bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness About Diabetes And Its Complications Among Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Batool Faiza , Malik Kausar , Meraj Lubna , Siddiq Shazia , Majeed Abbas , Khan Sadia
Published: May 2024

Objective: Awareness of diabetes and its potential complications is crucial for effective management and prevention of long-term health risks. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and understanding of diabetes and its complications among patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Methods: A cross-sectional study included 200 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus as per the American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria. Type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes patients were excluded from the study. The duration of the study was 8 months. The patient’s awareness regarding diabetes and its complications was assessed as per the prefixed questionnaire.  Analysis of the data was carried out with SPSS version 28. The Chi-square test was used to investigate the association of awareness of diabetes mellitus with various independent variables variable as age and duration of diabetes. The level of statistical significance was p <0.05.
Results: Among the participants, 80 (40%) were male and 120 (60%) were female. A significant portion of patients 73 (36.5%) were never informed about diabetes or its complications. 69 (34%) of patients were never educated about the symptoms of hypoglycemia. 142 (71%) of the patients had a glucometer and 88 (44%) participants had poor follow-up and never checked HbA1C. Moreover, Patients with longer diabetes duration were more likely to visit ophthalmologists at regular intervals (P value 0.023). 111 (56%) never checked their urine for proteinuria and 172 (86%) were aware that diabetes can affect their kidneys. Foot care and awareness of diabetic foot complications were lacking among patients. 48 (24%) examined their feet daily, 66 (33%) never examined their feet, and 73 (36%) were never told about foot care by their doctors. The statistically significant impact of age on patients' knowledge regarding blood sugar levels (P=0.009) and foot care (P=0.013)
Conclusion: There is a significant lack of awareness among individuals with diabetes, highlighting the urgent need for educational initiatives. Both the public and private healthcare sectors should take the responsibility of providing awareness programs.
Keywords: Type 2 diabetes mellitus, awareness, complications.
Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Adjustment among Doctors and Nurses in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Rawalpindi-Pakistan: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Malik Naushaba , Malik Minaal Ahmed , Aftab Shahbakht , Noor Rida , Khalid Usman , Shahzad Tayyaba
Published: May 2024

Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between EI and the quality of nursing care from the viewpoint of nurses and patients.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a public sector tertiary care hospital in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, over 6 months from November 2019 to April 2020. The convenience sampling technique was employed. The study groups were qualified practising doctors and nurses including nursing assistants and paramedics. Study groups were provided with a self-administered questionnaire that was filled out after getting consent from the study participants. Data analysis was done by entering it into SPSS version 22. The relationship between emotional intelligence and psychological adjustments among the two groups was assessed by applying an independent T-test.
Results: The current study explored that doctors were emotionally intelligent and psychologically well-adjusted as compared to nurses. Females were more emotionally intelligent than males; however, males were better adjusted psychologically. Years of experience had no significant results between both groups, while there was a positive correlation between the department of practice and psychological well-being.
Conclusions: It shows that harmonious work environments and friendly interpersonal relationships positively affect the well-being of HCWs and patients. What this indicates is a need to bring about changes within work environments to produce friendly interpersonal relationships and a positive impact on the well-being of HCWs and patients.
Keywords: Emotional intelligence, Psychological adjustments, Nursing staff
Suprachoroidal Versus Intravitreal Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide As Primary Treatment For Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Khan Fatima Shafqat , Asghar Asfandyar , Intisar-ul-haq Brig Rana , Nazir Tehmina , Obaid Naila , Aslam Munazza
Published: May 2024

Objective: This study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of suprachoroidal and intravitreal triamcinolone administration, as a primary treatment, on best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME).
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted from November 2022 to April 2023. 64 eyes were enrolled with Inclusion criteria comprising patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) (central involving) with BCVA < 6/9, CMT > 300 µm on optical coherence tomography (OCT), and no prior DME treatment. Patients were divided into suprachoroidal triamcinolone (SCTA) (Group I) and intravitreal triamcinolone (IVTA) (Group II) groups. Follow-up occurred at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-injection. BCVA, CMT, and IOP were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS with a significance threshold of p < 0.05.
Results: Both treatment groups exhibited improved BCVA and reduced CMT. Suprachoroidal delivery demonstrated more substantial visual acuity improvements compared to the intravitreal group. Reduction in IOP was observed in the suprachoroidal group at 1stweek post-treatment (p<0.001), while the intravitreal group experienced increased IOP at later follow-ups (p<0.001).
Conclusion: This study illuminates the efficacy of both suprachoroidal and intravitreal triamcinolone administration as the primary treatment for DME. While both modalities displayed promising outcomes, suprachoroidal delivery exhibited more substantial visual acuity improvements with fewer side effects and promising alternatives for DME treatment.
Keywords: Macular Edema, Intravitreal, Triamcinolone Acetonide, Suprachoroidal, Visual Acuity, Intraocular Pressure.
Perception of Gender Issues among Surgical Residents and their Supervisors
Authors: Shah Syed Inamullah , Iftikhar Muzna , Shah Sajida , Shafique Muhammad Salman , Noor Mahvish , Shah Jamil Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Objective: To discover attitudes and perceptions about gender related issues in surgical residents and supervisors in major teaching hospitals of twin cities.
Methods: This study was conducted in Rawalpindi and Islamabad during July and August 2020. Responses of 22 surgical training supervisors from five institutions and 49 surgery residents from three training institutions were collected via separate questionnaires. These were based on 5-point Likert scale. Responses were tabulated and analyzed on SPSS version 23.
Results: Among the 49 residents, 53.1% (n=26) were men and 46.9% (n=23) were women. Of these, only 19% (n=10) felt any gender discrimination at workplace. This perception was comparatively more in men (P=0.006). More males felt comfortable working at odd hours then women (P=0.005). Childcare service was not a requisite for 77% of residents. Those who required it were mostly women (P=0.050).
64% (n=14) of the supervisors were men. Only 36% (n=8) considered gender to be unimportant during selection of residents. There was a slight tilt towards preferring male residents during selection. More than half of all supervisors considered men to be more confident, better leaders and decision makers in the emergency setting.
Conclusion: Gender is not felt as a discriminatory factor by residents during training. Female residents suffer during training due to family obligations, pregnancy and parenthood. These challenges may be facilitated by changing surgical culture; However, supervisors disagree. Supervisors rate men higher on confidence, decision making and availability and tend to incline towards male residents while selecting. During training, supervisors do not discriminate amongst residents in imparting training and assigning tasks.
 
KEYWORDS: Surgery; Surgeons; Career choice; Education; Gender bias.
Replacing An Extracted Natural Tooth As A Pontic By Using Fiber-Reinforced Composite: A Case Report
Authors: Haq Sabana , Ahmed Alia , Khan Dania , Rizwan Zarnab , Sajid Khadija , Zahid Aqsa
Published: May 2024

Summary: Losing an anterior tooth could be extremely devastating for the patient and to address the psychological and emotional trauma of the patient, quick replacement is crucial. A contemporary conservative choice is a Fiber-Reinforced composite bridge. The current case report describes the fractured permanent mandibular left lateral incisor which needed to be extracted followed by the replacement of the same natural tooth crown as a pontic using Fiber-reinforced composite (Ribbond). The results were satisfying to the patient, both aesthetically and functionally. Long-term follow-up studies are needed to further evaluate this treatment option in the future.
Keywords: tooth, denture design, composite resins
Statin Induced Changes in Rat Pancreatic Tissue: A Histological and Biochemical Perspective
Authors: Qamar Abdullah , Khan Hammad Gul , Khan Muhammad Marghoob , Kiani Muhammad Rizwan Bashir , Kundi Hina , Mushtaq Fareeha
Published: May 2024

Objective: This study aimed to elucidate the effects of simvastatin on pancreatic histomorphology and biochemical profile in a rat model.
Method: Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 250 g were divided into two equal groups: a control group (A) and an experimental group (B) treated with simvastatin 60 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the rats were euthanized, and their pancreas was collected for analysis and examined using gold-standard histological parameters including inflammation and fatty infiltration. Biochemical parameters i.e. serum amylase and alkaline phosphatase were also analysed. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23 was employed for data analysis. Mean ± SD was employed to express quantitative variables. Qualitative variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square tests compared qualitative variables while independent sample t-tests compared quantitative variables between groups, with P < 0.05 defining statistical significance.
Results: The administration of Simvastatin resulted in a substantial induction of pancreatic inflammation and fatty infiltration, accompanied by notable alterations in the biochemical profile. Specifically, there was a significant reduction in serum amylase levels and a concomitant increase in serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, as compared to the control group.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that simvastatin profoundly alters pancreatic histomorphology in rats, resulting in marked inflammation, necrosis, fatty infiltration, and interstitial fibrosis. These novel findings provide unique insights into simvastatin's effects on pancreatic morphology using a robust animal model.
Keywords: Simvastatin; Sprague-Dawley rats; pancreatic histomorphology, Amylase, Alkaline phosphatase.
Perception Of Socialization In Interprofessional Practice Among Healthcare Professionals At Tertiary Healthcare Facility
Authors: Qamar Khadija , Khan Abdullah Azam , Khan Taimur Azam , Haider Anam , Khadim Rehana , Ayub Tahira
Published: May 2024

Objective: To analyze the perceptions of health care professionals from a variety of fields (Anesthesia, Radiology, Gynecology, Surgery, and Orthopedics) on inter-professional socialization in a clinical setting to determine any potential disparities between educational training and to identify gaps.
Method: After obtaining ethical approval and informed consent, a cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2023 on 150 Healthcare professionals (Residents of Anesthesiology, Radiology, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, General Surgery and Orthopedics) working at CMH/PEMH. Consecutive non-probability sampling was utilized to collect the data. A close-ended questionnaire with interprofessional socialization and valuing scale was administered to the participants, providing proper instructions through hard copy and Google Forms. Data was analyzed by using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were applied.
Results: Study results revealed that participants developed a recognition of the advantages of inter-professional collaboration with the highest score of valuing patient-centred care followed by self-perception of team responsibility and the lowest score of comfort in working with others.
Conclusion: This research gives a unique perspective on the experiences of health science professionals from various fields (Anesthesiology, Gynecology, Orthopedics, Radiology, and Surgery) in Interprofessional socialization.
Keywords: Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale, Interprofessional Education, Healthcare professionals
Intra Cervical Foley’s Versus Combination Of Intra Cervical Foley’s And Extra Amniotic Saline Infusion As Cervical Ripening Agent For Induction Of Labor
Authors: Javed Humera , Noreen Humera , Bilqis Humaira , Kahloon Lubna Ejaz , Khalid Iqra , Bano Naheed
Published: May 2024

Objective: To compare IntraCervical Foleys (ICF) and intracervical Foleys along with Extra Amniotic Saline Infusion (EASI) as a cervical ripening agent for Induction Of Labour(IOL).
Methods: It was carried out at the Department of  Obstetrics and  Gynecology Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi.  In this comparative study, we included 100 patients with singleton cephalic presentation,  intact membranes and a BISHOP score ≤ 6. These were further subdivided into two groups, Group A (ICF) and  Group B (ICF with EASI),50 in each group.
In Group  A, Foley’s catheter was placed cervically while in Group B extraamniotic saline infusion was also administered in the urine drainage port at midnight. PGE2/ Augmentation with syntocinon was considered according to the bishop score at 6 am. Improvement in BISHOP score, induction to delivery interval, and feto-maternal outcomes were noted in both groups.
Results: Data analysis showed that the mean improvement in the BISHOP score of the patients in Group A was 3.78 ± 1.75 while that of Group B was 3.56 ± 1.79(pvalue = 0.508). The induction to delivery interval in group A patients was 14.6 ± 4.75 hours while that of group B was 13.22 ± 4.54 hours (p =0.103). Only 14/100 patients had failed IOL and underwent C- C-sections and 8/100 neonates had NICU admissions and were discharged later on.
Conclusion: Both Intra Cervical Foley’s and a Combination Of Intra Cervical Foley’s And Extra Amniotic Saline Infusion are equally effective as cervical ripening agents for induction Of labour with high chances of successful vaginal delivery and good feto-maternal outcome. 
Keywords:  Induction of labour,  Intracervical folleys, Extra-amniotic saline infusion,  BISHOP  score.
Incidence Of Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Association With ABO Blood Groups
Authors: Zehra Amina , Sabir Maimoona , Sarwar Sumaira , Ishfaq Afsheen , Ahmad Kishmain , Saleem Afshan
Published: May 2024

Objective: The study aimed to investigate the association between ABO blood groups and helicobacter infection.
Method: 150 participants, including 93 females and 57 males between the age group of 18-60 years, were involved in the study. A sample of 3 ml blood was collected and screened against H. pylori antibodies (IgG) by H. pylori rapid diagnostic kit. ABO and Lewis antigen phenotypes were determined with a macroscopic agglutination technique.
Results: According to the study's findings, there were 55.42% women (46/83) and 44.5% men (37/83) among the 83 seropositive patients, while 70.14% women (47/67) and 29.85% men (20/67) were found among the 67 seronegative patients. The findings of this study reveal that those with the blood groups O+ and B+ have an estimated 25.3% (21/83) higher risk of H. pylori infection, whereas when seronegative individuals were investigated, it was discovered that blood groups 0+ were also leading, 28.4% (19/67), indicating that there was no significant difference between H. pylori seropositive and seronegative patients (p-value = 0.5146). Other factors, such as gender and family history, did not significantly affect the incidence of H. pylori.  
Conclusion:  It was concluded from the study that no significant difference was observed between trends of H. pylori seropositive patients and seronegative individuals having different blood groups.
Keywords: ABO Blood Group, Peptic Ulcer, Seronegative Pyloric patients, Seropositive Pyloric patients.
Hematoma Block Verses General Anesthesia For Close Reduction And Percutaneous Pinning Of Distal Radius Fractures In Elderly Patients
Authors: Siddiq Muhammad Zahid , Tahir Tooba , Ali Waqas , Akhtar Rahman Rasool , Saleem Mohammad , Ahmad Nisar
Published: May 2024

Objective: The objective of our study is to compare two techniques used for analgesia, hematoma block and general anaesthesia, in patients presented with a fracture of the distal radius in the trauma centre of Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Hospital Gujrat.
Methods: Our study was conducted at the Trauma Centre of Aziz Bhatti Shaheed Hospital Gujrat from January 2021 to April 2023. All the patients having distal radius fractures who met the inclusion criteria were included in our study. The patients were placed into two groups, A and B. All the patients were treated by close reduction and percutaneous pinning. The analgesia method used in group A was Hematoma block while in group B was general anesthesia. Data was analyzed using SPSS.
Results: 156 patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 61.3 ± 6.6 years. These patients were placed in two groups, A and B, of 78 patients each. There was significantly less pain intensity at 2 and 6 hours after the procedure in the hematoma block group (P < 0.001). Duration for manipulation did not differ significantly between the two groups. Duration for surgery was significantly shorter for the hematoma block group (P 0.02). In 100 per cent of cases, anatomical reduction was achieved in both groups.
Conclusion: Hematoma block used as analgesia for the management of fractures of the distal radius in elderly patients is a more effective and safe method than general anaesthesia in emergency trauma centres.
Keywords: Hematoma block, distal radius fracture, elderly.
Recognizing Sign Language using Machine Learning and Deep Learning Models
Authors: Maurya Sohan , Doshi Sparsh , Jaiswar Harsh , Karale Sahil , Burnase Sneha , N. Sonar Poonam.
Published: May 2024

Individuals with hearing impairments communicate mostly through sign language. Our goal was to create an American Sign Language recognition dataset and utilize it in a neural network-based machine learning model that can interpret hand gestures and positions into natural language. In our study, we incorporated the SVM, CNN and Resnet-18 models to enhance predictability when interpreting ASL signs through this new dataset, which includes provisions such as lighting and distance limitations. Our research also features comparison results between all the other models implemented under invariant conditions versus those using our proposed CNN model. As demonstrated by its high levels of precision at 95.10% despite changes encountered during testing procedures like varying data sets or scene configurations where losses are minimal (0.545), there exists great potential for future applications in image recognition systems requiring deep learning techniques. Furthermore, these advancements may lead to significant improvements within various fields related explicitly to speech-language therapy sessions designed specifically around helping people overcome challenges associated with deafness while building bridges towards improved social integration opportunities.
TOXOPLASMOSIS: SEROPREVALENCE IN WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE AND APPROACH IN PREGNANCY
Authors: Özşahin Aybegüm , Mahmutoğlu Çolak Sudem , Ilgar Tuba , Yıldız İlknur Esen , Kostakoğlu Uğur , Ertürk Ayşe
Published: May 2024

Objective: Toxoplasmosis is a parasitosis that is mostly asymptomatic or with mild symptoms. It can lead to severe clinical conditions in immunosuppressed patients who had infections that mostly develop through reactivation, or in congenital infections that develop in fetuses infected as a result of vertical transmission. Since it is possible to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis with appropriate follow-up and treatment, our study aimed to determine the susceptible population and seroprevalence of our region and to evaluate the course of infections in this group.
Material and Method: Patients of childbearing age who were evaluated in the last five years in our tertiary hospital were included in our study, and Anti Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG results in these patients were evaluated. The course of pregnant women who were thought to have primary infection, the follow-up of these patients and the treatments applied were evaluated. In addition, the follow-up of non-pregnant patients examined were also evaluated.
Results: The seropositivity rate was found to be 30.7% (n=1703) in 5545 women included in the study, and the seropositivity rate was 31% (n=1399) in 4503 pregnant women. After detailed evaluations, of 16 pregnant women who were thought to have primary infection during pregnancy and were followed up in our hospital; one underwent medical abortion at the request of the family, and only four used the recommended treatment until the end of pregnancy, and congenital toxoplasmosis was not detected in any newborn. Since the many of pregnant women with possible primary infection (n=28) were not referred to the infectious diseases outpatient clinic, this group was not evaluated in detail and could not be monitored. Of the patients included in the study, 26 (0.4%) were examined to investigate the etiology of fever, 37 (0.6%) were examined to investigate the etiology of lymphadenopathy (LAP), and 29 (0.5%) were examined to investigate the cause of elevated liver function tests. Among the patients monitored with LAP, four (10.8%) were diagnosed with acute toxoplasmosis.
Conclusion: As a result, it is very important to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis, to detect possible primary infections, especially in pregnant women, and to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis by clinicians to guide patients correctly so that the follow-up and treatment of this group of patients is not interrupted.
EXTRACTING AND PRIORITIZING THE ATTRACTIVENESS PARAMETERS OF SHOPPING CENTERS UNDER INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY NUMBERS
Authors: Bakhshizadeh Alireza , Yazdani-Chamzini Abdolreza , Latifi Benmaran Masoumeh , Šaparauskas Jonas , Turskis Zenonas
Published: May 2024

Shopping center plays an important role in distribution system and marketing. These canters provide an appropriate atmosphere for customers; so that, the customers achieve the best service within a short time. However, there is an intense competition among shopping centers to attract more customers for increasing the profit. Therefore, a powerful model assists authorities in identifying the critical competitive aspects and directing their efforts toward performance improvement. However, a number of strategies have been developed to identify the most relevant components. The Delphi technique under intuitionistic fuzzy environment, called intuitionistic fuzzy Delphi method (IFDM) study, is a group-based technique that can simply formulate the uncertainty imposed by decision making circle. On the other hand, multi criteria decision making (MCDM) method such as analytical network process (ANP) is a mathematical tool for taking into account mutual relationships in order to rank a number of criteria. Nonetheless, the ANP is unable to account for the uncertainty involved in the decision-making process. Similarly, the intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) can express ambiguity and vagueness by utilizing the given scale. Because the IFS is robust in dealing with complexity and ambiguity, the IFS-GANP (an integrated model of the IFS and ANP methods under group decision) can result in a more specific description of the situation. As a result, the IFS-GANP approach outperforms both conventional ANP and fuzzy ANP. To demonstrate the model’s feasibility, a case study rating the essential aspects impacting the attractiveness of retail centers is shown. The result demonstrates factor C31 (Location) with value of 0.202 plays the greatest role in attracting customers.
Jupiter Co-Orbital Comet P/2023 V6 (PANSTARRS): Orbital History and Modern Activity State
Authors: Kareta Theodore , Noonan John W. , Volk Kathryn , Strauss Ryder H. , Trilling David
Published: May 2024

The discovery of the transient Jupiter co-orbital comet P/2019 LD2 (ATLAS) drew significant interest. Not only will LD2 transition between being a Centaur and a Jupiter-family comet (JFC) in 2063, the first time this process can be observed as it happens, it is also very active for its large heliocentric distance. We present observations and orbital integrations of the newly discovered transient Jupiter co-orbital comet P/2023 V6 (PANSTARRS), the second such object known. Despite similar modern orbits, V6 is significantly (15×) less active than LD2 and most JFCs as determined via Af
ρ measurements at the same R

H
. We find that V6 is co-orbital between 2020 and 2044, twice the duration of LD2, but it will not become a JFC soon. We interpret these differences in activity as evolutionary, with V6 having lost a significant fraction of its near-surface ice compared to LD2 by previously being warmer. While V6's pre-encounter orbit was somewhat warmer than LD2's, future thermal modeling will be needed to understand if this can explain their differences or if a more significant difference further into the past is required. This is more evidence that LD2 is a pristine and ice-rich object, and thus it may display very strong activity when it becomes a JFC. We use the differences between V6 and LD2 to discuss the interpretation of cometary activity at large heliocentric distances as well as the small end of the cratering record of the Galilean satellites. Continuing observations of both objects are highly encouraged.
First record of the kitefin shark, Dalatias licha (Bonnaterre, 1788) from the Guatemalan Caribbean Sea
Authors: Sánchez-Jiménez Julio , Ayala-Donado Josué , Rosales Melgar María De los Ángeles , Areano-Barillas Elisa M. , Kasana Devanshi , González-Jaramillo Mónica , Pérez-Jiménez Juan Carlos
Published: May 2024

Deepwater fishing operations occur close to the shore of the Guatemalan Caribbean. In a study to characterize the deepwater species present in the fishing area, the incidental catch of a kitefin shark, Dalatias licha, was recorded at a depth of ~284-334 m, ca. 11 km northeast of El Quetzalito fishing village. The adult female with a total length of 1420 mm had morphological characteristics consistent with D. licha, which was confirmed by molecular methods. First record of D. licha in the western Caribbean region, a species cataloged at risk by the IUCN red list. With this record, the number of shark species known in the Guatemalan Caribbean increases to 25.
Determination of genetic diversity of two Lessonia species from the Atacama region using ISSR markers
Authors: Ramírez Claudio , Tapia Rodrigo , Rojas Irina , Mamani Mariel , Zepeda Simón , Contreras-Díaz Roberto
Published: May 2024

Lessonia nigrescens and L. trabeculata are economically important kelp species in northern Chile. Despite their considerable value, the genetic diversity of these kelp has received limited attention in the Atacama region. This study aimed to analyze genetic diversity, establish genetic relationships, and identify diagnostic DNA markers in the Atacama region's L. nigrescens and L. trabeculata. Both species' Inter-sequence simple repeat (ISSR) band patterns showed high reproducibility and reliability. Among 17 ISSRs, 161 polymorphic bands were identified in Lessonia spp. Parameters, such as percentage polymorphism, number of alleles per locus, effective number of alleles, and Shannon information index, indicated that L. nigrescens had slightly higher genetic diversity than L. trabeculata. The Unweighted pair group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA) cluster analysis revealed two main clusters: one containing L. nigrescens and the other containing L. trabeculata. Additionally, four species diagnostic ISSR markers were identified for L. nigrescens and L. trabeculata. The ISSR markers proved valuable in detecting genetic diversity in L. nigrescens and L. trabeculata. This information is particularly important for marine management strategies and ensuring successful conservation.
Food-plant choice of seven dominant grasshopper species in the Xinjiang grasslands
Authors: Ren Jin-Long , Kang Wen-Jing , Li Jin-Xing , Jin Xi , Li Ke-Xin , Zhao Li
Published: May 2024

Feeding habits and competitive interactions among dominant grasshopper species in the Xinjiang grasslands (China) were studied under natural conditions through microscopic analyses of insect crop contents. Sex-specific and interindividual differences in feeding habits and interspecific competition were investigated. Analyses of ecological niche width and overlap revealed potential competition among grasshoppers. The results showed significant difference in the sex-specific variations in the feeding habits of the seven grasshoppers; sex-specific variations in feeding range and preferred plants were observed, with females feeding more extensively on host plants, and female and male adults choosing to feed on different plant species. Individuals of all seven grasshoppers showed different degrees of dietary variance, with oligophagous grasshoppers (Oedaleus decorus males, Dericorys annulata, and Bryodema gebleri males) showing a smaller degree of individual dietary variance than polyphagous grasshoppers (Oedipoda caerulescens, Calliptamus coelesyriensis females, Calliptamus barbarus, and Notostaurus albicornis); Calliptamus coelesyriensis and Notostaurus albicornis showed the greatest individual variance in their diets. Oedaleus decorus, Bryodema gebleri, and Calliptamus barbarus consumed primarily Poaceae and exhibited varying foot-plant choice. For example, Oedaleus decorus was observed to have high- preference feeding for Poa annua, Bryodema gebleri for Stipa capillata, and Calliptamus barbarus for Setaria viridis. Dericorys annulata fed primarily on Amaranthaceae, Notostaurus albicornis fed primarily on Poaceae and Amaranthaceae, and Oedipoda caerulescens fed primarily on Asteraceae. Calliptamus barbarus exhibited strong interspecific competition with Oedaleus decorus and Calliptamus coelesyriensis, and Bryodema gebleri demonstrated the strongest interspecific competition with all six other species. Considering the influence of sex on interspecific competition among grasshoppers enhances our understanding of interspecific competitive relationships.
Raising the Neanderthal (molecules) from the dead: a proposal for in vivo resurrection of Neanderthal haemoglobin for the investigation of biochemical adaptations for cold tolerance
Authors: McLean Katherine
Published: May 2024

Since the first discoveries of Neanderthal fossils, their derived characteristics, such as increased robusticity, have engaged researchers. Adaptation to cold environments has been hypothesised to explain such traits and this hypothesis has driven the majority of discourse. This proposal seeks to examine this hypothesis and locate evidence of Neanderthals being physiologically adapted to cold at the biomolecular level. Haemoglobin is a biomolecule that has been previously demonstrated to adapt to cold in some species, driven by the inhibition of the protein’s function by low temperatures. Neanderthal haemoglobin is extinct; however, using pre-sequenced genomic data, I propose to resurrect Neanderthal haemoglobin so I can examine the consequences of lowered temperature on its function. This project could potentially detect signs of cold adaptation in the Neanderthal globin genes and provide empirical evidence for the cold adaptation hypothesis.
Research on the ellipsoidal boundary of reachable sets of neutral systems with bounded disturbances and discrete time delays
Authors: Su Beibei , Zhao Liang , Du Liang , Gu Qun
Published: May 2024

This research focuses on the challenge of defining the ellipsoidal boundaries of the reachable set (RS) for neutral-type dynamical systems with time delays. A novel analytical approach is proposed, leveraging the development of new Lyapunov functions and matrix inequality techniques. These methods provide powerful tools for determining the ellipsoidal boundaries of the system's RS. A comparative analysis, supported by numerical examples, demonstrates that the approach outlined in this study can accurately identify smaller yet effective RS boundaries compared to existing literature. This precise boundary determination offers significant theoretical support for state estimation and control design in dynamical systems, thereby enhancing their effectiveness and reliability in real-world applications.
Role of Indian Women Leaders in Advancing UN SDG-2 Through Sustainable Food Security Efforts
Authors: Jayanthi G.
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the remarkable role played by Indian women leaders in politics and government in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). In a world marked by persistent gender disparities and development challenges, these women leaders have emerged as catalysts for change, demonstrating unparalleled commitment, innovation, and dedication to the pursuit of sustainable development. Through an in-depth analysis of the careers, policies, and initiatives of prominent Indian women leaders, including Late Indira Gandhi, Jayalalithaa, Mamata Banerjee, and others, this chapter sheds light on their unique contributions to addressing critical global challenges. It explores their efforts in areas such as gender equality, poverty eradication, health, education, and environmental sustainability, illustrating how their leadership has significantly advanced progress towards the UN SDGs. This study also looks at the challenges and possibilities these female leaders have faced along the way, highlighting the sociocultural and political factors that have influenced their influence. This study intends to motivate future generations of leaders and policymakers to support social progress, gender equality, and sustainable development by recognizing their accomplishments and lessons gained. Ultimately, this investigation underscores the pivotal role of Indian political and government women leaders in promoting the UN SDGs, illustrating that their contributions have not only transformed their nation but also resonated on the global stage, serving as a testament to the potential of visionary leadership in addressing the world's most pressing challenges. Through different policies, initiatives, and advocacy activities, Indian political and government women leaders have significantly aided in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Some prominent Indian women leaders and their contributions to particular SDGs are investigated for eradicating poverty. In this chapter, the initiatives of a prominent woman leader Mamata Banarjee and her care and concern toward SDG 1 and 2 are comprehended.
The Interactive Effects of Financial Inclusion and Women Political Empowerment on Health Outcomes in Africa
Authors: Ajide Folorunsho , Osinubi Tolu , Ojeyinka Titus , Kudaisi Bosede Victoria
Published: May 2024

In line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-3), this study probes the role of financial inclusion in the relationship between women political empowerment and health outcomes in 39 African nations. Applying panel estimation technique on data spanning over a period of 2004-2020, the study's findings are as follows: Women political empowerment promotes good health outcomes. Financial inclusion empowers women in politics to enhance sound health conditions. Further analysis reveals that the findings are more pronounced in North, Southern, and Central African regions, implying that the results are heterogeneous across the regions. The study concludes that financial inclusion strengthens political empowerment of women by granting financial accessibility for civil liberties, civil society participation, and participation in politics. Therefore, women with adequate access to formal financial services have higher economic and financial freedom to participate in politics and demand for sound health conditions for the national wellbeing and towards the achievement of SDG-3.
Women's Leadership in Finance and Accounting
Authors: Soler del Toro Nestor
Published: May 2024

This chapter examines the role of women in finance and accounting and their impact on achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It highlights the challenges women face in these fields, such as gender bias and limited leadership opportunities, and discusses how their unique perspectives can drive sustainable development. The chapter explores theoretical frameworks and innovative leadership strategies that women employ to integrate SDG principles into finance and accounting. It emphasizes the importance of global collaboration and women-led networks in advancing these goals. Concluding with policy recommendations, the chapter underscores the necessity of empowering women in finance and accounting as a crucial step towards sustainable global development.
Role of Rural Women in Achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Through Mushroom Agri-Entrepreneurship
Authors: Joseph Binoy , Krishnakumar N. M. , Ceasar Stanislaus Antony , Devassy Saju Madavanakadu
Published: May 2024

Rural women have an important and crucial role in the progress and prosperity of households and thereby local and national economies through significant contributions every day from bringing an income to her household as an employed wage earner, to taking care of her family and elders, to creating jobs as an entrepreneur. Mushroom cultivation, an agro-based microenterprise, seems ideal for rural women folk to get a new livelihood and income generation option without much additional investments of money and time. The potential of promoting mushroom growing as an important vocation for women is significant in this context. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) can be achieved.
Role and Task Sharing Efforts of Women in Aquaculture Development
Authors: Islam Md. Shafiqul
Published: May 2024

Bangladesh is suitable in the world for fresh and saline water aquaculture. Due to multifaceted opportunities and well-suited climatic conditions, it is the best options for aquaculture. The rural women communities engaged in several tasks of aquaculture and their activities, but contribution is not well recognized. The study explored contribution and role of women with their task distribution and women engagement in aquaculture. It is necessary to develop gender-sensitive interventions in aquaculture towards recognition of women's role and their empowerment. These include social structure, policy, awareness, attitude, and other family issues. This study gives an insight into whether the involvement of women in the aquaculture sector may be considered as empowering them through leadership and providing a viable option for their sustainable livelihood. The study confirmed the contextual issues of women's engagement in the aquaculture and enables direction towards mainstreaming women contribution.
Dynamic renal scans as a modality for follow-up of flexible ureteroscopy
Authors: Asali Murad , Hallak Osman
Published: May 2024

Objective: To determine whether dynamic renal scans – DTPA or MAG3 – routinely performed after flexible ureteroscopies (f-URS) could detect the development of an obstruction and thus promote prompt early intervention for kidney preservation.
Patients and methods: In this retrospective study, with all the data recorded prospectively between April 2010 and October 2023, 250 renal units in 242 patients with upper urinary tract stones (UUTS) who underwent ureterorenoscopy by one surgeon in the same medical center were evaluated. Stone-free rate (SFR) was defined as no residual fragments at all using an intraoperative “triple test”. The following characteristics were examined: gender, BMI, age, Hounsfield unit, stone diameter, laterality, renal/ureteral stones, stone-free rate, and auxiliary procedures per renal unit. The Clavien-Dindo classification was used to report complications. Renal units with residual stones were scheduled for a 2nd f-URS. Post- flexible ureteroscopy ureteral obstruction and renal function were detected using renal scan DTPA or MAG-3. The primary outcome was renal/ ureteral obstruction.
Results: The mean patient age was 53 years. The mean stone size was 12.3 mm. Stones in renal pelvis, upper, middle and lower calyces were treated in 9.2% (23), 27.6% (69), and 30.8% (77) of cases, respectively; 44% (110) ureteral stones were also treated. The single- and second-session SFRs were 94.8% and 99.7%, respectively. A third auxiliary procedure was needed in one renal unit (0.4%). The mean number of procedures per renal unit was 1.06 (264/250). Ureteral double-J stents were inserted in 53.6% (134) of the cases. In 37 (14.8%) cases, a stent was placed before surgery. Post-operative complications were minor, with readmission and pain control needed in only two patients (0.8%). No avulsion or perforation of the ureters was observed. In six patients with t1/2 between 10-20 minutes, a second renal scan revealed spontaneous improvement and no obstruction in five patients. One patient with large stones and a history of prior ureteroscopy developed a ureteral stricture (0.4%) and needed treatment with laser endoureterotomy.
Conclusions: Post-flexible ureteroscopy obstruction due to ureteral stricture is very rare. A routine renal scan post-operatively may be used in potentially high-risk patients.
Microbiological safety of dry-aged meat: a critical review of data gaps and research needs to define process hygiene and safety criteria
Authors: Savini Federica , Indio Valentina , Giacometti Federica , Mekkonnen Yitagele Terefe , De Cesare Alessandra , Prandini Laura , Marrone Raffaele , Seguino Alessandro , Di Paolo Marika , Vuoso Valeria , Tomasello Federico , Serraino Andrea
Published: May 2024

Dry-aged meat is gaining popularity among food business operators and private consumers. The process is carried out in aerobic conditions by hanging beef carcasses or placing subprimal or primal cuts in a dedicated cabinet for several weeks or even months while controlling the environment through the management of process parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, and airflow. In this review, we present a critical evaluation of the literature to evaluate tools to manage the process to guarantee food safety and identify critical control points, as well as good hygienic and manufacturing practices. In controlled aging conditions, only Listeria monocytogenes and Yersinia enterocolitica can multiply, while a reduction in the number of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli O157:H7 is generally reported. Enterobacteriaceae usually decrease on the surface of the meat during maturation; thus, for the purpose of the hygienic evaluation of the production process, a count no higher than that of unmatured meat is expected. Besides, various studies report that the total bacterial count and the spoilage microorganisms significantly increase on the surface of the meat, up to 5-6 Log CFU/g in the absence of visible spoilage. Bacteria of the Pseudomonas genus tend to progressively replace other microorganisms during maturation; thus, the total mesophilic or psychrophilic bacterial load is not a good indicator of process hygiene for matured meat. Critical parameters for the control of the process are temperature, relative humidity, and ventilation, which should be monitored during the process. For this reason, equipment designed and certified for dry aging must be used, and the manufacturer must validate the process. Food business operators must apply general good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good hygiene practices (GHP) for meat processing and some GMP and GHP specific for dry aging. Several research needs were identified, among them the evolution of the populations of L. monocytogenes and Y. enterocolitica and the microbiology of the inner parts of the dry-aged meat.
Expansion of a food composition database for the food frequency questionnaire in the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES): a comprehensive database of dietary antioxidants and total antioxidant capacity
Authors: Lee Jiseon , Kong Ji-Sook , Woo Hye Won , Kim Mi Kyung
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES: This study constructed a comprehensive database of dietary antioxidants and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) to facilitate the estimation of daily antioxidant intake using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). This database was applied to 3 general population-based cohorts (n=195,961) within the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES).METHODS: To establish a database of 412 foods derived from recipes of a 106-item FFQ, we followed a pre-established standardized protocol. This included the selection of source databases, matching of foods, substitution of unmatched items with identical foods and input of values, and assessment of coverage. For each food, the TAC was estimated by summing the individual antioxidant capacities, calculated by multiplying the amount of each antioxidant by its vitamin C equivalent antioxidant capacity.RESULTS: We identified 48 antioxidants across 5 classes: retinol, carotenoids, vitamins C and E, and flavonoids, with flavonoids divided into 7 subclasses. TAC values were then established. Coverage exceeded 90.0% for retinol, carotenoids, vitamin C, and vitamin E, while coverage for flavonoids was 60.9%. The daily intakes of 4 antioxidant classes—all but vitamin E—were higher in women than in men. The Ansan-Ansung cohort exhibited the highest levels of dietary TAC, vitamin E, and flavonoids, while the Health Examinees Study cohort displayed the highest values for retinol, carotenoids, and vitamin C.CONCLUSIONS: We customized a comprehensive antioxidant database for the KoGES FFQ, achieving relatively high coverage. This expansion could support research investigating the impact of dietary antioxidants on the development of chronic diseases targeted by the KoGES.
Optimizing High-Lift Airfoils for Formula Student
Vehicles
Authors: Karthikeyan Prthik Nandhan , Radhakrishnan Jayakrishnan
Published: May 2024

This document presents a study on the design and simulation of a high-lift
airfoil intended for usage in multielement setups such as the wings present on
open-wheel race cars. With the advancement of open-wheel race car aerodynamics,
the design of existing high-lift airfoils has been altered to create a more
useful and practical general profile. Adjoint optimization tools in CFD (ANSYS
Fluent) were employed to increase the airfoil’s performance beyond existing
high-lift profiles (Selig S1223). Improvements of up to 20% with a
CL of 2.4 were recorded. To further evaluate performance, the airfoil was
made the basis of a full three-dimensional aerodynamics package design for an
open-wheel Formula Student car. CFD simulations were carried out on the same and
revealed performance characteristics of the airfoil in a more practical
application. These CFD simulations were calibrated with experimental values from
coast-down testing data with an accuracy of 8%.