bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Passive Components on Designing a Three-Phase DC-DC Converter
Authors: Che Mat Zulaikha Bt , Alam AHM Zahirul
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the impact of the inductor and exchanging recurrence of a three-stage DC-DC converter for potential application in an electric vehicle. The proposed DC-DC converter comprises the essential and auxiliary stages. The essential phase of the converter is made from total scaffold converter go about as information port which associated in equal, while at the auxiliary stage which goes about as yield port contained full extension rectifier associated in series. At the auxiliary stage, the channel capacitor, an inductor associated in corresponding to sift through the waves from the information voltage and produce a DC yield voltage that prompts better execution. Various phases of the DC-DC converter have been reenacted through PSpice and execution were assessed.
A Design and Modelling of PV-Diesel Hybrid Energy System with Fuzzy Logic Controller
Authors: Alnajjar Masood , Muhammad Mahbubur Rashid
Published: July 2024

— Renewable energy, such as wind and photovoltaic arrays, has become the core energy in micro-grids used for supplying remote areas and areas suffering from electricity outages. Many limitations, such as weather fluctuations and low efficiency, lead to designing and developing a hybrid energy system. The integration of photovoltaic arrays and diesel gensets has become one of the most common approaches to generating electricity for remote communities. Although the integration of photovoltaic arrays and diesel gensets has the potential to reduce the cost of electricity production by harnessing free energy from the sun to reduce the power generated by diesel engines, it tends to complicate the control of the entire system due to the intermittent nature of the renewable energy sources and changing load demand. This paper proposes a fuzzy logic controller of PV-Diesel hybrid energy system, which is used as an effective tool in facilitating optimum power-sharing between the PV power source, charging, and discharging batteries and diesel generator as a backup based on the dynamics of the available PV energy at any time. Optimizing power control in the PV-Diesel hybrid energy system is key to minimizing the cost of power generation and maximizing the overall efficiency of the PV-Diesel hybrid energy system. The MATLAB-Simulink is used to design the fuzzy logic controller of the PV-Diesel hybrid energy system and to validate its performance. Five scenarios during the day have been tested to show the performance of the fuzzy logic controller. The results showed the accurate controlling of the power flow in the PV-Diesel hybrid system and the power saved about 2%.
Investigation of the Energy Saving Capability of a Variable Inertia Magneto-Rheological (MR) Flywheel
Authors: Islam Lihajul , Rashid Muhammad Mahbubur , Faysal M A
Published: July 2024

This research focuses on a theoretical and experimental analysis of a variable inertia magneto rheological flywheel (VIMRF). The objectives of the present study were to design and fabricate the prototype of a VIMRF and perform characteristics of energy saving capability of it. The moment of inertia has been calculated under different angular speeds and excitation currents. The prototype was designed and manufactured to verify the effectiveness of the proposed VIMRF. Simulations are primarily done to find variable characteristics of the moment of inertia of the VIMRF under certain conditions. The primary simulation shows that the moment of inertia of the VIMRF can semi-actively be tuned.
Optimization of Energy Efficiency of Three Phase Induction Motor Drives for Industrial Applications
Authors: Abdallah Alshaikh , Fuad Hasan Tahsin
Published: July 2024

Electric motors are used in nearly 60% of the global electrical power generated. Due to the greater energy consumption, there has been a considerable rise in production costs and environmental degradation, increasing general operating expenses. Therefore, the efficiency of three-phase squirrel cage induction motors (SCIMs) may be improved to save a large amount of electricity. The thesis aims to investigate increasing the efficiency of three-phase (SCIM). The proposed method improves the efficiency of (SCIMs) using PID controller Simulink design in Simulink/MATLAB. To successfully determine the motor characteristics and simulate a three-phase (SCIM) under various loads. The effects of lowering the voltage and using PID controller on motor characteristics such as generated torque, power factor, reactive power, apparent power, output power, rotor speed, and magnetising current are also discussed. The simulation result found that the proposed motor efficiency and power factor method is improved by using a PID controller. At motor torque of 12 N-m, the efficiency is 80%, which rises to 92 % at higher motor torques. After applying the proposed method, the power factor becomes 0.64%, which is an improvement of 0.2%.
Video-Based Vehicle Counting and Analysis using YOLOv5 and DeepSORT with Deployment on Jetson Nano
Authors: Saadeldin Abuelgasim , Rashid Muhammad Mahbubur
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the advancements in deep learning and high-performance edge-computing systems have increased tremendously and have become the center of attention when it comes to the analysis of video-based systems on edge by making use of computer vision techniques. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) is one area where deep learning can be used for several tasks including highway-based vehicle counting systems whereby making use of computer vision techniques, an edge computing device and cameras installed in specific locations on the road, we are able to obtain very accurate vehicle counting results and replace the use of traditional and laborious hardware devices with modern low-cost solutions. This paper proposes and implements a modern, compact, and reliable vehicle counting system based on the most recent and popular object detection algorithm as of writing this paper, known as the YOLOv5, combined with a state-of-the-art object tracking algorithm known as DeepSORT. The YOLOv5 will be used in the following system to detect and classify four different classes of vehicles, whereas DeepSORT will be used to track those vehicles across different frames in the video sequence. Finally, a unique and efficient vehicle counting method will be implemented and used to count tracked vehicles across the highway scenes. A new highway vehicle dataset consisting of four vehicle classes, namely: car, motorcycle, bus, and truck, was collected, cleaned, and annotated with a total of 11,982 images published in the following study and used for the training of our robust vehicle detection model. From the results obtained over real-world highway surveillance videos, the following system was able to obtain an average vehicle detection mAP score of 96.1% and a vehicle counting accuracy of 95.39%, all while being able to be deployed on a compact Nvidia Jetson Nano edge-computing device with an average speed of 15 FPS which outperforms other previously proposed tools in terms of both accuracy and speed.
The Impact of Big Data Analytics on Business Intelligence in E-Commerce: A Review
Authors: Ibrahimy Shafkat M. , Ibrahimy Ahmad I.
Published: July 2024

Big Data Analytics (BDA) is becoming a popular tool to gain insight into businesses and increase their competitive advantage. So, it is important to understand how it works and the opportunities it presents to growing businesses. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of using Data Analytics on Business Intelligence for e-commerce, focusing on how to promote the use of Big Data Analytics in the e-commerce sector by SMEs. One objective is to develop strategies that can be used by small businesses to take advantage of complicated tools such as BDA and sentiment analysis of social media platforms in order to boost their economic growth.
Management de Projet en Linguistique Appliquée.
Authors: Bach Matthieu
Published: July 2024

This article examines the application of project management principles in the field of applied linguistics, using the author's doctoral research experience as a case study. It explores the challenges, strategies, and lessons learned in managing linguistic research projects. By highlighting best practices and encountered obstacles, the study aims to enhance understanding of project management within applied linguistics. The insights provided are valuable for researchers and practitioners navigating the complexities of linguistic research endeavors.
Słupsk jako regionalny ośrodek handlowy – popularność i zasięg przestrzenny na podstawie pomiarów ruchu samochodowego = Słupsk as a regional centre of trade – popularity and spatial reach based on measurements of car traffic
Authors: Parol Adam R.
Published: July 2024

Artykuł podejmuje zagadnienie relacji funkcjonalno-przestrzennych między ośrodkiem centralnym a jego otoczeniem. Głównym celem opracowania było zidentyfikowanie zasięgu oddziaływania Słupska jako ośrodka handlowego; przeanalizowano również określone cechy poszczególnych sklepów (lub ich zespołów), takie jak rozmieszczenie w przestrzeni miasta czy popularność. Niezbędne dane zostały pozyskane w ramach terenowych badań, polegających na zanotowaniu liczby pojazdów pozostawionych na parkingach pod badanymi obiektami handlowymi oraz powiatu ich zarejestrowania. Przeprowadzono pomiary w różnych porach dnia i tygodnia w celu uzyskania szerokiego spektrum materiałów. Wykazano, iż zdecydowanie najchętniej odwiedzanym przez zmotoryzowanych klientów obiektem handlowym w Słupsku jest Centrum Handlowe Jantar, zaś wnioskiem generalnym jest większa frekwencja na parkingach w sobotę w porównaniu do dnia roboczego. Najsilniej wyróżniające Słupsk w skali regionu sklepy oraz większe kompleksy handlowo-usługowe odwiedzane są przede wszystkim przez mieszkańców miasta i otaczającego go powiatu ziemskiego, przy zauważalnej obecności osób z powiatów sławieńskiego i bytowskiego. Zasięg dojazdów samochodem do Słupska w celu nabycia dóbr lub usług w badanych obiektach zasadniczo zamyka się w granicach dawnego województwa słupskiego (z lat 1975‑1998), co dowodzi pełnieniu przez miasto funkcji przynajmniej subregionalnych. Ponadto, zauważalne jest pewne rozciągnięcie tego obszaru w kierunku zachodnim (region Pomorza Środkowego).
The impact of maternal weight gain during pregnancy on perinatal outcomes
Authors: Mochhoury L , Lamiri F Z , Marc I , Chebabe M
Published: July 2024

Background. Weight gain during pregnancy is a physiological event related to fetal tissue growth and maternal metabolic modifications with the addition of adipose tissue reserves. Maternal nutritional status before and during pregnancy has a considerable influence on the course of pregnancy, fetal development, the health status of the newborn, as well as outcomes for the child.
Objectives. To evaluate the impact of maternal weight gain during pregnancy on the occurrence of maternal and neonatal morbidity in the Moroccan population.
Methods. A study was carried out over one year in the maternity ward of the provincial hospital of Benslimane between 1 October 2020 and 1 October 2021, using data collected from a descriptive cross-sectional study. We included mothers delivering singletons from 37 completed weeks up to 42 weeks’ gestation, while those with diabetes or hypertension were excluded. We divided the mothers into three groups based on weight gain during pregnancy: group I gained <8 kg; group II gained 8 -16 kg; and group III gained >16 kg. A validated questionnaire was used to analyse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Results. Data were collected from 1 408 pregnancies. Gestational hypertension, macrosomia, dystocia, and caesarean sections were more common among women who gained >16 kg (p<0.05).
Conclusion. Weight gain during pregnancy has been associated with maternal-fetal complications, hence the need to establish guidelines for prevention and control of high-risk pregnancies during the perinatal period.
Factors influencing the perinatal outcomes of teenage deliveries in a regional hospital in KwaZulu‐Natal Province, South Africa
Authors: Fodo F , Hariram T
Published: July 2024

Background. Teenage pregnancy is a global problem and is associated with maternal and neonatal complications. Developing countries show a rising prevalence in teenage pregnancies. A limited number of studies have investigated perinatal outcomes within the pregnant teenage population.Objectives. To describe and analyse the effect of maternal factors on perinatal outcomes of teenage pregnancies.
Methods. Data were collected retrospectively from the labour ward and neonatal admission registers of a regional hospital in South Africa over a 6-month period in 2018. Teenagers between 10 and 19 years of age, who delivered at the institution, were included in the study. Maternal factors were analysed for the risk of a complicated perinatal outcome, which was defined as either stillbirth or live neonate requiring admission to the neonatal nursery. A secondary analysis was conducted on the risk of stillbirth, prematurity and low birthweight (LBW).
Results. The prevalence of teenage deliveries was 15.6% (n=707/4 519). One-fifth (20%) of teenagers were ≤16 years old. Complicated perinatal outcomes were present in 19.5% of deliveries and were associated with a lack of antenatal care (ANC) and emergency caesarean section (CS). Unbooked teenagers had a ten-fold higher chance of delivering a stillbirth and were three times more likely to deliver an LBW baby. Maternal complications were also associated with LBW. Age, parity and HIV status did not show any statistically significant difference in perinatal outcomes.
Conclusion. The prevalence of teenage pregnancy was high in our cohort. Lack of ANC, maternal complications and emergency CS in teenagers were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.
Socioeconomic status and hypertension in South African adolescents
Authors: Mahlati Z , Mall S , Kagura J
Published: July 2024

Background. Hypertension, a consistent elevation in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, poses a global health challenge and likely develops early in life. Research suggests that socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with hypertension in childhood and adolescence. However, pathways through which SES leads to hypertension in adolescents remain unclear.
Objective. To examine the relationship between SES and hypertension among adolescents in South Africa (SA) and identify possible pathways linking SES and hypertension in this demographic.
Methods. We analysed cross-sectional data from the South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016 comprising 1 062 adolescents aged between 15 and 19 years. SES was based on wealth quintiles. Multivariable logistic regression models and generalised structural equation modelling (GSEM) were employed to examine the relationship between SES and hypertension in adolescents.
Results. The unadjusted and adjusted relationships between SES and hypertension were not statistically significant. According to the GSEM, age (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.63 - 0.82) and BMI (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02 - 1.11) were the only factors directly associated with hypertension. Being female had a significant indirect effect on hypertension (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.03 – 1.36).
Conclusion. Although no association was observed between SES and hypertension, sex-specific patterns emerged among the correlates of hypertension. This emphasises a need for further social epidemiology research on hypertension in this age group, ideally incorporating other proxies of socioeconomic status besides the wealth index.
The perceptions and prescribing patterns of complementary medicines for infantile colic by pharmacists in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Ferreira M , Razlog R , Pellow J
Published: July 2024

Background. Complementary medicines (CMs) for infantile colic are widely available on the South African market, in various pharmacies and retail outlets, without the need for a prescription. Pharmacists therefore have an important role to play in educating patients about safe and appropriate use of CM products.
Objectives. To investigate the perceptions and prescribing patterns of CMs for infantile colic by pharmacists and pharmacist assistants employed in the greater Johannesburg area.
Methods. We used a quantitative approach with a descriptive survey design. A total of 100 pharmacists and pharmacist assistants registered with the South African Pharmacy Council completed a pen-and-paper questionnaire.
Results. Many participants reported recommending both conventional and CMs for infantile colic and, overall, positive perceptions of CM were reported. Most participants agreed that they had a responsibility to counsel patients on the use of CM but felt that they needed to expand their own knowledge base.
Conclusions. There appears to be a positive shift towards CM for the treatment of infantile colic; however, improved training is needed to ensure pharmacists and pharmacist assistants are better informed regarding CM products in order to give appropriate advice to patients.
The development of a GC-FID method for indirect quantification of chloroacetyl chloride, a potential genotoxic impurity, in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride drug substance
Authors: Birudukota Srinivas , Mangalapu Bhaskar , Ramakrishn Ramesha Andagar , Halder Swagata , Palakollu Venkata Narayana
Published: July 2024

This study presents an innovative gas chromatographic-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) method, developed and validated in accordance with The International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines, for the quantitative analysis of chloroacetyl chloride, a potentially genotoxic impurity, in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride active pharmaceutical ingredient. Due to the reactive and genotoxic nature of chloroacetyl chloride, precise quantification is imperative in the active pharmaceutical ingredient. The proposed method involves the conversion of chloroacetyl chloride into methyl 2-chloroacetate (MCA), enabling indirect quantification via a GC-FID approach employing a DB wax column. The validated GC-FID method displays exceptional features, such as remarkable linearity, ranging from 0.38 to 1.8 ppm with a correlation coefficient of 0.9998, as well as low detection and quantification limits of 0.19 and 0.38 ppm, and the method is specific without interference. The precision of the method expressed as the % RSD was 0.53%. The sample recovery ranging from 97.3% to 101.5%, confirms the method’s accuracy. Furthermore, three different batches of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride underwent evaluation using this method. In conclusion, this method offers a highly sensitive approach for the precise quantification of chloroacetyl chloride in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride drug substance, thereby ensuring compliance with the stringent safety standards of the pharmaceutical industry.
Exploring the efficacy of the wild mushroom Astraeus hygrometricus extract on lipid profiles, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress in rats fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Phachonpai Wathita , Riyamongkol Prathakphong , Mann Dej , Kamkaew Nattakorn
Published: July 2024

Edible wild mushrooms are considered to contain healthy bioactive ingredients that exert various pharmacological effects. We aimed to determine the antihyperlipidemic, antihyperglycemic, and antioxidant effects of the wild mushroom Astraeus hygrometricus (A. hygrometricus) extract in a rat model of dyslipidemia induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Experimental rats received an HFD with or without A. hygrometricus extract (500 mg/kg body weight) or simvastatin (10 mg/kg body weight, a positive control) for 63 days. Oral administration of the extract decreased the blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels; counteracted insulin resistance; and increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in HFD-fed rats. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in serum malondialdehyde and an increase in the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, two major antioxidant enzymes. Overall, A. hygrometricus extract supplementation alleviates hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in HFD-fed rats by decreasing insulin resistance and reducing oxidative stress.
Suppression of adipogenesis and stimulation of lipolysis by oxyresveratrol and heartwood extract from Artocarpus lacucha in adipocyte culture
Authors: Trisat Kanittaporn , Limpeanchob Nanteetip
Published: July 2024

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of various non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems, and certain cancers. The availability of safe therapeutic compounds for treating obesity is limited, emphasizing the importance of investigating natural remedies as alternatives. Oxyresveratrol, a bioactive compound, has shown promise for the anti-obesity effect. Thus, the present study investigated anti-adipogenesis and lipolysis-inducing activities of oxyresveratrol and oxyresveratrol-enriched extract from Artocarpus lacucha so-called Puag-Haad in culture adipocytes. Treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with these compounds for specific time periods covering differentiation (D0-3), lipogenesis (D3-10), or adipogenesis (D0-10). The intracellular lipid accumulation was determined by Oil Red O-staining and the glycerol release from mature adipocytes was measured and referred to as lipolysis. The result showed that oxyresveratrol and Puag-Haad dose-dependently inhibited lipid accumulation. Suppression during the differentiation period of adipocytes played a critical role in such inhibitory activity. These compounds also effectively induced lipolysis but by different pathways. Puag- Haad-mediated lipolysis depended on β-adrenergic receptors whereas these receptors did not influence the activity of oxyresveratrol. These findings suggest that oxyresveratrol and Puag-Haad hold promise as anti-obesity agents by preventing lipid accumulation in the adipocytes and inducing lipolysis thereby reducing fat mass in adipose tissue.
Exploring Arabic Learners’ English Errors: Interlingual vs. Intralingual Analysis and Remedial Teaching Strategies
Authors: Babu Rajan Panthayil , Makarevicius Algirdas , Harttrup Philip
Published: July 2024

Arabic students frequently encounter errors while learning English as a second language (ESL). This study investigates prevalent interlingual and intralingual errors observed among Arabic learners of English. The authors posit that by addressing morphological, lexical, and semantic inaccuracies, English instructors can assist Arabic learners in cultivating a more comprehensive and nuanced proficiency in the English language, thereby enhancing their communicative abilities across various contexts. The instructional strategies explained in this paper offer valuable insights for ESL teachers and tertiary-level Arabic students aiming to mitigate or eliminate such errors. Additionally, the teaching recommendations presented in this paper serve as beneficial resources for experienced and novice instructors, facilitating the reduction of errors commonly encountered by Arabic students in their English language acquisition journey.
Drosophila HCN mediates gustatory homeostasis by preserving sensillar transepithelial potential in sweet environments
Authors: Lee MinHyuk , Park Se Hoon , Joo Kyeung Min , Kwon Jae Young , Lee Kyung-Hoon , Kang KyeongJin
Published: July 2024

Establishing transepithelial ion disparities is crucial for sensory functions in animals. In insect sensory organs called sensilla, a transepithelial potential, known as the sensillum potential (SP), arises through active ion transport across accessory cells, sensitizing receptor neurons such as mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors. Because multiple receptor neurons are often co-housed in a sensillum and share SP, niche-prevalent overstimulation of single sensory neurons can compromise neighboring receptors by depleting SP. However, how such potential depletion is prevented to maintain sensory homeostasis remains unknown. Here, we find that the
Ih-
encoded hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated (HCN) channel bolsters the activity of bitter-sensing gustatory receptor neurons (bGRNs), albeit acting in sweet-sensing GRNs (sGRNs). For this task, HCN maintains SP despite prolonged sGRN stimulation induced by the diet mimicking their sweet feeding niche, such as overripe fruit. We present evidence that
Ih
-dependent demarcation of sGRN excitability is implemented to throttle SP consumption, which may have facilitated adaptation to a sweetness-dominated environment. Thus, HCN expressed in sGRNs serves as a key component of a simple yet versatile peripheral coding that regulates bitterness for optimal food intake in two contrasting ways: sweet-resilient preservation of bitter aversion and the previously reported sweet-dependent suppression of bitter taste.
Habitat fragmentation mediates the mechanisms underlying long-term climate-driven thermophilization in birds
Authors: Liu Juan , Tingley Morgan W , Wu Qiang , Ren Peng , Jin Tinghao , Ding Ping , Si Xingfeng
Published: July 2024

Climatic warming can shift community composition driven by the colonization-extinction dynamics of species with different thermal preferences; but simultaneously, habitat fragmentation can mediate species’ responses to warming. As this potential interactive effect has proven difficult to test empirically, we collected data on birds over 10 years of climate warming in a reservoir subtropical island system that was formed 65 years ago. We investigated how the mechanisms underlying climate-driven directional change in community composition were mediated by habitat fragmentation. We found thermophilization driven by increasing warm-adapted species and decreasing cold-adapted species in terms of trends in colonization rate, extinction rate, occupancy rate and population size. Critically, colonization rates of warm-adapted species increased faster temporally on smaller or less isolated islands; cold-adapted species generally were lost more quickly temporally on closer islands. This provides support for dispersal limitation and microclimate buffering as primary proxies by which habitat fragmentation mediates species range shift. Overall, this study advances our understanding of biodiversity responses to interacting global change drivers.
Impact of nitrogen fertilizer type and application rate on growth, nitrate accumulation, and postharvest quality of spinach
Authors: Gülüt Kemal Yalçın , Şentürk Gamze Güleç
Published: July 2024

Background

A balanced supply of nitrogen is essential for spinach, supporting both optimal growth and appropriate nitrate (NO3−) levels for improved storage quality. Thus, choosing the correct nitrogen fertilizer type and application rate is key for successful spinach cultivation. This study investigated the effects of different nitrogen (N) fertilizer type and application rates on the growth, nitrate content, and storage quality of spinach plants.

Methods

Four fertilizer types were applied at five N doses (25, 50, 200, and 400 mg N kg−1) to plants grown in plastic pots at a greenhouse. The fertilizer types used in the experiment were ammonium sulphate (AS), slow-release ammonium sulphate (SRAS), calcium nitrate (CN), and yeast residue (YR). Spinach parameters like Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) values (chlorophyll content), plant height, and fresh weight were measured. Nitrate content in leaves was analyzed after storage periods simulating post-harvest handling (0, 5, and 10 days).

Results

The application of nitrogen fertilizer significantly influenced spinach growth parameters and nitrate content. The YRx400 treatment yielded the largest leaves (10.3 ± 0.5 cm long, 5.3 ± 0.2 cm wide). SPAD values increased with higher N doses for AS, SRAS, and CN fertilizers, with AS×400 (58.1 ± 0.8) and SRAS×400 (62.0 ± 5.8) reaching the highest values. YR treatments showed a moderate SPAD increase. Fresh weight response depended on fertilizer type, N dose, and storage period. While fresh weight increased in all fertilizers till 200 mg kg−1 dose, a decrease was observed at the highest dose for AS and CN. SRAS exhibited a more gradual increase in fresh weight with increasing nitrogen dose, without the negative impact seen at the highest dose in AS and CN. Nitrate content in spinach leaves varied by fertilizer type, dose, and storage day. CNx400 resulted in the highest NO3− content (4,395 mg kg−1) at harvest (Day 0), exceeding the European Union’s safety limit. This level decreased over 10 days of storage but remained above the limit for CN on Days 0 and 5. SRAS and YR fertilizers generally had lower NO3− concentrations throughout the experiment. Storage at +4 °C significantly affected NO3− content. While levels remained relatively stable during the first 5 days, a substantial decrease was observed by Day 10 for all fertilizers and doses, providing insights into the spinach’s nitrate content over a 10-day storage period.

Conclusion

For rapid early growth and potentially higher yields, AS may be suitable at moderate doses (200 mg kg−1). SRAS offers a more balanced approach, promoting sustained growth while potentially reducing NO3− accumulation compared to AS. Yeast residue, with its slow nitrogen release and consistently low NO3− levels, could be a viable option for organic spinach production.
PKMYT1 knockdown inhibits cholesterol biosynthesis and promotes the drug sensitivity of triple-negative breast cancer cells to atorvastatin
Authors: Gao Wei , Guo Xin , Sun Linlin , Gai Jinwei , Cao Yinan , Zhang Shuqun
Published: July 2024

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) as the most aggressive molecular subtype of breast cancer is characterized by high cancer cell proliferation and poor patient prognosis. Abnormal lipid metabolism contributes to the malignant process of cancers. Study observed significantly enhanced cholesterol biosynthesis in TNBC. However, the mechanisms underlying the abnormal increase of cholesterol biosynthesis in TNBC are still unclear. Hence, we identified a member of the serine/threonine protein kinase family PKMYT1 as a key driver of cholesterol synthesis in TNBC cells. Aberrantly high-expressed PKMYT1 in TNBC was indicative of unfavorable prognostic outcomes. In addition, PKMYT1 promoted sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2)-mediated expression of enzymes related to cholesterol biosynthesis through activating the TNF/ TNF receptor-associated factor 1 (TRAF1)/AKT pathway. Notably, downregulation of PKMYT1 significantly inhibited the feedback upregulation of statin-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis, whereas knockdown of PKMYT1 promoted the drug sensitivity of atorvastatin in TNBC cells. Overall, our study revealed a novel function of PKMYT1 in TNBC cholesterol biosynthesis, providing a new target for targeting tumor metabolic reprogramming in the cancer.
A Decadal Trend Analysis of Measles Cases in Rajasthan and Future Prediction using ARIMA Model: An Observational Study
Authors: Agarwal Sunita , Batra Shivra , Bairwa Pushpendra , Sinha Parul , Choudhary Pooja , Jain Dinesh Kumar , Sharma Malvika , Singh Sushil Kumar
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Measles, a highly transmissible disease marked by fever and a maculopapular rash, posed a substantial threat to life in the 1960s. Nevertheless, the advent of the measles vaccine had a profound impact, significantly diminishing its toll on mortality. Similarly, through effective influenza surveillance and early epidemic warning systems, public health officials can timely identify influenza trends and provide crucial scientific support for prevention and control measures. This proactive approach holds great public health significance. Aim: To analyse the long-term trend of measles cases in Rajasthan, India, and the impact of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) on it, with future predictions using Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) modelling. Materials and Methods: The present study was a retrospective, descriptive observational study in which monthly diagnosed measles cases were collected from the Measles Rubella Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Sawai Man Singh Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, for the period of April 2010 to April 2023. An ARIMA model was developed using data from 2010 to 2020 to predict the monthly number of measles cases in 2021. The predicted values were then compared to the actual cases in 2021 to assess the model’s accuracy. Results: Out of the total positive cases, males were slightly more prone to acquire infection than females (1734 males, 54%; 1477 females, 46%). The monthly index for new measles cases ranged from 0.11 to 2.6. It reached its lowest point in July (0.106) and August (0.25) and peaked in March (2.594) and April (1.84). The overall trend was fluctuating; however, the incidence of measles cases clearly increased after the year 2021. The difference between observed cases and predicted cases for the period of April 2020 to December 2021 was not statistically significant (t-value=0.261 and p-value=0.797). Conclusion: The fluctuating trend of measles was observed during the last decade; however, the observed cases of measles showed an upward trajectory during and after the COVID-19 outbreak. This study also highlighted the monthly index of the measles cases, which peaked in March to April and was lowest in July to August.
Examine the Effects of Various Chemicals and Different Environmental Conditions on the Breakdown of Dormancy of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus var. White Fleshed Pitaya)
Authors: Singh Jassi , Adhikary Kunal , Singh Vartika , Pathak Sudheer , Pandey Divya
Published: July 2024

The dragon fruit, has attracted a lot of interest lately due to its eye-catching appearance and exceptional nutritional value. Despite its widespread use, little is known about the ideal circumstances for seed germination and the early stages of growth, such as the length of the seedling shoot, which are critical for the best crop production. By assessing the effects of different growing media on dragon fruit germination and early growth stages, this study seeks to close this gap. The experiment was laid out in the GPB (Genetics & Plant breeding) PG lab, Maxwell block, School of Agriculture (SOAG), ITM University, Gwalior, M.P. during 2024 in Completely Randomized Design with 9 treatments and 4 replications, i.e., T0 (Hydropriming in room temperature at 20-24˚C), T1 (Hydropriming 28˚C), T2 (Sand+ water mixture room temperature 20-24˚C), T3 (Sand+ water mixture in seed germinator 28˚C), T4 (Blotting sheet+ water in room temperature 20-24˚C), T5 (Blotting sheet+ water in seed germinator 28˚C), T6 (Citric acid treatment in room temperature 20-24, T7 (GA3 treatment 100 ppm Seed germinator at 28), T8 (TiO2 NPs 200 ppm Seed germinator at 28 Seeds were sown in petri plates on 26th February, 2024 in seed germinator and room temperature. The highest germination efficiency or percentage with 96.67%, followed by T8 (TiO2 NPs treatment in seed germinator at 28˚C) with 80% and T7 (GA3 treatment in seed germinator at 28˚C) with 78.33%, while T0 (Hydropriming in room temperature at 20-240C) has the lowest germination efficiency or percentage with 8.67%. The significantly highest seedling vigor index was recorded in T6 (Citric acid treatment room temperature at 20-24˚C) with 462.67 followed by T8 (TiO2 NPs treatment in seed germinator at 28˚C) with 353.67 and T7 (GA3 treatment in seed germinator at 28˚C) with 343.57 mg, while lowest seedling vigor index was recorded in T0 (Hydropriming in room temperature at 20-24˚C) with 32.67.
The Influence of the Virtual Laboratory Media Problem-based Learning Model on the Creative Thinking Ability of Middle School Students
Authors: Putri Maryani , Purwaningsih Sri , Yusnaidar
Published: July 2024

This research aims to determine the effect of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model using virtual laboratory media on students' creative thinking abilities on harmonious vibration material at SMPN 17 Jambi City. The method used in this research is experimental research using a Quasi-Experimental form with a Non-Equivalent Control Group Design research design. In this study, there were two sample classes: class VIII C as the experimental class and class VIII B as the control class. The instruments in this research used essay tests, observation sheets on teacher and student activities in implementing the model, and observation sheets on creative thinking abilities with data analysis techniques, including normality tests and nonparametric tests, namely the Wilcoxon Signed Test and Mann Whitney. The research results show that the Sig. in the nonparametric test is 0.000. Sig. 0.001< 0.05. Based on the research results, the Problem-based Learning (PBL) model, which uses virtual laboratories, significantly affects students' creative thinking abilities. So the use of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model using the Virtual Laboratory significantly influences students' creative thinking abilities in harmonious vibration material in class VIII SMPN 17 Jambi City.
Effect of Moisture Conservation Practices on Productivity, Profitability and Water Use Efficiency in Rainfed Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) under Mid Hill Conditions of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: P Chopra , S. Paul , K. Baghla , Shivalika
Published: July 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSK HPKV), Palampur to find out the best moisture-conservation practices in linseed grown under rainfed conditions. The experiment consisting of seven treatments related to moisture conservation was conducted in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Results of the study revealed that applying farmyard manure (FYM) at 10 t/ha, either by spreading or incorporating, and using straw mulching at the same rate significantly enhanced plant height, yield attributes, seed yield, economic returns (in term of higher gross, net returns, B C ratio), production and economic efficiency in linseed. These treatments increased seed yield by 47.4 to 55.4% compared to no mulching. The higher production and economic efficiencies achieved by said respective treatments ranged from 6.03 to 6.32 kg/ha/day and 76.12 to 74.61 Rs./ha/day, respectively. Additionally, these treatments increased oil yield by 56.8, 53.4 and 49.1%, respectively, over no mulching, however, the increase in the oil content was not significant. Incorporation of FYM 10 t/ha was proved to be best for recording higher consumptive use and WUE over rest of the treatments.
Variability of Stemphylium vesicarium on Onion (Allium cepa L.)
Authors: Shahnaz Efath , Razdan V. K. , Dar Z. A. , Lone A. A. , Habib M. , Nisa Seerat un , Rashid Zahida , Banday Saba , Yousuf Vaseem , Iqbal Shahida
Published: July 2024

The onion (Allium cepa L.) crop is affected by a number of diseases in the field as well as in storage which cause a significant reduction in yield leading to heavy losses each year depending on weather conditions. Leaf blight and leaf spot caused by Stemphylium vesicarium is one such disease that affects onion plants in field causing purple coloured spots and blighting of leaves, particularly in seed production plots. During investigations of the pathogen, it was found that there was a considerable variation in the conidial characteristics of Stemphylium species compared to the available literature. Stemphylium vesicarium was invariably found associated with typically blighted onion leaves throughout the growing period (82.75 per cent in January to 77.40 per cent in February), though its relative occurrence declined slightly in March (49.15 per cent) and April (37.75 per cent). The average conidial dimensions of Stemphylium vesicarium recorded were 43.54 ± 0.44 µm X 25.57 ± 0.36 µm with l/w ratio ranging from 1.40-2.13. It can be concluded that there are significant variations in the conidial dimensions of S. vesicarium obtained from host and grown under in vitro conditions. Differences also exist in the conidial dimensions of isolates from different geographical regions which indicates that further studies are required at molecular level to decipher the reasons and implications.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Nutrient Content and Their Uptake by Soybean Crop (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Gupta Ritika , Patel Jay Nath , Alam Mohd Shah
Published: July 2024

Aim: To study the effect of integrated nutrient management practices on nutrient content and uptake by soybean crop (Glycine max L.).
Study Design: Randomized block design.
Place and Duration of Study: One-year field experiment at Research Farm, School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University, Chail Chowk, Mandi, (H.P.), during kharif of 2023.
Methodology: The experiment was conducted with three replications and nine treatments viz. T1= Absolute control, T2= 100% RDF, T3= 100% RDF + Rhizobium, T4 = 75% RDF + 25% N by FYM, T5= 75% RDF + 25% N by Vermicompost, T6= 50% RDF + 50% N by FYM, T7= 50% RDF + 50% N by Vermicompost, T8= 50% RDF + Rhizobium + 25% N by FYM + 25% N by Vermicompost and T9= 100% RDF + Rhizobium + 25% N by FYM + 25% N by Vermicompost.
Results: The study of the data revealed that there is a non-significant effect of integrated nutrient management practices on the content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in grains and straw of soybean crop, whereas, the application of treatment T9 noted the highest content of these nutrients in grains and straw of the soybean crop. Treatment T9 also recorded the significantly maximum uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by grains, straw and total uptake by soybean crop, which was statistically at par with treatments T3 and T2. However, the minimum content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in grains and straw along with their uptake by grains, straw and total uptake by soybean crop were found under the treatment T1 during the field experiment.
Conclusion: This study showed that the different integrated nutrient management practices do not affect the content of nutrients in soybean crop significantly, however, it has significantly affected the uptake of nutrients by soybean crop.
Optimizing Copper Adsorption from Aqueous Solutions with Modified Rice Straw Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Shah Aanisa Manzoor , Khan Inayat Mustafa , Rasool Rehana , Mir Yasir Hanif , Kant Raihana Habib , Mir Shakeel A. , Sheikh Tahir A , Wani Fehim Jeelani , Nazir Shaista , Bhat M Ayoub , Bhat Javid A , Chesti M.H. , Ganie Mumtaz A , Shakeel Rehana
Published: July 2024

Heavy metal contamination poses an impulsive threat to human and aquatic life and ecosystem health. To ensure safe and sustainable water accessibility, biosorption with low-cost adsorbents is acknowledged as a promising approach for the remediation of noxious pollutants. The current study was oriented to appraise the performance of modified rice straw for copper adsorption in hand with the optimization of its operational parameters. RSM-based Box-Behnken design was employed to optimize the operational variables encircling temperature, pH, and adsorbent dose. The results elucidated that the generated model exhibited an R-squared of 0.98, reflecting its validity in describing the experimental data well. The optimized conditions for attaining maximum copper adsorption were marked to be a temperature of 37.71 oC, a solution pH of 5.7, and an adsorbent dose of 11.26 g L-1. Under these optimized conditions, the adsorption efficiency was marked to be 86.65 %. The experimental adsorption efficiency under these conditions was noted to be approximately 86.43 %, reflecting the suitability of the RSM-based Box-Behnken design. Conclusively, it can be inferred that acid modified rice straw offers a promising low cost adsorbent for remediation of heavy metals in accordance with the principles of green chemistry.
Benzobisthiazole as Weak Donor for Improved Photovoltaic Performance: Microwave Conductivity Technique Assisted Molecular Engineering
Authors: Tsuji Masashi , Saeki Akinori , Koizumi Yoshiko , Matsuyama Naoto , Vijayakumar Chakkooth , Seki Shu
Published: July 2013

New donor–acceptor‐type copolymers comprised of benzobisthiazole (BBTz) as a weak donor rather than acceptor are proposed. This approach can simultaneously lead to deepening the HOMO and LUMO of the polymers with moderate energy offset against fullerene derivatives in bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaics. As a proof‐of‐concept, BBTz‐based random copolymers conjugated with typical electron acceptors: thienopyrroledione (TPD) and benzothiadiazole (BT) based on density functional theory calculations are synthesized. Laser‐flash and Xe‐flash time‐resolved microwave conductivity (TRMC) evaluations of polymer:[6,6]‐phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) blends are conducted to screen the feasibility of the copolymers, leading to optimization of processing conditions for photovoltaic device application. According to the TMRC results, alternating BBTz‐BT copolymers are designed, exhibiting extended photoabsorption up to ca. 750 nm, deep HOMO (–5.5 to –5.7 eV), good miscibility with PCBM, and inherent crystalline nature. Moreover, the maximized PCE of 3.8%, the top‐class among BBTz‐based polymers reported so far, is realized in an inverted cell using TiOx and MoOx as the buffer layers. This study opens up opportunities to create low‐bandgap polymers with deep HOMO, and shows how the device‐less TRMC evaluation is of help for decision‐making on judicious molecular design.
Dancing with the DSM – The Reflexive Positioning of Narrative Informed Psychiatric Practice
Authors: Simblett Glen
Published: July 2013

Davies and Harre's positioning theory and Foucauldian ideas of power and resistance are used to describe a range of positions that post‐structuralist informed practitioners might take up in relation to narrative knowledges and practices, and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) knowledges and practices. These positions are considered through the metaphor of dancing with DSM discourse. Different possible subject positions are defined by changes in dance style, dance lead and dance partner. Examples from narrative informed psychiatric practice are offered for each of these positions. An exploration of the intersectional space(s) between these professional knowledges as a means to create new dances is offered as both a means to reconcile DSM and make new discoveries on how to work with people who would traditionally become subject to DSM knowledge and practice.
DSM‐5 and the Family Therapist: First‐order Change in a New Millennium
Authors: Denton Wayne H , Bell Chance
Published: July 2013

Family therapists have struggled to find a place in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, and the fifth edition of the manual will provide no relief. Small first‐order changes in DSM‐5 continue the same paradigm in place since DSM‐III wherein mental disorders are defined as occurring only in an individual. This was not always the case, however, as DSM‐I viewed mental disorders as a reaction between the environment and biology while DSM‐III through DSM‐IV‐TR utilised a multiaxial system of evaluation (eliminated in DSM‐5). Many proposals were made for both DSM‐IV and DSM‐5 to allow for an inclusion of relational processes in diagnosis but were met with limited success. The DSM approach now, however, is being attacked from a new direction. Neuroscientists have exposed limitations in the validity of the DSM categories and have proposed an entirely new system called the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) project, which offers new hope for systemically oriented practitioners and researchers.