bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A non-invasive method to assess environmental contamination with avian pathogens: beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) detection in nest boxes
Authors: Martens Johanne M. , Stokes Helena S. , Berg Mathew L. , Walder Ken , Raidal Shane R. , Magrath Michael J.L. , Bennett Andrew T.D.
Published: June 2020

Indirect transmission of pathogens can pose major risks to wildlife, yet the presence and persistence of wildlife pathogens in the environment has been little studied. Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is of global conservation concern: it can infect all members of the Psittaciformes, one of the most threatened bird orders, with infection often being lethal. Indirect transmission of BFDV through contaminated nest hollows has been proposed as a major infection source. However, data on whether and for how long nest sites in the wild remain contaminated have been absent. We determined the BFDV status of birds (parents and nestlings) for 82 nests of Crimson Rosellas,Platycercus elegansand Eastern Rosellas,Platycercus eximius. In 11 of these nests (13.4%, 95% confidence interval 6.9–22.7), we found an infected parent or nestling. Using nest swabs, we then compared BFDV presence at three points in time (before, during and after breeding) in three groups of nest boxes. These were nest boxes occupied by infected birds, and two control groups (nest boxes occupied by uninfected birds, and unoccupied nest boxes). Detection of BFDV on nest swabs was strongly associated with the infection status of parents in each nest box and with the timing of breeding. During breeding, boxes occupied by BFDV-positive birds were significantly more likely to have BFDV-positive nest swabs than boxes occupied by BFDV-negative birds; nest swabs tested BFDV-positive in 80% (28.4–99.5) of nests with parental antigen excretion, 66.7% (9.4–99.2) of nests occupied by parents with BFDV-positive cloacal swabs and 66.7% (22.3–95.7) of nests occupied by parents with BFDV–positive blood. 0% (0–52.2) of nests with BFDV–positive nestlings had BFDV–positive nest swabs. Across all boxes occupied by BFDV-positive birds (parents or nestlings), no nest swabs were BFDV–positive before breeding, 36.4% (95% CI 10.9–69.2) were positive during breeding and 9.1% (0.2–41.3) remained positive after breeding. BFDV was present on nest swabs for up to 3.7 months. Our study provides novel insights into the potential role of nest cavities and other fomites in indirect transmission of BFDV, and possibly other pathogens, and offers a non-invasive method for surveillance of pathogens in wild bird populations.
Mechanisms for ensuring food security and sustainable environment through youths’ participation in agricultural education
Authors: Ezhim Irimiah Abeya , Asogwa Vincent , Ochu A O
Published: June 2020

Agricultural education play a central role in disseminating knowledge, skills and attitudes toward managing environmental resources which support food productivity. Its goals are basically achieved through formal education. Hitherto, youths have been involved in environmental stress mitigation efforts both at the school and community levels but are still short of adequate knowledge. Current trends of environmental stress and its associative impact on the food growing soils and space call for its integration into agricultural education programme. This paper identifies mechanisms for ensuring Food Security (FS) and Sustainable Environment (SE) through Youths’ Agricultural Education. First, the paper discussed the concepts of sustainability as it affects the environment and food security. It also discussed constraints of FS and SE. Mechanisms discussed includes: curriculum content review and update, adequate funding by government, training and retraining of manpower, and involvement of youth clubs and organizations. Furthermore, use of mass media; extension services; school farm; and organizing workshops, seminars; and integration of population studies in the curriculum were also considered. Finally, it was suggested among others that government should review school curriculum and renew her commitment through designing and implementing policies and programmes aimed at ensuring FS and SE.Keywords: Agricultural Education, Mechanisms, National Food Security, Sustainable Environment, Youths.
Evaluation of range flora and fauna composition of a community forest in north-central Nigeria
Authors: Yager Gabriel Ortyom , Abete Mnena , Chenge Iveren
Published: June 2020

Forest structure assessment is vital in ensuring environmental function such as habitat provision for biodiversity and soil conservation. This study was carried out to assess the flora and fauna composition of a community forest. The systematic line plot technique was used for the establishment of sampling plots for floristic survey of woody trees species and shrubs. Direct observation and in-depth interview was adopted to acquire information on fauna species in the forest. The abundance and diversity of flora and fauna species in the forest was analyzed. The results reviewed a total 18 species in 13 families were recorded for woody plants, 12 species in 9 families were recorded for shrubs, 7 species in 6 families were recorded for climber and 16 species in 8 families were recorded for herbaceous plants. Pseudocedrela kotschyi, Chromolaena odorata, Opilia celtidifolia and Desmodium adscendens were the most abundance species for both trees, shrubs, climbers and herbaceous species respectively. Forty one species of fauna species within the class mammalian, aves, and reptile were indicated. Bird species form the major component of the animal species in the forest. It is suggested that forest reserve be protected from resource exploitation through monitoring and conservation education.
Economic Importance and Widespread of Ectoparasites Infestation in Indigenous Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus). A Study from Selected Local Government Councils and States in Nigeria
Authors: Ahaotu Emmanuel , A. Akinfemi A. , Okorie K.C.
Published: June 2020

A cross sectional study was conducted from June 2016 to August 2017 to identify the widespread of ectoparasites in indigenous chickens and its associated economic significance in randomly selected Local Government Councils and States in Nigeria.  A total of 1025 indigenous chickens were examined out of which 90.7% were infested with one or more ectoparasites species. Four types of ectoparasites genera were encountered in this study, 17.0% of the total chickens examined were infested with only one genera while 73.9% were infested with two or more different genera. Among the ectoparasites encountered, lice infestation (85.8%) was the most prevalent followed by mite (70.4%), Flea (27.3%) and tick (6.2%) in descending order of widespread. Ten different species of ectoparasites, namely Menopon gallinae, Lipeurus caponis, Goniodes gigas, Cnemidocoptes mutans, Dermanyssus gallinae, Epidermoptes species, Laminosioptes cysticola, Megninia species, Echidnophaga gallinacean and Argas persicus were identified in the study. Menopon gallinae (50%) was most frequently encountered while Megninia species (2.7%) was least prevalent. The findings of this study showed that ectoparasites infestations were highly prevalent among indigenous chicken flocks, which may likely affect their optimum productivity. Routine prevention and control of ectoparasites should be encouraged in the study areas.Key Words: Indigenous chickens, ectoparasites, infestations, selected local government councils and states in Nigeria.
Assessment of Domestic and Wild Animals Pets owned by Residents of Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria.
Authors: Bukie James , Okpotu Veronica
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted with the objectives of assessing the Domestic and Wild Animals owned as pets by residents of Makurdi Metropolis. Questionnaire was structured into 2 sections namely, socio- demographic characteristics of residents and ownership of domestic and wild animals pets.  Simple and systematic random sampling was used to select sample locations in which a total of 250 questionnaires were administered; Descriptive statistics, Students t-test and chi-square analysis were used to analyzed data. Result showed that 144 respondents male were interviewed while 106 respondents were female. Residents of Makurdi Metropolis owned both domestic and wild animal’s pets. The commonest domestic animal pet was the Dog. While the commonest wild animal pet was the Red Patas Monkey (Erythrocebus patas). It was therefore recommended that more Enlightenment campaigns on the danger of zoonotic diseases transmission and they preventive measures should be given to residents of Makurdi metropolis to forestall future public health hazards.Keywords: Makurdi metropolis, pet Owners, domestic and wild animals.
Study of rainfall pattern in Chaksu Tehsil, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Meena Arjun Lal , Bisht Priyanka
Published: June 2020

The water storage beneath the ground surface is the function of the Rainfall in an area. The underground water is the main source of irrigation and effect the agriculture production. So directly or indirectly the rainfall influences the agriculture. The years with the good rainfall enjoy the high agriculture production as the requirement of water is facilitated. The paper presents the rainfall pattern for last 25 years in study area with the analysis of variation of rainfall year by year. For the study, different techniques and tools are employed so the variation where it is seasonal or annual can be shown.
Effects of cassava and yam peel meals on carcass traits and economics of production of finishing broilers.
Authors: Okechukwu S.O. , Jiwuba Peter-Damian Chukwunomso
Published: June 2020

A four week study was conducted using 180 four weeks-old Abor acre broilers to determine the carcass traits and economics of production of finishing broilers fed cassava and yam peel meals as partial replacement for maize. They were randomly assigned to three treatment groups of 60 birds each. Each treatment group was replicated three times with twenty birds constituting a replicate. The three treatment groups were fed the three experimental diets in a completely randomized design (CRD) for 28 days. Feed and water were provided ad libitum for the period. Proximate composition results revealed that cassava and yam peel meals are rich in energy and minerals. Birds on diets T1 and T3 had similar (p > 0.05) final live and de-feathered weights, which were higher (p<0.05) than those on diet T2. Birds on diet T2 and T3 had the lower (p < 0.05) carcass weight than the birds on diet T1. There were no significant (p > 0.05) differences in the cut parts and organ weights, but there were significant differences in the dressing percentage of the birds across the treatments.  Revenue generated per bird was influenced (p < 0.05) with T3 birds having better income. It was concluded that sun-dried yam peel meal can replace 20 percent maize in the finishing broiler diet without adverse effects on performance and at reduced cost of productionKeywords: poultry, agro waste, unconventional feedstuffs, production traits, roots and tubers
Comparative sensory evaluation of Agidi made from hungry rice (Acha) (Digitaria exilis) and corn (Zea mays).
Authors: Chisom Agomoh-Adeoye Queen , Chika David Humble , Ezenwa Happiness Chidinma
Published: June 2020

This work evaluated the Comparative sensory properties of agidi made from hungry rice (acha/ Digitaria exilis) and maize (zea mays)”. The production of hungry rice and maize were made up of the following recipe: 1200g hungry rice, 300g of chewable cow bone, 14 medium fresh tomatoe balls, 6 medium balls of onions, pepper to taste, curry powder, 4 cubes of   maggi (seasoning), 200g of crayfish, and 240ml of vegetable of oil and plantain leaves. Data was collected through sensory evaluation, as well as descriptive statistics for data analysis. Based on the research carried out on hungry rice agidi, the responses on the appearance, taste, texture, and generally acceptability of AG 1 are as follows 33.33%, 38.89%, 30.56% and 16.67% where AG 2 are; 16.67%, 16.67%, 19.44% and 13.89% respectively. Despite higher percentages to AG 1 produced from corn, AG 2 which is produced from hungry rice should be taken as main and staple food because of its nutritional benefits. From the results, the AG2 agidi was not poorly scored. Hence, more emphasis should be made on both meals as it is well known that in this part of the country and world, we have limited food options.
Socioeconomic Determinants of Farmers’ Participation in Off-Farm Income Employment in Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
Authors: Ucha Samuel , Smiles Ume , Nnaji Justin
Published: June 2020

The socio-economic determinants of farmers’ participation in off-farm income employment in Ezza south local government area of Ebonyi state, Nigeria were studied. The specific objectives of the study were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers, identify the off-farm income employments participated by the farmers, ascertain the determinants of farmers’ participation in off-farm income employments and identify the limiting factors to the farmers’ participation in off-farm income employments in the study area. A multi-stage random sampling procedure was used to select respondents for the study. One hundred and twenty farmers (120) were randomly selected for the study.  Data collected were analyzed using percentage responses and frequency distribution, logistic regression and 4-point Likert scale. The findings revealed that the farmers that participated in off-farm income activities were aged, educated, well experienced, large farm size, females, married and large household size. The result further revealed that high proportion of the respondents engaged in civil service, trading, motor cycle riders, auto mechanics and tricycle riders. The determinants factors to the farmers’ participants in off farm employments were household size, education level, farming experience, farm size and membership of cooperative societies. Factors limiting farmers’ participation in off-farm activities were high level of Illiteracy, poor access to credit facility, old age, inadequate power supply, poor extension services and ill health of farmers identified. There is need to enhance farmers’ access to extension services, educational program, encouraged farmers to join or form cooperatives.
Comparative Evaluation of Swine Production With Other Domestic Livestock in Mbaitolu Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria.
Authors: Alionye, E.B. , Ahaotu Emmanuel , Ihenacho R. O. , Chukwu, A O
Published: June 2020

The researcher has undertaken this study on comparative evaluation of swine production with other domestic livestock in Mbaitolu Local Government Council of Imo State, Nigeria to proffer some solution to the problems hindering the rearing of swine in the study areas (Mbieri, Ogwa, Orodo, Ogbaku, Eziama –Obiato, Umunoha, Ifakala, Ubomiri and Afara). The researcher used descriptive survey design to carry out the study. The population for the study was 10,450 respondents drawn from nine towns of Mbaitolu Local Government Council. 600 respondents were proportionally and randomly selected as sample size for the study. General objective was formulated from which five specific objectives were formulated. Among these – is to compare swine prolificacy over the prolificacy of other domestic livestock. Five research questions were formulated to guide this study, among these is – what importance has the prolificacy of swine over other domestic livestocks like goats, sheep, horse and cattle? Five null hypotheses were formulated for the study among these is – there is no significant relationship between the prolificacy of swine over the prolificacy of other domestic livestock in Imo State. Pilot study was conducted at Umuagwo community using 20 respondents that reared domestic livestocks. This area was not part of the study location. Questionnaires were used as a medium for data collection. One sample T-test was used to test five null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance and all the null hypotheses were rejected meaning that there were significant differences between pig productions over the production of other domestic livestock. The analysis yielded the following results: swine production was accepted to be more prolific than other domestic livestocks like goats, sheep, horse and cattle. It was also agreed that swine were more adapted to wide varieties of feeds which made them to grow more quickly than other domestic livestocks. It was concluded that swine production was more economically important than the rearing of other domestic livestock. It was recommended that National Poverty Eradication Programme (NAPEP) in Imo State should enlighten the respondents on the economic importance of swine production over the rearing of other domestic livestock. Piglets should be made available to farmers who wish to embark on swine production at affordable price by Anambra – Imo  River Basin Development Authority (AMRBDA).Keywords: Swine Production, Domestic Livestock, Mbaitolu Local Government Council.
Expropriation and Valuation of Agricultural Lands
Authors: Kurt Cengiz , Kurt Seda Hatice
Published: June 2020

Although the right to property is a constitutional right, the most common administrative process that terminates it is expropriation. The first condition that gives legal validity and legitimacy for the expropriation process to terminate the right to property is public benefit; The second condition is to determine the real value of the expropriated real estate and to pay this amount to the property owner in a reasonable time. Protection of the right to property can only be ensured if the fair value of the real property is determined. It is essential for the administrations to apply the procurement procedure first in expropriation. The determination of the purchase value is provided by the valuation commission formed by the administration. The valuation commissions should be based on the income to be obtained from the lands in accordance with the Expropriation Law No. 2942 in determining the land expropriation values. As a result of the fact that the valuation commissions do not include objective criteria in the valuation method with the income method, the real and fair value of the real estate cannot be reached and there is no agreement between the parties. It is important that members of the valuation commission are objective and knowledgeable in this regard. In this study, the principles regarding the application of the income method in determining the land expropriation values by the valuation commissions of the administration were examined and some suggestions were brought.
Characterization and Comparison of Alkali Extracted Starches from Selected Cereals and Tubers
Authors: Wijesinghe H. D. K. C. , Gunathilake K. D. P. P.
Published: June 2020

Aims: Starch is used in the food industry to impart functional properties and to modify food texture and consistency. In this study starches isolated from six sources using an alkali extraction method were evaluated for physicochemical properties.

Study Design: Complete randomized design.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Livestock, Fisheries, & Nutrition, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Makandura, Gonawila (NWP), Sri Lanka between April 2017 and August 2017.

Methodology: Starches were isolated from white rice, foxtail millet, proso millet, cassava, sweet potato and all-purpose wheat flour. Proximate composition, mineral content, physical properties and microscopic characteristics were determined and they were compared.

Results: The level of starch extracted was within the range of 27.5-64.1% on a dry basis. Extracted starched contains about 99% carbohydrate in DW and less than 1% non-carbohydrate fraction (protein, fat, fiber and ash and minerals). The amylose content followed the order: proso millet > wheat > foxtail millet > rice > sweet potato > cassava. There was considerable variation in swelling factor, solubility, gelatinization temperature among all starches. Both swelling power and solubility had a positive relationship with temperature and the swelling power (at 90°C) followed the order: corn > cassava > foxtail millet > wheat > proso millet > rice > sweet potato. The gelatinization temperature of starches ranged from 62°C to 76°C.

Conclusion: The study would be helpful to better understand the chemical, physical and microscopic characteristics of these starches and the application of novel starches obtain from non-conventional sources which are foxtail millet, proso millet and sweet potato as a thickening agent and a substitute to other common starches in food.
Mango Wine Production, by an Easy Fermentation and Distillation Procedure, Using the Surplus or Rejected Fruit, Produced in Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: Reyes Guillermo Galindo
Published: June 2020

The aim of this work, was elaborate mango wines using rejected or surpluses fruit. Every year in Sinaloa, Mexico, there is 15-20% unutilized mango due to these causes, generating economic losses to producers. Mango juice was prepared crushing fruit slices, cane sugar and drinking water for obtain a juice with 17-19 oBrix of soluble sugars; after, juice was pasteurized. Yeasts were added to pasteurized juice, pH adjusted to 3.5-4.0 and fermented in a 3.78 litre (L) glass fermenter until alcohol production ended. Fermented liquid was distilled into glass distiller. To optimize this process several assays were performed and then, process was scaled to 50 L, using a stainless steel fermenter and a distiller attached to fermenter. To eliminate methanol, formaldehyde, and some superior alcohols, column temperature was controlled; into 75 to 82oC. After, these compounds were analysed by GC. Bottles of 250 and 500 ml were partially filled with distilled, then full with mango extract and drinking water at diverse proportions; so, wines of 13 and 18% (alcohol vol.), were obtained. A sensory panel was performed to evaluate wines attributes: colour, clarity, aroma, flavour, etc. Results ranged from good to very good. Also, alcohol amount/mango kg was 67 to 72 ml; higher than obtained from papaya, banana and watermelon. A gross economic analysis, gave a gains around $ 4 US; since from 1 distillate L, 3 or 5 bottles of wines 18 or 13% (alcohol vol.) were obtained, using surplus or rejected fruit, and so decreased losses for producer.
Links between Farmers’ Socio-demographics and Adoption of Soil Conservation Technologies in Hilly Terrains of Nandi County, Kenya
Authors: Cheruiyot Joseph Kipkorir
Published: June 2020

Smallholder farms in Kenya continue to suffer from crop-productivity declines due to loss of soil quality as a result of soil erosion among other factors. Low adoption of soil conservation technologies persists in spite of previous interventions. This study was conducted to investigate links between farmers’ socio-demographic factors and the adoption of soil conservation technologies. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. Purposive and multi-stage random sampling techniques were used to select a sample of 150 farmers from six catchment areas of the hilly terrain of Tinderet in Nandi County, Kenya. A total of 138 participants were accessed. Questionnaires administered by enumerators were used to collect data. Data was analysed to generate descriptive statistics. Kendall-Stuart Tau-c and Goodman-Kruskal’s gamma were used to estimate correlations between socio-demographic factors and adoption. Age, Gender, duration of residence and farm size were not significantly associated with adoption (P > 0.05).Education levels, household size, level of awareness and income were positively associated with adoption (Gamma =.359, P = .034), (Gamma = .229, P = .088), (Gamma = .485, P = .000) and (Gamma = .282, P = .042) respectively. It is recommended that stakeholders address soil erosion problems through farmers’ capacity-building, particularly for low-income farmers.
Evolution of COVID-19 Infection in Mexico until March 23, 2020: A Descriptive Ecological Study
Authors: Padilla-Raygoza Nicolas , Sandoval-Salazar Cuauhtemoc , Díaz-Martinez Daniel Alberto , Navarro-Olivos Efrain , Gallardo-Luna Maria de Jesus , Magos-Vazquez Francisco J , Leon-Verdin Ma Guadalupe
Published: June 2020

Aims: COVID-19 has been a big public health challenge around the world in the past several months. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemic and report the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mexico until March 23, 2020.

Study Design: Ecological descriptive study.

Place and Duration of Study: Registries of confirmed cases for COVID-19 in Mexican population during February and until 23 March 2020, from National System of Epidemiological Surveillance/ General Direction of Epidemiology/ Secretary of Health, Mexico.

Methodology: Based on the database of confirmed cases of COVID-19 by Secretary of Health in Mexico, we collected data on age, gender, and source of infection (travel to USA, European or Asian countries. As of March 23, 2020, 405 cases have been identified in Mexico. It was included 405 registries.

Results: The first confirmed case in Mexico has been identified on February 20, 2020 and the incidence has been rising from the end of February and throughout March. The early confirmed cases were imported cases resulting from travel to USA, Italy, Germany, Spain, France and Singapore. No one travelled to China. No cases of community transmission have been reported.

Conclusion: The frequency of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mexico are concerning and the health authorities in Mexico are waiting for the peak of the epidemiological curve to occur in April.
Cell Membrane Stability as a Measure of Heat Tolerance in Hexaploid and Tetraploid Wheat
Authors: Hussain Syed Bilal , Bakhsh Ali , Zubair Muhammad
Published: June 2020

A comparison was made of the physiological and morphological differences between Inqlab-91 (hexaploid) and Langdon (tetralpoid) wheat genotypes in response to high temperature stress applied at third leaf stage of growth. Electrolytes leakage technique was used to detect differences in the heat sensitivities of leaves of Inqlab-91 and Langdon. This method showed that at both 35 or 40°C Inqlab-91 was more heat tolerant than Langdon.
Magnetite‐Decorated Reduced Graphene Oxide: A Study of Multifunctional Antibacterial and Removal of Lead Ion Properties for Water Disinfection Applications
Authors: Minitha Cherukutty Ramakrishnan , Rajavel Krishnamoorthy , Rajendra Kumar Ramasamy Thangavelu
Published: June 2020

The development of graphene‐based material for multifunctional properties is vital in environmental applications. Herein, the dual functional properties of magnetite decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO/Fe3O4) nanocomposite are explored, and its mechanism is systematically investigated. The rGO/Fe3O4 prepared by the solvothermal method is subjected to transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction which confirms the successful formation of the nanocomposite. The superior performance of the antibacterial activity towards Escherichia coli and removal of Pb (II) toxic substances by rGO/Fe3O4 aqueous suspension are explained. The incubation of bacterial cells with rGO/Fe3O4 nanocomposite shows maximum cell lysis with minimum dosage and incubation time. The investigation of independent in vitro biological assay results reveals that bactericidal action of rGO/Fe3O4 composite is mainly caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) dependent oxidative stress. Furthermore, the adsorption capacity of organic metal ion Pb (II) is evaluated, and the adsorption isotherms are fitted with the Freundlich model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 76.3 mg g−1. The results obtained in this study demonstrates that the multifunctional properties such as superior killing of gram‐negative pathogenic species followed by effective removal of Pb (II) make the nanocomposite an ideal biological and chemical disinfectant agent for future wastewater management.
Insight into the Microstructure and Tensile Behavior of the W–Cu Composite Reinforced with Tungsten Fibers and Particulates
Authors: Zhuo Longchao , Wang Hailiang , Luo Bin , Zhang Yiheng , Xu Jintao , Liang Shuhua , Zhang Qiqi , Liu Nan , Sun Jiacheng
Published: June 2020

Herein, the microstructure and tensile property of the tungsten fiber (Wf)‐reinforced W–Cu composite are investigated by both experimental and simulation methods. An electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) analysis reveals the elongated <110> textured grains in the Wf compared with the matrix part, ensuring the small quantities of the grain boundaries along the direction perpendicular to the tensile direction. Tensile tests further confirm its improved strength by ≈8.0% (526.8 ± 5.3 MPa) compared with the composite without inserted Wf, with a satisfactory tensile strain of 5.9 ± 0.3%. Based on the fractography observation and finite‐element analysis, typically stable energy dissipation behavior of the composite is considered to be ascribed to the interactive competition between complex fracture modes, including frictional fiber pullout, elastic bridging, interface debonding, and crack deflection.
Scaffold‐Mediated Static Transduction of T Cells for CAR‐T Cell Therapy
Authors: Agarwalla Pritha , Ogunnaike Edikan A. , Ahn Sarah , Ligler Frances S. , Dotti Gianpietro , Brudno Yevgeny
Published: June 2020

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cell therapy has produced impressive clinical responses in patients with B‐cell malignancies. Critical to the success of CAR‐T cell therapies is the achievement of robust gene transfer into T cells mediated by viral vectors such as gamma‐retroviral vectors. However, current methodologies of retroviral gene transfer rely on spinoculation and the use of retronectin, which may limit the implementation of cost‐effective CAR‐T cell therapies. Herein, a low‐cost, tunable, macroporous, alginate scaffold that transduces T cells with retroviral vectors under static condition is described. CAR‐T cells produced by macroporous scaffold‐mediated viral transduction exhibit >60% CAR expression, retain effector phenotype, expand to clinically relevant cell numbers, and eradicate CD19+ lymphoma in vivo. Efficient transduction is dependent on scaffold macroporosity. Taken together, the data show that macroporous alginate scaffolds serve as an attractive alternative to current transduction protocols and have high potential for clinical translation to genetically modify T cells for adoptive cellular therapy.
Field‐specific yield response to variable seeding depth of corn in the Midwest
Authors: Coronel Eric Gabriel , Alesso Carlos Agustín , Bollero German Alberto , Armstrong Kevin Lee , Martin Nicolás Federico
Published: June 2020

Sufficient soil moisture is crucial for corn (Zea mays L.) germination and emergence. As within‐field soil moisture varies, it is often expected that corn seeding depth should vary accordingly. As seedbeds get drier, deeper planting increases the chances of higher soil moisture and faster emergence. The goal was to evaluate the corn yield response to shallow and deep seeding depths compared with the standard seeding depth while making use of management zones delineated using relative elevation data as surrogate of spatial patterns of soil moisture. We hypothesize that crop yield responds positively to shallow seeding depth in zones with low relative elevation values, wet zones, whereas the opposite would be expected in drier zones in a range of locations across the U.S. Midwest. Landscape position (LSP) values (i.e., relative elevation values) were computed from LIDAR data and used to approximate the spatial soil moisture distribution by splitting variability into dry, transitional, and wet LSP zones. Field‐long strips were planted in 17 commercial fields in 2014 and 2015 at shallow, standard, and deep seeding depths. The LSP zones were a significant predictor of the yield response to shallow or deep seeding depth only in 5 and 2 out of 17 field‐years, respectively. Significant overall responses of yield to shallow or deep seeding depth were found in 6 and 8 out of 17 field‐years, respectively. The yield response to variable seeding depth of corn showed high field‐specificity and was likely attenuated by favorable conditions for corn planting and during the growing seasons.
When is sitting height a better measure of adult body size than total height, and why? The contrasting examples of body mass, waist circumference, and lung volume
Authors: Burton Richard Francis , Burton Francis Lindley
Published: June 2020

Objectives

We aimed to establish which of sitting height (SH) and total height (Ht) is most appropriately used in the scaling of adult body mass (BM), waist circumference (WC), and forced vital capacity (FVC), considering likely explanations and proposing a suitable index for each.

Methods

Data were from the US Third National Health and Nutrition Survey for white and black American women and men aged 20 to 50 years. Statistical analysis involved mainly correlation coefficients, the multiple regression of BM, WC, or FVC on SH and leg length (LL), and fitting of allometric regression equations relating each of BM, WC, and FVC to SH or Ht.

Results

BM and WC correlated more strongly with SH than with Ht, and FVC correlated more strongly with Ht. Associations with LL were negative for WC, negative or nonsignificant for BM, and positive for FVC. Using round‐number exponents for Ht and SH, the allometric relationships indicated that appropriate indices are BM/SH3, WC/SH, and FVC/Ht2.

Conclusions

Contrary to usual practice, BM and WC are better scaled in relation to SH than to Ht. FVC is slightly better scaled in relation to Ht, as is conventional. Interpretations involve the small influence of LL on BM and the influence both of gluteo‐femoral fatness on measured SH and of childhood health and nutrition on adult LL, WC, and FVC. It is evident that SH should be measured more often for research purposes.
Improvement in ventriculomegaly following cervicomedullary decompressive surgery in children with achondroplasia and foramen magnum stenosis
Authors: Kashanian Alon , Chan Julie , Mukherjee Debraj , Pressman Barry D. , Krakow Deborah , Danielpour Moise
Published: June 2020

The role of cervicomedullary decompression (CMD) in the care of hydrocephalic achondroplastic children who present with simultaneous foramen magnum stenosis is not well understood. We sought to determine the percentage of symptomatic achondroplastic children with foramen magnum stenosis who had stabilization or improvement in ventriculomegaly following CMD. The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of pediatric patients at Cedars‐Sinai Medical Center with achondroplasia and signs of progressive ventriculomegaly who underwent CMD for symptomatic foramen magnum stenosis between the years 2000 and 2018. Clinical outcomes included changes in fontanelle characteristics, head circumference (HC) percentile, and incidence of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting. Radiographic outcomes measured included changes in Evans ratio. We excluded individuals who were shunted before CMD from our study. Sixteen children presented with symptomatic foramen magnum stenosis and full anterior fontanelle or jump in the HC percentiles. Two children underwent placement of a VP shunt before decompressive surgery and were excluded from further analysis. Of the remaining 14 children who underwent CMD, 13 (93%) showed softening or flattening of their fontanelles post‐operatively. Ten of these 14 children had both pre‐ and post‐operative HC percentile records available, with 8 showing increasing HC percentiles before surgery. Seven of those eight children (88%) showed a deceleration or stabilization of HC growth velocity following decompression of the foramen magnum. Among 10 children with available pre‐ and post‐operative brain imaging, ventricular size improved in 5 (50%), stabilized in 2 (20%), and slightly increased in 3 (30%) children after decompression. Two children (14%) required a shunt despite decompression of the foramen magnum. A significant proportion of children with concomitant signs of raised intracranial pressure or findings of progressive ventriculomegaly and foramen magnum stenosis may have improvement or stabilization of these findings following CMD. CMD may decrease the need for VP shunting and its associated complications in the select group of hydrocephalic children with achondroplasia presenting with symptomatic foramen magnum stenosis.
Successful treatment of left subclavian artery penetration due to ingestion of a safety pin by an elderly person
Authors: Shibata Tomotaka , Tsukamoto Nao , Fukuda Haruka , Nabeta Yusuke , Kurosawa Keiko , Matsunari Osamu , Takenaka Ryuichi , Kanezaki Shozo , Ishii Keisuke , Sakamoto Teruo
Published: June 2020

Background

Ingestion cases are increasing in elderly persons. Herein, we report a rare case of ingestion of a safety pin by an elderly person.

Case presentation

The patient was an 87‐year‐old bedridden woman who had fever with left pleural effusion. Chest X‐ray revealed a foreign body, confirmed to be a safety pin, in the cervical esophagus. A contrast multidetector row computed tomography scan revealed that the opened safety pin penetrated the left subclavian artery, leading to the diagnosis of an esophageal foreign body penetrating the left subclavian artery. The safety pin was removed, and the subclavian artery aneurysm caused by the penetration was embolized by interventional radiology. After treatment, she was returned to the nursing home on postoperative day 8.

Conclusion

Penetration by ingestion of a safety pin is rare; in this case, safe treatment was possible due to a team of certified specialist physicians and surgeons.
Polyolefin‐Based Janus Separator for Rechargeable Sodium Batteries
Authors: Zhou Dong , Tang Xiao , Guo Xin , Li Peng , Shanmukaraj Devaraj , Liu Hao , Gao Xiaochun , Wang Yizhou , Rojo Teofilo , Armand Michel , Wang Guoxiu
Published: June 2020

Rechargeable sodium batteries are a promising technology for low‐cost energy storage. However, the undesirable drawbacks originating from the use of glass fiber membrane separators have long been overlooked. A versatile grafting–filtering strategy was developed to controllably tune commercial polyolefin separators for sodium batteries. The as‐developed Janus separators contain a single–ion‐conducting polymer‐grafted side and a functional low‐dimensional material coated side. When employed in room‐temperature sodium–sulfur batteries, the poly(1‐[3‐(methacryloyloxy)propylsulfonyl]‐1‐(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide sodium)‐grafted side effectively enhances the electrolyte wettability, and inhibits polysulfide diffusion and sodium dendrite growth. Moreover, a titanium‐deficient nitrogen‐containing MXene‐coated side electrocatalytically improved the polysulfide conversion kinetics. The as‐developed batteries demonstrate high capacity and extended cycling life with lean electrolyte loading.
Exploring overlooked components of remote South‐east Pacific oceanic islands: Larval and macrobenthic assemblages in reef habitats with distinct underwater soundscapes
Authors: Carrasco Sergio A. , Bravo Macarena , Avilés Elba , Ruíz Paula , Yori Alfio , Hinojosa Iván A.
Published: June 2020

Identifying the diverse assemblage of species inhabiting rocky and coral reef habitats in isolated oceanic environments, and the important sound cues emitted from the reef, are crucial components to understand how species locate suitable habitats for the completion of their life‐cycle and, thus, the functioning of these vulnerable ecosystems.

Recent field information suggests that the majority of reef biodiversity comprises small cryptic invertebrates; however, knowledge on these small components is extremely scarce.

The present study used light attraction methods to explore the diversity of larval, post‐larval and macrobenthic cryptic fauna, and hydrophones to characterize the natural soundscape of rocky and coral reef habitats at the Robinson Crusoe island (Juan Fernandez Archipelago; 33°38′S, 78°50′W), and Rapa Nui (Easter Island; 27°7′S, 109°21′W), respectively.

Pelagic collections found important site‐specific patterns and identified two main species assemblages: early‐life stages (e.g. eggs, larval and juvenile stages of crustaceans, molluscs, and fishes) and emerging macrobenthos (e.g. demersal zooplankton such as peracarid crustaceans, ostracods, copepods, and polychaetes), with the latter contributing between 73 and 98% to the total catches.

The soundscape records showed marked differences among sites and seasons at Robinson Crusoe island, with variable differences found between day and night. However, at Rapa Nui, there were no differences between sites, but the ambient sound was higher at night possibly due to higher snapping shrimp activity.

This information highlights the importance of considering small‐scale (site‐to‐site) patterns when evaluating overlooked components of diversity (i.e. biological or acoustic) in oceanic habitats, and provides the basis for understanding the importance of natural noise in the settlement of most reef‐associated species, crucial features for the conservation of these remote and vulnerable ecosystems.
Meta-analysis of the impact of postoperative infective complications on oncological outcomes in colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Lawler J , Choynowski M , Bailey K , Bucholc M , Johnston A , Sugrue M
Published: June 2020

Background

Cancer outcomes are complex, involving prevention, early detection and optimal multidisciplinary care. Postoperative infection and surgical site-infection (SSI) are not only uncomfortable for patients and costly, but may also be associated with poor oncological outcomes. A meta-analysis was undertaken to assess the oncological effects of SSI in patients with colorectal cancer.

Methods

An ethically approved PROSPERO-registered meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for studies published between 2007 and 2017 reporting the effects of postoperative infective complications on oncological survival in colorectal cancer. Results were separated into those for SSI and those concerning anastomotic leakage. Articles with a Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies score of at least 18 were included. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95 per cent confidence intervals were computed for risk factors using an observed to expected and variance fixed-effect model.

Results

Of 5027 articles were reviewed, 43 met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 154 981 patients. Infective complications had significant negative effects on overall survival (HR 1·37, 95 per cent c.i. 1·28 to 1·46) and cancer-specific survival (HR 2·58, 2·15 to 3·10). Anastomotic leakage occurred in 7·4 per cent and had a significant negative impact on disease-free survival (HR 1·14, 1·09 to 1·20), overall survival (HR 1·34, 1·28 to 1·39), cancer-specific survival (HR 1·43, 1·31 to 1·55), local recurrence (HR 1·18, 1·06 to 1·32) and overall recurrence (HR 1·46, 1·27 to 1·68).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis identified a significant negative impact of postoperative infective complications on overall and cancer-specific survival in patients undergoing colorectal surgery.
Comparative profiles of DNA methylation and differential gene expression in osteocytic areas from aged and young mice
Authors: Wei Yu , Fu Jiayao , Wu Wenjing , Wu Junhua
Published: June 2020

Altered DNA methylation upon ageing may result in many age‐related diseases such as osteoporosis. However, the changes in DNA methylation that occur in cortical bones, the major osteocytic areas, remain unknown. In our study, we extracted total DNA and RNA from the cortical bones of 6‐month‐old and 24‐month‐old mice and systematically analysed the differentially methylated regions (DMRs), differentially methylated promoters (DMPs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the mouse groups. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the DMR‐related genes revealed that they were mainly associated with metabolic signalling pathways, including glycolysis, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. Other genes with DMRs were related to signalling pathways that regulate the growth and development of cells, including the PI3K‐AKT, Ras and Rap1 signalling pathways. The gene expression profiles indicated that the DEGs were mainly involved in metabolic pathways and the PI3K‐AKT signalling pathway, and the profiles were verified through real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR). Due to the pivotal roles of the affected genes in maintaining bone homeostasis, we suspect that these changes may be key factors in age‐related bone loss, either together or individually. Our study may provide a novel perspective for understanding the osteocyte and its relationship with osteoporosis during ageing.

Significance of the study

Our study identified age‐related changes in gene expressions in osteocytic areas through whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA‐seq, providing new theoretical foundations for the targeted treatment of senile osteoporosis.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Onaka Takashi , Iwai Fumie , Kato‐Ogura Aiko , Yonezawa Akihito
Published: June 2020

This is the first report of a case of COVID‐19 after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Our case suggests that COVID‐19 may exist without characteristic CT images, especially in immunocompromised hosts, such as patients after transplantation.
Challenges and Strategies for Fast Charge of Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Sheng S.
Published: June 2020

Long charging time for Li‐ion batteries is a critical obstacle for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, especially when compared with the rapid refueling of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Fast charging results in accelerated performance degradation and low energy efficiency for Li‐ion batteries. The batteries adopted in the present electric vehicle market are mainly based on chemistry consisting of a graphite anode and a layered lithium transition‐metal oxide cathode. The fast‐charging capability of such batteries is limited by Li plating on the graphite anode and structural instability of the layered lithium transition‐metal oxide cathode. In this Minireview, the challenges and possible solutions to these fast charge problems are reviewed at both the materials and cell levels.
Covalent Post‐Assembly Modification: A Synthetic Multipurpose Tool in Supramolecular Chemistry
Authors: Zeng Haoxiang , Stewart‐Yates Luke , Casey Louis M. , Bampos Nick , Roberts Derrick A.
Published: June 2020

The use of covalent post‐assembly modification (PAM) in supramolecular chemistry has grown significantly in recent years, to the point where PAM is now a versatile synthesis tool for tuning, modulating, and expanding the functionality of self‐assembled complexes and materials. PAM underpins supramolecular template‐synthesis strategies, enables modular derivatization of supramolecular assemblies, permits the covalent ‘locking’ of unstable structures, and can trigger controlled structural transformations between different assembled morphologies. This Review discusses key examples of PAM spanning a range of material classes, including discrete supramolecular complexes, self‐assembled soft nanostructures and hierarchically ordered polymeric and framework materials. As such, we hope to highlight how PAM has continued to evolve as a creative and functional addition to the synthetic chemist's toolbox for constructing bespoke self‐assembled complexes and materials.