bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Passive smoking and risk of pancreatic cancer: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Xudong , Wang Zihan , Wang Xujie
Published: October 2024

Background

Previous meta-analysis has demonstrated that no association was validated between passive smoking and pancreatic cancer. However, there is growing evidence on this issue recently. This study aimed to confirm this association.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to April 2024 for retrieval of full articles. Studies with the exposure of passive smoking and outcome of pancreatic cancer were eligible for the analysis. We generated pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using DerSimonian–Laird random-effects models. Quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE system.

Results

Fourteen studies were included, with 5,560 pancreatic cancer patients. Passive smoking was associated with a moderate increased risk of pancreatic cancer (RR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.11–1.30, p < 0.001). The results were consistent in both case-control (p=0.013) and cohort studies (p < 0.001) and in studies with high (p = 0.007) and moderate quality (p < 0.001). In subgroup analysis, the risk was significant for both current (RR=1.91, 95% CI: 1.45-2.51, p < 0.001) and non-current smokers (RR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.01-1.36, p = 0.037), for exposure both in adulthood (RR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.06-1.31, p = 0.002) and childhood (RR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.08-1.34, p = 0.001). However, only regular or daily exposure (RR=1.28, 95% CI: 1.08-1.50, p = 0.003), rather than exposing occasionally, seldom or few times per week (p = 0.421), to passive smoking could increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Conclusion

Passive smoking exposure confers a significant increased risk for pancreatic cancer. The risk was valid in both case-control and cohort, high and moderate quality studies, in current and non-current smokers, and for both childhood and adulthood exposure. Regular or daily exposure rather than exposing occasionally, seldom or few times per week could exert a detrimental effect on pancreatic cancer.
Brain tissue oxygen pressure combined with intracranial pressure monitoring may improve clinical outcomes for patients with severe traumatic brain injury: a systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Chengcheng , Zhou Lingmin , Zhang Kai , Huang Jian , Cao Lanxin , Lou Yuhang , Fan Yushi , Zhang Xinyun , Wang Yesong , Cui Wei , Hu Lihua , Zhang Gensheng
Published: October 2024

Background

Although the optimization of brain oxygenation is thought to improve the prognosis, the effect of brain tissue oxygen pressure (PbtO2) for patients with severe traumatic brain injury (STBI) remains controversial. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine whether adding PbtO2 to intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring improves clinical outcomes for patients with STBI.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane Library were searched for eligible trials from their respective inception through April 10th, 2024. We included clinical trials contrasting the combined monitoring of PbtO2 and ICP versus isolated ICP monitoring among patients with STBI. The primary outcome was favorable neurological outcome at 6 months, and secondary outcomes including the in-hospital mortality, long-term mortality, length of stay in intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital.

Results

A total of 16 studies (four randomized studies and 12 cohort studies) were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with isolated ICP monitoring, the combined monitoring was associated with a higher favorable neurological outcome rate at 6 months (RR 1.33, 95% CI [1.17–1.51], P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%), reduced long-term mortality (RR 0.72, 95% CI [0.59–0.87], P = 0.0008, I2 = 2%). No significant difference was identified in the in-hospital mortality (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.01, P = 0.06, I2 = 32%), length of stay in ICU (MD 2.10, 95% CI [−0.37–4.56], P = 0.10, I2 = 78%) and hospital (MD 1.07, 95% CI [−2.54–4.67], P = 0.56, I2 = 49%) between two groups. However, the pooled results of randomized studies did not show beneficial effect of combined monitoring in favorable neurological outcome and long-term mortality.

Conclusions

Currently, there is limited evidence to prove that the combined PbtO2 and ICP monitoring may contribute to improved neurological outcome and long-term mortality for patients with STBI. However, the benefit of combined monitoring should be further validated in more randomized studies.
The vaginal metabolomics profile with features of polycystic ovary syndrome: a pilot investigation in China
Authors: Xuan Yan , Hong Xiang , Zhou Xu , Yan Tao , Qin Pengfei , Peng Danhong , Wang Bei
Published: October 2024

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common metabolic disorder and reproductive endocrine disease, posing an elevated risk to women of reproductive age. Although metabolism differences in serum, amniotic fluid and urine have been documented in PCOS, there remains a paucity of evidence for vaginal fluid. This study aimed to identify the metabolic characteristics and potential biomarkers of PCOS in Chinese women of reproductive age.

Methods

We involved ten newly diagnosed PCOS women who attended gynecology at Zhongda Hospital and matched them with ten healthy controls who conducted health check-up programs at Gulou Maternal and Child Health Center in Nanjing, China from January 1st, 2019 to July 31st, 2020. Non-targeted metabolomics based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was applied to differentially screen vaginal metabolites between PCOS group and healthy controls. Principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and enrichment analysis were used to observe differences, search for potential biomarkers and enrich related pathways.

Results

Among the 20 participants, a total of 195 different metabolites were detected between PCOS group and healthy control group. PCOS and control groups were effectively separated by vaginal fluid. Lipids and lipid-like molecules constituted the majority of differential metabolites. Notably, dopamine exhibited an increased trend in PCOS group and emerged as the most significant differential metabolite, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for identifying PCOS. The application of UHPLC-MS/MS based vaginal metabolomics methods showed significant differences between PCOS and non-PCOS healthy control groups, especially linoleic acid metabolism disorder. Most differential metabolites were enriched in pathways associated with linoleic acid metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism or arachidonic acid metabolism.

Conclusions

In this pilot investigation, significant metabolomics differences could be obtained between PCOS and healthy control groups. For PCOS women of reproductive age, vaginal metabolism is a more economical, convenient and harmless alternative to provide careful personalized health diagnosis and potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Rota das Emoções no contexto turístico do Nordeste: enfoque nas políticas públicas e privadas
Authors: Putrick Simone Cristina , Braga Solano de Souza
Published: October 2024

Investiga-se a Rota das Emoções no contexto das políticas públicas e privadas, com enfoque no Programa de Regionalização do Turismo, na concepção de turismo como atividade essencialmente territorial. Optou-se pela metodológica, a fundamentação teórica, Estado, políticas públicas e privadas. Na terceira parte, estuda-se o Piauí no contexto do Nordeste, espaço geográfico do Piauí e políticas públicas de turismo, com enfoque no Programa de Regionalização do Turismo que sugere roteirizações com a emergência da Rota das Emoções, roteiro regional do Nordeste, compreendendo Piauí, Ceará e Maranhão. Tem por objetivos apresentar o histórico das Políticas Públicas do turismo no Brasil, Relacionar como o Estado do Piauí se situa no contexto do turismo do Nordeste; identificar os impactos da Rota das Emoções no território piauiense. O tema do artigo é relevante pelo fato de significativo crescimento adquirido pelo turismo na sociedade contemporânea e pela produção, consumo e organização do território pelo turismo. Justificado pelo crescente interesse pelo estudo da atividade, na área geográfica, econômica, e com base em diferentes aportes conceituais para tratamento científico. Examinam-se ações governamentais que promovem a difusão territorial turística, no Brasil, em especial, no Piauí. Políticas públicas implementam infraestrutura para o desenvolvimento do turismo. Políticas privadas de turismo regulamentam e estabelecem serviços turísticos que geram empregos formais e informais e desencadeiam transformações com efeito multiplicador. No entanto, transformações infraestruturais não atendem a objetivos sociais, direcionados ao mercado e não ao bem-estar das pessoas.
Análise econômica de sistemas de produção de ovinos com diferentes taxas de natalidade
Authors: Sá Haylleen Aparecida Oliveira Menezes de , Vaz Ricardo Zambarda , Silveira Elivelton de Salles da , Carvalho Kerolayne da Trindade , Burbarelli Maria Fernanda de Castro , Queiroz Edicarlos Oliveira
Published: October 2024

O objetivo do estudo foi analisar a viabilidade econômica da produção de ovinos no Sul do Brasil por meio de planilhas eletrônicas, a partir da simulação de cenários com alterações na taxa de natalidade pecuária. A simulação foi inicialmente baseada em planilhas eletrônicas desenvolvidas por Macedo et al. (2018) e adaptado por Sá et al., 2024 utilizando o programa Microsoft Office Excel. A viabilidade econômica foi avaliada com base na produção de cordeiros utilizando três taxas de natalidade: 98, 110 e 123%. Nos quais os cordeiros oriundos foram apresentados percentuais de 75, 85 e 95% de parição de ovelhas, além disso, considerou-se que 30% eram de parto duplo e 70% eram de parto único. Todas as simulações foram calculadas com base em um rebanho Corriedale em sistema de ciclo completo. Na análise de investimento os sistemas de produção com taxa de 110 e 123%, o VPL (Valor Presente Líquido) demonstrou resultado de R$ 576.539,83, R$ 601.900,92, respectivamente. Em relação a taxa interna de retorno (TIR), os sistemas de produção com 110 e 123% foram positivos indicando 11 e 13% respectivamente. As taxas positivas indicam que o capital investido na atividade pode ser recuperado e o saldo disponível alivia anualmente igual à taxa interna de retorno. O sistema de produção de ruminantes, baseado na aquisição de todos os fatores de produção, poderá ser economicamente viável desde esteja devidamente alinhado e gerido, bem como as análises financeiras sejam devidamente implementadas.
Governança pública: proposta de um modelo de contratações em Instituições de Ciência e Tecnologia públicos
Authors: Cunha Helton Souza da , Ferreira Cristiano Vasconcellos , Murari Thiago Barros
Published: October 2024

O Decreto nº 9.203/17 inovou a administração pública federal direta, autárquica e fundacional, implementando mecanismos, instâncias e práticas de governança em consonância com os princípios e diretrizes estabelecidas na norma. Baseado neste contexto, o artigo tem como objetivo  analisar os modelos de governança em contratações públicas com base nos capitais intangíveis (capital  humano, estrutural e relacional) e propor um modelo de governança nas contratações de produtos e serviços de Institutos de Ciência e Tecnologia públicos, tendo como referência o modelo de maturidade em gerenciamento de projetos Prado-PMMM (Project Management Maturity Model) . O estudo trata-se de uma pesquisa quali-quanti, onde foram buscados na literatura modelos de governança em contratações existentes. Como resultado foi proposto um modelo de governança em contratações públicas que avalia o grau de maturidade de governança na instituição. de acordo com as dimensões apresentadas no modelo Prado- PMMM. Entende-se que o modelo pode ser implementado para que as instituições incrementem a sua maturidade em contratações.
CULTURÓPOLIS
Authors: Uliana Barboza Eduardo Fernando
Published: October 2024

A proposta deste artigo é revisitar e atualizar o projeto experimental Culturópolis desenvolvido como trabalho de conclusão de curso de Jornalismo. Os resultados da primeira pesquisa foram publicados como artigo na 33ª edição do Intercom, realizado em 2010. Passados 13 anos, pretendemos discutir se desenvolver e manter um site específico para a cobertura de eventos culturais ainda é relevante e viável diante da popularidade das redes sociais online e o consumo de conteúdo, principalmente por meio de aplicativos como Instagram e TikTok. Vale lembrar que na época da concepção deste produto jornalístico, as redes sociais online ainda não tinham a mesma penetração e popularidade que hoje. Assim como as tecnologias utilizadas para o desenvolvimento de sites eram pouco acessíveis para usuários domésticos.
Environmental Sustainability Disclosure and Market Performance of Listed Consumer Goods Firms in Nigeria
Authors: AKINLEYE Gideon Tayo , OGUNDIPE Francis Bamidele
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to examine the effect of environmental sustainability disclosure on the market performance of listed consumer goods firms in Nigeria. This study utilized ex-post facto research design. Data were gathered from the annual reports, sustainability disclosures, and financial databases of Nigerian consumer goods manufacturing firms listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) as of December 31, 2023. The study encompassed a population of 21 listed consumer goods manufacturing firms in Nigeria. A census sampling technique was adopted, to investigate the entire population. The research covered a twelve-year period, from 2012 to 2023, to observe trends, patterns, and long-term impacts, enabling a robust analysis. This study employed descriptive statistics (mean, median, variance, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis) and inferential statistics (panel regression analysis, correlational analysis etc.) to conduct data analysis. This regression analysis conducted revealed that both environmental protections cost disclosure, and environmental research and development cost disclosure had positive and significant effect on the market performance of listed consumer goods firms in Nigeria. While environmental pollution cost disclosure had a negative but significant effect on market performance. Whereas environmental waste management control cost disclosure had positive and insignificant effect on market performance. The findings indicate that environmental cost disclosures play a significant role in shaping the market performance of consumer goods firms in Nigeria. Specifically, disclosures related to environmental protection and R&D have a positive impact, as they reflect a firm’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. It was recommended that firms should prioritize and continue to disclose their investments in environmental protection and R&D, as these are positively viewed by investors and enhance market performance.
The Influence of Work Environment on the Performance of Employees of Perum Bulog West Java Region through Commitment and Achievement Motivation
Authors: Alzam Yuliani , Hermina Nurul
Published: October 2024

This research is motivated by the West Java Regional Perum BULOG company which is part of a State-Owned Enterprise where employee performance is one of the internal problems between leaders and employees. This study aims to examine the effect of work environment on employee performance through moderating variables of employee commitment and achievement motivation. The sample used in this study were employees of Perum BULOG West Java Regional Office with a total of 160 employees. This research method uses quantitative methods by distributing questionnaires to employees as respondents in this study. The analysis technique used in this study uses data processing application tools in the form of SMARTPLS version 3.2.9 which will be used to test the hypothesis in the study. The results of this study indicate that the work environment affects employee performance, commitment was found to moderate the work environment on employee performance and achievement motivation did not moderate the work environment on employee performance.
Audit Quality, Auditor Specialization, and Sustainability Reporting: Their Impact on Cost of Capital Moderated by Company Size of the Kompas 100 Index in the Indonesia Stock Exchange Market
Authors: Theresia Norrika , Utami Wiwik
Published: October 2024

The capital market has become an attractive instrument for both local and foreign investors. This study aims to analyze and provide empirical evidence regarding the influence of audit quality, auditor specialization, and sustainability reporting on the cost of capital. Additionally, it investigates how company size moderates the relationship between these variables and the cost of capital. The study focuses on companies listed in the Kompas 100 Index on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2018 to 2022. A quantitative approach is employed, utilizing secondary data available from the IDX (www.idx.go.id), specifically from company annual reports. Data collection involved recording relevant information from the annual reports of each company. The population of the study comprises companies included in the Kompas 100 Index, with a sample selected through non-probability sampling (purposive) with the criteria of being listed in the Kompas 100 Index for the consecutive periods of 2018 to 2022, sample resulted 54 companies. The data analysis method applied is Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA). The results reveal that audit quality has a negative effect on the cost of capital, while auditor specialization shows no significant effect. Furthermore, sustainability reporting also has a negative effect on the cost of capital. As for the moderating variable, company size successfully moderates the relationship between audit quality and the cost of capital, but it does not moderate the effect of auditor specialization or sustainability reporting on the cost of capital.
Modular Co-attention Networks in Nepali Visual Question Answering Systems
Authors: Gyanwali Aashish , Sapkota Binod , Koirala Abhishek , Dawadi Babu R
Published: October 2024

Visual question answering (VQA) has been regarded as a challenging task requiring a perfect blend of computer vision and natural language processing. As no dataset was available to train such a model for the Nepali language, a new dataset was developed during the research by translating the VQAv2 dataset. Then the dataset consisting of 202,577 images and 886,560 questions was used to train an attention-based VQA model. The dataset consists of yes/no, counting, and other questions with primarily one-word answers. Modular Co-attention Network (MCAN) was applied to the visual features extracted using the Faster RCNN framework and question embeddings extracted using the Nepali GloVe model. After co-attending the visual and language features for a few cascaded MCAN layers, the features are fused to train the whole network. During evaluation, an overall accuracy of 69.87% was obtained with 81.09% accuracy in yes/no type questions. The results surpassed the performance of models developed for Hindi and Bengali languages. Overall, novel research has been done in the Nepali Language VQA domain paving the way for further advancements.
Study about Correlation and Path Analysis in Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.)
Authors: Chaukse Chandrapal , Vyas Deepika
Published: October 2024

Twenty six genotypes of grain amaranth were evaluated during rabi 2017-18 for assessing the correlation and path coefficient analysis for grain yield and its components. The grain yield per plant was found to be positively and significantly associated with plant height, panicle length, dry weight of leaves, dry weight of panicles, biological yield/plant and harvest index. Dry weight of panicles had highest path towards grain yield per plant, dry weight of leaves directly associated with days to maturity and plant height. This indicates that these characters played an important role in higher grain yield in grain amaranth.
Acute Limb Ischemia as a Complication of Early Infectious Endocarditis Following Surgical Closure of an Atrial Septal Defect: Case Analysis and Literature Review
Authors: Boucetta A. , Hamady S. , Saleh O. , Arous S. , Drighil A. , Habbal R.
Published: October 2024

Background: This study reports the case of a 47-year-old woman who presented with acute pain and coldness in the left lower limb, occurring 5 months after a surgical closure of an atrial septal defect (ASD). Initial examination suggested acute limb ischemia.
Methods: Doppler ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) angiography of the lower extremity arteries confirmed the presence of an occlusion in the left popliteal artery. Echocardiography revealed vegetation on the surgical patch used for the ASD closure. Blood cultures were positive for Staphylococcus aureus.
Treatment: The patient was treated with antibiotics for 6 weeks and underwent replacement of the surgical patch.
Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of screening for endocarditis in patients with systemic embolism and a history of ASD patch closure, even though endocarditis is a rare complication. In cases of systemic emboli and large vegetations, a therapeutic approach often requires surgical removal and replacement of the closure patch.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) of Anganwadi Teachers and Asha Workers with Regard to Nutrition Education Intervention
Authors: M.Vasanthi  , Kumari M.S. Chaitanya , Vijayabhindana B. , Padmaja K. , Lakshmi J.
Published: October 2024

Nutrition is one of the important aspects that deals with good health and wellbeing of people. Nutrition education helps to resolve the nutrition problems by imparting nutrition education and bring desirable changes in terms of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP). The existing study was conducted to know the knowledge, attitude, and practices of AWW and ASHA’s with regard to nutrition education for pregnant women and lactating mother. Data was gathered using pre-tested questionnaires with a sample size of 90 respondents chosen from three mandals (area) in the Guntur district. Random sampling procedure was used for selection of the respondents. The results of the study found that Anganwadi teachers and ASHA Workers had low to medium level of knowledge, poor attitude and poor practices during baseline test. After implementing intervention programme to the Anganwadi teachers and ASHA Workers for a period of one month a significant improvement in the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices was observed during Endline test (t=10.5; t=10.3). The above findings can be used to plan a digital material on nutrition education interventions which aiming at bringing change in the behavior of the respondents i.e., KAP and it can be used as ready reckoners during sudden epidemics.
Mainstreaming Indigenous Knowledge of Pastoralists into Climate Change Policies in Cameroon
Authors: KONGNSO MOYE Eric
Published: October 2024

Indigenous pastoralists are hardest hit by the impacts of climate change because of their dependence on nature and limited adaptation. This paper seeks to examine the level of integration of traditional knowledge systems into adaptation policies in Cameroon, using the specific case of Mbororo pastoralists in the Western Highlands. Using a mainly qualitative approach in data collection, in-depth interviews were conducted with 28 purposively selected pastoralists from 4 divisions with intense pastoral activity, comprising 19 Mbororo pastoralists, 2 members of the Mbororo Social and Cultural Association (MBOSCUDA), 2 Mbororo traditional rulers, 5 Mbororo women and one focus group discussion. Discussions were recorded and voice notes were transcribed, coded and treated according to content and thematic with the aid of Atlas. Ti software. Results show that Mbororo pastoralists migrated into the region in the 1950s as nomadic herders and occupied marginal lands due to the nature of their activity. With climatic aberrations being acute, their closeness to nature permitted them to develop a wide array of knowledge and traditional practices to adapt and exploit existing opportunities. Semi-nomadic and transhumance methods of rearing,  cross-breeding local species with high-breed species to produce resistant breeds of cattle, cultivating resistant pasture species,  rotational grazing and using traditional medicines to treat cattle diseases have reduced resource degradation and curbed the effects of climatic aberrations.  Nevertheless, these indigenous knowledge systems are eroding fast due to poor indigenous institutions and non-integration into policy. This work will reinforce capacities of decentralized communities in developing and implementing local adaptation plans on climate change.
Correlation between Pulp Weight and Physio-Biochemical Traits of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Germplasms
Authors: Shivran Jitendra Singh , Singh A. K. , Dimri D.C. , Kumar Rajender
Published: October 2024

Aim: The present study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between pulp weight and various physio-biochemical attributes among 30 diverse mango (Mangifera indica L.) germplasms under the Tarai region of Uttarakhand.
Place and Duration of Study: This investigation was carried out at Horticulture Research Centre, GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, during the years 2021 and 2022.
Methodology: The selected 30 germplasms included two commercially grown cultivars and 28 primary germplasms sourced from different eco-geographical locations of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand states of India. Pulp weight, physical characteristics (fruit shape index, pulp/stone ratio) and biochemical parameters (Brix/Acid ratio and pH) were measured for each germplasm and statistically laid out in completely randomized design (CRD), and their relationships were analyzed using simple linear regression and Pearson’s correlation coefficients.
Results: The maximum values recorded among the studied germplasms were 300.73 g for pulp weight (PMGC-19), 2.41 for fruit shape index (PMSS-31), 0.309 for pulp/stone ratio (PMGC-71), 140.87 for Brix/Acid ratio (PMGC-96) and 5.87 for pH (PMGC-96). Among the physical attributes, pulp weight exhibited a moderate positive correlation with fruit shape index (r = 0.419), indicating that fruits with a higher shape index tend to have increased pulp weight. Whereas, a moderate negative correlation was observed between pulp weight and pulp/stone ratio (r = -0.457), suggesting that as the pulp/stone ratio increases, pulp weight decreases. However, biochemical attributes such as Brix/Acid ratio and pH showed no significant correlation with pulp weight (r = 0.005 and r = 0.018, respectively), indicating an independent influence of these parameters on pulp characteristics.
Conclusion: These findings provide important insights into the complex relationships between pulp weight and other physio-biochemical traits in mango, some traits for breeding programs aimed to improving fruit quality and pulp content and identified superior and promising germplasms for cultivation as well as potential parental genotypes in mango improvement programs.
A Study on Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase Producing (ESBL) and Fluoroquinolone-Resistant Escherichia coli in the Japanese Quails
Authors: Nehru Banoth Sai , O. Pranav
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing public health threat worldwide, and members of the Enterobacteriaceae family are among the clinically important bacteria rapidly developing resistance to available antibacterial agents. The development of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes is the primary cause of resistance to third-generation cephalosporins among Enterobacteriaceae. Quails also represent a source of animal protein deficiency in developing countries including India. This study aimed to detect the presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli from fecal samples of quails in Puducherry. A total of 36 fecal samples of quails from six different retail outlets were collected. E. coli could be isolated from 27 fecal samples and confirmed as E. coli by polymerase chain reaction by targeting the uspA gene. The isolates were preliminarily screened for ESBL production by indicator antimicrobial disc and phenotypic ESBL production was confirmed by combination disc method. The isolates were subjected to genotypic detection of ESBL (bla CTX-M, bla TEM, and bla SHV) by PCR. Out of 27 isolates, 16 isolates were positive for the presence of ESBL-producing genes, in which, 9 harbored bla CTX-M, 2 harbored bla TEM, and 5 harboured bla SHV genes. Similarly, out of 27 isolates 13 isolates were found positive for fluoroquinolone resistance in which 13 (48.18%) isolates harbored the qnrS gene, and 11 (40.74%) isolates harbored the qnrB gene.  Antimicrobial susceptibility test showed that the isolates exhibited a high level of resistance against Cefpodoxime (90%), Amoxycillin/clavulanic acid (70%), Ceftriaxone (60%), Cefotaxime (55%), Ceftazidime (45%), Ciprofloxacin (40%) and Aztreonam (30%).
Eco-friendly Management of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Zacharia Sunil
Published: October 2024

Among vegetables, brinjal or eggplant is an economically important vegetable crop and second major vegetable crop next to potato in India. This crop suffers from various diseases, among different fungal diseases of brinjal, Alternaria leaf spot caused by Alternaria alternata has currently become one of the most important diseases for all brinjal varieties. Loss due to the disease has been estimated up to 25-30 per cent. Therefore, present investigation was undertaken at Central Research Field of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj during the Kharif of 2023-2024, for the management of leaf spot using botanicals, bio-agent, cow urine and a fungicide (treated check) for their efficacy in vivo against Alternaria leaf spot of brinjal incited by Alternaria alternata.
Effects of different botanicals, bio-agent and cow urine were evaluated on different growth, disease management and yield parameters of brinjal crop under field condition by foliar spray of botanicals, cow urine and a bio-agent, along with seedling treatment with Trichoderma viride at selected concentration. The effects of treatments on growth parameter were recorded i.e. maximum plant height at 30 DAT (22.78 cm), 60 DAT (37.16 cm), 90 DAT (53.87 cm) and maximum number of leaves at 30 DAT (10.83), 60 DAT (31.80), 90 DAT (47.33) and maximum number of branches at 30 DAT (4.23), 60 DAT (11.40), 90 DAT (13.83). Among the treatments, neem leaf extract + Trichoderma viride was recorded significantly reducing disease intensity at 45 DAT (10.32%), 60 DAT (16.11%), 75 DAT (27.93%) of brinjal followed by clove extract + Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma viride + T. viride as compared to mancozeb (treated check) and control. The maximum yield was found to be in neem leaf extract + Trichoderma viride i.e. (16.63 t/ha) followed by clove extract + Trichoderma viride, and Trichoderma viride + T. viride as compared to mancozeb (treated check) and control and the most economical treatment was Neem leaf extract + Trichoderma viride i.e. (1:2.62).
Hybrid Neuro-Fuzzy Based Improved Control Design of Electro-Pneumatic Clutch Actuation Control System for Heavy Duty Vehicles
Authors: Ibemezie Ndubuisi, Paul-Darlington , Obinna Nwoke , Arua Julius Egwu , Dare Babalola Adegboyega , Alexander Anunwa Anthony , Akpan Bassey, Kenneth , Uduma Igwe Lazarus
Published: October 2024

The application of hybrid Neuro-Fuzzy principles of clutch actuation control in enhancing the performance of electro-pneumatic clutch actuation system for heavy duty vehicles is the aim of this presentation. Neuro-Fuzzy is a hybrid design that accommodates the principles of fuzzy Logic and Neural Network in a manner that take advantage of their positive sides. The inability of some heavy-duty vehicles to operate optimally on hilly terrains and which often results in road mishaps are traceable to the inadequacies in conventional clutch actuation control mechanisms. These conventional actuation control techniques provide for routine calibration of clutch actuators after maintenance. Often times, this important requirement of calibration is neglected with attendant ugly consequences. To stem this tide of manual calibration and its obvious defects, an intelligent method of clutch actuation modelled in a hybrid Neuro-Fuzzy control is implemented. Conventional data obtained for errors, speed, torque and power from Mercedes Benz Actros Truck model MP 2, 2031 provided the reference points. These data were embedded into a Simulink block and cascaded into a designed Neuro-Fuzzy Simulink model. Both conventional and Neuro-Fuzzy Simulink model controllers were also simulated. Different percentages of improvements were recorded for piston error, angular speed, engine torque and power respectively. The level and percentage of improvements stood at 0.4821mm or 33.04% decrease for error, increases of 334.1 RPM or 33% for angular speed, 0.0594NM or 33.26% for torque and 2.79W or 16.53% for power respectively.
The Futuristic Entrepreneurial Actions for Tribal Farmers of North-east India
Authors: Tayang Weijimlu , Devi M. Nirmala , Chetry Sanjay , Devi Haobam Dimashree , Mawblei Chossterfield
Published: October 2024

The North-East region of India, with its rich cultural diversity and biodiversity, is especially well-suited for agricultural growth. Given its potential, one would expect this region to be at the forefront of agri-entrepreneurial activities. Additionally, with the last few years, agriculture and its supplementary sectors became crucial components of entrepreneurial projects buoyed up by the existing need for sustainable food production, appropriate management of resources, and improving the living standards in rural areas. However, this expectation contrasts with findings from Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) studies for North-East region of India. Therefore, the study aimed to identify future entrepreneurial actions in the Mishmi Hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Using an open-ended questionnaire, the researchers employed a triangulation approach to analyse potential ventures in the region. The study identified ten key entrepreneurial actions. Agro-tourism emerged as the top choice among local tribal farmers, while the commercialization of Mishmi teeta (a traditional medicinal plant) was ranked highest by experts in the region. These findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders in the region. The study highlights the entrepreneurial interests of tribal farmers and suggest areas for entrepreneurial policy development in the region. Additionally, the findings also offer actionable insights for designing training programs or policy initiatives aiming to empower tribal farmers through entrepreneurship in agricultural and allied sector.
Effects of 60 Degrees of Flexion and Perioperative Use of Tranexamic Acid on Recovery After Knee Replacement
Authors: Zhou Jiaxuan , Zhao Xinlei , Wang Beiyu , Liu Youcai , Wu Sha , Wang Jianguo , Liu Yanqing , Zhang Yijun
Published: October 2024

Objective

To explore the effect of 60 knee flexion combined with multiple tranexamic acid application on postoperative recovery of knee replacement patients.

Methods

Knee replacement patients admitted to our hospital from February 2022 to February 2024 were selected as the study subjects, and randomly divided into 2 groups. Postoperative D-dimer, prothrombin time, and partial thrombin time were recorded in the 2 groups, and the differences between the 2 groups were compared. Erythrocyte, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte volume were recorded before, 1 day, and 3 days after surgery, and the affected limb circumference were also assessed.

Results

On the first and third day after surgery, red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The difference in visual analogue score (VAS) and circumference between the two groups on the first day and third day after surgery was compared, and the difference was statistically significant. The difference in VAS score and circumference was lower in the control group (P < 0.05). After surgical treatment, knee joint function recovered, knee joint mobility, and Healthcare Security and Safety (HSS) score improved, and the difference between the experimental groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Perioperative 60° flexion combined with multiple tranexamic acids can significantly reduce blood loss in patients undergoing knee replacement surgery, increase red blood cells, hemoglobin levels, and red blood cell volume on postoperative days 1 and 3, and reduce postoperative swelling of the affected limb.
Aberrant expression of kallikrein‐related peptidase 7 is correlated with human melanoma aggressiveness by stimulating cell migration and invasion
Authors: Delaunay Tiphaine , Deschamps Lydia , Haddada Meriem , Walker Francine , Soosaipillai Antoninus , Soualmia Feryel , El Amri Chahrazade , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Brattsand Maria , Magdolen Viktor , Darmoul Dalila
Published: June 2017

Members of the tissue kallikrein‐related peptidase (KLK) family not only regulate several important physiological functions, but aberrant expression has also been associated with various malignancies. Clinically, KLKs have been suggested as promising biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in many types of cancer. As of yet, expression of KLKs and their role in skin cancers are, however, poorly addressed. Malignant melanoma is an aggressive disease associated with poor prognosis. Hence, diagnostic biomarkers to monitor melanoma progression are needed. Herein, we demonstrate that although mRNA of several KLKs are aberrantly expressed in melanoma cell lines, only the KLK7 protein is highly secreted in vitro. In line with these findings, ectopic expression of KLK7 in human melanomas and its absence in benign nevi were demonstrated by immunohistochemistry in vivo. Interestingly, overexpression of KLK7 induced a significant reduction in melanoma cell proliferation and colony formation. Moreover, KLK7 overexpression triggered an increase in cell motility and invasion associated with decreased expression of E‐cadherin and an upregulation of MCAM/CD146. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, that aberrant KLK7 expression leads to a switch from proliferative to invasive phenotype, suggesting a potential role of KLK7 in melanoma progression. Thus, we hypothesize that KLK7 may represent a potential biomarker for melanoma progression.
Doing ecohydrology backward: Inferring wetland flow and hydroperiod from landscape patterns
Authors: Acharya Subodh , Kaplan David A. , Jawitz James W. , Cohen Matthew J.
Published: June 2017

Human alterations to hydrology have globally impacted wetland ecosystems. Preventing or reversing these impacts is a principal focus of restoration efforts. However, restoration effectiveness is often hampered by limited information on historical landscape properties and hydrologic regime. To help address this gap, we developed a novel statistical approach for inferring flows and inundation frequency (i.e., hydroperiod, HP) in wetlands where changes in spatial vegetation and geomorphic patterns have occurred due to hydrologic alteration. We developed an analytical expression for HP as a transformation of the landscape‐scale stage‐discharge relationship. We applied this model to the Everglades “ridge‐slough” (RS) landscape, a patterned, lotic peatland in southern Florida that has been drastically degraded by compartmentalization, drainage, and flow diversions. The new method reliably estimated flow and HP for a range of RS landscape patterns. Crucially, ridge‐patch anisotropy and elevation above sloughs were strong drivers of flow‐HP relationships. Increasing ridge heights markedly increased flow required to achieve sufficient HP to support peat accretion. Indeed, ridge heights inferred from historical accounts would require boundary flows 3–4 times greater than today, which agrees with restoration flow estimates from more complex, spatially distributed models. While observed loss of patch anisotropy allows HP targets to be met with lower flows, such landscapes likely fail to support other ecological functions. This work helps inform restoration flows required to restore stable ridge‐slough patterning and positive peat accretion in this degraded ecosystem, and, more broadly, provides tools for exploring interactions between landscape and hydrology in lotic wetlands and floodplains.
Polysulfone Hollow Porous Granules Prepared from Wastes of Ultrafiltration Membranes as Sustainable Adsorbent for Water and Air Remediation
Authors: Zambianchi Massimo , Aluigi Annalisa , Capobianco Massimo Luigi , Corticelli Franco , Elmi Ivan , Zampolli Stefano , Stante Francesco , Bocchi Letizia , Belosi Franco , Navacchia Maria Luisa , Melucci Manuela
Published: June 2017

Polysulfone hollow fibers (PS‐HF) are widely used in ultrafiltration modules for hemodialysis and drinking water purification for the removal of large colloids, microbes, and viruses. The preparation of commercial PS‐HF standard modules leads to the generation of PS‐HF scraps in amount higher than 5% of the total production (tons scale) that cannot be used for filtration purposes and represent large volume plastic wastes. Here, a simple approach to convert such high value waste into a new granular material with excellent adsorption properties toward organic compounds is introduced. Polysulfone hollow porous granules (PS‐HPG) are prepared by a mechanical grinding process and then exploited for the removal of selected organic compounds from water under flow and batch conditions. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and also selected emerging organic contaminants (EOCs), including two common drugs (carbamazepine and diclofenac), a plastic additive (bisphenol A), and a textile dye (Rhodamine B), are successfully adsorbed. Regeneration and reuse possibility of PS‐HPG are also demonstrated. Additionally, air remediation from VOCs and from airborne nanoparticles is successfully achieved by flowing an air stream through a filtration cartridge filled by PS‐HPG.
Synthesis and Structure of N,N‐Dinitroamidoborane Complexes
Authors: Shitov Oleg P. , Tartakovsky Vladimir A. , Golovanov Ivan S. , Sukhorukov Alexey Yu. , Ioffe Sema L.
Published: June 2017

A general approach to the synthesis of borohydride complexes containing one or two dinitroamide fragments has been suggested. Based on a smooth substitution of halide in haloborane or dibromoborane complexes with N,N‐dinitroamide salts, this method provides various N,N‐dinitroamidoboranes complexes in good yields and in analytically pure form. By means of spectroscopic and computational methods, it was demonstrated that dinitroamidoborane complexes could form as both B,N‐ and B,O‐isomers, which did not interconvert at ambient temperature.
Dual‐labeled chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay for simultaneous measurement of total prostate specific antigen (TPSA) and free prostate specific antigen (FPSA)
Authors: Zhao Lixia , Wang Dan , Shi Gen , Lin Ling
Published: June 2017

The specificity for early diagnostic of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) is low because the current technology mostly allows the detection of only one biomarker at one time. In this work, a dual‐labeled chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) for simultaneous measurement of total PSA (TPSA) and free PSA (FPSA) was proposed. Anti‐PSA McAb (Mab1) was immobilized on a microplate as the solid phase, horseradish peroxidase (HRP)‐labeled anti‐TPSA monoclonal antibody (McAb2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)‐labeled anti‐FPSA McAb3 were used as detection antibodies. Two chemiluminescence reactions of HRP with luminol and ALP with 4‐methoxy‐4‐(3‐phosphate‐phenyl)‐spiro‐(1,2‐dioxetane‐3,2′‐adamantane) (AMPPD) were used as the signal detecting system. Based on a sandwich model, the amount of FPSA and TPSA could be determined simultaneously. The effects of several physico‐chemical parameters were studied and optimized. Cross‐reactivities of six common tumor markers in serum were studied. The proposed method presented the sensitivity of 0.03 ng ml−1 and 0.05 ng ml−1 for FPSA and TPSA respectively, with low cross‐reactivities. Compared with the results from commercial chemiluminescent kits there was good correlation, indicating that this established method could be used to simultaneously to measure the concentrations of FPSA and TPSA in one serum sample and also could greatly facilitate the early diagnosis for PCa in clinical practice.
Clinical assessment to determine the risk of bowel cancer using Symptoms, Age, Mass and Iron deficiency anaemia (SAMI)
Authors: Thompson M R , O'Leary D P , Flashman K , Asiimwe A , Ellis B G , Senapati A
Published: June 2017

Background

The aim of this study was to identify characteristics with independent predictive value for bowel cancer for use in the clinical assessment of patients attending colorectal outpatient clinics.

Methods

This was a 22-year (1986–2007) retrospective cohort analysis of data collected prospectively from patients who attended colorectal surgical outpatient clinics in Portsmouth. The data set was split randomly into two groups of patients to generate and validate a predictive model. Multivariable logistic regression was used to create and validate a system to predict outcome. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Hosmer–Lemeshow test were used to evaluate the model's predictive capability. The likelihood of bowel cancer was expressed as the odds ratio (OR).

Results

Data from 29 005 patients were analysed. Discrimination of the model for bowel cancer was high in the development (C-statistic 0·87, 95 per cent c.i. 0·85 to 0·88) and validation (C-statistic 0·86, 0·84 to 0·87) groups. The most important co-variables in the final model were: age (OR 3·17–27·10), rectal (OR 31·48) or abdominal (OR 1·83–8·45) mass, iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) (OR 4·42–8·38), rectal bleeding and change in bowel habit in combination (OR 5·37), change in bowel habit without rectal bleeding, with or without abdominal pain (OR 2·12–2·52), and rectal bleeding with no perianal symptoms and without change in bowel habit (OR 2·91). Some 91·5 per cent of bowel cancers presented with these characteristics, 40·4 per cent with a mass and/or IDA. In patients with at least one of these characteristics the overall risk of having cancer was 10·0 (range 6·5–50·4) per cent, compared with 1·1 (0·3–2·3) per cent in patients without them.

Conclusion

A clinical assessment that systematically identifies or excludes four symptom–age combinations, a mass and IDA (SAMI) stratifies patients as having a low and higher risk of having bowel cancer. This could improve patient selection for referral and investigation.