bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Nanostructured Materials for Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Roy Debanjali Barman , Das Susanta
Published: September 2024

Over the past several years, there has been a significant surge in research on NPs, leading to transformative advancements across diverse disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biomedical sciences, medicine, and industrial chemistry. This burgeoning interest in NPs has catalyzed the emergence of nanotechnology as a multidisciplinary field with far-reaching implications. Notably, iron, aluminium, silver, copper, zinc, etc., exhibit distinctive characteristics. These NPs have been harnessed for their superparamagnetic properties, opening avenues for diverse biomedical applications underscored by their biocompatibility and non-toxic nature. The exploration of metal oxide NPs represents a convergence of scientific inquiry and technological innovation, promising breakthroughs in fields ranging from environmental remediation to advanced medical diagnostics and therapeutics. This chapter reviews the applications of advanced nanostructured materials in energy storage devices. Also, it studies the various green synthesis materials used by researchers to fabricate nano ranged particles.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Technique as a Green Method for the Efficient Removal of Sugar Colour From Aqueous Solution
Authors: Sengar Rajat , Upadhyay Virendra , Verma Sudhir Kumar , Kumar Azad
Published: September 2024

Removal of sugar colour from the aqueous solution has been carried out on the surface of activated charcoal (AC) in the presence and absence of ultrasound. A study of multivariate statistical analysis (mean, average deviation, relative average deviation, standard deviation, variance, and coefficient of variance) on both absorbance and colour removal value in the presence and absent of ultrasound are calculated. The characterisation has been done through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and FTIR spectroscopy. The percentage removal of sugar colour in the adsorbent load of 0.5 to 3.0 gm was 42.7-92.8% in the absence of ultrasound (US) and 50.4-97.8% in the presence of US. The effects of initial concentration of sugar, adsorbent dose, and contact time on the decolourization of sugar colour have been examined under different experimental conditions. Mechanism of adsorption has been explained with the help of cavitation phenomena occurring in the process. Applied sonochemical method was found to be more effective in comparison to the conventional methods for sugar refining processes.
Marine Marvels
Authors: Raj Rohan , Prabhakar Pranav Kumar
Published: September 2024

The chemical compounds derived from marine organisms, have become increasingly significant in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of marine metabolites, from their ecological roles in marine ecosystems to their applications in human health and disease management. Covering over 70% of the Earth's surface, the oceans are home to a vast array of life forms, from the simplest organisms like algae and plankton to complex mammals, all of which contribute to the marine metabolite repertoire. These organisms have developed unique metabolic pathways that produce secondary metabolites with distinctive structures and potent biological activities, evolved as adaptive responses to their competitive and often hostile environments. Here we are discussing the diverse classes of marine metabolites and their mechanisms of action. These compounds exhibit a wide range of actions related to biology which make them valuable possible medicine development candidates.
Exploring the Antimicrobial Potential of Marine Bio Resources
Authors: Rathinam W. V. Celcia Gnana , Bragadeeswaran S. , Kumaresan S. , Sandhanam K. , Tamilanban T. , Asarudeen J. Mohamed , Sasidharan T. , Srikavibharathi S. , Gunamathy K. , Sandhiya P.
Published: September 2024

The diverse marine environment compared to terrestrial is a great treasure in discovering many new bioactive substances. By living in a competitive and hostile environment, marine organisms tend to survive and live within complex communities and also have close associations with others. Due to the ecological pressure such as predation, habitat competition, variation in tide, etc. as a response, the marine organisms produce composite secondary metabolites which are unique and abundant in marine sources that can be used as anti-microbial agents such as antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and antiprotozoal agents. Since marine organisms produce a variety of compounds with antimicrobial activities they can be used in the production of pharmacological products to treat infections, diseases, etc. This chapter discusses the potential sources that are available in marine organisms that can act as therapeutic agents with antimicrobial activities. It also briefly explains different bioactive substances produced by different marine organisms that can be used in pharmaceutical industries.
Pharmacology of Fucoxanthin and Astaxanthin in Different Disease Treatment Strategies of Marine Metabolites
Authors: Shaikh Zuber Peermohammed , Bhise Satish Balkrishna
Published: September 2024

Fucoxanthin/Astaxanthin, belonging to the xanthophyll class of carotenoids, is a natural antioxidant pigment of marine algae. It represents 10% of the total carotenoids in nature. The plethora of scientific evidence supports the potential benefits of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical uses of fucoxanthin for boosting human health and disease management. Due to their unique chemical structure and action as a single compound with multi-targets of health effects, it has attracted mounting attention from the scientific community. Additionally, pharmacokinetics, safety, toxicity, functional stability, and clinical perspective of fucoxanthin are substantially addressed. This review will provide pharmacological insights into fucoxanthin, underlying the diverse molecular mechanisms of health benefits. However, it requires more activity-oriented translational research in humans before it can be used as a multi-target drug. This review focuses primarily on latest progress in research on its pharmacological activity and underlying mechanisms.
HR Agility
Authors: Bhanumathi P. , Hemavathi P. , T. S. Vinodh
Published: September 2024

In today's competitive business world, HR agility has emerged as a critical success factor for organizations that must embrace agility in their HR strategies to remain relevant and practical. Agility brings constant change, fosters organizational resilience, drives innovation, and maintains a competitive edge. Further, agility entails the HR department responding to the organization's evolving business needs, trends, and dynamics. It is a proactive change and encompasses various dimensions, namely talent acquisition, recruitment strategies, performance management, strategies for building and managing teams, challenges and overcoming resistance to change, leadership, and future trends in HR. Agile HR practices enable HR departments to align strategies with the objectives to achieve their goals and stay competitive. It will help identify skill gaps and attract, develop, and retain the best talent to meet the organization's needs. HR agility augments employee experience by enabling everyone to respond promptly to concerns and expectations.
Optimizing Talent Acquisition
Authors: Chakraborty Tanusree , V. S. Sharada
Published: September 2024

This study examines the revolutionary effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on hiring in organizations. AI maximizes efficiency by automating processes like resume review, candidate matching, and engagement through chatbots. AI-driven predictive analytics support diversity and inclusion by predicting recruiting needs and reducing biases in job advertisements and candidate selection. The study finds that AI and human collaboration enhances analytical decision-making and the creative capacities of the talent acquisition process. It highlights the shift towards data-driven hiring and the significance of AI-driven insights in talent analytics and decision-making. However, the study asserts the necessity of human touch and emotional intelligence, even with EI tools, to create a positive candidate experience. Candidate experience is pivotal in talent acquisition, requiring harmonious collaboration between AI and human expertise. AI streamlines processes and enhances efficiency, while the human touch adds empathy and personalized engagement.
Critical Analysis of Sustainable Waste Management Practices in Maharashtra's Religious Tourism
Authors: Havale Dhanashri Sanadkumar , Bhandarkar Sachin Tryambak , Kokate Hrishikesh
Published: September 2024

Religious tourism is an important element of the tourism industry of any country. In Maharashtra tourism also, religious tourism occupies a major share. In a year, lakhs of tourists visit various religious places in Maharashtra. They avail number facilities like darshan of the deity, food, accommodation, parking and many more. Providing these facilities in proper manner to the tourists is the prime responsibility of religious trusts. Well planned management in the areas of human resources, funds management, crowd management, waste management is necessary for the provision of these facilities. Sometimes it becomes very challenging for religious trusts to operate, especially during festivals when lakhs of tourists visit at a time. One of the major challenges for these trusts is the waste management. The research paper tries to analyze waste management strategies adopted by religious trusts in Maharashtra. It may also suggest sustainable strategies that can be adopted for waste management.
Corporate Governance and Firm Performance
Authors: Vetrivel S. C. , Arun V. P. , Saravanan T. P. , Maheswari R.
Published: September 2024

This chapter explores the intricate relationship between corporate governance mechanisms and firm performance through a detailed study. By examining data from a diverse set of industries and geographic regions, it provides insights into how specific governance structures—such as board composition, ownership concentration, executive compensation, and shareholder rights—affect financial outcomes and operational efficiency. The chapter highlights the importance of board independence, demonstrating that firms with a higher proportion of independent directors tend to exhibit better financial performance and greater transparency. Ownership concentration is analyzed to understand its dual role in mitigating agency problems while potentially leading to entrenchment issues. It delves into the complexities of executive compensation, finding that performance-linked pay can align management interests with those of shareholders, thereby enhancing firm value.
The Impact of Board Composition and Ownership Structure on Dividend Payout Policy
Authors: Dawar Gaurav , Bhatia Shivangi
Published: September 2024

This investigation delves deep into the intricate dynamics underpinning dividend payout policy within Indian firms from 2019 to 2022, focusing on the multifaceted effect of board composition such as board size, independence, CEO duality, frequency of board meetings, state ownership, foreign ownership, gender diversity, and bureaucratic considerations on dividend policy. The study employs regression analysis, encompassing logistic, ordinary least squares (OLS), and fixed effects regressions. Drawing from a rich and extensive dataset of listed Indian family firms, it navigates the complexities inherent in dividend policy determinants. The research highlights a discernible positive correlation between the tendency of companies to pay out dividends and the size of their boards. The findings of this study hold profound significance for stakeholders, including managers, investors, policymakers, and regulators, offering nuanced insights into dividend determinants within emerging markets.
Efficiency of ozone compared to commercial sanitizers for hatching eggs from older breeders
Authors: Souza Leticia Cardoso , Silva Junior Joel Lima da , Rufino João Paulo Ferreira , Nazaré Sebastião Corrêa de , Mendonça Marco Antonio de Freitas
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of ozone as a sanitizer compared to commercial sanitizers for hatching eggs stored in hatching machines using different turning systems. The eggs (n = 120) were distributed in a completely randomized design using a factorial scheme (6x2) where the treatments were constituted by different sanitizers applied (non-treated eggs, Ozone 1.6 mg L-1, Ozone 3.2 mg L-1, Cyphenothrin, UVC, and paraformaldehyde) and two turning systems (vertical and horizontal) with 10 eggs each, with the egg considered as a replicate. Data collected were subjected to the Tukey test at 0.05. We observed a very similar performance in the incubation yield results of the hatching machines with different turning systems, where the hatching percentage of eggs stored in the hatching machine using vertical turning presented better (p < 0.05) results. Comparing ozone to other sanitizers, we observed that paraformaldehyde and UVC provided better (p < 0.05) hatching percentage. However, both ozone concentrations used also presented good hatching percentage results. Chicks from treated eggs, except those from eggs treated with the highest ozone concentration (3.2 mg L-1), were heavier (p < 0.05) at hatch. Chicks from eggs treated with the low concentration of ozone (1.6 mg L-1) presented, in several scenarios, higher (p < 0.05) weight at hatch than chicks from eggs treated with sanitizers commonly used, especially paraformaldehyde and UVC. Conclusively, ozone can be used as a sanitizer to treat eggs from older breeders, presenting potential to replace commonly used sanitizers stored in hatching machines using both vertical and horizontal turning systems.
Total methionine + cystine levels in diets for Muscovy ducks in housing
Authors: Feijó Julmar da Costa , Viana Filho Gilberto Batista , Silva Fernanda Moura Fernandes , Feijó Juliana da Costa , Chaves Francisco Alberto de Lima , Rufino João Paulo Ferreira , Cruz Frank George Guimarães
Published: September 2024

The present study aimed to determine the ideal levels of total methionine + cystine for Muscovy ducks in confinement. Two hundred and forty Muscovy ducks of the creole strain were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design where the treatments consisted of six nutritional plans with different levels of total methionine + cystine, and four replicates (two with males only and two with females only), each with 10 Muscovy ducks. The nutritional plans considered the requirements in the initial, growing, and finishing stages. The birds had their performance evaluated weekly, and at 90 days of age, eight birds (four males and four females) from each treatment were slaughtered for the evaluation of carcass traits. Nutritional plan 3 provided a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in feed intake and an increase (p < 0.05) in weight gain, causing a proportional reduction (p < 0.05) in feed conversion. Levels above and below the requirements in this nutritional plan caused a significant (p < 0.05) loss in performance. Muscovy ducks fed with nutritional plan 3 also presented better (p < 0.05) carcass traits. A significant difference (p < 0.05) in carcass development was observed between males and females, with males showing better results.
Evaluation of representativeness of elasticity modulus and apparent density of D20 strength class of Brazilian standard in timber structures design
Authors: Aquino Vinicius Borges de Moura , Lahr Francisco Antonio Rocco , Chahud Eduardo , Rodrigues Edson Fernando Castanheira , Arroyo Felipe Nascimento , Christoforo André Luis
Published: September 2024

The Brazilian code ABNT NBR 7190-1 (2022) presents different strength classes for hardwood and displays representative values for apparent density, compressive strength parallel to the grain and modulus of elasticity in parallel direction of fibers to help designers for an appropriate timber structure design. This research evaluated to check if the representative value of modulus of elasticity in parallel direction of fibers and apparent density of D20 strength class (native wood species) still represent a secure value for designers. Also, it was checked the possibility to estimate compressive strength parallel to the grain and modulus of elasticity in parallel direction of fibers as function of apparent density using regression models, aided by the analysis of variance. The results showed that the representative value of modulus of elasticity in parallel direction of fibers and apparent density for D20 is close to the obtained in the present research. The analysis of variance indicated the impossibility to estimate strength and stiffness properties as function of apparent density.
Hot Torsion Tests of AA6082 Alloy
Authors: Di Donato Sara , Pelaccia Riccardo , Negozio Marco , El Mehtedi Mohamad , Reggiani Barbara , Donati Lorenzo
Published: September 2024

Materials characterization and the knowledge of their elastic-plastic behavior are of fundamental importance for the design of industrial manufacturing processes. Nowadays, FEM simulation is the main tool used to optimize product quality and minimize scraps, and the numerical codes have evolved over the years to obtain accurate solutions with reduced computational times. Nevertheless, in order to perform reliable simulations, it is necessary to include accurate modeling of the material flow stress. Hot torsion is a powerful method for the characterization of the material flow stress because, tests can be carried out at constant speeds and temperatures, reaching large strain values, and thus getting over the limits of compression and tensile tests. In this paper the hot torsion characterization applied to AA6082 alloy is presented: tests were performed with equivalent strain rates of 0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 s-1, in the temperature range from 440 to 550 °C (from 713.15 to 823.15 K). The results are presented in terms of equivalent stress vs equivalent strain. Finally, the material flow stress curve was predicted by the Hyperbolic sine model and Hensel-Spittel law, and the material parameters A, m1-9 are provided for the temperature expressed in °C and K.
Prediction of Damage Behavior of Casting Aluminum Components Considering Inhomogeneous Properties
Authors: Lang Yu Ling , Sun Dong Zhi , Zhu Zhi Hua , Ci Xiang , Kong De Cai , Qiao Hai Bo , Wang Wen Bo
Published: September 2024

The purpose of the work is to quantify and predict the influence of inhomogeneity of local properties on the overall behavior of the selected casting aluminum wheel and knuckle in different loading cases. Smooth and notched tensile specimens and torsion specimens are extracted from different positions in the wheel and knuckle and tested. The dependences of the flow stress, the fracture strain, and the S-N curve on position for specimen extraction are evaluated. Metallographic investigations are performed to reveal the relations between microstructure/microdefects and the mentioned properties. A damage model based on a triaxiality-dependent fracture strain is calibrated and used to simulate the specimens and component tests. The simulations of static wheel tests and knuckle fatigue tests are performed with position-dependent material parameters. The prediction of the component tests is compared with the experimental results.
Integrins α5β1 and αvβ3 Differentially Participate in the Recruitment and Reprogramming of Tumor-associated Macrophages in the In Vitro and In Vivo Models of Breast Tumor
Authors: Dalpati Nibedita , Rai Shubham Kumar , Dash Shiba Prasad , Kumar Puneet , Singh Divya , Sarangi Pranita P
Published: September 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) drive the protumorigenic responses and facilitate tumor progression via matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression by interacting with extracellular matrix proteins via integrins. However, the expression dynamics of integrin and its correlation with TAM functional programming in the tumors remain unexplored. In this study, we examined surface integrins’ role in TAM recruitment and phenotypic programming in a 4T1-induced murine breast tumor model. Our findings show that integrin α5β1 is upregulated in CD11b+Ly6Chi monocytes in the bone marrow and blood by day 10 after tumor induction. Subsequent analysis revealed elevated integrin α5β1 expression on tumor-infiltrating monocytes (Ly6ChiMHC class II [MHCII]low) and M1 TAMs (F4/80+Ly6ClowMHCIIhi), whereas integrin αvβ3 was predominantly expressed on M2 TAMs (F4/80+Ly6ClowMHCIIlow), correlating with higher CD206 and MERTK expression. Gene profiling of cells sorted from murine tumors showed that CD11b+Ly6G−F4/80+α5+ TAMs had elevated inflammatory genes (IL-6, TNF-α, and STAT1/2), whereas CD11b+Ly6G−F4/80+αv+ TAMs exhibited a protumorigenic phenotype (IL-10, Arg1, TGF-β, and STAT3/6). In vitro studies demonstrated that blocking integrin α5 and αv during macrophage differentiation from human peripheral blood monocytes reduced cell spreading and expression of CD206 and CD163 in the presence of specific matrix proteins, fibronectin, and vitronectin. Furthermore, RNA sequencing data analysis (GEO dataset: GSE195857) from bone marrow–derived monocytes and TAMs in 4T1 mammary tumors revealed differential integrin α5 and αv expression and their association with FAK and SRC kinase. In line with this, FAK inhibition during TAM polarization reduced SRC, STAT1, and STAT6 phosphorylation. In conclusion, these findings underscore the crucial role of integrins in TAM recruitment, polarization, and reprogramming in tumors.
Developmental Vitamin D Deficiency and the Vitamin D Receptor Control Hematopoiesis
Authors: Arora Juhi , Froelich Nicole E , Tang Mengzhu , Weaver Veronika , Paulson Robert F , Cantorna Margherita T
Published: September 2024

Vitamin D status, the vitamin D receptor (VDR), and the ability to produce active vitamin D [1,25(OH)2D, regulated by Cyp27b1] regulate fetal and adult hematopoiesis. Transgenic reporter mice that express the tdTomato RFP as an indication of Vdr expression were used to identify immune cells that express the Vdr. Vdr/tdTomato+ hematopoietic progenitors were identified as early as embryonic day (E)15.5, establishing that these cells have expressed the Vdr and are vitamin D targets. Maternal vitamin D deficiency [D−; serum 25(OH)D < 20 ng/ml] or Vdr knockout or Cyp27b1 knockout resulted in embryos with fewer fetal progenitors. Vdr/tdTomato+ expression was found to increase with age in CD8+ T cells and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs)1 and ILC3, suggesting that initial Vdr expression in these cells is dependent on environmental factors immediately postbirth. In adult tissues, the frequencies of mature T cells and ILCs as well as Vdr/tdTomato expression were reduced by D−. Maternal D− resulted in fewer progenitors that expressed Vdr/tdTomato+ at E15.5 and fewer Vdr/tdTomato+ immune cells in the adult spleen than offspring from D+ mice. We challenged D− mice with H1N1 influenza infection and found that D− mice were more susceptible than D+ mice. Treating D− mice with vitamin D restored Vdr/tdTomato+ expression in splenic T cells and partially restored resistance to H1N1 infection, which shows that developmental D− results in lingering effects on Vdr expression in the adult immune system that compromise the immune response to H1N1 infection. Vitamin D and the Vdr regulate hematopoiesis in both fetal and postnatal phases of immune cell development that impact the immune response to a viral infection.
Evaluation of Bleeding Time after Dental Extractions during Uninterrupted Single or Dual Antiplatelet Treatment - A Comparative Study
Authors: Krishnan Nitin Anand , Kumar S. Vijay , Nair Aarya H. , Remya M. , Thomas Reuben Bensy , Deepak K. S. , Indu P. S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

This study aimed to assess the duration of bleeding after dental extractions amongst subjects with uninterrupted single antiplatelet therapy and dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and to compare the bleeding time after dental extractions amongst those subjects undergoing various antiplatelet therapies.

Materials and Methods:

Post-extraction bleeding time was categorised as within 30 min, within 1 h and within 24 h. The bleeding time in different categories was compared and analysed using Chi-square. The antiplatelet agents assessed were aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor and a combination of aspirin with clopidogrel and ticagrelor.

Results:

Bleeding time was significantly higher in patients under DAPT, compared to those under single antiplatelet therapy, and with an increase in the number of teeth extracted, there was an increase in bleeding time. All cases with prolonged bleeding could be managed with local haemostatic measures.

Discussion:

Simple extraction can be undertaken safely in patients under single antiplatelet therapy, considering that local haemostatic measures are available for use in the setup to control bleeding if necessary. Patients under DAPT are better managed if the therapy is altered, as there was a definite increase in bleeding time in patients under DAPT after extraction.
Type 1 Neurofibromatosis Sans Neurofibroma: A Case Report Emphasizing the Role of Ocular Examination
Authors: Singh Yogindher , Kuruvila Sheela
Published: September 2024

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common genetic disorders and is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. NF1 is a member of the RASopathies, a class of congenital disorders brought on by mutations in the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Dermatologic manifestations are typically prevalent in NF1 individuals. Multiple café-au-lait macules (CALMs) may be present at birth or develop in the 1st year of life. Other cutaneous manifestations like freckles in the skinfolds appear in early childhood. Neurofibromas are present in almost all adult patients and may be cutaneous, subcutaneous, or along the peripheral nerves, but their appearance may be delayed till adulthood. CALMs and skinfold freckling are not specific for NF1, and we may need to consider other differential diagnoses like Legius syndrome. A recent modification of the diagnostic criteria includes the identification of the genetic abnormality to facilitate diagnosis in children who may not have cutaneous neurofibromas. This emphasizes the added value of genetic analysis in a condition which is generally a clinical diagnosis. Lisch nodules generally occur by about 7 years of age and are present in 90% of cases. Their presence can help differentiate from Legius syndrome with its more benign course without genetic analysis. We report the case of a 14-year-old male with NF1 who had no cutaneous neurofibromas to reiterate the importance of ophthalmic evaluation in all cases of NF1, especially in resource-poor settings where genetic studies may not be possible.
Intralobar Pulmonary Sequestration: Varied Presentations and Different Treatment Modalities
Authors: Prakash Keerthi A. , Ramakrishnan Gayathri Aur
Published: September 2024

Pulmonary sequestration, accounting for 0.15%–6.4% of congenital abnormalities, is a dysplastic lung tissue that receives an abnormal systemic arterial supply and has an abnormal tracheobronchial connection. There are two types, namely, extralobar and intralobar. The intralobar sequestration, a dysplastic lung tissue, is characterized by the absence of its own visceral pleura and has its arterial supply from the anomalous systemic artery and venous drainage into the pulmonary vein. These three cases highlight the various presentations and treatment modalities available.
Role of Dobutamine Stress Test and Speckle Tracking in Ischemic Heart Disease, Comparative Study
Authors: Kadhim Marwa Majeed , AL-Saad Shokry F. , Al-Jumaily Hassan Salim , Hassan Zainab Falah
Published: September 2024

Background:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of cardiovascular mortality. Echocardiography plays a vital role in early detection and treatment.

Objectives:

We investigated the use of speckle tracking during dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) to diagnose CAD in moderate-risk patients.

Materials and Methods:

A 4-month cross-sectional study enrolled 42 moderate-risk patients without prior CAD history. Data included questionnaires, echocardiographic measurements, and SPSS analysis.

Results:

Patients were divided into CAD-negative (66.7%) and CAD-positive (33.3%) groups based on coronary angiography. Speckle tracking during stress correlated better with angiography (kappa = 0.78) than at rest (kappa = 0.21) or stress visualization (kappa = 0.66). Sensitivity and specificity were 71.4% and 92.8% (stress test), 57.1% and 85.7% (speckle at rest), and 85.7% and 92.8% (speckle during stress), respectively.

Conclusion:

Speckle tracking during DSE is a promising approach for diagnosing CAD in moderate-risk patients, enhancing early intervention possibilities.
Assessment of Arginase II with Biochemical Changes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Khudhair Dunia Abbas , Kareem Hadeel Luay , Yaseen Mohmmed Ali , Mohammed Hussam A.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as the presence of kidney damage or an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 60 mL/min/1.73 mt2, persisting for 3 months or more, irrespective of the cause. Arginase activity has two major homeostatic aims: first, to detoxify of ammonia through urea synthesis, and second, to produce ornithine, the precursor for prolines and polyamines. Determine arginase activity represents a key feature of kidney failure.

Objective:

Evaluate the role of arginase II in the development of CKD.

Materials and Methods:

This research conducted a case–control study involving a total of 90 participants, split into two healthy groups of 45 each is misleading as it suggests both groups are healthy, which contradicts the earlier mention of a chronic kidney group. Blood samples were collected to measure arginase II. Other variables, including age and BMI, were also assessed. Statistical analyses, including ROC-curve analysis, were conducted to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ARGII.

Results:

The study found a significant increase in ARGII protein concentration in the CKD group compared to the control group (P < 0.05), additionally, the ARGII ROC resulted in a 98.8% area under the curve.

Conclusion:

The results emphasize the importance of arginase play a crucial role in CKD
Prevalence and Distribution of Dental Caries among Iraqi People
Authors: Farhan Al-Sultani Hassan Faleeh , Ali Israa Hussein , Alkhafaji Sarah Yousif , Alhelal Ahmed Ghanim
Published: September 2024

Background:

Dental caries is the most prevalent oral disease worldwide. It is still a public health problem, particularly in developing countries.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to measure the occurrence of dental caries among patients attending dental school and to investigate the type of dental caries by age, sex, and geographic area.

Materials and Methods:

After obtaining an appropriate ethical approval, the occurrence and type of dental caries according to G.V. Black classification were recorded among all patients aged 16 years and over during routine dental treatment at the dental hospital, College of Dentistry, University of Babylon, Hillah city, Babil governorate. World Health Organization’ criteria were used to diagnose and detect dental caries.

Results:

The final sample size was 463 individuals distributed as 217 (46.87%) men and 246 (53.13%) women. Overall, 1851 carious lesions were noticed, in which class I (68%) represents the most prevalent type of dental caries in the study sample followed by class II (20%), then class III (6%), and the least prevalent types (3%) were class IV and class V. There was no significant difference regarding the effect of gender on different caries classes (P > 0.05). However, a significant difference was recorded regarding the effect of area of residence on different caries classes (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

In this study, high percentage of class I lesions in comparison to other classes of Black’s classification was noticed among the examined patients. Women experienced more dental caries than men and the area of residency had a significant impact on caries experience.
Prevalence of Human Parvovirus B19 and Associated Risk Factors in Women with Bad Obstetric History in Babylon Province, Iraq
Authors: Abbas Maha Diekan , Al-Mousawi Haider Turky Mousa , Al-Bderee Nadhim Mushtaq Hashim , Al-Humairi Rasha M. A.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Parvovirus infection is an important cause of fetal loss during all three trimesters of pregnancy.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence, susceptibility rate, and risk factors of B19-V in women aged 15 to 45 in the Al-Hamza region of Babil, Iraq, considering the negative effects of the infection.

Materials and Methods:

Between January 2022 and March 2023, blood samples were taken from 116 women, including those with and those without a history of bad obstetric history (BOH). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to test sera taken from the study participants for B19 IgM and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. Those samples tested positive for IgG B19 were further subjected to polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing, targeting partial gene sequences of the nonstructural viral protein 1 (VP1) gene.

Results:

For human parvovirus IgG and IgM, the seropositivity was 44% and 16.5%, respectively. The following variables were associated in this study with greater seroprevalence rates of IgG and IgM, respectively: age 36–45 years (72.7%, 36.4%); abortion (80%, 32.5%); education (82.2%, 33.3%); unemployment (61%, 22.2%); and overcrowding (73.3%, 31.1%). In this case–control study, positive amplicons (700 bp) were detected from 27 samples out of 40 women of childbearing age who tested positive for IgG. Sequence analysis of the partial sequence of the VP1 gene in all positive amplicons was 100% identical with each other and with human parvovirus B19 (NC: 00088.3). According to the current study, about 66% of women are serologically negative and at risk of contracting parvovirus B19.

Conclusion:

Our findings conclude that pregnant women in Iraq, particularly those with BOH, must undergo frequent serological screening for B19-V during all three trimesters and be given the necessary advice to avoid B19-V infection to improve their pregnancy outcomes.
Estimation of Some Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Interleukins in Rheumatoid Arthritis of Iraqi Patients
Authors: Diwan Zahraa Jabbar , Al-Marsomy Wasan Addai
Published: September 2024

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory condition that mostly affects synovial joints. It produces severe swelling and ongoing inflammation, and as it worsens, the cartilage and bone begin to erode, resulting in deformed joints and bone erosion.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the levels of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies and determine the role of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-18 (IL-18), interleukin-38 (IL-38), and transforming growth factor-beta2 (TGF-β2) in studied groups (RA patients and apparently healthy control).

Materials and Methods:

The study included collecting blood samples from a group of patients infected with RA involving 60 patients (21 male and 39 female), and the healthy group included 50 individuals as control group (21 males and 29 females).

Results:

The outcomes showed of anti-CCP a highly significant difference for RA patients compared to the control group by 0.603 ± 0.02 and 0.274 ± 0.01, respectively, and some immunological parameters that involve inflammation-promoting interleukins (IL-1β and IL-18), the results showed the significant differences at the level (P < 0.01) of patients was 126.79 ± 4.18 and 194.37 ± 12.71 compared with control 91.85 ± 2.11 and 92.27 ± 2.08, respectively. The identical results to measure anti-inflammatory interleukins (IL-38, TGF-β2) represented of patients were 190.43 ± 9.82 and 403.23 ± 21.20 compared with control group was 88.39 ± 1.56 and 115.59 ± 5.63, respectively.

Conclusion:

The immunological parameters represented high expression of pro-inflammatory interleukins (IL-1β and IL-18), so, elevation levels of anti-inflammatory interleukins (IL-38 and TGF-β2) of RA patients.
Role of a Novel Device, “DrOroscope,” in the Early Diagnosis of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders and Dysplasia – A Case Series
Authors: Yeladandi Mounika , Maheswari Thirupambaram Nataraja Sundaram Uma , Padala Swetha Bindu , Anuhya Valishetty
Published: September 2024

Early identification of oral cancer is essential for increasing survival rates and improving the quality of life after treatment. Specialized diagnostic tools such as VELscope, ViziLite, Identafi, and DrOroscope have been created to precisely evaluate the lesions and minimize morbidity. The DrOroscope is a small, easily transportable, and cost-effective diagnostic tool created for the analysis of different premalignant and malignant diseases without requiring invasive methods. In the present case series, a DrOroscope was used. The case series includes oral submucous fibrosis with and without dysplasia and erythroplakia. The image analyses given by the DrOroscope were concordant with the histopathological reports. The DrOroscope can be used as reliable noninvasive supplemental tool along with the comprehensive oral examination in diagnosing potentially malignant disorders, dysplasias, and malignancies.
Renal Profile of Herbal Medicine Users and Nonusers: An Exploratory Cross-sectional Study in a Family Medicine Clinic in Nigeria
Authors: Maiyegun Afisulahi Abiodun , Akangoziri Mark Divine , Grema Bukar Alhaji , Mutalub Yahkub Babatunde , Ibrahim Farida Buhari
Published: September 2024

Context:

A major risk of herbal medicine is the potential for toxicity and serious side effects. Unlike orthodox medicine, herbs are usually consumed without prior safety assessment via clinical studies. This means that the clinical effects of herbs may be detected only through an assessment of the health parameters of consumers.

Aim:

The study aimed to evaluate participants’ renal profiles, comparing that of herb users with nonusers, thereby identifying any differences between the two groups.

Settings and Design:

It is a cross-sectional, analytic study among adult patients attending the general outpatient unit of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

The study assessed and compared estimated glomerular filtration rate, microalbuminuria, and proteinuria among patients who reported using herbs and those who did not report any use.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed using Epi Info 7.2.

Results:

Three hundred and forty-one participants were enrolled. The mean eGFR was 87.47 ± 25.44 ml/min/1.73 m2 for participants who used herbs and 84.76 ± 25.49 ml/min/1.73 m2 for those who never used herbs (P value 0.48). Among all participants, proteinuria ≥0.3 g/l was present in 29 (8.50%) and microalbuminuria ≥30 mg/l in 138 (40.47%). There was no statistically significant difference in the renal parameters of both groups.

Conclusion:

The study found no evidence of the harmful effect of the herbs reported on kidney function. This could be because that the study participants mainly reported using edible—and, therefore, presumably safe—herbs. Further studies in human subjects of the effect of herbal medicine on the kidney and other systems are suggested.
Introducing the World Health Organization Labour Care Guide in Nigeria: Knowledge, Perceptions, and Impediments by Doctors and Nurses at 3-Tier Hospitals in Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Nnagbo Johnpaul E. , Agu Polycarp U. , Eze Matthew I. , Ugwu George O. , Adiri Charles O. , Odoh Godwin U. , Nkwo Peter O. , Dim Cyril C. , Ugwu Emmanuel O. , Nwagha Uchenna I.
Published: September 2024

Context:

It is speculated that obstetrics health workers in Nigeria may be lacking adequate knowledge of the Labour Care Guide (LCG) tool.

Aim:

To determine the awareness, level of knowledge, perceptions, and impediments toward use of the LCG tool for management of labor by doctors and nurses in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

This is a mixed-method study of 201 doctors and nurses at six selected health facilities in Enugu, Nigeria, over a 1-month period. For the quantitative component of the study, eligible and consenting participants were randomly selected and interviewed using a pretested questionnaire, while for the qualitative component, the six heads of labor ward nurses were purposively selected and in-depth interview conducted on the use, reasons for nonuse, and impediments to the use of LCG.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical analysis was performed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences for Windows, version 24.0 (Armonk, NY) for quantitative data. It was descriptive and inferential. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was done.

Result:

A total of 168 (83.6%) were aware of LCG; 60 (35.7%) had poor knowledge (mean score: 20.1 ± 7.5), and 89 (53.0%) had negative perception (mean score: 0.11 ± 0.11). Impediments to LCG use included being time-consuming, insufficient manpower, insufficient knowledge, and lack of training. Negative perception was associated with poor knowledge of LCG (P < 0.001, AOR =60.9, CI =13.9-267.1).

Conclusion:

One in three obstetric care workers has poor knowledge of LCG in labor care. We recommend creating training opportunities for them at all levels of healthcare on the use of LCG.
Comparison of Effects of Sociodemographic Factors on Unmet Needs for Family Planning between Pakistani and Bengali Women
Authors: Tullah Faiqa A. , Iqbal Saima , Mengal Grannaz , Umar Fahmida , Malik Muhammad K. , Kashif Seemin
Published: September 2024

Context:

Family planning improves child and maternal health, but an unmet need for family planning (UMNFP) still exists in developing countries.

Aim:

This review was done to compare UMNFP and its determinants between Pakistani and Bengali women.

Methods and Material:

Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) datasets of Pakistan and Bangladesh, 2017–18, were used, where women, ever-married, aged 15–49 were interviewed. Independent variables were women’s age, education, work status, household wealth, urban/rural residence, number of living children, husband’s education, and occupation.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Analysis was done on SPSS 22. Frequencies and percentages of all categories and binary and multinomial logistic regression analyses were done.

Results:

In both populations, women’s age, education, work status, family’s wealth, and number of living children affected UMNFP. In Bengalis, rural residence also affected UMNFP. Younger age had significantly higher UMNFP in both populations. Women living in rural areas had higher UMNFP in the Bengali population. Improved wealth decreased UMNFP in Pakistani women, but the richest households had the highest UMNFP in Bangladesh. UMNFP was higher with a higher number of living children in both populations. Primary education decreased the unmet need for spacing in Pakistani women, but Bengali women with primary and secondary education levels had higher UMNFP compared to illiterate and highly educated ones. Women with jobs had lesser overall UMNFP in both populations.

Conclusion:

Illiteracy and lack of jobs were prevalent in Pakistani women, and autonomy to decide about family size was lower than in Bengali women.
Assessment of Patients’ Anxiety Levels and Their Decision-Making When Choosing Dental Care
Authors: Srinivasan Daya , Eagappan AR Senthil , Deepthi Bolla , Manoharan Rajkumar , Vinolia Mercy , Tyagi Upasana
Published: September 2024

Context:

A comprehensive understanding of the patient’s decision-making process helps a dentist to successfully present a range of treatment possibilities.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to examine how patients choose dental services and clinics and how they make decisions about those visits.

Materials and Method:

From April 2023 and September 2023, 584 participants who were seen in the Dental Outpatient Department participated in a cross-sectional survey. Willing participants were given a questionnaire with 15 questions addressing different facets of patient perception. Informed consent was obtained from the parents. Both English and local Tamil languages were used to structure the questions, which centered on patient viewpoints, expectations, decision-making, lowering anxiety, and recommendations for new dental procedures.

Result:

Important behavioral insights were collected from the study. The majority of participants stated that they will ask their opinion on dental care. They prefer to visit dental clinics when problems arise. They knew about dental clinics through the Internet and per group preference. The majority of participants reported that dental clinic preference is based on proximity and popularity. They prefer specialist and multispecialty dentistry. The majority of participants prefer brand and longevity for the purchase of dental procedures. Social media is a major factor in dental clinical search. The majority of participants preferred an explanation of procedure before and anxiety reduction if a complaint is addressed. The majority of participants prefer the quality of treatment and truthfulness of dentist recommendations.

Conclusion:

Dental professionals must comprehend the decision-making processes of their patients. Establishing patient satisfaction and trust requires open communication, high-quality care, and honesty. To properly meet patients’ expectations, dentists should be honest in addressing their worries and offering assurances on the course of treatment.
Gluing complexes of sheaves
Authors: Olsson Martin
Published: September 2024

We prove two variations of the classical gluing result of Beilinson–Bernstein–Deligne. We recast the problem of gluing in terms of filtered complexes in the total topos of a

D

-topos, in the sense of SGA 4, and prove our results using the filtered derived category.
An elementary proof of the inequality $\chi\leq\chi^{*}$ for conditional free entropy
Authors: Jekel David , Pi Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Through the study of large deviations theory for matrix Brownian motion, Biane, Capitaine, and Guionnet proved the inequality

\chi(X)\leq\chi^{*}(X)

that relates two analogs of entropy in free probability defined by Voiculescu. We give a new proof of

\chi\leq\chi^{*}

that is elementary in the sense that it does not rely on stochastic differential equations and large deviations theory. Moreover, we generalize the result to conditional microstates and non-microstates free entropy.
On nonemptiness of Newton strata in the $B_{\mathrm{dR}}^{+}$-Grassmannian for $\mathrm{GL}_{n}$
Authors: Hong Serin
Published: September 2024

We study the Newton stratification in the

B_{\mathrm{dR}}^{+}

-Grassmannian for

\mathrm{GL}_{n}

associated to an arbitrary (possibly nonbasic) element of

B(\mathrm{GL}_{n})

. Our main result classifies all nonempty Newton strata in an arbitrary minuscule Schubert cell. For a large class of elements in

B(\mathrm{GL}_{n})

, our classification is given by some explicit conditions in terms of Newton polygons. For the proof, we proceed by induction on

n

using a previous result of the author that classifies all extensions of two given vector bundles on the Fargues–Fontaine curve.
Real diffusion with complex spectral gap
Authors: Bony Jean-François , Michel Laurent
Published: September 2024

The low-lying eigenvalues of the generator of a Langevin process are known to satisfy the Eyring–Kramers law in the low temperature regime under suitable assumptions. These eigenvalues are generically real. We construct generators whose spectral gap is given by non-real eigenvalues or by a real eigenvalue having a Jordan block.