bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Metoprolol-Loaded Chitosan-Coated Deformable Liposomes in Thermosensitive In Situ Gels for the Management of Glaucoma: A Repurposing Approach
Authors: Badran Mohamed M. , Alomrani Abdullah H. , Almomen Aliyah , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Abou El Ela Amal El Sayeh
Published: October 2022

Glaucoma is a long-term eye disease associated with high intraocular pressure (IOP), which seriously damages the eyes, causing blindness. For successful therapy, potent drugs and delivery systems are required. Metoprolol (MT) is believed to help reduce elevated IOP. The paradigm of ocular therapeutics may be changed by the integration of chitosan-coated liposomes (CLPs) with thermosensitive in situ gel (ISG). Therefore, MT-CLPs were developed and characterized and compared to uncoated ones (MT-LPs). Furthermore, MT-LP- and MT-CLP-loaded ISGs were prepared and characterized in in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies. MT-LPs and MT-CLPs displayed spherical shapes with nanosize range, reasonable EE%, and significant bioadhesion. The zeta potential changed from negative to positive after CS coating. The extended in vitro drug release of MT-CLPs showed significant mucin mucoadhesion. The formed ISGs were homogeneous with a pH range of 7.34 to 7.08 and a rapid sol–gel transition at physiological temperature. MT-ISG1 (MT-LP) and MT-ISG2 (MT-CLPs-0.5) could increase ocular permeability by 2-fold and 4.4-fold compared to MT-ISG (pure MT). MT-ISG2 demonstrated significantly reduced IOP in rabbits without causing any irritation. In conclusion, MT-ISG2 markedly enhanced corneal permeability and reduced IOP. They would be promising carriers for MT for glaucoma management.
Cellulose-g-poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethylmethacrylate) Hydrogels: Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial Testing and Polymer Electrolyte Application
Authors: Blažic Roko , Kučić Grgić Dajana , Kraljić Roković Marijana , Vidović Elvira
Published: October 2022

Hydrogels have been investigated due to their unique properties. These include high water content and biocompatibility. Here, hydrogels with different ratios of poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethylmethacrylate) (PDMAEMA) were grafted onto cellulose (Cel-g-PDMAEMA) by the free radical polymerization method and gamma-ray radiation was applied in order to increase crosslinking and content of PDMAEMA. Gamma irradiation enabled an increase of PDMAEMA content in hydrogels in case of higher ratio of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate in the initial reaction mixture. The swelling of synthesized hydrogels was monitored in dependence of pH (3, 5.5 and 10) during up to 60 days. The swelling increased from 270% to 900%. Testing of antimicrobial activity of selected hydrogel films showed weak inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis. The results obtained by the cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) indicate that chemically synthesized hydrogels have good characteristics for the supercapacitor application.
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (rs3811792) Affecting Human SCD5 Promoter Activity Is Associated with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zámbó Veronika , Orosz Gabriella , Szabó Luca , Tibori Kinga , Sipeki Szabolcs , Molnár Krisztina , Csala Miklós , Kereszturi Éva
Published: October 2022

The combined prevalence of type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 (T2DM) diabetes mellitus is 10.5% worldwide and this is constantly increasing. The pathophysiology of the diseases include disturbances of the lipid metabolism, in which acyl-CoA desaturases play a central role as they synthesize unsaturated fatty acids, thereby providing protection against lipotoxicity. The stearoyl-CoA desaturase-5 (SCD5) isoform has received little scientific attention. We aimed to investigate the SCD5 promoter and its polymorphisms in vitro, in silico and in a case-control study. The SCD5 promoter region was determined by a luciferase reporter system in HepG2, HEK293T and SK-N-FI cells and it was proved to be cell type-specific, but it was insensitive to different fatty acids. The effect of the SCD5 promoter polymorphisms rs6841081 and rs3811792 was tested in the transfected cells. The T allele of rs3811792 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) significantly reduced the activity of the SCD5 promoter in vitro and modified several transcription factor binding sites in silico. A statistically significant association of rs3811792 SNP with T1DM and T2DM was also found, thus supporting the medical relevance of this variation and the complexity of the molecular mechanisms in the development of metabolic disorders. In conclusion, the minor allele of rs3811792 polymorphism might contribute to the development of diabetes by influencing the SCD5 promoter activity.
Techniques of Geoprocessing via Cloud in Google Earth Engine Applied to Vegetation Cover and Land Use and Occupation in the Brazilian Semiarid Region
Authors: da Silva Jhon Lennon Bezerra , Refati Daiana Caroline , da Cunha Correia Lima Ricardo , de Carvalho Ailton Alves , Ferreira Maria Beatriz , Pandorfi Héliton , da Silva Marcos Vinícius
Published: October 2022

Thematic maps of land cover and use can assist in the environmental monitoring of semiarid regions, mainly due to the advent of climate change, such as drought, and pressures from anthropic activities, such as the advance of urban areas. The use of geotechnologies is key for its effectiveness and low operating cost. The objective was to evaluate and understand the spatiotemporal dynamics of the loss and gain of land cover and use in a region of the Brazilian semiarid region, and identify annual trends from changing conditions over 36 years (1985 to 2020), using cloud remote sensing techniques in Google Earth Engine (GEE). Thematic maps of land cover and land use from MapBiomas Brazil were used, evaluated by Mann–Kendall trend analysis. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was also determined from the digital processing of about 800 orbital images (1985 to 2020) from the Landsat series of satellites. The trend analysis for land cover and use detected, over time, the loss of forest areas and water bodies, followed by the advance of exposed soil areas and urban infrastructure. The modification of native vegetation directly influences water availability, and agricultural activities increase the pressure on water resources, mainly in periods of severe drought. The NDVI detected that the period from 2013 to 2020 was most affected by climatic variability conditions, with extremely low average values. Thematic maps of land cover and use and biophysical indices are essential indicators to mitigate environmental impacts in the Brazilian semiarid region.
Is Obesity a Risk Factor for Periodontal Disease in Adults? A Systematic Review
Authors: Abu-Shawish Ghadah , Betsy Joseph , Anil Sukumaran
Published: October 2022

There is inconclusive evidence about the link between the severity and prevalence of periodontitis in obese adults. Therefore, this systematic review aims to explore the possibility of significant evidence on the association between obesity and periodontitis and to determine the necessity to consider obesity as a risk factor for periodontitis. We followed the PRISMA protocol, and studies that met the eligibility criteria were included in this review. The risk of bias in individual studies was also evaluated. This review included 15 observational studies (9 cross-sectional studies, 2 case-control, and 4 cohort studies). The total study subjects from these studies were 6603 (males = 3432; females = 3171). Most studies showed a significant association between obesity and periodontitis. Among these studies, a few showed obese females to be at a higher risk, and one study found no association between obesity and periodontal disease at all. Based on the evidence obtained from this review, the body mass index (BMI) should be routinely assessed in patients to assess the risk for periodontal disease and to offer personalized management of periodontitis. Based on the findings of this review, we recommend the need to initiate awareness among clinicians and implement dental hygiene care prevention measures for obese patients.
Educational Digital Escape Rooms Footprint on Students’ Feelings: A Case Study within Aerospace Engineering
Authors: Sánchez-Ruiz Luis M. , López-Alfonso Salvador , Moll-López Santiago , Moraño-Fernández José Antonio , Vega-Fleitas Erika
Published: October 2022

The introduction of game-based learning techniques has significantly swayed learning, motivation, and information processing in both traditional and digital learning environments. This paper studies the footprint that the implementation of ten short-duration digital escape rooms has had on the creation of an environment of positive emotions in the educational field. The digital escape rooms were created by employing the Genial.ly platform and RPG Maker MZ software. A feelings/satisfaction questionnaire has been conducted to study what emotions students have experienced, as well as the students’ opinions about essential elements of digital escape rooms, to study whether positive feelings predominate in the performance of these activities. Results show a high incidence of positive emotions, and a very favorable opinion on the tools employed and the positive feelings on the acquisition of knowledge and skills.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis to Reveal Differentially Expressed Cytochrome P450 in Response to Imidacloprid in the Aphid Lion, Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Esben-Petersen)
Authors: Pathak Jyoti , Ramasamy Gandhi Gracy , Agrawal Aditi , Srivastava Subhi , Basavaarya Bhusangar Raghavendra , Muthugounder Mohan , Muniyappa Venugopal Kundalagurki , Maria Pratheepa , Rai Anil , Venkatesan Thiruvengadam
Published: October 2022

The aphid lion, Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) is a highly effective beneficial predator of many agricultural pests and has developed resistance to several insecticides. Understanding the molecular mechanism of insecticide resistance in the predators is crucial for its effective application in IPM programs. Therefore, transcriptomes of imidacloprid-resistant and susceptible strains have been assessed using RNA-seq. Cytochrome P450 is one of the important gene families involved in xenobiotic metabolism. Hence, our study focused on the CYP gene family where mining, nomenclature, and phylogenetic analysis revealed a total of 95 unique CYP genes with considerable expansion in CYP3 and CYP4 clans. Further, differential gene expression (DGE) analysis revealed ten CYP genes from CYP3 and CYP4 clans to be differentially expressed, out of which nine genes (CYP4419A1, CYP4XK1, CYP4416A10, CYP4416A-fragment8, CYP6YL1, CYP6YH6, CYP9GK-fragment16, CYP9GN2, CYP9GK6) were downregulated and one (CYP9GK3) was upregulated in the resistant strain as compared to the susceptible strain. Expression validation by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) is consistent with the DGE results. The expansion and differential expression of CYP genes may be an indicator of the capacity of the predator to detoxify a particular group of insecticides.
Conservative vs. Surgical Management for Femoro-Acetabular Impingement: A Systematic Review of Clinical Evidence
Authors: Anzillotti Giuseppe , Iacomella Alberto , Grancagnolo Matteo , Bertolino Enrico Maria , Marcacci Maurilio , Sconza Cristiano , Kon Elizaveta , Di Matteo Berardo
Published: October 2022

Femoro-acetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome is one of the most studied conditions in sports medicine. Surgical or conservative approaches can be proposed for treating FAI, although the best standard of care is not established yet. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive review of the best treatment for FAI syndrome evaluating differences in outcomes between surgical and non-operative management. A literature search was carried out on the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and PEDro databases, using the following keywords: “femoroacetabular impingement”, “FAI”, in association with “surgery”, “arthroscopy”, “surgical” and “conservative”, “physiotherapy”, “physical therapy”, “rehabilitation”, “exercise”. Only Level I RCTs were included. Four articles were selected for this systematic review. Our analysis showed different therapeutic protocols, follow-up periods, and outcomes; however, three out of the four studies included favored surgery. Our study demonstrates beneficial effects for both arthroscopic treatment and a proper regimen of physical therapy, nevertheless a surgical approach seemed to offer superior short-term results when compared to conservative care only. Further trials with larger sample sizes and longer follow-ups are needed to assess the definitive approach to the FAI condition.
Particulate Matter Characterization in a Hospital’s Underground Car Park
Authors: Garcia-Gonzalez Hector , Domat Maida , Lopez-Pola Teresa , Fernandez-Rubio Pilar , Fernandez-Rodriguez Pablo
Published: October 2022

The air quality in a hospital’s underground car park is a concern because diesel fumes from cars impact upon vulnerable people attending medical consultations. This research aims to quantify the potential health risk associated with a particular hospital car park. Particulate matter was evaluated in the area with direct reading devices for particle numbers and mass concentrations (CPC 3007, EEPS 3090, Trolex Air XD, Nanozen, and Grimm 1109). Elemental and total carbon concentrations were measured following the NIOSH 5040 method, while volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were measured through laboratory analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive using X-Ray Analysis SEM-EDX microscopy. The nanoparticle levels reached over 80,000 nanoparticles/cm3 (double the German Institut für Arbeitsschutz (IFA) benchmark levels). Diesel particulate matter levels measured as elemental carbon were around 35% of the occupational limit, and from the 49 VOCs analyzed only 13 were detected in quantities below the 0.1% of the occupational limit, while levels of the 13 PAHs analyzed, were below the laboratory limit of quantification. The study concludes that particulate matter in the underground car park can easily exceed nanoparticles benchmark levels and could be harmful, mainly to vulnerable people. It is therefore recommended that they use the outdoor car park or minimize their time in the underground one.
Social partnership as a way to prepare children without parental care for independent living
Authors:   FSBEI HE Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University, Burilkina S. A.
Published: October 2022

More and more attention is paid to the problem of post-foster home support and foster children adaptation. Social partnership is becoming a serious resource for solving various social problems in modern society.The number of subjects of public-private partnership is expanding: public organizations, business representatives who become full partners with the authorities.Subjects of public-private partnership, using different mechanisms, solve various social problems, including in the field of social orphanhood.
Potential of charitable organizations in social work with children with disabilities
Authors:   FSBEI HE Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University, Mametieva O. S.
Published: October 2022

The article reveals the role of the charitable foundation in the socialization of children with disabilities. It presents the results of a social project implemented on the basis of the Metallurg Charitable Foundation. The specifics of the project necessitated the use of such mechanisms that could ensure the formation of an active position of children with disabilities in the process of creative and cognitive activity, which had a beneficial effect on their socialization.
Longevity, productive and reproductive traits of cows of Black-and-White breed
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Vologda State Dairy Farming Academy by N. V. Vereshchagin”, Russia, Vologda region, Molochnoe, Khabarova G. V. , Smirnova Yu. M. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Vologda State Dairy Farming Academy by N. V. Vereshchagin”, Russia, Vologda region, Molochnoe
Published: October 2022

The intensification of dairy cattle breeding and the crossbreeding of many breeds of cattle with Holstein breed has led to the premature culling of cows from the herd and currently in Russia the longevity of dairy cows does not exceed 2,6–3,6 calving, i. e. the animals do not live up to the period of maximum milk productivity and payback for the cost of rearing heifers. When studying the issue of productive longevity of dairy cows, the study of its association with the level of milk productivity and reproductive traits is of particular interest. Dairy productivity and reproductive function in cows are interrelated and are the main factors determining the profi tability of the dairy cattle industry. The purpose of the research was to analyze the longevity, productive and reproductive traits of cows of Black-and-White breed in the Vologda region. It was found as a result of the research that the longest duration of economic use (3,39 lactations and 1569 days) and the lifetime productivity of milk the basic fat content (27 104 kg) had animals with a blood content of Holstein breed of 26 to 49 %. Along with this, the largest number of calves (4,13 heads) was obtained from animals with this genotype during the period of economic use. Analysis of the infl uence of lifetime productivity of dams on the productive longevity and reproductive traits of their daughters showed that a longer period of economic use (985 days), the largest number of completed lactation (2,32) and higher lifetime productivity (21 574 kg) was noted in daughters of cows with a lifetime milk yield of 35 000–44 999 kg. Animals that optimally combine the parameters of productive, reproductive traits and longevity have been identified, and the economic efficiency of their use has been determined in the paper.
Age dynamics of the live weight of steers of Auliekol breed of different body type
Authors:   LLP “Aktobe Agricultural Experimental Station”, Republic of Kazakhstan, Aktobe, Kalmagambetov M. B. , Kulmakova N. I. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Russian State Agrarian University – Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy”, Russia, Moscow, Akhmetalieva A. B. ,   Non-profit Joint Stock Company “Zhangir Khan West Kazakhstan Agrarian Technical University”, Republic of Kazakhstan, Uralsk
Published: October 2022

The study of economically useful traits of Auliekol breed has of a big theoretical and practical interest for the Republic of Kazakhstan, because it is a relatively young breed, local in the place of breeding and complex in the set of genes, requiring further consolidation and development of heredity, increasing the diversity of the genealogical structure. The purpose of the research was to study the age dynamics of the live weight of steers of Auliekol breed of diff erent body type. The results of studies of the peculiarities of growth and development of beef cattle of Auliekol breed in the postnatal period of ontogenesis, when the fi nal formation and functional formation of all organs, body systems takes place and the genetic potential of animals is fully manifested have been presented in the paper. The research results can serve as a basis for improving traditional and adapted feeding and housing technologies, breeding methods, including with the involvement of the best gene pool of foreign breeds, and also allow to further increase the productivity potential of Auliekol breed. It was found that steers of compact body type (the 2nd group) during the whole experiment were inferior in live weight and absolute growth to herdmates of tall and stretched type (the 1st group). The steers of the 1st group for the period from birth to weaning exceeded the herdmates of the 2nd group by 8 % in terms of body weight gain, after weaning up to 18 months by 17 % and for the all experimental period by 10 %. These data indicate the superiority of tall-type steers in absolute values of live weight gain.
Interior indicators of the organism of bees during the wintering of bee nucleus on cotton, fl ower and sugar honey under the conditions of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Russian State Agrarian University – Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy”, Russia, Moscow, Mannapov A. G. , Rashidov Kh. A. ,   Samarkand State University of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Husbandry and Biotechnologies, Republic of Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Suyarkulov Sh. R. ,   Fergana Regional Union of Beekeepers, Republic of Uzbekistan, Fergana
Published: October 2022

Under conditions of prolonged daylight cotton forms a powerful vegetative mass. This slows down the ripening of the pods, which is a signifi cant prerequisite for the use of honey bees in the pollination of this crop. During the season in the cotton-growing zone in the Republic of Uzbekistan bees are transported from six to ten times in special pavilions from one fi eld to another. At the same time cross–pollination increases the yield of cotton crops by two to three times. Cotton honey has a number of distinctive characteristics associated with the presence of essential oil, which gives it special biochemical properties. In 100 g of cotton honey carbohydrates account for up to 80,0 %, less than 1,0 % of proteins in the complete absence of fats. Despite this biochemical composition cotton honey crystallizes. The purpose of the research was to study the interior indicators of the organism of bees during the wintering of bee nucleus on cotton, fl ower and sugar honey under the conditions of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Experiments have been carried out on fi ve varieties of honey used for wintering of bees including cotton honey. It has been shown that the highest levels of interior indicators at the beginning and end of wintering were recorded when using flower honey (the 1st control group), both with the option of forming nucleus in 2 spaces between honeycombs, and in particular in 3 spaces between honeycombs. Here, the preservation of the reserve substances of the fat body in bees was 3,15 points in 2 spaces between honeycombs, and 3,50 points in 3 spaces between honeycombs, compared with the beginning of wintering the decrease was 21,25 and 12,50 %. At the same time the safety of nitrogen, fat and dry matter in the body of working bees of the described group was also high. In the variants with cotton honey (the 2nd experimental group) the decrease was 3,27 and 3,29 times in nitrogen, 1,93 and 1,9 times in fat, 2,22 and 2,12 times in dry matter, respectively. Despite the fact that sugar honey is poor in chemical elements needed by the body of worker bees, it does not crystallize, and its carbohydrates performing an energetic and plastic function, save bees from starvation during the critical period of wintering.
Interactive impact of potassium and sulphur to enhance the growth and yield characteristics of lentil (Lens culinaris) genotypes
Authors: Ali Umed , Shah Syed Mushtaq Ahmed , Shar Tahmina , Jatoi Ghulam Hussain , Bhutto Mahpara Khatoon , Ahmed Irfan , Koondhar Naimatullah
Published: October 2022

Potassium and sulphur are macronutrient and important for improving the growth, yield as well as quality of legume species but unfortunately are being fully ignored in the farmer's field for lentil cultivation. Due to their deficiency, yield of lentil crop has decreased up to the marked levels. The performance of five lentil genotypes namely GS-6, GS-10, P-14216, P-14223 and NVUT-E3 was evaluated against different potassium and sulphur levels i.e. K-S = 00-00, K-S = 30-15, K-S = 60-30 kg ha-1 at the experimental fields of Pulse Research Sub-Station, Tandojam. The results indicated a significant (P?0.05) impact of potassium and sulphur on lentil genotypes for all measured traits. The growth and yield traits of all genotypes were enhanced as the potassium and sulphur levels were increased. The highest growth and yield traits were recorded when the plants were treated with K-S = 60-30 kg ha-1. The control plots showed lower performance. Among the genotypes, GS-10 responded well as compared to other genotypes. While the performance of genotype NVUT-E3 was observed lower. It was concluded that potassium and sulphur at the rate of 60-30 kg ha-1 proved best for producing higher yields, while genotype GS-10 exhibited maximum results in all growth and yield traits.

Keywords: Interactive impact, Potassium, Sulphur, Lentil Genotypes, Growth, Yield.
Morphometric analysis of soldier cast of Odontotermes obesus (Rambur) and Microtermes obesi (Holmgren) (Blattodea: Termitidae; Macrotermitinae) from three localities of Potohar region, Pakistan
Authors: Ashraf Asma , Qureshi Naveeda Akhtar , Qadeer Saima , Nisar Muhammad Farhan , Azam Abdur Rehman , Ullah Sana
Published: October 2022

A great diversity of termite species is found all over the world, among these 53 species are identified from Pakistan. The knowledge about morphological features in soldier cast of termites is proved to be a technical tool for taxonomy and identification. In the present studies, the morphometric variations of external morphology in soldier caste of Odontotermes obesus (Rambur) and Microtermes obesi (Holmgren) from three different areas i.e. Gujar Khan (A), Rawalpindi (B) and Islamabad (C) were studied. About 36 characters like body, thorax, abdomen, from head to mandible tip, head, pronotum, postmentum, mandible, antenna (scape, pedicle, flagellum), and legs parts were used for morphometric measurements. The data were statistically analyzed for significant differences in their mean, standard deviation, standard error, 95% confidence interval, coefficient of variability and analysis of variance. "Student t-test" was used for the comparison of mean values using Minitab version 16. The results of the present study revealed no significant differences among the population samples collected from various localities. However little variations were observed in a few characters like antennal segments (pedicle, scape) and legs (trochanter, tibia) among the soldier cast which are adaptive in nature to survive in the environment.

Keywords: Morphometric analysis, soldiers cast, Odontotermes obesus, Microtermes obesi.
In silico Analysis of Renilla Muelleri, Photinus Pyralis and Metridia Longa Luciferase
Authors: Muzammal Muhammad , Nayab Aiman , Khan Amjad Ullah , Rustam Saqib Ali , Hayat Mehak , Khan Wasim Ullah , Begum Kalsoom , Urooj Ayesha , Qureshi Muhammad Umer Farooq
Published: October 2022

Luciferase derived from different organism is widely used for various biological process in the cells or tissues. Current in silico study was done to investigate the protein-substrate interactions of Renilla muelleri, Metridia longa and Photinus pyralis luciferase with their respective substrates coelenterazine, Luciferin, and ATP. RaptorX which is an online tool was used for luciferase modeling. PyRx v9.0 was used for protein-substrate binding. Online server Cluspro was used for protein-protein docking. CASTp was used for protein active site pocket prediction. Photinus pyralis luciferase was bonded with ATP molecules through Glu83, Asp153, Asp44, Ser85, Gln87 and His171, while Photinus Pyralis luciferase was bonded with luciferin molecules through five different residues i.e. His171, Arg62, Met90, Leu63 and Val168. Photinus pyralis residues that were docked with ATP and luciferin molecules were present in N terminal domain of Photinus pyralis luciferase. In case of Renilla muelleri, catalytic residues, His285 was present in its all the docking complex. Renilla muelleri and Metridia longa luciferase were also docked with different substrate and found that efficiency of Renilla muelleri and Metridia longa luciferase was lower towards Photinus pyralis substrates as compared to their own substrate coelentereazine. According to the findings, it has been concluded that luciferase of every light emitting organism required specific (its own) substrate for proper light reaction.

Keywords: Renilla muelleri; Metridia longa; Photinus pyralis; luciferase
Acute Respiratory Infections in Northern Pakistan: An Epidemiological Approach
Authors: Syed Shams-Ud-Duha , Bibi Hifza , Khan Ibrar , Muntaha Sidra Tul , Rehman Aneela , Hayat Azam , Rehman Mujaddad Ur
Published: October 2022

Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are mostly infections of the upper respiratory tract which consists upper airways. Common Acute Upper Respiratory Infections (AURIs) are common cold, acute inflammation of upper respiratory tract i.e., larynx, pharynx, mucus membranes, sinuses and middle ear. Most common bacteria are Streptococcus spp., Haemophillus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. etc. While, Parainfluenza virus, Rhinovirus, Coxsackievirus, Coronavirus, Respiratory Syncytial, Adenovirus and Influenza virus are the common AURIs causing viruses. They are leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide with 1.9 million deaths of children annually. In Pakistan, estimated 20-30% of the total childhood deaths >5 is caused by ARIs. The current study analyzed the epidemiology of ARIs in different facility types between Jan 2017- Dec 2019 of District Abbottabad. During the 3 years study period, 4,66,048 cases were reported with Primary health facilities having highest proportion of ARIs and prevalence was highest during 2018 (84.46%). Moreover, Highest (35%) frequency of ARIs occurred during winter with peak in December (12%). While, Tehsil Abbottabad showed high prevalence (68%) as compared to Havelian (32%). This fluctuation may be due to Risk factors that might be low humidity, indoor crowding, illiteracy and low-socioeconomic status. The current findings may help the government in making infrastructure for the health-care system development in future.

Keywords: Acute respiratory infections (ARIs), Common Acute Upper Respiratory Infections (AURIs), Bacterial and Viral Etiology, Northern Pakistan
The Prevalence of Scabies in District Abbottabad of Pakistan
Authors: Tariq Falak Naz , Bibi Hajira , Khan Ibrar , Muntaha Sidra Tul , Rehman Aneela , Hayat Azam , Rehman Mujaddad Ur
Published: October 2022

Scabies is a skin infection which is caused by pathogen Sarcoptes scabiei. It is a contagious disease which is transmitted from one to another person through direct contact but can also be transmitted due to sharing of things like towels, clothing etc. It was estimated that almost 300 million cases of scabies occur worldwide. It is characterized by itching, rash, sores and thick crusts on different body parts such as fingers, axilla, wrist, and genitalia etc. The burrow ink and handheld tests are mostly used to screen a large number of patients. The current study was conducted to analyze the 3 years trend of scabies epidemiology on Tehsil level in different health care units of District Abbottabad during January 2017 December 2019. During the study period total 44,569 cases were reported in District Abbottabad. Results have shown that Primary health care facilities have highest proportion of scabies (67.38%) and prevalence was highest during 2018 (37.90%). The Highest frequency (32%) of scabies occurred during summer with peak in July. Tehsil Abbottabad (67.21%) showed high prevalence as compared to Havelian (32.79%). Risk factors for scabies prevalence might be higher humidity, physical overcrowding, illiteracy, and low socioeconomic status. There is a positive association between number of cases of scabies, temperature, and humidity because these factors provide suitable conditions for parasite growth and their survival in human body. The current findings may help the government in making infrastructure for the health-care system development in future.

Keywords: Scabies, Sarcoptes scabiei, Northern Pakistan
LANDSLIDES AT,,BOGUTOVO SELO AND UGLJEVIK EAST 1“ OPEN PIT COAL MINES, REGISTERING, DATABASES AND MONITORING
Authors: Simić Dragana , Gajić Bojan , Tomić Rajko , Zelenović Nenad
Published: October 2022

This paper focuses on the causes of gravity movements (landslides) at „Bogutovo Selo and Ugljevik East 1” open pit coal mines. The landslides complicate open pit mine operations, but also pose a danger to individual objects, structures and related infrastructure. Those were the reasons which resulted in the need to perform detailed monitoring of landslides, to register changes in active processes, to establish databases and update, improve and recondition the processes themselves. Three landslides have been located within „Bogutovo Selo and Ugljevik East 1” open pit coal mines. The results obtained from hydrogeological and geomechanical surveys, as well as the data obtained from landslide monitoring, enable us to adequately restore objects, structures, related infrastructure and to stabilize the terrain itself at the open pit coal mine.
EXCAVATION OF ROCK MASS IN THE ZENICA TUNNEL
Authors: Halilbegović Ermedin , Halilbegović Nadir
Published: October 2022

This paper gives an overview of the excavation of rock mass in the Zenica tunnel on the highway of Corridor Vc. The technology of tunnel construction includes the following underground works: tunnel excavation, substructure works (primary support) and construction of the secondary lining of the tunnel. The most important feature for the selection of construction technology is the geology of the rock mass through which the tunnel passes. The combined excavation technology was applied at the Zenica tunnel: by machine and blasting ("drill and blast technique") and based on NATM - New Austrian Tunnel Method. The excavation of the Zenica tunnel was performed in very complex geological and geotechnical conditions. Since these are flysch sediments, tectonics was very pronounced with constant shifts of hard and soft rocks and large amounts of groundwater. The excavation of the tunnel was performed in several phases and in full profile, depending on the quality of the rock mass, while ensuring the excavation with a primary support. Engineering geological mapping of the rock mass of the excavation face was performed daily. Geomechanical classification - RMR was applied for the classification of rock mass. The excavation of the Zenica tunnel was performed in the rock mass of III, IV and V categories according to RMR.
STABILISATION OF CUT 3, LOT 1, SECTION GORJE POLJE – CARIČINA DOLINA, E-75 HIGHWAY, BELGRADE – NIŠ, PHASE II, REINFORCED SOIL CONSTRUCTION
Authors: Janković Marina , Bakrač Marija
Published: October 2022

During the execution of works on the E-75 highway, Belgrade-Niš - the border with FYR Macedonia, on section Gornje Polje - Caričina Dolina, LOT 1, on the Cut 3 from km 876+ 325 to km 876 + 825 there was a violation of the stability of a conditionally stable slope that jeopardizes the highway route. According results of extensive geotechnical investigations it is a huge landslide with a complex slip mechanism. Within the Phase II works on the stabilization of the landslide toe in the zone of the left bank of the South Morava River, in the length of 300,50 m, from km 3 + 592 to km 3 + 900.35 (along the axis of the river), or from km 876 + 739,23 to km 876 + 485 (along the axis of the highway) are foreseen. These works consist of constructing the reinforced soil embankment, up to 12.5 m height in the zone of toe of the landslide. The embankment shall contribute to the stabilization of the slope as a ballast, as well as redistribution of the mass after the excavation necessary for the road deviation.
THE FOUNDATION SOIL IMPROVEMENT USING EXPANDABLE RESIN
Authors: Kečkeš Dominik , Gregurić Tomislav , Hrstić Lea
Published: October 2022

The foundation soil is an inevitable factor in the stability of a building and should be viewed as a separate entity that requires a detailed characterization and assessment of the geotechnical circumstances at individual locations. Through the exploitation of buildings, we witness changes in the geomechanical characteristics of the soil as a result of secondary influences characterized by climate change, the presence of sanitary and storm water, vibrations in urban areas and earthquakes. All the mentioned occurrences result in the settlement of bearing parts, and thus endanger the structural parts of buildings. In the world of geotechnics, for the past few years we have witnessed the affirmation of the Deep Injections method, which is used for rehabilitation, but also for improving the foundation soil of existing buildings using expandable resins.
ANALYSIS OF THE UNDERGROUND ROOMS STABILITY (LATERAL DRIFTS) AND CALCULATION OF THE LOADING OF SAFETY PILLARS IN UNDERGROUND MINE "BATURINKA"
Authors: Torbica Duško , Tošić Dražana , Čelebić Miodrag , Munjiza Jovana
Published: October 2022

The stability analysis was performed on the model of underground rooms of rectangular cross-section on the example of the underground mine ,,Baturinkaʻʻ. Geotechnical data of bauxite and surrounding rocks were used for the mentioned research. The analysis of stability was performed according to the Hoek-Brown criterion of rock mass failure and data processing was performed in the software program Phase2. In order to meet the set criterion of value of safety factors (Fs), when dimensioning safety pillars, used calculation of rock mass loading, in the form of panel.
An Operational Efficiency Assessment of E-Trike and Motorized Tricycles as Public Utility Vehicles
Authors:   College of Engineering and Architecture, Department of Industrial Engineering, Don Honorio Ventura State University, Pampanga, Philippines., Nacion Anna Liza C.
Published: October 2022

The study focused on the operational efficiency of e-trikes and motorized tricycles as public utility vehicles, leading to the analytical comparison of the data gathered. The comparative analysis on both tricycles reveals that e-trikes are more efficient and safer, consume zero fuel, and almost double in passenger capacity when compared to the motorized tricycle. Further, e-trike can enter narrower streets or alley easily for having lesser width. On the other hand, motorized tricycles are faster and can reach higher kilometrage and with a shorter length, it has no problems on approaching slopes and bumps. M/M/1 was used to evaluate the service performance of the electrical and motorized tricycles in the terminal. The results show that the e-trike terminal service rate is more efficient than that of the motorized terminal where commuters spent lesser time waiting to be served. The study recommends the need to understand further the effects, advantages, and disadvantages of both tricycles as regard the planned implementation in the mode of public transportation system. Additionally, further study may be needed focusing on the economic and environmental sustainability, and the use of renewable resources to contribute on the sustainable development and increase operational efficiency of PUVs.
Land Records Digitization and Service Delivery in the Ministry of Lands in Kenya
Authors: Taurus Eunice , Wamae Peter
Published: October 2022

The Kenya Ministry of Lands has been plagued with rampant delays in accessing land records, registry services and numerous clerical errors that have affected service delivery. It is evident that service delivery problems within the department have been problem for most policymakers which resulted in the launch of the National Lands Management Information System geared towards improving service delivery. There have however been minimal research efforts to determine how the systems has affected the ministry hence this study sought to examine the effect of digitization of land records management system on service delivery. The records continuum theory and the technology acceptance model formed the basis of this study. A descriptive approach was employed, and the population targeted of staff at the Ministry of Lands main registry at Ardhi House. The study sampled 154 officials within the headquarters at the Ministry of Lands who are involved in the lands records management system. Primary data was sourced using structured questionnaires developed under the guidance of the study objectives. Google forms supplemented the physical data to enhance the response rate. A pretesting was caried out on 10% of the sample participants to determine the research instruments’ validity and reliability. Data analysis focused both descriptive and inferential analysis. Findings were presented using charts and tables. The findings of the correlation tests established there is a strong positive and significant relation between digitization of land records (r = .806**, sig = .000<.05) and the service delivery at the Ministry of Lands in Kenya. This implies that a unit change in these variables will result in a unit change in the service delivery. The implementation of land records management system provides a technique and method for land planning, management quantification and rationalization together with quick inquiry, analysis and innovation of land information, provides supplementary support for decision making and improves the traditional land management system through computer technologies and communications network. The study recommended that the Ministry should put up appropriate training programs to keep its employees updated with the current job requirements and training should be geared to all employees regardless of their gender and job category. The study recommended that during the implementation of the land records management system, security should be of the paramount consideration while developing software and processing data and the need of security policies has to be clearly told to all the employees working in the Ministry and they should be directed to adhere to these policies. The study also recommended that an Integrated Land Information Management System should be properly implemented. This will ensure that the Ministry delivers services to the expectations of the clients.
The Comparative Analysis of Landsberg and Friedman and Stammberger and Hawke Computer Tomography Classifications in the Superior Attachment of the Nasal Uncinate Process (SAUP) and Potential Pitfalls in Evaluation
Authors: Doğan Emrah , Elibol Cenk
Published: October 2022

(1) Object: Our study aims to identify the common and diverging points in the superior attachment of the nasal uncinate process (SAUP) classifications and to draw attention to the pitfalls in these evaluation processes. (2) Material and Methods: This study was performed on 200 patients (males/females, 100/100; mean age/range: 37.13 ± 16.14/16–84), and 400 sides were bilaterally evaluated. Potential pitfalls were investigated. All UPs were classified according to the Landsberg and Friedman (LF) and Stammberger and Hawke (SH) classifications, and these two classifications were compared. (3) Results: There was a high statistically significant correlation between SH and LF. SH Type IV and LF Type 0 and SH Type III and LF Type 6 completely overlapped. SH Type I corresponded to LF Types 2 and 3 and SH Type II to LF Type 2, 3, 4, and 5 groups. There was no significant difference between genders or sides (right and left) in terms of the LF or SH classifications. (4): Conclusions: Following the thick band and paying attention to concavity and convexity helps to accurately evaluate the anatomical structure. Only two groups overlapped one to one. For SH Types II and III, and LF Types 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, knowing the SAUP group in one classification does not give an exact idea about the group of the other classification. Therefore, it is not possible to make comparisons between reports or studies using different classifications.
IMPLEMENTATION OF DIFFERENTIATED LEARNING STRATEGY IN TEACHING BIOLOGY FOR SEVENTH CLASS STUDENTS OF CBSE CURRICULUM
Authors: Meenakshi R. , Sheeba K.
Published: October 2022

When whole-group instruction is the focus of the learning programme, many students fail to learn. This is especially true
when educating students about biology. The proposed intervention approach includes many tried-and-true methods for
improving students' learning capabilities. The study concentrated on differentiated learning strategies such as creating learning stations, using
task cards, interviewing students, targeting different senses within lessons, sharing your own strengths and weaknesses, using the think-pairshare strategy, making time for journaling, grouping students with similar learning styles, questioning, and knowing your purpose. Students
learned to maintain a strict learning regimen, respect classroom norms, work in groups, and solve issues on their own after using the
aforementioned tools. This research looked at the benefits of differentiated teaching with forty CBSE 7th grade students. The study's major
findings suggested that diversifying learning methodologies and employing small group instruction aided and increased students' learning
competency in biology. Almost all of the students increased their readiness level using the differentiated instructions. This is evident that the
learners' readiness level scores obtained through one sample t-test. The students' confidence in studying biology rose as a result of the positive
adjustment in their learning pattern.
VISION VS REALITY: ARE WE LIVING IN DR. AMBEDKAR'S INDIA?
Authors: Sehgal Advaita
Published: October 2022

Dr Ambedkar was a stalwart in the scholarly world. An eminent jurist, economist, philosopher and social reformer, his
role as the Father of the Indian Constitution is well-known. However, less emphasised are his various visions that helped
in nation-building and continue to have a notable impact in the contemporary Indian socio-economic-political arena. While drafting the
constitution, he meticulously laid down a framework to create a fair society enshrined in the ideals of 'liberty, equality, and fraternity.' He
propagated concepts like equal pay for work, maternity benets, and Universal Adult Franchise. The path of India towards an egalitarian and
casteless society was moulded by his perspectives. Our Constitution is a testament to that. According to him, The Constitution could play the role
of a universal moral compass for India, a country society is divided on the basis of caste, religion, language, and other factors. This Constitutional
morality would therefore lead to coordination between antithetical interests of different people along with administrative cooperation.
Ambedkar's ideas and legacy echo through the welfare programmes of the Government today. The Mudra Scheme for availing loans, Stand-up
India for aiding entrepreneurship in the SC and ST community, and the Ayushman Bharat scheme, display the government's unwavering
commitment to fullling the dreams of Ambedkar. But these schemes and policies are mere drops of Amrit mixed with Vish in the cosmic ocean
of the country we call India. Ambedkar is not just a scholar limited to the pages of a political science textbook anymore, he transcends beyond his
contribution to the Constitution. Through this essay, using theoretical and practical considerations, we will explore where Ambedkar's vision has
failed, and how India is not the country the father of its constitution had once envisioned.