bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Vessel Detection in Harsh Maritime Environments
Authors: Duarte Diogo Ferreira , Pereira Maria Inês , Pinto Andry Maykol
Published: October 2022

Abstract Recently, research concerning the navigation of autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) has been increasing. However, a large-scale implementation of these vessels is still held back by several challenges such as multi-object tracking. Attaining accurate object detection
plays a big role in achieving successful tracking. This article presents the development of a detection model with an image-based Convolutional Neural Network trained through transfer learning, a deep learning technique. To train, test, and validate the detector module, data were collected
with the SENSE ASV by sailing through two nearby ports, Leixões and Viana do Castelo, and recording video frames through its on-board cameras, along with a Light Detection And Ranging, GPS, and Inertial Measurement Unit data. Images were extracted from the collected data, composing
a manually annotated dataset with nine classes of different vessels, along with data from other open-source maritime datasets. The developed model achieved a class mAP@[.5 .95] (mean average precision) of 89.5% and a clear improvement in boat detection compared to a multi-purposed state-of-the-art
detector, YOLO-v4, with a 22.9% and 44.3% increase in the mAP with an Intersection over Union threshold of 50% and the mAP@[.5 .95], respectively. It was integrated in a detection and tracking system, being able to continuously detect nearby vessels and provide sufficient information for simple
navigation tasks.
A Convolutional Neural Network to Classify Phytoplankton Images Along the West Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Nardelli Schuyler C. , Gray Patrick C. , Schofield Oscar
Published: October 2022

AbstractHigh-resolution optical imaging systems are quickly becoming universal tools to characterize and quantify microbial diversity in marine ecosystems. Automated classification systems such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are often developed to identify species within the immense number of images (e.g., millions per month) collected. The goal of our study was to develop a CNN to classify phytoplankton images collected with an Imaging FlowCytobot for the Palmer Antarctica Long-Term Ecological Research project. A relatively small CNN (~2 million parameters) was developed and trained using a subset of manually identified images, resulting in an overall test accuracy, recall, and f1-score of 93.8, 93.7, and 93.7%, respectively, on a balanced dataset. However, the f1-score dropped to 46.5% when tested on a dataset of 10,269 new images drawn from the natural environment without balancing classes. This decrease is likely due to highly imbalanced class distributions dominated by smaller, less differentiable cells, high intraclass variance, and interclass morphological similarities of cells in naturally occurring phytoplankton assemblages. As a case study to illustrate the value of the model, it was used to predict taxonomic classifications (ranging from genus to class) of phytoplankton at Palmer Station, Antarctica, from late austral spring to early autumn in 2017‐2018 and 2018‐2019. The CNN was generally able to identify important seasonal dynamics such as the shift from large centric diatoms to small pennate diatoms in both years, which is thought to be driven by increases in glacial meltwater from January to March. This shift in particle size distribution has significant implications for the ecology and biogeochemistry of these waters. Moving forward, we hope to further increase the accuracy of our model to better characterize coastal phytoplankton communities threatened by rapidly changing environmental conditions.
Congenital hip dysplasia: The importance of early screening and treatment
Authors: Marras Francesco , Asti Chiara , Ciatti Corrado , Pescia Stefano , Locci Cristian , Pisanu Francesco , Doria Carlo , Caggiari Gianfilippo
Published: October 2022

Congenital Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is characterized by a hip joint dislocation between the femoral head and the acetabulum, with a multifactorial etiology. This disorder can be an isolated condition or the manifestation of a syndromic condition, and it has been estimated with higher rates than registered, with a predominance in female sex and left side; risk factors are now defined. In Italy, the incidence rate is 3-4%, with significant regional differences: higher in Lombardy and lower in Sicily. Because clinical examination alone is insufficient to diagnose CHD, it is supplemented with ultrasonography and X-ray if necessary. Surveillance, static or dynamic splints, or osteotomies are the only treatment options. The goal of this study was to evaluate our experience in terms of management and conservative treatment of all newborns from January 2018 to May 2022: female sex and left hip were major involved, risk factors were not significant in our case, but results from early diagnosis and treatments, in terms of better outcome, were interesting. After a strict 6-month follow-up period, 89.13% of the patients were classified as grade Ia or Ib according to the Graf classification system. Finally, we emphasize the importance of early universal screening and subsequent diagnosis to allow for early treatment of the disorder, at an age when conservative treatments can yield good results.
Avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head in adolescence: A case report
Authors: Luppi Valentina , Corradin Marco , Schiavon Roberto , Pierantoni Silvia , Micaglio Andrea
Published: October 2022

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the first metatarsal (MTT) head is an uncommon condition and it occurs most often as a complication after capital osteotomy in correction of hallux valgus deformity. Idiopathic osteonecrosis of the first MTT head in adolescent are rare and treatment is challenging (1,2). Many conditions have been proposed as predisposing factors of AVN, including trauma, hemoglobinopathies such as sickle-cell disease, steroid therapy, Cushing’s disease, alcoholism, Gaucher’s disease, Caisson’s disease, and irradiation (3,4). However, etiology remains elusive. We described a case of an idiopathic AVN of the 1st MTT in adolescent treated by dorsal closing-wedge osteotomy, which to the authors’ knowledge has not been described before.
Percutaneous Achilles tenotomy using a 18 gauge needle in the treatment of clubfoot with Ponseti method
Authors: Richetta Silvia , Andreacchio Antonio , Monforte Sergio
Published: October 2022

Tenotomy is the final step in the corrective phase for the resolution of residual equinus in the Ponseti method of treating clubfoot. There are several methods for obtaining a complete section of the tendon, ranging from mini-open techniques to percutaneous with a scalpel or percutaneous with a large-gauge needle. Since April 2022, Vittore Buzzi Children’s Hospital has performed 36 percutaneous tenotomies of the Achilles tendon in 24 patients using the percutaneous large-gauge needle technique. When compared to the traditional percutaneous scalpel tenotomy procedure, the use of this procedure has allowed us to reduce operating room time, where we routinely perform this type of surgery to optimize pain control and patient safety during the procedure. The technique has proven to be simple, safe, and effective in obtaining a complete section of the tendon; there have been no reports of excessive bleeding, pseudoaneurysms, or nerve injury. There were no differences in clinical outcome or recurrences of equinus that required reoperation during the average three-month follow-up from the previously used technique.
Management of slipped capital femoral epiphysis: What hardware we can use in osteosynthesis in situ?
Authors: Merenda Alessandra , Falciglia Francesco , Aletto Cristian , Aulisa Angelo Gabriele , Toniolo Renato Maria
Published: October 2022

Epiphysiolysis (or Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, SCFE) is a hip disorder involving children during prepubescence age. Traditionally, it is defined as a postero-medial slippage of the femoral epiphysis on the metaphysis, but, considering that femoral epiphysis is almost “stored” in the acetabulum, it could be better defined as laterally and anterior slippage of femoral metaphysis under the epiphysis.
Adolescent paediatric transplant patients’ experiences of transition to adult services
Authors: Prentice-Hoogervorst Lesley , Mayers Pat M.
Published: October 2022

Background: Transition of adolescents from paediatric to adult health services is an important aspect of caring for young people with chronic diseases. Successful transition of adolescents living with a transplant is critical for long-term survival into adulthood. This qualitative study explored the lived experience of adolescents in a South African setting following their planned and supported transition process.Aim: To explore the lived experience of transition for adolescents who had received a renal or liver transplant as a child, from paediatric to adult transplant services in the public health sector.Setting: Cape Town, South Africa.Method: Six purposively sampled adolescents, who had participated in a planned transition from a tertiary level children’s hospital to the affiliated adult hospital, were interviewed in the setting and language of their choice. The transcribed interviews were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach.Results: Five themes emerged: living with uncertainty in a changing world; being known, not knowing, and knowing; ambivalent relationships; the journey of loss; and being heard. Pre-transition planning, support groups, and consistency of clinicians within an accepting environment facilitated the adolescents’ individuation and acceptance of self-care responsibility.Conclusion: Carefully planned, collaborative preparation and implementation of a facilitated psycho-supportive intervention for transition can facilitate adolescent cooperation and adherence, minimise the risk of psychological and medical sequelae, and support the adolescent in adapting to living with a transplant as an adult.Contribution: This study offers insight into the importance of planned and supported transitional care of adolescents living with an organ transplant.
Liquid-Based Cytology in the Detection of Premalignant Lesions in Patients with “Atypia in Squamous Cells” in Conventional Cytology
Authors: Barrios Lia , Vizcaíno Yoled , Benedetti Ines
Published: October 2022

Background:

The management of patients with “Atypical Squamous Cells” (ASC) in conventional papanicolaou smears (CPS) is based on the risk of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). The efficacy of liquid-based cytology (LBC) to detect this premalignant lesion is variable, with little evidence of its performance in Colombian patients.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to determine the performance of LBC in the detection of premalignant lesions, in patients with ASC in CPS.

Materials and Methods:

Were obtained patients who attended colposcopy clinic due the result of ASC in CPS. An LBC was taken, which was interpreted by two pathologists without access to other results. The performance of LBC to detect HSIL, was determined, considering as a gold standard: histopathological study/negative-satisfactory colposcopy.

Results:

Were included 114 patients, with a mean age of 38.4 years (SD ± 13.3). LBC had abnormal results in 40.36% (n = 46), with a slightly higher proportion of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) than HSIL. The total of abnormal diagnoses by colposcopy and/or biopsy was 51.75% (n = 59), with a predominance of LSIL (36.84%). The sensitivity of the liquid-based cytology to detect premalignant lesions was 76.5%, specificity: 66.0%, positive predictive value: 28.3% and negative predictive value: 94.1%; The Cohen's kappa index of LBC for detecting HSIL was 0.2492 for the total population and 0.2907 for ≥30 years.

Discussion:

Although LBC decreases abnormal cytology and increases the detection of HSIL, which improves diagnostic accuracy; sensitivity and predictive values for detecting HSIL are not significantly different between CPS and LBC.
Point-pushing actions for manifolds with boundary
Authors: Palmer Martin , Tillmann Ulrike
Published: October 2022

Given a manifold

M

and a point in its interior, the point-pushing map describes a diffeomorphism that pushes the point along a closed path. This defines a homomorphism from the fundamental group of

M

to the group of isotopy classes of diffeomorphisms of

M

that fix the basepoint. This map is well-studied in dimension

d=2

and is part of the Birman exact sequence. Here we study, for any

d\geq 3

and

k\geq 1

, the map from the

k

-th braid group of

M

to the group of homotopy classes of homotopy equivalences of the

k

-punctured manifold

M \smallsetminus z

, and analyse its injectivity. Equivalently, we describe the monodromy of the universal bundle that associates to a configuration

z

of size

k

in

M

its complement, the space

M\smallsetminus z

. Furthermore, motivated by our earlier work (2021), we describe the action of the braid group of

M

on the fibres of configuration-mapping spaces.
Sharp local minimax rates for goodness-of-fit testing in multivariate binomial and Poisson families and in multinomials
Authors: Chhor Julien , Carpentier Alexandra
Published: October 2022

We consider the identity testing problem – or goodness-of-fit testing problem – in multivariate binomial families, multivariate Poisson families and multinomial distributions. Given a known distribution

p

and

n

i.i.d. samples drawn from an unknown distribution

q

, we investigate how large

\rho>0

should be to distinguish, with high probability, the case

p=q

from the case

d(p,q) \geq \rho

, where

d

denotes a specific distance over probability distributions. We answer this question in the case of a family of different distances:

d(p,q) = \|p-q\|_t

for

t \in [1,2]

, where

\|\cdot\|_t

is the entrywise

\ell_t

norm. Besides being locally minimax-optimal – i.e. characterizing the detection threshold in dependence of the known matrix

p

– our tests have simple expressions and are easily implementable.
Effect of mammography screening on the long-term survival of breast cancer patients: results from the National Cancer Screening Program in Korea
Authors: Luu Xuan Quy , Lee Kyeongmin , Jun Jae Kwan , Suh Mina , Jung Kyu-Won , Choi Kui Son
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the effect of mammography screening on the long-term survival of breast cancer (BC) patients aged 40 years or older according to their screening history and duration since screening.METHODS: The study cohort was organized from 3 nationwide databases of the Korean National Cancer Screening Program, the Korean Central Cancer Registry, and death certificates. We included 24,387 women diagnosed with invasive BC or ductal carcinoma in situ in 2008 and 2009 and followed up until December 31, 2019. Cox proportional-hazards regression was used to investigate the effect of BC screening on the risk of death.RESULTS: Overall, 20,916 of 24,387 patients (85.8%) were alive at the end of the follow-up period (median: 10.5 years). The long-term survival rate was significantly lower in the never-screened group (80.3%) than in the screened group (88.9%) (p<0.001). A 35% reduction in the risk of BC death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60 to 0.70) from screening was observed. A subgroup analysis according to the cancer stage showed 62%, 36%, and 24% lower risks of BC death for the localized stage, regional stage, and distant stage, respectively. Women aged 40-49 years received the least benefit from BC screening (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.81).CONCLUSIONS: Mammography screening was effective in reducing the risk of BC-specific death in Asian women across all cancer stages. However, this effect was relatively small among women in their 40s, suggesting that more detailed and specialized screening strategies are needed for that age group.
Connecting the dots in pharmacy education: The FIP International Pharmaceutical Federation Global Competency Framework for Educators and Trainers in Pharmacy (FIP-GCFE)
Authors: Meštrović Arijana , Al-Haqan Asmaa , El-Akel Marwan , Arakawa Naoko , Abdulrzaq S. Mukhalati Banan , Bader Lina , Bates Ian , Bruno-Tomé Andreia , Alves da Costa Filipa , Eksteen Mariet , Gallagher Paul John , Hall Kat , Henman Martin C. , John Dai , Mager Donald E. , Pieper John A. , Rouse Michael , Kaur Sandhu Anisha , Schneider Carl R. , Tofade Toyin , Duggan Catherine
Published: October 2022

The FIP (International Pharmaceutical Federation) Global Competency Framework for Educators and Trainers in Pharmacy (FIP-GCFE) is an ongoing project of the Academic Pharmacy Section of FIP in cooperation and collaboration with Sections, Special Interest Groups and Working Groups across the Federation. It was developed by a group of experts in pharmaceutical education to enable and promote the continuing professional development of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists who plan to advance their competence as educators and trainers in pharmacy and the pharmaceutical sciences, whether in a formal or informal context, and at all levels of education and professional development. The FIP-GCFE will be an essential resource for multiple stakeholders including individual educators, faculties of pharmacy, and accreditation agencies. This article presents the introductory text of the GCFE first version, connecting previously launched concepts and tools and explaining the integration with all other FIP workforce support frameworks, to provide a holistic approach to global workforce development.
DEEP LITTER PIG PRODUCTION SYSTEM AS A SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVE FOR SMALL FARMERS
Authors: Pérez Ponciano , Solís-Tejeda Miguel Ángel , Lango-Reynoso Fabiola , Díaz-Rivera Pablo Díaz-Rivera , Aguilar-Ávila Jorge , Asiain-Hoyos Alberto
Published: October 2022

Small backyard farmers produce pigs mainly on concrete floors, which generates wastewater rich in nitrogenous substances created by the continuous washing of the sheds. The objective of this study was to integrate a systematic review of the information on the deep litter pig production system (SPCCP) as an environmentally sustainable alternative for small farmers in Mexico. The SPCCP uses a layer of absorbent organic matter on which the animals are kept. This technology is considered economical to implement, as it requires less infrastructure. The height of the bedding that favours the transformation of organic matter is 50 to 60 cm. Agricultural by-products such as plant debris or stubble can be used for bedding. The productive parameters of pigs in deep litter (CP) are adequate, with lower labour costs, and the animals have more time to eat, drink and play, which improves animal welfare. The product obtained from the deep bed at the end of the productive cycle has desirable properties to regenerate degraded soils or to enrich soils and can be used in agricultural crops. The SPCCP is simple and efficient, the infrastructure and equipment required are more economical; this production system improves feed conversion and daily weight gain, and benefits animal health and comfort. Since this system does not require washing the sheds, it reduces labour, as well as water needs, and does not generate wastewater. Therefore, the SPCCP complies with technical, financial, environmental, and animal welfare characteristics; it is an alternative for small backyard producers.
A Prospective Observational Cross-Sectional Study on Developmental Delay and Associated Socioeconomic, Demographic and Clinical Factors among Apparently Neurologically Normal Children Aged 2 Months to 36 Months in Eastern India
Authors:   MD (Paediatrics), Senior Resident, Dept. of Pediatrics, Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, Kolkata-26, West Bengal, India., Ghosh Rahul
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: Prevalence estimates for developmental delay are scarce for eastern India. The main objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of developmental delay amongst apparently neurologically normal children admitted to the general paediatrics ward. We also aimed to ascertain associations between developmental delay and known or suspected precedents and risk factors for developmental delay. METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional and observational study was conducted on in-patients in the general paediatrics ward. A pretested and predesigned questionnaire was administered to the attendant on the day of the discharge. Information was gathered regarding patients’ demographics, parent’s socio-economic and educational status, relevant history that is known or suspected to cause developmental delay. Achievement of developmental milestones was assessed as per the Trivandrum Development Screening Chart (TDSC) for 0-3 years. Chi-square tests were done and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULT: The prevalence of developmental delay was 23.13% amongst 134 children. Developmental delay had a significant association with child’s age (p-value:0.0007), preterm delivery (p-value:0.0012), histories of birth asphyxia (p-value:0.0066) and neonatal seizure (p-value:0.0093). CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of apparently normal children have developmental delay. Measures to detect these cases can help to institute early intervention and prevent long-term sequelae.
Law Enforcement Problems in Handling 2019 General Election Crimes by Gakkumdu
Authors: Darmawati Darmawati , Tajuddin Mulyadi Alrianto , Hadi Firman
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Law enforcement of the 2019 election crime is mandated by Law Number 7 of 2017 concerning Elections carried out by the Gakkumdu Party.Purposes of the Research: The purpose of this study is to find out the problematic forms of law enforcement for the 2019 general election crime in Gorontalo City, and to determine the factors that influence law enforcement for the 2019 general election crime law in Gorontalo City.Methods of the Research: The writing method used is empirical normative with a case approach obtained directly from the object of research in the field. The location of this research is the Integrated Law Enforcement Center at the Bawaslu of Gorontalo City.Results of the Research: The results of the study show that law enforcement for the 2019 general election crime in the city of Gorontalo is less than optimal, it can be seen that there are still findings/reports that have been discontinued and even cases have been dismissed from their investigations. As for the obstacles or influencing law enforcement, namely the lack of personnel in handling election crimes, the rules regarding election crimes have not been able to accommodate all forms of election crimes due to the development of new forms of election crimes and in terms of community culture who do not understand the rules regarding criminal acts election crime.
Marriage Registration Law Reformulation in Indonesia (Studi of Law and Regulations on Marriage)
Authors: Zainuddin Asriadi , Jamil Abdul , Sumanto Dedi
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Marriage registration serves to create order in the administration of marriage in society as well as to ensure the upholding of the rights and obligations of husband and wife. This is a preventive state law policy to coordinate the community for the realization of order and order in the system of life, including in marital problems which are believed to be inseparable from various irregularities and disputes between husband and wife. Therefore, the involvement of the authorities/state in regulating marriage in the form of registration is a must.Purposes of the Research: The purpose of this study is to examine and analyze the formulation of legal substance regulation of marriage registration in Indonesia and to analyze and formulate the ideal concept of reformulation of marriage registration law in Indonesia.Methods of the Research: This research is a type of qualitative study that starts from the constructivism paradigm. The approach method used in this study is the socio-legal approach method (socio legal study). A study that examines law as a social fact that can be seen in the realm of experience as a pattern of behavior in the form of social institutions.Results of the Research: The reformulation concept offered by the author is to revise the sound of Article 2 paragraphs 1 and 2 which requires registration of marriages and contains criminal sanctions in it with the aim of providing a deterrent effect for perpetrators of underhand marriages. in the sense that this criminal sanction is used if the previous related sanctions are no longer powerless in the sense that this criminal sanction is a criminal sanction that is used after civil or administrative sanctions are applied.
Experience with the use of Reverdin needle in neonatal thoracoscopic congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair
Authors: Salinas-Salinas Vicente Anibal , Acosta-Farina Daniel , Oviedo-Vargas Romel , Oliveros-Rivero Jorge , Acosta-Bowen Daniel
Published: October 2022

Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is the total or partial absence of the diaphragm, which can be unilateral or bilateral. Becmeur et al. in 2001 mentioned the thoracoscopic management approach for the first time.
Methods: The medical record of neonatal CDH thoracoscopic management (using the Reverdin Needle) from January to May 2021 at Dr. Roberto Gilberto Elizalde Children's Hospital located in Guayaquil, Ecuador was retrieved. Various parameters and characteristics were studied.
Results: Four patients were included in this study. M:F ratio was 3:1 with all having a type B left sided defect. The average duration of surgery was 157.5 minutes and 2 of them developed pulmonary hypertension in post-op period. All had good outcomes.
Conclusion: We propose that the possibility of a successful thoracoscopic surgery in congenital diaphragmatic hernia is increased with use of the Reverdin needle.
Drug Promotional Literature – A Critical Appraisal in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Eastern India
Authors: Shekhar Dr Amritanshu , Roushan Dr Ravi , Mishra Dr Hitesh , Hameed Dr Saajid , Mohan Dr Lalit , Dikshit Dr Harihar
Published: October 2022

Drug promotional literatures (DPLs) are pamphlets or brochures printed by various pharmaceutical companies in order to promote the sale of products manufactured by them. DRPs can be highly informative and may contribute to practice of evidence-based medicine if it provides the true information including important drawbacks and if they are considered after critical analysis and review. But in most of the cases, they are misleading. Therefore, DPLs have to be critically analyzed for their content to prevent irrational prescribing pattern. This study was carried out to critically analyze the information content of drug advertisements in drug promotional literature available to the Medical Practitioners. Collected DPLs were assessed as per the WHO guidelines. Other additional analysis was also done such as whether cost was mentioned or not, validity, credibility and year of reference to scientific literature and picture or flowchart printed on the DPL. The data collected was summarized form using Microsoft Excel 365. Descriptive analysis was done to analyze and compare the data using percentages. A total of 543 DPLs were collected out of which only 393 were analyzed as per our inclusion and exclusion criteria. 213 (54.20%) DPLs were based on single drug formulation while 180 (45.80%) DPLs were on FDC. Drugs acting on cardiovascular system, antidiabetics and antimicrobials were among the top three groups of promoted drugs, indicating that drug companies are targeting diseases that are widespread. Approximately 70% of DPLs met only half of WHO's criteria for rational drug promotion. Based on the observations of this study, it is recommended that clinicians should be aware of the shortcomings in promotional literature before accepting it as source of valid information. When using drugs, especially new drugs on patients, the clinician should carefully analyze the results of research and draw conclusions, since misleading and incorrect information is now often found in promotional literature.
Comparison of Clinical Course of Covid 19 Infections in Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Individuals
Authors: Maurya Dr. Meenakshi , Mangal Dr. Brij Kishore , Chandra Dr. Shipra , Yadav Dr. Alka , Kumar Dr. Vipin
Published: October 2022

COVID 19 vaccines shows good efficacy and safety in real world data. However clinical outcome in vaccinated persons is not widely known. This was a Questionnaire based study conducted between September 2021 to March 2022 after permission of IEC (Letter no. SNMC /IEC /2021 / 50). A Google doc based validated questionnaire (18 questions) was circulated through E mail/social media groups to individuals who became COVID infected in the past. The respondents who were fully vaccinated and completed 14 days duration after second dose of vaccination at time of infection serves as study group (Group I) while those who were unvaccinated at the time of infection serves as control group (Group II). Clinical course of disease was compared between two groups. A total of 517 previously COVID infected individuals had responded the questionnaire. Out of it, 108 respondents were either partially vaccinated or infected before completion of 14 days of second dose so they were excluded from the study. A total of 210 fully vaccinated respondents were included in study group (Group I) while 199 individuals who were unvaccinated at the time of infection serves as control group (Group II). Difficulty in breathing, need of hospital stay and post COVID complications were significantly less in vaccinated group in comparison to control group. As per survey findings, vaccination significantly reduces difficulty in breathing and need of hospital stay. A significant reduction in post COVID complications was also noted. So, vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the severity of clinical course and better outcome of COVID 19 infection.
Overview of Chemicals in Cosmetics and their Associated Adverse Effects
Authors: Sawarkar Krutika , More Sachin , Shete Amruta , Parkarwar Nivedita S. , Bhimgade Samiksha C. , Mulekar Ketki D.
Published: October 2022

Cosmetics are the products that are used to apply to our skin, face and hair every day and its uses are increasing around the world. The substance which are used to improve the appearance are comes under the category of cosmetics. In day-to-day life people are exposed to a great range of harmful chemicals in the form of cosmetics, from the various daily used products like dermal products, beauty products and hair products. These products are used to enhance the appearance or to maintain personal hygiene. Cosmetic products may contain various ingredients. Such substances improve the quality and shelf life of the products but may be toxic to human health. This review paper discusses the composition of various cosmetic products, their role, adverse effects and also highlights about the replacements of some of the harmful ingredients caused by cosmetic products based on the various scientific literature review.
Neuroprotective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Galinsoga parviflora Plant against Aluminium Chloride (AlCl3) induced Neurotoxicity in Rats
Authors: S U Madhu
Published: October 2022

Aluminium chloride (AlCl3) has been proven neurofilament changes in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, brain stem, and spinal cord, in addition biochemical changes were observed in many neurodegenerative diseases. Oxidative stress plays a significant role in AlCl3 induced neurotoxicity. The amyloid hypothesis, which states that oxidative stress causes beta amyloid deposition by causing free radical production, lipid peroxidation (LPO), Protein and DNA damage and neurotoxicity. The cholinergic hypothesis was based on reduced synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (Ach). In the present research investigation, the administration of AlCl3 (50 mg/kg/day) orally for 7 days has induced oxidative stress and its implications possesses significant neurotoxicity was evaluated by behavioral deficits, Motor incoordination and memory deficits which were also supported biochemically marked as increased in lipid peroxidation (LPO) with decreased Glutathione (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Total protein (TP) levels and thereby confirms the oxidative model of cognitive deficits. Histopathological studies of cerebral cortex area recognized as worsening and visualized as increased glial cells. The ethanolic whole plant extract of Galinsoga parviflora treatment (Low dose 200 mg/kg and High dose 400 mg/kg) was significantly prevented the altered behavioral, biochemical and histopathological changes associated with AlCl3 induced neurotoxicity. The ethanol extract of Galinsoga parviflora plant and its strong antioxidant potential due to various bioactive chemical constituents might have neuroprotective potential in AlCl3 induced neurotoxicity. High dose of ethanolic extract of Galinsoga parviflora plant (400 mg/kg) has shown maximum neuroprotection.
Free Radical Scavenging and Anti Protease Activity of Methanolic Extract of Mitracarpus villosus (SW)
Authors: Jacob Jenson , John Meenu , Krishna Arsha , P Rohitha , babu Adithya
Published: October 2022

Mitracarpus villosus (Sw) is a herb from Rubiaceae family used in traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases such as hepatic, skin and venereal diseases, diarrhea and dysentery. It has also been used to treat ringworm and eczema, fresh cuts, wounds and ulcer. The aerial parts of this plant have also been used to make lotion and skin ointment used for skin diseases and infections. In this study we can evaluate the In vitro antioxidant and antiprotease activity of the methanolic extracts from Mitracarpus villosus (Sw). The methods used for antioxidant potentials include DPPH, ABTS, Nitric oxide and Hydroxy radical scavenging assays. We can evaluate the anti-inflammatory potentials by anti-protease activity. Antioxidant assays were done by using the concentrations in the range 20 -100μg/ml and the results were compared with the standard ascorbic acid. The anti-protease activity was done using BAEE (N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester) as substrate and Phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride (PMSF), is used as standard. The methanolic extract of the Mitracarpus villosus (Sw) showed better activity for both antioxidant and anti protease assays.
Assessment of Effectiveness of Addition of Midazolam to Intrathecal Bupivacaine for Infra-Umbilical Surgeries in School-Age Children: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Kumar Himanshu , Anand Ashish , Kumar Hirday
Published: October 2022

Introduction: To increase the duration of spinal anaesthesia, many intrathecal adjuvants are used such as opioids, ketamine, clonidine and neostigmine. However, there are many drawbacks in their utility such as such as respiratory depression, cardiovascular instability, severe nausea and vomiting. Various studies have been conducted that have confirmed the effectiveness of intrathecal midazolam in post-operative analgesia in adults. But the data on efficacy and safety of intrathecal midazolam in children is limited. Aims/ objective: To assess of effectiveness of addition of midazolam to intrathecal bupivacaine for infra-umbilical surgeries in schoolage children and study the effect of adding intrathecal midazolam on quality and duration of anaesthesia and post-operative analgesia and sedation. Materials and Method: After intrathecal administration of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine, patients of control group were given 0.5 ml of normal saline intrathecally and patients of midazolam group were given 0.5 mg of midazolam via intrathecal route. Time to achieve sensory block, time to achieve motor block, effectiveness of post-operative analgesia using the observational pain–discomfort scale (OPS) and effectiveness of post-operative sedation using the modified Wilson Sedation Score (WSS) was recorded and compared. Results: Time to reach sensory block and time to reach motor block was significantly lower in midazolam group (p<0.05). No significant difference was found between two groups with respect to duration of surgery, post-operative hospitalization, mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate. Significantly better postoperative analgesia and sedation was found in midazolam group with respect to OPS score, modified bromage score and modified WSS score. Conclusion: Addition of Midazolam to intrathecal bupivacaine for infra-umbilical surgeries in school-age children was associated with better intra-operative and post-operative outcomes. Longer duration of spinal anaesthesia with better quality of sensory and motor block was achieved.
Effects of Adding Noise to Circuit Model and Numerical Model of Spontaneous Otoacoustic Emissions
Authors: Feng Lucy , Witkov Carey
Published: October 2022

Spontaneous otoacoustic emissions have long been modeled using self-excited, nonlinear oscillators. The van der Pol oscillator is a common choice, as many of its properties reflect those of SOAEs: both can begin oscillation in the absence of a direct stimulus, both have narrow frequency bands, and both become stable over time, to name a few. Yet such an idealized equation cannot have a one-to-one correspondence with SOAEs in all factors. Many previously used mathematical and circuit models lack the addition of noise to more accurately show how real world SOAEs operate in an organism’s ear, where noise from the environment is almost entirely unavoidable. The inclusion of uniformly distributed noise in both numerical and circuit models of the van der Pol oscillator was studied to determine whether these models can still accurately explicate SOAEs when modified to be more realistic. In both cases, both models retained the attributes of real world SOAEs despite the addition of noise, allowing them to serve as more useful and accurate models of the phenomenon.
PERCEPÇÃO DE ALUNAS DE PILATES SOBRE A INFLUÊNCIA DA TÉCNICA EM SEU DIA A DIA
Authors: Souto dos Santos Santana Iane Maria , Amorim Brandão Patrícia
Published: October 2022

Introdução: O método Pilates é um conceito de atividade física, atualmente praticado por mulheres, que vem influenciando no seu modo de vida e bem-estar no dia a dia. O Pilates para mulheres pode contribuir em todas as fases da vida, desde jovem, com o desenvolvimento do corpo, até à terceira idade, com patologias que têm maior incidência em mulheres. Objetivo: Analisar a influência da prática do Pilates em mulheres ativas em uma clínica privada na cidade de Carlos Chagas (MG), Brasil. Metodologia: Estudo descritivo, exploratório, qualitativo e transversal, realizado com amostra constituída por 20 mulheres de uma clínica, na faixa etária de 20 a 70 anos de idade, sem seleção. Após aplicação do termo de consentimento Livre e Esclarecido (TCLE), foi utilizado um questionário adaptado baseado no questionário Short-From-36(SF-36). Resultados: Observou-se o predomínio de praticantes do sexo feminino, das 20 mulheres entrevistadas, (19,0%) responderam que praticam para melhorar a qualidade de vida, (15%) para se reabilitar, (17%) praticam por estética, (16%) para melhorar a postura, (18%) para melhorar a flexibilidade, (17%) por ser a modalidade da moda. Onde se observou que todas elas obtiveram melhoras no seu dia a dia, nos seus afazeres, em sua jornada de trabalho diário dentro e fora de casa. Conclusão: Com os resultados obtidos neste estudo mostraram que as mulheres que praticam o método Pilates apresentam uma melhora na postura, melhora na flexibilidade e na estética como fatores de grande importância pela escolha da atividade.
Effects of aqueous ozone treatment on the nutritional attributes of mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit juice
Authors: Mohd Supian Nur Amira , Abdul Karim Shah Nor Nadiah , Shamsudin Rosnah , Sulaiman Alifdalino
Published: October 2022

The global fruit juice market is expanding alongside the exponentially growing demand for a healthy lifestyle. Fruit juice is a preferred drink among all age groups as it contains numerous essential nutrients that benefit human health. The safety aspects of fruit juice are equally important as its healthy features. The conventional method of thermal pasteurisation has been known to produce fruit juice of inferior quality. Hence, ozone is being considered as an alternative, non-thermal form of pasteurisation. With its strong oxidation potential, ozone exhibits antimicrobial characteristics and produces no toxic by-products. However, for ozone to be successfully adopted by juice producers, the synergistic effects of the composition of fruit juice and ozone treatment must be adequately evaluated. Therefore, the present work subjected various concentrations of Chokanan mango juice (MJ), diluted with distilled water (DW) at 100MJ:0DW, 75MJ:25DW, and 50MJ:50DW to aqueous ozone treatment at different ozone doses. The effects of these treatments on the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of the MJ were evaluated. Ozone was found to be effective in decreasing the pectin methylesterase (PME) activity arising from the de-esterification of the pectin molecules, and increasing the DPPH activity, thereby increasing the juice quality. Significant effects on the total colour difference (ΔE) and total phenolic content (TPC) were observed in proportion to the increases in ozone dose. The colour of the treated MJ was found to be positively correlated with the TPC, while a kinetic study was performed to investigate the proportionality of the colour and TPC degradation. The first-order reaction model fitted well with the degradation patterns of L* and b*, as well as the ΔE of the MJ samples. A significant difference was observed between the degradation rate constant (k-value) for the MJ samples, which suggested that the k-value could have been affected by not only the ozone dose, but also the juice matrix. The present work demonstrated that the composition of fruit juice was an essential intrinsic parameter that must be assessed before adopting ozone as a form of non-thermal pasteurisation to produce fruit juice which is stable in quality, and safe for consumption.
Selection and optimisation of extraction technique for the preparation of phenolic- and flavonoid-rich extract of leafy vegetable, Coccinia grandis (Linn.) Voigt
Authors: Shanmuganathan Ehanathan , Arawwawala Liyanage Dona Ashanthi Menuka , Wasana Keddagoda Gamage Piyumi , Attanayake Anoja Priyadarshani
Published: October 2022

Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt (family: Cucurbitaceae) is a popular leafy vegetable in Sri Lankan diet. C. grandis is high in phenolics and flavonoids. The present work attempted to determine a suitable extraction technique, and further optimise it to obtain phenolic- and flavonoid-rich extract from C. grandis leaves, with an aim at developing a nutraceutical targeting the dietary management of diabetes mellitus. Acetone extraction (AE), methanol extraction (ME), pre-warmed water extraction (PWE), electric shake extraction (ESE), reflux extraction (RE), ultrasonication with water (UEw), ultrasonication with ethanol (UEe), ultrasonic assisted-reflux extraction (URE), and reflux assisted-ultrasonic extraction (RUE) were chosen as the extraction techniques. URE was selected as a satisfactory extraction technique for further optimisation for the preparation of phenolic- and flavonoid-rich extract based on the contents of phenolics (32.97 ± 0.41 mg of equivalent gallic acid/g of extract) and flavonoids (4.50 ± 0.04 mg equivalent quercetin/g of extract). The highest yield of 32.8% was obtained by the URE technique. The optimal extraction conditions for URE were determined with an ultrasonic time of 19 min, refluxing time of 168 min, and liquid:solid ratio of 16.4 mL/g. This is the first attempt to investigate the selection and optimisation of an extraction technique for obtaining phenolic- and flavonoid-rich extract from C. grandis leaves. The present findings would be useful in the development of a commercially viable nutraceutical using a phenolic- and flavonoid-rich extract of C. grandis.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from retail raw meats in Turkey
Authors: Guran Husnu Sahan , Bozan Bayrak Adle Ronayi , Alali Walid , Yesiloglu Cihan
Published: October 2022

The transmission of Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) through food products of animal origin may pose a public health concern. Therefore, the objectives of the present work were to determine the prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA in raw meat samples (beef, chicken, turkey, and duck) at retail level, and to determine the antimicrobial resistance profile of the MRSA isolates. Between September 2018 and January 2019, a total of 325 raw meat samples were collected from retail stores, and analysed for the presence of S. aureus and MRSA using primary enrichment method as well as using secondary selective enrichment methods for MRSA detection. All the suspected S. aureus and MRSA colonies obtained from the samples were confirmed by both phenotypic and genotypic methods. The MRSA isolates were tested against various antimicrobials, and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of vancomycin was determined. Macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B (MLSB) resistance phenotypes were also screened using the double-disk diffusion test. The overall prevalence of S. aureus was 57.2%, whereas the food-specific prevalence in beef, turkey, duck, and chicken samples was 75, 53, 48, and 46%, respectively. The overall prevalence of MRSA was 1.2%, whereas it was 3, 1, 0, and 0% in beef, turkey, chicken, and duck samples, respectively. All MRSA isolates were detected by the secondary selective enrichment method. These MRSA isolates had a variety of MLSB resistance phenotypes (i.e., iMLSB, cMLSB, and MS-MLSB) with vancomycin MIC values ranging between 1 - 2 µg/mL. These findings are important for developing interventions to reduce raw meat contamination with S. aureus and MRSA, and to improve public health.
Bioefficacy of fungal chitin oligomers in the control of postharvest decay in tomato fruit
Authors: Valle-Sotelo Edith Guadalupe , Troncoso-Rojas Rosalba , Tiznado-Hernández Martín Ernesto , Carvajal-Millán Elizabeth , Sánchez-Estrada Alberto , Henry García Yaima
Published: October 2022

Tomato is one of the most commercialised and consumed fruits worldwide. However, tomatoes are highly susceptible to Alternaria rot. Among the safe strategies proposed to control Alternaria rot is the induction of defence mechanisms through biological elicitors, such as chitin. Chitin and its oligosaccharides are an activate plant defence mechanisms, but studies of fruits exposed to fungal chitin fragments are scarce. Therefore, the present work aimed to obtain and partially characterise chitin oligomers of Alternaria alternata, and evaluate their effect on the defence mechanism of tomato fruits and their tolerance to Alternaria rot. The chitin oligomers obtained had a molecular weight of ≤ 1 kDa, 12% N-acetyl-glucosamine, 0.2% residual protein, and were 94% acetylated. These oligomers markedly increased the enzymatic activity of chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase in tomato fruits, and the development of Alternaria rot was inhibited by 78%. Chitin oligomers of A. alternata represent a promising alternative to attenuate Alternaria rot in tomato fruits through an enzymatic defence mechanism.