bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Job Competence of Agricultural Extension Officers in Telangana State
Authors: Krishna V. Rama , Waghmare R. S. , Rathod M. K.
Published: December 2023

The research was conducted in the Nalgonda district of Telangana state with the aim of assessing the job competence and job satisfaction of Agricultural Extension Officers. A total of 120 Agricultural Extension Officers were selected for the study from different Mandals within Nalgonda district. Data was collected to analyse the profile and job competence levels of agricultural extension officers. Two rating techniques were employed in evaluating the job competence level of agricultural extension officers which were Self-rating and Superior rating. The study results revealed that 55.84% of Agricultural Extension Officers rated themselves that they had a medium level of job competence, while in case of superior rating, 57.50% of Agricultural Extension Officers had medium level of competence at a similar level. The overall finding on job competence indicated that 65% of agricultural extension officers were at a medium level of competence. In terms of Self-rating, agricultural extension officers demonstrated higher competence in communicative ability, initiative, empathy, and technical knowledge dimensions with a mean index. On the other hand, according to Superior rating, agriculture extension officers exhibited greater competence in initiative, communicative ability, empathy, and judgement dimensions with the mean index. The study emphasizes exploring job competence levels, various competence dimensions, and the relationship of independent variables with job competence among agricultural extension officers.
Development and Quality Evaluation of Ready to Serve (RTS) Beverage from Dragon Fruit
Authors: Ghorband A. S. , Joshi B. H.
Published: December 2023

Aim: The aim of the present investigation was to standardize dragon fruit (H. polyrhizus) RTS beverage based on sensory evaluation and changes in TSS, ascorbic acid, color value, titratable acidity and antioxidant activity and overall acceptability.

Study Design: RSM (Response Surface Methodology) with face centered design.

College of Food Processing Technology & Bioenergy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, between August 2022 to July 2023.

The dragon fruit RTS beverage was prepared with dragon fruit juice, sugar and citric acid at three different levels of combinations ranged from 10-14 %, 10-15% and 0.3-0.9% respectively.

The efforts were made to study biochemical composition and sensory properties of the RTS beverage. The optimized value for standardized dragon fruit RTS beverage were observed for 14% fruit juice, 12.75% sugar and 0.38% citric acid based on results obtained. It was optimized based all sensorial quality attributes such as color, flavor, taste, overall acceptability and TSS (15.70oBx) antioxidant activity (26.44% DPPH inhibition) and color value (a*) 1.49 were found enhanced as concentration of juice was increased.

The dragon fruit RTS beverage prepared by using dragon fruit juice, sugar and citric acid was nutritious and also safe for consumption since there is no addition of artificial color and flavor.
Use of Starch and Biochar-Based Essential Oil Formulations from Three Aromatic Plants as Antifungal Components to Improve Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Seed Storage
Authors: Barbara Maptue Fotso , Honoré Koulagna Issa , Ntsoli Pierre Germain , Aoudou Yaouba
Published: December 2023

Poor storage conditions of foodstuffs are responsible for their deterioration on many microorganism species with substantial quantitative and qualitative losses. During storage, formulating essential oil of some antifungal plants' based on cassava starch and corncob biochar efficacy was evaluated on fungi associated with peanut seeds (Arachis hypogaea L.). Two hundred peanut seeds were dispersed in plastic bottles; 5 g of essential oil formulation starch-based (3 and 7 µl/g) were sprinkled on the seeds. Biochar pieces were added to the seeds in the bottles for biochar-based essential oils. Laboratory conditions were used to store both treatment and non-treatment seeds for 70 days. Infection rates of fungal infections were estimated at 10, 20, 40, 60, and 70 days of storage. From the results obtained, five fungal genera were isolated from peanut seeds, including four species of Aspergillus, Cercospora sp, Fusarium sp, Phomopsis sp and Rhizopus stolonifer, with seed infection percentages ranging from 4 to 62%. The antifungal activity of starch-based formulations revealed that at a concentration of 3 µl/g, Cymbopogon citratus essential oil is the most effective antifungal agent, 13% infection for 70 days resulted storage of peanut seeds. After 70 days of storage, at a dose of 7 µl/g, C. sempervirens essential oil had the best antifungal efficacy with 23.50% of infected seeds for the biochar-based formulation. As a result of these findings, starch and biochar can be used to formulate essential oils for the conservation of peanut seeds. Moreover, Cymbopogon citratus essential oil formulated with starch is the most effective.
Level of Knowledge, Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviour of Type 2 Diabetics at the Abidjan Diabetes Center
Authors: Jean-Paul Kouassi , N’Guessan Kouamé , Josi-Noelline Sinh , Valery Disseka Paterson , Sandrine N’Zué , GilChrist Gouthon , Léonce Linta , Axel Brou Yapi
Published: December 2023

Aims: Type 2 diabetes, commonly known as diabetes mellitus, is a major public health problem due to its prevalence worldwide. This chronic disease is the 9th leading cause  of death worldwide. However, in addition to medical treatment, its management requires appropriate hygienic and dietary measures, in particular a suitable diet and regular  physical activity. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and practice of physical activity and the quality of the diet of diabetics at the Abidjan Anti-diabetic Center (CADA).
Methodology: This study was a survey with 50 diabetics of CADA. A questionnaire sheet served as a data collection tool to research the level of knowledge and practice of physical activity as well as the quality of the diet of the respondents.
Results: The results showed that the sample included 38 women (76%) and 12 men (24%) aged between 33 and 75 years. 70% of the respondents had been ill for at least 5 years. The results also showed that 48 (96%) diabetics had a low level of general knowledge of physical activity. Before the diagnosis of diabetes, 45 respondents (90%) had a low level of physical activity. After diagnosis, 37 diabetics (74%) had a low level of physical activity. The results also showed that the proportion of diabetics with a good level of physical activity after the diagnosis of diabetes was statistically higher (p < 0.05) than the proportion of diabetics with a good level of physical activity before the disease. With regard to diet quality, the results show that all patients (100%) had a poor diet quality before the diagnosis of diabetes. After being declared diabetic, only 6% of diabetics surveyed had a good quality diet.
Conclusion: It is important to conduct information and awareness-raising campaigns among the general population, and especially among diabetics, on the importance of hygienic-dietary measures, i.e. a suitable diet and regular exercise.
Impact of Variety and Variable Rates of Cow Dung on Growth Characters of Groundnut in Abraka, Nigeria
Authors: Anwuli-Okoh L. A.  , Enujeke E. C.
Published: December 2023

A study was carried out in Teaching and Research Farm of Delta State, Abraka in 2022 and repeated in 2023 farming seasons to assess the impact of variety and variable rates of cow dung on growth characters of groundnut in Abraka, Nigeria. It was a 2 x 5 factorial experiment in randomized complete block design with three replications. Seven parameters were investigated to achieve the objectives of the study, including initial soil physico-chemical properties of the experimental site before planting, percentage emergence of the varieties after 10 days of planting based on different rates of cow dung applied, plant height, number of branches per stand, number of leaves per stand, leaf area and chemical properties of the cow dung used for the study. The results of the study showed that Samnut-21 was superior in all the parameters assessed, while manure application rate of 20 tha-1 was outstanding in performance of the growth characters. It was therefore recommended that farmers in the study area adopt Samnut-21 and 20 tha-1 of cow dung for groundnut production in Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria.
Preserving for the Future: The Critical Role of Germplasm Conservation in Fruit Crop Resilience
Authors: Jain Shubham , Singh Harpal , Rathod Manjunath , Meena Rakesh , Deshmukh Rutuja Narendra , Mohapatra Amrita , Sharma Rajat , Anushi
Published: December 2023

Germplasm conservation in fruit crops is indispensable for securing global food systems and safeguarding agricultural biodiversity. The conservation of genetic diversity within fruit crops is paramount, given the escalating threats posed by climate change, emerging diseases, and habitat loss. This review encapsulates the multifaceted challenges and innovative strategies in fruit crop germplasm conservation, emphasizing the integration of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge technologies. The proactive preservation of diverse varieties through in situ and ex situ methods is essential for developing resilient, adaptive fruit crops. Global collaboration and heightened public awareness play pivotal roles in overcoming financial constraints and ethical considerations. The future of germplasm conservation in fruit crops hinges on a holistic approach, incorporating community engagement, advanced technologies, and international cooperation to ensure sustainable agriculture and the resilience of these crops in the face of dynamic environmental challenges.
Advancing Crop Improvement Through CRISPR Technology in Precision Agriculture Trends-A Review
Authors: Sampath V. , Rangarajan N. , Sharanappa C. H.  , Deori Mamoni , Veeraragavan M. , Ghodake B. D. , Kaushal Kamini
Published: December 2023

The advent of CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) technology has ushered in a new era in agricultural biotechnology, offering unprecedented opportunities for targeted genome editing and crop improvement. This review article presents a comprehensive examination of the advancements, applications, challenges, and future prospects of CRISPR technology within the context of precision agriculture. The integration of CRISPR with precision agriculture technologies signifies a major shift towards more efficient and sustainable farming practices, emphasizing the precise modification of crops to enhance yield, disease resistance, and environmental stress tolerance. The historical backdrop of agricultural biotechnology and the evolution of precision agriculture set the stage for understanding the transformative impact of CRISPR technology. CRISPR's superiority over traditional breeding and genetic modification techniques lies in its precision, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Detailed case studies of CRISPR-modified crops, such as disease-resistant wheat, drought-tolerant rice, and nutrient-efficient maize, highlight the technology's practical implications. These modifications not only enhance crop performance but also contribute to ecological sustainability and increased farmer income, demonstrating CRISPR's significant role in addressing global food security challenges. The application of CRISPR in agriculture is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles, public perception, technical limitations, and ethical considerations present substantial obstacles to the widespread adoption of CRISPR-modified crops. The review addresses these challenges, offering insights into the complex interplay between technological innovation and societal acceptance. Further explores potential developments in CRISPR technology, including next-generation genome editing tools and the integration of synthetic biology. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations and adaptive policy frameworks to navigate the evolving technological and regulatory landscapes. The future of CRISPR in precision agriculture promises not only enhanced crop varieties but also a paradigm shift towards more data-driven, customized, and environmentally conscious farming practices. This review concludes that CRISPR technology, despite its challenges, holds immense promise for revolutionizing agriculture. Its continued development and responsible implementation are key to realizing its full potential in contributing to a sustainable and secure agricultural future.
Plant‐Based Products as Control Agents of Stored Product Insect Pests: Prospects, Applications and Challenges
Authors: Hasan Wajid , Hussain G. Jahir , Doggalli Gangadhara , Alagumanian S. , Jena Niroj Kumar , Saravanan A. , Hazarika Sanjay , Saravanamoorthy M. D.
Published: December 2023

Stored product insect pests pose a significant threat to global food security and economic stability, as they cause substantial damage to stored grains and other food commodities. Traditional pest control methods often rely on chemical insecticides, which can have adverse effects on the environment, human health, and food safety. In light of these concerns, there is growing interest in exploring sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives for managing stored product insect pests. This abstract highlights the potential of plant-based products as a viable and environmentally friendly approach to control stored product insect pests. Plant-based products, such as botanical extracts and essential oils, are derived from various plant sources and have shown promise in repelling, deterring, and even killing insect pests. These products offer several advantages, including biodegradability, reduced chemical residues, and minimal harm to non-target organisms. This review summarizes recent research on the efficacy of plant-based products against a range of stored product insect pests, including but not limited to beetles, weevils, and moths. It discusses the mechanisms through which these products exert their pest control effects, such as disrupting insect behavior, affecting their reproduction, or inducing mortality. Moreover, the potential synergistic effects of combining plant-based products with other pest management strategies, like hermetic storage and modified atmospheres, are explored. In addition, this abstract examines the challenges and limitations associated with the use of plant-based products in pest management, including issues related to formulation, stability, and the need for further research to standardize application protocols. The economic feasibility and scalability of plant-based pest control methods are also considered. The findings presented in this abstract emphasize the importance of incorporating plant-based products into integrated pest management strategies for stored product insect pests. These products have the potential to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to safeguarding global food reserves, while minimizing the risks associated with chemical pesticides. Further research and collaboration between the scientific community, agricultural industry, and policymakers are essential to harness the full potential of plant-based products in the fight against stored product insect pests.
Effects of Various Micronutrient Levels on the Biochemical and Organoleptic Attributes of Guava cv. 27
Authors: Yadav Komal , Verma Manju , Yadav Shashi S. , Khambalkar Priyadarshani Arun
Published: December 2023

A field experiment entitled “Effects of various micronutrient levels on the biochemical and organoleptic attributes of guava cv. 27” was carried out at Agrotechnology Park, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (M.P.) during 2016-2017. The experiment was consisting of 9 treatments having two levels of each Borax (0.2 per cent and 0.4 per cent) and Zinc sulphate (0, 0.4 and 0.6 per cent). The experiment was laid out in Factorial randomized block design with three replications. Among different doses of foliar spray of nutrients, borax @ 0.4 per cent and zinc sulphate @ 0.6 per cent were found significantly superior over control with respect bio chemical parameters and organoleptic attributes of guava.
Effect of Liquid Organic Formulations on Productivity and Profitability of Mung-bean crop under Semi Arid Environment of Rajasthan
Authors: Yadav Seema , Meena B. R. , Meena Santosh Kr. , Singh Narpat , Yadav Rajesh
Published: December 2023

Aims: The increasing cost and unavailability of fertilizers, poor soil health, growing ecological concern, consumer health problems and the government’s interest in promoting the organic farming have forced to try new methods of application of nutrients in the form of liquid organic formulations. Hence, the present investigation was aimed to know the effect of liquid organic formulations on productivity and profitability of mungbean crop under semi-arid environment of Rajasthan.

Methods: The field experiment was conducted at Agronomy farm, School of Agriculture, OPJS University Churu, Rajasthan. This experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications, consist of twelve treatments namely Control, Water spray, Panchgavya (2 spray), Vermiwash (2 spray), Cow urine (2 spray), Matka khad (2 spray), Panchgavya + Vermiwash, Panchgavya + Cow urine, Panchgavya + Matka khad, Vermiwash + Cow urine, Vermiwash + Matka khad and Cow urine + Matka khad.

Results: The results revealed that independent two spray of panchgavya and spray of panchgavya+ vermiwash (one spray of each) resulted significantly higher crop growth attributes, yield attributes and yields as well as net returns of mungbean. The said treatments recorded highest grain yields (1128 and 1051 kg/ha), net return (55576 and 49361 Rs/ha) and befit cost ratio (2.30 and 2.07) which was significant over rest of the treatments. According to our findings independent two spray of panchgavya at 25 and 45 DAS and combined spray of panchgavya + vermiwash (one spray of each) is recommended for higher productivity with more economic returns.
An Assessment of Mangrove Ecosystem Condition by Foliar Stable Nitrogen Isotope Ratio Index in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Tanu Ferdouse Zaman , Hinokidani Ko , Asakura Yasuhiro , Takahashi Satoshi , Nakanishi Yasuhiro
Published: December 2023

Despite providing valuable ecosystem services, mangroves are endangered under the recent global natural as well as anthropogenic changes. Conservation of mangroves is now one of the pillars of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030. An assessment of mangrove is essential before initializing any conservation strategy. This paper aimed to assess the ecosystem conditions of mangroves and the relative changes in ecosystem conditions from the natural background under different scales of anthropogenic interruption in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. To assess mangrove’s ecosystem condition, foliar stable nitrogen isotope ratio (δ15N) of mangroves is used as ecosystem monitoring indicator. Whereas, a difference index (DI) of mangrove foliar δ15N is established to compare the relative deviation in ecosystem conditions of anthropogenically impacted mangroves from reference mangroves. Results showed that the mean foliar δ15N values of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Kandelia obovata, and Rhizophora stylosa on Okinawa Island (Is.) are 5.12 ± 2.32‰, 7.54 ± 2.85‰ and 7.09 ± 3.29‰, respectively, on Iriomote Is., 1.83 ± 1.93‰, 2.01 ± 0.31‰ and 1.04 ± 2.38‰, respectively, and on Ishigaki Is., foliar δ15N values of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Rhizophora stylosa are 5.23 ± 3.33‰ and 6.00 ± 3.63‰, respectively. A range of negative to positive values from -0.54 to 3.66 of DI indicates different level of changes in ecosystem conditions of the mangroves compared to the reference sites, which is set at zero. A significant negative correlation between DI values and the forest area ratio of the watersheds has been observed. It indicates that the forest cover is the driver of maintaining pristine condition of an ecosystem. Findings of the study recommended that Todoroki and Manko mangrove watersheds in Okinawa, Japan should be taken into consideration for necessary conservation on priority basis.
Drought Tolerance in Soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) Genotypes during the Flowering Stage of Development
Authors: Puobi R. E. , Asare A. T. , Otwe E. P. , Galyuon I. K. A.
Published: December 2023

Aims: To access the responses of 22 soybean genotypes under drought stress during the flowering stage of development.

Study Design: A completely randomized experimental design (CRD) was adopted in this study. Five seeds of each of the 22 soybean genotypes were planted in 12-liter (L) plastic buckets (with holes at the bottom) containing sandy loam soil. There was one genotype per pot with three replications. The setup was repeated to represent experimental (drought-stressed (DS) and control (well-watered (WW) groups.

Place and Duration of Study: Teaching and Research Farm of the School of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana in 2019.

Methodology: Twenty-one exotic soybean genotypes and a local variety were assessed for their responses to drought stress at the flowering stage of development using pot experiment in the greenhouse. One group (experimental) was exposed to drought stress by withholding water for 15 days whilst the other group (control) was watered regularly at three-day intervals. Data collected were the number of leaves, plant height, stem girth, leaf area, and number of flowers, at 5, 10, and 15 days after treatment (DAT) and relative leaf water content at 15 DAT. The number of days to permanent wilting of the genotypes was also recorded.

Results: Drought stress reduced the number of leaves and plant height significantly (P-values = 0.033, 0.000) and (P-values = 0.004, 0.000) at 10 and 15 days after drought treatment respectively. Also, stem girth, leaf area, and number of flowers were significantly reduced at all sampling dates (P-value = 0.002, 0.000, 0.000), (P-values = 0.004, 0.000, 0.000) and (P-values = 0.009, 0.000, 0.000) respectively. At 15 DAT, drought significantly (P < 0.001) reduced relative leaf water content. Genotypes TGX-1989-11F and TGX-1987-62F were the first and last to wilt at 7 days and 16 days after rewatering respectively.

Conclusion: The pot screening method revealed that the number of leaves, plant height, stem girth, leaf area, number of flowers, relative leaf water content, and days to permanent wilting differed significantly (P = 0.05) at 15 days of drought exposure.
Ownership and Interoperability Challenges of Alzheimer Monoclonal Antibody Registries
Authors: Socal Mariana P. , Odouard Ilina C. , Kharrazi Hadi
Published: December 2023

This Viewpoint addresses the challenges that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services faces to collect real-world data on the effectiveness and safety of lecanemab from external registries to achieve its coverage with evidence development objectives.
Enabling High Throughput Kinetic Experimentation by Using Flow as a Differential Kinetic Technique**
Authors: Lennon Gavin , Dingwall Paul
Published: December 2023

Kinetic data is most commonly collected through the generation of time‐series data under either batch or flow conditions. Existing methods to generate kinetic data in flow collect integral data (concentration over time) only. Here, we report a method for the rapid and direct collection of differential kinetic data (direct measurement of rate) in flow by performing a series of instantaneous rate measurements on sequential small‐scale reactions. This technique decouples the time required to generate a full kinetic profile from the time required for a reaction to reach completion, enabling high throughput kinetic experimentation. In addition, comparison of kinetic profiles constructed at different residence times allows the robustness, or stability, of homogeneously catalysed reactions to be interrogated. This approach makes use of a segmented flow platform which was shown to quantitatively reproduce batch kinetic data. The proline mediated aldol reaction was chosen as a model reaction to perform a high throughput kinetic screen of 216 kinetic profiles in 90 hours, one every 25 minutes, which would have taken an estimated continuous 3500 hours in batch, an almost 40‐fold increase in experimental throughput matched by a corresponding reduction in material consumption.
Photoactivatable aggregation‐induced emission luminogens based on photodehydrogenation reactions for biomedical applications
Authors: You Yuanyuan , Tang Chengwei , Lin Songling , Zeng Delong , Cong Yanguang , Wang Dong , Chen Xiaohui
Published: December 2023

The development of photoactivatable aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) probes is one of the hotspots for bioimaging and imaging‐guided precise disease therapy due to the distinct advantages of high spatiotemporal resolution, precise spatiotemporal controllability, and noninvasiveness of light. To design and develop novel photoactivatable AIE probes, functional groups based on photodehydrogenation reaction mechanisms are combined with the AIE‐active skeleton. Here, the recent progress in biomedical applications of photoactivatable AIE probes based on photocyclodehydrogenation and photo‐oxidative dehydrogenation reactions are summarized briefly. Moreover, the outlook for photoactivatable AIE probes is discussed to aim at promoting innovative research in biomedical applications.
Unlocking same‐sign CPL: solvent effects on spectral form and racemisation kinetics in nine‐coordinate chiral europium(III) complexes
Authors: De Rosa Davide F. , Starck Matthieu , Parker David , Pal Robert
Published: December 2023

Understanding the factors that shape the circularly polarised luminescence (CPL) emission profiles of europium(III)‐based CPL emitters to have specific sign properties, e. g. monosignate individual CPL transitions, is key to design novel complexes for applications ranging from advanced security inks to bio‐probes for live cell imaging. In order to correlate structure and spectral characteristics, a photophysical and kinetic investigation has been conducted on a series of coordinatively saturated nine‐coordinate europium(III) systems based on 1,4,7‐triazacyclononane. We highlight that lanthanide emission is sensitive to changes in the ligand field by showing the linear dependence of total emission intensity ratios as a function of solvent polarity, for europium(III) complexes displaying an internal charge transfer (ICT) excited state. This sensitivity increases by a factor of 20 when studying changes in CPL spectra, rendering these complexes accurate probes of local polarity. Solvent polarity, solvent‐specific effects, and the nature of the chromophores’ coordinating donor atoms strongly influence the kinetic stability of europium(III) complexes with respect to enantiomer interconversion. Notably, we show that the choice of donor groups to coordinating to europium(III) and the nature and polarity of the solvent affects the rate of racemisation, leading to systems with very long half‐lives at room temperature in non‐polar media.
Comparative Effectiveness of Bimekizumab in Psoriatic Arthritis: A Model‐Based Meta‐Analysis of American College of Rheumatology Response Criteria
Authors: Maloney Alan , Dua Pinky , Ahmed Ghada F.
Published: December 2023

A model‐based meta‐analysis (MBMA) was conducted to compare the efficacy of bimekizumab with other psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment regimens using ≥  20%/50%/70% improvements in American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria (ACR20/50/70) for patients with PsA. Forty‐nine trials of 16 drugs were identified in the literature, comprising 21,340 patients. Trial‐level covariates, including prior biologic use, concomitant methotrexate use, time since diagnosis, trial completion year, and active comparator were considered for exploratory models. The final model was selected using leave‐one‐out cross‐validation (LOO CV) to assess predictive performance based on prespecified criteria. LOO CV was conducted for 15 trials; the final model demonstrated that 91.5% (952/1,040) of the observed treatment differences, and 96.1% of the observed ACR20/50/70 response rates were within the 95% prediction interval (PI). Median ACR50 response rates (95% PI) at week 16 in biologic‐naïve patients were predicted to be 44% (40–49%) for bimekizumab 160 mg, among the highest of all treatments analyzed. Response rates for secukinumab 150 mg and risankizumab 150 mg were 28% (25–32%) and 27% (24–31%), respectively. The MBMA was also used to predict the probability of success (PoS) of potential head‐to‐head trials using ACR50 response as the end point with varying sample sizes: vs. secukinumab 150 mg, the PoS for bimekizumab 160 mg was 62% (N = 200) and 90% (N = 400). Versus risankizumab 150 mg, the PoS for bimekizumab 160 mg was 68% (N = 200) and 94% (N = 400). In summary, a predictive MBMA described ACR20/50/70 outcomes in PsA, allowing accurate and precise treatment comparisons and robust PoS calculations.
A study of pod constriction in a peanut population with mixed wild and cultivated genetics
Authors: Ballén‐Taborda Carolina , Maharjan Namrata , Hopkins Mark , Guimarães Larissa Arrais , Lindsey Duncan , Bertioli David J. , Leal‐Bertioli Soraya C. M.
Published: December 2023

Wild relatives comprise a diverse genetic source from which to introduce beneficial alleles for peanut breeding. However, when using wild species for breeding, unadapted agronomic characteristics are often co‐inherited along with favorable traits. Previously, an advanced backcross population was developed from a cross between Arachis hypogaea and the wild‐derived induced allotetraploid (Arachis batizocoi × Arachis stenosperma)4x to incorporate nematode resistance genes into elite peanut. We observed additional wild alleles unintentionally inherited throughout the genome, possibly causing variation in several pod and seed characteristics. To identify the wild introgressions controlling the variation in pod constriction (PC), a critical trait for peanut's acceptability and marketability, we performed an association analysis using 419 SNPs and phenotypic data of 72 BC3F2/3 families. An introgression on the top of chromosome B08 (pod constriction‐quantitative trait locus [PC‐QTL], 3.7 Mbp) derived from A. batizocoi was found to be controlling 47.3% of the PC variation. To confirm the PC‐QTL, six BC3F4 families harboring the wild loci in a homozygous or heterozygous state were selected and used for segregation analysis. All progenies from the backcross families carrying the homozygous allele had severely constricted pods, whereas progenies from families with the heterozygous allele were segregated for PC. Finally, analyses using end‐point genotyping with four linked SNP assays confirmed the association of the PC‐QTL with PC. The present work studied PC and developed DNA markers to assist the selection against constricted pods while retaining the new and beneficial wild‐derived genes.
Synthesis and reactivity of a dialkyl‐2H‐1,2‐phosphasiliren‐3‐olate
Authors: Yan Liping , Wu Lifang , Zhao Yunqing , Zhang Rong , Qi Fan , Wang Liliang , Li Zhifang
Published: December 2023

A heterocycle containing phosphorus, known as dialkyl‐2H‐1,2‐phosphasiliren‐3‐olate 2, is synthesized through the reaction of dialkylsilylene 1 and sodium phosphaethynolate (NaOCP) in a high yield at ambient conditions. The structure of 2 is determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. The theoretical studies are identified two nucleophilic centres located on the phosphorus (P) and oxygen (O) atoms, respectively. According to WBIs and the crystal characterization analyses, both the C−P and C−O bonds in the C−Si‐P three‐membered ring have significant double bond character. Reactions involving R3SiCl and Me2SO4 with 2 at room temperature are also conducted at room temperature. The nucleophilic substitution reaction can also occur on oxygen atom of 2, and yield ring‐retaining products 3 and 4 a–4 c, respectively. When acyl chlorides are employed as electrophiles, the derivatives of (silylmethylidyne)phosphane, 6 a–6 c, are produced as a result of the substitution of the oxygen atom.
Application of a capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry metabolomics workflow in zebrafish larvae reveals new effects of cortisol
Authors: van Mever Marlien , Mamani‐Huanca Maricruz , Faught Erin , López‐Gonzálvez Ángeles , Hankemeier Thomas , Barbas Coral , Schaaf Marcel J. M. , Ramautar Rawi
Published: December 2023

In contemporary biomedical research, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) is increasingly considered a model system, as zebrafish embryos and larvae can (potentially) fill the gap between cultured cells and mammalian animal models, because they can be obtained in large numbers, are small and can easily be manipulated genetically. Given that capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry (CE–MS) is a useful analytical separation technique for the analysis of polar ionogenic metabolites in biomass‐limited samples, the aim of this study was to develop and assess a CE–MS‐based analytical workflow for the profiling of (endogenous) metabolites in extracts from individual zebrafish larvae and pools of small numbers of larvae. The developed CE–MS workflow was used to profile metabolites in extracts from pools of 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 40 zebrafish larvae. For six selected endogenous metabolites, a linear response (R2 > 0.98) for peak areas was obtained in extracts from these pools. The repeatability was satisfactory, with inter‐day relative standard deviation values for peak area of 9.4%–17.7% for biological replicates (n = 3 over 3 days). Furthermore, the method allowed the analysis of over 70 endogenous metabolites in a pool of 12 zebrafish larvae, and 29 endogenous metabolites in an extract from only 1 zebrafish larva. Finally, we applied the optimized CE–MS workflow to identify potential novel targets of the mineralocorticoid receptor in mediating the effects of cortisol.
Functional decline during the COVID‐19 pandemic among U.S. military veterans: Results from the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study
Authors: Morse Jessica L. , Fischer Ian C. , Na Peter J. , Afari Niloofar , Pietrzak Robert H.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The coronavirus disease‐2019 pandemic has contributed to widespread social and economic stressors, along with substantial health problems, including loss of life. To date, however, relatively few studies have examined the prevalence and correlates of declines in mental and physical functioning in U.S. military veterans, an older and potentially vulnerable segment of the U.S. adult population.

Methods

Data were analyzed from the 2019–2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study, a nationally representative, longitudinal study of 3078 veterans. Veterans were surveyed prior to the pandemic (pre‐pandemic) and 1 year later during the height of the pandemic (peri‐pandemic). Multivariable analyses were conducted to identify risk and protective variables associated with pre‐to‐peri pandemic declines in self‐reported physical and mental functioning.

Results

The prevalence of veterans who experienced functional decline (≥0.5 standard deviation reductions) pre‐to‐peri‐pandemic was 18.1% (N = 541) for physical functioning and 18.3% (N = 547) for mental functioning. Older age, greater adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and pandemic‐related posttraumatic stress symptoms were the strongest correlates of physical functional decline, while greater ACEs, loneliness, pandemic‐related posttraumatic and social restriction stress symptoms, and lower protective psychosocial characteristics were the strongest correlates of mental functional decline.

Conclusions

Although the majority of U.S. Veterans showed functional maintenance or improvement 1 year into the pandemic, nearly one‐in‐five experienced a decline in physical or mental functioning. Results could help inform identification of veterans who may be at risk for functional decline during large‐magnitude stressors, such as national or global pandemics.
Fractionation and physicochemical characterization of dietary fiber of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed
Authors: Nevara Gita Addelia , Muhammad Sharifah Kharidah Syed , Zawawi Norhasnida , Mustapha Nor Afizah , Karim Roselina
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Kenaf seeds are underutilized kenaf plant by‐products, containing essential nutrients including dietary fiber (DF), which can be potentially utilized as food ingredients. The present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of kenaf seed fiber fractions extracted from kenaf seed.

RESULTS

Defatted kenaf seed powder yielded four DF fractions: alkali‐soluble hemicellulose (146.4 g kg−1), calcium‐bound pectin (10.3 g kg−1) and acid‐soluble pectin (25.4 g kg−1) made up the soluble fibre fraction, whereas cellulose (202.2 g kg−1) comprised the insoluble fraction. All fractions were evaluated for their physicochemical properties. The DF fractions contained glucose, mannose, xylose and arabinose, and a small amount of uronic acid (1.2–2.7 g kg−1). The isolated pectin fractions had a low degree of esterification (14–30%). All the isolated DF fractions had high average molecular weights ranging from 0.3 to 4.3 × 106 g mol−1. X‐ray diffractogram analysis revealed that the fractions consisted mainly of an amorphous structure with a relative crystallinity ranging from 31.6% to 44.1%. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum of kenaf seed and its DF fractions showed typical absorption of polysaccharides, with the presence of hydroxyl, carboxyl, acetyl and methyl groups. Scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that the raw material with the rigid structure resulted in soluble and insoluble DF fractions with more fragile and fibrous appearances, respectively. The soluble DF demonstrated greater flowability and compressibility than the insoluble fractions.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide novel information on the DF fractions of kenaf seeds, which could be used as a potential new DF for the food industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Recent developments in stretchable and flexible tactile sensors towards piezoresistive systems: A review
Authors: Saxena Akshay , Patra Karali
Published: December 2023

Stretchable and flexible piezoresistive sensors (SFPSs) can detect mechanical stimuli in terms of electrical response and provide adaptability to use with complex surfaces, whether stationary or moving. Its stretchable and flexible nature makes it ideal for detecting large strains, localized pressure, bending, and twisting. SFPSs can detect pressure and strain in a broad range. SFPSs have ease of manufacturing, high sensitivity, better durability, easy processing, and economic development. These qualities of SFPSs can open a wide range of application possibilities, such as healthcare, human motion detection, a safe environment to interact with robots, automation, and soft robotics. The discussion in this article starts from the sensing mechanism, design development over the years, a variety of materials used for substrates and to provide conductivity to the sensors, fabrication processes explored and developed, enhancement in the performance characteristics, to have future directions. Over the last decades, exponential development has occurred in SFPSs systems based on design mechanisms, materials used, and fabrication techniques, even though several technological and design challenges remain undetermined and bear decisive interdisciplinary intervention to address them.
Non‐conditioned cord blood transplantation for infection control in athymic CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Sonoda Motoshi , Ishimura Masataka , Inoue Hirosuke , Eguchi Katsuhide , Ochiai Masayuki , Sakai Yasunari , Doi Takehiko , Suzuki Kyoko , Inoue Takeshi , Mizukami Tomoyuki , Nakamura Kimitoshi , Takada Hidetoshi , Ohga Shouichi
Published: December 2023

Objective

CHARGE syndrome is a congenital malformation syndrome caused by heterozygous mutations in the CHD7 gene. Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) arises from congenital athymia called CHARGE/complete DiGeorge syndrome. While cultured thymus tissue implantation (CTTI) provides an immunological cure, hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is an alternative option for immuno‐reconstitution of affected infants. We aimed to clarify the clinical outcomes of patients with athymic CHARGE syndrome after HCT.

Methods

We studied the immunological reconstitution and outcomes of four patients who received non‐conditioned unrelated donor cord blood transplantation (CBT) at Kyushu University Hospital from 2007 to 2022. The posttransplant outcomes were compared with the outcomes of eight reported patients.

Results

Four index cases received CBT 70–144 days after birth and had no higher than grade II acute graft‐versus‐host disease. One infant was the first newborn‐screened athymic case in Japan. They achieved more than 500/μL naïve T cells with balanced repertoire 1 month post transplant, and survived more than 12 months with home care. Twelve patients including the index cases received HCT at a median 106 days after birth (range: 70–195 days). One‐year overall survival rate was significantly higher in patients who underwent non‐conditioned HCT than in those who received conditioned HCT (100% vs. 37.5%, p = .02). Nine patients died, and the major cause of death was cardiopulmonary failure.

Conclusions

Athymic infants achieved a prompt reconstitution of non‐skewing naïve T cells after non‐conditioned CBT that led to home care in infancy without significant infections. Non‐conditioned CBT is a useful bridging therapy for newborn‐screened cases toward an immunological cure by CTTI.
Colorectal cancer survivors' experiences and views of shared and telehealth models of survivorship care: A qualitative study
Authors: Gore Claire , Lisy Karolina , O’Callaghan Clare , Wood Colin , Emery Jon , Martin Andrew , De Abreu Lourenco Richard , Schofield Penelope , Jefford Michael
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The number of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors is increasing and current models of survivorship care are unsustainable. There is a drive to implement alternative models of care including shared care between general practitioners (GPs) and hospital‐based providers. The primary objective of this study was to explore perspectives on facilitators and barriers to shared care. The secondary objective was to explore experiences of telehealth‐delivered care.

Method

Qualitative data were collected via semi‐structured interviews with participants in the Shared Care for Colorectal Cancer Survivors (SCORE) randomised controlled trial. Interviews explored patient experiences of usual and shared survivorship care during the SCORE trial. In response to the COVID pandemic, participant experiences of telehealth appointments were also explored. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis.

Results

Twenty survivors of CRC were interviewed with an even number in the shared and usual care arms; 14 (70%) were male. Facilitators to shared care included: good relationships with GPs; convenience of GPs; good communication between providers; desire to reduce public health system pressures. Barriers included: poor communication between clinicians; inaccessibility of GPs; beliefs about GP capacity; and a preference for follow‐up care with the hospital after positive treatment experiences. Participants also commonly expressed a preference for telehealth‐based follow‐up when there was no need for a clinical examination.

Conclusions

This is one of few studies that have explored patient experiences with shared and telehealth‐based survivorship care. Findings can guide the implementation of these models, particularly around care coordination, communication, preparation, and personalised pathways of care.
Application of the hard‐soft acid–base principle in plasma‐in‐liquid processing
Authors: Kanno Moriyuki , Ito Tsuyohito , Terashima Kazuo
Published: December 2023

Plasma, owing to its reactivity and nonequilibrium properties, is a unique field commonly used in material processing. In recent years, plasma processing with a liquid phase has attracted considerable attention owing to its important advantages, such as high electron density and the availability of a wide variety of reactions in solutions. However, plasma‐in‐liquid material synthesis is occasionally difficult to control and guidelines are lacking. In this study, we investigated whether the hard‐soft acid–base (HSAB) principle, which is often applied in material synthesis, is applicable to the plasma‐in‐liquid process and demonstrated that organic solvent‐derived substances produced by plasma‐in‐liquid processing reacted with solutes according to the HSAB principle. These results suggest that the HSAB principle may apply to plasma‐in‐liquid processing.
Evaluation ofAlphaFoldantibody–antigen modeling with implications for improving predictive accuracy
Authors: Yin Rui , Pierce Brian G.
Published: December 2023

High resolution antibody–antigen structures provide critical insights into immune recognition and can inform therapeutic design. The challenges of experimental structural determination and the diversity of the immune repertoire underscore the necessity of accurate computational tools for modeling antibody–antigen complexes. Initial benchmarking showed that despite overall success in modeling protein–protein complexes, AlphaFold and AlphaFold‐Multimer have limited success in modeling antibody–antigen interactions. In this study, we performed a thorough analysis of AlphaFold's antibody–antigen modeling performance on 427 nonredundant antibody–antigen complex structures, identifying useful confidence metrics for predicting model quality, and features of complexes associated with improved modeling success. Notably, we found that the latest version of AlphaFold improves near‐native modeling success to over 30%, versus approximately 20% for a previous version, while increased AlphaFold sampling gives approximately 50% success. With this improved success, AlphaFold can generate accurate antibody–antigen models in many cases, while additional training or other optimization may further improve performance.
Risk assessment of LNG bunkering vessel operation based on formal safety assessment method
Authors: Wang Yunlong , Cha Zhiqiang , Liang Guopeng , Zhang Xin , Li Kai , Guan Guan
Published: December 2023

With the increase of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) fuel‐powered vessels, LNG bunkering vessels have become an important development direction of LNG bunkering technology for its advantages. However, the LNG bunkering vessel operation risk assessment is relatively few. Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) is a novel structured and systematic risk analysis method for Marine engineering, through the data analysis based on probability theory, people can foresee the risk before the accident and take measures to reduce the risk and avoid heavy loss. In this paper, the LNG bunkering vessel operation process is divided into four subprocesses: the loading process, the navigation process, the bunkering process, and the anchoring process. The FSA method is used to identify and evaluate the risks in each process, judge the negligible risk, reasonable and feasible low risk, unacceptable risk, and put forward corresponding safe measures to provide safety guarantees for the operation of LNG bunkering vessels. Through the standardized assessment steps of FSA, a risk model for the LNG bunkering vessel operation process is established, and reasonable suggestions and measures that can effectively control the risk of the LNG bunkering vessel operation process are proposed, the research results of this paper can provide important technical guidance and reference value for the safe operation of LNG bunkering vessel.