bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Significance of Circadian Gene Expression in Lung Cancer
Authors: Liang Long , Wang Bingbing , Duan Hongxia , Zeng Jie , Xie Shuanshuan , Wang Changhui
Published: February 2022

Objective To explore the expression and prognostic significance of circadian genes (PER1, PER2, PER3, CRY1, CRY2, CLOCK and BMAL1) in lung cancer. Methods mRNA expressions of circadian rhythm genes in lung cancer and normal tissues were analyzed using the OMINE database. The functions of circadian genes in lung cancer were analyzed using the cBioPortal platform and OncoPrint. The association between the expression level of circadian genes and overall survival (OS) of lung cancer patients was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier Plotter database. Results Analysis of the ONCOMINE database showed that the mR N A expression levels of PER1-3, CRY-2, CLOCK and BMAL1 were lower in lung cancer tissues than those in normal tissues. The cBioPortal platform and OncoPrint database showed that each circadian gene underwent a change ranging from 2.5% to 19.1% with the type of change including gene mutation, amplification, deletion, fusion and multiple alterations, of which gene mutation was the most prevalent. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that a decreased circadian gene expression level was significantly correlated with a shorter OS (P<0.05). In addition, the expression level of circadian genes also varied with the lung cancer subtype.Conclusions Circadian genes showed low expression levels in lung cancer, which was significantly correlated with a shorter survival. In addition, the aberrant expression of circadian genes in lung cancer is mainly caused by gene mutation.
Ultrasound Dynamic Monitoring of The Inner Diameter of The Inferior Vena Cava To Guide The Application of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy In Patients With Renal Failure Combined With Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Yu Guang , Tao Shaoyu , Jin Yingzhi , Li Wanxia , Hu Zanqun , Fang Xiaowei
Published: February 2022

Objective To explore the application value of bedside ultrasound dynamic monitoring of inferior vena cava diameter (IVCD) and collapse with sniff (IVCCI) to guide the application value of dehydration adjustment in continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in patients with renal failure combined with acute heart failure. Methods We selected 90 patients with renal failure and acute heart failure who required continuous renal replacement therapy in the intensive care unit from January 2019 to June 2021. According to different blood volume assessment methods, patients were randomly divided into the ultrasound group, the experience group, and the control group. The inspection indicators of creatinine, K+, and NT-proBNP, the clinical indicators of improvement time of heart failure, time of continuous renal replacement therapy, use time of ventilator, ICU hospitalization time, and use time of vasopressor use and the incidence of adverse event were compared among the three groups. Results There were no significant differences in creatinine, K+, and NT-proBNP between the three groups before and after treatment (P>0.05). The improvement time of heart failure, time of continuous renal replacement therapy, and ICU hospitalization time in the ultrasound and experience group were lower than the control group, and the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). The use time of ventilator in the ultrasound and experience group was lower than the control group, there was a statistically significant difference between the ultrasound group and the control group (P<0.05). The use time of vasopressor in the ultrasound group and the control group was lower than the experience group, and the difference between the groups was a statistically significant time(P<0.05). The incidence of adverse events in the ultrasound group was lower than the experience group and the control group, and the difference between the groups was a statistically significant time(P<0.05). Conclusion Ultrasound dynamic monitoring of inferior vena cava diameter and collapse with sniff can more accurately assess the blood volume status, and provide a better guidance effect for the accurate dehydration of continuous renal replacement therapy and the rapid relief of heart failure symptoms in patients with renal failure and acute heart failure.
Classification of Parkinson’s Disease and Its Stages Using Machine Learning
Authors: Templeton John Michael , Poellabauer Christian , Schneider Sandra
Published: February 2022

As digital health technology becomes more pervasive, machine learning (ML) provides a robust way to analyze and interpret the myriad of collected features. The purpose of this work is to use ML classification to assess the benefits and relevance of features from clinically relevant sources (e.g., tablet-based assessments, self-reported metrics, and functional movement assessments), as they relate to Parkinson's Disease (PD) and its stages (Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) Stages 1 - 5). Further, this work aims to compare perceived versus actual neurocognitive abilities. In this study, 75 participants (n = 50 PD; n = 25 control) completed 14 tablet-based neurocognitive functional tests (e.g., motor, memory, speech, executive, and multi-function), functional movement assessments (e.g., Berg Balance Scale), and standardized health questionnaires. Significant features were identified using decision tree classification. Device magnitude of acceleration was significant in 12 of 14 tests (85.7%), regardless of test type. For classification between diagnosed and control populations, 17 motor, 9 accuracy, and 8 timing features were significant. For classification between early (H&Y Stages 1 and 2) and advanced (H&Y Stages 3, 4, and 5) stages of PD, 7 motor, 12 accuracy, and 14 timing features were significant. Perceived functionality of individuals in early-stage PD was 21.6% lower than actual scores with notable perceived deficits in memory and executive function. However, individuals in advanced stages had elevated perceptions (1.57x) for executive and behavioral functions compared to early-stage populations. Machine learning in digital health systems allows for a more comprehensive understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and their stages. ML may also depict new features that influence the ways digital health technology should be configured. Updates to these systems will ultimately aid clinicians, diagnosed populations, and caretakers in monitoring and assessing neurodegenerative diseases.
Calculated cardiovascular risk after conversion from calcineurin inhibitor to belatacept in kidney transplant recipients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bredewold Obbo W. , Chan Joe , Svensson My , Bruchfeld Annette , Fijter Johan W. , Furuland Hans , Grinyo Josep M. , Hartmann Anders , Holdaas Hallvard , Hellberg Olof , Jardine Alan , Mjörnstedt Lars , Skov Karin , Smerud Knut T. , Soveri Inga , Sörensen Sören S. , Zonneveld Anton-Jan , Fellstrom Bengt
Published: February 2022

In renal transplant recipients (RTRs), a belatacept-based immunosuppressive regimen is associated with beneficial effects on cardiovascular (CV) risk factors compared with calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based regimens. The aim of this randomized, multi-national trial was to compare calculated CV risk between belatacept and CNI (predominantly tacrolimus) treatments using a valdidated model developed for RTRs. From 9 transplant centers, RTRs from 3 to 60 months post-transplantation were recruited to either continue treatment with a CNI-based regimen or switch to belatacept. We compared the change in estimated 7-year risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality after 12 months of treatment. In the 105 RTRs randomized, we found no differences between the treatment groups in predicted risk for MACE or mortality. Diastolic blood pressure was lower after belatacept treatment compared with CNI. The mean changes in traditional CV risk factors, including renal transplant function, were otherwise similar in both treatment groups. The belatacept group had four acute rejection episodes; two were severe rejections, of which one led to graft loss. In conclusion, we found no effects on calculated CV risk by switching to belatacept treatment.
Flow and aerosol dispersion from wind musical instruments
Authors: Brosseau Quentin , Ran Ranjiangshang , Graham Ian , Jerolmack Douglas , Arratia Paulo
Published: February 2022

In the midst of the SARS-COVID-19 pandemic, many live musical activities had to be postponed and even cancelled to protect musicians and audience. Orchestral ensembles face a particular challenge of contamination because they are personnel heavy and instrumentally diverse. A chief concern is whether wind instruments are vectors of contamination through aerosol dispersion. This study, made possible by the participation of members of the Philadelphia Orchestra, brings insight on the modes of production and early life of aerosols of human origin emitted by wind instruments. We find that these instruments produce aerosol levels that are comparable to normal speech in quantity and size distribution. However, the exit jet flow speeds are lower than violent expiratory events (coughing, sneezing). For most wind instruments, the flow decays to background indoor-air levels approximately 2 m away from the instrument's opening. Long range aerosol dispersion is thus via ambient air currents.
Prevalence and complications of diabetes mellitus In India - A systematic review
Authors: Govindaswamy Swathy , P.S Dhivya
Published: February 2022

Background

Diabetes is progressively becoming a vital chronic disease burden worldwide, mainly in developing countries such as India; this necessitates a shift in healthcare priorities and advanced data on the epidemiology and impact of diabetes to help plan and prioritize health programs. We systematically reviewed the literature on diabetes prevalence and its complications in India.
Methods

This systematic review focuses on diabetes prevalence and complications in India from January 2000 to September 2021. Literature searches were conducted using electronic databases.
Results

Diabetes prevalence ranged from 2.02% in rural Madhya Pradesh to 40.3% in Tamil Nadu. Diabetes prevalence was significantly higher in urban areas than in rural areas. The prevalence of pre-diabetes varied across Indian states ranging from 2.4% in Meghalaya to 47.6% in Delhi. The prevalence of chronic diabetes complications ranged from 4.8–21.7% for retinopathy, 0.9–62.3%% for nephropathy, and 10.5–44.9% for neuropathy.
Conclusions

Diabetes is a significant and widespread health problem in India. Dissimilarity in the prevalence of diabetes between individual states is observed. Most diabetes patients experience chronic complications of diabetes. Consequently, it is essential to map the urgent preventive approach to reduce the further increase in areas with high prevalence.
Health Economics And Quality of Life Between Uncut Roux-En-Y And Roux-En-Y Reconstruction After Total Gastrectomy
Authors: Zhu Guang-xu , Zhou Sheng-jie , Shen Xiao-ru , Yu Lei , Qu Jian-jun
Published: February 2022

Purpose: This study aims to compare the health economics and quality of life between uncut Roux-en-Y and Roux-en-Y reconstruction after laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy.Methods: Between January 2016 and January 2019, 164 patients underwent laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy (uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction, n = 71; Roux-en-Y, n = 93). The patients’ data were collected and reviewed retrospectively.Results: The perioperative index, operating time, digestive tract reconstruction time, and first postoperative exhaust time of the U-RY group were shorter than those of the RY group (P < 0.05). Differences in the quality of life (QoL) index 12 months postoperation were not significantly different between the groups (P > 0.05). No recanalization was found in the U-RY obliterated afferent jejunal limb. The cost of mechanical staples andaverage hospitalization in the U-RY group were significantly lower than that in the RY group (P < 0.05).Conclusion: The postoperative health economics of U-RY reconstruction may be superior to those of RY reconstruction after laparoscopic-assisted total gastrectomy. The QoL of the U-RY group is similar to that of the RY group.
Short Version of The Depression Anxiety Stress Scal-21: Is It Valid For Jordanian Adults
Authors: Murad Odeh
Published: February 2022

Background: Given the potential utility of depression anxiety stress scale-21 and the availability of a reliable Arabic version, the current study aimed to collect information about the factorial structure and psychometric properties of the Jordanian version by administering it to adult members of the community. Thus, the depression-anxiety-stress scale was used in examining mental disorders in Jordanian adults. Methods: The study included adults of both sexes aged 18 to 72 years. The reliability of the overall DASS-21 scores and the three DASS-21 subscales were calculated. Exploratory factor analysis was used to test construct validity. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed for the two models (one-factor and three-factor models) for DASS-21 to determine the best factor structure for DASS-21 in the adult sample.Results: The findings revealed that the DASS-21 has high reliability and validity indicators, with Cronbach's alpha values exceeding 0.80. Pearson's correlation between DASS-21 and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were strongly positive, indicating that DASS-21 has sufficient convergent and divergent validity. The exploratory factor analysis showed that the three-factor model had the best indicators, and the confirmatory factor analysis results confirmed that the three-factor model was the fittest and most appropriate. Conclusion: The current study's findings suggest that the Jordanian version of the DASS-21 can be used as a reliable and valid scale for measuring depression, anxiety, and stress in adults.
Isolation of Cryptococcus Laurentii Associated with Bovine Mastitis Cases in India
Authors: Chhabra R. , Shrinet G. , Yadav R. , Talukdar J. S. , Kakker N. K. , Goel P.
Published: February 2022

Mycotic mastitis mainly caused by yeasts like Cryptococcus spp. and Candida spp. have been emerging since last decade due to several factors like indiscriminate use of antibiotics, immune suppression, corticosteroid therapy, teat injuries and faulty milking machineries. The fungus, Cryptococcus laurentii is a non-neoformans, encapsulated, basidiomycete, which was earlier considered to be saprophytic and non-pathogenic. Now it is increasingly being reported in humans, especially in the immune compromised patients. In this study, Cryptococcus laurentii was isolated and identified from bovine mastitic milk samples. This probably might be the first report of isolation and identification of Cryptococcus laurentii from mastitic milk sample of buffalo from India to best of our knowledge. On milk culture examination, typical creamy white color colonies were appeared on Sabouraud's Dextrose agar, which on Gram’s staining gave budding yeast cells appearance. India ink staining revealed bright halo of capsules surrounding the yeast cells. All the isolates were positive for urease production and biofilm formation. Further confirmation was done using VITEK 2 compact system (BioMerieux) which was based on their biochemical tests profiles. Molecular confirmation was done by the PCR assay. Isolation and identification of this rare fungus from milk samples in present study raises a potential threat of zoonosis.
INDICATORS OF CLINICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, AND LABORATORY STATUS IN MALE PATIENTS WITH NEWLY DIAGNOSED INFILTRATIVE PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS
Authors: Kushnir Vasyl B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction. In Ukraine, despite the free medical care in the field of tuberculosis, the effectiveness of tuberculosis treatment does not meet WHO standards. With the lack of resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to the first-line anti-TB agents, the desired improvement in clinical and radiological results in the first 2 months of treatment is not always possible to achieve. The causes of the poor efficiency remain unknown and require detailed study.
The objective was to study clinical, radiological, and laboratory data of male inpatients with newly diagnosed infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis at the beginning of treatment.
Materials and Methods. 133 men with newly diagnosed infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis sensitive to the first-line anti-TB agents were examined. The data of clinical, radiological, and laboratory parameters were studied; immunological parameters of IL‑4, IL-10, IFN-γ, and data of phagocytic activity of neutrophils were additionally examined. All patients were tested for anxiety and depressive disorders using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory.
Results. It was found that at the beginning of treatment, patients with pulmonary destruction cavities had a 2.7-fold higher incidence of intensive bacterial excretion and a 1.6-fold reduction in IFN-γ levels as compared with patients without lung tissue destruction. Men with an extended infiltrative process in the lungs presented with fever and symptoms of intoxication more than 2.5 times more often, with cough – more than 4 times more often, with a history of weight loss – more than 2.9 times more often, with Mycobacterium tuberculosis detected by microscopy – more than 6.2 times more often vs. men with a limited process in the lungs.
Conclusions. Patients with newly diagnosed infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis who had destructive changes in lung tissue and a significant extension of the pathological process were characterized by more pronounced clinical manifestations, intoxication, activation of systemic inflammatory response factors, decreased activity of the cellular immune system, and psychological disorders.
Carbonatites: Contrasting, Complex, and Controversial
Authors: Kamenetsky Vadim S. , Doroshkevich Anna G. , Elliott Holly A. L. , Zaitsev Anatoly N.
Published: February 2022

Carbonatites are unique, enigmatic, and controversial rocks directly sourced from, or evolved from, mantle melts. Mineral proportions and chemical compositions of carbonatites are highly variable and depend on a wide range of processes: melt generation, liquid immiscibility, fractional crystallization, and post-magmatic alteration. Observations of plutonic carbon-atites and their surrounding metasomatic rocks (fenites) suggest that carbon-atite intrusions and volcanic rocks do not fully represent the true compositions of the parental carbonatite melts and fluids. Carbonatites are enriched in rare elements, such as niobium and rare earths, and may host deposits of these elements. Carbonatites are also important for understanding the carbon cycle and mantle evolution.
Formation of Rare Earth Deposits in Carbonatites
Authors: Anenburg Michael , Broom-Fendley Sam , Chen Wei
Published: February 2022

Carbonatites and related rocks are the premier source for light rare earth element (LREE) deposits. Here, we outline an ore formation model for LREE-mineralised carbonatites, reconciling field and petrological observations with recent experimental and isotopic advances. The LREEs can strongly partition to carbonatite melts, which are either directly mantle-derived or immiscible from silicate melts. As carbonatite melts evolve, alkalis and LREEs concentrate in the residual melt due to their incompatibility in early crystal-lising minerals. In most carbonatites, additional fractionation of calcite or ferroan dolomite leads to evolution of the residual liquid into a mobile alkaline “brine-melt” from which primary alkali REE carbonates can form. These primary carbonates are rarely preserved owing to dissolution by later fluids, and are replaced in-situ by monazite and alkali-free REE-(fluor)carbonates.
The Distinctive Mineralogy of Carbonatites
Authors: Christy Andrew G. , Pekov Igor V. , Krivovichev Sergey V.
Published: February 2022

The mineralogy of carbonatites reflects both the diversity of the sources of their parent magmas and their unusual chemistry. Carbonatites contain diverse suites of both primary magmatic minerals and later hydrothermal products. We present a summary of the variety of minerals found in carbon-atites, and note the economic importance of some of them, particularly those that are major sources of “critical elements”, such as Nb and rare earth elements (REEs), which are essential for modern technological applications. Selected mineral groups are then discussed in detail: the REE carbonates, the alkali-rich ephemeral minerals that are rarely preserved but that may be important in the petrogenesis of carbonatites and their metasomatic haloes in adjacent rocks, and the Nb-rich oxides of the pyrochlore supergroup.
Exotic invertible phases with higher-group symmetries
Authors: Hsin Po-Shen , Ji Wenjie , Jian Chao-Ming
Published: February 2022

We investigate a family of invertible phases of matter with
higher-dimensional exotic excitations in even spacetime dimensions,
which includes and generalizes the Kitaev’s chain in 1+1d. The
excitation has \mathbb{Z}_2ℤ2
higher-form symmetry that mixes with the spacetime Lorentz symmetry to
form a higher group spacetime symmetry. We focus on the invertible
exotic loop topological phase in 3+1d. This invertible phase is
protected by the \mathbb{Z}_2ℤ2
one-form symmetry and the time-reversal symmetry, and has surface
thermal Hall conductance not realized in conventional time-reversal
symmetric ordinary bosonic systems without local fermion particles and
the exotic loops. We describe a UV realization of the invertible exotic
loop topological order using the SO(3)_-SO(3)−
gauge theory with unit discrete theta parameter, which enjoys the same
spacetime two-group symmetry. We discuss several applications including
the analogue of ``fermionization’’ for ordinary bosonic theories with
\mathbb{Z}_2ℤ2
non-anomalous internal higher-form symmetry and time-reversal
symmetry.
Non-collinear magnetic structures in the magnetoelectric Swedenborgite CaBaFe4O7 derived by powder and single-crystal neutron diffraction
Authors: Qureshi Navid , Ouladdiaf Bachir , Senyshyn Anatoliy , Caignaert Vincent , Valldor Martin Björn
Published: February 2022

We have investigated the magnetic structures of the Swedenborgite
compound CaBaFe_44O_77
using magnetic susceptibility and neutron diffraction experiments on
powder and single-crystal samples. Below
T_{N1}TN1
= 274 K the system orders in a ferrimagnetic structure with spins along
the c
axis and an additional antiferromagnetic component within the kagome
plane which obviously cannot satisfy all exchange interactions.
Competing single-ion anisotropy and exchange interactions lead to a
transition into a multi-\mathbf{q}𝐪
conical structure at
T_{N2}TN2
= 202 K. The derivation of the complex ordering scheme below
T_{N2}TN2
is an important step towards the understanding of the magnetoelectric
effect under magnetic fields in this polar ferrimagnet.
Impact of ryegrass cover on lowland rice establishment
Authors: Tomazetti Marcos Belinazzo , Camargo Edinalvo Rabaioli , Gomes João Paulo Sousa , Parfitt José Maria Barbat , Silva Jaqueline Trombetta da , Moisinho Ivana Santos , Brickhill Harriet , Concenço Germani
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to analyze the impact of ryegrass as a soil cover on soil moisture level, initial rice establishment, grain yield and weed control in irrigated rice planted after ryegrass. The experiment was conducted under field conditions in randomized blocks design with four replications. Ryegrass (cv. BRS Ponteio) was planted in autumn and glyphosate was used as a knockdown before rice planting. Ryegrass plants were cut at 0, 0.15, 0.30 or 0.45 m above ground, resulting in different mulching levels. Rice (cv. Irga 424 CL) was planted in spring and was managed according to local crop recommendations. Although positive to the overall cropping system, ryegrass mulching suppressed rice emergence, especially with ryegrass cutting heights above 0.30 m, thus increased seeding densities in rice fields with substantial ryegrass soil cover may be needed. Ryegrass mulching had no significant effect on weed suppression, with positive results being observed only with ≥ 3000 kg ha 1 of ryegrass dry mass mulching. However, the rice yield in relation to the bare soil treatment was 14.3% less when straw quantity was 4500kg ha-1, reinforcing the need for evaluating the benefits and costs of ryegrass as a cover crop in rice production
Assessment of genetic variability in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes grown under South African conditions using agronomic and SSR markers
Authors: MA Mofokeng , BA Amelework , O Chipeta , J Sibiya , AS Gerrano , N Shargie , K Mashingaidze
Published: February 2022

Groundnut (Arachis hypogeae) is a legume crop grown in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. The objective of the study was to assess the presence of genetic diversity among fifty three groundnut genotypes of diverse origin using eleven agronomic and twenty SSR markers. The analysis of variance showed that highly significant variations exist among the genotypes for all phenotypic traits measured. Five principal components showed 71% of the total phenotypic variation. The SSR loci showed high values of polymorphic information content ranging from 0.31 to 0.89, with a mean of 0.71. Heterozygosity values ranged between 0.03 and 1.00 with a mean of 0.57. The genotypes showed a wide range of allelic diversity from 3 to 16, with a mean of 8.1 alleles per locus. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that larger variability (59%) was due to variation within individuals, whilst the remaining variation was accounted for variation among individuals within population. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into two distinct clusters, where it showed that the discrimination of the genotypes was not dependant on the origin of the genotypes. The high gene flow observed among the different geographic origin might contribute to the low differentiation among the population. The SSR and phenotypic markers were able to detect wide genetic diversity and discriminate groundnut genotypes. The two genetically distinct groups observed in this study, can be used as source of genes of novelty and parental lines for transgressive segregation and for further broadening of the genetic base of the crop
Influence of seeding speed and spacing between corn crop lines in the Amazon
Authors: Valente Gislayne Farias , Silva Vicente Filho Alves , Okumura Ricardo Shigueru , Mariano Daiane de Cinque , Silva José Nilton da , Anhê Bruno Borella , Carvalho Lana Letícia Barbosa de , Oliveira Danyllo Amaral de , Damasceno Leonardo José , Galvão Jessivaldo Rodrigues
Published: February 2022

The sowing stage in the crop implantation process is directly related to its productivity due to factors such as adequacy of the speed of operation of the seeder-fertilizer and the spacing between lines adopted according to each region of Brazil. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the agronomic characteristics of corn in relation to the spacing between rows and speeds of operation of the seeder-fertilizer in the sowing process in the eastern Amazon region. The experiment was carried out in the experimental area of the Technological Center for Support of Family Farming, located in the municipality of Parauapebas, in the southeastern region of Pará. The experimental design used was in continuous bands (subdivided into five plots) of four treatments, resulting in the factorial arrangement 2 x 2, consisting of two operating speeds (5.5 and 6.5 km h-1) and two spacings between rows of the seeder-fertilizer (0.75 and 0.55 m), totaling 20 experimental plots to evaluate the crop. The evaluations carried out after sowing were: SD (seed depth), TS (total seeds), IP (initial population), PH (plant height), EH (ear height), SD (stem diameter), FP (final population) and SI (survival index). The use of spacing between lines of 0.75 m promoted an increase in stem diameter (2.10 cm), plant height (2.29 cm) and seed depth (4.97 cm). It was found that the increase in operating speed (6.5 km h-1) and the use of 0.55 m line spacing provides an increase in the final plant population (60,000 plants ha-1).
Nitric oxide improves gas exchange and growth in Physalis angulata plants under water deficit
Authors: Leite Romeu da Silva , Nascimento Marilza Neves do , Trindade Daniele de Brito , Silva Alismário Leite da , Oliveira Uasley Caldas de , Lima Ianna Kamyla Freitas
Published: February 2022

Plant sensitization with nitric oxide (NO) donors may improve the tolerance to abiotic stresses such as water deficit. Physalis angulata is a genetic resource growing in semiarid areas of Brazil, with the potential for fruit growing and medicinal uses. In this experiment sodium nitroprusside, a NO donor was sprayed at three concentrations (0, 50 and 100 µM) at 25 and 49 days after transplantation in well-watered plants and underwater deficit to evaluate the NO mitigating role. The gas exchange, photosynthetic pigments, water relations, growth and productivity parameters were evaluated. The water deficit negatively influenced most of the variables analyzed. However, the SNP spray was able to attenuate, reverse or act in the recovery of stress effects. There was an improvement in gas exchange, especially carbon assimilation, stomatal conductance and transpiration; as well as an increase in total chlorophyll content. The donated NO was able to influence the plant water status. Besides, it promoted an increase in growth parameters, especially in photoassimilates incorporation and yield. However, the NO supply to plants under well-watered conditions does not seem to affect the physiology parameters. The NO supply in micromolar concentrations can attenuate or even reverse the water deficit effects on this species, being an important tool for promoting tolerance to this abiotic stress
Application of glycine on soybean plants submitted to water deficit
Authors: Teixeira Walquíria Fernanda , Soares Luís Henrique , Reichardt Klaus , Neto Durval Dourado
Published: February 2022

Soybean is one of the most important crops in the world. Studies are necessary to improve its productivity, especially in stress environments. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of glycine as seed treatment to soybean plants submitted to water deficiency, using twelve replicates per treatment. Glycine was applied at a dose of 9 mg kg-1 of seeds under high water deficit (performed at stage V4) and without water deficiency. Root development, antioxidant metabolism and dry mass accumulation of plants were evaluated. Results showed that the application of glycine to plants that were not subjected to water deficiency, promoted the increase of root development, accumulation of mass and reduction of stress in plants. This reflected in 10% increase in productivity compared to the control treatment. On the other hand, plants with glycine application subjected to water deficiency showed a reduction in dry mass accumulation and root development, indicating that these plants suffered the effect of stress. Untreated plants submitted to water deficiency showed symptoms of stress such as reduced accumulation of mass and productivity by 12%. Therefore, the present study reports that the application of glycine on seeds is not very efficient for attenuating stress in soybean plants submitted to water deficiency. However, in environments without water deficiency, the application of glycine on seeds affects the greater development of the plant and increased productivity
Genetic potential of tropical sweet corn hybrids and combining ability among parental inbred lines
Authors: Mustafa Neyaz Rashid , Saleh Ghizan Bin , Kashiani Pedram
Published: February 2022

Superiority of sweet corn (Zea mays L. saccharata) hybrid varieties is reflected by their performance per se, heterosis they reveal and combining ability of their inbred parents. This study was conducted to investigate performance, combining ability, heterosis and heritability revealed by 15 F1 tropical sweet corn hybrids from a half-diallel cross involving six diverse inbred lines, at two locations in Malaysia. At each location, the hybrids were evaluated for ear yield and yield components in a randomised complete block design, in comparison with their inbred parents and a commercial hybrid variety Hybrid 530 as control. Hybrids H11, H12 and H15 were found to be the most superior for yield and yield components, hence could be further tested in large-scale trials before release. Inbred lines FTT-1, EE0-2 and HAW-1 showed high positive GCA effects for yield and yield-related traits at both locations. Cross combinations HAV-2 × NTS-2, HSE-4 × NTS-2, NTS-2 × EE0-2 and EE0-2 × HAW-1 revealed high positive SCA effects for fresh ear yield and yield related traits at both location. Crosses among unrelated lines were found to produce superior hybrids. Both additive and non-additive gene effects were found important, although additive effects were predominating. The hybrids revealed substantially high heterosis, the highest being for number of ears per hectare and ear height. Moderate to high broad- and narrow-sense heritabi1ity estimates were displayed by the different traits measured
Assessment of Harmattan weather on cowpea (Vigna unguiculata, (L.) Walp.) production under drought stress
Authors: Esan Vincent Ishola , Omilani Oluwafemi Oyeniyi , Osuntoyinbo Yewande Omoronike , Olutayo Goodness Toluwanimi , Sangoyomi Titilayo E.
Published: February 2022

Drought stress is an environmental factor which restraints crop production and quality worldwide. It is now undeniable that drought limits the performance of crop plants. Annual water resources decline due to low rainfall and the reduction of the number of days of rainfall. The objectives were to: (1) screen existing cowpea genotypes at germination and seedling stages for their adaptation to water stress and (2) identify tolerant cowpea varieties to drought. The experiments were carried out both in the laboratory using an osmotic stress (laboratory drought stress) induced by polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) and in an open field under different levels (control, moderate and severe) of drought conditions. Fourteen Cowpea varieties were used in this study. The drought stress was imposed on 21-days old seedlings and the experiment lasted for 3 months. In the laboratory, four treatments 0%, 6.5%, 13% and 16.5% PEG were used while in the open field two drought levels were imposed. The two experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Morphological, physiological and agronomic data were collected. Results showed that at high concentration (16.50% PEG6000), high germination percentage was recorded in Raphael variety (88%) followed by Tawa (71.11%) and Eginwogogo (60%) whereas germination was completely inhibited in ITG7K-449-35 variety. The morphological traits measured such as plant height, leaf width, leaf length was reduced by drought stress. The highest reduction (47%) was recorded in the leaf width of Tiligre variety. In the second year of the experiment, IT99K-573-2-1 and Eginwogogo varieties plants died after 20 days of drought treatment because it could not withstand the drought stress condition during harmattan (a dry and dusty wind in West Africa) period due to the rapid dryness of soil moisture content. The results of dendrogram revealed that Raphael and Tawa were the most tolerant varieties
Cassava yield indicators and total organic carbon in tropical soils under different fertilization treatments
Authors: Pimentel Marcelo Laranjeira , Reis Iolanda Maria Soares , Castro Jailson Sousa de , Portela Victor Sousa , Romano Maria Lita Padinha Correa , Vildoso Carlos Ivan Aguilar , Gasparin Eloi , Sia Eliandra Freitas de
Published: February 2022

Cassava is a crop of major socioeconomic importance in Brazil because of its versatility and high yield in nutrient-poor soils. Fertilization can improve soil quality and further increase cassava yield. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different fertilizer sources on soil total organic carbon (TOC) and cassava yield indicators. The experiment was conducted on a family farm in Santarém, Brazil, in a randomized block design, with four treatments and five replications. Treatments were as follows: T1, unfertilized soil (control); T2, NPK fertilizer; T3, poultry manure; and T4, cattle manure. The variables analyzed were soil TOC, shoot fresh weight, plant height, marketable stem diameter, marketable root yield, and yield. Data were subjected to analysis of variance, Tukey’s test (p < 0.05), hierarchical clustering, and principal component analysis. Application of organic fertilizers (T3 and T4) increased soil TOC levels. Chemical fertilizer treatment (T2) resulted in the highest shoot fresh weight, yield, and marketable root yield. Marketable stem diameter was positively influenced by T2 and T4. There were no significant treatment effects on plant height. Hierarchical clustering isolated organic fertilizers (T3 and T4) from other treatments. Principal component analysis revealed two principal components, which together explained 87.77% of the total variance. Organic fertilizer application provided the highest TOC accumulation during the experimental period, whereas NPK fertilization was the most effective in increasing cassava yield in the first year of cultivation
Edible coatings maintain the phytochemicals in cold-stored ‘Kinnow’ mandarin
(Citrus nobilis Lour x C. deliciosa Tenora) fruit
Authors: Baswal Arvind Kumar , Dhaliwal Harvinder Singh , Singh Zora , Mahajan Bal Vipan Chander , Kalia Anu
Published: February 2022

Edible coatings usually maintain or improve the scavenger antioxidants and activities of defense-related enzymes consequently preserve the bioactive compounds. The effects of different coating treatments e.g. carboxymethylcellulose (CMC; 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g L-1), chitosan (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g L-1), beeswax (5, 10 and 15 g L-1) and control (uncoated fruit) and cold storage period (5-7 ºC, 90-95 % RH for 75 days) on the levels of total phenols, total antioxidant activity, flavonoids, protein, total free amino acids and sugars (total and reducing sugars) in the juice of cold-stored ‘Kinnow’ mandarin fruit were assessed in 2017-18 and 2018-19. The fruit used in the experiment were harvested from the fifteen-year-old healthy trees previously grafted on rough lemon rootstock (Citrus jambhiri L.) and grown in the same block. The fruit coated with different coating treatments were stored at 5-7 ºC and 90-95 % RH for different storage periods (0, 30, 45, 60 and 75 days). The levels of total phenols, flavonoids, total antioxidant activity, total and reducing sugars in the fresh juice of the cold-stored fruit were determined following each cold storage period. Amongst different coating treatments tested, CMC (2.0 g L-1) coating proved to be the best treatment to maintain highest levels of bioactive compounds viz., total phenols, total antioxidant activity, flavonoids and total and reducing sugars as compared to the control during cold storage. In conclusion, coating with CMC (2.0 g L-1) was effective to extend the cold storage life and maintain the highest levels of health-promoting compounds in ‘Kinnow’ mandarin fruit without any symptoms of its toxicity to the fruit
The potential of soluble silicon for managing white root disease in rubber
(Hevea brasiliensis)
Authors: Hadi Shaikh Mohd Hizami Shaikh Abd , Zakaria Latiffah , Sidique Siti Nordahliawate Mohamed , Mahyudin Murnita Mohmad , Nor Nik Mohd Izham Mohamed
Published: February 2022

Rubber growers in Malaysia depend on soil drenching with propiconazole fungicide to control white root disease (WRD) caused by Rigidoporus microporus. The fungal infection affected the environmental ecosystem, giving rise to fungicide resistance. Recently, silicon (Si) has become an alternative to reduce and delay pathogenic fungal invasion. Therefore, the present study investigates the antifungal property of soluble silicon against R. microporus in rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis). In vitro dose-response towards soluble silicon types, i.e., silicic acid, sodium meta-silicate, sodium silicate, and calcium silicate with different concentrations (10, 100, 500, 1000, 1500, 3000, 5000, and 8000 ppm) were determined on the Ayer Molek strain of R. microporus using the Poisoned Food Technique. Results showed that sodium meta-silicate inhibited mycelial growth (100%) at 5000 and 8000 ppm concentrations compared to other types of soluble silicon. However, silicic acid inhibited more than 50% R. microporus at a minimal concentration of 500 ppm, which could be considered the most effective antifungal from the soluble silicon group. Moreover, the higher pH values did not solely affect the inhibition rate of R. microporus. Microscopic observation showed the changes of R. microporus hyphae width grown on soluble silicon medium agar compared to the control (without Si). The Dipped Stick Inhibition Assay revealed that a higher concentration and more frequent soluble silicon application effectively inhibited R. microporus growth. Thus, this study proved that soluble silicon, especially silicic acid and sodium meta-silicate, showed promising results as antifungal agents and fungicidal in controlling white root disease
Role of cleaners in establishing and maintaining essential environmental conditions in healthcare facilities in Malawi
Authors: Elling Hayley , Behnke Nikki , Tseka Jennifer Mmodzi , Kafanikhale Holystone , Mofolo Innocent , Hoffman Irving , Reuland Frances , McCord Ryan , Cronk Ryan
Published: February 2022

Healthcare facility (HCF) cleaners play an important role in preventing healthcare-acquired infections and promoting a safe and clean healthcare environment. There is little evidence describing cleaner roles in HCFs in low-income countries and factors facilitating and constraining their roles and responsibilities. We analyzed qualitative and quantitative data from 57 in-depth interviews with cleaners in 44 government-run HCFs in Malawi. Cleaner constraints included inadequate training on infection prevention and control (IPC), personal protective equipment (PPE), hand hygiene, and waste management; insufficient PPE and hand hygiene resources; assignment of tasks that are unrelated to core responsibilities and their job description; risk of work-related injuries; and disrespect and stigma from medical staff, patients, and guardians. Facilitators included the positive collaboration and communication with medical staff, high job satisfaction, and a positive working attitude. We recommend the provision of more robust IPC, PPE, hand hygiene, and waste management training (including orientation and refresher). PPE resources must be made available to ensure HCF cleanliness and to keep cleaners, staff, patients, and guardians safe. Clearly defined job descriptions for cleaners will clarify their roles, describe bounds of their work, and ensure cleaners are viewed as essential frontline workers who ensure the safety of staff and patients.
An improved primary wastewater treatment system for a slaughterhouse industry: a full-scale experience
Authors: Shende Akshay D. , Dhenkula Swati , Rao Neti Nageswara , Pophali Girish R.
Published: February 2022

The effluent streams from individual slaughtering operations were segregated based on the degree of similarity and were treated separately. The wastewater from lairage and paunch sections was dominant in suspended solids (SS: 6,000–25,000 mg/L) and was separated using a hydrasieve (500 μm) and externally fed rotary drum filter (EFRDF, 200 μm), respectively. The SS removal efficiency of the hydrasieve and EFRDF was 75% and 55%, respectively, and remaining solids were removed through a primary clarifier. The fats, oils and grease (FOG: 12,000–35,000 mg/L) containing streams from the hide fleshing, rendering, intestine, and tripe washing were routed through a skimming tank. The SS and FOG removal efficiencies through the skimming tank were 75% and 90%, respectively. Any FOG remaining after the skimming tank was removed using dissolved air flotation which achieved 95% FOG removal. In addition, the efficiency of chemical oxygen demand removal through the primary treatment system was more than 80%. The effluent obtained after primary treatment was SS and FOG ≤ 200 and 100 mg/L. The segregation of streams and their separate treatment offered benefits such as resource recovery, reduced waste load on downstream secondary treatment and overall ease in slaughterhouse wastewater treatment.
The Use of Enzymes for the Preparation of Biologically Active Natural Products and Analogues in Optically Active Form
Authors: Roberts S.M. , Williamson N.M.
Published: February 2022

The enantioselective hydrolysis of chiral esters using esterases and lipases gives access to key optically active intermediates en route to prostaglandins, coriolic acid, the anti-HIV agent carbovir and mevinic acid type hypocholestemic agents. The hydrolysis of meso-esters using hydrolases is a very efficient strategy in organic synthesis and has been used to prepare the carbocyclic nucleosides neplanocin and risteromycin. Acylases have been used to prepare
(-)-carbovir and both enantiomers of a GABA-mimetic from 2-azabicyclo[2.2.1)hept-5-en-3-one.
The employment of nitrilases and nitrile hydratases is gaining in popularity; for example, prochiral
2-benzoyloxypropane-1,3-dinitrile is hydrolysed to (S)-3-benzoyloxy-4-cyanobutanoic acid with exquisite selectivity. Lipases in organic solvents can effect esterification, transesterification and interesterification reactions and this popular methodology has been used to prepare key norcarbocyclic nucleotides and carbocyclic oxetanocin A in single enantiomer form. Yeast­ catalysed reductions of ketones afford optically active secondary alcohols, typically employed for the synthesis of pheromones, fragrances and chemotactic agents such as leukotriene-84. Instead of a whole-cell system such as yeast, partially purified dehydrogenases can be employed to synthesise (S)-secondary alcohols, for examplan intermediate to the antifungal agent brefeldin-A. Biohydroxylations are important reactions and are being applied to a wide range of substrates. The oxidation of benzene and derivatives to the corresponding cyclohexadiene diols are classic examples and have provided a route to analogues of cyclophellitol. Similarly, mono-oxygenase catalysed Baeyer-Villiger reactions are now well-documented and have furnished intermediates to carbocyclic-AZT, lipoic acid and azadirachtin. Sulfoxides of high optical purity have been prepared by yeast-catalysed oxidation, while enzymes in the transferase and lyase classes have been used to make carbohydrates and amino acids. In conclusion, the science of biotransformations opens up numerous synthetic routes to a wide variety of target molecules that are not easily accessible by other methods of synthetic organic chemistry.