bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Satisfaction of Students on their Respective Organization at Asian Institute of Maritime Studies
Authors:   Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Domingo Kenneth Vien , Babon Maria Hazel ,   Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Collado Maria Christina ,   Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Bagarino Kristalyn ,   Asian Institute of Maritime Studies
Published: March 2024

The study endeavored to elucidate the performance as well as the satisfaction of students toward their respective student organization in AIMS. Descriptive-correlation was used to determine the significant difference in the performance and satisfaction of the student organizations while documentary analysis was used to assess the performances of the same organizations. Employing stratified random sampling as sampling technique, and using Slovin’s formula to derive the samples, respondents were 244 randomly selected students from course-based organizations at the College of Business (CB) and Maritime College (MC) in AIMS, Pasay City. A validated, self-made survey questionnaire was utilized as data gathering instrument. Data were outsourced at the Center for Student Services (CeSS). To analyze the data, percentage, weighted mean, and analysis of variance were employed as statistical tool for the study. Based on the findings, Nautica Society and Marine Engineering Society (MES) had the largest student organization populations while members who are moderately active also comprise the largest number in terms of population. Performance wise, the AIMS Cyber Mode Society (ACYMOS), Culinarians Hospitality and Entrepreneur Fellow Society (CHEFS), and Junior Executive Society (JES) were student organizations that have almost complied with the required number of activities to be held. In terms of satisfaction, the members of Nautica and MES were only satisfied (WM = 2.7 and 2.6 respectively) with their seminars, community services, other activities, officers elected, and advisers appointed except for MES’ community service with fairly satisfied result mainly because there were no activities held by these student organizations for the previous academic year. PSCAS and NARCHIMES members were also satisfied because of the same reason above. A high satisfaction level was also given to the officers and advisers of other organizations namely CHEFS, JES and ACYMOS because of their active leadership on their respective organizations. Except for the community services rendered, there is no significant difference between the members of the different organization and their level of satisfaction in terms of seminars held, other activities held, officers elected, and advisers appointed. No significant difference was also noted in the performance of the organization and their activities.
In Contempt of the Highest Court in the Land: A Commentary on Secretary of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector, including Organs of State v Zuma and Others 2021 (5) SA 327 (CC)
Authors: Shavhani Romeo
Published: March 2024

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) is reputed to be ‘the best Constitution’ in the world. It is founded on a socio-political desire to move away from the historical realities of apartheid into the constitutional democracy in which the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Ever since the dawn of constitutional democracy, so much has been achieved to provide practical meaning to the founding values of the Constitution. The basis for this case note is former President Jacob Zuma’s actions in 2021 which culminated in contempt of court, which sought to undermine the Constitution’s authority and legitimacy of the Constitutional Court. The ultimate view adopted in this case note is that Mr Zuma succeeded in his project to undermine the Constitution and the Constitutional Court. His actions would threaten to reverse the democratic gains achieved under the Constitution. This case note analyses the reactionary measures taken by the Constitutional Court to assert its authority in light of the attacks that Mr Zuma had launched on the court and its members.
Foxp3 depends on Ikaros for control of regulatory T cell gene expression and function
Authors: Thomas Rajan M. , Pahl Matthew C. , Wang Liqing , Grant Struan F. A. , Hancock Wayne W. , Wells Andrew D.
Published: March 2024

Ikaros is a transcriptional factor required for conventional T cell development, differentiation, and anergy. While the related factors Helios and Eos have defined roles in regulatory T cells (Treg), a role for Ikaros has not been established. To determine the function of Ikaros in the Treg lineage, we generated mice with Treg-specific deletion of the Ikaros gene (
Ikzf1
). We find that Ikaros cooperates with Foxp3 to establish a major portion of the Treg epigenome and transcriptome. Ikaros-deficient Treg exhibit Th1-like gene expression with abnormal expression of IL-2, IFNg, TNFa, and factors involved in Wnt and Notch signaling. While
Ikzf1
-Treg-cko mice do not develop spontaneous autoimmunity, Ikaros-deficient Treg are unable to control conventional T cell-mediated immune pathology in response to TCR and inflammatory stimuli in models of IBD and organ transplantation. These studies establish Ikaros as a core factor required in Treg for tolerance and the control of inflammatory immune responses.
Atlas of Fshr expression from novel reporter mice
Authors: Chen Hongqian , Fang Hui-Qing , Liu Jin-Tao , Chang Shi-Yu , Cheng Li-Ben , Sun Ming-Xin , Feng Jian-Rui , Liu Ze-Min , Zhang Yong-Hong , Rosen Clifford J , Liu Peng
Published: March 2024

The FSH-FSHR pathway has been considered an essential regulator in reproductive development and fertility. But there has been emerging evidence of FSHR expression in extragonadal organs. This poses new questions and long-term debates regarding the physiological role of the FSH-FSHR, and underscores the need for reliable, in vivo analysis of FSHR expression in animal models. However, conventional methods have proven insufficient for examining FSHR expression due to several limitations. To address this challenge, we developed Fshr-ZsGreen reporter mice under the control of Fshr endogenous promoter using CRISPR-Cas9. With this novel genetic tool, we provide a reliable readout of Fshr expression at single-cell resolution level in vivo and in real time. Reporter animals were also subjected to additional analyses,to define the accurate expression profile of FSHR in gonadal and extragonadal organs/tissues. Our compelling results not only demonstrated Fshr expression in intragonadal tissues but also, strikingly, unveiled notably increased expression in Leydig cells, osteoblast lineage cells, endothelial cells in vascular structures, and epithelial cells in bronchi of the lung and renal tubes. The genetic decoding of the widespread pattern of Fshr expression highlights its physiological relevance beyond reproduction and fertility, and opens new avenues for therapeutic options for age-related disorders of the bones, lungs, kidneys, and hearts, among other tissues. Exploiting the power of the Fshr knockin reporter animals, this report provides the first comprehensive genetic record of the spatial distribution of FSHR expression, correcting a long-term misconception about Fshr expression and offering prospects for extensive exploration of FSH-FSHR biology.
Genome-scale annotation of protein binding sites via language model and geometric deep learning
Authors: Yuan Qianmu , Tian Chong , Yang Yuedong
Published: March 2024

Revealing protein binding sites with other molecules, such as nucleic acids, peptides, or small ligands, sheds light on disease mechanism elucidation and novel drug design. With the explosive growth of proteins in sequence databases, how to accurately and efficiently identify these binding sites from sequences becomes essential. However, current methods mostly rely on expensive multiple sequence alignments or experimental protein structures, limiting their genome-scale applications. Besides, these methods haven’t fully explored the geometry of the protein structures. Here, we propose GPSite, a multi-task network for simultaneously predicting binding residues of DNA, RNA, peptide, protein, ATP, HEM, and metal ions on proteins. GPSite was trained on informative sequence embeddings and predicted structures from protein language models, while comprehensively extracting residual and relational geometric contexts in an end-to-end manner. Experiments demonstrate that GPSite substantially surpasses state-of-the-art sequence-based and structure-based approaches on various benchmark datasets, even when the structures are not well-predicted. The low computational cost of GPSite enables rapid genome-scale binding residue annotations for over 568,000 sequences, providing opportunities to unveil unexplored associations of binding sites with molecular functions, biological processes, and genetic variants. The GPSite webserver and annotation database can be freely accessed at https://bio-web1.nscc-gz.cn/app/GPSite.
The relationship between gut and nasopharyngeal microbiome composition can predict the severity of COVID-19
Authors: Martin-Castaño Benita , Diez-Echave Patricia , García-García Jorge , Hidalgo-García Laura , Ruiz-Malagon Antonio Jesús , Molina-Tijeras José Alberto , Rodríguez-Sojo María Jesús , Redruello-Romero Anaïs , Martínez-Zaldívar Margarita , Mota Emilio , Cobo Fernando , Díaz-Villamarin Xando , Alvarez-Estevez Marta , García Federico , Morales-García Concepción , Merlos Silvia , Garcia-Flores Paula , Colmenero-Ruiz Manuel , Hernández-Quero José , Nuñez Maria , Rodriguez-Cabezas Maria Elena , Carazo Angel , Martin Javier , Moron Rocio , Rodríguez Nogales Alba , Galvez Julio
Published: March 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that displays great variability in clinical phenotype. Many factors have been described to be correlated with its severity, and microbiota could play a key role in the infection, progression, and outcome of the disease. SARS-CoV-2 infection has been associated with nasopharyngeal and gut dysbiosis and higher abundance of opportunistic pathogens. To identify new prognostic markers for the disease, a multicentre prospective observational cohort study was carried out in COVID-19 patients divided into three cohorts based on symptomatology: mild (n = 24), moderate (n = 51), and severe/critical (n = 31). Faecal and nasopharyngeal samples were taken, and the microbiota was analysed. Linear discriminant analysis identified Mycoplasma salivarium, Prevotella dentalis, and Haemophilus parainfluenzae as biomarkers of severe COVID-19 in nasopharyngeal microbiota, while Prevotella bivia and Prevotella timonensis were defined in faecal microbiota. Additionally, a connection between faecal and nasopharyngeal microbiota was identified, with a significant ratio between P. timonensis (faeces) and P. dentalis and M. salivarium (nasopharyngeal) abundances found in critically ill patients. This ratio could serve as a novel prognostic tool for identifying severe COVID-19 cases.
The Wild Woman Archetype: A Comparative Study of Motif Correspondence Between “Bluebeard” and the Turkish Fairy Tale “İğci̇ Baba”
Authors:   Faculty of Education, Başkent University, Turkey, Demir Ahmet
Published: March 2024

Given that myths and tales are living and memory areas of archetypes, in this study the French tale “Bluebeard” and the Turkish fairy tale “İğci Baba” are compared both in terms of the wild woman archetype and the motif correspondence based on this archetype. In this respect, two tales are analysed based on archetypal criticism. Moreover, archetypal criticism paves the way for imagery analysis by making it possible to see the collective, universal, and archetypal image of women to be seen through the motif correspondence associated with the wild woman archetype. The correspondence of motifs based on the wild woman archetype makes it possible to compare “Bluebeard” and “İğci Baba”, which are texts from different geographical regions, cultures, and eras. The wild woman archetype and the motifs in the two tales, such as initiation, the forbidden secret room, the irresistible curiosity and desire to know, and the key, are strikingly similar. The encounter with the wild woman archetype in two texts can be explained by the suprapersonal, supracultural and universal character of the archetypes, and the strong correspondence between the two texts based on similar motifs can be explained by the universality of the fairy tales and supracultural motifs.
Dietary plant flavonoid supplementation for poultry as a potent scavenger of hydroxyl radicals and antioxidants: a review
Authors: Negasa Jiregna Gari
Published: March 2024

The poultry industry is paying more attention to plant-based feed additives. Flavonoids are plant secondary metabolites derived from fruits, grains, vegetables, herbs, and medicinal plants. One of the most significant environmental stressors affecting the poultry industry worldwide is heat stress, which lowers the quality and safety of production. An imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s natural antioxidant defenses leads to oxidative stress in cells. These reactive species can damage proteins, lipids, DNA, and cellular structures. Improving the antioxidant status of poultry bodies by feeding them antioxidant-supplemented feed can increase productivity and health. Plant flavonoid compounds have drawn attention from researchers as possible natural antioxidant sources because of their potential for use as feed additives in poultry production. Numerous studies have demonstrated that dietary flavonoids have strong antioxidant effects and can be utilized as a tonic in poultry to improve health and productivity. Overall, research on the antioxidant capacity of plant flavonoids has generally shown promising results; however, there are still significant issues regarding the detrimental effects of flavonoids to be resolved, and measuring oxidative damage in vivo is challenging. This review summarizes the current understanding of dietary plant flavonoid supplementation for poultry as a potent scavenger of hydroxyl radicals and antioxidants.
Assessing the risk of concurrent mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children with tracheobronchial tuberculosis: retrospective study
Authors: Liu Lin , Jiang Jie , Wu Lei , Zeng De miao , Yan Can , Liang Linlong , Shi Jiayun , Xie Qifang
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aimed to create a predictive model based on machine learning to identify the risk for tracheobronchial tuberculosis (TBTB) occurring alongside Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in pediatric patients.

Methods

Clinical data from 212 pediatric patients were examined in this retrospective analysis. This cohort included 42 individuals diagnosed with TBTB and Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (combined group) and 170 patients diagnosed with lobar pneumonia alone (pneumonia group). Three predictive models, namely XGBoost, decision tree, and logistic regression, were constructed, and their performances were assessed using the receiver’s operating characteristic (ROC) curve, precision-recall curve (PR), and decision curve analysis (DCA). The dataset was divided into a 7:3 ratio to test the first and second groups, utilizing them to validate the XGBoost model and to construct the nomogram model.

Results

The XGBoost highlighted eight significant signatures, while the decision tree and logistic regression models identified six and five signatures, respectively. The ROC analysis revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.996 for XGBoost, significantly outperforming the other models (p < 0.05). Similarly, the PR curve demonstrated the superior predictive capability of XGBoost. DCA further confirmed that XGBoost offered the highest AIC (43.226), the highest average net benefit (0.764), and the best model fit. Validation efforts confirmed the robustness of the findings, with the validation groups 1 and 2 showing ROC and PR curves with AUC of 0.997, indicating a high net benefit. The nomogram model was shown to possess significant clinical value.

Conclusion

Compared to machine learning approaches, the XGBoost model demonstrated superior predictive efficacy in identifying pediatric patients at risk of concurrent TBTB and Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. The model’s identification of critical signatures provides valuable insights into the pathogenesis of these conditions.
ANALYSIS OF THE FUNCTIONS OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS – TRADITIONAL APPROACH
Authors: WEINERT Adam , BANAŚ Robert
Published: March 2024

Project management information systems in enterprises help managers to manage, improve and track the progress in the implementation of projects from their conception to the achievement of results. The article reviews the literature and presents the most commonly used applications for storing, organizing and controlling project information in accordance with the traditional approach to project management. The authors analyzed the possibility of implementing the processes and achieving the results defined for them, presented in the Project Management Body of Knowledge, by means of five selected project management information systems. On the basis of the obtained results of research conducted on a group of Project Managers, conclusions were formulated, also indicating directions for further research.
Biochemical Profiling of the Rinds of Commercial Watermelon Cultivars in Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Authors: Safi S.  , Vasudeva K. R.  , Jagadeesh S. L.  , Shivanna M.  , Jayashree U  , Aravind K.
Published: March 2024

Watermelon rind, often considered agricultural waste and frequently disposed of, contributes to environmental problems and biomass loss. This study seeks to analyze the distinct Biochemical profiles of watermelon rind, highlighting variations among different cultivars of Bangalore, Karnataka. Total soluble solids, pH, Moisture, titratable acidity, total carbohydrates, total proteins, ash, fat, total energy, fibre, total sugars, total phenolic contents, total antioxidant activity and L*, a*, b* color values were estimated for six local commercial varieties to observe the differences between them. The rinds of all six cultivars had significant variations for all the parameters. This study provides the first-hand knowledge regarding watermelon rind biochemical profiles and cultivar difference and shows the potential use of rind in food or beverages due to its naturally contained bioactive compounds.
Identification of Antibiotics Susceptibility Patterns at Sub-inhibitory Concentrations in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Williams C. C. , Ajibade G. A. , Dan V. M. Y.
Published: March 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram negative bacterium that has been recognized as an opportunistic pathogen. It is the most common bacterium associated with nosocomial infections and ventilator-associated pneumonia. It exhibits high innate resistance to various ranges of antibiotics thereby causing high morbidity and mortality rate. This research was aimed to identify the antibiotics susceptibility patterns at sub-inhibitory concentration in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. One hundred and fifty (150) clinical swab specimens were collected from urinary catheters; wound and ear infections of patients and the swabs inoculated using standard microbiology method. The isolates were characterized based on the bacteriological methods such as morphology and biochemical tests. The isolates were further confirmed by species specific by PCR amplification of 16S rRNA and the amplicons were analyzed by gel electrophoresis; and further genomic sequencing was done and blast with NCBI database mining. The antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was done by disc diffusion methods. The result of the isolation showed 22(59.46%) from wound infections, 12(32.43%) from ear infections and 3(8.11%) from urinary catheter. The isolates were Gram-negative, produced β-hemolysis on blood agar and the morphology is small pigmented circular. The isolates showed positive results to catalase, oxidase, citrate, nitrate and indole tests. The amplification of the 16S rRNA gene region resulted in the band size of 1500bp PCR product and the BLAST analysis gave 99% similarity. The results of susceptibility analysis showed that the isolates from the urinary catheter, wound and ear infection were 82%, 68% and 47% respectively, resistance to Piperacillin tazobactem, Cefoperazon, Ofloxacin, Tetracycline, Amikacin, Gentamycin, Bacitracin, Clarithromycin, Cefalotin, Levofloxacin and Cefpiroma. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests in P. aeruginosa isolates revealedshowed that they were multi-drug resistant. At sub-inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics within the microbial environment, Pseudomonas aeruginosa becomes more resistant. Perhaps, these antimicrobials could have other signaling activities within the environment. Therefore, there is a need for more research work to develop therapeutics combination to combat the recalcitrant nature of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Expert Opinion on the Prescription Practice of Carbapenem Antibiotics for the Treatment of Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infections in Indian Settings
Authors: S Manjula , M Krishna Kumar
Published: March 2024

Objective: The current survey-based study aims to gather expert opinions on the prescription practice of carbapenem antibiotics for the treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections in Indian clinical settings.

Methods: The cross-sectional, multiple-response questionnaire-based survey involving professionals with expertise in treating pathogenic illnesses was carried out between 2022 and 2023. The questionnaire comprised 25 questions, the majority of which dealt with the use of antibiotics as monotherapy and in various combinations to treat pathogenic illnesses.

Results: Out of 302 survey participants, 83% of them preferred meropenem medications more frequently than imipenem, biapenem, doripenem, and other antibiotics to treat pathogenic infections. For the management of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), or pan-drug-resistant (PDR) infections, approximately 54% of the respondents preferred the administration of 1 gm of IV meropenem in 2 to 3 divided doses. About 61% of the responders suggested using IV meropenem together with colistin to treat infections. The combination of IV meropenem with β-lactams, aminoglycosides, tigecycline, colistin, and others was preferred by 91% of the respondents for the treatment of MDR, XDR, and PDR infections. For treating difficult intra-abdominal infections, meningitis, and urinary tract infections (UTIs), almost 43% of the respondents preferred meropenem in combination with sulbactam.

Conclusion: The survey findings emphasize the prominent role of meropenem, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with other antibiotics in the management of challenging infections caused by MDR, XDR, or PDR pathogens. In specific scenarios involving difficult intra-abdominal infections, meningitis, and UTIs, clinicians recommended meropenem in combination with sulbactam antibiotics.
Shifting Roles of Media in Tanzania: From Development Communication to Watchdog Journalism
Authors: Bulendu Dotto Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

This study examines the implementation and challenges associated with development communication in mainland Tanzania, focusing on news articles and programs from eight media organizations. Surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions were conducted to gather perspectives from journalists, editors, and news consumers. Prior to 1992, Tanzania's media landscape was oriented towards promoting the national development agenda. However, policy changes influenced by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund's Structural Adjustment Program shifted the media's focus towards watchdog journalism, aimed at monitoring government performance. This shift impacted both private and state-owned media entities. Presently, the media landscape in mainland Tanzania is rapidly evolving into a profitable industry, serving as a tool for accountability, government communication, and revenue generation. It's crucial for Tanzanian consumers to actively engage with the diverse media options available, rather than passively consuming information primarily designed to attract advertisers.

The transformation of Tanzania's media landscape from development-oriented to watchdog journalism has significant implications for both media organizations and consumers. While this shift promotes accountability and transparency, it also raises concerns about the role of media in advancing development goals. The findings indicate a need for media organizations to balance their roles as watchdogs and promoters of development. This requires a reevaluation of editorial priorities and a commitment to providing accurate and balanced information to the public. Furthermore, there is a pressing need to enhance media literacy among Tanzanian consumers to empower them to critically evaluate and navigate the diverse media landscape. This includes providing education on media literacy in schools and communities and promoting digital literacy skills to enable access to online information.
Unlocking Nature’s Secret: Microbiological and Nutrient Profiling of Fermented Apple
Authors: Rachael Omodara, Tolani , Elizabeth Ajayi, Olayemi , Omolabake Kotila, Oluwasefunmi
Published: March 2024

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the microbiological and nutrient composition of naturally fermented apple cider.  

Place and Study Duration: Department of Microbiology, between June and August 2023.

Methodology: The purchased apples were weighed, cut into dice, cleaned, and incorporated into distilled water. Subsequently, they were allowed to ferment spontaneously at room temperature in a 500 mL conical flask. The sample was inoculated onto sterilized glucose yeast carbonate agar and subsequently incubated at 30°C for 48 hours. The colony characteristics of the isolates on glucose yeast carbonate agar were observed. Gram’s staining and other standard biochemical tests were performed to identify the isolates. During the fermentation period, the pH of the sample was determined. The proximate content (moisture, protein, crude fat, and carbohydrate) of the apple cider was also analyzed.

Results: Microscopy revealed the isolates to be Gram-negative bacteria with rod-shaped morphology. The growth characteristics of the isolates on selective media and the results of biochemical tests suggested the presence of Acetobacter sp. The pH of the sample tends towards 4.0, suggesting the production of acidic compound. The apple cider produced had a high moisture content (78.04%), and the protein content was 20.04%. The results showed low concentrations of ash content (0.49%), carbohydrate (0.44%), and lipid (0.99%).

Conclusion: The presence of macro and micronutrients in apple cider has been associated with some positive health effects, which are enhanced through fermentation, making them a valuable option for health-conscious consumers.
Studies on Chemical Changes in Burfi Enriched with different Herbs
Authors: Meshram, B.D.  , Apeksha Rokade , Adil Shaikh
Published: March 2024

The investigation was carried out to study the chemical changes taking place in burfi by the addition of several herbs and their comparison with the control product. Different herbs, viz., Withania somnifera (Ashwgandha), Asparagus racemosus (Shatavari), and Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), were incorporated into the blend in the ratio of 5:4:1, respectively, to develop herbal burfi. The combination of herbs was added at levels of 1.00, 1.25, 1.50, and 2.00% by weight of khoa to obtain products designated T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The control product (T0) was prepared in a similar manner but was devoid of herbs. Proximate analysis, including moisture, total solids, fat, lactose, protein, and ash, was conducted. The results show that moisture content decreased significantly (P≤0.05) with increasing herb addition, while total solids increased. Protein content increased with higher herb percentages, likely due to the protein content of the added herbs. Fat and lactose content remained unchanged with herb addition, as herbs do not contribute significantly to these components. Ash content increased with higher herb addition rates, though not significantly (P≥0.05). Overall, the addition of herbs influenced the chemical composition of burfi, impacting moisture, total solids, protein, and ash content with varying degrees of significance.
An Evaluation of Anti-hyperlipidemic Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Moringa oleifera on High Fat Induced Hyperlipidemic Rat Model
Authors: Himi Humayra Zaman , Rahman Md.Mahbubur , Hasan Syed Abir , Cruze Lia Rose Merry D. , Zaman Tasnuva Sharmin , Chowdhury Md. Mustafiz
Published: March 2024

Background: The art or practice of herbal remedies refers to the use of herbs and herbal treatments for the purpose of maintaining health and preventing, treating, or curing sickness. In some areas, herbal treatments can also be referred to as herbal medicine.

Aim: The present study was designed to investigate the antihyperlipidemic and antiatherogenic potentiality of ethanolic extract of Moringa oleifera extract in high fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats.

Materials and Methods: Moringa oleifera ethanolic extract was prepared using Soxhlet apparatus. Male rats were made hyperlipidemic by giving high fat diet. M. oleifera was administered in a dose of 250, 500 and 750 mg/kg.b.w./day for 30 days in high fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats. The SGPT, SGOT, total cholesterol,triglyceride, LDL,HDL , Urea and creatinine levels were measured after the treatment.

Results: For both the SGPT and the SGOT, it was seen that groups 5 and 6 exhibited statistically significant (p< 0.05) outcomes in the case of the SGPT. When conducting the renal function test, it was observed that the levels of creatinine and urea were statistically significant (p< 0.05) in the cases of groups 4, 5, and 6. In the case of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), groups 4, 5, and 6 showed statistically significant findings (p< 0.05) in HDL levels, while groups 5 and 6 showed statistically significant LDL levels. The triglyceride levels in the group were found to be statistically significant (p< 0.05), while the findings obtained from groups 5 and 6 were also found to be statistically significant.

Conclusion: The study revealed that M. oleifera has anti hyperlipidemic activity.
Standardization of Quick Seed Viability Protocol for Pinus roxburghii Sarg. Using Tetrazolium Assay
Authors: Dhaka Ravindra Kumar , Thakur Priya , Kaler Navjot Singh , Sharma Som Dutt , Negi Chaman , Brahmi M. K.
Published: March 2024

Chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) is one of the important tree species among five indigenous pine species of the Himalayan region and is widely distributed throughout the Himalaya. It is used as a commercial timber, fuel wood and pulpwood and also provide resin for various utilities. For the ecological, silvicultural and economical significance, the regeneration of this species is required for restoration and conservation purposes. Before seed sowing in nursery, there is need to know the actual seed vigour and quality of seeds. Therefore, the present experiment was conducted at Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh of India to standardized a quick seed viability testing protocol using tetrazolium (TZ) and confirmed with laboratory seed germination testing. The tetrazolium test and germination test were conducted with 100 seeds in 4 replications in CRD design as per the procedure devised by ISTA and analyzed with OPSTAT statistical software. After pre-moistening, chir pine seeds were cut longitudinally into two parts away from the radicle end to expose the embryo. The seeds of the species stained with 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 % solution of TZ and incubated at 25, 30 and 35 °C temperature in the darkness for 12, 24 and 36 hours. The result of TZ test showed that the seeds of chir pine soaked in 0.5 % tetrazolium solution at 25 °C temperature for 24 hours found to be the best one for the seed vigour and seed quality testing. For predicting the accurate seed viability, RMS (root mean square) method was used and recognized six staining seed categories distinguished 1 to 6. Seed category 1 denoted as viable seeds and category 6 as non-viable seeds. Result showed that the topographical staining categories 1, 2 and 3 provided least root mean square value and recommended these as viable seed categories for TZ seed viability test. Furthermore, it is also compared with laboratory seed germination test to standardize the seed viability protocol and result in line with the conformity. Overall, the results of the present study fulfilled all the gaps and criteria of quick seed viability testing in chir pine species and standardized protocol could be used for future seed vigour testing within a short period of time for the forest restoration and conservation purpose.
Optimizing Hydrogen and Ammonia Injection Timing for Enhanced Mixture Formation in Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Guo Shuman , Lou Zhichao , Zhang Xu , Shen Shaokai , Meng Jintao , Wang Jiaqi , Zhou Chunjian
Published: March 2024

Hydrogen and ammonia are two carbon-free alternative fuels for engines. They represent some of the most viable pathways toward achieving our objectives of energy conservation and reducing emissions. To research the quality of the hydrogen-ammonia-air mixture formation under different hydrogen/ammonia injection timing, a three-dimensional simulation model for a PFI(Port Fuel Injection) hydrogen internal combustion engine with the inlet, outlet, valves and cylinder was established using Converge software. Research focused on the space distribution characteristics and variation law of velocity field, concentration field and turbulent kinetic energy under different injection timings in order to reveal the influence of these parameters on hydrogen-ammonia-air mixture formation process. The results showed that hydrogen injection should be neither too early nor too late. Backfiring can be initiated too early or too late. Therefore, the optimum starting point for hydrogen/ammonia injection should be 338°CA.
Bioactive Feed Ingredients used in Aquaculture: A Review
Authors: Jitendrasinh Rana Rushirajsinh , Kotiya A. S. , Dipakbhai Jungivala Mansi
Published: March 2024

Food security is a critical concern for nations like India, where poverty affects access to nutritious food for a significant portion of the population. While India has made strides in addressing this issue through agricultural revolutions, evolving demands necessitate a reformation in aquaculture practices. With a global surge in demand for fish and fisheries products due to their nutritional benefits, aquaculture has become pivotal. However, the intensification of aquaculture brings risks such as disease outbreaks and rising costs of essential feed ingredients like fish meal, particularly impacting the shrimp industry. To mitigate these challenges, exploring alternatives like bioactive feed additives sourced from marine and agricultural origins emerges as a promising solution. Marine derivatives such as algae offer nutritional benefits and bioactive compounds, while agri-industrial wastes provide versatile applications, including medicinal plant extracts and plant-based ingredients. Additionally, complex bioactive feed ingredients like probiotics, prebiotics, metabiotics, and phytobiotics show promise for enhancing the health and productivity of cultivated aquatic organisms. Integration of these alternatives into aquaculture practices presents a sustainable approach to improving food security, feeding efficiency, animal health and economic sustainability in India and beyond.
Comparative Effects of Fermented and Unfermented Parkia biglobosa Bean Seeds in Diabetic Induced Experimental Rats
Authors: Rachael Omodara, Tolani , Anthony Awoyinka, Olayinka , Olubunmi Omojokun, Ayomide
Published: March 2024

Aims: The present work investigates the hypoglycemic effect of fermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa (PB, African locust beans) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Its effect was compared with that of unfermented Parkia biglobosa.

Methodology: In order to assess the hypoglycemic effects of the fermented seeds on experimental animals, fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were determined. The microbiota analysis of the fecal sample was also determined.

Result: Alloxan administered to the rats significantly increased the FBS of the test animals. However, dietary supplementation with fermented PB for three weeks ameliorated the FBS of the rats like that of the unfermented group. The animals fed with fermented Parkia biglobosa gained weight like those fed with unfermented Parkia biglobosa. High levels of HDL and low levels of LDL were observed in animals treated with fermented Parkia biglobosa compared with low levels of HDL and high levels of LDL observed in animals treated with unfermented Parkia biglobosa.

Conclusion: The results of this present study demonstrate that both fermented and unfermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa exert a hypoglycemic effect. Hence, Parkia biglobosa has an anti-diabetic property with fermented form seemingly better.
Monitoring and evaluation of vaccination coverage of the yellow fever vaccine: integrative review / Monitoramento e avaliação da cobertura vacinal da vacina contra febre amarela:revisão integrativa
Authors: Laurindo Cosme Rezende , Miranda Sergio Vinicius Cardoso de
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: descrever as estratégias de monitoramento e avaliação da cobertura vacinal de vacina contra febre amarela (FA) no Brasil. Método: revisão integrativa nas bases Lilacs, BDENF, Medline e SciELO. Utilizou-se operadores booleanos e de truncamento para construir a estratégia de busca a partir das palavras chaves: Monitoramento; Avaliação; Cobertura vacinal; Febre amarela. Cinco artigos foram selecionados. Resultados: Identificou-se estratégias de monitoramento da cobertura vacinal da vacina contra FA (ex: cálculos de cobertura vacinal e de doses aplicadas; Monitoramento Rápido de Coberturas Vacinais, entre outras). Assim como estratégias de avaliação (ex: alcance de meta da cobertura preconizada; número de casos confirmados de FA, entre outras). Conclusão: Além do alcance do objetivo, com construção de um quadro-síntese, pôde-se observar limitação do número de artigos encontrados e incipiência na elaboração de estudos nesta área.
Speciation of Uranyl Nitrato Complexes in Acetonitrile and in the Ionic Liquid 1‐Butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium Bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide
Authors: Servaes Kelly , Hennig Christoph , Billard Isabelle , Gaillard Clotilde , Binnemans Koen , Görller‐Walrand Christiane , Van Deun Rik
Published: September 2007

Complex formation between the uranyl ion and nitrate ions in acetonitrile and the ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([C4mim][Tf2N]) has been studied by absorption, magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) and uranium LIII EXAFS spectroscopy. The experimental results point to the existence of a trinitrate species [UO2(NO3)3]– with D3h symmetry in both solvents. The atomic distances in the uranium(VI) coordination sphere for the trinitrato complex in acetonitrile are U–Oax = 1.77 ± 0.01 Å and U–Oeq = 2.48 ± 0.01 Å. EXAFS data show that the uranyl ion in the ionic liquid is surrounded by six oxygen atoms in the equatorial plane at a distance of 2.49 ± 0.01 Å. The U–N distance of 2.92 ± 0.01 Å indicates a bidentate coordination of the nitrate group in both solvents. A structural comparison is made between the uranyl trinitrato complex anion [UO2(NO3)3]– and the uranyl tricarbonato complex anion [UO2(CO3)3]4–. No evidence is found for the presence of uranyl nitrato complexes in aqueous solution. The optical absorption, MCD and EXAFS spectra resemble those of the hydrated free uranyl ion. There are two axial oxygen atoms at 1.77 ± 0.01 Å and five equatorial oxygen atoms at 2.41 ± 0.01 Å. These values agree well with structural parameters obtained for the uranyl aqua ion.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Elimination of SAS Interferences in Catalytic Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetric Determination of Cr(VI) by Means of Fumed Silica
Authors: Niewiara Ewa , Baś Bogusław , Kubiak Władysław W.
Published: September 2007

In the work the procedure of chromium(VI) determination by catalytic adsorptive stripping voltammetry (CAdSV) with application of fumed silica, is presented. Two variants of the method are proposed: in the first fumed silica is put directly to the electrolytic cell containing tested solution, in the second the silica is shaken with the sample and next centrifuged. The effectiveness of many surface‐active substances removal from synthetic solutions as well as natural water samples, is studied. In the experiments the fumed silica (Sigma‐Aldrich) of the specific surface area in the range 200–390 m2 g−1 was used. Two types of the working electrodes were applied, i.e., hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE) and cyclic renewable mercury film electrode (Hg(Ag)FE). In the silica presence i) the relative standard deviation (RSD) for 0.1 μg L−1 Cr(VI) is <2% (HMDE) and <5% (Hg(Ag)FE), n=7, ii) the detection limits estimated deposition time 20 s were respectively 14 ng L−1 (HMDE) and 22 ng L−1 (Hg(Ag)FE). The accuracy of the method was tested by studying the recovery of Cr(VI) from spiked natural water samples.
Supplementary data confirming the relationship between critical Shields stress, grain size and bed slope
Authors: Pender Gareth , Shvidchenko Andrey B. , Chegini Amir
Published: September 2007

This article presents new experimental data on threshold conditions for motion of coarse uniform sediments. The experiments were conducted with 2·8 mm gravel in a 7·5 m long by 0·3 m wide flume and included measurements of hydraulic characteristics and rate of bed particle movement for a range of flows at different bed slopes. A reference transport method was used to define the beginning of sediment motion. Results from experiments with glass balls (diameters 6 and 9 mm) and coarse uniform gravels (17·5 and 38·6 mm) conducted by other researchers were used as an additional independent data set. The experimental data confirm the recent finding that the critical Shields stress for motion of coarse uniform sediment varies with both grain size and bed slope. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NF‐kB and caspases are involved in the hyaluronan and chondroitin‐4‐sulphate‐exerted antioxidant effect in fibroblast cultures exposed to oxidative stress
Authors: Campo Giuseppe M. , Avenoso Angela , Campo Salvatore , D'Ascola Angela , Traina Paola , Samà Dario , Calatroni Alberto
Published: September 2007

Oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis play a critical role in the onset and progression of cellular damage. It was previously reported that hyaluronan (HA) and chondroitin‐4‐sulphate (C4S) were able to protect human skin fibroblasts from oxidative stress. This antioxidant activity is due to the chelation of transition metal ions. Nuclear factor kB (NF‐kB), complexed with the inhibitory protein IkBα, is an ubiquitous response transcription factor involved in inflammatory reactions and acts by inducing cytokine expression, chemokines and cell adhesion molecules. Caspases are specific proteases responsible for the regulation and the execution of apoptotic cell death. The damage caused by free radicals may be amplified greatly by the activation of these factors. The study investigated whether the ability of these glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) to reduce oxidative damage in fibroblast cultures involves NF‐kB and caspases modulation.

The treatment of fibroblasts with both HA and C4S limited the cell damage induced by FeSO4 plus ascorbate. An interesting aspect of this treatment was that these GAGs significantly inhibited NF‐kB DNA binding, as confirmed by the normalization of IkBα protein, and reduced caspase activation at both mRNA and protein level. A possible explanation for these results, since lipid peroxidation intermediates may induce NF‐kB and caspase activation, is that HA and C4S indirectly blocked NF‐kB DNA binding and apoptosis by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.

These data suggest that, during oxidative stress, HA and C4S may reduce cell damage by inhibiting NF‐kB and apoptosis activation as well as protecting cells from free radical attack. According to these finding the use of HA and C4S could be positive both as tool to clarify the exact mechanism of GAGs/ROS interaction, and also as drug therapy to reduce oxidative stress during inflammation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of UV Curing on Electrical Properties of a UV‐Curable co‐Polyacrylate/Silica Nanocomposite as a Transparent Encapsulation Resin for Device Packaging
Authors: Wang Yu‐Young , Hsieh Tsung‐Eong
Published: September 2007

Electrical properties of UV‐curable co‐polyacrylate/silica nanocomposite resins prepared via sol‐gel process for device encapsulation were investigated. It was found that, by appropriate UV curing process and the formation of nanoscale silica particles finely dispersed in the resin matrix, the leakage current density of the nanocomposite resin films decreases from 235 to 1.3 nA · cm−2 at the applied electrical field of 10 kV · cm−1. The silica nanoparticles also restricted the motions of polar functional groups in organic matrix that the nanocomposite films with satisfactory dielectric properties [dielectric constant (ε) = 3.93 and tangent loss (tanδ = 0.0472) could be obtained. Chemical structure analyses revealed that excessive UV curing results in photooxidation and/or photodegradation in resin samples, leading to the polar groups and ionic/radical segments in organic matrix as well as the SiOSi structure in the vicinity of silica nanoparticles. These organic/inorganic functional groups generated more permeation paths for charge carrier migration and hence deteriorated the electrical properties of the nanocomposite samples. Though post‐baking treatment at 80 °C for 1 h followed by UV curing improved the rigidity of the resin sample, it brought the polar functional groups closer to each other and similarly degraded electrical properties of the nanocomposite resins.

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High‐efficiency blue light‐emitting polymers based on 3,6‐silafluorene and 2,7‐silafluorene
Authors: Wang Ergang , Li Chun , Peng Junbiao , Cao Yong
Published: September 2007

A novel blue‐emitting polymer based on 3,6‐silafluorene and 2,7‐silafluorene was synthesized via the Suzuki polycondensation. The resulting polymers are readily soluble in common organic solvents, such as toluene, xylene, THF, and chloroform. The thermal, electrochemical, photophysical, and electroluminescence properties of the resulting polymers were investigated. The device fabricated from the copolymer with a configuration of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/PVK/polymer/Ba/Al exhibited an external quantum efficiency of 1.95%, a luminous efficiency of 1.69 cd A−1 and a maximal brightness of 6000 cd m−2. It has been found that the incorporation of the 3,6‐silafluorene unit into the poly(2,7‐silafluorene) main chain can not only improve the color purity of the devices from the resulting copolymer but also enhance its device efficiency. Moreover, no undesired long‐wavelength green emission was observed in the PL spectra of P36‐27SiF90 compared to that of PFO with a dominating emission at 500–600 nm after thermal annealing at 200 °C for 8 h. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 4941–4949, 2007
Chemical lonization mass spectrometry of fatty acids: The effect of functional groups on the CI spectra1
Authors: Plattner R. D. , Gardner H. W. , Kleiman R.
Published: September 2007

Chemical ionization (CI) mass spectra of functionally substituted fatty esters are a useful aid in determining molecular weight. Isobutane and ammonia CI mass spectra of various hydroxy, keto, epoxy and hydroperoxy fatty esters are reported and discussed.