Least Significant Difference Research Articles

The Influencing Factors of Knowledge Hiding Among Employees in the Construction Industry: A Psychological Contract Perspective

This study explores the factors influencing employee knowledge hiding in construction industry organizations. Utilizing quantitative methods, the research examines the impact of demographic factors, including gender, age, educational level, marital status, and duration of service, as well as psychological contract breaches on employee knowledge hiding. An independent samples t-test and multiple comparisons using the least significant difference (LSD) test were conducted to analyze the demographic factors. At the same time, a simple linear regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between psychological contract breach and knowledge hiding. The results indicate that demographic factors significantly affect employee knowledge hiding, with females, older employees, those with lower educational levels, divorced or widowed individuals, and employees with longer service durations tending to hide knowledge more frequently. Furthermore, psychological contract breach is found to have a strong and positive relationship with employee knowledge hiding, suggesting that employees are more likely to engage in knowledge-hiding behaviors when they perceive a violation of their psychological contract. The findings have important managerial implications, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to address knowledge hiding among different employee groups and maintaining a strong psychological contract with employees to foster a culture of knowledge sharing and innovation.

Canning Quality Evaluation of Recently Released Ethiopian Chickpea Varieties

Chickpea’s protein quality is better than other legumes. it has low levels of anti-nutritional factors and it is rich in some minerals and vitamins (thiamine and niacin). However, dried chickpea is needing prolonged cooking time. Owing to the need for more adequate alternatives to fulfill the demands of chickpea consumers in Ethiopia and other countries, adding value to the food via industrial processing and offering semi-prepared foods of high nutritional quality, sensory value and reduced cooking times is necessary. Hence, the aims of this study were to evaluate canning quality of Ethiopian chickpea varieties. Three kabuli Chickpea types and one desi type were used for this experiment. Three cooking temperatures (70, 80, and 90°C) were used. Cooking time, techno-functional, Canning quality of chickpeas, and Sensory evaluation of canned chickpeas were analyzed. The least significant difference (LSD) between the mean was reported at a significant level, p ≤ 0.05. The result indicates that Arerti variety cooked at 70 and 80°C had a maximum average of PWDWT, seed shape, splits, and degree of clumps. The maximum average of overall acceptability was observed from the Arerti variety followed by the koka variety. Finally, the canning quality evaluation results revealed that Arerti variety was suitable for canning, and has the potential to be used as a raw material for the canning industry.

Karakteristik Pertumbuhan Mucuna (Mucuna bracteata L.) dengan Metode Sungkup dan Tidak Disungkup di Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai

Covering of Mucuna bracteate L. cuttings plays an important role in the survival rate of Mucuna Bracteata plants, as it helps maintain optimal humidity and temperature levels. The adjustment process after the cover is opened is very important before moving the cuttings to open land. This study aims to measure the impact of covering on the survival rate of cuttings. This study used a Randomized Block Design (RAK). The treatments used were Covered (P1) and Uncovered (P2), by applying Topsoil 3kg (K0), Topsoil 1.5kg + Sand 1.5kg (K1), Topsoil 1.5kg + Black Soil 1.5kg (K2), Topsoil 1.5kg + Cow Manure 1.5kg (K3). This research was conducted from August 10 to September 9, 2024. This research was conducted in the Yard of a House in Ngaraja 1 Village, Dolok Merawan District, Serdang Bedagai Regency. Based on the Least Significant Difference (LSD) Test, Covering and Topsoil (P1K0) consistently showed the best results in terms of number of shoots, tendril length, number of leaves and Root Length. This indicates that covering and topsoil provide optimal conditions for the early growth of Mucuna plants. Topsoil and sand (P1K1) showed the highest root volume. This suggests that the addition of sand to the topsoil may have increased aeration and water drainage, thus encouraging root development. Keywords: covering, vegetative growth, Mucuna bracteata L.

Effectiveness of Butterfly Pea ( Clitoria Ternatea ) Extract Against Streptococcus Mutans Bacterial Growth In Vitro

Dental caries is still a major problem in dentistry and is the most common infectious disease in children. Caries is a microbiological infectious disease that can damage the hard tissue of the teeth. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of butterfly pea flower extract ( Clitoria ternatea ) on the growth of Streptococcus mutans in vitro. This type of research is laboratory experimental research using a post test only control group design approach The samples used were butterfly pea flower extract ( Clitoria ternatea ) diluted with DMSO to a concentration of 100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, 3.125%, 6.125% and Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175. This research was conducted using the MIC test dilution method and KBM to see the effectiveness of the antibacterial extract against the test bacteria. Analysis of research data using the one way ANOVA test (p <0.05) to see significant differences between study groups with the number of test bacteria, followed by a double comparison test with the Post Hoc Least Significance Different (LSD) method to determine the average difference between treatment groups. Antibacterial effectiveness test results showed that butterfly pea flower extract ( Clitoria ternatea ) was effective in inhibiting Streptococcus mutans bacteria (p<0.05), at a concentration of 25% was the minimum inhibitory level (MIC) and 50% concentration was the minimum killing rate (MBC). ). The conclusion of this study is that the extract of butterfly pea flower ( Clitoria ternatea ) is effective in inhibiting and killing Streptococcus mutans bacteria.

Three-year results of XEN gel stent implantation in the treatment of glaucoma

Objective: To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of XEN gel stent implantation in patients with refractory glaucoma. Methods: A retrospective case series study was conducted. Clinical data were collected from patients who received medical treatment at the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University between January 2020 and September 2020 and underwent XEN gel stent implantation by the same surgeon. Preoperative and postoperative clinical parameters, including the intraocular pressure (IOP), number of ocular hypotensive medications, best-corrected visual acuity, surgical success rates, status of filtering blebs, and complications, were recorded at 1 day, 1 week, 1, 2, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months after surgery. Statistical analyses were performed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA), the least significant difference (LSD) method, and the Fisher's precision probability test. Results: A total of 8 patients (8 eyes) with glaucoma meeting the criteria were included, consisting of 6 males (6 eyes) and 2 females (2 eyes). The preoperative IOP reached (30.88±12.17) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), and the IOP at all postoperative follow-up time points was significantly lower than the preoperative value (P<0.05). At 3 years after surgery, the IOP was (14.38±1.60) mmHg, with a reduction of 53.43% [(16.50±12.07) mmHg]. Only 2 patients required monotherapy for IOP control, and there was no significant decline in best-corrected visual acuity in 7 patients. The surgical outcome at 3 years postoperatively was a complete success in 6 patients, a qualified success in 1 patient, and a failure in 1 patient. The filtering blebs were generally flat and diffuse, with only mild to moderate vascularization. One patient presented elevated IOP at 3 months, and after a subsequent revision of the XEN gel stent, the IOP became stable with the administration of travoprost eye drops. Conclusion: The XEN gel stent implantation proved to effectively reduce the IOP in glaucoma patients, with a high degree of safety demonstrated up to 3-year long-term follow-up.

The Influencing Factors of Knowledge Hiding Among Employees in the Construction Industry: A Psychological Contract Perspective

This study explores the factors influencing employee knowledge hiding in construction industry organizations. Utilizing quantitative methods, the research examines the impact of demographic factors, including gender, age, educational level, marital status, and duration of service, as well as psychological contract breaches on employee knowledge hiding. An independent samples t-test and multiple comparisons using the least significant difference (LSD) test were conducted to analyze the demographic factors. At the same time, a simple linear regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between psychological contract breach and knowledge hiding. The results indicate that demographic factors significantly affect employee knowledge hiding, with females, older employees, those with lower educational levels, divorced or widowed individuals, and employees with longer service durations tending to hide knowledge more frequently. Furthermore, psychological contract breach is found to have a strong and positive relationship with employee knowledge hiding, suggesting that employees are more likely to engage in knowledge-hiding behaviors when they perceive a violation of their psychological contract. The findings have important managerial implications, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to address knowledge hiding among different employee groups and maintaining a strong psychological contract with employees to foster a culture of knowledge sharing and innovation

THE EFFECTS OF INTEGRATED SOIL FERTILITY MANAGEMENT AND CROPPING SYSTEMS ON SOIL WATER CONTENT ON SORGHUM AND COWPEA PRODUCTION IN CENTRAL HIGHLANDS OF KENYA

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background:&lt;/strong&gt; Soil fertility degradation remains the major biophysical cause of declining &lt;em&gt;per capita&lt;/em&gt; crop production on smallholder farmers in Central Kenya highlands. The study was carried out for 3 consecutive seasons in Embu County classified as semi-arid lands in Kenya. &lt;strong&gt;Objectives:&lt;/strong&gt; To determine the effect of Soil Water Harvesting (SWH), cropping systems and Integrated Soil Fertility Management technologies on sorghum and cowpea production in Mbeere South Sub-County, Kenya. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology:&lt;/strong&gt; The treatments were arranged in a factorial structure with 3 levels of SWH, 2 cropping systems and 6 soil fertility management options laid out in a partially balanced incomplete block design. The SWC was measured after 2 weeks after planting interval stages in the whole season. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and significant means separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 95% Confidence Interval. &lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; There was a two way interactions effect between SWH*Fertility management options on sorghum grain yields was significant (&lt;em&gt;p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0027, &lt;em&gt;p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0008 and&lt;em&gt; p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0057) during long rains (LR) of 2011 and 2012, and short rains (SR) of 2011, respectively. Additionally, SWH methods significantly affected sorghum grain yields in a similar trend (&lt;em&gt;p&lt;/em&gt;=0.002, &lt;em&gt;p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0005 and&lt;em&gt; p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0003) in their respective seasons. In SR 2011 and LR 2012, soil fertility options also produced significant effects (&lt;em&gt;p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0047 and &lt;em&gt;p&lt;/em&gt;=0.0024) on cowpea grain yields, respectively. The results further indicated that there were significant higher SWC measurements at initial stages of 2 WAP, 4 WAP and 6 WAP intervals as compared to the late stages of the season. However, sole cropping systems had significantly more SWC measurement than those in intercropping systems in both seasons. &lt;strong&gt;Implications:&lt;/strong&gt; Manure added treatments positively affected SWC conservation and this could be as a result of increased soil organic carbon which improved soil fertility. The available SWC played a great role in drought effect mitigation by availing moisture to sorghum and cowpea productivity especially when prolonged dry spells coincide with crop’s sensitive phenological growing stages. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/strong&gt; Water harvesting methods cropping systems and soil fertility management options had positive influence on soil moisture conservation and crop yields production in Central Kenya Highland. &lt;/p&gt;

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) reduced expression of Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in visceral pleural tissue cultures of patients with empyema

Abstract* Background Increased expression of signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3) and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been thought to influence the fibrosis process in many tissues. However, increased expression of these two factors has never been assessed in pleural fibrosis. Pleural fibrosis is a disease that usually results from various infectious processes, such as empyema. Fibrosis formation is recently known to be prevented by Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is the most potent active substance found in Gambir (Uncaria gambir Roxb) leaves. Thus, further research is needed to determine the potential of EGCG to inhibit the process of pleural fibrosis caused by empyema. Methods An in vitro experimental study with post test-only controlled group was conducted on the pleural tissue of all patients who underwent decortication surgery due to empyema at Dr. M. Djamil Hospital, Padang, Indonesia between March 1st and April 30, 2024. Case samples were obtained by consecutive sampling, and three patients who met the inclusion criteria were obtained. Pleural tissue in each patient was then divided into several groups based on the treatment, namely the control group, 50 μg EGCG administration group, and 100 μg EGCG administration group. We used to determine SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 genes expression. Data were tested using ANOVA and Least Significant Difference (LSD) tests. Results There were significant differences in the SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 genes expression of 50 μg and 100 μg EGCG administration groups and the control groups in the 2 × 2 cm sample preparation (p=0.002) (p=0.014, respectively). Significant differences in TGF-β1 expression were also found between the groups treated with EGCG 50 μg and 100 μg and the control group in the 1 × 1 cm preparation (p=0.019). Conclusion EGCG can potentially decrease SCUBE3 and TGF-β1 expression in patients with pleural empyema.

The Collaborative Role of Non-Synthetic Fertilizers on Production of Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) in Ethiopia's Central Highlands, Ejere District

This study sought to determine how non-synthetic fertilizers collaborated to produce faba bean in the 2019–20 and 2021–2022 cropping seasons in agricultural settings in the Ethiopian district of Ejere. The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The collected data were subjected to analysis of variance by SAS statistical platform version 9.3. Means were compared with the Least Significance Difference (LSD) at a 5% probability level. To compute the economic advantage of the intervention, farm get prices of inputs and outputs were considered and marginal rate of return (% MRR) was work out for each treatment, and values ≥100 was set as profitable in absolute terms. The mean outcome of the two years’ worth of data analysis showed that there was substantial (p ≤ 0.05) difference in all parameters among the treatments at Ejere. At Ejere, the treatments (FB-17 + 0.76 ton ha-1 VC), (FB-17+ 0.57 ton ha-1 VC), (0.76 ton ha-1 VC) and (FB-17+ 0.38 ton ha-1 VC) yielded the highest mean GYs (3582kg ha-1), (3535kg ha-1), (3430 kg ha-1) and (3234 kg ha-1), respectively. However, the results of the partial budget analysis showed that the treatments (FB-17) and (FB-17 + 0.57 ton ha-1 VC) had the greater marginal rates of return 7218% and 1148%, respectively. These treatments are thought to be very good candidates for more testing in farmers' fields across various aggro-ecologies in order to determine which ones are the best substitute non-synthetic fertilizers for faba bean production in Ethiopia's Nitisol zones.

Remineralization Effect of Bioactive Glass With and Without Fluoride and Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (CPP-ACP) on Artificial Dentine Caries: An In Vitro Study.

Background/objectives Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a common dental condition marked by transient, sharp pain arising from dentinal exposure. Bioactive materials are capable of remineralization. This study aims to explore the remineralization effect of bioactive glass (BAG) with and without fluoride and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), using dentine discs as the test substrate. Materials and methods In this in vitro experimental study, 28 dentine discs were prepared from premolar teeth. Artificial caries were induced by subjecting the dentine discs to demineralization in acid for 72 hours. After demineralization, the discs were treated with various remineralizing dentifrices to evaluate their effects. The dentine discs (n=28) were divided into four groups: group 1 = BioMin (BioMin Technologies, London, United Kingdom), group 2 = NovaMin/Sensodyne Repair (GlaxoSmithKline plc, London, England, United Kingdom), group 3 = Recaldent (CPP-ACP; GC Orthodontics Inc., Alsip, Illinois, United States), and group 4 = deionized water (control group). All discs underwent a 28-day remineralization process using the respective dentifrices assigned to each group. The microhardness of the discs was measured using Vickers microhardness testing at three stages: baseline, post-demineralization, and post-remineralization. Results There was no significant difference in terms of microhardness between groups both at the baseline (F (3, 24) = 1.079, p = 0.995) and after the demineralization process (F (3, 24) = 1.310, p = 0.294). However, a significant difference was identified between the groups after the remineralization process (F (3, 24) = 34.008, p = 0.001). Additionally, the least significant difference (LSD) multiple comparison test was performed. There were significant differences identified in the remineralization condition, with group 1 having the highest values, followed by group 2, group 3, and group 4. Conclusion The results indicate that the remineralization effect on artificially induced dentine caries was more pronounced with bioactive glass containing fluoride compared to bioactive glass without fluoride and CPP-ACP.

Comparison of the activity of IL-6 and IL22 as more inflammatory cytokines related to the pathogenesis of celiac disease between active and gluten-free diet patient

This study aimed to investigate the activity of anti-inflammatory IL-6 (aIL-6) and pro-regenerative IL-22 in celiac disease patients based on their dietary habits. By comparing cytokine levels between patients on active gluten-containing diets and those on gluten-free diets, we sought to elucidate the potential role of diet in modulating inflammatory responses and clinical outcomes in celiac disease. The study made use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to evaluate the serum levels of interleukins IL6 and IL22. This was performed on three different groups: Group 1, which consisted of 40 recently identified active celiac patients; Group 2, which included 20 patients following a gluten-free diet; and Group 3, which contained 40 apparently healthy individuals .the individuals included in the study had been previously confirmed as celiac patients through serology, specifically by detecting both anti-IgA and IgG antibodies against tTG and gliadin using indirect immunofluorescence. The findings revealed a notable difference in IL6 levels between the patient and control groups, with a P-value of 0.041. However, when the patient groups were compared using the least significant difference (LSD) method, there were no significant differences between Group 1 (G1) and Group 2 (G2) with a P-value of 0.101, and between Group 1 and Group 3 (G3) with a P-value of 0.720. Yet, a more pronounced difference was observed between Group2 and Group3,with a P-value less than 0.015.Regarding IL22 levels, there was a significant difference between the patient and control groups, with a P-value of 0.002. Further comparisons using the LSD method revealed no significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2, with a P-value less than 0.154. However, a highly significant difference was found between Group 1 and Group 3, with a P-value less than 0.01. Also, significant differences were observed between Group 2 and Group 3, with a P-value less than 0.012. In conclusion, there is important role of the inflammatory cytokines il-6 and il-22 in the inflammation of celiac disease and potential role for these cytokines in the pathogenesis and management of the disease. Adherence to a gluten-free diet appears to have a beneficial effect on modulating the inflammatory response and improving clinical outcomes in celiac disease..

Comparison of the Activity of IL-6 and IL22 as More Inflammatory Cytokines Related to the Pathogenesis of celiac Disease Between Active and Gluten-Free Diet Patient

This study aimed to investigate the activity of anti-inflammatory IL-6 (aIL-6) and pro-regenerative IL-22 in celiac disease patients based on their dietary habits. By comparing cytokine levels between patients on active gluten-containing diets and those on gluten-free diets, we sought to elucidate the potential role of diet in modulating inflammatory responses and clinical outcomes in celiac disease. The study made use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to evaluate the serum levels of interleukins IL6 and IL22. This was performed on three different groups: Group 1, which consisted of 40 recently identified active celiac patients; Group 2, which included 20 patients following a gluten-free diet; and Group 3, which contained 40 apparently healthy individuals .the individuals included in the study had been previously confirmed as celiac patients through serology, specifically by detecting both anti-IgA and IgG antibodies against tTG and gliadin using indirect immunofluorescence. The findings revealed a notable difference in IL6 levels between the patient and control groups, with a P-value of 0.041. However, when the patient groups were compared using the least significant difference (LSD) method, there were no significant differences between Group 1 (G1) and Group 2 (G2) with a P-value of 0.101, and between Group 1 and Group 3 (G3) with a P-value of 0.720. Yet, a more pronounced difference was observed between Group2 and Group3,with a P-value less than 0.015.Regarding IL22 levels, there was a significant difference between the patient and control groups, with a P-value of 0.002. Further comparisons using the LSD method revealed no significant differences between Group 1 and Group 2, with a P-value less than 0.154. However, a highly significant difference was found between Group 1 and Group 3, with a P-value less than 0.01. Also, significant differences were observed between Group 2 and Group 3, with a P-value less than 0.012. In conclusion, there is important role of the inflammatory cytokines il-6 and il-22 in the inflammation of celiac disease and potential role for these cytokines in the pathogenesis and management of the disease. Adherence to a gluten-free diet appears to have a beneficial effect on modulating the inflammatory response and improving clinical outcomes in celiac disease.

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF ICRISAT IK00007 MULTI CROP THRESHER

The study evaluated the performance of the multi-crop motorized stationary thresher acquired by the International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Nigeria. The performance indices used were threshing efficiency, cleaning efficiency, output capacity, scatter loss and breakages. The independent variables used were the concave cylinder speed, revolution per minute (rpm) and feed rate, kg/min. The work was conducted using a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design (CRD). Data obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using GENSTAT 17.1version statistical software and least significant difference (LSD) was adopted in separating the means. The mean performance values of IK00007 machine for sorghum crop ranges from 102.71 – 157.33 kg/h, 72.36 – 93.30 % , 64.52 – 79.49 %, 17.33 – 27.80 %, and 0.12 – 0.67 %; for millet crop it ranges from 34.10 – 78.12 kg/h, 57.77 – 92.07 % , 41.76 – 64.55 %, 13.35 – 27.99 %, and 0.23 – 0.38 %; while for maize crop it ranges from 298.23 – 580.00 kg/h, 70.26 – 100.00 %, 61.20 – 91.60%, 22.74 – 43.06 %, and 0.70 – 1.27 % for output capacity, threshing efficiency, cleaning efficiency, scatter loss, and breakages, respectively. Machine IK00007 can be best used in threshing maize at a combination of feed rate of 40 kg/min and a speed of 950 rpm. With this, the mean values for output capacity, threshing efficiency, cleaning efficiency, scatter loss and grain breakages are 580.60 kg/h, 100.00%, 86.22%, 39.43% and 1.06% respectively. The best combination for threshing of sorghum with the machine (IK00007) is at the feed rate of 12 kg/min and a speed of 950 rpm. With this, the mean values for output capacity, threshing efficiency, cleaning efficiency, scatter loss and grain breakages are 157.33 kg/h, 86.20%, 76.07%, 22.39% and 0.47%, respectively. The best combination for threshing of millet with the machine (IK00007) is at the feed rate of 8 kg/min and a speed of 950 rpm. With this, the mean values for output capacity, threshing efficiency, cleaning efficiency, scatter loss and grain breakages are 78.12 kg/h, 77.68%, 56.20%, 25.04% and 0.27% respectively. The mean annual operational cost for IK00007 machine was found to be N 118,936.3, N 116,637.4 and N 117,313.9 for the threshing of sorghum, millet and maize respectively. It is concluded that all independent factors have significant effects on the dependent performance indices. Specifications for the combination of operational machine parameters to give best performance have been obtained. The assessment of the operational cost of the thresher was conducted.

APPLICATION OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC NUTRIENT SOURCES FOR IMPROVING GROWTH AND YIELD ATTRIBUTES OF MAIZE (ZEA MAYS L.) UNDER CLIMATIC CONDITIONS OF PAKISTAN

The research was conducted under rain fed conditions of Rawalakot to check the effect of different organic and chemical fertilizers on yield and yield components in maize. Eight different treatments were evaluated by using regular arrangement of randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Sheep manure (SM), farm yard manure (FYM), and poultry manure (PM) were used as organic sources of nutrients while NPK was used inorganic sources. The test variety of maize was Pioneer-30Y87. The data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) to analyze the difference amongst different means using least significance difference (LSD). Results revealed significant effect of different nutrient treatments on the yield and morphological growth of maize. Maximum number of plants (11.00), plant height (212.80 cm), number of grain rows per cob (15.60), 1000 grains weight (188.90 g), grain yield (6836.7g) were recorded for Treatment T7 (Half recommended NPK fertilizer + farm yard manure. tons ha-1). This study showed that mixed use of inorganic and organic sources of nutrients could be a better soil nutrient amendment when applied at a ratio of 50% dose of farm yard manure (FYM) + 50% dose of NPK in the cultivation of maize under rain fed conditions of Rawalakot.

Assessment of Genetic Diversity Analysis in African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa Hochst Ex.A.Rich Harms) using Qualitative and Quantitative Attributes

This study evaluated the genetic diversity of 18 African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) accessions from the IITA germplasm in Ibadan, Nigeria, using nine qualitative traits. The experiment was conducted behind the Biological Science Block at the University of Calabar, following a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates. Qualitative traits were observed and recorded based on the descriptors for African Yam Bean, while quantitative traits were measured using metric tools like rulers, vernier calipers, and weighing scales. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Least Significant Difference (LSD) tests via GenStat Discovery Edition 4 and PASW version 20.0 software. Results indicated minimal variation in morphological traits such as days to 50% seedling emergence, vine length, leaf number, leaf dimensions, peduncle and petiole length, and days to 50% flowering across accessions. Leaf color varied, ranging from light green to dark and pale green, with accession TSs 285 showing pale green leaves. Seed shapes varied from round/globular to oval or oblong, and all accessions except TSs 33 had seed cavities. Accessions TSs 266 and TSs 38 performed better in most parameters, except for days to 50% flowering and leaf count. Significant differences (P &lt; 0.05) were observed in traits like days to 50% emergence, days to 50% flowering, leaf color, pod dehiscence, seed shape, seed cavity presence, testa splitting, and texture. However, no significant differences were noted for hypocotyl pigmentation and pod dehiscence. Accession TSs 266 excelled in traits such as vine length, terminal leaf width, peduncle length, and pod number per plant, showing optimal adaptation to the climatic and agro-geological conditions of Cross River State.

IMPACT OF DIFFERENT ZINC APPLICATION METHODS AND PHOSPHORUS DOSES ON GROWTH, YIELD AND GRAIN ZINC CONTENTS OF WHEAT

Wheat is a staple crop of around half of the world's population. About 30 percent of the world’s population is suffering from Zn deficiency. Zn deficiency problems can be encountered by agronomic and genetic biofortification. Phosphorus (P) is an important plant macronutrient and has an antagonistic relationship with Zn. A field study was performed to evaluate the impact of different Zn application methods and P doses on growth, yield, and grain Zn contents of wheat at the Agronomic Research Farm, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, using a high accumulation wheat variety Zincol-2016. Three doses of P (100, 150, and 200% of recommended P) along with three Zn application methods (seed priming, soil mixing, and foliar application) were applied to wheat using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates under split-plot arrangement. All agronomic practices were kept normal and uniform for all treatments. Parameters including growth, yield, and Zn content in wheat grains were monitored using standard protocols. The results were evaluated using Fisher’s analysis of variance at a 5% probability level. A comparison of means of treatments was performed using the least significant difference (LSD) test. The highest value of SPAD reading (56.38) was noted in treatment where Zn was applied as priming and P was applied at 200%. Maximum crop growth rate (63.17) was observed in P3 where Zn was applied as mix in soil. Maximum spike length (14.25), spikelets per spike (17.67), and Zn concentration were observed in P3 as a result of foliar application of Zn. Highest grain weight per spike (1.89g), no. of tillers (691.01), grain yield (4.09 t ha-1), biological yield (11.01 t ha-1), harvest index (36.54%) and NDVI (0.42 were observed in P3 where Zn was applied as soil mix.

Effects of enriched environments on behavioral development at toddler period of preterm experienced early repeated procedural pain

Objective: To investigate the effects of enriched environments on behavioral development at toddler period of preterm who had experienced early repeated operative pain. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 80 high-risk preterm children of 2 years of age, who had experienced repeated pain stimuli in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), were enrolled as preterm group from the High-risk Children Clinic of Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from October 2016 to March 2021. Furthermore, 39 full-term healthy children, aged 2 years, who were undergoing routine check-ups during the same period, were selected as the full-term group. The preterm group was further divided into preterm intervention group and preterm non-intervention group based on the implementation of enriched environment interventions. Data of neonatal characteristics from 3 groups were collected. Growth and development indicators at the age of 2 years were measured. Neuropsychological development evaluated by Gesell developmental scale. Behavioral development evaluated by child behavior check list. The salivary cortisol levels in response to novelty (baseline, task, end) were collected. The family environment, including maternal parenting pressure, were evaluated through a survey questionnaire. One-way ANOVA and least significant difference (LSD) tests were used to compare physical development, maternal parenting stress, Gesell neuropsychological development, and behavioral problems among the 3 groups. A repeated-ANOVA and LSD tests were employed to compare the patterns of salivary cortisol secretion. Pearson correlation analysis was used to explore the influencing factors related to neuropsychological and behavioral development and cortisol level. Results: There were 44 cases in the preterm intervention group (17 males, gestational age of (31.3±2.8) weeks), and 36 in the preterm non-intervention group (29 males, gestational age of (32.5±2.6) weeks). The full-term group consisted of 39 children (23 males, gestational age of (39.3±2.1) weeks). At 2 years of age, the height, weight, and head circumference of the preterm intervention group and non-intervention group were all lower than those of the full-term group (all P<0.05).The Gesell developmental schedule showed that the preterm non-intervention group scored all lower in gross motor, fine motor, adaptive, language and personal-social domains compared to the full-term group (91±7 vs. 97±6, 88±9 vs. 94±6, 89±8 vs. 99±8, 84±10 vs. 100±15, 89±7 vs. 95±6), with statistical significance (all P<0.01). The preterm intervention group scored all higher than the preterm non-intervention group in gross motor, fine motor, adaptive and language domains (all P<0.05), with no significant difference compared to the full-term group (all P>0.05). The number of needle painful procedures during hospitalization in NICU of the non-intervention group was negatively correlated to the adaptive development quotient (r=-0.48, P<0.05). Furthermore, the preterm non-intervention group exhibited higher scores in social withdrawal, depression, somatic complaints, aggression, and destructive behaviors compare to the full-term group and preterm intervention group (F=8.07, 5.67, 7.72, 7.90, 7.06; all P<0.05); while the preterm intervention group showed no significant difference compared to full-term group (all P>0.05). Behavioral problems (social withdrawal and depression) in the preterm non-intervention group were positively correlated with maternal parenting stress (r=0.66, 0.50; both P<0.05). In response to novel visual stimuli and cognitive challenges, the preterm non-intervention group had significantly higher salivary cortisol levels compared to the full-term group (P=0.006), which were negatively correlated with the frequency of early painful procedures (r=-0.83, -0.80; both P<0.01). There was no significant difference in cortisol secretion pattern between the intervention group and the full-term group (P=0.772). Conclusion: Enriched environmental interventions can improve neuropsychological development, decrease behavioral problems, and down-regulate consistent high cortisol response to task in preterm infants who have experienced repeated procedural pain in the NICU by the age of 2 years.

Do effervescent vitamin tablets affect the surface roughness, microhardness, and color of human enamel and contemporary composite resins?

To compare the impact of four effervescent vitamin tablets on the surface roughness, microhardness, and color of human enamel and contemporary composite resins. Sixty enamel and a total of 240 anterior (Gradia Direct Anterior), posterior (Gradia Direct Posterior), and universal composite resin (Filtek Ultimate) specimens (n = 60 per group) were fabricated. Each group was subdivided into five subgroups (n = 12, per subgroup). The specimens were subsequently immersed in YOUPLUS,Redoxon, Sunlife Immuvit, and Sambucol effervescent vitamin solutions for 2 min per day over 30 days. Distilled water was used as control. Subsequently, surface roughness (Ra) was detected using a profilometer, and microhardness (VHN) was measured using a microhardness tester. A spectrophotometer device was used to record the L,a,b color coordinates of the specimens after 24 h, 7 days, and 30 days, and the color changes (ΔE00) of the groups were calculated. The data were analyzed by ANOVA, two-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, Levene's, and Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) tests (p<0.05). SEM analysis was conducted on one randomly selected specimen per group (×1000). In terms of surface roughness, materialXvitamin interactions were found significant (p<0.05). The increase in Ra from 24 h to 30 days was found significant (p<0.05) except for Gradia Direct Anterior X Redoxon, Sunlife Immuvit and Sambucol, Filtek Ultimate X Sunlife Immuvit and Sambucol, and all control groups. Ra changes were also concluded by SEM. Regarding VHNs, material X vitamin interactions were significant (p<0.005), except for all Filtek Ultimate subgroups. The changes in VHNs of the groups from 24 h to 30 days were significant for all enamel and Gradia Direct Anterior X YOUPLUS, Gradia Posterior X YOUPLUS, Sunlife Immuvit, and Sambucol groups (p < 0.05). In terms of ΔE00, significant differences were observed between the 7 days and 30 days in the enamel (p = 0.047), Gradia Direct Anterior (p = 0.019), and Gradia Direct Posterior groups (p = 0.038). Daily consumption of effervescent vitamin tablets can increase surface roughness, decrease microhardness, and influence the color of human enamel and contemporary anterior, posterior, and universal composite resins after a 30-day period.

Perspectives on managing patients with Down's syndrome among orthodontists in Saudi Arabia: A vignette and a COM-B analysis study.

This study aims to explore perspectives on managing patients with Down's syndrome among orthodontists in Saudi Arabia using a vignette study and COM-B model. This was a cross-sectional study for orthodontists working in Saudi Arabia. Participants were asked about their demographic data. Vignette (clinical scenarios) and COM-B model (C: capability, O: opportunity, M: motivation, and B: behavior) were used to assess orthodontists' perspectives regarding the management of patients with Down's syndrome. A model of Alpha (Cronbach) was used to study the properties of measurement scales. A Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to correlate variables represented by means. An independent t-test and one-way ANOVA, with least significant difference (LSD) as a post hoc test, were used to compare two group means and more than two groups, respectively. Most participants (n = 70, 85.4%) reported that they had no training/exposure to dealing with Down's syndrome patients during their orthodontic clinical training. Participants reported an average of 3.82 (SD = 1.1) when treating moderate Down's syndrome and 2.48 (SD = 1.4) when treating severe Down's syndrome with mild occlusion discrepancies. Participants also showed that their behavior and attitude are significantly related to their capability, opportunity, and motivation regarding the management of patients with Down's syndrome. The average reported agreement ranges from 2.46 (SD = 1) for the hypoplasia of the mandible to 4.38 (SD = 0.8) for the congenitally missing teeth. This study found that orthodontists in Saudi Arabia showed low confidence levels to manage Down's syndrome patients with moderate and severe challenging behavior. Despite this, the likelihood of increasing their confidence levels and attitude regarding the management of patients with Down's syndrome increased by increasing their capability, opportunity, motivation, and knowledge in this field.

Assessment of nutrient status, macro faunal diversity and microbial isolates in date palm plantation in Damaturu Yobe State, Nigeria

This research assessed nutrient status, macro-faunal diversity and microbial isolates in the soil of date palm plantation in Mai Sandari Damaturu, Yobe State. Parameters evaluated include; data on nutrient status of soils, assemblage and diversity of soil macro invertebrates and assemblage of microbial isolates based on growth performances of the date palm. The plantation was divided according to growth variabilities. Eighteen (18) auger points were taken, six (6) in each performance site based on the corresponding variability as observed. Soil samples were collected within same points for physicochemical analysis, microbial isolates and for soil macro-invertebrates ‘identification and enumeration. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare results of nutrient status of soils and to test for significant differences in nutrient concentration of the soils samples, mean separation was done using Least Significant Difference (LSD). Soil macro-invertebrate assemblage was analyzed for diversity indices of species using relevant formulae. Nutrient agar medium at 105 dilutions inoculated in a petri-dishes and incubated at 30±10°C for 2-5 days for bacteria colonies, while for fungi and actinomycetes, sabaurond dextrose agar was used at 25°C for 5-7 days and afterward microorganisms per colony forming units (Cfu) were counted. Analysis of variance for the soil parameters tested at p≤ 0.05 level of significance showed no significant differences in all the parameters of soil physical properties based on growth performance sites. However, organic carbon, organic matter and TN vary significantly after the post-hoc tests across growth performance sites in chemical properties (p ≤ 0.05). Results showed a total of 2646 macro fauna scattered within the study area. Eleven (11) families of macro fauna were also identified in the study. Results from the study area showed that the area is highly rich in microorganisms. A total of 5096 colonies were scattered within 10 families in the study area. The finding of this study revealed that there was no significant difference among the physical properties across the study site leading to the conclusion that soil physical properties may not have been responsible for the observed differences in the growth of the Date Palm Plantation. A different pattern was however observed in the values of the chemical properties of the plantation where significant differences exist in organic carbon, organic matter and total nitrogen across these sites. Based on the findings of the study it is recommended that all application of agrochemicals except fertilizers in the plantation should be suspended until evidence of their efficiency on the palm trees is shown.