bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of genetic diversity and population structure of Magnaporthe grisea, the causal agent of foxtail millet blast using microsatellites
Authors: Dhivya Manimozhi , Senthilraja Govindasamy , Tharmalingam Nagendran , Harish Sankarasubramanian , Saravanakumari Kalaiselvan , Anand Theerthagiri , Thiruvudainambi Sundararajan
Published: October 2023

Foxtail millet blast caused by Magnaporthe grisea is becoming a severe problem in foxtail millet growing regions of India. The genetic diversity and population structure of foxtail millet infecting M. grisea is crucial for developing effective management strategies, such as breeding blast-resistant cultivars. We analyzed thirty-two M. grisea isolates from ten foxtail millet-growing districts in Tamil Nadu, India for genetic diversity using twenty-nine microsatellite or simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. A total of 103 alleles were identified with a mean of 3.55 alleles/locus. Gene diversity ranged from 0.170 to 0.717, while major allelic frequencies ranged from 0.344 to 0.906. The polymorphism information content (PIC) ranged from 0.155 to 0.680, with a mean value of 0.465. Population structure analysis of the genomic data sets revealed two major populations (SP1 and SP2) with different levels of ancestral admixture among the 32 blast isolates. Phylogenetic analysis classified the isolates into three major clusters. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed high genetic variation among individuals and less among populations. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) revealed 27.16% genetic variation among populations. The present study provides the first report on the genetic diversity and population structure of the foxtail millet-infecting M. grisea population in Tamil Nadu, which could be useful for the development of blast-resistant foxtail millet cultivars.
Production planning in complex agricultural environments : the wine case
Authors:   , Monardes Concha Carlos
Published: October 2023

La planificación de la producción es un proceso crítico en la gestión y la toma de decisiones de las industrias. La toma de decisiones se lleva a cabo en diferentes niveles de decisión (estratégico, táctico y operativo) y con incertidumbre, lo que genera variabilidad en la productividad y, por tanto, dificultades en el proceso de planificación. La agroindustria, en particular, presenta importantes desafíos para la planificación de la producción, debido a diversos factores que generan variabilidad. Sin embargo, el desarrollo de técnicas de optimización para la planificación de la producción en esta industria se encuentra en etapas incipientes y, de hecho, existen atractivas oportunidades para su aplicación. En Chile, la agroindustria representa el 10% de sus exportaciones, siendo la industria vitivinícola uno de sus principales sectores. De hecho, Chile mantiene un reconocimiento mundial en el sector vinícola; su producción ha estado entre las diez más importantes en los últimos nueve años. El proceso de elaboración del vino incluye la vendimia, la molienda, la maceración y la fermentación. Estas etapas son fundamentales en la producción de vino y están sujetas a variabilidad. Además, la limitada capacidad de recursos en el proceso de producción de vino crea un escenario atractivo para aplicar modelos de investigación operativa. Este proyecto de tesis propone desarrollar una metodología de modelización y resolución para planificar la producción en agricultura, especialmente en el sector vitivinícola. Como caso de aplicación, se propone modelar y resolver dos problemas tácticos/operativos: (i) planificar el transporte de uva y mosto entre plantas de producción, y (ii) asignar lotes de uva cosechada a las cubas de fermentación, considerando la incertidumbre presente sobre la pluviometría, y las fechas de vendimia. La metodología propuesta implica la aplicación de técnicas de optimización como la Programación Entera y la Programación Estocástica, el desarrollo de modelos y un Sistema de Apoyo a la Toma de Decisiones. Las fuentes de incertidumbre y los diferentes escenarios que pueden presentarse en el sistema vitivinícola requerirán diferentes estrategias para tratar la variabilidad en la toma de decisiones. Los resultados demuestran que la Investigación Operativa puede apoyar la toma de decisiones en la industria vitivinícola, mejorando la gestión de las operaciones con decisiones informadas.
Does a judicial expert in Russian law enjoy immunity from civil liability or should he bear property responsibility for the quality of the conclusion prepared by him?
Authors: Yurievna Zatonova Daria
Published: October 2023

Present article is devoted to the search for an answer to the question of whether a judicial expert in Russian law should bear civil (property) responsibility for drawing up an expert opinion that does not meet the requirements of the law, or the nature of the relations connecting him with the court, the procedural position of the expert and the specifics of the function performed by him, taking into account his social and individual competence determines the granting of immunity from bringing a forensic expert to property liability. In conclusion, Despite the above arguments in support of the existence of immunity, as well as the emerging approaches of Russian law enforcement practice, it seems that a forensic expert should be a subject of property liability both to the court, which has the right to refuse to pay remuneration or reduce its amount if it finds that the expert improperly fulfilled his duties to conduct an expert study, and before the parties to the court proceedings, who have the right to file an independent tort claim against him for recovery of damages caused.
Maternal and Foetal Blood Analysis in Term Pregnancies with and without Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bandi Krishnaveni , Shivanagappa Mamatha , Chaithra C
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is the development of carbohydrate intolerance of variable severity with onset or first recognition during pregnancy. Iron is essential for the beta cell functioning of the pancreas and glucose homeostasis in adequate quantities. However, excess iron levels can lead to the generation of an increased amount of free radicals, which can cause toxicity to the pancreatic beta cells, leading to insulin resistance by impairing glucose metabolism. Aim: To compare maternal and foetal blood analysis in term pregnancies with and without GDM. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, JSS Medical College and Hospital Research Centre, Mysuru, Karnataka, India, on 120 term pregnant women, with 60 cases of GDM and 60 non GDM controls. Maternal blood and cord blood samples were used to measure Haemoglobin (Hb), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), serum iron, and serum ferritin in the mother and newborn at the time of delivery. Foetal blood analysis was performed in terms of foetal haemoglobin, iron, and ferritin. Birth weight was also measured. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Independent t-test, with a p-value <0.05 considered significant. Results: The serum ferritin level of the mother was higher in GDM cases (mean value 89.47 ng/mL) than in non GDM controls (mean value 47.62 ng/mL), and this difference was statistically significant. Serum ferritin levels in newborns were significantly lower in the GDM group (85.43) compared to the non GDM group (102.71). Mean values of haemoglobin, PCV, and iron levels were not significantly higher in newborns of GDM mothers compared to non GDM mothers. Conclusion: In GDM, serum ferritin was increased, indicating a marker of inflammation or iron overload, which increases oxidative stress that might affect placental iron transfer and haemoglobin synthesis in the foetus.
Evaluation of Ocular Perfusion Pressure in Migraine Patients: A Case-control Study
Authors: Rashmi S , Divyalakshmi KS , Soujanya K , Anupama B , Pavithra H
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Vascular dysregulation is a common underlying factor between migraine and glaucoma. Fluctuations in Ocular Perfusion Pressure (OPP) can lead to ischaemia and damage to the optic nerve head. It is unclear if the risk of glaucoma in migraine patients is due to low OPP. Aim: To compare the OPP of migraine patients with healthy controls and assess the role of OPP as a risk factor for glaucoma in migraine patients. Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted from June 2019 to May 2020 at Yenepoya Medical College Hospital, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India. Adult patients of either gender, aged between 18 and 40 years, diagnosed with migraine, were included in the study. Intraocular Pressure (IOP), blood pressure, and OPP were measured in 94 migraine patients and compared with 94 age-matched controls. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. Independent t-tests were used for comparison. Adjusted odds ratios were calculated using binary logistic regression, and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean IOP was 13.27±2.02 mmHg among cases and 13.38±1.87 mmHg among controls. The mean Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) was 118.91±4.67 mmHg among cases and 116.09±5.18 mmHg among controls. The mean Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) was 77.72±4.48 mmHg among cases and 75.77±4.89 mmHg among controls. The mean OPP was 47.69±2.43 mmHg among cases and 46.08±2.46 mmHg among controls. The t-test values showed a statistically significant difference in SBP, DBP, and OPP between the two groups (p-value<0.05). Conclusion: The OPP in migraine patients differed significantly from that of the controls. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the relationship between perfusion pressure abnormalities and the risk of glaucoma in migraine patients.
Utility of the Modified Sick Neonatal Score to Predict the Mortality in Outborn Neonates: A Cohort Study
Authors: Meshram Rajkumar Motiram , Merchant Saira
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Illness severity scoring systems are essential tools for reducing mortality by identifying disease severity and providing early intervention. The application of the Modified Sick Neonatal Score (MSNS) in resource-limited settings has been studied in inborn neonates, but there is a lack of data regarding outborn neonates. Aim: To predict mortality in outborn transported neonates by applying the MSNS score. Materials and Methods: This cohort study was conducted from June 2020 to November 2021 in the Department of Paediatrics at Government Medical College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. Parameters of the MSNS scoring system (respiratory effort, heart rate, axillary temperature, capillary refilling time, random blood sugar, oxygen saturation, gestational age, and birth weight) were evaluated in all admitted outborn neonates upon admission, and outcomes (discharge or death) were noted. The score and individual parameters were correlated with the outcome. Chi-square test, Fischer's-exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test were applied to statistically analyse the data. A receiver operating curve was plotted to determine the cut-off value for the score to predict mortality. Results: In the present study, 866 (58.2%) neonates were male, while 622 (41.8%) were female, and the mean age at admission was 43.3±58.9 hours. Nearly two-thirds of the neonates were born at term, and the mean birth weight was 2191.62±595.47 gm. A total of 91.7% of the neonates were referred by government facilities, and 82.8% of the neonates were transported by ambulance, but only one-third of the ambulance-transported neonates were accompanied by a health assistant. The mean traveling distance was 83.57±72.79 km, and the mean transport duration was 2.14±1.07 hours. The common clinical diagnosis were sepsis (42.68%), respiratory distress (19.89%), and birth asphyxia (14.78%). The neonatal mortality rate was 29.3%. The total MSNS score for neonates who survived was 11.26±2.34, compared to 8.52±2.23 for the neonates who died (p-value <0.0001). The sensitivity was 80.5%, with a specificity of 63.1% and an area under the curve of 0.79 (OR-24.72, 95% CI 0.77-0.81, p-value <0.001) when using the optimal cut-off score of ≤10. Conclusion: The MSNS score of ≤10 has better sensitivity and specificity in predicting neonatal mortality in outborn transported neonates.
Solids Reduction Process for Agricultural Effluent – A Laboratory Feasibility Study
Authors: Dölle Klaus , Röhlen Philip
Published: October 2023

Process steps of flocculation, filtration and centrifugation are investigated to better utilizing existing storage capacity of agriculturally based effluents and at the same time minimize the environmental impact of agricultural operations.

As flocculant Ca(OH)2 as a 20% solution, FeCl3 as a 30% solution, and Al2(SO4)3 as a 20% solution were used.

The solids content of the liquid manure, having a preadjusted pH of 9.5, resulted in a solids reduction of up to 46.8% with centrifugation.

For all flocculants, the 20% Ca(OH)2 solution, the 30% FeCl3 solution, and the 20% Al2(SO4)3 solution resulted in a decrease of the solids content of the liquid manure.

FeCl3 as flocculant reduced the solids content by 45%, Al2(SO4)3 and Ca(OH)2 as flocculant by 21.0% after the second centrifugation process. Filtration as the fourth process step reduced the solids content further by 31.6% for the Ca(OH)2 flocculant, whereas for FeCl3 and Al2(SO4)3 as flocculant and increase of the solids content by 18.2% and 2.5% respectively resulted.

The flocculant Ca(OH)2 outperformed FeCl3 and Al2(SO4)3 by 71.2%, 65.4%, and 56.9% respectively.

A Maximum COD removal rate of 47/8% could be realized without flocculant and 70.6% COD removal rate could be utilized using FeCl3 as flocculant applying a second centrifugation process.
The Role of ICT in Effective Dissemination of Extension Information among Women Livestock Farmers in North West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Forbang Loveline Enjoh , James Kinsam
Published: October 2023

Over the past years, extensive efforts have been made throughout the world to provide female farmers with effective, suitable technology, training, and information.  As a result, positive effects are beginning to show in agricultural production and family welfare. But the successes are limited at a time when public sector investments in agricultural research and extension are under pressure, when ever-greater demands are being placed on rural women in the face of rapid social transformation and in an increasing number of areas, when evidence of environmental degradation is growing. ICTs are now being used to provide basic solutions to farmers and are increasingly being supported by extension practitioners for use in agricultural production and marketing systems. This paper is intended to investigate the role played by ICT in the dissemination of effective extension information among women livestock farmers in the North West Region of Cameroon. Primary data were collected through the use of structured questionnaires, observations, focus groups and interview guides. Secondary data were obtained from books, journals, research projects and scientific articles. These provided the necessary quantitative and qualitative data that were used to draw conclusions. Multi stage sampling techniques were used to select the female farmers for the study. Four hundred (400) questionnaires were administered randomly to collect data from the communities. The women were examined using different channels like media, phone calls, friends, and agricultural technicians. The results from the study shows that, the media seemingly are doing a great job in disseminating of appropriate agricultural information. Therefore, 40.5% of the farmers get information from the media or magazines but only (7.8%) get information through phone calls. The findings of this study can go a long way to help policy makers in planning and designing need-based information infrastructural system for rural farmers.
Narrating Transcultural Encounters and Return in Akufor Aneneba’s The Land We Leave Behind
Authors: Dasi Eleanor Anneh
Published: October 2023

Cultural contact is an inescapable aspect of life in the 21st century due to migration. For both voluntary and involuntary migrants, intercultural experiences are inevitable, and these may place them in a state of constant transformation and reconstruction. Unfortunately, migration is still a kind of one-way traffic, witnessing the flow from indigenous cultures to metropolitan centres. As these smaller cultures come in contact with the alleged superior cultures, they are subsumed under the guise of globalisation. African cultures are particularly vulnerable because many of its people migrate to Western countries in search of better life conditions in addition to those who were forcefully dislocated during the days of the slave trade. As they encounter these superior cultures, their selfhood is endangered. However, this feeling sometimes has a latent effect as it provides avenues for these migrants to break the cultural distance. This brings the major argument in this paper to the point where the diaspora is not just a place where people seek refuge to attain dreams; it also provides a pathway where displaced subjects reconcile with their cultures and histories. This argument is built around how the different encounters and experiences foster their reattachment to their home cultures. This will be investigated in Akufor Aneneba’s The Land We Leave Behind.
Factors Predisposing to Postdural Puncture Headache after Spinal Anaesthesia among Elective Caesarean Section Patients at Thika Level 5 Hospital, Kenya
Authors: Nduku Munavu Angelina , Jackson Onyuka , Wambui Mwangi
Published: October 2023

Background: Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) is a common complication following spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean section (CS). There is little data on the incidence and its predisposing factors in low-income countries. The study aimed to investigate the incidence and factors predisposing patients to PDPH after a dural puncture during a planned Caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia at Thika Level 5 Hospital, Kenya.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Pregnant women scheduled for planned Caesarean sections under spinal anaesthesia at Thika Level 5 Hospital were randomly recruited. Data was collected during the fourth quarter of 2021. Patient factors (age, BMI, bed rest, and previous history of PDPH), healthcare provider factors (qualification, experience, and the number of dural punctures), and equipment factors (size, design, and spinal needle orientation) were evaluated to determine predisposing factors for PDPH. Sample size obtained by the use of Fisher’s formula, resulting in a sample size of 103.

Results: We found the incidence of PDPH at Thika Level 5 Hospital to be 24.5%. Patient and equipment factors were found to be associated with PDPH. Among the patient factors, high BMI was found to be significant (p = 0.039) while among the equipment factors, traumatic needle tip design (p = 0.049) and the perpendicular orientation of needle bevel (p = 0.022) were found to be associated with PDPH.

Conclusion and Recommendations: We conclude that PDPH is a common complication following spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean section, and the incidence (24.5%) is relatively high at Thika Level 5 Hospital. High BMI, traumatic cutting spinal needle tip design and perpendicular orientation of the needle bevel are predisposing factors. Further research is needed to determine the predisposing factors of PDPH at different levels of hospitals in Kiambu County, and understand the specific mechanisms and measures to minimize the incidence PDPH
A Neonate with Diamond-Shaped Yellowish Scaling of the Skin: A Case Report on Harlequin Ichthyosis
Authors: Kalwar Maheen , Siddiqui Samrah Inam , Waseem Zaiya , Parkash Oam
Published: October 2023

Harlequin Ichthyosis is an extremely rare genetic disorder of the skin with a mortality rate of 44%. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, pointing towards the role of consanguinity among parents as a contributing factor. We present a unique case of a Harlequin baby whose parents' marriage was nonconsanguineous with no family history of the disease on either side. The antenatal ultrasound scans were normal as well with oligohydramnios as the only prominent feature a week before delivery. Hence, leading to a low suspicion and delayed diagnosis of an already extremely fatal condition. A two-hour-old female baby presented with generalized yellow scales and fissures covering the body in a diamond-like pattern, along with ectropion, eclabium, abnormal digits, clubfeet, and contractures in the extremities. The chest and abdomen were covered with thick scales as well, but the ear and anal canal were patent. Based on these findings, a clinical diagnosis of Harlequin Ichthyosis was made. Supportive management with a multi-disciplinary approach was started, focusing on temperature regulation, nutrition supplementation, eye & skin care, and pain control. However, the next day the patient developed respiratory distress and was put on CPAP. Due to skin hyperkeratinization, intravenous access could not be maintained. Instead, umbilical catheterization was used as a source of nutrition and medicines. Her condition kept deteriorating, leading to tachycardia, tachypnea, and sudden onset of apnea, eventually leading to a need for intubation. Being aware of the associated complications and poor prognosis, the parents decided to withdraw supportive care, leading to death soon after. Since the characteristic findings on antenatal scans are usually not seen until the last trimester, we emphasize the importance of early confirmatory diagnosis via genetic screening, as delayed management leads to even worse outcomes. Additionally, we also recommend counselling the parents for future pregnancies due to the recurrence of the disease.
Influence of Social Factors on Utilization of Antenatal Care Services: A Case in Njombe Town Council for the Three Health Facilities; Njombe Urban, Idundilanga and ARCS Health Center
Authors: Masanje Augustino Francis , Msomba Given , Ruheza Sosthenes
Published: October 2023

The focus of this study was to assess the influence of social factors on utilization of Antenatal Care services in Njombe Town Council. This study was of quantitative whereas, cross section research design was used to capture data at one time. Questionnaire was used to collect data for statistical analysis from pregnant women who acquire and attain ANC services, as three health facilities supported for the collection of qualitative and quantitative data. Questionnaire was found to be suitable as it captured measurable data which were suitable for hypothesis testing. The researcher employed Simple random sampling, as it was used to draw out 182 respondents from the targeted population in the context of Njombe Town Council.

Using chi square analysis and mean score analysis, findings revealed that social factors had significant influence on the utilization of ANC services for pregnant women in Njombe Town Council. It was further found out that, husband communication with pregnant women was highly contributing to their partners to effectively utilize ANC services when compared with the communication by pregnant women with the health workers and relatives. Also, it was found out that pregnant women with secondary level of education were utilizing more ANC services when compared with pregnant women with other levels of education. Based on these findings this study concludes that social factors was significant influencing utilization of ANC services. This study recommends that professional training to the health cares for providing health care on ANC services to pregnant women to regularly access ANC services, should be implemented by the government in order to sufficiently improve provision of ANC services hence reduce potential risks for the mother and child throughout the maternity period.
Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Herb Yield and Economics of Kalmegh (Andrographis panniculata Wall. Ex. Nees. ) var. CIM Megha
Authors: Amala D. , Kumar M. Raj , Kumar A. Kiran , Kumar B. Naveen , Gouthami P. , Sathish G.
Published: October 2023

Aim: To study the effect of organic manures and biofertilizers on growth, herb yield and economics of kalmegh.

Study Design: The experiment was carried out with 13 treatments in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The research trial was carried out at P.G students research block, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, SKLTSHU, Hyderabad during Kharif, 2021.

Results: Among the organic and biofertilizer treatments combinations the results reported that the (T6): 75 % N through VC + 12.5 % N through NC + 12.5 % N through PM + AMC recorded the highest herb yield and Benefit cost ratio compared to other treatments.

Conclusion: Organic produce fetches higher price in market compared to inorganic produce, which helped in increasing the gross returns, net returns and highest B:C ratio.
Retroaction of Summer Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) towards Foliar Application of NPK and Micronutrients on Content and Uptake of Nutrients in Medium Black Calcareous Soil of South Saurashtra Region
Authors: Kumar Navdeep , Ninama A. R. , Choudhary Raghuveer , Chandraker Vibha , Chovatia P. K. , Patel Anjali , Jadeja J. P.
Published: October 2023

A field trial was steered to ascertain the outcome of foliar application of NPK and micronutrients on nutrient content and uptake by sesame crop during the summer season of 2022 on medium black calcareous soil of Instructional Farm, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, India. The experiment was conducted with three replications and 10 treatments by using Randomized Block Design (RBD), the GJT-5 variety of sesame was tested in this experiment. The treatment consists of 100 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), viz. 50:25:40 N-P2O5-K2O kg /ha (T1), T1 + Foliar spray of multi micro. mixture grade-IV (MMMG) @ 0.25 % at 30 and 45 days after sowing (DAS) (T2), 75 % of RDF + 1.5 % Water Soluble Fertilizer at 30 and 45 DAS (T3), 75 % of RDF + 2.0 % Water Soluble Fertilizer at 30 and 45 DAS (T4), 50 % of RDF + 1.5 % Water Soluble Fertilizer at 30 and 45 DAS (T5), 50 % of RDF + 2.0 % Water Soluble Fertilizer at 30 and 45 DAS (T6), T3 + Foliar spray of multi micro mixture grade - IV @ 0.25 % at 30 and 45 DAS (T7), T4 + Foliar spray of MMMG- IV @ 0.25 % at 30 and 45 DAS (T8), T5 + Foliar spray of MMMG- IV @ 0.25 % at 30 and 45 DAS (T9) and T6 + Foliar spray of MMMG- IV @ 0.25 % at 30 and 45 DAS (T10). The results of the experimentation revealed that the application of T4 + Foliar spray of MMMG- IV @ 0.25 % (T8) at 30 and 45 DAS) recorded the significantly higher content of N, P and K and micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu and B) in seed and stover of sesame and also enhanced the uptake of these nutrients by plant as well as the availability of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium in soil after harvest of the crop. Significantly, they were at par with the application of T3 + Foliar spray of MMMG- IV @ 0.25 % (T7) at 30 and 45 DAS). While, the significantly lowest values of nutrient content and uptake were recorded with 50 % of RDF + 1.5 % Water Soluble Fertilizer (T5) at 30 and 45 DAS.
Performance of Cotton (Gossipium hirsutum L.) Varieties under High Density Planting System in Alfisols of Telangana, India
Authors: Reddy K. Indudhar , Ramanjaneyulu A. V. , Geetha A. , Seshu G. , Reddy D. Vishnuvardhan
Published: October 2023

Aims: Cotton productivity is lower in India than the global average due to inadequate soil moisture during boll formation stage due to cessation of south west monsoon. Cotton is mainly grown under rainfed conditions in marginal and shallow soils, cultivating short duration cotton varieties with high density could improve productivity in the rainfed regions. So, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the three cotton varieties and a hybrid under four high density spacings.

Study Design:  The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice.

Place and Duration of Study: The field experiment was conducted for three years during Kharif 2014, 2015 and 2016 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem, Nagarkurnool District of Telangana state, India. The experimental site was located at 16.51703° North latitude and 78.2469° East longitude and an altitude of 478 m above mean sea level.

Methodology: Treatments consisted of 4 spacings (45×10 cm, 60×10 cm, 75×10 cm and 90×10 cm) under main plots and 3 non bt cotton varieties (Suraj, WGCV-48 and ADB-39) and 1 Bt Cotton hybrid Jadoo was included as 4th treatment under subplots during 2015 and 2016. The soil at the site was Alfisol with low organic carbon (0.24%) and N (210 kg ha-1), high in available P (75 kg P2O5 ha-1) and available K (455 kg K2O ha-1). The crop was cultivated under rainfed conditions. Intercultivation and hand weeding was done and kept weed free. Gross plot size of 9 m × 3 m was maintained for each treatment. Nitrogen dose of 40 kg N ha-1, 20 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 20 kg K2O ha-1 was applied. The single plant data was collected on five tagged plants in each plot of each treatment and yield data was collected from the net plot area.

Results: Seed cotton yield was significantly influenced by the spacing and the varieties. The pooled data of 3 years revealed that cotton crop under 90×10 cm spacing (2054 kg ha-1) recorded significantly higher seed cotton yield than the crop under 75×10 cm (1854 kg ha-1), 60×10 cm (1723 kg ha-1) and 45×10 cm (1603 kg ha-1). The pooled data of 3 years revealed that the seed cotton yield in hybrid Jadoo (2189 kg ha-1) was significantly higher than the three varieties. The seed cotton yield in all the three varieties (Suraj, WGCV-48 and ADB-39) was on par with each other during all the years under study.

Conclusion: High density spacing of 90×10 cm, recorded significantly higher seed cotton yield than the other tested spacing. Among the varieties and the hybrid, cotton Jadoo outperformed all the cotton varieties and seed cotton yield of cotton varieties (Suraj, WGCV-48 and ADB-39) was on par with each other.
Emerging Contaminants Removal from Wastewater Using Organo-Modified Bentonite Clay
Authors: Abdulsalam Abdullahi , Ibrahim Yahya Saleh , Yaro Nura Alhaji , Olanrewaju Olalekan Akeem , Alhassan Bello , Iyayosa Dallacoasta Andrea , Lawal Kabir
Published: October 2023

Organo-modified bentonite clay locally sourced from Bauchi State, Nigeria was prepared and used as an adsorbent for Emerging Contaminants (EC) capture from Kaduna Polytechnic female hostel wastewater. The produced adsorbent was characterized to determine the functional groups, surface area and crystal structure. Surface area for directly modified bentonite clay produced adsorbents and oxalic acid-pretreated bentonite clay adsorbent was found to be 625 m2/g and 349.2 m2/g respectively and the morphology of the produced acid-pretreated organo-modified bentonite clay adsorbents has better pore development with a higher amorphous structure. The wastewater compositions were found to contain major ECs identified to be Diclofenac, Triclosan, Methylparaben, and Bisphenol A, which account for 76.206% of the ECs that are detrimental to human and the environment. The impact of the adsorption factors; contact time, adsorbent dosage, and temperature on uptake behavior were all examined. Effect of adsorbent dosage was established which shows that all ECs removed rise rapidly from 0.5 – 1.0 g adsorbent dosage and then slowly reach a maximum of 98.65% Triclosan, 95.83% Diclofenac, 91.49% BPA, and 62.16% Methyl-Paraben removal as adsorbent dosage increases to 2g. On the other hand, as the adsorbent dosage increases to 3g, the removal rate of all ECs was observed to drop slightly and then attain maximum removal as the dosage rises to 4g. In contrast, a rise in adsorbent dosage of 2.5g gives a sudden drop in removal of Triclosane to 92.41% and Methyl-Paraben to 53.01% as well as a sharp drop in Methyl-Paraben to 33.33% and slightly drop in the removal of all other ECs. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms models were fitted to the adsorption data and Freundlich showed best fit indicating chemisorption. The adsorption of triclosan, diclofenac, bisphenol A, and methylparaben followed pseudo second-order kinetic model.
Circulation of Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus in Ticks in Upper Guinea-Republic of Guinea
Authors: Diallo Mamadou Gando , Boiro Aissatou , Kolie Bonaventure , Naydenova Ekaterina , Diallo Abdoulaye Djibril , Diallo Souleymane , Balde Thierno Amadou Labé
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to map the distribution of agents carrying the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (arbovirus-tica) in the natural region of Upper Guinea. The prefectures of Kankan, Dabola and Faranah were used as collection areas. Random sampling of different types of animals was used to collect the biomaterial. Two types of analysis methods (RT-PCR and ELISA) were used. Out of a total of 578 ticks collected and divided into 254 pools, the genus Amblyomma was the most frequently encountered with 83 tick pools. Molecular analysis (RT-PCR) for the detection of virus RNA revealed 2 positive cases (0.8%). Direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for the detection of Ag yielded only one positive case (0.4%). We found that the species Rhipicephalus geigyi was the main vector and reservoir of the pathogen in Upper Guinea.
TINGKAT KEPUASAN KONTRAKTOR TERHADAP KINERJA KONSULTAN MANAJEMEN KONSTRUKSI DI SURABAYA
Authors: Wijaya Andre , Andi Andi , Rahardjo Jani
Published: October 2023

Kinerja konsultan manajemen konstruksi merupakan faktor yang menentukan proses konstruksi akan memenuhi target dari owner. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mencari tingkat kepentingan kinerja konsultan manajemen konstruksi, tingkat penerapan kinerja konsultan manajemen konstruksi, indikator kinerja konsultan manajemen konstruksi yang perlu untuk ditingkatkan penerapannya serta tingkat kepuasan kontraktor terhadap kinerja konsultan manajemen konstruksi. Data diolah dengan nilai mean, importance performance analysis, dan customer satisfaction index. Hasil dari pengolahan data, ditemukan bahwa kinerja konsultan manajemen konstruksi dinilai penting dan telah diterapkan dengan baik menurut kontraktor. Indikator yang perlu untuk ditingkatkan penerapannya yaitu kemampuan menganalisa situasi dengan akurat, mengontrol biaya agar efisien dan sesuai dengan kontrak, serta membantu mengurangi komplain dari owner dan partisipan proyek. Kontraktor di Surabaya puas terhadap kinerja dari konsultan manajemen konstruksi secara keseluruhan.
APLIKASI DAN TANTANGAN PENGEMBANGAN PADA INDUSTRI KONSTRUKSI DI INDONESIA
Authors: Famdale Christopher Hansel , Widyadana I Gede Agus
Published: October 2023

Revolusi industri berdampak besar pada kemajuan dari kehidupan manusia. Saat ini, industri konstruksi sedang mengalami transformasi drastis karena kemajuan teknologi yang didukung dengan revolusi industri keempat. Salah satu bentuk penerepan konstruksi 4.0 adalah internet of things. Adopsi aplikasi internet of things memiliki tantangan – tantangan dalam prosesnya. Indonesia masih tertinggal dalam penggunaan internet of things di industri konstruksi. Tantangan yang ditemukan adalah anggaran biaya untuk sektor penelitian dan pengembangan yang kecil. Perbedaan demografi bisa menjadi penyebab berbedanya adopsi IoT di setiap negara. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui dan mengidentifikasi tantangan yang dihadapi pekerja konstruksi dalam mengadopsi internet of things di industri konstruksi. Metode penelitian menggunakan kuesioner survei. Kuesioner survei dibagikan kepada pelaku industri konstruksi di Indonesia yang bergerak dibidang konsultan, kontraktor, dan properti melalui aplikasi percakapan. Data survei diolah menggunakan metode SEM (structural equation modelling). Hasil penelitian ditemukan bahwa tantangan yang ada signifikan dalam mempengaruhi rencana responden untuk mengadopsi IoT.
PENGARUH MANAJEMEN PROAKTIF TERHADAP KEPUASAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN : STUDI KASUS LIPPO MALL SIDOARJO
Authors: Prayogo David , Kwanda Timoticin , Rahardjo Jani
Published: October 2023

Seiring dengan perkembangan pembangunan pusat perbelanjaan persaingan bisnis menjadi semakin meningkat. Salah satu variabel yang menjadi penentu adalah kepuasan konsumen. Kepuasan konsumen dapat diperoleh dengan memberikan kualitas pelayanan yang baik kepada konsumen. Penerapan manajemen properti proaktif memungkinkan untuk memberi peningkatan dalam kualitas pelayanan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh manajemen proaktif terhadap kepuasan kualitas pelayanan berdasarkan reliabilitas, daya tanggap, jaminan, empati, dan bukti fisik di Lippo Mall Sidoarjo. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah kuesioner. Data kuesioner yang diperoleh akan dianalisis melalui uji validitas, uji reliabilitas, uji normalitas, uji multikolonieritas, uji heteroskedastisitas, analisis regresi linier berganda, koefisien determinasi berganda, uji kelayakan model, uji t, dan koefisien determinasi parsial. Responden dari penelitian ini merupakan seratus dua puluh pengunjung Lippo Mall Sidoarjo. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh manajemen proaktif terhadap kualitas pelayanan. Secara berurutan variabel manajemen proaktif yang mempengaruhi variabel kualitas pelayanan, yaitu empati, jaminan, bukti Fisik, kehandalan, dan daya tanggap.
Manter ou suspender a alimentação em fase final de vida? Scoping Review / Keep or suspend food in the end of life phase? Scoping Review
Authors: Huppes Betânia , Casarin Francine , Alves Pereira Liliane , Huppes Engel Rosana , Lopes Munhoz Oclaris , Ilha Silomar
Published: October 2023

Objetivo: Mapear a produção do conhecimento acerca da manutenção e/ou suspensão da alimentação em pacientes em fase final de vida. Método: Revisão de escopo realizado em outubro de 2022, em quatro bases de dados internacionais. Foram seguidas recomendações do Instituto Jonna Briggs (JBI), utilizou-se o checklist Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses-Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) para clareza dos dados. Resultados: Foram incluídos 12 artigos, publicados entre o ano 1987 e 2021. Como principais critérios de suspensão: expectativa de vida inferior a 4 meses; pacientes com demência avançada; déficit funcional grave. Para manutenção/implementação da alimentação artificial deve se considerar: esgotar todas as possibilidades de alimentação natural e prognósticos incertos; optar pelo posicionamento adequado do paciente e a oferta de pequenas quantidades de alimento via oral. Conclusão: As evidências sobre os critérios de suspensão ou manutenção da alimentação na fase final de vida apresentaram-se limitadas e com baixo nível de evidência.
Treatments and outcomes in people hospitalized at Juquery hospital: daily life in the Vargas era / Tratamentos e desfechos em indivíduos internados no hospital do Juquery o cotidiano na era Vargas
Authors: Escobar Sergio Roberto Holloway , Marcolan João Fernando
Published: October 2023

Objetivo: analisar os tratamentos e desfechos nos internados no Hospital do Juquery no período de 1930 a 1945. Métodos: estudo quanti-qualitativo, exploratório-descritivo, análise dos dados pelo referencial da análise documental. Coleta dos dados foi realizada no Acervo do Patrimônio Histórico-cultural do Complexo Hospitalar do Juquery, entre março e julho de 2022. Resultados: analisados 2.166 prontuários; 920 prontuários sem dados de tratamentos; 213 sem definição de tratamentos; principais tipos de tratamento: 494 monoterapia e 235 politerapia; 2.005 prontuários sem dados dos efeitos dos tratamentos. Quanto ao resultado: 106 inalterado/não melhorou, 21 melhorou, 18 piorou, 16 morte súbita. Houve 366 desfechos sem dados, 868 óbitos dos quais 496 não especificados, 263 saídas sem alta, 365 saídas com alta, evadidos 36 e 252 transferidos para outras instituições psiquiátricas. Conclusão: os tratamentos eram majoritariamente orgânicos e não produziram resultados efetivos; desfechos apontam para inadequação e ineficiência da assistência psiquiátrica e da internação.
Social representations of maternity planning in pregnant drug users / Representações Sociais do planejamento da maternidade em gestantes usuárias de drogas
Authors: Matos Greice Carvalho de , Soares Marilu Correa , Escobal Ana Paula Lima , Tavares Diogo Henrique , Rodrigues Cândida Garcia Sinott Silveira , Rodrigues Ketelin Bauer
Published: October 2023

Objetivo: compreender as Representações Sociais do planejamento e do desejo de exercer a maternidade em gestantes usuárias de drogas que vivencia/vivenciou a gravidez na adolescência. Método: estudo qualitativo, descritivo, fundamentado na Teoria das Representações Sociais. Foram entrevistadas 10 adolescentes que vivenciaram a gestação e o uso de drogas. A análise dos dados foi realizada a partir da Análise Textual Discursiva. Resultados: os resultados apontaram falta de conhecimento sobre aspectos da vida sexual e uso de anticoncepcionais. A droga ocupou o espaço vazio de solidão e medo, sendo uma forma encontrada pelas adolescentes de lidar com os problemas da vida. Apesar de muitas não terem planejado a gestação, esse processo motivou a diminuição do uso da substância. Conclusão: o estudo revelou a necessidade de diálogo sobre o processo gestacional na adolescência e uso de drogas, bem como, a importância de pesquisas e ações governamentais que abordem este problema de saúde pública.
Incidence and Factors Associated With Recurrent Pericarditis in Lupus
Authors: Kim Yoo Jin , Lovell Jana , Diab Alaa , Magder Laurence S. , Goldman Daniel , Petri Michelle , Fava Andrea , Adamo Luigi
Published: February 2025

Importance

Pericarditis is the most common cardiac manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is known to recur among patients. However, the prevalence of and risk factors associated with recurrent pericarditis in patients with SLE were unknown.

Objective

To investigate the frequency of and risk factors associated with the recurrence of pericarditis in patients with SLE.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study was a retrospective analysis of a well-characterized, single-center prospective cohort of a diverse group patients with SLE treated at a tertiary medical center and enrolled between 1988 and 2023. Patients diagnosed with pericarditis among those enrolled in the Hopkins Lupus Cohort were included. Data were analyzed from April 2023 and May 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Recurrence of pericarditis was assessed. The Safety of Estrogens in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment revision of the SLE Disease Activity Index (SELENA-SLEDAI) was used to define pericarditis. Clinical information was examined for all follow-up encounters after the first episode of pericarditis. Episodes that occurred at least 6 weeks after the first recorded episode were defined as recurrent.

Results

Of 2931 patients within the Hopkins Lupus Cohort, 590 patients had a history of pericarditis (257 patients aged <30 years at first episode [43.6%]; 535 women [90.5%]; 303 Black [51.4%] and 253 White [42.9%]). In 21 patients (3.6), the diagnosis of pericarditis was confirmed via electrocardiogram or dedicated imaging, with 100% concordance between clinical and database diagnoses. During a median (IQR) follow-up of 6.7 (2.5-13.6) years and a total of 5277 years of follow-up, 120 patients (20.3%) experienced recurrent pericarditis (recurrence rate = 0.053 recurrences; 95% CI, 0.047-0.059 recurrences per person-year of follow-up). Among patients with recurrence, most patients (61 individuals [50.8%]) experienced only 1 recurrence, whereas 59 patients (49.2%) had 2 or more recurrences. In multivariable analysis, factors associated with recurrence included younger age (≥60 vs <40 years: rate ratio [RR], 0.11; 95% CI, 0.04-0.32), treatment with prednisone (≥20 mg vs 0 mg: RR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.17-3.40), active SLE disease (SLEDAI ≥3 vs 0: RR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.21-2.00), and time since initial episode (3-10 years vs <1 year: RR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.20-0.52).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, recurrence was more likely within 1 year of the onset of pericarditis and among younger patients, those with uncontrolled disease, and those receiving oral prednisone therapy, with a dose-dependent association. These findings may set the basis for future studies to define optimal treatment for recurrent pericarditis in patients with SLE and suggest that oral corticosteroids should be avoided when treating pericarditis in patients with SLE.
Pioneering the Future: Principles, Advances, and Challenges in Organic Electrodes for Aqueous Ammonium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Shi Mangmang , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2025

Aqueous ammonium‐ion (NH4+) batteries (AAIBs) have recently been considered as attractive alternatives for next‐generation large‐scale energy storage systems, on account of their cost‐effectiveness, nonflammability, less corrosive, small hydrated ionic radius, and rapid NH4+ diffusion kinetics. In addition, the tetrahedral structure of NH4+ exhibits preferential orientation characteristics, resulting in a different electrochemical storage mechanism from spherical charge carriers such as Li+, Na+, and K+. Therefore, unlocking the NH4+‐ion storage mechanisms in host electrode materials is pivotal to advancing the design of high‐performance AAIBs. Organic materials, with their customizable, flexible, and stable molecular structures, along with their ease of recycling and disposal, offer tremendous potential. However, the development of cutting‐edge organic electrode materials specifically for ammonium‐ion storage in AAIBs remains an exciting, yet largely untapped, frontier. This review systematically explores the interaction mechanisms between NH4+ ions and organic electrode materials, such as electrostatic interactions including hydrogen bonding. It also highlights the application of diverse organic electrode materials, such as small molecules, conducting polymers, covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and organic‐inorganic hybrids in AAIBs. Lastly, the review addresses the key challenges and future perspectives of organic‐material‐based AAIBs, aiming to push the boundaries of cutting‐edge aqueous energy storage systems.
Reprogramming the Tumor Immune Microenvironment with ICAM‐1‐Targeted Antibody‒Drug Conjugates and B7‐H3‐CD3 Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Zhou Shoubing , Hong Mengyu , Zhao Dan , Li Wenyu , Yuan Xiaolong , Wang Yinghong , Li Hualong , Yang Yang , Jin Tengchuan , Pan Jing
Published: February 2025

Reprogramming the tumor immune microenvironment (TIM) plays an important role in promoting the reversal of immune “cold” tumors into “hot” inflammatory tumors. Improving drug targeting, blocking immune checkpoints, and promoting the activation of immune cells are crucial for reprogramming the TIM. Here, an intercellular adhesion molecule 1‐targeted antibody‒drug conjugate in combination with a B7‐H3‐CD3 bispecific antibody is selected for TIM reprogramming, which improved the efficacy of triple‐negative breast cancer immunotherapy. This combination therapy improves drug targeting, blocks immune checkpoint pathways, and activates effector T cells to release cytokines, leading to immunogenic cell death and the release of tumor‐associated antigens. This effect promotes the maturation of dendritic cells, infiltration and activation of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, repolarization of M1‐type macrophages, and reduction of M2‐type macrophages, immune suppressor Tregs, and MDS cells, thereby reprogramming the TIM. In addition, this innovative strategy promotes the accumulation of immune cells at metastasis sites and significantly impedes the progression of lung metastatic lesions. Overall, this study provides novel insights for reprogramming the TIM using novel immunotherapeutic strategies that leverage the synergistic effects of antibody‐drug conjugates and bispecific antibodies.