bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APPRECIATING COVERS
Authors: Magnus Cristyn , Magnus P.D. , Uidhir Christy Mag , Mcclamrock Ron
Published: July 2022

A recording or performance of a song is a cover if there is an earlier, canonical recording of the song. It can seem intuitive to think that properly appreciating a cover requires considering it in relation to the original, or at least that doing so will yield a deeper appreciation. This intuition is supported by some philosophical accounts of covers. And it is complicated by the possibility of hearing in, whereby one hears elements of the original version in the cover. We argue that it can nevertheless be just as legitimate to consider a cover version on its own as it is to consider it in relation to the earlier recording that it is covering. In some cases, these two modes of appreciation will offer distinct rewards. In other cases, one mode will be substantially more rewarding than the other. The details matter, especially in complicated cases like covers of covers, but neither mode is privileged in principle.
AESTHETIC SENSIBILITY IN THE WORLD OF POLITICS
Authors: Buhre Frida
Published: July 2022

Review of

CECILIA SJÖHOLM: ATT SE SAKER MED ARENDT: KONST, ESTETIK, POLITIK

GÖTEBORG: DAIDALOS, 2020. 248 PAGES

ISBN: 9789171735461
APOLOGETIC PRAISING OF DERRIDEAN DECONSTRUCTION
Authors: Larsen Bente
Published: July 2022

Review of

MARTTA HEIKKILÄ, DECONSTRUCTION AND THE WORK OF ART. VISUAL ARTS AND THEIR CRITIQUE IN CONTEMPORARY FRENCH THOUGHT

LONDON: LEXINGTON BOOKS 2021. 311 PAGES.ISBN: 1793619042
Commentary: Communicating in crisis: Reflections, opportunities, and challenges for healthcare communication in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Edmonds David Matthew , Zayts-Spence Olga , Alder Katharine
Published: July 2022

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has changed how healthcare professionals, patients, and relatives communicate with each other. Aim: We take stock of the current state of affairs in healthcare communication research amid the continuing pandemic. We draw upon our expertise as communication researchers and clinical experience as a medical professional working in the pandemic to reflect upon the challenges and opportunities that the pandemic has created for healthcare communication research and practice. Findings: We explore five topics of importance for research on healthcare communication during COVID-19 and its aftermath. First, we discuss how the ‘epistemics’ of COVID-19 are navigated in patients’ communication with doctors. Second, we elaborate on the problems in communicating the prognostic uncertainty of COVID-19. Third, we consider online COVID-19 support groups as an important site for investigating the pandemic’s multi-dimensional impacts. Fourth, we consider the challenges of the shift from face-to-face to video-mediated healthcare service provision. Fifth, we explore how fast-tracking graduate medical students into the workforce left them feeling unprepared for the communicative demands of such work. Conclusion: We call for direct collaboration between medical professionals and healthcare communication researchers to utilize evidence-based findings to solve the communicative demands posed by the pandemic. Collaboration and research need to be adaptive to the dynamic nature of the pandemic.
An exploratory study of expectant mothers’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about infant vaccination
Authors: Bradshaw Amanda , Carter Carolyn G.
Published: July 2022

Background: Childhood vaccination decision making occurs during pregnancy. However, more insight is needed to determine how expectant mothers in the United States decide whether to vaccinate their children — particularly as the first vaccine, Hepatitis B, is recommended within 24 hours of birth. Aim: This qualitative study used the foundational lens of the Theory of Reasoned Action to 1) explore how expectant mothers formulate knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about infant vaccination, and 2) discern if differences exist regarding how first-time expectant mothers approach vaccine decision making. Methods: Eleven focus groups were conducted with pregnant participants from an obstetrics practice in the southeastern United States. Thematic analysis was undertaken, utilizing the constant comparative method. Results: Four overarching themes emerged: the need for evidence-based childhood vaccine information during pregnancy; perceptions of source trustworthiness and the social media paradox; concerns about the “one-size-fits-all” vaccine schedule; and the process of vaccine risk-benefit analysis of first-time mothers. Discussion: Practical implications highlight a need for standardized vaccine-related education during the prenatal care period. Theoretical implications reveal that the decision of whether to vaccinate one’s infant remains complex, involving a variety of factors. Conclusion: Compared to expectant mothers who had children previously, first-time expectant mothers especially reported feeling ill-informed to make infant vaccine decisions.
“For review and management”: The role of the referral letter in surgical consultations
Authors: White Sarah J , Davies Laura , Cartmill John A , Bokor Desmond J , Dahm Maria R.
Published: July 2022

Background: The referral letter serves a central role in the transfer of patients from referring doctors to specialist care in Australia. Aim: We analysed the form and function of referral letters and examined their role in surgical consultations to better understand the information in the letter and what impact that may or may not have on consultation openings. Methods: Thirteen referral letters and their associated recorded surgical consultations were analysed with an iterative, multi-methods qualitative approach. Using inductive and deductive linguistic methods, we considered clinical and paraclinical information as well as contextual factors in the letters’ alignment with referral guidelines as well as overall relevance to the consultation. Results: The analysis showed that surgeons tend to have a “set piece” when opening a consultation that is independent of the content or style of the referral. While referral letters fell short of guidelines, additional patient information was frequently discussed in the consultation. Discussion: Patients and surgeons are generally able to work around interactional challenges related to patient information. However, recognising the need to supplement referral information particularly around paraclinical information and contextual factors is important. Conclusions: Future changes to referral letter guidelines could reflect these realities.
What does the doctor plan to say? Physician-generated plans for advance care planning conversations
Authors: Russell Jessica , Quaack Karly
Published: July 2022

Background: Importance of advance care planning or enabling individuals to make decisions regarding their future care is widely recognized. How physicians plan for or approach such conversations remains understudied. Aim: Physician plans were examined through a multiple goals theoretical framework. Of interest were the goals present within the plans as well as content referenced within each goal category. Method: In an online survey, physicians (n = 45) were provided a hypothetical scenario and asked to design a plan to communicate to the patient about their options for life-sustaining treatment. Providers were asked how they would engage in the conversation and what they would plan to discuss. A content analysis of physician responses was conducted. Results: Findings indicated that plans primarily consisted of task and identity goals. Content of reported plans overwhelmingly involved soliciting patient goals, explaining treatment options, and investigating patient knowledge of the medical condition. Conclusions: The current study addresses the paucity of research around what content providers prioritize and which conversational goals are present. This information affords role clarity for interdisciplinary teams and gives insight to where other team members can contribute to enhance patient outcomes. Reliance on theoretical frameworks offers a systematic build of this research where cross-study connections can be identified.
Pedagogical activity of the educator of the late XIX вЂ“ early XX century Gabdulla Tukai and the struggle for the renewal of education
Authors: Malikov Rustam Shaydullovich , Galiakberova Al'finur Azatovna
Published: July 2022

The subject of this study is the work of the unsurpassed Tatar educator of the late XIX вЂ“ early XX century Gabdulla Tukai (April 26, 1886 вЂ“ April 15, 1913) on the compilation of textbooks and textbooks for elementary schools on literary reading, as well as his critical views on the system of education in old-fashioned schools and madrasas, reflected in poems. In the course of the study, his activities as a methodologist, a school teacher, as well as poems, which reflect the description of the process and results of education in old-fashioned schools and madrassas, were analyzed. The research used theoretical methods, induction and deduction, comparison and comparison, analysis and synthesis, abstraction. The novelty of the research lies in the fact that the activities of the educator as a school teacher, as well as the compilation of textbooks and teaching aids are analyzed, critical thoughts about the state of education of young people in modern educational institutions and the need to update the content, methods and means of teaching are highlighted. For analysis, such poems as "What the Shakirds who came out of the madrasah tell", "Village Madrasah", "Father and Child", "Consolation" were selected, which most vividly reflect the views of the educator on the system of education of the early twentieth century in old-fashioned schools and madrasahs. The article can be used in the process of studying the history of pedagogical thought and education in secondary and higher pedagogical educational institutions, as well as interest a wide range of readers.
Advances in Modelling of the Integrated Production Logistics in Sugarcane Harvest
Authors: ALMEIDA Paulo , CRISPINIANO GARCIA Reinaldo , PALLAVICINI FONSECA Adelayda
Published: July 2022

The sugar-energy sector is extremely important to the Brazilian economy, with several other production chains derived from it, generating some of the main products linked to food and energy sources. This study proposes an integration model for sugarcane harvesting logistics processes, focusing on optimisation of industrial plant production capacity. Dynamic modelling has been applied to study a broad range of the productive phases of the sugar-energy chain. This paper proposes indicators to evaluate the degree of efficiency of the production logistics processes. Preliminary results showed that phase times in the production logistics processes can be significantly reduced in the harvest phase. When analysed as a coordination-oriented flow having chained activities, the production logistics processes optimise the speeds and travel times during the harvest phase. The developed model uses data set of the production and logistics processes phases of a sugarcane industry. A future study will focus on more detailed and complex stakeholder behaviours based on the model proposed.
Hemiballism, a rare complication of coil embilization
Authors: Kim Sung Ho , Yeo Dong Kyu , Lee Gwang Soo
Published: July 2022

Thromboembolism is one of the major complications during coil embolization of an aneurysm, which usually causes familiar neurological deficits, such as, weakness, aphasia, etc. We report a rare complication by thromboembolism after coil embolization causing hemiballism. A 69-year-old female presented with unruptured posterior communicating artery aneurysm and was treated by coil embolization. After the procedure, the patient showed global aphasia and right hemiparesis, and there were small multiple, scattered infarctions on the left middle cerebral artery territory. The neurologic deficit subsided after five days, but hemballism occurred thereafter. There was no other medical history to explain the hemiballism. The patient was treated with clonazepam and antiepileptics and the hemiballism subsided at postoperative day 20. We report a case of rare complication, hemiballism, during coil embolization.
Clinical Improvement of Onychomycosis After Nd:YAG 1,064-nm Laser Treatment
Authors: Marcos-Tejedor Felix , Acevedo Raquel Mayordomo , Pico Ana María Pérez , Santos-Blanco María C. , Iglesias-Sánchez María J.
Published: July 2022

Background: Onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is the cause of 50% of onychopathies seen by podiatric physicians. This pathology is accompanied by a negative psychosocial component because of its effect on self-image, which is an essential part of social relations. Conventional pharmacologic treatment based on antifungal agents is lengthy and expensive and has a high abandonment rate and a low cure rate. Therefore, a faster and more efficient solution has been sought using laser treatment. However, studies on the efficacy of this physical method are not conclusive due to the lack of uniformity in the method used to apply the laser and an objective method to measure the results. The aim of this study was to measure the efficacy of laser treatment of onychomycosis by microbiological cure and clinical evolution using the Onychomycosis Severity Index.

Methods: A prospective study with a strictly repetitive protocol of Nd:YAG 1,064-nm laser was applied to 50 participants with onychomycosis in the first toe, following the manufacturer's instructions. The efficacy of the treatment on fungal infection was measured by microbiological culture before and after treatment. The clinical evolution of the nail dystrophy was quantitatively evaluated using the Onychomycosis Severity Index.

Results: The efficacy of Nd:YAG 1,064-nm laser in eliminating fungal infection was 30% (15 participants). However, significant improvement in nail appearance (dystrophy) was observed in 100% of patients (P < .001).

Conclusions: Laser treatment has relatively low efficacy in treating fungal infection but results in an objective improvement in the clinical appearance of the nail in 100% of patients.
Dactylolysis Spontanea: Possible Immunohistologic Etiology Discovered in a Rare Presentation of Bilateral Fourth Digits
Authors: Adegboyega Samuel B. , Silvestro Steven N. , Kwon Kihyun , Yaeger Daniel S. , Harris Jessica L. , Dobtsis Joseph
Published: July 2022

Dactylolysis spontanea is a rare, progressive disease characterized by fibrous soft-tissue constriction around the base of an appendage. It most commonly occurs bilaterally in the fifth toes of male patients and often progresses to spontaneous autoamputation. The broad spectrum of clinical severity, poorly characterized natural clinical timeline, and previous lack of specific confirmatory tests make this condition difficult to diagnose and treat in the early stages where it may be amendable to conservative treatment. We present a case report of a 29-year-old woman with dactylolysis spontanea involving bilateral fourth digits. The diagnosis of dactylolysis spontanea was made based on clinical and radiographic correlations and by excluding other similar conditions. Following surgical removal of the digits, exploratory histopathologic analysis demonstrated the novel presence of positive glucose transporter 1 immunohistochemical staining. Although the diagnosis of dactylolysis spontanea has historically been considered a diagnosis of exclusion and is often complicated by the heterogeneous clinical presentations, glucose transporter 1 staining offers clinicians a valuable tool in assisting with the diagnosis of this condition. This may finally elucidate the etiology of this rare condition.
Conservative Approach in the Management of Lesser Toe Deformities in Older Adults
Authors: Formosa Cynthia , Grixti Charlene , Gatt Alfred
Published: July 2022

Background: Toe deformities are common foot abnormalities in older adults, contributing to functional disability, loss of balance, falls, and pressure lesions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the custom-made molded silicone toe prop in distributing apical and metatarsophalangeal joint peak plantar pressures and force-time integral in toe deformities, including hammertoes and claw toes, and to observe any difference in pressures between flexible and rigid toe deformities.

Methods: A prospective quasi-experimental pretest/posttest study was conducted including 20 “healthy” older adults with a hammer or claw toe at the second digit. Ten subjects presented with a flexible toe and 10 subjects presented with a rigid toe. A molded silicone toe prop was devised for each participant. Dynamic plantar pressure measurements were taken/recorded before applying the toe prop and after the toe prop was placed under the toe.

Results: Significant differences in mean peak plantar pressure and pressure-time integral were observed at the apex of the second toe in both the flexible and rigid toe deformity when using a molded silicone toe prop. At the metatarsophalangeal joint, pressures were significantly reduced in the rigid toe deformity but not in the flexible toe deformity.

Conclusions: Silicone molded toe props were found to be effective in reducing peak pressure and pressure-time integral on the apex of the second digit in participants with both flexible and rigid claw or hammertoe deformity. Lesser toe deformities may be the cause of several foot complications, including pain on walking, corns, difficulty in wearing footwear, possible ulcerations caused by increased pressure at the apices of the toes, and other comorbidities, that could possibly lead to falls in older adults and thus need to be addressed appropriately.
Avascular Necrosis of the Type II Accessory Navicular Bone: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Özbalcı Aysu Başak , Erdoğan Furkan , Coskun Huseyin Sina
Published: July 2022

The accessory navicular bone (ANB) is one of the most common accessory ossicles of the foot. Fewer than 1% of ANBs are symptomatic, and most of the symptomatic ANBs are type II ANBs. Avascular necrosis of the type II ANB is an uncommon cause of symptomatic accessory navicular syndrome and also a rarely reported condition in the podiatric medical literature. This rare disorder must be distinguished from other painful conditions of the ANB and should be considered in differential diagnoses. We present a case of avascular necrosis of the type II ANB with sclerosis on radiographs and magnetic resonance images in a 46-year-old woman.
The giant staphylococcal protein Embp facilitates colonization of surfaces through Velcro-like attachment to fibrillated fibronectin
Authors: Khan Nasar , Aslan Hüsnü , Büttner Henning , Rohde Holger , Golbek Thaddeus Wayne , Roeters Steven Joop , Woutersen Sander , Weidner Tobias , Meyer Rikke Louise
Published: July 2022

Staphylococcus epidermidis causes some of the most hard-to-treat clinical infections by forming biofilms: Multicellular communities of bacteria encased in a protective matrix, supporting immune evasion and tolerance against antibiotics. Biofilms occur most commonly on medical implants, and a key event in implant colonization is the robust adherence to the surface, facilitated by interactions between bacterial surface proteins and host matrix components. S. epidermidis is equipped with a giant adhesive protein, extracellular matrix-binding protein (Embp), which facilitates bacterial interactions with surface-deposited, but not soluble fibronectin. The structural basis behind this selective binding process has remained obscure. Using a suite of single-cell and single-molecule analysis techniques, we show that S. epidermidis is capable of such distinction because Embp binds specifically to fibrillated fibronectin on surfaces, while ignoring globular fibronectin in solution. S. epidermidis adherence is critically dependent on multivalent interactions involving 50 fibronectin-binding repeats of Embp. This unusual, Velcro-like interaction proved critical for colonization of surfaces under high flow, making this newly identified attachment mechanism particularly relevant for colonization of intravascular devices, such as prosthetic heart valves or vascular grafts. Other biofilm-forming pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus, express homologs of Embp and likely deploy the same mechanism for surface colonization. Our results may open for a novel direction in efforts to combat devastating, biofilm-associated infections, as the development of implant materials that steer the conformation of adsorbed proteins is a much more manageable task than avoiding protein adsorption altogether.
Spatially bivariate EEG-neurofeedback can manipulate interhemispheric inhibition
Authors: Hayashi Masaaki , Okuyama Kohei , Mizuguchi Nobuaki , Hirose Ryotaro , Okamoto Taisuke , Kawakami Michiyuki , Ushiba Junichi
Published: July 2022

Human behavior requires inter-regional crosstalk to employ the sensorimotor processes in the brain. Although external neuromodulation techniques have been used to manipulate interhemispheric sensorimotor activity, a central controversy concerns whether this activity can be volitionally controlled. Experimental tools lack the power to up- or down-regulate the state of the targeted hemisphere over a large dynamic range and, therefore, cannot evaluate the possible volitional control of the activity. We addressed this difficulty by using the recently developed method of spatially bivariate electroencephalography (EEG)-neurofeedback to systematically enable the participants to modulate their bilateral sensorimotor activities. Here, we report that participants learn to up- and down-regulate the ipsilateral excitability to the imagined hand while maintaining constant contralateral excitability; this modulates the magnitude of interhemispheric inhibition (IHI) assessed by the paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) paradigm. Further physiological analyses revealed that the manipulation capability of IHI magnitude reflected interhemispheric connectivity in EEG and TMS, which was accompanied by intrinsic bilateral cortical oscillatory activities. Our results show an interesting approach for neuromodulation, which might identify new treatment opportunities, e.g., in patients suffering from a stroke.
Regionally distinct trophoblast regulate barrier function and invasion in the human placenta
Authors: Marsh Bryan , Zhou Yan , Kapidzic Mirhan , Fisher Susan , Blelloch Robert
Published: July 2022

The human placenta contains two specialized regions: the villous chorion where gases and nutrients are exchanged between maternal and fetal blood, and the smooth chorion (SC) which surrounds more than 70% of the developing fetus but whose cellular composition and function is poorly understood. Here, we use single cell RNA-sequencing to compare the cell types and molecular programs between these two regions in the second trimester human placenta. Each region consists of progenitor cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) with similar gene expression programs. While CTBs in the villous chorion differentiate into syncytiotrophoblasts, they take an alternative trajectory in the SC producing a previously unknown CTB population which we term SC-specific CTBs (SC-CTBs). Marked by expression of region-specific cytokeratins, the SC-CTBs form a stratified epithelium above a basal layer of progenitor CTBs. They express epidermal and metabolic transcriptional programs consistent with a primary role in defense against physical stress and pathogens. Additionally, we show that SC-CTBs closely associate with EVTs and secrete factors that inhibit the migration of the EVTs. This restriction of EVT migration is in striking contrast to the villous region where EVTs migrate away from the chorion and invade deeply into the decidua. Together, these findings greatly expand our understanding of CTB differentiation in these distinct regions of the human placenta. This knowledge has broad implications for studies of the development, functions, and diseases of the human placenta.
Wikidata and the bibliography of life
Authors: Page Roderic D. M.
Published: July 2022

Biological taxonomy rests on a long tail of publications spanning nearly three centuries. Not only is this literature vital to resolving disputes about taxonomy and nomenclature, for many species it represents a key source—indeed sometimes the only source—of information about that species. Unlike other disciplines such as biomedicine, the taxonomic community lacks a centralised, curated literature database (the “bibliography of life”). This article argues that Wikidata can be that database as it has flexible and sophisticated models of bibliographic information, and an active community of people and programs (“bots”) adding, editing, and curating that information.
Knowledge regarding Snakebite and its Management among Second Year Nursing Students
Authors: Das Rahul , Chattopadhyay Suman , Mandal Ananya
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Snakebite is considered as Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Nursing personnel are often the first point of contact for snakebite patients and it is imperative that their knowledge about first aid and management is sound and based on standard treatment guidelines. Aim: To assess the knowledge regarding snakebite and its treatment modalities among second year Nursing students. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 192 students of 2nd Year, Bachelor of Science (BSc). Nursing, from Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital (NRSMC) and ID and BG Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. A set of 10 pretested and validated questions was given to them to be filled anonymously answering only one option for each question. Each of the responses were calculated as one for ‘Yes’ option and zero for ‘No’ or ‘Uncertain’responses. The overall knowledge was considered inadequate, if the score was less than 70% (A score of seven and less). Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Results: About 184 (95.84%) students were aware that not all snakes in India are poisonous. However, only 29 (15.10%) were aware of the fact that tourniquet is not a requirement for transport of snakebite patients to referral centers. Among this study population, 121 (63.02%) correctly said that 20 minutes Whole Blood Clotting Time should be performed and 160 (83.33%) correctly said that Adrenaline should be part of the emergency tray during management. Overall, only 89 (46.35%) of the students scored 70% or more and the rest had inadequate knowledge regarding first aid and management of snakebites. Conclusion: The study showed that the knowledge regarding first aid and management of snakebites among second year BSc Nursing students was inadequate. The study participants were not aware of the standard treatment guidelines of snakebite management and there was a need to adequately sensitise them regarding the same during their course of study.
In vitro Effect of Alum on Microbes Associated with Foliar Phytoplasma Disease of Noni
Authors: Lawrence O. Amadi,
Published: July 2022

Foliar phytoplasma disease of Noni (Morinda citrifolia) has a devastating socioeconomic impact on host crop species and a huge problem to farmers and scientists. Therefore, this study investigates the in vitro effect of alum on microorganisms associated with foliar phytoplasma disease (FPD) of Noni. Bacteria and fungi were isolated and identified by culture-dependent technique using standard microbiological procedures and susceptibility of species were evaluated by disc and agar well diffusion techniques and inhibition zones (IZs) were measured in millimeter (mm). The microbes identified were Bacillus subtilis, B. tequilensis, Brevundimonas vesicularis, B. cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Serratia species as well as Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger and Penicillium species. Relative abundance (%) of bacterial species occurred in the order; S. aureus > B. tequilensis > B. cereus and least being Br. vesicularis whereas fungi were A. fumigatus (75%), A. niger and A. flavus (50%) respectively and Penicillium (25%) species. Susceptibility test efficacy of Alum was concentration dependent with Serratia sp. as (6.0mm) and S. aureus (4.0mm) whilst A. flavus (36.0mm), A. fumigatus (32.5mm), Penicillium (30.2mm) and A. niger (30.0mm) at 5.0% Alum concentrations as the largest IZs respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Alum against all the microflora were < 2.0gm/mL except for S. aureus which portends a good future prospects in agronomy. However, the higher concentrations of Alum compared favourably with Ketoconazole (control) but showed wide disparity with Ofloxacin (control). This study, however, may proffer solutions for the prevention and management of FPD or foliar related diseases by periodic spraying or fumigation with Alum.
Influence of Nitrogen on Growth Indices of Different Wheat Varieties in Late Sown Condition
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Singh Anil Kumar , Singh Ram Pratap , Singh Vishal , Kumar Ankit , Singh Divya
Published: July 2022

Growth indices changes from sowing to harvesting of the crop were monitored under the influence of four varieties (PBW- 373, HD- 2285, K-7903, HUW-234) and four Nitrogen levels (0 kg ha-1 (Control), 120 kg ha-1,150 kg ha-1 and 180 kg ha-1) during rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. Analysis of the two years average data indicated that PBW-373 along with 150 kg N ha-1 resulted in the highest significant values of Crop Growth Rate (CGR) and Net Assimilation Rate (NAR) up to 60 and 90 DAS respectively after which it declines whereas Relative Growth Rate (RGR) show a declining trend from sowing till harvesting. Net Assimilation Rate (NAR) was found to be unaffected by the varieties but was significantly affected by different levels of nitrogen being highest with 150 kg N ha-1. However, it was found to declines from sowing to harvesting. Leaf area duration (LAD) was also found to increases from sowing till harvest being highest with 150 kg N ha‑1. No interaction effect was found among different treatments. The overall findings concluded that variety PBW-373 along with 150 kg N ha-1 could be more beneficial in the study area.
Seed Quality Parameters as Influenced by Plant Growth Regulators and Fresh Fruit Harvesting in Okra
Authors: Kumari Ritu , Shree Sangeeta , Singh Vijay Kumar , Kumar Arun , Sahay Sanjay , Patel Pushpam
Published: July 2022

The research work was conducted to find out the most suitable level of plant growth regulator (PGR) and stage of plant for spray as well as fresh fruit pickings to increase the seed yield of okra. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (factorial) with three replications to at the Vegetable seed production area BAU, Sabour, Bhagalpur. Present investigation was framed with Sixty (60) treatments consisting of 10 PGR’s level, P0 (distilled water), GA3 (100 ppm, 150 ppm and 200 ppm), NAA (100 ppm, 150 ppm and 200 ppm), IAA (30 ppm, 60 ppm and 90 ppm), 2 Stage of plant for spraying of PGRs, S1 (4 leaf stage), S2 (4 leaf stage + Flower initiation) and 3 pickings of fruits, H1 (3 Pickings of fresh fruits + rest fruits left for seed production), H2 (6 Pickings of fresh fruits + rest fruits left for seed production), H3 (No pickings of fresh fruits + all fruits left for seed production. It was observed that the different levels of treatments affected the seed quality attributes of the crops. Among the treatments, P2S1H1 treatment was recorded maximum Germination % (86.36), Seedling length (31.04 cm), Vigour index-I (2787.73), Vigour index-II (5.27) and seed viability test (88.00). Thus, P2S1H1 was superior among all treatments.
Checklist of Trees and Shrubs at the Naraguta Campus of the University of Jos
Authors: Abdulmuhyi Nasir Ibrahim , Sani Modibbo Musa , Hussaini Lawan Anas , Nendirmwa Dawang, Sukat
Published: July 2022

Aims: To identify and document the trees and shrubs found in the Naraguta Campus of the University of Jos.

Study Design:  Systematic randomized sampling.

Place and Duration of Study: University of Jos Naraguta campus, between March 2020 and April 2020.

Methodology: A ten (10) 50 x 50 m plots were established and each being at least 250m apart using measuring tape to obtain data on the trees and shrubs of the area. The coordinates for the points where plots occur were recorded using Garming Extrax Global Positioning System (GPS) machine.

Results: A total of sixty three (63) species, belonging to thirty (30) families were recorded during the study. The most species abundant families were the Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Caesalpinaceae, Mimoseceae, Moraceae, Myrtaceae and Annonaceae respectively.

Conclusion: To conclude, this research work has revealed the diversity of trees and shrubs in the Naraguta campus of the University of Jos, alongside their local names, common names, families, and locations.
Effect of a Slow-firing Method on Porcine Small Intestine: Evaluation of Staple Malformation by Two Different Methods
Authors: Kimura Masahiro , Mizuno Kotaro , Harata Koshiro , Tsuboi Ken , Maeda Yuzo , Nakaya Seiichi , Uematsu Hiroshi , Uehara Syuhei , Kako Tomohiro , Saito Takeshi
Published: July 2022

Background: In addition to improvement in staplers, surgeons have made some ingenious changes in stapling techniques. There are few reports that have examined in detail the effect of one ingenious change, the slow-firing method, on the malformation of staples. In this study, the malformation of staples was examined from the viewpoint of twisting and wrapping of staple legs.

Methods: Fresh porcine small bowel was used for all experiments. The front and rear walls of the small intestine segments were stapled in the longitudinal direction. A powered Echelon Plus stapler with a GST cartridge and an EndGIA tri-stapler with an AMT cartridge were used. After a 1-min pre-compression, firing was done as usual in the normal group. In the slow-firing groups, firing was done over a 1-min period. Malformation of staples was evaluated by the degree of wrapping of the legs to the backspan and the degree of leg twisting.

Results: The slow-firing method significantly improved the twist score in Echelon Plus. In contrast, the twist score increased with the slow-firing method in EndGIA. Some staples in Echelon Plus were category Ⅱ or Ⅲ. In addition, all staples on the outside of the tip of stapler were category Ⅱ or Ⅲ. All staples in EndGIA were category Ⅰ. No significant difference in the wrap category was shown by the firing method in both staplers.

Conclusion: The slow-firing method contributed to the better formation of staples with Echelon Plus, but the effectiveness was not recognized with EndGIA. B-shaped staples with less twisting and wrapping are important factors to complete a reliable suture. After understanding the characteristics of various staplers and selecting the appropriate staple height, adding techniques, such as pre-compression and slow-firing methods will lead to a reduction in post-operative complications.
Use of Prazosin for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Adolescents is Associated with Longer Inpatient Psychiatric Hospitalization
Authors: Khoury Dina , Nguyen Bao-Nhan Benjamin , Lai Laura , Safani David
Published: July 2022

Objectives: Prazosin has been shown to be effective in reducing PTSD-related nightmares in adolescents in outpatient studies with modest sample sizes. There are no data on the effects of prazosin on length of inpatient psychiatric hospitalization. Given prazosin’s adverse effects, we hypothesize that prazosin initiation during inpatient psychiatric hospitalization is associated with prolonged length of stay.

Patients and Methods: Retrospective chart review identified 255 psychiatric admissions of adolescents with PTSD from 2012-2017 at an academic medical center. The treatment group comprised 101 admissions during which prazosin was initiated. Given a lack of rating scales, number of concurrent diagnoses and discharge medications were used to approximate overall illness severity.

Results: There were no statistical differences between the treatment and non-treatment (control) groups with respect to age, gender, number of diagnoses or discharge medications. The mean dose of prazosin was 1.5±0.7 mg nightly with mean duration of 7.6±6.1 days. Length of hospital stay was significantly longer for the prazosin group compared with controls (11.1±6.6 vs 9.5±5.8 days, p=0.04). There was no difference in rates of orthostatic hypotension between groups. Adverse reactions were observed in 41% of individuals taking prazosin with a discontinuation rate of 14% due to intolerable side effects, lack of efficacy or request to reduce polypharmacy.

Conclusions: Treatment with prazosin during inpatient psychiatric hospitalization may be associated with increased length of stay for adolescents with PTSD. Further studies are needed to validate these results.
Effect of Different Establishment Methods and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth, Yield and Economics of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Poojitha K. , Denesh G. R.
Published: July 2022

The field experiment was conducted during 2018 Kharif at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Vishwesharaiah Canal Farm, Mandya to study the Effect of different establishment methods and nutrient management practices on growth, yield and economics of rice (Oryza sativa L.). The experiment laid out in a split plot design with three replications. The treatments comprised of three rice establishment methods viz., semi dry, drum seeding & transplanting and five nutrient management practices. Among establishment methods, growth and yield parameters such as LAI at 60 DAS, plant height, dry matter production at harvest, panicles m-2, panicle weight, test weight, grain and straw yields recorded were statistically analyzed at par with each other. Further between nutrient management practices, application of 150% RDIF recorded significantly higher LAI at 60 DAS, plant height, dry matter production at harvest, panicles m-2, panicle weight, test weight, grain and straw yields as compared to rest of the nutrient management practices. Further semi dry and drum seeding of rice recorded higher B:C ratio (2.15) over transplanting of rice (2.10). Similarly, 150% RDIF recorded higher B:C ratio (2.37), but was closely followed by 100% RDIF (2.22).
Color Doppler and Ankle-brachial Index in the Diagnosis of Peripheral Artery Disease in Type II Diabetic Subject
Authors: Shaikh Sana , Anwar Kashaf , Javed Asma , Khatoon Zaheda
Published: July 2022

Objective: To determine the association of color doppler and ankle-brachial index (ABI) in the diagnosis of peripheral artery disease in type ii diabetic subject.

Methods: The study was carried out at ultrasound department of Advanced Radiology Clinic (ARC), Karachi, from January 2020 to December 2020. Patients of diagnosed diabetes mellitus for at least 4 years of either gender between 30-70 years of age were included. All patients were instructed to avoid heavy exercise, smoking and caffeinated beverages before the examination for at the minimum of two hours. All the cases underwent Standard Doppler examination of lower limb peripheral arteries performed by radiologist having experience of more than 10 years. Spectral waveform analysis was evaluated and presence of Biphasic flow or monophasic flow on color Doppler was labelled as peripheral artery disease. The ABI was computed for each patient by measuring the systolic blood pressure in supine position starting with the right arm then proceeding towards right leg, left leg, and finally for the left arm. ABI is a ratio obtained from dividing the higher of the ankle blood pressures for each leg by the highest of the right and left arm’s brachial systolic blood pressures. It was labelled as peripheral artery disease if the value was <0.9. This information along with the demographics was entered in the Performa by the researcher. Data was analyzed by using SPSS Version 26.

Result: Mean age of enrolled participants was 58.21±6.74 year. There were 78.6% were males and 21.4% were females; mean duration of diabetes was 11.24±5.62 years. Out of all 121 cases were diagnosed color doppler and 118 cases found positive on ABI. Although ankle-brachial index shows almost similar diagnosis like color doppler ultrasound in the assessment of peripheral arterial disease (P-0.649).

Conclusion: This study concludes that ankle-brachial index is a feasible, non-invasive technique almost similar to color Doppler ultrasound method for the detection of peripheral arterial disease. The ankle-brachial index technique is most important in periphery areas where color Doppler ultrasound is not available.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Oral Apremilast: Treatment Analysis for Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Barbhaya Meet , Modasiya Afiya , Patel Anu , Bapat Nirav , Patel Krina
Published: July 2022

Background: Apremilast is an oral, selective phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4) enzyme inhibitor, approved by the US-FDA for management of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Apremilast belongs to class of drug that function by modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and have a low molecular weight (<1 kD), identified as small molecules. Due to its convenience in administration via oral or topical route, adequate efficacy, great safety profile and low cost they are emerging as treatment choices in inflammatory dermatosis and other systemic inflammatory disorders.                                                                                                 

Material and Methods: A hospital based, prospective, interventional, cohort study was conducted on 78 patients with Chronic plaque psoriasis. Efficacy of Apremilast was studied in 38 patients receiving oral Apremilast with topical steroids in comparison to 36 patients who were given only topical steroids for 16 weeks.  Patients were evaluated pre-treatment and then every 4 weeks for a period of 16 weeks and followed up to the 28th week for any adverse effects associated with apremilast therapy. Outcome was assessed on the basis of PASI score and clinical photographs. Side effects in both groups were recorded.

Results: Primary endpoint (PASI75 and above) was achieved in 68.42% patients in group A. Among this patient's PASI 90 was achieved in 13.16% (n=5) and PASI 100 was obtained in 13.16% (n=5). In Group B, none of the patients achieved PASI 75. Most common side effects observed in group A were GI disturbances.  No significant adverse effect was noted in group B.

Conclusion: Apremilast has good efficacy and safety in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. and is generally well tolerated which makes it possible to keep other immunosuppressants to be kept in reserve for more severe stages of disease. Our study supports the favorable benefit:risk profile of oral apremilast.
Application of Assignment Model and its Solution Using QSB in Selecting among Offers
Authors: Rahim Abdul Hassan
Published: July 2022

The current research aims to study the possibility of applying the (QSB) program on how to allocate different resources to the works that require the assignment of various projects and contracting to business companies and primary and secondary contractors and the distribution of resources to the various bodies concerned with implementation according to fair methods that take into account the various factors and capabilities available to these bodies. Several scientific methods and methods for resource distribution methods were discussed, as well as the methods most consistent with the Iraqi reality and the selection of one of them. Therefore, the researcher came to the conclusion that there are ways that may harmonize with the Iraqi reality more than others, explaining the application requirements and techniques, explaining the application skills and its requirements.
Development of a method to determine workers' personal exposure levels to glyphosate
Authors: Ishii Kenta , Takeuchi Akito , Nishinoiri Osamu , Endo Ginji , Ono-Ogasawara Mariko
Published: July 2022

Objectives

We aimed to develop a method to determine workers' personal exposure levels to N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine (glyphosate) for their risk assessments.

Methods

The proposed method was assessed as follows: recovery, stability of samples on storage, method limit of quantification, and reproducibility. Glyphosate in air was sampled using an air-sampling cassette containing a glass fiber filter. Ultrapure water was used to extract glyphosate from sampler filters. After derivation with 9-fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl chloride, samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography using a fluorescence detector.

Results

Spiked samples indicated an overall recovery of 101%. After 7 days of storage at 4°C, recoveries were approximately 100%. The method limit of quantification was 0.060 μg/sample. Relative standard deviations representing overall reproducibility, defined as precision, were 1.4%–1.8%.

Conclusions

The method developed in this study allows 4-h personal exposure monitoring of glyphosate at 0.250–500 μg/m3. Thus, this method can be used to estimate worker exposure to glyphosate.
Enhancing Critical Current Density of Bulk MgB2 via Nanoscale Boron and Dy2O3 Doping
Authors: Miryala Muralidhar , Kitamoto Kotaro , Arvapalli Sai Srikanth , Das Dhruba , Jirsa Milos , Murakami Masato , Mamidanna Sri Ramachandra Rao
Published: July 2022

Moderate critical current density (Jc) has been a long‐lasting problem in bulk MgB2 superconductors. We show a certain increment in Jc of bulk MgB2 via the use of amorphous boron precursor together with Dy2O3 doping. Dy2O3 dopant concentration varies from 0 to 2 wt%. X‐Ray diffraction (XRD) shows the formation of DyB4 particles. The critical temperature (Tc) is not affected by Dy2O3 doping and stands close to 38 K, showing that there is no Dy interaction with the MgB2 lattice. Microstructural studies show nanometer‐sized MgB2 grains. A high self‐field Jc of around 380 kA cm−2 is achieved at 20 K within the Dy2O3 doping range of 0.5–1.5 wt%. At around 1 wt% Dy2O3 doping an improved high‐field performance, 90 kA cm−2 at 2 T, 20 K, is observed. In the flux pinning diagram, 1 wt% Dy2O3 doping caused a peak shift from 0.19 (0 wt%) to 0.23. This indicates secondary pinning by DyB4 and lattice strains. Raman studies show the increase in the phonon density of states (PDOS) with increasing Dy2O3 doping.
Highly Stable and Transparent Slippery Surface on Silica Glass Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Liang Jie , Shan Chao , Wang Hao , Hu Tao , Yang Qing , Li Haoyu , Hou Xun , Chen Feng
Published: July 2022

Underwater optical window plays an important role in ocean detection. Studies show that marine biofouling is one of the biggest challenges that affect the performance of the optical window. Recently, nepenthes‐inspired lubrication‐infused slippery surfaces (SLIPS) with excellent anti‐biological adsorption features have been widely used to resolve this problem. However, low mechanical resistance and the easy loss of infused lubricants affect the slippery capability of this method. In the present study, a novel 3D bionic slippery surface was fabricated using a femtosecond laser wet etching on silica glass. In this method, the lubricant of the compartment structure SLIPS is stored in the inner compartment and is transported to the surface under the effect of the capillary forth. The unique structure of the proposed scheme dramatically improved the surface durability compared with the normal SLIPS, and does not affect the intrinsic transparency of the substrate material. The performed analyses revealed that the proposed scheme has excellent optical transmittance and durability, and is expected to have wide applications in the ocean detection field.