bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing Dark State Kinetics and Single Molecule Fluorescence of FusionRed and FusionRed-MQ at Low Irradiances
Authors: Mukherjee Srijit , Thomas Connor , Wilson Ryan , Simmerman Emma , Hung ShengTing , Jimenez Ralph
Published: January 2022

The presence of dark states causes fluorescence intermittency of single molecules due to transitions between “on” and “off” states. Genetically encodable markers such as fluorescent proteins (FPs) exhibit dark states that make several super-resolved single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) methods possible. However, studies quantifying the timescales and nature of dark state behavior for commonly used FPs under conditions typical of widefield and total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy remain scarce and pre-date many new SMLM techniques. FusionRed is a relatively bright red FP exhibiting fluorescence intermittency and has thus been identified as a potential candidate for SMLM. We herein characterize the rates for dark-state conversion and the subsequent ground-state recovery of FusionRed and its 2.5-fold brighter descendent FusionRed L175M M42Q (FusionRed-MQ) at low irradiances (1-10 W/cm2), which were previously unexplored experimental conditions. We characterized the kinetics of dark state transitions in these two FPs by using single molecule blinking and ensemble photobleaching experiments bridged with a dark state kinetic model. We find that at low irradiances, the recovery process to the ground state is minimally light-driven and FusionRed-MQ has a 1.3-fold higher ground state recovery time indicating a conformationally restricted dark-state chromophore in comparison to FusionRed. Our studies indicate that the brighter FusionRed-MQ exhibits higher tendency in dark state conversion, thus it is potentially a better candidate for SMLM applications than its progenitor FusionRed.
Enzyme-Independent Interaction of Pyridoxal-5’-Phosphate with Cysteine
Authors: Mulay Prajakatta , Chen Cindy , Krishna Vijay
Published: January 2022

Pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP), commonly known as Vitamin B6, is a versatile co-factor that assists in different types of enzymatic reactions. PLP has also been reported to react with substrates and catalyze some of these reactions independent of enzymes. One such catalytic reaction is the breakdown of cysteine to produce hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in the presence of multivalent metal ions. However, the catalytic activity of PLP in catabolizing cysteine in the absence of multivalent ions is unknown. In this study, we show that, under physiological conditions and in the absence of enzymes and multivalent metal ions, PLP reacts with cysteine to form a thiazolidine product. The formation of a thiazolidine product is supported by quantum chemical simulation of the absorption spectrum. The reaction of PLP with cysteine is dependent on ionic strength and pH. The thiazolidine product slowly decomposes to produce H2S and the PLP regenerates to its active form with longer reaction times (>24 hours), suggesting that PLP can act as a catalyst. We have proposed an enzyme-independent plausible reaction mechanism for PLP-cysteine catalysis which proceeds through the formation of thiazolidine ring intermediates that later hydrolyzes slowly to regenerate the PLP. This work demonstrates that PLP catalyzes cysteine in the absence of (i) enzymes, (ii) base, and (iii) multivalent metal ions to produce H2S.
Techno-economic Analysis of High-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage for On-Demand Heat and Power
Authors: Peng Peng , Yang Lin , Menon Akanksha , Weger Nathaniel , Prasher Ravi , Breunig Hanna , Lubner Sean
Published: January 2022

Herein we present a concept of a high-temperature, thermal energy storage (HT-TES) system for large-scale long duration energy storage (>10 hours) applications. The system relies on tunable composite ceramic materials with high electrical conductivity and can output the stored energy flexibly in the form of heat at 1100 degrees C or higher, and as electricity. We model the performance and cost of the system in a techno-economic analysis to identify key material and system properties influencing viability. For applications with daily operation (12 hours storage duration), we find achieving levelized storage costs below US Department of Energy’s 5 ₵/kWhe (1-2.5 ₵/kWhth equivalent) target by 2030 is possible. Candidate materials should have above 600-900 high-temperature cycle stability while offering at least 104 S/m of electrical conductivity. Our results suggest this system can be economical for longer storage durations (weeks to months) when coupled with intermittent charging using surplus renewable energy sources.
Local thermodynamics of alcohols from THz-calorimetry: Spectroscopic fingerprints of entropic loss and enthalpic gain
Authors: Pezzotti Simone , Sebastiani Federico , van Dam Eliane P. , Ramos Sashary , Conti Nibali Valeria , Schwaab Gerhard , Havenith Martina
Published: January 2022

Hydration free energies are dictated by a subtle balance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions. which is crucial for many biological processes and technological applications, such as protein folding and molecular recognition. Whereas so far the overall entropy and enthalpy are experimentally determined based on equilibrium measurements using a calorimeter, we present here a pure spectroscopic access to these important observables, which give direct access to the underlying molecular mechanism that determines these driving forces. Using THz calorimetry the contributions due to cavity formation and hydrophilic interactions can be traced back to changes in the intermolecular hydrogen bond stretching region around 150-200 cm−1 and spectroscopic changes due to strong solute-water interactions in the frequency range of the librational modes, i.e. between 540 and 600 cm−1. Thus, we are able to link the thermodynamic model of the Lum-Chandler-Weeks theory, which was a pure ”Gedankenexperiment”, directly to experimental observables. We show that alcohol hydration can be described by a sum of a free energy cost of forming and wrapping a cavity around the solute (which is entropic for small alcohols) and an enthalpic gain due to the hydrogen bonds formed between the alcohol OH group and bound water molecules around it. In the future, our approach will allow to quantify entropic cost and enthalpic gain not only in equilibrium but also in non-equilibrium processes.
Periplasmic bacterial biomineralization of copper sulfide nanoparticles
Authors: Park Yeseul , Eyal Zohar , Pekker Péter , Chevrier Daniel M. , Lefèvre Christopher T. , Arnoux Pascal , Armengaud Jean , Monteil Caroline L. , Gal Assaf , Pósfai Mihály , Faivre Damien
Published: January 2022

Metal sulfides are a common group of extracellular bacterial biominerals. Only few cases of intracellular biomineralization have been reported in this group, mostly limited to greigite (Fe3S4) in magnetotactic bacteria. Here, we report the intracellular but periplasmic biomineralization of copper sulfide by the magnetotactic bacterium Desulfamplus magnetovallimortis (strain BW-1) that is known to mineralize greigite and magnetite (Fe3O4) in the cytoplasm. BW-1 produces hundreds of spherical nanoparticles, composed of 1-2 nm substructures of a poorly crystalline hexagonal copper sulfide that remains in a thermodynamically unstable state. Differential proteomics suggests that periplasmic proteins, such as a DegP-like protein and a heavy metal-binding protein, could be involved in this process. The unexpected periplasmic formation of copper sulfide nanoparticles in BW-1 reveals previously unknown possibilities for intracellular biomineralization.
Tuaimenal A, a meroterpene from the Irish deep-sea soft coral Drifa sp., displays antiviral and antiproliferative bioactivity.
Authors: Avalon Nicole E. , Nafie Jordan , Smalley Tracess , De Marco Verissimo Carolina , Dietrick Sarah G. , Young Ryan M. , Warrensford Luke C. , Pittman Amanda R. , Kearns Fiona L. , Binning Jennifer M. , Dalton John P. , Johnson Mark P. , Woodcock H. Lee , Allcock A. Louise , Baker Bill J.
Published: January 2022

Cold water benthic environments are a prolific source of structurally diverse molecules with a range of bioactivity against human disease. Specimens of a previously chemically unexplored soft coral, Drifa sp., were collected during a deep-sea cruise that sampled marine invertebrates along the Irish continental margin in 2018. Tuaimenal A (1), a cyclized merosesquiterpenoid representing a new carbon scaffold with a highly substituted chromene core, was discovered through exploration of the soft coral secondary metabolome via NMR-guided fractionation. Absolute stereochemistry was determined through vibrational circular dichroism. Functional assays and in silico docking experiments found tuaimenal A active against two major health burdens: SARS-CoV-2 and cancer. Biochemical and cell-based assays established that tuaimenal A effectively and selectively inhibits the viral main protease (3CLpro) and mitigates proliferation of cervical cancer cells lines. Given the need for novel treatment options for both diseases, our data suggest that tuaimenal A and/or its derivates could culminate in the development of a unique and effective drug.
Disposable spectrofluidic devices for attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy: characterization sensitivity, spatial resolution and generally applicable to multiple device types
Authors: Jia Nan , Daignault Bouchard Arthur , Deng Tianyang , Torres de Oliveira Leon , Bégin-Drolet André , Greener Jesse
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we present a generalizable method for the fabrication of disposable spectrofluidic devices for solution characterization by attenuated total reflectance (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A major design feature is the integration of an ATR element into the device rather than the fabrication of the microchannels on its sensing surface. This alleviates spatial limitations, due to small element footprint and dominance of edge-beading, enabling arbitrarily complex microfluidic circuitry and complex world-to-chip interfaces while leaving the entire ATR element available for sensing. An optimized optical interface maximizes light transfer into the on-chip sensing chamber. This promotes low limits of detection, fast measurements and/or designs featuring multiple sensing sub regions. To demonstrate the approach, we conducted measurements on complex flow profiles generated from four separate proof-of-concept spectrofluidic devices. A high sensitivity device detected glucose and sodium phosphate dibasic(Na2HPO4) at concentrations as low as 3 mM and 1 mM, respectively or and for time-lapse results with second-scale time resolution from single-scan measurements. We also demonstrated spatial selectivity for assays in parallel channels, measurements of concentration gradients in a multi-laminar co-flow device, and monitored fast kinetics of the protonation of a pH buffer in a microfluidic reactor.
Evaluating the use of absolute binding free energy in the fragment optimization process.
Authors: Alibay Irfan , Magarkar Aniket , Seeliger Daniel , Biggin Philip
Published: January 2022

Key to the fragment optimization process is the need to accurately capture the changes in affinity that are associated with a given set of chemical modifications. Due to the weakly binding nature of fragments, this has proven to be a challenging task, despite recent advancements in leveraging experimental and computational methods. In this work, we evaluate the use of Absolute Binding Free Energy (ABFE) calculations in guiding fragment optimization decisions, retrospectively calculating binding free energies for 59 ligands across 4 fragment elaboration campaigns. We first demonstrate that ABFEs can be used to accurately rank fragment-sized binders with an overall Spearman’s r of 0.89 and a Kendall τ of 0.67, although often deviating from experiment in absolute free energy values with an RMSE of 2.75 kcal/mol. We then also show that in several cases, retrospective fragment optimization decisions can be supported by the ABFE calculations. Cases that were not supported were often limited by large uncertainties in the free energy estimates, however generally the right direction in ΔΔG is still observed. Comparing against cheaper endpoint methods, namely Nwat-MM/GBSA, we find that ABFEs offer better outcomes in ranking binders, improving correlation metrics, although a similar confidence in retrospective synthetic decisions is achieved. Our results indicate that ABFE calculations are currently at the level of accuracy that can be usefully employed to gauge which fragment elaborations are likely to offer the best gains in affinity.
A photo-responsive modulation of trans-zeatin
Authors: Cheng Liang , Sun Xin , Liu Li
Published: January 2022

Photo-irradiation of an appropriately designed caged hormones enables the control and manipulation of the corresponding biological processes with high spatial and temporal resolution. Caged trans-zeatin of various types of nitrobenzene carbonate related photoremovable protecting groups have been synthesized. A rapid irradiation liberates the trapped trans-zeatin molecule, permitting targeted perturbation of biological processes including degradation, glucosylation and recognition by appropriate enzymes.
Optical 4D oxygen mapping of microperfused tissue models with tunable in vivo-like 3D oxygen microenvironments
Authors: Wesseler Milan Finn , Johansen Mathias Nørbæk , Kiziltay Aysel , Mortensen Kim , Larsen Niels Bent
Published: January 2022

Sufficient and controllable oxygen supply is essential for in vitro 3D cell and tissue culture at high cell densities, which calls for volumetric in situ oxygen analysis methods to quantitatively assess the oxygen distribution. This paper presents a general approach for accurate and precise non-contact 3D mapping of oxygen tension in high cell-density cultures via embedded commercially available oxygen microsensor beads read out by confocal phosphorescence lifetime microscopy (PLIM). Optimal acquisition conditions and data analysis procedures are established and implemented in a publicly available software package. The versatility of the established method is first demonstrated in model-assisted fluidic design of microperfused 3D printed hydrogel culture chips with the aim of full culture oxygenation, and subsequently for monitoring and maintenance of physiologically relevant spatial and temporal oxygen gradients in the 3D printed chips controlled by static or dynamic flow conditions during 3D culture.
Alternative Perspective on Rapid Wine Oxidation through Changes in Gas-Phase Volatile Concentrations, Highlighted by Matrix Component Effects
Authors: Zhu Wenyao , Benkwitz Frank , Kilmartin Paul
Published: January 2022

A new perspective is presented to investigate the sensorially relevant gas-phase concentrations of volatile compounds in wine. This is achieved by measuring the partition coefficients and matrix-phase concentrations of volatiles using static headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (SHS-GC-IMS). Physicochemical properties that can contribute to the partition behaviors of ten volatile esters, such as hydrophobicity and matrix temperature, are also discussed. Partition coefficients are then linked to quantitative measurements to obtain partial pressures, which describes the availability of volatile compounds in the gas phase. The concept of partition coefficients and partial pressure have then been applied to a time series of aroma changes due to oxidation in commercial wines. As a follow-up study, a full factorial design was devised to inspect the impact of three common wine matrix components, namely, copper, polyphenols and ascorbic acid, on the partial pressure changes after 30-day oxidation treatment in either full-alcohol or low-alcohol simulated wine matrices. Interesting interactive effects between antioxidant behaviors and alcohol levels were elucidated, especially around the controversial use of ascorbic acid in winemaking. These results can guide winemakers who wish to minimize oxidative damage to wine aroma during wine storage or bulk transport, where ullage may be present or continual oxygen ingress may be occurring.
Manifestation of Energy and Entropy of Particles in a Box
Authors: Farshad Mohsen
Published: January 2022

The energy and entropy, expressed in free energy, determine the behavior of a system. Therefore, infinite knowledge of these two quantities leads to precise prediction of the system's trajectories. Here, we study how the energy and entropy affect the distribution of a two-component system in a box. First, using a model, we intuitively show that large particles prefer to position at contact with the wall as it accompanies an increase of the system's entropy. We intuitively show that this is a consequence of maximizing the accessible states for fluctuating degrees of freedom as a portion of excluded volumes reside outside of the box when they locate near the wall. Then we employ molecular dynamics simulations to extract the effect of entropy and energy on the binary mixture distribution and how they compete with each other to determine the system's configuration. While particle-particle and particle-wall attraction energies affect the distribution of particles, we show that the emergent entropic forces --- quasi-gravitational --- have a significant contribution to the configuration of the system. This system is realized clearly for a binary mixture of hard spheres in a box with reflective walls.
Real-Space Interpretation of Interatomic Charge Transfer and Electron Exchange Effects by Combining Static and Kinetic Potentials and Associated Vector Fields
Authors: Shteingolts Sergey A. , Stash Adam I. , Tsirelson Vladimir G. , Fayzullin Robert R.
Published: January 2022

Intricate behavior of one-electron potentials from the Euler equation for electron density and corresponding gradient force fields in crystals was studied. Bosonic and fermionic quantum potentials were utilized in bonding analysis as descriptors of the localization of electrons and electron pairs. Channels of locally enhanced kinetic potential and the corresponding saddle Lagrange points were found between chemically bonded atoms linked by the bond paths. Superposition of electrostatic φ_es (r) and kinetic φ_k (r) potentials and electron density ρ(r) allowed partitioning any molecules and crystals into atomic ρ- and potential-based φ-basins; the φ_k-basins explicitly account for electron exchange effect, which is missed for φ_es-ones. Phenomena of interatomic charge transfer and related electron exchange were explained in terms of space gaps between ρ- and φ-zero-flux surfaces. The gap between φ_es- and ρ-basins represents the charge transfer, while the gap between φ_k- and ρ-basins is proposed to be a real-space manifestation of sharing the transferred electrons. The position of φ_k-boundary between φ_es- and ρ-ones within an electron occupier atom determines the extent of electron sharing. The stronger an H‧‧‧O hydrogen bond is, the deeper hydrogen atom’s φ_k-basin penetrates oxygen atom’s ρ-basin. For covalent bonds, a φ_k-boundary closely approaches a φ_es-one indicating almost complete sharing the transferred electrons, while for ionic bonds, the same region corresponds to electron pairing within the ρ-basin of an electron occupier atom.
Instability of Charge Qubit Outfitted in a Double Quantum Dot
Authors: Filikhin I. , Karoui A. , Mitic V. , Zatezalo T. , Vlahovic B.
Published: January 2022

We study electron tunneling in binary quantum systems as double quantum dot (DQD) and double quantum well (DQW), considered as two-level systems. The Schrodinger equation for this system is reduced using single band kp-effective Hamiltonian, and is solved numerically. We calculate full electron spectrum E, n = 1,2 ... in the bi-confinement potential. The tunneling in DQD is studied in relation to two factors, a coupling coefficient W and an asymmetry factor A of the potential. The ratio W/A defines the electron localization in DQD. The cases of ideal and almost ideal DQD are examined and compared. We are modeling the effects of environmental influence and fluctuations of electrical pulse on the coherence of DQD based charge qubit. In particular, we show that the coupling in the ideal DQD (A=0) is unstable for any small fluctuations of A.
SUGGESTED OPINION BY THE CLIENTS FOR IMPROVING STANDARD OF SERVICE ON URBAN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SERVICES DELIVERY PROJECT WORKING IN SELECTED MUNICIPALITY, BANGLADESH
Authors: Reza Hasan Mahfuz , Mukit Sarkar Md. Abdul
Published: January 2022

Good health of the common people is a basic requirement for national development. As Bangladesh is one of the fastest growing economics in South Asia, the health status of its Population is vital for the sustainable of their socio-economic development. Government and NGOs have been providing primary health care through a variety of outlets ranging from satellite clinics through primary health care centers, many new and innovative programs are in operation now. This study aimed to examine suggested opinion by the clients for improving standard of service on Urban Primary Health Care Services Delivery Project working in selected Municipality. This was a cross-sectional study carried out at three urban primary health care centers in Kushtia Municipality, Bangladesh. A sample of 576 patients was selected for this study by random sampling. The data were collected through questionnaires were processed using SPSS statistical software. Suggested opinion regarding improving standard were ensuring availability of doctor/nurse in due time (7.1%), behavior of the clinic staffs would be more friendly (13.0%), increasing lab test facilities (16.0%), improvement overall management (14.8%) and ensuring free treatment for the poor patient (11.6%). Though the overall health care services of the health centers were good, the clients gave some of their opinion to develop the standard of NGO clinic services.
BIOMEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT IN THE DENTAL CLINICS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Sharma Abhimanyu , Sekhsaria Sneha , Khatri Rajni , Chandra Lokesh , Mishra Sonal
Published: January 2022

Biomedical waste management is one of the emerging causes for Hospital Acquired Infection, which is very important to deal with due to its significant impact on the health and environment. Biomedical waste generated in dental clinics and hospitals if not managed properly, can create various health hazards to dental professionals, dental auxiliaries, patients and other dental health care service providers who work in dental office. Each dental health care provider should have knowledge about handling and disposal of biomedical waste. In this article different methods of handling and disposal of biomedical waste during the unprecedented times of COVID-19 are elaborated. Revised guidelines are provided by central pollution control board (Govt of India), American dental association, Centre for disease control, world health organization and other organizations dealing with waste management are discussed in this article.
SCIENCE-BASED TERRITORY DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY IN ORDER TO ACCELERATION OF AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION AND DISSEMINATION
Authors: Aldillah Rizma , Wahyuni Rahmi
Published: January 2022

In the fact field varies inversely household that the conditions of the majority of farmers are poor families. One of the solution of this is in development of an area based science in order to accelerate the event innovation. The purpose of this paper is to identify the internal and external the tsp bptp sumbar and development strategy the tsp bptp sumbar based as the area of agricultural science in order to accelerate the event innovation. The study is done in the TSP west sumatra on the moon mei-juli in 2019. The research was done with data collection method that is survey through observation field, interviews and the literature study. The primary data was obtained directly by observation of the field and interview deeper namely with the management, researchers, visitors, associated regional governmentz. Secondary data with the study literature. The method of analysis of the data used motode with training. Based on the research done on the strategy based area development a science (the TSP with specific bptp sumbar in order to accelerate the dissemination of technology innovations agricultural sector is strategy rapid growth strateg). A strategy could be implemented is (1) made the tsp as a center for research and innovation; (2) made the TSP as the acceleration of the transfer of information dissemination/education, farmers through technology innovation training and apprenticeship to the. Agribusiness (3) made the tsp as a means to commercialize the technology innovation. agriculture (4) speed escalation/acceleration of technological innovations agriculture through the development of a replica of the TSP.
A STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT USING SOCIAL MEDIA AS MEDIUM IN SHARING INFORMATION TO PUBLIC
Authors: Basiran Izzat , Abdul Lasi Masri
Published: January 2022

Several Studies shows that the used of social media as flatform of communication. The wide use of social media has changed the value of the information and individual role. Social media has been a great platform for knowledge sharing and even getting better as medium of communication and collaboration. The study aimed to examine the Impact of Government Using Social Media as Medium in Sharing Information to Public. The independent variables (Value, Role, Membership, Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration & Intention) of this study were used as primary goals of this research, while the dependent variable is Used of Social Media. The impacts that the users received from the new method, which is the social media that open the opportunity for people to gain tremendous knowledge not only on the past stories where it has become history, but also the current news which is latest and in a real-time basis story and news. The data collected from the quantitative study were distributed to the public in Kuala Lumpur via questionnaires to 150 respondents, since the researchers assume that Kuala Lumpur has a high population density from various population groups. Statically Package for Social Science (SPSS) were used to analyze the correlation and determining the validity of the hypotheses. This study found that people are not really being impacted from the information shared from government agencies. It is recommended for future researcher to study the link between social media as a medium in sharing information with the aspect that impacted in people daily life and the role of government in controlling the news and information.
PROSPECTS AND POTENTIALITY OF LENTIL IN NEPAL: FOOD SECURITY AND TRADE PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Subedi Susan , Poudel Diwas , Thapa Binod
Published: January 2022

Lentil (Lens esculenta) is considered a major food crop in terms of food and nutrition security in Nepal and is primarily grown in the lowland Terai and hilly region of Nepal. This study aimed to evaluate prospects and potentiality of lentil focusing on nutrition and trade perspectives. Secondary data was used for assessing the area of production, yield, coefficient of variation, instability index, and trade specialization index. The area for lentil production increased slightly in one decade, however its production has increased significantly during this period (2009-2019) The import value has soared at the rate of 22.7% per annum whereas the export value has decreased with 17% per annum. The trade specialization index was discovered 0.13, which indicates that the lentil is in the growth phase. The study provides sufficient information that it is necessary to surge the production and productivity to decrease the escalating imports while making the country independent in lentil production with an increased investment in research and development. Additionally, it is suggested to strength the Research and Development (R & D) in order to improve the productivity of lentil. More focus should be given in disseminating packages of Practices (POP). More focus needs to be given to develop policies and implement to encourage commercialization of lentil in order to meet the domestic demand and increase export.
KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF FAMILY PLANNING METHODS AMONG THE MARRIED WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE GROUP ATTENDING SOS HOSPITAL IN MOGADISHU SOMALIA
Authors: Omar Abdikadir Ahmed , Ahmed Deka Abdirizak
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To assess the knowledge, and practice on family planning among the married women of reproductive age group attending At SOS Hospital Mogadishu Somalia. Methodology: It was descriptive, cross-sectional and facility -based study in SOS hospital in Mogadishu-Somalia State during six months (November 2017 – April 2018). A total of 150 women of child bearing age were interviewed regarding their awareness and practices of contraception. Results: The mean ± SD of age was 30.7 ± 7.2 years. The minority of women (40.0%) heard and had knowledge about family planning, while (60.0%) said did not know anything about family planning. Sixty five women (43.3%) practiced family planning, while eight five women (56.7%) did not. Conclusion: The present study concludes that a significant proportion of respondents have poor knowledge about family planning. And practice of contraception and compliance is low.
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL ECONOMY IN NIGERIA
Authors: Olabomi Rasaq Adekunle , Ogundola Jide , Yakubu Ajari Momohjimoh , G. Bola Abimbola , A Adetoro Victor , W Nwubani Obinna
Published: January 2022

More than 50 percent of Nigerian total population resides in the rural areas with farming as their major occupation and means economic sustenance. Hence rural areas in Nigeria have the potentials to contribute significantly to the national socio-economic development through sustainable agriculture. However, unlike in the past when Nigerian agricultural sector used to be a strong sustainer of the economy through provision of food for the population and raw materials for the industries, general infrastructural deficit and neglect of the rural communities have diminished the attractiveness of agriculture, leaving it for the poor in the society. This is due, partly to the advent of crude oil in Nigeria and has led to poverty, hunger, malnutrition, and diseases in the rural communities. Nigerian government had however taken a number of measures towards agricultural development; these include River Basin Development Authority, HANCOR Borrowers, and a number of other initiatives. However, a larger percentage of the beneficiaries of these developmental efforts have always been in the urban and peri-urban centres, with minimum or no effect of the initiatives in the rural communities. This paper therefore review Nigerian agricultural development challenges and issues, and proposes rural economic development through sustainable agricultural infrastructure with focus on integrated approach involving the use of renewable energy, post-harvest processing, and agro-training program. This approach takes beneficiaries integration into consideration from design to execution of the programme, thereby ensuring their total commitment. This would improve agricultural productivity for immediate consumption and for industrial use, as well as prevent post-harvest waste, with improvement in the marketing systems of farm produces and rural farmers’ economy and living standards.
ECONOMICS OF EARLY-SEASON CAULIFLOWER PRODUCTION AND MARKETING IN DHADING DISTRICT OF NEPAL
Authors: Pandey Ashma , Jha Nanu , Gaire Kamal Raj , Thapa Ganesh , Karki Rojan
Published: January 2022

The study was conducted during September-November 2020 to assess the economics of early-season cauliflower production and marketing in Dhading district of Nepal. Dhading district was purposely selected as it is one of the pocket area for cauliflower production. The study collected primary information from 60 farmers and 15 traders by using a semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. The simple descriptive and statistical tools such as Cobb-Douglas production function and benefit-cost ratio were used to analyze the result. The total cost of production of early-season cauliflower was NRs 13588.81 per ropani while the average yield was 727.94 kg per ropani. Further, the gross margin, and net profit per ropani were calculated NRs 25194.54, and NRs 22855.51 respectively. Likewise, the benefit-cost ratio was estimated to be 2.60 that revealed the early season cauliflower production is highly attractive and profitable. The Cobb-Douglas production function showed that cost on manure had a significant contribution in total gross return. The return to scale value was computed to be 0.59 indicating decreasing return to scale in early-season cauliflower. The major marketing channel was found to be Producer-Collector-Wholesaler-Retailer-Consumer with highest price spread of NRs 35/kg. Major problem in the production and marketing of cauliflower was diseases and pests and inappropriate marketing channels. Therefore the finding suggests, productivity and profitability can be maximized if the existing problems of diseases and pests, and quality of seeds are solved and appropriate marketing prices and channel are ensured.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EVALUATION OF SOIL FERTILITY STATUS IN RICE ZONE, MORANG
Authors: Mandal Anuj Kumar , Yadav Pankaj Kumar , Dhakal Krishna Hari
Published: January 2022

A study was conducted in the rice zone of Morang district to examine soil fertility status and the most limiting nutrient in the research area in accordance with rice cultivation requirements. Hundred samples were collected from two different locations of Ratuwamai Municipality ward number 6 and 8 at depth of 0-15 cm from surface soil. Samples were analyzed to find texture, pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Soil Organic Matter (SOM). Statistical tools were used to analyze the data. The most limiting nutrient in rice fields were determined by comparing the observed value with the standard requirement for rice fields. From analysis, it was revealed that, nitrogen content was found medium. Phosphorus was low in ward 6 whereas medium in ward 8. Potassium was high in ward 8 whereas medium in ward 6. SOM was low due to less application of organic fertilizer. Majority sample were of acidic probably due to more use of urea. Thirty percent samples of ward 8 were neutral and with equal alkalinity in both wards. Majority of sample was sandy loam except in ward 8 where ten percent sample was clayey loam. Both wards show equal behavior of loamy soil. Nutshell, majority of samples were of low fertility. Nitrogen and Potassium was most limiting as per the rice cultivation requirement with optimum soil pH. Various extension works regarding the importance of soil fertility management, sustainable soil management, optimum application of organic and inorganic fertilizers and the techniques to enhance the soil fertility status is required.
MICRONUTRIENT STATUS OF TISTA MEANDER FLOODPLAIN SOILS UNDER MAJOR CROPPING PATTERNS IN MITHAPUKUR UPAZILA
Authors: Zaman S. M. Shahriar , Islam Md. Sanaul
Published: January 2022

Soil micronutrients from their finite source are strongly affected by the inclusion of high-yielding crop cultivars in the cropping patterns and their fertilization practices. A study was conducted to identify the dominant cropping patterns and to evaluate their impacts on soil micronutrients’ (Zn, B, Cu, Fe, Mn) status in Tista Meander Floodplain Soils at Mithapukur upazila of Rangpur district, Bangladesh. The study revealed that potato-rice-rice (P-R-R) (18.26%), rice-fallow-rice (R-F-R) (15.65%), and maize-fallow-rice (M-F-R) (13.91%) were the most prevalent among the existing cropping patterns. Zn and B fertilizers are used by 35% and 23% of farmers. The concentrations of Zn, B, and Mn increased while Cu and Fe decreased under all dominant patterns. The highest accumulation of Zn by 281.63%, B by 139.36%, and Mn by 83.13% were obtained under P-R-R while, the highest depletion of Cu by 52.58% and Fe by 24.48% were obtained under P-R-R and M-F-R cropping patterns, respectively. An increasing trend of soil toxicity index (STI) values was observed with Zn, B, and Mn. A deleterious shift of B from lower to higher STI class was obtained under the P-R-R and R-F-R patterns while an ameliorating shift of Cu from higher to lower class was obtained under P-R-R and M-F-R patterns. The recent STI status of Fe and Mn under all cropping patterns rendered in the ‘highly toxic’ class. This investigation emphasizes that the concentrations of selected micronutrients were found above their respective critical limits and that the studied micronutrients except Zn imposed toxicity in the soil.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT PRE-SOWING TREATMENTS ON GERMINATION OF PERSIAN WALNUT (Juglans Regia L.) IN RUKUM (EAST) DISTRICT, NEPAL
Authors: Lamichhane Sagar , Thapa Rabin , Thapa Praseed , Ahamad Kafil
Published: January 2022

A field-based experiment was carried out in Rukum (East), Nepal, from February to June 2020, to assess the effect of different pre-sowing treatments on germination of Persian walnut. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with six treatments and four replications. The treatments included hot water treatment, chilling stratification only, cracking + Gibberellic acid (500ppm) followed by chilling stratification, cracking + Gibberellic acid (750ppm) followed by chilling stratification, Gibberellic acid (500ppm) + chilling stratification and Gibberellic acid (750ppm) + chilling stratification. The minimum days for germination (15.75 days) and highest germination (53.25%) were obtained when the combination of cracking with GA3 @ 750 ppm along with chilling stratification was done. The maximum shoot length (34.83 cm) was observed in the combination of cracking with GA3 @ 500 ppm followed by stratification but statistically similar shoot length (34.63 cm) was observed when cracking, application of GA3 @ 750 ppm followed by stratification was done. Cracking, treatment with GA3 @ 500 ppm followed by chilling stratification resulted in the highest shoot fresh weight (11.93 gm) and root fresh weight (10.77 gm) compared to the other treatments used. Thus, cracking along with treatment by GA3 @ 750 ppm followed by chilling stratification could be suggested to the walnut growers for better germination and a better morphological and physiological status of the rootstocks/seedlings.
EFFECT OF JATROPHA OIL ON THE MANAGEMENT OF FALL ARMYWORM (Spodoptera frugiperda JE smith.) IN MINNA, NIGER STATE
Authors: RO Oyewale , A Abdulazeez , HM Ibrahim , AY Mamudu , GA Idowu
Published: January 2022

Indiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides is likely to give rise to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) resistance and environmental pollution which may result in poisoning of human. In view of these, there is need to develop naturally occurring insecticides which may be less toxic to man and animals but as effective against fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) of various cereals as synthetic insecticides. Field research was carried out in the Teaching and Research Farm of Federal University of Technology, Minna to evaluate the effect of Jatropha oil on the management of fall armyworm. The experiment was arranged in Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates and six varieties. 45 ml/ L of Jatropha oil was applied every week for four weeks using Knapsack sprayer. Data on severity of fall armyworm infestation, plant height, stem diameter, number of ears, number of rotten ears, fresh and dry cob weight and grain yield were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) the means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results indicated that OPV maize variety recorded the highest grain yield while Oba super 6 demonstrated a tolerance against the infestation of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). Therefore, farmers could plant OPV maize variety for its high grain yield and Oba super 6 for its tolerant against the infestation of fall armyworm.
Power supply of road infrastructure objects from alternative sources
Authors: Anisimov I. A. , Kostin V. E. , Orlov V. S. , Pautov D. N. , Polyakov A. S. , Shurupov A. V.
Published: January 2022

Introduction. To improve safety and reduce accidents, transport infrastructure facilities are equipped by the new additional light-signaling and lighting devices. The article discusses the electrification of transport infrastructure facilities, analyzes the options for implementing autonomous power supply of these facilities, and assesses the possibilities of using various types of generators on renewable energy sources.Materials and methods. An experimental model of a generator based on alternative energy sources, built into a speed bump has been developed and manufactured.Results. An assessment of the energy consumed by the light-signaling and lighting equipment of an unregulated pedestrian crossing and the electrical energy generated by an experimental model of a generator built into speed bump has been made.Discussion and conclusions. An assessment of the efficiency of the developed generator, built into a speed bump, to provide electrical energy to the lighting equipment of an unregulated pedestrian crossing, was carried out, and the insufficient performance of the experimental sample was revealed. It is planned to solve these problems during the continuation of the study.
Сement based compositions with complex modifying additives based on glyoxal
Authors: Kudyakov A. I. , Simakova A. S. , Steshenko A. B.
Published: January 2022

Introduction. Due to the multicomponent composition, cement based concrete has a high potential for improving technical characteristics by controlling technological processes or the quality of raw materials, which makes it possible to develop composites with specified requirements for the construction of modern resource and energysaving buildings, including for the northern territories of Russia. With the transition to the micro level of the formation of the structure of cement based concretes, new opportunities open up for the directed regulation of properties. Based on this, in order to improve the quality of concrete by improving the structure of the hardened cement paste, a method was proposed for introducing modifiers into the mixture, which directly affect the new growths in the ‘cement-water’ system, which makes it possible to control the process of structure formation of the hardened cement paste.Materials and methods. Research has been carried out using test methods set out in national standards and physical and chemical analysis: thermal analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The results of a study of the effect of complex modifying additives (CMA) based on an aqueous solution of glyoxal and organic acids on the rheological and strength properties of hardened cement paste are presented, the regularities of the processes and the mechanism of structure formation of the modified cement paste are determined.Results. The optimal compositions of a cement based composition based on an aqueous solution of glyoxal have been determined. On the first day of hardening of hardened cement paste with CMA, including polylactic acid and an aqueous solution of glyoxal, as well as lactic acid and an aqueous solution of glyoxal, the strength increases by 23.5%, and at 28 days of age - up to 63% compared to the control composition. Physicochemical studies found that in hardened cement paste with CMA based on an aqueous solution of glyoxal and organic acids, the density and homogeneity of the structure increases, and the content of low-basic hydrosilicates also increases.Conclusion. The developed complex additives are recommended for use in the production of cement based concretes with the required rate of structure formation and high strength.
Influence of the crushed stone content on the deformation modulus of the soil-crushed stone layer
Authors: Prolygin A. S. , Aleksandrov A. S. , Dolgih G. V. , Chusov V. V.
Published: January 2022

Introduction. The purpose of the article is to study the dependence of the deformation modulus of the soil-crushed stone layer of the road surface from the content of crushed stone in the soil-crushed stone mixture and the soil moisture in it. The goal was achieved by performing stamp tests of the models of a road clothing and a roadbed.Materials and methods. The research was carried out by performing stamp tests of models of the roadbed and single-layer road clothes with a soil-crushed stone surface. Before the stamp tests, laboratory work were carried out to determine the parameters subject to input control for crushed stone and soil. Models of road clothes are built from crushed stone materials and soil in the tray. Tests of the roadbed and road clothes are carried out using a rigid round stamp included in the standard kit.Results. The modules of deformation of the soil of the roadbed and road surfaces with a soil-crushed stone layer are calculated from the polynomial dependence of settlement on pressure, regulated by ПНСТ 311-2018. According to the test results, the modulus of deformation of the soil of the roadbed, and the general modulus of deformation on the surface of the soil-crushed stone layer, with different content of crushed stone by the volume of the mixture, were determined. The lowest value of the deformation modulus corresponds to the minimum content of crushed stone in the mixture, which is 40 % by volume of the mixture. The highest value of the deformation modulus was obtained at the maximum content of crushed stone in the mixture, which is 60 % by volume of the mixture. Using the general modules of deformation of different road surfaces and the modules of deformation of the soil of the roadbed, the calculation of the deformation modulus of the soil-crushed stone layer with different content of crushed stone in it is performed. To take into account the influence of moisture of the cohesive soil used in the mixture, correction coefficients are given, the values of which are established by laboratory tests. These coefficients allow us to calculate the modulus of deformation of the soil-crushed stone layer depending on the content of crushed stone and the moisture of the soil used in it.Discussion and conclusions. As a result of experimental work, the modules of deformation of soil-crushed stone of different compositions were determined, with the help of which the design of road surfaces was carried out with the subsequent construction of experimental sites in each of the three road building climatic zones of the Omsk region.