bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observation on the stability of rat myelosuppression model established by different doses of cyclophosphamide solution
Authors: TAN Li , XIE Yu , CHEN Hongda , WANG Ning
Published: January 2022

Objective to investigate the stability of different doses of cyclophosphamide solution in establishing rat myelosuppression model. Methods In this study, 30 SD rats were randomly divided into control group (Group C) and model group (M1, M2, M3, M4). The rats in the model groups were injected with cyclophosphamide solution by intraperitoneal injection at doses of 30、40、(30+15) and (40+20) mg/kg respectively to establish a bone marrow suppression rat model. The changes of WBC, lym, Mon, GRA, RBC, Hb and PLT in peripheral blood were observed on the 1st, 5th and 13th day after modeling. Results （1）After modeling, the weight of rats in the model group was lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). （2）On the 5th day, the levels of WBC, lym, mon and gra in the serum of each model group were lower than those before modeling(P < 0.05). The content of RBC in M1 and M2 groups was lower than that before modeling (P < 0.05), the content of Hb in M1, M2 and M3 groups was lower than that before modeling (P < 0.05), and the content of PLT in M1, M2, m3 and M4 groups was lower than that before modeling (P < 0.05). （3）On the 13th day, the levels of WBC, lym, mon and gra in M1 and M2 groups were higher than those on the 5th day, except for the GRA in M2 group.The levels of WBC and lym in m3 and M4 were lower than those in M1 and M2 (P < 0.05); The contents of RBC and Hb in M1 and M2 groups were lower than those before modeling (P < 0.05); Compared with M1 and M2, the content of Hb in m3 and M4 groups was higher (P < 0.05); The PLT content in the peripheral blood of M3 and M4 rats was higher than that of the 5th day, but lower than that of M1 and M2 groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion The improved method can maintain the stability of rat myelosuppression model.
A Survey on Limiting Factors of “Internet plus Nursing Service”
Authors: LI Jiayi , ZHONG Yanhui , HAN Xiaoling , YANG Mingzhu , LING Xiaofeng , ZENG Huajuan
Published: January 2022

Objective This study aimed to investigate the limiting factors of “Internet plus Nursing Service”, a new form of nursing care, and the current working conditions of visiting nurses. Methods A questionnaire was conducted among 80 visiting nurses involved in the “Internet plus Nursing Service” program in a tertiary hospital in Zhuhai City. The questionnaire covered the general information of the visiting nurses and their understanding and practical experience on the “Internet plus Nursing Service”. Result A total of 80 effective questionnaires were collected. All nurses were willing to participate in “Internet plus Nursing Service”. Among them, 76.25% of nurses participated in “Internet plus Nursing Service” through hospital training; 48.75% of nurses liked this job because of the sense of professional achievement. Nevertheless, 55% of nurses believed that the high cost, medical safety and nurse safety are the factors hindering the development of “Internet plus Nursing Service”, and various related training and policies may be needed to improve the quality and safety of this new form of nursing care. Conclusion This survey demonstrated that nurses are optimistic regarding the “Internet plus Nursing Service”. However, high cost and potential safety issues of both nursing staff and patients are potential factors limiting the development of this new form of nursing care.
Nursing Research on Comprehensive Intervention of Pleural Reaction Undergoing Thoracentesis
Authors: WANG Jun , ZHAO Mengfen , WU Jiani , XU Zuofeng
Published: January 2022

Objective To explore the influence of different postures for pleural reaction in patients undergoing thoracic interventional operations. Methods The 695 patients with pleural effusion or hydro-pneumothorax underwent thoracic interventional operations (thoracentesis and thoracic catheter drainage) by ultrasound guidance from May, 2018 to February, 2021 were involved in this study. Two groups were divided in randomly，one was sitting posture group, 312 patients was preformed operations in this postures, the other group included 383 patients who were in supine or lateral positions. The pleural reaction rates of the two groups were compared. Results The pleural reaction rates were 18.5% (58/312) in sitting posture group and 2.8% (11/383) in supine group, there were statistically significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion Postures of patients can affect the occurrence of pleural reaction, supine position can reduce the incidence of pleural reaction.
Multiple Fano resonances in gold split ring disk dimers
Authors: Yang Qi-Li , Zhang Xing-Fang , Liu Feng-Shou , Yan Xin , Liang Lan-Ju ,   School of Opt-Electronic Engineering, Zaozhuang University, Zaozhuang 277160, China,   Laboratory of Optoelectronic Information Processing and Display of Shandong, Zaozhuang 277160, China
Published: January 2022

A plasmonic dimer composed of a gold split ring and a gold disk is proposed. The scattering spectra and electromagnetic field distributions on the surface of the dimer are calculated by the finite difference time domain method, and the effects of split gap orientation and structural symmetry breaking of the ring on Fano resonance characteristics are theoretically investigated in detail. The results show the multiple Fano resonances that can be formed due to the destructive interference between the electric dipole mode of the disk and multiple multipolar modes of the split ring, and the red shift when the symmetry breaking of the split ring is broken. When the split gap of the ring is parallel to the interparticle axis of the dimer, multiple Fano resonances based on the odd-order mode and the even-order mode of the split ring can be generated, and more even-order Fano resonances can be formed due to the further symmetry breaking of the split ring. In addition, a more refined scattering spectrum can be obtained as the ring internal surface moves far away from the disk along the interparticle axis. On the other hand, Fano resonances based on the lower order multipolar modes of the ring can be increased as they move away from the split gap. When the split gap of the ring is perpendicular to the interparticle axis of the dimer, only the even-order Fano resonances can be excited, and these resonances increase with the ring internal surface going away from the disk no matter whether the split gap of the ring faces the disk or not. As the structural symmetry of the dimer is further broken due to the ring internal surface moving along the split gap direction, the odd-order Fano resonance can be successfully produced in the dimer with the split gap coming back to the disk, at the same time, the even-order Fano resonances are gradually weaken perhaps due to the complicated competitive behaviors of spectral overlapping between the dipole mode of the disk and multipolar mode of the ring in energy. However, there is no odd-order Fano resonance appearing in the dimer with the split gap facing the disk except for a slightly increased even-order Fano resonance, as the structural symmetry of the dimer is further broken. These results are expected to be useful in designing multiple Fano controllable split ring disk dimers and also developing the application of multiwavelength micro-nano photonics.
Design of Complementary Hexagonal Metamaterial Based HMSIW Band-Pass Filter and Reconfigurable SIW Filter Using PIN Diodes
Authors: Boubakar H. , Abri M. , Benaissa M.
Published: January 2022

This paper is divided into two sections, in the first section, a new SIW and a half-mode SIW band-pass filters based on complementary hexagonal metamaterial cells (C-HMCs) are proposed. Firstly, the SIW is analyzed in case of using two C-HMC cells and in the case of using four of these cells.  Secondly, the HMSIW tunable BPF is studied and optimized. The size of the half mode is reduced by almost 50%. This filter design has a very high insertion loss about -0.4 dB, and significant transmission bandwidth extending from 5.9 GHz to 6.5 GHz. In the second section of this paper, an electronically reconfigurable SIW band-pass filter is proposed. By implementing two PIN diodes in the gaps of the two C-HMC, the results of turning the diodes ON or OFF individually is a switching in the frequency center, between 5.8 GHz and 6.8 GHz. Also, a dual band with two frequency centers at (5.6 GHz and 7.4 GHz) is achieved by turning both of the diodes ON. In addition, the metamaterial properties of all the proposed filters are investigated and presented in this work.
A Hybrid Common Mode Choke Optimization Method for Input Line EMI Filter Design
Authors: Khelladi S. , Saci K. , Hadjadj A. , Ales A.
Published: January 2022

In this paper, an optimization method of toroidal core-based Hybrid common-mode chokes (HCMCs) for the design of an Electromagnetic interferences (EMI) filter is proposed. A dedicated algorithm is developed using MATLAB to characterize compact HCMCs that exhibit effective CommonMode (CM) chokes with optimized leakage inductances by systematic variations in the winding patterns and geometric dimensions of their magnetic cores. It takes into consideration the physical limitations of these components as well as the constraints related to the design of EMI filters. The proposed algorithm allows through a small computational task to propose a variety of configurations for optimal HCMCs. Finite element method (FEM) simulations are conducted on the HCMCs to extract their CM and leakage inductances. The results are compared with those calculated analytically and yield a good match. The performances of optimized HCMCs are evaluated through their implementation in the designed filter. All the cases of HCMCs including the smallest one allow the EMI filter to easily qualify a power converter to an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standard.
A Compact High Gain Printed Antenna with Frequency Selective Surface for 5G Wideband Applications
Authors: Kapoor A. , Mishra R. , Kumar P.
Published: January 2022

In this article, a frequency selective surface (FSS) based compact wideband printed antenna radiator with improved gain and directivity is proposed for sub-6 GHz 5G wireless networking applications. Due to their inherent property of possessing spatial filtering characteristics, FSSs are attracting the interest of researchers. An approach for increasing the gain and the directivity by integrating a band pass FSS on a compact built patch antenna radiator is proposed here. The architecture equations for designing the band pass FSS using double square loop geometry are defined. The printed patch antenna radiator (PAR) and a double square loop frequency selective surface (DSLFSS) are designed and integrated. The simulation results are verified using the results from the measuring setup. The output response is giving a fractional bandwith of 19.14% with 5.5 dBi gain and 6.2 dBi of directivity and thus makes it the good choice for 5G applications.
Bacterial Aetiology and Susceptibility of Pathogens Associated with Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Pusushottam M Deborah , Padmaja Nasepogu , Rao A Venkateshwara
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Acne vulgaris is a pilosebaceous disorder among youth during puberty and also in young adults. Hormonal imbalance, bacterial activity and inflammation can cause acne formation. Due to some anti-inflammatory effects and temporary self treatment of acne using some antibiotics, there is overuse/ improper use of antimicrobial agents which leads to resistance in bacterial strains. Aim: To provide an overview of bacteria that may cause acne and determine their susceptibility to antibiotics and reduce the overuse of antibiotics which leads to antibiotic resistance. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study done on samples from from 100 patients with chief complaints of acne, attending Dermatology Department at Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation (KIMS RF). This study was done between November 2019 to February 2021. Acne pustules were cultured on all the basic media like blood agar and Mac Conkey agar, under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Bacterial identification was performed by gram staining and relevant biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility was done based on the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) 2019. Data was calculated and analysed statistically by Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21.0. Results: Total 100 participants were taken for the study. Females (63%) were more commonly affected as compared to males (37%) and the most commonly affected age group was teenage i.e., 10 to 20 years in both male and females. Among 100 subjects, 77 cases showed bacterial growth by aerobic and anaerobic culture and 23 cases showed negative for bacterial culture. All isolates were susceptible to rifampin (100%) (p<0.001). Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) was susceptible to doxycycline (88.8%) and minocycline (88.8%), while 22.3% was resistant to erythromycin, clindamycin, and tetracycline while 33.3% showed resistance to ofloxacin. Gram positive cocci like Staphylococcus epidermidis (S.epidermidis) was susceptible to the antibiotic minocycline and rifampin (100%); but resistant to quinolines like ofloxacin (52.5%) macrolides like erythromycin (62.5%), clindamycin (47.5%) and tetracycline (17.5%). The susceptibility of gram positive cocci like S. epidermidis to doxycycline was (87.5%), which was lower than that of P. acnes (88.8%). Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was found to be sensitive to minocycline (90.9%), doxycycline (72.7%), clindamycin (63.6%), and tetracycline (63.6%); but it was resistant to macrolide like erythromycin (45.5%) and quinolines like ofloxacin (36.5%). Conclusion: This study suggested that bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity can be better suggested if the culture and sensitivity is available so that, sensitivity and resistant pattern is known. The use of clindamycin and macrolide (erythromycin) needs to be reduced as most gram positive cocci like S. epidermidis were resistant to both.
Revisiting the Delphi Technique in Orthodontics: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rao Gururajaprasad Kaggal Lakshmana , Iskandar Yulita Hanum P , Mokhtar Norehan
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The Delphi technique is an iterative, multi-stage process that consists of questioning a panel of experts through a structured group communication process to reach a consensus on specific issues. The study is a systematic review of the available literature in orthodontics which has utilised the Delphi technique to seek consensus on a range of issues. Aim: To identify and summarise the studies which have utilised the Delphi technique as a method for gathering consensus in the speciality field of orthodontics. The study evaluated the various characteristics of the Delphi technique. Materials and Methods: This systematic review followed the methodology of a preset article inclusion and exclusion criteria using an electronic database search using the keywords consensus, Delphi, Delphi technique, Delphi studies, expert opinion was conducted in March 2021. A range of electronic databases comprising PubMed, Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), Google Scholar, Web of Science and Scopus were searched dated from (January 1990 to March 2021) to identify the studies which involved the use of Delphi in orthodontics. Following this, two authors reviewed and scored each of the studies before finalising a list of five studies to be included in this review. Results: The searches revealed a total of 187 studies out of which only five studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. Each of the five studies was assessed by two independent assessors. The five studies involved an expert panel from multiple health professionals involving orthodontic specialists, maxillofacial surgeons, nurses, speech therapists, and nutritionists. Five domains (theme, panel constitution, panel size, number of iterations and the level at which consensus reached) were identified and assessed in each of the five studies. Conclusion: The study has identified and reviewed the Delphi technique and its usage in orthodontics but has also provided a sound description and elaboration of the various components and characteristics of the Delphi technique in addition to providing some correlations between expert panel size and the number of iterations.
Glycated Haemoglobin: Is it a Better Reference Method than Oral Glucose Tolerance Test for the Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Puri Meenakshi , Upadhyay Lal Chandra , Gogoi Parijat
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Insulin resistance during pregnancy is associated with adverse effects on foetal and maternal health, including macrosomia, congenital malformations, perinatal mortality and pre-eclampsia. A 100 g Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) is recommended by World Health Organisation (WHO) as the diagnostic test for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). However, the inconvenience caused to the pregnant females due to time consuming and cumbersome multi-invasive procedure for performing OGTT has prompted the exploration of an alternative method. Aim: To ascertain whether Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) can be used instead of OGTT for diagnosis of GDM. Materials and Methods: It was a case-control study which was conducted for one year from June 2012 to May 2013. In this study, 200 pregnant females with gestational age from 22-40 weeks underwent Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Glucose Challenge Test (GCT) with 50 g glucose load, OGTT and HbA1c investigations. Results: The mean HbA1c of Group 1 with GDM was 5.29±0.68% and mean HbA1c of Group 2 without GDM was 4.83±0.46%. At the HbA1c cut-off of ≥5.85%, 18% of GDM patients were identified with specificity of 97%. A higher HbA1c cut-off of ≥5.95% showed sensitivity and specificity of 16.3% and 70%, respectively. An arbitrary cut-off of ≥5.85% would have diagnosed only 18% of patients with GDM with reasonable specificity. According to this study, 88% of GDM cases stayed undiagnosed by HbA1c at a cut-off of ≥5.85%. Hence, it can play only a supplemental role to OGTT in diagnosing GDM. Conclusion: On the basis of the present study, HbA1c can be used as a supplemental investigation in addition to OGTT for confirmation of GDM in pregnant females. Only drawback was the lack of fixed HbA1c cut-off for diagnosing GDM.
An Insight into Pyogenic Granuloma with Ossification: Exploring a Unique Association
Authors: Dave Aparna , Arora Manpreet , Saluja Pulin , Singhal Ishita , Singh Priyanka
Published: January 2022

Pyogenic Granulomas (PG) are reactive hyperplastic lesions that are formed in relation to some chronic irritation, physical trauma or hormonal factors. The PG may present in various clinical and histological forms. These often present as a smooth lobulated exophytic lesions and at times may show a marked resemblance to Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma (POF). However, the characteristic histologic presentation helps in differentiating both the lesions. Microscopically, presence of ossification in pyogenic granuloma is not common and could possibly indicate an altered response of the connective tissue stroma. The present case report shows occurrence of pyogenic granuloma in a 12-year-old female which on histological examination not only exhibited proliferating blood vessels, endothelial cells and inflammatory cells which are typical features of pyogenic granuloma but also exhibited areas of ossifications which are not frequently encountered in PG. It is important to explore the underlying aetiological factors that could lead to formation of such ossifications. It has been suggested that pyogenic granuloma and peripheral ossifying fibroma could represent part of same spectrum of focal reactive lesions. However, it is still considered that these two lesions are separate clinical entities and the histologic presentations are different and unique to both of them.
Demographic and Biochemical Parameters of Community Survey Participants with Metabolic Syndrome from Terai Region of Nepal
Authors: Jha Birendra Kumar , Sherpa Mingma Lhamu , Dahal Binod Kumar , Singh Jitendra Kumar , Gupta Chamma
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is a multifactorial disease associated with central obesity, hypertension, atherogenic dyslipidemia and impaired glucose tolerance. Low grade inflammatory and a prothrombotic state are also involved in MS. Aim: To explore the demographic and biochemical parameters of participants with MS in Terai region of Nepal using community based cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out during September 2019-December 2019 in adult participants with central obesity (n=378) selected from three districts of Terai region of Nepal. International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria were used to define MS. The C-reactive protein-ultra sensitive, fibrinogen, and apolipoprotein-B were estimated as inflammatory, prothrombotic, and atherogenic dyslipidemia markers, respectively. Results: The MS was present in 283 participants with central obesity. The mean (±SD) age, height, weight, and BMI of the participants with MS were 46.36±12.52 years, 5.56±0.11 feet, 66.54±13.45 kg and 27.28±4.98 kg/m2, respectively. The mean (±SD) of biochemical factors were significantly different than their respective normal ranges: decreased serum High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in mg/dL (male: 34.50±9.93, p<0.001, female: 36.77±7.28, p<0.001), raised serum triglycerides level- 184.96±85.72 mg/dL (p<0.001), and impaired fasting serum glucose level 108.14±48.27 mg/dL (p=0.002). Significant increase in inflammatory (CRP-US: 1.12±2.17 mg/L, p<0.001), prothrombotic (fibrinogen: 3.42±1.04 gm/L, p<0.001) and atherogenic dyslipidemia marker (Apo-B: 149.35±59.13 mg/dL, p=0.003) from normal values were observed in subjects with MS. Conclusion: Lowered serum HDL cholesterol, increased triglycerides followed with impaired fasting glucose tolerance were observed as the major abnormal biochemical parameters and increased inflammatory and prothrombotic activities were present among participants with MS.
Acute Effect of Resistance Exercise on Serum Cortisol and its Correlation to Blood Glucose in Healthy Non Obese Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Madavi Hemant , Kanawjia Preeti , Chaudhary Manju Jyoti , Srivastava Chitra , Saxena Jalaj
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Different types and intensity of resistance training/ exercises lead to variable cortisol responses, which is essential for growth and homeostasis on short term and long term basis. But the variable responses are not accurately defined to be of any help in tailoring one’s exercise program. Aim: To study the effect of resistance exercise on serum cortisol and its correlation to blood glucose in healthy non obese subjects. Materials and Methods: It was an experimental analytical pilot study extending from February 2017-July 2018 involving 48 healthy non obese subjects (24 males and 24 females) of age group 18-25 years, were enrolled in the study after the screening protocol. High volume exercise training regimen was used involving major muscle group of arms, legs and trunk. Regime involved five exercises with three sets. Between each set, subjects took 30 seconds rest and with each exercise, a rest period of one minute. Height, weight were measured to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI) and serum blood glucose was done along with serum cortisol. Results: The serum cortisol levels in males in pre-exercise group was 145.47±33.67 μg/dL while postexercise group had 116.57±34.40 μg/dL reflecting moderately significant decrease (p<0.01). The serum cortisol levels in females in pre-exercise group were 141.83±38.38 μg/dL while in postexercise group 118.46±35.53 μg/dL with a moderately significant decrease (p<0.01). The Random Blood Sugar (RBS) levels in both males and females postexercise was significantly increased (p<0.05). There was decrease in serum cortisol levels in comparison to rise in RBS in both genders, a highly significant decrease (p<0.001) in males in comparison to moderately significant decrease (p<0.05) in females. Conclusion: Resistance exercise induced decrease in cortisol hormone and its interplay with serum glucose can be better understood by multivariate/elaborate studies on a large sample size.
Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Multifactorial Endocrine Disorder
Authors: Sukul Surankita , Ramesh Pushkal Sinduvadi , Agasti Narahari
Published: January 2022

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting a significant population of women of reproductive age group worldwide. Due to the complex pathophysiology and overlapping symptoms, this disorder is often difficult to diagnose. Genome-wide association studies have identified several new risk loci and candidate genes for PCOS. However, currently, there are no standard genetic markers for PCOS susceptibility testing owing to the inconsistent findings. Despite the advent of the genomic era, the challenge to identify and pinpoint the heritable genetic basis of PCOS still exists. This mini-review explores the basic definition and phenotypes of PCOS, the different criteria for the diagnosis, the incidence, gestational complications associated with it, the basis of genetic heritability, and the influence of various gene polymorphisms. Also, this review briefly summarises the reports of genome-wide association studies conducted to identify candidate genetic markers to aid in understanding the complex pathophysiology of PCOS.
Frequency of CYP2C19*2 Allele in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Cross-sectional Study from Central Kerala, India
Authors: George Christina Ann , Sreedharan Shibu Thadathil , Satheesan Smitha Kalarikkal , Surendranath Sindhu Panakkaparambil
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Ischaemic Heart Diseases (IHD) are increasing at an alarming rate globally. Pharmacotherapy, the mainstay of management of IHD, has Dual Antiplatelet Therapy (DAPT) at its crux. DAPT, comprising of clopidogrel and aspirin, is used often for 12 months in medically managed Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). Clopidogrel being a prodrug, needs to be activated after ingestion, mainly by Cytochrome family of enzymes, for the desired pharmacological effects. Abnormal enzymes that convert clopidogrel to its active form can reduce the effectiveness of the drug. Therefore, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) of the enzymes involved, would predispose the patient to therapy failure and recurrence of the illness. This study aims at identifying the presence of a genetic variant associated with clopidogrel responsiveness in patients with ACS. Aim: To estimate the frequency of CYP2C19*2 allele in patients with ACS presenting to Government Medical College, Thrissur, Kerala, India. Materials and Methods: Present study was a cross-sectional study done among 60 patients who presented to Government Medical College, Thrissur with ACS, between June 2018 to June 2019. Having obtained informed consent from the participants blood samples were collected in Ethylene diamine tetra-acetic Acid (EDTA) tubes. Samples were used to look for presence of CYP2C19*2 allele by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Results: Out of 60 patients 38 were males and 22 were females. Most common age group was 61-65 years. The frequency of CYP2C19*2 allele was 41% in the study population and the variant genotype (AA/AG) was present in 62%. Conclusion: The variant genotype was found to be present in a high frequency in the study population implying the high risk for therapy failure in the study population. This asserts the need to probe the matter further, as the gene is also implicated in the metabolism of several other drugs. The introduction of pharmacogenomic testing prior to initiation of therapy may be therefore recommended for better treatment outcome. However, to validate the same, further studies with larger sample size may be necessary.
Decomposition Analysis of Poverty among Rural Farming Household in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ifeoluwa A. Adeleye , Ibikunle E. Obabire , Yetunde O. Fasuan , O. Babadiji Abike
Published: January 2022

The incidence of poverty in Nigeria is worrisome, and it has constituted a national menace. The occurrence of poverty incidence had been found to be more pronounced among Rural farming households in the country. However, paucity of data exists in terms of decomposition of household poverty into relevant subgroups using their socio-economic characteristics. Therefore, this paper assessed the decomposition analysis of poverty among rural farming Households in Oyo State, Nigeria using the data collected through a well-structured interview schedule from 170 respondents who were selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure. Data collected were described using frequency counts and percentage while poverty Indices was analyzed using Foster-Greer Thorbecke model and Decomposition analysis. The findings revealed that higher proportion (73.5%) of the respondents were above 40 years, 65.3% were male, 78.2% were married and 27.6% had secondary education, while 62.4% had household size of between 5 and 9 persons. Majority (79.4%) had farm size of more than 1.5 hectares and 62.9% had no access to remittance. Poverty incidence (P0) was 40.59%, Poverty depth/gap (P1) was 16.11% and Poverty severity (P2) was 0.09%, among the respondents using income-poverty line measure. Decomposition analysis showed that Poverty was high among households that were headed by male, young with low literacy level, and large household size. The severity of poverty was higher among households headed by labour of other farms. Effective poverty reduction strategies should therefore focus on education, livelihood diversification and control of household size.
Growth, Instability and Decomposition Analysis of Nutri Cereals in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Nivetha T. , Uma K.
Published: January 2022

Aim: The study was undertaken to know the growth rate, instability, and contribution of area and yield on the production of Nutri cereals.

Place and Duration: The study was based on the secondary data for the period of 20 years (2001- 2020) for Tamil Nadu. Data has been collected from Agricultural statistics at a glance (2020), Season and Crop report (2020).

Methodology: The growth rate of Nutri cereals can be estimated through compound annual growth rate, instability is measured using Coppock’s instability index and contribution of area and yield on production is studied using decomposition analysis.

Results: Results revealed that Nutri cereals growth rate is found to be negative in first decade and positive in second decade Production of Nutri cereals in both the decades found positive in decline trend. The trend of productivity seems positive for both the decades at declining rate. Instability index is higher in terms of production than area and productivity. Area effect was most responsible for the production of Nutri cereals than yield and interaction effect.

Conclusion: The area effect is more responsible for production of Nutri cereals. Area effect on production of Nutri cereals is high, hence government should intervene in this regard to improve the area of Nutri cereals cultivation.
How CSR Moderates the Impact of Basic Industry and Chemicals Companies' Values in Indonesia
Authors: Sari Widya , Wijaya Leondy , . Sherly , Sofian Sally
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to see how the influence of profitability and corporate governance on firm value with or without CSR as a moderating variable. The researchers collected data on companies in the Basic Industry and Chemicals sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange by accessing the website www.idx.co.id.  The population in this study consisted of 80 companies and a sample of 27 companies with a five-year research period. The research method used was quantitative, utilizing data analysis techniques based on the Partial Least Squares (PLS) model and Smart PLS software. The results showed that institutional ownership (p-value 0.064) has no effect on firm value, managerial ownership (p-value 0.462) has no effect on firm value, independent commissioners (p-value 0.836) has no effect on firm value, ROE (p-value 0.119) has no effect on firm value and the audit committee (p-value 0.012) has a positive effect on firm value, institutional ownership with CSR as a moderating variable (p-value 0.756) has no effect on firm value, managerial ownership with CSR as a moderating variable (p -value 0.141) has no effect on firm value, the audit committee with CSR as a moderating variable (p-value 0.084) has no effect on firm value, independent commissioners with CSR as a moderating variable (p-value 0.745) has no effect on firm value, ROE with CSR as a moderating variable (p-value 1.906) has no effect on firm value an, institutional ownership (P-value = 894) has no effect on CSR, managerial ownership (P-value = .361) has no effect on the audit committee CSR (P-value = .984) has no effect on CSR,  Independent Commissioner (P- value = .000) has a negative effect on CSR, ROE (P-value = .001) has a negative effect on CSR, CSR (P-value = .018) has a positive effect on firm value.
Scale To Measure the Attitude of Perennial Crop Farmers towards Climate Change in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Bharath D. , Velusamy R. , Pushpa J. , Prabakaran K.
Published: January 2022

The degree of positive or negative affect associated with a psychological object is referred to as attitude. Any symbol, phrase, slogan, person, institution, idea or ideal toward which people could differ in terms of positive or negative influence can be used as a psychological object. Attitude scale provides a quantitative assessment of attitudes, views, or values by summarizing numerical scores assigned by researchers to people's replies to sets of statements investigating different aspects of a central subject. The objective of this research was to construct and standardize the same. A scale measuring the attitude of perennial crop farmers towards climate change in Tamil Nadu is developed. One hundred possible statements were prepared to assess the perennial crop farmers attitude towards climate change using the five-point continuum. The S-value and Q-value of each statement were found. The scale was developed using the equal appearing interval method, which comprises of 10 statements (four positive and six negative).
Economic Storytelling, Tourism Improvement Districts and University Partnerships
Authors: Testa Mark R. , J. Sipe Lori
Published: January 2022

Business Improvement Districts (BID), sometimes called Tourism Marketing Districts (TMD) are innovative initiatives that levy assessments as a means of funding what might be traditionally paid for by local government. A recent increase in such organizations internationally may provide universities with an opportunity for a variety of positive benefits including revenue, research, educational improvement, and impactful student experiences. Universities and colleges have a history of partnering with industry, often referred to as University-Industry Partnerships (UIC), as a means for confronting ever-increasing economic challenges and shrinking budgets. Indeed, as funding for public universities continues to decrease, schools and departments within the university are forced to seek alternative revenue streams. The goal of the current study is to provide a conceptual model for understanding and engaging in economic storytelling as the research arm of such organizations. A case study of the partnership between San Diego State University and San Diego’s Tourism Marketing District is assessed against a model of best practices in partnering. Results highlight the value of the model and provide direction for other University-Industry Partnerships (UIC).
Evaluation of Antioxidant and Protease-inhibitory Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg)
Authors: Veerendrakumar S. Prateek , Gayathri R. , Priya V. Vishnu , Selvaraj J. , Kavitha S.
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Myristica fragrans is an important commercial plant used for spices. The plant has been traditionally used as an anticancer, anti inflammatory, antioxidant, sedative hypnotics and antimicrobial agent. Plants have played an important role in maintaining human health & improving the quality of human life for thousands of years and have served humans well as valuable components of medicines.

Methods: Ethanolic extract of myristica fragrans was obtained by hot percolation method. Preliminary Phytochemical screening of the extract was done .Antioxidant and anti inflammatory potential of ethanolic extract of myristica fragrans was analysed. The data were analysed statistically using two – way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s multiple range test to assess the significance of individual variations between the groups. In Tukey’s test, significance was considered at the level of p<0.05.

Results: Ethanolic extract of Myristica fragrans (Nutmeg) was rich in the phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids and saponins. IC50 of antioxidant activity of ethanolic extract of Myristica fragrans was found to be 300 µg/ml. IC50 of anti-inflammatory potential of the ethanolic extract of Myristica fragrans was found to be 360 µg/ml.

Conclusion: From the study, it was evident that the ethanolic extract of myristica fragrans has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. In future, the extract can be validated as a drug formulation.
Antimicrobial Activity and Cytotoxicity of Mouthwash Prepared from Azadirachta indica and Stevia rebaudiana Extract– An In vitro Study
Authors: Maheshwaran Bipin , Priyadharshini R. , Kumar S. Rajesh , Sinduja Palati
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Mouth wash are generally utilized as subordinates to oral cleanliness and in the conveyance of dynamic specialists to the teeth and gums. These flushes can impact plaque development and adjust the course of gingival irritation. Azadirachta indica (Neem) was utilized to treat different skin illnesses, as a disinfectant substance and as a natural mouthwash. Stevia rebaudiana can inhibit the growth of microorganisms that are responsible for dental caries.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity from Neem and Stevia based Mouthwash.

Materials and Methods: Plant extract was prepared and an antimicrobial and cytotoxic effect was done by considering various parameters. The antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles prepared using plant extract was investigated and the results of the test were described as the standard deviation and analyzed. For the cytotoxic activity, an ELISA plate was used, wherein the mortality rate of the nauplii was estimated with the plant extract mediated nanoparticles at different concentrations. Data’s were statistically analyzed by Spearman correlation through SPSS version 23.

Results: Anti-microbial activity showed positive correlation with increase in concentration (r=1). The cytotoxic activity showed negative correlation with the number of live nauplii decreased in the second day when compared to the first day suggesting that the extract has potent cytotoxic activity (r=-1).

Conclusion: Neem and Stevia extract helped us to detect the antimicrobial activity and cytotoxic effect on the various species in different concentration levels. The study needs to be evaluated further for isolating the possible compounds to test the effectiveness of antimicrobial activity in the oral cavity of the human body to prevent various diseases.
An Early Comprehensive Physiotherapy Approach towards Reconditioning of Patient with Empyema Thoracis: A Case Study
Authors: Pathan Anam , Yadav Vaishnavi , Jain Moli , Saifee Sakina
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary tuberculosis is considered among the most common air-borne respiratory disease. TB is found almost all over the globe but it is also curable and preventable. However, it frequently has several negative consequences on the lung, which affects the patient's exercise tolerance capacity, everyday activities, and, ultimately, quality of life. The PTB is frequently associated with various subsequent problems. Few of which are presented in this case, along with their management. The current case involves a 36-year-old girl who had a history of pulmonary tuberculosis and was re-diagnosed with it, albeit with difficulties. She initially suffered pleural effusion, for which therapeutic tapping was performed, but it later progressed to empyema thoracis. She underwent thoracocentesis, which involved draining the fluid and breaking the fibrous septations, followed by the insertion of ICD drainage. Medical management was successful, but to return the patient to her normal daily routine activities without any signs of dyspnea or fatigue, a comprehensive rehabilitation program incorporating various respiratory techniques was devised, which proved to be an effective protocol in improving the patient's respiratory condition.
Saudi Physicians' Awareness and Practice of Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome Patients
Authors: Maliki Reem Al , Hawsawi Talal Ibrahim , Alrajab Fatimah Ismail , Alatawi Nouf Abdulaziz , Jamjoom Mohammed Omar , Shakally Mohamad Souleman , Alzahrani Khames T.
Published: January 2022

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, has resulted in considerable mortality, morbidity, and unprecedented strain on healthcare systems throughout the world. As the pandemic evolves, one of those challenges has become increasingly common - the post-COVID-19 syndrome. Approximately 10-20% of SARS-CoV-2 patients who experienced an acute symptomatic phase are still experiencing some effects beyond 12 weeks. To assess knowledge, awareness and practice about effectiveness and benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation for post-covid-19 syndrome patients and their practical barriers and opportunities, and education and training needs among Saudi physicians.

Methodology: A cross-sectional online survey was held among healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia. Department of internal medicine, Heraa General Hospital, between January 2021 and November 2021. The questionnaire was sent to Saudi physicians from data collectors face-to-face through smartphone apps. The questionnaire covered the talk about pulmonary rehabilitation knowledge and familiarity among Saudi physicians, support and practice, barriers to pulmonary rehabilitation integration, and interest in learning more about pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Results: A total of 1111 responded to the survey. The mean age of the participants was 33 years old, with mean years of experience of about 6.95 years. The majority of respondents (n=949) (85.4%) work in urban areas and come from various regions, including the west (n=407) (36.6%), east (n=195) (17.6%), north (n=150) (13.5%), south (n=150) (13.5%) and central region (n=209) (18.8%). More than half of the respondents were physicians (n=750) (67.5%) from different specialties, and the mean number of covid-19 patients seen by physicians was 5.68% per day.

Conclusion: Participants in this study showed a positive attitude toward pulmonary rehabilitation. They believe their patients would benefit from Pulmonary rehabilitation, are interested in referring post-covid-19 patients to rehabilitation providers and co-managing their care, and would like more educational opportunities in order to increase their knowledge of the safety and efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation.
Comparative Analysis of Specific Gravity with Hemoglobin of the Blood - Clinicopathological Analysis
Authors: Surya C. , Sinduja Palati , Priyadharshini R.
Published: January 2022

Aim: The study aims to analyze the specific gravity with the hemoglobin of the blood.

Introduction: The ratio of the density of a substance to the density of the water at a specified temperature and pressure is known as specific gravity. Blood is a fluid connective tissue that delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells and transports metabolic waste away from the cells. Red blood cells are biconcave disc-shaped cells produced from bone marrow. It contains proteins that transport oxygen from the lungs to all the parts of the body. The term heme reforms to the iron-containing porphyrin. The aim of the study was to analyse the specific gravity of Hemoglobin of the blood.

Materials and Methods: 10 random blood samples were collected from the patients in Saveetha Dental College. Then the samples were centrifuged and the blood-specific gravity and hemoglobin were analyzed from the sample using a multi-reagent strip and the specific gravity and hemoglobin was determined.

Results and Discussion: The mean specific gravity value of age group 21 - 30 years is 1.015, the mean specific gravity value of age group 31 - 40 years is 1.018, the mean specific gravity value of age group 41 - 50 is 1.016, and the mean specific gravity value of age group more than 50 years is 1.020. The mean specific gravity value of females is 1.01750 and the mean specific gravity value of males is 1.01750. The mean Hb value of females is 11.67 and the mean Hb value of males is 14.68.

Conclusion: The value of mean specific gravity is slightly increased among different age groups and the mean Hb value is also slightly increased with different age groups. Between genders mean specific gravity is equal to both genders and mean Hb value is more in males compared with females.
Mitral Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (MAPSE) as a Simple Index for Assessing Left Ventricular Function: An Observational Study
Authors: Balasubramaniyan Jayanti Venkata , Tripathi Ashutosh Prasad , Murthy J. S. Satyanarayana
Published: January 2022

Background: Mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) has been proposed as a parameter for assessing left ventricular function. The assessment of LVF has major diagnostic and prognostic implications in patients with cardiovascular diseases. LVF is measured by Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction, however the accuracy of LVEF estimation by two dimensional echocardiography is limited especially in patients with poor image quality. Mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) measurement predicts left ventricular function even in conditions with suboptimal echo window.

Objective: To assess the correlation of MAPSE derived LVEF with LVEF measured by Modified Simpson’s method.

Methods: This is a cross sectional study which included 279 patients admitted at our tertiary care hospital from December 2019 to March 2020 and the patients were divided in two groups. Group A – Patients with LVEF>= 50% and Group B – Patients with LVEF<50%. All patients underwent 2D echocardiographic examination using Modified Simpsons’ method and MAPSE measurement. The VIVID E9, VIVID T8, VIVID E95 and PHILIPS echocardiography machine was used for the non-invasive measurements. MAPSE was recorded at medial and lateral mitral annuli in the apical four-chamber approach.

Results: On analysis, a cut off value for average MAPSE-S (medial mitral annuli) was 8.5 was obtained, denoting preserved LV function with sensitivity of 81.7%, specificity of 84.9%, positive predictive value of 91.6% and negative predictive value of 84.9%. The AUC for MAPSE-S was 0.822. Similarly, the cut off value of average MAPSE-L (lateral mitral annuli) was 7.5 denoting impaired LV functions with an AUC of 0.826, sensitivity of 82.8%, specificity of 72.0%, positive predictive value of 85.6% and negative predictive value of 72.0%. The AUC of 82.6% was observed for MAPSE-L.

Conclusion: MAPSE reflects longitudinal myocardial shortening. MAPSE is a rapid and sensitive echocardiographic parameter for assessing normal LV function and global LV systolic dysfunction.