bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Influence of Performance Contracting on Teachers’ Professional Productivity in Primary Schools in Kilifi County
Authors: Njoroge Munene , Gikandi Joyce
Published: November 2022

The drive of this study was to assess the influence of performance contracting on teachers’ professional productivity in primary schools in Kilifi North Sub-County. The study was guided by four theories, goal setting, management, expectancy and Two- factor. The goal-setting theory was proposed by John Locke [1]. The study used a mixed-methods approach to research in order to produce both quantitative and qualitative data while also reducing bias. A triangulation design was used to permit the complementarity of both descriptive and numerical data. Using the Krejcie and Morgan Table, a sample size of 181 was achieved out of the intended population of 346. After descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data, frequency tables, percentages, charts, and graphs were used to illustrate the results. The study adhered rigorously to research ethics. The findings showed that PC settings had a substantial impact on instructors' professional output. The study suggested making digital gadgets available and accessible to support learning and improve instructors' professional readiness in lesson planning, strategizing, and record keeping, hence enhancing professional productivity toward vision 2030. Similar to this, ICT should be incorporated and adopted from the start of creating goals, implementing changes, and monitoring data; doing so would increase production efficiency and effectiveness and improve school monitoring. The study suggested that there should be one CSO for every ten schools, and that CSO offices should be capitated to promote movements.
Modelling Wheat Productivity under Deficit Irrigation
Authors: Mishra Vipin , Denis D. M. , Singh Rajesh , Paul Anupriya
Published: November 2022

This research was carried out to simulate wheat growth under deficit irrigation across two cropping years (2020-21 and 2021-22) at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh India. Crop growth simulation models are useful for evaluating the impact of water scarcity on crop productivity and crop yield. The AquaCrop model is one of these available options and this model is capable of simulating water productivity, grain yield, biomass yield, and canopy cover. Major inputs for the model in this investigation are climate, soil characteristics, plant attributes, and the management of crop cultivation. The results of the simulation revealed that the model accurately simulates grain yield, water productivity, biomass yield, and canopy cover at different amount of irrigation. The simulated and observed grain yield coefficients of determination (R2) were 0.96 and 0.95, respectively. The model simulation performed well (RMSE=0.131, NRMSE=3.75) and model efficiency (EF) was 0.99. Simulated and observed water productivity is equivalent at different amount of irrigation regimes. The model simulation performed well (RMSE=0.106 and NRMSE=5.00). Simulated and observed water productivity had EF of 0.99 and R2 of 0.96. The model simulation of biomass under different amount of irrigation varied between RMSE ranged from 0.492 to 0.857, NRMSE ranged from 9.239 to 17.513 and EF ranged from 0.97 to 0.99. Coefficients of determination (R2) of simulated biomass yield and observed biomass of all treatments were 0.99. It was determined that the simulated canopy cover for all treatments at different amount of irrigation had successfully adapted to the observed canopy cover. Thus, the RMSE varied from 13.344 to 18.974, the NRMSE from 20.770 to 33.223, and the EF from 0.91 to 0.96 for model simulations treated to various interventions. Coefficients of determination (R2) of simulated canopy cover for all treatments were 0.97, although R2 of observed canopy cover for various treatments ranged from 0.88 to 0.92.
Divergence Studies for Yield and Quality Traits in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica (L.) Beauv.)
Authors: Saikumar M. , Haritha T. , Reddy C. V. C. M. , Nayak Balaji
Published: November 2022

Field experiment was conducted using 64 genotypes of foxtail millet to assess the genetic divergence for 24 metric traits in Kharif 2020. The ANOVA revealed existence of highly significant variation for all the traits examined. Principal component analysis identified nine principal components with eigen value more than one and 76.59% of cumulative variance. The 2D and 3D plots indicated that genotypes SiA 60, SiA 3570, SiA 3914, SiA 3222, SiA 3629, SiA 4089, SiA 3561 and SiA 2681 were divergent for yield and quality traits. Ward’s minimum variance method were grouped 64 genotypes into five clusters. The inter cluster distance between cluster I and cluster III (34.00) was maximum followed by cluster III and cluster V (31.13), therefore these genotypes from these clusters can be suggested for future crop improvement programmes.
Effect of Phosphorous and Potassium on Growth Parameters, Yield and Yield Attributes of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under the Rainfed Condition in Chitrakoot, India
Authors: Tembhare Abhay , Sirothia Pawan , Mishra Ashutosh , Mishra U. S. , Singh Opendra Kumar
Published: November 2022

The present study investigate the effect of phosphorous and potassium on growth parameters, yield and yield attributes of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under the rainfed condition in Chitrakoot, India. Field experiments were carried out to investigate the effect of phosphorus and potassium on chickpea growth parameters, yield components, and yield during the rabi season of 2021-22 at Rajoula Agriculture farm, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya Chitrakoot, Satna (M.P.). The experiment consist of nine treatments combinations in factorial randomized block design with three replications consisted of three levels of phosphorous (50, 60 and 70 kg ha-1) and three potassium levels (30, 40 and 50 kg ha-1). Chickpea variety IPC-2011-112 was grown with the recommended agronomic practices. On the basis of results emanated from investigation it can be concluded that among the growth parameters maximum plant height at 90 DAS is 37.40 cm, maximum number of branches at 90 DAS is 32.53 and maximum number of nodules plant-1 at 45 DAS is 46.00 during the study were associated with the treatment T9 [70 kg P2O5 ha-1+ 50 kg K2O ha-1]. Similarly, among the yield components and productivity parameters maximum values in relation to number of pod plant-1 (69.33), number of seed pod-1 (1.73), 100 grain wt. (22.66 gm) and grain yield (16.85 q ha-1) was also found in the treatment T9 [70 kg P2O5 ha-1+ 50 kg K2O ha-1].
Understanding Genetic Variability Parameters of Greengram (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) Germplasm for Agro-Morphological Traits
Authors: Thakur Sunny , Sharma Stuti , Pachori Surbhi , Nagre Sachin , Anand Kumar Jai , Tiwari Priya , Pathak Nidhi
Published: November 2022

The greengram, also known as mungbean or Vigna radiata L. Wilczek, is a significant pulse crop in India. Throughout India, it is mostly cultivated in subsistence agricultural systems. Even though it may be cultivated in three seasons across India, the average production is unbelievably low. The local germplasm has a significant genetic variation since the crop has developed in a wide variety of environmental settings. To comprehend the genetic variability and identification of distinct germplasm lines, a study was conducted on 300 green gram accessions utilising 14 quantitative traits. For pods per plant, pod clusters per plant, branches per plant, biological yield per plant, 100 seed weight, nodes per plant, harvest index, and seeds per pod, relatively high PCV and GCV were found. Additionally, an evaluation of the genetic advance (GA) and broad-sense heritability (h2) was done to select the most significant quantitative variables. Due to their high broad sense heritability (h2) and genetic advance, biological yield per plant, pods per plant, plant height, and harvest index were shown to be highly suited for mungbean breeding programmes. The breeder must typically utilise an appropriate breeding strategy to use these traits in subsequent breeding programmes.
Photosynthetic Activity, Nutrient Concentration, Yield and Soil Properties Altered by Long Term INM Practices of Knol-khol (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes L.) under Acidic Inceptisols
Authors: Sahu Suman G. , Dash Ashish Kumar , Panda Narayan , Pattanayak Sushanta Kumar , Prusty Meenakhi , Mishra Ambika Prasad , Padhan Kshitipati , Nanda Sweta , Patra Bishnupriya
Published: November 2022

A long-term field experiment was started in the campus of College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha since kharif 2010 in a randomized block design with 08 treatments and three replications under a cereal-vegetable-pulse cropping system. Different observations on plant and soil parameters were taken during kharif 2018 to evaluate the performance of the test crop towards different package and practices followed. The test crop was Knol-khol, the 25th crop in the sequence. The treatments were T1: Control, T2: Soil Test Dose (STD), T3: STD + Farm Yard Manure (F), T4: STD + Vermicompost (VC), T5: STD + F + Biofertilizers (BFs), T6: STD + VC + BFs, T7: STD + F + L + BFs, and T8: STD + VC + L + BFs which consisted of different combinations of inorganic fertilizers, organic manures (FYM and vermicompost), ameliorant (lime) and biofertilizers. Knol-khol crop was grown in the experimental plot with different organic and inorganic fertilizers as per the treatment plans. Leaf samples from different treatments were collected at 45 days after planting (DAP). The economic yield was highest (3.44 t ha-1) in the treatment supplied with inorganic and organic source of nutrient with lime (T7) which was at par with T8 (3.34 t ha-1) whereas significantly higher than rest other treatments and lowest was obtained in STD (1.45 t ha-1).  The highest values 2.68%, 1.11mg g-1 of fresh leaves and 46.34 were recorded for leaf nitrogen content, chlorophyll content and SPAD value respectively were recorded with treatment T7 whereas lowest value of 1.91%, 0.54 mg g-1 of fresh of leaves and 21.81 were recorded for leaf nitrogen content, chlorophyll content and SPAD value respectively with T1. However, the soil properties after harvest of the crop were found to be better with T8 where vermicompost was integrated with inorganic fertilizer and lime.
Effect of Different Amendments and Inorganic Nutrient Management Approaches in Correcting Sodicity under Paddy Eco System
Authors: Prakhyath K. M. , Prakash S. S. , Honnappa H. M.
Published: November 2022

Agricultural production in sodic soil may be hindered by its unfavorable physicochemical properties. In order to find effective measure to improve the health of sodic soil and make it to favourable for crop production, a field experiment was conducted at ZARS VC Farm Mandya to study the effect of different amendments on properties of sodic soil. The experiment was laid under split plot design with inorganic nutrient management viz., RDF, SSNM and STCR as main treatments and amendments such as press mud, gypsum and Mangala setright, (a commercial soil conditioner containing 15% calcium and 3% magnesium and 5% sulphur) as sub treatments. Results of experiment revealed that application of gypsum significantly reduced pH to 8.5 from 8.96 of initial soil which was on par with application of setright at 600kg/ha (8.68) and press mud (8.69). Whereas exchangeable sodium and ESP was reduced significantly due to application of setright at 400 kg/ha (1.78 cmol/kg and 6.52 respectively) and pressmud at 100% GR (1.85 cmol/kg and 7.03) compared to control (3.69 cmol/kg and 13.72 respectively) and initial soil. Thus application of Mangala Setright at 400kg/ha or pressmud at 100% GR are more beneficial in rectifying sodicity of soil.
Cytological Study of Anthers for Pollen Sterility in the F7 Generation of a Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Cross
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Ekka Jenny Priya , Prasad Krishna , Ahmad Ekhlaque , Chakraborty Manigopa
Published: November 2022

The present research work was proficiently done at the experimental plot of Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke under the rainfed conditions of Jharkhand, India during kharif 2021. The F7 generation seeds of the cross Pusa-1176 x BPT-5204 was sown as panicle to progeny rows in the seed bed nursery and thereafter transplanted into the field. In this investigation, the study has been oriented more towards the male sterility as it is more sensitive than female gametes based on the observation recorded in previous generation (F6) regarding spikelet sterility percentage. Henceforth, the study has been focussed on the microscopic study of pollen grains to validate the reason behind the cause of spikelet sterility in the panicles. To understand this phenomenon, pollen viability test was done by staining the anthers with 1% Iodine- potassium iodide in order to know the extent of fertility or sterility present in the pollen grains of the rice segregants. Through microscopic study, segregation was observed in the pollen sterility % among the families studied which might be due to the change in the environmental conditions such as temperature, photoperiod and humidity etc. The expected genetic ratio obtained was 9:3:3:1(partially sterile+highly fertile/completely fertile/ highly sterile/completely sterile) revealing that it is controlled by 2 genes since the ratio fitted in digenic ratio.
A Study on the Bangladeshi Mothers' Experiences with Intrauterine Fetal Death (IUFD)
Authors: Chowdhury Deep , Islam Sazin , Biswas Ripon , Jyoti Agro Bhowmik , Mukta Sonia Afroz , Islam Md. Shariful
Published: November 2022

Background: IUFD (intrauterine fetal death/demise) is a devastating experience for moms. IUFD mothers run the danger of going through life feeling depressed, anxious, unhappy, and sorrowful. Therefore, it is essential to do research on how moms cope with such a terrible event.

Purpose: This study aimed to learn more about how mothers in Bangladesh dealt with intrauterine fetal death/demise (IUFD).

Methods: Using a phenomenological perspective, a purposive sample strategy was used to choose the seven informants for descriptive qualitative research. In-depth interviews were used to gather the data, which was then evaluated utilizing Colaizzi's approach.

Results: The findings revealed four key themes, including the mothers' reactions to a loss-such as painful and traumatic experiences—moral support received by the mother, unfavourable behaviour on the part of others, such as stigma and lack of support, and physical and psychological changes that interfere with the mothers' roles as wife and mother.

Conclusion: IUFD's past was very distressing for mothers, who were left with a heavy emotional weight. Support and therapeutic communication must thus be included in practice.
Impact of Oral Microbiome on Head and Neck Cancer Development: A Critical Review
Authors: Somay Efsun , Yilmaz Busra , Kucuk Ahmet , Topkan Erkan
Published: November 2022

A significant contributor to cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide is head and neck cancer (HNC). Depending on the affected site, its etiology may include risk factors like geographic differences, genetic predisposition, gender, age, type of diet, smoking and/or alcohol consumption habits, and sexual preferences. Dysbiosis, or disruption of the oral microbiota balance, is another proposed causative factor for HNC. The oral microbiota is home to over 1,000 microbial species, including pathogenic and commensal strains. Disruption of the healthy balance of the oral cavity microbiota triggers the carcinogenic mechanisms by inducing chronic inflammation in the affected site, which acts as a pro-carcinogenic factor by inducing an immune-suppressed microenvironment that induces cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis. Recent studies have also found that members of the human microbiome are strongly linked to a wide range of cancer types, with well-established associations between the oral microbiota and chronic inflammation and cell proliferation. Aside from chronic inflammation, the bacterial genome, toxins, and metabolites have been proposed as additional factors that induce or facilitate carcinogenesis and its progression in the head and neck region. However, the precise mechanisms remain largely unknown. However, a greater understanding of the underlying mechanisms may lead to the development of novel preventive or customized treatments that can be used in routine clinical practice. The link between oral dysbiosis and the development of HNC is a relatively new and well-received topic in the oncological and dental communities. Therefore, this review intends to provide a comprehensive summary of the currently available information on the potential mechanistic relationships between changes in the oral microbiota and the development of HNC, which is still in the research phase.
In-vitro Acaricidal Study of Calotropis Gigantea Methanolic Extracts against (Rhipicephalus (B.) microplus) Ticks in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Dixit Anuj , Manzer Hakim
Published: November 2022

The present research was conducted to find out  acaricidal efficacy of methanolic extracts of Calotropis gigantea against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus ticks in Udaipur (Rajasthan). Larval packet Test (LPT) and Adult Immersion Test (AIT) were used to evaluate acaricidal efficacy. A total of four concentrations of the Calotropis gigantea extract (12.5%, 25%, 50%, and 100%) were used along with one control group with twice replications for each concentration were used in the bioassay. The Highest efficacy in both in-vitro tests (AIT and LPT) was recorded in 100% methanolic extracts of Calotropis gigantea. The Calotropis gigantea methanolic extracts displayed the highest IO% at 100% concentration, which was determined to be 67.46% in AIT. The methanolic extracts at 100% concentration had a minimum reproductive index of 0.16. During the study, it was clear that AIT had a lower reproductive index and a higher percent oviposition inhibition. Calotropis gigantea methanolic extracts in LPT demonstrated the highest efficacy at 100% concentration, which was of 64%. The Larval mortality increased trend with increasing concentrations of plant extracts.
Development and Performance of Hydrocyclone Separator for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Fatounde S. A. , Oni T. A. , Idowu A. S.
Published: November 2022

Hydrocyclone is an equipment that uses a cyclone or tangential injection flow process with centrifugal forces to separate liquids of different densities. The denser liquid move downwards in a spiral path into an underflow chamber, while clean liquid which is less dense move upwards to the center of the spiral, towards the top outlet. Colman and Thew’s hydrocyclone geometry analysis approached was used in the design and the assumed inlet chamber diameter (D) used for this design was 150 mm and a reducing section length of 1500 mm at a reducing angle of 20°. The capacity of the designed hydrocyclone system in volume is 5.5 liters. The developed machine was tested with 15 liters of palm kernel oil (PKO) as raw material using two different pressures gauge (70 and 80 kPa) and also effect acid concentration (sulphuric acid) at 3 different experimental runs. After the experiments, it was deduced that at constant temperature level, as the pressure rate increases, there is a corresponding increase in the discharge rate at the underflow and overflow outlets where 2.04 minutes and 1.67 minutes were used to separate biodiesel and glycerin under 70 and 80 kPa respectively. Also, it was deduced experimentally that PKO with sulphuric acid gives a higher yield of biodiesel of 47.74% while the one without has 38.49% yield under same experimental and operational conditions.
Exploring Factors that Hinder Senior High School Students’ Academic Performance in Mathematics
Authors: Fatawu Abdul-Razak , Kwakye Dennis Offei , Atepor Stephen , Owuba-Asiedu Lloyd , Segbefia Constant Richard , Asemani Emmanuel , Katu Daniel Edem , Nchor Evelyn Yaa
Published: November 2022

The study explored factors affecting senior high school students' academic performance in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality. Eighty-one (81) students, fifty-one (51) males and thirty (30) females were used to gather cross-sectional data on demographics and factors influencing their mathematics ability. They came from two senior high schools in the municipality, which were randomly sampled. Students in the chosen schools were asked to fill out questionnaires. The mixed-methods research approach was used and the descriptive design was adopted. The data was examined using a qualitative study that used a survey design to carry out the investigation. The findings showed that students' attitudes play a significant role in determining how well they succeed in mathematics. These include pupils who don't find mathematics very intriguing and who aren't motivated to learn the subject, among other things. Again, there was evidence of significant teacher-related variables that hampered student performance in mathematics. Examples include teacher absenteeism and inadequate time allotted for mathematics classes. Findings revealed that parents' inability to provide their children with necessary mathematics learning materials, parents' unwillingness to encourage their children to study mathematics, and parents' failure to monitor their children's progress in mathematics performance were all factors that hampered students' performance. It is recommended that, the creation of an environment that is conducive to learning and teaching, including individual studies by students should be inculcated. To boost their students' interest in mathematics, math teachers should develop the usage of teaching aids and mathematical models. Parents, instructors, the ministry of education, and school administrations should encourage pupils to study mathematics.
Land Use/Land Cover Dynamics and Implications for Landscape Restoration in Cameroon’s Western Highlands
Authors: Gwan Solange Akhere , Fogwe Zephania Nji
Published: November 2022

Land use – the way human beings employ the land and its resources is at the centre of scientific and policy interests in rapidly evolving landscapes of sub-Saharan Africa. An example par excellence of such landscapes is the Western Highland Region of Cameroon. This paper analyses the implications of land use changes in seven communities of the Western Highland Region of Cameroon. In doing so, it specifically: (i) examines the pattern of land use/land cover change between 1984 and 2021, and (ii) analyses their environmental implications. A mixed-methods approach involving the use of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods was employed. This specifically involved the survey of 300 households using semi-structured questionnaires, the conduct of nine (9) group discussions and twenty-two (22) key informant interviews. Secondary data were obtained through Municipal Council Reports. The data were analysed descriptively (using tables and charts) and spatially using maps. The study used archived satellite images to map land use dynamics over the study area from 1970’s to present. In this light, NASA’s Landsat satellite images from USGS earth explorer was acquired for the periods of 1979, 1984, 2000, 2013 and 2021 for diachronic analysis of land cover/use in the study area. The results revealed that land use/land cover changes were rapid, involving a significant reduction in grassland (72%), forests (48%) and bare areas (19%) between 1984 and 2021. This was followed by a correspondent increase (211%) in the built-up area, and in agricultural space (22%). Additionally, land use/land cover changes have led to a change in local climatic conditions, a decline in crop and livestock output, and rising food costs. The study recommends that international NGOs operating in this area should engage with communities on aspects of sustainable land management. Relevant government ministerial departments and municipal agents should emphasise the need to respect land use plans, to limit the uncoordinated colonisation of slopes for farming and settlement. Besides establishing the pattern of land use transformation in this landscape, this paper provides new insights on the environmental effects of land use/land cover dynamics in Cameroon’s Western Highlands. The results demonstrate novelty through its further identification of food security issues linked to land use/land cover dynamics.
Factors Affecting Recurrence Rate of Urethral Stricture Following Internal Urethrotomy
Authors: Khan Sajan , Fawad Ahmed , Javed Atif
Published: November 2022

Background: Urethral stricture (post-scarring contraction in the urethral mucosa) is among the most challenging clinical conditions in urology. In Pakistan, Urethral stricture is a high-volume disease and constitutes 4-5% of urology workload (majority of them being in the 3rd to 5th decade of life). Different urethral strictures have different management option depending upon site, size and number of recurrences. OIU is indicated for urethral stricture for small (1.5 cm) bulbar and membranous urethral stricture. However, recurrence of strictures after OIU is quite common                (4 to 5%). It has been proposed that duration and size of catheter after OIU effects the recurrence rate. The foremost management choice is internal urethrotomy, but recurrences are common, and many believe that the duration and size of catheterization post internal urethrotomy may affect the recurrence rate.

Objective: To determine the factors affecting recurrence rates of urethral stricture after internal urethrotomy.

Methodology: It was Quasi Experimental Study conducted in Urology ward of Dr. Ziauddin University Hospital, Karachi from 10th March 2020 to 31 december 2021. Total 60 patients were included; all of the patients were divided into four equal groups. All the patients were followed quarterly for 12 months and data was recorded for urinary flow, retention, burning sensation during urination. UFM, Cystoscopy and urethrogram were done once indicated. Symptomatic patients or patients with UFM 15ml/sec were checked for recurrence followed by cystoscopy if needed. The data analysis was obtained using SPSS v. 21.0.

Results: The mean age of the sample stood at 27 (SD ± 4) years (range: 20 to 40) years were enrolled in the study. Urethral stricture disease recurred cumulatively in 24 (40%) patients within 12 months. Mean duration of catheterization was 8.71 ± 1.1 and 2.97 ± 0.91 days in patients with and without recurrences, respectively (p=0.001). Catheter dwell times for ≥7 days was associated with increased recurrence (p=0.039). Of the patients with recurrent strictures, increased catheter diameter was also associated with higher recurrence rates (p=0.041).

Conclusion: After careful consideration, it can be concluded that longer catheter in-dwell time and greater catheter diameter lead to a greater probability of stricture recurrence and hence the indwell time should be limited to ≤ 3 days and the catheter size chosen to be no more than 16Fr.
Isolation and Phenotypic Characterization of Lytic Bacteriophage with Activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Nascimento Caroline Antunes do , Bertuol Milena Zanoello , Pasqualotto Luana , Püttov Elis Presser , Pilotto Fernando , Santos Luciana Ruschel dos , Rodrigues Laura Beatriz
Published: November 2022

Aims: To perform the isolation and phenotypic characterization of bacteriophage with lytic activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To demonstrate that this type of viral agent can be isolated from the environment and used for the biocontrol of resistant bacterial types, such as  Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Study Design: This study was an experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at, Bacteriology and Mycology Laboratory in the Veterinary Hospital at the School of Agricultural Sciences, Innovation and Business  of the University of Passo Fundo (ESAN/UPF) and Center for Diagnosis and Research in Animal Health of the University of Passo Fundo (CDSA/UPF), between April 2022 and June 2022.

Methodology: Samples of untreated water were inoculated with the host bacterium strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 in an enriched media After the incubation period in, a phage filtrate was obtained by centrifugation followed by filtration. We verified the presence of bacteriophages using spot test and we carried out its purification by the method of sterile toothpick plate transfer on bacterial overlay semi-solid agar. Amplification was performed using an SM buffer elution procedure to produce a stock of viral material. Through assays in Petri dishes with bacterial overlay, we performed titration and phenotypic characterization regarding the lysis spectrum and efficiency of phage infection in the host.

Results: We managed to isolate a morphologically characterized lytic bacteriophage with approximately 1 mm of diameter, high clarity in the inhibition area, the presence of halo and well-demarcated edges. The bacteriophage, named as Pseudomonas aeruginosa Phage UPF_PaBP1, demonstrated the infection capacity of the target bacteria in all tested dilutions and a stock preparation with a titre of 6.5 x 10⁸ PFU/ml was obtained for future use.

Conclusion: The isolated phage showed strong lytic activity against the bacterial host, a finding that nourishes our expectations regarding the use of this phage as a biocontrol agent and phage therapy.
Computational Nanomaterials Design: towards the Realization of Nanoparticle use in Radiotherapy Case Study 2: Adsorption states of At on Au (111) Surface
Authors: Tanudji Jeffrey , Aspera Susan Meñez , Kasai Hideaki , Okada Michio , Ogawa Tetsuo , Nakanishi Hiroshi
Published: November 2022

Astatine-211 (211At or simply At) used as an α particle emitter is currently gaining as treatment method for cancer cells. It must however be attached to a carrier to facilitate the treatment process. Gold nanoparticle is a good candidate that has been used in several tests. Knowing the physics behind the adsorption of astatine on gold nanoparticles would be advantageous in designing a more optimal method for such applications. We therefore performed density functional theory calculation on astatine adsorption on gold (111) surface to understand both the mechanism of astatine bonding with gold and the strength of the bonding. We found the mechanism of adsorption to be the hybridization between the 6p orbital of astatine and the 5d and 6s orbitals of the gold. We also found the adsorption strength of astatine on gold to be -1.43 eV at the fcc hollow site. Both results provide us with a good starting point towards our goal of designing an optimized gold nanoparticle for radiotherapy.
Prevalence and Antibiogram of Biofilm Forming Bacteria Associated with Toilet Seats in Dormitories within a University Campus in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Sampson T. , Emelogu G. O.
Published: November 2022

Public toilet facilities pose serious health threats to those accessing it, as they may be sources of infection to the users. Understanding the bacterial types and their virulence features such as biofilm production and resistance to antibiotics will aid in advancing control measures. This study was therefore conducted to determine the prevalence and antibiogram of biofilm forming bacterial species associated with toilet seats in University dormitories. A total of 24 samples were obtained from six (6) hostels aseptically. The samples were subjected to standard microbiological procedures for the isolation and identification of the bacterial species. Standard plate count was used for the enumeration of the bacterial populations. Antibiotics susceptibility and biofilm production was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion and the Congo red agar method, respectively. The data obtained from the study identified Staphylococcus spp. as the predominant isolate, having a prevalence of 58.3%, followed by Bacillus spp. (54.2%), while Serratia mercensis (4.2%) was the least encountered isolate. Data obtained showed the total heterotrophic bacterial count ranged from 1±0.02 x 105 cfu/ml to 2.5±0.03 x 105 cfu/ml. The antibiogram obtained showed that the isolates were highly resistant to most of the antibiotics tested, as all the Gram positive isolates (100 %) were resistant to five (i.e 62.5 %) of the antibiotics (Cefuroxime, Ceftaziidime, Augmentin, Cloxacillin and Ceftriaxone). The Gram negative isolates showed similar pattern where 100 % of the isolates were resistant to four (i.e 50%) of the antibiotics, (Augmentin, Ceftaziidime, Ciprofloxacin and Cefuroxime). The results showed 57.1 % of the isolates produced biofilm. The study indicated a high rate of recovery of bacteria from the toilet seats in dormitories within the University. Proper sanitary measures should therefore be adopted to facilitate good hygiene and reduce the transmission of bacterial infections.
Four Worthies on plaster ceilings in Scotland (1617–25)
Authors: Gapper Claire
Published: November 2022

This article aims to contextualise a group of Scottish plaster ceilings dating from c 1617–1625 which all include roundels with busts of four of the Nine Worthies, to be found in houses identified by William Napier as comprising the Kellie Group. They will be viewed from two different perspectives. First, the Worthies will be considered as a subject popular in the literature and decorative arts of the period. Engravings of the Nine Worthies in a variety of formats enabled this medieval topos to retain its popularity throughout Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. They featured widely in ornament and interior decoration of this period, not least in plasterwork. By setting these Scottish ceilings within this broader context, this paper will attempt to understand the reasons for their selection. Secondly, in the light of current research into London’s plasterwork and its production in the early 17th century, the provenance of these busts will be reassessed. In 1900 Lord Balcarres’s observation of the similarity between a plaster ceiling in his house and one from the ‘Old Palace’, Bromley-by-Bow, first appeared in print. The similarities included the repetition of roundels containing three of the Nine Worthies. The London building and/or its plasterwork had already been erroneously attributed to James VI/I for many decades and this article will present the historical evidence to dispel the myths which have continued to surface into the 21st century. In addition, the documentary and visual evidence that was adduced prior to the re-creation of two Jacobean ceilings in the State Apartment of Edinburgh Castle will be examined within these contexts.
Antiquities in Airdrie Burgh 1895–2021
Authors: Reeve Anna
Published: November 2022

North Lanarkshire Council Museums is the latest custodian of some of the founding collections of the Airdrie Burgh Museum, which was established in 1895 and closed in 1974. These reflect the wide-ranging interests of their original collectors, encompassing geology, natural history, ethnography and archaeology. This paper focuses on a collection of Mediterranean antiquities which survives today from the establishment of the museum. It results from a project funded by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland to investigate this collection, and demonstrates that it can be used to examine the museum’s development and changing ethos over the intervening period. Although they were initially keenly sought after and welcomed as valuable gifts, later curators found little use for such objects in streamlined displays focused on local history and culture. Now, curatorial networks and the affordances of digital technology allow such collections of antiquities to be researched and shared with both local and wider audiences, while they can also contribute to local, national and global histories of archaeology, collection and display.
survey of Roman, medieval and post-medieval coin finds from Scotland 2016–20
Authors: Savage Carl E , Freeman Emily A , Paul Ella B
Published: November 2022

Coins and other numismatic finds from 276 locations across Scotland are listed and discussed.
Analysis of Cardiovascular Complications During Delivery Admissions Among Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, 2004-2019
Authors: Zahid Salman , Mohamed Mohamed S. , Wassif Heba , Nazir Noreen T. , Khan Sadiya S. , Michos Erin D.
Published: November 2022

Importance

Individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have an increased risk of pregnancy-related complications. However, data on acute cardiovascular complications during delivery admissions remain limited.

Objective

To investigate whether SLE is associated with an increased risk of acute peripartum cardiovascular complications during delivery hospitalization among individuals giving birth.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted with data from the National Inpatient Sample (2004-2019) by using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) or International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes to identify delivery hospitalizations among birthing individuals with a diagnosis of SLE. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to report an adjusted odds ratio (OR) for the association between SLE and acute peripartum cardiovascular complications. Data were analyzed from May 1 through September 1, 2022.

Exposure

Diagnosed SLE.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary study end points were preeclampsia, peripartum cardiomyopathy, and heart failure. Secondary end points included ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, pulmonary edema, cardiac arrhythmias, acute kidney injury (AKI), venous thromboembolism (VTE), length of stay, and cost of hospitalization.

Results

A total of 63 115 002 weighted delivery hospitalizations (median [IQR] age, 28 [24-32] years; all were female patients) were identified, of which 77 560 hospitalizations (0.1%) were among individuals with SLE and 63 037 442 hospitalizations (99.9%) were among those without SLE. After adjustment for age, race and ethnicity, comorbidities, insurance, and income level, SLE remained an independent risk factor associated with peripartum cardiovascular complications, including preeclampsia (adjusted OR [aOR], 2.12; 95% CI, 2.07-2.17), peripartum cardiomyopathy (aOR, 4.42; 95% CI, 3.79-5.13), heart failure (aOR, 4.06; 95% CI, 3.61-4.57), cardiac arrhythmias (aOR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.94-2.21), AKI (aOR, 7.66; 95% CI, 7.06-8.32), stroke (aOR, 4.83; 95% CI, 4.18-5.57), and VTE (aOR, 6.90; 95% CI, 6.11-7.80). For resource use, median (IQR) length of stay (3 [2-4] days vs 2 [2-3] days; P < .001) and cost of hospitalization ($4953 [$3305-$7517] vs $3722 [$2606-$5400]; P < .001) were higher for deliveries among individuals with SLE.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that SLE was associated with increased risk of complications, including preeclampsia, peripartum cardiomyopathy, heart failure, arrhythmias, AKI, stroke, and VTE during delivery hospitalization and an increased length and cost of hospitalization.
Photothermal Enhanced and Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Nanozyme for Amplified Cascade Enzyme Catalytic Therapy
Authors: Zhu Yang , Pan Yuanbo , Guo Zhengxi , Jin Duo , Wang Wenyu , Liu Manman , Zong Mingxi , Zheng Xinwei , Wu Yun , Wang Lulu , Tian Changlin , Cheng Junjie , Liu Yangzhong
Published: November 2022

Nanocatalysts, a class of nanomaterials with intrinsic enzyme‐like activities, have been widely investigated for cancer catalytic therapy in recent years. However, precise construction of nanocatalysts with excellent enzyme catalytic activity and biosafety for tumor therapy still remains challenging. Here, a biodegradable nanocatalyst, PEGylated CuxMnySz (PCMS), is reported that can promote cascade catalytic reactions in tumor microenvironment (TME) while confining off‐target side effects on normal tissues. PCMS not only catalyzes the cascade conversion of endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to oxygen (O2) via catalase‐like activity and then to superoxide radical (·O2−) via oxidase‐like activity in the TME, but also effectively depletes intracellular glutathione via glutathione oxidase‐like activity. The cascade catalytic reactions, by taking advantage of high H2O2 level in tumor cells, result in an enhanced enzyme catalytic effect in generation of ·O2−. More importantly, PCMS exhibits prominent photothermal effect under NIR‐II 1064 nm laser irradiation that can further enhance chemodynamic therapy (CDT) efficacy in tumors. In addition, the biodegradation in TME and excellent photothermal effect of PCMS are beneficial to magnetic resonance imaging, photoacoustic imaging and infrared thermal imaging, resulting in tracing the fate of PCMS in vivo. This study provides a new tool for rational design of TME‐responsive nanocatalysts with high biocompatibility for tumor catalytic therapy.
Nanodroplet‐Coated Microbubbles Used in Sonothrombolysis with Two‐Step Cavitation Strategy
Authors: Pan Yunfan , Li Yongjian , Li Yan , Zheng Xiaobing , Zou Chenghong , Li Jiang , Chen Haosheng
Published: November 2022

Thrombosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality and sonothrombolysis is a promising method for its treatment. However, the slow diffusion of the thrombolytic agents into the thrombus results in slow recanalization. Here, nanodroplet‐coated microbubbles (NCMBs) are designed and fabricated and a two‐step cavitation strategy is used to accelerate the thrombolysis. The first cavitation of the NCMBs, cavitation and collapse of the microbubbles induced by low frequency ultrasound, drives the nanodroplets on the shell into the thrombus, while the second cavitation, the phase‐change and volume expansion of drug‐loaded nanodroplets triggered by high frequency ultrasound, loosens the thrombus by the sono‐porosity effect. This two‐step cavitation of the NCMBs is verified using a fibrin agarose model, where a rapid diffusion of the thrombolytic agents is observed. Furthermore, the NCMBs reach much higher thrombolysis efficiency in both in vitro and proof‐of‐concept experiments performed with living mice. The nanodroplet‐coated microbubbles are a promising diffusion medicines carrier for efficient drug delivery.
Synthesis of MAPbBr3‐Polymer Composite Films by Photolysis of DMF: Toward Transparent and Flexible Optical Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) with Hierarchical Multilevel Complexity
Authors: Minh Duong Nguyen , Nguyen Lan Anh Thi , Nguyen Quynh H. , Vu Thanh Van , Choi Jinwoo , Eom Sangwon , Kwon S. Joon , Kang Youngjong
Published: November 2022

Physical entities with inherent randomness have been investigated as anti‐counterfeiting labels based on physical unclonable functions (PUFs). Herein, a transparent and flexible optical PUF label associated with multilevel complexity is demonstrated by taking advantage of the optical properties of hierarchical morphologies of the composite film composed of metal halide perovskite nanoparticles (MAPbBr3 NPs) and the intrinsic spinodal‐decomposition‐like phase separation of polymer blend (PMMA/PS blend). Due to the combinatorial effects of the photolysis synthesis of MAPbBr3 and the thermodynamic instability of the PMMA/PS blend, randomized patterns emerge at two‐level scales. These patterns are intrinsically non‐deterministic, and therefore, the PUF labels from the multilevel random patterns are challenging to replicate. This is mainly attributed to random spot patterns (higher‐level patterns) confined within intricate bicontinuous patterns (lower‐level patterns).
Lightweight 3D Graphene Metamaterials with Tunable Negative Thermal Expansion
Authors: He Peng , Du Tao , Zhao Keren , Dong Jiaqi , Liang Yusheng , Zhang Qiangqiang
Published: November 2022

In this study, a 3D graphene metamaterial (GM) showing negative thermal expansion is prepared using a strategy of hyperbolically oriented freezing under a dual temperature gradient along orthogonal directions after the π–π stacking‐derived assembly of 2D graphene sheets. As the fundamental construction element of the 3D GM, the graphene sheet displays anomalous shrinking deformation with a thermal expansion coefficient of (−6.12 ± 0.28) × 10−6 that is triggered by thermally induced out‐of‐plane vibrations of the CC bonds. A combination of numerical simulations and experimental investigations validates that anomalous negative thermal expansion (NTE) behavior can be effectively delivered to scalable 3D GM candidates at larger dimensions beyond the basic 2D graphene sheets at the microscale. The multiscale design and optimization of the structural characterization of the 3D GM further realize the desirable regulation of the NTE performance with the NTE coefficient ranging from negative ((−7.5± 0.65) × 10−6 K−1) to near‐zero values ((−0.8 ± 0.25) × 10−6 K−1). This is attributed to the NTE‐derived release regulation of the primary stress/strain of the microstructure, and the 3D GM exhibits high thermal stability while preserving the desirable structural robustness and fatigue resistance under thermo‐mechanical coupling conditions. Therefore, this 3D GM offers promising potential for applications as protective skin, thermal actuator, smart switcher, and packing filler.
Entering a New Dimension in Powder Processing for Advanced Ceramics Shaping
Authors: Sänger Johanna Christiane , Pauw Brian Richard , Riechers Birte , Zocca Andrea , Rosalie Julian , Maaß Robert , Sturm Heinz , Günster Jens
Published: November 2022

Filigree structures can be manufactured via two‐photon polymerization (2PP) operating in the regime of nonlinear light absorption. For the first time, it is possible to apply this technique to the powder processing of ceramic structures with a feature size in the range of the critical defect sizes responsible for brittle fracture and, thus, affecting fracture toughness of high‐performance ceramics. In this way, tailoring of advanced properties can be achieved already in the shaping process. Traditionally, 2PP relies on transparent polymerizable resins, which are diametrically opposed to the usually completely opaque ceramic resins and slurries. Here a transparent and photocurable suspension of nanoparticles (resin) with very high mass fractions of yttria‐stabilized zirconia particles (YSZ) is presented. Due to the extremely well‐dispersed nanoparticles, scattering of light can be effectively suppressed at the process‐relevant wavelength of 800 nm. Sintered ceramic structures with a resolution of down to 500 nm are obtained. Even at reduced densities of 1–4 g cm−3, the resulting compressive strength with 4.5 GPa is equivalent or even exceeding bulk monolithic yttria‐stabilized zirconia. A ceramic metamaterial is born, where the mechanical properties of yttria‐stabilized zirconia are altered by changing geometrical parameters, and gives access to a new class of ceramic materials.