jalan poliklinik onkologi dan rawat inap selama bulan Mei – Juli 2020 yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi. Data yang telah didapatkan melalui pengisian kuesioner ditransformasikan menjadi skor dengan rentang 0-100 menggunakan rumus transformasi linier kemudian hasil kualitas hidup dideskripsikan dengan menggunakan nilai rata-rata dan standar deviasi. Teknik pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan metode convenience sample. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan skor rata-rata kualitas hidup pasien kanker nasofaring berdasarkan kelompok skala fungsional (80,20 ± 7,52), skala gejala (23,86 ± 6,77) dan status kesehatan umum (63,75 ± 20,99). Skor tertinggi terdapat pada domain fungsi emosional sementara domain yang terendah pada fungsi peran.
Sterqulia quadrifida R.Br: A Comprehensive Review of Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology
Authors: Darojati Ulfa Afrinurfadhilah , Murwanti Retno , Hertiani Triana
Published: March 2022

Sterculia quadrifida, R.Br. is one of the plants that grows on the mainland of Timor, East Nusa Tenggra. Sterculia quadrifida, R.Br. commonly known as Peanut tree in English and faloak in Indonesian has various pharmacological activities and has been widely used in traditional medicine. This review article aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential of the faloak plant as an herbal medicine by looking at various aspects such as ethnobotany, phytochemicals, pharmacology and toxicity. Literature searches are carried out in scientific databases that are accepted worldwide such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Springer Link, Wiley Online Library and advanced searches on Google scholars, books, abstracts, theses, scientific reports, and several non-impact and non-indexed journals with the search keywords "Sterculia quadrifida" or "Peanut tree" or "Red fruit kurajong" or "Faloak". From the various literature that has been collected, faloak has been shown to have pharmacological activities such as anticancer, antioxidant, antifungal, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and antipyretic. The existence of this activity cannot be separated from the chemical compounds contained therein such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenols, tannins and saponins. Faloak also has low toxicity with LD50> 5000 mg/kg body weight rats.
Efektivitas Implementasi Teknologi Informasi pada Bimbingan & Konseling di Era Pandemi
Authors: Fauzan Muhammad , Sidiq Nurhuda Maulana , Nugraha Hafsah
Published: March 2022

The phenomenon of distance learning (PJJ) during the Covid-19 pandemic led to various problems in education. One of them is the application of PJJ where the learning emphasizes the cognitive aspects, and the learning is designed how students must develop by learning cognitive, but the affective and psychomotor aspects are not given attention. Especially affective, where parents who are responsible for learning their children at home, not all of them have the competence to teach their children about attitudes, good behavior, or knowledge about mental health and mental health. counseling which must exist in this case, cannot perform services directly so it requires the application of information technology in it. This study aims to (1) determine the level of effectiveness in the use of information technology for counseling, (2) describe the various ways and tools in information technology that can be implemented to assist counseling services. In the procedure for compiling this journal, the method used to compile it is literature study. This technique is carried out by collecting various data from various literature that is relevant and guaranteed to the problems and research discussed in the journals. This journal describes the problem of the effectiveness of IT implementation at counseling in a descriptive and hierarchical manner regarding various studies conducted in literature data which is the source of reference. The research method used is a literature study by examining various literature that is relevant to the title raised by the author. The results of this study are a description of the results of processing data from various reference literatures regarding the effectiveness of IT implementation in BK in the Pandemic Era with Distance Learning (PJJ).
Inovasi Kegiatan dan Pembelajaran pada Masa Pandemi di Sekolah Alam Auliya Kendal
Authors: Farhani Nuriana
Published: March 2022

This article aims to: 1) identify information about innovation activities and learning during the pandemic at the Auliya Kendal Nature School 2) analize whether the innovation of activities and learning at the Auliya Kendal Nature School during the pandemic can be implemented properly and effectively. The approach used this research is a descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection techniques used including interview, observation, and literature review. The results of this study indicate that the activities and learning at the Auliya Kendal Nature School include: 1) the innovation of activities and learning during the pandemic at the Auliya Kendal Nature School can be carried out well. Activities and learning are still cariied out in schools in accordance with health protocols to avoid the virus, 2) students continue to attend school with alternating schedules, and 3) learning is carried out by forming small groups. Each class with an average of 15-20 students is divided into two groups of 7-10 students. Each group is taught by one teacher at the same time with different learning class.
Find Out East Sakerta Tourism Village Thematic Concept for Sign System Design
Authors: Maudiarti Santi , Adriani Hanni
Published: March 2022

The tourism industry is one of the primary needs for the life of modern society today. Because of these factors, it makes the need for recreation or tourism increases. East Sakerta Tourism Village is one of the leading tourist destinations in the Kuningan Regency. However, the leading Tourism Village of East Sakerta has the disadvantage of not having a thematic sign system that can provide a brand image and facilitate tourists who will visit the area. This study has the following objectives to find out a thematic concept for sign system at the East Sakerta Tourism Village. The research method used is a qualitative method. This data collection method is carried out using the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) method. Primary data collection was carried out directly and purposive sampling by interviewing key people, namely the village government apparatus, tourism community leaders (kompepar), and the community. FGD method used to find out about the history, legends, and uniqueness of the East Sakerta Village to support the realization of thematic sign system design. The results of the FGD research show that the agreed thematic concept is "Tumaritis" which is a village in the Sundanese and Javanese puppet which has a philosophy of mutual protection, security, and prosperity
Digestibility of Swine Liver and Swine Meat Protein Hydrolysates by Nile Tilapia
Authors: Cardoso Matheus dos Santos , Nettson Luciana Valéria , de Freitas Jaqueline Marcela Azambuja , Lewandowski Vanessa , Signor Altevir , Boscolo Wilson Rogério , Bittencourt Fábio
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the digestibility of protein, amino acids and energy of hydrolysates made of swine liver and swine meat by the Nile tilapia. The fish were distributed in 12 tanks with conical bottoms, in a completely randomized design with three treatments and four replicates, characterized by a control treatment and two diets containing the test ingredients: swine liver hydrolysate and swine meat hydrolysate. The coefficient of apparent digestibility was higher for both hydrolysates in comparison to the control, with percentages above 83% for dry matter 95% for crude protein and 92% for energy. Regarding amino acids, the coefficients remained at 98-100% for both hydrolysates. The digestibility percentages of both hydrolysates were higher than commonly used ingredients in the formulation of diets for Nile tilapia, of both plant and animal-origin. The hydrolysates tested in this study presented an excellent use in relation of essential amino acids by the Nile tilapia. Based on the results of digestibility, digestible energy and protein in this study, swine liver and meat hydrolysates have the potential to be used in the formulation of diets for this commercially important fish species.
Different Surgical Options for the Management of Intracranial Arachnoid Cysts
Authors: Kayhan Sait , Doğan Adem
Published: March 2022

Background: The aims of this study are to present our results and determine the most effective method on the surgical treatment of intracranial arachnoid cysts.Methods: The data of 44 patients who underwent surgical treatment for intracranial arachnoid cyst between 2011 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Age, gender, location of the cyst, clinical presentation, surgical technique and outcomes of patients were recorded and analyzed. The results were compared statistically. Results: Among the 44 patients, 36 were male and 8 were female with a mean age of 19.77 years. Twelve patients were children and 32 were adults. Signs of increased intracranial pressure were observed in 35 patients and epilepsy in 9 patients. The most frequent locations were temporal, frontotemporal and frontoparietal regions. Cyst fenestration was used in 34 patients while, cystoperitoneal shunt+fenestration in 8 and only shunt in 2 patients. Subdural effusion was seen in 5 patients and wound dehiscence in 6 patients after surgery. Forty patients were improved after surgery while 4 patients remained symptomatic during the follow-up period.Conclusions: Cyst fenestration is the most effective treatment method for intracranial arachnoid cysts. It may be performed using either microscopic or endoscopic technique. Re-closure of the fenestration is the main problem especially when performed in young children.
Unilateral Diaphragm Paralysis Following COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Lowenkamp Mikayla N. , Vercauteren Matthew , Crist Lawrence , Dhupar Rajeev
Published: March 2022

Background:New neurologic manifestations of the SARs-CoV-2 virus are emerging. We report a rare case of unilateral diaphragm paralysis following COVID-19 infection. Case Presentation:A 55 year-old previously healthy person was infected with SARs-CoV-2 prior to the availability of a vaccine. This patient was intubated and pronated for respiratory failure. For 6-months after recovery he experienced new debilitating dyspnea and orthopnea. Dynamic chest radiography demonstrated severely impaired motion of the right hemidiaphragm, representing a new hemi-diaphragm paralysis. After surgical plication the symptoms resolved. Conclusions:This case demonstrates the importance of thorough evaluation for diaphragm paralysis in patients who have suffered COVID-19 infection when there is persistent dyspnea or orthopnea, as well as the neuroinvasive potential of the virus that has yet to be fully explained.
An externally validated normogram for predicting short-term pregnancy outcome of singleton pregnancies with fetal growth restriction (FGR)
Authors: Yin Fufen , Jin Mingrui , Li Yujing , Li Yang , Yin Xiuju , Xie Junshu , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: March 2022

Background: The object of this study was to develope an available predictive model of singleton pregnancies with fetal growth restriction (FGR) for accurate and individualized prognosis assessment. Methods: The prediction nomogram was developed by multivariable Cox regression with data for 301 singleton FGR pregnancies at Peking University People’s Hospital. External validation was performed in 321 eligible singleton FGR pregnancies at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. Results: Absent umbilical arterial flow, fetal anomaly, history of adverse pregnancy, non-head fetal position and history of caesarean section were independent prognostic factors for adverse perinatal outcomes (APOs) in singleton FGR pregnancies in the training set. The nomogram estimated pregnancy prognosis of FGR singleton pregnancies based on these five variables, with a C-index of 0.859 in the training cohort. In the external validation set, consistent results were observed with a C-index of 0.776 for the nomogram. Moreover, the calibrations of the nomograms predicting 28th and 34th TOP-free gestation week (GW) strongly corresponded to the actual survival outcome. Conclusion: The prediction model in this study may help clinicians in decision-making for singleton pregnancies with FGR, especially for the patient with single abnormal umbilical arterial flow or fetal anomaly, without induced labor indications for these abnormalities.
Environmental impact of mining and beneficiation of copper sulphate mine based on life cycle assessment
Authors: Tao Ming , Nie Kemi , Zhao Rui , Shi Ying , Cao Wenzhuo
Published: March 2022

China is a major producer of copper concentrate as its smelting capacity continues to expand dramatically. The present study analyzes the life cycle environmental impact of copper concentrate production, along with selection of a typical copper sulphate mine in China. Life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted using SimaPro with ReCiPe 2016 method. The midpoint and endpoint results were performed with uncertainty information based on Monte Carlo calculation. Normalization of midpoint results revealed that impact from the marine ecotoxicity category was the largest contributor to the total environmental impact, followed by freshwater ecotoxicity, human carcinogenic toxicity, human non-carcinogenic and terrestrial ecotoxicity. The mining activity, backfilling activity and electricity generation were proved to be the dominant factors. In addition, main processes and substances to the identified key categories were also classified. Specifically, the cement production in the backfilling process, blasting activity, on-site emission and electricity generation were regarded as the critical processes. Copper to air and zinc emission to water were considered as the critical substances. The sensitivity analysis indicated that controlling on-site emissions and reducing pollution from cement production were the most effective measure to solve the environmental problems caused by the concentrate production process. Finally, the corresponding technical and management measures were proposed to facilitate the development of cleaner metal industry.
Evaluation of HyperArcTM using film and portal dosimetry quality assurance
Authors: Kamst Onno , Desai Pushkar
Published: March 2022

HyperArc™ is a stereotactic radiotherapy modality designed for targeting multiple brain metastases using a single isocenter with multiple non-coplanar arcs. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of two patient specific quality assurance methods, film and the Varian Portal Dosimetry System with Varian’s HyperArc™ technique and raise important considerations in the customisation of patient specific quality assurance to accommodate HyperArc™ delivery. Assessment criteria included gamma analysis and mean dose at full width half maximum. The minimum met size, maximum off-axis distance and suitable energy were identified and validated. Patient specific quality assurance procedures were applied to a range of clinically relevant brain met plans. Initial investigation into energy selection showed no significant differences in gamma pass rates using 6MV, 6MV FFF or 10MV FFF for met sizes greater than 15 mm diameter at the isocenter. Gamma pass rates (2%/2mm) for 15 mm mets at the isocenter for all energies were greater than 96.0% for portal dosimetry and greater than 98.7% for film. Fields of size 15 mm placed at various distances (10–70 mm) from the isocenter resulted in a maximum mean dose difference of 1.5% between film and planned. Clinically relevant plans resulted in maximum mean dose difference for selected mets of 1.0% between film and plan and maximum point dose difference of 2.9% between portal dose and plan. Portal dose image prediction was found to be a quick and convenient quality assurance tool for mets larger than 15 mm near the isocenter but provided diminished geometrical relevance for off-axis mets. Film QA required exacting procedures but offered the ability to assess the accuracy of geometrical targeting for off-axis mets and provided dosimetric accuracy for mets to well below 15 mm diameter.
Influence of Microsurgical Decompression on Segmental Stability of the Lumbar Spine – One-Year Results in a Prospective, Consecutive Case Series Using Upright, Kinetic-Positional MRI
Authors: Daentzer Dorothea , Venjakob Elina , Schulz Jessica , Schulze Thorsten , Schwarze Michael
Published: March 2022

BackgroundStandard procedure in patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis is decompressionto relieve the neural structures. Clinical results generally show superiority compared to nonoperative therapy after an observation period of several years. However, there is still a question of postsurgical segmental stability and correlation to clinical findings. Therefore, the aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical outcome in patients who underwent microsurgical decompressionin lumbar spine and particularly to analyze intervertebral movement by use of upright, kinetic-positional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over a period of 12 months and then to correlate the clinical and imaging data with each other.MethodsComplete clinical data of 24 consecutive participants with microsurgical decompression of the lumbar spine were obtained by questionnaires including visual analogue scale (VAS) for back and leg, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), Short-Form-36 (SF-36), walking distance and use of analgesics with assessment preoperatively and after 6 weeks and 12 months.At the same points of time all patientsunderwent upright, kinetic-positional MRIto measure intersegmental motion of the operated levels with determination of intervertebral angles and translation and to correlate the clinical and imaging data with each other. Results VAS for leg, ODI, RMDQ and physical component scale of SF-36 improved statistically significantlywithout statistically significant differences regarding intersegmental motion and horizontal displacement 6 weeks and 12 months after operation. Regression analysis did not find any linear dependencies between the clinical scores and imaging parameters.ConclusionsOurresults demonstrate no increase of intersegmental movement or even instability after microsurgical decompression of the lumbar spine over a follow-up period of 12 months, which is equivalent to preservation of intervertebral stability. Furthermore, the magnitude of intervertebral range of motion showed no correlation to the clinical score parameters at all three examination points of time.
Phase II Study Of S-1 Plus Cisplatin With Concurrent Radiotherapy For Locally Advanced Thymic Carcinoma: Results Of The LOGIK1605/JART-1501 Study
Authors: Fukuda Minoru , Yamaguchi Masafumi , Yamazaki Takuya , Funaki Soichiro , Mukae Hiroshi , Fukuoka Junya , Nabeshima Kazuki , Tateyama Hisashi , Ashizawa Kazuto , Tomiyama Noriyuki , Hara Masaki , Seto Takashi , Okumura Meinoshin , Sugio Kenji
Published: March 2022

Background: Combination chemotherapy including platinum agents is used to treat advanced thymic carcinoma; however, the therapeutic effects of such treatment are insufficient. A phase II study was conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of concurrent chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced thymic carcinoma. Methods: Patients fulfilling the following eligibility criteria were enrolled: unresectable locally advanced thymic carcinoma, no prior treatment, a good performance status (PS; PS=0-1), being aged 20-75, and adequate organ function. The patients received 80 mg/m2/day S-1 orally on days 1-14 and 60 mg/m2/day cisplatin intravenously on day 1. Two cycles of chemotherapy were repeated every 4 weeks. Thoracic radiotherapy (2 Gy, once daily, commencing on day 1; total dose: 60 Gy) was also administered. The primary endpoint of this study was to estimate the objective response rate with a target sample size of 30.Results: Three patients were enrolled. Toxicity and survival were assessable in all patients, but the treatment response was only assessable in one patient. The study was terminated because of poor case recruitment. The patients’ characteristics were as follows: male/female = 2/1; PS 0/1 = 2/1; median age (range) = 59 (55-72); and stage III/IV = 2/1. The patient in which the treatment response was assessed exhibited SD (response rate: 0%). In both non-evaluable cases, the second course of chemotherapy was judged to be post-protocol treatment because it was delayed by ≥14 days, but a complete response (CR) and partial response were achieved after the end of the study, respectively. Grade 4 leukopenia/neutropenia and grade 3 febrile neutropenia occurred in one patient each (33%). There were no treatment-related deaths. The median time to tumor progression was 17.6 months, and the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year survival rates were 67%, 33%, 33%, and 33%, respectively. The median overall survival time was not reached, and the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year survival rates were 100%, 67%, 67%, and 67%, respectively. Conclusions: Although it was difficult to recruit patients, there was a long-term survivor, who survived for >4 years and seemed to have achieved a CR, indicating that such chemoradiotherapy may be effective against locally advanced thymic carcinoma.
Cortical glutamatergic projection neuron types contribute to distinct functional subnetworks
Authors: Mohan Hemanth , An Xu , Kondo Hideki , Zhao Shengli , Matho Katherine , Musall Simon , Mitra Partha , Huang Z. Josh
Published: March 2022

The cellular basis of cerebral cortex functional architecture remains not well understood. A major challenge is to monitor and decipher neural network dynamics across broad cortical areas yet with projection neuron (PN)-type resolution in real time during behavior. Combining genetic targeting and wide-field imaging, we monitored activity dynamics of subcortical-projecting (PTFezf2) and intratelencephalic-projecting (ITPlxnD1) types across dorsal cortex of mice during different brain states and behaviors. ITPlxnD1 and PTFezf2 neurons showed distinct activation patterns during wakeful resting, spontaneous movements, and upon sensory stimulation. Distinct ITPlxnD1 and PTFezf2 subnetworks were dynamically tuned to different sensorimotor components of a naturalistic feeding behavior, and optogenetic inhibition of subnetwork nodes disrupted specific components of this behavior. Lastly, ITPlxnD1 and PTFezf2 projection patterns are consistent with their subnetwork activation patterns. Our results show that, in addition to the concept of columnar organization, dynamic areal and PN type-specific subnetworks are a key feature of cortical functional architecture linking microcircuit components with global brain networks.
Geographic and Ecological Invasion of the Cattle Egret (Bubulcus I. Ibis) In The Americas and Its Current Seasonal Patterns
Authors: Daniel Trinidad-Domínguez Carlos , Mota-Vargas Claudio , Rojas-Soto Octavio
Published: March 2022

The Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) is a native species of the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Iberian Peninsula. This species is mainly sedentary but includes migratory populations and inhabits diverse vegetation types including perturbed areas, which probably has facilitated its dispersion. In this study, we describe the geographic patterns during its invasion process in the Americas, characterize the environmental conditions that could favor this process and identify the areas of migration in North America. We obtained the occurrence records in chronological order from its arrival to the Americas to the present, and we made a climatic profile of the occurrence records. Then, we identified and characterized seasonally the environments associated with America's migration areas using temperature and precipitation variables. Starting in 1937 from Guiana, the species colonized the continent via three fronts: 1) through the Antilles until it reached Florida (United States); 2) towards South America until Patagonia; and 3) through Central America to Mexico, the central and western United States (US), and southern Canada. Since its arrival, the species continuously colonized America's new geographic and climatic conditions. However, in the 1970s, it seems to have reached its environmental limits in the northern extreme of its distribution (southern Canada and the US), where the minimum temperatures in winter (-25°C) apparently determine their physiological tolerance limits. Therefore, migrate from those regions to the south to search for more favorable climatic conditions. Currently, the Cattle Egret ranges from southern Canada to Patagonia (Argentina).
Gene Teams are on the Field: Evaluation of Variants in Gene-Networks Using High Dimensional Modelling
Authors: Tuna Suha , Gulec Cagri , Yucesan Emrah , Cirakoglu Ayse , Arguden Yelda Tarkan
Published: March 2022

Variation is a key concept in every biological aspect, particularly in medical genetics. In this field, each genetic variant is evaluated mostly as an independent entity in respect to its clinical importance. This approach may be sufficient to detect the pathogenic variants in single-gene disorders. However, in most of the complex diseases, the combination of the variants in specific gene networks, rather than the presence of a certain single variant predominates. Therefore, while considering a complex disease, the disease status can be evaluated as the success of a team composed of certain variants. To apply this approach, we tested the efficiency of high-dimensional modelling of gene-network restricted variants in distinguishing a disease status. To evaluate the proposed method, we select two gene networks, mTOR and TGF-β. For each pathway, we generate 400 control and 400 patient group samples. The considered mTOR and TGF-β pathways contain 31 and 93 genes of varying sizes, respectively. We performed Chaos Game Representation to each gene sequence to obtain 2-D binary patterns. Produced patterns are ordered successively, and a 3-D tensor structure is achieved for each gene network. Features for each data sample are acquired by exploiting Enhanced Multivariance Products Representation to 3-D data. The features are split as training and testing vectors. The training vectors are employed to train a Support Vector Machines classification model. We manage to achieve more than 96% and 99% classification accuracies for mTOR and TGF-β networks, respectively, using a limited amount of training samples.
Using Fly Larvae to Convert Food Waste for Growing Oujiang Color Common Carps: Health Risk Assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Gao Meng , Yang Zhan-Biao , Xu Xiao-Xun , Xian Jun-Ren , Yang Yuan-Xiang , Yang Song , Man Yu-Bon , cheng zhang
Published: March 2022

The present study used Chrysomya megacephala larvae (CML) to transform food waste into safe and high-quality fish feed to substitute fish meal as a source of protein for growing Oujiang color common carps followed by a human health risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The pretreatment significantly reduced the concentrations of PAHs in dish waste (118 ± 27.3 µg kg− 1 dry weight, p < 0.05), and the proportion of 5,6-ring PAHs from 35–17%. Concentrations of ∑PAHs (314 ± 60.4 µg kg− 1) and 5,6-ring PAHs (283 ± 66.4 µg kg− 1) in the CML were the highest when the culturing density was 1.0 g kg− 1. In addition, concentrations of BaP in the CML decreased with the increase of culturing density (p > 0.05), and the proportion of BaP in ∑PAHs decreased by 62.8–93.7%. 5,6-ring PAHs were the most abundant component of PAHs in the residue (p < 0.05), accounting for 91.3% PAHs. The residues as organic fertilizers have no potential ecological risk for PAHs. Furthermore, the consumption of Oujiang color common carps fed with the CML feed does not pose any health risks of PAHs for humans.
Changes in gene expression and cellular localization of insulin-like growth factor 3 in gonads of a seasonal breeding teleost, silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus
Authors: Li Yaya , Yang Yang , Zhang Youyi , Hu Jiabao , Zhang Man , Sun Jiachu , Tian Xinyue , Jin Yuxuan , Zhang Dingyuan , Wang Yajun , Xu Shanliang , Yan Xiaojun
Published: March 2022

As a new member of IGFs, insulin-like growth factor 3 (igf3) plays an important role in the development of gonads of teleost fish. Previous studies have found that igf3 was specifically expressed in the gonads of silver pomfret (Pampus argenteus). Different with other fish, the igf3 protein of silver pomfret is a membrane protein, and its specific role in the gonads was not yet clear. Here, we further studied the importance of igf3 in oogenesis and spermatogenesis in silver pomfret by analyzing its gene expression and cellular localization. During follicular development, igf3 mRNA and protein were significantly expressed in ovaries stayed in the critical period of vitellogenesis (Ⅳ - Ⅵ). Localization studies found that igf3 mRNA and protein were significantly and obviously expressed in somatic cells including theca and granulosa cells around oocytes. Meanwhile, similar with cathepsin L and cathepsin K, igf3 had a high and consistent expression levels in ovaries during vitellogenesis, suggesting igf3 might play a key role in the process of vitellogenesis of oocytes. In the process of spermatogenesis, the expression of igf3 mRNA and protein were high in stages Ⅱ, Ⅳ and Ⅴ, which was similar with the expression of sycp3 and dmc1. And the highest expression level of igf3 mRNA and protein reached in stage Ⅵ. At the same time, positive signals of igf3 mRNA and protein were detected in spermatogonium, spermatocytes, spermatid and surrounding Sertoli cells, but not expressed on spermatozoon, which indicated that igf3 might be involved in the differentiation and meiosis of spermatogonium.