bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desempenho econômico-financeiro de empresas do agronegócio da carne, listadas na B3, antes e após o início da Covid-19
Authors: Souza Ângela Rozane Leal de , Koeche Alexandre Sehn , Allgaier Júlia Flach , Santos Francisca Viviane dos , Oliveira Letícia de
Published: December 2022

Este estudo objetivou analisar o desempenho econômico-financeiro das quatro maiores empresas do Setor do Agronegócio da carne listadas na B3 S.A., antes e após o início da Pandemia do Coronavírus (período de 2018 a 2020). A análise foi realizada por meio de indicadores financeiros de estrutura de capital e rentabilidade, com foco em especial na Identidade DuPont, calculados com base em valores de contas contábeis das demonstrações financeiras das empresas. A coleta foi realizada por meio das demonstrações contábeis estruturadas e apresentadas no site da B3 S.A. e com o uso da base de dados Economática. A pesquisa se caracteriza como descritiva, de caráter documental e de abordagem quantitativa. Em comparação aos percentuais correspondentes aos indicadores de cada ano e ao cenário econômico do período, a pesquisa utilizou a Correlação de Pearson para a análise das relações entre as variações dos indicadores com relação à variação do Produto Interno Bruto (PIB) do Ramo Pecuário, no período estudado. Entre os principais achados, evidencia-se uma melhora significativa do Retorno sobre o Ativo e do Retorno sobre o Patrimônio Líquido, em correlações positivas médias e fortes com o crescimento do PIB do setor. Além disso, encontrou-se correlação positiva extremamente forte entre a Receita de Bens e Serviços das empresas e o PIB do Ramo Pecuário. Conclui-se que, no geral, além do crescimento do PIB do setor, apesar da crise econômica resultante da pandemia, as empresas elevaram seu faturamento e melhoraram a lucratividade e a rentabilidade.
Análise de eficiência na utilização dos fatores de produção agropecuária na região Centro-Oeste do Brasil
Authors: Leão Carlos , Fernandes Gabriel Gonçalves , Leão Henrique Ribeiro , Paula Mauro César de , Santos Leandro de Lima
Published: December 2022

O presente estudo objetivou avaliar a eficiência técnica e os níveis de produtividade da agropecuária da região Centro-Oeste através da estimativa de fronteira estocástica de produção com base nos dados do Censo Agropecuário de 2017. Deste modo, foi possível identificar as subregiões e municípios com maior produtividade agrícola. Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram a baixa produtividade da terra no Centro-Oeste brasileiro, bem como a alta produtividade do fator trabalho. As análises mostram ainda que proporção em que os fatores de produção estão sendo alocados no setor agropecuário do Centro-Oeste está inadequada, pois o capital está sendo utilizado em quantidade demasiadamente alta frente ao uso dos demais fatores, sendo a tecnologia caracterizada pelo uso extensivo de capital, o que faz com que sua produtividade seja baixa. Espera-se que esta análise possa ser útil principalmente no campo de formulação de políticas públicas voltadas para o aprimoramento das atividades agropecuárias em perspectivas regionais.
Efficacy of Stroke Volume Variation-guided Fluid Management of Patients undergoing Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: An Observational Comparative Study between Open and Closed Chest
Authors: Durge Shilpa , Sayed Nazmeen Imranali , Basantwani Shakuntala
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Functional haemodynamic monitoring using dynamic parameter such as Stroke Volume Variation (SVV), based on pulse contour analysis, helps in predicting fluid responsiveness in off pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) surgery. This allows adequate volume replacement to achieve optimal cardiac performance. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of SVV in predicting volume responsiveness and effect on haemodynamic variable in patients undergoing off pump CABG in both closed and open chest. Materials and Methods: This single-centre, non randomised observational study was conducted at a tertiary medical college and hospital (LokmanyaTilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital) Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, from December 2016 to December 2018. A total of 34 patients undergoing elective off pump CABG were included. Haemodynamic measurements Stroke Volume (SV), Cardiac Output (CO), Cardiac Index (CI), and SVV, were recorded with the transducer positioned at the level of midaxillary line. If the SVV was equal to or higher than 12, 100 mL fluid aliquot was given to patients. Endpoints for fluid aliquots was increase in CO by 15%, decrease in SVV of less than 12 or an increase Central Venous Pressure (CVP) upto 15 millimeter of mercury (mmHg). Number of times SVV above 12 during the procedure was recorded. SVV was considered as fluid responsive “if there was an increase in SV by 5%”. Statistical analysis was done using Student’s t-test (two tailed, dependent) on continuous parameters. The p-value <0.05, was considered significant. Results: Out of 103 events of rise in SVV, 65 (63.1%) occurred when chest was open and 38 (36.9%) while chest was closed. The SVV-guided fluid response was 76.3% in closed chest and 75.4% in open chest and there was no significant difference. (p-value=0.91). There was a significant increase in SV (p-value<0.01), CO (p-value=0.04), and significant decrease in SVV (p-value<0.01) and heart rate (p-value<0.01) after fluid loading in the responsive group when compared with non responsive group. There was no statistically significant difference between percentage change in SV, CO, CI, SBP, DBP, MAP and CVP between closed and open chest conditions after fluid replacement. Conclusion: SVV is not affected by open or closed chest conditions in mechanically ventilated patients undergoing CABG and can be used as a guide for fluid replacement. Weather open or closed chest conditions, few patients do not respond to fluid replacement when SVV are more than 12 by an increase in SV, cardiac output or CI, the cause of which remains to be determined.
Severity of Menopausal Symptoms in Women Posthysterectomy at a Tertiary Care Hospital,Tamil Nadu, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Reddy Sahasra , Kandasamy Vijayalakshmi , Shinde Ranoji V
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Menopause, a natural occurrence in women’s lives, is characterised by a drop in ovarian hormones, oestrogen, and progesterone levels. Sudden hypoestrogenic state, that is caused by hysterectomy leads to the development of menopausal symptoms. Aim: To assess the occurrence and severity of menopausal symptoms in women who underwent hysterectomy for benign gynaecologic conditions. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India, over a period of three months. The study included 100 women in the age group of 35-55 years who had undergone hysterectomy for benign conditions were invited to participate in the study. Those who agreed to the study and completed the questionnaire after six weeks and three months postoperatively were included in this study. Menopausal symptoms and severity were assessed using modified Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) scale. Posthysterectomy menopausal symptoms at six weeks and three months were compared using Chi-square test. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 45.85±6.24 years. Most of them, 52 (52%) had heavy menstrual bleeding, 28 (28%) of the study participants had no associated comorbidities. A total of 54 (54%) of the women of this study was diagnosed as Abnormal Uterine Bleeding-Leiomyomas (AUB-L). Majority 76 (76%) of them had undergone total abdominal hysterectomy with or without bilateral salphingoopherectomy. Mean duration of hospital stay 7.48±2.02 days. Postoperative diet of these women included calcium containing foods 57 (57%), iron containing foods 68 (68%). There was a statistically significant difference in majority of menopausal symptoms like hot flushes, palpitations, night sweats, reduced duration of sleep, anxiety, lack of interest in sex, forgetfulness and joint and muscle pains between six weeks and three months postoperatively. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the symptoms of hot flushes, difficulty in urinating, anxiety, joint and muscle pain was significantly higher at six weeks when compared to three months.
Bronchoscopic Management of Bronchopleural Fistula using Cyanoacrylate Glue
Authors: Ramanna Bhanushree , Thimmaiah Chandramouli Mandya , Hosmane Giridhar Belur
Published: December 2022

Bronchopleural Fistula (BPF) is a potential complication following pulmonary surgeries, lung infections, chest trauma, chemoradiotherapy, and inappropriate mechanical ventilation with significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical repair of BPF is a definitive treatment, particularly in those who develop BPF following lung resection. However, bronchoscopic management is an excellent treatment option for BPF for causes other than pulmonary resection. The present case report describes about a 50-yearold male patient who presented with a left-sided pneumothorax. He was immediately managed with Intercostal Drainage (ICD) but there was a persistent pneumothorax due to BPF. Video bronchoscopy was done, and at the site of the air leak, cyanoacrylate glue was injected. The resolution of pneumothorax was confirmed with a radiograph, the ICD tube was removed and he was discharged. He was on regular follow-up for the next six months, and there was no recurrence of pneumothorax.
Implementation of Competency Based Medical Education Curriculum in Paediatrics for Phase 2 MBBS UndergraduatesA Descriptive Study
Authors: Revathy S , Sandhya V , Prabhavathi R , Reddy Chejety Rakesh , Govindaraj M
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Adoption of Competency Based Medical Education-Undergraduate (CBME-UG) curriculum is made mandatory in medical colleges by National Medical Commission (NMC). CBME-UG curriculum enumerates the expected knowledge and skills in detail and it focuses more on observable outcomes that are important in day-to day medical practice. This curriculum holds the teacher as well as learner equally responsible in running the educational programme. Aim: To put forth the approach adopted in implementation of CBME-UG curriculum for phase 2 MBBS students in paediatric subject. Materials and Methods: This article describes the steps applied in transforming the traditional structured teaching method to the CBME method for undergraduate phase 2 MBBS students in the Department of Paediatrics at Dr. B R Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, during January 2021 to December 2021. The duration of one year was divided into preimplementation phase (three months) and implementation phase (nine months). The faculty of the department, a coordinator to overview the programmeme, the postgraduate residents, and the students of phase 2 MBBS were the stakeholders identified in order to run the CBME-UG educational programmeme. Results: Preimplementation phase consisted of designing the department module and sensitisation of involved stakeholders. The contents of the module were curriculum planner for three years, time-table plan for phase II MBBS students, structuring of teaching sessions, designing the assessment method, and designing the feedback method. Implementation phase during clinical postings for the phase II MBBS students incorporated the strategies designed in preimplementation phase. The teaching sessions, assessment, the feedback sessions, and student-doctor programmeme were implemented with realistic and feasible planning. Conclusion: The CBME curriculum was successfully implemented among undergraduate second year medical students in term of student feedback and performance. It was noted that appropriate planning and sensitisation of students as well as the teachers, helped in running the programme smoothly.
Unravelling the Convoluted Story of Perioperative Care in Three-year-old Child with Tetralogy of Fallot Undergoing Repair Surgery
Authors: Nayak Aishwarya , Ninave Sanjot , Wadaskar Dhawal , Panbude Prasad , Bele Amol
Published: December 2022

Tetralogy Of Fallot (TOF), one of the most prevalent cyanotic congenital heart diseases in children. Single step corrective surgery, early on in life, provides a fair expectation of favourable outcome in these individuals. However, complex, and skilled anaesthetic management is required by experienced team of healthcare providers. Preoperative surgical preparation, intraoperative key anaesthesia principles and postoperative care intensive care unit are all perioperative considerations in these patients. This article reports challenges faced in the perioperative anaesthesic management of a 3-year-old child having uncorrected TOF, who underwent Waterston shunt and later Intracardiac Repair (ICR). He presented with postoperative complication like cyanotic spell, gastrointenstinal bleeding, sepsis; but later recovered successfully.
Laminin 332: A New Hope as a Prognostic Marker in Triple Negative Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Rath Gayatri , Singh Sushanta Kumar , Panda Ashok Kumar
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Laminin expression is supposed to be associated with a number of invasive carcinomas, particularly squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity and uterine cervix. Overexpression of laminin is seen in a high proportion of triple negative breast carcinomas, which is associated with an unfavourable clinicopathological state and poor prognosis. Aim: To evaluate the role of laminin 332 expression as a prognostic marker in triple negative breast carcinomas. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the Department of Pathology, SCB Medical College, Cuttack, Odisha, India, during the period from January 2018 to December 2020. Total number of histologically diagnosed breast carcinoma cases reported was 322, over a span of two years. Out of which, 59 cases showed Estrogen Receptor (ER), Progesterone Receptor (PR) and Human Epidermal growth Receptor 2 neu (HER2neu) negativity. These triple negative breast carcinoma cases were further subjected to laminin immunostaining, excluding three due to lack of sufficient tissue. The results were interpreted and represented in a tabular manner taking into account the clinicopathological manifestation, tumour grading and correlation with laminin expression. Results: Only the 56 triple negative breast carcinomas were subjected to laminin immunostaining. Majority 50 (89.28%) were elderly patients above 50 years of age. Also, a higher proportion of cases i.e. 36 (64.29%) were grade 3 tumours. Histopathologically, 55 (98.21%) cases were Infiltrating Duct Carcinomas (IDC). Lymph node metastasis and lymphovascular invasion were found in 32 (57.14%) and in 36 (64.29%) cases respectively. Laminin was strongly positive in those with higher grade (grade-3) tumours 24 (66.67%), those with lymph node involvement 17 (53.12%) and those showing lymphovascular invasions 28 (77.78%). Conclusion: Laminin immunostaining is an important prognostic marker in a number of epithelial malignancies. This study was intended to predict the role of laminin as a prognostic biomarker in the triple negative breast carcinoma cases.
Comparison of Primary Stability of Two Different Implants DesignsA Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Sravanthi A Veena , Manne Prakash , Surapaneni Haragopal
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Any implant treatment must begin with successful implant integration. The effectiveness of implant osseointegration is determined by various factors, including implant design, implant diameter and density, and surgical technique. Osseointegration is dependent on implant design. Aim: To assess the primary stability of tapered and cylindrical implants by using Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA) and Insertion Torque Values (ITV). Materials and Methods: This in-vivo, prospective clinical study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics at Sibar Institute of Dental Sciences, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India in the month of November 2019. Twenty patients were selected for the study. Tapered Bioline implants (Bioline Dental GmbH & Co. KGGermany) were spaced in 10 patients (group 1) and cylindrical Bioline implants (Bioline Dental GmbH & Co. KG-Germany) in the other 10 patients (group 2). For both implant designs, primary stability was assessed immediately after implant placement using RFA by Osstell Mentor and ITV by a torque wrench. KolmogorovSmirnov test, Shapiro-Wilk test were used for checking normality. Mann Whitney U test, Independent t tests, Spearman correlation tests were done by using software Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 23.0. Results: The mean ISQ (Implant Stability Quotient) for tapered implants was 76.6±2.3, and for cylindrical implants mean ISQ is 59.75±4.2 (p-value <0.001). The mean ITV for tapered implants was 43.5±2.58 Ncm, and for cylindrical implants, the mean ITV was 33±4.21 Ncm (p-value <0.001). The correlation between ITV and RFA was 0.928 which was highly significant (p<0.001**). Conclusion: Within the scope of this investigation, tapered implants showed better primary stability than cylindrical-shaped implants as determined by ISQ and insertion torque values. ITV and ISQ values showed a positive correlation in determining the primary stability of implants.
Lymphangiectasia Mimicking Lichenoid Contact Reaction
Authors: Muthukumaran Vaishnavi , Sankara Aravind Warrier , Divyambika CV , Thamizhchelva H , Malathi N
Published: December 2022

Lymphangiectasia, otherwise known as acquired lymphangioma, is unusual to occur in the oral cavity. Among the frequently recognised forms of congenital and acquired entities, the acquired form of the lymphangiectasia may be caused due to trauma or obstruction to the lymphatic system. Commonly, this condition is asymptomatic; however, the needs of aesthetics and functions warrant treatment. This was a case report of a 55-year-old male patient, who came with a chief complaint of burning sensation in his left cheek region for the past three weeks. Clinically, silver amalgam restoration was evident in relation to the tooth numbers 26,27,36 and 37. Soft tissue examination revealed evidence of greyish radiating striae interspersed with hyperpigmentation on the left buccal sulcus and left lateral border of the tongue. Considering the clinical features, a working diagnosis of lichenoid contact reaction was proposed. Further, an incisional biopsy was performed. Histopathological examination showed thin stratified squamous epithelium with vacuolar spaces, which strongly supported the diagnosis of lymphatic malformation. The patient was symptomatically managed with topical triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% twice daily for two weeks. At two weeks follow-up, the patient was symptom-free and hence the medication was withdrawn. The patient is currently under regular follow-ups.
Effect of Core Muscle Stabilisation Exercises on Disability Associated with Non Specific Low Back Pain in Postmenopausal Women: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Singh Santosh Kumar , Singh Jigyasa , Shankar Rahul , Mukherjee Snehashish , Yadav Rakesh
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Non Specific Low Back Pain (NSLBP) is a frequent problem faced by the majority of postmenopausal women at some stage of their lives, resulting in a significant level of disability. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of core stabilisation exercises compared to traditional physical treatment in postmenopausal women with NSLBP. Materials and Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted from January 2022 to August 2022, including 50 postmenopausal women aged 45-60 years with NSLBP. They were placed into two groups. Conventional LBP physical therapy methods were administered to group 2. The identical traditional and Core muscle Stabilisation Exercises (CSE) were implemented in the group 1. The Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODI) was used for the assessment of disability. The Mann-Whitney U test and Friedman Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were conducted to analyse changes in disability scores across and among groups at the ends of the second, fourth, and sixth weeks of treatment. Results: Of 50 patients initially enrolled in the study, 33 patients were available for the final follow-up. Group 1 consisted of 16 patients, while group 2 had 17 patients. Significant reduction in disability was found across the two groups at the second, fourth, and sixth weeks of treatment (p-value<0.05). In the sixth week of treatment, group 1 had a statistically greater decrease in ODI score (41.16±13.53) than group 2 (30.74±13.28) (p-value =0.003). Conclusion: CSE were found to be more effective than conventional physical therapy in reducing disability associated with NSLBP in postmenopausal women.
The Practice of Cramming among Pre-Clinical Medical Students and Their Remedial Examination Result: A Simple Preliminary Demographic Analysis
Authors: Sunarti Lusia Sri , Diani Yusias Hikmat , Alfarabi Muhammad , Cing Jap Mai , Arodes Evy Suryani , Kurniaty Linggom , Siagian Forman Erwin , Fachly Alifa Hasna Ramadhani
Published: December 2022

Aims: To analyze the practice of cramming among pre-clinical medical students during the remedial examination based on their gender and place of residence, along with a review of the literature on the factors that foster this practice.

Study Design:  Simple cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Kristen Indonesia, Jakarta- Indonesia, throughout August 2022.

Methodology: Analysis of demographics data, gender and place of residence, of the cramming and non-cramming students, with the results of total 36 remedial exam scores for  courses/block in the second, fourth, and sixth semesters.

Results: Out of 2413, 739 (30.62%) were male and 1674 (69.37%) were female, and 1054 (43.68%) live in boarding houses and 1359 (56.31%) live in their own private house. Cramming conducted by 1553 students (64.35%) consisting of 505 males (32.51%) and 1049 female (67.54%). Based on the total number of participants taking the remedial exam, the prevalence of cramming was slightly higher in male student (68.33%) compared to female student (62.66%). Based on their place of residence, most of the perpetrator live in their own house (n=935 or 60.20%) and 39.80% live in boarding houses (n=619). Statistic analysis using Pearson chi-square on the gender differences and place of residence in cramming behavior both were proved significant (P=0.007 and P=0.000). The average passing percentage of cramming perpetrator is only 43.13% with very low mean score (50.13). There is a reduction in the prevalence of cramming as the students reach higher level of education.

Conclusion:  Cramming among medical students still a common practice although the success story regarding this activity is still questionable because there are still more perpetrators who fail the exam and do not reach the lower threshold value of passing.
Effects of Two Months Durational Vitamin E Therapy on Paraquat-inflicted Liver Damage in Wistar Rats (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Okolonkwo Benjamin Nnamdi
Published: December 2022

Paraquat is a highly poisonous chemical that is commonly used as a herbicide (plant killer) to control weeds and grasses. It has been found to disrupt the levels and activities of some liver enzyme parameters. This experimental study was aimed at assessing the effect of Vitamin E in restoring liver physiology in paraquat-induced liver poisoning in rats. In this study, 200 male rats with a mean weight of 0.20.02kg, with 50 rats in each group of four, labeled A, B, C, and D. The "A" group received no paraquat, while the "B", "C", and "D" groups received 0.02g, 0.04g, and 0.06g of paraquat per kilogram of rat every two weeks for three months respectively. Each group also had a subgroup treated only with vitamin E and the Vit. E + paraquat subgroup BVE, CVE, and DVE but AVE was treated with paraquat but only Vit E. The blood was taken and the liver function was assayed. The result showed that there was a significant dose-dependent increase (P-value<0.05) in the levels liver enzymes in the subgroups treated with paraquat alone (A0, B0, C0 and D0). After treatment with vit E, the result revealed that there a significant decrease (P-value<0.05) in the level of the liver enzymes when compared to the corresponding subgroups without Vit. E treatment. This study has shown that vit E can ameliorate the effect of paraquat liver poisoning particularly when the treatment is administered weekly for two months.
Effect of Fixed-Dose Combination of Efonidipine + S(-) Metoprolol in Indian Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Dewan Bhupesh , Shinde Siddheshwar , Kondekar Shweta
Published: December 2022

Aim: To evaluate the antihypertensive efficacy and safety of the fixed-dose combination (FDC) of Efonidipine and S (-) Metoprolol in adult patients with hypertension.

Study Design: Multicentric, double-blind, randomized, parallel, comparative Phase III trial.

Methodology: This clinical trial was conducted at five geographically distributed sites across India and enrolled 240 hypertensive patients. They were randomized (1:1) to receive either FDC of Efonidipine 40 mg + S (-) Metoprolol 25 mg tablet (E+S(-)M group) or FDC of Cilnidipine 10 mg + Metoprolol 50 mg tablet (C+M group) once daily for 90 days. Patients were evaluated for changes in their blood pressure (BP) from baseline to Day 30, 60 and 90. The study site staff, investigator and patients were blinded to the treatment allocation. Blood pressure was recorded as the mean of 3 consecutive measurements taken in a sitting position. Patients achieving target BP (<140/90 mmHg) were evaluated and the safety and tolerability were assessed based on the incidences of adverse events (AEs).

Results: This study focused on evaluating the mean Systolic BP (SBP) and Diastolic BP (DBP) reduction from baseline to Day 30, 60 and 90. At baseline, patients had a mean (±SD) SBP and DBP of 154.60 (±11.33) mmHg and 98.68 (±8.18) mmHg respectively. After 30 days of the E+S(-)M treatment, the mean SBP/DBP was 136.06±10.55/ 86.68±5.51 mmHg (p<0.0001) and on Day 60 it was 129.48±10.51/ 84.17±5.51mmHg (P <0.0001), corresponding to mean reductions in SBP/DBP of 18.09/11.66 and 24.78/14.17 mmHg, respectively. There was a statistically significant (p <0.0001) reduction to 123.59 ± 15.21 mmHg in SBP and 82.38 ± 5.05 mmHg in DBP observed on Day 90 as compared to baseline. Post-treatment with E+S(-)M group, SBP/DBP reduction of 31.01/16.29 mmHg in hypertensive patients was observed. A total of 95% of the patients achieved a pre-defined target BP <140/90 mmHg on the administration of E+S(-)M. Furthermore, it was observed that 93% of Stage I and 96% of Stage II hypertensive patients achieved the target BP goal. A total of 5.78% of patients experienced adverse events (AEs) in the E+S(-)M group which was similar to that of C+M group. All AEs were mild in severity and resolved without any sequelae at the end of the study. No unexpected adverse events were reported, and the E+S(-)M dosage regimen was well tolerated by the patients. Both the treatment groups were non-inferior to each other.

Conclusion: The study results demonstrated clinically meaningful reductions in blood pressure after administration of FDC of Efonidipine 40 mg + S(-) Metoprolol 25 mg over a period of 90 days. The treatment was efficacious, safe, and well‑tolerated in the study population.
Asymptomatic Acute Dissection of the Abdominal Aorta as a Rare Complication of Takayasu Disease
Authors: Nabawi Hind , Eljazouli Halima , Dihi Basma , Oumlil Soukaina , Jamili Mohamed El , Charai Nadia , El-Hattaoui Mustapha , Essaadouni Lamia
Published: December 2022

The present study describes a case of a 24-year-old who had an asymptomatic acute dissection of the abdominal sub-renal aorta along with an inflammatory syndrome suggestive of Takayasu disease. Aortic dissection is a rare complication of Takayasu's disease that has only been reported a few times in the literature. The type of aortic dissection (type III b, according to the classification of De Bakey and Stanford) confirmed by computed tomography scan of the aorta (CT scan) in our patient. The patient underwent conservative medical treatment.
Evaluation of Microclimate for Cucumber Production under Polyhouse in Sangareddy District of Telangana
Authors: Suresh B. , Nagaraju D. , Navaneetha E. , Ravali B. , Naveen A.
Published: December 2022

Polyhouse is the most practical method of achieving the objectives of protected agriculture, where the natural environment is modified by using sound engineering principles to achieve optimum plant growth and yields. The main reason for applying micro climate control in polyhouse is to create optimal growing environment. Because of its complexity, excessive control in polyhouse can adversely affect the growing crops. Moreover, there is a need to develop an optimal ambiental control to approach these complicated objectives, including low emissions and reduced production cost. Microclimate of polyhouse is important for better plant growth and greater yield. Cucumber is a thermophilic and frost susceptible crop, growing best at a temperature above 20°C. Cucumber crop grows successfully under conditions of high light, high humidity, high soil moisture, temperature and fertilizers in polyhouse. A methodological approach of monitoring the microclimate persisted in the naturally ventilated polyhouse using the gadgets like Digital hygrometer, Lux meter etc., at three times a day i.e., 8.30 Am, 12.30 Pm and 4.30 Pm respectively. Air temperature variation in the polyhouse revealed the fact that the inside temperature (36.3℃) is less than compared to outside temperature (40.8℃) by lowering nearly 4℃ due to ample ventilation added to this, maintaining foggers in the polyhouse reduced the temperature further.
Genetic Parameters and Selection Strategies to Identify Climate Smart Wheat
Authors: Saharan R. P. , Phougat Divya , Panwar I. S. , Verma Ajay , Saini Vishal
Published: December 2022

The nature and magnitude of genetic parameters like components of genetic variance (additive, dominance and epistatic), coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance may vary from character to character for the same population, population to population for the same character and environment to environment for the same population and same character. An abiotic stress may be the major cause of such variations. The magnitude of such variation may be relatively much more if there is simultaneous occurrence of two or more abiotic stresses such as drought, salt and heat stress coupled with high seasonal and interannual variability of the environment. High temperature affects wheat crop yield by affecting in different ways including poor germination, reduced photosynthesis, increased leaf senescence and decreased pollen viability, which leads to production of reduced number of effective tillers, number of spikelets per spike, less grains per ear and smaller grain size and consequently, reduction in overall productivity.
Earthquake Effects on Slope Stability by Using Finite Element Method. Case Study: Brazzaville City, Republic of Congo
Authors: Noël Watha Ndoudy , Adolphe Kempena , Harmel Obami Ondon , Gampio Mbilou Urbain , Lacaba Rafael Guardado , Gonçalves Antonio Olimpio , Florent Boudzoumou
Published: December 2022

The slopes are affected by the variations of slope gradient combined with the driving forces including external actions such as earthquake forces, producing shear stresses in the slopes, which are opposed to the soil shear resistance. Therefore, landslides are one of the most important worries on the social and economic viewpoint and for the quality of life of a local people. The present study is carried out in Brazzaville City, Republic of Congo where the region in its southern part is recognised to be geologically active, due to its tectonic background which has some influence on surrounding slopes or embankments. Then, it was used the shear strength reduction method to assess the slopes stability by using pseudo-static and static methods. Effects of various parameters on slopes stability are discovered by achievement of numerous analyses. Two magnitudes effects of earthquake on slopes stability for different height, slope gradient and shear resistance parameters were assessed by using the finite element code. Slope stability was evaluated considering its factor of safety from the usage of strength reduction method.
Effect of Agroforestry System on Soil Properties in an Acid Inceptisol under Tropical Climatic Situation of Eastern India
Authors: Behera Bibhuti Bhusan , Mondal Suchhanda , Rout Kumbhakarna
Published: December 2022

An experiment was carried out using the existing Field of AICRP on Agroforestry Project in Central Research Station of O.U.A.T, Bhubaneswar at a Latitude 20015’ N and longitude of 850 52’ E in order to study the effect of agroforestry system on soil properties in the surface soil. In the year 2013, the system had two tree species Dalbergia sissoo and Gmelina arborea along with 4 intercrops such as pineapple, mango ginger, turmeric and arrowroot. Soil samples were collected after 13 years of agroforestry system in the post harvest period during 2014-15 for soil properties study. With Agro forestry system there was improvement in soil bulk density, organic matter and available nutrients as compared to open field where there was loss of nutrients. Between the trees, Gmelina arborea maintained higher level of soil organic carbon, available N, available P and available K on top soil than Dalbergia sissoo. Inclusion of intercrops maintained significantly higher organic carbon and available status of NPK on the surface soil than non inter cropped system. Pine apple crop recycled a major part of the absorbed N and K causing more accumulation of N and K in all the treated plots. Among the eight combinations of tree and intercrop, Gmelina arborea +pine apple combination is considered the best agroforestry system for maintaining better soil health and sustaining the system in acidic Inceptisols under humid tropical climatic situation.
Synthesis, Characterization, In vitro and In silico Studies of a Novel Hydrazone Compound
Authors: Enedoh M. C.
Published: December 2022

The geometric increase of drug-resistant bacteria pathogens has made urgent the research, development and production of new antibacterial and antifungal compounds, hence the synthesis of this novel compound as a potential antibacterial drug. As hydrazones enhanced generally with thiazoles which are 5-membered ring compound containing active nitrogen and sulphur molecules (C3H3NS) have been proven to exhibit strong antibacterial and antifungal activities, in this study, salicylaldehyde -4- thiazoleacetic acid hydrazone(SAFTAH) compound was synthesized. The novel compound was characterized and subjected to anti-microbial screening. The microbes employed were staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia Coli, streptococcus and klebsialla aerogene. The compound was found to be active against Escherichia coli as the test result recorded ++ indicating ‘very active’ unlike the other three microbes which either had + or none. To validate this inhibition of Escherichia coli by the novel compound and to detect the active site of their interactions, in silico molecular docking analysis of the novel compound against aminopeptidase N from E. coli which is known to promote virulence to the microbe in question was carried out. Six drugs commonly used for the treatment of E. coli  vis-a-viz, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, doxycycline, rifamycin, rifaximin and sulfamethoxazole were subjected to same type of silico studies. The result of the docking indicated that the novel hydrazone compound is more efficient and effective than five of the E. coli inhibitory drugs, as the novel compound has lower binding energy of-6.6 after the docking, while ciproxafloxacin drug is -6.0, doxycycline drug, -6.2, rifamycin drug, -5.2, rifaximin drug, -5.7 and sulfamethoxazole drug, -6.6. The synthesized compound has also better interaction with the active site of the microbe concerned as shown in the images for the interactions as follows:- The newly synthesized compound has 5Hb & 9vdW = 14bonds, ciproxafloxacin has 3Hb & 9vdW = 12bonds, doxycycline has 2Hb & 4vdW = 06bonds, rifamycin has 2Hb & 4vdW = 06bonds, rifaximin has 0Hb & 4vdW = 04bonds, sulfamethoxazole has 4Hb & 6vdW = 10bonds. Compounds with lower binding energy and good interactions with the active site of the enzyme prove to be better drugs in pharmacy. Sulfamethoxazole drug which has same binding energy with the novel compound has lower interaction with the active site of the bacterium. Therefore, Salicylaldehyde -4- thiazoleacetic acid hydrazone could be a potential and better drug for the cure of E. coli infection.
Structural Reformation of Nigeria Police Force through Strategic Human Resource Management Framework
Authors: Oyindamola Adepoju, Omoseni , Opeyemi David, Love , Oluwagaloba Akinkuotu, Joshua
Published: December 2022

Aims: The Police force stabilizes public institutions for societal tranquillity, economic development, peaceful coexistence and is an integral pillar in securing human development, which unfortunately operates as a mirage in Nigeria. Therefore, this study seeks to provide appropriate recommendations for structural reform of the Nigeria Police force using the strategic human resource management (SHRM) approach to the identified challenges facing the Nigerian Police Force.

Study Design: The study utilized a qualitative research design.

Methodology: The study used a systematic literature review of qualitative research methodology through the thorough and critical content analysis of reports, journals, publications, and news.

Results: The study findings revealed five significant challenges hindering police effectiveness in Nigeria and developed a 10 X 5 SHRM framework that included ten (10) strategic focus and five (5) strategies. 

Conclusion: The study concluded that the 10 X 5 strategic human resource management frameworks will provided the needed reforms and recommended the 1829 nine (9) policing principles and three (3) core ideas of Sir Robert Peel.
Decisional Conflict in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Hoesseini Arta , Dorr Maarten C. , Dronkers Emilie A. C. , Baatenburg de Jong Robert Jan , Sewnaik Aniel , Offerman Marinella P. J.
Published: December 2022

Importance

Patients who experience less decisional conflict (DC) are more engaged in treatment and less prone to decisional regret, nervousness, and fretting.

Objectives

To assess DC among patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) after the treatment decision consultation and the association between DC and quality of life as well as the degree of control patients experience in the decision-making process using the control preference scale and the association with DC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study with 2 separate cohorts was conducted at a tertiary cancer center and included patients who were eligible for curative treatment of a primary squamous cell carcinoma between January 2014 and August 2018. The 2 cohorts comprised 102 patients with small laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SLSCC) and 161 patients with other HNSCC.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) score, which was scored within 2 weeks after the treatment decision consultation. Other measures included patient characteristics, tumor characteristics, and Control Preference Scale , EuroQol-5D, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Eating Assessment Tool, and Voice Handicap Index (VHI) scores.

Results

Of 263 patients, 50 (19%) were women; the mean (SD) age was 66.1 (11.4) years in the SLSCC group and 64.9 (9.8) years in the other HNSCC group. In the SLSCC group, 51 patients (50%) experienced clinically significant DC (total score ≥25) compared with 74 patients (46%) in the other HNSCC group. In the SLSCC group, there was a large difference in the median EuroQol-5D, Global Health status, HADS anxiety, HADS depression, and VHI scores between the patients with a total DCS score of less than 25 and total DCS score of 25 or greater, whereas in the other HNSCC group, this only applied to the VHI. Forty-four patients (43.1%) in the SLSCC group felt their treatment choice was a shared decision, and 39 (38.2%) made the decision themselves. In the other HNSCC group, 62 (38.5%) felt that the physician decided, and 56 (34.8%) felt it was a shared decision. In both groups there was a weak association between control preference scale scores and DC.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this cohort study found that almost half of patients (48%) experienced clinically significant DC. Several quality-of-life measures associated with clinically significant DC were identified. These results suggest that there is room for improvement in aiming to reduce decision delay and decision-related distress.
Nanoscopic biodosimetry using plasmid DNA in radiotherapy with metallic nanoparticles
Authors: Mansouri Elham , Mesbahi Asghar , Hejazi Mohammad Saied , Montazersaheb Soheila , Tarhriz Vahideh , Ghasemnejad Tohid , Zarei Mojtaba
Published: December 2022

Nanoscopic lesions (complex damages), are the most lethal lesions for the cells. As nanoparticles have become increasingly popular in radiation therapy and the importance of analyzing nanoscopic dose enhancement has increased, a reliable tool for nanodosimetry has become indispensable. In this regard, the DNA plasmid is a widely used tool as a nanodosimetry probe in radiobiology and nano‐radiosensitization studies. This approach is helpful for unraveling the radiosensitization role of nanoparticles in terms of physical and physicochemical effects and for quantifying radiation‐induced biological damage. This review discusses the potential of using plasmid DNA assays for assessing the relative effects of nano‐radiosensitizers, which can provide a theoretical basis for the development of nanoscopic biodosimetry and nanoparticle‐based radiotherapy.
Evaluation of radiation dose for inferior vena cava filter placement during pregnancy: A comparison of dosimetry and dose calculation software
Authors: Matsunaga Yuta , Haba Tomonobu , Kobayashi Masanao , Suzuki Shoichi , Asada Yasuki , Chida Koichi
Published: December 2022

Numerous medical conditions are associated with pregnancy in women, including pulmonary thromboembolism, which can be fatal. An effective treatment of this condition is the positioning of an inferior vena cava filter (IVC‐F) under the guidance of X‐ray imaging. However, this procedure involves the risk of high radiation exposure to pregnant women and fetuses. Moreover, there are no published reports comparing the values of fetal dose, received during IVC‐F placement in pregnant women, determined using dose calculation software and actual measurements. To address this issue, we compared the fetal radiation dose and entrance surface dose (ESD) for pregnant women for gestation periods of 6 and 9 months based on software calculations and actual measurements. The ESD and fetal doses were estimated for a pregnant woman for gestation periods of 6 and 9 months during IVC‐F placement. For actual measurements, one pregnant model phantom was constructed using an anthropomorphic phantom, and two custom‐made different‐sized abdomen phantoms were used to simulate pregnancy. The custom‐made abdomen phantoms were constructed using polyurethane. For software calculations, the software utilized a set of anatomically realistic pregnant patient phantoms. The ESD estimated using the software was consistent with the measured ESD, but the fetal dose estimations were more complicated due to fetal positioning. During fetal dose evaluation using software calculations, the user must carefully consider how much of the fetal length is in the irradiation field to prevent underestimation or overestimation. Despite the errors, the software can assist the user in identifying the magnitude of the dose approaching critical limits.
Freezing as a Path to Build Micro‐Nanostructured Icephobic Coatings
Authors: Miao Shuangshuang , Liu Xiangdong , Chen Yongping
Published: December 2022

Superhydrophobic photothermal materials with the micro‐nano structure are considered to be promising icephobic surfaces. Unfortunately, converting micro‐nano hierarchical structure concepts into genuine synthetic materials has proven to be exceedingly expensive and difficult, partially because their sophisticated structures need construction at several length scales. Herein, a facile strategy of employing ice crystals to construct sophisticated hierarchical micro‐nanostructured anti‐icing composites with photothermal, self‐healable, and self‐cleaning properties is presented. The composites are covered with interconnected microscale pores replicated from ice crystals, which facilitates the construction of the hydrophobic or superhydrophobic properties based on the Cassie–Baxter model, endowing the coating with self‐cleaning ability. Besides, by adding solar‐to‐heat conversation nanomaterials, the coating can implement in situ solar anti‐/deicing. The abundant micropores caused by ice templates can further improve the photothermal conversion capability through multiple reflections of light. Importantly, the coating is endowed with the self‐healing capability to repair hydrophobicity under sunlight. Additionally, it is demonstrated that the self‐cleaning and self‐healing abilities are mutually reinforcing, synergistically improving anti‐/deicing performances. Overall, the presented ice‐templated coating shows great potential and broad impacts owing to its inexpensive component materials, simplicity, eco‐friendliness, and high energy efficiency.
From Conventional to Microfluidic: Progress in Extracellular Vesicle Separation and Individual Characterization
Authors: Chen Mingrui , Lin Shujing , Zhou Cheng , Cui Daxiang , Haick Hossam , Tang Ning
Published: December 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale membrane vesicles, which contain a wide variety of cargo such as proteins, miRNAs, and lipids. A growing body of evidence suggests that EVs are promising biomarkers for disease diagnosis and therapeutic strategies. Although the excellent clinical value, their use in personalized healthcare practice is not yet feasible due to their highly heterogeneous nature. Taking the difficulty of isolation and the small size of EVs into account, the characterization of EVs at a single‐particle level is both imperative and challenging. In a bid to address this critical point, more research has been directed into a microfluidic platform because of its inherent advantages in sensitivity, specificity, and throughput. This review discusses the biogenesis and heterogeneity of EVs and takes a broad view of state‐of‐the‐art advances in microfluidics‐based EV research, including not only EV separation, but also the single EV characterization of biophysical detection and biochemical analysis. To highlight the advantages of microfluidic techniques, conventional technologies are included for comparison. The current status of artificial intelligence (AI) for single EV characterization is then presented. Furthermore, the challenges and prospects of microfluidics and its combination with AI applications in single EV characterization are also discussed. In the foreseeable future, recent breakthroughs in microfluidic platforms are expected to pave the way for single EV analysis and improve applications for precision medicine.