bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of recruitment practices on employee turnover in hotels and resorts in Kilifi County, Kenya
Authors: Bula Hannah Orwa , Muriithi Charles
Published: July 2023

The hotel industry is a labour intensive industry with high labour costs on goods and servicesproduced. In order to ensure quality of goods and services at a reasonable price, and compete inthe market, hotels’ and resorts’ management in Kilifi County must have control over theirrecruitment practices, satisfy employees and decrease undesired employee turnover. This paperestablishes the influence of recruitment practices on employee turnover among hotels and resortsin Kilifi County. Employee turnover has been found to be a big challenge for managers andemployees in Kilifi County hotels and resorts and, therefore the most effective way to manage it isthrough adoption of effective recruitment and selection practices. The study adopted bothexplanatory and descriptive research design employing stratified random sampling technique toselect respondents working in the different levels of the hotels. From a target population of 602employees in twenty four (24) hotels, a sample size of 180 respondents was drawn. For datacollection, questionnaire guide was used. Both inferential and descriptive statistics were used indata analysis which thence is presented in tables. The authors recommend making the workforceof employees not majorly composed youth category and hiring professional employees withcollege certificate or diploma for vacant positions. All hotels and resorts should have a humanresource office that handles all human resource related matters and which will spearhead therecruitment and selection function; with an annual budget allocation, a recruitment and selectionpanel, and performance of job analysis before filling of vacancies. Having accurate jobdescriptions and person specifications is a pre-requisite to the process.
An assessment of strategies used on resources mobilization: A case of the Université Chrétienne Bilingue Du Congo (UCBC)
Authors: Nzikako Joel Asiimwe , Warue Beatrice
Published: July 2023

Many people in institutions or organizations have excellent visions and initiatives but most ofthem don’t see their visions come true because of either lack of resources or mismanagement ofthe mobilized resources. This study focuses on an assessment of strategies used on resourcesmobilization in the Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC). In particular, the studysought to find out whether community participation, local fundraising, management practicesand marketing strategies affect resource mobilization at UCBC. The study adopted a quantitativeapproach targeting a population of 509 subjects. Stratified and purposive sampling techniqueswere used to get a sample size of 95 subjects. Data was collected using structured questionnairewith Likert scale measurement. The collected data was analyzed using confirmatory factoranalysis method. The results found out that management practices (p-value 0.0018), marketingstrategies (p-value 0.0430), local fundraising (p-value 0.0849) and community participation (pvalue 0.0019) were positive and significantly related to resource mobilization. The study recommends that UCBC considers the significant variables as they affect resource mobilization performance.
Influence of age diversity on organizational performance: A case study of AAR group
Authors: Karimi James Mark Ngari , Busolo Enid
Published: July 2023

The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of age diversity on organizational performancea case study of AAR group. The study adopted a descriptive research design as it permitted theresearcher to describe the influence of organizational performance and age diversity. The populationfor this study comprised of 90 employees of an insurance company in Nairobi. The study found that therespondents were age diverse, aged between 20 and 55 years. The study also established that themajority of the respondents were males. The study found that the Pearson correlation co-efficient valuefor age diversity and organizational performance was a significant and positive though weak at value;r =0 .041, p <0.05. The variables under investigation meet the Cronbach’s threshold since thecoefficients were above 0.7 as follows creativity and innovation 0.826, decision making 0.765,perception of quality 0.745, intra organization communication 0.815 and organizational performance0.812. The study concluded that, age diversity is a very crucial resource for firms that intend to havesustainable workforce. It recommends that managers should perceive age diversity as a source ofcompetitive advantage within the firm. They should embrace age diversity for the potential influencethat it has for creativity and innovativeness in the firm.
Determinants of entrepreneurial orientation among muslim students in Kenya
Authors: Usman Usman Aisha , Kamau Joseph Ngugi
Published: July 2023

This paper is drawn upon a study that sought to examine the determinants of entrepreneurial orientationamong Muslim students at USIU-Africa. The study addressed the gaps in the knowledge betweenmultiple dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation in the context of Muslim students in USIU-Africa.The study was steered along the following objectives: influences of pro-activeness on entrepreneurialorientation among Muslim students, influences of innovation on entrepreneurial orientation amongMuslim students, and influence of risk-taking on entrepreneurial orientation among Muslim students inUSIU-Africa. A descriptive quantitative research design was used for this study and the informationgathered using questionnaires. The sample size constituted 120 Undergraduate and Graduate studentsin the various departments of USIU-Africa. The data collected from the sample was analyzed usingSPSS and Microsoft Excel to generate statistics, frequency tables and percentages for clearinterpretation of findings. A one sample t-test and Pearson correlation analysis were used to investigatethe relationship between the variables of the study
Combined influence of operational, credit, liquidity and environmental risks on water-sanitation infrastructure investments in Kenya
Authors: Owen Rao Jonnah , Okech Timothy C.
Published: July 2023

The paper investigated the combined influence of Operational, Credit, Liquidity and Environmentalrisks on Water-Sanitation Infrastructure Investments in Kenya. The study focuses on 14 risks related tothe water and sanitation infrastructure investments project life cycle. In particular, the study sought tofind out whether operational risks, credit risks, liquidity risks and environmental risks influence waterand sanitation infrastructure investments project in Kenya. The study adopted a mixed methodologyresearch design where qualitative and quantitative research approaches are used to test the researchhypotheses. From a target population of 127, Total Population Sampling (TPS) was adopted wherebythe whole population was studied. Data was collected using structured questionnaire with Likert scalemeasurement. Both descriptive and inferential analysis methods were employed in the analysis. The results found out that operational risks (p-value 0.00), credit risks (p-value 0.00), liquidity risks (pvalue 0.01) and environmental risks (p-value 0.00) were positive and statistically significant. The studyrecommends the need to consider the significant variables as they influence that water and sanitation infrastructure investments project life cycle.
Competitive characteristics on competitive advantage: A case of financial services sector in Kenya
Authors: Muhonza Prescott B , Kiriri Peter N , Njenga Kefah M
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to determine the influence of competitive characteristics on the competitiveadvantage of firms in the financial services sector in Kenya, that is, banking, microfinance,and savings and credit societies institutions, using the resource-based theory. The studytargeted 1356 members in the financial services sector. From the population, a sample of 340staff members was targeted using the Yamane formula, factoring in a 10% non-response error,and data was collected using a closed-ended questionnaire. The descriptive statistics used weremean, standard deviation, and percentages, while the inferential statistics used were factoranalysis, correlation coefficient, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and regressions analysis. Theresponse rate was 92%. The study found out that competitive advantage had a positive andsignificant correlation with the competitive characteristics constructs; agility r (306) =.592,p<.05; competitive forces, r (306) =.540, p<.05; dynamic capabilities (306) =.587, p<.05. Onthe regression, the competitive characteristics constructs had a significant influence oncompetitive advantage: agility (β = .287 t = 5.157, p<.05); competitive forces (β = .248 t =4.878, p<.05); and dynamic capabilities (β = .286 t = 5.201, p<.05). This shows a change ofdynamic capabilities by a unit influenced competitive advantage by .286. From these results,agility had a higher influence on the competitive advantage with a Beta of .287 followed bydynamic capabilities with a Beta of .286, and lastly, the competitive force with a Beta of .248.On the hypothesis test, the study found out that competitive characteristics have a significantinfluence on the achievement of competitive advantage (β = .687 t = 16.472, p<.05) hencerejected the null hypothesis of the study. The study recommends that managers should consideragility as a predominant principle guiding strategic and operational activities in the businessenvironment on competitive characteristics
Effect of leverage on income retention of general insurers in East Africa
Authors: Nyandwi Phocas , Njuguna Amos , Achoki George
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of leverage on income retention of generalinsurers in East Africa. The study adopted explanatory sequential mixed methods research design whichconsists of collecting and analysing secondary data first and subsequently collecting primary data toget deeper insight on the results from secondary data. For secondary data, a census was conducted on the total population of 87 general insurance companies in existence during the period of study from2015 to 2019 across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. Data were obtained frominsurance regulatory reports, company annual reports and through data collection sheets where reportswere not available. The primary data phase consisted of in-depth interviews carried out on a stratifiedsample of 25 key informants across the five countries. Both descriptive and inferential statistics wereused to analyse the data. The regression results indicate that leverage, as measured by debt to equityratio, has a negative and significant effect on income retention of general insurers in East Africa (β1=-0.02337, p-value = 0.001). According to the details per country, this negative relationship is significantfor Kenya and Rwanda while insignificant for Tanzania, Uganda and Burundi. The study recommendsthat insurance companies should hold adequate equity relative to their liabilities to enhance theirincome retention.
Firm’s resource portfolio and its influence on financial sustainability of NGOs in Kenya
Authors: Oluoch Fredrick Ochieng
Published: July 2023

The aim of the research was to determine the influence of a firm’s resource portfolio on financialsustainability of NGOs in Kenya. The study was underpinned by strategic leadership theory and applieddescriptive correlational research design. The study’s target population was 6,028 comprising activelocal NGOs. It utilized stratified random sampling to select 413 CEOs/board members as respondentsthrough a self-administered questionnaire. Correlation results showed that firm’s resource portfoliohad a positive and significant relationship with financial sustainability, r (393) = 0.564, p ≤ .05.Ordinal logistic regression (Nagelkerke Pseudo R2) results revealed that firm’s resource portfolioexplained 13.9% of the variance in financial sustainability, R~ 73 ~ 2= .139, while the parameter estimatesresults showed that firm’s resource portfolio significantly predicted financial sustainability, β2 = 2.725, p≤.05. Therefore, the null hypothesis was rejected implying that the firm’s resource portfoliohas significant influence on financial sustainability. The study recommends strategic leadership teamsto manage appropriately the organization's resource portfolio by organizing and bundling them intocapabilities, structuring their organizations to utilize the capabilities and selecting optimal strategiesto leverage on and exploit these resources to achieve financial sustainability.
Influence of Leader’s Self-awareness on Employee Commitment in Agencies Implementing Public Financial Management Reforms in Kenya
Authors: Gacheru Winnifred , Karimi James
Published: July 2023

This paper addresses the influence of leader’s self-awareness on employee commitment in agencies implementing Public Financial Management Reforms (PFMRs) in Kenya. Methodically, the study was guided by the positivism research philosophy. The study applied descriptive correlational research design because it reveals accurate information that allows for inferences through hypothesis testing. This approach was favored because it explains what is in existence and, in turn, assists in revealing new realities and meanings, thus broadening the scope of the phenomenon under study. The population of the study was 747 managers from the Kenyan PFMRs implementing agencies. Simple random sampling technique was adopted to select 260 managers for the study. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses methods were employed. The Binary logit regression model was significant with Chi-square χ² (1) = 133.239, p<.001, and the model summary result shows the Nagelkerke R square of .731. The study accepted the alternative hypothesis, which stated that leaders' self-awareness significantly influenced employee commitment among managers in agencies implementing PFMRs. From the empirical evidence and conclusion, the study recommends that leaders must understand themselves, recognize their strengths and flaws, and confidently convey them. By so doing, they will transfer confidence to the staff, leading to their dedication.
Sosialisasi Klasifikasi Sampah Melalui Mural
Authors: Putri Sevilia Sujarwo Indrias , Shindy Mohamad , Raden Agung Zainal Muttakin
Published: July 2023

Kegiatan ini merupakan hasil Kerja sama dengan SMAN 3 Depok, Jawa Barat. Program ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kreativitas dalam penyelamatan lingkungan melalui kegiatan mural. Permasalahan yang timbul, di antaranya untuk menyampaikan informasi tentang pentingnya memilah/klasifikasi sampah. SMAN 3 Depok adalah salah satu pihak yang memiliki suatu terobosan untuk memberikan edukasi melalui mural tentang klasifikasi sampah. Hal tersebut dilakukan agar semakin banyak kesadaran dalam hal mengembangkan inovasi yang memanfaatkan alam sekaligus meningkatkan kreativitas dalam menyelesaikan masalah lingkungan. Mural memiliki peran penting sebagai media alternatif dalam menyampaikan informasi dan edukasi, implementasi informasi yang menyenangkan memalui media mural, diharapkan siswa mampu menambah kepekaan dan kesadaran dalam merawat lingkungan. Dalam pelaksanaannya, tim pengabdian kepada masyarakat mewujudkan pesan kreatif dalam bentuk mural dengan pesan klasifikasi sampah organik, anorganik, dan B3. Dengan demikian, desain mural yang dibuat dapat dengan mudah dipahami, diingat, dan dilakukan oleh setiap siswa maupun warga sekolah.
Comparison of Ultrasound-Guided Popliteal Sciatic Block Properties in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients
Authors: Kocayigit Havva , Şahin Fatih , Erkin Alper , Erdem Ali Fuat
Published: July 2023

Background: We aim to share our popliteal sciatic nerve block (PSB) experience, which we applied to diabetic and nondiabetic patients in the operating room of our hospital.

Methods: The patients who underwent PSB for foot and ankle surgery between October 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021, in Sakarya University Training and Research Hospital were evaluated retrospectively. All nerve blocks were administered by a single anesthesiologist. Demographic data of the patients and the duration of the operation, the type of operation, the time of application of the nerve block, whether it was single or bifurcation block, and the onset times of motor and sensory block were also recorded in the perioperative period.

Results: It was determined that PSB was applied to 49 patients over a 3-month period. The mean age of the patients was 61.33 ± 14.03 years, and 12 patients (24.5%) were women. The reason why the patients were operated on was amputation in 21 (42.9%) and wound debridement in 27 (55.1%). There were 37 patients in the diabetic group and 12 patients in the nondiabetic group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic data and operation characteristics, but it was observed that there was a significant difference in both sensory and motor block formation times between the two groups (P < .001).

Conclusions: In conclusion, we think that popliteal sciatic nerve block is easy to apply, the complication rate is low, and it is a suitable anesthesia method for patients who will undergo day surgery for foot ulcer.
Serratia marcescens Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Ankle: A Case Report
Authors: Sakkab Ramez , MacRae Tyler , Nguyen Quynh Giao , Ballon-Landa Gonzalo
Published: July 2023

Necrotizing fasciitis is a devastating inflammatory infection requiring emergent medical treatment and surgical intervention. Even with timely management, the mortality rate of necrotizing fasciitis approaches 25%. The causative bacteria invade fascial planes and express toxins that advance rapidly. Here, we document a rare case of necrotizing fasciitis from Serratia marcescens infection. Serratia marcescens is capable of inducing a necrotizing inflammatory cascade mediated by extracellular cytotoxin and lipase. In this case report, a 90-year-old man presented to our emergency department from a long-term care facility with a relatively benign-appearing ulcer with surrounding cellulitis on the right ankle. Blood cultures and wound cultures confirmed the organism to be S marcescens. A multidisciplinary team was consulted for management. The patient received antibiotic therapy and medical support, but because of his comorbid conditions and social situation, the designated medical decision maker opted for comfort care rather than aggressive surgical debridement. The patient progressed through the clinical stages of necrotizing fasciitis. Within 36 hours, the patient died as result of sepsis-induced organ failure.
YouTube Videos About Plantar Fasciitis and Calcaneal Spurs Are Insufficient and Poor Quality
Authors: Yüce Ali , Ocak Olcayto , Gur Volkan , Misir Abdulhamit
Published: July 2023

Background: Patients frequently use YouTube to learn about their illness. For this reason, the educational and quality of YouTube videos about various diseases has been investigated. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the accuracy and quality of YouTube videos.

Methods: A standard query was performed on the YouTube database using the following search terms: Plantar fasciitis, heel spur, and calcaneal spur. For each search term, the top 50 videos determined by YouTube’s “relevance” according to its algorithm were evaluated (150 videos in total). After exclusion, 140 videos were included in the study. These videos were watched by 2 observers and the videos were evaluated and scored according to the Global Quality Score (GQS), DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), and Plantar Fasciitis and Calcaneal Spurs Specific Score (PFSS) scoring systems.

Results: According to the JAMA criteria, 76.42% of the videos and 43.57% of the videos according to the GQS scored 2 points or less. According to DISCERN criteria, 67.15% of the videos were evaluated as very poor/poor. According to the PFSS, 83.5% of the videos were rated as poor or very poor.

Conclusions: These findings can be interpreted as the general information content of the videos about plantar fasciitis is insufficient and their reliability and quality are low. As a result, it can be concluded that the quality and reliability of YouTube videos regarding plantar fasciitis are insufficient for patients. Universities/associations prepare videos that provide information about plantar fasciitis to patients, and that these videos are presented on certain platforms can be a solution.
Leveraging genetic diversity to identify small molecules that reverse mouse skeletal muscle insulin resistance
Authors: Masson Stewart W.C. , Madsen Søren , Cooke Kristen C. , Potter Meg , Diaz-Vegas Alexis , Carroll Luke , Thillainadesan Senthil , Cutler Harry B. , Walder Ken , Cooney Gregory J. , Morahan Grant , Stöckli Jacqueline , James David E.
Published: July 2023

Systems genetics has begun to tackle the complexity of insulin resistance by capitalising on computational advances to study high-diversity populations. “Diversity Outbred in Australia (DOz)” is a population of genetically unique mice with profound metabolic heterogeneity. We leveraged this variance to explore skeletal muscle’s contribution to whole-body insulin action through metabolic phenotyping and skeletal muscle proteomics of 215 DOz mice. Linear modelling identified 553 proteins that associated with whole-body insulin sensitivity (Matsuda Index) including regulators of endocytosis and muscle proteostasis. To enrich for causality, we refined this network by focussing on negatively associated, genetically regulated proteins, resulting in a 76-protein fingerprint of insulin resistance. We sought to perturb this network and restore insulin action with small molecules by integrating the Broad Institute Connectivity Map platform and
in vitro
assays of insulin action using the Prestwick chemical library. These complimentary approaches identified the antibiotic thiostrepton as an insulin resistance reversal agent. Subsequent validation in
ex vivo
insulin resistant mouse muscle, and palmitate induced insulin resistant myotubes demonstrated potent insulin action restoration, potentially via up-regulation of glycolysis. This work demonstrates the value of a drug-centric framework to validate systems level analysis by identifying potential therapeutics for insulin resistance.
EphrinB2 knockdown in cervical spinal cord preserves diaphragm innervation in a mutant SOD1 mouse model of ALS
Authors: Urban Mark W , Charsar Brittany A , Heinsinger Nicolette M , Markandaiah Shashirekha S , Sprimont Lindsay , Zhou Wei , Brown Eric V , Henderson Nathan T , Thomas Samantha J , Ghosh Biswarup , Cain Rachel E , Trotti Davide , Pasinelli Piera , Wright Megan C , Dalva Matthew B , Lepore Angelo C
Published: July 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor neuron loss. Importantly, non-neuronal cell types such as astrocytes also play significant roles in disease pathogenesis. However, mechanisms of astrocyte contribution to ALS remain incompletely understood. Astrocyte involvement suggests that transcellular signaling may play a role in disease. We examined contribution of transmembrane signaling molecule ephrinB2 to ALS pathogenesis, in particular its role in driving motor neuron damage by spinal cord astrocytes. In symptomatic SOD1G93A mice (a well-established ALS model), ephrinB2 expression was dramatically increased in ventral horn astrocytes. Reducing ephrinB2 in the cervical spinal cord ventral horn via viral-mediated shRNA delivery reduced motor neuron loss and preserved respiratory function by maintaining phrenic motor neuron innervation of diaphragm. EphrinB2 expression was also elevated in human ALS spinal cord. These findings implicate ephrinB2 upregulation as both a transcellular signaling mechanism in mutant SOD1-associated ALS and a promising therapeutic target.
Folding of Prestin’s Anion-Binding Site and the Mechanism of Outer Hair Cell Electromotility
Authors: Lin Xiaoxuan , Haller Patrick , Bavi Navid , Faruk Nabil , Perozo Eduardo , Sosnick Tobin R.
Published: July 2023

Prestin responds to transmembrane voltage fluctuations by changing its cross-sectional area, a process underlying the electromotility of outer hair cells and cochlear amplification. Prestin belongs to the SLC26 family of anion transporters yet is the only member capable of displaying electromotility. Prestin’s voltage-dependent conformational changes are driven by the putative displacement of residue R399 and a set of sparse charged residues within the transmembrane domain, following the binding of a Cl
-
anion at a conserved binding site formed by amino termini of the TM3 and TM10 helices. However, a major conundrum arises as to how an anion that binds in proximity to a positive charge (R399), can promote the voltage sensitivity of prestin. Using hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry, we find that prestin displays an unstable anion-binding site, where folding of the amino termini of TM3 and TM10 is coupled to Cl
-
binding. This event shortens the TM3-TM10 electrostatic gap, thereby connecting the two helices such that TM3-anion-TM10 is pushed upwards by forces from the electric field, resulting in reduced cross-sectional area. These folding events upon anion-binding are absent in SLC26A9, a non-electromotile transporter closely related to prestin. We also observe helix fraying at prestin’s anion-binding site but cooperative unfolding of multiple lipid-facing helices, features that may promote prestin’s fast electromechanical rearrangements. These results highlight a novel role of the folding equilibrium of the anion-binding site, and helps define prestin’s unique voltage-sensing mechanism and electromotility.
Immunostimulation of Parasteatoda tepidariorum (Araneae: Theridiidae) in juvenile and adult stages. Immunity reactions to injury with foreign body and Bacillus subtilis infection
Authors: Czerwonka Agnieszka Ewa , Sawadro Marta Katarzyna , Brożek Jolanta , Babczyńska Agnieszka Izabela
Published: July 2023

To assess the immune potential of spiders, in the present study juvenile and adult females of Parasteatoda tepidariorum were exposed to Bacillus subtilis infection, injury by a nylon monofilament and a combination of both. The expression level of selected immune-related genes: defensin 1 (PtDEF1), lysozyme 1 (PtLYS1), lysozyme C (PtLYSC), lysozyme M1 (PtLYSM1), autophagy-related protein 101 (PtATG101), dynamin (PtDYN) and heat shock proteins (HSP70) (PtHSPB, PtHSPB2A, PtHSPB2B), production of lysozyme and HSP70 proteins, and hemocytes viability were measured. The obtained results indicated expression of the lysozyme, autophagy-related protein and HSP70 genes in both ontogenetic stages of P. tepidariorum. It has been also shown that the simultaneous action of mechanical and biological factors causes higher level of lysozyme and HSP70, cell apoptosis intensity and lower level of hemocytes viability than in the case of exposure to a single immunostimulant. Moreover, mature females showed stronger early immune responses compared to juveniles.
Presence of an ultra-small microbiome in fermented cabbages
Authors: Lee Hae-Won , Yoon So-Ra , Dang Yun-Mi , Kang Miran , Lee Kwangho , Ha Ji-Hyung , Bae Jin-Woo
Published: July 2023

Background

Ultramicrobacteria (UMB), also known as ultra-small bacteria, are tiny bacteria with a size less than 0.1 µm3. They have a high surface-to-volume ratio and are found in various ecosystems, including the human body. UMB can be classified into two types: one formed through cell contraction and the other that maintains a small size. The ultra-small microbiome (USM), which may contain UMB, includes all bacteria less than 0.2 µm in size and is difficult to detect with current methods. However, it poses a potential threat to food hygiene, as it can pass through sterilization filters and exist in a viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state. The data on the USM of foods is limited. Some bacteria, including pathogenic species, are capable of forming UMB under harsh conditions, making it difficult to detect them through conventional culture techniques.

Methods

The study described above focused on exploring the diversity of USM in fermented cabbage samples from three different countries (South Korea, China, and Germany). The samples of fermented cabbage (kimchi, suancai, and sauerkraut) were purchased and stored in chilled conditions at approximately 4 °C until filtration. The filtration process involved two steps of tangential flow filtration (TFF) using TFF cartridges with different pore sizes (0.2 µm and 100 kDa) to separate normal size bacteria (NM) and USM. The USM and NM isolated via TFF were stored in a refrigerator at 4 °C until DNA extraction. The extracted DNA was then amplified using PCR and the full-length 16S rRNA gene was sequenced using single-molecule-real-time (SMRT) sequencing. The transmission electron microscope (TEM) was used to confirm the presence of microorganisms in the USM of fermented cabbage samples.

Results

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify the differences between USM and NM in fermented cabbages. Although the size of the USM (average 2,171,621 bp) was smaller than that of the NM (average 15,727,282 bp), diversity in USM (average H′ = 1.32) was not lower than that in NM (average H′ = 1.22). In addition, some members in USM probably underwent cell shrinkage due to unfavorable environments, while others maintained their size. Major pathogens were not detected in the USM in fermented cabbages. Nevertheless, several potentially suspicious strains (genera Cellulomonas and Ralstonia) were detected. Our method can be used to screen food materials for the presence of USM undetectable via conventional methods. USM and NM were efficiently separated using tangential flow filtration and analyzed via single-molecule real-time sequencing. The USM of fermented vegetables exhibited differences in size, diversity, and composition compared with the conventional microbiome. This study could provide new insights into the ultra-small ecosystem in fermented foods, including fermented cabbages.
Awareness and Brand Preference of Chickpea Growers towards Selected Pesticides in Junagadh District of Gujarat, India
Authors: Zalavadiya Denish , Mishra Snehal
Published: July 2023

The study was carried out with five objectives: to know the cropping pattern of farmers, to measure market potential of selected pesticides, to know the awareness of farmers towards selected pesticides, to know the factors that influence brand preference of chickpea growers towards selected pesticides, and to identify the problems faced by farmers and dealers related to pesticides. Total 150 chickpea farmers and 25 dealers were studied. The primary data were collected from the Moti Monpari, Sarsai, Khambhaliya, Liliya, and Vichhavad. Major portion of farmers get information about pesticide from the retailer shop. The primary factors considered by the farmers in brand preference towards fungicides and insecticides were: perception about product, influence by others, price sensitivity, and easy to use. The major problem of the farmer related to pesticides was lack of technical knowledge, followed by unawareness about adverse effect on health and non-availability of pesticide on time. The major problem of dealers related to pesticides was low margin, followed by high competition and high cost of transportation.
Effect of Manufacturing Sub-Sector Performance on Productivity in Nigeria
Authors: Okpala Chidiogo Jane , Anyanwu Uchenna Nnanna
Published: July 2023

Kaldor’s theory of growth is one theory that advocates for the manufacturing sector as a channel of increasing productivity and increasing employment. However, many developing countries like Nigeria seem to be bypassing the dynamism of the manufacturing sector. This study looked at the role of manufacturing sector to the productivity of the economy for the period 1986 to 2018, bearing in mind that productivity growth reflects in the GDP (gross domestic product) of a country. The study applied the Autoregressive Distributed Lag model (ARDL) and the Granger Causality technique. The major finding of this study is that manufacturing export, manufacturing capacity utilization, credit to manufacturing, manufacturing output were positively related while manufacturing value added and unemployment were negatively related to labour productivity. Negative relationship that exists in manufacturing value added which shows that there is no actual value addition in this sector even when manufacturers output increases. MCU (Manufacturing capacity utilization) was seen to cause Labour productivity while Labour productivity in turn brought about increase in manufacturing output and manufacturing export. This implies that there is room for achieving more in this sector by increasing value addition and increasing manufacturers utilization capacity, which will support more output, export, job opportunities and growth in the economy. The study therefore suggests that the advantage in this sector be harnessed by increasing manufacturers’ value addition and capacity utilization, giving them what it takes to do so which will inadvertently boost the economy.
Effects of Organic Manures and Bio-Fertilizers on Soil Properties, Productivity and Nutrients Uptake of Indian Mustard
Authors: Narender  , Kumar Mukesh , Kumar Anil , Manjeet
Published: July 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season 2020-21 to study the effect of organic manures and bio-fertilizers on soil properties, productivity and nutrient uptake of Indian mustard at Deendayal Upadhyay Centre of Excellence for Organic Farming (DDUCE-OF), CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The experiment comprised of eight treatments involving Farm Yard Manure (FYM), Vermicompost (VC) and Poultry Manure (PM) alone and along with bio-fertilizers (BF), an absolute control and a cow-based formulation treatment. The results revealed that the treatment 100% RDN through PM+BF produced significantly higher seed and stover yield of mustard which was at par with treatment 100% RDN through VC+BF and 100% RDN through FYM+BF as compared to other treatments. Maximum seed (29.84 q ha-1) and stover (74.75 q ha-1) yields were received under treatment 100% RDN through PM+BF which was 27.5 % and 16.7 % higher over the control, respectively. Similarly, highest total NPK uptake (116.2 kg ha-1 for total N, 19.9 kg ha-1 for total P and 83.5 kg ha-1 for total K) were recorded in the treatment 100% RDN through PM+BF. The highest soil restorative effect on soil organic carbon (0.67 %), available N (162 kg ha-1), available P (13.7 kg ha-1) and available K (280 kg ha-1) were also observed under treatment 100% RDN through PM+BF. These organic amendments such as FYM, vermicompost, poultry manures alone and along with bio-fertilizers, had significantly improved the seed and stover yields as well as uptake of nutrients by Indian mustard.
Study of the Hydroxymethylfurfural and Sugar Profile of Apis melifera Honey in Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Saxena Sakshi , Yadav A. S. , Tomar S. P. S.
Published: July 2023

Aims: The present study was undertaken to determine the Hydroxymethylfurfural and sugar profile of Apis melifera honey.

Place and Duration of Study: Honey samples were collected from beekeepers of eight selected villages of Guna and Morena region of Madhya Pradesh during two season 2021/22 - 2022/23

Methodology: The study covers the sugar characterization in term of reducing sugar, sucrose, glucose, fructose, fructose/glucose ratio and Hydroxymethylfurfural content. Collected honey samples were investigated in lab and data analysis by two factor without replication.

Results: The result recorded different parameters Hydroxymethylfurfural, (9.77-15.73 and 9.50- 15.91 mg/kg) total reducing sugars (70.08-73.53 and 69.16-73.83 %), sucrose (1.70-3.43 and 1.77-3.39%), glucose (31.60-35.60 and 31.20-35.30), fructose (36.47- 39.94 and 36.73-.39.69) and

fructose glucose ratio (1.03-1.22 and 1.04-1.22) respectively, during 2021-22 and 2022-23. All the parameters showed significant variation in honey among the selected locations.

Conclusion: According to the study, all of the honey samples met the allowed limit as required by Indian standards and were of acceptable quality.
Effect of Different Levels of Vermicompost on Growth and Establishment of Differernt Varieties of Bush Pepper (Piper nigrum L) under Prayagraj Agro-climatic Zone
Authors: Gayathri G. , Topno Samir Ebson , Prasad V. M.
Published: July 2023

An Experiment was conducted on the effect of different levels of vermicompost on growth of different varieties of bush pepper under Prayagraj agro-climatic zone. The experiment was laid out with 10 treatments replicated thrice in randomized block design. Ten treatments including three different varieties of bush pepper in three different concentrations of soil and vermicompost are taken. The present investigation revealed that Soil and vermicompost 50% each for the variety Panniyur-2 followed by soil and vermicompost 50% each for the variety Sreekara are the best in terms of growth parameters. Hence it is concluded that the Panniyur-2 planted in 50% of soil and vermicompost is the most suitable for Prayagraj agro-climatic zone.
The Effect of Hydrocortisone-Ascorbic Acid and Thiamine Therapy on the Outcome of Patients with Sepsis: Prospective Randomized Double-Blinded Controlled Trial
Authors: Sharaf Mostafa Ismail , Ismaeil Sameh Abd El Khalik , Yazeed Mohamed Mohi El Deen Abo El , El-Gendy Hala Mohey El-Deen , Alsherif Salah Eldeen Ibrahim
Published: July 2023

Background: Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from septic shock and sepsis each year, with fatalities reaching one in four and often higher. This work was conducted to evaluate the impact of Ascorbic acid, hydrocortisone, and thiamine treatment on the 28th day mortality rate and the outcomes (changes in SOFA score, incidence of organ dysfunction, alterations in serum procalcitonin level, changes in serum lactate level and total dose of vasopressor therapy.

Methods: This prospective randomised controlled double-blinded work was performed on 80 individuals ranging in age from 18 to 65 years old and presented with sepsis who were diagnosed based on the SSC 2016 and The SSC Bundle 2018 Update. The participants were divided into two groups at random. Group I (placebo): The conventional approach was used to treat those who were in this group. The participants were given 50 ml of normal saline intravenously within 30 minutes, 5 ml intravenously within 6 hours, and 10 ml intravenously within 12 hours. Group II: the participants had standard sepsis treatment as well as a combination of ascorbic acid 1.5 gm diluted in 50 ml of normal saline IV within 30 minutes of 6 hours and thiamine 200 mg diluted in 10 ml of normal saline IV over a 12-hour period. If the admission term was shorter than 4 days, this combination treatment was provided until the time of release for a total of 4 days.

Results: No statistically substantial variation was existed among both groups as regard incidence of 28th day mortality and incidence of organ dysfunction. At day one, the comparison of the mean values of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and cardiac index was comparable between the two groups. At day 2,3 and 4, the mean values of MAP were greater in group II in contrast to group I while cardiac index was greater in group I compared to group II. The mean value (± SD) of the total dose of noradrenaline was 824.1 ± 296.8 mg in group I, and 591.9 ± 343.2 mg in group II, with statistically substantial variation among the two groups (P<0.001)

Conclusions: The combined use of ascorbic acid, thiamine, and hydrocortisone has no impact on the 28th day mortality and organ dysfunction among individuals with septic shock and sepsis but has a good impact on haemodynamic parameters and inflammatory markers during the period of drug administration.
Effect of soil type and sowing depth on the germination and early growth of two grain amaranth cultivars
Authors: Gomes Victor E. de V. , Lindsey Laura E. , Mesquita Rosilene O.
Published: July 2023

Grain amaranth is a highly nutritious pseudo‐cereal with good adaptability to a range of environmental conditions and potential to be further cultivated in many areas of the world. Although the crop has good adaptability, soil type can influence crop establishment and production; thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate how cultivar, sowing depth, and soil type affect emergence and early growth of grain amaranth. A pot experiment was carried out in two runs under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was set in a randomized complete block design in a 3 × 5 × 2 factorial arrangement with three soil types (loam, clay loam, and clay) × five sowing depths (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mm) × two grain amaranth cultivars (Amaranthus cruentus BRS Alegria and Amaranthus caudatus Inca). Amaranthus caudatus had greater seedling height, stem diameter, number of leaves, root length, fresh weight, and dry weight compared to A. cruentus. Emergence was affected by cultivar and was 15% greater for A. cruentus. Seedling height was significantly greater at a 5 and 20 mm sowing depth. Root growth varied as a function of the interaction between soil types and sowing depths in which the longest roots were obtained when grain amaranth was sown in a loam soil at 10 mm depth. For better growth of grain amaranth, the recommended combination is A. caudatus in a loam soil at a depth between 5 and 20 mm.
Genetic liability for gastrointestinal inflammation disorders and association with gastrointestinal symptoms in children with and without autism
Authors: Morrill Valerie , Benke Kelly , Brinton John , Soke Gnakub N. , Schieve Laura A. , Fields Victoria , Farzadegan Homayoon , Holingue Calliope , Newschaffer Craig J. , Reynolds Ann M. , Fallin M. Daniele , Ladd‐Acosta Christine
Published: July 2023

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a greater prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms than children without ASD. We tested whether polygenic scores for each of three GI disorders (ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and Crohn's disease) were related to GI symptoms in children with and without ASD. Using genotyping data (564 ASD cases and 715 controls) and external genome‐wide association study summary statistics, we computed GI polygenic scores for ulcerative colitis (UC‐PGS), inflammatory bowel disease (IDB‐PGS), and Crohn's disease (CD‐PGS). Multivariable logistic regression models, adjusted for genetic ancestry, were used to estimate associations between each GI‐PGS and (1) ASD case–control status, and (2) specific GI symptoms in neurotypical children and separately in ASD children. In children without ASD, polygenic scores for ulcerative colitis were significantly associated with experiencing any GI symptom (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.81, p = 0.03) and diarrhea specifically (aOR = 5.35, 95% CI = 1.77–26.20, p = 0.01). Among children without ASD, IBD‐PGS, and Crohn's PGS were significantly associated with diarrhea (aOR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.25–12.34, p = 0.02) and loose stools alternating with constipation (aOR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.13–6.55, p = 0.03), respectively. However, the three PGS were not associated with GI symptoms in the ASD case group. Furthermore, polygenic scores for ulcerative colitis significantly interacted with ASD status on presentation of any GI symptom within a European ancestry subset (aOR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.19–0.88, p = 0.02). Genetic risk factors for some GI symptoms differ between children with and without ASD. Furthermore, our finding that increased genetic risks for GI inflammatory disorders are associated with GI symptoms in children without ASD informs future work on the early detection of GI disorders.
A Targeting Singlet Oxygen Battery for Multidrug‐Resistant Bacterial Deep‐Tissue Infections
Authors: Zhu Yiwen , Gao Minzheng , Su Mengrui , Shen Yanzhe , Zhang Kai , Yu Bingran , Xu Fu‐Jian
Published: July 2023

Traditional photodynamic therapy (PDT) is dependent on externally applied light and oxygen, and the depth of penetration of these factors can be insufficient for the treatment of deep infections. The short half‐life and short diffusion distance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) also limit the antibacterial efficiency of PDT. Herein, we designed a targeting singlet oxygen delivery system, CARG‐Py, for irradiation‐free and oxygen‐free PDT. This system was converted to the “singlet oxygen battery” CARG‐1O2 and released singlet oxygen without external irradiation or oxygen. CARG‐1O2 is composed of pyridones coupled to a targeting peptide that improves the utilization of singlet oxygen in deep multidrug‐resistant bacterial infections. CARG‐1O2 was shown to damage DNA, protein, and membranes by increasing the level of reactive oxygen inside bacteria; the attacking of multiple biomolecular sites caused the death of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). An in vivo study in a MRSA‐infected mouse model of pneumonia demonstrated the potential of CARG‐1O2 for the efficient treatment of deep infections. This work provides a new strategy to improve traditional PDT for irradiation‐ and oxygen‐free treatment of deep infections while improving convenience of PDT.
From Tethered to Freestanding Stabilizers of 14‐3‐3 Protein‐Protein Interactions through Fragment Linking
Authors: Visser Emira J. , Jaishankar Priyadarshini , Sijbesma Eline , Pennings Marloes A. M. , Vandenboorn Edmee M. F. , Guillory Xavier , Neitz R. Jeffrey , Morrow John , Dutta Shubhankar , Renslo Adam R. , Brunsveld Luc , Arkin Michelle R. , Ottmann Christian
Published: July 2023

Small‐molecule stabilization of protein‐protein interactions (PPIs) is a promising strategy in chemical biology and drug discovery. However, the systematic discovery of PPI stabilizers remains a largely unmet challenge. Herein we report a fragment‐linking approach targeting the interface of 14‐3‐3 and a peptide derived from the estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) protein. Two classes of fragments—a covalent and a noncovalent fragment—were co‐crystallized and subsequently linked, resulting in a noncovalent hybrid molecule in which the original fragment interactions were largely conserved. Supported by 20 crystal structures, this initial hybrid molecule was further optimized, resulting in selective, 25‐fold stabilization of the 14‐3‐3/ERα interaction. The high‐resolution structures of both the single fragments, their co‐crystal structures and those of the linked fragments document a feasible strategy to develop orthosteric PPI stabilizers by linking to an initial tethered fragment.
Molecular dynamics coupled with experimental study of the effects of polyethylene glycol on the structure and antifouling properties of polyethersulfone membranes
Authors: Luo Yang , Liu Zihan , Liu Yi , Huang Jiaxun , Zhang Ming
Published: July 2023

Polyethylene glycol (PEG), as a hydrophilic molecule, exerts a significant influence on the morphology and performance of membranes. However, the mechanism by which PEG influences polyethersulfone (PES) membranes remains unclear. In this work, the addition of varying concentrations (4, 12, 24 wt%) and molecular weights (200, 400, and 600 Da) of PEG on the PES membrane was investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and experimental study. Compared to the concentration of PEG (4, 12, and 24 wt%), the molecular weight of PEG (PEG200, PEG400, and PEG600) had little effect on the membrane pore size. The radial distribution function and fractional free volume results of MD simulation both proved that. Additionally, both the experimental adsorption capacity (QHA) and the calculated adsorption energy (Eads) revealed that the adsorption of humic acid (HA) on the PES membrane with 4 wt% PEG was higher than that on the pure PES membrane, which meant that PEG was not beneficial to the anti‐fouling property but improved the water flux of PES membranes. The results of this study not only provide theoretical predictions and a scientific basis for the formulation of PES membranes but also promotes an approach for exploring the mechanism by which additives affect polymer membranes.