bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação do nível de satisfação dos usuários do serviço público de saúde: o caso de um centro de saúde na microrregião de Cajazeiras-PB
Authors: Morais Lucas Andrade de , Pereira Jamilton Costa , Andrade Gildevânia de Souza Lins , Morais Luan Caio Andrade de , Frade Cinthia Moura
Published: February 2022

A reforma administrativa inseriu o modelo gerencialista na Administração Pública, buscando dá eficiência aos serviços públicos, para tanto trouxe conceitos, práticas e inovações do setor privado para o público, focalizando os serviços públicos nos principais alvos: o cidadão-usuário. No caso da saúde, os serviços são realizados por políticas sociais e econômicas por meio do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), que busca a melhoria da qualidade de vida da sociedade e focaliza suas ações na universalidade do atendimento aos usuários-cidadãos. Desta forma, objetivou-se com esse estudo, avaliar o nível de satisfação do usuário do serviço público de saúde prestado por um centro de saúde que integraliza a rede do SUS na Microrregião de Cajazeiras. A pesquisa está caracterizada como uma pesquisa qualitativa, com fins descritivos, exploratório, estudo de campo e de caso. Utilizou-se da pesquisa survey na aplicação do questionário como instrumento de coleta de dados. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram os usuários do centro de saúde, cuja amostra foi caracterizada como não probabilística e por conveniência. Entendendo, ao final, que a satisfação dos usuários corrobora a literatura, a qual entende estar a satisfação diretamente ligada às expectativas criadas pelos usuários, sendo que o grau de satisfação dependerá de como as expectativas foram atendidas, e no caso in loco não difere.
Reforming for Racial Justice: A Narrative Synthesis and Critique of the Literature on District Reform in Ontario Over 25 Years
Authors: Shah Vidya , Cuglievan-Mindreau Gisele , Flessa Joseph
Published: February 2022

Ontario school districts are struggling to respond to racism in schooling and society. How has the literature on school district reform in Ontario addressed these ongoing and growing concerns? Through a narrative synthesis and a systematic literature review, we map and characterize the existing literature on school district reform in Ontario in the past 25 years. By combining systematic searches in main online databases with key journal and author search, we analyzed and coded a total of 95 documents. Framed through Critical Race Theory (CRT) and in conversation with recent studies on anti-racist district reforms in the United States, we conceptualize four approaches to district reform literature in Ontario: The Politics of Race Evasion, the Politics of Illusory Equity, the Politics of Representation and Recognition, and the Politics of Anti-Racist Resistance. The authors conclude with a commentary on the use of these conceptualizations in district operations and policies, as well as directions for future research. They also propose a potential fifth approach to district reform, The Politics of Regeneration.
nS1/2→(n+1)S1/2 two-photon excitation EIT-AT spectrum of Rydberg atom
Authors: Xue Yong-Mei , Hao Li-Ping , Fan Jia-Bei , Jiao Yue-Chun , Zhao Jian-Ming ,   Institute of Laser Spectroscopy, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China,   Collaborative Innovation Center of Extreme Optics, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
Published: February 2022

In this work, we present an nS1/2→(n + 1)S1/2 two-photon excitation EIT-AT spectrum of Rydberg atom in the vapor cell. A ground state (6S1/2), a first excited state (6P3/2) and Rydberg state (69S1/2) of cesium atoms constitute a three-level system. A weak probe laser locking to the transition of 6S1/2 (F = 4)→6P3/2 (F′ = 5) couples the ground-state transition, and the strong coupling laser drives the Rydberg transition of 6P3/2→69S1/2 to yield electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) effect, which realizes the optical detection of Rydberg atoms. Two Rydberg 69S1/2 and 70S1/2 levels are coupled with the microwave field at a frequency of fMW = 11.735 GHz, forming a microwave two-photon spectrum. To observe the influence of microwave electric field power on two-photon spectrum, we investigate the microwave coupled Rydberg EIT-AT spectra at different microwave fields. The measurements show that the EIT-AT splitting interval is proportional to the square of the microwave electric field at strong microwave field, and indicvates a nonlinear dependence at weak microwave electric field. The theoretical calculation accords with the experimental measurement. The work here is of significance in precisely measuring the microwave electric field.
A new method to solve electrolyte diffusion equations for single particle model of lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Xie Yi-Zhan , Cheng Xi-Ming ,   National Engineering Laboratory for Electric Vehicles, School of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
Published: February 2022

It is one of basic tasks to solve the electrochemical model of lithium-ion batteries for obtaining the lithium-ion concentration in the electrolyte. In order to balance the computational efficiency and electrolyte dynamic property, it is assumed that reactions occur only at interfaces between the collector and the electrolyte. Based on the analytical solution to the liquid diffusion equations, which is in the form of infinite series, a new method is proposed to solve it. Under galvanostatic profiles, the analytic solution is an infinite time series transformed into a converged sum function by using the monotone convergence theorem. Under the dynamic profiles, the infinite series solution is simplified into an infinite discrete convolution of both the input and the sum function. The sum function is truncated by its characteristic of monotonic decay approaching to zero over time, thus obtaining a finite discrete convolution algorithm. Reference to the results from a professional finite element analysis software, the proposed algorithm can produce high accuracy with less computation time under both galvanostatic profiles and dynamic profiles. Also, there is only one parameter to be configured. Therefore, our algorithm will reduce the computation burden of the electrochemical model applied to a real-time battery management system.
A comparison of textbook vocabulary load analysis
Authors: Benson Stuart , Madarbakus-Ring Naheen
Published: February 2022

The popularity of using textbooks in second language programs in universities around the world continues to grow. Textbooks support teachers in their teaching by providing accessible materials and clear instruction. In addition, learners are guided by familiar lesson frameworks (e.g., beginning, middle, end) to guide their independent study (Swales, 1980). However, textbooks present many challenges. Learners’ difficulties include the range in lexical knowledge they must possess (Nation, 2006) and the different lexical and grammatical features that are found in written textbook registers (Biber et al., 1998). This study investigates and outlines the vocabulary load of two English for Academic Purpose textbooks, using the British National Corpus and Corpus of Contemporary American English (BNC/COCA) 25,000 (Nation, 2012) and JACET8000 (JACET, 2016) word lists. The results show that for each textbook, more lexical demands are needed for second language learners in the JACET8000 compared with the BNC/COCA 25,000 lists. Understanding the content in textbooks will inform of the vocabulary-level requirements needed when taught in tertiary-level programs. Using a general and a Japanese-specific word list to identify possible pedagogical priorities can help to determine textbook priorities for teachers that can be applied to teaching in the Japanese classroom.
Considerations and challenges in longitudinal studies of lexical features in L2 writing
Authors: Kim Minkyung
Published: February 2022

Exploring the longitudinal development of second language (L2) lexical use has been one of the important topics in L2 vocabulary research. One approach to examining longitudinal changes in L2 lexical use is to capture changes in lexical features as found in learner production, such as L2 writing, over time. To further facilitate this approach, the purpose of this article is to discuss considerations and challenges for conducting longitudinal studies on lexical features in L2 writing. The article first provides a summary of relevant previous studies, followed by the promise of longitudinal studies on lexical features in L2 writing. It then presents considerations and challenges in longitudinal studies of lexical features in L2 writing in terms of the data collection and analysis and the choice of lexical measures. More research on the longitudinal changes in lexical features in L2 learner production seems warranted. Ultimately, more longitudinal research in lexical features in L2 learner production will help us have a deeper understanding of L2 lexical development and design better vocabulary intervention in L2 classrooms.
Measuring attrition of L2 productive vocabulary knowledge over the summer vacation
Authors: Kramer, Brandon , Matsuo Tohru , Sponseller Aaron C. , Kim Young Ae , Nishiyama Suzuka , McLean Stuart
Published: February 2022

For many teachers and administrators, the degree to which attrition over summer vacation represents a threat to instructed language acquisition remains unclear. In a previous study, Kramer et al. (2019) looked at receptive vocabulary knowledge attrition oversummer vacation, found no evidence of attrition using these measures, and called for future research to instead use tests of productive vocabulary knowledge which is more likely to be forgotten. Therefore, in this study we investigate the amount of summer attrition among Japanese university students(N = 81) and any mediation in that attrition attributable to digital paired-associate vocabulary studying, extensive reading, or experience travelling abroad. The results indicate that although there was no significant group difference in pre- and post-test productive vocabulary scores, a small but significant relationship was found between digital paired-associate vocabulary studying and vocabulary test score
The contribution of high-frequency multi-word sequences to speech rate and listening perception among EFL learners
Authors: McGuire Michael , Larson-Hall Jenifer
Published: February 2022

This experiment tested gains in spoken fluency and ability to complete a dictation listening task accurately among 33 Japanese L1 English language users. Both a control group (N = 17) and an experimental group (N = 16) studied Anki vocabulary cards each week for 10 weeks and described three picture stories that contained the vocabulary words every week. Both groups studied 10 common bigrams (such as take advantage) each week while the experimental group additionally studied sets of 10 reduced trigrams (how do you) and did narrow listening homework each week. The results for spoken storytelling fluency found a large advantage for the experimental group while fluency for the free speaking task showed a medium advantage for the experimental group that was not statistically significant. For the listening dictation task, both groups reduced their errors from pretest to posttest but neither group was statistically different from each other.
The internal consistency and accuracy of automatically scored written receptive meaning-recall data: A preliminary study
Authors: McLean Stuart , Raine Paul , Pinchbeck Geoffrey G , Huston Laura , Kim Young Ae , Nishiyama Suzuka , Ueno Shotaro
Published: February 2022

Vocableveltest.org is a testing platform on which users can create online self-marking meaning-recall (reading or listening) and form-recall (typing) tests that address a number of limitations of the existing vocabulary level tests and vocabulary size tests. A major limitation of many existing vocabulary tests is the written receptive meaning-recognition (multiple-choice or matching) format which is associated with increased error due to guessing and decreased power to measure the type of vocabulary knowledge suitable for reading practice (McLean et al., 2020, Stewart et al., 2021a, Stoeckel et al., 2021), despite being designed for this purpose (Nation, 2012, Schmitt et al., 2020, Webb et al., 2017). Conversely, scoring meaning-recall tests by hand is labour-intensive, and the internal consistency and accuracy of automatically marked data are unknown. Thus, this study investigated the internal consistency and accuracy of automatically marked responses of 98 words from the fifth 100 most frequent words of English. This study tested for knowledge of high-frequency words as a more robust test of the marking system, as these words possess multiple-meaning senses, making their automatic marking problematic. Furthermore, the predicted limited range of learners’ knowledge of these 98 words was expected to result in data of a low internal consistency. However, the automatically marked data had a high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.868) and was 98% similar to human marked meaning-recall responses.
Comparisons of word lists on new word level checker
Authors: Mizumoto Atsushi , Pinchbeck Geoffrey G. , McLean Stuart
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces a novel online vocabulary profiling application called the New Word Level Checker (https://nwlc.pythonanywhere.com/) and word list resources used by the application. First, the rationale for developing another web vocabulary profiler and the word lists included in the application are described. Next, the lexical units (i.e., how words are counted) and rules (e.g., case sensitivity, contractions, abbreviations with periods, hyphenated words, and compounds) employed in the application are explained. Then, the word lists adopted for the application are compared to show which lists are best used for different purposes. Pedagogical implications of the use of the application and word lists are discussed, especially focusing on matching learners with vocabulary-level appropriate tests
Developing a measure of proper name familiarity for Japanese university students
Authors: Nicklin Christopher
Published: February 2022

In this study, an instrument for measuring proper name (PN) familiarity was developed for a psycholinguistic experiment investigating the effect of PNs on Japanese university students’ English reading fluency. Familiarity has previously been operationalized in disparate ways, producing contradictory results. Furthermore, authors of previous studies did not conduct validation analyses on their familiarity instruments. To address this issue, a four-point Likert-type scale instrument was constructed to assess Japanese university students’ familiarity with a set of 100, two-syllable PNs. The responses of 216 participants from 2 Japanese universities were subjected to Rasch analysis with the rating scale model to determine whether the resulting data fit the expectations of the model. The results suggested that a dichotomous response instrument was more appropriate than the scale-based instruments utilized in previous studies.
Correlations of modalities of written vocabulary knowledge to listening and reading proficiency: A comparison
Authors: Stewart Jeffrey , McLean Stuart , Batty Aaron Olaf
Published: February 2022

In recent years, there has been increasing debate and research regarding which modality of vocabulary knowledge has the strongest correlation to reading, with particular focus on distinctions between testing L2 form and L2 meaning, and between recall of answers from memory and recognition of answers from fixed options. However, relatively little attention has been paid to find out which modality has the strongest correlation to listening ability. A recent meta-analysis by Zhang and Zhang (2020) indicated that meaning recall was the superior predictor of reading proficiency. Although their results showed that form recall had the highest correlation to listening, the difference between form recall and meaning recall was statistically insignificant. The present study uses data from McLean et al. (2020) of learner responses to 1000-item vocabulary tests employing written tests of meaning recall, form recall, meaning recognition and Yes/No modalities, sampling them with replacement to create thousands of 100-item tests using a bootstrapping approach. The test scores were then correlated to measures of listening and reading proficiency for comparison. The results indicated that for written tests, meaning recall, form recall, meaning recognition and form recognition had the strongest correlations to both reading and listening, in descending order. All comparisons were statistically significant.
Morphometric Study of Atypical Lumbar Vertebrae and their Clinical Significance
Authors: Anaimalai Manickavasuki Kandavadivelu , Nirmaladevi M
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Lumbar pedicles are short and strong. They form an important part of lumbar spine and play role in transmission of weight from neural arch to the anterior part of vertebral column. Fractures, tumours and degenerative diseases of lumbar vertebrae are common. Pedicle screw fixation is needed to stabilise the vertebrae if required. Only few studies are available for atypical lumbar vertebrae. Aim: To determine the various morphometric measurements of fifth lumbar vertebrae and to discuss the various applied aspects of the study. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of one year from March 2016 to February 2017. Eighty-five adult human fifth lumbar vertebrae were identified with its atypical features and were examined. Various morphometric measurements- pedicle length, pedicle height and pedicle width, inter pedicle distance, transverse pedicle angle, sagital pedicle angle, chord length, vertebral body height, vertebral body width and vertebral canal measurements were taken using sliding vernier caliper with a least count of 0.1 mm. The data were entered in Microsoft excel and were analysed. Results: A total of 85 fifth lumbar vertebrae were examined. Mean Pedicle Height of L5 vertebrae on both the sides were equal (8.4±3.74). Mean pedicle length of L5 vertebrae and mean transverse pedicular angle of L5 vertebrae were more on the right side than on the left side. Mean pedicle width, mean sagital pedicular angle and chord length of L5 vertebrae were more on the left side than on the right side in this study. All the measurements were compared with previous authors and found to have similar results. Conclusion: Various morphometric measurements of pedicle of fifth lumbar vertebrae were taken in this study. These morphometric knowledge of the pedicles may be helpful for the orthopaedic surgeons and radiologists for proper selection of the pedicle screw and operative repair.
Latent Causes and Magnitude of Farmers-Herder Agricultural Resource Conflicts that has Formed the New Wave of Conflict in Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf N. , Ogezi E. , Salau E. S.
Published: February 2022

The research paper analysed the fine causes of farmer herder conflicts in Nigeria and also examined the magnitude of the conflict in terms of its evolution from an agricultural resource conflict to a less definable crisis that threatens to tear down the fabric of national unity. Continual misconceptions and misinterpretations of causes and motives of the conflict project further the polarized nature of Nigerian inter-ethnic interactions and the gradual diminishing of national identity. Greater incidence and intensity of the farmer-herder conflict has given rise to more violent herders and a tribal militia movement seeking to match the aggression. Analysts have expressed fear of these conflicts spiralling into a complex civil war and the need for the government to grab a hold of the conflicts for the sake of the parties involved. A total of 384 farmers and herders from conflict prone areas have been used for this study. The results and transcripts of the FGD were collated and summarised, they formed the substance of the tables developed. The key objective of the study is to arrive at some of the less empirical but silently impactful causes and magnitude of the farmer-herder conflicts which has been declared the deadliest conflict form in Nigeria. Developing a long-term, far-reaching and all-inclusive framework for the mutually beneficial use of land resources by all factions embroiled in this conflict is a first step to resolving the conflicts has been recommended.
Mode of Attack of Microbiological Control Agents against Plant Pathogens for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
Authors: Ebele Mbachu Augustine , Obianom Amaka Olivia , Ogbonna Ugoy Sonia , Mbachu Nancy Amalachukwu , Abumchukwu Okoli Francisca
Published: February 2022

Plant diseases accounts for huge losses in agriculture. To ensure food security and sustainability, an agricultural yield must be improved to meet the growing world population. Due to growing awareness of the effect of pesticides and herbicides on human health and the environment, an alternative safe method of controlling phytopathogens has become a subject of intense research. Biological control of plant diseases is the use of living organisms to suppress or inhibit plant pathogens. Microbiological control agents (MBCAs) employ microorganisms to protect crops from destruction by phytopathogens through different modes of action. They may act by direct interaction with the pathogens through hyperparasitism. Indirect antagonistic interaction with the pathogen through induction of host resistance and priming is another mode of attack by MBCAs. Competition for nutrients and space is another important indirect mode of attack by which MBCAs suppress the growth of pathogens through nutrient deprivation. The MBCAs can also interact with the plant through secretion of antibiotics or antimicrobial secondary metabolites with inhibitory effect against the pathogens. A clear understanding of the mode of action of MBCAs is vital to achieving a successful biocontrol operation as well as improving the biocontrol process that is devoid of risks to humans and the environment. Such improvement could be achieved through the use of microbial consortia to enhance the stability and efficiency of the biocontrol process. Further studies on aspects of mass production and formulation to produce more effective, stable, safer and cost effective MBCAs are needed.
The Use of Exogenous Enzymes from Plants in Feed for Various Cultivation Organisms; Literature Review
Authors: Cahya Utama Mochhamad Ikhsan , Andriani Yuli , Haetami Kiki
Published: February 2022

The presence of enzymes in the feed will increase the digestibility of fish to feed ingredients. Fish need enzymes to help speed up the process of digestion and hydrolysis. Enzymes function as catalysts that can increase the speed of chemical reactions. Therefore, exogenous enzymes are needed that can accelerate the protein hydrolysis process to accelerate fish growth. Several studies have been conducted regarding enzymes derived from plants that aim to accelerate fish growth. It is hoped that this journal can provide information related to the use of several enzymes that have been used for various cultured organisms.
Growth Performance of Tilapia Fingerlings Fed with Phytoadditives from Fruit Wastes (Pineapple, Citrus and Banana) for Aquaculture
Authors: Mojena Gonzales-Plasus Maria , Barandino April Boy , Avillanosa Arlene , Caipang Cristopher
Published: February 2022

Aims: This study aims to determine the effects of the different fruit wastes (banana, citrus and pineapple peel) on the zootechnical parameters (weight gain (WG), length, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and survival of tilapia fingerlings (Oreochromis sp.) and to select which feed supplement is suitable for tilapia fingerlings. 

Study Design:  Feeding study was conducted and growth in terms of weight gain and length were analyzed.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Fisheries and Aquatic Science Hatchery Laboratory from January 2019 to March 2020.

Methodology: Tilapia fingerlings (Oreochromis sp.) samples were used in this study. The treatments used for this experiments were consisted of; commercial feeds (control), 2%, 5% and 10% levels of pineapple, citrus, and banana waste respectively. 

Results: Results showed that weight gain and FCR were significantly affected by the treatments and that treatment contained 2% levels of pineapple, citrus and banana waste showed superior growth and FCR than other treatments. Fish length and survival did not show any significant difference at P≤0.05.  

Conclusion: Although the weight gain was significantly affected by the treatments studied but the length of tilapia fingerlings didn’t effect when fed with fruit waste. Better FCR and survival rate was observed when fingerlings fed with 2% banana peel however, no found significant difference in cases of 2% citrus or pineapple wastes. Besides, values of water parameters were at a normal level (temperature, dissolve oxygen (DO), and pH) and they did not significantly affect these treatments.
The Effect of Polymethylsilsesquioxane Concentration on the Liquid Foundation: Characterization of Nanostructure and Biophysical Properties
Authors: Kaya P. , Su C. J. , Bacıoğlu A. , Gür S. Diken , Bayarı S. Haman , Lian B. J. , Jeng U. , İde S.
Published: February 2022

Aims: Polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMQS) is a silicone derivative that serves as a skin conditioning agent and moisturizer in cosmetics. The objective of this study is to identify the effect of different concentrations PMSQ (0.12, 0.20 and 0.35 wt %) on liquid foundation (LF) and find the optimized composition in vitro.

Study Design:  Structural and morphological features of the examined nano/micro-sized samples were investigated by different methods.

Place and Duration of Study: Hacettepe University, Department of Physics Engineering, X-Rays Laboratory, between September 2017 and September 2019.

Methodology: Micro/nano scale structural and morphological properties of samples were investigated by means of a multi-methodological approach based on Small‐ and/or Wide‐Angle X‐ray Scattering (SWAXS), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDX), Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) Spectroscopy and UV-vis Spectroscopy.  The LF (control) and PMSQ-LF films at one-week intervals for 4 weeks, and bovine leather coated samples with LF and PMSQ-LF were also investigated by SWAXS.   The effect of PMSQ on biofilm formation activity in E. coli and S. aureus were also examined.

Results: The most significant finding of this study is that even the low concentration of polymer in LF showed differences in nano structure and it was found that a decrease in biofilm formation. Nano formation becomes more pronounced, and the number of agglomerations decreases after 4 weeks. The reason for the study over a 4-week period was the desire to take into account the independent effect of each LF use, as well as the periodic stacking and diffusing effect that will occur in the depths of the skin over time. In the UVA range (320-400 nm) lower transmittance values were found for LF and PMSQ - LF films.  

Conclusion: The results suggest that optimum polymer concentration in liquid foundation should be considered as a main step. The smart and systematic use of polymer additives is directly manifested in the nanoscopic structure and can improve the harmful UV rays prevention properties, which are important for health as well as cosmetic effects for beauty purposes.
Assessment of Radionuclides in Some Fruits from Niger Delta, Nigeria and Its Health Risks
Authors: Mgbemere C.  J. , Ononugbo C. P. , Avwiri G. O.
Published: February 2022

Determination of radionuclides’ activity concentration in fruits is essential for the protection of human health. Fruits can be radioactive due to the present of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) and technically enhanced radioactive materials (TENORMs) in the environment. The Assessment of Radionuclide activity concentration in Some Fruits from Niger Delta, Nigeria and its Health Risks were carried out using gamma ray spectroscopy. The study measured the activity concentration of radionuclides in fruits and the results showed that the total activity concentration of 40K, 232Th and 226Ra in fruits were 578.24 Bqkg-1, 263.84 Bqkg-1 and 128.35 Bqkg-1 respectively. The study found out that 40K has the highest value of activity concentration while apricot has the highest value of radionuclide concentration compared to other fruits. The statistical analysis of data was also done using statistical packages.  The average estimated AED for Infants, Children and Adults due to the radioactivity in Avocado, Apricot, Guava and Pear were; 829.02 µSvy-1, 565.865 µSvy-1, and 838.725 µSvy-1,  2737.665 µSvy-1,  4361.4875 µSvy-1 and  2497.9025 µSvy-1, 651.20833 µSvy-1, 1202.6767 µSvy-1 and 813.22167 µSvy-1, and 1164.7883 µSvy-1, 1724.2933 µSvy-1 and 1088.8933 µSvy-1 respectively. The estimated AED due to the consumption of various fruits are above the world value. However, the estimated excess lifetime cancer risks for the various fruits are far below the world (WHO) limit. The study concluded that there is no cancer risk associated with the consumption of fruits in the study area and that the fruits that have tap root systems recorded highest value of radionuclides’ activity concentration.
Detection and Optimization of Multiple Pesticides Residues in Honey Using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: El-Mageed Nasra M. Abd , Abu-Abdoun Ideisan I. , Kayaf Kaltham A. H.
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to optimize and validate a multi-residue method for identifying and quantifying pesticides in honey by using an accurate, rapid and reliable method for the simultaneous determination of 101 pesticide residues in honey by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry LC–ESI (+)-MS/MS operating in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The performance of the analytical method was validated in accordance with EU SANCO guidelines (SANTE/12682/2019). Acceptable values were obtained for the following parameters: linearity, recoveries, precision (reproducibility and repeatability) and measurement uncertainty tests (<50.0%).

A highly efficient approach for determining pesticide residues in honey with good recoveries was developed. The recovery values obtained at two fortification levels: 0.01 and 0.1 mgkg−1, were 73.2% and 119.7% respectively, with an average RSD<17% for all the tested compounds. The estimated linearity measured at five concentration levels presented good correlation coefficients (r2) average 0.99, all residue contaminants were detected at acceptable MRLs.
Performance of Rabi Sunflower to Different Levels of Drip Irrigation Regimes and Fertigation
Authors: Sairam A. , Kumar K. Avil , Suresh G. , Chaitanya K.
Published: February 2022

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is an important oilseed crop in India popularly known as "Surakanthi flower" It belongs to the family Asteraceae. The global challenge for the coming decades is to increase the food production with utilization of less water. It can be partially achieved by increasing crop water use efficiency (WUE). Improving the water and nutrient use efficiency has become imperative in present day's Agriculture. A field trial was conducted at Water Technology Center, College farm, College of Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU), Rajendranagar, during rabi season (2018-19) to study the effect of different levels of drip irrigation regimes and fertigation on rabi sunflower. The experiment was carried out under split plot design with three main plot treatments (Irrigation regimes) and four sub-plot treatments (Fertigation levels) and replicated thrice. In irrigation levels sunflower performed better under 1.2 and 1.0 Epan in growth parameters followed by 0.8 Epan. The growth parameters, viz., plant height (214.4 & 214.6 cm), Number of leaves per plant (24.7 & 24.6), LAI (5.63 & 5.27), dry matter accumulation (6041kg ha-1& 5683 kg ha-1), Root depth (17.2 cm & 17.4 cm) and Root volume (91.5 cm3& 101.0 cm3) were found significantly higher at 1.2 Epan and 1.0 Epan. Among fertigation levels, fertigation with120% RD N & K2O reported higer plant height (216.8 cm), Number of leaves per plant (25.5), LAI (5.96), dry matter accumulation (5950kg ha-1),Root depth (18.6 cm) and Root volume (103.2 cm3) followed by 80% RD N & K2O and 60% RD N & K2O. The economic yield reported higher at 1.0 Epan (2082 kg ha-1) and 100% RD N& K2O (2162 kg ha-1) in main and sub plot treatments than other treatments. The benefit-cost ratio was reported highest for Drip irrigation scheduled at 1.0 Epan (2.52) and fertigation with 100% RD N& K2O (2.59) among the Irrigation and fertigation levels and concluded that drip irrigation scheduled at 1.0 Epan with 100% RD N & K2O showed the best results.
Screening of Groundnut Genotypes for Sulphur Utilization Potential
Authors: Vinothini R. , Kaleeswari R. K. , Selvi D. , Uma D. , Devi E. Kokila
Published: February 2022

A microplot experiment was conducted on a medium black soil for screening of groundnut genotypes for improved S utilization. From this experiment four different S sources viz., Gypsum, SSP, FeSO4, and ZnSO4, were applied at four levels (S @ 0, 20, 30, and 40 kg ha-1). The results revealed that the addition of 40 kg S ha-1 as FeSO4 substantially increased the dry matter production and sulphur uptake irrespective of groundnut genotypes. Sulphur application in the form of SSP enhanced the root length and number of pods per plant. Groundnut genotypes CO7, VRI 8, and TMV 14 were categorized as efficient S utilizers, while BSR 2 and ALR 3 were recorded to be inefficient S utilizers.
Comparative Study between the Efficacy of Oral Gemifloxacin and Intravenous Cefotaxime in Treatment of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis
Authors: El Gendy HalaShaaban , Sayed Negm Osama El , Elbendary Amal Saied , Abd-Elsalam Sherief Mohamed
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is defined as a bacterial infection of the ascitic fluid (AF) that arises in individuals without an intra-abdominal source of infection that is surgically curable. SBP is a unique complication in cases with cirrhosis-linked ascites, and it can be so subtle that it is only reported by chance when paracentesis is done. SBP is handled with any of a variety of cephalosporins, such as cefotaxime or quinolones, such as Gemifloxacin. The aim was comparing the effect of oral Gemifloxacin versus intravenous cefotaxime in 60 individuals with cirrhosis who had SBP.

Patients and Methods: The randomized controlled research involved 60 cirrhotic ascitic individuals suffering from SBP admitted to Tropical Medicine Department, Tanta University Hospital. Two groups of patients were investigated: group I included 30 cirrhotic ascitic patient suffering from SBP treated with IV cefotaxime 2gm|8 hours for 7 days and group II included 30 cirrhotic ascetic patient suffering from SBP and treated with oral Gemifloxacin 320 mg once daily for 7 days.

Results: No substantial difference was noted among both groups regarding age, sex, or symptoms, or in laboratory tests such as hemoglobin, total leukocytic count, platelet, serum bilirubin, ALT, AST, albumin, prothrombin activity, INR, creatinine, urea, sodium, and potassium. Also, the outcome was comparable in both groups as regarding the number of treated patients (p=0.781); 20 (66.67%) cases were cured in group I and 21 (70%) cases were cured in group II and in AF analysis after treatment. By using gram stain, gram –ve organism were the predominant in group I 23 (76.7%) and group II 24 (80%) while gram +ve was detected in 7 (23.3%) and 6 (20%) in group I and II respectively. Furthermore, no substantial difference was noted among both groups regarding treatment response based on culture prior to treatment.

Conclusions: Our research is the first to focus on Gemifloxacin use in the management of SBP rather than in the prevention of SBP. Since these agents' relative effectiveness is identical, cost should be the deciding factor. In conclusion, our findings indicate that cefotaxime or Gemifloxacin can be used as a first-line therapy.
Evolution of Bioactive Compounds during Storage of Poyo Bananas after Treatment with Calcium Chloride
Authors: Eugene Tafre-Phounzong , Jean Aghofack-Nguemezi , Roger Braogue-Doumdi , Kouete Ovaric Jarvin , Tsague Robin Donjio , Nkumbe Ndille Claurence
Published: February 2022

Visually, the obvious characteristic of banana ripening is the progressive change of the epicarp from green to yellow according to several stages whose importance contributes to extend the total duration of the process. The present study was carried out with the aim of prolonging the ripening time of bananas while following the behavior of the physiological parameters related to this process. To achieve this objective, after treatment of bananas with calcium chloride, several parameters were evaluated. These were ripening rate, firmness, water content, soluble solids content and pigment content in the peel. Secondly, the evolution of antioxidant parameters such as: lycopenes and β-carotenes in the pulp; total phenols, flavonoids and ascorbic acid contents in the peel and pulp have been assessed. As a result of these analyses, it appeared that the best shelf life was obtained with bananas treated with tween 80 at 2 and 4% Cl2Ca. The lowest bananas shelf lives were recorded in 6 and 8% Cl2Ca and in the control. Similarly, the low loss of firmness, low accumulation of total soluble solids, low increase in water content in the pulp were found in the 2 and 4% Cl2Ca tween 80 treatments. The change in chlorophyll went in a decreasing direction during storage, but almost similarly in all treatments. The increase in lycopene content was effective during this time in a less rapid manner in the 2 and 4% calcium chloride treatments. Variations in β-carotenes, total phenols, and ascorbic acid were also increased throughout the storage period. However, at the end, it was difficult to correlate their evolution to any concentration of calcium chloride used for banana processing. It is also this lack of influence of calcium chloride as a treatment on the significant decrease of flavonoids in the pulp and not significant in the peel that was observed. Furthermore, the contents of the compounds measured in the peel and the pulp were lower in the pulp. It is thus with the bananas treated with tween 80 to 2 and 4% of calcium chloride that the majority of the parameters were influenced in favour of the preservation of bananas.
Value of First and Early Second Trimester Fetal Echocardiography and Fetal Nuchal Translucency Measurement in Prediction of Fetal Congenital Heart Diseases
Authors: Nasr ElDin Aya S. , ElShwaikh Shereef L. , ElHefnawy Suzan B. , ElKholi Dina G.
Published: February 2022

Background: Congenital heart anomalies have a significant effect on affected children's life with up to 25:35% mortality rate during pregnancy and the postnatal period, and 60% of this mortality occurs during the first year of life.

Objectives: To evaluate the value of fetal echocardiography and measuring of fetal nuchal translucency thickness in first and early second trimester in prediction of fetal congenital heart disease.

Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted on 200 pregnant women attended to Tanta University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at outpatient clinic or inpatient, the study took from January 2019 to December 2020. Patients underwent transabdominal fetal echocardiography at 10:16 weeks of gestation. transvaginal scan was also performed when needed. The first step in fetal cardiac ultrasound is to evaluate the orientation of the fetal laterality (presentation and lie). Establishing situs and atrial arrangement, Five short-axis views of heart. First view is acquired in abdomen at level of stomach to identify situs.

Results: predict congenital heart disease (compared to results of first Echo), nuchal translucency had 83.33% sensitivity, 98.97% specificity, 71.43% PPV, 98.50% NPV and 99.48% accuracy.. predict congenital heart disease (compared to fetal outcome), nuchal translucency had 83.33% sensitivity,98.97% specificity, 71.43% PPV, 99.48%% NPV and 98.50% accuracy.

Conclusions: Fetal echocardiography and measuring of fetal nuchal translucency thickness in first and early second trimester have good sensitivity in prediction and better specificity in exclusion of fetal congenital heart diseases.
Structural Analysis of High Resolution Aeromagnetic Data. A Case Study of Akko and Environs, Gongola Basin upper Benue Trough Northeastern Nigeria: Implication for Mineralization and Groundwater Potentials
Authors: Bello R. , Musa H. , Kuforiji H. A. , T.Obidah I.
Published: February 2022

Magnetic method had proved very effective in the area of subsurface anomaly studies and structural delineation worldwide.  Sheet number 151(Akko sheet) of the high resolution digital airborne magnetic data was obtained from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA). Analysis of the data was done using first horizontal and first vertical filters while the residual field was obtained using the polynomial fitting method. Lineaments of the study area were generated from SRTM (shuttle radar thematic mapper) and DEM (digital elevation model) by producing four shaded relief images at solar altitude of 45˚, 50˚, 60˚ and 90˚. The first horizontal and first vertical derivative filters exhibited magnetic trend consistent with the lineament trend of the study area, which showed major trends in NE-SW and NNW-SSE direction and minor trends along NW-SE.
A Comparative Study to Assess the Effectiveness of WhatsApp Based Self-care Information with the Manual Mode of Self-care Information among Asthmatic Patients on Quality of Life
Authors: Vijay Rokade Sarika , Seema Singh
Published: February 2022

Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory reaction that causes hypersensitivity in airways resulting in constant mucus production. As a result of this the typical symptoms associated with Asthma can be seen.

WhatsApp is a popular app available in almost all android phones; this app is popular for sending and receiving messages along with additional features of sending images videos and links. Information can be shared at a time to a large number of people by creating groups in this app.

The use of WhatsApp messaging for self-care information among asthma patients has yet to be researched. So research question which is framed is, “Is WhatsApp based self-care information effective than manual mode of self-care information on quality of life of asthma patients?”.

The study aim is to compare an effectiveness of WhatsApp based self-care information and manual mode of information among asthmatic patients on quality of life.

Methodology: Study Design: Experimental factorial research design Population: Adult asthma patients between 18-55 years of age Sample Size: 200. Material: Standard Quality of Life scale for Asthma patient.

Expected Results: WhatsApp mode of self-care information may be more effective than the manual mode of self-care information.  Quality of life of asthma patients will be improved.

Conclusion: Conclusion will be drawn after statistical analysis of the collected data.
A Study of Optimal Utilization of Radio-diagnostics at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Wardha, India
Authors: Chavhan Ankita , Jain Ahmindra , Gudhe Vandana
Published: February 2022

Background:  Radiology has its own role in day to day healthcare services especially in diagnosis, patient management and treatments. Current advances in technology allows for exploring every tissue, organ and problem in details. The radio diagnostic imaging modalities include ultrasonography, X-ray, CT, MRI etc. Diagnosis is influenced by proper utilization of imaging equipment and techniques. These modern amenities need a huge investment and maintenance cost. This study insisted on assessment of working condition, level of utilization, and barriers in the utilization of the radiological facilities in AVBRH, India.

Methodology: This cross sectional study will be conducted at AVBRH, Wardha. A structured questionnaire will be used for data collection through interviews of selected professionals and health care workers. It will assess the utilization of radiodiagnostic equipment’s in radiology department of AVBRH, breakdown occurrences and cost of repair, turn-around time, repair and maintenance contract.

Expected Results: Data on radio diagnostic equipment’s in radiology department of AVBRH, breakdown occurrences and cost of repair, turn-around time, repair and maintenance contract will be generated and gaps in service delivery will be outlined.

Conclusion: Kay critical gaps in efficient equipment use and service delivery will be outlined.
Impact of COVID 19 Lockdown on Ophthalmic Practices in India
Authors: Dhok Harsha , Beg Sana
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The WHO (World Health Organization) declared COVID-19, a worldwide pandemic caused by a novel variant of the corona virus 2019-nCoV, as a worldwide pandemic in 2020. As a preventative step, the Indian government imposed a countrywide lockout for 21 days, restricting people's movement. During the shutdown, a study was devised and completed to analyze the impact on eye care and patient care in India. Methods: Through various social media platforms, an online survey was sent to the practice of Indian ophthalmologists. We arranged and analyzed all of the validated responses.

Summary: The poll received responses from 1260 ophthalmologists. 61.5 percent of respondents worked in a private clinic, whereas 14.8 percent worked in an eye institute. Due to the lockdown of those who were still evaluating patients at the time of the poll, 72.5 percent of respondents did not perceive any patients, and 82.9 percent (287/347) were only looking at emergency cases, based on their own clinical judgement. The percentage of ophthalmologists who were still examining patients in eye facilities, municipal and government hospitals (49.8%) was significantly higher (p0.0001) than in private clinics. Other procedures that were still being performed included intravitral injections, in addition to causes such as trauma, retinal detachment, and endophthalmities (81.8 percent) (9.1 percent) and cataract surgery (5.9%). Since the lockdown began, around 77.5 percent of respondents have begun telephone, e-mail, video call, or social media application counseling. Furthermore, 59.1% said that when examining patients, ophthalmologists were at a larger risk of getting COVID-19 than other disciplines. When asked when they would resume practice when once restrictions were relaxed 57.8% of respondents said they were unsure when they would resume elective surgery In addition, 62.8% percent said they were unsure of the preferred screening strategy or precautionary approach before beginning surgery and were awaiting guidelines.

Conclusion: According to our research, most ophthalmologists in India were unable to assess patients during the COVID-19 lockdown, and many of them had to undergo elective surgery. 27.5 percent of those who responded to the emergency room were ophthalmologists. To aid patients, ophthalmologists had shifted to telephonic guidance or other forms of telemedicine. Whether the COVID-19 reduced regulations, most responding ophthalmologists were unsure when and how to resume operations. Regulatory agencies should be aware of this and give appropriate guidelines.