bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical modeling and analysis of cardiac stent using blood hammer principle
Authors: R Seethalakshmi , S Hariharan , Karnan Hemalatha , V Keerthana , V Akshara
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis is a condition which disrupts blood flow due to plaque build-up inside the arteries. Under conditions where consecutive plaques are prevailing blood hammer principle is exhibited. OBJECTIVE: The pressure and shear stress produced at an infinitesimal area act as the governing equation for stent modeling. The leading order pressure lays the foundation for the design of cardiac stents with definite dimensions. METHOD: The designed stent was encapsulated inside a crimper validated through ANSYS-static and transient structural simulation to derive the total deformation, equivalent strain, and stress exerted on the stent. Five different biomaterials stainless steel 316, cobalt, chromium, platinum, and Poly lactic acid were selected for the material assessment. RESULT: Static and Transient structural analysis for a period of 1 and 10 secs was implemented for a stent with and without a crimper. The material performance in terms of total deformation, equivalent stress, and strain are analyzed. CONCLUSION: The paper envisions the dynamics of blood hammer in atherosclerosis that provides the changes in the pressure and clotting process. It shows the promising results of the stent behavior in varied forces which gives valuable insights for future improvement in stent design and material selection.
Efficacy of hip abductors exercise training combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cheng Changfeng , Wang Jiening , Yang Kun , Wu Xubo , Ren Xue , Liu Tiantian , Zhao Zhongzhi , Zhang Beibei , Ma Bitao , Jiang Liming
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease where a single treatment method often fails to fully alleviate symptoms. Hence, finding effective non-invasive combined treatment approaches is particularly crucial. OBJECTIVE: The efficacy of treating knee osteoarthritis with hip abductors exercise training combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation was assessed through functional scales and objective evaluation methods. METHODS: In this four-week randomized clinical trial, 160 patients meeting inclusion criteria were randomly assigned 1:1 to group A to receive oral celecoxib and group B to receive a combination of hip abductors exercise training and repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation. The primary outcome was the western Ontario and McMaster universities osteoarthritis index. The secondary outcomes include Visual Analogue Scale, knee outcome survey activities of daily living scale, Active Range of Motion, and the Quadriceps Angle, the tibiofemoral angle, peak adductor moment, the integrated electromyography and root mean square of the surface electromyography of the lower extremity muscles. Paired sample t test was used for Within-Group comparison of outcome indicators, and independent sample t test was used for Between-Group comparison. RESULTS: Of the 160 randomly assigned patients, 150 completed the study. After 4 weeks, the WOMAC index decreased from 61 ± 10.83 to 40.55 ± 7.58 in the combined treatment group and from 60.97 ± 10.18 to 47.7 ± 10.13 in the celecoxib group. The effect of the combined treatment group was significantly higher than that in the celecoxib group (P< 0.001). In the combined treatment group, the score of knee joint daily living scale increased (P< 0.001), the active range of motion increased (P< 0.001), the quadriceps angle decreased (P< 0.001), the tibiofemoral angle increased (P< 0.001), and the peak adduction moment decreased (P< 0.001), integrated electromyography and root mean square increased (P< 0.001), and the effect was better than that of celecoxib group (P< 0.001). The visual analog scale score in celecoxib group was lower (P< 0.001) and knee outcome survey activities of daily living scale was higher (P< 0.001). The incidence of treatment-related adverse events was 10% in the celecoxib group and 2.5% in the combined treatment group, all of which were mild. CONCLUSIONS: Hip abductors exercise training combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can enhance abduction muscle strength, improve mobility, reduce joint pain, and enhance quality of life. This combined approach shows superior clinical effectiveness compared to oral celecoxib.
A study on the effect of clinical intervention of evidence-based nursing measures on complications in patients after breast-conserving surgery
Authors: Ren Die , Cai Fei , Zhu Mengqi , Zheng Yijun , Chen Wei
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Breast-conserving surgery is an important treatment for breast cancer, which not only eradicates the disease, but also protects the integrity of the breast, however, postoperative nausea and vomiting often bother patients. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the effects of evidence-based nursing practices on nausea and vomiting in patients after breast-conserving surgery, with the aim of providing new perspectives for clinical nursing practice. METHODS: One hundred and sixty patients who underwent breast-conserving surgery from January 2023 to December 2023 in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center were enrolled. The patients were divided into an intervention group (evidence-based nursing group) and a control group (conventional nursing group) using the random number table method, both groups comprised 80 patients. The control group used conventional nursing methods, and the intervention group added evidence-based nursing intervention on this basis. Comparative analysis focused on the incidence of nausea and vomiting, quality of life metrics, and postoperative satisfaction. RESULTS: In the intervention group, notably lower incidence rates of postoperative nausea and vomiting were observed compared to the control group within both the 0–24 hour and 24–48-hour postoperative periods (P< 0.05). Furthermore, the intervention group exhibited significantly higher scores across all five dimensions as well as the overall score of the FACT-B scale in comparison to the control group (P< 0.05), accompanied by heightened satisfaction with the nursing staff. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the positive clinical intervention effects of evidence-based nursing measures and emphasized their importance in improving postoperative nausea and vomiting and quality of life. Future studies are expected to incorporate evidence-based nursing practices into nursing care to improve patient recovery and overall quality of care.
Bronchial lavage tNGS in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Yang Zhongpeng , Tang Yucong , Shan Shuxiang
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Tuberculosis (TB), primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a significant global health concern. Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (tNGS) has emerged as a rapid and comprehensive diagnostic tool for tuberculosis, offering advantages over traditional methods and serving as an effective alternative for drug susceptibility testing and the detection of drug-resistant tuberculosis.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the clinical characteristics of pulmonary tuberculosis patients. After explore the application value of targeted next-generation sequencing technology in this patient population, providing valuable insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

METHODS:

In this retrospective study, we analyzed data from 65 patients with laboratory-confirmed tuberculosis admitted to Tianjin Baodi Hospital from November 14, 2020, to February 1, 2023. Patients underwent bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) testing, including acid-fast staining, culture, and tNGS. Biopsies and histopathological examinations were performed on some patients, along with comprehensive radiological assessments for all.

RESULTS:

Among the 65 pulmonary tuberculosis patients, targeted next-generation sequencing detected pathogens in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid with a positivity rate of 93.8%, significantly higher than traditional methods such as acid-fast staining, culture, and pathology. Compared to bronchoalveolar lavage fluid smear, targeted next-generation sequencing demonstrated significantly higher diagnostic sensitivity (98.46% vs. 26.15%) and accuracy (98.46% vs. 26.15%).

CONCLUSION:

Targeted next-generation sequencing, with its high sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional methods, provides unique advantages in detecting pathogens among these patients, highlighting its importance in disease management.
Study on needle stick injuries during surgery and blunt needle use for reducing occupational exposure and hygiene benefits
Authors: Wang Bo , Chen Min , Wu Yan , Qin Xiaosai , Meng Manshi
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: The conventional round suture needle poses a significant risk of needle stick injuries among surgical physicians, identified as a global occupational hazard by the World Health Organization, increasing hospital costs and exposure to bloodborne pathogens. While novel blunt suture needles have shown promise in reducing these risks, their adoption is limited domestically, prompting a study to compare their efficacy against traditional sharp needles in reducing needle stick injuries among surgical physicians. OBJECTIVE: To investigate suture needle stick injuries among surgical doctors during operations and assess the application effectiveness of a novel blunt suture needle. METHODS: A total of 106 surgical department physicians from March 2021 to February 2023 participated in the study. After completing a questionnaire survey on suture needle injuries during surgery, the participants were divided into two groups. Over a 6-month intervention period, the control group used regular round needles while the study group utilized novel blunt suture needles. Subsequently, suture needle injury incidence rates and economic hygiene benefits were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The suture needle injury questionnaire survey showed that over the past 6 months, among 106 surgical department physicians, 20 needle stick injuries occurred, yielding an incidence rate of 18.87%. The highest incidence (65.00%) was during suturing incisions longer than 10 cm, primarily when visibility was poor (70.00%). Surgeons linked most injuries (60.00%) to prolonged surgical duration causing fatigue. Although 85.00% detected injuries within 1 minute, only 40.00% were reported, often due to perceived reporting complexity. Following intervention, the study group had significantly fewer injuries per surgery and lower occupational exposure costs compared to the control group (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION: Surgical department physicians commonly sustain suture needle injuries while suturing incisions of 5–10 cm length under poor visibility, exacerbated by prolonged surgical duration. Despite detecting most injuries within 1 minute, only 40% are reported. The implementation of novel blunt suture needles significantly decreases injury rates, resulting in reduced occupational exposure costs and favorable safety and economic hygiene outcomes.
Diagnostic value of 8-OHdG, 8-iso-PGF2α and TNF-α levels in blood for early carcinogenesis of erosive oral lichen planus
Authors: Gong Feifei , Wang Hui , Shan Zhixuan , Zhuang Shaoyu , Xia Huakuan , Tang Liyu
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer has a high worldwide incidence and mortality rate showing an upward trend year by year, predominantly occurring in emerging countries. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the main types of oral cancer, accounting for more than 90% of all cases in oral cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic value of 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 8-iso-Prostaglandin F2alpha (8-iso-PGF2α) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α as biomarkers in the early carcinogenesis of erosive oral lichen planus (EOLP) by measuring their levels in the blood of patients with EOLP and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). METHODS: A total of 69 patients were enrolled in this case-control study [including an OSCC group (n= 23), an EOLP group (n= 23), and an age- and gender-matched healthy control group (n= 23)]. Blood levels of 8-OHdG, 8-iso-PGF2α and TNF-α were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical differences in these indicators among the three groups were analyzed. RESULTS: Plasma levels of 8-OHdG and 8-iso-PGF2α in the OSCC group were significantly higher than those in both the EOLP group and the control group (all P< 0.05); no significant statistical difference was found between the EOLP group and the control group. Serum levels of TNF-α in both the OSCC and EOLP groups were elevated compared with the control group, showing significant differences among all three groups (all P< 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves revealed that plasma 8-OHdG and 8-iso-PGF2α levels and serum TNF-α levels had diagnostic effects on early carcinogenesis in EOLP patients. When these indicators were combined for diagnosis, the diagnostic effect was enhanced, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) values of 0.819. CONCLUSION: 8-OHdG, 8-iso-PGF2α and TNF-α may serve as biological indicators for monitoring the early carcinogenesis of EOLP, and the diagnostic effect was augmented when these indicators were combined.
Comparison of wrist range of motion and muscle strength in assembly workers with and without lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Kim Jun-Hee , Weon Young-Soo , Kwon Oh-Yun
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Lateral epicondylitis (LE), also called tennis elbow, is a common musculoskeletal disorder that causes pain in the elbow area and is highly prevalent in assembly workers who repeatedly move their wrists. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the wrist ROM and muscle strength of assembly workers with and without LE. METHODS: Forty-five male assembly line workers (23 with LE) participated in the study. Participants had their wrist range of motion (flexion, extension, ulnar deviation, and radial deviation) and strength (wrist flexors, extensors, and hand grip) measured using Smart KEMA sensors. RESULTS: Workers with LE showed significantly reduced wrist extension and radial deviation ROM compared to workers without LE, with no significant differences in wrist flexion and ulnar deviation ROM between groups. Workers with LE had significantly lower wrist extensor strength compared to workers without LE, and there was no significant difference in wrist flexor and grip strength between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: For workers with LE, the difference in wrist ROM and muscle strength will be useful for planning intervention and evaluating treatment outcomes for assembly workers with LE.
Overtime work and Chinese workers’ physical and mental health: The mediating role of social support and work value awareness
Authors: Jiang Yao , Yang Fan
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: China was once called the world’s factory. Chinese workers had long weekly working hours. However, the empirical results of the relationship between overtime work and workers’ health are mixed and remain inconclusive. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate how overtime work influenced workers’ physical and mental health and the role of lifestyles, social support, and work value awareness. METHODS: Data from the China Labor-force Dynamics Survey 2016 (N = 14,205) was used. The instrumental variable approach was employed to overcome the endogeneity problem between overtime work and workers’ health. The bootstrapping method was conducted to elicit the role of lifestyles, social support, and work value awareness. RESULTS: The results indicated that overtime work significantly and negatively influenced Chinese workers’ physical and mental health. The results of the bootstrapping suggested that workers’ social support and work value awareness partially mediated the relationship between overtime work and their physical and mental health. However, the mediating role of lifestyles was insignificant. CONCLUSION: Through using big data with national representativeness, this study suggests that overtime work negatively influences Chinese workers’ physical and mental health. Our findings provide policy implications for improving workers’ health rights and well-being in emerging economies.
Evaluation of anomaly detection algorithms using machine learning methods
Authors: Tsiutsiura Mykola , Kovalenko Andriy
Published: August 2024

This article discusses how anomaly detection is an important problem in various
areas of software products in the modern world, anomaly detection can be useful in
cybersecurity, the Internet of Things, and financial transaction analysis. Above all,
anomalies can signal the need to take some action to avoid negative consequences. In
addition, the importance of anomaly detection for business intelligence and risk
management is explored. Much attention is paid to the study of different types of
anomalies, including point, contextual and collective, with examples in different
contexts. The importance of using intelligent machine learning algorithms to detect
anomalies in large amounts of data and quickly process information with warnings to
staff is emphasized. Anomaly detection using machine learning is an urgent problem in
the modern world when dealing with large amounts of data and ever-growing threats in the
field of cybersecurity, financial fraud, medical diagnostics, industrial safety and
other industries. With the proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the large
amount of data it generates, detecting unusual, anomalous, or suspicious events is
becoming increasingly challenging for traditional data processing methods. Machine
learning automates the anomaly detection process by using algorithms to analyze and
classify data. This improves the efficiency and speed of anomaly detection, reduces the
cost of manual analysis, and facilitates a more accurate and rapid response to potential
threats or issues. With the in-depth development of machine learning technologies such
as neural networks, deep learning algorithms, and the constant growth of machine
learning models, anomaly detection capabilities are becoming more accurate and diverse.
This makes it possible to detect anomalies in real time and ensure a reliable level of
security in various fields of activity, which is extremely important in today's digital
world. There are three situations in which the algorithm can be applied: supervised
learning, semi-supervised learning, and unsupervised learning. The classification is
based on algorithmic access, including probabilistic methods, distance and density
methods, clustering methods, activity-based methods, and reconstruction and spectral
methods. To choose the best approach to anomaly detection, it is important to consider
various factors. The article provides illustrative examples of anomaly detection
algorithms based on real data.
Marketing analysis of the pharmaceutical market of drugs for the prevention and treatment of patients with COVID-19 with central nervous system damage
Authors: Трохимчук В. В. , Панкратов І. О.
Published: August 2024

The coronavirus disease COVID-19 affects the central nervous system in 40-60% of cases. The clinical picture is accompanied by neurological and mental disorders, which are accompanied by headache, general weakness, dizziness, anosmia, etc. All these lesions of the central nervous system lead to psychoemotional disorders, which significantly affect the effectiveness of medical and diagnostic measures, which can subsequently lead to long-term loss of work capacity and disability of patients.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate and analyze the market positions of drugs that act on the nervous system for the prevention and treatment of patients with COVID-19.
The materials of this study were the data of the State Register of Medicinal Products of Ukraine, the Compendium online directory, the Register of wholesale and retail prices for medicinal products as of May–June 2024, the prices of the mentioned group of medicinal products on the online platform for searching for medicines and health products «Tabletki.ua» as of May–June 2024.
It has been established that the use of drugs acting on the nervous system for the prevention and treatment of patients with COVID-19 should be aimed at the pharmacotherapy of the underlying disease with the simultaneous elimination of neurological and psychotic symptoms to ensure maximum patient safety. The pharmaceutical market of Ukraine was analyzed in terms of medicinal products that act on the nervous system, according to international non-proprietary names, taking into account all forms of release, manufacturers and prices, which are used for the treatment of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and post-covid syndrome. The analysis of drugs acting on the nervous system in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 with damage to the central nervous system showed that out of 17 INNs registered in Ukraine, only 14 INNs are actually available on the pharmaceutical market. It has been established that the range of drugs acting on the nervous system in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 is represented by 69 drugs by trade name, of which 56% are domestically produced. The leaders in supplying foreign drugs to the pharmaceutical market are India (10%), Spain (5%) and Latvia (5%). Taking into account the significant range of prices for one medicinal product under the INN, it is advisable to create a list of cost-effective medicinal products, enter them into the local drug formulary (the formulary list of drug products in military medical institutions), which can be purchased from the state budget.
Modelling Skeletal Muscle Motor Unit Recruitment Contributions To Contractile Function: Part 1 — Velocity, Force and Power
Authors: Mulligan Lucy R. , Nygaard Gerhard , Holland Justin , Robergs Robert
Published: August 2024

There is no current method that can directly measure in-vivo human motor unit recruitment and their individual incremental contributions to muscle contractile velocity, force and power. The purpose of this research was to 1) acquire previously published data of single fibre contractile velocity, force and power for the different skeletal muscle fibre types, corrected for muscle temperature, 2) develop a computational model of motor unit recruitment spanning the 5 fibre type categories (types I, I-IIa, IIa, IIab, and IIb) and four different slow to fast twitch proportions (80-20,60-40,40-60,20-80% ST-FT, respectively), and 3) use the model to compute changes in motor unit contributions to contractile velocity, force and power. The order of motor unit recruitment was based upon motor unit size and ranged from 85 (type-I) to 207 (type IIb) fibres⋅unit-1. The total number of motor units across the four categories were 3,582, 3,308, 3,041, and 2,757, respectively. Data for 20 vs 100% recruitment for contractile velocity of the 80-20% ST-FT were 0.055 vs 0.09 m⋅s-1, respectively, and for 20-80% ST-FT were 0.0589 vs 0.1569 m⋅s-1, respectively. Contractile force data were 28.065 vs 202.01 N, and 28.065 vs 248.14 N, respectively. Contractile power data were 1.545 vs 18.136 Watts, and 1.421 vs 38.957 Watts, respectively. The model succeeded in transferring data from single muscle fibre to motor unit and whole muscle contraction kinematics. Such modelling has future applications to the energetics of muscle contraction at the motor unit and muscle fibre level, and for guiding robotic replication of human muscle contractile function.
Flow-through moisture meter for measuring grain moisture as part of an automated grain moisture control system
Authors: Kalandarov P. I. , Iskandarov B. P.
Published: August 2024

The methods of increasing the accuracy and efficiency of the production process, as well as ensuring high quality of final products in the grain processing industry, are investigated. It is shown that to solve the problem of insufficient quality control of grain materials, an automated system for monitoring the properties and characteristics of bulk granular materials is necessary. The features of the construction of automatic and automated systems for monitoring the properties and characteristics of bulk granular materials are considered. Measurement methods and control devices of the main technological parameters used in the management of grain processing facilities are briefly described. It is proposed to include a flow moisture meter in the automated grain moisture control system. The physical properties of grain and grain materials, measurement conditions and instrumentation for grain moisture control are analyzed. The use of devices based on the dielkometric method in the subsystem of an automated process control system is discussed. The application of intelligent sensors of a measuring system with a complex multilevel hierarchy is described. The structure of the interconnection of measuring devices for intellectual support of humidification processes and quality control of the studied materials is given. A functional diagram and metrological characteristics of a prototype grain moisture monitoring device, a flow moisture meter, are presented. The metrological characteristics of this device meet the requirements of the grain processing industry and allow it to be used as part of a humidity control system
Reconstruction of images using Fresnel holograms: the relationship between the longitudinal and transverse scales of images
Authors: Ivanova S. D. , Shemonaev D. D.
Published: August 2024

The article is devoted to the study of changes in the relationship between the transverse and longitudinal scales of images. The possibility of changing the classical quadratic relationship between the longitudinal and transverse scales of images is considered, while when using traditional imaging methods in classical optics this is impossible due to the homogeneity and isotropy of space. An analysis of image scale transformations for optical schemes of Fresnel holography using spatially incoherent radiation has been carried out. It is shown that recording a Fresnel hologram allows one to change the ratio between the transverse and longitudinal scales of the reconstructed image within a fairly wide range. The results are relevant for use in those areas of science and technology that require the creation of images that reflect real-world objects as accurately as possible without distortion, for example, in the field of medical imaging.
Implementation of triage standing order at an emergency department
Authors:   , Okereke Goodluck Chibuike
Published: August 2024

Chest pain has been found to be a frequent cause of visit to the emergency department (ED). Chest pain is the second most presenting complaint in the emergency department in the United States, accounting for about 7.6 million visits annually. Literature suggests that use of standing orders/protocol in the ED for initiation of patient evaluation and care prior to the patient evaluation by a physician of advanced practice provider can help to reduce emergency room length of stay and physician to disposition times. This evidence-based quality improvement study aimed to assess the impact of the implementation of a triage nurse standing order in the emergency department. The target population was patients above 18 years presenting with chest pain to the emergency department. The targeted outcomes were physician to disposition time and emergency department length of stay. The outcomes were measured using retrospective pre-implementation and post-implementation chart review. SPSS 29 was used for the statistical analysis. Chi square test of independence was used to compare data collected pre-implementation and post-implementation of the intervention and same revealed a clinical significance of a slight decrease in the emergency department length of stay especially in the group of patients that stayed more than eight hours in the emergency department. This quality improvement project highlights the importance of the use of standing orders for patients presenting to the emergency department with chest pain.
Safe Tractor Operations: More Tractor Safety Tips
Authors: Gorucu Serap , Lehtola Carol J. , Brown Charles M.
Published: August 2024

This publication from the Safe Tractor Operations series discusses tips for maneuvering tractors, hazards of filling gas cans, hand signals, handling large hay bales, and more. Written by Serap Gorucu, Carol J. Lehtola, and Charles M. Brown, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, June 2024.
Safe Tractor Operations: Tractor Operator Checklist
Authors: Gorucu Serap , Lehtola Carol J. , Brown Charles M.
Published: August 2024

An operator checklist is provided at the end of this publication from the Safe Tractor Operations series. This checklist is designed so that it can be kept as a record of a tractor operator’s training. Written by Serap Gorucu, Carol J. Lehtola, and Charles M. Brown, and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, June 2024.
Streptococcal Infections of Fish
Authors: Yanong Roy , Francis-Floyd Ruth
Published: August 2024

This document reviews streptococcal infections in fish, focusing on their identification, impacts, and management strategies. Streptococcus, a Gram-positive bacterium, causes significant mortality in various fish species, with symptoms including erratic swimming, lethargy, exophthalmia, hemorrhages, and rapid deaths. The occurrence of these infections, though less frequent than other bacterial diseases, poses severe financial risks for aquaculture. The review covers historical outbreaks, species affected, and factors contributing to disease onset, such as environmental stressors and compromised water quality. Diagnosis involves identifying Gram-positive cocci in affected tissues, while treatment options include specific antibiotics like erythromycin, amoxicillin, and florfenicol, contingent on sensitivity testing. Preventive measures emphasize maintaining optimal water quality, minimizing stress, and employing vaccines and immunostimulants. Additionally, the document addresses the zoonotic potential of Streptococcus iniae, highlighting the low risk to healthy individuals but cautioning immunocompromised persons. The comprehensive insights provided aim to assist in the effective management and prevention of streptococcal infections in aquaculture settings. First published February, 2002.
Agave angustifolia Century Plant, Variegated Caribbean Agave
Authors: Gilman Edward , Klein Ryan W. , Hansen Gail
Published: August 2024

This document is about the variegated Caribbean agave (Agave angustifolia), a striking plant known for its green leaves with bright white margins. It details the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, spread, and leaf structure, as well as its growth requirements such as light, soil, and water needs. The document also covers the plant’s uses in landscaping, highlighting its suitability for rock gardens and as an accent plant. Additionally, it addresses the plant’s hardiness and invasive potential, noting that it is not recommended for cultivation due to its invasive nature. Original publication date September 1999.
Aptenia cordifolia Baby Sunrose
Authors: Gilman Edward , Klein Ryan W. , Hansen Gail
Published: August 2024

This document provides an overview of the baby sunrose (Aptenia cordifolia), a versatile ground cover or hanging basket plant known for its dark green foliage and bright red flowers. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its growth habit, leaf and flower features, and optimal growing conditions. The baby sunrose thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it suitable for coastal landscapes. The document also highlights its uses in landscaping and offers care tips to maintain its health and appearance. Original publication date October 1999.
Calycanthus floridus Carolina Allspice, Sweetshrub
Authors: Gilman Edward
Published: August 2024

This document provides an overview of the Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus), highlighting its characteristics, uses, and cultivation requirements. Sweetshrub is a native shrub known for its fragrant, maroon to brown flowers and aromatic leaves and fruits. It thrives in moist locations and can be used as an ornamental plant, screen, or specimen. The plant is adaptable to various soil types and light conditions, though it prefers moist soil and can grow in both sun and shade. Sweetshrub is not known to be invasive and is somewhat available, though it may require sourcing from outside the region. The document also discusses potential pests and diseases, such as bacterial crown gall and powdery mildew, and mentions two cultivars, ‘Athens’ and ‘Michael Lindsey’. Original publication date October 1999.
Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush
Authors: Gilman Edward
Published: August 2024

This document provides detailed information about Cephalanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Buttonbush. It highlights the plant’s attractive medium green leaves and its distinctive late spring flower display, featuring white flowers in 1 to 1½ inch clusters. The document also discusses the plant’s relevance to various wildlife, including hummingbirds, and its suitability for different landscaping purposes. Additionally, it includes structured data and references to related topics and publications. Original publication date October 1999.
Crinum x amabile Giant Spider Lily
Authors: Gilman Edward
Published: August 2024

This document provides a detailed description of the giant spider lily (Crinum x amabile), a herbaceous perennial known for its striking red and pink fragrant flowers. It covers the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, spread, and leaf arrangement, as well as its growth requirements and hardiness zones. The giant spider lily is noted for its moderate drought tolerance, preference for full sun to partial shade, and ability to thrive in various soil types. The document also highlights its uses in landscaping, such as mass planting and specimen accent, and mentions its moderate salt tolerance and susceptibility to leaf spot disease. Original publication date October 1999.
Dodonaea viscosa Varnish Leaf, Hopbush
Authors: Gilman Edward
Published: August 2024

This document provides a detailed overview of Dodonaea viscosa, commonly known as varnish leaf or hopbush. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its shiny green leaves, yellow flowers, and distinctive fruit. The shrub is noted for its drought tolerance and adaptability to various soil types. It is suitable for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen and can be grown in full sun. The document also highlights the plant’s ornamental features and its potential uses in landscaping, particularly in the western United States. Additionally, it mentions the popular cultivar Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’ and its characteristics. Original publication date October 1999.
Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana' Corn Plant, Fragrant Dracaena
Authors: Gilman Edward
Published: August 2024

This document provides a detailed overview of the Dracaena fragrans ‘Massangeana’, commonly known as the corn plant or fragrant dracaena. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its upright, multiple unbranched stems, and broad evergreen leaves with a central yellow stripe. The corn plant is suitable for low-maintenance container culture or specimen planting and can grow up to 15 feet tall. It thrives in shaded areas and is moderately drought-tolerant, preferring organic soil. The document also highlights the plant’s fragrant flowers, which bloom periodically throughout the year, and its sensitivity to pests and diseases such as mites, thrips, leaf spot diseases, and root rot. Propagation is typically done through tip cuttings. Original publication date October 1999.
Heliconia rostrata Lobster Claw
Authors: Gilman Edward , Meerow Alan W.
Published: August 2024

This document provides an overview of the Heliconia rostrata, commonly known as lobster claw or false bird of paradise. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its leathery, dark green leaves and striking scarlet and yellow bracts. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11 and is suitable for tropical gardens and indoor decoration. It requires fertile, moist soil and regular fertilization for optimal growth. The document also highlights the plant’s moderate drought and soil salt tolerance, as well as its susceptibility to certain pests and diseases. Propagation is typically done by division of the matted clumps. Original publication date October 1999.
Ilex Vomitoria 'Schilling's Dwarf' Schilling's Dwarf Holly
Authors: Gilman Edward
Published: August 2024

This document provides an overview of Schilling’s dwarf holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Schilling’s Dwarf’), a dense, rounded shrub ideal for low-growing foundation planting and mass planting. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its height, spread, leaf arrangement, and growth rate. The document also highlights its adaptability to various soil types, high drought tolerance, and moderate salt tolerance, making it suitable for seaside plantings. Additionally, it offers guidance on planting, pruning, and propagation, noting that the plant is pest-resistant and requires minimal maintenance. Original publication date October 1999.
Impatiens x New Guinea Hybrids New Guinea Impatiens
Authors: Gilman Edward , Howe Teresa
Published: August 2024

This document provides an overview of the New Guinea impatiens, a versatile and colorful annual plant. It highlights the plant’s distinguishing features, including its brilliantly marked foliage, large single flowers in various colors, and its ability to tolerate greater amounts of sun once established. The document details the plant’s growth habits, ideal planting conditions, and maintenance requirements, emphasizing its suitability for edging, mass planting, and container gardening. Additionally, it mentions the plant’s pest resistance and recent developments in seed propagation, making it a popular choice for gardeners. Original publication date October 1999.
Sintesis Papan Komposit Serat Bambu Apus dan Serbuk Kayu Jati dengan Metode Hot Press untuk Aplikasi Door Trim Mobil
Authors: Simbolon Silviana , Simbolon Silviana
Published: August 2024

Research has been carried out on composites from apus bamboo fiber and teak wood particles for car door trim applications. The research method used is compression molding using a hot press machine and testing is based on ISO 527-2 & ASTM D790 standards. This analysis uses the independent variable, namely the ratio of the volume fraction of apus bamboo fiber and teak wood particles 10:30, 20:20, 30:10%. While the fixed variables are 60% epoxy volume fraction, hot press temperature 100°C, pressing load 30 psi, and for 20 minutes. From the tensile test data, it is found that the variation of 30:10% fiber and particles which the variation with the best result is 84.69 MPa, then followed by a variation of 20:20%, is 42.60 MPa. The two variations above the minimum standard value of high-density fiberboard SNI 01-4449-2006:5-9 is 35 MPa. While the variation of 10:30% gets a value of 21.61 MPa which is below the minimum standard. For the bending test, the variation of 30:10% is the variation with the best result, which is 60.24 MPa and is above the minimum standard. Meanwhile, the variation of 10:30% and 20:20% has the lowest bending strength value with a value of 15.43 MPa and 29.61 MPa and is still below the minimum standard that has been set. For the fracture surface results, all variations resulted in fiber pull-out failure but the 30:10% variation which has ductile fracture properties and is considered safer for car door trim applications.
Antidepressants and ocular health: Addressing dry eye syndrome
Authors: Mansoor Ayesha , Mansoor Sahfaq , Khan Amjad Hayat
Published: August 2024

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common and multifactorial eye disease that can lead to visual disturbance if left untreated. DES arises from various factors such as reduced tear production and inflammation, affects the quality of vision, and can potentially lead to other eye diseases such as pterygium, pseudo pterygium, conjunctivitis, keratitis, corneal ulcers, and corneal dystrophy. Notably, there is an intriguing link between DES and depression, a commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorder characterized by decreased levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Antidepressants prescribed to treat depression work by increasing serotonin levels but paradoxically can lead to DES and other ocular side effects. In particular, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are known to contribute to DES development. This article unveils the factors that trigger DES and sheds light on the interconnected casual web. By explaining the intricacies of DES, this article aims to provide physicians and patients with a deeper understanding of the condition, enabling better management and treatment outcomes.
Ultrasonographic assessment of hydronephrosis in adults and children: Experience from a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Ahmed Smeera , Aaraj Sahira , Hanif Nadia , Akbar Wajeeha , Habib Uzma , Sidique Samara
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Hydronephrosis (HN) refers to the dilation of the pelvicalyceal system. The current study aims to evaluate various presentations and causes of HN in children and adults with the help of ultrasound (US) as the primary diagnostic modality.
Methodology: This cross-sectional prospective study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan on patients between 0-70 years of age, who were diagnosed with HN in the US. Data was collected using self-designed proforma including gender, age, symptomatology, and anthropometry. Percentages and frequencies were calculated for categorical data. chi-square test was applied to compare urinary calculi in gender, age, BMI, and side.
Results: The total number of patients was 73.  The mean age was 31 years. Adults were 74% (54) while 26% (19) were of the pediatric age group. Males were 67.6% (50) and 31.5%(23) were females. Lumbar pain was the commonest presenting complaint. Hydronephrosis was bilateral in 20.5%(15), 43.8% (32) in the left and in the right kidney (35.6%) 26. In adult patients, renal calculi were the commonest cause of 69.9%(51) of HN. In the case of children, PUJ obstruction and renal calculi were equally common 31.6%(6) each. The ureter was the most common site of calculi 35.6% (26). A significant association was found between HN with side of involvement (p-value < 0.001) and age of the patient (0.041).
Conclusion: Ultrasound imaging is helpful in the diagnosis, determination of etiology, and grading of hydronephrosis. Ureteric calculi is the most frequent cause of hydronephrosis followed by pelvic ureteric junction obstruction.
High Efficiency Single Phase Photovoltaic Based Pulse Width Modulated Transformerless Inverter Tied to Grid
Authors: Daniel A Figueiredo  , Sanjay S Pawar
Published: August 2024

Nowadays the emergence of renewable energy sources is an outcome of the rapid rise in power consumption. PV power generating systems are more effective and superior to other renewable sources for energy as compared to other sources. Numerous studies are expected to contribute to the widespread implementation of PV in power systems. Modern transformer-less inverter technologies are proving to be more dependable and efficient than traditional ones because of their incredibly appealing cheap cost, reduced weight, and smaller size, that all contribute to enhanced efficiency. This research proposes a new type of transformer less inverter that is inexpensive and more effective than traditional transformer-based inverters. In this paper the transformer less inverter for photovoltaic systems linked to the grid has ability to lower the leakage currents. The detailed analysis of proposed topology and obtained results are analyzed in MATLAB simulation.
Inspecting the Occurrence of Fungi In Rhizospheric Soil From Irrigated And Non-Irrigated Maize Crop Fields In Sillod Taluka
Authors: Salve S. S.  , Badar K. V.  , Magar S. D.
Published: August 2024

Soil is the chief medium for the growth of the crops as well as the absorption of nutrients by roots and hence, only good quality soil has the ability to grow good quality crops. In the soil-plant interaction, the soil microbial communities are actively participating in the biomass and energy flow of the ecosystem and is considered as the most active component of soil ecosystem affected by a range of factors, such as irrigation systems, planting patterns, soil type and climatic changes. Irrigation is one of the most important factor of them. The rhizosphere of a plant root occupies a portion of soil that extends from the root to a non-defined extent in the soil that normally depends upon the diffusion of root secretions and the stage of development of the roots under the soil. Rhizosphere has very extreme amount of readily degradable carbon compounds and other nutrients made available by the rhizodepositions.
Penerapan aplikasi “PADISICK” pada kelompok Tani di Kepuharjo, Karang Ploso Kabupaten Malang
Authors: E Poerbaningtyas , Listio Syntia Widyayuningtias Putri , Christiawan Gracia Yoel
Published: August 2024

Padi merupakan tanaman pokok di Indonesia, yang termasuk negara agraris ini. Kebanyakan para petani memilih tanaman padi sebagai tanaman utama untuk lahan pertanian. Mulai dari lahan hingga iklim tropis yang terjadi di Indonesia sangat cocok untuk tanaman padi. Diantara dukungan-dukungan tersebut muncul rintangan yang harus dihadapi para petani. Mulai dari hama hingga penyakit-penyakit pada tanaman padi. Selama ini untuk  mendeteksi penyakit daun tanaman padi, petani akan berkonsultasi dengan petugas penyuluh yang posisinya berada di Kcamatan secara manual dan langsung. Dosen dan mahasiswa STIKI telah menciptakan produk unggul dengan menerapkan teknologi inovasi, yaitu PADISICK.  Aplikasi ini dapat diakses menggunakan handphone, cukup petani hanya mengupload foto daun padi yang terkait penyakit, maka sistem PADISICK memberikan informasi terkait jenis penyakitnya dan penangan dini. Sehingga ini cukup efisien bagi petani, khususnya kelompok tani Wanita dan pria di Desa Kepuharjo Karangplosa Kabupaten Malang. Hasil dari kegiatan pengabdian  ini menunjukan hasil, respon petani beserta perangkat desa dan petugas penyuluhan  yang sangat baik di angka 98%.
Pelatihan Keamanan Jaringan dan Antisipasi Kejahatan Siber bagi Siswa SMK N 1 Padang Cermin, Lampung
Authors: Pasha Donaya , Rahayu Masnia , Sulistiani Heni , Suhartanto Alvi , Sobirin Muhammad Hamdan , Sangha Zahra Kharisma , Aryatama Fahreza Aditya
Published: August 2024

Kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat (PKM) ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pengenalan dan pelatihan keamanan jaringan dan antisipasi kejahatan siber kepada siswa SMK N 1 Padang Cermin jurusan Teknik Komputer dan Jaringan (TKJ). Ketrampilan menggunakan teknologi merupakan salah satu luaran wajib bagi siswa SMK, untuk dapat menguasai teknologi dalam mengantisipasi keamanan jaringan dan kejahatan siber tidak cukup hanya di dapat dari pelajaran di dalam kelas, oleh karena itu perlu diberikan kegiatan penunjang lain seperti pelatihan untuk menambah pengetahuan dan pengalaman siswa dalam pengenalan keamanan jaringan dan kejahatan siber. Kegiatan PKM ini memberikan pelatihan secara tatap muka kepada siswa jurusan teknik komputer dan jaringan. Berdasarkan hasil kuisioner yang diberikan kepada siswa dan hasil kerja siswa dapat disimpulkan bahwa pelatihan dapat meningkatan kemampuan siswa, hal tersebut terlihat dari hasil kuisioner tentang pemahaman siswa terkait keamanan jaringan dan antisipasi kejahatan siber.