bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Yoga Nidra on Perceived Stress Section in Individuals with High Blood Pressure: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Tanna Krima , Khatri Subhash
Published: January 2024

Introduction: A persistently high level of stress can lead to a variety of diseases, such as anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, muscle discomfort, high Blood Pressure (BP) and a compromised immune system. Although 15% of adults in India suffer from hypertension, significant progress has been made in preventing and managing this condition. One alternative form of treatment that may help with stress management and BP regulation is Yoga Nidra. Aim: To assess the effect of Yoga Nidra on perceived stress in Individuals with High Blood Pressure. Materials and Methods: The present quasi-experimental study was conducted at various medical and physiotherapy Outpatient Departments (OPDs) in Veraval, Gujarat, India, from June 2021 to September 2022. A total of 49 individuals diagnosed with high BP, including both prehypertensive and hypertensive individuals (with BP >120/80 mmHg), were selected. Essential demographic information was gathered from the participants, who were also asked to complete the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire. Participants were introduced to the concept of Yoga Nidra and provided with instructions on how to perform the Yoga Nidra technique. They engaged in 12 sessions of this technique. After completing these 12 sessions, participants once again completed the PSS questionnaire. Since the collected data did not exhibit a normal distribution, a paired t-test was conducted at a significance level of 95%. Results: Out of 49 study participants, 22 (45%) were females and 27 (55%) were males, and mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age was 47.86±10.62 years. The analysis revealed a significant reduction in PSS scores following the Yoga Nidra sessions (p-value=0.0001). Additionally, both Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) showed decrease with a p-value of 0.0001. Conclusion: Yoga Nidra has a significant effect on reducing perceived stress in individuals with high blood pressure, along with a reduction in blood pressure. This research provides valuable findings regarding the potential of Yoga Nidra as an additional relaxation therapy to help manage hypertension and enhance overall well-being.
Analysis of Antinuclear Antibody Test Referral Patterns in a Tertiary Care Hospital over Three Years: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Rammohan MVNL , Begum Sayeeda , Sudhaharan Sukanya , Talasila Sudha , Teja Vijay Dharma
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) detection by Human Epithelial Substrate (Hep2) is the recommended screening test for the diagnosis of ANA-Associated Rheumatic Diseases (AARD). ANA is ordered by various specialists in a tertiary care hospital, and a positive ANA result is followed by testing for specific autoantibodies. High pretest probability, pattern type with intensity, and referral departments are key factors determining the autoimmune diagnosis. Aim: To analyse the ANA referral patterns among the various departments and also to estimate the prevalence and clinical significance of rare ANA patterns. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, a tertiary care hospital, in Hyderabad, Telangana, India where ANA test reports (n=16,994) from various departments over three years (November 2017 to October 2020) were evaluated between November 2022 to December 2022. ANA tests were performed on Hep2 substrate at a 1:100 dilution, and ANA patterns were reported according to the International Consensus on ANA Patterns (ICAP) nomenclature. Statistical analysis of department- wise ANA positivity and fluorescence intensity was conducted, and the final diagnoses of patients with rare ANA patterns (<1%) were noted from clinical records. Fischer's-exact test was used for comparing categorical variables, considering p-value <0.05 as statistically significant. Results: The majority of ANA requests were from the Rheumatology department (5859; 34.5%), followed by nephrology (3132; 18.4%), neurology (1940; 11.4%), general medicine (1646; 9.7%), haematology (1106; 6.5%), and casualty (878; 5.2%), accounting for 85.6% of total referrals. The highest percentage of positivity among ANA referrals was observed in Rheumatology (333; 5.7%), with 58% of positive ANA showing 4+ intensity. No positives were observed from many surgical departments. Rare ANA patterns with a prevalence of less than 1% were observed in 22 patients with mitotic patterns accounting for the majority of rare patterns seen in 11 out of 22 (50%) cases followed by nuclear envelope, rods rings, and nuclear dense fine speckled patterns were observed in six, four, and one patient(s), respectively. The majority of rare ANA patterns had 2+ fluorescence intensity without any associated autoimmune diagnosis. Conclusion: The highest and lowest positivity among ANA referrals were observed in the rheumatology and surgical departments, respectively. Considering the pretest probability of AARD before ordering an ANA test would lead to the optimum utilisation of laboratory services. Mitotic patterns constituted the majority of rare ANA patterns and need to be clinically correlated with antibody titers.
Varicella Seroprevalence among Healthcare Workers: A Pilot Study from a Tertiary Care Centre in Northern India
Authors: Nasir Reyaz , Farhana Anjum , Wani Sanam , Fazili Tawhida , Maroof Peer , Zahoor Danish
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Susceptible Healthcare Workers (HCWs) lacking immunity to Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) can get infected and spread the infection to their patients. Effective screening can help in early vaccination to limit nosocomial transmission of VZV. Aim: To assess the seroprevalence of VZV among HCWs. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based pilot study where serum samples were collected from 201 HCWs working in different departments of the Government Medical College, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India and its eight associated hospitals over a period from January 2021 to February 2021, after obtaining their consent to participate in the study. Samples were tested for VZV Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies using the Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) method (NovaLisaVZVIgG, ELISA Kit). Variables including age, sex, professional category, history of varicella infection, and VZV vaccination were collected in a proforma. Statistical analysis was done using Open Epi version 3.01. Results: The overall prevalence of antibodies to varicella was 150/196 (76.53%). HCWs had equivocal results in 4 (2.04%) cases. An age-related increase in seroprevalence was observed. Only 6/196 (3.06%) participants were vaccinated against VZV, and 38/196 (19.39%) participants had a history of VZV infection in the past. Conclusion: The present study found a significant proportion of HCWs susceptible to VZV, making them potentially at risk of acquiring and transmitting the infection. This reinforces the need for screening HCWs against VZV and vaccinating them whenever necessary to protect the patients.
Exploring the Transformation of Food Waste into Bioplastic Materials: A Review
Authors: Andriani Yuli , Rahma Cahyaningtyas , Pratama Rusky I.
Published: January 2024

Plastics, commonly encountered in forms such as packaging, household items, office supplies, electronics, and more, are typically conventional plastics derived from petroleum synthesis. The environmental issues posed by conventional plastics, which do not naturally degrade, necessitate a solution. An effective approach to address this challenge involves substituting conventional plastics, synthesized from petroleum, with biodegradable plastics made from natural materials. This article employs a literature review methodology, exploring research journals that cover a spectrum of bioplastics topics, including definitions, applications, advantages, natural ingredients, and final bioplastic products. Bioplastics, crafted from natural materials, possess the ability to decompose through microbial action, rendering them more environmentally friendly. Utilizing agricultural and fishery waste as sources of natural materials, such as cassava peels, fruit seeds, seaweed, fish scales, starch and cellulose content for bioplastic production. Bioplastic applications extend across various sectors, encompassing packaging, catering, electronics, automotive, agriculture, horticulture, toys, textiles, and more.
Evaluation of the Influence of oral administration of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Sida acuta on Lipid Profile and Body Weight of Wistar Rats
Authors: Mbanaso Ebere Lolly , Nweke Elizabeth Obioma , Ejiofor Dominic Chinedu , Samson Abanni , Chinedu Iheukwumere Barry , Emeka Ngwu Ernest
Published: January 2024

Abnormalities in serum lipid profiles play a central role in endothelial functional abnormality which is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis including coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral vascular diseases. Hepatic damage disturbs hepatic functions such as lipid metabolism which can translate to a distorted lipid profile. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of oral administration of Sida acuta on the lipid profile and body weight of Wistar rats. Freshly harvested leaves of Sida acuta was dried under room temperature and afterwards ground to powder which was subsequently processed into extract. Thirty adults male Wistar rats were divided into five groups of five rats each. Group I (normal control) was administered with 2 ml of distilled water, groups II–VI were induced hepatic damage. While group II was left untreated, groups III-V were administered with 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg of aqueous extract of Sida acuta (AESD) respectively. Group VI was administered with silymarin (standard drug). Treatment lasted for 28 days after which animals were humanely sacrificed and blood sample collected for analysis. Treatment with extract significantly (P<0.05) reduced the activities of the liver enzymes; aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP). While the serum levels of TC, TG, HDL and LDL reported for group II were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those reported for the normal control. Oral administration of extract significantly (p<0.05) reduced the levels of TC, TG, HDL and LDL reported for groups III-V. Oral administration of extract did not adversely affect the body weight of animals. In conclusion, it can be deduced from this study that oral administration of Sida acuta reversed a distorted lipid profile and did not result in weight loss.
The Multidimensional Tourism Carrying Capacity Model for Zanzibar
Authors: Hatibu Semboja Haji
Published: January 2024

Zanzibar as a tourist destination nation is experiencing strong tourism growth, with high tourism intensity and with high seasonality is bound to be subject to considerable negative effects related to the amount of tourists visiting their area. Therefore, determining the tourism carrying capacity of Zanzibar is thus vital national policy issue to ensure a balance between achieving optimal tourism development without compromising the delicate environmental, economic and social structure. The paper develops and proposes the Multidimensional Tourism Carrying Capacity Model, (MDTCC) to be used assess and establish the tourism carrying capacity of Zanzibar. The paper considers the tourism carrying capacity (TCC), as a national policy target variable and complex function of six interdependent dimensional and subsystems variables, namely, Economy, Ecology or Nature, Social, Culture, Heritage, and Political. In turn, these independent subsystems are defined as complex functions of other endogenous, exogenous factors, parameters, and series of pre-outcomes. The MDTCC is determined according to mathematical rules as there are seven relations; to be determined by the seven endogenous variables as policy target variables. The empirical MDTCC Model is proposed to be used to investigate performances or behaviour of policy target variables given variations of other endogenous, exogenous factors and parameters. The quantitative MDTCC procedures to be adopted in the framework to evaluate each component are based on mathematically valid procedures and techniques associated to the complete ex-ante and ex-post evaluation monitoring processes, through all stages or phases; from the planning stages to reporting of results from the data and policy analysis.
Corporate Governance Mechanism and Financial Ratios on the Indonesia Stock Exchange: How do they Affect Financial Distress?
Authors: Hajaroh Siti Nur , Rahmawati Ika Yustina , Purwidianti Wida , Haryanto Totok
Published: January 2024

Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of institutional ownership, board of directors, audit committee, company size, and sales growth on financial distress.

Study Design: The population of this study consisted of 41 retail subsector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2019-2022 period. The total observation data is 164 and obtained 64 data samples that meet the criteria and 100 data samples that do not meet the criteria (Loss, Gray Area, Incomplete variables).  This research data comes from the company's annual financial statements.

Methodology: The data collection method is purposive sampling and the analysis technique is model fit test, coefficient of determination test, and logistic regression. Financial distress is calculated using the Altman Z-Score calculation, and hypothesis testing is tested using the SPSS 26 analysis tool.

Results: The results showed that good corporate governance proxied by the board of directors and audit committee has no effect on financial distress, while institutional ownership affects financial distress. Company size variables affect financial distress. While sales growth has no effect on financial distress.

Conclusion: Based on this study, it is known that institutional ownership has an effect on financial distress, meaning that the greater the percentage of institutional ownership will reduce the possibility of the company experiencing financial distress. The board of directors has no effect on financial distress, meaning that the number of directors in a company does not affect the occurrence of financial distress. The audit committee has no effect on financial distress, meaning that the number of audit committee members is not able to reduce the problem of financial distress. Company size has an effect on financial distress, meaning that a higher total asset value owned by company would reduce the probability of financial distress. Sales growth has no effect on financial distress, meaning that the high or low level of sales growth does not reflect that it can be followed by an increase in profits earned by the company. To avoid financial distress, it is done by higher percentage of institutional ownership, as well higher total asset value owned by the company properly.
Research on the Influencing Factors of Junior High School Students' Mathematical Operation Ability in China
Authors: Lu Dan , Yang Zezhong
Published: January 2024

Under the background of core literacy, how to improve the mathematical operation ability of junior high school students has received more and more attention in China. Therefore, many scholars explore the training strategies of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability by studying the influencing factors of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability. However, there are few general studies on the influencing factors of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability. This paper uses the literature analysis method to summarize the research on the influencing factors of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability since the core literacy of our country was put forward and draws the following conclusions: The researchers mainly include two categories: middle school teachers and master degree students. Middle school teachers often use the method of experience summary to explore the influencing factors of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability. Master degree students often study the influencing factors of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability through literature method, questionnaire survey method, interview method and statistical analysis method; The influencing factors obtained by predecessors mainly include objective and subjective aspects. Objective factors include school, social and family environment and teacher factors. The subjective factors mainly include five aspects: knowledge and skills, ability and thinking, interest, emotion attitude and habit; The influencing factors obtained by the predecessors are more extensive, but lack detailedness and specificity; Few researchers have verified the authenticity of the influencing factors. In the future, researchers can study the factors that affect the improvement of junior high school students' mathematical operation ability in a more detailed and specific way. The influencing factors, the authenticity of them can be verified by empirical research methods such as experimental methods.
A Comprehensive Exploration of Outcome-Based Education Principles and Practices
Authors: Sunra La , Aeni Nur , Sally Fauzan Hari Sudding
Published: January 2024

The concept of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) has become a paradigm shift in the field of education by placing a strong emphasis on student accomplishment and measurable learning outcomes. This study undertakes a thorough investigation of OBE practices and concepts, exploring its impact on pedagogical techniques, implementation strategies, and theoretical underpinnings. The paper tackles the essential elements of OBE, such as curriculum design, evaluation techniques, and the alignment of educational objectives with societal demands, by synthesizing recent literature and case experiences. In addition, the research critically analyzes obstacles and possible remedies related to OBE adoption, taking into account various educational environments. This thorough analysis fosters a deeper knowledge of OBE's implications for reshaping education by providing educators, policymakers, and academics with important insights into the complex environment of OBE.
Relative Adrenal Insufficiency in Full-Term and Preterm Neonates with Neonatal Sepsis
Authors: Elsheikh Reem Mohamed , Elmashad Abdelrahman Mohamed , Aboelenin Amany Mohamed , Elrifaey Shymaa Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Background: Neonatal sepsis is the third most common cause of death in newborns and a significant issue for public health, particularly in developing nations. This study aimed to assess the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) response in full-term and preterm newborns diagnosed with neonatal sepsis in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Methods: This cross-section observational research was done on neonates who were categorized into two main groups Group I: Sepsis neonates who were further subdivided into two groups according to the gestational age into 30 full-term neonates with neonatal sepsis and 30 preterm neonates with neonatal sepsis. Group II: Included 30 healthy control neonates.

Results: HSS score and C reactive protein (CRP) level were correlated with serum cortisol level at (9 am: r=-0.273, P<0.035 and r=-0.447, P<0.001), (9 pm: r=-0.447, P<0.001and r=-0.477, P<0.001) ACTH at (9 am: r=-0.314, P<0.015 and r=-0.377, P<0.003) and at (9 pm: r= -0.362, P<0.005 and r=-0.448, P<0.001)  and cortisol level post ACTH stimulation (r=-0.345, 0.007 and r=-0.497, P<0.001) respectively. Regarding inotropes, sepsis type and oxygen support there was significant difference between both groups.

Conclusions: 75% of the patients we evaluated with neonatal sepsis had relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI). ACTH and Cortisol values were correlated to CRP and HSS score as an inflammatory marker. This reflects suppressed HPA status in this critical clinical condition.
On the Numerical Approximation of Higher Order Differential Equation
Authors: Zirra Donald J. , Skwame Yusuf , Sabo John , Kwanamu Joshua A. , Daniel Silas
Published: January 2024

This research examines the general K - step block approach for solving higher order oscillatory differential equations using Linear Block Approach (LBA). The basic properties of the new method such as order, error constant, zero-stability, consistency, convergence, linear stability and region of absolute stability were also analyzed and satisfied. Some distinct fourth order oscillatory differential equation were directly applied on the new method in order to overcome the setbacks in reduction method, where the step size varies. The results obtained were compared with those in literature and the new method takes away the burden of solving fourth order oscillatory differential equations. The accuracy of the new method proved to be better as it outperformed those of existing methods. Therefore, from the results, the new method has shown better accuracy and faster convergence graphically. One of the advantage of the new method is that it does not require much computational burden and it is also self-starting.
Phytochemical Composition and Toxicological Profiling of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) Root Extract in Rats
Authors: John Ohiagu Chukwuemeka , Kalu Achi Ngozi , Christopher Ohaeri Obioma , Amarachi Osuji Chigozirim
Published: January 2024

Background: Curcuma longa Linn (turmeric) is a common medicinal plant used in Africa for the treatment of diseases. In this study, its extract was evaluated to ascertain its phytochemical composition and toxicity in wistar rats.

Methods: The prepared rhizome ethanol extract was first subjected to preliminary phytochemical evaluation and then lethal dose (LD50) test. In the sub-acute toxicity test, 20 adult wistar rats assigned to 4 groups of 5 rats each were administered oral graded doses of the extract. Group 1 served as control while groups 2, 3 and 4 received 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight of the extract over a period of 28 days, after which blood samples were collected for haematological and serum biochemical analyses.

Results: Results obtained from the phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides and alkaloids in extract, with alkaloids being most abundant (41.20+0.53 mg/100g)  and terpenoids, the least (3.98+0.03 mg/100g). Lethal dose value for the extract was found to be >5000mg/kg body weight. Results of sub-acute toxicity evaluation of the extract showed no deleterious effect on liver and kidney function parameters with these parameters being not significantly different from their control values (p<0.05). Treatment with the extract also caused significant hypolipidemia (p<0.05) but increased the values of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The activities of antioxidant enzymes and red blood cell counts were also significantly increased following treatment with the extract, especially at higher dose levels.

Conclusion: Therefore, we conclude that C. longa extract may be safe for use in the treatment of diseases when administered via the oral route.
Effect of Irrigation Scheduling and Different Sowing Dates on Water Productivity and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Kumar Pravesh , Singh Jaykar , Kumar Pradeep , Dheer Vineet , Yadav Rajat , Singh Krishna Kumar , Singh Raghvendra , Singh Anil Kumar
Published: January 2024

“Effect of moisture regime under different sowing dates of wheat crop (Triticum aestivum L.)” was investigated at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology, Ayodhya (U.P.) Agronomy Research Farm in rabi season 2021-22. Twelve main plot treatments included 15th November, 25th November, and 5th December sowing dates, while four sub plot treatments included irrigation at 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 IW/CPE ratios. Split plot design was used for three replications. Under 15th November sowing, all growth, yield, and characteristics rose dramatically. Irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio increased wheat shoot m-2, plant height (cm), dry matter accumulation (g m-2), yield characteristics, grain and straw yield (q ha-1) considerably. D113 (15 November planting with irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio) had the best net return and D1I2 (15 November sowing with irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE proportion) the highest B:C ratio (2.54). Wheat yields were highest when sown on November 15. Under 15th November planting, water use efficiency was highest (9.85 kg ha-1mm-1). Irrigation with 1.0 IW/CPE ratio had the maximum water usage efficiency (9.34 kg ha-1 mm-1). The 15 November seeding with irrigation at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio yielded the highest net return (1,17,124.00), making wheat farming profitable. Maximum B:C ratio (2.54) with I1D2 therapy.
Studies on Cryopreservation and Non- Cryopreservation on Seeds of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis)
Authors: Yadav Tushar , Topno Samir E. , Gupta Sandhya
Published: January 2024

This research paper focuses on the germination process of dragon fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis) seeds under different treatments and desiccation time intervals. The fruits of the Lisa variety, commonly referred to as Pitaya roja or red-fleshed pitaya, were gathered from plants cultivated in fields for this investigation. The study used a factorial design with treatments including distilled water, GA3, and KNO3, and desiccation time intervals ranging from 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 hours. The percentage of germination, moisture content, and air-desiccation duration were measured and analyzed. The findings provided insights into the optimal conditions for seed germination and the effects of different treatments on the germination process. The factorial design to evaluate the interaction between treatments and desiccation time intervals on the germination of dragon fruit seeds. The moisture content of the seeds decreased during the drying process, indicating the removal of moisture. The air-desiccation duration varied across different treatments and time intervals, with Experiment 1 showing higher mean values compared to Experiment 2. Best germination and seed viability was observed in the desiccated seeds as well as post-thaw seeds when treated with 0.1% KNO3. The research findings provide valuable insights into the speed of germination, the effectiveness of different treatments, and the impact of desiccation time intervals on the germination process of dragon fruit seeds.
Immunohistochemistry Analysis of Animals with Post-Ischemic Stroke Treated with LED
Authors: Fonseca Eliane Gonçalves de Jesus , Moreira Felipe Figueiredo , Dorigoni Bini Ana Carolina , Cordeiro Maria Elvira Ribeiro , Hosni Andressa Panegalli , Razera Amanda , Tyski Suckow Patricia Pacheco , Julik Angela Dubiela , Lopes Josiane , Kerppers Ivo Ilvan , Carraro Emerson
Published: January 2024

Objective: To evaluate the effects of 630nm LED and 904nm LED in animals                        subjected to ischemic stroke, using the immunohistochemistry of these animals as analysis parameters.

Methodology: The present work presents an experimental study with a controlled intervention that included 75 male Wistar rats. The animals were allocated into three groups: a control group consisting of 15 animals without treatment, a group treated with 630nm LED, and a group treated with0 904nm LED, composed of 30 animals each. All animals underwent stereotaxic surgery for electrode implantation and subsequent electrolyte injury. The results were compared on days 3, 7, and 21 of treatment after surgery.

Results: The immunohistochemical analysis showed an improvement in the inflammatory response and tissue repair of the animals of both groups treated.

Conclusion: The present study suggests that the treatments with 630nm LED and 904nm LED favored a significant response, which may be a promising technique because of its simplicity, low cost, and easy application.
Tuberculous Chylous Ascites in a HIV Infected Adolescent: Challenges of Management in a Low Resource Country
Authors: Asinobi Kingsley , Nwolisa Emeka , Ikejiaku Udochikwuka , Ezeogu Joseph , Odinaka Kelechi
Published: January 2024

Tuberculous chylous ascites is a challenging manifestation of tuberculosis which involves the accumulation of chyle, a milky fluid containing lymph and dietary fats, within the peritoneal cavity. It is an uncommon condition even in sub-Saharan Africa where the burden of tuberculosis (TB) is very high. While tuberculosis primarily affects the lungs, it can also target other organs, leading to various extrapulmonary manifestations like chylous ascites. Tuberculous chylous ascites is a result of the spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to the lymphatic system within the abdominal cavity. The infection triggers inflammation and obstruction of the lymphatic vessels, leading to the leakage of chyle into the peritoneal cavity.

When tuberculous chylous ascites occurs in a child with HIV/TB co-infection, it poses great challenges in management.

We present a case of a HIV/TB co-infected Nigerian adolescent with tuberculous chylous ascites.
Response of Integrated Nutrient Management on Crop Productivity and Soil Fertility under Rice–Wheat Cropping System in Chhattisgarh Plain Agro-Climatic Zone
Authors: Shrivastava A. K. , Thakur R. K. , Bisen N. K. , Rai S. K. , Sarvade S.
Published: January 2024

The study was conducted during 2016-2019 at farmer’s field under the Farmer FIRST Project (FFP), JNKVV-College of Agriculture, Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, to assess the impact of integrated nutrient management on crop productivity, soil nutrient balance, and the economics of the rice-wheat cropping systems. Application of 75% NPK + 2.5 t vermicompost/ha + biofertilizers (BGA & PSB) produced significantly higher grain yields of rice and wheat (4495 kg/ha and 3455 kg/ha, respectively) over the farmer practice (3855 kg/ha and 2655 kg/ha, respectively). Maximum nutrient uptake (N, P, and K) by rice and wheat crops was recorded in the treatment receiving 75% NPK + 5 t/ha vermicompost + biofertilizers. The conjunctive use of inorganic fertilizers along with organic manure and biofertilizers gave the highest availability of soil N, P, K and Zn at the post-harvest of the wheat crop as compared to other treatment combinations. Further, results showed that the highest cost of cultivation (₹ 72400/ha) and net returns (₹ 84380/ha) were obtained in 75% NPK + 2.5 t/ha vermicompost + biofertilizer treatments. The benefit-cost ratio computed for the rice-wheat cropping system suggested that a higher B:C ratio is associated with higher production and better quality of the produce.
A Dynamic Workflow Scheduling Method based on MCDM Optimization that Manages Priority Tasks for Fault Tolerance
Authors: M. Mohankumar , K. Balamurugan , G. Singaravel , S.R. Menaka
Published: January 2024

Because it offers efficient on-demand service delivery over the internet, cloud computing has become more and more popular. An architectural model for cloud computing energy management is provided by the suggested Ant Lion algorithm. Virtual Machines (VMs) in cloud systems are assigned to hosts based not so much on their overall and long-term use, but rather on their immediate resource consumption, including RAM availability. The placement and scheduling processes are frequently computationally demanding and have the potential to affect the performance of deployed virtual machines. In this research work, we offer a strategy that considers the historical resource use of virtual machines (VMs) over time while scheduling them in the cloud. Our goal is to use the Ant lion approach to schedule virtual machines (VMs) in a way that maximizes performance by evaluating the utilization levels of prior VMs. The goal is to reduce the degradation of performance brought about by Cloud administration tasks like as virtual machine deployment, which might impact systems that have already been installed. Furthermore, congested virtual machines (VMs) sometimes take up resources from nearby VMs, increasing the VMs' actual CPU use. Our results show that by learning and adjusting to system behavior over time, our strategy outperforms conventional instant-based physical machine selection. We offer the idea of scheduling virtual machines (VMs) using resource monitoring data from past VM resource use. By using the Ant lion classifier, four fewer physical machines are needed.
An EM‐based adaptive multiple target tracking filter
Authors: Jeong Hong , Park Jeong‐Ho
Published: October 2002

Tracking targets of interest is one of the major research areas in radar surveillance systems. We formulate the problem as incomplete data estimation and apply EM to the MAP estimate. The resulting filter has a recursive structure analogous to the Kalman filter. The advantage is that the measurement‐update deals with multiple measurements in parallel and the parameter‐update estimates the system parameters on the fly.

Experiments tracking separate targets in parallel show that tracking maintenance ratio of the proposed system is better than that of NNF and RMS position error is smaller than that of PDAF. Also, the system parameters are correctly obtained even from incorrect initial values. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct adaptive control for non‐linear uncertain systems with exogenous disturbances
Authors: Haddad Wassim M. , Hayakawa Tomohisa
Published: October 2002

A direct adaptive non‐linear control framework for multivariable non‐linear uncertain systems with exogenous bounded disturbances is developed. The adaptive non‐linear controller addresses adaptive stabilization, disturbance rejection and adaptive tracking. The proposed framework is Lyapunov‐based and guarantees partial asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop system; that is, asymptotic stability with respect to part of the closed‐loop system states associated with the plant. In the case of bounded energyL2disturbances the proposed approach guarantees a non‐expansivity constraint on the closed‐loop input–output map. Finally, several illustrative numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approach. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring the maximum capability of adaptive feedback
Authors: Guo Lei
Published: October 2002

The main purpose of adaptive feedback is to deal with dynamical systems with internal and/or external uncertainties, by using the on‐line observed information. Thus, a fundamental problem in adaptive control is to understand the maximum capability (and limits) of adaptive feedback. This paper gives a survey of some basic ideas and results developed recently in this direction, for several typical classes of uncertain dynamical systems including parametric and non‐parametric non‐linear systems, sampled‐data systems and time‐varying systems. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spontaneous gas gangrene in malignant lymphoma: An underreported complication?
Authors: García‐Suárez Julio , Miguel Dunia de , Krsnik Isabel , Barr‐Alí Mohammed , Hernanz Nuria , Burgaleta Carmen
Published: October 2002

We report a case of spontaneous gas gangrene (SGG), the most rapidly progressive form of clostridial infection, in a patient with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). We review the literature and examine the association between these two entities. A 43‐year‐old man with NHL developed fatal C. perfringens‐associated SGG and massive hemolysis during induction chemotherapy. Although patients with NHL usually have several risk factors of SGG, such as bowel involvement or neutropenia, only two cases have been described previously in detail. Common features of all reports are a delayed diagnosis and a fatal outcome. Awareness of this condition should result in prompt antibiotic therapy at the onset of typical presenting symptoms in any lymphoma patient, especially if risk factors are present. Am. J. Hematol. 70:145–148, 2002.© 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Baseline levels of plasma endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) and changes during transfusion in thalassemic patients
Authors: Viprakasit Vip , Kankirawatana Suthida , Akarasereenont Pravit , Durongpisitkul Kritvikrom , Chotewuttakorn Sirikul , Tanphaichitr Voravarn S.
Published: October 2002

We studied levels of plasma endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) in 25 β‐thalassemia/Hb E patients before and after blood transfusion. Baseline ET‐1 levels in these patients were significantly higher than in normal controls (10.17 ± 2.1 pg/mL vs. 8.9 ± 2.0 pg/mL, P < 0.05). After blood transfusion, levels of plasma ET‐1 tend to slightly increase during the first 24 hr but significantly decline at the 7th day to levels (8.01 ± 1.7 pg/mL) which do not differ from those of controls. This study highlights a different alteration of plasma ET‐1 in patients with β‐thalassemia compared to that of patients with sickle‐cell anemia. Am. J. Hematol. 70:260–262, 2002.© 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Independent effect of vitamin B12 deficiency on hematological status in older Chinese vegetarian women
Authors: Kwok T. , Cheng G. , Woo J. , Lai W.K. , Pang C.P.
Published: October 2002

We have examined the independent effect of vitamin B12 deficiency on hematological indices in older Chinese vegetarian women using a cross‐sectional study design: 119 women older than 55 years who had been vegetarian for more than 3 years were studied. Fasting blood samples were taken for complete blood count, serum iron, total serum iron binding capacity, serum iron saturation, serum vitamin B12, serum folate, serum methylmalonic acid levels (MMA), and renal function test. Subjects with iron deficiency (iron saturation <15%) and those with serum creatinine >150 mmol/L were excluded. The prevalence of definite vitamin B12 deficiency (vitamin B12 level < 150 pmol/L and MMA ≥ 0.4 μmol/L) was 42%. Another 32.8% had possible vitamin B12 deficiency (either criterion). The prevalence of iron deficiency was 10%. After exclusions, 96 subjects were further analyzed. Vitamin B12 deficiency defined by serum vitamin B12 and MMA was associated with a decrease in hemoglobin concentrations by up to 0.9 g/dL, but it was not associated with an increase in mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Serum MMA but not vitamin B12 levels correlated inversely with hemoglobin and platelet counts and positively with MCV, after adjustment of confounding factors. However, the percentage of subjects with anemia did not increase significantly until serum MMA became >1.0 μmol/L. In conclusion, vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with a significant decrease in hemoglobin concentration. However, anemia associated with vitamin B12 deficiency was seldom macrocytic. We recommend that older vegetarians should be given vitamin B12 supplements routinely. Am. J. Hematol. 70:186–190, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigations of micro‐organic brain damage (MOBD) in heterozygotes of metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Tylki‐Szymańska Anna , Ługowska Agnieszka , Chmielik Jolanta , Kotowicz Jerzy , Jakubowska‐Winecka Anna , Zobel Marta , Berger Johannes , Molzer Brunhilde
Published: October 2002

Potential damage of central and peripheral nervous system expressed as micro‐organic brain damage (MOBD) was investigated in 27 unrelated heterozygotes with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD). Arylsulfatase A (ARSA) was determined in peripheral blood leukocytes and sulfatide excretion was estimated in 24‐hour urine collections. Genomic DNA was analyzed for the ARSA pseudodeficiency (PD) allele by a PCR method. Clinical investigations included examination of hyper‐reflexia, Babinski reflex, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Benton test, evoked potentials, and nerve conduction velocity (NCV). In our study, a higher incidence of evident or possible micro‐organic brain damage was observed in true MLD/PD and MLD heterozygotes (NO/MLD, where NO means the wild allele) than in controls. On the basis of the Benton test, MOBD was suggested or indicated in 67% of MLD heterozygotes, 50% of MLD/PD heterozygotes, and 26% of controls. In our small group of carriers with MLD and PD mutations, persons NO/MLDPD with one wild‐type allele did not show MOBD and displayed higher ARSA/β‐galactosidase ratios, unlike true MLD/PD compound heterozygotes who carry MLD‐causing mutation in one allele and the ARSA‐PD polymorphism in the second. Theoretically, this is a shift from autosomal recessive to autosomal dominant‐like inheritance, especially when one cannot exclude the influence of polymorphisms (like ARSA‐PD) in the wild allele. Since all psychological tests were age‐matched, it can be assumed that the MOBD observed in MLD carriers does not have a progressive character unlike in MLD patients. However, it should be mentioned that MOBD appears to have no overt clinical consequences. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anorectal anomalies associated with or as part of other anomalies
Authors: Cuschieri Alfred ,   EUROCAT Working Group
Published: October 2002

Anorectal anomalies occurring with other anomalies or as part of syndromes were analyzed to determine how their epidemiological characteristics differed from those of isolated anal anomalies. Almost 15% of cases were chromosomal, monogenic or teratogenic syndromes, whereas the rest were of unknown cause including sequences (9.3%), VACTERL associations (15.4%) and multiple congenital anomalies (MCA) (60.2%). Almost half of babies with MCA had one or two VACTERL anomalies with distribution frequencies that did not differ significantly from those in babies with the full VACTERL association. There were considerable differences in the frequency of the VACTERL association among babies with different types of anorectal anomaly. Babies with anal anomalies occurring with sequences, VACTERL or MCA showed the same sex differences as babies with isolated anal anomalies, namely male predominance in anal atresia without fistula or cloaca, no sex difference in anal atresia with fistula, and female predominance in ectopic anus and congenital anal fistula. These anomalies, however, were associated with significantly lower mean gestational lengths and birth weights, and higher frequencies of fetal death and pregnancy termination than babies with isolated anal anomalies. Twins were more frequent in sequences, VACTERL and MCA than in isolated anomalies, monogenic syndromes or chromosome anomalies. Five cases were conjoined twins, representing 15% of all cases of twin pregnancies with an anal anomaly. Indeterminate sex was more frequent in babies with anal atresias without fistula than in those with fistula. Anal anomalies are defects of blastogenesis attributable to disorders in expression of pattern determining genes. The differential sex involvement in different types of anal anomaly may be manifestations of expression of the HY/SRY genes during blastogenesis or of X‐linkage. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unbalanced translocation (3;5)(q26.1;p14): A clinical report
Authors: Rossi Massimiliano , Di Micco Pasqua , Perone Lucia , De Brasi Daniele , Guzzetta Vito , Andreucci Maria Vittoria , Vega Giovanna Roberta , Marzano Maria Grazia , Iaccarino Emilia , Andria Generoso
Published: October 2002

A patient with a multiple congenital anomalies/mental retardation (MCA/MR) syndrome had an unbalanced translocation (3;5)(q26.1;p14), causing partial 5p monosomy and partial 3q trisomy. The phenotype observed in this patient results from the combination of those described in the isolated dup(3q) and del(5p) syndromes. Some clinical features of this patient are shared by the Smith‐Lemli‐Opitz syndrome (SLOS), a well‐known MCA/MR syndrome due to the deficiency of 7‐dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7). We review the previously reported cases of chromosomal anomalies with clinical features suggesting SLOS. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Schizophrenia and functional polymorphisms in the MAOA and COMT genes: No evidence for association or epistasis
Authors: Norton Nadine , Kirov George , Zammit Stan , Jones Gaynor , Jones Susan , Owen Richard , Krawczak Michael , Williams Nigel M. , O'Donovan Michael C. , Owen Michael J.
Published: October 2002

Several lines of evidence suggest that psychosis is associated with altered dopaminergic neurotransmission. Dopamine is catabolized by monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol‐O‐methyl transferase (COMT). We hypothesized that the genes encoding MAOA and COMT might contain genetic variation conferring increased risk to schizophrenia. In order to test this hypothesis, we genotyped the 941T > G and the promoter VNTR polymorphisms in the MAOA gene and the V158M COMT polymorphism in 346 DSMIV schizophrenics and 334 controls. We also genotyped the‐287A > G COMT promoter polymorphism in 177 schizophrenics and 173 controls. No significant differences were found in allele or genotype frequencies between affecteds and controls for any of the polymorphisms. As both genes are involved in degrading catecholamines, we also sought evidence for additive and epistatic effects but none was observed. Our data, therefore, do not support the hypothesis that genetic variation in MAOA and COMT is involved individually or in combination in the etiology of schizophrenia. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical findings and biochemical and molecular analysis of four patients with holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency
Authors: Morrone A. , Malvagia S. , Donati M.A. , Funghini S. , Ciani F. , Pela I. , Boneh A. , Peters H. , Pasquini E. , Zammarchi E.
Published: October 2002

Holocarboxylase synthetase (HLCS) deficiency (HLCSD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of biotin metabolism. HLCS catalyzes the biotinylation of the four human biotin‐dependent carboxylases. Using the newly available human genomic sequence, we report the map of HLCS genomic structure and the predicted exon/intron boundaries. Moreover, the molecular studies of four patients (two Italians, one Iranian, and one Australian) affected by HLCS deficiency are here reported. The clinical findings, the age of onset, and response to biotin treatment differed between our patients. The diagnosis was made by organic acid analysis and confirmed by enzymatic analysis in three patients. Six mutations in the HLCS gene were identified, including two novel (N511K and G582R) and four known missense mutations (L216R, R508W, V550M, and G581S). Five of the mutations are localized within the HLCS biotin‐binding domain, whereas the L216R amino acid change is located in the N‐terminal region outside of the putative biotin‐binding domain. This mutation, previously reported in a heterozygous state, was detected for the first time in a patient with homozygous status. The patient's severe clinical phenotype and partial responsiveness to biotin support a genotype‐phenotype correlation through the involvement of residues of the N‐terminal region in a substrate specificity recognition or regulation of the HLCS enzyme. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Deficiency of tetralinoleoyl‐cardiolipin in Barth syndrome
Authors: Schlame Michael , Towbin Jeffrey A. , Heerdt Paul M. , Jehle Roswitha , DiMauro Salvatore , Blanck Thomas J. J.
Published: October 2002

Barth syndrome is an X‐linked cardiac and skeletal mitochondrial myopathy. Barth syndrome may be due to lipid alterations because the product of the mutated gene is homologous to phospholipid acyltransferases. Here we document that a single mitochondrial phospholipid species, tetralinoleoyl‐cardiolipin, was lacking in the skeletal muscle (n = 2), right ventricle (n = 2), left ventricle (n = 2), and platelets (n = 6) of 8 children with Barth syndrome. Tetralinoleoyl‐cardiolipin is specifically enriched in normal skeletal muscle and the normal heart. These findings support the notion that Barth syndrome is caused by alterations of mitochondrial lipids.