bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-Dimensional Analysis of Age and Eichner Index-Related Volumetric Changes in Mandibular Condyles
Authors: Aslan Öztürk Elif Meltem , Artaş Aslıhan
Published: September 2024

Objective: The impact of condyle volume is influenced by the presence of posterior occlusal support and age. This study aimed to retrospectively explore how age, Eichner index, and gender influence condyle volume in three dimensions, through the classification of occlusal support using the Eichner index.
Material and Methods: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 232 patients (107 males and 125 females) aged 18-76 years were retrospectively analysed. ITK-SNAP open-source software was utilized to measure volume of condyles with semi-automated segmentation. CBCT images were analyzed based on age, gender, and the status of posterior occlusal support. Posterior occlusal support status was assessed by categorizing it into three groups according to the Eichner index: A) indicating no loss of posterior occlusal support; B) representing one to three units of occlusal support loss; and C) denoting four units of posterior occlusal support loss. For normality, Kolmogorov Smirnov test was performed and Pearson test was used to determine the correlations of continuous variables. Student's t test was used to investigate the difference between age and gender, and paired t test was used to evaluate the difference between left and right volume. P < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the mean right and left condyle volume (p > 0.05). The mean condyle volume was higher in males than females, but this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). A statistically significant negative correlation was detected between age and condyle volume (p < 0.05). Age and Eichner index were statistically significantly positively correlated (p < 0.05). A statistically significant negative correlation was determined between condyle volume and Eichner index (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Volumetric measurement of the condyles using CBCT and comparison with Eichner index is crucial to assess abnormalities and bony changes affecting the TMJ in association with occlusal support and to examine and prevent complications. Although it was found that the condyle volume decreased significantly with increasing age and decreasing occlusal support, no significant difference was revealed between genders in the present study.
A Rare Complication After Spinal Anesthesia: Intracranial Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Hançer Çelik Fatma , Baykan Necmi , Salt Ömer , Aytekin Rukiye , Yılmaz Gözde
Published: September 2024

Acute & chronic intracranial subdural hematoma is usually caused by trauma. However, it is a rare and serious complication after spinal anesthesia. A 38-year-old woman was brought to the emergency department by her relatives with complaints of sudden change in consciousness. It was learned that the patient gave birth by cesarean section under spinal anesthesia 3 days ago. It was anamnesized that there was no abnormality in the operation, the patient had a headache during the follow-up in the service and was diagnosed as post-dural puncture headache, analgesics were prescribed and she was discharged with recommendations. It was determined that the headaches continued after discharge and sudden change in consciousness occurred 2 hours after discharge. On physical examination, the patient was intubated because of poor general condition and Glasgow coma scale score of 8. The patient had 4/2 anisocoria on the left side. A brain CT scan showed a 6 mm subacute subdural hematoma in the left frontotemporoparietal region at the widest part. There was an 8 mm shift effect to the right of the midline, the sulci were obliterated and the cerebral tissue was mildly edematous. The patient was consulted to neurosurgery because of subacute subdural hematoma, shifting and anisocoria and was transferred to neurosurgery intensive care unit for emergency craniotomy and hematoma evacuation. This case report describes an acute subdural hematoma after spinal anesthesia and emphasizes that when using spinal anesthesia, it should be kept in mind that headache does not always mean hypotensive headache associated with spinal anesthesia and that a catastrophic complication of subdural hematoma may also occur.
Intraoperative Lung Mechanics In Post-Covid Healthy Pregnants Who Required Cesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Balcı Fatih , İsbir Cemil , Gündoğdu Oğuz , Avcı Onur , Gürsoy Sinan , Özdemir Kol İclal , Kaygusuz Kenan
Published: September 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether lung mechanics were affected in patients recovering from Covid-19 without ARDS who did not undergo lung imaging during the active infection period.
Methods: The study included pregnant patients undergoing cesarean section operations. Participants were divided into two groups: those who had recovered from Covid-19 within the past year (group 1, n=50) and those who had never been infected with Covid-19 (group 2, n=50). The study included 100 patients divided into two groups: those who had recovered from Covid-19 within the last year (group 1, n=50) and those who had never experienced Covid-19 infection (group 2, n=50). Peak pressure (Ppeak), plateau pressure (Pplato), dynamic compliance (Cdyn), and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) values, measured by the anesthesia machine, were recorded at specified time intervals following intubation.
Results: Comparisons of Ppeak, Pplato, ΔP, Cdyn, and R data at specified times (1 min, 5 min, 10 min, 20 min, 30 min, and 40 min) showed no significant differences between the groups (p>0.05).
Conclusion: No significant differences in lung mechanics were found between the Covid-19-recovered patient group and the control group. Differences observed in SpO2, MAP, and Cdyn values in both groups are considered to be expected changes associated with routine procedures of general anesthesia
Un dispositif artistique interdisciplinaire au service du respect d’autrui
Authors: Brissaud Julia , Rezzi Nathalie
Published: September 2024

Cet article interroge le rôle singulier des arts plastiques dans les apprentissages fondamentaux, en particulier « respecter autrui » présenté par le ministère de l’Éducation nationale française comme un savoir à acquérir par tous les élèves durant leur parcours scolaire (Ministère de l’Éducation nationale, de la Jeunesse et des Sports [MENJS], 2020). L’étude présentée ici s’appuie sur l’implantation d’un dispositif ayant pour but d’établir, à partir d’une situation d’apprentissage menée dans une école française auprès d’élèves âgés de 6 à 8 ans, une corrélation entre les arts plastiques, le tinkering (Bianchi et Chippindall, 2018, p. 4) et le développement du « respect d’autrui » (Marpeau, 2013; Plante, 2013). L’hypothèse développée est que l’éducation artistique s’appuyant sur le tinkering à l’école élémentaire pourrait développer l’empathie qui permettrait de s’ouvrir et de s’intégrer au monde en respectant l’Autre.
Vers un désenclavement des camps de réfugiés de Grèce à travers la forme-école
Authors: Idrac Mickael
Published: September 2024

Les camps de réfugiés se multiplient aux portes de l’Union européenne depuis l’aggravation des conflits libyens et syriens en 2016. La Grèce et l’Italie subissent une approche dite «hotspots» (zone d’urgence migratoire) permettant l’utilisation d’un droit dérogatoire pour faciliter l’identification des migrants. En parallèle, des difficultés structurelles dans l’éducation formelle encouragent l’émergence de dynamiques éducatives dans les camps. Les données présentées proviennent d’une enquête ethnographique menée durant trois ans, entre 2017 et 2019, dans sept camps de Grèce. Dix-sept observations de classe et 56 entretiens semi-directifs ont été menés avec tous les acteurs de l’éducation et les destinataires des programmes éducatifs. L’objectif de cet article est de modéliser le concept de «forme-école» qui va modifier durablement l’environnement des camps.
¿Qué será de las humanidades digitales en 100 años?
Authors: Calvo Tello José
Published: September 2024

El aceleramiento en el desarrollo tecnológico trae ciertos retos y dudas sobre el mantenimiento de las herramientas y los datos. ¿Tenemos que aceptar que los datos digitales dejarán de ser útiles en algunas décadas? En este artículo se dan algunas soluciones concretas como el uso de repositorios, la aplicación de los principios FAIR o el uso de formatos estándares como XML-TEI. Pero en un tenor más general, se argumenta por mantener la mirada histórica de las humanidades y las bibliotecas y realizar una crítica humanística y cuantitativa de los aspectos digitales.
Groundwater in the city of Pesaro (Marche, Italy): anthropic impact and interference with the urban environment
Authors: Farina Daniele , De Angelis Stefano
Published: September 2024

Groundwater in the urban area of Pesaro is a significant local resource, supplementing the main surfacewater supply from the external Metauro watershed. Nevertheless, since Pesaro’s groundwater is tapped from a coastal alluvial aquifer in a heavily anthropized environment, its use involves mutual impacts with the urban environment, which poses several constraints. Our work schematized the main interferences of groundwater with building works such as housing (i.e. foundations and underground works), hydraulic infrastructures, wells’ network development, and geoexchange projects. Moreover, the presence of a seawater wedge, historically intruding the aquifer, must be taken into account, alongside its potential evolution in changing climate scenarios. Contaminated sites were also analyzed, as they represent a critical issue when further groundwater withdrawals are planned. Due to these complex interactions, there is a need for renewed commitment to studying and monitoring the local water resource. This is also essential for promoting awareness among both citizens and the local government that its use will remain crucial for a long time.
Age-dependent predictors of effective reinforcement motor learning across childhood
Authors: Hill Nayo M , Tripp Haley M , Wolpert Daniel M , Malone Laura A , Bastian Amy J
Published: September 2024

Across development, children must learn motor skills such as eating with a spoon and drawing with a crayon. Reinforcement learning, driven by success and failure, is fundamental to such sensorimotor learning. It typically requires a child to explore movement options along a continuum (grip location on a crayon) and learn from probabilistic rewards (whether the crayon draws or breaks). Here, we studied the development of reinforcement motor learning using online motor tasks to engage children aged 3 to 17 and adults (cross-sectional sample, N=385). Participants moved a cartoon penguin across a scene and were rewarded (animated cartoon clip) based on their final movement position. Learning followed a clear developmental trajectory when participants could choose to move anywhere along a continuum and the reward probability depended on final movement position. Learning was incomplete or absent in 3 to 8-year-olds and gradually improved to adult-like levels by adolescence. A reinforcement learning model fit to each participant identified three age-dependent factors underlying improvement: amount of exploration after a failed movement, learning rate, and level of motor noise. We predicted, and confirmed, that switching to discrete targets and deterministic reward would improve 3 to 8-year-olds’ learning to adult-like levels by increasing exploration after failed movements. Overall, we show a robust developmental trajectory of reinforcement motor learning abilities under ecologically relevant conditions i.e., continuous movement options mapped to probabilistic reward. This learning appears to be limited by immature spatial processing and probabilistic reasoning abilities in young children and can be rescued by reducing the demands in these domains.
Full factorial construction of synthetic microbial communities
Authors: Diaz-Colunga Juan , Catalan Pablo , San Roman Magdalena , Arrabal Andrea , Sanchez Alvaro
Published: September 2024

Constructing combinatorially complete species assemblages is often necessary to dissect the complexity of microbial interactions and to find optimal microbial consortia. At the moment, this is accomplished through either painstaking, labor intensive liquid handling procedures, or through the use of state-of-the-art microfluidic devices. Here we present a simple, rapid, low-cost, and highly accessible liquid handling methodology for assembling all possible combinations of a library of microbial strains, which can be implemented with basic laboratory equipment. To demonstrate the usefulness of this methodology, we construct a combinatorially complete set of consortia from a library of eight
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
strains, and empirically measure the community-function landscape of biomass productivity, identify the highest yield community, and dissect the interactions that lead to its optimal function. This easy to implement, inexpensive methodology will make the assembly of combinatorially complete microbial consortia easily accessible for all laboratories.
Complexes of vertebrate TMC1/2 and CIB2/3 proteins form hair-cell mechanotransduction cation channels
Authors: Giese Arnaud PJ , Weng Wei-Hsiang , Kindt Katie S , Chang Hui Ho Vanessa , Montgomery Jonathan S , Ratzan Evan M , Beirl Alisha J , Rivera Roberto Aponte , Lotthammer Jeffrey M , Walujkar Sanket , Foster Mark P , Zobeiri Omid A , Holt Jeffrey R , Riazuddin Saima , Cullen Kathleen E , Sotomayor Marcos , Ahmed Zubair M
Published: September 2024

Calcium and integrin-binding protein 2 (CIB2) and CIB3 bind to transmembrane channel-like 1 (TMC1) and TMC2, the pore-forming subunits of the inner-ear mechano-electrical transduction (MET) apparatus. These interactions have been proposed to be functionally relevant across mechanosensory organs and vertebrate species. Here we show that both CIB2 and CIB3 can form heteromeric complexes with TMC1 and TMC2 and are integral for MET function in mouse cochlea and vestibular end organs as well as in zebrafish inner ear and lateral line. Our AlphaFold 2 models suggest that vertebrate CIB proteins can simultaneously interact with at least two cytoplasmic domains of TMC1 and TMC2 as validated using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy of TMC1 fragments interacting with CIB2 and CIB3. Molecular dynamics simulations of TMC1/2 complexes with CIB2/3 predict that TMCs are structurally stabilized by CIB proteins to form cation channels. Overall, our work demonstrates that intact CIB2/3 and TMC1/2 complexes are integral to hair-cell MET function in vertebrate mechanosensory epithelia.
HiExM: high-throughput expansion microscopy enables scalable super-resolution imaging
Authors: Day John H , Santina Catherine Marin Della , Maretich Pema , Auld Alexander L , Schnieder Kirsten K , Shin Tay , Boyden Edward S , Boyer Laurie A
Published: September 2024

Expansion microscopy (ExM) enables nanoscale imaging using a standard confocal microscope through the physical, isotropic expansion of fixed immunolabeled specimens. ExM is widely employed to image proteins, nucleic acids, and lipid membranes in single cells; however, current methods limit the number of samples that can be processed simultaneously. We developed High-throughput Expansion Microscopy (HiExM), a robust platform that enables expansion microscopy of cells cultured in a standard 96-well plate. Our method enables ∼4.2x expansion of cells within individual wells, across multiple wells, and between plates. We also demonstrate that HiExM can be combined with high-throughput confocal imaging platforms to greatly improve the ease and scalability of image acquisition. As an example, we analyzed the effects of doxorubicin, a known cardiotoxic agent, on human cardiomyocytes (CMs) as measured by Hoechst signal across the nucleus. We show a dose dependent effect on nuclear DNA that is not observed in unexpanded CMs, suggesting that HiExM improves the detection of cellular phenotypes in response to drug treatment. Our method broadens the application of ExM as a tool for scalable super-resolution imaging in biological research applications.
Morphological, histological and transcriptomic mechanisms underlying different fruit shapes in Capsicum spp.
Authors: Wang Yixin , Ma Shijie , Cao Xiaomeng , Li Zixiong , Pan Bingqing , Song Yingying , Wang Qian , Shen Huolin , Sun Liang
Published: September 2024

Pepper (Capsicum spp.) has a long domestication history and has accumulated diverse fruit shape variations. The illustration of the mechanisms underlying different fruit shape is not only important for clarifying the regulation of pepper fruit development but also critical for fully understanding the plant organ morphogenesis. Thus, in this study, morphological, histological and transcriptional investigations have been performed on pepper accessions bearing fruits with five types of shapes. From the results it can be presumed that pepper fruit shape was determined during the developmental processes before and after anthesis, and the anthesis was a critical developmental stage for fruit shape determination. Ovary shape index variations of the studied accessions were mainly due to cell number alterations, while, fruit shape index variations were mainly attributed to the cell division and cell expansion variations. As to the ovary wall thickness and pericarp thickness, they were regulated by both cell division in the abaxial-adaxial direction and cell expansion in the proximal-distal and medio-lateral directions. Transcriptional analysis discovered that the OFP-TRM and IQD-CaM pathways may be involved in the regulation of the slender fruit shape and the largest ovary wall cell number in the blocky-shaped accession can be attributed to the higher expression of CYP735A1, which may lead to an increased cytokinin level. Genes related to development, cell proliferation/division, cytoskeleton, and cell wall may also contribute to the regulation of helical growth in pepper. The insights gained from this study are valuable for further investigations into pepper fruit shape development.
Two new species of Microlaimidae (Nematoda: Microlaimida) from the Continental Shelf off Northeastern Brazil (Atlantic Ocean) with emended diagnosis and dichotomous key
Authors: Manoel Alex , Neres Patrícia F. , Esteves Andre M.
Published: September 2024

New species of the genera Spirobolbolaimus and Ixonema (Nematoda: Microlaimidae) have been found in sediment samples collected in the South Atlantic, along the Continental Shelf break off Northeastern Brazil. Different to other Spirobolbolaimus species, S. pernambucanus sp. nov. possesses six outer labial setae and four cephalic setae with approximately the same length. Ixonema gracieleae sp. nov. differs from other species of Ixonema in having somatic setae on peduncles. This is the first time that new species of these taxa have been described for the Brazilian coast. An amendment of the diagnosis and a dichotomous key are proposed for both genera.
Continuing challenges of elephant captivity: the captive environment, health issues, and welfare implications
Authors: Doyle Catherine , Rally Heather , O’Brien Lester , Tennison Mackenzie , Marino Lori , Jacobs Bob
Published: September 2024

Although the well-being of elephants in captivity is of paramount importance, the confinement of these long-lived, highly intelligent, and socially complex animals continues to present significant challenges. Here, we provide an overview of the current state of elephant confinement (primarily in the West) by examining captive facilities, improvements, and continuing problems, and the clinical/behavioral/neural issues that remain. Specifically, we examine quantitative and qualitative aspects of the enclosed space, sociocognitive factors, dietary differences, and health/welfare concerns (e.g., stereotypies, physical health, nutrition, reproduction, life expectancy). The challenges of the captive environment become especially salient when juxtaposed next to the complex, multifaceted characteristics of the elephant’s natural environment. Despite the best efforts of some facilities to improve the captive environment, serious welfare challenges remain. Such confinement issues thus raise important welfare and ethical concerns with regards to captive elephant well-being.
Effects of 60Coγ-irradiation combined with sodium dehydrogenate on post-harvest preservation and physiological indices of Volvariella volvacea
Authors: Mao Mingjuan , Ma Lin , Jiang Ning , Lin Jinsheng , Qu Shaoxuan , Li Huiping , Xu Ping , Liu Di , Hou Lijuan
Published: September 2024

Volvariella volvacea is a mushroom known for its high palatability and nutritional value. However, it is susceptible to spoilage thus making it challenging to preserve and keep fresh after harvest, resulting in constraints in long-distance transportation and long-term storage. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of using irradiation and sodium dehydrogenate (SD) as a preservative in the preservation process of V. volvacea. The effects of three treatments of 0.8 kGy 60Coγ irradiation (B), 0.04% SD (C), combined with 0.04% SD and 0.8 kGy 60Coγ irradiation (A) on the postharvest freshness of V. volvacea were investigated. The assessment indices for V. volvacea, including appearance, browning rate, weight loss, respiration rate, MDA content, antioxidant enzyme activities, vitamin C (Vc), and soluble protein content, were measured and compared. The three treatments were compared to determine the changes in storage time over 7 days post-harvest. The results demonstrated that the hardness of the fruiting body exhibited a significant increase of 81.19%, 97.96% and 168.81% in comparison to the control, B and C, respectively, following the application of the treatment A. Compared to the control group, the soluble protein content was significantly increased by 20.28%. Respiration intensity and browning rate were significantly lower in the control treatment, decreasing by 35.07% and 45.49% respectively. On the 6th day of storage, the activities of SOD and POD increased by 81.06% and 73.71%, respectively, compared to the control, which significantly delayed the senescence of the fruiting bodies. The Vc content was significantly increased by 50.27%, 133.90%, and 101.39% in treatment B, which received 0.8 kGy 60Coγ irradiation alone, compared to the control, treatment A, and treatment C, respectively. The treatment C alone significantly reduced respiratory intensity and MDA variables by 39.55% and 31.01%, respectively, compared to the control. The findings can provide theoretical references and technical support for extending the preservation period of V. volvacea after harvesting by using irradiation and sodium dehydrogenate as a preservative.
Diferencias en el desarrollo de las Funciones Ejecutivas y el desarrollo de la alfabetización inicial, a partir de la implementación de un programa computarizado v/s una actividad presencial en niños y niñas entre 5 y 6 años en un contexto vulnerable
Authors:   , Varas Ramos Paola
Published: September 2024

Las Funciones Ejecutivas (FE) pueden ser definidas como un conjunto de procesos cognitivos de orden superior, permiten un comportamiento intencional y dirigido hacia un objetivo, son necesarias para el éxito en la vida diaria, y podrían predecir el éxito académico, y posteriormente la vida adulta. Los estudios han mostrado que las FE en población vulnerable está menos desarrollada que en población más privilegiada. La memoria del trabajo (viso-espacial y fonológica) y el control inhibitorio, dos FE clave, resultan especialmente importantes en el desarrollo de habilidades para el lenguaje, comprensión oral y escrita, en distintos niveles de la escuela, por eso toma especial interés estimularlas, especialmente en población vulnerables. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de tres programas de estimulación de FE en el desarrollo de las habilidades de memoria de trabajo (viso-espacial y fonológica) y control inhibitorio y su transferencia al desarrollo de alfabetización inicial en niños y niñas de 5-6 años en un contexto socioeconómico desfavorable en Santiago de Chile. La muestra se conformó por 132 niños y niñas divididos en tres grupos de comparación. Los estudiantes fueron evaluados en dos momentos al inicio y al final de la intervención, los instrumentos utilizados fueron: prueba Texas Lee, Cubos de Corsi, Batería de Evaluación de Kaufman para Niños K-ABC y Hearts & Flowers. Los principales hallazgos de esta investigación concuerdan con la evidencia empírica que hay al respecto de la estimulación de las FE, en donde las intervenciones lúdicas generan un efecto positivo en ellas, en donde el uso de Tablet y la combinación de la Tablet y las actividades de aula tradicional, muestran mejores resultados que solo la actividad en el aula.
Effectiveness of X-box Gaming on Balance using One Leg Standing among Older Adults: A Mini Systematic Review
Authors: Thakur Mayuri , Sharma Nidhi , Kaur Simranjeet
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The predominant challenge encountered by the elderly and older people is balance. This concern is not only affecting the quality of life for individuals but increasing their risk of falling. Literatures available determined the effect of various gaming apparatus on balance in older adults but these evidences need to be reviewed systematically to determine their overall effect. There is no systematic review assessing the effectiveness of X-box gaming on balance among older adults. Aim: To assess X-box gaming effectiveness on older adults balance. Materials and Methods: Searches in PUBMED, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), and SCOPUS (2015-2023) included randomised controlled trials featuring participants, aged more than 55 years, using one-legged stance test as outcome measure, as assessing one’s balance through single-leg standing on various surfaces aids in determining the Center of Pressure (CoP). Greater variability in CoP measurements suggests poor overall balance control and an elevated risk of falls among individual. X-box gaming interventions were included. Results: Initially, 432 studies were screened; after eliminating duplicates and applying inclusion criteria, 2 eligible studies were selected for review. Conclusion: The reviewed trials showed diverse X-box and exercise intervention parameters. Future research should explore different treatment protocols for balance re-education and exercise therapy in older adults to establish optimal guidelines for enhancing balance and reducing fall risk.
Reaping Metabolic Benefits of Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT): A Boon for Diabetes and HypertensionA Narrative Review
Authors: Mondal Arghya , Jangra Mandeep Kumar , Banyal Muskaan , Saxena Akanksha
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) is an emerging tool that not only works on musculoskeletal conditions but also improve vascular and metabolic health by using controlled exercise with blood flow occlusion. Research findings suggest that lowering blood pressure and maintaining glycaemic control can decrease the likelihood of complications related to diabetes. BFR combined with exercise is studied for its positive effects on managing diabetes and hypertension due to its impact on metabolism and hemodynamic. BFRT can thus be viewed as an upcoming novel technique for treating metabolic conditions like diabetes and hypertension for reaping better results. Aim: The current narrative review aims on exploring the effects of Blood flow restriction training BFRT for managing diabetes and hypertension. Materials and Methods: The databases probed were Google scholar, PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and Ovid from 2015-2024. The studies with both male and female individuals, age ranging from 18 to 75 and diagnosed with type 1/ type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension, using BFRT as a treatment technique were included. The selected studies were segregated and analysed further. Results: From 9997 initial studies, seven relevant ones were selected after duplicate removal. Among them, six studies focused on hypertension and one on diabetes mellitus and hypertension both collectively indicating a significant positive impact of BFRT on these conditions. Conclusion: BFRT has an effect on both systemic and metabolic parameters and hence can be looked up to as an advanced tool for treating both the conditions and managing diabetes and hypertension in a better way.
Efficacy of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides in Improving Pain, Cervical Range of Motion, and Enhancing Quality of Life in Cervicogenic Headache: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kaur Sukhpreet , Saxena Akanksha
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Cervicogenic headaches originates from cervical region issues, causing one-sided head pain, neck stiffness, and shoulder discomfort worsened by movement. Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides (SNAG) mobilisation, a manual therapy technique, applies targeted pressure to dysfunctional spinal segments, aiming to alleviate pain and enhance cervical mobility, potentially offering relief and restoring normal function. Aim: To systematically review the existing literature to determine the efficacy of SNAGs as a treatment intervention for cervicogenic headache, with a focus on evaluating their impact on pain severity, cervical range of motion, and quality of life outcomes. Materials and Methods: A systematic litertaure search was performed using PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) AND Ovid, from 2014 to February 2024. The search terms “SNAG” OR “Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides” OR “Mulligan” AND “Cervicogenic headache” AND “pain” OR “range of motion” OR “disability” OR “quality of life” were used according to PRISMA guidelines. The study included total 1757 articles, from which eight articles met the inclusion criteria which includes 432 participants with cervicogenic headache. The methodological quality of the included studies were analysed using the PEDro scale. Results: Majority of the articles provide evidence that SNAG has a significant positive effect on the cervicogenic headache. A total of six studies shows positive effect of SNAG on ROM and pain, two studies showed significant improvement in improving quality of life and ROM. Conclusion: SNAG is safe and effective technique that manages cervicogenic headaches.
Experience of Physical Rehabilitation in Empowering Individuals Living with Parkinson’s Disease: A Qualitative Study Protocol
Authors: Saini Simran , Saxena Akanksha , Jangra Mandeep Kumar
Published: September 2024

ntroduction: Life expectancy is good, patients live with certain problems (tremors, difficulty in activities of daily living, cognitive impairment, lack of balance etc). Although mainstay treatment requires pharmacological treatment and regular physiotherapy. So, the first-hand experience of physiotherapy matters in these individuals. Need of the study: The present protocol will explore the experience of individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). It will help in exploring the patients’ physical and emotional experiences as they return to the community, their barriers, facilitators and also gaps they experience in their rehabilitation journey. Aim: To explore the experience of physical rehabilitation in empowering individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Materials and Methods: An open-ended interview guide was formed and validated by multidisciplinary experts. Both male and female above the age of 40 years, undergoing rehabilitation for atleast 6 months and having mild and moderate PD (Hoehn and Yahr stage I-III). No depression and anxiety is assessed on Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS); HADS-depression score=9, HAD-anxiety=8 will be recruited. It will have 17 open ended questions regarding the experiences after Physical Rehabilitation, Cognitive impairment’s, Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), Freezing, Balance, Facilitators, Barriers. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted and transcribed verbatim into English language, then entered into Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) miner software for analysis. The interview guide is validated by the experts and obtained an Itemlevel Content Validity Index (I-CVI) of all items/questions of 0.84-1 while Scale-level Content Validity Index (S-CVI) by Average method and Universal agreement is 0.914 and 0.647, respectively. Results will be depicted in form of word clouds and code tree.
Three-dimensional Wiener-Hopf integral equation in mixed problems of anisotropic media
Authors: Babeshko Vladimir
Published: September 2024

For the first time, an exact solution of the three-dimensional Wiener-Hopf integral equation is given, one-dimensional and two-dimensional versions of which are widely used in mixed, including contact problems. The equation in question can be abstractly represented as the action of a three-dimensional stamp on a four-dimensional half-space or layer. In the work, in relation to contact problems of mechanics, as well as seismology, an application of this method was found. It consists in the fact that along with two geometric coordinates, the time coordinate extending along the entire axis is taken as the third. It allows you to introduce a change of condition at zero for stresses, moving in the contact zone from their values to their velocities. Attempts at an analytical or numerical solution of this problem are not known to the authors. The results may be useful in the fields of using the Wiener-Hopf equation in probability theory and statistics, where one-dimensional variants are used, as well as in seismology. Just as in the two-dimensional case, a universal modeling method based on block elements is used in the study.
Features of excitation of acoustic waves on the surface of a LiNbO3/Si heterostructure
Authors: Shirokov V.B.
Published: September 2024

The process of excitation of acoustic waves on the surface of a ferroelectric heterostructure, which is a lithium niobate plate of industrial cuts, 1000 nm thick, deposited on a substrate (001) of a single- crystalline silicon cut, is investigated. Vertically polarized waves (Rayleigh waves) and horizontally polarized shear waves are considered as the object of study. The electromechanical coupling coefficient is used as a parameter characterizing the efficiency of excitation of surface acoustic waves. When studying the efficiency of surface waves excitation in a ferroelectric heterostructure, lithium niobate plates of various cuts were considered. The Z-cut plate has natural coordinates for the C3v symmetry group; the normal to the cut surface is directed along the trigonal axis, X-cut - the normal to the surface is oriented along the crystallographic x -axis of the original crystal; Y-cut - the normal to the surface of the plate is oriented along the crystallographic y -axis of the original crystal. The efficiency of surface waves excitation on the 41Y-cut, 64Y-cut, 128Y-cut and 153Y-cut, the normal to the surface of which is oriented along the y -axis, rotated around the crystallographic x -axis of the original crystal at an angle of 41°, 64°, 128° and 153°, respectively, has been studied. The analysis showed that shear waves are more effective on all types of cuts. In particular, for the X-, Y- and 128Y-cuts there are orientations at which the electromechanical coupling coefficient reaches values of 0.4, 0.38 and 0.39, respectively. A more detailed study showed that in the considered heterostructure of this geometry, it is possible to achieve an even greater efficiency of excitation of shear surface waves if we take the 153Y-cut, for which the electromechanical coupling coefficient reaches a value of 0.43.
The vitality of individuals and the vital structure of coenopopulations of Tulipa biebersteiniana Schult. et Schult. fil. (Liliaceae) on the Ergeni Upland
Authors: Lidzhieva N.Ts.
Published: September 2024

Vital spectra are one of the most biologically important population characteristics. Currently, the study of the vital signs of rare species, which include the object of study Tulipa biebersteiniana Schult. et Schult. fil. (Liliaceae), is becoming increasingly actual. This work is devoted to the study of the vitality of specimens and the vital structure of coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana in different parts of the Ergeni Upland. The study was carried out during two growing seasons (2022‒2023) in five coenopopulations from different plant communities confined to light chestnut soils of varying degrees of salinity. The vitality of specimens in the studied coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana, estimated by the IVI index, varied widely – from 0.448 to 1.686. At the same time, the difference between the maximum values of individual vitality of specimens in most coenopopulations was greater in the second year of the study. The vitality values of the studied T. biebersteiniana cenopopulations, expressed by the IVC index, ranged from 0.800 to 1.270, which is consistent with the data provided in the literature. The dynamics of the values of the vitality index of T. biebersteiniana coenopopulations revealed a clinal character, increasing from the northern to the southern part of the Ergeni Upland. The highest values of the vitality index in the coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana in the southern part of the Ergeni indicate the most favorable conditions for realizing the potential of the species in this part of the upland. The conditions of the second year of research, which were wetter and with a higher temperature during the period of plant growth and development, contributed to an increase in the vitality of both specimens and coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana. The studied coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana belonged to the vital type “prosperous”.
Ecotone systems of the Keltrikan water reservoir in the network of Sostinskie lakes
Authors: Ulanova S.S.
Published: September 2024

Ecotone ecosystems “water-land” are natural ecosystems formed at the interface of interaction between two environments: aquatic and terrestrial, have a specific structure, functioning regimes, and stability mechanisms. Detailed research of the ecotone systems of the storage ponds of Kalmykia is necessary for the preservation of the gene pool of steppe and desert biota.The Keltrikan reservoir belongs to the Sostinskie lakes system, located in the southeast of the Republic of Kalmykia. The study of the water body and the surrounding territories was carried out according to the ecotone concept of V.S. Zaletaev. Studies had shown that by 2023, the area of the water surface of the Keltrikan reservoir decreased by 2.8 times compared to 2009. It was found that the waters of the Keltrikan reservoir have high mineralization, reaching up to 169 g/l, with the salinization type being sulfate-sodium-chloride. Research had shown the Keltrikan reservoir, being the most distant from the Sostinskie lakes network, is highly dependent on water supply from the Chogray water storage. For the first time, structural-functional blocks of the ecotone system were described for this water body, the depth of occurrence and mineralization of groundwater in each block were determined, geobotanical descriptions of the blocks were performed, their floristic and phytocenotic composition and biological productivity were identified. It was found that the general species richness of the Keltrikan reservoir ecotone has 45 species of higher flowering plants, belonging to 33 genera and 11 families. The most numerous families are Chenopodiaceae (42.2%), Brassicaceae (15.6%), Poaceae (13.3%), Asteraceae (6.7%). Annuals and perennials dominate in the flora, but the edificators of the ecotone flora of the Keltrican reservoir are dwarf semishrubs and shrubs. Most plant species belong to xerophytes and mesophytes.
Breeding success of passerine birds in the forest steppe of European Russia
Authors: Vengerov P.D.
Published: September 2024

In the period from 1985 to 2023, the breeding success of 15 bird species was studied in the Voronezh Nature Reserve (50°21ʹ-52°02ʹ N, 39°21ʹ-39°47ʹ E), where there has been no economic activity for 100 years. The plant cover consists of pine (32.3% of the total area), oak (29.3%), aspen (19.3%), birch (5.7%) and alder (5.2%) forests. 2004 nests were monitored. Low breeding success (25.4-27.9%, determined by the modified Mayfield method) was found in the Blackbird Turdus merula , the Song Thrush T. philomelos , the Finch Fringilla coelebs and the Greenfinch Chloris chloris. From 1.6 to 1.8 fledglings fly out for one breeding attempt. The average level of breeding success (38.7-50.4%) was found in the Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita , the Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio , Redwing Turdus iliacus , Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla , Garden Warbler S. borin and Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes . From 2.1 to3.4 fledglings fly out for one breeding attempt. A high level of breeding success (60.6-82.5%) was found in the Great Tit Parus major , the Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus , the Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca , the Collared Flycatcher F. albicollis and the Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata . From 3.7 to 7 fledglings fly out for one breeding attempt. Due to the increased pressure of nest predators, the breeding success of birds in the Voronezh Nature Reserve is often lower than in other areas. The greatest breeding success is typical for birds that place nests in hollows and other shelters. Breeding success is significantly lower in openly nesting species, especially in birds that begin nesting before the leaves bloom on trees and shrubs.
Public Health Expenditure and Gross State Domestic Product in India: A Regression Analysis
Authors: Ali Ibrahim , Dekaraja Dimpal
Published: September 2024

Spending on health is essential to increase labour productivity and people's life expectancy. But, the individual ability to make necessary health expenditure is inadequate in low-income and developing nations like India. In this regard, the current study aims to investigate the causal relationship between public health spending and per capita GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product), as well as the GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product) ratio, with a focus on a few chosen states of India (such as Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal). The states have been chosen to represent the nation, while secondary data on public health spending and GSDP has been gathered from the EPW Research Foundation. OLS (Ordinary Least Square) is used in conjunction with a linear regression model to analyse the data. To determine the increasing trend of public health expenditures, trend analysis also been conducted. The findings showed that there is an inverse association between the nation's health spending and both the per capita GSDP and ratio of GSDP. This suggests that public health spending is influenced by a variety of other factors as well. The paper's conclusion suggested placing greater focus on certain measures that assist low-income or impoverished families with regard to medical expenses.
School Absenteeism during Menstruation and Associated Factors: A School-based Study among Adolescents in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Seidu Balkisu , Mohammed Suraya Malle , Nonterah Delilah , Sulemana Hawa , Nyangli Issahaku Fuseini , Atrime Rashida , Balanjima Ibrahim , Yakubu Fatimata , Osman Adisa , Kojo Mohammed Abdulai , Mumuni Jelila , Yakubu Nasara Haruna
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Menstruation is a natural physiological process that can have significant implications for adolescent girls, particularly in low-resource settings where knowledge gaps and cultural taboos persist. In the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana, menstrual-related challenges contribute to school absenteeism, which can negatively impact educational outcomes and psychosocial well-being.
Aim: This study seeks to enhance existing knowledge by evaluating the frequency of schoolgirl absence due to menstruation in Tamale Metropolis and the factors associated with it.
Methods: The study used a cross-sectional survey with 293 adolescent schoolgirls. The study recruited six (6) schools in the Tamale Metropolis using multistage sampling. The questionnaire was used to collect the data from these students. Stata was used to analyze the data, and statistical significance was pegged at a p-value of less than 0.05.
Results: Most respondents (87.4%) know about menstruation, and 85% know about menstrual hygiene. The primary sources of information are family (47.1%) and school (33.1%), with fewer getting information from friends (12.6%) or media (7.2%). The study showed that 35.2% of respondents missed school due to menstruation. Among those who missed school, most missed 1-2 days (61.2%), while 29.1% missed 3-4 days and 9.7% missed more than four days. The majority of the respondents (78.6%) experience severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea). Regarding menstrual products, 43.7% report inadequacy, while 56.3% have adequate supplies. The study shows that 49.5% of respondents experience feelings of anxiety during menstruation, while 50.5% do not. About 43.3% feel embarrassed about menstruation, and 56.7% do not. The study established a significant association between school absenteeism and Grade/Class Level (0.001), religious affiliation (0.002), ethnicity (0.042), mother’s education (0.026), mother’s occupation (0.014), and father’s occupation (0.017).
Conclusion: School attendance among adolescent girls in Tamale Metropolis is influenced by menstrual health. Facilitating information acquisition, ensuring the availability of menstruation products, and establishing nurturing surroundings can enhance educational achievements.
Effect of Customized Fertilizer Formulations on Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) under Sodic Soil
Authors: Rajammal Sherene Jenita , Kaleeswari T, A. , Maragatham S. , R.Arulmozhian
Published: September 2024

The Customized Fertilizer Formulation (CFF) applications on growth and yield of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) varieties Manaparai local and CO-2 under sodic soils were studied with eleven CFF combinations. No Significant observations in growth yield and yield parameter was recorded due to the combined application of CFF and organic amendments on sodic soils. The symptoms of salt injury were well pronounced in brinjal cv. Manaparai local when compared to brinjal cv. CO2 though the sodic soil reclamation was done with gypsum @1.1 t/Ha. The salt injury was further confirmed with electrolyte leakage study conducted at field level. However, the treatment T11 i.e. CFF2 100% macro nutrients as straight fertilizers, liquid micronutrient formulation and composted Press mud @ 5 t/ha was found to have the brinjal fruit yield of 1.39 t/ha in cv. CO2 which was not a desirable yield. This might be due to the yield reduction per unit increase in salt content.
Prevalence of Salmonellosis among Undergraduate Students in Owerri Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Udujih Helen Ifeoma , Otti Chioma Oluchi , Ndubueze Chizaram Winners , Udujih Mitchelle Ifechi
Published: September 2024

Due to the rigorous nature of tertiary education, some students struggle to maintain good hygiene and healthy eating habits, predisposing them to infectious diseases. This study assessed the presence and prevalence of Salmonella infection among undergraduate students in Owerri Metropolis. Stool samples were collected from 97 students (24 males and 73 females) and cultured on Salmonella and Shigella agar. Out of the 97 students tested, 18(18.55%) tested positive, with the highest 10(55.56%) intensive prevalence coming from Salmonella typhimurium, followed by Salmonella paratyphi 7(38.89%) and Salmonella typhi 1(5.55%). The final-year students showed the highest number of Salmonella infections. The result also revealed the highest infection rate of 9(50.00%) among students aged 18-20 years in their first year of study, while the older students recorded a low infection rate of 1(5.56%). It is, therefore, very important that awareness of good hygiene and preventive measures for salmonellosis and other similar infections are intensified.