bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammatory Markers in Neonates Born to Mothers With SARS-CoV-2 Infection During Pregnancy
Authors: Popescu Daniela-Eugenia , Boia Eugen Radu , Paduraru Luminita , Zonda Gabriela Ildiko , Rosca Ioana , Pienar Corina , Citu Cosmin , Popa Zoran Laurentiu , Manea Aniko-Maria , Budisan Camelia , Dima Mirabela , Muresan Cezara , Boia Marioara
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about its impact on maternal and neonatal health. This study aimed to investigate the influence of maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy on neonatal inflammatory parameters. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Premiere Hospital in Timisoara between May 2021 and January 2022. Participants were categorized into two groups: the COVID-19 positive group, consisting of patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 in-fection during pregnancy, and the control group, which comprised COVID-19-free pregnant women. The primary outcome was the assessment of inflammatory markers (NLR, dNLR, PLR, and SII) in neonates born to mothers with COVID-19. The results suggest that maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy significantly impacts certain neonatal inflammatory parameters. Spe-cifically, newborns exposed to maternal COVID-19 exhibited elevated white blood cell counts, particularly when infection occurred during the first trimester. Lymphocyte counts were dimin-ished in neonates born to COVID-19-positive mothers, irrespective of infection trimester. Gesta-tional age played a role in altering neonatal immune profiles, with correlations observed between GA and parameters in the Control Group (COVID-19 negative during pregnancy). However, the influence of neonatal immunoreactivity on laboratory parameters remained generally non-significant after adjusting for GA and infection trimester. In conclusion, maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy has a discernible impact on neonatal inflammatory parameters, in-cluding WBC and lymphocyte counts, which may have clinical implications.
The Study of Molecules and Processes in Solution: An Overview of Questions, Approaches and Applications
Authors: Tshilande Neani , Mammino Liliana , Bilonda Mireille Kabuyi
Published: January 2024

Many industrial processes, several natural processes involving non-living matter, and all the processes occurring within living organisms take place in solution. This means that the molecules playing active roles in the processes are present within another medium, called solvent. The solute molecules are surrounded by solvent molecules and interact with them. Understanding the nature and strength of these interactions, and the way in which they modify the properties of the solute molecules, is important for a better understanding of the chemical processes occurring in solution, including possible roles of the solvent in those processes. Computational studies can provide a wealth of information on solute-solvent interactions and their effects. Two major models have been developed to this purpose: a model viewing the solvent as a polarizable continuum surrounding the solute molecule, and a model considering a certain number of explicit solvent molecules around a solute molecule. Each of them has its advantages and challenges, and one selects the model that is more suitable for the type of information desired for the specific system under consideration. These studies are important in many areas of chemistry research, from the investigation of the processes occurring within a living organism to drug design and to the design of environmentally benign solvents meant to replace less benign ones in the chemical industry, as envisaged by the green chemistry principles. The paper presents a quick overview of the modelling approaches and an overview of concrete studies, with reference to selected crucial investigation themes.
Development of Multiplex Molecular Assay for Simultaneous Detection of Dengue serotypes and Chikungunya virus for arbovirus surveillance
Authors: BELEM Louis Robert W , Ibemgbo Sylvester Agha , Gomgnimbou Michel Kiréopori , Kaboré Antoinette , Verma Dileep Kumar , Kumar Ankit , Sangare Ibrahim , Sunil Sujatha
Published: January 2024

The major arboviruses belong mainly to the families Bunyaviridae, Togaviridae, and Flaviviridae amongst which chikungunya virus and dengue virus have emerged as a global public health problem. The main objective of the study was to develop a specific, sensitive, and cost-effective molecular multiplex RT-PCR and RT-qPCR assay for the rapid and simultaneous detection of CHIKV and the four serotypes of DENV for arbovirus surveillance. Specific primers of all virus were designed, one step multiplex RT-PCR (mRT-PCR) and RT-qPCR (mRT-qPCR) was developed using reference strains of CHIKV and DENV serotypes. The specificity of the test for all the viruses was confirmed by sequencing. The standard curves showed a high correlation coefficient, R2= 0.99, for DENV-2 and DENV-3; R2= 0.98, for DENV-4 and CHIKV; R2= 0.93, for DENV-1. The limits of detection were calculated to be 10-2 copies/µL for all viruses. The specificity and sensitivity of the newly developed mRT-PCR and mRT-qPCR were validated using positive serum samples collected in India and Burkina Faso. The sensitivity of mRT-PCR and mRT-qPCR are 91%, and 100% respectively. The specificity of both assays was 100% specific. mRT-PCR and mRT-qPCR assays are low cost and a combination of both will be a useful tool for arbovirus surveillance.
Distribution Characteristics of Dissolved Amino Acids in Seawater of the Yap Trench
Authors: Xiao Shaoke , Hao Wen , Sun Chengjun , Niu Jiaohong , Zhou Chenhaojin , Ding Haibing
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Amino acids are widely present as intermediates in marine nitrogen cycle. However, the information of amino acid distribution in deep-sea seawater, especially in abyss and hadal zone, is very limited. In the present study, we determined the concentrations of dissolved free amino acids (DFAA), dissolved combined amino acids (DCAA) and total hydrolysable amino acids (THAA) in the seawater from sea surface to hadal zone of the Yap Trench. Their occurrence, vertical variations and degradation behavior in the Yap Trench were investigated. The results showed that concentrations of ΣDFAA, ΣDCAA and ΣTHAA ranged from 0.09 to 1.78, 0.99 to 17.69 and 1.18 to 18.01 μmol/L, respectively, in the study area. In the seawater samples from the trench, Glycine (Gly) was the predominant DFAA, while the DCAA and THAA was dominated by threonine (Thr). Concentration of chlorophyll a (chl a) was not significantly correlated with any amino acids (DFAA, DCAA and THAA) in the euphotic layer. Mean concentrations for DFAA, DCAA and THAA in different water layers were in the order of: mesopelagic > euphotic > abyssal > bathyal. The concentrations of DCAA and THAA in sediment-seawater interface were higher than those from the euphotic to abyssal layer. Stations near the Yap Islands have the older organic matter (OM), while the organic matter in stations near the Yap Trench axis was relatively fresh above 1000-m depth. Degradation behavior of OM in the mesopelagic and abyssal layer are affected by transport of dissolved organic matter with water current. The organic matter in the sediment-seawater interface are older, especially on the west side of the trench. This is a survey of amino acids (DFAA, DCAA and THAA) in the Yap Trench, which provides information on the vertical variations and degradation behavior of amino acids from sea surface to hadal environment, and will be helpful to understand marine organic nitrogen cycle.
The Impact of Divorce on The Social Development of Children 5-6 Years Old: Peter L. Berger's Social Construction Perspective
Authors: Karomah Rosi Tunas , Prasetyo Andri , Juleha Siti
Published: January 2024

Social emotional development of children needs to be given strong support from the family. The condition of an incomplete family will cause differences in aspects of development, one of which is social-emotional in children. The purpose of this paper is to ascertain how children's social development is affected by single parents.The purpose of this paper is to ascertain how children's social development is affected by single parents. Descriptive qualitative method was used. Single parents whose children attend Kindergarten Mentari Ambarawain  become research participants. Data collection techniques include interviews, observation, and documentation. The findings of this study have a number of implications for early childhood social and emotional development. Children suffer from low self-esteem, uncontrolled emotions, inability to obey rules, bad behavior, and difficulty adjusting to their environment as a result. The relationship between a single parent and a child will greatly influence the social emotional attitude of the child.
Buku Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat Di Desa Siwalanpanji Kecamatan Buduran Sidoarjo Tahun 2019
Authors: Supriyadi Supriyadi
Published: January 2024

Koperasi simpan pinjam sebagai milik usaha Desa adalah salah satu jenis usaha berpotensi mampu menciptakan multi efek bagi mesin penggerakan perekonomian desa. Melihat kehadiran koperasi simpan pinjam wanita mekarsari Desa Siwalanpanji memiliki potensi besar. Pertama, secara profit, koperasi tersebut adalah bisnis yang sangat menguntungkan. Kedua, jika warga desa Siwalanpanji dan sekitarnya menjadi anggota koperasi, maka warga desa Siwalanpanji bisa berlepas diri dari cengkeraman praktik ribawi yang mencekik leher, terutama kejahatan praktik rentenir yang merusaka ekonomi warga desa.
Bercocok Tanam Hidroponik Dengan Metode Rakit Apung
Authors: Supriyadi Supriyadi
Published: January 2024

Desa Sidomulyo adalah salah satu desa yang ada di Kecamatan Buduran Kabupaten Sidoarjo yang memiliki enam RT dan dua RW, selain itu di desa ini merupakan salah satu desa yang mempunyai luas daerah yang kecil apabila dibandingkan dengan desa lainnya yang ada di Kecamatan Buduran. Manyoritas warga Desa Sidomulyo bermata pencaharian sebagai pekerja di perusahaan industri dan petani. Pertanian merupakan potensi yang utama di Desa Sidomulyo. Hal ini dikarenakan melimpahnya sumber air yang ada di Desa Sidomulyo.
Pengembangan UMKM Di Desa Banjarsari Berbasis E-Commerce
Authors: Supriyadi Supriyadi
Published: January 2024

Desa Banjarsari merupakan desa yang terdiri dari tiga dusun yaitu dusun Cari, dusun Beji dan dusun Gesing yang terkenal akan produk atau hasil usaha yang bermacam-macam. Dimana dusun Beji yang terkenal akan usaha sepatu dan telur asin, dusun Gesing terkenal akan usaha sepatu serta dusun Cari yang terkenal dengan usaha perikanannya. Permasalahan yang dijumpai dari hasil survey dan wawancara adalah sistem pemasaran pelaku usaha yang masih konvensional dan keterbatasan promosi. Strategi pemasaran mereka masih terbatas dengan direct selling yaitu bentuk penjualan langsung yang dilakukan dengan cara tatap muka kepada konsumen. Sistem pemasaran seperti ini perlu adanya upgrade untuk menghadapi era Industri 4.0 dengan mengoptimalkan penggunaan tekonologi digital.
Evaluation of agricultural wastes as a sustainable carbon source for the production of β-glucosidase from Bacillus stercoris, its purification and characterization
Authors: Rahman Ubaid Ur
Published: January 2024

β-glucosidases are found in all domains of life and has the ability to hydrolyse the glycosidic bond between carbohydrates and non-carbohydrates residues making it a potent enzyme from an industrial and agricultural perspective. The aim of the current study was isolation, screening, and identification of bacterial strains having maximum β-glucosidase activity from soil sample of Jacobabad, Pakistan. The isolates were screened primarily, and efficient isolates were confirmed for β-glucosidase production through secondary screening. Among the different isolated strains, 1j2 was selected as the best β-glucosidase producer. The isolate showed 99% similarity with Bacillus stercoris after 16S rRNA sequencing. Different culture conditions were optimized for effective β-glucosidase production. Enhanced level of β-glucosidase was achieved at 40°C, pH 8 at 150 rpm in a β-glucosidase production medium supplemented with a combination of agricultural residues of wheat bran 0.25% (w/v) and orange peel 0.25% (w/v), using 5% inoculum. Bacillus stercoris produced a higher yield (2.89U/mg) of β-glucosidase under optimized conditions. Partial purification of β-glucosidase was achieved after 80% ammonium sulfate precipitation. The enzyme was purified and had shown maximum specific activity of 53.2 U/mg with molecular weight of approximately 36 kDa. In all the tested metals Cu2+ was observed to have inhibitory effect while Ca2+ had not affected the enzyme activity significantly. While organic solvents and surfactants had significantly reduced the β-glucosidase activity. Based on the afore mentioned abilities of purified β-glucosidase from Bacillus stercoris strain it could be a promising player for the industrial applications of lignocellulose hydrolysis found in agricultural residues for the cheap production of biofuels.
Growth, yield performance and nitrogen use efficiency of wheat as affected by nitrogen fertilization under arid agro-climatic conditions
Authors: Mushtaq Tariq
Published: January 2024

Overuse of nitrogenous fertilizers and low productivity of cropping systems produce the lowest nitrogen use efficiencies (NUE) in Pakistan. The surplus nitrogen (N) causes environmental degradation and reduces farm profitability. There is a lack of consideration of NUE while setting yield targets and nitrogen fertilization rates. The NUE is an essential indicator for sustainable crop production. The NUE can be improved with optimum nitrogen application without compromising crop yields. To find out an optimum nitrogen level for high NUE in wheat under agro-climatic conditions of Multan, an RCBD experiment comprising six nitrogen fertilizer doses (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 kg ha-1) was conducted during 2017-18 and 2018-19. Increasing levels of N increased the growth and yield attributes, while the maximum cost-benefit ratio was recorded at 150 kg N ha-1. Higher N doses (200 and 250 kg N ha-1) increased the biological yield but did not translate into grain yield, reducing the harvest index and cost-benefit ratio. Several N use efficiency indices were established, showing that 100 kg N ha-1 recorded the maximum nitrogen use efficiency. Partial factor productivity, internal efficiency, and physiological efficiency were maximum at a lower dose (50 kg N ha-1). In contrast, agronomic efficiency, partial nitrogen balance, recovery efficiency, and NUE were maximum at 100 kg N ha-1. Higher N doses (150-250 kg N ha-1) reduced all the N use efficiency indices. It is concluded that with a yield objective of about 5 t ha-1 under the agro-climatic conditions of Multan, a nitrogen application of 100-150 kg N ha-1 will be the most economical and will produce the maximum nitrogen use efficiency for wheat
Physiological and biochemical characterization of sugar beet against salt-stress
Authors: Tayyab Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Salt stress is a major problem at global level and it is very important to utilize salt-affected soils using appropriate techniques. Growing of halophytes on saline-sodic soil is a win-win strategy getting economic crop production and conserving soil resources. An experiment was conducted to characterize the salt-resistance sugar beet cultivar at seedling based on growth physiological and biochemical parameters under different levels of salt stress. A hydroponic experiment was conducted using eight sugar beet cultivars and two salt stress levels (60 and 120 mM NaCl) along with a control. The plants were harvested ten days after giving salt stress. Cluster dendrogram and principal component analysis were the most appropriate methods for screening the suitable cultivar. Most of the sugar beet cultivars responded resistance against salt stress however VEDA cultivar performed better against salt stress. Thus VEDA cultivar acquired highest position at 60 mM NaCl showing the highest growth attributes antioxidant activity with higher K+/Na+ ratio hydrogen peroxide phenolic and melandialdehyde content indicating strong defense mechanism against salt induced oxidative and osmotic stress mainly owing to the best K+ and Na+ balance. Therefore VEDA cultivar is considered as the best salt-resistant cultivar with great potential to be grown on salt-affected soils and further characterizing of this cultivar can lead to develop further salt-resistant cultivars as well.
Effect of endophytic fungi in combating salinity and drought stress in date palm: A case study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghanem Suliman M.S.
Published: January 2024

Salinity and drought are among the major abiotic stresses, leading to decreased crop productivity. Fungi are notorious for their detrimental effects on crop growth and development. In light of these circumstances, the primary objective of this project is to assemble a collection of endophytic fungi to develop new organic bio-stimulants that can effectively combat salinity and drought. To achieve this goal, diverse soil types, including cultivated, desert, and salt marshes, were sampled (five samples each) from different habitats and locations in the southern part of Sinai, the Saint Katherine Protectorate (SKP) is part of the upper Sinai massif, spanning specific coordinates (33°550 to 34°300 E and 28°300 to 28°350 N). Additionally, 80 samples of the predominant medicinal plant species from ten localities in the SKP were collected. The results of survey showed that the highest abundance of endophytic fungi was observed in Artemisia judaica L. and Alkanna orientalis (L.) Boiss., with both species exhibiting 61.1 % endophytic fungi. Five isolates of fungi labeled as SAF41, SAF46, SAF51, SAF57, and SAF63, were assessed for their tolerance to salinity stress by exposing them to different NaCl concentrations. Isolate SAF63 had the most substantial negative and significant correlation with salinity stress (R2=0.9565; p<0.001), followed by SAF51 (R2=0.9432; p<0.001) and SAF41 (R2=0.9351; p<0.001). The results indicate that different fungi isolates exhibited distinct responses to varying salinity levels and drought stress, as measured by their growth in different NaCl concentrations. Isolate SAF63 demonstrated the most significant negative correlation with salinity stress, followed by SAF51 and SAF41. These findings suggest that specific endophytic fungi isolates exhibit enhanced tolerance to both salinity and drought stress, underscoring their promising potential in mitigating metabolic and physiological damage in date palm plants, ultimately leading to increased growth and yields
Effects of harvest dates on the physiology and quality attributes of blueberries during long-term postharvest storage
Authors: Guo Dan
Published: January 2024

Harvest time has an important influence on the storability of fruits. And the blueberry fruits bloom and mature in batches. Present study was conducted to investigate the effect of harvest dates on the postharvest quality of Northland blueberries during 49 days of storage at 4?1 ?C. We examined fruit weight loss decay rate firmness soluble solid content (SSC) titratable acidity (TA) vitamin C (VC) total phenol flavonoid anthocyanin and malondialdehyde (MDA) content polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) activities in five blueberry batches with different (early middle and late) harvest times. Results indicated that after harvest blueberries underwent deterioration of their qualities owing to fast ripening and senescence. Among the five examined batches those harvested 60 and 65 days after flowering (middle harvest) were less affected by the storage period. Fruits from these batches maintained longer postharvest quality and showed extended storage life through the deceleration of weight loss decay incidence PPO activity softness TA SSC VC and increase in the total POD activity phenol flavonoid anthocyanin and MDA content. Based on our data the early and late harvested fruits are better suited for fresh fruit sales while fruits with intermediate harvest dates are optimal for long-term storage. Our study provides a reference framework for the postharvest storage of certain blueberry cultivars by taking into account their harvest dates.
Traditional pathology and phylogenetic networking confirm the pathogen causing date palm wilt
Authors: Khan Nabeeha Aslam
Published: January 2024

Phoenix dactylifera L. (Date palm) is one of the leading perennial fruit crops regarding its nutritional profile, medicinal significance, excellent yields, long life, and high adaptability to diverse climatic conditions of semi-arid and arid regions globally. Eleven major palm-growing districts of Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were surveyed for wilt disease assessment on date palms. The date palm plantation was highly affected with Fusarium wilt diseases with 55%, the incidence in Khairpur (Sindh province), followed by Bahawalpur 47.4% (Punjab Province) and 45% in Dera Ismail Khan (KPK province). Disease severity was recorded as 65% in Khairpur, 55% in Bahawalpur, 50% in Dera Ismail Khan (Sindh, Punjab, and KPK, respectively). Sixty-three Fusarium isolates were obtained from three hundred and eighty (380) diseased samples, and thirty isolates randomly selected out of 63 were studied for morpho-cultural and microscopic characterization. Morpho-cultural characters i.e colony pigmentation, growth pattern, conidia (macro and microconidia), shape, apical cell shape, and phalidies studied were coinciding with typical characters of Fusarium oxysporum. Twenty isolates of Fusarium population was subjected for the ITS region sequence data-based phylogenetic network. The Neighbor net algorithm computed an unrooted phylogenetic network displayed as four branched genetic-network that depicted the division of twenty fungal isolates into four groups. F. oxysporum (FMB-FO-PD-011) inoculated onto healthy symptomless detached date palm leaves, seedlings and suckers under controlled as well as field conditions showed typical wilt disease symptoms. Hence this study proved that F. oxysporum is the potential cause of date palm wilt in Pakistan.
Effect of different bacterial agents on fermentation quality and microbial community of pigeon pea silage
Authors: Pan Jiahui
Published: January 2024

Despite pigeon pea being an important feed resource globally, very few reports have studied the application of bacterial agents in pigeon pea silage, thereby limiting the development and utilization of pigeon pea silage in animal husbandry. This study aimed to investigate how three bacterial agents affected the chemical composition, fermentation quality, and microbial community of the pigeon pea silage. Chopped pigeon pea was subject to the following treatments: Control [no additive], MFA [Bacillus, Lactobacillus, yeast; 5 g·kg-1 fresh weight (FW)], HECBEP [Bacillus, lactobacillus, yeast, enzymes; 1 g·kg-1 FW] and BFFA [Bacillus, Lactobacillus, yeast; 4 g·kg-1 FW]. After analyzing the chemical composition, fermentation quality, and microbial community of the silage post 30 days of ensiling, the bacterial agents were found to improve the quality of pigeon pea silage. Notably, the BFFA group showed higher dry matter (DM) content, lower pH, and the higher ratio of ammonia nitrogen·total nitrogen-1 (AN·TN-1 ) contents as compared to the MFA, HECBEP, and control group. Additionally, the microbial analysis and Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated that the application of bacteria agent BFFA increased the microbial community richness, Lactobacillus abundance, Firmicutes abundance, and decreased the Proteobacteria abundance. Therefore, these results suggest that bacterial agent BFFA could be recommended to be applied in pigeon pea for high-quality silage production.
Comparison of missing data imputation methods using weather data
Authors: Nida Hafiza
Published: January 2024

Researchers and data analysts commonly experience with missing data in their field of studies. It is necessary to handle missing data properly to obtain better and more reliable outcomes of any research. The objective of this research is to evaluate different imputation techniques for handling missing observations in weather data. For this purpose weather data of daily rainfall maximum temperature (Tmax) and minimum temperature (Tmin) of 23 stations of Pakistan were taken from Pakistan Metrological department from 1981 to 2020. There are total 14610 observation of each variable and each variable have different number of missing observations at different stations. For the estimation of missing observation at each station mean imputation k nearest neighbors (KNN) imputation predictive mean matching (PMM) imputation and sample imputation techniques are used. Among different imputation techniques the technique which provides minimum root mean square error (RMSE) is selected and used to estimate the missing observations at each station. The result shows that the selection of imputation method is different for each station and mainly depends upon the size of missing observation in the data. For rainfall data the KNN technique is the most appropriate while for Tmax and Tmin the mean imputation technique is recommended for the estimation of missing observation in the data as compared to other methods.
Yield, yield components and fatty acid composition of Artemisia dracunculus L. local breeds under organic cultivation conditions
Authors: Göktaş Özlem
Published: January 2024

The importance of medicinal and aromatic plants in people's lives is growing due to their various uses and diverse cultivation conditions. This study aimed to determine the yield and yield components and quality features (oil ratio and fatty acid composition according to GC-MS) of six different tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus L.) local breeds grown organically in Bayburt province, Turkey. For this purpose, the data obtained by growing the plants in the experimental area during the two crop years, 2018 and 2019, were evaluated. As for the yield values, the highest values for green herb yield (275.41 kg ha-1), drug herb yield (99.89 kg ha-1), drug-herb percentage (44.00%), green leaf yield (208.97 kg ha-1), green leaf percentage (75.09%) and drog leaf yield (72.48 kg ha-1) were found in the local breed from Bayburt Central location. It was found that the oil percentages, evaluated to determine the quality traits, ranged from 5.39% to 7.02%. The most important fatty acid was α- linolenic acid (9.49%-23.1%), followed by linoleic acid (4.18%-13.89%) and palmitic acid (4.05-13.89%). As far as we know, this is the first study investigating tarragon's total oil content and fatty acid composition. The results show that the total oil content of this plant, which has remarkable pharmacological effects, is present in useful quantities compared to the leafy green and does not contain fatty acids that prevent its consumption as food. Therefore, this plant is expected to be used directly in various food products
Investigation of some acute phase protein levels of Awassi lambs in neonatal period and their relationship with lamb weight
Authors: Paksoy Nilgün
Published: January 2024

Acute phase proteins (APPs) have been paid attention to as sensitive and reliable biomarkers used for monitoring general health status, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies of diseases. In this study, changes in some APPs, globulin (Glb), and total protein (TP) concentrations and the correlation of these proteins with lamb weight were investigated in the neonatal period of Awassi lambs (Ovis aries). Repeated blood samples were taken from 59 lambs at 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of age. There were statistical differences in average haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid-A (SAA), ceruloplasmin (Cp), and albumin (Alb) concentrations during the neonatal period. The lowest concentrations of both Hp and SAA were measured in precolostrum samples and increased to the highest level on the 3rd day of the neonatal period. Ceruloplasmin concentrations followed a constant course in the samples of the first 3 days and reached the highest level in the 14th day samples. The highest levels of Alb were measured in precolostrum samples, and the lowest levels were detected in the 14th day samples. Acute phase protein concentration changes did not differ significantly by gender except Cp. There was a negative correlation between the weights of lambs and Cp and Alb. It was concluded that the time-dependent change of APPs in the neonatal period could help in understanding the neonatal period of Awassi lambs and that its primary purpose is survival as a physiological part of the adaptation process to the extrauterine environment
Anticoccidial activities of essential oil of Amomum subulatum in broiler chicks
Authors: Saeed Zohaib
Published: January 2024

Essential oils are potent medicinal substances which can control multiple diseases by their antioxidant actions. In current research, anticoccidial potential of the Amomum subulatum essential oil was estimated in broiler chicks. 270 broiler chicks were divided equally into 6 groups, each having 3 replicates. All the groups, except infected nonmedicated control group, were given sporulated oocysts of mixed Eimeria spp. First three groups received essential oil of A. subulatum @ 1%, 2% and 3% (v/w) in the feed and their activities was evaluated in comparison to the Symocox® (Toltrazuril) treated groups and infected nonmedicated groups. Feed conversion ratio, feed intake, weight gain, rates of mortality, organ weight ratios, fecal scores, lesion scores and oocyst per gram of feces were taken as the parameters of the study. Blood parameters and serum metabolites were also evaluated. A. subulatum essential oil @ 3% concentration had the best FCR, survival rates, and feed intakes. A. subulatum essential oils also significantly reduced lesion lowered oocyst counts and improved the fecal scores. Hematological and serum profiles were also improved by the 3% essential oil of A. subulatum in the feed. This research concluded that the A. subulatum essential oil @ 3% concentration can be used for the treatment of avian coccidiosis however formulation of dose requires further studies on broiler chicks.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in dogs and cats in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
Authors: Said Arsalan
Published: January 2024

Toxoplasma gondii is the most prevalent parasite that mostly affects warm-blooded animals, including humans. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), this parasite infects about one-third of the world's population of people. Lack of information regarding toxoplasmosis in the population of domestic and stray dogs and cats in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was a major factor in the decision to conduct this study. Our aim was to use serological technique to establish the seroprevalence of T. gondii in dogs and cats. In this study, 405 dogs and 405 cats, blood samples were collected from various veterinary hospitals and privates pet clinics and an ELISA test was used to determine anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies. Information on four risk factors age, sex, deworming of dogs and cats and, area was collected from the owners by questionnaire. Total seroprevalence in dogs, and cats was 45.18% (183/405), and 51.60% (209/405), respectively. No significant difference was documented on basis of age and gender between dogs, and cats. Dogs and cats from urban areas showed lower seroprevalence than rural areas. Dogs that had received deworming showed lower seroprevalence. This research indicates that neglected parasite Toxoplasma gondii is prevalent in dogs and cats in Pakistan, which may have great public health importance
Embryogenic responses in anther derived calli of white and pink flesh guava (Psidium guajava L.) cultivars
Authors: Bokhari Syeda Anum M.
Published: January 2024

Androgenesis is reported in a few tree crops such as citrus and papaya; however, there is little information available about guava. Different modified Chu (N6) media and cold pretreatments of floral buds were tested to induce embryogenic calli in the anthers of two white flesh guava cultivars, ‘Round’ and ‘Pyriform’. Four modified Chu (N6) media formulations, i.e., M1 (400 mgL-1 casein hydrolysate, 200 mgL-1 glutamine, 0.2 mgL-1NAA, 1.0 mgL-1 KIN, 0.5 mgL-1 6-BAP, 0.5 mgL-1 zeatin and 5% coconut water), M2 (400 mgL-1 casein hydrolysate, 200 mgL-1 glutamine, 0.2 mgL-1NAA, 1.0 mgL-1 KIN, 0.5 mgL-1 6-BAP), M10 (0.5 mgL-1 2,4-D), and M11 (0.5 mgL-1 2,4-D and 50 mgL-1 PVP) enhanced anther swelling and callus formation. Genotypic variability was found in pollen viability, phenolic exudation, and anther tissue browning after cold pretreatment for 0-72 hrs. intervals. Anthers of ‘Round’ showed more pollen viability across cold pretreatment intervals with less phenolic exudations and tissue browning than ‘Pyriform’. On both M10 and M11 media, anthers with uni-nucleate microspores developed embryogenic calli; however, anthers of ‘Pyriform’ resulted in more calli induction (69.58%) on M10 media, whereas anthers of ‘Round’ developed more calli (66.60%) on M11 media. The proliferating calli in white flesh ‘Round’ and ‘Pyriform’ cultivars and pink flesh ‘Round’ cultivar formed more embryogenic masses upon transfer to growth hormone-free Chu (N6) media under light conditions; however, embryos showed delayed maturity with limited germination. More genotypes shall be explored to enhance embryo germination, and embryogenic media shall be further fine-tuned. This study provides the foundation for the generation of homozygous lines in guava using androgenesis
Nutritional status and smallholder farmer characteristic of Bali cattle-oil palm integration system in the rural dryland area of Bangka Island, Indonesia
Authors: Hidayat Zikril
Published: January 2024

Livestock-oil palm plantations integration system is intended to improve farming efficiency, where agriculture not only plays a role as the primary producer of food but also as a producer of feed, fertilizer, energy, and other bioproducts, leading to a sustainable agricultural system. Smallholder farmers in Indonesia integrated Bali cattle and oil palm with extensive, semiintensive, and intensive management systems. This study evaluated the integrated system of oil palm and Bali cattle under different management systems regarding the characteristics of smallholder farmers, nutritional status, and weight gain of Bali cattle on smallholder farms. The study was conducted in the Regency of Central Bangka, Bangka Islands, Indonesia. The study included 108 Bali cattle grouped as calves, young, and adults. The observed variables included smallholder farmer characteristics, feed nutrients, feed nutrient consumption (Dry Matter (DM), protein, Ca, and P), feed digestibility, and body weight gain. A Randomized Block Design and analysis of variance for the obtained data were used in this experiment. Smallholder farmers implementing the integration of livestock-oil palm in Central Bangka Regency were dominated by inexperienced novice farmers. The majority of the farmer choose semi-intensive rearing management as this system produces compost as a by-product. The semi-intensive system also provides better feed quality for Bali cattle. Therefore, DM consumption in the semi-intensive system was higher than in other systems, especially in young bulls, heifers, and male and female calves (P<0.05). Thus, Bali cattle in the semi-intensive system had higher average daily gain than those in the intensive or extensive system. Therefore, it can be concluded that the semi-intensive management system is the best model in the Bali cattle-oil palm integration system in the rural dryland area, in accordance with nutritional status and the characteristics of smallholder farmers in Indonesia
Reflective Boundary Conditions Coupled With the SPH Method for the Three-Dimensional Simulation of Fluid-Structure Interaction With Solid Boundaries
Authors: Filho Carlos Alberto Dutra Fraga
Published: January 2024

Fluid-structure interaction occurs, for example, in wave impacts against reservoir walls, coastal structures offshore platforms in the ocean, bridge piers, breakwaters), coastal flooding, sloshing phenomenon, tsunamis, and biomedical applications. In the threedimensional fluid-structure interaction simulation performed by the Lagrangian (meshfree) particle methods, the fluid particles' collisions treatment against solid boundaries using a
realistic reflective physical approach, replacing artificial computational techniques (which use fictitious particles and unnatural repulsive forces) is an advance in the treatment of the contours, in the continuum domain. The benchmark study of a three-dimensional dam-breaking flow over a dry bed generating a wave that impacts a tall structure–a rigid obstacle fixed inside the reservoir–using the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Method coupled with the reflective boundary conditions is presented in this paper. The findings showed good agreement with the previous literature data, proving the applicability of the reflective technique in the simulation of fluid-structure interaction problems in three-dimensional domains.
Cytoplasmic accumulation and plasma membrane association of anillin and Ect2 promote confined migration and invasion
Authors: Konstantopoulos Konstantinos , Tran Avery , Wisniewski Emily , Mistriotis Panagiotis , Stoletov Konstantin , Parlani Maria , Amitrano Alice , Ifemembi Brent , Lee Se Jong , Bera Kaustav , Zhang Yuqi , Tuntithavornwat Soontorn , Afthinos Alexandros , Kiepas Alexander , Jamieson John , Zuo Yi , Habib Daniel , Wu Pei Hsun , Martin Stuart , Gerecht Sharon , Gu Luo , Lewis John , Kalab Petr , Friedl Peter
Published: January 2024

Cells migrating in confinement experience mechanical challenges whose consequences on cell migration machinery remain only partially understood. Here, we demonstrate that a pool of the cytokinesis regulatory protein anillin is retained during interphase in the cytoplasm of different cell types. Confinement induces recruitment of cytoplasmic anillin to plasma membrane at the poles of migrating cells, which is further enhanced upon nuclear envelope (NE) rupture(s). Rupture events also enable the cytoplasmic egress of predominantly nuclear RhoGEF Ect2. Anillin and Ect2 redistributions scale with microenvironmental stiffness and confinement, and are observed in confined cells in vitro and in invading tumor cells in vivo. Anillin, which binds actomyosin at the cell poles, and Ect2, which activates RhoA, cooperate additively to promote myosin II contractility, and promote efficient invasion and extravasation. Overall, our work provides a mechanistic understanding of how cytokinesis regulators mediate RhoA/ROCK/myosin II-dependent mechanoadaptation during confined migration and invasive cancer progression.
Catalytic Single-particle Plasmonic Nanogap Reactors with Precisely-aligned Molecular Monolayers
Authors: Baumberg Jeremy , Kang Gyeongwon , Hu Shu
Published: January 2024

Plasmonic nanostructures can both drive and interrogate light-driven catalytic reactions. Sensitive detection of reaction pathways is achieved by confining optical fields near the active surface. However, effective control of the reaction kinetics remains a challenge in order to utilize nanostructure constructs as efficient chemical reactors. Here we present a nanoreactor construct exhibiting high catalytic and optical efficiencies, based on a nanoparticle-on-mirror (NPoM) platform. We observe and track pathways of the Pd-catalysed C-C coupling reaction of molecules within a set of nanogaps presenting different chemical surfaces. Atomic monolayer coatings of Pd on the different Au facets enable tuning of the reaction kinetics. Systematic analysis shows the catalytic efficiency of NPoM-based nanoreactors greatly improves on platforms based on aggregated nanoparticles. More importantly, we show Pd monolayers on the nanoparticle or on the mirror play significantly different roles in the reaction kinetics. Such nanoreactor constructs therefore yield clearer design rules for plasmonic catalysis.
Rapid effects of valproic acid on the fetal brain transcriptome: Implications for brain development and autism
Authors: Krueger Bruce , Dorsey Susan , Mocci Evelina , Lane Malcolm
Published: January 2024

There is an increased incidence of autism among the children of women who take the anti-epileptic, mood-stabilizing drug, valproic acid (VPA) during pregnancy; moreover, exposure to VPA in utero causes autistic-like symptoms in rodents and non-human primates. Analysis of RNA-seq data obtained from E12.5 fetal mouse brains 3 hours after VPA administration to the pregnant dam revealed that VPA rapidly and significantly increased or decreased the expression of approximately 7,300 genes. No significant sex differences in VPA-induced gene expression were observed. Expression of 399 autism risk genes was significantly altered by VPA as was expression of 255 genes that have been reported to play fundamental roles in fetal brain development but are not otherwise linked to autism. Expression of genes associated with intracellular signaling pathways, neurogenesis, and excitation-inhibition balance as well as synaptogenesis, neuronal fate determination, axon and dendritic development, neuroinflammation, circadian rhythms, and epigenetic modulation of gene expression was dysregulated by VPA. The goal of this study was to identify mouse genes that are: (a) significantly up- or down-regulated by VPA in the fetal brain and (b) known to be associated with autism and/or to play a role in embryonic neurodevelopmental processes, perturbation of which has the potential to alter brain connectivity and, consequently behavior, in the adult. The set of genes meeting these criteria provides potential targets for future hypothesis-driven studies to elucidate the proximal causes of errors in brain connectivity underlying neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.
RETRACTED: A novel mechanism of a protease inhibitor protein, Xbpi-1, against Acyrthosiphon pisum
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Li Qiannan , Li Xiaokang , Bu Fukang , Yu Yinchen , Liu Meng , Li Tonghao , Zheng Li , Mao Jianjun , Zeng Fanrong
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Association between inter-limb asymmetry and endurance running performance in healthy populations: A systematic review
Authors: D'Hondt Joachim , Chapelle Laurent , Bishop Chris , Aerenhouts Dirk , De Pauw Kevin , Clarys Peter , D'Hondt Eva
Published: January 2024

Backgroundː The presence of inter-limb asymmetry in the human body has traditionally been perceived to be detrimental for athletic performance. However, a systematic review addressing and comprehensively assessing the association of asymmetry between the lower limbs and endurance running performance is currently lacking.
Objective: The main purpose of this systematic review was to examine the relationship between lower inter-limb asymmetry and running performance in healthy endurance runners. The secondary objective was to identify possible avenues for further research in this area.
Methodsː Pubmed, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus were systematically searched for studies investigating the relationship between lower inter-limb asymmetry and (determinants of) running performance in healthy and injury-free endurance runners. The quality of studies eligible for inclusion was assessed using the Downs and Black Quality Index Tool.
Resultsː Out of 4817 articles screened, 8 studies were included in this review. The quality score of the included research varied between 5/10 and 9/10. Except from one finding demonstrating a positive association between peak ankle dorsiflexion asymmetry and running performance, all other lower inter-limb asymmetry outcome measures were either negatively (N = 16) or not significantly (N = 30) associated with running performance.
Conclusionsː A high heterogeneity across study methods and outcomes was apparent, making it difficult to draw a straightforward conclusion. Despite one study showing a positive relationship, the results demonstrate that some, but not all, metrics of functional, morphological, kinematic and kinetic inter-limb asymmetry are negatively or not associated with running performance. Thus, a more extensive high-quality body of research is essential to determine whether and to what extent asymmetry between the lower limbs could affect endurance running performance as well as to establish potential trade-off values for practitioners in developing training programs.
Full-color and time-valve controllable long-persistent luminescence from all-inorganic halide perovskites
Authors: Yan Dongpeng , Chen Tianhong
Published: January 2024

Long persistent luminescence (LPL) has gained considerable attention for the applications in decoration, emergency signage, information encryption and biomedicine. However, recently developed LPL materials – encompassing inorganics, organics and inorganic-organic hybrids – often display monochromatic afterglow with limited functionality. Furthermore, triplet exciton-based phosphors are prone to thermal quenching, significantly restricting their high emission efficiency. Here, we present a straightforward wet-chemistry approach for fabricating multimode LPL materials by introducing both anion (Br−) and cation (Sn2+) doping into hexagonal CsCdCl3 all-inorganic perovskites. This process involves establishing new trapping centers from [CdCl6 − nBrn]4− and/or [Sn2 − nCdnCl9]5− linker units, disrupting the local symmetry in the host framework. These halide perovskites demonstrate obviously extended afterglow duration time (> 2,000 s), nearly full-color coverage, and high photoluminescence quantum yield (~ 84.47%). Moreover, they exhibit remarkable anti-thermal quenching properties within the temperature range of 297 to 377 K. Notably, the color-changed time valve of CsCdCl3:x%Br can be precisely controlled by manipulating the concentration of Br− ions, distinguishing them from conventional color-varying long-afterglow materials. Additionally, CsCdCl3:x%Br display time- and temperature-dependent luminescence, while CsCdCl3:x%Sn exhibit forward and reverse excitation-dependent Janus-type luminescence. These characteristics endow the LPL materials with dynamic tunability, offering new opportunities in high-security anti-counterfeiting and 5D information coding. Therefore, this work not only introduces a local-symmetry breaking strategy for simultaneously enhancing afterglow lifetime and efficiency, but also provides new insights into the multimode LPL materials for applications in luminescence, photonics, and information storage.
Toxicity of nanosized photocatalysts on brine shrimp (Artemia Salina) and Lactuca sativa: effects of particle size and the presence of zeolite Y
Authors: Scalco Adriano Vinicius , Figueiredo Elaine Basilio , Gimenes Marcelino Luiz , Ferrari Ana Maria da Cruz , Fernandes Nádia Regina Camargo
Published: January 2024

Heterogeneous photocatalysts are considered “green” and non-toxic materials for environmental remediation. Although nanosized photocatalysts can promote optimistic pollutant degradation rates, the assessment of their toxicity is highly recommended. In this work, NaY zeolite-supported Niobium oxides were synthesized by deposition, precipitation, and thermal hydration methods. Ecotoxicity tests with Artemia salina and phytotoxicity tests with Lactuca sativa were performed to evaluate the toxicity of the nanomaterials. Nb2O5 prepared by thermal hydration method was the lowest phytotoxic catalyst, but the most ecotoxic, with LC50 equal to 85 mg L-1. The presence of NaY reduced the toxicity of the oxides. The 10% Nb2O5/NaY material showed reduced toxicity and did not present an inhibition effect on the development of Lactuca sativa seeds. These findings suggest that the nanoparticles can have significant interaction with biological structures, emphasizing the importance of careful handling of this material, as it is not completely absent of toxicity.