bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa L.) under Different Nutrient Solutions Grown Hydroponically with Aeration
Authors: John Paul R. Gapasin  , Rosario A. Salas
Published: November 2023

Vegetables such as lettuce, sweet pepper, cucumber, and celery have been successfully grown using Simple Nutrient Addition Procedure (SNAP) hydroponics. Insufficient oxygen supply is one of the direct consequences of reduced growth performance of plants grown hydroponically. The possibility of having a SNAP hydroponics aerated would be very much promising in improving the growth, yield and profitability of producing lettuce. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of aeration on the growth, yield and profitability of lettuce produced under two different nutrient solutions with and without aeration. Treatments (aeration intervals) were; no aeration, aeration daily, every 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 days for 30 minutes until harvest. Aeration intervals significantly increase the polar diameter of lettuce with the widest head of 12.20cm (aerated every 2 days) as well as on leaf chlorophyll content where aeration daily have the highest. Peter’s hydrosol nutrient solution with and without aeration was more cost-effective in lettuce production compared to SNAP A+SNAP B.
Fried Chicken Quality As Affected By Probiotic Feeding Supplementation
Authors: Nelfa C. Gil
Published: November 2023

Probiotics had been found promising in controlling food spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms thus maintaining the integrity of meat during processing. The study meant to determine the effect of locally-prepared probiotics from different growth media as feed supplement on the fried chicken’s sensory characteristics in terms of color, flavor, juiciness, tenderness, and general acceptability. Results showed that sensory acceptability of fried chicken flavor was significantly influenced by the probiotic from milk substrate (T1) with the highest mean acceptability rating of 8.17 and is characterized as moist, soft and light to brown color. Fried chicken flavor from other probiotic substrates, except from fish and from commercial probiotic, likewise exhibited significantly high mean acceptability on flavor. The Color, juiciness, tenderness, and overall mean acceptability rating had no significant difference throughout treatments. Highest gross margin was realized in T4 (probiotic from fish) and the least was from the commercial probiotics due to its high cost. This suggests that the sensory quality of the fried chicken using probiotics from different growth media was at par with the sensory quality of fried chicken from commercial probiotic but offers lower cost.
Liquid Nutrient Formulations for Red Rapid Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Production under Aggregate Hydroponic System
Authors: Felix M. Salas  , Rosario A. Salas
Published: November 2023

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of liquid nutrient formulations on the horticultural characteristics, yield, pigment composition, and free radical scavenging activity of lettuce under aggregate hydroponic production system. The efficacy of three nutrient solutions derived from golden snail, madre de agua, and tilapia fish effluent were evaluated using lettuce (Red Rapid) as test plant in completely randomized design. The aggregates were composed of river sand and coconut coir in a ratio of 3:1 by volume. The pigment composition and free radical scavenging activity were done through an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer. Results showed that lettuce grown on fermented golden snail (FGS)have comparable plant height and number of leaves with the plants grown on commercial inorganic nutrient solution. However, lettuce grown on FGS exhibited greater leaf size and yield significantly (p<0.05). Plants grown on tilapia fish effluent showed the highest chlorophyll A and total carotenoid contents followed by the plants grown on FGS which is comparable with the control. Moreover, lettuce grown on FGS gave the highest chlorophyll B content and free radical scavenging activity. The application of FGS enhanced the horticultural characteristics, yield and free radical scavenging activity of lettuce while tilapia fish effluent improved the pigment composition of the test plant. These results indicate the potential of FGS and tilapia fish effluent as valuable sources of organic fertilizer material for lettuce production under an aggregate hydroponic system which can be helpful in community resilience programs.
PHOTOTACTIC BEHAVIOR OF CROWN-OF-THORNS STARFISH, ACANTHASTER PLANCI (LINNAEUS, 1758) TO DIFFERENT LIGHT SPECTRA
Authors: Homer Hermes Y. de Dios  , Filipina B. Sotto
Published: November 2023

The phototactic behavior of COTS to steady and flashing LED light spectra such as blue (473nm), yellow (595nm), red (625nm) and white was observed/monitored using infrared closed circuit television (CCTV) camera. Steady LED light spectra had a significant effect on the locomotion rate of COTS (ANOVA; p<0.05) and there was no significant effect using flashing LED light spectra (ANOVA; p>0.05). COTS can be considered to be positively phototactic to steady blue spectrum (473 nm) with mean locomotion rate of 30.35 cm/min and negatively phototactic to steady white light with mean locomotion rate of 28.44 cm/min. Blue and white LED can act as photo stimulant either as attractant or repellent to crown-of-thorns starfish.
Komparasi Strategi Relationship Marketing Dan Pelayanan Prima Dengan Strategi Peningkatan Fee
Authors: Suryatama Fajar , Suhaji Suhaji
Published: November 2023

This study tested the 2 (two) corporate strategy funding, PT Adira DMF Relathionship with strategy and excellent service while its competitors, PT. Suzuki Finance Indonesia uses the strategy of Fee. This research seeks answers to whether the granting Fee factors other than in the form of cash, is there any other factors that may affect the decision of the dealer to give order to the Financing Institution. The results of this research is the Relationship Marketing strategy and excellent service can affect the decision of granting the order to the Institution by denying Financing amount of Fee is received.
Dampak Kebijakan Work From Home Terhadap Prestasi Kerja Pegawai Pemerintah Non Pegawai Negeri Satuan Kerja Pelaksanaan Jalan Nasional Wilayah I Provinsi Jawa Tengah Tahun 2020
Authors: Endratmoko Thyo , Rahayu Sri
Published: November 2023

Work Perfomance at WFH policy of PPNPN Satker Pelaksanaan Jalan Nasional Wilayah I Provinsi Jateng is greatly influenced by discipline, creativity and responsibility. The problems in thisÂ  research is to knowing the effect of discipline, creativity and responsibility at WFH Policy on Work Perfomance of PPNPN Satker Pelaksanaan Jalan Nasional Wilayah I Provinsi Jateng. In this study the type of research used is explanatory research. The population referred to in this study are 134 employees. The results of a simple correlation analysis for disciplne variables on work perfomance obtained tcount 2.668, creativity on work perfomance obtained tcount 4.943 and responsibility on work perfomance obtained tcount 3.753. Based on the calculated F test obtained Fvalue 443,10. The conclusion from this research is Discipline, Creativity and Responsibility at WFH Policy have an significant effect on Work Perfomance of PPNPN Satker Pelaksanaan Jalan Nasional Wilayah I Provinsi Jateng, both of partially and simultaneously.
PENGARUH KOMUNIKASI, PENDIDIKAN, DAN KOMPENSASI TERHADAP KINERJA PERANGKAT DESA DI KECAMATAN SURUH INFLUENCE OF COMMUNICATION, EDUCATION, AND COMPENSATION ON VILLAGE DEVICES PERFORMANCE IN SURUH SUB-DISTRICT
Authors: Lestari Desti , Rahayu Sri , Nurmiyati Nurmiyati
Published: November 2023

In the village administration, village officials are assigned to provide good services to the government and the interests of the local community in the government system, however the reality is that the performance or quality of service provided by village officials in the Subdistrict is low and this is often complained by local residents because they are slow and not responsive in serving the community. The factors that affect performance are communication, education, and compensation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of communication, education, and compensation on the performance of village officials in Suruh District.The population in this study were all village officials in Suruh District, amounting to 249 people with a sample of 153 which was calculated using the Slovin formula. The technique of collecting the sample is proportionate stratified random sampling, which is done with the education strata of SD, SMP, SMA. Communication, education, and compensation together have an influence on the performance of village officials with the correlation coefficient for communication of 0.617, for education of 0.587 and compensation of 0.521, which if interpreted the tendency is included in the medium category. In addition, communication, education and compensation have an influence on the performance of village officials indicated by the regression coefficient for communication of 0.304, for education the regression coefficient is 0.279 and the compensation regression coefficient is 0.287. The effect of communication, education, and compensation jointly affects the performance of village apparatus in Suruh District as shown in the results of the determination test of 55.9% with a calculated F value of 65.169 which is greater than F table 2.67 and a significance value of 0.000 which smaller than the significance level of 0.05.
ANALISIS EFISIENSI FAKTOR-FAKTOR PRODUKSI USAHATANI TEMBAKAU RAKYAT KABUPATEN TEMANGGUNG
Authors: Rhama Mubaroq Dwi , Woyanti Nenik
Published: November 2023

Di Kabupaten Temanggung, tanaman tembakau merupakan salah satu ciri khas petani. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh serta tingkat efisiensi dari faktor-faktor produksi usahatani tembakau rakyat, seperti jumlah bibit, jumlah pupuk kandang, jumlah pupuk urea, jumlah pestisida, dan jumlah tenaga kerja yang digunakan dalam produksi usahatani tembakau rakyat di Kabupaten Temanggung. Pengumpulan data primer dan memperoleh jumlah responden sebanyak 100 orang petani yang dilakukan dengan Teknik wawancara dan kuisioner. Metode yang digunakan dalam menjelaskan penelitian ini menggunakan metode analisis regresi berganda, sedangkan metode yang digunakan untuk menjelaskan efisiensi faktor-faktor produksi usahatani tembakau rakyat menggunakan fungsi produksi frontier stcochastic dengan bentuk fungsi produksinya adalah fungsi produksi Cobb-Douglass. Faktor-faktor produksi usahatani tembakau di Kabupaten Temangung dalam penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa variabel bibit, pupuk kendang, pupuk urea, dan pestisida berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap hasil produksi tembakau rakyat di Kabupaten Temanggung. Variabel tenaga kerja berpengaruh negatif tidak signifikan terhadap hasil produksi tembakau rakyat. Faktor-faktor produksi usahatani tembakau rakyat di Kabupaten Temanggung belum mencapai tingkat efisiensi baik dalam efisiensi teknis, efisiensi harga, maupun efisiensi ekonomis. Penyuluh pertanian diharapkan intensitas kegiatan penyuluhan pertanian harus ditingkatkan supaya petani semakin terampil dalam melakukan budidaya tembakaunya.
A Review of Enhancing Performance and Sustainability of RC Shear Walls
Authors: Edlebi Ghaida
Published: November 2023

Reinforced Concrete Shear walls are vertical components within a structure that are specifically engineered to counteract horizontal forces, such as those generated by wind or seismic activity. Their primary purpose is to enhance the stability and resilience of the building by redirecting these lateral forces to the foundation. This redirection effectively minimizes the building’s lateral movement during events like earthquakes or strong winds. Nowadays, building owners highly value the ability to ensure maintenance without incurring additional costs even in the face of major earthquakes. To achieve this, it’s crucial to reduce damage and maintain the reparability of structural elements. Multiple shear walls often bear heavy gravitational loads and remain susceptible to brittle breakdown due to shearing forces during lateral seismic loading. This susceptibility substantially increases the risk of a complete collapse of the entire shear wall system. The aim of this research paper is to comprehensively study and analyze various research endeavors concerning retrofitting methods employed to enhance the seismic resistance of new or pre-existing reinforced concrete (RC) shear. This analysis will include real-world case studies of examined structures. Moreover, this paper highlights the future potential and provides recommendations for effective retrofitting practices.
Inklusion – muligheder og begrænsninger for deltagelse belyst gennem børns perspektiver på deres skoleliv
Authors: Poulsen Christina Holm
Published: November 2023

Nærværende artikel er en sammenskrivning af centrale analytiske pointer fra min afhandling “Inklusion – muligheder og begrænsninger for deltagelse belyst gennem et børneperspektiv” med henblik på at tydeliggøre afhandlingens vidensbidrag. Artiklen rummer en præsentation af hovedpointer og en præcisering af de teoretiske begreber, der har haft betydning for min tilgang og mit analytiske fokus. Med afsæt i analyser af børns deltagelsesmuligheder knyttet til situerede samspil og skolens institutionelle betingelser bidrager artiklen med forståelser af inklusion som et spørgsmål om at udvikle fælles rådighed i en modsigelsesfuld skolepraksis. Det modsigelsesfulde knytter sig til, at skolens opgave både er at kvalificere optimalt og behandle lige, samt at individualisere og skabe fællesskaber blandt eleverne. En af artiklens centrale pointer er, at skoler har forskellige betingelser for at håndtere skolens modsigelsesfulde opgave og arbejde med de situationer, hvor børn kommer i vanskeligheder.
TRADE IN THE CONDITIONS OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Authors: Ćuzović Sreten , Sokolov-Mladenović Svetlana , Žigić Sandra
Published: November 2023

In modern conditions, when the Internet has reached the peak of its development and application., and enabled efficient and fast communication, the world is facing a series of changes that require adaptation to new circumstances. The road to a new digital-Internet economy is opening up. There is a digital transformation of the economy (trade) and society as a whole. Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, "fight" robots-cashiers, buy-sell on "Click", virtual trade, mobile platforms, e-money, lead to a turnaround in creating a new model of competitive advantage of trade in the conditions of "new-Web-Internet- digital "economy. It all takes place on a digital platform. It is negotiated, sold-bought, on a virtual platform, without the participants being seen. The World Bank predicts that 1/3 of traditional occupations will disappear by 2030, while the "Silicon Valley" oligarchy predicts that in 2050 the human brain ("identity-thinking entity") will be stored in a “klaud” environment. Physical-psychosociological- "material" and other recognizability of today's man, economy and society as a whole will be formatted in the form of a "digital" record. Therefore, futurists predict a new initiation of society as a whole on a new path of humanity: HUMANITY 2.0. The aim of this paper is to show the way trade works in the age of everyday changes on a global level. The expected results of this paper are to provide adequate information on the functioning of trade in the conditions of digital transformation, to present new models of society, humanity, economy-trade, better known in the futurist vision as "Digital format of new society, humanity and man-as a mosaic of harmonized details".
Pilot study of locomotor asymmetry in horses walking in circles with and without a rider
Authors: Egenvall Agneta , Clayton Hilary M. , Byström Anna
Published: November 2023

Background

Horses commonly show asymmetries that manifest as left (L)-right (R) differences in vertical excursion of axial body segments. Moving on a circle confounds inherent individual asymmetries. Our goals were to evaluate individual and group asymmetry patterns and compare objective data with subjective impressions of side preference/laterality in horses walking on L and R circles.

Methods

Fifteen horses walked on L and R circles unridden and ridden on long and short reins. Optical motion capture (150 Hz) tracked skin-fixed markers. Variables were trunk horizontal angle; neck-to-trunk angle; vertical range of motion (ROM) for the head, withers and sacrum; ROM for pelvic roll, pitch, and yaw; mean pelvic pitch; and ROM for hip, stifle and tarsal joints. Differences between inside and outside hind steps were determined for vertical minima and maxima of the head (HMinDiff/HMaxDiff), withers (WMinDiff/WMaxDiff) and sacrum (PMinDiff/PMaxDiff). Subjective laterality was provided by owners. Data analysis used mixed models, first without and then with subjective laterality. Iterative k-means cluster analysis was used to associate biomechanical variables with subjective laterality.

Results

PMaxDiff, PMinDiff and WMaxDiff indicated R limb asymmetry in both directions. WMinDiff indicated L (inside) fore asymmetry for L direction but was close to zero for R direction. Hip ROM was significantly smaller for the inside limb in both directions (L inside/outside: 16.7°vs. 20.6°; R: 17.8°vs. 19.4°). Stifle ROM was significantly larger for the inside limb in both directions (L: 43.1°vs. 39.0°; R: 41.9°vs. 40.4°). Taking the general direction effect into account the R hip and L stifle had larger ROM. Adding laterality to the models (seven horses L-vs. six horses R-hollow), PMaxDiff R hind asymmetry was more obvious for L-hollow horses than for R-hollow horses. L-hollow horses had greater pelvic roll ROM moving in Lvs. R direction. L-hollow horses had smaller inside and greater outside hip joint ROM in Lvs. R direction. R-hollow horses had a significant difference in HMinDiff between L (0 mm) and R (−14 mm) directions, indicating less head lowering at outside forelimb midstance in R direction, and larger outside tarsal ROM in R (38.6°)vs. L (37.4°) direction (p≤ 0.05). The variables that agreed most frequently with subjective laterality in cluster analysis were pelvic roll ROM, followed by HMinDiff and PMaxDiff.

Conclusion

Differences between horses walking in L and R directions were found both at group and individual levels, as well as evidence of associations with subjective laterality. Horses maintained more symmetric hip and stifle ROM and withers vertical motion when walking on the R circle. Findings suggest that left and right lateralised horses may not be perfect mirror images. Pelvic roll ROM emerged as a promising variable to determine laterality in walk as perceived by the rider, especially when considered together with other variables.
Os desafios enfrentados por pessoas com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) para a prática turística
Authors: Duarte Donária Coelho , Mora Maria Luíza Araújo
Published: November 2023

Este artigo objetiva apresentar os obstáculos enfrentados por pessoas com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) para a prática turística e apurar possíveis soluções para a sua inclusão no turismo. A metodologia, de cunho qualitativo, foi delineada por meio da aplicação de um questionário disponibilizado no Google Forms e enviado para 143 pessoas com TEA e familiares, a fim de entender quais os obstáculos enfrentados e quais sugestões esses indivíduos apresentaram para que haja sua completa inclusão na prática turística. O embasamento teórico contempla o turismo acessível e as características do TEA no contexto do turismo. Os resultados demonstram que os indivíduos pesquisados carecem de atendimento e infraestrutura qualificados e que devido a essa ausência, muitos deixam de viajar. Em relação às soluções, verifica-se que o treinamento de funcionários, o conhecimento sobre o TEA e a infraestrutura adequada são as maiores demandas por parte dos entrevistados para que haja possibilidade de retorno para o destino e/ou empreendimento.
Neisseria Gonorrhoeae: Its Dominant Properties to Establish Contact and Attachment that Facilitate Epithelial Invasion and Colonization From a Biochemist Perspective
Authors: Suryowati Trini
Published: November 2023

Aim: to discuss recent epidemiology of gonorrhoea and updates regarding its pathogenesis with a focus on biochemical aspects of contact and adhesion that preceded its epithelial invasion.

Discussion: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a Gram-negative obligate human pathogenic bacterium, infects human epithelial cells and causes sexually transmitted diseases in both males and females Gonorrhea rates are rising in many countries. It could lead to long-term health problems and even infertility. Vulnerable groups including men who have sex with men and sex workers appear to bear disproportionate burdens of gonorrhea. As N. gonorrhoeae advances through the steps of disease formation and pathogenesis (transmission, adherence, colonization and invasion, and also immune evasion), the bacterium expresses some virulence factors to facilitate its survival and replication; while at the same time keeping its existence barely invasive and almost undiscoverable by active immune cells. Adherence to epithelial cells becomes the first event that precedes invasion.

Conclusion: Adhesion of gonococci to mucosal epithelial cells appears to be a critical step in the pathogenesis of gonococcal infection. Gonococci can adhere to a variety of human cells. Gonorrhea has multiple surface proteins that facilitate adhesion. N. gonorrhoeae utilize type IV pili and Opa, opacity-associated proteins, surface proteins involved in cellular attachment that preceded its invasion, Lipooligosaccharides (LOS) and also the outer membrane protein porin (POrB).
Sustainability, Livelihood Security and Resilience to Climate Variability of Small Holders through Small Onion and Jasmine Cropping in NICRA Village of Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Sharmila Bharathi, C.
Published: November 2023

In Vadavathur & Jambumadai village, small onion is the major vegetable crop cultivated as an annual crop in more than 400 acres and it is the only source of income. In scarce rainfall situations in National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture NICRA village of Vadavathur and Jambumadai, practice of sole cropping (Small onion) is predominant but it is risky and often results in low yields or sometimes even in crop failure due to erratic monsoon rainfall and skewed distribution. To alleviate these problems in such areas of drought villages of Namakkal district crop diversification with perennial crop is a feasible option to minimize risk in crop production, ensure reasonable returns with limited care. Additional crop of onion with Jasmine is more profitable and is a key drought coping strategy especially for small and marginal farmers. Hence jasmine (20 cent) + small onion (80 cent) cultivation model is demonstrated in crop component mode in NICRA village instead of cultivating small onion as a sole crop in an area of 1 acre/ 0.4 ha. Considering the yield, jasmine flower yield was obtained in the range of 545 to 747 kg/ 20 cent and in case of small onion, the bulb yield of 4800 kg was harvested from 80 cent/season. Highest net returns of Rs.134622 / 20 cent was obtained from Jasmine cultivation compared to small onion of Rs.48,810 / 80 cent /season.
Growth Response of Wheat as Affected by Different Nutrient Sources and NPK Levels under Vertisols
Authors: Vishwakarma Megha , Kulhare P. S. , Tagore G. S. , Gontia A. S.
Published: November 2023

Growth analysis such as crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR), leaf area index (LAI) and net assimilation rate (NAR) are the most important traits in prediction of yield. Keeping in this view a field experiment was conducted to estimate growth response of wheat as affected by different nutrient sources and NPK levels under Vertisols in split plot design with 3 replications at the experimental field of JNKVV, Jabalpur during winter (Rabi) 2019. The treatment comprised of 3 sources of nutrient M1- Inorganic sources (NPK fertilizers), M2- organic sources (FYM, vermicompost, biofertilizers Azotobacter and PSB) and M3- Integrated sources (50% Inorganic + 50% organic) as main treatments and 5 NPK levels S1- control, S2- 100% RDF, S3- 150% RDF, S4- 200% RDF, S5- Based on soil test value (STV) for target yield of 6 t ha-1 as sub treatments were replicated thrice. The results showed that among the different sources of nutrients, maximum growth responses was found with inorganic sources of nutrient, which was significant over organic sources of nutrient followed by integrated sources of nutrient. All the growth characters (LAI, NAR, RGR and NAR) were higher at high fertility (200% RDF) which was found significant over 100% RDF and STV based value and at par with 150% RDF. Thus, from the present investigation concluded that the adequate supply of plant nutrient in inorganic sources with 150% RDF levels helps in better growth of wheat which ultimately helps in higher yield.
Risk Factors Associated with Hypertension among Adults 18-65 Years in Kirinyaga County, Kenya
Authors: Mwaga Dickson Kinyua , Odongo Alfred Owino , Kerochi Atei
Published: November 2023

Hypertension is one of the non-communicable diseases linked with heart disease and accounts for about 64% of stroke cases globally. BP is becoming the leading global public health problem with over 10M death every year. Despite growing evidence that high blood pressure is on the rise, information about its risks factors on patients seeking medical care in Kenyan hospitals is limited. This research investigated the risk factors associated with high blood pressure among adults aged 18-65 in Kirinyaga County, Kenya.

Analytical cross-sectional study, using quantitative and qualitative methods of data collections, a multistage sampling procedure sampled 380 study participants chi square and logistic regression made deductions about the study population. In qualitative data, deductive approach used research questions as a guide for data analysis. Gender chi-square χ2 (2, N=345=128.640, P=.000), respondent age χ2(5, N=345=158.021, P=.000), education level χ2 (3, N=345=77.677, P=.000), marital status χ2(4, N=345=69.413, P=.000), state of being pregnancy χ2(1, N=345=224.599, P=.000), currently smoking cigarette χ2(1, N=50=28.890, P=.000), currently taking alcohol χ2(1, N=273=16.548, P=.000), engaging in physical activities χ2(3, N=345=58.183, P=.000), and weight status χ2(2, N=184=40.044, P=.000) were statistically significantly associated with the development of hypertension. Routine screening and advocacy by the health worker should be done for early detection, timely treatment, follow up and prevent complications related to hypertension.
Prevalence and Pattern of Traditional Bullying, Amongst Secondary School Students in Yenagoa, Nigeria
Authors: Esther Onotume Okemena , Joseph Ezeogu , Oliemen Peterside , Olukayode Akinbami Felix , Ann Okosun Ofure
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Traditional bullying (face to face bullying, that occurs within or around the school premises) among secondary school students is a persistent global public health problem; with varying long lasting mental, physical and academic consequences, not only on the victims but also the bullies and bystanders. It is a common phenomenon that is not limited to physical harm and manifests in many forms such as, verbal, or relational aggression, social exclusion and cyber victims of bullying. Bullying is commonly embedded in power imbalances and can be a call for help from the bullies. Development of an efficient prevention and intervention strategy requires understanding of the causes (family issues, low self esteem or lack of positive role models) of traditional bullying. This study therefore, aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern oftraditional bullying among secondaryschool students in Yenagoa Local Government, Bayelsa State Nigeria, which would aid development and implementation of appropriate antibullying policies.
Methods: Adescriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2021to December 2021. Selection of the 1,108 students aged between 10-21years was done by a two-stage sampling technique. The 46-item Bully Survey questionnaire adapted in 2003 by Swearer et al was utilized for data collection. Quantitative data was summarised using descriptive statistics.Test of association was done using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests andbinomial logistic regression analysis was also done to examine associations between variables, withp-value of <0.05  considered significant.
Results: Prevalence rates of 40.3%, 81.3%, and 86.3% were foundfor bullying perpetration, victimization and bystander respectively. Verbal bullying such as hauling of insults was the most common form of bullying behaviourperpetrated (64.8%); with sexual bullying being the least type observed (20%). Both bullying perpetration (46.9%) and victimization (88.3%) were significantly more common among female participants, while being a bullying bystander (99.4%) was commoner among male participants.Participants from junior classes were twice as more likely to perpetrate bullying(odds ratio[OR]:2.053, confidence interval[CI]:0.896-4.705). Also, those in schools with no anti-bullying policies were 1.26times more likely to be perpetrators of bullying ([OR] 1.269; CI: 0.229-7.031). School Class (p = 0.030) and absence of anti-bullying policy (p = 0.004) were significantly associated with bullying perpetration in the studied schools.
Conclusion: The prevalence of traditional bullying among secondary school students in Yenagoa was very high. Wetherefore recommended that school authorities and the government should formulate appropriate school anti-bullying policies and implement same in order to curb the menace while shielding the weak groups from being victims of bullying in school.
Optimization of Growth Conditions and Protease Activity for Tempeh Production from Sorghum
Authors: Devagopalan Hemalatha , Krishnaswamy Ilamurugu
Published: November 2023

Fermentation improves the nutraceutical properties of cereals. The objective of this work was to optimize the growth condition for tempeh production from sorghum. Tempeh was developed with sorghum and in combination with soybean.  Effective proliferative growth of Rhizopus oligosporus (R. oligosporus) was found on all the substrates.  The temperature had a significant effect on the growth of the mould, pH, and protease activity. The incubation temperature of 35OC was found to be more favourable than 30oC. The fermentation at 35oC was completed within 36 hours compared to 30oC (46 h). The pH was raised progressively up to 48 hours of incubation period (7.20-7.25). The protease activity at 35OC was found to be increased until 36 hours and decreased thereafter. The protease activity was found to be significantly higher at 35oC (99.20 IU /g) in comparison to 30oC.
Clinical Features vs CT Findings to Estimate Need for Surgery in Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Schulwolf Sara , Brower Charles , Karam Alessandra , Havens Joaquim , Shokoohi Hamid , Duggan Nicole M. , Goldsmith Andrew J.
Published: November 2023

This comparative effectiveness research compares the ability of clinical features vs clinical features with computed tomography (CT) to estimate the need for small bowel obstruction surgery.
Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in Italian Patients With Systemic Sclerosis: An Epidemiologic Survey
Authors: Natalello Gerlando , Bosello Silvia Laura , Campochiaro Corrado , Abignano Giuseppina , De Santis Maria , Ferlito Arianna , Karadağ Duygu Temiz , Padula Angela Anna , Cavalli Giulio , D'Agostino Maria Antonietta , Selmi Carlo , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Dagna Lorenzo , De Luca Giacomo
Published: November 2023

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an orphan disease that can lead to severe involvement of the gastrointestinal tract with a significant impact on patients' quality of life (QoL). The Mediterranean diet (MD) was consistently demonstrated to have beneficial effects on chronic diseases based on biological bases. We aimed to evaluate the adherence to the MD of Italian patients with SSc to preliminarily assess its association with gastrointestinal symptoms and other disease features, mood, and QoL.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, adherence to the MD was measured in 387 patients from four SSc Italian referral centers through the 14‐item Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (14‐MEDAS) questionnaire. We also registered patients’ reported outcomes related to the QoL and mood.

Results

Overall, an optimal adherence to MD was observed in 14.7% of patients with SSc, a moderate adherence in 71.3%, and a low adherence in 14.0%. In univariate analysis, poor adherence to the MD was associated with a more prominent depressive mood, time missed at work, and perception of more severe Raynaud's phenomenon and digital ulcers, whereas the 14‐MEDAS score inversely correlated with depression score and reflux.

Conclusion

In our cohort of patients with SSc, overall adherence to MD was moderate. Patients with lower adherence to MD also reported worse outcomes related to QoL and mood. Administration of the 14‐MEDAS could be a reasonable choice to assess adherence to the MD in patients with SSc. Future initiatives to study the role of MD in the management of patients with SSc are warranted.
Co‐Based Amorphous Layered Metal–Organic Frameworks: An Efficient Bifunctional Catalyst for Water Electrolysis
Authors: Jia Nan , Wang Lei , Weng Qiang , Jia Yuan , Chen Pei
Published: November 2023

The pursuit of efficient and cost‐effective electrocatalysts for hydrogen production via water splitting remains a significant challenge. Herein, a unique layered amorphous metal–organic frameworks, designated as Co‐HAB, is introduced. When utilized in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction, this Co‐HAB‐based electrocatalyst demonstrates superior activity and stability. Employing a mixture of Co‐HAB and carbon black (Co‐HAB‐C) as both cathode and anode electrocatalysts in a 1 m potassium hydroxide electrolyte, the cell exhibits a voltage of merely 1.552 V and attains a current density of 10 mA cm−2, which is suitable for hydrogen generation. Furthermore, density functional theory computations indicate that the modest OH* adsorption capability at the catalytic site plays a pivotal role in enhancing the OER catalytic efficiency, as confirmed by alcohol molecular probe tests.
Recent Progress in Prompt Molecular Detection of Exosomes Using CRISPR/Cas and Microfluidic‐Assisted Approaches Toward Smart Cancer Diagnosis and Analysis
Authors: Mojtaba Mousavi Seyyed , Alireza Hashemi Seyyed , Yari Kalashgrani Masoomeh , Rahmanian Vahid , Riazi Mohsen , Omidifar Navid , Hamed Althomali Raed , Rahman Mohammed M. , Chiang Wei‐Hung , Gholami Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Exosomes are essential indicators of molecular mechanisms involved in interacting with cancer cells and the tumor environment. As nanostructures based on lipids and nucleic acids, exosomes provide a communication pathway for information transfer by transporting biomolecules from the target cell to other cells. Importantly, these extracellular vesicles are released into the bloodstream by the most invasive cells, i. e., cancer cells; in this way, they could be considered a promising specific biomarker for cancer diagnosis. In this matter, CRISPR‐Cas systems and microfluidic approaches could be considered practical tools for cancer diagnosis and understanding cancer biology. CRISPR‐Cas systems, as a genome editing approach, provide a way to inactivate or even remove a target gene from the cell without affecting intracellular mechanisms. These practical systems provide vital information about the factors involved in cancer development that could lead to more effective cancer treatment. Meanwhile, microfluidic approaches can also significantly benefit cancer research due to their proper sensitivity, high throughput, low material consumption, low cost, and advanced spatial and temporal control. Thereby, employing CRISPR‐Cas‐ and microfluidics‐based approaches toward exosome monitoring could be considered a valuable source of information for cancer therapy and diagnosis. This review assesses the recent progress in these promising diagnosis approaches toward accurate cancer therapy and in‐depth study of cancer cell behavior.
Medical insurance, labor supply, and anti‐poverty initiatives: Micro‐evidence from China
Authors: Su Li , Sha Mingxiao , Liu Ruixue
Published: November 2023

The high cost of medical care and its association with poverty have given rise to a growing concern for developing countries, but how insurance plans affect household income and alleviate poverty has been rarely discussed. This study aims to bridge this research gap by examining a medical insurance reform in China, a major program of the targeted poverty alleviation (TPA) strategy, which offers higher reimbursement rates and lower medical deductibles for low‐income households. We use an administrative data set on impoverished people in a Chinese county to examine how exogenous changes in the medical insurance system affect the income structure of low‐income households. We apply a two‐part model to a Difference‐in‐Differences framework, with households that received reimbursement of the insurance reform as the treatment group and others as the control group. Our results imply that the medical insurance reform could increase the overall household income diversity. The mechanism analysis suggests that the medical insurance reform improves the health conditions of patients and encourages caregivers to engage more in off‐farm work.
The metabolic fingerprint of chronic hepatitis C progression: Metabolome shifts and cutting‐edge diagnostic options
Authors: Deep Amar , Swaroop Suchit , Dubey Durgesh , Rawat Atul , Verma Ajay , Baisya Bikash , Parihar Rashmi , Goel Amit , Rungta Sumit
Published: November 2023

Hepatitis C virus infection causes chronic diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Metabolomics research has been shown to be linked to pathophysiologic pathways in liver illnesses. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum metabolic profile of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection and to identify underlying mechanisms as well as potential biomarkers associated with the disease. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to evaluate the sera of 83 patients with CHC virus and 52 healthy control volunteers (NMR). Then, multivariate statistical analysis was used to find distinguishing metabolites between the two groups. Sixteen out of 40 metabolites including include 3‐HB, betaine, carnitine, creatinine, fucose, glutamine, glycerol, isopropanol, lysine, mannose, methanol, methionine, ornithine, proline, serine, and valine—were shown to be significantly different between the CHC and normal control (NC) groups (variable importance in projection >1 and p < 0.05). All the metabolic perturbations in this disease are associated with pathways of Glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, aminoacyl‐tRNA biosynthesis, cysteine and methionine metabolism, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism. Multivariate statistical analysis constructed using these expressed metabolites showed CHC patients can be discriminated from NCs with high sensitivity (90%) and specificity (99%). The metabolomics approach may expand the diagnostic armamentarium for patients with CHC while contributing to a comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms.
The clinicopathological impact of tumor‐associated macrophages in patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma
Authors: Asai Yoshinari , Yanagawa Naoki , Osakabe Mitsumasa , Yamada Noriyuki , Sugimoto Ryo , Sato Ayaka , Ito Kazuhiro , Koike Yoshihiko , Tanji Takayuki , Sakuraba Minoru , Sato Takashi , Sugai Tamotsu
Published: November 2023

Background

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are an immune component of the cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) microenvironment and affect tumor growth. TAMs can polarize into different phenotypes, that is, proinflammatory M1 and anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages. However, the role of the macrophage phenotype in CMM remains unclear.

Methods

We examined 88 patients with CMM. Tissue microarrays were constructed, and the density of M1 and M2 macrophages was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Immune cells coexpressing CD68 and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (pSTAT1) were considered M1 macrophages, whereas those coexpressing CD68 and c‐macrophage activating factor (c‐Maf) were defined as M2 macrophages. These TAMs were counted, and the relationships between the density of M1 and M2 macrophages and clinicopathological factors including prognosis were investigated.

Results

The CD68/c‐Maf score ranged from 0 to 34 (median: 5.5). The patients were divided based on the median score into the CD68/c‐Maf high (≥5.5) and low (<5.5) expression groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that CD68/c‐Maf expression was an independent predictive factor for progression‐free survival and an independent prognostic factor for overall survival. CD68/pSTAT1 expression was found in only two patients.

Conclusion

We suggest that CD68/pSTAT1 coexpression is rarely observed in patients with CMM, and high CD68/c‐Maf expression is a predictor of worse prognosis in these patients.
Tröpfchenweise zur Erkenntnis
Authors: Jacobi Manfred
Published: November 2023

Der Physiknobelpreis des Jahres 1923 ging an den amerikanischen Physiker Robert Andrews Millikan „für seine Arbeiten über die elektrische Elementarladung und den photoelektrischen Effekt“.
Physiotherapists' training in oncology rehabilitation from entry‐level to advanced education: A qualitative study
Authors: Bertoni Gianluca , Conti Valentina , Testa Marco , Coppola Ilaria , Costi Stefania , Battista Simone
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose

Physiotherapy is gaining a central role in oncology. However, the training and competencies needed by physiotherapists in oncology rehabilitation are still unclear. This study aims to articulate the training trajectory of physiotherapists in oncology rehabilitation from entry‐level education to advanced education degrees.

Methods

Qualitative focus group study following a ‘Reflexive Thematic Analysis’ for data analysis. Participants were Italian physiotherapists with expertise in Oncology Rehabilitation (either clinically or academically) and Physiotherapy Bachelor of Science (BSc) course leaders, selected through purposive sampling.

Results

Two focus groups were conducted with 14 participants. Six themes were developed: 1. ‘Entry‐Level Education in Oncology Rehabilitation: Let's Have a Taste’, as the BSc introduces oncology rehabilitation. 2. ‘Basic Knowledge: Building up the Library’ as students acquire basic knowledge on oncology rehabilitation during their BSc; 3. ‘Learning by Experience: The Relevance of the Placement’ to answer the question “Is this the right road for me?”; 4. ‘Clinical Reasoning and Competencies in Oncology Rehabilitation Embedded in Uncertainty’ because oncology physiotherapists need to deal with the uncertainty of their patients' status; 5. ‘Advanced Education Degree Skills: from Appetiser to the Main Course’, as advanced education degree courses allow for becoming an expert in the field; 6. ‘A Call to Action for Physiotherapists: Prevention—Diagnosis—Survivorship & End of Life’, to realise their critical role in all the phases of the oncology path.

Conclusions

The BSc in Physiotherapy provides a foundation for future physiotherapists to understand oncology rehabilitation, but advanced education is necessary for expertise. The findings of this study have important implications for creating a shared physiotherapy curriculum in oncology rehabilitation.

Implication for Physiotherapy Practice

This study has significant implications for improving physiotherapy curricula in oncology rehabilitation, positively impacting the skills and competencies of practitioners in this paramount field.
Cosmology of Metric‐Affine R+βR2$R + \beta R^2$ Gravity with Pure Shear Hypermomentum
Authors: Iosifidis Damianos , Myrzakulov Ratbay , Ravera Lucrezia
Published: November 2023

In this paper, cosmological aspects of metric‐affine gravity with hyperfluid are studied. The equations of motion of the theory are obtained by varying the action with respect to the metric and the independent connection. Subsequently, considering a Friedmann‐Lemaître‐Robertson‐Walker background, the modified Friedmann equations in the presence of a perfect cosmological hyperfluid is derived. Especially, a particular case in which is focused, considering purely shear hypermomentum and finding exact solutions in the weak coupling limit.
Synergistic Effect of Charged Amino Acids on the Stability and Fibril Formation of Lysozyme
Authors: Ghosh Subhasree , Prakash Prabhu N.
Published: November 2023

Osmolytes alter the stability and aggregation of proteins. The effect of mixture of osmolytes is generally not a simple additive of their individual effects. Here, we examine the effect of different mixtures of charged amino acids (AAs) on the stability and fibrillation of lysozyme. Arg, Asp and Glu induce three‐state unfolding. The addition of Lys, Asp and Glu increases the thermal stability of lysozyme, whereas Arg does not alter the stability. The mixture of AAs destabilizes the intermediate, but the overall stability of lysozyme is increased. Arg with other AAs in the ratio of 1 : 0.5 and 1 : 1, and the equimolar ratio of Glu+Asp synergistically increases the stability, whereas the other mixtures counteract the stabilizing effects of each other. The apparent time taken for fibrillation is reduced with lower concentrations of Arg (≤0.75 M) and Glu (0.25 M) and at higher concentrations of Lys (1 M). In the mixed AAs, Arg and Lys with other AAs, and 1 : 1 ratio of Glu+Asp synergistically increases the fibrillation time. These observations suggest that Arg induces more synergistic stabilization and the presence of basic AAs in the mixture increases the fibrillation time compared to acidic AAs which show synergy only at equimolar concentrations.
Determination of the Antioxidant Capacity of Puerarin and Its Effect on Cholinesterases by in vitro and in silico Methods
Authors: İnan Ergün Aslı , Topal Meryem
Published: November 2023

Puerarin, which was used as a natural isoflavone in this study, was obtained from the Kudzu plant. The inhibitory effect of puerarin on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes was investigated. The IC50 values of AChE (177.73 nM) and BChE (315.07 nM) were determined. The binding mechanism of puerarin, which has a high inhibitory effect on the active site of the enzyme, was demonstrated by the molecular docking method. The antioxidant activity was evaluated for the same molecule. For this purpose, Fe3+‐Fe2+ reducing capacity, ABTS radical scavenging activity, CUPRAC method, DPPH⋅ scavenging activity and DMPD radical scavenging method were used. The percentage (%) inhibition amount of puerarin molecule was calculated as 99.33 % for ABTS radical scavenging activity, which is the more preferred method for natural products. The absorbtion value of iron reduction of Puerarin was 0.122±0.010, and the value of copper reduction was 0.633±0.026. Our research efforts include uncovering the potent antioxidant potential of puerarin and, simultaneously, a comparative study of tacrine, primarily emphasizing its inhibitory effects against AChE and BChE enzymes. The puerarin is expected to be a guide for drug discovery against many problems, especially oxidative cell damage in Alzheimer's disease, mitochondrial dysfunction (MD), cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.