Jain Irrigation Systems (Israel)

Identifying individuals at the highest risk of suicide in real time is one of the critical tasks in suicide prevention. However, understanding the mental processes of at-risk individuals is a formidable endeavor due to the rapid, impulsive, and temporally dynamic characteristics of severe suicide crises. Recent theories, such as the suicide crisis syndrome, have suggested sets of short-term predictors of imminent suicide risk (IMSR), defined as an acute state that requires urgent intervention to prevent suicide. However, to date, no study has examined the prediction value of these theories in real time. In this study, we used machine learning to investigate its potential for predicting IMSR during internet-based crisis hotline chat sessions. We analyzed 3309 anonymized chat sessions from an internet-based crisis hotline, 312 of which were classified as IMSR chats (i.e., requiring immediate intervention). We compiled a lexicon of psychological factors derived from the main theories of suicide crisis and extracted language patterns associated with these key theoretical constructs. A logistic regression model within a machine learning framework was used to determine the odds ratio of each predictor, while temporal analysis was used to examine the stability of predictors throughout the chat duration. Suicidal ideation with a specific plan and intent emerged as the strongest predictor of IMSR. Additionally, pain tolerance and deliberate self-harm, components of acquired capability, were significantly associated with IMSR, aligning with the interpersonal theory of suicide. Cognitive rigidity and impulsivity, markers of cognitive deficiencies, also played a key predictive role. Conversely, perceived burdensomeness, depressive symptoms, and emotional pain were negatively associated with IMSR. Temporal analysis revealed that most factors remained stable throughout the chats. IMSR is best understood through an integrated approach that combines cognitive, affective, and behavioral components from multiple theoretical frameworks. As many individuals do not explicitly disclose their suicidal intentions, it is crucial to identify indirect risk factors to improve real-time risk detection. This study advances the theoretical understanding of imminent suicide risk and the development of practical tools for real-time crisis intervention through machine learning-driven analysis of crisis chat interactions.

ABSTRACT Irrigation is essential for agricultural production, serving not only to transport water but also to facilitate the migration of pollutants such as microplastics (MPs). Although the presence of MPs in agricultural soils is well documented, the effects of irrigation hydrodynamics on their distribution have rarely been explored. This study examines the occurrence and sources of MPs in various sections of paddy soils from the Quyuan Irrigation District (QID) in China. MP analysis was conducted using density separation, microscopy, and laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LDIR) methods. Results showed that MP abundance ranged from 73.30 to 3880.00 items/kg. Statistical analyses revealed that agricultural plastic residues were the primary source of MPs. As a result of irrigation activities, the abundance of < 0.5 mm MPs in paddy soils near branch canals was 2.17 times higher than that in soils near the main canal, indicating more severe MP pollution near the branch canals. In addition, the MP abundance in soil at the drainage outlet (DO) was 2560 items/kg, significantly higher than the 1440 items/kg found at the irrigation inlet (IN) ( p < 0.05). This was due to an increase in water velocity and flux, which generated stronger water impact forces that flushed most MPs into the DO soil. The irrigation hydraulic conditions and MP characteristics influenced the horizontal migration of MPs in surface paddy soils. Overall, this study elucidated the relation between MP pollution and irrigation hydrodynamics, providing valuable insights for precise monitoring and control of MP pollution in farmland.

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between clinical-hemodynamic parameters and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α) in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Materials and methods. The study included 42 patients (mean age 38.5±1.2 years) with dilated cardiomyopathy and chronic heart failure classified as NYHA functional class II–IV. The patients were divided into two groups: Group I – class II (n=12) and Group II – class III–IV (n=30). Results. As heart failure severity increased (class III–IV), serum levels of C-reactive protein (7.6±1.1 mg/L vs. 4.1±0.6 mg/L, p<0.05), IL-6 (7.5±0.8 pg/mL vs. 4.6±0.2 pg/mL, p<0.01), and TNF- α (8.1±0.9 pg/mL vs. 5.6±0.7 pg/mL, p<0.05) were significantly elevated. These changes were associated with left ventricular dilatation (LVEDD 58±1 mm, p<0.05) and reduced ejection fraction (34.7±1.8%, p<0.05). Conclusion. The findings suggest that inflammatory markers play a crucial role in assessing the severity and prognosis of dilated cardiomyopathy and chronic heart failure.

Abstract Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychiatric condition characterized by intrusive memories, hyperarousal, avoidance, and cognitive and mood disturbances. A longstanding biological paradox in PTSD is the observation of low basal cortisol levels, despite the expectation of elevated cortisol under chronic stress. This “low cortisol paradox” challenges traditional hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation models. Individuals with PTSD also exhibit normal or near-normal adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels despite reduced cortisol and blunted hormonal responses to acute stress. In this paper, we provide further evidence of reduced cortisol levels using a large medical database from thousands of individuals diagnosed with PTSD. To understand this dysregulation, we apply a systems-level mathematical model of HPA axis regulation that incorporates dynamic changes in gland functional mass, the pituitary corticotrophs and adrenal cortex, over weeks to months. Using this model, we demonstrate that enhanced glucocorticoid receptor (GR) sensitivity, a known risk factor for PTSD, can lead to a steady state with low cortisol and normal ACTH, reconciling key clinical observations. The model also recapitulates the blunted cortisol and ACTH responses to acute stress and the dexamethasone/ corticotropin-releasing hormone (DEX/CRH) test, reported in PTSD cohorts. Importantly, despite low cortisol levels, basal glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity is higher than normal due to the reduced receptor affinity. Thus, individuals with PTSD effectively experience elevated cortisol signaling relative to their GR sensitivity. These findings provide a unified mechanistic explanation for HPA axis dysregulation in PTSD, grounded in the slow time scale of changes in gland functional mass and supported by literature and clinical data.

The study assessed the spatial variability and mapping of soil structural stability in relation to texture and organic matter in Sector F1 of the Jibia Irrigation Project, Katsina State, Nigeria. The area lies in a semi-arid zone with predominantly sandy soils and low organic matter, contributing to poor aggregation and a low structural stability index (SI), which increases erosion risk. A total of 144 georeferenced soil samples were analyzed for texture, SOM, and aggregate stability indicators such as dry and wet mean weight diameter (MWD) and SI. Descriptive statistics showed moderate variability in sand and high variability in silt, clay, and aggregate indices. Semivariogram analysis revealed strong spatial dependence for sand, silt, clay, and dry MWD; moderate for SI; and weak for SOM and wet MWD. Clay had the widest spatial range (8.5 m), indicating stronger intrinsic control than sand (3.24 m) and silt (2.93 m). SOM showed weak spatial structure, likely influenced by land-use practices. The results show that sandy soils with low organic matter content have poor aggregation and weak structural stability, making them susceptible to erosion. Fine-textured components, such as clay and silt, and OM significantly enhance SSI, while high sand content undermines it. Organic matter and fine particles were key to improving soil aggregation and stability. The study highlights the importance of managing soil texture and organic inputs to improve aggregation, moisture retention, and productivity in semi-arid soils. Recommendations include increasing organic inputs, reducing tillage, and adopting targeted irrigation. The exponential model best fitted most semivariograms.

Aim. To evaluate the one-year dynamic effect of complete or incomplete revascularization on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with a history of myocardial infarction (MI) who have preserved or mildly reduced LVEF. Materials and methods. The study included 270 patients with a history of MI. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and coronary angiography (CAG) based on clinical examination findings. Depending on the number of affected atherosclerotic coronary vessels and the extent of stenting performed, patients were divided into three groups: Complete revascularization (CR) (n=115), Incomplete revascularization (IR) (n=94), and No revascularization (NR) (n=61). After the procedure, all patients were discharged with standard treatment. After one year, follow-up echocardiographic assessment of LVEF was performed. Results. In the CR group, LVEF increased significantly from 54.0 [47.0; 59.7] to 55.7 [46.9; 61.4] (p = 0.017). In the IR group, LVEF increased from 53.9 [43.7; 56.4] to 55.7 [46.9; 61.4], but the change was not statistically significant (p = 0.458). In the NR group, LVEF decreased from 50.7 [45.0; 56.3] to 48.2 [41.8; 54.3] (p = 0.011). No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in terms of diastolic function parameters of the left ventricle. Conclusion. In post-infarction patients, complete anatomical revascularization of affected coronary arteries via stenting has a significantly positive impact on the improvement of LVEF.

Aim. Systematic analysis and comparison of different reperfusion therapy methods in patients with ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (STEMI), including primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) and thrombolytic therapy (TLT), with emphasis on time factor and COVID-19 pandemic impact. Materials and methods. A systematic review of prospective randomized and observational studies comparing pPCI and TLT effectiveness in STEMI patients was conducted. Data from major international trials including DANAMI-2 (1572 patients), PRAGUE-2, STAT, GISSI, ISACS-STEMI COVID-19, meta-analyses of 23 studies, and modern global longitudinal strain assessment methods were analyzed. Results. Meta-analysis of 23 randomized studies showed statistically significant pPCI advantages over TLT: 30-day mortality 8.0% vs 13.7% (p=0.0003), recurrent infarction 3.8% vs 7.0% (p<0.05), revascularization need 5.7% vs 25.2% (p<0.001). "Golden hour" concept was confirmed. COVID-19 pandemic led to 19-30.5% reduction in STEMI presentations and worse prognosis. Conclusion. pPCI demonstrates statistically significant advantages over TLT, however method selection should consider time factor and technical availability. Modern global longitudinal strain assessment methods improve prognostic accuracy.

Abstract Plants are constantly challenged by pathogens, which can cause substantial yield losses. The aggressiveness of and damage by pathogens depends on the host-associated microbiome, which might be shaped by plant genetics to improve resistance. How different crop genotypes modulate their microbiota when challenged by a complex of pathogens is largely unknown. Here, we investigate if and how pea ( Pisum sativum L. ) genotypes shape their root microbiota upon challenge by soil-borne pathogens and how this relates to a genotype’s resistance. Building on the phenotyping efforts of 252 pea genotypes grown in naturally infested soil, we characterized root fungi and bacteria by ITS region and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, respectively. Pea genotype markedly affected both fungal and bacterial community composition, and these genotype-specific microbiota were associated with root rot resistance. For example, genotype resistance was correlated (R 2 = 19%) with root fungal community composition. Further, several key microbes, showing a high relative abundance, heritability, connectedness with other microbes, and correlation with plant resistance, were identified. Our findings highlight the importance of crop genotype-specific root microbiota under root rot stress and the potential of the plant to shape its associated microbiota as a second line of defense.

The Canal irrigation network of Pakistan's Indus River Basin (IRB) is one of the world's largest gravity-flow networks, with a significant portion located in Punjab province. The conveyance, delivery, and application of this water to the irrigated crops in the basin result in the loss of more than 50% of its water. This loss of water from the irrigation system is a major source of recharge for the large alluvial aquifer underlying the IRB. Canal lining is carried out as a measure to reduce seepage losses from the conveyance system of irrigation water. On the other hand, canal lining is considered a barrier to aquifer recharge. A study titled “Impact assessment of canal lining in Punjab,” funded by JICA, has been carried out in order to interrogate the comparative performance of lined and unlined canals and their impact on groundwater recharge. We measured seepage losses from 14 selected irrigation-lined canals in Punjab province under actual field conditions using ponding and/or inflow-outflow methods. Results have been compared with pre-lining seepage rates. The results indicate that canal lining has reduced seepage losses by 78%. The heavy pumping in fresh groundwater areas invites saline groundwater from adjacent saline zones. The canal flows at the head have reduced the recharge to groundwater by 9%. Nonetheless, saving from seepage losses by canal lining has increased available water for crops, but it has decreased groundwater recharge.