bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Impacts of Menstrual-Pelvic Pain on School Activity in Rural Secondary School Girls
Authors: Obiekwe Sochima Johnmark , Ezeugwunne Ifeoma Priscillia , Ekwebene Onyeka Chukwudalu , Nwaugochi Ifeanyi Emmanuel , Edeh Gabriel Chidera , Modum Ezenwa Robinson , Nwoye Christian Chukwunulu , Okechukwu Iheohakara Franklin
Published: July 2023

Aims: Pelvic pain (PP) during menstruation (Dysmenorrhea) is one of the common complaints of women. menstruation has a great negative impact on the quality of life of women both psychologically, behavioural and social well-being. This study is to determine the prevalence of PP during menstruation among secondary school girls.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study design conducted among female students at some selected high schools in Anambra state, South-eastern Nigeria in February 2023. A total of 392 study participants were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. A pretested self-administered structured questionnaire was employed. Microsoft excel and SPSS version 26 were used for data entry and analysis respectively.

Results: 392 female adolescent high school students aged between 8-19 years old with a mean age at menarche 12.85±1.47 years. 58.9% reported having their menstrual bleeding lasting for 4 days. The prevalence of PP during menstruation was 86.31% with 29.90% with a numerical pain rating of 10. 39.20% reported taking painkillers gotten over the counter, 71.43% reported the pain affecting their activities in school, majority 32.7% don’t socialize with their classmate and 32.0% do not concentrate in classes. While 29.4% do not participate in school outdoor sports activities, 20.3% don’t participate in other school social activities. Statistically significant associations existed between PP during menses and age, age at menarche, bleeding length and bleeding intensity (p<0.05). The school participation of Participants with severe PP during menses were significantly affected (p=0.0001).

Conclusion: PP during menstruation was highly prevalent in this study, and highly affected the students’ participation in school activities. The implication of this study highlights the importance of raising awareness, improving access to healthcare services, integrating menstrual health education into the curriculum, and adopting a multidisciplinary approach to support affected adolescents.
Adverse Events Following COVID-19 Vaccination in Anambra State, South East Nigeria
Authors: L. Obi-Nwosu Amaka , Eze Eze Chijioke , C. Ibeh Christian , O. Nwosu Betrand , I. Ezemenahi Sylvia , C. Azudialu Bede , M. Ulochukwu Chinyere , D. Obi-Nwosu Ifechukwu
Published: July 2023

The use of safe and effective vaccination is critical to control of pandemics. Vaccines remain the bedrock in management of infectious diseases outbreaks. There has always been hesitancy to vaccination due to the fear of adverse events. It is therefore necessary that post vaccination adverse events be studied for effective enlightenment of the general populace.

Objective: We aimed to investigate the adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccination in Anambra state, South East Nigeria.

Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, 433 subjects aged 18years or older who had received any dose of the four COVID-19 vaccines (Moderna, Astra Zeneca, Pfizer and J&J (Janssen) were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. The subjects were interviewed about COVID-19 vaccine related adverse reactions using self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and analytical statistics were performed and level of significance set at < 0.5 using SPSS V24.

Results: Of the 433 subjects finally studied, 62.8% were females and 22.4% were married. About 69% of them had tertiary education.  Those who received the second dose of their respective vaccines were 44.8% while 11.5% had received a booster dose. Approximately half (50.3%) of the COVID-19 vaccines had adverse events. The most common types of adverse events (AEs) were local pain at injection site (62.1%) followed by headache (54.3%) and then fatigue (50.1%). Majority of the adverse events were mild to moderate in severity.  Those who had only local adverse events were 70.2% while 45% had systemic adverse events.

Conclusion: In this study, severe adverse events were rare, even after the second dose. Most of the adverse events were mild to moderate in severity and therefore awareness campaign should be created to enlighten the community about the adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines.
Method Development and Validation of UV-Spectrophotometric Estimation of Hydroxychloroquine Sulphate in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Dosage Form
Authors: Masne Tejaswini , Rangari Shyam , Gupta Krishna , Umekar Milind
Published: July 2023

Aims: The devised method for estimating hydroxychloroquine sulphate in bulk and pharmaceutical dose forms (tablets) is the subject of this work. The method can therefore be applied to regular quantitative analysis and stability. The following describes the planned work's goal and scope:

To create an appropriate spectrophotometric method for tablet-based hydroxychloroquine sulphate estimation.

Carry out the method's validation.

Methodology: These techniques include the area under curve (AUC) method-I and the A1% solution method based on absorbance measurement, or method-II, both of which are chosen at wavelengths of 329.4 nm using a UV-visible spectrophotometer with a 1 cm matched quartz cell and 0.01N acetic acid with water as a solvent.

Results: Plots of the hydroxychloroquine sulphate absorption spectra in 0.01N acetic acid were made. 329.4 nm was found to be the average maximum. With correlation coefficients of 0.9992 and 0.999 (r2>0.999) for AUC and 1%, respectively, and a linear connection between the absorbance and drug concentration in concentration ranges of 5-35 g/mL, it is clear that the method is linear. The percentage of medication calculated by various methods was close to 100.12, and 99.41% of the results were consistent with the label claim of the commercially available tablet formulation. As per ICH requirements, the validation parameter research was completed.

Conclusion: The described UV methods offer good accuracy and precision with reduced limits of detection and quantification. They are straightforward, trustworthy, and highly selective. These disclosed methods are ideal for routine quantitative analysis in pharmaceutical dosage forms due to the decreased time required for analysis of hydroxychloroquine sulphate. The time-saving, low-cost alternative to the expensive high-performance liquid chromatographic technology is the applied spectrophotometric approaches.
Performance of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) Varieties in Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition for Growth, Yield, and Quality
Authors: Ahmed Shakeel , Bahadur Vijay , Topno Samir E. , Kerketta Anita , Prasad V. M.
Published: July 2023

The present investigation was carried out at Horticultural Research Farm (CRF), Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), Prayagraj during the Kharif season of 2022 to identify the best variety of cowpea that performed in the Prayagraj region. The varieties comprised of Kashi Kanchan, Kashi Gauri, Kashi Queen, C.P. 6, K-K- 25, Kaveri, Gomachi, Basant, Pusa Komal, Pusa Gaurav, Nirali, Gomati, Gayatri and Talvar. Based on results obtained during the present investigation it is concluded that for plant height at 60 DAS variety Basant had maximum plant height (191.32 cm), for number of primary branches per plant at 60 DAS variety Kaveri had maximum branches (34.32). In terms of early flowering and maturing, variety Gomati showed minimum days to first flowering (31.31 days), days to first pod setting (37.22 days) and days to first pod picking (48.77 days). For yield parameters like number of pods per plant variety C P-6 had highest number of pods per plant (108.12), pod weight (17.43 g), for pod length variety Kashi Queen showed maximum pod length (34.80 cm), while maximum pod diameter was found in variety Talvar (3.08 cm), maximum pod yield per plant was observed in variety C. P. 6 (1.88 g/plant). Variety Nirali was found to be best in the terms of quality parameters viz., TSS (4.86 0Brix) among different varieties of Cowpea.
Feasibility of Drain Discharge Under 50 M Lateral Spacing Controlled Subsurface Drainage in Saline Vertisols of TBP Command Area
Authors: Meti Hanamantappa , Vishwanath J. , Balanagoudar S. R. , Veeresh H. , Karegoudar A. V.
Published: July 2023

Surface and subsurface drainage discharge water from irrigated agriculture field is normally varies compared with the quality of the canal water supply as the drain discharge water from different locations or facilities will varied in their quality characteristics. Hence, quality assessment or feasibility studies of drain discharge both in short and long term adoption of both conventional and controlled SSD under different drain spacing is prerequisite for its reuse in crop production and efforts are being made elsewhere for reuse of drainage discharge in crop production. Such, feasibility studies on characterization of drain discharge from different subsurface drainage systems are lacking in TBP command area.  Hence, it is proposed to conduct this experiment. A plot experiment was conducted during rabi -2021 at Agricultural Research Station, Gangavati (Karnataka) to study the the characterization of drain discharge water for its reuse as an irrigation water. The experiment was laid out as a conventional and controlled subsurface drainage system (SSD). Among the treatments, the collected water samples from six different sampling stations revealed that, drain discharge under conventional subsurface drainage system (SSD) varied from 3.66 to 0.63 compared to 1.38 to 0.42 mm/day under controlled subsurface drainage system. Electrical conductivity of drain discharge water under conventional SSD varied from 3.89 to 1.24 ds/m as against 1.01 to 0.81 ds/m under controlled SSD respectively. While, salt output was varied from 29.0 to 11.0 under conventional compared to 16.5 to 2.5 kg/ha under controlled SSD system. Finally, the subsurface drainage system drain water samples were not suitable for reuse as irrigation water to paddy in the R/S season as per the classification of irrigation water quality particularly for poorly drained black soils in the TBP command area.
Effects of Chromium (VI) on Haematological Parameters in Channa punctatus (Bloch. 1793)
Authors: Dixit Jyotsna , Kumar Vivek
Published: July 2023

Numerous enterprises discharge their untreated waste water straight into aquatic habitats. In addition to causing water pollution, the poisonous heavy metals like chromium found in that waste water also have an impact on aquatic life. Therefore, the goal of this research was to assess the toxicological effects of chromium (VI) on Channa punctatus, a freshwater fish. Chromium is an important metal and also a severe threat to aquatic life. Fish, the dominant creature in the aquatic environment, end up being the main target of these contaminants. Chromium enters fish's bodies via their gills, skin, and digestive tracts as a result of contaminated food. They are eventually carried by the circulation to the organs and tissues, where they accumulate after absorption. Through the food chain, heavy metals ultimately find their way into people. Approximately 120 fishes were subjected to three different amounts of chromium (LC50/5: 15.37 mg/L, LC50/10: 7.68 mg/L, and LC50/20: 3.84 mg/L) in this experiment, as well as a toxicant-free control. The relevant blood samples were taken from the caudal peduncle at intervals of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days in order to determine haematological parameters (haemoglobin, haematocrit, red blood cell count, etc.). As a consequence, several alterations in these parameters were noted, and eventually, fish began to lose their resistance to disease, become anaemic, and weaken their immune systems. While it was stated that throughout exposure periods of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days, Groups 2, 3, and 4 had substantially higher MCH and MCV values than Control (Group 1), it was also observed that Groups 2, 3, and 4 had lower Hb, RBC and PCV values. The primary objective of this research was to increase public awareness of the need to protect aquatic environments, particularly from heavy metal-contamination.
Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy: A Rapid Analytical Technique for Soil and Plant
Authors: Soniya V. P. , Bhindhu P. S. , Sujaina M.
Published: July 2023

Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has become one of the most prominent analytical technique with great potential for real time and large-scale soil and plant analyses. In this technology, an intense pulse of laser radiation is focused onto sample where it ablates the material from surface and creates a microplasma. The plasma, excites atoms and atomic ions which emits radiation specific to the elemental composition of the sample and the spectra generated are used for the identification of elements. In a characteristic LIBS spectrum, wavelength corresponds to the type of element and relative strength of spectrum signifies concentration of the element. A well calibrated LIBS instrument performs diverse soil and plant analysis. Its application in detection of soil texture, micro, macro and heavy metals in soil was well documented with high calibration and prediction accuracy. A method for rapid, high resolution (100 μm) and multi-element imaging of root-rhizoshere interface was prepared with LIBS and imaging software to map switch grass (Panicum virgatum) rhizosphere with good limit of detection for soil matrix components and nutrients. LIBS combined with chemometrics was used to detect the cadmium content in rice using extreme learning machine (ELM) model and obtained a prediction accuracy of 93.33 per cent. Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy requires minimal sample preparation for analysis without production of polluting waste and incurs relatively low cost compared to traditional techniques. On the other hand, matrix dependency of measurement, relatively high limit of detection for some elements, unstable signal intensity, and low reproducibility of results due to variations in laser spark are the major limitations.
Nutrient Status of Acid Sulphate Soils of Upper Kuttanad of Kerala, India
Authors: Amrutha K. K. , Beena V. I. , Geetha P.
Published: July 2023

Chemical characterization of acid sulphate soils of Upper Kuttanad, Kerala was done to study its present nutrient status due to the impact of heavy flood that occurred in 2018. Extreme acidity is the major issue with this type of soil. Among the collected soil samples, 53.33 per cent of soil samples fall under very strongly acidic group (4.5 to 5) and 33.33 per cent comes under strongly acidic category (5.1 to 5.5). Lower values of EC in Upper Kuttanad indicate that this area is less affected by saltwater intrusion. More than 90 per cent of the samples were rich in organic carbon content. Among the major nutrients, 40 per cent of the soil samples recorded low available P content (<10 kgha-1). The availability of potassium, calcium, and magnesium increased with flooding. Almost all the samples collected from the acid sulphate soils of Upper Kuttanad showed high available sulphur status. It ranged from 20.20 to 3361.50 mgkg-1. The hike in micronutrient status showed the impact of flooding in these locations. The cation exchange capacity of the collected soil ranged from 5.92 to 30.64 cmol (+) kg-1 and showed a positive correlation with organic carbon (0.779***), available potassium (0.571*) and available iron (0.717*). This paper helps in understanding the present nutrient status in acid sulphate rice soils of Upper Kuttanad after the flood and adoption of suitable management practices.
District Agro Meteorological Advisory Services in Agriculture, Horticulture and its Allied Sectors in NTR District of Semi Arid Region of South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Narasimha M. Raja , Raju S. Krishnam , Reddy I. Venkata , Prasad P. N. Siva , Rajashekar N.
Published: July 2023

Agriculture is the main economy for rural population over 70 per cent of Indian population depends on agriculture directly or indirectly. Agriculture plays important role in rural economy. Weather plays crucial role in agriculture. Timely weather forecasting plays main role in agriculture by keeping the view India Meteorological Department and Indian Council for Agricultural Research, were initiated 1 centers at KVK. In Andhra Pradesh 7 District agro-meteorological units (DAMUs) centers (Amadalavalasa, Rastakuntabai, Garikapadu, Darsi, Nellore, Utukuru and Banavasi) were established as well as in India 340 DAMUs were established to send agro advisory services at district level. In N.T.R and Krishna district DAMU initiated during the year 2019 located at Dr. K.L. Rao Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Garikapadu. The DAMU units send biweekly bulletins in the N.T.R and Krishna district every Tuesday and Friday. During the year 2022-23 in Kharif season provides more number of agro and its allied sectors advisories. In cotton Boll Rot management and Pink Boll Worm management messages more number of messages sent. Horticulture crops such as Chilliprovided more no. of messages on black thrips management. In livestock buffalo foot and mouth disease control vaccine messages has been sanded as well as in poultry to control of rannikhet disease sent more. Weather related messages has been communicated through what’s app groups and telegrams.
Effect of Sources of Sulphur and Zinc on Yield and Economics of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Mondal Sovan , Singh Shikha , Nawhal Anu
Published: July 2023

Background: A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2022 month of August at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments and control which are replicated thrice on the basis of one year experiment. The treatments consisted of 3 levels of source of sulphur (Gypsum 300 kg/ha, Single super phosphate 20 kg/ha, Sulphur 40 kg/ha) and zinc (5, 10, 15 kg/ha) as a basal application and a control. The application of Gypsum 300 kg/ha + Zinc 15 kg/ha recorded significantly maximum number of Capsules/plant (51.40), Seeds/capsules (55.47), Test weight (2.70 g), Seed yield (1.07 t/ha), stover yield (2.59 t/ha), Harvest index (29.30), Gross returns (89,889.00 INR/ha), Net returns (60,180.00INR/ha), B:C ratio (2.03 INR/ha) was recorded with the treatment of Gypsum 300 kg/ha + Zinc 15 kg/ha.
Effect of Low-Density Polyethylene on Shelf Life and Fruit Quality of Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)
Authors: Singh Vartika , Pathak Sanjay , Pandey Kuldeep , Singh Jagveer
Published: July 2023

Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) is an indigenous important hardy underutilized fruit crop of India. The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the effect of Modified Atmospheric Packaging- Low Density Polyethylene (MAP-LDPE) on storage life and fruit quality (physico-chemical attributes) of different cultivars of Aonla fruits up to 12 days. Physico-chemical attributes such as Physiological Loss in Weight (PLW), Decay loss, Total Soluble solids Acidity, Ascorbic acid and Sugars were determined for Aonla cultivars viz. NA-6, NA-7, NA-10, NA-25, NA-26, NA-27 and Francis in this experiment. The pooled results revealed that MAP-LDPE was able to reduce the Physiological Loss in Weight and Decay loss of Aonla fruits up to twelfth day of storage. Higher retention of Ascorbic acid and Acidity content was observed during 12 days of storage. Total Soluble solids and Sugars content was low in LDPE-MAP as compared to control storage condition in different cultivars of Aonla. The findings of the study will be useful in increasing the availability of Aonla fruits and enable for its long-distance transportation and subsequent marketing.
Characteristics of Organic Manures and Its Effect on Physical Properties of Soil in Pearl Millet
Authors: Yadav Bharti , Naga S. R. , Yadav B. L. , Yadav Santosh , Meena Shalu Kumari , Pandey Astha , Sharma Sachin
Published: July 2023

Organic manures are rich source of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, which are essential for plants. It also contains organic matter that improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and aeration. The study focused on evaluating two types of organic manures, i.e. Farmyard manure (FYM) and vermicompost. Results showed that vermicompost had higher nutrient content them FYM. A field experiment was conducted during kharif season 2018 at Agronomy farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture Jobner (Rajasthan). The design of experiment was factorial randomized block design with three replications. The experiment comprised five treatments of organic manures (Control, vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha-1, vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1, FYM @ 5 t ha-1 and FYM @ 10 t ha-1) and four treatments of fertility levels (Control, 50 per cent RDF (recommended dose of fertilizer), 75 per cent RDF  and 100 per cent RDF). The variety used for experiment was RHB-173 of pearl millet. Results showed that the application of FYM @ 10 t ha -1 significantly decreased the bulk density and increased the saturated hydraulic conductivity over control. The maximum water retention of soil (12.86 per cent and 3.28 per cent) at 33kPa and 1500 kPa were recorded under the treatment vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 being at par with FYM @ 10 t ha -1. Thus, addition of FYM @ 10 t ha -1 improves the physical soil properties.
Comparative Study on Pasting and Functional Properties of Composite flour Produced from Acha (Digitaria exilis) Starch, Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) and Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Flour Blends
Authors: Olaleye H. T. , Oresanya T. O. , Akinwande F. F.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Composite flour can relatively be any wheat flour composition with a particular substitution percentage of any type of flour produced from any other raw material. This is done to increase the nutritional profile, functional properties or further utilization of the said raw materials.

Objective: The functional properties of flour blends play an important part in the processing of food products. Functional properties determine the usability of the blends in bakery products where hydration aid handling in products such as ground meat, baked foods and pancakes where oil and absorption properties is of upmost importance. Functional properties plays significant role in the physicochemical properties in determining the complex interaction between the composition, structure, and molecular conformation, therefore the objective of the study was to produce composite flour from blends of acha starch, chickpea and wheat flour and determine the pasting and functional properties of the blends for food uses. 

Methodology: Composite flour was produced in different blends using D-Optimal experimental runs. Pasting and functional characteristics is essential  in estimating  the  properties of food paste and products during and after it is cooked.

Results: The pasting properties of the blends of the flour, the peak 1(RVU), trough 1(RVU), breakdown(RVU), final viscosity(RVU), set back(RVU), peak time(min) and pasting temperature(0C) ranged between 1722.50 and 2483.5, 931.0 and 1723.00, 659.00 and 824.50, 1949.5.00 and 3267.0, 1095.50 and 1544.00, 5.44 and 6.00,76.28 and 88.83 respectively unit. Results for functional analysis of the flours blends, water absorption capacity(g/ml), oil absorption capacity(g/ml), bulk density(g/ml), swelling power(%), solubility index ranged between 175 and 258, 186 and 232, 0.5588and 0.68, 4.52 and 6.08, 3.50% and 7.50% respectively.

Conclusion: The flour blends of Acha starch, chickpea flour and wheat flour showed that it can be good raw materials for food that requires high water and oil absorption properties, bulk density, swelling power, set viscosity and final viscosity. The best sample blend was sample (wheat flour 52.50%, acha flour 42.50% and 5% chickpea flour).
Anti-microbial Activity of Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) Extracts from Semi-arid Eastern Parts of Kenya
Authors: Kidaha Mercy Liharaka , Mungai Grace Wacheke , Wanzala Fredah Rimberia
Published: July 2023

Natural products are alternatively used in the control of pests and diseases because they are highly available, cheap and environmentally friendly. Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) belongs to the Leguminosae family and subfamily Fabaceae. Its native to Africa, Asia and S, America. Tamarind tree produces pod like edible fruits that are widely used in cuisines globally. The fruits have been reported to be therapeutic in several pharmacopoeias. The seeds have been explored in the treatment of diabetes, fevers, intestinal infections and diarrhea. In Kenya, tamarind is present in the arid and semi-arid areas and there is limited information on its antimicrobial activity. This study aimed at evaluating the antimicrobial activity of leaf and fruit extracts from tamarind trees growing in semi-arid Eastern Kenya. Fruits and leaves of tamarind were sequentially extracted using methanol and water and evaporated using a rotary evaporator at 40°C. The extracts were then reconstituted using the solvent and stored at 4°C. The pathogenic bacteria were cultured on 28 g/l of nutrient agar and the extract-impregnated discs were inoculated on the plates and cultured at 37 °C for 24 hrs. Sub-culturing was done to obtain pure isolates of the pathogens. The extracts were tested for their activity against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Data on bacterial inhibition zones were recorded after 24 hrs. The results revealed that there was no significant difference in inhibition between the leaf and fruit extracts. However, there was a significant inhibition difference between the five study regions and in extraction solvents against B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa. Tamarind extracts were not effective against S. aureus and E. coli. When compared to common antibiotics Ampicillin, Methanol leaf extracts from accessions KT007, E017 and E020 had a higher inhibition than B. subtilis; also, water fruit extracts from accessions E008 and E014 had a higher inhibition than B. subtilis. Methanol leaf extracts from accessions KT012, E001, KB008 and KB011 had higher inhibition against P. aeruginosa              compared to Streptomycin, Kanamycin, and Co-trimoxazole.  Water fruit extracts from the accession of KT012 had a higher inhibition of P. aeruginosa compared to Streptomycin, Kanamycin, and Co-trimoxazole. Water leaf extracts from accessions of KT001, KB004, KB005, KB011, KB012, KB014 and KB016 had a higher inhibition of P. aeruginosa compared to kanamycin, gentamycin, streptomycin, ampicillin, and co-trimoxazole. Tamarind extracts did not inhibit S. aureus and E. coli. In conclusion, Eastern Kenyan tamarind had limited potential against B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa.
A Descriptive Analysis of Paediatricians’ Involvement in Community Child Health in Nigeria: So Far How Far?
Authors: Arodiwe I. O. , Ubesie A. C. , Ikefuna A. N.
Published: July 2023

Background: Community child health activities are considered an important professional role of Pediatricians as a child advocate.  However practice constraints and personal factors may limit involvement.

Objective: The objective was to analyze community involvement of paediatricians in 2017 and factors associated with participation.

Methods: A self-administered questionnaire of all Paediatrician at the annual conference of Paediatrics Association of Nigeria (Panconf) 2017 at Zaria, in Nigeria was the tool. Questions on  community child health outside of their clinical practice were elucidated. This includes questions on school health programme.  Their willingness to volunteer and the timing of formal training were sought. We used Chi square statistics to measure associations of personal and practice characteristics. Logistic regression assessed independent contributions.

Results: Analysis showed there were total of n = 260 in attendance. Fewer paediatricians were into community child health in 2017 (35.1%) outside their routine work, with a higher percentage participating as volunteers (79.5%). Most reported formal training at residency (80.2%). The older age, having children older than 5 years, urban settings and formal training were significant. In adjusted models, older age and formal training were associated with involvement (P < .05).

Conclusions: Formal training during residency and older paediatricians are associated with community child health activities. Therefore, intensification of advocacy competencies and other community child health activities for all residents and retraining of paediatricians for refreshing of experiences and related skills are advocated.
Plasmid-encoded Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria of Surgical Wound Isolates from Three Hospitals in Akoko Land
Authors: Iroha Glory O. , Adejumo Timothy O. , Osuntokun Oludare T. , Coker Morenike E.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The study evaluates a rapid and dependable method of identifying plasmid-encoded antibiotic resistant bacteria isolated from surgical wound samples of twenty-nine patients from three General hospitals in Akoko South West (Iwaro Oka), Akoko North East (Ikare), and Akoko North West (Irun),Ondo State, Nigeria, using standard microbiological techniques.

Materials and Methods: Antibiotic sensitivity test (AST) was carried out, plasmid-encoded antibiotic resistant bacteria were determinedand plasmids were cured.

Results: Seven bacteria were isolated, two (2) were Gram-positive: Staphylococcus aureus  and Streptococcus viridians, and five (5) Gram-negative Enterobacter agglomerans, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Morganella morganii biogrp 1 and Serratia liquefaciens. The total bacterial counts ranged from 4.3 x 104 to 9.9 x 104cfu/ml. The highest colony count (9.9 x 104 cfu/ml) was obtained from General Hospital, Iwaro-Oka, while the least (4.3 x 104 cfu/ml) was obtained from Irun General Hospital. The AST result showed that most isolates were sensitive to some of the antibiotics within the range of 7 mm to 25 mm zones of inhibition, while only strains of Pseudomonas.fluorescens were resistant to ciprofloxacin, pefloxacin, streptomycin, chloramphenicol, amoxicillin, gentamicin, augmentin, sparfloxacin, tarivid, and septrin. Four out of the five resistant  Pseudomonas.  fluorescens strains had plasmid bands ranging from 2.27 kbp to 23.13 kbp molecular weight with thick bands.

Discussion: the plasmid-encoded antibiotic resistance bacteria were sensitive to the same antibiotics which were initially resistant. It was recommended that increased attention be paid to stricter infection control practices across the three local government areas.

Conclusion: Health authorities should include profile epidemiology in infection control policies to detect the resistance level of isolates and adopt effective methods of administration of antibiotics before widespread infection.
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Groundnut Mixing Machine
Authors: Olajide O. G. , Agbetoye L. A. S. , Olabinjo O. O. , Lawson O. S.
Published: July 2023

Studies that investigated the effectiveness of groundnut mixing as a function of mixing speed and time are scarcely reported. Therefore, the objective of the study is to investigate the main and interaction effects between mixing mixtures and mixing speed on the mixing evaluation parameters, with respect to different mixing proportions of ginger, wheat flour and pepper. The mixing evaluation parameters considered are; final and losses after mixing. Also, the coefficient of variation (CV), Degree of mixing, Percentage loss and mixing efficiency. The components of the mixer consist of frame, the U shaped trough, a central shaft and a helical ribbon agitator. The coating units consists of coating trough, drive shaft and electric motor.  The lowest value of CV recorded was 8.94%, while the highest values of the degree of mixing and mixing efficiency recorded were 92.23 and 99.75%, respectively. The effectiveness and efficacy of mixing increases as mixing time increases. Similarly, increased performance in mixing was observed as the mixing speed increases. The main and interaction effects between the mixtures and speed were insignificant (P > 0.05). The highest speed of 60 rpm and mixing time of 15 mins produced the highest mixing efficiency. Therefore, further studies should be carried to determine the optimum speed and mixing time for improved thoroughness in mixing.
Backmatter (Author Guideline, Publication Ethics, Copyright Transfer Agreement for Publishing Form)
Authors: Istadi Istadi
Published: July 2023

Backmatter (Author Guideline, Publication Ethics, Copyright Transfer Agreement for Publishing Form)
Primary care’s standardized language use: contributions to advanced nursing practices / Uso de linguagem padronizada na atenção primária: contribuições para as práticas avançadas de enfermagem
Authors: Pereira Luana dos Santos Dotta , Nogueira Letícia Waldomiro , Braga Cristiane Giffoni , Da Costa Ana Caroline
Published: July 2023

Objetivo: identificar as características profissionais e de formação dos enfermeiros da atenção primária e a operacionalização da consulta de enfermagem como contribuição para as Práticas Avançadas de Enfermagem. Método: estudo transversal e descritivo, incluindo 10 enfermeiros da Atenção Primária no sul de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Os dados foram coletados entre fevereiro e março/2022, após aprovação do Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa sob CAAE 53210021.6.0000.5099 e Parecer nº5.136.913. Resultados: 90% eram mulheres, com 17,33 anos de formação, especialistas (80%), sendo 70% em Saúde da Família; 70% atuavam somente na atenção primária; 100% compreendiam sobre as Práticas Avançadas de Enfermagem e consideravam um nível de compreensão alto (60%). 100% realizavam a consulta de enfermagem, 70% utilizavam a Classificação Internacional de Atenção Primária. Conclusão: os enfermeiros eram especialistas, tinham conhecimento sobre Práticas Avançadas de Enfermagem, realizavam a consulta de enfermagem e utilizavam a Classificação Internacional de Atenção Primária como linguagem padronizada.
Perception of dental prenatal care by pregnant and postpartum women assisted in a maternity hospital / Percepção do pré-natal odontológico pelas gestantes e puérperas atendidas em um hospital maternidade
Authors: Gonçalves Costa Alice Maria , Farias Campos Janaína , Gomes Ramon Martins , Sá Taísa Freire Mororó de , Sales Janayle Kéllen Duarte de , Alves Dailon de Araújo
Published: July 2023

Objetivo: compreender a percepção de gestantes e puérperas a respeito do pré-natal odontológico. Método: estudo descritivo, exploratório com abordagem qualitativa, realizado em um Hospital Maternidade de um município do interior cearense, mediante entrevistas junto as gestantes, a partir do terceiro trimestre, e puérperas. A coleta de dados ocorreu em 2020. Em seguida, o conteúdo empírico foi analisado e categorizado em seguindo os pressupostos da análise temática. Resultados: participaram da pesquisa, 20 mulheres entre gestantes e puérperas. A partir da percepção das participantes, foram elaboradas três categorias, a saber: a percepção do pré-natal odontológico, segundo a ótica das gestantes e puérperas; relações dialógicas entre gestantes e profissionais de saúde; e implicações da falta de informação sobre a assistência odontológica na gestação. Conclusão: as gestantes reconhecem que o acompanhamento odontológico no período da gravidez é importante, mas demonstraram não entender quais as consequências positivas da assistência.
Tubal Sterilization Requests at a Single Institution Following the Supreme Court Decision to Overturn the Constitutional Right to Abortion
Authors: Liang Angela C. , Gliwa Catherine , Loder Charisse M. , Dalton Vanessa K. , Smith Roger D.
Published: July 2023

This study uses data from electronic health records to examine the rate of tubal sterilization requests in 3 periods before and after the US Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, compared with the same periods in 2019 and 2021, at a single institution in Michigan.
Vitamin D3 suppresses the cholesterol homeostasis pathway in patient‐derived glioma cell lines
Authors: Yuan Ran , Zhang Wei , You Yong‐Ping , Cui Gang , Gao Zhengliang , Wang Xiuxing , Chen Jian
Published: July 2023

Glioblastoma is one of the most common malignant brain tumors. Vitamin D, primarily its hormonally active form calcitriol, has been reported to have anti‐cancer activity. In the present study, we used patient‐derived glioma cell lines to examine the effect of vitamin D3 and calcitriol on glioblastoma. Surprisingly, vitamin D3 showed a more significant inhibitory effect than calcitriol on cell viability and proliferation. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) mediates most of the cellular effects of vitamin D, and thus we examined the expression level and function of VDR via gene silencing and gene knockout experiments. We observed that VDR does not affect the sensitivity of patient‐derived glioma cell lines to vitamin D3, and the gene encoding VDR is not essential for growth of patient‐derived glioma cell lines. RNA sequencing data analysis and sterolomics analysis revealed that vitamin D3 inhibits cholesterol synthesis and cholesterol homeostasis by inhibiting the expression level of 7‐dehydrocholesterol reductase, which leads to the accumulation of 7‐dehydrocholesterol and other sterol intermediates. In conclusion, our results suggest that vitamin D3, rather than calcitriol, inhibits growth of patient‐derived glioma cell lines via inhibition of the cholesterol homeostasis pathway.
Function and Teleology
Authors: Garson Justin
Published: July 2023

Teleology is the study of purposes and goals. While humans and other intelligent creatures can act on purposes, are there purposes in nature, too? Biologists often explain the development of organisms, the behavior of plants and animals, and the working of body parts and processes, in terms of their ‘purposes’, ‘goals’, or ‘functions’. This gives rise to a philosophical problem: how can we make sense of teleological language in the life sciences? Important philosophical definitions of ‘biological function’ include the selected effects theory, the goal‐contribution theory, and the causal role theory, among others. A related problem is understanding the concept of ‘goal directedness’.

Key Concepts

Teleology is the study of goals and purposes.

Teleological language such as ‘function,’ ‘goal’, and ‘purpose’ is prevalent in the life sciences.

Philosophers and scientists disagree about whether teleological language is consistent with modern science and its avoidance of supernatural explanations.

Philosophers debate the correct definition of ‘biological function.’

The ‘selected effects theory’ holds that the function of a trait depends on what it was selected for, by natural selection.

The ‘goal‐contribution theory’ holds that a function of a trait depends on its contribution to survival or reproduction.

The ‘causal role theory’ holds that a trait's function depends on its contribution to some interesting system capacity.

It's possible that biologists use ‘function’ in multiple senses.

There are philosophical problems surrounding the concept of goal directedness as well.
Bringing Reproductive Health Guidelines Into Fellowship Training: A National Survey of Adult and Pediatric Rheumatology Fellows and Program Directors
Authors: Rubino Selene , Battistone Michael J. , Ardoin Stacy P. , Berlan Elise D. , Carandang Kristine , Chiseri Kate , Kavanaugh Arthur , White Whitney , Wise Kelly A. , Wong Andrew L. , Marston Bethany , Clowse Megan E. B.
Published: July 2023

Objective

This study seeks to assess rheumatology fellows’ (RFs’) and program directors’ (PDs’) interests in different educational tools and methods and to facilitate curriculum development for reproductive health related to rheumatic disease.

Methods

Constructs were conceptualized in four dimensions: 1) RF and PD confidence in their current curriculum relating to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Reproductive Health Guidelines (RHGs), 2) personal interest in this topic, 3) opinions of the importance of this topic, and 4) interest in a range of learning materials and educational experiences. The final survey was distributed to 753 RFs and 179 PDs in the United States using the ACR Committee on Training and Workforce email list.

Results

Response rates were 13% (n = 98) for RFs and 25% (n = 44) for PDs. Both groups indicated more interest in the topic than confidence in their curriculum and rated summary sheets, question banks, didactics, and online modules higher than nine other educational tools or methods. Despite interest in the topic, 38% of RF respondents and 24% of PD respondents were unaware of the recently published ACR RHGs.

Conclusion

RFs and PDs consider reproductive health very important and report high personal interest in this topic. In contrast, both groups indicated lower confidence in current curricula, and substantial proportions of both groups were unaware of recently published guidelines. RFs’ and PDs’ interests in specific educational modalities are aligned. Curriculum development efforts should prioritize summary sheets, question banks, didactics, and online modules. Efforts are needed to address the educational needs of practicing rheumatologists and other professionals caring for patients with rheumatic disease.
An Integrated Therapeutic and Preventive Nanozyme‐Based Microneedle for Biofilm‐Infected Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Sun Caixia , Zhou Xinyu , Liu Cong , Deng Shuyue , Song Yuhan , Yang Jun , Dai Jianjun , Ju Yanmin
Published: July 2023

The healing of biofilm‐infected diabetic wounds characterized by a deteriorative tissue microenvironment represents a substantial clinical challenge. Current treatments remain unsatisfactory due to the limited antibiofilm efficacy caused by weak tissue and biofilm permeability of drugs and the risk of reinfection during the healing process. To address these issues, an integrated therapeutic and preventive nanozyme‐based microneedle (denoted as Fe2C/GOx@MNs) is engineered. The dissolvable tips with enough mechanical strength can deliver and rapidly release Fe2C nanoparticles (NPs)/glucose oxidase (GOx) in the biofilm active regions, enhancing tissue and biofilm permeability of Fe2C NPs/GOx, ultimately achieving highly efficient biofilm elimination. Meanwhile, the chitosan backing layer can not only act as an excellent physical barrier between the wound bed and the external environment, but also prevent the bacterial reinvasion during wound healing with its superior antibacterial property. Significantly, the biofilm elimination and reinfection prevention abilities of Fe2C/GOx@MNs on wound healing are proved on methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus‐biofilm‐infected diabetic mouse model with full‐thickness wound. Together, these results demonstrate the promising clinical application of Fe2C/GOx@MNs in biofilm‐infected wound healing.
A New Strategy to Elevate Absorptivity of AIEgens for Intensified NIR‐II Emission and Synergized Multimodality Therapy
Authors: Zhang Jing , Liu Wenjing , Liu Yangjing , Zhang Jianyu , Gao Pengfei , Zheng Lei , Xu Feng , Jin Guorui , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2023

High‐efficiency absorptivity is crucial for the construction of high‐performance luminescent materials, especially the long‐wavelength near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) materials; thus seeking an efficient and universal strategy to elevate the absorptivity is extremely important but is still an intractable challenge. In this work, a simple but efficient design strategy is discovered, involving the introduction of gold(I) unit that could effectively elevate the absorptivity of aggregation‐induced‐emission luminogens (AIEgens). As a result of the efficient elevation of absorptivity, the representative AIE‐active TBTP‐Au shows more superior NIR‐II (1220 nm) luminescence, much higher photothermal conversion efficiency, and unique intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generating ability compared with that of the TBTP ligand. Taking advantage of these improvements, the fabricated tumor‐targeting TBTP‐Au‐cRGD nanoparticles achieve specific NIR‐II tumorous imaging in vivo and exert high‐efficiency cancer therapy via the synergistic chemotherapy and photothermal therapy. Thus, this work provides a new and efficient strategy to construct high‐absorption luminescent materials and demonstrates the great potential of gold(I)‐based AIEgens as multifunctional theranostic agents.
Interplay of Precursor and Plasma for The Deposition of HfO2 via PEALD: Film Growth and Dielectric Properties
Authors: Preischel Florian , Zanders David , Berning Thomas , Kostka Aleksander , Rogalla Detlef , Bock Claudia , Devi Anjana
Published: July 2023

HfO2 thin films are appealing for microelectronic applications such as high‐κ dielectric layers, memristors, and ferroelectric memory devices. To fulfill the different requirements of each application, the properties of the deposited material need to be tuned accordingly. In this context, plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) is a powerful processing route to tailor the properties of HfO2 thin films, especially at low temperatures. Herein, a comprehensive bottom‐up approach is presented, ranging from the synthesis of molecularly engineered Hf precursors to the development of a HfO2 PEALD process and a detailed evaluation where plasma can be exploited to tune the dielectric properties. With the example of the newly synthesized bis‐(dialkylamido)‐bis‐(formamidinato) Hf(IV) precursor, [Hf{η2‐(iPrN)2CH}2(NMe2)2] which is reactive, thermally robust and volatile, successful implementation in a PEALD process for HfO2 at low temperatures is demonstrated. The typical atomic layer deposition (ALD) characteristics of precursor saturation, linearity, and ALD temperature window are demonstrated with constant growth of 0.7 Å per cycle from 125 to 200 °C, yielding high‐purity layers. The effect of plasma pulse duration on the chemical composition alongside structural, topographical, as well as dielectric properties of the films is investigated. For the latter, the films are incorporated in metal‐insulator semiconductor (MIS) structures.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Phthalimidine‐d2 with Heavy Water as Deuterium Source
Authors: Qiu Aoqian , Li Jun , Zhang Xiaofeng , Ran Pan , Ding Weijie , Cheng Xu , Ding Mengning
Published: July 2023

Phthalimidine finds wide pharmaceutical applications and its deuterated derivative is supposed to exhibit enhanced stability towards metabolism. In this work, an electrochemically reductive deuteration strategy from phthalimide to phthalimidine‐d2 was achieved with D2O as a deuterium source at the reagent level in common solvents. This approach showed broad compatibility with a variety of functional groups. Mechanistic investigations assisted by electrochemical analysis revealed a 4‐electron reduction pathway, and the coupled anodic oxygen evolution collectively maintains a neutral to mild basic conditions for the ongoing electrochemical reaction.
Photoinduced Copper(II) Catalyzed Decarboxylative Homocoupling of Arylpropiolic Acids: A Facile Access to the Symmetrical 1,3‐Diynes
Authors: Pathania Vishali , Roy Sudipta Raha
Published: July 2023

We have developed an efficient visible light induced copper‐mediated protocol to synthesize conjugated 1,3‐diynes via decarboxylative homocoupling of arylpropiolic acids. A variety of electron‐rich and electron‐deficient acids worked well in this methodology providing desired product upto 99% yield. Detailed mechanistic investigations including UV‐Vis spectroscopy and in‐situ IR experiments have been carried out to elucidate the plausible reaction mechanism. Compared to previously reported thermal strategies, this new pathway occurs at room temperature, employs greener solvent and aerial oxygen as an oxidant.