bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Organic Fertilization on Agro-morphological Traits and Mineral Nutrient Content in Bean Grains
Authors: Rocha Richardson Sales , Jaeggi Mário Euclides Pechara da Costa , Cruz Derivaldo Pureza da , Pereira Israel Martins , Gravina Geraldo de Amaral , Batista Josimar Nogueira , Silva Rita de Kássia Guarnier da , Rodrigues Luciana Aparecida , Freitas Marta Simone Mendonça , Souza Alexandre Gomes de , Entringer Geovana Cremonini , Daher Rogério Figueiredo
Published: February 2022

Plant residues such as animal feed weeds and bean straws are excellent sources of raw material for the production of organic fertilizers. In view of this, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of organic fertilization on the agromorphological and nutritional aspects in bean grains. The experiment was implemented in the field, in a randomized block design, with three replications, in a split plot scheme, with two types of organic compound (elephant grass enriched with cattle manure) and (bean straw enriched with cattle manure) applied in six increasing doses (0.0, 33.32, 66.65, 100.00, 133.32 and 166.65%) control treatment (recommended mineral fertilization). It was possible to identify interaction between the type of compound and the doses applied only to PL. With a yield of 2.8 t ha-1, mineral fertilization did not differ from treatment with 0.0% organic fertilizer. The dose of 166.65% organic fertilizer increased grain yield reaching 3.8 t ha-1 compared to 2.4 t ha-1 obtained in the treatment with 0.0%. In addition, this treatment increased the K content in the grains. On the other hand, the application of 133.32% of organic fertilizer can be indicated for the increase in mg content in the grains.
The Effects of Climate Change on Animal Production in Fiji
Authors: Igbal Mohammed Rasheed , Iqbaal Ubaadah Bin , Kishore Rohit , Magiri Royford Bundi
Published: February 2022

Climate change is a great impact on Fiji’s ecosystem including animal (livestock and marine) and crop production from past decades and still possesses a large effect on their economy as well. These climatic events include flooding, rise in ambient temperature, rise in the sea level, droughts, tropical cyclones, and all others that bring large changes to the environmental system. These large changes adversely affect animal production and its economy in Fiji. Not only this, individuals that are linked to animal production are also affected through climatic conditions such as loss of income and livestock species that die out during cyclones and other aspects. Not only the terrestrial species but the marine organisms are also affected since climatic changes bring alterations to their feeding period and the mating time leading to a vast decrease in organisms’ health, quality, and population. Consequently, the Fijian government and other Pacific organizations have brought strategies like adaptation plans to implement in animal production sectors. These plans and methods will help farmers in stimulating their farming systems and adapting to climatic changes and hence, this will lead to increased productivity and economy. The aim and objective of this review are to define and elaborate the climatic change effects on livestock and marine production in Fiji and effective solutions adapted by Fiji and other Pacific governments to refrain from adverse climate conditions.
Fungicide Spraying Programs Reducing Asian Soybean Rust Impact on Soybean Yield Components
Authors: Hoffmann Laércio Luiz , Boller Walter , Forcelini Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2022

Soybean is one of the leading agricultural commodities, and Brazil is currently the largest producer globally. Despite this, fungal diseases as Asian Soybean Rust (ASR) are among the primary limiters of high crop yields in Brazilian fields. Losses caused by the biotrophic fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi can reach up to 90%, depending on weather conditions, and several components can be affected during soybean growth and reproduction. Here, we assessed fungicide spraying programs to ASR control, aiming to reduce the losses on soybean components. The experiments were performed under field conditions during the harvest season 2014/2015. The evaluated variables were soybean leaf area index, ASR severity, yield components, dry mass grain accumulation, protein, and oil content. The yield components assessed were the number of pods per plant, seeds per pod, seeds per plant, and thousand-grain weight. The disease severity gradient was generated using seven fungicide spraying programs, differing in time, number, and type of fungicides. Three fungicide programs that included applications in the soybean vegetative and reproductive stages were more efficient. These programs resulted in the lower area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), greater leaf area duration (LAD), and health leaf area duration (HAD) than the untreated soybean. The ASR infection in soybean resulted in reduced LAD and HAD, and as a consequence, interfered negatively with dry matter accumulation, yield components, and grain yield.
Who Does Not Attend Farmers Markets and the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs?
Authors: Gumirakiza Jean Dominique , Milliner Autumn
Published: February 2022

This study uses data from 172 consumers who participated in mail survey distributed in 2020 to within the Southcentral Kentucky region. The purpose was to analyze consumer habits of attending farmers markets focusing on characteristics of those who do not attend and analyze their likelihood to participate in the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. We used both Multinomial and Ordered Logit models to analyze data. Results indicate that respective relative probabilities for “never attend”, “attend occasionally”, and “attend frequently” are 55%, 29%, and 16%, respectively. Male consumers, rural residents, primary shoppers, and those with a 2-year associate degree are less likely to attend farmers markets. This study finds that educated consumers and those who were satisfied with previous market experiences are more likely to attend a market frequently. Another finding is that consumers with interests in using an App to purchase fresh produce are more likely to attend farmers markets and participate in CSA programs. We further found that consumers are less likely to join a CSA program if they live in a rural area. This study contributes to the understanding of characteristics of consumers who do not use direct-to-consumer market outlets, particular farmers’ markets, and CSA programs. It informs policy makers who seek to promote these two market outlets. This study is also useful to managers of farmers markets and CSA programs when making marketing decisions.
A comparative study of the 5 mm-layer Vickers hardness model with bulk-fill resin-based composites
Authors: Aytaç Bal Fatma , Ağaccıoğlu Merve , Demir Osman
Published: February 2022

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the Vickers hardness numbers (VHNs) of two bulk-fill resin-based composites (BFRBC) and a conventional hybrid resin-based composite (RBC) through the layers of a 5mm thickness model with two different light-curing time intervals.

Methodology: In the present study, a sonic-activated and dual-cure BFRBC, and a conventional hybrid RBC were used. Semi-cylindrical specimens 4 mm in radius and 5 mm in height were prepared using a two-piece stainless-steel mold (n=10). The BFRBCs allowed a single 5mm increment to be introduced into the molds, whereas hybrid RBC was incremented (2+2+1 mm). Two different time intervals were applied for the light-curing (irradiance of 1200 mW/cm2) of each material (hybrid-sonic-activated bulk-fill, 20 s and 40 s; dual-cure bulk-fill, 7 s and 15 s). VHN measurements were carried out from top to bottom at every 1 mm of the specimen thickness. Data were analyzed using three-way and two-way ANOVA for the VHN and bottom/top ratios and Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons (p=0.05).

Results: For each layer and time interval groups, there was a significant difference between the materials. The highest VHN was found within hybrid groups, whereas dual-cure bulk-fill groups showed the lowest results. Sonic-activated bulk-fill had the lowest bottom/top ratios, which were significantly different from those of the other materials. There was no significant difference between the different time intervals for bottom/top ratios within each material.

Conclusion: Increased irradiation intervals positively affected the VHN of hybrid and dual-cure bulk-fill. BFRBCs showed clinically acceptable bottom/top hardness ratios.

 

How to cite this article: Aytaç Bal F, Ağaccıoğlu M, Demir O. A comparative study of the 5 mm-layer Vickers hardness model with bulk-fill resin-based composites. Int Dent Res 2021;11(2):172-9. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no3.6

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
Molecular detection of E. faecalis in oral samples of a population associated with secondary endodontic infection
Authors: Kesim Bertan , Tezcan Ülger Seda , Cudal Hamza , Aslan Gönül , Ersoy Leyla , Aslan Tuğrul , Küçük Mustafa Öner
Published: February 2022

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Enterococcus faecalis in samples of oral rinse and tongue dorsum of endodontic patients with secondary/persistent infections (EPSI) using the PCR method.

Methodology: Oral rinse samples (ORS) and tongue swab samples (TSS) of 22 patients (EPSI group) and 32 healthy individuals (control group) were collected. DNA isolation from the TSS and ORS samples was performed using the modified classical phenol-chloroform and chloroform method. To detect E. faecalis strains directly from the TSS and ORS samples, the 310 base pair (bp) segment of the 16S rDNA of the E. faecalis genome was amplified by PCR using specific primers. The prevalence of E. faecalis was compared between healthy and sick individuals using the Chi-square test, significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: In the ORS samples, there was a significant difference between the healthy individuals (n = 11, 34%) and the EPSI group (n = 15, 68%) in terms of the presence of E. faecalis (p = 0.026). In the TSS, the presence of E. faecalis was also investigated, and a significant difference was found between healthy individuals (n = 3, 9%) and the EPSI group (n = 11, 50%) (p = 0.001). In the EPSI group, no statistically significant difference was present in the prevalence rate of E. faecalis between the samples of ORS (68%) and TSS (50%) (p = 0.358).

Conclusion: The prevalence of E. faecalis was found to be statistically significantly higher in multi-site oral samples of a population with secondary endodontic infection than healthy individuals.

 

How to cite this article: Kesim B, Tezcan Ülger S, Cudal H, Aslan G, Ersoy L, Aslan T, Küçük MÖ. Molecular detection of E. faecalis in oral samples of a population associated with secondary endodontic infection. Int Dent Res 2021;11(3):180-4. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no3.7

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
GESTÃO DE RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS: DIFICULDADES E POTENCIALIDADES EM UM CONSÓRCIO INTERMUNICIPAL
Authors: Dos Santos Knopf Débora , Lorenzi Junior David , Eccel Pontelli Greice , Marques Kneipp Jordana
Published: February 2022

Este estudo tem por objetivo descrever as principais dificuldades e potencialidades observadas na gestão de resíduos sólidos no Consórcio Intermunicipal de Gestão de Resíduos Sólidos (CIGRES). Para tanto, realizou-se uma pesquisa descritiva com abordagem qualitativa. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevistas e análise documental. Utilizou-se a técnica de análise de conteúdo. Os resultados apontaram dificuldades, potencialidades e alguns aspectos que precisam ser repensados na gestão dos resíduos sólidos. Por fim, constatou-se aspectos positivos em relação a preocupação com o tripé da sustentabilidade. Portanto, o estudo traz contribuições teóricas na temática da sustentabilidade e gestão de resíduos sólidos. Em relação às contribuições gerenciais, os resultados fornecem evidências empíricas acerca da gestão dos consórcios e o relacionamento com os municípios, sendo que os desafios e potencialidades podem ser explorados e desenvolvidos pelos gestores buscando o aprimoramento de práticas e rotinas organizacionais.
Male vs. Female
Authors: Hofheinz Albrecht
Published: February 2022

A cluster of arrays “provid[ing] principles of order within the unstructured simultaneity of everyday-worlds”* in Egypt and Tunisia in 2016, forming part of the two countries’ “culture” during the In 2016 project’s target year.

*H. U. Gumbrecht, In 1926: Living at the Edge of Time (1997), 443.
Security vs. Fear
Authors: Høigilt Jacob
Published: February 2022

A cluster of arrays “provid[ing] principles of order within the unstructured simultaneity of everyday-worlds”* in Egypt and Tunisia in 2016, forming part of the two countries’ “culture” during the In 2016 project’s target year.

*H. U. Gumbrecht, In 1926: Living at the Edge of Time (1997), 443.
Management of Africa’s trans-boundary freshwater bodies: legal framework and challenges.
Authors: Osapiri John
Published: February 2022

This paper discusses the Management of Africa’s Trans boundary Fresh Water bodies focusing on challenges and the legal Framework guiding such natural resources. The author gives a detailed definition of Trans boundary fresh water bodies, gives an Overview of Africa Trans boundary Freshwater bodies and expounds on the Legal Framework regulating Africa Trans boundary water. In discussing the Trans boundary legal framework for Africa, the author focuses on United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses, the African Continental Treaties and the regional conventions legislating on shared Trans boundary Fresh water.
Vztah mezi osobnostními charakteristikami a problémovým užíváním internetu mezi dětmi ve věku 11 až 14 let
Authors: Markovikj Marijana , Serafimovska Eleonora
Published: February 2022

Problematické užívání internetu (problematic Internet use) je definováno jako neschopnost regulovat vlastní užívání internetu. Tato závislost může mít negativní vliv na duševní i fyzické zdraví i na kvalitu života. Zmíněný fenomén je spojen s technologickým pokrokem a stal se celosvětovým problémem. Projevuje se omezenou kontrolou chování ve vztahu k přístupu k a užívání internetu, online hazardním hrám, online hrám apod. Děti a mládež jsou obzvláště náchylní k tomuto typu závislosti. Výzkum ukázal několik rizikových faktorů, jedním z nichž jsou osobnostní charakteristiky. Cílem předkládané studie je prozkoumat vztah mezi charakteristikami osobnosti definovanými podle Velké Pětky (pětifaktorový model osobnosti) a problematickým užíváním internetu a to, které z charakteristik mohou být považovány za rizikové a které za ochranné faktory. Data byla sbírána za účelem standardizace a kulturní adaptace psychologického měřícího nástroje pro děti. Výsledky této studie jsou založeny na analýze dat od 102 respondentů z reprezentativního vzorku žáků základních škol ve věku 11 až 14 let. Výzkum dále pokračuje a další data jsou sbírána. Problematické užívání internetu bylo zkoumáno pomocí krátké verze dotazníku problematického užívání internetu pro mládež (PIUQ-9; Demetrovics, Szeredi, & Rózsa, 2008), která má devět položek. Plná verze instrumentu je založena na 18 položkách. Využita je pětistupňová Likertova škála; minimální skóre ve zkrácené verzi je 9, maximální 45. Instrument má tři sub-škály o třech položkách: škála obsese (abstinenční symptomy při nedostatečném přístupu k internetu), škála zanedbávání potřeb (zanedbávání osobních potřeb a každodenních činností), škála poruchy kontroly (nedostatek kontroly ve spojení s užíváním Internetu). Pětifaktorový osobnostní inventář pro děti (BFQ-C; Barbaranelli et al., 2003) se zaměřil na osobnostní charakteristiky. Nástroj obsahuje 65 položek s pětistupňovou Likertovou škálou. 13 položek se zaměřuje na každou z následujících oblastí: otevřenost vůči zkušenostem / intelekt, svědomitost, extraverze/energie, přívětivost, neuroticismus. Zjištění makedonské studie naznačují faktory relevantní pro rozvoj problematického užívání internetu – čtyři osobnostní charakteristiky lze považovat za ochranné faktory (extraverze, otevřenost vůči zkušenosti, přívětivost a svědomitost) a jeden za rizikový faktor (neuroticismus).
Historia, discurso y metadiscurso
Authors: Alvarez Sanagustín Alberto
Published: February 2022

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Análisis del discurso de Gracián en «El Criticón»
Authors: Deza Enríquez Ana-Jimena
Published: February 2022

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Miguel Ángel Garrido Gallardo: La Musa de la Retórica. Problemas y métodos de la Ciencia de la Literatura. (Madrid: CSIC, 1994, 284 páginas)
Authors: Fernández Bueno Aida
Published: February 2022

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Sobre la «figurativización espacial» en ¡Adiós, cordera! Aspectos de semiótica textual
Authors: Cifuentes Honrubia José Luis
Published: February 2022

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Hacia una semiótica textual peirciana (I)
Authors: Gorlée Dinda L.
Published: February 2022

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Antonio Sánchez Trigueros y otros: Sociología de la literatura. (Madrid: Síntesis, 1996)
Authors: Álamo Felices Francisco
Published: February 2022

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Alicia Yllera: Teoría de la literatura francesa. (Madrid: Editorial Síntesis, 1996, 367 págs.)
Authors: Domínguez Caparrós José
Published: February 2022

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Sentidos atribuídos à satisfação sexual por mulheres que vivenciam o trabalho sexual: estudo fenomenológico
Authors: Santos Couto Pablo Luiz , Da Silva Flores Tarcísio , Souza da Costa Pereira Samantha , Porcino Carle , Benemérita Alves Vilela Alba
Published: February 2022

The objective was to understand the meanings attributed to sexual satisfaction by women who experience sex work. It is a qualitative study, based on the phenomenological approaches of Sartre and Heidegger. It was carried out with 30 sex workers from the Alto Sertão Produtivo Baiano region. It was evident that women have their senses about sexual satisfaction, structured in the financial dimension in interface with self-esteem and the sexual act, explained from the experiences learned, while they inserted in the sexual service. These senses reveal that pleasure in connection with money is survival and subsistence. The orgasm itself refers to the self-esteem and emotions felt by those who have affection. These nuances show that sexual service is more than just a job, the context that allows them to be in a space with possibilities for multifaceted experiences, such as sexual freedom, in a temporality that is a reflection of subjectivities that go beyond natural determinism.

Objetivou-se compreender os sentidos atribuídos à satisfação sexual por mulheres que vivenciam o trabalho sexual. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, fundamentado nas abordagens fenomenológicas de Sartre e Heidegger. Foi realizado com 30 trabalhadoras sexuais da região do Alto Sertão Produtivo Baiano. Evidenciou-se que as mulheres têm os sentidos sobre satisfação sexual, estruturados na dimensão financeira em interface à autoestima e ao ato sexual, explicadas a partir das experiências aprendidas, enquanto são/estão inseridas no serviço sexual. Esses sentidos revelam que o prazer em conexão ao dinheiro é a sobrevivência e subsistência. Já o orgasmo propriamente dito, remete à autoestima e às emoções sentidas por quem nutre afeto. Essas nuances, mostram que o serviço sexual é além de ofício, o contexto que permite elas ser/estar em um espaço com possibilidades de vivências multifacetadas, como a liberdade sexual, em uma temporalidade que é reflexo de subjetividades que extrapolam o determinismo natural.
Atención en centros asistenciales para la mujer víctima de violencia de género de Coirós (Galicia) y Cartagena de Indias: un análisis comparado
Authors: Vázquez-Miraz Pedro , Quintana Angélica , Riveira Begoña
Published: February 2022

This paper is a descriptive-comparative analysis of the services provided by two care centres for women victims of abuse. The first one, a public centre in Spain [Centro de Información a la mujer (CIM) in the municipality of Coiros (N=63), and the second one, a private centre from Colombia [Centro de Orientación a la Mujer (COM) located in Cartagena de Indias (N=43)]. The profiles of the women that accessed these centres was also analized. In order to compile the information needed to support this analysis, specific surveys were designed, and modified according to the needs of each centre. The information obtained allowed the identification of the satisfaction levels from the services offered, and also evidenced the lack of knowledge regarding the purpose of both centres. Another result obtained from this comparison were the sociodemographical differences in the profiles of abused women coming to this centres.

En el presente estudio descriptivo-comparativo se analizaron los servicios prestados por dos centros asistenciales a mujeres, víctimas de maltrato, de España [Centro de Información a la Mujer (CIM) del municipio gallego de Coirós, de potestad pública (N = 63)] y Colombia [Centro de Orientación a la Mujer (COM) situado en la ciudad de Cartagena de Indias, de responsabilidad privada (N = 43)] y el perfil de las usuarias que acudían a estos espacios de atención gratuita. Por medio de encuestas diseñadas especialmente para este estudio, y modificadas para cada entidad específica, se identificó que los niveles de satisfacción por los servicios prestados y el desconocimiento previo de la utilidad de ambos centros fue muy elevada, observándose diferencias sociodemográficas respecto el perfil de la mujer maltratada que acudía a cada entidad.
Au-delà de la réciprocité négative : la femme-gangster Madame St-Clair, reine de Harlem de Raphaël Confiant
Authors: Crosta Suzanne
Published: February 2022

This article seeks to examine representations of the female gangster commonly known as “Madame Queen,” or simply “Queenie,” who was a formidable and ingenious figure in 1920s-40s New York. Confiant calls to mind the curiously ethical and troubled roots of this Antillaise activist and “miraculous survivor” who subverts the order of power by, more often than not, producing disorder in the form of negative reciprocity, that is to say vengeance. Her story will be determined by the First World War, the start of the Civil Rights Movement, the Great Depression and the Second World War. Queenie’s agency, or shall we say, with a knowing smile, her “social engagement,” will manifest itself in the projection of a life that is fully-thought out and which, mysteriously or instinctively, unites itself to one pole or another of calculated vengeance or indefinite and radical revenge. Out of what begins as a minefield, she very nearly reconciles these opposites by opening up a field of possibilities for future generations. Thus, this woman gangster gives herself the chance to consider anew the manifestations of violence and the knots of oppression that have been omnipresent in her life. From a political, economic, judicial and cultural perspective, marginalised communities live according to the survival of the fittest. Yet who can carry the standard of liberty, of peace and of dignity without a heightened awareness that allows us to define those human values? Raphael Confiant brings a critical examination of the gaze to a world of effervescence, to forces which have barely been linked let alone brought head to head in the past. From the revenge of laughter to the questioning of the link between positive and negative reciprocity, Confiant’s search for a path to liberation by means of creation is unwavering and also inexhaustible, for from it flows the future and the map of possibilities for “the damned of the earth.”
Human Violence and Eating Animals: Reading Gaétan Soucy through the lenses of Animal and Vegan Studies
Authors: Powers Scott
Published: February 2022

This essay examines vegetarianism and the treatment of animals in Gaétan Soucy’s L’Immaculée Conception and Music-Hall! as part of an innovative commentary on violence among humans. The novels’ unconventional use of zoomorphism and anthropomorphism in establishing animal sentience and agency places the animal at the center of moral inquiry in order to denounce violent anthropocentrism. By drawing from leading theorists of animal and vegan studies, this essay demonstrates that in Soucy’s works, animals and minority human groups are depicted as sharing a common aggressor: patriarchy and its numerous avatars. By highlighting a number of parallels in the narratives between animals and human victims of male aggression, this study brings to light the novels’ denunciation of the meat processing industry and the consumption of meat as perpetuating a divisive social order that victimizes not only animals, but also women, children, and the poor. In contrast, the narratives proffer respect for animals as the ultimate anti-violent gesture. By extension, vegetarianism presents as a critical, self-reflexive consciousness and a deep ethical awareness that breaks with patterns of violent behavior at the foundation of Western civilization.
Milimeter-level MoS2 monolayers and WS2-MoS2  heterojunctions grown on molten glass by pre-chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Fei Xiang , Zhang Xiu-Mei , Fu Quan-Gui , Cai Zheng-Yang , Nan Hai-Yan , Gu Xiao-Feng , Xiao Shao-Qing ,   Internet of Things Application Technology Engineering Research Center, Ministry of Education, Department of Electronic Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China,   Department of Optoelectronic Information Science and Engineering, School of Science , Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
Published: February 2022

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), as a kind of two-dimensional(2D) material with novel physical properties and excellent electrical performances, has great potential applications in electronic devices. Efficient and controllable growth of large-size single crystal MoS2 is a major difficulty that must be overcome towards scalable production. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is considered as the most promising means for industrial production of 2D materials. Here in this work, the high-quality and millimeter-level single crystal MoS2monolayer grows on molten glass by the pre-chemical vapor deposition, in which MoO3 film deposited on the molten glass is used as Mo precursor instead of MoO3 powder. In addition, by introducing WO3 powder into such a CVD system, MoS2-WS2 lateral heterojunctions can also be obtained. Raman and PL measurements indicate that the as-grown MoS2 monolayer samples possess high quality. The Back-gate FETs are fabricated on SiO2/Si substrates by using transferring elelctrode methods to investigate the electrical properties of the as-grown MoS2 crystals. At room temperature and atmosphere pressure, the on-off ratio can reach 105 and the carrier mobility can arrive at 4.53 cm2/(V·s). The low-cost and high-quality large-size material growth method pave the way for the scalable production of such a 2D material based electronic devices.
Preparation of zinc cobalt composite microstructures derived from metal-organic-framwork and gas-sensing properties of cyclohexanone
Authors: Sun Yong-Jiao , Wang Shi-Zhen , Zhang Wen-Lei , Wang Wen-Da , Zhang Wen-Dong , Hu Jie ,   College of Information and Computer, Taiyuan University of Technology, Tiayun 030600, China
Published: February 2022

Metal-organic-framework(MOF)-derived pure ZnO and ZnO/Co3O4 composite microstructures with different ratios are prepared by the sol-vothermal method. The crystalline structure, morphology and chemical composition for each of the prepared micro-structures are analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS), and surface area analyzer respectively. The Gas sensors based on the as-prepared materials are fabricated and their performances of sensing various gases are investigated. The measurement results show that most of the gas sensors exhibit the highest responses to cyclohexanone gas within the test temperature range, and the composite with an appropriate amount of Co3O4 can obviously promote the cyclohexanoe-sensing property of ZnO microstructure. The response values of ZnO/Co3O4 composite microstructures to cyclohexanone first increase and then decrease with Co3O4 content increasing. The ZnO/Co3O4 composite microstructure sensor with a zinc-to-obalt ratio of 1∶0.1 shows that its value of response to cyclohexanone with a volume fraction of 100 × 10–6 at the optimum working temperature (250 ℃) can arrive at 161, which is 6.4 times higher than that of ZnO microstructure under the same condition. Besides, its response and recovery time are 30 s and 35 s, respectively. This excellent detection performance is attributed mainly to the synergy effect between ZnO and Co3O4. The work has an important application value in the high-performance detection of cyclohexanone.
Post Injection Sciatic Neuritis: A Case Report
Authors: Manchikanti Venkatesh , Prasad Niharika , Sindhuj KLN , Botchu Rajesh
Published: February 2022

For administration of certain drugs, intramuscular injections are used in children. The dorsogluteal area between the iliac crest and the greater trochanter is the most suitable site for intramuscular injection. Due to the poor co-operation of children/wrong technique/lack of trained personnel, there may be a risk of damage to sciatic nerve. A four-year-old boy presented with four day history of left foot drop. He had history of fever for which he consulted a local untrained medical practitioner and received an intramuscular injection at left gluteal region. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of pelvis and proximal thigh was performed and showed thickened and increased T2W signal of left sciatic nerve with perineural T2W hyperintensities suggestive of Sciatic Neuritis. Sciatic nerve injury can be potentially devastating, resulting in foot drop due to loss of dorsiflexion of the foot. The most common presentation is a paralytic foot drop that is caused due to involvement of the peroneal division of the sciatic nerve. Imaging of the sciatic nerve by MRI helps in early diagnosis and can assess the extent of involvement.
A Case Report on Cyanotic Spell: Suspected Foreign Body
Authors: Wadhawan Pallavi , Najmuddin Fehmida , Lahiri Keya , Nair Shweta , Yewale Sushil
Published: February 2022

Tracheobronchial Foreign Body Aspiration (FBA) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in children less than three years of age. High index of suspicion leads to early diagnosis and treatment thus preventing further deleterious complications. This case report is about a 15-month-old female child who presented with intermittent low-grade fever, cough, cold for 20 days and rapid breathing since one day. On examination, she had pallor, grade 3 protein energy malnutrition according to Indian Academy of Paediatrics classification, heart rate was 128/min, respiratory rate was 44/min, oxygen saturation was 88% on room air with nasal flaring, intercostal and subcostal retractions. Bilateral rhonchi with reduced air entry was present in all areas of the lung. Bilateral bronchopneumonia was seen on chest X-ray and tuberculosis work up was negative. Child was started on oxygen, antibiotics, nebulisations and intravenous fluids. On day two of admission child developed rigorous bouts of cough associated with hypoxia, bradycardia, cyanosis and listlessness which improved on bag and mask ventilation. Following a strong suspicion of obstruction in the tracheobronchial tree, a Computed Tomography (CT) neck and chest was done which was suggestive of either an intratracheal or intrabronchial foreign body. Child was urgently taken up for rigid bronchoscopy and a ground nut was found in the right main bronchus. The FBA as a differential diagnosis of chronic cough in children should always be ruled out.
Clival Chordoma in an Indian Female Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Shukla Akshat Sanjay , Shukla Sanjay Rajendraprasad , Daruwala Feral Ravi
Published: February 2022

Chordomas are rare tumours that originate anywhere along the craniospinal axis and present various diagnostic hurdles. High recurrence rate even after treatment and tendency to involve other regions within the craniospinal axis make this condition more devastating. Hence, early and timely recognition is of utmost importance in order to choose an appropriate therapeutic modality as well as to achieve better recovery and long-term survival. This case report discusses a case of 47-year-old woman who presented with a history of gradually worsening headaches and nasal discharge. The findings obtained from Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) of the brain were indicative of clival chordoma with associated mass-effects and loco-regional spread. To the best of our knowledge, only a few cases of clival chordoma are reported from the Indian subcontinent.
Choroidal Metastasis in Myriad of Primary Malignancies: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Tamboli Asif Ibrahim , Ahmed Gonegandlaaejaz , Gautam Amol Anantarao
Published: February 2022

Introduction: All metastatic malignancies commonly metastasise to choroid tissue in eye due to its peculiarity in vascular properties; thereof ocular manifestations are most common in the practice of oncology and ophthalmology. Aim: To investigate the prevalence and clinical pattern of choroidal metastases in myriad of primary malignancies Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2017 to July 2019 , at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, on 253 patients with confirmed diagnosis of primary malignancies of breast, lung and ovary with one or more distant metastases with or without ocular symptoms. All patients underwent thorough ophthalmic examination, Ultrasonography (USG) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The continuous and categorical variables were presented in mean±standard deviation and percentages, respectively. Results: Out of 253 patients, 49 (19.4%) were of breast carcinoma, 52 (20.5%) of lung carcinoma, 127 (50.2%) had gastrointestinal tract malignancy, 8 (3.2%) were of renal cell carcinoma, and 17 (6.7%) had prostate carcinomas. Prevalence of choroidal metastases was 5 (1.9%) of which 1 (20%) in breast and 2 (40%) each in lung, and gastrointestinal carcinomas. Patients with choroidal metastasis were presented with diplopia, pain, and diminished vision. Out of five patients with choroidal metastasis, three patients had choroidal metastasis on right and two had on left-side. Amongst these patients, three had advanced disease, two had retinal detachment, and one had vitreous haemorrhage. USG revealed polygonal heterogeneous echoic mass lesion with irregular surface contour and internal vascularity. MRI revealed T1 isointense, T2 hypointensity well demarcated nodular mass lesion with broad base. Conclusion: The prevalence of choroidal metastases is very less and tends to occur in the patients with advanced disease.
Left Ventricular and Right Ventricular Functional Changes in Cases of COPD and its Corelation with Severity- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kulkarni Keertivardhan D , Mahesh PA
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a global health problem, mainly in developing countries. It affects pulmonary blood vessels, right ventricle, and also left ventricle leading to pulmonary hypertension, Cor pulmonale and right and left ventricular dysfunction. Aim: To assess the cardiac, right and left ventricular changes in subjects with increasing COPD severity staged according to Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines and to compare Arterial Blood Gases (ABG), St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) percentages and BODE (Body-mass index, airflow Obstruction, Dyspnea, and Exercise) scores to cardiac changes in COPD. Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross- sectional study conducted at tertiary care hospital in Southern Karnataka, India. The sample size was 60. A structured questionnaire was administered which included demographic, clinical variables followed by a detailed clinical examination, spirometry, Electrocardiograph (ECG), ABG, chest radiograph, echocardiography and a 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Data collected was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Epi INFO software for mean, Standard Deviation (SD) and multivariate analysis. Results: All the patients diagnosed with COPD (using GOLD criteria) were included in study and assessed for right and left ventricular changes. Out of 60 patients, 58 were males and 02 were females, with mean age being 64.71±28.28 years. Among the study population, 45 (75%) patients had one or the other cardiac condition. Cardiac changes included left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (58.3%), right ventricular dilatation (33.3%), right ventricular hypertrophy, right atrial dilation, tricuspid regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension and left heart changes included left ventricular hypertrophy. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for early and active cardiac screening of all COPD patients. This will help in early treatment and good prognosis, and will further contribute in reducing the morbidity and mortality.
A Study to Evaluate the Causes of Delayed Presentation for Cataract Surgery at a Tertiary Eye Centre, Odisha, India
Authors: Das Matuli , Sen Saswati , Agrawal Khushi
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Inspite of being advised surgery by doctor and several health schemes made available by the Government of India for the economically backward section, people still present late for surgery, inviting many complications in the long run. Aim: To study the causes of delayed cataract surgery in Below Poverty Line (BPL) patients in a tertiary health care centre in Eastern India. Materials and Methods: The present hospital-based and cross- sectional study included 58 patients who presented to the Outpatient and Emergency Department of a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India between December 2020 to April 2021. At presentation, detailed history was taken and patients were asked questions related to the cause of delay, which was categorised into- barriers to patient’s attitude and barriers related to cost, affordability and service delivery. Comprehensive ophthalmological examination for each and every patient was done. Routine blood investigations needed for cataract surgery were done. Surgery was done for all cases by a single surgeon and intraocular complications if any were noted. Results: A total of 58 patients included in this study, females (57%) were more than males (43%). Majority of them were from semi urban areas (13.79%). A 60% were dependent on family members for their expenses. About 94.8% had government insurance schemes but still had financial constraints which caused delayed presentation. A 70.7% of people did not attend hospital due to negative peer group effects and almost 84.5% people had no direct means of transportation to the hospital. Fear of surgery (96.6%) and fear of contracting Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) (94.8%) were certain other factors which caused delay in presentation for surgery. Conclusion: Through this study, certain possible reasons were found, catering to social, economic as well as factors like fear of surgery, negative peer pressure, financial constraints responsible for the delay in acceptance of cataract surgery in such a set up.
Efficacy of Kinesio Taping among Females with Postpartum Low Back PainA Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Rishi Priyanka , Yadav Joginder , Anand Pooja , Yadav Bindoo
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Low Back Pain (LBP) is considered to be the most salient feature during the postpartum period. The incidence of postpartum symptoms peculiarly back pain varies from women to women with vanishing of symptoms in over 60% in two days postpartum to as high as 82% at 18 months. Aim: To explore the efficacy of kinesio tape on pain and InterRecti Distance (IRD) in women with Postpartum LBP. Materials and Methods: A Quasi-experimental study was conducted at SGT Medical Hospital and Research Institute, Gurugram, Haryana, India in Physiotherapy Out Patient Department (OPD) and Obstetrics and Gynaecology OPD of SGT Hospital. The data was collected from July 2019- August 2020. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (Group A). Group A that performed combined Kinesio Taping along with exercises and hot pack five times/week for six weeks or to the control group (Group B) that followed conventional treatment that included exercises and hot pack. Pain and IRD was measured and analysed using Independent t-test at the baseline, end of 3rd week and at the last day of 6th week. Independent t-test was used to compare the demographic characteristics as well as baseline criterion measures between both the groups. Results: Significant improvement in pain scores (mean value of 13.75 at baseline to 3.75 at last day of 6th week ) and IRD scores (mean value of 28.37 at baseline to 27.38 at last day of 6th week) were observed in group A that received kinesio taping along with conventional treatment in comparison to group B. Conclusion: Group A showed significant improvement in IRD and pain parameters indicating improvement in LBP in postpartum women. Therefore, kinesio taping in combination with exercises may be incorporated in the management programs of the women suffering from postpartum LBP.
Effectiveness of Self-paced and Instructor-led Online Learning: A Study among Phase I Medical Students
Authors: Babu Rose , Bahuleyan Biju , Panchu Pallavi , Shilpa AV , Sreeja CK , Manjuran Dimple John
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Online teaching is a crucial challenge in the current pandemic situation. Choosing the right modality for teaching and delivering the information in a very effective manner is critical. Self-paced learning is an important modality that moulds the students into adult learners. Aim: To compare the effectiveness of teaching modalities like self-paced learning and instructor-led live online lecture class based on performance in assessments. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on phase I medical students over a period of three months where they were given self-paced learning and online instructor- led lecture sessions. Topics and reading materials for self-paced learning were provided to the participants through Telegram. After one week they were evaluated using objective-based assessments. Instructor-led live online lecture classes also were taken for them through Impartus followed by assessments. Independent t-test was done to assess the difference between the both performances based on the scores attained. Results: Total of 86 subjects were included in which 54 were females with mean age 18.75 years and 32 males with mean age 18.84 years. After online lecture sessions, 93.02% (n=80) of students came in the high performers group, while only 65.12% (n=56) of students belonged in self-paced learning sessions. There was no significant difference in performance in both modalities between gender (p>0.05). Conclusion: Instructor-led live online methods are more effective than self-paced learning. Self-paced learning is also important in education as it enhances the quality of adult learning. Implementing e-learning into the current syllabus can be more productive as it augments student teacher interaction.
A Review of Hyperuricaemia Management with Febuxostat: Dosage Titration, Monitoring and Maintenance
Authors: Ray Deepak Shankar , Nair Tiny , Dargad Ramesh , Dhar Verinder
Published: February 2022

The burden of hyperuricaemia has been steadily increasing both globally and in India. The increasing number of hyperuricaemia- associated co-morbidities, such as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD), and hypertension, implies that hyperuricaemia is associated with an increased risk of other chronic conditions or diseases. Despite the availability of several guidelines on hyperuricaemia, recommendations for appropriate titration of Urate Lowering Therapy (ULT) to achieve and maintain appropriate serum Uric Acid (sUA) levels in the Indian context are unclear. Another important challenge is the diagnosis and management of asymptomatic hyperuricaemia with ULT. This review summarises evidence-based discussion and review of literature by expert panellists on hyperuricaemia management with ULT, particularly with Xanthine Oxidase (XO) inhibitors. Based on the discussion, the experts developed a dose-titration algorithm for initiation and long-term management of hyperuricaemia with ULT, comprising febuxostat. The review also highlights some of the current challenges in hyperuricaemia management, which when addressed would benefit primary care physicians across the country for early screening and timely management of hyperuricaemia.
Reduced sRAGE Production and ADAM10 Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood Samples of Diabetic Nephropathy Patients
Authors: Dias Claire Gabriella , Venkataswamy Lakshmaiah , Balakrishna Sharath
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Excessive signalling via the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End products (RAGE) is implicated in inflammatory renal damage in Diabetic Nephropathy (DN). RAGE signaling is modulated by its soluble form (sRAGE) that arises due to ectodomain cleavage catalysed by A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 10 (ADAM10). The sRAGE functions as a decoy and competes with RAGE for binding to the cognate ligand. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate sRAGE and ADAM10 gene levels in peripheral blood samples of Diabetic Nephropathy patients. Materials and Methods: The present observational study was conducted in the Department of General Medicine, RL Jalappa Hospital and Research Centre, Kolar, Karnataka, India, between January 2019 to April 2020. Study comprised of three groups: group 1 of 30 DN patients; group 2 of 28 Type II Diabetis Mellitus (T2DM) patients without microvascular complications and group 3 comprised of 30 healthy volunteers. Blood samples obtained from the study participants were cultured for 24 hours along with insulin treatment or a suitable control. sRAGE levels were measured in the conditioned media by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Expression of the ADAM10 gene was measured in the cell pellet by using the quantitative real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique. Results: A total of 88 subjects were included in the study, with 30 patients in group 1 (DN, mean age 55.34±7.76 years), 28 patients in group 2 (T2DM, mean age: 55.07±7.7 years) and 30 subjects in group 3 (healthy individuals, mean age: 55±8.05 years). sRAGE levels were significantly lower in nephropathy patients when compared to healthy volunteers (p=2.5×10-9). Likewise, ADAM10 expression levels were also significantly lower in nephropathy patients when compared to healthy volunteers (p=1.3×10-4). Insulin treatment led to significantly higher sRAGE production in healthy volunteers as compared to T2DM patients (p-value 3.3×10-11). Insulin treatment leads to significant upregulation of the ADAM10 gene expression in healthy volunteers as compared to DN and T2DM. Conclusion: Abnormal RAGE signaling in DN may arise due to diminished sRAGE production as a consequence of reduced ADAM10 expression.