Finger Length Research Articles

Effect of Nitrogen on the Performance of Finger Millet in Eastern Ghat High Land Zone of Odisha, India

An experiment was conducted to find out performance of finger millet varieties to different levels of nitrogen under rainfed condition in kharif season of 2019 to 2021 at Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station (OUAT), Semiliguda, Koraput, Odisha, India. Four varieties of finger millet (Kalua, OEB- 602, Bhairabi and Arjun) and three different nitrogen levels (40, 60 and 80 kg/ha) along with 30 kg/ha each of phosphorus and potassium were laid out in split-plot design with three replications. The varieties were taken in the main plots and different nitrogen levels were assigned to the sub plots. The results revealed that highest number of tillers (6.1/hill), fingers (8.3/ear head), finger length (8.8 cm) along with maximum grain yield (2491 kg/ha), net return (Rs. 39464 per ha) and B: C ratio (1.94) were obtained with finger millet variety Arjun followed by Bhairabi. The application of 80 kg N/ha gave highest number of tillers (5.7/hill), fingers (7.7/ear head), finger length (8.4 cm) and grain yield (2399 kg/ha) with highest net return (Rs. 36237 per ha) and B: C ratio (1.86). From the present investigation, it can be concluded that finger millet variety Arjun can be grown with application of 80 kg N/ha along with 30 kg/ha each of phosphorus and potassium for maximum yield and economic return.

Gender Determination Using Index and Ring Finger Linear Measurements in North Indian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study.

In the fields of medico-legal matters and bio-archaeological settings, gender evaluation plays a pivotal role in the initial stages of human identification. Approximately half of the population at risk is excluded when gender is determined, making it the most essential factor for identification. When it comes to medico-legal matters and bio-archaeological settings, gender evaluation is a crucial initial step in human identification. Traditional gender determination procedures, such as skull and pelvic analysis, may be hindered by fragmentary human remains that have been degraded by various forms of inhumation or physical assaults. To investigate sexual dimorphism, this study examined the ratio of index finger length to ring finger length. The lengths of the index and ring fingers were measured and the ratios between them were calculated for both hands separately. Applications of IBMSPSSStatistics for Windows, Version 16.0 (Released 2007; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States) included Student's t-test and Levene's test. According to the study, women's index finger-to-ring finger length ratios were much longer than men's. The ratio of index finger to ring finger length was significantly different between the sexes on both sides of the hand (p<0.001). In terms of the right hand, the threshold value was 0.9666 for men and 0.9952 for females, while in terms of the left hand, the values were 0.9638 and 0.9920, respectively. With an advancing front in this arena on gender determination, the use of digits has become an additional source of support to physical anthropologists for bio-archaeological surveys and to forensic experts for use in medico-legal investigations for fragmentary remains received during investigatory trials.

Does the 2d:4d ratio present a relationship with static strength indicators in elite paralympic power-lifting?

Background: Paralympic Powerlifting is a strength sport. On the other hand, the relationship between force indicators and the ratio of the lengths of the second and fourth fingers of the hand (D2:D4) has been investigated. Objectives: To evaluate the relationship of the D2:D4 finger length ratio with performance in Paralympic Powerlifting. Methodology: Thirteen elite Paralympic Powerlifting athletes were evaluated for static force indicators, Rate of Force Development (RFD), Maximum Isometric Force (MIF), Impulse, Variability, and Time to MIF. The D2:D4 ratios were measured, and correlations were made between the various possibilities of D2:D4 ratios and static force indicators. Results: Moderate correlations were found between RFD and Left D4 ("r" = 0.569) and between Variability and R-L D2:D4 Difference. ("r" = 0.570). However, no correlation was found between D2:D4 ratios and static force indicators in Paralympic Powerlifting athletes for the other variables. Conclusion: The D2:D4 ratio does not seem to be a reliable predictor of static force indicators in Paralympic Powerlifting athletes. Keywords: Performance predictor, Prenatal testosterone, Paralympic Powerlifting

Effects of post-shooting sprays and bunch covering on yield attributes of Willium banana (Musa paradisiaca L.)

This research investigates the synergistic effects of post-shooting sprays and bunch covering materials on the growth, development, and yield of Willium banana (Musa paradisiaca L.). Gibberellic acid (GA3) at 100 mg/l emerges as a potent post-shooting spray, significantly enhancing bunch length, finger length, girth of finger, bunch weight, and overall fruit yield. The study highlights the pivotal role of GA3 in promoting both cell division and elongation, contributing to increased fruit size and weight. Non-woven material bag covering proves superior in creating an optimal microclimate, fostering enhanced air circulation, temperature control, and light interception. This material significantly boosts finger length, girth, bunch weight, and fruit yield. These findings provide valuable insights for banana cultivation, emphasizing the strategic use of GA3 and appropriate covering materials to optimize environmental conditions and hormonal balance for improved crop outcomes. The study contributes to the evolving field of banana cultivation practices and offers practical implications for enhancing fruit quality and yield.

Multisensory processing and proprioceptive plasticity during resizing illusions.

Bodily resizing illusions typically use visual and/or tactile inputs to produce a vivid experience of one's body changing size. Naturalistic auditory input (an input that reflects the natural sounds of a stimulus) has been used to increase illusory experience during the rubber hand illusion, whilst non-naturalistic auditory input can influence estimations of finger length. We aimed to use a non-naturalistic auditory input during a hand-based resizing illusion using augmented reality, to assess whether the addition of an auditory input would increase both subjective illusion strength and measures of performance-based tasks. Forty-four participants completed the following three conditions: no finger stretching, finger stretching without tactile feedback and finger stretching with tactile feedback. Half of the participants had an auditory input throughout all the conditions, whilst the other half did not. After each condition, the participants were given one of the following three performance tasks: stimulated (right) hand dot touch task, non-stimulated (left) hand dot touch task, and a ruler judgement task. Dot tasks involved participants reaching for the location of a virtual dot, whereas the ruler task concerned estimates of the participant's own finger on a ruler whilst the hand was hidden from view. After all trials, the participants completed a questionnaire capturing subjective illusion strength. The addition of auditory input increased subjective illusion strength for manipulations without tactile feedback but not those with tactile feedback. No facilitatory effects of audio were found for any performance task. We conclude that adding auditory input to illusory finger stretching increased subjective illusory experience in the absence of tactile feedback but did not affect performance-based measures.

Hybrid-Driven Origami Gripper with Variable Stiffness and Finger Length.

Soft grippers due to their highly compliant material and self-adaptive structures attract more attention to safe and versatile grasping tasks compared to traditional rigid grippers. However, those flexible characteristics limit the strength and the manipulation capacity of soft grippers. In this paper, we introduce a hybrid-driven gripper design utilizing origami finger structures, to offer adjustable finger stiffness and variable grasping range. This gripper is actuated via pneumatic and cables, which allows the origami structure to be controlled precisely for contraction and extension, thus achieving different finger lengths and stiffness by adjusting the cable lengths and the input pressure. A kinematic model of the origami finger is further developed, enabling precise control of its bending angle for effective grasping of diverse objects and facilitating in-hand manipulation. Our proposed design method enriches the field of soft grippers, offering a simple yet effective approach to achieve safe, powerful, and highly adaptive grasping and in-hand manipulation capabilities.

ENHANCING GROWTH AND YIELD OF 'LAKATAN' BANANA (Musa acuminata) USING FISH AMINO ACID (FAA) APPLICATION

The study was conducted at the 'Lakatan' banana site of USeP Mabini Campus, Mabini Unit, Pindasan, Mabini, Compostela Valley Province. This aimed to determine the effect of Fish Amino Acid on the yield and quality of 'Lakatan' bananas and evaluate the economic benefit of using Fish Amino Acid (FAA) on 'Lakatan' banana production. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments replicated four times. The treatments were T1-Control; T2–Recommended Rate of NPK alone; T3–Fish Amino Acid alone; T4–Recommended Rate of NPK + Fish Amino Acid (FAA); T5–Greenshield Organic-Based Fortified Foliar Fertilizer. Data showed that the number of leaves at 35 days after application, and number of fingers per hand at 35 DAA, and number of hands per bunch after 35 DAA were not significantly affected by the application of Fish Amino Acid (FAA). While the plant height, pseudostem girth (cm), finger length (cm), fruit weight of total hands per bunch (kg) at 35 days after application have significant differences among treatments. As observed, all 'Lakatan' bananas have a range of 261cm–312cm height, 43cm–58cm girth, and 4–6 hands per bunch, 14–17 fingers per hand, 19cm–21cm finger length after 35 days of fertilizer application. The results also revealed that T3–Fish Amino Acid got the highest number of leaves, while T4 – NPK+Fish Amino Acid got the highest number of finger per hand, highest finger length, fruit weight (kg) of total hands per bunch which was 61% higher than the unfertilized and got the highest yield. T4–NPK+Fish Amino Acid increased the gross income of 'Lakatan' bananas that would potentially obtain the highest income and return of investment when the costs of NPK and FAA supplementation is lessened.

Evaluation of foliar application of bio-stimulants and nutrients on the seed yield of transplanted finger millet (Eleusine coracana)

Foliar application of bio-stimulants and nutrients is a rapid and promising strategy to enhance the availability of nutrients at a critical stage of crop growth. This favoured the nutrient balance in improving crop growth and yield potential. Therefore, this field study was conducted during 2021 at a farmer’s field in Srivilliputhur block, Tamil Nadu to assess the effect of foliar application of bio-stimulants and nutrients on transplanted finger millet CO15. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and eight treatments viz., Control, GA3 @ 50 ppm, Panchagava @ 3%, Seaweed extract (Sargassum wightii) @ 5%, Humic acid @ 5%, Boron @ 0.3%, ZnSO4 @ 0.5% and FeSO4 @ 0.5% sprayed twice at 20 DAT and 45 DAT. Ten characters namely plant height, number of tillers/hill, Leaf area index, dry matter production, number of ear heads/hill, number of fingers/ear head, finger length, test weight, seed yield and straw yield were studied. Among the different foliar treatments, NPK along with the foliar application of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (T6 ) significantly enhance the growth and yield parameters compared to the other treatments. Hence, foliar application of ZnSO4 @ 0.5% (T6 ) could be adopted to get a higher seed yield.

Calculation of the Forearm and Hand Three-Dimensional Anthropometry Based on Two-Dimensional Image Feature Extraction: An Approach for Cock-up Splint Design.

An alternative to both the time-consuming traditional and the expensive three-dimensional (3D) methods for splint design is to use two-dimensional (2D) images. The present study utilized image processing to achieve an automatic and practical method of anthropometry measurement to design and build a personalized and remote cock-up splint. This method is applicable for patients unable to personally attend clinic appointments. The defined landmarks of the cock-up splint of 100 adult participants were measured manually. Each individual had a 2D image taken of their upper limb using a customized imaging device. The 2D image portions that corresponded to the manual measurements were then identified, and their sizes were retrieved in pixels using MATLAB software. To find equations between manual 3D measurements and 2D image processing ones, multiple linear regression analysis was performed on landmark variables. We were able to determine equations to estimate manual dimensions based on 2D image data. In the men's group, we could predict the third finger length, forearm circumference at three levels, and the largest forearm circumference. In the women's group, in addition to variables predicted for men, hand circumference at the distal palmar crease and first web levels, as well as arm circumference, could be predicted using the identified equations. Based on the findings, 2D image processing could be an appropriate method for designing personalized cock-up splints.

Effect of Azospirillum and Potash Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB) on growth and Yield of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana L.)

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2023 at research farm, Department of Plant Pathology RCSM college of Agriculture, Kolhapur to determine the “Effect of Azospirillum and KSB on growth and yield of finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.)”. In the present study, The co-inoculation of Azospirillum and potash solubilizing bacteria (KSB) along with application of 75% of recommended dose of nitrogen, potash and 100% of recommended dose of phosphorus was recorded the highest seed germination (96.16 %), plant height at 30 DAS (34.58 cm), 60 DAS (56.65 cm) and at harvest (122.63 cm), number of tillers at 30 DAS (2.27), 60 DAS (6.67) and at harvest (7.89),number of fingers per ear head (8.73), finger length (9.70 cm),1000 seed wt.(3.18 g), grain yield per plant (6.20 g),grain yield per ha (19.09 qt),straw yield (24.81 qt) whereas available N (218.27 Kg/ha), available P (33.26 Kg/ha) and available K (319.32 Kg/ha) in the soil. The coinoculation of Azospirillum and potash solubilizing bacteria (KSB) along with application of 75% of recommended dose of nitrogen, potash and 100% of recommended dose of phosphorus was recorded highest Azospirillum and potash solubilizing bacteria (KSB) microbial count i.e. (30.72 × 104 CFU g -1 soil) and (15.28 × 104 CFU g -1 soil) at 50% flowering.

Nail bed trauma reconstruction and artificial nail replacement - a case report.

Nail bed reconstruction is crucial after fingertip trauma, impacting both function and aesthetics. In this article, the authors describe a case of partial distal phalanx amputation of the index finger with laceration of the nail bed's remaining part. A traumatically elevated skin-fat flap covered the exposed bone on the fingertip, preserving finger length and sensitivity on the radial side. A full-thickness skin graft from the forearm closed a secondary defect on the finger pulp. Nail bed suturing prevented scarring and nail deformity, and a temporary artificial plastic nail replacement maintained the nail bed's shape. Temporary artificial nail replacements protect the regenerating fingertip bed, promote healing, and prevent nail deformities. Proper adaptation of lacerated nail bed edges, supported by either the patient's own nail or a temporary artificial nail, is crucial for optimal fingertip restoration, including proper nail shape.

Carpal tunnel syndrome prediction with machine learning algorithms using anthropometric and strength-based measurement.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) stands as the most prevalent upper extremity entrapment neuropathy, with a multifaceted etiology encompassing various risk factors. This study aimed to investigate whether anthropometric measurements of the hand, grip strength, and pinch strength could serve as predictive indicators for CTS through machine learning techniques. Enrollment encompassed patients exhibiting CTS symptoms (n = 56) and asymptomatic healthy controls (n = 56), with confirmation via electrophysiological assessments. Anthropometric measurements of the hand were obtained using a digital caliper, grip strength was gauged via a digital handgrip dynamometer, and pinch strengths were assessed using a pinchmeter. A comprehensive analysis was conducted employing four most common and effective machine learning algorithms, integrating thorough parameter tuning and cross-validation procedures. Additionally, the outcomes of variable importance were presented. Among the diverse algorithms, Random Forests (accuracy of 89.474%, F1-score of 0.905, and kappa value of 0.789) and XGBoost (accuracy of 86.842%, F1-score of 0.878, and kappa value of 0.736) emerged as the top-performing choices based on distinct classification metrics. In addition, using variable importance calculations specific to these models, the most important variables were found to be wrist circumference, hand width, hand grip strength, tip pinch, key pinch, and middle finger length. The findings of this study demonstrated that wrist circumference, hand width, hand grip strength, tip pinch, key pinch, and middle finger length can be utilized as reliable indicators of CTS. Also, the model developed herein, along with the identified crucial variables, could serve as an informative guide for healthcare professionals, enhancing precision and efficacy in CTS prediction.

Evaluation of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Germplasms for Growth and Yield Attributes in the New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal

An experiment was conducted to assess the growth and yield attributes of ginger germplasm at Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal during 2019–20 and 2020–21. The experiment was designed in Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. A total of 18 treatments, comprising 15 germplasms and 3 varieties were evaluated. The results of the study revealed that Gorubathan has recorded maximum plant height, number of leaves per tiller, pseudostem girth, and dry yield. Surabhi recorded maximum leaf length, number of tillers per clump, leaf area, leaf area index, number of fingers per clump, number of primary fingers per clump, number of secondary fingers per clump, clump length, rhizome yield per clump, rhizome yield per plot and projected fresh rhizome yield, which was statistically at par with Hui local for rhizome yield per clump, yield per plot and projected rhizome yield, whereas maximum leaf breadth and finger diameter were recorded in genotype Hui Local. The maximum clump breadth was recorded in Thingpuidum Local and the highest finger length was found in Banada Local. In conclusion, the study suggests that var Surabhi, Gorubathan, Nadia and cv Hui Local, Thinglaidum, Thingpuri and Banada Local are found to be promising in terms of growth and yield attributes in new alluvial zone of West Bengal.

Adaptation Trial of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn) Varieties in East Hararghe Zone, Ethiopia Industry

Developing improved varieties with high yield and wide adaptation is one of the major objectives. This indicates that there are some localities which are not fully addressed to satisfy the need for maximizing yield, using high yielder, disease resistant and early maturing variety of the crop is very important. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted during the main cropping season of 2018 and 2019 at Chelenko ATVET Collage and Boko Agricultural Research sites in Meta and Fadis Districts (Woredas), respectively, with an objective to select adaptable, high yielder, early maturing and disease resistant or tolerant varieties across moisture stressed areas of eastern Oromia, Ethiopia. The treatments consisted of eleven released finger millet varieties including standard check were used as planting materials. The experiment was laid out as a randomized complete block design and replicated three times. The combined mean analysis of variance revealed that highly significant difference (P &lt; 0.01) for days to maturity, plant height, finger per plant, finger length and grain yield whereas, significant difference (P &lt; 0.05) were observed for days to 50% flowering, effective tiller per plant and thousand seed weight. The earliest days to flowering were observed on Tesema variety with 84.33 days but there was no significantly different with other tested varieties. The results showed that Mereb was the earliest in terms of maturity taking only 126.9 days. The results of combined mean values indicated that, Aksum (3090 kgha-1) followed by Gute (2807 kgha-1) were found to be high yielding finger millet varieties whereas, Mereb (2103 kgha-1) was identified as the least seed yielding variety as compared to all tested varieties. These results depicted that across location Aksum variety was significantly higher grain yield advantage by about 11.11% over standard check followed by Gute. Therefore, Aksum and Gute varieties were showed consistency over locations in this study and recommended to demonstrate with production packages in Meta and Fedis districts and similar agro ecologies.

The ratio of second and fourth finger lengths (2D:4D) can determine handedness

Objective: The human body exhibits both structural and functional asymmetry. One measure of this asymmetry is the ratio of 2D:4D, which is the proportion of measurements of the 2nd (2D) and 4th finger (4D). In this research, our objective is to investigate the potential association between the ratio of 2D:4D and handedness with voluntary individuals.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 312 individuals volunteered to take part in the research, where their left and right hand's 4th and 2nd finger lengths were measured using a precise digital caliper. The "Edinburgh Handedness Inventory" was used to determine hand lateralization. To determine the significance between the two independent groups, the Mann Whitney U Test was used. On the other hand, to determine the significance between the two dependent groups, the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test was utilized.&#x0D; Results: Of the participants, 154 were male and 158 were female (age range 18-55, mean age=28.34). According to the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory, 275 individuals were right handed, 18 were left handed, and 19 were bimanual. The Mann Whitney U Test showed a significant result in the ratio of right hand 2D:4D between male and female participants who were right handed (z =-1.979, p = 0.048). Additionally, the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test demonstrated a difference between the right and the left hand ratio of 2D:4D for all participants which was significant (z = -2.822, p = 0.005), as well as for participants who were right handed (z = -2.850, p = 0.004).&#x0D; Conclusion: The ratio of 2D:4D finger lengths could be a significant indicator of hand preference in both male and female healthy individuals. The ratio of 2D:4D holds potential as an indicator and research tool in understanding human emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

Influence of grasping postures on skin deformation of hand

To investigate the influence of different grasping postures on the hand’s skin deformation, a handheld 3D EVA SCANNER was used to obtain 3D models of 111 women in five postures, including a straight posture and grasping cylinders with various diameters (4/6/8/10 cm). Skin relaxation strain ratio (λp\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\lambda }_{p}$$\\end{document}) and surface area skin relaxation strain ratio (λm\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\lambda }_{m}$$\\end{document}) were used as measures of skin deformation between two landmarks and multiple landmarks, respectively. The effects of grasping posture on skin deformation in different directions were analyzed. The results revealed significant variations in skin deformation among different grasping postures, except for the width of middle finger metacarpal and the length of middle finger’s proximal phalanx. The λp\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\lambda }_{p}$$\\end{document} increased with decreasing grasping object diameter, ranging from 5 to 18% on the coronal axis, and from 4 to 20% on the vertical axis. The overall variation of λm\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\lambda }_{m}$$\\end{document} ranged from 5 to 37.5%, following the same trend as λp\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${\\lambda }_{p}$$\\end{document} except for the surface area of tiger’s mouth, which exhibited a maximum difference of 10.9% with significant differences. These findings have potential applications in improving the design of hand equipment and understanding hand movement characteristics.

Assessment of Ginger Genotypes under Coconut Ecosystem for Quantitative and Qualitative Traits

Ginger is one of the major spice grown in subtropical hilly regions and ultivation of ginger under coconut ecosystem is gaining popular among the farmers. Coimbatore district, Pollachi region is one of the major coconut growing belt in Tamilandu. With this view an experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of ginger genotypes under coconut ecosystem at Coconut Research Station, Aliyar Nagar, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during 2018- 2020. . Fourteen ginger genotypes/ varieties were collected for this study. The ginger rhizomes were sown in the prepared land all cultural operations as per the TNAU recommendations were followed uniformly. Growth and yield parameters of ginger genotypes were recorded for three seasons. The date collected were pooled and analysed for statistical significance. Among the fourteen varieties of ginger, var. Athira excelled with respect to number of primary fingers (4.8), length of primary fingers (4.4 cm), diameter of primary finger (2.5 cm), number of secondary finger (5.7), days to maturity (248), TSS (10.40 Brix), acidity (0.41%), Dry matter content (18.9%), fibre content (9.6%), Essential oil content (11.2 mg/g of dry ginger), Gingerol content (19.6 mg/g of dry ginger ) and lowest incidence of soft rot (11.4 %). On the basis of good performance Athira is adjudged as the suitable ginger genotype under coconut shade condition of this region.

The development of prediction model for cuffed tracheal tube size from the middle finger in pediatrics: a concise and feasible approach.

Selecting the optimal tracheal tube size is critically important for pediatric patients. Age-based formulas are often used, but still have limitations. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate whether middle finger measurements correlate with cuffed tracheal tube size and to further develop a prediction model based on these measurements. Patients under 12 years of age scheduled for elective surgery involving tracheal intubation were enrolled in the study. The length was determined from the tip of the distal metacarpal to the palm's root on the palm side, while the circumference was measured at the base of the palm using a soft tape measure. The appropriate cuffed tracheal tube size was determined based on specific criteria. If the tube encountered resistance during insertion or required an airway pressure >25 cmH2O to detect an audible leak, it was replaced with a tube 0.5 mm smaller. Conversely, if an audible leak occurred at an airway pressure <10 cmH2O, or peak pressure >25 cmH2O, or the cuff pressure >25 cmH2O to achieve a seal, the tube was exchanged for one with a 0.5 mm larger. Linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between middle finger circumference and length with the cuffed tracheal tube size. Subsequently, regression equations were constructed based on the results of the linear regression analysis and their predictive performance was compared to the conventional age-based formulas, including the Khine formula and Motoyama formula. The predictive performance was evaluated by mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and prediction accuracy. A total of 261 patients were analyzed in our study. The mean age of the patients was 46.19±35.83 months. The linear relationship was observed between the cuffed tracheal tube size and the middle finger circumference and middle finger length with R2 values of 0.77 and 0.73, respectively. In comparison to conventional age-based formulas, both middle finger circumference and middle finger length demonstrated superior predictive performance, characterized by lower MAE and RMSE, as well as higher prediction accuracy. Notably, the regression equation based on the middle finger circumference obtained the higher predictive accuracy of 0.590, with an MAE of 0.259 and an RMSE of 0.333 as opposed to the predictive accuracy of 0.391, MAE of 0.349, and RMSE of 0.473 derived from conventional age-based formulas. Based on the regression coefficients of linear regression, simplified formulas were proposed, with the middle finger circumference-based formula emerging as the most accurate and simple option. The appropriate cuffed tracheal tube size could be predicted by the middle finger circumference. Our proposed formula 'cuffed tracheal tube internal diameter (mm) = middle finger circumference (cm) - 0.2' has the potential to improve the selection of the cuffed tracheal tube size in pediatric patients.

Towards reducing the capital cost of manufacturing Laminated Veneer Lumbers: Investigating finger jointing solutions

The capital cost of setting up a Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) plant which produces continuous LVL billet products, through a continuous veneer assembly and hot-pressing processes, is significant. However, the utilisation of batch-type presses, similar to those employed in the plywood industry, could significantly reduce this initial cost and may provide new opportunities for small to medium scale operations. This process would produce shorter billet lengths which would need to be joined together to produce lengths viable for structural products. Scarf joints have been used commercially to join some veneer-based engineered wood products but have limitations, while finger joints are a common method for jointing sawn timber products and offer some key advantages but is not a common method to join veneer-based products. Consequently, this paper focusses on investigating the influence of key manufacturing parameters on the performance of finger jointed LVL. The effect of the joint orientation (horizontal or vertical), the finger length, the gluing pressure and the adhesive type on the joint strength and stiffness were investigated. The finger jointed LVL were tested in edge bending, flat bending and tension, and the results were compared to reference unjointed LVL. The bending performance of the finger jointed LVL was also compared to scarfed jointed LVL. In total 304 tests were performed. The results indicated that the average strength values of finger jointed LVL can reach up to 99% of the average strength of unjointed LVL and compares to scarf jointed LVL on flat bending. Horizontal joints, being more practical to produce for deep beams, performed similarly to vertical joints. The 25 mm joints were found to have no mechanical advantages over the 20 mm investigated finger joints. A gluing pressure lower than the Eurocode's recommended level for solid timber achieved sufficient bonding for the products to be utilised. The gluing pressure was also found not to influence the performance of the joint, for the range of pressures investigated. Both polyurethane and resorcinol-formaldehyde adhesives produced high performing products, with the latter displaying superior adhesive bond durability. The paper concludes that finger jointing LVL represents a viable solution to manufacture usable LVL lengths from short LVL billets, but have lower edge bending efficiency than scarf jointed LVL.

The effect of testosterone level on metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study.

Metabolic syndrome (MS) may reduce circulating testosterone and, at the same time, low testosterone levels may lead to MS. Thus, identifying problems regarding sex hormones and examining their effects on the pathogenesis of MS is important to prevent serious complications of the condition, such as diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to investigate the correlations between MS-related parameters and androgen levels. A total of 108 males [median age 48.5 years (min/max = 21/77 years)] were included in the study. Blood pressure and anthropometric measurements (body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, thigh circumference, neck circumference, and length of index and ring finger) were performed. Biochemical analysis was assessed. Additionally, total testosterone, free testosterone, and sex hormone binding globulin levels were investigated. Weak negativecorrelations were observedbetween testosterone levels and several anthropometric measures/glucose metabolisms (p < 0.05). The highest correlation was between total testosterone levels and body mass index (rho= -0.390, p < 0.001) CONCLUSION: According to our results, controlling weight, one of the preventable risk factors, can have a positive effect on testosterone levels and, therefore, on the cardiovascular system through different mechanisms.