bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrous oxide emissions from trees planted on a closed landfill site
Authors: Fraser-McDonald A. , Boardman C. , Gladding T. , Burnley S. , Gauci V.
Published: April 2023

Trees growing in natural and managed environments have the capacity to act as conduits for the transport of greenhouse gases produced belowground to the atmosphere. Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions have been observed from tree stems in natural ecosystems but have not yet been measured in the context of forested former landfill sites. This research gap was addressed by an investigation quantifying stem and soil N2O emissions from a closed UK landfill and a comparable natural site. Measurements were made by using flux chambers and gas chromatography over a four-month period. Analyses showed that the average N2O stem fluxes from the landfill and non-landfill sites were 0.63 ± 0.06 μg m–2 h–1 and 0.26 ± 0.05 μg m–2 h–1, respectively. The former landfill site showed seasonal patterns in N2O stem emissions and decreasing N2O fluxes with increased stem sampling position above the forest floor. Tree stem emissions accounted for 1% of the total landfill N2O surface flux, which is lower than the contribution of stem fluxes to the total surface flux in dry and flooded boreal forests.
Peanut yield prediction with UAV multispectral imagery using a cooperative machine learning approach
Authors: Shahi Tej Bahadur , Xu Cheng-Yuan , Neupane Arjun , Fleischfresser Dayle B. , O'Connor Daniel J. , Wright Graeme C. , Guo William
Published: April 2023

The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), as a remote sensing platform, has attracted many researchers in precision agriculture because of its operational flexibility and capability of producing high spatial and temporal resolution images of agricultural fields. This study proposed machine learning (ML) models and their ensembles for peanut yield prediction using UAV multispectral data. We utilized five bands (red, green, blue, near-infra-red (NIR) and red-edge) multispectral images acquired at various growth stages of peanuts using UAV. The correlation between spectral bands and yield was analyzed for each growth stage, which showed that the maturity stages had a significant correlation between peanut yield and spectral bands: red, green, NIR and red edge (REDE). Using these four bands spectral data, we assessed the potential for peanut yield prediction using multiple linear regression and seven non-linear ML models whose hyperparameters were optimized using simulated annealing (SA). The best three ML models, random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM) and XGBoost, were then selected to construct a cooperative yield prediction framework with both the best ML model and the ensemble scheme from the best three as comparable recommendations to the farmers.
Modeling the role of public health intervention measures in halting the transmission of monkeypox virus
Authors: Alqahtani Rubayyi T. , Musa Salihu S. , Inc Mustafa
Published: April 2023

Monkeypox (mpox), a zoonotic viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus (mpoxv), is endemic in many countries in West Africa and is sometimes exported to other parts of the world. The recent outbreak of mpoxv in humans, in endemic and non-endemic countries, has created substantial public health concern worldwide. This research uses a mechanistic model to study the transmission dynamics of mpoxv epidemics in the USA. Our model describes the interaction between different categories of individuals represent various infection phases and hospitalization processes. The model also takes into account the extent of compliance with non-pharmaceutical intervention strategies (NPIs), such as using condoms during sexual contact, quarantine and avoiding large gatherings. The model's equilibria are analyzed, and results on asymptotic stability are obtained. Moreover, the basic reproductive number and other threshold quantities are used to establish the conditions for a forward or backward bifurcation. Our model accurately captures the incidence curves from mpox surveillance data for the USA, indicating that it can be used to explain mpoxv transmission and suggest some effective ways to enhance control efforts. In addition, numerical simulations are carried out to examine the influence of some parameters on the overall dynamics of the model. A partial rank correlation coefficient is adopted for the sensitivity analysis to determine the model most important parameters, which require close attention for effective mpoxv prevention and control. We conclude that it is especially important to ensure that NPIs are properly followed to mitigate mpoxv outbreaks effectively.
A Latin American Issue: Tucumán Arde en The Drama Review
Authors: Fischer Agustín Díez
Published: April 2023

Este trabajo analiza el número de la revista norteamericana The Drama Review dedicado al teatro latinoamericano y publicado en 1970. Específicamente, indaga sobre la presencia en sus páginas de documentos sobre la acción colectiva Tucumán Arde, llevada a cabo en Argentina en 1968. A partir de la investigación en el archivo de la revista, este trabajo analiza la excepcionalidad de la publicación de estos textos y fotografías, e indaga sobre sus características singulares en relación a otros espacios de circulación de Tucumán Arde en el extranjero. Finalmente, propone líneas de lectura a partir del análisis de las conexiones que se desprenden del proceso de producción de este número de The Drama Review.
Dealing With Mavericks in the Workplace
Authors: Blue Lucinda
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this chapter is to emphasize how Black women must illustrate skills in corporate America, medium to small businesses, non-profits, academia, politics, healthcare, etc. to obtain leadership status. They have invested much time in their education and their work life. They have crafted their leadership skills, taken calculated risks, and proved to have the abilities to “lead by example” in different disciplines. However, formal and informal leadership is not all accommodating and accepting; it comes with headaches, frustrations, and politically motivated intentions, and Black women must maneuver through the ups and downs. Everyone does not want them “at the table.” They have broken the “glass ceiling” in some professions, but there are mavericks, who stir up trouble to get the Black woman to retreat. This chapter will highlight three techniques and graphically show responses how Black women can navigate to be successful in their chosen professions.
The Role of Green Technologies in the Transition Towards a Circular Economy
Authors: Yun Wong Sing , Pinjaman Saizal Bin , Yassin Jain , Taasim Shairil Izwan
Published: April 2023

The circular economy (CE) is a sustainable development model that creates a more dynamic market environment for organizations. It enables the enhancement of organizations' contributions to sustainable production and consumption. The transition from a linear economy to a circular economy advocated environmental sustainability by promoting green sustainable supply chain management practices. Besides, it transforms the sustainable supply chain towards a new paradigm of redesign, reuse, and product transformation. Additionally, the integration of a circular economy paradigm within sustainable supply chain management will provide benefits from an environmental perspective. Hence, the authors would like to review the role of green technologies in sustainable supply chain management within a circular economy. In addition, the focus will be given to analyzing the benefits of a circular economy from an environmental point of view. Finally, a discussion will be provided on the challenges of sustainable supply chain management adopted within a circular economy (CE).
A Holistic Circular Economy Model for a Sustainable Supply Chain in the Food Sector
Authors: Appannan Jeya Santhini , Rajendran Salini Devi , Muniandy Sharmila Laksmi , Balachandran Dhaarshini
Published: April 2023

Scholarly research is required to support the global service food sector in food waste and loss mitigation. Even though the linear economy was extremely effective in producing material wealth in industrial nations until the twentieth century, it has shown shortfalls for its inappropriateness. It has depleted the system's resources, triggering a financial crisis and environmental degradation. This led food waste and loss issues to new heights, thus calling for the design of effective mitigation measures. Hence, this chapter recommends the emergence of green technologies and sustainable practices as potential drivers for the food industry to reduce food waste and loss at each stage of the ecosystem and subsequently transform the entire system into a circular economy. This chapter also introduces a detailed understanding and harmonized approach to the circular economy in attaining sustainable food supply chain management.
Achieving Supply Chain Sustainability Through Effective Talent Management Strategies
Authors: Ramakrishna Yanamandra , Mamata Yanamandra , Wahab Siti Norida , Wanganoo Leena
Published: April 2023

Talent management plays an important role in managing various supply chain activities effectively. However, recent studies found that there is a shortage of relevant people in this area. This is attributed to a lack of appropriate and long-term talent management strategies with respect to developing and retaining the right abilities and skills in supply chain function. Specific human resources strategies focusing on supply chain needs and requirements are not developed by the majority of business organizations. Additionally, there is a dearth of research focused on this function. Considering this gap, this chapter focuses on identifying the key supply chain positions, processes/activities, and the relevant skills to manage talent at various levels of the supply chain. This kind of mapping would immensely benefit practitioners and researchers in redesigning their talent management strategies for effective management of the supply chain.
The Role of Geography Education in Sustainability in a Digital Age
Authors: Gryl Inga
Published: April 2023

This paper intends to illustrate the role of geography education concerning sustainability in a digital age. In current everyday life, (non-)sustainability and digitalization are closely linked to each other, including societal issues beyond technology and ecology. For instance, digitalization may be a key to solve certain sustainability problems and is the source for challenges to sustainability at the same time. Geography education has both strong links with an education for digitalization and with an education for sustainable development. Therefore, it is an ideal learning environment to teach about the complexity of the linkages between both fields, and the necessity of thinking them together. Alongside with specific thematic examples for the classroom this chapter provides a number of didactic approaches that are a starting point to design subject-oriented classroom settings, appropriate to the complexity of the issue, and aimed at an emancipatory education for sustainable development.
Synthesis of Graphene Oxide/ Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Composite and Investigation of Graphene Oxide Effect on Diameter and Pore Size of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Nanofibers
Authors: Abdullah Zeeshan , Anwar Abdul Waheed , Haq Inam Ul , Arslan Zunair , Mubashar Asifa , Ahmad Shan , Waheed Abdul , Ajmal Muhammad , Baig Imrza Imran Aziz
Published: April 2023

The ultrafine fibers of Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA) /Graphene Oxide (GO) composite were prepared by using a homemade electrospinning set-up at 12.5 kV and 12 cm with different concentrations of GO (1g/L, 0.75g/L, and 0.5g/L) in PVA. The effect of GO concentrations in 10% PVA solution on the diameter of fibers was investigated. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy was used to analyze the functional groups. Ultraviolet (UV)-visible spectra of GO suspension showed the absorption peak at 232 nm. The morphology of the nanofibers was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique was used to analyze the crystalline nature of this material. The diameter of nanofibers decreased with improved crystallinity, thus, increasing the concentration of GO in PVA.
Spatial expression of DNA topoisomerase I genes during cell proliferation in Daucus carota
Authors: Balestrazzi A , Bernacchia G , Pitto L , Luccarini G , Carbonera D
Published: April 2023

The spatial expression of carrot (Daucus carota L.) top1 genes encoding the two isoforms of the enzyme DNA topoisomerase I (EC 5.99.1.2) was investigated. In situ hybridization analysis performed with a probe recognizing both top1 transcripts provided evidence that in explanted hypocotyls induced to proliferate in vitro by the addition of the growth regulator 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), the mRNA accumulation parallels the proliferation of provascular cells of the stelar cylinder. During somatic embryogenesis, the histological distribution of top1 transcripts was strongly evident at the stage of torpedo-shaped embryos, but gene expression was not only restricted to meristematic regions. When the spatial localization was extended to carrot vegetative apices and the investigation was carried out with specific probes for top1a and top1b, both transcripts preferentially accumulated in tissues having mitotic activity.
Robert's Uterus Versus Juvenile Cystic Adenomyoma – Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges – Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Mahey Reeta , Cheluvaraju Rohitha , Kumari Supriya , Kachhawa Garima , Kumari Archana , Rajput Monika , Bhatla Neerja
Published: April 2023

This case report highlights the diagnostic dilemma and therapeutic challenges encountered while managing adolescent girls with progressive dysmenorrhoea and management of Robert's uterus. Two girls aged 20 years and 13 years presented with severe progressive dysmenorrhoea. In the first case, laparoscopy revealed juvenile cystic adenomyoma (JCA) of 3 cm × 3 cm on the left side anteroinferior to the round ligament. Laparoscopic resection of the lesion was done, and histopathology revealed features of adenomyosis. In the second case, there was a globular enlargement of the right half of the uterine body with round ligament and adnexa attached to the lesion (Robert's uterus). In view of severe symptoms, complete resection of the lesion and partial resection of hemi-uterus was done, followed by myometrial defect closure. Both cases were initially diagnosed as JCA, and the final diagnosis was made on laparoscopy. Both girls had complete symptomatic relief from the next menstrual cycle and have been under follow-up for 24 months and 18 months, respectively. Due to the rarity of conditions, Robert's uterus and JCA are usually misdiagnosed with each other or with other Mullerian anomalies such as a non-communicating unicornuate uterus. Radiologists and clinicians should be aware of these different pathologies causing similar symptoms. Understanding the pathology, early diagnosis, timely referral and correct surgical procedure are emphasised to improve reproductive outcomes.
Hysterosalpingography Observations in Female Genital Tuberculosis with Infertility
Authors: Sharma Jai Bhagwan , Kumari Supriya , Jaiswal Parul , Dharmendra Sona , Hari Smriti , Singh Urvashi B
Published: April 2023

Background:

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is radiographic evaluation of uterine cavity and tubal patency.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and utilisation of HSG in female genital tuberculosis (FGTB) with infertility.

Settings and Design:

The study was conducted in a tertiary referral centre of North India.

Materials and Methods:

It was a prospective study on 87 cases of FGTB with infertility. Diagnosis of FGTB was made by composite reference standard using the presence of acid-fast bacilli on microscopy/culture or positive GeneXpert, positive polymerase chain reaction or epithelioid granuloma on endometrial biopsy or definitive or probable findings on laparoscopy or hysteroscopy.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Suitable statistical methods were used with STATA software version 12.0.

Results:

HSG findings were normal in 49 (56.32%) cases. There were filling defects in 14 (16.09%), short and shrunken cavity in 4 (4.49%), intrauterine synechiae in 14 (16.09%), T-shaped cavity in 3 (3.44%) and deformed uterine cavity in 5 (5.74%) cases. Fallopian tube findings were hydrosalpinx in 12 (13.79%) and 11 (12.64%) cases, beading of tube in 4 (4.59%) and 2 (2.29%) cases, pipestem appearance in 2 (2.29%) cases each and Maltese cross appearance in 3 (3.44%) and 2 (2.29%) cases, respectively. Tubal blockage was seen in 69 (79.31%) and 67 (77.01%) cases being cornual block in 28 (32.18%) and 26 (29.88%) cases, mid-tubal block in 16 (18.39%) and 15 (17.24%) cases, multiple blocks in 10 (11.49%) and 12 (13.79%) cases and fimbrial block in 15 (17.24%) and 14 (16.09%) cases. None of the cases had flare-up of the disease after HSG in the current study.

Conclusion:

HSG is a useful modality in FGTB with infertility.
Does Coronavirus Disease-19 Infection Affect Ovarian Reserve in Infertile Women? A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kahyaoglu Serkan , Ozaksit Muzeyyen Gulnur , Kahyaoglu Inci , Filiz Ahmet Arif , Pekcan Meryem Kuru , Atalay Ece , Tekin Ozlem Moraloglu
Published: April 2023

Background:

Previous studies have revealed menstrual changes following coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) disease. The potential impact of COVID-19 on female reproductive organs, ovary in particular, has not been investigated thoroughly.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH) and oestradiol (E2) following COVID-19 disease as a surrogate for the detection of ovarian vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Settings and Design:

In this retrospective study, hospital records of unexplained infertile women between 21 and 40 years old who have attended our institution's reproductive medicine unit for evaluation and/or treatment of infertility have been evaluated.

Materials and Methods:

Menstrual cycle day 2–5 serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone and E2 levels of 28 infertile women have been studied both before and after the COVID-19 disease to evaluate ovarian reserve before the ovulation induction treatment cycle.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The demographic characteristics and hormonal results of these 28 unexplained infertile women have been compared. The Shapiro–Wilk test has been used to evaluate the normal distribution of variables. Comparison of ovarian reserve markers which were established before and after COVID-19 infection has been performed using paired samples t-test.

Results:

All patients except one have shown mild COVID-19 symptoms and their infection courses have resulted in uneventful recovery. Serum FSH, LH and E2 levels of 24 (85%) and serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels of 4 (15%) patients have been evaluated before and after COVID-19 disease is statistically similar.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 disease or inflammatory response of the infection itself does not seem to affect pituitary gonadotropins and ovarian hormones in infertile women based on menstrual cycle day 2–5 serum FSH, LH, E2 and AMH levels. Further studies including higher patient numbers are urgently needed to clarify the potential effects of COVID-19 disease on the gonadal function of women.
Pain Management during Ultrasound Guided Transvaginal Oocyte Retrieval – A Narrative Review
Authors: Thanikachalam Puvithra , Govindan Dilip Kumar
Published: April 2023

Transvaginal oocyte retrieval (TVOR), done for the purpose of assisted reproduction can instigate enormous pain and therefore requires adequate analgesia with the least adverse effects. As the procedure involves retrieving oocytes for in vitro fertilisation, the effect of the anaesthetic drugs on the oocyte quality should also be considered. This review focuses on the various modes of anaesthesia and the anaesthetic drugs which can be administered safely to provide effective analgesia in normal and in special conditions such as women with pre-existing comorbidities. Medline, Embase, PubMed and Cochrane electronic databases were searched according to modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. According to this review, conscious sedation appears to be the most preferred mode of anaesthesia in women undergoing TVOR owing to fewer adverse effects, faster recovery, better patient and specialist comfort and the least effect on oocyte quality and embryo development. Combining it with paracervical block resulted in lesser consumption of the anaesthetic drug, which may have a beneficial effect on the oocyte quality.
Failure to Detect Viral Ribonucleic Acid in Follicular Fluid of a Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2-Infected Female – A Report from the Indian Subcontinent
Authors: Bhayana Dhir Pooja , Raja Kumar Anuj , Chitra Jhingan , Sonu Bansal
Published: April 2023

Till today, we are still not clear about the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on reproductive tissues and its vertical transmission through the gametes and embryos. There are few case reports that aim to detect the presence or absence of SARS-CoV-2 viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) in the follicular fluid of the infected females. We hereby present the case report of a 33-year-old woman who was undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection with testicular sperm aspiration and was found to be positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The follicular fluid analysis failed to detect the presence of viral RNA in the sample. Ours is the first case report from India trying to detect the viral RNA from the follicular fluid of a female with SARS-CoV-2 positive status.
Geographical Diversity in the Age Specific Anti Müllerian Hormone Levels in Infertile Women
Authors: Jaffar Mir , Ahmad Syed Nawaz , Monica  , Ashraf Mohammed , Shaik Sabiha Anjum , Asif Muhammed
Published: April 2023

Background:

Serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a significant determinant of ovarian reserve. It is still not clear about the rate at which AMH declines with age and varies across populations.

Aim:

The present study examined the AMH levels specific to the North and South Indian populations and attempted to establish an age-dependent reference parametrically.

Settings and Design:

This was a prospective study in a tertiary centre.

Materials and Methods:

Serum samples were collected apparently from 650 infertile women (327 from North and 323 from South Indians). AMH was measured using an electrochemiluminescent technique.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Comparison of the AMH data between North and South regions was done by independent t-test. For each age, seven empirical percentiles (3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th and 95th) were applied. AMH nomograms for the 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 85th, 90th and 95th percentiles were produced using the lambda-mu-sigma method.

Results:

AMH levels remarkably decreased with increasing age in the North Indian population, but in the South Indian population, they did not decline beyond 1.5 ng/mL. Further, in the North Indian population, AMH levels were significantly higher in the age group of 22–30 years (4.4 ng/mL) than in the South Indian population (2.04 ng/mL).

Conclusion:

The present study suggests a major geographical difference in mean AMH levels according to their age and ethnic background, regardless of their subjacent pathologies.
Infertility and Social Issue Have the Most Significant Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life Among Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Women in South India
Authors: Hariprasath L. , Selvakumar D. , Dharani V. , Durgalakshmi K. K. , Abilash V. G. , Gopenath T. S. , Nishu S.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Infertility can have a significant impact on the identity of women. Individual women, who are infertile, experience tragic emotions, as well as those who are sad for great losses, like the death of a loved one. In this case, the woman is experiencing the loss of the ability to procreate.

Aim:

In the present study, our major concern was to implement the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) Questionnaire on South Indian polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) women to assess the impact of various clinical features of polycystic ovary syndrome on the HRQOL of South Indian women diagnosed.

Settings and Design:

A total of 126 females in the first phase and 356 females in the second phase between the age group of 18–40 years characterised under the Rotterdam criteria were selected for the study.

Materials and Methods:

The study was carried out in three different phases which included a one-to-one interview, group discussion and questionnaire session. In our study, we found that all the females who attend the study showed positivity for all the domains developed in the previous study and suggested that further domain can be developed.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Suitable statistical methods were used with Graph pad PRISM (version 6).

Results:

Hence, in our study, we developed a further new sixth domain called as 'social impact domain'. Among South Indian PCOS women, we found that infertility and social issue have the most significant impact on HRQOL.

Conclusion:

The revised questionnaire by including the sixth domain called 'Social issue' is likely to be useful in measuring the quality of health of female having PCOS in regard to South Indian population.
Is There a Relationship between Serum Anti-Mullerian Hormone Levels and Abortion Rates in Patients Who Received In vitro Fertilisation-Embryo Transfer Cycles?
Authors: Karacin Pinar , Dilbaz Serdar , Aldemir Oya , Dilbaz Berna , Ustun Yaprak Engin
Published: April 2023

Background:

The studies which investigated the relationship between anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level and abortion rate have conflicting results.

Aims:

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the relationship between AMH levels and abortion in women who achieved pregnancy with in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment.

Settings and Design:

This retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Women's Health Training and Research Hospital, between January 2014 and January 2020.

Materials and Methods:

Patients below 40 years of age who conceived after IVF-embryo transfer treatment during a 6-year period and had a serum AMH level measurement were included. The patients were divided into three groups according to the serum AMH levels as low AMH (L-AMH, ≤1.6 ng/mL), intermediate AMH (I-AMH, 1.61–5.6 ng/mL) and high AMH (H-AMH, >5.6 ng/mL). The groups were compared in terms of obstetric, treatment cycle characteristics and abortion rates.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The Mann–Whitney U-test was used in comparison of non-parametric data of two groups; the Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the data of more than two groups. When a statistically significant difference was found in the Kruskal–Wallis test result, the groups were compared in pairs using the Mann–Whitney U-test, and the groups that made a statistical difference were determined. The Pearson's Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare the independent categorical variables.

Results:

L-AMH (n = 164), I-AMH (n = 153) and H-AMH (n = 59) groups were similar in terms of obstetric histories and number of cycles applied, with an abortion rate of 23.8%, 19.6% and 16.9%, respectively (P = 0.466). The same analyses were repeated in two subgroups under 34 years of age and above, and no difference was found in terms of miscarriage rates. The number of oocytes retrieved and the number of mature oocytes were higher in H-AMH group compared to intermediate and low groups.

Conclusion:

No relationship was found between serum AMH level and abortion rate in women who achieved clinical pregnancy with IVF treatment.
Impact of Post-Thaw Incubation Time of Frozen Embryos on Clinical Pregnancy Rate
Authors: Ranji G. Geovin , Shankar Kundavi , Asokan Yamini , Veerasigamani Geetha , Vittal Rashmi Gingade , Naaram Nithya M. , Hema Niveda KR
Published: April 2023

Background:

Vitrification of embryos following a single-controlled ovarian stimulation has been the strategy practised now in many in vitro fertilisation clinics to minimise the risk of early ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome, to reduce multiple pregnancy rates and to improve cumulative pregnancy rates. In recent years, advances in vitrification techniques and improved culture conditions have led to good post-thaw embryo survival rates, thereby increasing pregnancy rates of frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of post-thaw incubation time of frozen embryos on the clinical pregnancy rates (CPRs) of frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

Settings and Design:

This was a retrospective, comparative study done at a teaching hospital in assisted reproductive treatment.

Materials and Methods:

Three hundred and ten FET cycles were analysed, of which 125 had day 2 freezing and 185 had day 3 freezing. Depending upon the day of thawing and day of transfer, FET cycles were divided into six groups: Group 1 (day 2 thawing and day 3 transfer), Group 2 (day 2 thawing and day 4 transfer), Group 3 (day 2 thawing and day 5 transfer), Group 4 (day 3 thawing and day 3 transfer), Group 5 (day 3 thawing and day 4 transfer) and Group 6 (day 3 thawing and day 5 transfer).

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was performed using version 14 R software version 4.0.1 (2020-06-06) (R foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria). A P < 0.05 is taken as significant.

Results:

The CPR of Group 4 was 42.4% which was more than that of the other groups but it did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions:

Short incubation time of 2–4 h is as effective as an extended incubation time in terms of CPRs of FET cycles.
Deep Learning-Based Robust Automated System for Predicting Human Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index
Authors: Kumar Roopini Sathiasai , Sharma Swapnil , Halder Arunima , Gupta Vipin
Published: April 2023

Background:

Determining the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) by the sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test involves manual counting of stained sperms with halo and no halo.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to build a robust artificial intelligence-based solution to predict the DFI.

Settings and Design:

This is a retrospective experimental study conducted in a secondary in vitro fertilisation setup.

Materials and Methods:

We obtained 24,415 images from 30 patients after the SCD test using a phase-contrast microscope. We classified the dataset into two, binary (halo/no halo) and multiclass (big/medium/small halo/degraded (DEG)/dust). Our approach consists of a training and prediction phase. The 30 patients' images were divided into training (24) and prediction (6) sets. A pre-processing method M was developed to automatically segment the images to detect sperm-like regions and was annotated by three embryologists.

Statistical Analysis Used:

To interpret the findings, the precision-recall curve and F1 score were utilised.

Results:

Binary and multiclass datasets containing 8887 and 15,528 cropped sperm image regions showed an accuracy of 80.15% versus 75.25%. A precision-recall curve was determined and the binary and multiclass datasets obtained an F1 score of 0.81 versus 0.72. A confusion matrix was applied for predicted and actuals for the multiclass approach where small halo and medium halo confusion were found to be highest.

Conclusion:

Our proposed machine learning model can standardise and aid in arriving at accurate results without using expensive software. It provides accurate information about healthy and DEG sperms in a given sample, thereby attaining better clinical outcomes. The binary approach performed better with our model than the multiclass approach. However, the multiclass approach can highlight the distribution of fragmented and non-fragmented sperms.
Glutamine Supplementation Attenuates Bisphenol A-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Ehigiator Ben E. , Adikwu Elias , Igweze Zellijo N.
Published: April 2023

Background:

The induction of testicular toxicity by bisphenol A (BPA) may involve oxidative stress. Glutamine (Gln) is a rate limiter for the synthesis of glutathione (GSH), which inhibits oxidative stress.

Aim:

This study assessed the potential of BPA to preserve testicular structure and function in BPA-treated albino rats.

Study Settings and Design:

Thirty-two adult male albino rats (210–250 g) were randomly allocated to 4 (A-D) of 8 rats per group with the approval of the Research Ethics Committee.

Materials and Methods:

Groups B-D were orally treated with Gln (20 mg/kg body weight), BPA (50 mg/kg body weight) and Gln (20 mg/kg body weight) + BPA (50 mg/kg body weight) daily for 65 days, respectively. Group A (control) was orally treated with normal saline (0.2 mL) daily for 65 days. At the termination of treatment, the rats were weighed and anaesthetized blood samples were collected and evaluated for gonadal hormones. The testes were weighed and evaluated for sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers and histology.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc test.

Results:

BPA caused a significant (P < 0.001) decrease in testis and body weights, sperm count, volume, motility and normal morphology when compared to the control. BPA significantly (P < 0.001) decreased serum testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone, testicular catalase, superoxide dismutase, GSH and GSH peroxidase levels relative to control. Significantly (P < 0.001) increased serum prolactin, estradiol and testicular malondialdehyde levels occurred in BPA-treated rats relative to control. The testes of BPA-treated rats showed sloughing and coalescence of germ cells. However, Gln supplementation prevents BPA-induced testicular toxicity. Gln supplementation restored testis histology.

Conclusion:

Based on the observation in this study, Gln seems effective against BPA-induced testicular toxicity.
Prameha (diabetes)
Authors: Mahapatra Arun K. , Shrikrishna Rajagopala , Ojha Nisha K. , Dharmarajan Prasanth , Dileep Aparna , Parameswaran Karthik Kasimadom
Published: April 2023

The term “Prameha” denotes a wide variety of diseases, among which diabetes is the most widely used one. There are several regional variations in the pieces of knowledge and practices about Prameha. This article compiles the contributions of Kerala's Ayurvedic textbooks in the diagnosis and management of Prameha and their relevance in the current scenario for their availability and evidence to substantiate their effectiveness. Textbooks written by physicians of Kerala were screened for eligibility (relevant contributions in Prameha). Eleven texts were found eligible and scrutinized. The diagnostic and therapeutic contributions were categorized, and the therapeutic contributions were searched on PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for supporting evidence. The 128 contributions obtained were as follows: diagnostic: etiological factors (1), clinical features (4), and diagnoses (3); and therapeutic: lines of management (8), pharmacological interventions (50), nonpharmacological interventions (7), procedures (15), and diet and regimen modifications (40). All single drugs and six formulations were available, and supporting evidence was available for 13 drugs mentioned and two proprietary medicines containing these drugs. The contributions have raw material availability and preclinical evidence. Further research and availability of these are to be ensured for these leads to be useful in managing Prameha on larger scale.
Therapeutic potential of Chirabilva (Holopteliaintegrifolia planch)
Authors: Prajapati Gaurang Jayantibhai , Gavadiya Swati Kanabhai , Sharma Tarun , Bapna Vidhi M.
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Among the quarter of medical management, the drug is placed next to the physician in the chronology of importance. Chirabilva [Holoptelia integrifolia (Roxb.) Planch] is one of the best drugs, which can use internally and externally in many diseases. It is described right from the time of Charak Samhita and had a wide range of therapeutic effects. Many formulations are indicated in Gulma, Arsha, Prameha, Shoola, Grahani, Kandu, Kushtha, and Jwara. Also, in Bhavprakash it is indicated in the treatment of Vami, Pitta Arsha, Krumi, Kushtha, and Prameh.

Aim:

The aim of this work was to study the Ayurveda literature to collect information regarding the internal therapeutic uses of Chirabilva (Holopteliaintegrifolia Planch).

Materials and Methods:

A literature review of Chirabilva from Charak Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Bhaisajya Ratnavali, Bharat Bhaisajya Ratnavali, Yoga Ratnakara, Gada Nigraha, and other relevant literature, and various database regarding various formulations, dosage form, indications, and useful parts.

Observation and Result:

During the literature review, reviewed total 309 formulations, like, Mahatiktak Ghrita, Dhanvantar Ghrita, Putikadhya Ghrita, Kalyanaka Lavana, Himsradhya Ghrita, Abhaya Lavana, Chirbilvadi Kwatha, Chirbilvadhya Churna, Panchamrut Parpati, etc. in 20 different dosage forms of Chirabilva were cited to be recommended in 19 diseases which are Gulma, Arsha, Prameha, Shoola, Grahani, Kandu, Kushtha, Jwara, Pandu, Sotha, Krimi, Swasa, Apasmara, Unmada, Graha Roga, etc.

Conclusion:

Chirabilva is cited in 19 diseases in 20 different dosage forms. It is mainly indicated in Gulma Roga, Arsha Roga, and Shoola. Based on the outcome of this literature review, new formulations and dosage forms can be developed using this abundantly available medicinal plant.
Pharmacognostical and physicochemical evaluation of gandhakadi yoga vati
Authors: Chaudhary Naresh B. , Kori Virendra K , Bhinde Sagar M. , Harisha C. R. , Shukla Vinay J.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Ayurveda is age-old medical system, practiced in India. Ayurveda medicines are being prepared from natural sources like herbs, animal products, and minerals. Ancient Ayurveda scholars have mentioned various pharmaceutical procedures to make it bioavailable. They also mentioned about various parameters to control the quality and standardize those formulations. But due to globalization and industrialization, it is need of the time to produce medicines in larger scale and to evaluate its quality with currently available tools for the global acceptance of Ayurveda. Gandhakadi Yoga Vati is an herbo-mineral formulation used as an adjuvant in the management of Thalassemia Major. Till date quality data of this formulation is not been evaluated.

Aims and Objectives:

To analyze the Gandhakadi Yoga Vati through pharmacognostically and physicochemical parameters.

Materials and Methods:

In this analytical study, preauthenticated raw drugs were procured from pharmacy, ITRA, Jamnagar. Drug was prepared at RSBK department and pharmacy, ITRA, Jamnagar. Organoleptic parameters and microscopic analysis of Vati were done at pharmacognosy department, ITRA. Physicochemical analysis and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) were carried out at pharmaceutical laboratory, ITRA.

Results:

Microscopic characteristics of Gandhakadi Yoga Vati showed simple trichome, starch grain, epidermal cells, fibers, parenchymal cell of Agastya Patra (Sesbenia grandiflora Linn.), pitted stone cells, lignified stone cell, trichome, tanin content, prismatic crystal, brown content, spool cells of Vidanga (Embelia ribes Burm.f.), and black debris of Gandhaka. In physicochemical analysis, Ash value was 8.64%w/w, loss on drying was 0.85%w/w, pH was 6.4, acid-insoluble ash value was 2.49% w/w alcohol-soluble extractive was 14.9%w/w, and water-soluble extractive was 5.09%w/w. HPTLC study showed 06 and 07 peaks at 254 and 366 nm wave lengths, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study generated preliminary data on pharmacognostical, physicochemical parameters, and HPTLC of Gandhakadi Yoga Vati. These fingerprinting can be useful for future researchers to reproduce this formulation.
Procedure for the Continuous Sampling and Measurement of Gaseous Emissions from Aircraft Turbine Engines
Authors:   E-31G Gaseous Committee
Published: April 2023

This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) describes the continuous sampling and analysis of gaseous emissions from aircraft gas turbine engines. The measured gas species include carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), hydrocarbons (HC), and water vapor (H2O). This ARP excludes engine operating procedures and test modes, and is not intended for in-flight testing, nor does it apply to engines operating in the afterburning mode.

It is recognized that there will probably be major advances in the gas analysis measurement technology. It is not the intent of this ARP to exclude other analysis techniques, but to form the basis of the minimum amount of conventional instruments (those in common industry usage over the last fifteen years) required for the analysis of aircraft engine exhaust. It is the responsibility of the analyst to demonstrate the alternative measurement technology has comparable (or better) performance than the techniques described in this ARP.

The measurement of other exhaust gas species is beyond the scope of this ARP.

It should be noted the measurement of oxygen (O2) is generally accepted as essential for assessing data quality, but is not covered by this ARP. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is normally not measured using conventional systems but is calculated from fuel sulfur content. Again this is not covered by this ARP.
Shared Memory Interface for Gas Turbine Engine Performance Programs
Authors:   S-15 Gas Turbine Perf Simulation Nomenclature and Interfaces
Published: April 2023

This is an initial release of a recommended practice for an interface to supplier simulations that utilize traditional inter-process communication (IPC) methods of shared memory and semaphore communications. These IPC methods are standard practice in the computer science world and allow for communication by separate processes running on a computer without any common runtime requirements. This allows things like 32-bit applications to talk with 64-bit applications, as well as any other compiler version or runtime library dependencies being required by the calling program to interface with the called model. This also allows the calling program and the called program to be run on separate CPUs to allow parallel execution of the called program as well as multiple instances of the called program to execute all on separate processors. Also, other third party applications would be able to interact with this common IPC interface allowing an interface where no compilation or integration of either parties libraries or code is required. This SAE Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) provides definition of the shared memory space and interactive IPC functions to enable the interaction between these separate applications.
Satisfacción laboral y calidad de vida de los médicos residentes españoles en los meses posteriores a la terminación del estado de alarma por la COVID-19 y al año de la misma
Authors: Muñoz-Cobo Orosa Beatriz , Pérez García Markel , Rodriguez Ledott Mercedes , Varela Serrano Claudia , Sanz Valero Javier
Published: April 2023

Introducción: Describir y analizar la percepción existente acerca de la satisfacción laboral (SL) y la calidad de vida (CV) de los/las médicos/as residentes españoles/as en los meses posteriores a la terminación del estado de alarma por la COVID-19 y al año de la misma.
Método: Estudio descriptivo-correlacional, siendo la población diana los/las residentes españoles/as a quienes se preguntó, mediante formulario online, en dos cortes (1º de 01/11 al 31/12 de 2020 y 2º entre 01/11 y 31/12 de 2021). Para la SL se utilizó el cuestionario Font-Roja y para la CV el WHOQOL-BREF (ambos mediante escala Likert de 5 valores).
Resultados: Respondieron 404 residentes (1er corte) y 411 (2º corte). Los resultados para a SL global mostraron Rho = 0,09; p = 0,081, sin diferencias entre sus medias (-0,07; p = 0,090). La CV global, medida a través del cuestionario, indicó baja correlación entre ambos cortes (Rho = 0,10; p = 0,041), con diferencias entre sus medias (-0,14; p < 0,001).
Conclusiones: En relación a la SL no se constató asociación entre los dos periodos estudiados. Respecto a la CV se evidenciaron mejores datos, en el 2º corte, tanto en la CV autopercibida como en el resultado global del cuestionario.
Decentralisation and Human Development in Indonesia: The Importance of Local Government Capacity in Delivering Development Outputs and Outcomes
Authors: . Siswidiyanto , Sahputri Rindi Ardika Melsalasa
Published: April 2023

The debate about the effect of decentralisation on the improvement of human development still exists, which led scholars to investigate the role of government capacity. This study aims to examine the impact of local government capacity on human development in Indonesia during the decentralisation reform over the period 1996-2020. Multiple regression analysis illustrates the role of local government capacity during decentralization. In this study, several human development indicators has failed to improve during the decentralization process. The failure of human development was strongly related to local government capacity to produce education, health, and economic outputs and outcomes. Our study shows how government can stimulate human development during the process of decentralisation by strengthening local government capacity.
Opus Dei: a Challenge for Church Leadership
Authors: Harianto G.P. , Umboh Sonny Herens , Christi Areyne , Wang Suryowati , Sondopen Dorce , Ming D.
Published: April 2023

Opus Dei (God's work) is all life in the world, but God's work has been tainted by human evil. Man tends to ignore God's justification. Opus Dei should be the mission of all believers, but especially the leaders in churches. The purpose of this article is to answer several questions including: What does justification mean in the Bible? What are the characteristics of leadership? How is Opus Dei in the world: A Doctrine of Justification Educational Challenge for Recipients of the Relay of Church Leadership? A literature study informed this work that demonstrated that: (1) Justification belongs to God and is given to man. God removes guilt and punishment for his sins. (2) The factors that influence the success of leadership are: being an effective leader, implementing Christian leadership, everyone being a leader, and deciding God-centered policies. (3) The Holy Bible justifies and bases the type of testimony it makes on church leadership. The Doctrine of Justification Education to receive the witness of the church is mandatory throughout one's life: (a) learning to know about the messages that God has sent through the Bible. (b) learning about the values of living in Opus Dei so that one can become a doer of the word. (c) learning to live together with the church. (d) learning to be yourself as a process of a leader as God's representative in the church. (e) A righteous life in God's eyes means that the church leader places himself in public view as a complete human being. He or she should not enter and become trapped in the secular world, bute master and use God's truth to develop His church ministry. A
church leaders must lives in Opus Dei.
Efektivitas Pendampingan Orang Tua Terhadap Tingkat Pemahaman Seksual Remaja
Authors: Stevanus Kalis , Setyorini Hardiyanti , Yunianto Yunianto
Published: April 2023

Masa remaja merupakan masa peralihan dari masa kanak-kanak menuju masa dewasa. Pada masa ini remaja mengalami berbagai perkembangan, salah satunya berkaitan dengan seksualitasnya. Dalam perkembangan seksualitas, remaja memiliki rasa ingin tahu yang besar terkait dengan organ reproduksinya. Disinilah peran penting pendampingan orang tua agar remaja memiliki informasi yang benar tentang seks. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk membuktikan efektivitas pendampingan orang tua terhadap pembentukan perilaku seksual remaja. Penelitian ini merupakan jenis penelitian kuantitatif yang bersifat deskriptif dan asosiatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya pengaruh yang sangat signifikan peran pendampingan orang tua terhadap pembentukan perilaku seks remaja sebesar 71,1%.