bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Subungual Nevoid Melanoma of the Right Hallux from a 65-Year-Old Man: A Case Report
Authors: Quist Mark , Yim Joon , Mirkin Gene , Hao Xingpei
Published: September 2023

Nevoid melanoma (NeM) is a rare variant of malignant melanoma characterized by slight cellular atypia, polymorphism, and incomplete maturation. It most frequently occurs on the trunk and arms but rarely on the foot. Here, we report a subungual NeM of the right hallux. A 65-year-old man presented with severe pain of 6 months’ duration to his right great toe following self-treatment for an ingrown nail. He was evaluated and treated with debridement of the toenail at an urgent medical center 3 months prior. However, this had not relieved his pain. The patient also noticed discoloration of his distal great toe over the past 3 months. Removal of part of the ingrown nail revealed a pigmented mass extending distally from the matrix. Surgical excision of the mass was performed because of the concern for malignancy. The diagnosis of NeM was based on histologic analysis along with enhanced diagnostic modalities. The patient was further treated with surgical amputation of the great toe and anti–programmed cell death-1 therapy. The patient had no relapse at 1-year follow-up. Nevoid melanoma is a rare variant of malignant melanoma on the toes, which needs to be differentiated from a nevus with atypia, with a variety of modalities including cellular and molecular profiling. The optimal treatment is amputation.
Prevalence of Obesity in High Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Segura Roberto P. , Nirenberg Michael S.
Published: September 2023

Background: Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) occurs when an individual suffers from tibial nerve compression at the tarsal tunnel. Symptoms of TTS may include pain, burning, or tingling on the bottom of the foot and into the toes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be divided into distal and proximal TTS. Furthermore, a high tarsal tunnel syndrome (HTTS) has also been described as a fascial entrapment proximal to the laciniate ligament at the level of the high ankle. Multiple risk factors, including obesity, have been said to be associated with TTS. This study aimed to determine the frequency of obesity in the form of body mass index (BMI) with HTTS.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study using a nonprobability sampling method retrospectively surveyed the BMI of 73 patients whose clinical presentation suggested HTTS or TTS, and in which electrodiagnostic testing found HTTS. The age of the patients ranged from 25 to 90 years (mean, 56.4 years). Thirty-five patients were men and 38 patients were women.

Results: Based on BMI, nine patients with HTTS had normal weight (12.9%), 17 patients were overweight (23.3%), and the remaining 47 patients were obese (64.3%).

Conclusions: The frequency of obesity in the form of BMI was 64.3% in patients with HTTS, which is a significantly high correlation.
Blocking the blocker
Authors: Dai Qi
Published: September 2023

An unexpected interaction between a long non-coding RNA locus and a genetic insulator called Fub-1 has an important role in gene regulation during development in Drosophila.
To partner, or not to partner? Assessing the role higher education institutions’ partnerships play in education for sustainability
Authors: Singh Ananda Silva , Segatto Andréa Paula , De-Carli Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Implementing education for sustainability demands higher education institutions to overcome various challenges, such as understanding the concept of sustainability, training change agents, curricular changes, among others. In this scenario, partnerships show themselves as important facilitating elements to mitigate such challenges. Thus, this study seeks to assess, empirically, a conceptual model regarding partnerships being used as facilitating elements to overcome challenges faced by higher education institutions during education for sustainability’s implementation. To do so, a qualitative research, of a descriptive nature and that used a multicase study as a research strategy was carried out with six Brazilian higher education institutions. The results showed that partnerships are used to minimize challenges related to the identification on higher education institutions’ stakeholders’ demands, to the formalization and institutionalization of sustainability and education for sustainability and to changes in the curricula and teaching methodologies. It was also possible to observe that the challenges faced by higher education institutions can be grouped in five fronts, as recommended in the framework available in the literature and assessed in this research for its validation.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Non-chemical Weed Management Strategies in Small-scale Vegetable Production
Authors: Ferdous Mahbuba
Published: September 2023

Weeds are continuing to create problems for vegetable growers more than ever before due to climate change, frequent cultivation, and the evolution of herbicide resistance. Weeds not only decrease vegetable yields but also reduce their quality. This case study aims to investigate weed management strategies, their strengths and weaknesses, and, the scope for improvements in a small-scale vegetable garden in Australia. The Armidale community garden in the New England region was selected for this study because of its wider types of vegetable production. The data was collected by observing and, taking an in-depth and unstructured interview of the convener of the garden. The study showed that the growers only use non-chemical weed management strategies to tackle the predicament. Mechanical and cultural methods including mulching, hand weeding, tillage, and grazing are mainly used to manage the weed infestation in the vegetable garden. Among them mulching with wood chips and hand weeding were considered more effective in minimizing the weed competition during the critical periods of crop development but they could not reach a satisfactory level. Thus, further improvements by integrating several approaches simultaneously are needed to control weeds more effectively and economically. The outcomes of the study will benefit both conventional and organic vegetable producers as well as researchers to keep weed populations at a manageable level.
Effect of Adding Batak Onions (Allium chinense G. Don.) on Water Content and Ash Content of Mutton Meat Rendang
Authors: Asmaq Nur , Warsito Kabul
Published: September 2023

Aims: The aim of this research is to determine the water content and ash content of goat meat rendang with the addition of Batak onions in the processing process.

Study Design:  Qualitative description.

Place and Duration of Study: Vahana Scientific Laboratory, West Sumatera.

Methodology: This study used an experimental method with a non-factorial completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 4replications. The parameters tested were water content and ash content.

Results: The results showed that there was a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on the water content and ash content.

Conclusion: Batak onions can increase the nutritional value of mutton rendang seen from the water content and ash content.
Factors Determining Marketing of Paddy during COVID-19 Regime in Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Anthony R. , Suseela K. , Paul K. S. R. , Ramesh D.
Published: September 2023

Rice is the major food crop in India. In Andhra Pradesh during COVID-19, marketing of rice was affected by many factors like lack of accessibility to market, scarcity of labour and high transportation cost which led to farmgate sales and resulted in the reduction of farmers income. Multistage sampling was used for the study. In the context of India, the state of Andhra Pradesh was selected for the study as it is one of the top grower of rice, from this state, the West Godavari district was chosen as it is the top grower of rice, followed by the selection of three mandals within the district. Further, two villages were picked from each mandal, with the criteria based on paddy cultivation area. Around 120 farmers from these selected villages were then chosen to gather essential information. Ordinal logistic regression was used to evaluate the factors determining marketing of paddy during COVID-19 using STATA software. The study revealed that non-availability of storage facility, labour scarcity and availability of transportation facility were the major factors which influenced the marketing of paddy during COVID-19 regime. Marketing of produce can be done through formation of effective Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO) by Strengthening the market linkages.
Comparison of Some In-vitro Antioxidant Properties of Cola acuminata and Cola nitida Fruit Testas
Authors: A. O. Ogunsowo , E. F. Odeyemi , C. O. Akinola , B. O. Olorundare , C. O. Jayeola
Published: September 2023

Testas of Cola fruit are usually considered as agricultural waste by many farmers as their focus is always on the seed because of its economic importance. This study therefore aimed at evaluating and comparing the antioxidant potentials of C. acuminata and C. nitida fruit testas. The methanol extract of the fruit testas of C. acuminata and C. nitida were evaluated and compared for their antioxidant properties such as: their scavenging abilities on hydroxyl radicals, ABTS (2, 2– Azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic Acid), DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and nitric oxide. Also their ferric reducing ability and total antioxidant were investigated. In all the antioxidant parameters assayed, the fruit testas of C. acuminata and C. nitida compared favorably well with the standard (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) as they both showed positive correlation with the standard. The antioxidant ability of the methanol extract of C. nitida was significantly lower compared with that of C. acuminata in all the parameters tested. This can be attributed to the hydrogen atom donating potentials of the testas which can be as a result presence of vital secondary metabolites in therapeutic mopping up of free radicals in form of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS).
Problem Analysis of Garlic Cultivation in Major Production Areas in Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Adorada Joel L. , Bandojo Glecy P. , Tepper Lorna M. , Javier Michelle E. , Mondoñedo Melinda O. , Mercado Mark Julius , Recuenco Monalisa O.
Published: September 2023

Using the problem analysis framework, this research analyzed the current situations in the garlic-producing areas in Luzon, Philippines, and identified the possible reasons for the decrease in the volume and total area of production. A total of 111 garlic farmers from 25 municipalities and cities in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA were included in the study.  Results showed that extreme weather conditions such as heat, drought, excessive rains, insect pest and disease occurrences, and inaccessibility to market with high pricing for locally produced garlic are the most encountered problems by garlic farmers across the regions. Continuous heavy rainfall during the planting season caused extreme damage to the crop, in which 41% of the respondents mentioned this as a major concern. The presence of different field and storage insect pests and diseases of garlic resulting in lower yield was also cited by 32% of the respondents. Furthermore, the market for native garlic is less competitive due to the cheaper cost of imported garlic varieties, which leads to a significantly reduced market for the produce. The conditions led to the production of other crops such as squash and sweet potato, or in some cases, the selling of chives as they require fewer inputs, thus making it more profitable in a shorter period than producing bulbs.
Comparison of Prevalence of Oxis Contact in Primary Maxillary and Mandibular Teeth: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gupta Sonal , Das Asmita , Patra Abhinandan , Saket Antra
Published: September 2023

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate four different types of OXIS contact areas (open [O], point [X], straight [I], and curved [S]) in primary teeth using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) among 3- to 9-year-old children.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using cone-beam computed tomography images of children, available from January 1, 2022, to July 31, 2023 in Mathura district showing the presence of caries-free contact area between primary right maxillary and mandibular 1st and 2nd molar. In this study, 65 selected contacts using OXIS criteria from the occluso-cervical and axial view at coronal level using CBCT.

Result: Based on the shapes observed, the results showed four distinct types of contact regions between the primary molars, namely, O type, X type, I type, and S type; hence, the suggested categorization is known as OXIS. I type was the most prevalent pattern in the maxilla (47.06%), while O type was the most prevalent pattern in the mandible (50%).

Conclusion: There are four types of intact interproximal contact areas between primary molars, which can be evaluated in three dimensions. These types are O, X, I and S. In maxilla, pattern was

I > O > X > S whereas in mandible pattern was O > X > I = S.
Physical and Sensory Characteristics of Cookies Prepared with Guava and Chia Seed Flours
Authors: Mudgal Deepali , Puja  , Singh Sweta , Singh Jaivir , Chauhan Neelash , Kumar Vivak , Singh B. R.
Published: September 2023

Guavas are frequently referred to be super fruits due to their abundance in dietary fibre, omega-3 and 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the seeds, and vitamins A and C in the pericarp. Chia seeds are also one of the foods with excellent nutritional value, outstanding omega-3 fatty acid quality, gluten-free protein, and a high level of antioxidants that protect the seeds from microbial and chemical deterioration. An experimental study was carried out to study the effect of different incorporation ratio of wheat, guava and chia seed flours on physical and sensory attributes of cookies. Mass, diameter, volume and spread ratio increased whereas thickness decreased by substituting wheat flour with guava flour. As per composition of flours, the T4 composition (incorporated with 20% wheat flour, 70% guava flour and 10% chia flour) in cookies had highest overall acceptability score and were more acceptable by the panel. Findings showed that on the basis of sensorial analysis, storage period had slight effect on the overall acceptability of cookies.
Bio-Intensive Disease Management Strategy as a Way to Control Pomegranate Wilt Caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata Ell. and Halst
Authors: Raja  , Sunkad Gururaj , Y. S. Amaresh
Published: September 2023

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is one of the important fruit crops cultivated all over the world, particularly in the tropical and sub-tropics. It is affected by several diseases of which one of the most important diseases is Ceratocystis fimbriata. In the present study, we aimed to the management of pomegranate wilt. The management, under in vitro studies, captan, mancozeb, ziram, thiram, and zineb recorded maximum inhibition of mycelial growth at all concentrations (0.10%, 0.20%, and 0.30% respectively). Out of nine systemic fungicides tested, carbendazim, hexaconazole, thiophanate methyl, propiconazole, and tebuconazole showed 100 per cent inhibition at all concentrations (0.05%, 0.10% and 0.15% respectively). In case of combi-fungicide molecules, hexaconazole + zineb, carbendazim + mancozeb, trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole and captan + hexaconazole were found highly effective. Among bio-agents tested, T. harzianum (Th-R) and Diamond (T. viride) were found more effective as compared to other bio-control agents and inhibited maximum fungal growth (100%) of C. fimbriata. The fungicides and bio-agents which showed superior performance in vitro were selected and treatment combinations were made to develop a bio-intensive integrated management strategy against pomegranate wilt under field conditions. Field evaluation over two years indicated that three drenching of propiconazole (0.2%), Diamond (T. viride) (0.7 g/l) and T. harzianum (5g/l) at an interval of 15 days showed maximum disease control.
Regression Equation Model for Brinjal Pests (Solanum melongena L.) in Maharashtra Plain Zone
Authors: M. G. Katkar , S. B. Kharbade , S. Y. Wankhede , A. A. Shaikh , V. A. Sthool
Published: September 2023

An experiment “Effect of weather parameters on growth, yield and insect pest infestation on brinjal varieties under different planting windows” was carried out at Faculty of Agriculture Department of Agricultural Meteorology Farm, Centre for Advanced Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture, Pune during Kharif seasons of 2014 and 2015. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. The treatment comprised of three brinjal hybrids viz., V1:Phule Arjun, V2: Krishna, V3: Panchganaga as main plot and four planting windows viz., P1: 31st MW (30 July-5 August), P2: 32ndMW (6-12 August), P3:33rdMW (13-19 August) and P4: 34thMW (20-26 August) as sub plot treatments.
The correlation of meteorological parameters with incidence of brinjal shoot and fruit borer was studied in 2014. The correlation of shoot and fruit borer on brinjal (0.764*and 0.796*) and (0.784* and 0.704*) with the weather parameters are presented. Whereas morning relative humidity, rainfall and bright sunshine hours showed positive correlation with shoot and fruit borer population Average number of aphids/ jassid/ whiteflies plant showed highly significant negative correlation with minimum temperature(r= -0.702*,-0.710* and 0-.800*,) respectively. During 31stMW planting windows maximum temperature showed significant negative correlation with shoot and fruit borer population(r= -0.796*).It was observed that the infestation of shoot and fruit borer started increasing from October to November and its decreased onwards meteorological week.
 Amongst all the brinjal hybrids, Phule Arjun hybrids found significantly superior under extended planting windows followed by Krishna and Panchganga. Planting during 31st MW (1st week of August) was observed to be most suitable and optimum for brinjal considering the growth and yield attributes. This planting window was at par with 32nd MW planting window. Linear correlation analysis for brinjal fruit yield with weather parameters was significantly positively correlated with maximum temperature and minimum temperature.
Timely planting during 31st MW (P1) and 32nd (P2) recorded lower incidence of shoot and fruit borer, aphids, jassid and whiteflies. Whereas, crop planted during 34thMW (P4) recorded maximum incidence of all pests. Among the brinjal hybrids, higher incidence was recorded with Panchganaga and minimum was recorded on Phule Arjun.
Among the brinjal hybrids lower incidence of shoot and fruit borer, aphids, jassids and whiteflies was recorded on hy. Phule Arjun, which was found to be tolerant. This was followed by hy. Krishna. The higher incidence of all pests was recorded hy. Panchganga, which was found to be susceptible. Pest population on brinjal shoot/fruit/Aphid/Jassid/Whiteflies had significant negative correlation with minimum temperatures, whereas, morning and evening relative humidity, wind speed, pan evaporation and bright sunshine hours showed positive correlation pests population.
Optimizing Nursery Trays for Minimizing Seedlings per Pick of Transplanter in SRI
Authors: Gund Rajesh , Dhananchezhiyan P. , Kavitha R. , Surendrakumar A. , Thirukumaran K.
Published: September 2023

The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) revolutionizes rice cultivation through innovative practices. It is a methodology that enhances rice yields by optimizing plant growth and resource utilization. This study, conducted in 2023 at TNAU, Coimbatore, India, focuses on the optimization of nursery tray configurations for enhanced seedlings per pick during rice transplantation, contributing to more efficient SRI cultivation. The selection of nursery trays plays a crucial role in determining seedling distribution, impacting crop yield and agricultural efficiency. Through the manipulation of seed density, depth of filling, and tray configuration, the research aims to improve the seedlings' per-pick outcome during mechanized transplantation. The investigation involves 12 tray combinations with varying seed density (40 gm, 60 gm, 80 gm, and 100 gm) and depth of fillings with different heights in tray (15 mm, 20 mm, and 25 mm). Seedling growth parameters are meticulously assessed, including shoot length and root length to evaluate tray efficacy. The study also analyzes transplanter compatibility and the influence of seed density and depth of filling on seedling growth. Results highlight the tray configuration with an 80 gm seed density and 25 mm soil height as optimal, offering 1-3 seedlings per pick and minimal missing hills less than 1%. The endeavor to minimize picks per hill through precise tray combinations represents a crucial step in addressing the challenges of modern agriculture and shaping a more sustainable and productive future.
Effects of Vermicompost and PSB on the Vegetative Growth and Yield of Onion (Allium cepa L.)
Authors: Solanki Manvendra Singh , Parmar Kshitij , Singh Dalveer , Kushwah Roshan
Published: September 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2020-21 at research farm R.B.S. College, Bichpuri, Agra (U.P) to study the “effects of Vermicompost and PSB on the vegetative growth and yield of onion (Allium cepa L.)”. In this experiment 7 treatment were applied with three replications and laid out in randomized block design (RBD). Treatments were (T1) 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (NPK) (Control), (T2) 80% RDF + Phosphate Solubilizeing Bactira  (PSB) (5kg/ha.), (T3) 80% RDF + VC, (T4) 80% RDF+VC + PSB (5kg/ha.), (T5) 100 %RDF + PSB (5kg/ha.), (T6) 100% RDF + VC (5kg/ha.) and (T7) 100% RDF + VC + PSB (5kg/ha.). On the basis of experiment conducted that the treatment T7 i.c, application 100% RDF+VC+ PSB (5kg/ha.) was found superior among the treatments for growth and yield of onion, the maximum bulb yield (332.64 q/ha) was obtained by application of treatment T7 100% RDF+VC+ PSB (5kg/ha.).
Estimation of Genetic Variability Parameters and Correlation Coefficients for Grain Yield Characters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Dheeraj Gade , Ramesh Bura , Raghu Namileti , Lavanya G. Roopa
Published: September 2023

Twenty-six rice genotypes were examined, and an experiment was carried out by using a Randomized Block Design with three replications at the Department of Genetics and Plant breeding, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Naini Allahabad, U.P during the kharif season of 2022.  The analysis of variance revealed significant differences between genotypes for all 13 characters, showing that there is a wide scope for selecting traditional rice varieties for yield and its components from the current gene pool. WGL-915 (43.05g) had the highest grain production per hill among the 26 genotypes, followed by JGL-21078 (36.99g), WGL-283 (32.60g), WGL-13400 (28.51g), WGL-14377 (28.25g), and WGL-347 (27.76g).  When compared to the check genotype NDR-359, all of these genotypes produced significantly higher yields (22.67g).  High estimates of heritability and genetic advance as a percentage of mean were observed for test weight, number of spikelets per panicle, biological yield, and grain production per hill. These qualities are governed by additive gene effects and have the best chance of improvement via simple selection. The length of the flag leaf, the length of the panicle, the biological yield, the harvest index, and the test weight all had positive and very significant correlation associations with grain production per hill. The selection of these features will thus be effective in increasing rice grain yield.
Effect of Micronutrient Mixture on Yield and Quality of Guava cv Lucknow 49 in Sodic Soil
Authors: Janaki D. , Kumar S.
Published: September 2023

Tamil Nadu occupies 4.7 lakh ha of salt affected soils, in which 3.0 lakh ha area under inland and 1.7 lakh ha under coastal. Among the 3.0 lakh inland salt affected soils, 2.0 lakh ha occupy alkalinity and 1.0 lakh ha under salinity. In Trichirappalli 18,155 ha comes under alkalinity problem. Guava is one of the commercial fruit crop comes well under salt affected soils. The main problem in yield reduction in guava is due to micronutrient deficiency. Hence the present investigation was conducted at Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tiruchirappalli during 2020-2021 in clay loam texture with pH -9.23, ESP-36.52%. . The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) on guava cv. Lucknow -49 planted at 3 x 2mspacing with seven treatments replicated three and ten number of plants per replication were taken. The treatments comprised of  T1 – Control, T2 – Recommended Dose of Fertilizers alone (300:150:150 g NPK/tree), T3 – RDF + 100% MN Mixture TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree,T4 – RDF + 125% MN Mixture TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree ,T5 – RDF + 100% Enriched FYM  TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree,T6 - RDF + 125% Enriched FYM  TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree,T7- RDF +1% foliar spray of 100% MN Mixture Tamil Nadu Government (II approximation) rec .The foliar application of these treatments was made at three times of new flush, 30 and 70 days after flowering. The results revealed that the application of RDF + 100% Enriched FYM TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree recorded highest 50% flowering (33.6%), fruit retention (51.5%), highest yield (42.3 t/ha) and quality parameters like TSS (12.80brix) and lowest acidity (0.42%) followed by treatment RDF + 125% MN Mixture TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree and the same treatment recorded the BC ratio of 3.64 while the control with BC ratio of 2.75.
Enhancement or Enrichment of the Vermicompost by Microbial Inoculation
Authors: Bhargava Anjali , Sharma S. K. , Trivedi S. K.
Published: September 2023

The aim of this research experiment was enrichment of vermicompost by microbial inoculation for sustainable agriculture. An experiment was conducted to study the effects of different types of microbial species in various vermicompost treatments, along with varying quantities of microbes. Subsequently, 25 ml of each inoculant was applied per kg of wet-base vermicompost (VC) according to Busato et al. [1]. Vermicompost samples, each weighing one kg per treatment, were incubated in a well-aerated chamber at temperatures of 28 and 41ºC for a duration of 80 days. Throughout the incubation period, the moisture content of the VC samples was maintained at approximately 60 percent using water. Enriched VC treatments were subjected to chemical and biological analyses at intervals of 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 days. An incubation study was conducted in the laboratory, involving the incubation of prepared enriched vermicompost (T1 to T7 treatments) with biofertilizers (T8 to T14 treatments) over an 80-day period. The content of N, P, K, and Zn was assessed at 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 days after incubation (DAI). Among the various enriched vermicompost treatments, the highest total nitrogen content of 4.5% was observed in enriched vermicompost T11 after 80 DAI, followed by T9 (4.4%) and T14 (4.3%). The highest total phosphorus content of 4.9%, 4.7%, and 4.2% was respectively found in T11, T9, and T14 after 80 DAI. In terms of enriched vermicompost treatments, the highest potassium (K) and zinc (Zn) content (4.8% and 97.5 ppm, respectively) were observed.
Assessment of Compliance with National Guidelines on Diagnosis and Treatment of Malaria among Health Workers in Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Dim Basil Izuchukwu , Nwafia Abuchi Emmanuel , Ibeh Christian Chibuzo , Chikwendu Joy Ifeyinwa , Okoye Chibuzo Faustina , Chilaka Kingsley Chimsorom , Ekeocha Emeka Joseph , Ezenyeaku Chijioke Amara
Published: September 2023

Background: Malaria case management remains a crucial component of malaria control strategies. Despite the introduction of national malaria treatment guidelines and scale-up of malaria control interventions in Nigeria, shreds of evidence have shown some deviations from the guidelines in malaria case management. This study assessed compliance with national guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of malaria among health workers in Anambra State.

Materials and Methods: This comparative, cross-sectional hospital-based study was carried out among 360 healthcare workers selected from six Local Government Areas using a multistage sampling technique. A pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on their socio-demographics and other vital information.

Results: The findings of this study revealed that Ninety-eight respondents (54.4%) from public health facilities had adequate knowledge of malaria case management compared to 67 respondents (37.2%) from private health facilities (p=0.001). The overall level of compliance with the national guidelines shows that only 22.2% of the health workers interviewed strictly complied with the national guidelines. It was significantly higher among public healthcare workers (31.7%) compared to 12.8% of private health workers (p<0.001). Training on malaria case management, access to national guidelines, availability of malaria diagnostic tools, and sex of the health workers were associated with compliance with national guidelines in both public and private health facilities (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed a close similarity between the two health facilities in the level of awareness of the national malaria treatment guidelines, but a remarkable difference in compliance to appropriate case management of malaria between public and private health facilities. Interventions to improve private sector engagement in the implementation of the guidelines, training, and supply of recommended anti-malarial medicines should be intensified.
Combined sequence and copy number analysis improves diagnosis of limb girdle and other myopathies
Authors: Nallamilli Babi R. R. , Pan Yinghong , Sniderman King Lisa , Jagannathan Lakshmanan , Ramachander Vinish , Lucas Ann , Markind Jan , Colzani Raffaella , Hegde Madhuri
Published: September 2023

Objective

Clinical and genetic heterogeneities make diagnosis of limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) and other overlapping disorders of muscle weakness complicated and expensive. We aimed to develop a comprehensive next generation sequence‐based multi‐gene panel (“The Lantern Focused Neuromuscular Panel”) to detect both sequence variants and copy number variants in one assay.

Methods

Patients with clinical diagnosis of LGMD or other overlapping muscular dystrophies in the United States were tested by PerkinElmer Genomics in 2018–2021 via “The Lantern Project,” a sponsored diagnostic testing program. Sixty‐six genes related to LGMD subtypes‐ and other myopathies were investigated. Main outcomes were diagnostic yield, gene‐variant spectrum, and LGMD subtypes' prevalence.

Results

Molecular diagnosis was established in 19.6% (1266) of 6473 cases. Major genes contributing to LGMD were identified including CAPN3 (5.4%, 68), DYSF (4.0%, 51), GAA (3.7%, 47), ANO5 (3.6%, 45), and FKRP (2.7%, 34). Genes of other overlapping MD subtypes identified included PABPN1 (10.5%, 133), VCP (2.2%, 28), MYOT (1.2% 15), LDB3 (1.0%, 13), COL6A1 (1.5%, 19), FLNC (1.1%, 14), and DNAJB6 (0.8%, 10). Different sizes of copy number variants including single exon, multi‐exon, and whole genes were identified in 7.5% (95) cases in genes including DMD, EMD, CAPN3, ANO5, SGCG, COL6A2, DOK7, and LAMA2.

Interpretation

“The Lantern Focused Neuromuscular Panel” enables identification of LGMD subtypes and other myopathies with overlapping clinical features. Prevalence of some MD subtypes was higher than previously reported. Widespread deployment of this comprehensive NGS panel has the potential to ensure early, accurate diagnosis as well as re‐define MD epidemiology.
SAMHSA issues new recovery housing guideline: “Peers” in charge
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

Last month the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released a “best practices” outline for recovery housing that is both an update of a previous guideline (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.32517) and a response to a White House order for the new guideline to exclude substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services.
The Comparation of Renal Anti‐Senescence Effects and Blood Metabolites between Dapagliflozin and Metformin in Non‐Diabetes Environment
Authors: Zeng Lu , Chen Lei , Gao Fanfan , Li Jie , Song Yangyang , Wei Limin , Qu Ning , Li Yan , Jiang Hongli
Published: September 2023

Delaying kidney senescence process will benefit renal physiologic conditions, and prompt the kidney recovering from different pathological states. The renal anti‐senescence effects of sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and metformin have been proven in diabetic settings, but the roles of each one and combination of two drugs in natural kidney aging process remain undefined and deserve further research. Senescence‐accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) were orally administered dapagliflozin, metformin, and a combination of them for 16 weeks. Dapagliflozin exhibits better effects than metformin in lowering senescence related markers, and the combination therapy shows the best results. In vitro experiments demonstrate the same results that the combination of dapagliflozin and metformin can exert a better anti‐senescence effect. Blood metabolites detection in vivo shows dapagliflozin mainly leads to the change of blood metabolites enriched in choline metabolism, and metformin tends to induce change of blood metabolites enriched in purine metabolism. In conclusion, the results suggest dapagliflozin may have a better renal anti‐senescence effect than metformin in non‐diabetes environment, and the combination of the two drugs can strengthen the effect. The two drugs can lead to different blood metabolites alteration, which may lead to different systemic effects.
3D Printing of Bone Scaffolds Based on Alginate/Gelatin Hydrogel Ink Containing Bioactive Glass 45S5 and ZIF‐8 Nanoparticles with Sustained Drug‐Release Capability
Authors: Anvari Kohestani Abolfazl , Pishbin Fatemehsadat
Published: September 2023

Herein, 3D printing coupled with drug‐release systems introduces many advantages to bone‐regenerative medicine. In this research, hydrogel‐based nanocomposite inks comprising alginate/gelatin (Alg/Gel) matrix supplemented with mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) and zeolite‐imidazole framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) nanoparticles are presented. A fixed wt% of mixed nanoparticles at MBG/ZIF weight ratios of 85:15 and 70:30 is added to Alg/Gel to prepare nanocomposite inks. All inks have shear‐thinning behavior, facilitating scaffolds’ 3D printing via extrusion. Scaffolds’ 3D spatial and nanocomposite microstructures are confirmed using field‐emission scanning electron microscope and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (FESEM/EDX) and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR). Shear punch testing indicates an enhanced shear strength of 85:15 samples in both dry (9.49 ± 0.23 MPa) and wet conditions (1.19 ± 0.16 MPa). After 1 month, nanocomposite scaffolds have a higher degradation rate (65%) than Alg/Gel (50%) in phosphate‐buffered saline. In vitro drug‐release study using UV–visible spectrophotometry exhibits a similar prolonged release profile for 85:15 and 70:30 nanocomposites compared to Alg/Gel. Due to its better mechanical performance, 85:15 is used for bioactivity and cellular tests. MBG provides bioactivity in simulated body fluid by the rapid development of hydroxyapatite validated by FESEM/EDX, XRD, and FT‐IR. Nanocomposite scaffolds exhibit significantly higher MG‐63 cell viability (>90%) than Alg/Gel. Finally, these scaffolds provide a potential additive‐manufacturing solution to bone tissue regeneration.
2D Semiconductor‐Based Optoelectronics for Artificial Vision
Authors: Li Na , Zhang Songge , Peng Yalin , Li Xiuzhen , Zhang Yangkun , He Congli , Zhang Guangyu
Published: September 2023

Artificial retina technologies aim to restore visual function by mimicking the natural processes of the eye. These biomimetic devices can convert light into electrical signals that the brain can interpret as visual information, bypassing damaged or non‐functional cells of the eye. To be effective, these devices should possess high sensitivity to light, high spatial resolution, biocompatibility, power efficiency, and so on. Recently, 2D semiconductor materials have appeared as a promising candidate for artificial retinal devices, thanks to their excellent optoelectronic properties, ultrathin body, flexible nature, and biocompatibility. Here the recent developments in the field of 2D semiconductors‐based optoelectronics for visual function recovery are reviewed and their potential applications are discussed. The photodetector, optoelectronic memory, and artificial synapse mechanisms and devices utilized in artificial systems that are based on 2D semiconductor materials are summarized. Additionally, a range of application scenarios for devices that are inspired by retinal cells and vision systems is explored. Finally, it is concluded with an overview of the critical technical challenges and strategies that must be addressed for the successful development of artificial retina technologies. It also highlights the potential for new applications in other fields, such as robotics and artificial intelligence.
Engineering the Coordination Environment of Single‐Rh‐Site with N and S Atoms for Efficient Methanol Carbonylation
Authors: Mu Jiali , Long Guifa , Song Xiangen , Feng Siquan , Li Xingju , Yuan Qiao , Li Bin , Jiang Zheng , Yan Li , Ding Yunjie
Published: September 2023

The local coordination environment of central active sites plays a critical role in tuning the catalytic properties of heterogeneous single‐metal‐site catalysts (HSMSCs). However, carbon supports with inert surface properties provide weak interaction with the active sites, which hamper the effective modulation of the coordination structure of HSMSCs. Herein, this work shows that introducing N and S atoms into carbon support can modify the coordination environment of single‐Rh‐site and effectively improves the catalytic activity for the methanol carbonylation reaction. The synthesized Rh/AC‐NS with single‐Rh‐site exhibits a high methanol conversion of 88% and a stable acetyl production rate of 2812 h−1, in contrast with 1285 h−1 of Rh/AC without N‐ and S‐ functional groups, and meanwhile remarkably higher than those of Rh/AC‐N and Rh/AC‐S with only N‐ or S‐ functional group under the same mild reaction conditions. As revealed by the experimental result and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the special combination of N‐ and S‐ functional groups offers favorable coordination configuration and also beneficial electronic structure for facilitated CH3I oxidative addition and CO insertion steps of single‐Rh‐site. This work offers new opportunities for rationally tuning the coordination structure of HSMSCs for heterogeneous catalysis.
Non‐Contact Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Fu Xiaofei , Pan Xiaosen , Liu Yang , Li Jie , Zhang Zhengjian , Liu Hongbin , Gao Meng
Published: September 2023

With the rapid development of science and technology, there is an increasing demand for sustainable energy sources. Although triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) can realize self‐powered supply by using various weak mechanical energy, the device's robustness and reliability are seriously affected by frequent, direct, and long‐term mechanical shocks, as well as negative environmental factors during equipment operation. Therefore, researchers have developed non‐contact triboelectric nanogenerators (NC‐TENGs) based on the principle of electrostatic induction. This technology enables electricity generation via relative movement of friction layers even when they are not in direct contact, which consequently leads to enhance device robustness, prolonged service life, and broadened operation scenarios. In this review, the recent progress of NC‐TENG from fundamental theory to practical applications is systematically summarized. The basic structure and working principle of NC‐TENG are first introduced, followed by a discussion of the devices’ structural construction and performance optimization methods. Furthermore, applications of NC‐TENG in automatic force position detection system, non‐contact human‐machine interface, and electrical energy harvesting are reviewed. Finally, a brief prospectus for the future development of NC‐TENG is provided.
Potentiating the Systemic Immunity by Bacteria‐Delivered Sting Activation in a Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Chen Wenfei , Zhu Yining , Chen Jiahao , Jing Xiandan , Xiong Yimin , Zou Ling , Li Jiahui , Liu Qinhui , Li Yanping , Huang Yuan , He Jinhan
Published: September 2023

Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) connects the innate immunity to potent adaptive immunity via multiple pathways, which play a critical role in cancer treatment. Clinical application of STING agonists is mainly restrained due to the metabolic instability caused by intrinsic cyclic dinucleotide ligands. Previously, an orally available non‐nucleotide human STING agonist, MSA‐2 is presented, and to further improve its therapeutic efficacy, this work leverages the nonpathogenic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 for tumor‐targeted delivery of the STING agonist by coating biocompatible polydopamine on the bacterial surface, termed as PDMN. The engineered bacterial delivery platform holds potential in elevating levels of type I interferon (IFN) along with proinflammatory cytokines and inducing maturation on dendritic cells. Intravenous administration of PDMN with laser irradiation to the tumor region promotes IFN‐β expression in a tumor microenvironment and mounts both the innate and adaptive immune responses, leading to profound regressions of established melanoma and hepatocellular carcinoma in mice. By synergized with anti‐PD‐1 therapy, a substantial long‐lived protective immunity is generated, capable of preventing distant tumor metastases. Hence, this study identifies a STING‐amplified biotherapy to shape the cell‐mediated antitumor immunity, serving as a potential personalized cancer vaccine with enhanced biosafety and immune activation profile for diverse applications.
Low Threshold and Robust Ultrafast Pulses from Freestanding‐Growth 2D Quaternary BiCuSeO
Authors: Yu Qiang , Li Jie , Wu Jian , Liu Fangqi , Zhang Yan , Deng Haiqin , Yang Zixin , Zhang Junrong , Chen Cheng , Fang Long , Zhu Sicong , Wang Junyong , Leng Jinyong , Jiang Zongfu , Zhang Kai , Zhou Pu
Published: September 2023

Saturable absorber is a key component in ultrafast pulsed laser systems, which are pivotal in ultrafast physics, high‐speed communication, etc. 2D materials appear to be superior candidates as saturable absorbers for compact pulsed fiber lasers in recent years due to their wide band response and ease of integration. However, the integration of mode‐locked devices inevitably involves contamination or polymer in the interface between the layered saturable absorber and the fiber, which contributes to a high start‐up threshold for the ultrafast pulsed lasers. This study develops an on‐fiber femtosecond laser with 2D narrow‐gap semiconducting BiCuSeO as a saturable absorber by a fully dry integration process thanks to the controllable growth of freestanding quaternary BiCuSeO nanoflakes. The corresponding thermodynamic growth mechanism is systemically revealed by electron microscopy and bind‐energy calculation. An electrostatic‐force‐assisted transfer method is developed to avoid damage or chemical contamination. The BiCuSeO‐based femtosecond laser shows decent output performance (pulse width, signal‐noise ratio and repetition rate are 395 fs, 61 dB, 17.1 MHz) with an ultra‐low threshold of 30 mW. The strategy of controllable growth of free‐standing 2D material facilitates a clean interface between the saturable absorber and fibers, which is favorable for high‐performance ultrafast photonic devices.
Engineering Atomic‐Scale Patterning and Resistive Switching in 2D Crystals and Application in Image Processing
Authors: Yin Lei , Cheng Ruiqing , Pan Shurong , Xiong Wenqi , Chang Sheng , Zhai Baoxing , Wen Yao , Cai Yuchen , Guo Yuzheng , Sendeku Marshet Getaye , Jiang Jian , Liao Weitu , Wang Zhenxing , He Jun
Published: September 2023

The ultrathin thickness of 2D layered materials affords the control of their properties through defects, surface modification, and electrostatic fields more efficiently compared with bulk architecture. In particular, patterning design, such as moiré superlattice patterns and spatially periodic dielectric structures, are demonstrated to possess the ability to precisely control the local atomic and electronic environment at large scale, thus providing extra degrees of freedom to realize tailored material properties and device functionality. Here, the scalable atomic‐scale patterning in superionic cuprous telluride by using the bonding difference at nonequivalent copper sites is reported. Moreover, benefitting from the natural coupling of ordered and disordered sublattices, controllable piezoelectricity‐like multilevel switching and bipolar switching with the designed crystal structure and electrical contact is realized, and their application in image enhancement is demonstrated. This work extends the known classes of patternable crystals and atomic switching devices, and ushers in a frontier for image processing with memristors.
A Three‐Step Chemoenzymatic Cascade Synthesis of Miconazole Analogues Based on the Asymmetric Synthesis of β‐Heteroaryl Amino Alcohols via Ketoreductases
Authors: Fang Jiali , Xu Yiping , Ren Hanwen , Huang Chenming , Zhang Wenhe , Jia Xian , You Song , Qin Bin
Published: September 2023

Chiral β‐heteroaryl amino alcohols play a crucial role as intermediates in the synthesis of numerous bioactive pharmaceuticals, including cenobamate, oteseconazole, and miconazole. Nevertheless, there is a lack of literature documenting the establishment of a versatile approach for the synthesis of β‐heteroaryl amino alcohols and the aforementioned drugs. In this study, we successfully asymmetrically synthesized 50 pairs of chiral β‐heteroaryl amino alcohols using two engineered ketoreductases (KREDs) with opposite stereopreference. Based on this achievement, we developed a three‐step chemoenzymatic cascade route for synthesizing of chiral miconazole analogues from commercially available 2‐bromoacetophenone derivatives. By optimizing the solvent for the synthesis of α‐imidazolyl ketones in the first step, followed by the reduction of α‐imidazolyl ketones using KREDs in the second step and etherification in the third step, we obtained 20 chiral miconazole analogues with promising yields (26–84%) and impressive stereoselectivities (up to >99% ee). Notably, this route eliminates the need for the isolation of ketone and alcohol intermediates, and avoids the use of metal catalysts in the synthesis of chiral miconazole analogues. Furthermore, we successfully scaled up the preparation of (S)‐miconazole, achieving a 30% isolated yield and >99% ee. This method presents a novel synthetic approach for production chiral ether drugs and chiral β‐heteroaryl amino alcohols, offering new possibilities in pharmaceutical synthesis.