bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Characteristics and Outcome of Multi-organ Involvement in Dengue with Reference to SOFA Score
Authors: Salvi Sonali , Vaidya Arun
Published: September 2022

Background: Mortality in severe Dengue infection is attributed to development of MODS. Clinical profile, outcome and utility of SOFA score in Dengue MODS is not well studied in Indian context. Hence, this study was conducted to describe the “patient`s” characteristics and outcome in Dengue MODS with reference to SOFA score.

Methods: We conducted an observational cross –sectional study in medicine department, Sassoon General Hospital Pune between January 2016 to January 2020. Adult dengue patients with multiorgan dysfunction based on SOFA score were included. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected and analyzed. SOFA score was calculated at admission and monitor throughout admission course.

Results: Total 69 patients were included. Male were 53.6% and mean age was 38.7±18.7 years. Most common symptoms were fever (98.6%), body ache & joint pain (69.6%), generalized weakness (62.3%), breathlessness (59.4%), headache (58%), anorexia (58%), abdominal pain & vomiting (55.1%) and bleeding manifestations (47.8%). Total 28% patients had two, 33% had three, 24.6% had four and 14.4% had ≥ 5 organs involvement. Maximum number of patients had hematological involvement (95.7%) followed by respiratory system involvement (63.8%). Mean duration of hospital stay was 9.8 days. Mortality was 43.5%. There was significant correlation of number of organs involved, pulse rate, respiratory rate, serum albumin, nervous system, respiratory system, SOFA score at admission and delta SOFA score with outcome.

Conclusion: Dengue MODS has high mortality. Tachypnoea, tachycardia, hypoalbuminemia, respiratory failure and nervous system involvement are predictors of poor outcome. SOFA score at admission and its monitoring can serve as a useful marker to predict prognosis in dengue with multiple organ involvement.
Challenges Facing Presbyterian Church of Ghana Choirs in Mampong Municipality in Ashanti Region of Ghana
Authors: Selorm Ndah Divine , Amoah Jessica , Bright Essel , Ayi Sylvia Ama
Published: September 2022

The study examined the challenges that confront Presbyterian Church of Ghana Choirs in the Asante Mampong Municipality in the Ashanti Region of Ghana and equally outlined some solutions to the challenges identified. Music directors, choristers, church members as well as church management constituted the target population out of which 74 respondents were sampled hence forming the accessible and the total population for the study. Purposive and random techniques were used to sample the respondents in six Presbyterian Church of Ghana congregations in the Asante Mampong enclave. Data was collected through interview, questionnaire and participant observation. The study however revealed some of the challenges as Lack of music directors, lack of financial motivation for the music directors and lack of financial support from church management. The rest are lack of proper attention for the choir, low enrolment of the youth in the choir and lack of succession plan, and lack of commitment on the part of choir members towards rehearsals. The study therefore suggested that the church should find a way of motivating the music directors financially so that they will remain loyal to the church; also, musicians should be constantly trained for the church. Members of the choir should always be committed towards rehearsals. Besides, church management should fully give equal attention to the church choir just as is done to the generational groups in the church. The study recommended among others that, the Presbyterian University College should introduce music courses to help train music directors for the various congregations in the Asante Mampong Municipality.
A Comprehensive Review on Cytoskeletal Organization and Its Interaction with Polysaccharides and Enzymes during Primary Cell Wall Development
Authors: Rehman Rao Saad , Bashir Hassan , Zafar Syed Ali , Ali Mujahid , Javed Abdullah , Ashraf Naveed Ali , Hussain Muzammal , Hussain Ayesha
Published: September 2022

A well-coordinated process is required to construct a complicated structure like the cell wall, which consists of several elements that must be joined appropriately from various sources inside the cell. In order to successfully moderate dynamic responses to developmental and environmental signals, further complexity is necessary. The plasma membrane is continually and actively transporting sugars, enzymes, and other cell wall elements throughout diffused development. Actin filaments and microtubules make up the cytoskeletal pathways used to transport cell wall elements in vesicles during cell division. In addition to these elements, other proteins, vesicles and lipids are transported from and to the cell plate while cytokinesis occurs. Adding additional cell wall material or building a new cell wall requires a rearrangement of the cytoskeleton, which we examine in this review first. We next look at the commonalities between these two processes. Our next topic is the transport of cell wall-building polysaccharides and enzymes via motor proteins and other interactions with the cytoskeleton. Final thoughts on cytokinesis-generated cell walls include a look at some of their unique properties.
2D Echocardiographic Findings, NT-ProBNP Levels, and Outcomes in Dyspnoeic Patients: Results from the Pro-BNP Investigation of Dyspnoea in the Emergency Department- a Single Centre Experience
Authors: Balaraju D. , Kumar Vijay , Kumar Chethan , Setty Hulliurudurga Srinivasa Setty Natraj , Sridhar Lakshman Shastry , Kharge Jayashree , Patil Rahul , Manjunath Cholenahally Nanjappa
Published: September 2022

Background: Dyspnoeic in the emergency department with multiple co-morbidities is a diagnostic challenge. Approximately 15-20% of acute dyspneic in the Emergency Department due to ADHF (acute decompensated heart failure) are misdiagnosed. B-type peptide (BNP) and its amino-terminal fragment (NT-proBNP) accurately identify HF in dyspnoeic patients. In the general population with dyspnoea, plasma pro-BNP concentrations are increased in left ventricular dilatation, hypertrophy, systolic dysfunction, or diastolic dysfunction but are unaffected by pulmonary dysfunction.

Aims and Objectives: To study the relation between NT pro-BNP & echocardiographic findings in acute dyspnoeic patients, and the relation between NT pro-BNP and In-hospital Mortality.

Materials and Methods: Source of data- Patients admitted to the Emergency Room or cardiac intensive care unit with a history of acute dyspnea in a tertiary cardiac care center in south India, meeting inclusion & exclusion criteria, were studied.

Results: The study population is predominantly constituted of the elderly population. The most common co-morbid condition was hypertension. The present study uses an NT pro BNP level of 900pg/ml as the cut-off level. 78 patients were positive for the test. Echocardiography showed that 58% had LV systolic dysfunction, 60% had diastolic dysfunction. 42 patients had EF >55%, 10 patients between 55-45%, 33 patients between 44-30% and 15 patients had EF < 30%. Mortality rate was 6% in the whole study population. However, Mortality was seen in only NT pro-BNP positive group it was not statistically significant (p=0.46).

Conclusions: NT pro-BNP correlates well with the worsening of LV systolic function; as the EF decreases, NT pro-BNP increases. Increase in NT pro-BNP levels has to be interpreted in the clinical context, and it is not a substitute for echocardiography for assessing cardiac abnormalities and dysfunction.
Evaluation of Radiological Hazards Associated with Some Selected Mining Sites in Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Suleiman I. K. , Bashir M. , Muhammad A. , Kadiri M. K.
Published: September 2022

Evaluation of Radiological Hazards associated with some selected mining sites (ie Gadaeragi (GR), Maiwayo (MW) and Kataeragi (KR)) in Niger State, Nigeria was carried out using Nal (TI) Gamma ray spectroscopy. The results shows average activity concentration for 238U, 232Th, and 40K in Gadaeragi mining site are 8.05 ± 0.14 Bq/kg, 14.60 ± 0.30 Bq/kg and 20.62 ± 14.62 Bq/kg respectively. The result shows average activity concentration for 238U, 232Th and 40K in Maiwayo mining site to be 12.03 ± 0.17 Bq/kg, 17.89 ± 0.32 Bq/kg and 151.11 ± 10.04 Bq/kg respectively. Furthermore, the results shows average activity concentration for 238U, 232Th and 40K in Kataeragi mining site are 6.39 ± 0.13 Bq/kg, 13.25 ± 0.29 Bq/kg and 154.87 ± 10.77 Bq/kg respectively. The average activities concentration of 238U, 232Th, and 40K for the three mining sites shows MW>GR>KR, MW>GR>KR and GR>KR> MW respectively. The activity concentrations was  found to be below worldwide accepted average values of 33 Bq/kg, 45 Bq/kg and 420 Bq/kg for 238U, 232Th, and 40K  respectively. The Annual Effective Dose Equivalent for GR, MW and KR mining sites was found to be 0.16, 0.17 and 0.13 mSv/y respectively, which were below the 1.00 mSv/y threshold stipulated by UNSCEAR [1]. Therefore, the mining sites are safe in terms of radiological hazard. The entire environment is within the permissible dose limit for the workers of the mining sites and also for agriculture and construction buildings. Therefore, the mining sites are safe in terms of radiological hazard.
Economic Factors Hindering Evangelism in the Western District of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania - Iringa Diocese
Authors: Kihwaga Tadei Lusungu
Published: September 2022

The study aimed to find out the factors hindering evangelism in the Western District of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania-Iringa Diocese. Specifically, the study aimed to examine the economic factors hindering evangelism in the study area. The study was done at Kanani, Kinyika and Pawaga Congregations. The study adopted a case study research design in which a qualitative research approach was used. Interviews were used to collect qualitative data from 90 key informants. The data from the field was prepared, organized, transcribed and reviewed. The results achieved from the study are  evangelism is hindered by economic factors such as  insufficient funds dedicated for evangelism programmes and activities, absence of reliable transport for evangelism work, inadequate and poor church buildings, meagre salaries for ministers and other church workers, unwillingness of the pastors to work at the study area, poor giving of Christians, lack of musical instruments for evangelism work, absence of houses for evangelists, and lack of enough trained ministers caused by insufficient funds. The study recommends that, despite the evangelism which is done in the study area, the Church needs to engage in building better Church buildings, increase payment for church ministers, buy musical instruments and to provide transport facilities to the church ministers to improve worship conditions in the study area. The study also recommends that the Church need to increase the financial capacity by teaching Christians the education of giving tithe to the Church to increase the economy of the Church. Not only that, but the Church needs to engage in projects like tree planting and other productive projects to increase the economy of the Church.
Simulation of the Water Demand in 2050 in the Lobo Watershed in Nibéhibé (Central-Western Cote d’Ivoire): Application of the WEAP Model
Authors: Fabrice Toure Fanraban , Brice Konan-Waidhet Arthur , Jacques Koua Tanoh Jean , Berthe Yao Affoue , Ali Diarra
Published: September 2022

Due to climate change, which has caused the scarcity of rainfall and the depletion of water resources in recent decades, Côte d'Ivoire has embarked on a planning program for the integrated management of its water resources. The present study is carried out on the Lobo watershed in Nibéhibé, located in the western part of Côte d'Ivoire (between 6°17' and 6°44' W longitude and between 6°46' and 7°41' N latitude). Indeed, the multisectoral use, the impact of climate, the demographic growth on water resources as well as the uncoordinated management lead to a crucial water shortage in the basin. The objective of this study is to propose optimization scenarios for the use of water resources for planning and sustainable management. To this end, field surveys were carried out among the state structures and the populations of the basin to acquire the socio-economic data necessary for the simulation of future water demand. The product of the specific consumptions by the levels of activities allowed to estimate the needs by sectors of activities (water supply, agriculture, and breeding) and consequently the global needs of the basin in 2021. The Water Evaluation And Planning (WEAP) model, which is a water resources management tool, was used to simulate the future water demand of the basin under different scenarios. The results show that the water demand for 2021 is 30 180 588 m3. The water demands by 2050 under the reference, low population growth rate, high population growth rate, improved standard of living and climate change scenarios are 83,700,000 m3; 57,700,000 m3; 114,100,000 m3; 107,600,000 m3 and 114,100,000 m3 respectively. As a result, the unsatisfied water demands for the same scenarios are 23,700,000 m3; 10,700,000 m3; 38,600,000 m3; 34,300,000 m3 and 38,600,000 m3 respectively. The reduction of these unsatisfied demands for the well-being of the basin populations requires the implementation of planning and integrated management systems of the basin water resources through optimization scenarios.
Management of Postharvest Anthracnose Disease of Papaya (Carica papaya) Using Antagonistic Microorganisms
Authors: Yadravi Reshma N. , Rudresh D. L. , Jagadeesh S. L. , Ambika D. S. , Pujer Parvati
Published: September 2022

The antagonistic potential of microbial agents isolated from different sources like compost, rhizosphere soil, healthy fruits surface were investigated against Colletotrichum gloeosporiodes under In vitro and In vivo. The results of In vitro evaluation of 22 isolates of antagonists against Colletotrichum gloeosporiodes by dual-culture test showed Trichoderma harzianum UHSF-15 (with 62.50% inhibition of radial growth), Bacillus amyloliquifaciens UHSB-BCA-15 isolated from banana rhizosphere soil (50.00% inhibition) and Bacillus amyloliquifaciensUHSB-BCA-16 isolated from kiwi fruit surface (47.85% inhibition) to be most effective. In vivo screening of five effective microbial agentsselected from In vitro studies revealed that, Bacillus amyloliquifaciens UHSB-BCA-15to be most effective with lowest per cent disease index of 13.89% followed by Bacillus amyloliquifaciensUHSB-BCA-16 with 16.67% and carbendazium at 0.1% with 20.83% at 9d after storage. The higher per cent disease index of 58.33% was recorded in untreated control fruits. In another experiment where C. gloeosporoidesspore suspension (1x106 CFU mL-1) was challenge inoculated on fruits, the fruits treated with biocontrol agent Bacillus amyloliquifaciens UHSB-BCA-15 at concentrations of 1x108 CFU mL-1 for 5 minutes was found to be effective in reducing postharvest infection to a greater level with 33.33% disease index followed by Bacillus amyloliquifaciens UHSB-BCA-16 with 50.00% disease index and carbendazium at 0.1% with 52.77% disease index compare to control (91.66% disease index) at 9d after storage.
An Evaluation of the Agrometeorological Heat Indices for Different Dates of Sowing and Varieties of Chickpeas
Authors: Khangarot Kuldeep Singh , James Abhishek , Singh Vinaypal
Published: September 2022

A field experiment was conducted at the farmer area of “JOBNER, Jaipur” during rabi season 2020-21. The treatments consist of three growing dates viz. 25th October, 10th November, 25th November and three varieties of Chickpea viz. RGS 973 (Abha), CSJD-884 (Akash), RSG-991 (Arpana) were laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replication. The study revealed that 25th October dated chickpea crop performed better than rest two dates of sowing. In case of meteorological heat unit the second date of sowing I.e. 10th November out performed the rest two dates of sowing.
Effect of Antagonistic Microorganisms on Fruit Colour Development and Sensory Properties of Papaya (Carica papaya) var. Red Lady
Authors: Yadravi Reshma N. , Rudresh D. L. , Kavya K. , Jagadeesh S. L. , Ambika D. S.
Published: September 2022

An experiment was conducted in the Department of Agricultural Microbiology and Post-Harvest Technology, COH, Bagalkot, Karnataka during the year 2017-2018 with intention of minimizing the post harvest diseases during storage by using ecofriendly approach that is use of biocontrol agents and their effects on fruit colour development and sensory parameters. A wide range of fungi, bacteria, yeast and actinomycetes can be used as antagonistic microorganisms against post-harvest pathogens in many horticulture produce. In the present experiment, five effective antagonistic microorganisms were assessed for their antifungal activity against Colletotrichum gleosporiodies, the causal agent of post-harvest Anthracnose disease of papaya fruits and fortheir effects on fruit development and sensory properties of papaya var. Red Lady. In the present experiment the papaya fruits treated with biocontrol agents and observed that, the papaya fruits treated with BCA5-Isolate No.10(T5) exhibited higher L*(56.53), a*(12.33), b*(43.60) colour values, higher carotene value (1.85 mg/100 g), total sugar content (11.6%) and good sensory scores for colour (8073), taste (8.6) and textue (9.03) at 9 days after storage under ambient storage condition followed by BCA-Isolate No.09(T4) and carbendazium at 0.1% for 5 min (T7). Treated on inoculated papaya fruits with C. gloeosporioides, T5 (BCA5 -Isolate No. 10) recorded higher L*(55.67), a*(11.61), b*(41.78) colour values, higher carotene value (1.42 mg/100 g), total sugar content (10.4%) and good sensory scores for colour (8.3), taste (8.13) and textue (8.73) at 9 days after storage under ambient storage condition followed by BCA4 -Isolate No.9 (T4) and carbendazium at 0.1% (T7). These two isolates identified in this experiment can be effectively used alternative to chemicals against anthracnose which were effective in fruit colour development and sensory parameters.
Effect of Phosphorus and Iron on Growth and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum var. kabulium)
Authors: Susan Telugu Pragna , Debbarma Victor
Published: September 2022

The field experiment was conducted “Effect of Phosphorus and Iron on growth and yield of Chickpea (var. NBeG-119) during Rabi season, 2021-22 with 9 treatments (viz., Phosphorus at 30,40 and 50 kg/ha respectively and Iron at 3,5 and 7 kg/ha respectively) at the CRF (Crop Research Farm) Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Science, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The treatment compared T1- Phosphorus 30 kg/ha + Iron 3kg/ha, T2- Phosphorus 30 kg/ha + Iron 5kg/ha, T3- Phosphorus 30 kg/ha + Iron 7kg/ha, T4- Phosphorus 40 kg/ha + Iron 3kg/ha, T5- Phosphorus 40 kg/ha + Iron 5kg/ha, T6- Phosphorus 40 kg/ha + Iron 7kg/ha, T7- Phosphorus 50 kg/ha + Iron 3kg/ha, T8- Phosphorus 50 kg/ha + Iron 5kg/ha, T9- Phosphorus 50 kg/ha + Iron 7kg/ha. Application of phosphorus 40 kg/ha + Iron 5kg/ha recorded highest plant height (69.10 cm), plant dry weight (25.00 g/plant) number of branches per plant (2.33), number of nodules/plant (21.32), plant dry weight (25.00 g/plant) number of seeds/pod (1.93), seed index (309.83 g), seed yield (2.60 t/ha) stover yield (4.23 t/ha) Harvest index (38.08%) highest gross returns (156000.00 INR/ha) net returns (109340.00 INR/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.34).
Influence of Different Organics on Growth, Yield and Economics of Soybean [Glycine max (L.)] under Rainfed Condition
Authors: Chaudhary D. R. , Surve Vaishali H. , Deshmukh S. P. , Raj A. D. , Sankhla P. M.
Published: September 2022

A field experiment was conducted during 2021 to study the influence of different organics on growth, yield and economic soybean [Glycine max (L.)] under rainfed condition. The treatment include different foliar nutrition application (F) viz., control (F1), 4% panchgavya (F2), 2% novel organic liquid (F3), 4% seaweed extract (F4), 4% cow urine (F5) and 2% vermiwash (F6) at 30 and 45 DAS and soil application (S) viz., control (S1) and jeevamrut (S2)500 l ha-1. Growth parameter viz., plant height, number of branches plant-1 and root nodules plant-1 shows significant effect by the treatments. Yield parameter viz., number of pods plant-1, number of seeds per pod-1, test weight, seed yield and straw yield of soybean were significantly increased by the treatments of different organics.
Temperature Trends at Madhira, Khammam District of Telangana State
Authors: Dharavath Nagaraju , Kumar J. Hemantha , W Jessie Suneetha , Devi K. Rukmini , Chaithanya V. , Kumar K. Ravi , Phanisri P. S. M. , Reddy R. Uma , Prasad J. V. , Sravani A.
Published: September 2022

Climate change is one of the most important global environmental challenges at global, national and regional level. The resultant global warming due to increase in temperature by 1.5°C in the near-term (2021-2040) can cause unavoidable increase in multiple climate hazards and present unknown challenges facing humanity with implications for food production, natural ecosystems, freshwater supply, health, etc. In this context, an analysis was carried out to identify trends in temperature over time series at Madhira, Khammam district in Telangana. In this trend analysis study, the annual average maximum temperature value of skewness was asymmetric and left skewed. The annual mean and maximum temperatures were significant with long-term increasing trend. In the pre monsoon season, maximum and mean temperature showed significant increase in trends in by all methods i.e., M-K (Mann – Kendall), Spearman's Rho and Linear regression tests. But minimum temperature showed non-significant increasing trend. Here interestingly, monsoon season showed non-significance increase in temperature trends in all three mentioned tests. The mean of monthly maximum temperature increased at a faster rate than the average and minimum temperature. The linear regression equation indicated positive slope and R2 was 27.0% of variability for mean annual temperature.
Response of FYM and Split Application of Nitrogen on Growth and Green Yield of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Kuldeep Nagar , Patel H. K. , Raval C. H. , Badi A. R. , Lakshman . , Chaudhary N.
Published: September 2022

A field experiment was conducted at Main Forage Research Station, Anand Agriculture University, Anand (Gujarat) to study the effect of FYM and split application of nitrogen on the growth and yield of fodder maize in loamy sand soil during rabi season of 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (factorial) with three replications. There ten treatment combinations comprising two levels of FYM i.e., F1 (No FYM) and F2 (10 t FYM/ha) and five levels of nitrogen split i.e., N1 (Control: Common Practices, 50% Basal + 50% 30 DAS), N2 (20% N at Basal + 80% N in three equal splits), N3 (30% N at Basal + 70% N in three equal splits), N4 (40% N at Basal + 60% N in three equal splits) and N5 (50% N at Basal + 50% N in three equal splits). Application of 10 t FYM/ha were improved the growth, quality and yield attributes like periodical plant height, leaves/plant, leaf-stem ration, green and dry fodder yield, crude protein and dry matter content, NPK content and uptake, Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) and Netural Detergent Fiber (NDF) as compared to control treatment of fodder maize. Response of FYM on soil EC, pH was found to be non-significant and soil available phosphorus potassium was found significant. Split application of nitrogen (50% N at Basal + 50% N in three equal splits) reported significant response on growth parameters like periodical plant height, number of leaves per plant, green fodder yield and quality parameters like dry matter content, crude protein content, dry fodder yield, crude protein yield, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber of fodder maize. Response of split application of nitrogen on post-harvest soil parameters like pH, EC, organic carbon, available phosphorus and potassium.
Vulvovaginal Candidiasis at Institute Pasteur of Dakar, Senegal: Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Ndiaye Babacar , Diongue Khadim , Seck Abdoulaye , Diop Abdou , Diouf Mame Diarra , Dieng Assane , Mangou Khadidiatou , Koumondji Lauriane Koko Marcel , Diallo Thierno Abdoulaye , Mahou Chantal , Dubrous Philippe , Boye Cheikh Saad Bouh
Published: September 2022

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (CVV) is a superficial mycosis caused by Candida spp. with a predominance of C. albicans. CVV is opportunistic with several incriminated risk factors. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CVV and to investigate potential risk factors.

A cross-sectional study was carried out at the Medical Biology Laboratory in Pasteur Institute in Dakar, Senegal from September 1 to November 30, 2020. The study cohort was inclusive of all women received for a vaginal swab test in the laboratory unit. Each patient’s socio-demographic and clinical data were recorded before collecting two swabs samples for direct examination and culture on CHROMagar Candida incubated at 37 °C for 24 to 48 h.

A total of 312 women with an average age of 32 years (range: 17-74) were included in this study. An overall CVV prevalence of 32% was found. C. albicans was predominant (73.2%) followed by C. glabrata (16.8%). The age group [30-40 years] was more infested with 35.3% (p = 0.434) as well as nulliparous or primiparous women with 38.7% (p = 0.171). CVV was more associated with disordered vaginal flora and pregnancy with 35.2% (p = 0.323) and 33.7% (p = 0.715) respectively. CVV was significantly related to contraception (p = 0.014).

An overall high prevalence of CVV was observed mainly due to C. albicans. Contraception seems to be a factor contributing to its occurrence.
In vitro Study of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaf Extract Fractions against Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strains from Surgical Wound Infections
Authors: Osagie Eremwanarue Aibuedefe , Imuentinyan Egbon-Mike Nosa , Ekundayo Izevbuwa Osazee
Published: September 2022

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause serious surgical site infections and remains a major dilemma, especially in developing country like Nigeria. This issue has led to investigation of the antibacterial activity of Moringa oleifera leaf extract against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were isolated from postoperative wounds at the two sites used in the study (Central Hospital, Benin and University of Benin Teaching Hospital) and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed to identify MDR isolates. A qualitative phytochemical screening of leaves was performed using standard methods, followed by antibacterial testing of various M. oleifera leaf extracts against selected multidrug-resistant isolates. Results showed that 99 (35%) of the patients examined had wound infections, out of a total of 284 specimens collected. Thirty-four (54.8%) P. aeruginosa strains showed multidrug-resistance capacity from both learning sites. Qualitative analysis of phytochemicals revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids. In vitro results of antibacterial tests showed that ethyl acetate extract from leaves of Moringa oleifera had the highest antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain Iraq.PA-9, followed by dichloromethane at a concentration of 100 mg/ml. The different effects may be attributed to secondary plant substances contained in different leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera. The results of this study demonstrated the potential of Moringa oleifera leaf extract as an antibacterial agent by inhibiting the growth of test organisms isolated from postoperative wound infections.
Overview of the Benefits and Drawbacks of Renewable Energy in Nigeria
Authors: Owunna Tochi Andrew , Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi
Published: September 2022

Fossil fuels (crude oil, natural gas, coal, and lignite) have historically been Nigeria's main energy source. Unfortunately, all of these factors combined with additional factors—including an increase in industrial activity, an increase in national population, and worldwide climate changes—could no longer support us. As a result, our houses and businesses now face significant energy demands. There must be a different source of energy that is not exhaustible in order to keep up with the rush. Given that Nigeria is a resource-rich nation, the article aims to provide an overview of renewable energy, list its benefits and drawbacks, and make recommendations for how to use it more effectively in order to compete favorably with other nations.
Regional, Decentralization and Traditional Power in Cameroon
Authors: Mfewou Abdoulay
Published: September 2022

This article shows the process of transition from the unitary state to decentralisation, which is the transfer of administrative competences from the central state to the communities (municipalities). This law is derived from the Constitution of 18 January 1996, which was re-enacted by Law No. 2019/024 of 24 December 2019 on the General Code of Decentralised Territorial Authorities, with the creation of regions and elected regional councillors and traditional chiefs appointed as regional councillors by the central government. The particularity of decentralisation in Cameroon is the maintenance of governors, prefects and sub-prefects as representatives of the central state in the missions of the centralised power. Another peculiarity is the weak donation of the sovereignty of the delegations of the various ministers placed under the management of decentralised communities (Mairie). This donation remains weak in all areas. In the new model defined by the law n°2019/024 of 24 December 2019, regionalisation should be presented as a spring of economic and social development.
Angular Distribution of Atomic Photoelectrons as a Function of Photon Field Polarization: Case of Ns-type Light Atoms
Authors: Alio Issoufou Arzika , Aboubacar Almoustapha
Published: September 2022

The angular distribution of the atomic photoelectrons gives us information on the evolution of the field of the photoelectrons in different directions concerning the incident direction of the electromagnetic radiation which is absorbed by the atom and its direction of polarization. Here, the angular distribution of atomic photoelectrons as a function of photon field polarization was studied theoretically using monocentric wave functions to investigate the influence of polarization on the theoretical results. A GEANT4 modeling calculation based on the Monte Carlo code was made on the helium atom. The calculations were performed at low energy above the atomic ionization threshold. The results obtained by analytical calculation for the total photoionization cross-section were compared with those obtained by a simulation calculation using GEANT4 modeling. A reasonable agreement was observed following this comparison for a range of energy considered in this study.
β‐Glucosidase, β‐galactosidase, family A cellulases, family F xylanases and two barley glycanases form a superfamily of enzymes wit 8‐fold β/α architecture and with two conserved glutamates near the carboxy‐terminal ends of β‐strands four and seven
Authors: Jenkins John , Lo Leggio Leila , Harris Gillian , Pickersgill Richard
Published: July 2002

Comparison of the recently determined crystal structures Pseudomonas fluorescens subsp. cellulosa family F xylanase, (1–3)‐β‐glucanase and (1–3,1–4)‐β‐glucanase and the catalytic domain of E. coli β‐galactosidase reveals that they belong to a superfamily of 8‐fold β/α‐barrels with similar amino acid residues at their active sites. In the three families that these enzymes represent, the nucleophile is a glutamate, which is located close to the carboxy‐terminus of β‐strand seven. In addition all three enzymes have the sequence asparagine‐glutamate close to the carboxy‐terminus of β‐strand four. This glutamate has been identified as the acid/base in the family F xylanases and is essential for catalysis in β‐galactosidase. We suggest that the equivalent residue in the barley glucanases is the acid/base. Analysis of the sequences of family 1 β‐glucosidases and family 5 cellulases shows that these enzymes also belong to this superfamily which we call the superfamily.
Mapping cells and sub‐cellular organelles on 2‐D gels: ‘new tricks for an old horse’
Authors: Huber Lukas A.
Published: July 2002

Nowadays, investigators in all fields are faced with the identification of unknown, up‐ or down‐regulated, modified proteins that they are trying to identify. Two‐dimensional (2‐D) gel electrophoresis, with its ability to resolve several thousand proteins, is an extremely powerful technique. The current resolution and reproducibility of 2‐D gel technology and the establishment of computer assisted 2‐D gel protein databases have paved new ways for the identification of proteins.
Hydrogen exchange monitored by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry for rapid characterization of the stability and conformation of proteins
Authors: Villanueva Josep , Canals Francesc , Villegas Virtudes , Querol Enrique , Avilés Francesc X
Published: July 2002

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) has been used to monitor hydrogen exchange on entire proteins. Two alternative methods have been used to carry out the hydrogen exchange studies, exchanging deuteron (H to D experiments) or proton (D to H experiments). In the former case, the use of a deuterated matrix has made possible to overcome back‐exchange problems and attain reproducible results. The methods presented have been used to determine the slow exchange core of the potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor in different folding states, and to differentially compare the activation domain of human procarboxypeptidase A2 versus three site‐directed mutants of different conformational stability. In this work, we show that by using MALDI‐TOF MS to monitor hydrogen exchange in entire proteins, it is possible to rapidly check the folding state of a protein and characterize mutational effects on protein conformation and stability, while requiring minimal amounts of sample.
Activity of monomeric, dimeric, and trimeric flavonoids on NO production, TNF‐α secretion, and NF‐κB‐dependent gene expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages
Authors: Park Young Chul , Rimbach Gerald , Saliou Claude , Valacchi Giuseppe , Packer Lester
Published: July 2002

Flavonoids are potent antioxidants and have been associated with lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In this study, the effect of flavonoids (monomers, dimers and a trimer) as well as French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol, on NO production, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) secretion and nuclear factor (NF)‐κB activity was compared. Monomers and dimers repressed NO production, TNF‐α secretion and NF‐κB‐dependent gene expression induced by interferon γ, whereas the trimeric procyanidin C2 and Pycnogenol enhanced these parameters. In addition, in unstimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, both procyanidin C2 and Pycnogenol increased TNF‐α secretion in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner. These results demonstrate that procyanidins act as modulators of the immune response in macrophages.
A review of our first 100 cases of laparoscopic nephrectomy: defining risk factors for complications
Authors: Keeley  , Tolley
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To present the complications from our first 100 cases of laparoscopic nephrectomy, a technically demanding procedure requiring lengthy experience, and to define the risk factors.

Patients and methods

 Indications for laparoscopic nephrectomy included patients requiring nephrectomy for benign pathology and those requiring nephroureterectomy for upper tract transitional cell carcinoma confined to the upper ureter and/or renal pelvis. All patients were operated on by one surgeon (D.A.T.) via a transperitoneal route and data on diagnosis, outcome and complications collected prospectively.

Results

 The overall complication rate was 18%, of which 3% were major and 15% minor complications. Five cases were converted to open surgery electively. Complications and conversions were associated with a history of pyonephrosis, previous renal surgery, staghorn calculi, polycystic kidney disease, and xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. While there was no discernible decline in the decrease in complications with experience, operative duration decreased from a mean of 204 min for the first 20 cases to 108 min for the last 20. Complications and conversions were more closely associated with diagnosis than with the surgeon’s experience.

Conclusion

 Laparoscopic nephrectomy and nephroureterectomy can be undertaken for a variety of indications with reasonable complication and conversion rates. Although inflammatory conditions increase the difficulty of these procedures, we feel that patients requiring nephrectomy for benign disease should be offered a trial of laparoscopic surgery.
Weighted Stair Climbing in Mobility‐Limited Older People: A Pilot Study
Authors: Jonathan Bean MD , Seth Herman BA , Mph Dan K. Kiely , Damien Callahan BS , Kelly Mizer BS , Md Walter R. Frontera , Fielding Roger A.
Published: July 2002

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate weighted stair climbing exercise (SCE) as a means of increasing lower extremity muscle power in mobility‐limited older people.

DESIGN: Single‐blinded, randomized controlled pilot study

INTERVENTIONS: Subjects were randomized into one of two 12‐week exercise programs. The intervention group (SCE) (n = 23) ascended and descended stairs, at a set pace, while wearing a weighted vest. The control group (WALK) (n = 22) participated in a standardized walking program.

MEASUREMENTS: Primary and secondary outcomes included measures of muscle power and strength, submaximal aerobic capacity, and physical performance.

RESULTS: SCE produced 17% improvement in double leg press peak power in comparison with WALK (P = .013) and significant improvement in stair climbing power from baseline (12%). Improvement in submaximal aerobic performance was equivalent for both groups. Although not statistically significant, effect size estimates suggest that SCE can potentially influence knee extension power and strength. Stair climb time was improved in both groups, whereas SCE produced significant improvements from baseline SPPB score in a subcohort of participants.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that SCE may be a useful component of a home exercise program designed to enhance lower extremity muscle power, aerobic capacity, and functional performance. Further investigation is needed involving larger sample sizes and direct comparisons with other forms of resistance training.
Heteroepitaxial growth of InSb on (100)GaAs using molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Williams G. M. , Whitehouse C. R. , McConville C. F. , Cullis A. G. , Ashley T. , Courtney S. J. , Elliott C. T.
Published: July 2002

Molecular beam epitaxy has been used to grow thin (0.5 μm<t<10 μm) InSb epilayers on (100) GaAs substrates. Reflection high-energy electron diffraction studies indicate that the early stages of layer growth involve three-dimensional nucleation and the formation of a nonpseudomorphic structure. High-resolution electron microscopy studies of the interface are reported for the first time and directly confirm that the large lattice mismatch (14.6% at room temperature) is accommodated by the generation of misfit dislocations. Nevertheless, the structural quality of the InSb is observed to improve dramatically with increasing thickness. Detailed secondary-ion mass spectrometry measurements also demonstrate that there is no large-scale interdiffusion of constituent elements at the interface. Finally, electrical measurements show the InSb to be p type and comparable with homoepitaxial material.
Topography and local modification of the HoBa2Cu3O7−x(001) surface using scanning tunneling microscopy
Authors: Heinzelmann H. , Anselmetti D. , Wiesendanger R. , Güntherodt H.-J. , Kaldis E. , Wisard A.
Published: July 2002

The topography of the (001) surface of a high Tc superconducting HoBa2Cu3O7−x single crystal was investigated in air using scanning tunneling microscopy. We found large, flat terraces separated by growth steps. The heights of these steps correspond to multiples of the c-axis lattice constant of 11.7 Å of the perovskite structure. These steps have been verified by atomic force microscopy. On a smaller scale the flat terraces showed some fine structure with a corrugation height of 4 to 5 Å and a lateral extent of several nanometers. In addition, we succeeded in creating nanometer-sized structures by increasing the sample bias voltage and tunneling current.
Low interface state density at an epitaxial ZnSe/epitaxial GaAs interface
Authors: Qian Q.-D. , Qiu J. , Melloch M. R. , Cooper J. A. , Kolodziejski L. A. , Kobayashi M. , Gunshor R. L.
Published: July 2002

The capacitance-voltage (C-V) and the current-voltage characteristics of metal/ZnSe/p-GaAs capacitors have been investigated; both epitaxial layers were grown by molecular beam epitaxy. In the capacitor structures highly resistive, stoichiometric ZnSe functioned as the pseudoinsulator on the doped GaAs layers. The capacitance-voltage measurements demonstrated that the capacitors could be biased from accumulation through depletion, and into deep depletion, with current in the range of 10−8 A cm−2. Very little frequency dispersion was observed in the C-V data when measured from 1 kHz to 1 MHz. From the high-frequency C-V curve, the surface state density as a function of position in the GaAs band gap was determined. Surface state densities were comparable to densities reported for (Al,Ga)As/GaAs heterojunctions.
Rapid thermal annealing: An efficient means to reveal chromium profiles in Si after diffusion and gettering
Authors: Zhu J. , Chaussemy G. , Barbier D.
Published: July 2002

The combined use of rapid thermal annealing and deep level transient spectroscopy is described as an efficient means to reveal chromium profiles in silicon wafer after various thermal treatments. The proposed method has been successfully applied to observe the depletion of chromium atoms at the near-surface region of intentionally contaminated Czochralski-grown silicon reslting from a conventional three-step gettering cycle.
Study of soft-x-ray generation by laser-heating solid and gaseous tantalum plasmas with subpicosecond pulses
Authors: Tom H. W. K. , Wood O. R.
Published: July 2002

The efficiency of x-ray emission in the 17–35 nm region from laser-heated solid and gaseous density Ta plasmas has been compared. An x-ray conversion efficiency of 0.4% from a solid density Ta plasma requires a laser fluence of 200 J/cm2 whereas the same efficiency in a gaseous Ta plasma with optimal density profile requires only 3 J/cm2 . This is due to ultrarapid thermal diffusion in the solid and to the shorter attenuation length and duration of x rays emitted from the heated solid density plasma.
Two-dimensional array of high-power strained quantum well lasers with λ=0.95 μm
Authors: Bour D. P. , Stabile P. , Rosen A. , Janton W. , Elbaum L. , Holmes D. J.
Published: July 2002

An incoherent, two-dimensional array of high-power lasers operating at λ=0.95 μm is demonstrated. The laser structure consists of a single 70 Å strained In0.2Ga0.8As quantum well active region with an AlGaAs graded-index separate confinement heterostructure, prepared by atmospheric pressure organometallic vapor phase epitaxy. The rack-and-stack array contains 536 oxide-stripe emitter elements in a 1.7 mm×1 cm area, producing approximately 200 Watts at a 60 A drive current. Under pulsed operation the external differential quantum efficiency is 40% while the power conversion efficiency reaches 16%. At high power, greater than 90% of the individual elements are lasing, with an overall spectral width Δλ∼5 mm.
Low-resistivity contacts to bulk high T
c superconductors
Authors: Jin S. , Davis M. E. , Tiefel T. H. , van Dover R. B. , Sherwood R. C. , O’Bryan H. M. , Kammlott G. W. , Fastnacht R. A.
Published: July 2002

Convenient methods for obtaining extremely low resistivity contacts to bulk high Tc superconductors ( ρc in the range of 10−11–10−12 Ω cm2) are described. Three different configurations of silver contact metal in Y-Ba-Cu-O have been employed, i.e., embedded Ag wire, embedded Ag particles, and selectively patterned Ag clad on superconductor wire. In all three cases, the low-resistivity metallic contacts are formed in situ during the sintering or melt processing of the superconductor, thus eliminating the need for separate steps of contact preparation such as vacuum deposition of contact metal and additional heat treatment. The distribution and morphology of the silver contacts will be discussed. The measured contact resistivities in the present work are the lowest reported for the high Tc superconductors, and these methods may serve as a useful basis for important contact technologies needed for bulk superconductor applications.
Aqueous electrochemical growth of anodic sulfide films on mercury cadmium telluride
Authors: Ziegler John P. , Hemminger John C.
Published: July 2002

We present here the first demonstration that oxide-free anodic sulfide layers can be grown on HgCdTe from aqueous electrolytic solutions. Previous work has shown that anodic sulfide films grown from nonaqueous solutions have great potential as passivating layers for HgCdTe. In this work Auger electron spectroscopy depth profiles are used to show that little or no oxide is left at the HgCdTe/CdS interface even when an aqueous growth electrolyte is utilized. Capacitance-voltage data on metal-insulator-semiconductor structures show that the temperature stability of the aqueous sulfide films may be superior to those grown from nonaqueous electrolytes.
Varistors based on polycrystalline ZnO:Cu
Authors: Kutty T. R. N. , Raghu N.
Published: July 2002

Sintered, polycrystalline ZnO ceramics with copper as the only additive exhibit highly nonlinear current-voltage characteristics. Increasing nonlinearity index (α=4–45) with Cu concentration of 0.01–1 mol % is also variable with respect to ceramic processing methods. Incorporation of Cu in the ZnO lattice is indicated from the electron probe microanalysis and the photoluminescence spectra. Cu acceptors are compensated by holes in the grain boundary layers, whereas the concentration of intrinsic donors is higher in the grain interior. The presence of positive charges leads to thinning of the depletion region, resulting in nonlinear characteristics.
Resolution of the nuclear and electronic contributions to the optical nonlinearity in polysilanes
Authors: McGraw Daniel J. , Siegman A. E. , Wallraff G. M. , Miller R. D.
Published: July 2002

We present a method of resolving the nuclear and electronic contributions to the third-order susceptibility χ3 in a phase conjugation experiment. The technique is applied to octylmethylpolysilane yielding χ3 (electronic)=(1.8±0.5)×10−12 esu and χ3(nuclear)=(1.1±0.4)×10−12 esu at 532 nm.
Tunneling through AlAs barriers: Γ–X transfer current
Authors: Landheer D. , Liu H. C. , Buchanan M. , Stoner R.
Published: July 2002

We have investigated Γ–X intervalley transfer tunneling by measuring currents at low temperature in a series of single AlAs barrier samples grown on GaAs substrates. The transfer occurs at AlAs-GaAs interfaces and is intrinsic because the translational symmetry is broken in the growth direction of the epitaxial layered structures. Calculated current-voltage characteristics employing a simple effective mass model which includes Γ–X transfer at heterointerfaces agree reasonably well with experiments, while calculations assuming only the Γ-band potential predict currents several orders of magnitude lower than experiments.