bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Superior Provenances of Khejri (Prosopis cineraria) trees in Arid Lands of Western Rajasthan
Authors: Choudhary Khushwant B. , Moharana P. C. , Sanyal Archana
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to assess and identify the superior khejri (Prosopis cineraria) provenance in the western arid drylands through habitat site characterization using GIS mapping, in-situ variability studies, germination and progeny-cum-provenance trial. Eight provenances among the nine identified were selected for in-situ study based on their distinct growth characteristics. The analysis of various morphometric traits revealed significant differences among provenances, emphasizing their genetic variability. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive relationship between plant height and both stem girth (r = 0.70*) and crown diameter (r = 0.93**), indicating the importance of considering tree height as a reliable indicator of early growth assessment during provenance selection. Germination (ranging from 75% in Karola (Jalore) to 82% in Lamba (Jodhpur)) also indicated the variable germination potential of these provenances. Subsequently, in progeny-cum-provenance trial, at 5 months after transplanting (MAT), no significant differences in plant height were observed among the provenances. However, at 15 MAT, significant variations in plant height emerged, with Absar (Churu) exhibiting the highest height of 87.22 cm. By 25 MAT, all provenances displayed further increases in plant height, with Bhadriya (Jaisalmer) attaining the greatest height of 181.11 cm. Based on the ranking of growth across the three-time intervals, the study concluded that Absar consistently demonstrated superior growth performance. Thus, Absar can be identified as the most favourable provenance considered for khejri cultivation in the western drylands.
Prognostic significance of contrast enhancement in newly diagnosed glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype in adults
Authors: Roux Alexandre , Elia Angela , Hudelist Benoit , Benzakoun Joseph , Dezamis Edouard , Parraga Eduardo , Moiraghi Alessandro , Simboli Giorgia Antonia , Chretien Fabrice , Oppenheim Catherine , Zanello Marc , Pallud Johan
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives.
Glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype presents with a typical ring-like contrast enhanced area surrounding a central necrosis on imaging. We assessed the prognosis of contrast enhancement.
Methods.
We performed an observational, retrospective, single-centre cohort study at a tertiary neurosurgical oncology centre (January 2006 - December 2022). We screened adult patients harbouring a newly-diagnosed glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype.
Results.
We included 1149 glioblastomas, IDH-wildtype: 26 (2.3%) had a no contrast enhancement, 45 had a faint and patchy contrast enhancement (4.0%), 118 had a nodular contrast enhancement (10.5%), and 960 had a ring-like contrast enhancement surrounding central necrosis (85.5%). Progression-free and overall survivals were longer in non-contrast enhanced glioblastomas (9.5 months and 26.7 months, respectively) than in contrast enhanced glioblastomas (6.5 months and 10.9 months, respectively) (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001, respectively). Non-contrast enhanced glioblastoma had a higher rate of long-term survivor (42.3%) than in contrast enhanced glioblastoma (16.3%) (p = 0.002). In the subgroup of contrast enhanced glioblastomas, the overall survival was lower in ring-like contrast enhancement (10.0 months) than in other contrast enhancement patterns (13.0 months) (p = 0.033). Cortical involvement by the contrast enhancement and surgical resection were independent predictors of longer survivals, while preoperative KPS score < 70, ventricle involvement of the contrast enhancement, tumour volume ≥ 30cm3, and postoperative residual contrast enhancement were independent predictors of shorter survivals.
Conclusion.
The ring-like pattern of contrast enhancement is present in the majority (85.5%) of glioblastomas and is associated with shorter survivals than non-contrast enhanced (2.3%) glioblastomas. The pattern of contrast enhancement is an independent survival predictor.
Heat Integration as a Strategic Economic Basic Ingredient for Viable Clean Technologies: Perspective of Return on Incremental Investment
Authors: Wagialla Kamil M. , Abuelgasim Doaa , Elhussein Aisha
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces a systematic economic approach to evaluate the economic benefits of Heat Exchange Networks (HENs) within the framework of clean technologies and environmental policy. It emphasizes the integration of sustainability, presenting a novel metric, Return on Incremental Investment (ROII), to assess economic profitability. Through a case study of a green grass chemical facility, the economic analysis involves heat integration via mathematical programming, estimating additional capital expenditure, utility cost savings, and ROII calculation. The study underscores the pivotal role of robust economic analysis in driving sustainable economic development, especially in the domain of cleaner technologies. It highlights the importance for stakeholders and policymakers to prioritize economically viable and cleaner technologies for achieving sustainable economic development objectives. The findings offer valuable insights for industrial experts and plant managers to make informed decisions based on economic performance benchmarking. Overall, this study contributes to advancing the understanding of economic viability within the context of clean technologies and environmental policy, facilitating informed decision-making towards sustainable economic development initiatives. The results of the economic evaluation underscore the high sensitivity of ROII to changes in utility costs.
Fragility Curves of RC Buildings in Southeastern Turkey: Learning from Seismic Damage Data of The February 2023 Turkey Doublet Earthquakes
Authors: Sun Jikai , Wang Ziqian , Ito Eri , Kawase Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

Mw 7.8 and 7.5 strong earthquakes struck the Kahramanmaras province, southeastern Turkey on 6 February 2023. More than 50,000 and 8,400 lives were lost in Turkey and Syria, and approximately 230,000 buildings were destroyed or heavily damaged. 379 and 387 strong-motion stations in Turkey observed the Mw 7.8 and Mw 7.5 strong ground motions, nineteen and one of them recorded the east-west peak ground acceleration (PGA) larger than 500 cm/s2, respectively. Referring to the building damage assessment map of 2023 Turkey earthquakes, we calculated the averaged damage ratio of 24 strong-motion stations with a circle of 100m in radius. Site effects in several specific southern Turkey cities may lead to a very irregular distribution of building damage. Based on the reinforced concrete (RC) analysis model of building damage probability created from the building damage data of the 1995 Hyogo-ken Nanbu (Kobe) earthquake, we estimated the building damage probability of these southeast Turkey strong-motion stations. The optimal seismic vulnerability functions of residential RC buildings in southeast Turkey were obtained. The shear strength might be set to 60% of OLD-RC structure or 40% of NEW-RC structure in the Nagato-Kawase model for Kobe earthquake when build the building seismic damage probability model of southeastern Turkey.
Applying Natural Language Processing to Knowledge Graph Construction: Design and Implementation of a Knowledge Extraction Algorithm
Authors: Li Chunguang , Shang Haixia , Li Yan , Zhang Xingxing , Wu Yuanyuan
Published: May 2024

With the advent of the information age, building a knowledge base for intelligent platforms has become one of the focuses of attention. As a structured representation method for knowledge, knowledge graph can display various domains of knowledge in the form of graphs, providing important support for intelligent platforms. Based on natural language processing (NLP) and other technologies, this paper designs and implements a knowledge extraction algorithm to automatically extract knowledge and information from various data sources, including text analysis, entity recognition, keyword extraction and other functions. By constructing a knowledge graph, different domains of knowledge are presented in the form of graphs, providing an effective way to manage and utilize this knowledge. This paper introduces the design principles and implementation methods of the knowledge extraction algorithm as well as application examples in the process of constructing a knowledge graph. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively extract rich knowledge and information from multiple data sources and construct a semantic-rich knowledge graph, which provides important support for the development of subsequent intelligent platforms.
Multidisciplinary assessment of a restored mangrove ecosystem in Guanabara Bay, Brazil: Linking science and conservation
Authors: Santos Alan Andrade , Nunes-Freitas André Felippe , Tompson Cauê Machado , Barbosa Geovane , Takahashi Daiki , Suyama Yoshihisa , Lira Catarina Fonseca
Published: May 2024

Mangrove ecosystems, due to their coastal location, are particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances of varying intensity and origin. These disturbances can lead to a loss of original mangrove cover, biodiversity decline, and a degradation of their ecological functions. This study examines a restored mangrove area within the Barão de Mauá Natural Municipal Park (PNMBM) in Guanabara Bay, Brazil, two decades after the initiation of a restoration project. We employed a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing a combination of genetic diversity analysis of two mangrove species, phytosociological assessment of the area's vegetation structure, and remote sensing techniques. While genetic diversity did not reveal significant differences between adult and seedling populations across the restored area, overall diversity remained low. We found a strong degree of genetic erosion, particularly in Laguncularia racemosa. Notably, L. racemosa exhibited higher abundance, with greater density and dominance compared to the other species for both adult and seedling populations. Remote sensing data indicated high Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values following the completion of the restoration project. These findings suggest that the PNMBM has demonstrated remarkable resilience in maintaining its vegetation cover. However, further time may be necessary for the genetic and phytosociological structure to fully recover and achieve a robust, successful stage of development with improved genetic and ecological diversity. This interdisciplinary approach aimed to address existing knowledge gaps and provided valuable insights to inform the management of the PNMBM and guide future restoration efforts.
Image-based Modeling of Coupled Electro-Chemo-Mechanical Behavior of Li-ion Battery Cathode Using an Interface-Modified Reproducing Kernel Particle Method
Authors: Susuki Kristen , Allen Jeffery , Chen Jiun-Shyan
Published: May 2024

An interface-modified reproducing kernel particle method (IM-RKPM) is introduced in this work to allow for a direct model construction from image pixels of heterogeneous polycrystalline Li-ion battery microstructures. The interface-modified reproducing kernel (IM-RK) approximation is constructed through scaling of a kernel function by a regularized distance function in conjunction with strategic placement of interface node locations. This leads to RK shape functions with either weak or strong discontinuities across material interfaces, suitable for modeling various interface mechanics. With the placement of a triple junction node and distance-based scaling of kernel functions, the resulting IM-RK shape function also possesses proper discontinuities at the triple junctions. This IM-RK approximation effectively remedies the well-known Gibb’s oscillation in the smooth approximation of discontinuities. Different from the conventional meshfree approaches for interface discontinuities, this IM-RK approach is done without additional degrees of freedom associated with the enrichment functions, and it is formulated with the standard procedures in the RK shape function construction. This work focuses on identifying the accuracy and convergence properties of IM-RKPM for modeling the coupled electro-chemo-mechanical system. A linear patch test is formulated and numerically tested for the electro-chemo-mechanical coupled problem with a Butler-Volmer boundary condition representing the physical conditions in Li-ion battery microstructures. This is followed by verification of the optimal rates of convergence of IM-RKPM for solving the coupled problem with higher order solutions. The image-based modeling of Li-ion battery microstructures in the numerical examples demonstrates the applicability of the proposed method to realistic Li-ion battery materials modeling.
Effect of Uncontrolled Industrialization on Environmental Parameter: A Case Study of Mongla EPZ Using Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Ahmed Faishal , Uddin Md Shihab , Saha Ovi Ranjan
Published: May 2024

The unplanned and uncontrolled industrialization leads to environmental pollution which ends in impacting human life and destroying the economy. Especially in the era of global warming coastal regions of all over the world are the most vulnerable which holds significant ecological importance for human habitations. In 1998 the establishment of the Mongla Export Processing Zone (MEPZ) in the coastal thana Mongla which is already famous for its seaport has led the area to the challenges of salinity intrusion and shrinking of agricultural land and its fertility. In this paper, the effect of unplanned industrialization inside the Mongla EPZ are on the area land surface temperature (LST), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), normalized difference water index (NDWI), and urban heat island (UHI) spanning from the year 2007 to 2023 has been investigated. Along with that a machine learning-based Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model was employed to forecast the situation in 2027 and 2031. Our industrial settlement analysis reveals that a substantial rise in industrial building was seen in 2015 in the EPZ area, whereas the EPZ area was almost settlement-free before 2011. With this increase in 2015, above 2% of the total municipal area will face drought which has become over 30% by 2023. The NDVI values are decreasing year-wise which reveals that the area is becoming vegetation less. Also, the increasing industrial activities in the EPZ turned LST increment. Our CA-ANN algorithm-based future prediction shows that about 30% of the whole municipality will face LST 27°C by 2031. Along with that the area's UHI values over 2°C than the rural surrounding will reach 6.5% by 2031. The study investigated the devastating impact of unplanned industrialization in EPZ on the surrounding environment and ecosystem.
Kenar Hesaplama Tabanlı, Mikrodenetleyici Entegreli, Çok Amaçlı ve Düşük Maliyetli Modül Geliştirilmesi: Bakteriyel Koloni Sayımı Örneği
Authors: Durgun Yeliz , Durgun Mahmut
Published: May 2024

Bu çalışma, bakteriyel koloni sayımı ve sınıflandırması için edge-computing temelli, düşük maliyetli ve çok amaçlı bir modül geliştirmeyi amaçlamaktadır. Geleneksel koloni sayım yöntemleri zaman alıcı ve hata payı yüksek olduğundan, özellikle düşük yoğunluklu örneklerde doğruluk ve hassasiyet kaybına yol açar. Bu nedenle, mikrodenetleyici entegrasyonlu ve yapay zeka destekli bir sistem geliştirilmiştir. Çalışmada, Arduino Nano 33 BLE mikrodenetleyici ve 0.3MP OV7675 kamera modülü kullanılmıştır. Görüntü işleme süreçleri, bakteriyel kolonilerin segmentasyonu ve morfolojik işlemlerle daha iyi tanımlanması için Gaussian Blur ile Adaptif eşikleme teknikleri kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Kolonilerin etiketlenmesi ve özellik çıkarımı için, alan, çevre ve yoğunluk gibi özellikler analiz edilmiştir. Bakteriyel koloni sayımı ve sınıflandırma işlemleri için Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) ve Support Vector Machines (SVM) gibi iki farklı yapay zeka algoritması bir arada kullanılmıştır. CNN, görüntülerin doğrudan işlenmesi ve özellik çıkarımı için derin öğrenme tabanlı bir yöntemken, SVM çıkarılan özelliklere dayalı olarak sınıflandırma gerçekleştiren bir makine öğrenimi algoritmasıdır. Bu iki algoritmanın kombinasyonu, bakteriyel koloni analizinde kolaylık sağlamıştır. Geliştirilen sistem, bakteri kolonisi sayılarını ve büyüme hızını zamanla izlemeye olanak tanımaktadır. Bu çalışmanın sonuçları, bakteriyel koloni sayımı ve sınıflandırma süreçlerinde daha hızlı ve izlenebilir sonuçlar elde etmek için mikrodenetleyici entegrasyonlu ve yapay zeka destekli bir sistemin önemini vurgulamaktadır.
Reauthorization of Local Issues in Law Enforcement Practice
Authors: SHugrina YEkatyerina
Published: May 2024

This research featured norms that provide an opportunity to redistribute matters of local significance from local government bodies to state authorities. The Federal Law on Organization of Local Governance (2014) provides an algorithm for this procedure. However, it has received poor scientific attention, as has the current law enforcement practice in the corresponding category of cases. The present analysis of the regional and court decisions shows that the state authorities tend to act chaotically in exercising their discretionary powers. Reauthorization has received no criteria of expediency and effectiveness so far. The examples from law enforcement practice are not in favor of local government and violate the constitutional principle of trust in the government (Constitution of the Russian Federation, Article 75.1). Reauthorization prevents local governments from long-term development strategizing of their municipalities. Both the laws of the subjects of the Russian Federation and the law enforcement practice show that reauthorization in its current form contradicts the constitutional principles of maintaining trust in the government, thus reducing the power of local governments.
Study on the performance of biochar prepared from walnut shell and traditional graphene electrode plate in the treatment of domestic sewage in microbial fuel cells
Authors: Hu Zhenhua , Zhao Huifang , Wang Bingyuan , Zhang Cuijing , Lu Hongsheng
Published: May 2024

As a new pollutant treatment technology, microbial fuel cell (MFC) has a broad prospect. In this article, the devices assembled using walnut shells are named biochar-microbial fuel cell (B-MFC), and the devices assembled using graphene are named graphene-microbial fuel cell (G-MFC). Under the condition of an external resistance of 1,000 Ω, the B-MFC with biochar as the electrode plate can generate a voltage of up to 75.26 mV. The maximum power density is 76.61 mW/m2, and the total internal resistance is 3,117.09 Ω. The removal efficiency of B-MFC for ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) was higher than that of G-MFC. The results of microbial analysis showed that there was more operational taxonomic unit (OTU) on the walnut shell biochar electrode plate. The final analysis of the two electrode materials using BET specific surface area testing method (BET) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that the pore size of walnut shell biochar was smaller, the specific surface area was larger, and the pore distribution was smoother. The results show that using walnut shells to make electrode plates is an optional waste recycling method and an electrode plate with excellent development prospects.
Cattaneo-Christov Heat Flux based Darcy-Forchheimer Hybrid Nanofluid Flow with Marangoni Convection above a Permeable Disk
Authors: Sethy Nalini Kumar , Mohanty Debashis , Mahanta Ganeswar , Mahanta Kamala Lochan , Shaw Sachin
Published: May 2024

The study highlights a rising number of fluids such as nanofluids and hybrid
nanofluids encountered in daily life that exhibit non-Newtonian behavior and they are exploited
in manufacturing due to their high heat transfer rate becoming more and more important as time
goes on. The focus is on hybrid nanomaterials because they increase liquid alloys' and fluids'
thermal conductivity. The various investigations on a thermal Marangoni convective flow of
aluminium alloy and Boehmite alumina nanoparticles into gasoline oil in base fluid water on a
steady Darcy-Forchheimer flow are covered. With the system's exponential heat generation and
viscous dissipation, the thermal impact is more pronounced in the presence of Cattaneo-Christov heat flux. To simplify the highly coupled nonlinear governing equations (PDEs) and
the boundary conditions (BCs), a suitable similarity conversion is being applied. The outcomes
of the conversion equations and their BCs are evaluated by MATLAB bvp4c routine with the
shooting techniques. Through the use of graphs and tables, it has been determined how different
governing factors affect the velocity, temperature, skin friction, and Nusselt number. A quick
comparison between a hybrid nanofluid and a nanofluid is displayed in each graph. We also
discussed the system's Bejan numbers and entropy creation. It has been observed that the
proportion of heat transmission increases with heat generation but decreases with the
Marangoni number. A nonlinear increase in the permeability constant and Brinkman number
results in a rise in entropy generation.
Study of Oblique Nanofluid Flow Past a Stretching Sheet
Authors: Poply Vikas , Taneja Shilpa , Kumar Parveen
Published: May 2024

The analysis of impinging oblique nano-fluid past a stretching sheet is done in the
current communication. The nanoparticles' behaviour in fluids for convective heat transfer has
been extensively studied. We assume that the fluid and the stretching velocity change linearly.
In this paper, we used a cutting-edge Genetic Algorithm technique to better understand how a
nanofluid's thermal characteristics and heat transport vary over time. Additionally, the impact
of a change in the fluid's impinging angle is investigated. The temperature and concentration
curves, skin friction coefficient, and Nusselt number have all been observed and graphically
displayed.
Long acting paliperidone injection in patient with bipolar affective disorder, current episode manic with psychotic symptoms
Authors: Wati Wati , Santosa I Ketut Arya , Wiguna I Gusti Rai Putra
Published: May 2024

Bipolar Disorder is a chronic mental illness characterized by periods of mania, depression, and mixed episodes that often need lifelong medication. The first line of pharmacotherapy includes lithium, valproate, or second-generation antipsychotics. Paliperidone is a medication that works in the brain and is also known as a second-generation antipsychotic. Paliperidone is available as an oral extended-release tablet and a once-monthly extended-release suspension for intramuscular injection. Long-acting injectables (LAIs) are used to reduce the non-adherence of oral medication. Paliperidone is one of the LAI that could be used to treat manic, hypomanic, and mixed episodes in patients with bipolar disorder. Paliperidone LAI reduces the number of relapses, hospitalization, and length of stay. As reported in this case, a patient with a manic episode who received paliperidone LAI showed favourable results after a week-long observation with no signs of extrapyramidal symptoms.
A conceptual study of Bhutabhisangaja and Aupsargika Vyadhi w.s.r. to Covid-19
Authors: Nippu Kumari Sharma  , Vijay Shankar Pandey
Published: May 2024

Sushruta emphasized special attention to infections caused by Rakshasa/Bhuta in conditions such as smallpox, Apasmara, and other diseases related to Baalgraha, injuries, and wounds. Charaka focused on contagious diseases, mentioning entities like the Rabies virus (Skand Apasmara), Bhuta influences or possession in contagious diseases (Agantuka Roga), and the use of remedies to ward off Bhuta, destroy Rakshasa, and counteract the effects of Garha. The Atharvaveda also extensively discusses the use of medicines to counteract entities such as Bhuta, subtle microorganisms, and their destructive nature, indicating that the causative agents of diseases in the ancient texts were perceived to be similar to modern concepts of viruses and bacteria. The classification of Bhuta in the context of Unmada and Apasmara in Charaka, as well as the mention of remedies to counteract Bhuta. Sushruta and Vagbhatta also highlighted the impact of Bhuta or Rakshas on the mind, leading to mental symptoms or disorders. Affected individuals may exhibit symptoms or actions beyond human capabilities. However, literary evidence on this topic is scarce. In literature and the Atharvaveda, alluded remedies, substances, Yoga, fumigation, etc., that counteract Bhuta or Rakshas have been established to have anti-bacterial or anti-viral effects. In this context, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is crucial not only for protection against Bhuta but also for safeguarding against bacteria or viruses.
‘Queen of Poisons’ Aconitum with special reference to Indian Aconite - Vatsanabha
Authors: Sahana V. M. Vats  , Sunil Kumar
Published: May 2024

Aconitum, the "Queen of Poisons" commonly known as Monkshood or Wolf’s bane, is a genus of perennial plants belonging to the family Ranunculaceae. In Ayurveda also few species of Aconitum are used for its therapeutic actions and the most potent of them is Aconitum Ferox, also known as Indian aconite or Vatsanabha, and it has the ability to function as both the ultimate poison and an elixir. In Ayurveda, Vatsanabha is considered as Mahavisha included among Sthavara Visha by Acharya Charaka, and in Kanda Visha by Acharya Susrutha. Aconitum Ferox is a highly toxic with the estimated fatal dose of 1g of root powder with a fatal period of 6 hours which contains a potent cardiotoxin and neurotoxin known as Aconitine. Ingesting even a small amount of the plant can result in severe symptoms and even death. As a result of the high toxicity of Vatsanabha, prior to any therapeutic use, the roots should under gone proper Sodhana process. Rasayana (rejuvenating), Deepana (improves digestion), Balavardhana (improves strength) Agnimandyahara (relieves indigestion) Pleehodara (useful in splenomegaly), Vataraktahara (useful against gout) Shwasahara (useful respiratory diseases), Kasahara (relieves cough), Gudamayahara (useful in ano-rectal disorders) etc. are just a few of the therapeutic indications of Vatsanabha that have been used successfully to treat a range of medical conditions. Recent Researches have shown that Vatsanabha contains several biologically active compounds that may have numerous potential therapeutic properties. The pharmacological potential of Aconitum Ferox still justifies vast research possibilities.
Efficacy of Yashtimadhu Ghritha Tarpana in Computer Vision Syndrome
Authors: Chaitra TM  , Varun TV  , Akshitha P
Published: May 2024

Computer Vision Syndrome is the name given to eye problems caused by prolonged computer use including: Eye irritation (Dry eyes, itchy eyes, red eyes) Blurred vision, Headache. As we enter the 21st century, the growing use of Video Display Terminal (VDT) like Computer, Tablet, Smart phones etc. in the home and office brings with it an increase in health risks, especially for the eyes. One eye problem, called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), is afflicting more and more people who find themselves constantly in front of Video Display Terminal. Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome include Headache, Blurred vision, Burning sensation, Fatigue, Dry eyes, Irritated eyes, Double vision, and Difficulty re-focusing the eyes. These symptoms can be further aggravated by improper lighting conditions and air moving fast the eyes. Dry eye is a major symptom that is targeted in the therapy of computer vision syndrome. Acharya Susrutha mentioned Tarpanam, Putapakam, Sekam, Acshyothanam, Anjana the Kriya Kalpas for Netra Rogas. Tarpana is indicated when the eyes are fatigue inactive, Sushka (dry), Ruksha (rough), injured, patients of Vata and Pitta vitiation, when there is squint, loss of lashes, clouded vision, difficulty in opening the eyes etc. conditions, Tarpana should be done to the patients.
Concept of Janapadodhwamsa in perspective of today's environment affecting human health
Authors: Nikita Kshirsagar  , Arun Bhatkar  , Manoj Nimbalkar  , Ashvin Bagde  , Sonali Fulkar
Published: May 2024

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine, clearly mentioned about diseases causing epidemic under a broad term ‘Janapadodhwamsa’ which literally means demolition of people or community. There are four factors that has been described which are common and essential for every living being i.e., Vayu (air), Jala (water), Desha (land) and Kala (season). Any abnormal alteration in these four factors can significantly influence individual or community or environment or all of them together. The reason for Janpadodhwansa has been described as Adharma (immorality) and the root cause of Adharma is said to be Prajnaparadha (delinquency of wisdom). Considering the noteworthiness of Janpadodhwansa, a whole chapter has been depicted in Charak Samhita illustrating its onset, causes, peculiar features and management. In Janapadodhwamsa, persons having distinct Prakriti (constitution), Aahara (diet), Deha (body), Bala (strength), Satmya (suitableness), Mana (mind) and Vaya (age) may be affected by one particular disease simultaneously. In Ayurveda terms like virus, bacteria don’t exist, but term like Krumi, Bhuta etc. were considered as a causative factor for the diseases. On the basis of characteristic features of vitiated four factors in Ayurveda classics, catastrophe conditions like cyclones, earthquakes, endemic/epidemic or pandemic disease outbreak etc., may simulate with Janpadodhwansa. Restrained utilisation of natural, man-made resources, adoption of Ayurveda dietetics and lifestyle, Panchakarma therapies, Rasayana therapies may effectively contribute to prevent and manage these situations especially like disease outbreak. This review primarily focussed on the need of understanding the topic of Janpadodhwansa in current scenario.
Beejotsarga - An Ayurvedic prospective on ovulation
Authors: Savita Vangi  , Daneshwari Gunari
Published: May 2024

The aim of Ayurveda is Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam & Aturasya Vikara Prashanam, which means the maintenance of health and the cure of disease. Beejotsarga (ovulation) is an important physiological condition in women that further grants her the identity of motherhood. Arthava is the Upadhatu of Rasa Dhatu and is responsible for conception. In Ayurveda, Arthava is considered as a Beeja (seed) produced during Beejotsarga (ovulation), which occurs during the ovulation period, also known as Rutukala. The proper condition of Agni, Dhatus, and Upadhatus is essential for a proper Beejotsarga. An improper condition of these elements hampers the physiological process of ovulation. Therefore, it is necessary to study the Ayurvedic concept of Beejotsarga to understand the clinical aspects of ovulation in order to effectively cure and prevent diseases.
Role of Gandhak Rasayan in Kshudra Kushtha - A Review Article
Authors: Heena Kaushik  , Brijender Singh Tomar  , Satbir Kumar Chawla
Published: May 2024

Ayurveda is an ancient medical science, which not only treats the diseases but it also emphasizing for a healthy life. Ayurveda’s main aim is to maintaining Dhatusamya of body. The person who follows the rules of Dincharya, Ritucharya and Aahar Vihar able to live healthy life. But in today’s lifestyle it is difficult to follows these rules and due to sedentary changes in daily habits of diet, work etc. This continuous exposure to these factors various systemic changes are occurring in our body, these factors mainly vitiates Rakta Dhatu and in Kshudra Kushtha (Minor skin diseases) also the vitiation of Rakta Dhatu. There are two types of Kustha, Maha Kushta and Kshudra Kustha. Mahakustha is of eight types and Kshudra Kustha is of eleven types. According to Ayurveda, Tvacha (skin) is a seat of Sparshanrndriya. It carries the sensation of touch and it also covers the internal part of the body. Tvacha (skin) is ‘Panchbhautik’ but out of them Vayumahabhuta is prominent one. Gandhak Rasayana is one of the oral medicines described for many skin diseases. Gandhak Rasayana mainly acts on skin, blood and it is Rasayana in action. So, it more or less acts on all Doshas and Dhatus.
Supplementation of Amra Beej Majja Churna in Vitamin B12 Deficiency - A Case Study
Authors: Alisha Prakash  , Trupti Jain  , Nitin Marwaha
Published: May 2024

B12 is an important vitamin needed by red blood cells for maturation and DNA synthesis of myelin- producing oligodendrocytes. It remarkably supports the regeneration of nerves after injury. B12 is also involved in Hcy metabolism, transmethylation processes, fatty acid and nucleic acid synthesis, energy production etc. The symptoms of its deficiency range from glossitis to severe demyelination of nervous tissue. Indian population, with largely vegetarian food habit, is prone to harbor Vitamin B12 deficiency. There’s a general belief that vegan diet is devoid of Vitamin B12 but a few recent researches have shown that the Amra Beej Majja can act as a cost effective food supplement not just for calcium, vitamin A and C but also for Vitamin B12. So, there’s a felt need to evaluate therapeutically, the acclaimed role of Amra Beej Majja Churna as a supplement in people with Vitamin B12 deficiency. This paper presents a clinical study on the administration of Amra Beej Majja Churna in a patient with vegan dietary habits having Vitamin B12 deficiency which was clinically verified with low serum levels of the same. She presented with symptoms like hair loss, fatigue, tingling sensation in lower limbs and pain in calf muscles. The study was conducted for 2 months after which blood tests revealed increased serum Vitamin B12 levels from 189pg/ml to 217pg/ml along with significant symptomatic relief especially in tingling sensation and hair loss.
Understanding the treatment modalities of Pemphigus Vulgaris (Agnivisarpa) through the lens of Ayurveda - A Single Case Study
Authors: Harpreet Singh  , Gareema Panwar  , Vaidya Vinay Vasudev Welankar
Published: May 2024

Pemphigus is a disease that causes blisters and sore on the skin or mucous membrane. The blisters rupture easily, leaving open sores, which may ooze and become infected. Agnivisarpa can be compared to pemphigus vulgaris due to its resemblance in sign and symptoms. The disease needs early and proper treatment to prevent further morbidity and mortality. Being an autoimmune disorder physician generally use corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs here an attempt is made to study in detail about pemphigus vulgaris and its understanding though Ayurveda. A case report of 47year old male patient with clinical presentation of fluid filled blisters burning and pain along with hyperpigmentation received systemic medication in modern medicine without an adequate response. Samshodhan coupled with Samshamana medication are the cornerstones for Visarpa. Hence in this study, Virechana Karma once in a week for 2 month. After that Raktamokshana (After completion of 3 sitting of Virechana Karma) followed by 3 months of Samshamana medicine. At the conclusion of treatment, a skin lesion assessment was performed.
Recurrent Severe Spasmophylia from Hypocalcaemia: A Case Report
Authors: Pinzon Rizaldy Taslim , Sinaga Ruth Vanessa Gloria
Published: May 2024

Hypocalcemia can present with a variety of clinical symptoms and indications. In situations of nerve-related hypocalcemia, muscle cramps and tetany are signs of increased excitability in either peripheral nerves or the central nervous system. Here, we described the case of a 58-year-old woman experiencing ongoing pain and cramping in both her upper and lower extremities. Through careful physical, neurophysiological, and radiological examinations, we were able to identify hypocalcemia as the primary cause of her severe muscle spasms and cramps, known as spasmophilia. Further detailed history-taking revealed a past total thyroidectomy. Administration of adequate calcium supplementation successfully relieved the symptoms.
Review of Determinants of Nonmedical Caesarean Section in Indonesia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nurfianto Sigit , Suhanda Rachmad , Yuarta Ferina Agustia , Refani Priska , Sembiring Thyrister Nina Asarya , Mellazulfa Dhea Sofiana , Laurentina Yoriko , Yeni Yeni
Published: May 2024

Caesarean section (C-section) delivery has increased worldwide. The number of deliveries using the C-section procedure at the age of 10–54 years in Indonesia reached up to 17.6% of the total number of deliveries, due to the presence of medical and nonmedical indications. This study aims to analyze about nonmedical indications of C-section. This study uses a systematic review method. The inclusion criteria for the investigated studies were articles published in 2011–2021, written in English or Bahasa Indonesia, observational studies with case control or cohort as the design, and available to be downloaded in full text. In total, 12 articles were included in this systematic review. The nonmedical factors that influence the C-section procedure are antenatal care, the mother's level of education, residency, health insurance, socio-economics, occupation, previous birth histories, the mother's demand, the family's support and decision-making, and doctor's referral. The government, through the help of health practitioners, needs to increase the education to pregnant women and their families regarding the advantages and disadvantages of their preferred delivery methods.
Da-porta-da-loja ao Mosteiro de Tibães
Authors: Peixoto José Carlos Gonçalves
Published: May 2024

Esta obra convoca a atenção para a simbiose entre a maçã-da-porta-da-loja e a sua origem atribuída ao mosteiro de Tibães. Tendo em conta as circunstâncias e o poder senhorial, procuramos, no âmbito da historiografia portuguesa, conectar o berço deste fruto com a freguesia de Mire de Tibães e com o núcleo alargado da família Casais, fiel depositária deste património lendário. Entendemos que os argumentos apresentados, apoiados em boas fontes e nos dados recolhidos, sustentam a hipótese formulada, reconstituindo cientificamente o pretérito, à luz das metodologias que a evolução imprimiu à história local. Ficamos atónitos quando encontramos documentos que focavam a descoberta de velhas e maduras macieiras na cerca conventual. Tudo se deveu à audácia dos antigos caseiros do mosteiro de Tibães, os «Casales – Casais» que, ao disseminarem pelas quintas circundantes, não deixaram que esta variedade caísse em vias de extinção, num contexto de economia verde e da temática da sustentabilidade. Desvendamos que a variedade da «maçã-da-porta-da-loja» é uma herança beneditina, produzida num dos poios, ou socalcos da cerca conventual e, posteriormente, difundida pelas quintas da região. Esta dádiva é mais que uma memória histórica e cronológica, é uma tomada de consciência qualitativa na busca de uma identidade, de legados sociais, morais e económicos, pois sempre respeitamos a transmissão de testemunhos, a tradição e o legado dos antepassados como símbolo identitário da aldeia. Procuramos distribuir o nosso contributo por três partes. No primeiro capítulo, procuramos desvendar o mistério que envolve a maçã-da-porta-da-loja, especificamente, a conexão com a herança monástica de Tibães, bem como uma abordagem histórica da agricultura no seio beneditino em geral e, em particular, da fruticultura nas propriedades do mosteiro de Tibães, patrimónios que sustentavam a vida religiosa do instituto monástico. No segundo capítulo elaboramos uma abordagem sobre o domínio fundiário do senhorio do mosteiro de Tibães, que conheceu muitas vidas. Viu nascer algumas e perdeu outras tantas. No terceiro capítulo, procedemos a uma breve referência e mais contemporânea sobre a caracterização, origens e tradições da maçã-da-porta-da-loja, de que tanto nos orgulhamos, do que temos e do que vamos fazer para a defender enquanto fruto de eleição.
Revisión taxonómica de Microstelma (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae, Asclepiadeae, Gonolobinae), endémica de México, con dos especies nuevas
Authors: Alvarado-Cárdenas Leonardo O.
Published: May 2024

Antecedentes y Objetivos: La subtribu Gonolobinae es una de las más diversas de la familia Apocynaceae y su historia taxonómica sigue pasando por numerosos cambios. Matelea es uno de los géneros dentro de la subtribu que más cambios ha presentado y del cual se han segregado numerosos taxones, entre ellos Microstelma que es monotípico. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un tratamiento actualizado de Microstelma y la descripción de dos especies nuevas, así como proporcionar una clave de identificación, imágenes y descripciones de sus especies.
Métodos: Se realizaron salidas al campo y se observaron ejemplares de herbario incluyendo tipos. Se consultó la literatura taxonómica relacionada con los taxones tratados, se realizó una revisión del género, se presentan láminas de las especies y mapas de distribución, así como su evaluación del estado de conservación.
Resultados clave: Se reconocen tres especies para Microstelma, todas endémicas de México, dos de ellas nombradas como nuevas especies: M. jimenezii (Michoacán) y M. tenorioi (Guerrero y Oaxaca). La longitud de los pedicelos, la morfología y patrón de reticulación de la corola, así como la morfología de la corona ginostegial y su distribución, permitieron el reconocimiento de las especies.
Conclusiones: Microstelma ahora tiene tres especies y es, junto con Thoreauea, uno de los géneros de Apocynaceae endémicos de México con más diversidad. Es importante seguir con el trabajo de revisión para el mejor entendimiento de la morfología y sistemática de estos grupos.
Continuity of care and use of youth mental health services: A rapid literature review
Authors: McManus Alexandra , McManus Jennifer
Published: May 2024

Around half of all mental health disorders are evident by 14 years of age. Evidence shows that the healthcare needs of this high-risk group are largely unmet. This review seeks to provide some insights into ways to improve access to youth mental health services, thus optimising health outcomes for youth with mental health issues.
Sleep Duration and Functional Disability Among Chinese Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Luo Minjing , Dong Yue , Fan Bingbing , Zhang Xinyue , Liu Hao , Liang Changhao , Rong Hongguo , Fei Yutong
Published: May 2024

Background

The duration of sleep plays a crucial role in the development of physiological functions that impact health. However, little is known about the associations between sleep duration and functional disability among older adults in China.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the associations between sleep duration and functional disabilities in the older population (aged≥65 years) in China.

Methods

The data for this cross-sectional study were gathered from respondents 65 years and older who participated in the 2018 survey of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, an ongoing nationwide longitudinal investigation of Chinese adults. The duration of sleep per night was obtained through face-to-face interviews. Functional disability was assessed according to activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) scales. The association between sleep duration and functional disability was assessed by multivariable generalized linear models. A restricted cubic-spline model was used to explore the dose-response relationship between sleep duration and functional disability.

Results

In total, 5519 participants (n=2471, 44.77% men) were included in this study with a mean age of 73.67 years, including 2800 (50.73%) respondents with a functional disability, 1978 (35.83%) with ADL disability, and 2299 (41.66%) with IADL disability. After adjusting for potential confounders, the older adults reporting shorter (≤4, 5, or 6 hours) or longer (8, 9, or ≥10 hours) sleep durations per night exhibited a notably increased risk of functional disability compared to that of respondents who reported having 7 hours of sleep per night (all P<.05), which revealed a U-shaped association between sleep duration and dysfunction. When the sleep duration fell below 7 hours, increased sleep duration was associated with a significantly lower risk of functional disability (odds ratio [OR] 0.85, 95% CI 0.79-0.91; P<.001). When the sleep duration exceeded 7 hours, the risk of functional disability associated with a prolonged sleep duration increased (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05-1.29; P<.001).

Conclusions

Sleep durations shorter and longer than 7 hours were associated with a higher risk of functional disability among Chinese adults 65 years and older. Future studies are needed to explore intervention strategies for improving sleep duration with a particular focus on functional disability.
Exploring Digital Agency and Digital Competence of Immigrant and Refugee Older Adults: A Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Salma Jordana , Au Alesia , Sayadi Ghada , Kleib Manal
Published: May 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Digital agency refers to an individual's ability to use information and communication technology to meet personal preferences and needs, while also ensuring safety, security, and independence. However, the concept of digital agency for immigrant and refugee older adults (IROA) has not been thoroughly studied. This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach, using the DigComp 2.2 framework, to explore this topic. A total of 31 IROAs were recruited and participated in the study, which involved semi-structured interviews, focus groups, observations, and iterative co-design cycles. Through reflexive thematic data analysis, patterns in the research were identified. The findings revealed that the digital agency of IROAs is influenced by their access to information, engagement in digital communication, and ability to troubleshoot. Participants also faced challenges in exercising agency in a post-migration context due to intersecting barriers of digital competence and language skills, which impeded their access to resources and services for aging in place. This study highlights the urgent need to address the specific learning requirements of IROAs in order to prevent their marginalization and digital exclusion. Thus, it is essential to develop accessible and engaging group-based educational initiatives that cater to the unique needs of older immigrants.