The impact of Internet access on household dietary quality:Evidence from rural China

Over the past few decades,the Internet has rapidly diffused across China.The spread of the Internet has had a profound economic and social impact on Chinese rural areas.Existing research shows that Internet access significantly impacts agricultural production and improves smallholder farmers’income.Beyond these,the Internet can affect other dimensions of social welfare.However,research about the impact of Internet access on dietary quality in rural China remains scarce.This study utilizes multi-period panel data from Fixed Observation Point in rural China from 2009 to 2015 to estimate the impact of Internet access on dietary quality and food consumption of rural households and conducts a causal analysis.Regression models with time and household fixed effects allow robust estimation while reducing potential issues of unobserved heterogeneity.The estimates show that Internet access has significantly increased rural household dietary quality(measured by the Chinese Diet Balance Index).Further research finds that Internet access has increased the consumption of animal products,such as aquatic and dairy products.We also examine the underlying mechanisms.Internet access improves dietary quality and food consumption mainly through increasing household income and food expenditure.These results encourage the promotion of Internet access as a valuable tool for nutritional improvements,especially in rural areas.

Exploring the relationship between ambient sulfur dioxide and semen quality parameters:A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective:To investigate the relationship between ambient sulfur dioxide(SO2)exposure and semen quality parameters.Methods:A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies investigating the association between SO2 exposure and semen quality parameters.This search encompassed the timeframe from January 2000 to May 2023 and included electronic databases such as Web of Science,Google Scholar,PubMed,Cochrane,and Scopus.Pooled effect estimates with 95%confidence intervals(CI)were calculated using percent changes(PC).The meta-analysis included seven studies with 6711 participants and 15087 semen samples.Results:The results revealed a significant negative association between ambient SO2 exposure and certain semen quality parameters.In particular,SO2 exposure was associated with a significant decrease in progressive motility(PC=0.032;95%CI:-0.063 to-0.001;P=0.044)and sperm concentration(PC=-0.020;95%CI:-0.036 to-0.005;P=0.012).However,no statistically significant associations were observed for total sperm count(PC=-0.038;95%CI:-0.079 to 0.003;P=0.070),seminal fluid volume(PC=-0.009;95%CI:-0.048 to-0.030;P=0.662)and sperm motility(PC=-0.17;95%CI:-0.363 to 0.022;P=0.830).In addition,the results of the subgroup analysis revealed specific variables that were associated with the decrease in relevant sperm parameters.Conclusions:This systematic review and meta-analysis provides compelling evidence supporting a consistent negative association between exposure to ambient SO2 and semen quality parameters.

Effect of comprehensive nursing on the quality of life and swallowing function in individuals diagnosed with ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND Ischemic stroke(IS)is a widely recognized disease characterized by high preva-lence,mortality,morbidity,disability,and recurrence rates.It ranks prominently in terms of mortality,constituting 60%-80%of stroke cases.AIM To explore the impact of comprehensive nursing care on the quality of life and swallowing function in individuals diagnosed with IS.METHODS This study comprised 172 patients with IS admitted to our hospital between February 2018 to March 2021.The participants were divided into two groups,namely the control group(n=80)receiving routine care and the research group(n=92)receiving comprehensive care.Various assessment scales,including the standard swallowing function assessment scale(SSA),National Institutes of Health Stroke scale(NIHSS),European stroke scale(ESS),self-rating anxiety scale(SAS),self-rating depression scale(SDS),Barthel index(BI),and the motor func-tion assessment scale(MAS),were employed to evaluate the improvement in swallowing function,neurological deficits,clinical outcomes,anxiety,depression,daily living activities,and motor function before and after care.Furthermore,the study compared the occurrence of adverse reactions during the nursing period,life quality before and after the intervention,rehabilitation compliance,and nursing satisfaction between the two groups.RESULTS After the nursing intervention,the research group exhibited significantly improved SSA and NIHSS scores compared to the control group(P<0.05).Moreover,both groups demonstrated significant reductions in SAS and SDS scores(P<0.05),with the research group showing more obvious advantages(P<0.05).Compared to the control group,the research group displayed significantly better ESS,BI,and MAS scores(P<0.05),coupled with a lower incidence of adverse reactions(P<0.05).Additionally,the research group demonstrated markedly higher levels of life quality,rehabilitation compliance,and nursing satisfaction compared to the control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Comprehensive nursing effectively improved swallowing function,quality of life,and patient satisfaction,high-lighting its clinical significance.

Investigation of Groundwater Quality with Borehole Depth in the Basin Granitoids of the Ashanti Region of Ghana

The dependence of groundwater quality on borehole depth is usually debatable in groundwater studies, especially in complex geological formations where aquifer characteristics vary spatially with depth. This study therefore seeks to investigate the relationship between borehole depth and groundwater quality across the granitoid aquifers within the Birimian Supergroup in the Ashanti Region. Physicochemical analysis records of groundwater quality data were collected from 23 boreholes of public and private institutions in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, and the parametric values of iron, fluoride, total hardness, pH, nitrate, and nitrite were used to study the groundwater quality-depth relationship. The results showed that the depth-to-groundwater quality indicated a marginal increase in water quality in the range of 30 to 50 m, which is mathematically represented by the low-value correlation coefficient (r2 = 0.026). A relatively significant increase occurs in the depth range of 50 to 80 m, which is given by a correlation coefficient of r2 = 0.298. The mean percent parameter compatibility was 74%, 82%, 89%, and 97% at 50, 60, 70, and 80 m depths, respectively. The variations in groundwater quality per depth ratio ranged from 1.48, 1.37, 1.27, and 1.21 for 50, 60, 70, and 80 m depth, respectively. The recommended minimum borehole depth for excellent groundwater quality is suggested with a compatibility per meter depth ratio of 1.37. This results in a range between 50 and 70 m as the most desirable drilling depth for excellent groundwater quality within the granitoids of the Birimian Supergroup of the Ashanti Region in Ghana.

Investigating the Influence of Glaucoma on the Quality of Life among Adult Patients

Background: Research exploring the influence of glaucoma on quality of life has gained momentum in recent years. Numerous studies have investigated the multifaceted aspects of quality of life in glaucoma patients, utilizing various assessment tools and methodologies. Objective: To determine the influence that glaucoma has on the quality of life among adult patients. Study site: kitwe teaching eye hospital, Zambia. Method: It was a cross-sectional study that was conducted from 30th June 2022 to 17th April 2023. The study included 106 diagnosed glaucoma patients who were above the age of 55 years. Data was collected using validated 25-item national eye institute visual function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26 and Microsoft excel to present frequencies and percentages that generated graphical presentation. Results: 62% of the participants worry about their eye sight most of the time, 26% sometimes and 12% a little time. 9% of the participants had little difficulty to read ordinary prints, 14% moderate difficulties and 58% extremely difficult. 40% of the participants could drive despite glaucoma damaging their eyes while 60% could not. Majority of the patients said it was difficult noticing things around them while walking or sitted in one place. There was a significant difference between effects of glaucoma on patients and the existing relationship between glaucoma and quality of life (ANOVA, p = 0.019 and ANOVA, p = 0.023). Conclusion: This study has demonstrated the magnitude of impact that glaucoma has on the Quality of Life (QoL) in diagnosed patients and the relationship between glaucoma and the Quality of Life. Due to the progressive visual loss, the amount of activities these patients would perform is negatively affected especially where social and economic activities are concerned which also affects their monthly earnings for those living in middle to low-income countries. Therefore, social welfare and psycho-social institutions need to increase their support for these glaucoma patients.

Assessing the Impact of Gold Mining on the Quality of Water Resources in the Commune of Meguet, Burkina Faso

Despite its often illegal nature, artisanal gold mining in Burkina Faso contributes to the economic and social development of the country. However, the rudimentary techniques used in gold panning have a significant impact on the environment due to inappropriate practices and the use of various chemical substances. This study aims to assess the impact of artisanal gold mining on the quality of water resources in a rural community at Méguet, Burkina Faso. To this end, surface and groundwater samples were collected and analyzed at the BUMIGEB laboratory. Field results show that the waters are slightly alkaline (6.97 < pH < 8.1), weakly mineralized and conductive (124 < EC < 543 μS/cm), with temperatures ranging from 24.6˚C to 31.6˚C. In addition, trace metals (TMEs) analyzed from surface and subsurface waters show very high levels, generally deviating from the levels recommended by WHO guidelines for Burkina Faso. Trace metals contamination of water resources in the commune of Méguet is mainly due to Fe (3.78 - 11.12 mg/kg), Hg (0.03 - 0.29 mg/kg), As (0.01- 6.31 mg/kg) and Pb (0.01 - 3.8 mg/kg). This study can serve as a basis for guiding national environmental policies to protect the water resources of the Méguet mine.

The Use of Secondary Grape Biomass in Beef Cattle Nutrition on Carcass Characteristics, Quality and Shelf Life of Meat

We determined whether the inclusion of 100 g/kg dry matter of grape pomace silage (GPS) and grape pomace bran (GPB) as substitutes for other traditional fiber sources in the diet of steers (Charolais x Nellore) would improve carcass characteristics, meat quality and composition, and shelf life. Twenty-four animals (248 ± 19.32 kg of initial body weight) were fed a high concentrate diet for 121 days. Carcass characteristics were measured, and the longissimus dorsi muscle was analyzed for fatty acid (FA) profile and composition. The meat was sliced and stored in air-permeable packages for 10 days. On each sampling day (d 1, 3, 7, and 10), oxidative stability, bacterial load, lipid and protein oxidation, and staining were analyzed. The experimental diets influenced the pH of cold carcasses only. The GPS group had a higher pH than the control. The GPS and GPB groups showed improved oxidant status (i.e., lower lipid peroxidation and concentrations of reactive oxygen species were in the meat of both groups than in control). On the first day of storage, the antioxidant enzyme glutathione S-transferase activity was more significant in the meat of the GPS and GPB groups than in the control. The bacterial loads in the meat were attenuated by GPS inclusion;there were lower total coliform counts and a trend toward lower counts for enterobacteria in the control group. The diets altered the FA profile of the meat;i.e., the GPB diet allowed for a more significant amount of the n-6 omegas in the meat, while the GPS diet showed a tendency for a more significant amount of n-6 and 9 omegas. Both diets (GPS and GPB) increased the amounts of long-chain FAs. The GPS diet decreased saturated FA levels. We conclude that the dietary treatments GPS and GPB are a promising alternative to maintain meat quality standards throughout in real-world retail conditions. These treatments gave rise to an improvement in the nutritional value of the meat due to the more significant amounts of FAs that improve human health.

Reservoir Quality Controlling Factor of the Asmari Reservoir in an Oil Field in Dezful Embayment, SW Iran

The Asmari Formation Oligo-Miocene in age is one of the most important reservoir rocks in SW Iran and Zagros basin and composed of carbonate rocks and locally sandstones and evaporates. In this research, reservoir quality controlling factors have been investigated in a well in one of the oil fields in Dezful Embayment, SW Iran. Based on this research, depositional environment, diagenesis and fracturing have been affected on reservoir quality. 3 distinct depositional settings can be recognized in the studied interval including tidal flat, lagoon, and shoal. Among these depositional setting, shoal environment with ooid grainstone microfacies along with interparticle porosity shows good reservoir characteristics. Diagenetic processes also play an important role on reservoir quality;dolomitization and dissolution have positive effects on porosity and enhances reservoir quality, while cementation, anhydritization and compaction have negative effect on it. Fracturing is another important factor affected on the carbonate reservoirs especially in the Asmari Formation.

A Problem Not to Be Ignored: The Influencing Factors of Mobile Phone Addiction and Its Influence on Sleep Quality

Background and Objective: With the popularity and widespread use of mobile phones, the effects of mobile phone dependence and addiction on individuals’ physical and mental health have attracted more and more attention. The present study aims to analyze the current state of mobile phone addiction and its impact on sleep quality within the population, while also exploring the influence of related factors on sleep quality. Ultimately, this research will provide a scientific foundation for targeted intervention measures and strategies. Methods: A total of 253 permanent residents in Nanjing were randomly selected as study subjects. The Mobile Phone Addiction Index (MPAI) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to evaluate the degree of smartphone addiction and sleep quality of the study subjects. Body mass index (BMI) was measured according to standardized procedures. Independent sample t-test, Chi-square test, rank sum test and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the correlation between mobile phone addiction and sleep quality, and P Results: 117 people (46.2%) were addicted to mobile phones. Chi-square test showed that the rate of mobile phone addiction in drinking group was significantly higher than that in non-drinking group (P P P P P P P P P P Conclusion: Mobile phone addiction may lead to shorter sleep duration and reduce sleep efficiency. The withdrawal of mobile phone addiction may have a negative impact on sleep quality. According to the characteristics of the population, appropriate comprehensive intervention measures should be taken to build an effective evaluation system, so as to reduce the impact of mobile phone addiction and withdrawal problems on sleep and improve sleep quality.

Diagenetic evolution and reservoir quality of the Oligocene sandstones in the Baiyun Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin, South China Sea

The Oligocene Zhuhai sandstones are significant reservoirs for hydrocarbons in the Baiyun Sag, South China Sea.For effective appraisal, exploration and exploitation of such a deep-water hydrocarbon sandstone, samples of five wells from depths of 850 m to 3 000 m were studied. A series of comprehensive petrographic and geochemical analyses were performed to unravel the diagenetic features and their impact on the reservoir quality.Petrographically, the sandstones are dominated by feldspathic litharenites and lithic arenites with fine to medium grain sizes and moderate to good sorting. The reservoir quality varies greatly with a range of porosity from 0.2% to 36.1% and permeability from 0.016 ×10~(–3) μm~2 to 4 301 ×10~(–3) μm~2, which is attributed to complex diagenetic evolution related to sedimentary facies;these include compaction, cementation of calcite, dolomite, siderite and framboidal pyrite in eogenetic stage;further compaction, feldspar dissolution, precipitation of ferrocalcite and ankerite, quartz cements, formation of kaolinite and its illitization, precipitation of albite and nodular pyrite, as well as hydrocarbon charge in mesogenetic stage. The dissolution of feldspar and illitization of kaolinite provide internal sources for the precipitation of quartz cement, while carbonate cements are derived from external sources related to interbedded mudstones and deep fluid. Compaction is the predominant factor in reducing the total porosity, followed by carbonate cementation that leads to strong heterogeneity. Feldspar dissolution and concomitant quartz and clay cementation barely changes the porosity but significantly reduces the permeability.The high-quality reservoirs can be concluded as medium-grained sandstones lying in the central parts of thick underwater distributary channel sandbodies(>2 m) with a high content of detrital quartz but low cement.

Diagnostic tools for fecal incontinence: Scoring systems are the crucial first step

The main aim of this editorial is to comment on the recent article published by Garg et al in the World Journal of Gastroenterology 2023;29:4593-4603.This original research presents a new scoring system for fecal incontinence.Fecal incontinence is a chronic disease with a severe impact on the quality of life of the patients.Substantial social stigmatization often leads to significant underreporting of the condition even during visits to a specialist and could lead to further misman-agement or non-existent management of the disease.An important fact is that patients are often unable to describe their condition when not asked precisely defined questions.This problem is partially resolved by scoring questionnaires.Several scoring systems are commonly used;however,each of them has their shortcomings.For example,the absence of different kinds of leakage besides flatus and stool could further lead to underscoring the incontinence severity.Therefore,there has long been a call for a more precise scoring system.The correct identification of the presence and severity of fecal incontinence is paramount for further diagnostic approach and for choosing the appropriate therapy option.This editorial describes fecal incontinence,its effect on quality of life in general and further evaluates the diagnostic approach with a particular focus on symptom scoring systems and their implications for clinical practice.

Correlation and Pathway Analysis of the Carbon,Nitrogen,and Phosphorus in Soil-Microorganism-Plant with Main Quality Components of Tea(Camellia sinensis)

The contents of carbon(C),nitrogen(N),and phosphorus(P)in soil-microorganisms-plant significantly affect tea quality by altering the main quality components of tea,such as tea polyphenols,amino acids,and caffeine.However,few studies have quantified the effects of these factors on the main quality components of tea.The study aimed to explore the interactions of C,N,and P in soil-microorganisms-plants and the effects of these factors on the main quality components of tea by using the path analysis method.The results indicated that(1)The contents of C,N,and P in soil,microorganisms,and tea plants were highly correlated and collinear,and showed significant correlations with the main quality components of tea.(2)Optimal regression equations were established to esti-mate tea polyphenol,amino acid,catechin,caffeine,and water extract content based on C,N,and P contents in soil,microorganisms,and tea plants(R^(2)=0.923,0.726,0.954,0.848,and 0.883,respectively).(3)Pathway analysis showed that microbial biomass phosphorus(MBP),root phosphorus,branch nitrogen,and microbial biomass carbon(MBC)were the largest direct impact factors on tea polyphenol,catechin,water extracts,amino acid,and caffeine content,respectively.Leaf carbon,root phosphorus,and leaf nitrogen were the largest indirect impact factors on tea polyphenol,catechin,and water extract content,respectively.Leaf carbon indirectly affected tea polyphenol content mainly by altering MBP content.Root phosphorus indirectly affected catechin content mainly by altering soil organic carbon content.Leaf nitrogen indirectly affected water extract content mainly by altering branch nitrogen content.The research results provide the scientific basis for reasonable fertilization in tea gardens and tea quality improvement.

Enhancing Private Healthcare Effectiveness in Lagos State, Nigeria: An Overview of the Effect of Quality Improvement Initiatives and Implications for Sustainable Healthcare Delivery

Background: Nigeria, a nation grappling with rapid population growth, economic intricacies, and complex healthcare challenges, particularly in Lagos State, the economic hub and most populous state, faces the challenge of ensuring quality healthcare access. The overview of the effect of quality improvement initiatives in this paper focuses on private healthcare providers in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study assesses the impact of donor-funded quality improvement projects on these private healthcare facilities. It explores the level of participation, perceived support, and tangible effects of the initiatives on healthcare delivery within private healthcare facilities. It also examines how these initiatives influence patient inflow and facility ratings, and bring about additional benefits and improvements, provides insights into the challenges faced by private healthcare providers in implementing quality improvement projects and elicits recommendations for improving the effectiveness of such initiatives. Methods: Qualitative research design was employed for in-depth exploration, utilizing semi-structured interviews. Private healthcare providers in Lagos involved in the SP4FP Quality Improvement Project were purposively sampled for diversity. Face-to-face interviews elicited insights into participation, perceived support, and project effects. Questions covered participation levels, support perception, changes observed, challenges faced, and recommendations. Thematic analysis identified recurring themes from interview transcripts. Adherence to ethical guidelines ensured participant confidentiality and informed consent. Results: Respondents affirmed active involvement in the SP4FP Quality Improvement Project, echoing literature emphasizing private-sector collaboration with the public sector. While acknowledging positive influences on facility ratings, respondents highlighted challenges within the broader Nigerian healthcare landscape affecting patient numbers. Respondents cited tangible improvements, particularly in staff management and patient care processes, validating the positive influence of quality improvement projects. Financial constraints emerged as a significant challenge, aligning with existing literature emphasizing the pragmatic difficulties faced by private healthcare providers. Conclusions: This study illuminates the complex landscape of private healthcare provision in Lagos State, emphasizing the positive impact of donor-funded quality improvement projects. The findings provide nuanced insights, guiding policymakers, healthcare managers, and practitioners toward collaborative, sustainable improvements. As Nigeria progresses, these lessons will be crucial in shaping healthcare policies prioritizing population well-being.

Genome-wide identification of the pectate lyase(PEL)gene family members in Malvaceae,and their contribution to cotton fiber quality

Pectin is a major constituent of the plant cell wall.Pectate lyase(PEL,EC 4.2.2.2)uses anti-β-elimination chemistry to cleave theα-1,4 glycosidic linkage in the homogalacturonan region of pectin.However,limited information is available on the comprehensive and evolutionary analysis of PELs in the Malvaceae.In this study,we identified 597PEL genes from 10 Malvaceae species.Phylogenetic and motif analyses revealed that these PELs are classified into six subfamilies:Clades I,II,III,IV,Va,and Vb.The two largest subfamilies,Clades I and II,contained 237 and222 PEL members,respectively.The members of Clades Va and Vb only contained four or five motifs,far fewer than the other subfamilies.Gene duplication analysis showed that segmental duplication played a crucial role in the expansion of the PEL gene family in Gossypium species.The PELs from Clades I,IV,Va,and Vb were expressed during the fiber elongation stage,but nearly all PEL genes from Clades II and III showed no expression in any of the investigated fiber developmental stages.We further performed single-gene haplotype association analysis in 2,001G.hirsutum accessions and 229 G.barbadense accessions.Interestingly,14 PELs were significantly associated with fiber length and strength traits in G.barbadense with superior fiber quality,while only eight GhPEL genes were found to be significantly associated with fiber quality traits in G.hirsutum.Our findings provide important information for further evolutionary and functional research on the PEL gene family members and their potential use for fiber quality improvement in cotton.

Increased CO2 Levels during the First Half of Incubation at High Altitude Modifies Embryonic Development of Fertile Leghorn Breeder Eggs

The exchange of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) within an incubator has a significant impact on embryonic development (ED) and hatching processes. This study examines the influence of non-ventilation (NV) conditions during the first ten days of incubation at high altitudes on Leghorn hens hatching eggs. Five hundred four hatching eggs were equally divided into three treatment groups and placed in twelve incubators (R = 4). The first group was subjected to standard ventilated conditions (V) during the setting phase. The ventilation inlet holes of the remaining incubators in the NV treatments were closed with either micropore (M) or polypropylene (P) tape, referred to as NVM and NVP groups, respectively. These two different airtight settings were intended to allow for a gradual rise in CO2 naturally generated by the embryos. Results indicate that carbon dioxide concentration gradually increased during the first half of incubation, reaching 1.42% in the NVM group and 1.20% in the NVP group, while the V condition group remained at 0.15%. From 10 days of incubation onwards, normal V conditions were restored in all incubators. The highest hatchability of fertile eggs (HFE) was shown by the NVP group (55.7%), followed by the V (52.6%) and NVM (38.6%) groups. The NVP group showed a greater yolk-free body mass (YFBM) from 10 days of incubation until the hatch basket transfer. NV conditions during the first 10 days of incubation at high altitude produced higher YFBM with gradually decreasing yolk sac mass. In comparison to the NVM and V conditions, the particular NVP condition showed a beneficial impact on the quality of hatched chicks. Sustaining NVP condition (1.2% of CO2) throughout the first half of incubation at high altitude generated the optimal environment in the incubator ensuring the best hatchability results. This study highlights how important it is for hatchery managers to recognize the influence of low O2 and high levels of CO2 on the development trajectories of Leghorn embryos during early incubation at high altitudes.

The Effects of Age and Ejaculatory Abstinence on Semen Quality and Reproductive Hormones in Africa and the Middle East

The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effects of male age and ejaculatory abstinence on semen parameters and reproductive hormones among men residing in Africa and the Middle East. A total of 70,142 semen analysis results were analysed and grouped according to the age intervals (16 - 20, 21 - 30, 31 - 40, 41 - 50, 51 - 60, >60) and ejaculatory abstinence (<2 days, 2 - 5 days and >5 days). Semen parameters i.e. volume, concentration, progressive motility, total progressively motile count, morphology, total normal sperm count, DNA fragmentation, viability, sORP, normed sORP were specifically evaluated. Additionally, for each age interval, reproductive hormones i.e. estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone and prolactin were evaluated. Semen volume, total progressively motile count, sperm morphology and total normal sperm count constantly decrease significantly after the age of 30 years. Sperm concentration started declining significantly after the age of 50 years. There was a constant age- related increase in number of spermatozoa with damaged DNA. sORP constantly increased up to 60 years. Furthermore, constantage-related decreases in FSH, serum testosterone and prolact in were observed from patients aged between 16 years and 60 years. Semen volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology were significantly higher in patients having > 5 days of abstinence. Patients having > 5 days of abstinence had the lowest normed sORP. Male age significantly affects sperm parameters and reproductive hormones in fertile and infertile men residing in Africa and the Middle East. Prolonged abstinence days provides better semen quality.

Comparative Study of the Physicochemical Quality of the Waters of the Méné River (Sassandra Watershed, Ivory Coast) in the Dry Season and in the Rainy Season

The study carried out on the waters of the Méné River led to an overall assessment of its water quality during the dry season and the rainy season. The analysis focused on eight (8) water samples taken from the river during a period of dry season (January-February) and a period of rainy season (June and September). The various physicochemical parameters were measured according to Afnor standardized methods. The readings of temperature, turbidity, pH and conductivity made it possible to account for the disturbances occurring in water quality. A temporal variation correlated with the seasons (dry or rainy) is noted. Turbidity depends on the concentration of suspended solids (SS) in the water and drained particles and therefore on the seasons. Just like the temperature, the conductivity changes with the season. The waters of the Méné River are generally acidic. The results obtained show that there is a low level of pollution by chlorides, phosphates, nitrites and nitrates. A slight pollution of the waters of Méné in organic matter (chemical oxygen demand values are less than 25 mg∙L−1 during dry season and 32.33 ± 4.73 mg∙L−1 during rainy season) was observed. The concentrations of metallic trace elements such as iron, manganese and aluminum indicate significant pollution of these waters by these elements. Overall, the waters of the Méné River are of satisfactory quality because all the physicochemical parameters analyzed have values below standards during the dry season as well as during the rainy season with the exception of COD and a few metallic trace elements.

The combined effects of farm yard manure and boron application on growth,and oil quality of Canola grown under newly reclaimed soils

Two field experiments were conducted during the main seasons of 2021/2022 at the Research and Production Station of National Research Centre in Egypt to investigate the effects of farmyard manure(FYM)and boron on Canola growth,yield,oil yield,and quality.The results unequivocally demonstrated that the combined application of FYM at a rate of 14.4 ton ha^(-1)with a foliar spray of boron at 100 ppm positively influenced plant characteristics,leading to enhanced growth rates and higher yields compared to the control group.Moreover,this integrated approach significantly improved nutrient content by enhancing levels of oil content,carbohydrates,proteins,phenolics,flavonoids,and total soluble sugars.These findings provide compelling evidence that utilizing farm manure along with boron can effectively enhance Canola properties in newly reclaimed soils while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Various Organic Nutrient Sources in Combinations with Inorganic Fertilizers Influence the Yield and Quality of Sweet Corn(Zea mays L.saccharata)in New Alluvial Soils of West Bengal,India

Nutrient management plays a crucial role in the yield and quality of sweet corn.A field experiment was conducted in consecutive two kharif seasons in 2018 and 2019 to investigate the effect of various organic sources of nutrients in combination with inorganic sources on the yield and quality of sweet corn under new alluvial soils of West Bengal,India.Treatments were:T_(1):Control(without fertilizers);T_(2):100%recommended dose(RDF)of chemical fertilizers(CF)(RDF CF_(100%));T_(3):100%recommended dose of N(RDN)through vermicompost(VC)(RDN VC_(100%));T_(4):50 RDN through CF+50%RDN through VC(RDN CF_(50%)+RDN VC50%);T_(5):50%RDF through CF+50%RDN through organic source(OS)1,Soligro(Ascophyllum nodosum)granular(RDN CF_(50%)+RDN OS_(150%));T6:50%RDN through CF+50%RDN through OS 2,Bioenzyme(liquid)(RDN CF_(50%)+RDN OS250%);T7:50%RDN through CF+50%RDN through OS 3,Opteine(Ascophyllum nodosum)filtrate[RDN CF_(50%)+RDN OS350%];T8:50%RDN through VC+50%RDF through OS 1,Soligro(Ascophyllum nodosum)granular(RDN VC50%+RDN OS_(150%)).The OS of fertilizers were VC,SoliGro Gr(OS1)(Ascophyllum nodosum),Bioenzyme liquid(OS2),and Opteine(Ascophyllum nodosum)filtrate(OS3).The inorganic source was traditional CF applied at the RDF(150:75:75 kg ha^(−1) of N:P2O5:K2O).The VC was used to supply 100%RDN as one source or 50%RDN when combined with CF or OS.Maximum fruit yield(10.75 and 10.79 t ha^(−1) in 2018 and 2019,respectively)was recorded when RDF was substituted through CF only,being statistically at par with 50%CF+50%VC on a nitrogen equivalent basis(9.92 and 10.00 t ha^(−1) in 2018 and 2019,respectively)and 100%VC(8.22 and 8.32 t ha^(−1) in 2018 and 2019,respectively).Compared to chemical sources of nutrients,VC-based treatments produced a larger percentage of large-size cob(>25 cm).The 100%VC increased antioxidant(8.35 and 8.45 mg g^(−1)),carotenoid(0.59 and 0.61 mg/100 g),and phenol(55.06 and 55.02 mg 100 g^(−1))content compared with its 50%dose in combination with other sources.The study revealed the potentiality of organic sources towards achieving improved cob quality of sweet corn.

Investigation of the quality of life,mental status in patients with gynecological cancer and its influencing factors

BACKGROUND Having a gynecological tumor or undergoing treatment can be a traumatic experience for women,as it affects their self-image and sexual relationships and can lead to psychological reactions.Psychological adjustment following cancer occurrence remains a key issue among the survivors.AIM To examine the current status of quality of life(QoL),anxiety,and depression in patients with gynecological cancer and to analyze the factors associated with it.METHODS Data for 160 patients with gynecological malignancies treated at Shanxi Bethune Hospital from June 2020 to June 2023 were collected and analyzed retrospectively.Patients’QoL was assessed using the European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General Questionnaire.Their emotional status was evaluated using the Self-Rating Anxiety/Depression Scale.The associated factors of anxiety and depression were analyzed.RESULTS The overall QoL score of the patients 6 months after surgery was 76.39±3.63 points.This included low levels of social and emotional function and severe fatigue and pain.The scores for physiological,functional,emotional,social,and family well-being exhibited an upward trend following surgery compared with those before surgery.One month after surgery,some patients experienced anxiety and depression,with an incidence of 18.75%and 18.13%,respectively.Logistic analysis revealed that good sleep was a protective factor against anxiety and depression in patients with gynecological tumors,whereas physical pain was a risk factor.CONCLUSION Patients with gynecological malignancies often experience anxiety and depression.By analyzing the factors that affect patients’QoL,effective nursing measures can be administered.