bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amelioration of Diabetes Associated Hypo-testicular Co-morbidities in Rat by Aloe vera (L.): Potent Extract Selection Study
Authors: Pal Dibya , Lohar Pampa , Mondal Tanusree , Ghosh Debidas
Published: June 2024

The experiment was framed to get the most effective extract of Aloe vera (L.) leaf gel for the amelioration of hypo-functional activity of testis in diabetic model rats. Only one frequency of streptozotocin was injected through skeletal muscle at 40 mg/kg body weight for diabetes induction. Treatment with aqueous or ethanol or methanol or hydro-ethanol (40:60) or hydro-methanol (40:60) extract of Aloe vera (L.) was continued for 28 days. Rats were euthanized and sacrificed on 29th day. Fasting blood glucose level, kinetics of hexokinase, androgenic key enzymes, and markers of cellular oxidative stress were assessed. The concentration of the sperm per milliliter of epididymal washed fluid, sperm motility, serum testosterone, plasma insulin levels, lipid, and metabolic toxicity sensors were also measured. Significant amelioration (p ˂ 0.05) of the negatively deviated above-mentioned parameters and the disrupted histomorphology of testicles towards vehicle-treated control were noted after uninterrupted 28 days of treatment to diabetic rats with the mentioned extracts of Aloe vera (L.). The highest percentage of recovery in the adopted sensors was noted in the hydro-ethanol extract-treated diabetes group than others. Hydro-ethanol extract of the said plant part is potent among all other extracts for correcting such hypo-function of testicles in diabetes.
Development and Evaluation of Phycocyanin-Infused Hydrogel Topical Formulations for Wound Healing
Authors: Alka  , Saraf Shubhini A.
Published: June 2024

The healing of wounds is a complicated biological process impaired by several factors, and conventional treatments often result in undesirable side effects. Natural compounds have emerged as favorable alternatives due to their reduced side effects. C-phycocyanin (C-Pc), a natural phycobiliprotein derived from Spirulina platensis, shows promise in wound healing but is hindered by poor stability and low bioavailability. This study aimed to develop a hydrogel-based delivery system for C-Pc to enhance its stability and therapeutic efficacy in wound healing. We synthesized a grafted gum hydrogel to encapsulate C-Pc, ensuring its sustained release. The hydrogel’s physical properties, including clarity, pH, spreadability, and rheological behavior were characterized. The encapsulation efficiency, in-vitro release profile, antioxidant activity and adhesion were assessed. Furthermore, the hydrogel’s impact on wound healing was evaluated through in-vivo studies and assessments of skin irritation potential. The optimized hydrogel demonstrated excellent physical stability, appropriate viscosity and significant bioadhesive properties, making it suitable for topical application. The encapsulated C-Pc exhibited a controlled release, enhanced antioxidant activity, and greater wound-healing efficacy than free C-Pc. In-vivo studies confirmed accelerated wound closure with no irritation or allergy, suggesting high biocompatibility and therapeutic potential. Developing a C-Pc encapsulated hydrogel presents a promising approach to improving wound care. This innovative approach not only stabilizes C-Pc but also enhances its healing properties, providing a safe and effective option for patients. This study paves the way for a novel formulation with translatory potential.
Violencia y pandemia de covid-19: narrativas de profesionales de salud de México y de Brasil
Authors: Pezzato Lucianne Maria , Dos Santos Felipe Lima , Romagnoli Roberta Carvalho , Monceau Gilles , Silva de Oliveira Poliana , Carrijo Souza Gabriella , Kasper Maristel , Ribeiro Santana Fabiana , de Oliveira Tavares Naraiana , Rocha Assis Thais , Figueroa Vázquez Lizette , Cervantes Alarcón Ana Laura , Gatto Júnior José Renato , Norié de Araujo Priscila , Lettiere Viana Angelina , Pereira da Silva Janaina , da Silva Santos Karen , Zampieri Fermino Tauani , Pinho de Mesquita Lago Luana , Saiani Damião Caroline , Tello Bello María Amanda Julieta , Méndez García Elia , Santana da Silva Simone , López González Aimé , Núñez de la Mora Alejandra , Barragán Solís Anabella
Published: June 2024

En la era global, en medio de vertiginosos avances tecnológicos en materias de ciencia y de salud, la pandemia de covid-19 evidenció que la especie humana, lejos de ser invencible, seguía siendo, como desde sus orígenes, frágil y expuesta permanentemente a nuevas enfermedades y pandemias desconocidas. La precariedad y la fragmentación de los servicios de salud, particularmente en México y en Brasil, se hicieron evidentes frente a los efectos devastadores del virus sars-cov-2, luego de años de nula inversión en infraestructura en el sector. Mientras la población permanecía en casa para evitar contagios, el personal de salud tuvo que hacer frente a esta compleja situación en los llamados covitarios. En estos centros de atención, jóvenes profesionales, en su mayoría mujeres enfermeras, laboraban saturadas de pacientes graves a quienes atendían en jornadas extenuantes de hasta 12 horas seguidas, con equipos de protección precarios, con poca capacitación, en aislamiento y sin poder comer, asearse o ir al baño. Mientras tanto, la población les ovacionaba como héroes, a la vez que les evitaba y les agredía al considerarlos como principales vectores de transmisión de la enfermedad. En este libro, realizado por un equipo interdisciplinario, multicéntrico e internacional de investigadores, se analiza la experiencia de profesionales de salud de México y de Brasil que trabajaron en la primera línea de atención con pacientes de covid-19. Se recupera también la voz de 65 protagonistas, quienes produjeron narrativas individuales en el contexto de grupos de reflexión conducidos por 25 investigadores. En los grupos, se logró elaborar la violencia vivida, reconociendo las formas de supervivencia y de resiliencia colectiva que desarrollaron frente a esta inédita situación.
Organizacija okazanija medicinskoj pomoshhi rabotnikam krupnogo stroitel’nogo proekta v Arkticheskoj zone Rossii
Authors: Grebenyuk A. N. , Datsko P. S. , Osokina S. V.
Published: June 2024

Relevance. Providing medical services to shift workers is always associated with significant difficulties due to specific conditions of work, accommodation, catering, regular relocations from place of residence to work sites. Harsh Arctic environment, with its long winters, extreme air temperatures, strong winds, polar night, and short spans of cool, overcast, and rainy summers, makes provision of medical care to shift workers an extremely complex problem. This compels public healthcare and emergency medicine to implement both well-known and new robust approaches.Objective. The objective is to analyze the experience of organizing medical care for shift workers at a large construction project in the Russian Arctic.Methods. The subject of the study is medical support for shift workers at a large-scale construction project for liquefied natural gas the production in the Russian Arctic. Construction was performed by rotation, with shift workers accommodated in dormitories located at a temporary residential area and having meals in facility canteens. Medical care for shift workers and its efficiency was evaluated using the following methods – historical and comparative analysis, system and logical analysis, expert assessments, mathematical calculations, and statistical analysis.Results and discussion. The paper reports the retrospective analysis results regarding medical care provision to shift workers at a large construction project in the Russian Arctic. The general contractor has established robust health safety and efficient medical care services provided to shift workers at construction sites. The health safety and medical care services have two major responsibilities – organization of medical care for company employees and supervision over medical care services provided to contractor employees working at construction sites. Shift workers undergo all mandatory medical examinations and check-ups prior to their arrival at construction sites. The in-house medical infrastructure responsible for shift workforce medical care comprises first aid stations, medical units, sanitary transport, and medical personnel, including doctors and paramedics. If specialized medical care is required, employees are evacuated to regional medical institutions by scheduled and emergency transportation, including medivac services.Conclusion. Medical care organization at construction sites allows to spare shift worker health and provides the required labor capacities, which is paramount during construction of liquefied natural gas production facilities in the Russian Arctic.
Analysis and optimization of global terrorism index indicators
Authors: Evdokimov V. I. , Chernov K. A.
Published: June 2024

Relevance. Terrorism has a significantly disrupts life of the population across regions (countries). In recent years, armed conflicts have increased in number, and global terrorist activity has intensified.The objective is to analyze the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) reported across countries from 2010 to 2022 and suggest GTI optimization techniques based on risk metrics and risk indicators.Methods. The GTI is a comprehensive method to study the impact of terrorism in 163 countries, comprising 99.7 % of the world’s population. Data was obtained from annual 2011 to 2023 GTI reports, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace and its founder Steve Killelea, a technology entrepreneur. Quasi-logarithmic structures were used to normalize the baseline data to a 10-point GTI scale (where 10 is the maximum score). The risk of death (injury) among the world’s population was calculated based on the Global Terrorism Database indicators for terrorism biomedical consequences registered from 2011 to 2020. Risks were calculated per 1 million people (10–6). Among the world’s population, the individual risk of death from a terrorist attack was 2.55 • 10–6 deaths/(person • year), while the injury risk was 3.63 • 10–6 injuries/(person • year). Qualitative risk indicators were also calculated as optimal, acceptable, and elevated.Results and analysis. From 2010 to 2022, the annual average GTI indicator showed that 4 countries had a very high terrorism level (average index in Iraq – 9.32, Afghanistan – 9.03, Pakistan – 8.42, Nigeria – 8.11); 8 countries were classified as high risk, 30 countries – as average risk (including Russia – 5.57), 25 countries – as low risk, 84 countries – as very low risk, and 12 countries – as zero cases of terrorism. The GTI correlated well with the number of deaths as a most crucial indicator. At the same time, countries with a large population showed inconsistencies between GTI and terrorism risk indicators. For example, according to 2011–2020 data, China’s GTI level (5.09) was classified as average level of terrorism, with the risk of dying 0.11 • 10–6 deaths/(person • year) and the risk of injury 0.56 • 10–6 injuries/(person • year), which was 15.5 and 4.3 times below the optimal global risk, respectively. Notably, Afghanistan’s GTI level (9.15) was classified as very high risk, with the death risk 93.53 • 10–6 deaths/(person • year) and injury risk 128.49 • 10–6 injuries/(person •year), which was 27.5 and 26.6 times above the elevated global risk, respectively.Conclusion. Although apparently impossible to eradicate completely across the world, terrorism can be drawn to a minimum. The Global Terrorism Index reveals potential threats and allows to compare terrorist activity across individual territories (countries) in order to undertake the necessary political or organizational counter-terrorism measures. Following large-scale studies, risks of death and injury should be incorporated in the Global Terrorism Index enhance unbiased terrorism threat assessment for individual countries (territories).
The correlation between professional profiles and injury rates among fire and rescue units of the Federal Fire Service of the EMERCOM of Russia
Authors: Kondashov A. A. , Udavtsova E. Yu. , Mazaev K. A. , Bobrinev E. V.
Published: June 2024

Relevance. The personnel profiles, turnover rates, and shortage of human workforce have a significant impact on work efficiency, including the risk of occupational injury, among the Federal fire service (FFS) officers of the EMERCOM of Russia. The objective is to analyze the profiles of fire and rescue officers and their individual characteristics by region to identify any associations with occupational injury rates among the EMERCOM FFS personnel.Methods. The research relies on occupational injury statistics for the EMERCOM FFS personnel collected over 3 years from 2021 to 2023. Occupational injury rates are calculated per 10,000 FFS personnel for every Russian Federation constituent. Personnel profiles included average age, service duration, personnel turnover, shortage, education (professional or vocational, including a degree in fire safety engineering), and other employee parameters. Per capita gross regional product was considered for every Russian Federation constituent.Results and analysis. The factor analysis was based on the matrix of synthetic indicators, eventually producing seven significant factors responsible for 75.2 % of the total variance. Factor 3 is associated with the level of occupational injuries. The injury rate does not significantly contribute to other factors. In 2021–2023 the annual injury rate among the EMERCOM of Russia FFS personnel was (8.56 ± 1.02) cases per 10,000 people. All the constituents were split in three color-coded groups by injury rate – the green group for optimal rate, the yellow group for acceptable rate, and the red group for elevated rate. In each group, the average injury rates and assessments for personnel and region profiles were obtained to calculate the χ2 test and determine the indicators that most significantly affect occupational injury rates. The analysis showed that among the EMERCOM of Russia FFS personnel, occupational injury rates are higher in constituents with larger numbers of first responders (therefore, a larger share of firefighting commanders among the FFS personnel) and officers with a degree in fire safety engineering. The injury rate is also higher in constituents with greater workforce.Conclusion. Taking into account the dangerous and risky working conditions of the EMERCOM FFS personnel, firefighter professionalism requires further improvement and promotion to meet current fire and emergency prevention criteria, eliminate consequences, and develop innovative and flexible personnel solutions, allowing to maximize performance and overcome emerging problems.
Cluster analysis and visualization of keywords in papers by international researchers on bioactive drugs in the treatment of rotator cuff injuries
Authors: Vasil’chenko N. V. , Vetoshkin A. A. , Gusev S. S.
Published: June 2024

Relevance. Rotator cuff ruptures continue to show high incidence with no signs of decrease. Despite the available expertise in advanced diagnosis and surgical treatment, supported by extensive scientific evidence, achieving optimal clinical outcomes remains a challenge. As a result, researchers and clinicians have been exploring alternative methods to improve outcomes. Recent studies in orthopedics have demonstrated that using bioactive drugs (biologic augmentation), particularly multipotent stem cells, may positively influence tissue regeneration. Therefore, biologic augmentation may be a promising strategy for promoting tissue healing.The objective of this study is to perform a cluster analysis and visualization of keywords in papers by international researchers on innovative rotator cuff injury treatments, including bioactive drug therapy.Methods. This study investigated publications dated 2013 to 2022 and published in the PubMed international reference and bibliographic database, using terminology-based search queries, i.e. (concentrated bone marrow aspirate OR stem cells OR platelet) and (rotator cuff injury). The search yielded 484 relevant scientific papers. Relevant bibliographic information was uploaded in “.txt” format into the VOSviewer 1.6.20 analytical software.Results and analysis. . With the coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.94), the polynomial trend of article dynamics showed an increase in the number of publications. The average annual number of articles was 46. With 3 repetitions, 207 keywords were analyzed and combined subsequently into 7 clusters. Cluster 1 was called ‘Arthroscopy treatment results of rotator cuff injuries’. It contained 21.1 % of papers with the total link strength of keywords 22.5 %. Cluster 2 ‘Use of platelet-rich plasma in injuries and diseases of the rotator cuff’ contained 24.2 % of papers with the total link strength 21.2 %. Cluster 3 ‘Biological models’ yielded 18.6 % and 20.0 % respectively. Cluster 4 ‘Regenerative potential of mesenchymal stem cells – 15.2 % and 15.4 % respectively; Cluster 5 ‘Using mesenchymal stem cells in rotator cuff injury treatment’ – 11.7 % and 11.2 % respectively; Cluster 6 ‘Efficiency of mesenchymal stem cells on the treatment of rotator cuff injuries’ – 8.6 % and 8.6 % respectively; Cluster 7 ‘Using of bioactive drugs in orthopaedics / orthobiology’ – 1.4 % and 1.1 % respectively. Leading authors and research schools were identified as well.Conclusion. The results provided an insight into the areas of research over the past 10 years and hence have provided information support for scientists and practitioners exploring innovative treatments for rotator cuff injuries, including the use of bioactive drugs.
The Beauty and the Waste. The Trans-tactical Approach of Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva
Authors: Frangovska Ana
Published: June 2024

Contemporary art, reflecting present-day realities, adapts to the evolving social, technological, and societal changes in developed and capitalist-oriented countries. This adaptation involves breaking down disciplinary boundaries and embracing trans-tactics, where knowledge from diverse fields informs artistic creation. Art becomes a multifaceted endeavor, engaging with political, social, and ecological issues, contributing to deeper creativity and consumer engagement. The fusion of science, technology, and art raises ethical and aesthetic questions, particularly regarding the use of sustainable materials and environmental impact. Meanwhile, artists explore natural and cultural complexities, emphasizing political dimensions like ecology, sustainability, and social justice. Projects such as Silenthio Pathologia and Haruspex by Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva exemplify these themes, inspiring discussions on eco-social crises and sustainable practices.
Aplikasi Goal Programming untuk Optimalisasi Jadwal Kerja Studi Kasus pada Laundry Zone
Authors: Medianto Muhammad Fadly Putra , BAHRI SUSILA , LESTARI RIRI
Published: June 2024

Selama ini, pada Laundry Zone pekerja dijadwalkan bekerja 7 hari dalam seminggu dan hanya bekerja pada satu jadwal tertentu saja. Untuk kenyamanan karyawan, maka perlu dikonstruksi jadwal sehingga pekerja memiliki hari libur dalam seminggu dan dapat bekerja pada jadwal lain. Pada penilitian ini digunakan metode Goal Programming dan software LINGO 11.0 untuk menyusun jadwal yang optimal tersebut.
AN AREA OF RIGHT TRIANGLE FOR TRIGONOMETRY
Authors: IDRIS MOCHAMMAD , SHIDDIQ MOHAMMAD MAHFUZH , ERIDANI ERIDANI
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we shall investigate formula of tangent function through determination of area of right triangle and rectangle. The consequence of this formula is used to obtain the other two trigonometric function, i.e. sine and cosine functions. Moreover, we also reprove Pythagorean theorem.
Depressão pós-parto ou baby blues, qual a diferença?
Authors: Freire Maria Marta Neves de Oliveira , Rückl Sarah Cristina Zanghellini
Published: June 2024

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الموقف الدولي من مبدأ مونرو 1823م
Authors: الصياد سامي صالح
Published: June 2024

تمكنت الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية من صياغة طريقة جديدة تصلح أن تكون مصدر إلهام وفرض سيطرة وتوسع على حساب القارة الأمريكية الكبيرة، ومن أجل بناء قوتها الذاتية هو الالتزام بسياسة العزلة، وتبلور هذا بشكل جدي في إعلان مبدأ مونرو الصادر في عام 1823م، والذي كرس عدم التدخل في الشؤون الدولية (الأوروبية)، واكتفت الولايات المتحدة بحماية مجالها الحيوي الذي لا يتجاوز حدود الأمريكيتين , وكانت السياسة الأمريكية تجاه قارة أمريكا الجنوبية (اللاتينية) هي عدم قبول أي قوة أوبية قوية تهدد أمن واستقلال ومصالح الولايات المتحدة بعد أن قامت الثورات الاستقلالية الكبيرة هناك ضد الإمبراطورية الإسبانية التي كانت تحتل أغلب أجزاء القارة، فاستقلت هناك المستعمرات الاسبانية والبرتغالية والبريطانية والفرنسية.
العلاقات الاقتصادية العُمانية – البريطانية 1979-1990
Authors: عبيد العبيدي صدام خليفة , سليمان السبعاوي فهد عباس
Published: June 2024

تحتل العلاقات العُمانية – البريطانية مكانة مهمة في تاريخ العلاقات العربية – البريطانية، نظراً للتاريخ الطويل والمتميز الذي حكم على علاقات البلدين على مدى عقود عدة شملت المجالات السياسية والاقتصادية والعسكرية.
   يتناول البحث تطور العلاقات الاقتصادية بين البلدين أثناء فترة حكومة حزب المحافظين البريطانية برئاسة مارغريت تاتشر (1979-1990)، وازدادت تلك العلاقات قوة بعد الأحداث التي عصف بالمنطقة على أثر اندلاع الحرب العراقية - الايرانية 1980-1988، إذ توجهت حكومة تاتشر نحو تعزيز التعاون الاقتصادي بكافة أشكاله مع سلطنة عُمان.
    اعتمد البحث على وثائق وزارة الخارجية والكومنولث البريطانية فضلاً عن ملفات مكتب رئيسة الوزراء مارغريت تاتشر غير المنشورة، التي رصدت بشكل دقيق توجهات الحكومة البريطانية عن طريق الاتصالات التي أجرتها مع سفارتها في مسقط نحو اتخاذ الوسائل المناسبة بما يضمن إنعاش الاقتصاد البريطاني وذلك بالاعتماد على تطوير العلاقات الاقتصادية المختلفة مع عُمان.
The Challenges of Teaching Listening Comprehension
Authors: Mohammed Ibtisam Jassim
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the challenges of learning to listen. Listening is one of the most important skills for language learners. Most of the time, language learners do listening in the classroom or lectures. The challenge for learners is to recognize the words in a stream of acoustic blur or normal conversational speech This challenge is combined with the awareness of context, culture, discourse, community, and other sociolinguistic variables. This article will tackle the key issues and challenges in pedagogical research that are related to teaching listening comprehension as well as shedding light on the causes that make listening difficult for learners and suggest some solutions to handle such difficulties.
The Psychology of Exile and Uncanny: A Diasporic Study of Susan Abualhawa’s Mornings in Jenin
Authors: Rasheed Lamiaa Ahmed , Abdulhamed Raja Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Exile is a severe form of separation that can be brought on by a person's political, social, or personal situation. It can have serious psychological, emotional, and societal repercussions whether it is forced or voluntarily. People who are exiled frequently suffer a sense of loss, dislocation, nostalgia, loss of identity and alienation as they work to acclimatize to new surroundings and make new social relationships. Exile can have a variety of psychological effects, including despair, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It may require people to face and adapt to new obstacles, which may promote resilience, growth, and innovation. Additionally, the idea of "uncanny," or a feeling of familiarity and connection in a strange environment, might aid those who are exiled in preserving their sense of self and community.
The current paper tries to explore the psychological effects and the consequences of exile on immigrant people in Mornings in Jenin (2010), a novel by Susan Abualhawa. It will investigate the complex emotional and social consequences of exile felt by a Palestinian family. The War forced the family to flee their country, and as a result of being split up and distributed across several nations, they experienced feelings of grief, dislocation, and estrangement. It presents a complex picture of how exile affects people's identities, interpersonal connections, and mental health. To attain this aim, the study will adapt diaspora theory that provides a remarkable insight into the lingering impacts of political turmoil and relocation on people's minds and communities in exile.
The relationship between soil biomass and soil quality index for Kafr El-Dawar region, Beheira Governorate
Authors:   Department Natural Resources & Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 045, (Egypt), Shehata Ebrahim Ahmed , Abdelaty Emad Fawzy ,   Department Natural Resources & Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Damanhour University, Damanhour, 045, (Egypt)
Published: June 2024

The current investigation was conducted in the Kafr El-Dawar region to study the relationship between soil microbial biomass and soil quality index. Thirty-nine soil samples were taken for the chemical characteristics used to determine the soil quality index by the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF) procedures. Pearson correlation relationship and Principal components analysis (PCA) between soil quality index and soil parameters were done as well as regression between soil quality index and microbial biomass. For the soil microbial biomass, the lowest value was about 186 mg kg-1 (5% of the total samples). The highest value was about 387 mg kg-1 (5% of the total samples). The average microbial biomass of the samples was about 299 mg kg 1. Approximately 50% of the total samples have a value equal to the average sample value. Higher significant correlation was observed among soil pH with CaCO3 content. Significant correlation was observed among soil pH with Fe and Mn. Soil quality index had a higher significant correlation with Ca, Mg, N, K, Cu, and Zn. P was a more effective factor on soil quality index. The chemical properties had the most impact on the soil quality index. All samples have a soil quality index score of less than 50%. About 69.2% were poor quality (SQI less than 40%), and the rest were moderate quality (SQI between 40 and 60%). Microbial biomass is a key soil characteristic that influences soil quality according to the regression result. Further research should include biological and other physicochemical soil properties to enlarge soil quality index.
Combined use of caesium-137 isotope and the universal soil loss equation to establish a soil loss budget along hill slopes in El Maasra basin
Authors:   King Khalid University, Department of Geography, KSA, Azaiez Naima
Published: June 2024

Soil degradation is a global problem. Over the last several decades, the effects of land degradation in Tunisia are starting to have increasingly serious socio-economic and environmental repercussions. The agricultural sector is most seriously affected. The Tunisian Sahel, despite its modest topographical conditions, has not escaped this threat, especially upstream of the El Maasra Wadi. The fertile soils and homogeneous topography of this area, which dates to Roman times, are highly favorable to a wide range of agricultural practices. The Central Sahel has a long history of olive-growing, followed by a shift to irrigated farming in the 1970s. Today, it is given a multifunctional and multidimensional importance due to the complexity of conflicts of interest between different users. Rural abandonment, mining activity and pastoral pressure have all been behind the soil crisis, which is still largely unknown in detail in terms of the processes involved, the mechanisms behind them and the pace at which they are occurring. Today, there is an urgent need for tools and reliable methods to diagnose the state of soils, to elucidate the various facets of erosive processes and create the structural conditions necessary for their preservation. In the same vein, this research project was initiated in the Wadi El Maasra watershed to quantify soil losses using two methods: empirical model (USLE equation) and experimental based on the isotopic tracer of the Caesium-137. The two methods showed an almost identical geographical distribution, but slightly different loss rates. The specific soil loss obtained from the USLE model was of the order of 15 t ha-1 year-1, which appears to be largely underestimated compared with the loss rate obtained by the Caesium-137 method, which was of the order of 32 t ha-1 year-1.
Effect of different concentrations of cadmium metal and cattle manure on morph-physiological attributes of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum gracum L.) varieties
Authors:   Department of Botany, Government College University Faisalabad, Kousar Shama , Nazir Kaenat ,   Department of Botany, Government College University Faisalabad, Amjid Muhammad ,   Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, Ahmad Ali ,   Institute of Horticultural Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, Feroz Fatima ,   Institute of Soil & Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, Riaz Husnain ,   Institute of Soil & Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, Aziz Marjan ,   Barani Agricultural Research Institute, Chakwal
Published: June 2024

The present study investigates the toxicological effects of cadmium stress on two different varieties of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L). Additionally, it explores the impact of cattle manure application on the morpho-physiological traits of cadmium-stressed spinach and fenugreek. The study employed a completely randomized design with three replicates assigned to each treatment. Two cadmium concentrations (35 mg L-1 and 70 mg L-1) were applied to both leafy vegetables two weeks after sowing. After 10 dwere of stress, the impact of cadmium stress on the biomass attributes (root length, shoot length, root fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, number of leaves, and leaf area) of fenugreek and spinach varieties was assessed. The results indicate that cadmium stress decreased these attributes, with the maximum decrease observed under 70 mg L-1 Cd stress compared to the control and 35 mg L-1 Cd stress. Cattle manure demonstrated a more pronounced positive influence on these parameters, particularly at the 35 mg L-1 concentration, compared to the 70 mg L-1 concentration in both species. Thus, the use of animal manure shows promise as a treatment against heavy metal contamination.
Nutrient uptake, growth, and physiology of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis) varieties under NaCl stress
Authors:   Department of Horticultural Sciences, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Indian River Research and Education Center, Fort Pierce, FL, 34945, Li Xiaofeng , Ayub Muhammad Ashar ,   Institute of Agro-Industry and Environment, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, 63100, Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan, Fox John-Paul ,   Department of Horticultural Sciences, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Indian River Research and Education Center, Fort Pierce, FL, 34945, Shen Shuxing ,   College of Horticulture, Agricultural University of Hebei, People’s Republic of China, 071000, Rossi Lorenzo ,   Department of Horticultural Sciences, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Indian River Research and Education Center, Fort Pierce, FL, 34945
Published: June 2024

Soil salinity and poor-quality irrigation water in Florida, USA, have become major issues for agricultural crops. Since Florida is one of the major producers of cabbage in the country, soil salinization may significantly impact this industry. Chinese cabbage varieties are very popular in the farming community of Florida and are widely cultivated. In the present study, four Chinese cabbage varieties (‘Bilko’, ‘Red Dragon’, ‘Rubicon’, and ‘Minuet’) were tested for their tolerance, agronomic, physiological, and nutritional responses to irrigation with 0, 100, and 200 mM NaCl solutions. The results showed that NaCl irrigation has decreased the growth of the tested plants, with ‘Bilko’ being the most tolerant one, showing higher production in both control and salt stress conditions. Although NaCl stress has increased electrolyte leakage in plant leaves, it has no significant effect on proline contents, and chlorophyll contents tend to increase with salinity stress, highlighting the physiological responses of all tested varieties. Among nutritional contents, there were no significant differences, but a few treatment groups showed a significant increase and decrease in nutrient contents. The higher NaCl treatments have caused a higher accumulation of Na and Cl elements in plants, making it a major factor for the decrease in plant growth.
Influence of quality and quantity of crop residues on organic carbon dynamics and microbial activity in soil
Authors:   Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan, Afzal Tahseen , Wakeel Abdul ,   Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan, Cheema Sardar Alam ,   Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan, Iqbal Javed ,   Department of  Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln NE 68583-0915, USA, Sanaullah Muhammad ,   Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-38040, Pakistan
Published: June 2024

An incubation study investigated the decomposition patterns, microbial activities, soil aggregates distribution, and soil organic carbon (SOC) contents, using four crop residues; wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), rice (Oryza sativa L.), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), and maize (Zea mays L.), at low and high rates (10 and 20 g kg–1). An average increase of about 35% in cumulative C-CO2 emissions and 26% in soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) was observed at high residue rates as compared to low rates. A positive and strong correlation (0.96) was found between C-CO2 emissions and MBC, and the effect of residue quality on decomposition was found to be less at high rates. The relative reduction in C-CO2 emissions by adding rice residues may be due to their high silica content. Differences in extracellular enzyme activities (EEA) with different residues indicated the effect of residue quality on microbial activities. Cotton residues increased β-glucosidase and chitinase activities by 41 and 38%, respectively, at high rates than at low rates. High maize residues also markedly increased chitinase activity by 41%, implying higher N cycling and fungal prevalence. Acid phosphatase activity was found to increase by about 25 to 32% with high rice and wheat residues, respectively. Higher EEA at high residues input likely reflected the microbial nutritional limitations. Crop residues raised SOC content from 0.7 under control to 1.0% at low residues input but not at high input. Increased macro-aggregates fraction at high residues input may be attributed to higher microbial activities. In summary, high residues input can minimize residue biochemical quality’s effect on decomposition, with no further increase in SOC content. While a positive effect on the soil MBC, but not on the SOC content, was observed at high residue input, suggesting moderation in the additions of organic amendments is key for SOC buildup. Crop residues, added at 10 g kg–1, may help maintain a positive SOC balance in the arid agroecosystems by moderating higher microbial activities and soil respiration.
Rare presentation of gastric glomus tumor in a 28-year-old female with gastritis
Authors: Mubarak Aalaa , Alshaikh Safa Ameer , AlKhuzaie Jaffar , Ali Naeema
Published: June 2024

This case report describes a rare presentation of a gastric glomus tumor in a 28-year-old Bahraini female patient who was previously diagnosed with gastritis and was on proton-pump inhibitor therapy for the past 3 years. The patient presented with symptoms of anemia and coffee ground vomiting, which led to further investigation and the eventual diagnosis of a glomus tumor in the stomach. Glomus tumors are uncommon neoplasms derived from the glomus body, a specialized arteriovenous structure involved in thermoregulation. Although they typically occur in the extremities, glomus tumors can rarely be seen in visceral organs, including the stomach. This case emphasizes the importance of considering unusual etiologies in patients with atypical presentations, even in those with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions.
A case of tuberculosis of adrenal gland presenting as acute adrenal insufficiency following initiation of anti-tubercular therapy
Authors: Vijayakumar Bermio , Meganathan Anusuya , Ranganathan Sharmila Devi , Paulchamy Balamanikandan
Published: June 2024

Adrenal tuberculosis is one important cause of acute or chronic adrenal insufficiency in developing countries like India. There are many random cases in literature describing various clinical situations of adrenal tuberculosis presenting with adrenal insufficiency, especially after initiation of anti-tubercular therapy. A 43-year-old male recently diagnosed patient with pulmonary tuberculosis and chronic coronary syndrome was admitted for acute decompensated heart failure with pulmonary edema. He was taking fixed dose combination anti-tubercular therapy. During admission, he had hyponatremia (serum sodium 96 mEq/L) and during treatment, he developed hypotension and shock, which were appropriately treated. Due to ischemic hepatitis, anti-tubercular treatment (ATT) was modified to streptomycin, ethambutol, and ofloxacin regimen to avoid further hepatotoxicity. Hyponatremia and shock recovered. Rifampicin and isoniazid were restarted. He again developed easy fatigability, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension. Suspecting adrenal insufficiency, fasting serum cortisol, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were done, which revealed a low serum fasting cortisol and high ACTH. Computed tomography abdomen showed enlarged left adrenal gland with calcifications. He was started on prednisolone 2 mg/kg/day with full dose fixed dose ATT, following which his symptoms resolved.
Comorbidities in patients with chronic urticaria: A cross sectional study from an Urticaria Center of Reference and Excellence
Authors: Junior Rossy Moreira Bastos , Junior Sérgio Duarte Dortas , Fernandes Ana Carolina Miranda Carvalho Ferre , Azizi Guilherme Gomes , Lupi Omar , Valle Solange Oliveira Rodrigues
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

Chronic urticaria (CU) is a common mast cell driven disease, characterized by the development of wheals, angioedema, or both. The common comorbidities among patients of CU presenting to an Urticaria Center of Reference and Excellence (GA2LEN UCARE) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil are presented.

Material and Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional and single-center study with adolescents and adults from the outpatient clinic of a GA2LEN UCARE Center at the Immunology Service. Patients were enrolled after informed consent was obtained.

Results:

We enrolled 180 patients with CU. One hundred and fifty-five were female (86.1%) and 25 male (13.9%). Mean age was 46.2 ± 16.1 years (ranging from 13 to 81 years). Mean disease duration was 10.3 years (ranging from 0.17 to 62 years). The most frequent comorbidities associated with CU were hypertension in 63 patients (35%), atopy 58 (32.2%), thyroid disease 34 (18.8%), gastrointestinal disease 25 (13.8%), diabetes 22 (12.2%), psychiatric disorders 22 (12.2%), rheumatic diseases 17 (9.4%), and hepatitis C (2. 2%).

Conclusion:

CU has been related to several comorbidities. Our data matches previous reported findings regarding sex, age, and comorbidities such as autoimmunity, atopy, and hypertension. It is necessary to improve the diagnosis of comorbidities. With the early diagnosis of comorbidities, we will be able to carry out timely therapeutic interventions to improve the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure safety in drug interactions.
A novel “Precision technique” for preoperative planning of posterior tibial slope correction osteotomy
Authors: Kodkani Pranjal Sharad
Published: June 2024

Identification of posterior tibial slope (PTS) and slope correction osteotomies have lately gained importance in various knee surgeries. The preferred surgical methods have been a flexion (opening)/extension (closing) wedge osteotomy at the proximal tibia. Current methods of PTS measurements use the anterior tibial cortical line (ATL), posterior tibial cortical line (PTL), or the anatomical axis of tibia (AAT) on a short lateral view X-ray of the tibia. This can have a high inter and intra-observer variability. Measuring the PTS using the “mechanical axis” has potentially less inter and intra-observer error. However, simply using the difference between pre-operative and planned post-operative PTS measures as the osteotomy correction angle (OCA), with the reference line as “mechanical axis” gives erroneous correction. A novel “Precision technique” is devised to calculate the OCA with least errors using the “mechanical axis” as the reference line. This technique minimizes errors in pre-operative planning. This can further translate into better clinical results due to a reduction in pre-operative planning errors. The principles of this technique can also be used to plan other osteotomies for angular corrections of long bones where the joint line/slope/alignment is to be corrected with reference to the mechanical axis.
Functional outcome of hamstring versus peroneus longus tendon graft in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction –A prospective comparative study
Authors: Vijay Varun K , Deepak D K , Pande Hrishikesh , Thakur Sushant , Anand R.
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine whether there is any significant difference between the functional outcome of the knee using a hamstring (HS) graft and peroneus longus (PL) tendon graft after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Materials and Methods:

A study was done on 140 patients from January 2021 to January 2022 as per inclusion criteria. All patients underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using PL tendon and HS tendon grafts. Patients were followed up with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Modified Cincinnati Score (MCS) for a period of 12 months. Average time of surgery and complications if any were noted.

Results:

At one year follow-up, the IKDC score was 91.98 ± 3.92 and 91.74 ± 6.93, respectively, for PL and HS groups with P = 0.803. Similarly, the MCS had P = 0.161 and mean values for PL and HS groups being 92.86 ± 3.88 and 91.80 ± 4.67, respectively.

Conclusion:

The present study shows that the PL tendon autograft has slightly better outcomes on knee functional scores (IKDC and MCSs) to that derived from HS graft in arthroscopic reconstruction of ACL tear over one year of follow-up. PL can be considered as an alternative graft option, but further studies are needed in other sex and age groups and using different functional knee scores to establish the superiority of PL graft over HS graft.
VOLYN SCHOOL DISTRICT CURATORIUM ACTIVITIES IN THE INTERWAR PERIOD
Authors: Mazurok Roksolana , Smyrnov Andrii
Published: June 2024

The article examines the formation of the curatorium of the Volyn school district in the interwar period. The analysis of legal documents that regulated the activities of curators, school inspectors and teachers in the territory of the Volyn Voivodeship in the interwar period is carried out. During its existence, the board of trustees performed various educational tasks, trying to organizationally combine Volyn and all-Polish schooling. Changes in the field of education were not always positively perceived by the non-Polish population in the region, which became the reason for the exacerbation of national problems.
THE INVESTIGATOR OF UKRAINIAN KOBZAR ART OLEKSANDR MALYNKA, THE GRADUATE OF COUNT BEZBORODKO HISTORICAL PHILOLOGICAL INSTITUTE IN NIZHYN
Authors: Samoilenko Hryhorii
Published: June 2024

The author analyzes scientific heritage of a prominent Ukrainian investigator of folk lore Oleksandr Malynka, who studied the corresponding material at Count Bezborodko Historical Philological Institute under the supervision of professors M. I. Sokolov, M. N. Speranskyi, V. I. Rezanov, who helped the young scientist to publish series of papers about kobzars, bandurysts and lirnyks at the end of the 19th – the beginning of the 20th c. These papers are analyzed by the author. The attention is drawn to the specificity of O. Malynka’s works, which are characterized by the richness of material, concerning life and creativity of folk singers, conditions of their studying by different kobzars, bandurysts and lirnyks, which passed their skills of playing various instruments and transmitted traditions of corresponding singing of multi-genre songs. O. Malinka also explored the differences between a kobzar and a lyre player, which was primarily determined by the genre-filled repertoire of songs. Special attention is drawn to O. Malynka’s interest to ancient historical songs (dumas), which were the real pearl of kobzars and bandurysts repertoire and which gradually begin to vanish from repertoire of young singers, and it is explained by the change of epochs and departure of old musicians from life. The article reveals the presence of female performance on the bandura, which was a new phenomenon in Ukrainian musical culture for that era. The appearance of songs about Taras Shevchenko and Shevchenko’s poems from «Kobzar» in the repertoire of some bandurysts is also taken into account. It is underlined that O. Malynka’s activity contributed to the fact that names of many kobzars, bandurysts and lirnyks remained in the history of Ukrainian culture.
Periscapular Strength Profile Changes in Collegiate Baseball Pitchers Over the Course of a Season
Authors: Pabian Patrick S , Roach Victoria , Howard Roselin , Johnston Lauren , McGuire Ryan
Published: June 2024

Background

Repetitive application of high forces to the shoulder and scapular musculature during the pitching motion over the course of a collegiate baseball season may lead to changes in strength and increased fatigue, potentially predisposing pitching athletes to injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate periscapular strength profiles of Division I collegiate baseball players over the course of a season.

Methods

This study was a retrospective data analysis of 18 Division I baseball pitchers. Isometric scapular plane abduction (scaption), external rotator, internal rotator, middle trapezius, and lower trapezius isometric strength was measured on throwing arm of each subject using a MicroFET 2 handheld dynamometer. Data were collected in a single session at the preseason, midseason, and postseason of the college baseball season, which spanned a five-month period. A repeated measures ANOVA was utilized to determine if there was a significant change in periscapular strength across the baseball season.

Results

Over the three time-points, all strength values decreased for each muscle group, with decreases ranging from 3-14%. Changes in scaption strength values were statistically significant (p=0.018, partial eta squared =0.284) with an 8% reduction over the entire season, specifically with a 5% decline from mid-season to post-season. While external rotator, internal rotator, middle trapezius, and lower trapezius strength values all decreased over the course of the season (range 0.02kg to 1.8kg), these differences were not statistically significant. However, the middle trapezius strength value change (1.3kg loss) exceeded the minimal detectible change.

Conclusion

Periscapular muscles in baseball pitchers diminish in strength over the course of a collegiate baseball season. Understanding strength changes over the course of a season may influence training and therapeutic interventions.

Level of Evidence

3b