bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Double jeopardy: global change and interspecies competition threaten Siberian cranes
Authors: Gao Linqiang , Mi Chunrong
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic global change is precipitating a worldwide biodiversity crisis, with myriad species teetering on the brink of extinction. The Arctic, a fragile ecosystem already on the frontline of global change, bears witness to rapid ecological transformations catalyzed by escalating temperatures. In this context, we explore the ramifications of global change and interspecies competition on two arctic crane species: the critically endangered Siberian crane (Leucogeranus leucogeranus) and the non-threatened sandhill crane (Grus canadensis). How might global climate and landcover changes affect the range dynamics of Siberian cranes and sandhill cranes in the Arctic, potentially leading to increased competition and posing a greater threat to the critically endangered Siberian cranes? To answer these questions, we integrated ensemble species distribution models (SDMs) to predict breeding distributions, considering both abiotic and biotic factors. Our results reveal a profound divergence in how global change impacts these crane species. Siberian cranes are poised to lose a significant portion of their habitats, while sandhill cranes are projected to experience substantial range expansion. Furthermore, we identify a growing overlap in breeding areas, intensifying interspecies competition, which may imperil the Siberian crane. Notably, we found the Anzhu Islands may become a Siberian crane refuge under global change, but competition with Sandhill Cranes underscores the need for enhanced conservation management. Our study underscores the urgency of considering species responses to global changes and interspecies dynamics in risk assessments and conservation management. As anthropogenic pressures continue to mount, such considerations are crucial for the preservation of endangered species in the face of impending global challenges.
Monitoring Blood Glucose as a Perioperative Stress Response Marker and the Effect of Dexmedetomidine Premedication in Laparoscopic Surgery Patients: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Nanda Shree , Patro Kanhu Charan , Gupta Sunanda
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Perioperative stress increases cortisol levels, which in turn elevates glucose production. Thus, regular monitoring of glucose during the perioperative period can predict intraoperative stress and the depth of anaesthesia. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) is used as an adjunct during anaesthesia to attenuate the pressor response during tracheal intubation. Aim: To assess sequential blood sugar values in Dex-mediated attenuation of the perioperative neuroendocrine stress response. Materials and Methods: A randomised, controlled, double-blinded study was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesiology, M.K.C.G Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur, Odisha, India on 80 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery, divided into two groups (n=40). Group-I was administered 50 mL of Normal saline i.v. over 10 minutes, whereas Group-II received Dex 1 mcg/kg in 0.9% normal saline diluted to 50 mL over 10 minutes i.v.. Blood glucose levels and haemodynamic parameters such as Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP), and Heart Rate (HR) were evaluated in the preoperative room, 30 minutes after surgical incision, after extubation, one hour after surgery, and 2.5 hours following surgery. Unpaired Student’s t-test was used to compare the variables at different time points. Results: There was no significant difference in age (48.58±5.89 and 46.25±6.51 years; p>0.05), weight (57.07±7.84 and 56.8±7.4 kg; p>0.05), and American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) status among the Group-I and Group-II patients. Female preponderance was observed, but it was not significant between Group-I and Group-II patients (27 vs 31; p>0.05). In Group-II, Dex-administered patients, the mean blood sugar levels at 30 minutes past surgical incision, after extubation, one hour, and 2.5 hours following surgery were 104.35±13.58, 97.15±5.86, 98.4±7.45, 94.08±7.37 mg/dL, respectively. This was lower when compared to Group-I saline-treated patients, 135.95±14.4, 137.38±7.93, 138.08±8.84, and 137.70±15.13 mg/dL, and was found to be significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: Serial blood glucose estimation can be a useful marker to evaluate the perioperative neuroendocrine response. Dex premedication has effectively modulated the neuroendocrine stress response during anaesthesia.
Evaluation of Surface Roughness in Clear Silicon Fabricated Using Three Different Techniques: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Ramanuj Vrushti Bharat , Arora Ankit Ved , Kapoor Sonali Vinod , Chawda Neha Sudhakar , Sheth Maulee Dharmesh , Desai Kavina Satish
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Anterior composite restorations present many aesthetic challenges for clinicians. Direct veneers provide chairside advantages such as evaluating tooth anatomy, shade selection, and correcting tooth morphology according to the patient’s desire. In today’s world, the use of digitalisation and 3D-printed models has grown. However, limitations of these are unknown and a research gap exists, with surface roughness being a major issue. Aim: To evaluate the surface roughness of clear silicon templates fabricated over 3D-printed models, blue inlay wax and dental stone. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study utilised both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study was conducted at the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Manubhai Patel Dental College and Hospital, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. The study was completed over three months. A total of 36 surfaces of clear silicone template (Exaclear) were obtained from two blocks each of 3D-printed model, blue inlay wax, and dental stone, measuring 30×10×10 mm. These blocks were divided into six units of 10×5 mm (N=36) and were divided into three groups: 1) 3D-printed model; 2) Blue inlay wax; 3) Dental stone. Surface roughness was evaluated using a surface roughness tester and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Quantitative analysis of surface roughness was done using the surface roughness tester, and qualitative analysis was done using SEM. Statistical analysis was done using the posthoc Tukey Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test and statistical software SPSS Version 20.0. Results: The quantitative analysis showed the highest Roughness average (Ra) value mean±Standard Deviation (SD) for Group 1 (11.97±4.43 μm), followed by Group 3 (2.42±1.07 μm) and Group 2 (0.63±0.86 μm). SEM showed the presence of voids only in Group 1. Conclusion: Surface roughness of clear silicon template fabricated on wax surface is less as compared to templates fabricated on 3-D printed models.
MDA5 Juvenile Dermatomyositis Misdiagnosed as Childhood Psoriasis: A Case Report
Authors: Yadav Dinkar , Sharma Renu , Yadav Neha , Bhalla Kapil
Published: February 2024

Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare autoimmune disorder which mainly affects the skin and skeletal muscles. Characteristic features of this rare disorder include Gottron papules, heliotrope rashes and proximal muscle weakness. MDA5 positive JDM is usually associated with interstitial lung disease in later part of life. The authors report a case of an 11-year-old male child who presented to the Paediatric Department with complaints of rashes over extensor surfaces, Gottron papules and pain and weakness in all limbs. The child was on treatment from the Dermatology Department as a case of psoriasis for last six months. During hospital stay after detailed work-up, the child was diagnosed to have JDM. Anti-melanoma Differentiation-Associated gene 5 (Anti-MDA5) antibodies were positive in the present case. The child was treated with immunosuppressive drugs with supportive care and is currently on treatment for the last one and a half years and is largely asymptomatic. JDM requires meticulous clinical examination and specific investigations so that timely diagnosis can be made to ensure appropriate treatment. In the present index case, the authors describe the typical clinical presentation, newer investigative modalities like myositis specific antibody and treatment outcomes of this rare condition.
Abundance of termites important in tree-hollow formation in eucalypt forest in the Upper Blue Mountains, New South Wales, following seven years of extreme weather and mega-fires
Authors: Graham Michael , Smith Peter , Smith Judy
Published: March 2024

This study has investigated the status of tree-hollow-forming termites in eucalypt forest in the Upper Blue Mountains, New South Wales, following seven years of extreme weather and mega-fires. Tree hollows are a critical denning and breeding resource for many fauna species. The general abundance of termites in this cool temperate area was low, with at least 65% of large eucalypts having no internal hollows and thus never having supported termites. There was evidence of a recent decline of at least 55% in the number of trees being actively worked by termites, based on the number of trees with no termites present but evidence of termite activity within the last five years. Despite this decline, hollow-forming termites were still present in at least 61% of the survey sites. Recovery could be expected to occur given adequate time and stable conditions. However, the increasing pace of climate change may not allow it. In this paper, we draw attention to the importance of hollow-forming termites and the existential threat that they face under on-going climate change. We hope that it will prompt more interest and research of this issue.
Weather Based Forewarning Model for Powdery Mildew Disease of Mustard
Authors: Das Sevak , Chauhan K. K.
Published: March 2024

Powdery mildew disease is the most important disease of mustard (Brassica Juncea) which is highly sensitive to weather condition particularly temperature and humidity. To ascertain the relationship between weather variables and powdery mildew disease of mustard crop at Sardarkrushinagar, weekly powdery mildew data of 12 years (2010-11 to 2021-22) was collected from Centre for Oilseed Research, S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. The data were pooled over the year and correlated with corresponding weather parameters recorded in Agromet Observatory, S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. The forewarning regression equation was developed with the help of weather variables to predict the disease incidence. The results revealed that the maximum and minimum temperature ranged 26.2 to 38.1oC and 8.7 to 18.5oC respectively found congenial for disease incidence. The weather variables like maximum temperature (Tmax) and minimum temperature (Tmin) correlated significantly positive with powdery mildew disease. While morning relative humidity (RH I) and evening relative humidity (RH II) correlated significantly negative with disease severity. The impact of rainfall (RF), sunshine hour (SSH) and wind speed (WS) found positive but non-significant on powdery mildew disease. The weather variables those have significant relationship with powdery mildew disease, were used to develop multiple regression model. The regression equation Y = 62.837 + 8.072*Tmax – 3.919*RH1 developed with maximum temperature and morning relative humidity caused up to 96 % variability in the powdery mildew disease. Hence the combined effect of Tmax and RH1 was more pronounced and most influencing weather parameters on powdery mildew disease. Therefore, model could be used for predicting the powdery mildew disease well in advance.
Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Associated Factors among Patients with Migraine Attending Dubai Health Authority Clinics: A Cross Sectional Study, Dubai, 2023
Authors: Resen Fatimah Mohammed , Jasem Reham , Ahmad Amna Adnan , Nasir Fatima , Wazirzai Behishta , Hamdi Salsabel , Shoaib Mona
Published: March 2024

Aims: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and evaluate the associated factors of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) among migraine patients attending Dubai Health Authority clinics in Dubai. In addition, we assessed the potential association between food allergy and migraine.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Dubai health authority clinics, between February and May 2023.

Methods: The sample size was 312; it was done through a cross-sectional study through a Google Forms questionnaire distributed among known cases of migraine who are more than 18 years of age attending Dubai Health Authority (DHA) clinics. The survey includes 2 parts: the consent then the questionnaire, which is subdivided into 4 parts: demographics, questionnaire about migraine characteristics, Rome 4 criteria to screen for irritable bowel syndrome, a questionnaire to screen for anxiety and depression using Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Analysis was done through the IBM SPSS Statistics version 28.0 program.

Results: The prevalence of IBS was 36.9% among migraine patients. The prevalence is greater among females, students, and those in the 30-39 age group. It was significantly noticed that those with longer headache duration have a higher prevalence of IBS 52.4% (p-value= 0.050); also, those with a family history of migraine had a higher prevalence of IBS 43.1% (p-value= 0.019). In the food allergy analysis, 27.6% of the patients were having food allergies. We have found that people allergic to citrus, coffee, and dairy products are more likely to develop IBS symptoms. We have found that the prevalence of IBS was higher in those with mild and moderate forms of anxiety and depression.

Conclusion: In conclusion, there is an association of IBS in migraine patients attending Dubai Health Authority clinics, but further study is needed.
Review on Vertical Farming in Agricultural Area
Authors: Tyagi Uddeshya , Bashir Munaziha , Nayak Nishant , Mishra Saket , Kushwaha Akhilesh , Ekka Shashi Kant , Kujur Reena
Published: March 2024

Vertical farming has the capability to produce the food or any other services in urban areas which are related to it. The goals and vision of vertical farming is planned with the aim of generating sustainable cities around the world. The recent traditional farming approaches due to an imbalance in the environment. At the end it appears that the concept of the vertical farm in the city centre of urban area could solve various issues that is related to food production and environmental degradation. No crop harvests would fail by severe weather like droughts, floods and hurricanes etc. Hence the vertical farming aims at the making of the sustainable city environment that inspires the people to live there for the safe and the healthy environment that encourages the people to live there for the safe and healthy environment, cleaner air, safe drinking water, safe usage of public liquid waste, new employment chances, vertical farming has the benefit of a seasonally wet and warm weather. They can easily minimize cooling and heating water. Use of indoor temperature and artificial light and also have a plentiful amount of natural resources such as long hours of sunlight and enough water from daily rain to cultivate.
Maximization of Productivity and Water Saving through Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) in Rice under Tamil Nadu Irrigated Agriculture Modernization Project (TN IAMP) Aliyar Sub Basin Farmers of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Ayyadurai P  , Kathiravan M  , Muthukrishnan N  , Raju M  , Pazhanivelan S
Published: February 2024

TN IAMP-II Aliyar sub basin scheme operated by Agricultural College and Research Institute (TNAU), Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu state has conducted large-scale front-line demonstrations on Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) practice in transplanted paddy growing in 11 villages of Tiruvannamalai district at 100 farmer’s holdings during kharif season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. The data on productivity, economics and water saving in demonstrated plots were compared with Flood irrigation 1200 mm (Farmer practice). The demonstrated plot yield was 64.2 q / ha compared with farmer practice (51.7 q / ha). The yield increase was 24.3 per cent. The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 12.6 q ha-1, 5.8 q ha-1 and 8.29 per cent, respectively. The higher gross return (Rs. 128,443 ha-1), higher net return (Rs. 74,319ha-1) and B: C (2.38) was observed in demonstrated plot compared to farmers’ practice plot (Flood irrigation). Higher yield and returns due to reduced cost of cultivation, higher grain yield, net returns and more water saving in AWDI (24.7%).Water depth of 5 cm was maintained in the demo plot (T2) over the farmer’s practice (T1) (Water depth 30.0 cm) and the field water level was measured by Field water Tube. Created awareness and motivated the farmers to adopt AWDI practices in TN IAMP Phase II Aliyar sub basin of Tiruvannamalai district.
Fixed Point Theorems for Kannan Interpolative, Riech Interpolative and Dass-Gupta Interpolative Rational type Contractions in A-Metric Spaces
Authors: Yadav Sheetal , Ughade Manoj , Singh Deepak Singh , Shukla Manoj Kumar
Published: February 2024

(\(\lambda\), \(\alpha\))- interpolative Kannan contraction, (\(\lambda\), \(\alpha\), \(\beta\))- interpolative Kannan contraction, (\(\lambda\), \(\alpha\), \(\beta\), \(\gamma\))- interpolative Riech contraction and (\(\lambda\), \(\alpha\), \(\beta\))- interpolative Dass-Gupta rational contraction are presented in this study. Furthermore, we prove a few fixed-point theorems for interpolative contractions in complete A-metric spaces. These theorems also extend and apply to an A-metric setting several interesting results from metric fixed-point theory.
Comparison of the Functional and Dimensional Characteristics of Two Drinking Water Treatment Plants: Case of Goudel II and Goudel III, Niamey Niger
Authors: Mahamadou Ousman , Harouna Souley , Hassan Abdourazakou Maman , Seibou Boureima , Souleymane Illou Issoufa , Ibrahim Mahamadou
Published: February 2024

This study compares the functional and dimensional characteristics of the two drinking water treatment systems at Niamey's Goudel I and Goudel II plants. The results of this study show that the Goudel factory produced 36,089,492 m3 in 2018, corresponding to an annual production yield of 94.98%. The average specific electrical energy consumption of the Goudel factory is 537 Wh/m3. The average daily production at Goudel is 98,875 m3 /d for a theoretical nominal capacity of 85,000 m3 /d, which was increased to 110,000 m3 /d in 2013 following work to improve the factory's capacity. Production peaks in April with approximately 320,7757 m3 /month or 106925 m3 /day on a 30-day operating basis. The production trough was reached in February with approximately 2,725,551 m3 /month or 97,341 m3 /day based on 28 operating days. Electricity consumption reached 1,357,861 kWh, corresponding to a specific consumption of 498 Wh/m3. The plant's annual electricity consumption is 19,014,670 kWh. In 2018, 934,793 litres of diesel were consumed, compared with 1,079,659 litres in 2017, a saving of 144,866 litres equivalent to CFAF 77,937,908. Although sectors II and III use the same processes and the same production capacity, the Goudel 2 sector appears to consume the most energy.
Studies on Cellulolytic Fungal Flora from Forests of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Jiotode Vaishnavi A , Kumbhar Chandrakant T. , Jadhav Ashok C. , Sali Vikrant M. , Khadtare Rajendra M. , Deshmukh Shwetali V , Mounica A
Published: February 2024

The present investigation was conducted to isolate effective cellulolytic fungal flora from soil samples collected from various forests in Maharashtra (India). The study aimed to determine hydrolytic zones and relative enzyme activity for selecting most efficient fungal isolates. Further, the isolates were identified using morphological identification technique.
Altogether 137 fungal isolates were obtained in the present study, collected from forests of Lonavala, Chandrapur, Mahabaleshwar, Gadchiroli and Bhandardara. The screening of these fungal isolates for cellulase production revealed that 41 isolates had varying degrees of cellulolytic activity. However, isolate C77 produced the largest clearance zone (4.8 cm) on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) medium. The relative enzyme activity, expressed as the cellulolytic index, ranged from 1.1 to 3.5 among the 41 fungal isolates. Notably, C65 displayed the  highest cellulolytic index, indicating superior enzyme activity, while other isolates like G5X, B24 and M145 also exhibited significant cellulolytic activity. From the present investigation it is  concluded that Aspergillus terreus Thom, Trichoderma spp. Aff. T. harzianum Rifai, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Aspergillus spp. Aff. A. flavus Link isolated from the forests of Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Bhandardara and Mahabaleshwar, respectively, were the most efficient cellulose degrading fungi.
Investigation of Microplastics Contamination in African Catfish Clarias gariepinus and Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus Fish Species in Owe River Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Samuel Olanipekun O. , Olamide Olanipekun O. , Kazeem Gbadamosi O.
Published: March 2024

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the presence of microplastics (MPs) contamination in surface water and two fish species (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) in Owe River. One Litre (1 L) of water samples were collected from four different locations along the river in triplicates, samples were digested to remove organic matters. Eighteen (18) numbers of fishes were collected for each species. Samples collected were dissected and the guts excised were digested with 10% Potassium hydroxide and 10% Hydrogen Peroxide. Both digested water and fish samples were filtered using 0.45µm membrane through a vacuum filtration apparatus. The filter papers were then observed under digital microscope (1600X RoHS China) for MPs identification.  MPs were classified into colours and shapes. A total of 104 items was found in the gut of both fish species with an average of 4.33 ± 1.71 and 1.44 ± 0.70 items/individual for Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus respectively. Fiber was seen to be dominant in fish species compared to other MPs shapes identified.The abundance of MPs in the water samples ranged from 203 ± 50.64 to 724.33 ± 129.89 Items/L with a total of 1898± 198.34 Items/L. Most of the recovered MPs from river water samples were fragments. Attenuated total reflectance– Fourier transform infrared (ATR – FTIR) spectroscopic analyses led to the identification of four (4) plastic polymer types, with polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) jointly constituting 82 % of the plastic particles. The enormous anthropogenic activities and indiscriminate disposal of plastic themed wastes along the river course are notably contributing factors to the MPs contamination of Owe River. A serious monitoring of waste disposal and necessary mitigation process is advised.
In vitro Screening of Natural Metarhizium spp. Isolates for Bioinsecticidal and Biofungicidal Activity
Authors: Doolotkeldieva Tinatin , Tolonbekova Sagynych , Bobusheva Saykal
Published: February 2024

Aims: To increase conidia production of local Metarhizium spp—strains by selecting the low-cost media to test obtained bioformulation against the sucking pests and fungal plant pathogens.
Study Design:  The phytophages like black bean aphid (Aphis fabae), a scale insect (Aspidiotus nerii) and spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) are economically essential pests in Kyrgyzstan. The current requirement is to use environmentally friendly protection to reduce the number of these pests. The entomopathogenic fungus from the Metarhizium genus was used to reduce harmful pests in vitro and in vivo experiments.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Protection, Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University between May 2021 and May 2023.
Methodology: Natural Metarhizium spp. strains were isolated from dead insect bodies of the Lepidoptera and Apidae families. A laboratory bioassay was conducted to evaluate isolated Metarhizium spp.strains against nymphal stages and adults of sucking pests like A. fabae ((Blackfly), A.nerii (Scale insect) and T.urticae (Spider mite). The inhibitory effect of Metarhizium spp.against Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria spp. and Rhizoctonia solani was detected using a dual culture technique.
Results: The results of in vitro bioassay tests against sucking pests have revealed the LC50 and LT50 values of TLK-1 isolate. The LC50 of this isolate for A. fabae adults was 1 × 106 conidia\ mL-1; for A.nerii, it was lower - 7 × 105 conidia\ ml-1; while for adults T.urticae it was higher- 13 × 106 conidia \ ml-1. Such mortality occurred after 49.63 hours in adults of A. fabae (LT50), after 46.30 hours in A.nerii (LT50), and after 75.87 hours in deutonymph and adults of T. urticae (LT50). Three isolates, TLK-1, TLA-2 and BZТК1, have exhibited biofingicide activity in pathogen fungi like Fusarium oxysporum and Alternaria spp.
Conclusion: The found isolates can be simultaneously used against pathogenic fungi, essential for developing inexpensive biological formulas based on these fungi.
Immediate Effect of Photobiomodulation on pH and Salivary Flow and Its Preliminary Outcome
Authors: Fernandes Juliana Terra , Barros Ana Carolina Santos Menezes , Reis Heloísa Rafaela Lira Ramos dos , Santos Rosana Ferreira dos , Iora Luísa Mazzeo Buchara , Rocha Samantha Patrícia Matuck , Nammour Samir , Júnior Aldo Brugnera , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Motta Lara Jansiski
Published: February 2024

Xerostomia, a common side effect of radiotherapy, can significantly impact patients' quality of life. This study aimed to compare the immediate effects of infrared light photobiomodulation on salivary flow and pH in individuals experiencing xerostomia. Twenty adults with xerostomia participated in the study, divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) received extraoral photobiomodulation treatment, and Group 2 (G2) received both intra and extraoral treatment. Stimulated saliva was collected before and immediately after light application. In G1, the photobiomodulation was applied using a cluster (808 nm, 120 mW, 24J), while G2 received treatment with a pointer (808 nm, 100mW, 6J per point). The results confirmed our hypothesis, showing a statistically significant increase in immediate salivary flow stimulation with the headgear technique (G1) (p= 0.037). Analyzing the percentage of volume variation (ml) per minute, the average salivary flow increased from 0.86 ml/min to 1.2 ml/min after extraoral application with an infrared laser cluster, representing a 7% increase. In conclusion, the protocol involving only extraoral application was effective in stimulating salivary flow. Further research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms behind these differences and optimize photobiomodulation techniques for xerostomia management. This study found that using external infrared photobiomodulation can immediately increase salivary flow in xerostomia patients, potentially offering a comfortable and effective symptom management method. It emphasizes the need for refining these techniques and further research to understand long-term effectiveness.
The Preferred Learning Styles of Clinical Medical Students at the Imo State University, Orlu, South East Nigeria
Authors: Azike Jerome Emeka , Enwere Oguamanam Okezie
Published: March 2024

Students have preferences in the way they internalize information. The VARK – an acronym for Visual, Aural, Read/Write and Kinesthetic questionnaire, tests students choices for preferred mode of internalizing information. The VARK questionnaire were administered to 400 level and 600 level medical students, a total of 123 of them participated in the study. Majority of them 89.4% preferred the multimodal mode of information reception while 10.56% were unimodal. A further analysis of the multimodals showed that females generally were quadmodal in their preferred sensory reception while the males were mainly trimodal.

Overall, as regards individual VARK component, Kinesthetic was more common (29.8%) among males (31.6%) while Read/write was more common among the females (29.6%).
Assessment of Genetic Variability for Seed Yield and Related Traits in Some Mutant and Non-mutant Lines of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)
Authors: Devi Salam Alisha , Barua P. K. , Phukan A.
Published: March 2024

A study was conducted to evaluate the genetic variability for seed yield and related traits in 29 genotypes of Indian mustard during Rabi 2019-20 and Rabi 2020-21 at Experimental Farm, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, AAU, Jorhat. The genotypes comprised of 21 M4-5 mutant lines developed by gamma irradiation of the parent varieties TM-2 and PM-27, 5 newly developed F6-7 lines, and 3 check varieties (TM-2, PM-27 and NRCHB-101). Pooled analysis of variances over the years revealed significant variation for most of the characters observed. The characters seed yield per plant, number of primary branches per plant and number of secondary branches per plant exhibited moderate genetic variation. Moderate heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for number of secondary branches per plant whereas, number of primary branches per plant showed high heritability with moderate genetic advance. The genotypes JMM-TM2-17, JMM-TM2-15, JMM-TM2-34, JMM-TM2-10, JMM-PM27-1, JM13-6 and the variety NRCHB-101 were found promising for most of the yield attributing characters. The mutant line JMM-TM2-28 and recombinant line JM13-4 may be exploited for the development of early-maturing mustard varieties.
IMPLEMENTATION OF GOOD CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND CREATIVE ACCOUNTING ON FINANCIAL REPORTING QUALITY
Authors: Komalasari Erni , Bertuah Eka
Published: March 2024

This research aimed to test whether the implementation of governance in banking in Indonesia influenced the possibility of unethical creative accounting which had an impact on the quality of banking financial reporting. The sample used in this research were accountants who worked at banks in the DKI Jakarta and Bandung areas, totaling 315 respondents. The data analysis technique used was the Structural Equation Model. The research results showed that the implementation of good governance influences the occurrence of unethical creative accounting and the quality of financial reports. The implementation of good governance also influenced the occurrence of creative accounting which had an impact on the quality of financial reports. This showed the importance of implementing good corporate governance in limiting the occurrence of creative accounting which led to unethical actions, to provide reliable quality financial reports for its users. This research contributed to empirical testing of decision-usefulness theory which states the need for rules that must be fulfilled in presenting accounting information reports so that they could be useful in making decisions for users.
The Beauty Standard Issue in Poster of Citra Hand and Body Lotion
Authors: Rosanti Agnes Emmilia Eka
Published: March 2024

Each of the countries of the world has its own beauty standard, including body image. Body image here includes the color and the style of the hair, the eyes shape and color, the shape of the face, and the body shape. Often, the agency hires a model, an actor, or an actress who has a good look and body image to do a photo and video shoot for the commercial, poster, magazine cover, and other media to make the media interesting, to persuade the customers to buy the product, and to show the beauty standard to the readers. Unfortunately, some readers feel so insecure because they do not have the same good body image as the model on the media. In Indonesia, there is a commercial that shows a beauty of woman comes from her white skin and that is Citra hand and Body Lotion. Whereas the beauty of a woman does not only come from her skin tone. Unfortunately, there are still Indonesian people who believe that woman must has white skin to fulfill the beauty standard. This analysis will use the poster of hand and body lotion product branded Citra as one of the media. This paper shows the analysis of the issue of the beauty standard of girl in a poster of Citra Hand and Body Lotion.
Starting from an Empty Plate: A Semiotic Study of Instant Noodle Advertisements during the Fasting Month of Ramadan in the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Natadjaja Listia
Published: March 2024

From the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 until 2022, Indomie has consistently issued advertisements during the fasting month of Ramadan. During this period, it is a challenge for food manufacturers to promote their products. In the case of Indomie’s advertisement, which started with an idea that visually displays an empty plate and is broadcast during the fasting month, is quite viral because it dares to advertise without displaying the products it sells. Interestingly, Indomie is still holding up empty plates for their advertisement in 2021. The continuity of the story that started with empty plates is what prompted me to continue the analysis of Indomie instant noodle ads that were aired during the fasting months of Ramadan during the pandemic in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The purpose of this research is to reveal the meaning and ideology of what is to be conveyed through these ads. Rolland Barthes' semiotic analysis method is considered suitable to analyze the mythology and ideology behind them. The presence of an empty plate shows the meaning of tolerance for fasting Muslims. Each advertisement describes this form of tolerance differently. Even though it is covered by religious, social, cultural, and economic discourses, the ideology of capitalism is still sensed in all the advertisements that are displayed.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Structure‐ and Shape‐Controlled Manganese Oxide Octahedral Molecular Sieve Nanomaterials
Authors: Li W.‐N. , Yuan J. , Shen X.‐F. , Gomez‐Mower S. , Xu L.‐P. , Sithambaram S. , Aindow M. , Suib S. L.
Published: April 2006

Highly uniform single‐crystal Na‐OMS‐2 (OMS: octahedral molecular sieve), pyrolusite, and γ‐MnO2 nanostructures with an interesting 3D urchinlike morphology have been successfully prepared using a hydrothermal method based on a mild and direct reaction between sodium dichromate and manganese sulfate. The crystal phases, shapes, and tunnel sizes of the manganese dioxide nanostructures can be tailored. Reaction temperature, concentrations of the reactants, and acidity of the solution play important roles in controlling the synthesis of these manganese dioxides. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies show that the nanomaterials obtained are constructed of self‐assembled nanorods. X‐ray diffraction and TEM results indicate that the constituent manganese dioxide particles are single‐crystalline materials. Energy dispersive X‐ray analysis and magnetic studies imply that chromium cations may be incorporated into the framework and/or tunnels of the manganese dioxides. A mechanism for the growth of manganese dioxides with urchinlike architectures is proposed.
Synthesis and Molluscicidal Activity of Some 1,3,4‐Triaryl‐5‐chloropyrazole, Pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazole, Pyrazolylphthalazine and Pyrano[2,3‐d]thiazole Derivatives
Authors: Abdelrazek Fathy M. , Michael Farid A. , Mohamed Alaa E.
Published: April 2006

2‐(5‐Chloro‐1,3‐diphenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐ylmethylene)‐malononitrile 1a reacts with the arylidenes of malononitrile 2a–d to afford the triaryl‐5‐chloropyrazoles 3a–d, respectively. 1a reacts with the active methylene pyrazolinones 5a, b and 12a, b to afford different products 8, 9, 10, 11, and 14a, b – depending on the substitution in the pyrazole ring. Compound 1a reacts also with the pyridazinone derivative 15 to afford the phthalazinone 16, and with the thiazolinones 17a–c to afford the pyrano[2,3‐d]thiazoles 20a–c, respectively. It reacts also with the malononitrile dimer 21a and with ethyl cyanoacetate dimer 21b to yield the pyrazolyl pyridines 22a, b, respectively. The synthesized compounds showed a moderate molluscicidal activity towards Biomphalaria alexandrina snails.
LacO‐LacI interaction in affinity adsorption of plasmid DNA
Authors: Forde Gareth M. , Ghose Siddhartha , Slater Nigel K.H. , Hine Anna V. , Darby Richard A.J. , Hitchcock Anthony G.
Published: April 2006

Current approaches for purifying plasmids from bacterial production systems exploit the physiochemical properties of nucleic acids in non‐specific capture systems. In this study, an affinity system for plasmid DNA (pDNA) purification has been developed utilizing the interaction between the lac operon (lacO) sequence contained in the pDNA and a 64mer synthetic peptide representing the DNA‐binding domain of the lac repressor protein, LacI. Two plasmids were evaluated, the native pUC19 and pUC19 with dual lacO3/lacOs operators (pUC19lacO3/lacOs), where the lacOs operator is perfectly symmetrical. The DNA‐protein affinity interaction was evaluated by surface plasmon resonance using a Biacore system. The affinity capture of DNA in a chromatography system was evaluated using LacI peptide that had been immobilized to Streamline™ adsorbent. The KD‐values for double stranded DNA (dsDNA) fragments containing lacO1 and lacO3 and lacOS and lacO3 were 5.7 ± 0.3 × 10−11 M and 4.1 ± 0.2 × 10−11 M respectively, which compare favorably with literature reports of 5 × 10−10–1 × 10−9 M for native lacO1 and 1–1.2 × 10−10 M for lacO1 in a saline buffer. Densitometric analysis of the gel bands from the affinity chromatography run clearly showed a significant preference for capture of the supercoiled fraction from the feed pDNA sample. The results indicate the feasibility of the affinity approach for pDNA capture and purification using native protein‐DNA interaction. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequential gene expression changes in cancer cell lines after treatment with the demethylation agent 5‐Aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine
Authors: Arai Makoto , Yokosuka Osamu , Hirasawa Yuichi , Fukai Kenichi , Chiba Tetsuhiro , Imazeki Fumio , Kanda Tatsuo , Yatomi Mari , Takiguchi Yuichi , Seki Naohiko , Saisho Hiromitsu , Ochiai Takenori
Published: April 2006

BACKGROUND

5‐Aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (5‐AzaC) is known well for its demethylation effect and is a promising anticancer agent. However, to the authors' knowledge, serial changes in gene expression over time after 5‐AzaC treatment have not been studied to date. To clarify the categories of genes that are up‐regulated or down‐regulated after 5‐AzaC treatment, the authors surveyed the genes that had expression levels changed by 5‐AzaC treatment in 6 hepatoma cell lines (Hep3B, HLE, Huh7, HepG2, PLC/PRF/5, and Huh6).

METHODS

Cell lines were grown in medium that contained 1 μM of 5‐AzaC. Changes in messenger RNA levels were monitored from 24 hours up to 120 hours after 5‐AzaC treatment using an in‐house microarray that consisted of 4608 combinational DNAs. Using clustering analysis to identify the genes that had gradually changed expression levels and to exclude the substantial experimental noise by microarray analysis, the authors focused on 206 up‐regulated genes and 248 down‐regulated genes.

RESULTS

According to their functional characterization, genes that were involved in the cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix were enriched significantly in the up‐regulated genes. Conversely, genes that were involved in metabolism were enriched significantly in the down‐regulated genes.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results demonstrated that 5‐AzaC can regulate the expression of groups of genes with characteristic functions. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Polymerization kinetics and mechanical characterization of new formulations of light‐cured dental sealants
Authors: Osorio Estrella , Osorio Raquel , Davidenko Natalia , Sastre Roberto , Aguilar Jose A. , Toledano Manuel
Published: April 2006

The aim of the study was to develop and evaluate the in vitro performance of a new and simplified formulation of photocuring resin to be used as dental sealant. Two experimental dental sealants (CYTED1 and CYTED2) were formulated and their kinetic of polymerisation and physico‐chemical properties were studied and compared to those of two commercially available sealants (Helioseal, Delton‐FS). Rates of photoinitiated polymerisation (Rp), as well as the conversions and the quantum yields of polymerisation (ϕp) were calculated. Flexural strength, Young′s modulus, microhardness, microleakage, water sorption, and solubility were also tested. ANOVA, Student‐Newman‐Keuls, Pearson correlation and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used (p < 0.05). The highest Rp and ϕp were obtained for the sealant CYTED2, Rp and ϕp were similar for CYTEDl and Helioseal, and the lowest for Delton. Water sorption values were similar for Helioseal and CYTED2 being higher for CYTED1 and lower for Delton. No differences were found for solubility and microleakage values. Mechanical properties were better for Delton and no differences were found within the rest of the sealants. At short irradiation times (30 s), the maximum effectiveness of the photoinitiating system was obtained by the experimental CYTED2. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Frontiers of brain mapping using MRI
Authors: Harel Noam , Uǧurbil Kâmil , Uludaǧ Kâmil , Yacoub Essa
Published: April 2006

Over the past dozen years, the use of MRI techniques to map brain function (fMRI) has sparked a great deal of research. The ability of fMRI to image several different physiological processes concurrently (i.e., blood oxygenation, blood flow, metabolism) and noninvasively over large volumes make it the ideal choice for many different areas of neuroscience research in addition to countless applications in clinical settings. Furthermore, with the advent of high magnetic fields (and other hardware advancements, i.e., parallel imaging) for both human and animal research, spatial and temporal resolutions continue to be pushed to higher levels because of increases in the sensitivity as well as specificity of MR‐detectable functional signals. fMRI methodology continues to grow and has the ability to cater to many different research applications. There seems to be no foreseeable end in sight to the advancement of fMRI techniques and its subsequent use in basic research as well as in clinical settings. In this work, fMRI techniques and the ongoing development of existing techniques are discussed with implications for the future of fMRI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The clinical potential of functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Jezzard Peter , Buxton Richard B.
Published: April 2006

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has had a huge impact on understanding the healthy human brain. To date it has had much less impact in clinical neuroscience or clinical practice. The reasons for this are in part that the image acquisition, paradigm design, and data analysis strategies used presently are not sufficiently standardized. This makes the comparison of results across individuals, scanning sessions, and centers difficult. Nevertheless, there are emerging applications for clinical fMRI, and as the field matures the number of applications is likely to grow. It seems certain that fMRI has an important role to play in helping us understand the mechanisms of neuropsychiatric diseases and in helping to identify effective therapeutic strategies. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical applicability of functional MRI
Authors: Detre John A.
Published: April 2006

Functional MRI (fMRI) has become the most widely used modality for examining human brain function in basic and clinical neuroscience. As compared to the application of fMRI in basic neuroscience research, clinical fMRI presents unique challenges. A growing body of literature supports the feasibility of clinical fMRI, with the best‐studied applications being localization of motor cortex and lateralization of language. While it may be tempting to assume that fMRI will supercede prior approaches, it may turn out that fMRI will be used to complement more difficult or invasive methods rather than replace them entirely. This article focuses on fMRI studies in patients and patient populations. Specific considerations for such applications include pathophysiological effects on functional physiology, brain–behavior correlations in the presence of cognitive or sensorimotor deficits, and test‐retest reliability for longitudinal studies. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Future prospects for fMRI in the clinic
Authors: Gregory Sorensen A.
Published: April 2006

Functional MRI (fMRI) has tremendous clinical potential that is as yet unrealized. There are tremendous unmet medical needs that fMRI could address with significant benefit to human health. However, both medical and technical barriers prevent this benefit from accruing today. Technical barriers may be the reflexive focus of the current practitioners of fMRI, a technically savvy group. However, the real challenge lies in the medical realm, and this will require multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary work since the technical aspects of fMRI are ahead of the medical aspects. This can be seen in a range of diseases from Alzheimer's disease to schizophrenia to ischemic stroke: in each case our ability to image changes with fMRI outstrips our ability to do anything useful for the patient with them. Diagnostic imaging will always be linked in the clinic to therapeutic choices, and therefore the most powerful approach to link fMRI more directly to the clinic will be to tie fMRI to therapy development and implementation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pathophysiological advantages of rinsing‐suction‐reaming (RSR) in a pig model for intramedullary nailing
Authors: Schult Marc , Küchle Raphael , Hofmann Alexander , Schmidt‐Bräkling Tom , Ortmann Christian , Wassermann Esther , Schmidhammer Robert , Redl Heinz , Joist Alexander
Published: April 2006

Although reamed intramedullary nailing has been one of the greatest advances in modern fracture care, the concomitant increase in medullary cavity pressure leads to intravasation of bone marrow content into the blood stream, an effect that can evoke serious systemic reactions. A newly developed rinsing‐suction‐reamer (RSR) was able to substantially reduce the pressure and bone marrow intravasation content during experimental femoral nailing. We investigated the pathophysiological effects using the RSR, testing the hypothesis that by reducing marrow fat embolization, RSR would also reduce the activation of coagulation compared with the universial AO‐Reamer (AOR) and comparable to external fixation. Twenty‐two pigs were treated with either simulated external fixation or reamed femoral nailing using AOR or RSR. During surgery, the intramedullary pressure was measured and intravasation of medullary material was quantified. After surgery, the pigs were kept anaesthetised and monitored for 6 h. At defined intervals, serological, hematological, and hemodynamic parameters were evaluated. The RSR was significantly superior when compared to AOR with regard to the generation of intramedullary pressure and fat embolization; however, with external fixation the values were even lower. The evaluation of other parameters revealed no clear differences between the two reamers and the external fixator. The pig model showed that RSR led to a significant reduction of the intramedullary increase in pressure and fat intravasation compared to AOR. Although the reduction of fat embolism by RSR is not associated with pathophysiological changes, RSR can have advantages for the treatment of femoral fractures. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res