bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile Health Use by Older Individuals at Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in an Australian Cohort: Cross-sectional Survey Study
Authors: Buss Vera Helen , Varnfield Marlien , Harris Mark , Barr Margo
Published: September 2022

Background

The digital transformation has the potential to change health care toward more consumers’ involvement, for example, in the form of health-related apps which are already widely available through app stores. These could be useful in helping people understand their risk of chronic conditions and helping them to live more healthily.

Objective

With this study, we assessed mobile health app use among older Australians in general and among those who were at risk of cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

In this cross-sectional analysis, we used data from the second follow-up wave of the 45 and Up Study. It is a cohort study from New South Wales, Australia, with 267,153 participants aged 45 years and older that is based on a random sample from the Services Australia (formerly the Australian Government Department of Human Services) Medicare enrollment database. The 2019 follow-up questionnaire contained questions about technology and mobile health use. We further used data on prescribed drugs and hospitalizations to identify participants who already had cardiovascular disease or diabetes or who were at risk of these conditions. Our primary outcome measure was mobile health use, defined as having used a mobile health app before. We used descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression to answer the research questions.

Results

Overall, 31,946 individuals with a median age of 69 (IQR 63-76) years had completed the follow-up questionnaire in 2019. We classified half (16,422/31,946, 51.41%) of these as being at risk of cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes mellitus and 38.04% (12,152/31,946) as having cardiovascular disease or type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. The proportion of mobile health app users among the at-risk group was 31.46% (5166/16,422) compared to 29.16% (9314/31,946) in the total sample. Those who used mobile health apps were more likely to be female, younger, without physical disability, and with a higher income. People at risk of cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes mellitus were not statistically significantly more likely to use mobile health than were people without risk (odds ratio 1.06, 95% CI 0.97-1.16; P=.18; adjusted for age, sex, income, and physical disability).

Conclusions

People at risk of cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes mellitus were not more likely to use mobile health apps than were people without risk. Those who used mobile health apps were less likely to be male, older, with a physical disability, and with a lower income. From the results, we concluded that aspects of equity must be considered when implementing a mobile health intervention to reach all those that can potentially benefit from it.
Measuring Digital Vaccine Literacy: Development and Psychometric Assessment of the Digital Vaccine Literacy Scale
Authors: Montagni Ilaria , Pouymayou Aude , Pereira Edwige , Tzourio Christophe , Schück Stéphane , Texier Nathalie , González-Caballero Juan Luis ,   The CONFINS Group
Published: September 2022

Background

The use of the internet to look for information about vaccines has skyrocketed in the last years, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital vaccine literacy (DVL) refers to understanding, trust, appraisal, and application of vaccine-related information online.

Objective

This study aims to develop a tool measuring DVL and assess its psychometric properties.

Methods

A 7-item online questionnaire was administered to 848 French adults. Different psychometric analyses were performed, including descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and convergent and discriminant validity.

Results

We developed the 7-item DVL scale composed of 3 factors (understanding and trust official information; understanding and trust information in social media; and appraisal of vaccine information online in terms of evaluation of the information and its application for decision making). The mean DVL score of the baseline sample of 848 participants was 19.5 (SD 2.8) with a range of 7-28. The median score was 20. Scores were significantly different by gender (P=.24), age (P=.03), studying or working in the field of health (P=.01), and receiving regular seasonal flu shots (P=.01).

Conclusions

The DVL tool showed good psychometric proprieties, resulting in a promising measure of DVL.
Mental Health an Overview
Authors: - Anon
Published: September 2022

None
ПОРТАТИВНАЯ ЯЧЕЙКА ДЛЯ КАЧЕСТВЕННОЙ ОЦЕНКИ ПАРОПРОНИЦАЕМОСТИ ПЛЕНОЧНЫХ МАТЕРИАЛОВ
Authors: Роенко (Дудник) А.О. , Армеев Г.А. , Трофимчук Е.С. , Яминский И.В.
Published: September 2022

ПОРТАТИВНАЯ ЯЧЕЙКА ДЛЯ КАЧЕСТВЕННОЙ ОЦЕНКИ ПАРОПРОНИЦАЕМОСТИ ПЛЕНОЧНЫХ МАТЕРИАЛОВ
A Review on Soil Moisture Detection and Plant Watering System in Smart Agriculture
Authors: Laxmi Vijya Raje , Saxena Minal
Published: September 2022

Abstract: Soil moisture sensor is a novel device which detects the moisture content in the soil, and with reasonable system permits water to be flooded relying upon the moisture content of the soil. This permits stream of water or stoppage of water to the plants by utilizing a mechanized water system. Presently a day's water is turning out to be exceptionally valuable because of shortage in getting spotless water for homegrown reason including water system. To advance the utilization of water, system to foster water discussion is the need of great importance. Likewise, computerization in rural systems is a need to enhance water utilization, lessen water wastage, and to execute present day innovation in farming systems. Soil moisture sensor is a novel device which detects the moisture content in the soil, and with reasonable system permits water to be flooded relying upon the moisture content of the soil. This permits stream of water or stoppage of water to the plants by utilizing a mechanized water system. The device comprises of an Arduino board, which is the miniature regulator which initiates the water siphon and supplies water to plants through Rotating Platform Sprinkler. The intension of this paper is to review various implemented systems. There are various systems have been implemented that are usually based on Arduino UNO and various IoT based devices that may vary as per the costs.
Desafíos para la conceptualización con pueblos indígenas: entre el giro ontológico y la investigación en colaboración
Authors: Levalle Sebastián
Published: September 2022

Este artículo aborda la conceptualización con pueblos indígenas, un problema al que se ha enfrentado históricamente la antropología, recurriendo al análisis de fuentes secundarias y al trabajo etnográfico con intelectuales orgánicos del pueblo nasa de Colombia. El trabajo concluye que la combinación de la investigación colaborativa con elementos del giro ontológico en antropología permite profundizar en la construcción colectiva de vehículos conceptuales. Se valora, entonces, la articulación durante el trabajo de campo de estas dos líneas de pensamiento que no suelen dialogar en la academia.
Response of turmeric to saline water irrigation on growth, physiology, antioxidant defence mechanism and productivity
Authors:   Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic plants, School of Soil Stress Management, ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati-413 115, India, Harisha C.B. , Meena K.K. ,   Agricultural Microbiology, ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur-342 003, India, Boraiah K.M. ,   Plant Breeding, School of Water Stress Management, ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati-413 115, India, Basavaraj P.S. ,   Plant Breeding, School of Water Stress Management, ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management, Baramati-413 115, India
Published: September 2022

Aim: The aim of the present study was to study the effect of saline water irrigation on growth, physiology, biochemical signal and economic yield of turmeric. Methodology: Pot experiment was conducted with five salinity levels (0 dSm-1, 2 dSm-1, 4 dSm-1, 6 dSm-1 and 8 dSm-1) replicated four times in RCBD. Salinity level were prepared using NaCl, CaCl2, MgCl2 and MgSO4 to maintain Cl:SO4 ratio in 7:3. Salinity treatments were imposed according to treatment scheduled 30 day after transplanting of seedling and continued till crop maturity. In each pot 2 l of saline water was applied at 10 days interval according to the treatment. The control plants were irrigated with equal amount of distilled water. Observations on morphological, chlorophyll, canopy temperature, Normalized difference in vegetative index, phenol and protein content Ascorbate peroxidase, Superoxide dismutase and yield parameters were recorded. Results: The results showed that irrigation with saline water induced changes in growth and yield parameters in turmeric crop. Plant height at different levels of salinity stress was affected significantly, the lowest (37.9cm) plant hight was observed at 8 dSm−1 salinity. A slight increase in salinity by 2 dsm-1 reduced the growth of turmeric by 15.7% as compared to control. Number of tillers, leaves per plant and leaf area was also significantly reduced. With increase in salinity levels, the chlorophyll and NDVI of leaves were reduced. The lowest fresh rhizome yield (19.8 g per plant) was recorded at 8 dSm−1 and in turn, it resulted in the lowest dry yield (2.5 g per plant) and dry recovery (12%). Interpretation: Salinity is highly detrimental to turmeric crop and leads to drastic reduction in growth, yield and productivity by reducing physiological and biochemical functions. Thus, the use of saline water in irrigation should be carefully looked inorder avoid yield loss. Key words: Chlorophyll, Dry recovery, Membrane stability, Salinity, Turmeric
Seasonal variations of forest leaf area index and its thermal effect on water-eroded areas in 2000–2014 using remote sensing imageries
Authors:   School of Environment Science and Spatial Informatics, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, 221 116, P.R China, Li D.L. , Gu Z.J. ,   Pearl River Water Resources Research Institute,Guangzhou, 510 380, P.R China, Wu X.X. ,   School of Environmental Science, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University, Nanjing, 211 171, P.R China, Yue H. ,   Changting Bureau of Soil and Water Conservation, Changting, Fujian, Province, 366 399, P.R China, Peng S.Y. ,   Changting Bureau of Soil and Water Conservation, Changting, Fujian, Province, 366 399, P.R China, Wang X.L. ,   School of Environmental Science, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University, Nanjing, 211 171, P.R China
Published: September 2022

Aim: To analyze the spatiotemporal distribution of forest vegetation and its relationship with ground temperature in severe water erosion areas in Southern China. Methodology: The spatiotemporal variations of leaf area index (LAI) at a seasonal scale of the study area, Changting County in Fujian Province, China, were derived and compared with ground temperature (T) in 2000-2014 through remote sensing imageries. Results: Average seasonal LAI of central towns (< 2.3) were less than those of other towns, and negative correlations were found between LAI and T in 2000 and 2014. The R squares of the LAI–T relationship models were > 0.4 in 2000 and < 0.4 in 2014. Interpretation: This study demonstrated that more factors were involved in the thermal effect with the increase of LAI and the multi-year conservation management. Conservation measures should be prioritized in the central and south-eastern areas of the county with intense erosion. Key words: County, Leaf area index, Remote sensing, Seasonal variations, Soil erosion grade
Genes encoding for tocopherol pathway and antioxidant enzymes induced by γ-irradiation for improvement of seed quality in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors:   Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida-201 313, India, Bansal N. , Prashat G.R. ,   Division of Genetics, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Dahiya P. ,   Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida-201 313, India, Choudhary R. ,   Division of Seed Science and Technology,Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Dineshkumar R. ,   Division of Biochemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Kumar A. ,   National Phytotron Facility, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Kumari S. ,   Division of Biochemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Singh B. ,   Nuclear Research Laboratory, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Sachdev A. ,   Division of Biochemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India, Vinutha T. ,   Division of Biochemistry, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, India
Published: September 2022

Aim: The present investigation was aimed to determine the effect of gamma radiation on genes encoding for tocopherol pathway and antioxidant enzymes in two contrasting soybean genotypes seedlings. Methodology: Seeds from two contrasting soybean genotypes (Bragg and DS-74) were exposed to two different doses of gamma irradiation (0.5 and 1.0 kGy), allowed to germinate and RNA was extracted for cDNA synthesis from 3-days-old soybean seedlings. Expression level of tocopherol pathway and antioxidant enzymes genes was carried out using real time PCR. Seed vigour and moisture contents in seeds of both the soybean genotypes were also analysed. Results: Genes encoding tocopherol biosynthesis and redox enzymes showed higher expression upon 0.5 kGy seed irradiation [3.01 and 3.5 fold for SOD and APXandγ-TMT and MPBQ-MT genes (2.87 and 4.21 fold respectively) in Bragg soybean seedlings] as compared at 1.0 kGy dose of gamma irradiation. The moisture content in control and irradiated soybean seed samples ranged from 8.1 to 15.2 % with DS-74 control seeds showing highest moisture content (15.2%) and Bragg seeds (0.5 kGyirradiated) with lowest moisture content (8.1%). 0.5 kGy irradiated Bragg seeds showed highest seed vigour in the form seed germination (72.25 %) and seedling emergence (61.12%). Interpretation: The result showed that 0.5 KGy of γ- irradiation of soybean seeds were more effective in improving the seed quality by enhancing gene expression of tocopherol pathway and antioxidant enzymes. Key words: Antioxidants, Gamma irradiation, Gene expression, Seed vigour, Soybean
Effect of heavy metals in fish reproduction: A review
Authors:   Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-700 120, India, Bera T. , Kumar S.V. ,   Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-700 120, India, Devi M.S. ,   Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-700 120, India, Kumar V. ,   Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-700 120, India, Behera B.K. ,   Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-700 120, India, Das B.K. ,   Aquatic Environmental Biotechnology & Nanotechnology Division, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-700 120, India
Published: September 2022

Heavy metals are ubiquitous and deleterious contaminant present in the aquatic ecosystem. Their concentration has increased magnificently due to anthropogenic wastes, geochemical composition, farming and mining activities. Fishes are susceptible to heavy metal contamination and fishes live in aquatic environment which made them inevitable exposure to heavy metal. The excess release of contaminants into aquatic ecosystem has forced the fish to accumulate more heavy metal in their tissues. However, fishes reproduce in natural ecosystem which might have contaminated with heavy metal. Fish reproduction is the key process for fish recruitment in natural ecosystem and inevitable for aquaculture production. Water quality in terms of heavy metal contamination has a definite impact on fish reproduction. Hence, it is important to know the consequence of heavy metals on aquatic ecosystem and their effect on fish reproduction. Several reviews and reports are available that deals with the effect of heavy metals on fish health, blood biochemical changes and histological changes, cellular and physiological stress in vital organs but few comprehensive reports on toxic effect of heavy metals on fish reproduction are available. Heavy metals are reported to cause reproductive disruption in fish, inhibiting induction of vitellogenin, delaying oogenesis, enhancing luteinizing hormone secretion, declining parameters of gonadal somatic index and ovulation in fish. Therefore, this review paper presents a holistic details on the toxic effects of heavy metal on fish reproduction with special reference to male and female reproductive system.
Numerical imaging of a pantograph-catenary contact interface with application to multi-contact interfaces Physics
Authors: Mohamed Sabrina Ait , Bouzerar Robert , Gagou Yaovi , Jonckheere Brice , Bersano Giacomo
Published: September 2022

The understanding of the structural and functional complexity of
multi-contacts discrete interfaces is an important issue in many
industrial applications. To suggest new research tracks, we studied new
and used catenary/carbon collection strip contacts at both the real
operating scale and the reduced laboratory scale (reduced force and
current ranges). With a view to compare the effects observed at both
scales, we collected both surface topography data, microstructural
properties of these materials completed with I-V characteristics and
voltage creep curves of new and used contact interfaces catenary/carbon
stripes obtained in a wide range of temperatures. The discussion of the
results highlights the importance of the knowledge of the structure of
the contact interface. We show how to use surface topography data to
reach the structure of the contact interface through a new numerical
method. We use a numerical code allowing the reconstruction of the spots
distribution through the simulated compression of the actual surface
charts of the contacting solids. The features of the numerically
reconstructed interfaces are discussed and compared to our experimental
data to establish the relevance of the method.
Genetic and physiological mechanisms underlying high ozone tolerance of a leading Japanese rice cultivar Koshihikari
Authors: Sakoda Kazuma , Nakajima Nobuyashi , Hashida Yoichi , Yamori Wataru , Omasa Kenji , Aono Mitsuko
Published: September 2022

Tropospheric ozone (O ) significantly reduces rice
yield. Koshihikari, a leading Japanese rice cultivar, has been
recognized as an O tolerant cultivar; however, the
mechanisms underlying its high O tolerance remain
unknown. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the genetic and physiological
mechanisms underlying high O tolerance in Koshihikari.
A series of chamber experiments were conducted to examine
photosynthesis, growth, yield-related traits, and gene expression
profiles under chronic O conditions in Koshihikari and
Takanari, with contrasting O tolerance. Koshihikari
showed no reduction in unhulled-grain weights due to higher total dry
weight under chronic O conditions, whereas Takanari
showed significantly lower grain weights. The high O
tolerance in Koshihikari was attributed to its highly stable
photosynthetic performance and increased biomass allocation to its leaf
blades. RNA-seq and gene co-expression network analyses revealed that
the genes involved in photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism are
associated with contrasting O tolerance.
OsRbcS3, encoding the RuBisCO small subunit, showed contrasting
expression profiles between the two cultivars. In Koshihikari,
OsRbcS3 was identified as a hub gene candidate in the gene
co-expression network, which was highly correlated with photosynthetic
performance. These results suggest that OsRbcS3 plays a key role
in the genetic mechanisms underlying the high O
tolerance of Koshihikari.
Value of combined serological biomarkers in the diagnosis of ruptured ovarian endometrioma: a case-control study
Authors: Qi Qi , Li Qing , Wang Zihao , Ma Xiaoxin
Published: September 2022

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of serological biomarkers
(white blood cell count [WBC], neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio
[NLR], prealbumin [PA], platelet distribution width [PDW],
mean platelet volume [MPV], CA125,and D-dimer) to diagnose ruptured
ovarian endometrioma and construct a prediction model. Design:
Case-control study Setting:Single-center Population:Seven hundred and
eighty-five women diagnosed with ruptured (n=181) and unruptured ovarian
endometrioma (n=604) between January 2011 and December 2021. Methods:The
differences in serological biomarkers (WBC, NLR, PA, PDW, MPV, CA125,
and D-dimer) between the two groups were analyzed using logistic
univariate analysis to select independent variables. Biomarkers with
statistically significant differences were included in a logistic
multivariate analysis to construct a regression model and thereby
predict ruptured ovarian endometrioma. Operating characteristic (ROC)
curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic value of the predictive
model. Main outcome measures:serological biomarkers (WBC, NLR, PA, PDW,
MPV, CA125,and D-dimer in ruptured ovarian endometrioma. Results:
Univariate analysis revealed that WBC, NLR, PA, PDW, MPV, CA125,and
D-dimer levels were correlated with ovarian endometrioma rupture
(P<0.05). The optimal cut-off values were determined using the
ROC curves,and multivariate analysis showed that
WBC>7.81×109/L, NLR>2.65,
PDW>15.55fL,MPV<9.50fL,
PA<0.189g/L,CA125>94.63U/mL, and
D-dimer>195.5ug/L were independent predictors of ovarian
endometrioma rupture. The area under the curve(AUC) of the model was
0.983.The sensitivity and specificity of the predictive model were high
(93.4% and 96.4%,respectively). Conclusion:WBC,NLR, PA, PDW,
MPV,CA125,and D-dimer can be used to facilitate early identification of
ruptured ovarian endometrioma and early intervention. The diagnostic
model established in this study is of great importance for diagnosing
ruptured endometriotic cysts.
Familial atrial fibrillation involving a novel KCNQ1 variant with unique phenotypes
Authors: Fu Hua , Chen Shi , Hu Hongde , Pu Xiao-bo
Published: September 2022

Several rare mutations associated with familial lone atrial fibrillation
(AF) have been identified; however, the phenotypes are varied and poorly
elucidated.Here, we report a 29-year-old woman with AF refractory to
anti-arrhythmic drugs. Her family history revealed early-onset and
persistent AF in her father and brother as well. Genetic analysis
subsequently demonstrated a c.421G>A mutation in the KCNQ1
gene. Unique phenotypes including absence of both atrial appendages,
extremely high atrial frequencies, and refractoriness to both ablative
and pharmacological therapy were observed. Our study suggests the need
for further exploration of the function of KCNQ1 and the mechanism of
AF.
Allelopathic effects of actinobacterial isolates on seed germination and early seedling growth of velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti Medik.)
Authors: Santric Ljiljana , Radivojevic Ljiljana , Gajic-Umiljendic Jelena , Saric-Krsmanovic Marija
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to examine in vitro allelopathic effects of actinobacterial
isolates on seed germination and early seedling growth of velvetleaf
(Abutilon theophrasti). Thirtyfive actinobacterial isolates were obtained
from soil and compost in different phases of composting. Also, an experiment
variant involving the herbicide mesotrione was set in the recommended amount
of application, as a reference standard. The experimental results indicate
statistically significant differences (p<0.05) between controls and all
treatments with actinobacterial isolates regarding seed germination, and
radical and shoot length. The highest inhibition (100%) was observed in seed
germination and radical length in treatments with the isolates A10 and NOV2,
compared to uninoculated starch casein broth (SCB) as control. Shoot length
was shown to be the most sensitive parameter, where 100% inhibition was
observed in the following treatments with actinobacteria: A010, A017, NOV2,
NOV3, NOV4 and NOV5. Actinobacterial isolates showed a higher inhibitory
effect on seed germination than treatment with the reference herbicide
mesotrione.
Fusarium species associated with wheat head blight disease in Algeria: Characterization and effects of triazole fungicides
Authors: Imane Belabed , Hannane Abed , Amor Bencheikh , Noureddine Rouag
Published: September 2022

Fusarium head blight is an important disease of durum wheat which requires several fungicide treatments of seeds to achieve satisfactory control. The current study was carried out to evaluate commercially available fungicides in vitro for their efficacy against eighteen Fusarium spp. isolates collected from different fields in the north-eastern part of Algeria. The morphological and molecular characterization reveals the presence in wheat seeds of the main species complexes F. acuminatum, F. equiseti, F. avenaceum, F. solani, F. culomorum, F. incarnatum-equiseti, as well as F. tricinctum species complex and F. chlamydosporum species complex. Antifungal activity of fungicides shows that all triazoles tested have proven their effectiveness in inhibiting the mycelial growth of various strains of Fusarium tested. However, their sensitivity varies between them significantly (p<0.05) depending on the dose applied and period of exposure to each fungicide. The results showed that tebuconazole (Raxil and T?buzole) and the combination fludioxonil + difenoconazole greatly reduced the mycelial growth of Fusarium isolates by 84.31%, 82.94%, 81.33%, respectively, as compared to difenoconazole alone (73.16%) at the recommended dose after five days of exposure. Regarding their effect on conidia germination, tebuconazole was more effective than fludioxonil + difenoconazole, which leads to deformation of cell wall structure and fragmentation of conidia. These results will provide useful information to select suitable fungicides for seed treatment and management of wheat head blight disease.
How do fifth graders understand the language of mathematics textbooks?
Authors: Randjelovic Branislav , Stevanovic Jelena , Lazarevic Emilija
Published: September 2022

A significant and insufficiently studied problem in the education in our country is the quality of textbook language. It is vital to address the issue from students? perspective (to whom this teaching aid is primarily intended), which, among other things, enables to analyse whether the textbook presents the support for students to learn, but also to examine the extent to which the textbook can help students improve their basic abilities, primarily linguistic and cognitive. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to examine how fifth graders understand the language of mathematics textbooks. Students (N = 209) of the said age from three Belgrade primary schools participated in the research. The students were asked to mark language units whose meaning they did not understand in two lessons (studied and nonstudied) in mathematics textbooks. The results indicate that there are several types of linguistic units that students evaluate as incomprehensible: words, syntagms, and sentences. They also reveal that the students understand better the language of familiar than that of unfamiliar lesson, which indicates that they would not be able to master the knowledge from these textbooks independently. In the familiar lesson, significantly more students do not understand words and syntagms belonging to general lexical system of Serbian language. In the unfamiliar lesson, however, significant percentage of students does not understand meanings of the sentences used (seven sentences in average). The students with a better grade in mathematics marked fewer unclear sentences in both familiar and unfamiliar lesson. The obtained results could be used in improving the quality of the language in mathematics textbooks, as well as in raising students? language competence.
Epigenetic Drugs - The Future of Cancer Therapy
Authors: Sengupta Deepanwita
Published: September 2022

Epigenetics refers to any alteration in gene expression that occurs without affecting the underlying DNA sequence. Epigenetic mechanisms regulate the accessibility of chromatin to transcription factors by promoting nucleosomal rearrangement via the addition or removal of acetyl or/and methyl groups to histones. Nucleosomes are basic units of chromosomes comprising of 147 base pairs of DNA wrapped around an octamer of histone proteins
Transfusion Transmitted Infections in Patients with Haemophilia, a Study from Western Rajasthan, India
Authors: R Gadepalli
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Haemophilia is one of the predominant congenital coagulation disorder and a disease without ethnic or geographic limitations with incidence approximately 20 per 100 000 male births. Haemophilic patients are in regular need of blood and blood products and prone to risk of acquiring infections such as hepatitis B, C (HBV, HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Materials and methods: In this descriptive study, 98 haemophilic patients were selected for screening of HIV I and II, HBV, and HCV through the rapid immunochromatographic test method. Positive cases were confirmed by third generation enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: In this study, prevalence of hepatitis B among haemophilia patient was zero and prevalence of hepatitis C and HIV was 1.02% each. Conclusion: Prevalence of transfusion transmitted infections is much lower in this study than previous studies. The use of advanced methods, more sensitive tests, and virally inactivated factor concentrates might contribute to this reduction of viral infections in these patients.
Sickle Cell Disease Control Prospects the Emerging Necessities Due to Impactful COVID-19 Pandemic in Sub Saharan Africa
Authors: MO Walter
Published: September 2022

Background: People with sickle cell disease (SCD) seek health care services quite often as the condition is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed diversion of health care attentions and resources from the usual demands. COVID-19 cases have occupied health care facilities, providers as well as care planners. This has affected the already dire state of SCD management in Sub Sahara Africa (SSA). It is necessary to look at options that have been examined and demonstrated to reduce the prevalence of SCD. The purpose of this review is to present prospects and methods that could be useful in reducing prevalence of SCD. Methodology: The aims of the review were to document and discuss the methods that have been applied to reduce the prevalence of SCD so as to prospect for use in SSA. A review of the literature and targeting studies, presentations and information on control of SCD. The sources used were PubMed, PubMed Central, Google Scholar, and African Index Medicus. Bases of selection were any aspect of control of SCD by educational, counseling, awareness, prevention, testing and providing information. The prospects are explored, discussed and presented in this article.
Low Dose Factor VIII Prophylaxis in Hemophilia: Indian Perspective
Authors: TK Dutta
Published: September 2022

Important complications of hemophilia are bleeding and joint deformity. Episodic treatment of hemophilia with Factor VIII arrests bleeding but not joint deformity. Thus there is a need to administer Factor VIII prophylactically to prevent bleeding and joint deformity. Apart from high dose prophylaxis practised in developing countries, low dose prophylaxis with 10-15 IU/ kg body weight twice/thrice a week is found to be quite effective in resource limited tropical country like India. Significant reduction in musculo-skeletal, visceral bleeding and joint deformity has been observed from various centres in India. Country wide awareness, including at district level, has happened now in India. Factor VIII is more freely supplied by Govt. agencies n o w.
Case Report of Successful Symptomatic Management of Elderly Patient with Very High-Risk MDS-Transformed AML
Authors: Y Hakobyan
Published: September 2022

American Society of Hematology (ASH) recommends antileukemic therapy over best supportive care for older adults with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) [1]. According to the SEER database from 2010 to 2017, the 5-year overall survival (OS) in individuals with AML diagnosis over 70 years of age was around 5% [2]. We describe a case of nearly one-year survival in an elderly patient with a very high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) that later transformed into AML with supportive therapy only.
Association of Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene A1298C (Rs1801131) Polymorphism with Myocardial Infarction among Sudanese Patients
Authors: TAM Hamid
Published: September 2022

Background: Myocardial infarction (MI) is among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Variations in folate metabolism including genetic polymorphisms in the key metabolic enzymes had showed influences in the MI process. Objectives: To determine whether the C1298A transition in the Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase ( MTHFR ) gene is associated with increased risk for MI among Sudanese patients. Material and methods: This is a hospital based case control study in which a total of 140 Sudanese subjects were enrolled, 70 patients with myocardial infarction and 70 age- and sex matched healthy volunteers as a control group. Genomic DNA was extracted by (QIA gene, Korea) kits and the SNPs genotypes were determined using polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR- RFLP). Data of this study were collected using a structured interview questionnaire and analyzed by statistical package for social sciences (version 21). Results: The frequency of the AA genotype was higher in the patients group compared with control (96%, 71% respectively); while the AC genotype was higher in the control (20%, 5% respectively), while the CC genotype was not observed in this study population. The frequencies of A and C alleles were 0.68 and 0.02 respectively in MI patients while frequencies were 0.60 and 0.10 respectively in the control group. No statistically significant association was observed between MTHFR genotypes and MI (P. values = 0.4 and 0.1 for AA and AC genotypes respectively). Conclusion: In this study population, the A1298C MTHFR polymorphism is not associated with the risk of MI among the Sudanese population.
Demographic and Clinico-Pathological Profile of Gall Bladder Carcinoma Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Odisha
Authors: S Agrawala
Published: September 2022

Background: Gall Bladder cancer ranks as sixth most common digestive tract cancer with very poor survival rate. The data from India shows a very wide variation in incidence. The purpose of this study is to determine the Demographic and Clinico- pathological Profile of Gall Bladder carcinoma patients in a tertiary care hospital in Odisha. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 103 patients of gall bladder carcinoma from our Hospital database between 2016 and 2019. The demographic and epidemiological characteristics were analyzed. Socioeconomic status was determined by the modified Kuppuswamy’s socioeconomic scale. The clinical features were analyzed as documented by history, physical examination, and imaging features. Results: Out of 103 patients, 44 (42.7%) were males and 59 (57.3%) were females. The largest numbers of patients were seen in the age group more than 40 years of age. 46.4% of patients were in low socioeconomic status. Pain abdomen was the most common symptom in 58(56.3%) patients. There was no statistically significant association of cancer with gall stone disease. In Odisha, more gall bladder cancer was seen in females. Due to lack of awareness & poor socioeconomic status maximum patients present in advanced stage with common symptom as pain abdomen. Conclusion: Most of the patients in this study belong to lower socioeconomic classes. Females were more commonly affected from gall bladder cancer and presented at an advanced stage. In our study 37.9% Gall bladder cancer were associated with gall stone disease, though it was not statistically significant.
Adaptation of ISTH Guidelines on Vaccine Induced Thrombocytopenic Thrombosis to Clinical Practice and Analysis of Patient Cases
Authors: V Hughes
Published: September 2022

The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) published guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment on Vaccine-Induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT) in April of 2021. Guidelines were inclusive of those persons at risk for VITT, screening, initial evaluation, and treatment. A study was conducted to evaluate case reports of patients with VITT in regard to diagnostic testing and treatment options as recommended by the ISTH. Ten case reports were identified employing the PubMed database where VITT was diagnosed in patients who received the Astra Zeneca vaccine. The average fibrinogen level was 166.9 mg/dL, the average platelet count was 47.2 x 10 9 /L, and the average D-Dimer level was 39.3 mg/L. All cases of VITT exhibited a positive anti-PF4 assay. Anticoagulants administered to patients varied across cases however all patients received IVIG to increase platelet counts in patients. A one sample t test was performed to ascertain if statistical significance was present comparing average fibrinogen, platelet count, and D-Dimer levels to normal values. Statistical significance was found with platelet count and D- Dimer parameters. Organizations like the ISTH has provided timely therapeutic information and guidance to clinicians in combating SARS-CoV2 related clinical manifestations. These findings serve to illuminate the nexus between ISTH VITT guidelines and clinical adaptation.
Blood Group ABO, Placental Malaria Parasitization and Pregnancy Outcome in Munuki Primary health Centre in South Sudan
Authors: BG Kueil
Published: September 2022

Several studies in Malaria endemic areas have reported conflicting observations on Blood Group ABO association with placental Malaria and pregnancy outcome. The purpose of this study is to determine the association between Placental Malaria and Blood Group O in the Munuki Primary Health Care Centre in South Sudan. Material and Methods: This was a prospective study. Each pregnant lady was enrolled after signing of informed consent and meeting study entry criteria. In all 589 pregnant women were evaluated. For each done were; ABO phenotype ones, at the enrolment and testing for malaria in and twice in the cause of pregnancy. Peripheral blood malaria parasites testing were by using RDT test to describe the type of plasmodium species. Results: The 589 enrolled were as follows; 154 (32.6%), 124 (26.3%) and 182 (38.6%) primigravidae, secundigravidae and multigravidae, respectively. The ABO distribution was; 124 (A), 59 (B), 14 (AB) and 257 (O). Negative peripheral Malaria parasites for pregnant women at ANC have higher positive Peripheral Malaria at DR with OR 2.93 CI (1.78__4.88) and ANC positive Malaria cases had higher chances of become positive during delivery OR 0.43 CI (0.30___0.62). Blood group O and peripheral malaria at DR with OR 1.17 CI (0.92___1.48) and Other Blood group at DR with OR 0.84 CI (0.67___1.06). Blood group O participants had higher P. Falciparum 60 /106 accounts for 56.6%. These results revealed significance interaction effect of Placental Malaria Parasites in Blood group O in Munuki Primary Health Center in Juba-South Sudan. This study recommends usage of protective measures against malaria during pregnancy.
Performance of Broiler Chickens Fed Maggot Meal as a Protein Substitute for Fishmeal
Authors: HF Mbiba
Published: September 2022

There is rising food insecurity in developing countries caused by rapid population growth which can be partly addressed through poultry keeping. Conventional sources of protein in commercial poultry production are fishmeal (FM) and seed cakes, which are usually scarce, expensive and used extensively by other livestock and humans. The objective of this study was to detect a simple way of producing, harvesting and processing maggots, assess the performance of broiler chickens fed maggot meal as a protein substitute for fishmeal and evaluate cost of production. Maggots of housefly (Musca domestica) were produced from layer droppings spread on the ground under shades and harvested within 4-5days, killed with heated water (70-80°C), dried in the sun to lowest moisture content (<4%), and preserved for proximate analysis and experimentation. Two hundred and twenty-five Tropical Broc day old chicks brooded for 2 weeks and fed with the control diet, were distributed in a completely randomised block design with five treatments and three replicates each consisting of the starter and finisher phases, and the experiment conducted for 8 weeks. Diets compounded had maggot meal (MM) replacing FM at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Proximate analysis showed that MM contains 48.4% CP, 20% fat, 3302.5 kcal/kg DM ME, 14.5% ASH, 13% CF and 93.9% DM. Results from experimentation revealed that broiler chicken could perform best with MM inclusion of up to 100% in place of FM (5% of the feed), and this would produce significant reduction in cost of production as compared to the control.
Foraging Behaviour based Management Strategy to Minimize Crop Damage Caused by Indian Pea Fowl (Pavo cristatus)
Authors: D Senaratna
Published: September 2022

Gradual increase of Indian peafowl population across low country dry zone of Sri Lanka and expansion of their distribution throughout the country caused many problems. Their omnivorous feeding habit leads to economic loss to the farmers. Objectives of the study were to investigate a management strategy based on the foraging behaviour (FB) to minimize crop damage and to understand the cultural significance in controlling them. A survey was conducted in 4 Divisional Secretariat (DS) Divisions in Vavuniya district based on a structured type questionnaire (n=160). Foraging behaviour was studied for 3 months covering morning (006-008 hrs), mid-day (11:30-13:30 hrs) and evening (1600- 1800 hrs) by direct visual scans of male, female and juvenile bird categories. There were significant differences (p<0.05) between the time of peafowl attack, the sex, the stage of peafowl with type of plant damaged. Peak activity (63%) was recorded during morning while it was 36% in the evening and 1% during mid-day. The food eaten is diverse and consisted of a mixture of plant and animal matter that includes variety of plants, beetles, snakes, snails, worms etc. in which bulk was consisted of plant parts. Rice (83.5%), cereals (62.5), spicy crops (33%) and leafy vegetables (19.5%), plantation crops (14%), vegetables (12.5 %), legumes (11%) were most affected by peafowl while less on tubers (6%). Young peafowl mostly attack (90%) lower level and adults mostly attack (67%) upper level vegetation. Furthermore, the other problems caused by peafowl recorded were as parasite spreader (40%), noisy problem (39.50%), damage vehicles (29.7%) and damage houses (6.5%). Irrespective of the ethnic group, all were respected peafowl due to religious reasons. Respondents were suggested chasing out (63.50%), hitting (9.50%), trapping (2.25%) and death (1%) as controlling measures. It is concluded that fixing water sprinklers and operate them in the morning along with cultivation of replant plants around boundaries of crops can be suggested as management strategy to minimize crop damage. Meantime it is suggested conserving them in forests by maintaining large tracts in scrub forests and associated grasslands with water bodies.
Guillian - Barre Syndrome and Sensorineural Deafness – A Case Report
Authors: HR Aravinda
Published: September 2022

Guillian - Barre syndrome is a rare disorder in which your body immune system attacks your nerves. Guillian - Barre syndrome is a demyelinating disease where the myelin sheaths of neurons are damaged. This article includes a case of Guillian - Barre syndrome in an 8 years old girl from Dandeli, a Town in the north Karnataka region of India. A detailed speech language and hearing profile based on systematic evaluation has been highlighted in the present study.
Parental Rejection to Vaccination. A Tetanus Case Report, La Libertad, Perú
Authors: SL Medina Zavaleta
Published: September 2022

Introduction : Maternal and neonatal tetanus is considered an eliminated but not eradicated disease in America. However, there are still small groups of people who delay or reject immunizations causing isolated cases or outbreaks of preventable diseases such as measles or tetanus. In Peru, the National Vaccination Scheme is mandatory in all health facilities and starts within the first hours of life, when the child does not yet have the capacity to make decisions for himself, therefore, the responsibility for their heal th lies with the parents or guardians. Objective : To report a clinical case of an under - aged patient with generalized tetanus, with a history of incomplete vaccination, emphasizing parental refusal to vaccination and medical care leading to the child’s de cease. Case Report : Three - year - old female patient, with parents of low socioeconomic and educational status, who reported incomplete vaccination scheme (only received BCG and HVB newborn vaccines) due to parents’ rejection. The patient presented an unquan tified thermal rise sensation, facial paralysis, trismus, hyperextension of both lower limbs in supine position, and hypertonicity. She was treated in Víctor Lazarte Hospital and Virgen de la Puerta Hospital for 9 days, presenting little improvement with t he support treatment. The parents requested voluntary discharge and while returning home the patient dies. In the following days the family refused to vaccinate their other children. Conclusions : The parental refusal to children’s immunization can end up in death caused by preventable diseases such as tetanus.
Resurgence of Monkeypox Virus Disease in Humans: A Review
Authors: A Raut
Published: September 2022

A once neglected zoonotic monkeypox virus endemic to West and Central Africa generated significant international interest, due to its emergence causing an outbreak in 2022 involving multiple countries in non-endemic regions. A total of 780 confirmed cases were reported worldwide (across 27 non-endemic countries) as of June 2, 2022, since 13 May 2022. Thus, human monkeypox is an emerging viral zoonotic disease recognized as the most important Orthopoxvirus infection in the smallpox post-eradication era. The waning herd immunity associated with discontinuation of smallpox vaccination may be responsible for resurgence of monkeypox. It is usually a self-limited disease, and the clinical presentation resembles that of smallpox, resulting in a rash similar to smallpox although clinically less severe. Monkeypox is transmitted to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus. Monkeypox virus is transmitted from one person to another by close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials such as bedding, towels, and clothing. Antiviral drug developed for the treatment of smallpox has also been licensed for the treatment of monkeypox. The knowledge and scientific information on monkeypox virus disease is still unknown or relatively limited to many clinicians, and received little attention. In this review, we provide an overview of monkeypox virus infection to highlight its importance and further research