bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational analysis of affinity dynamics between the variants of SARS- CoV-2 spike protein (RBD) and human ACE-2 receptor
Authors: Sultana Nishad , Nagesha S.N. , Reddy C.N. Lakshminarayan , Ramesh B.N. , Shyamalamma S. , Shashidhara K. S. , Satish K.M. , Pradeep C. , G.D. Vidyadhar
Published: March 2024

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 resulted in a significant worldwide health emergency known as the COVID-19 pandemic. This crisis has been marked by the widespread of various variants, with certain ones causing notable apprehension. In this study, we harnessed computational techniques to scrutinize these Variants of Concern (VOCs), including various Omicron subvariants. Our approach involved the utilizing protein structure prediction algorithms and molecular docking techniques, we aim to investigate the effects of mutations within the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 and how these mutations influence its interactions with the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE-2) receptor. Our focus extends to predicting the structural alterations in the RBD of naturally occurring SARS-CoV-2 variants using the tr-Rosetta algorithm. Subsequent docking and binding analysis employing HADDOCK and PRODIGY illuminated crucial interactions occurring at the Receptor-Binding Motif (RBM). Our findings revealed a hierarchy of increased binding affinity between the human ACE2 receptor and the various RBDs, in the order of wild type (Wuhan-strain) < Beta < Alpha < Gamma < Omicron-B.1.1.529 < Delta < Omicron-BA.2.12.1 < Omicron-BA.5.2.1 < Omicron-BA.1.1. Notably, Omicron-BA.1.1 demonstrated the highest binding affinity of -17.4 kcal mol− 1 to the hACE2 receptor when compared to all the mutant complexes. Additionally, our examination indicated that mutations occurring in active residues of the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) consistently improved the binding affinity and intermolecular interactions in all mutant complexes. Analyzing the differences among variants has laid a foundation for the structure-based drug design targeting the RBD region of SARS-CoV-2.
Self-assemble three-dimensional PMMA@Au core-shell film: an ultrasensitive and reproducible SERS substrate
Authors: Tahrin Rabiatul Addawiyah Azwa , Ariffin Marinah , Hamid Nur Aida Mohamed Shaul , Chan Kiki , Kadir Maisara Abdul , Padmanabhan Sibu C. , Kassim Syara
Published: March 2024

Metallodielectric photonic crystals (MDPCs) have gained interest across various fields due to their unique optical properties, with applications including optoelectronics, biotechnology, solar cells and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). In this study, homogeneous polymer spheres of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) were synthesized and incorporated with gold nanoparticles to form as PMMA@Au core-shell structure. Exploiting a "bottom-up" technique, thin films of PMMA@Au core-shell substrates was fabricated to investigate its performance in SERS applications by using 4-aminothiophenol (4-ATP) as probe molecule. The findings were validated through UV-Visible spectroscopy which reveal distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peaks at 520 nm for the synthesized gold nanoparticles and 522 nm for the PMMA@Au core-shell. The morphology of the fabricated thin films was meticulously examined at each stage of the study, providing valuable insights into the core-shell structure's formation and characteristics. This research underscores the significant potential of PMMA@Au MDPCs SERS substrate in enhancing Raman signals, particularly the influence of substrate layers on the sensitivity and reproducibility of Raman signals. The findings not only contribute to the understanding of MDPCs but also hold promise for advancing SERS-based molecular detection in various applications.
Analysis of genetic diversity and validation of salt stress responsive candidate genes at early seedling stage of rice varieties for salt tolerance
Authors: Kumari Rima , Kumar Pankaj , Banu V. Shajeeda , Singh D. R. , Sharma V. K. , Kumar Harsh
Published: March 2024

In the present investigation of genetic diversity related to salinity tolerance in rice at the early seedling stage, ten salt stress responsive candidate genes were employed to screen a collection of eighteen rice varieties with two tolerant (Pokkali, CSR-36) and two sensitive (IR-29, IR-64) as checks. The microsatellite repeat motifs found in the six salt stress responsive candidate genes (OsHKT1;5, SNAC1, CDMK, CCC, SHMT1, SHMT2) revealed a comparatively higher alleles number per locus, ranged from 3 (OsHKT1;5) to 12 (SHMT1). The remaining four salt stress responsive candidate genes (OsHKT1;1, OsHKT1;3, OsHKT2;3, OsHKT2;4) produced a significantly smaller number of alleles because they lacked microsatellite. The polymorphism percentage was found to be lowest in the cases of OsHKT1;5 and CDMK (00.00%) and highest in the case of SHMT1 (75.00%). Amplification profiles dependent similarity indices, together with hierarchical classification and spatial distribution patterns, clearly distinguished 18 varieties according to their tolerance to salt stress. The results of the hierarchical classification of the varieties were fully supported by principal coordinate analysis. Microsatellite including six salt stress responsive candidate gene (OsHKT1;5, SNAC1, CDMK, CCC, SHMT1, SHMT2) as well as microsatellite lacking four salt stress responsive candidate gene (OsHKT1;1, OsHKT1;3, OsHKT2;3, OsHKT2;4) specific markers based genetic profiling facilitated clear discrimination between salt stress sensitive and tolerant varieties, validating their utility for differentiation. The identified salt tolerant varieties, along with validated markers, can be influential in developing salt tolerant rice varieties through targeted breeding programs.
Research on the Prediction Method of MOV Deterioration State Based on Principal Component Analysis and Grid Search- Optimized Support Vector Machine Regression Algorithm
Authors: Zhu Zhiheng , Xu Zhengwang , Xiao Runyang , Huang Zhou
Published: March 2024

Background: Accurate diagnosis of faults in metal oxide varistors (MOV) is crucial for the safe operation of power systems, and the deterioration of MOV under continuous pulse impacts can be more severe. To effectively improve the fault diagnosis rate, this paper proposes a fault diagnosis algorithm based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Grid Search-optimized Support Vector Regression (GS-SVR).Objective, The objective of this study is to propose an effective fault diagnosis algorithm that accurately predicts the fault state of MOV under single and continuous pulse impacts, while reducing the correlation between indication indicators through dimensionality reduction.
Method: The proposed experiment involves conducting a comparative test on MOV with different time intervals between impacts, on the order of 10 seconds. The data collected from this experiment, with a time resolution of 10 seconds, will be subjected to dimensionality reduction using PCA to reduce the correlation between the original indicators. Finally, the GS-SVR model will be employed to analyze and predict the effects of single and continuous pulse impacts on MOV.
Results: Experimental results demonstrate that the GS-SVR model achieves a mean square error of less than 0.00057 in predicting single pulse impacts and still exhibits certain effectiveness for irregular pulse impacts, such as continuous pulses.
Conclusion: The proposed fault diagnosis algorithm based on PCA and GS-SVR can effectively improve the fault diagnosis rate of MOV, and accurately predict the fault state of MOV under single and continuous impulse shock. This is of great significance to the safe operation of power system.
Investigation into the elimination of nitrates using nano γ-alumina and magnetite-alumina nanocomposite adsorbents synthesized through different methods and precursor materials
Authors: Khatamian Maasoumeh , Derakhshan Saeedeh Khadivi , Nami Shamin Hosseini , Fazli-Shokouhi Sara
Published: March 2024

The challenges in water treatment include the need for efficient removal of pollutants like nitrate, which poses significant environmental and health risks. Alumina's significance lies in its proven effectiveness as an adsorbent for nitrate removal due to its high surface area and affinity for nitrate ions. This study delves into the synthesis of differen nano-sized γ-alumina (γA1-5) employing diverse precursors and methods, including nepheline syenite, lime, aluminum hydroxide, precipitation, and hydrothermal processes at varying reaction times. Simultaneously, magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles and magnetite/γ-alumina nanocomposites (Fn/γA5) were synthesized using the co-precipitation method with varying weight ratios (n). Our primary objective was to optimize γ-alumina synthesis by comparing multiple methods, shedding light on the influence of different precursors and sources. Hence, a comprehensive adsorption study was conducted to assess the materials’ efficacy in nitrate removal. This study fills gaps in the literature, providing a novel perspective through the simultaneous assessment of magnetite/alumina nanocomposites and pure alumina performance. Structural and morphological properties were studied employing XRD, FT-IR, FESEM, EDX, XRD, and VSM techniques. The conducted experiments for γA5, F5/γA5, and F10/γA5 nanocomposites showcased the optimum pH of 5 and contact time of 45 min for all samples. The influence of nitrate’s initial concentration on the removal percentage was investigated with initial concentrations of 10 ppm, 50 ppm, and 100 ppm. γA5, F5/γA5 and F10/γA5 nanocomposites had 17.3%, 55%, and 70% at 10 ppm, 18%, 55.16%, and 74% at 50 ppm, and 8.6%, 53.1%, and 63%, respectively. The results highlighted that F10/γA5 can be used as a remarkable adsorbent for wastewater treatment purposes.
ANN-Based Computational Heat Transfer Analysis of Carreau Fluid over a Rotating Cone
Authors: Ullah Fahim , Ashraf Muhammad Bilal , Hassan Mohammad Mehdi
Published: March 2024

Heat transport in a dynamically rotating cone immersed in a Carreau fluid is the subject of this investigation. The fluid is a non-Newtonian, admired for its shear-thinning characteristics and utilized extensively in numerous industrial domains. The study investigates the interplay between buoyancy and centrifugal forces within the analytical framework. In order to find a solution, we will use numerical simulation with an ANN algorithm, namely the back-propagation Levenberg-Marquardt Scheme (BLMS), in conjunction with the Shooting mechanism. The enormous influence of centrifugation and buoyancy on the complex fluid dynamics and heat exchange processes is clearly proved by the results. Some important parameters that govern the convective heat transport process are the Nusselt number, the Reynolds number, the Grashof number, and the fluid and cone rotational velocities. The study confirms the need of taking non-Newtonian complexities and viscous dissipation into account when studying heat transfer dynamics and fluid flow, which could lead to more accurate predictions and better efficiency in a variety of industrial processes.
Yield Response of Butternut Squash to Sidedress Application of Nitrogen at Various Soil Nitrate Test Levels
Authors: Howell John C.
Published: March 2024

Guidelines for the use of the pre-sidedress soil nitrate test (PSNT) have been established in sweet corn (Zea mays). Similar guidelines should be useful to growers in optimizing nitrogen (N) use in other vegetables. The purpose of this work was to establish a soil N threshold for butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata), above which there is no positive crop response to additional N application. To test crop response to sidedress applications of N over a range of soil nitrate levels, plots were established in pairs in commercial butternut squash fields. Six-inch sample cores for the PSNT were taken several days prior to sidedressing, which is about the time the vines start to run. Sidedress N applications were made by the grower. In each field, one plot received no N and the other received N at 50 kg·ha-1. The yield of the plot with the N treatment was compared with the nontreated plot. In fields where the PSNT values were at or above 68 mg·kg-1 N, plots receiving sidedress N had lower yields than those receiving no N. In fields with N levels at 41 mg·kg-1 or lower, there generally was a higher yield in the sidedressed plots. None of the fields in this study had N levels between 41 and 68 mg·kg-1 at the time of sampling, but it is likely that the threshold is within this range. E-mail howell@umext.umass.edu
Reduction of Toxicity of Immature Composts
Authors: Hu Yifan , Barker Allen V.
Published: March 2024

Uses of immature composts are difficult due to wide C:N ratio, high NH4 content, and phytotoxins, such as phenols and low molecular weight organic acids. This research focused on toxicity from high NH4 content. A compost of biosolids and wood chips was used. The compost was treated with (NH4)2SO4 to 2000 mg N·kg-1 (dry weight) to simulate an immature compost. The same compost without any external NH4 was used as a mature compost. Different proportions (regimes) of compost and soil provided 1/3, 1/6, and 1/12 compost (by volume). Each regime received potassium treatment at 0 or 0.6 g K·kg-1 as KC1. A nitrate treatment, at the same N rate as NH4 in immature compost, was factored into both mature and immature composts. For the mature compost, adding K generally decreased tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) growth (measured by shoot mass) regardless of regimes. Adding Ca(NO3)2 to mature compost greatly increased plant growth for the regimes of 1/6 and 1/12. When the regime was 1/3, this increase diminished. For the immature compost, adding nitrate restricted plant growth due to excessive amount of N, including already high amounts of NH4. This response was especially true for the 1/3 regime. Adding K to immature compost greatly increased plant growth for the regimes of 1/3 and 1/6; K suppressed plant growth at the regime of 1/12. The results indicated that using K properly can effectively reduce immature compost toxicity due to high amount of ammonium. E-mail barker@pssci.umass.edu
Potential Role of Apple Peel Phenolics in Superficial Scald Development
Authors: Ju Z. , Bramlage W.J.
Published: March 2024

Cuticle scraped from apple peel contained both free and bound phenolics, and cuticle enzymatically isolated from peel contained much greater amounts of them. Both free and bound phenolics inhibited linoleic acid oxidation, but free forms had ≈50% higher activity. Free and bound phenolics had ≈75% and 50%, respectively, of diphenylamine's antioxidant activity on a molar basis. Cuticle possessed little lipid-soluble antioxidant activity, but surface cells contained four to seven times the activity of cuticle. In a model system, free cuticular phenolics strongly inhibited farnesene oxidation in hexane during 4 months at 25 °C, but lipid-soluble antioxidants did not. Both free and bound cuticular phenolics increased during maturation. During 0 °C storage, free forms doubled during 15 weeks, then remained constant, while bound forms did not change. Cellular phenolics fell during maturation and storage, reducing browning potential in the cells. These changes all correlated with changes in C2H4 production. When C2H4 was inhibited by AVG spray and low-C2H4 storage, little or no change occurred; when promoted by ethephon spray or high-C2H4 storage, phenolic changes were accelerated. Farnesene and cuticular phenolics were positively correlated but conjugated trienes, cellular phenolics, and scald negatively correlated with C2H4. We believe that C2H4 effects on phenolics may be closely related to scald development.
Ethylene Induction of Flowering and Gel Analysis of Apex Proteins in Dutch Iris 'Telstar'
Authors: Li Yan-Li , Bernatzky Robert , Han Susan S.
Published: March 2024

Nonflowering-sized Dutch iris bulbs 'Telstar' were treated at 20 °C in a flow-through system with ethylene-free air or air containing 10 μL.L-1 of ethylene (C2H4) for 1 or 24 hours. Following the treatment, bulbs were placed in a 10 °C cooler for 5 weeks before planting and subsequently forced in a 20 °C day/18 °C night glasshouse. Results demonstrated that a 24-hour C2H4 treatment induced earlier flowering as well as percent flowering. Flowering responses of bulbs treated with C2H4 for 1 hour were the same as those treated with air. The 24-hour ethylene treatment did not affect the combined fresh weight of the daughter bulb and bulblets but reduced the number of bulblets produced by each. The effects of ethylene on the protein changes in the apex were examined at two time periods: immediately after the treatment and after the cold treatment. Each sample consisted of proteins extracted from three apices. There are significant changes in one-dimensional SDS PAGE protein patterns of bulbs apices after treatment with ethylene. However, the differences are apparent after only 1 hour of ethylene treatment. The cold treatment resulted in minimal further changes in protein patterns.
Production of Horticultural Crops on Reclaimed Mineland
Authors: Sherratt Mark D. , Bearce Bradford C. , Skousen Jeffry G. , Morton Joseph B.
Published: March 2024

Apple, peach, blackberry, raspberry, cabbage, cantaloupe, bean, tomato, red maple, juniper, yew, viburnum, and boxwood were planted in two soils, a yellow overburden (YO) and a soil manufactured from crushed shale (MS), in a reclaimed surface mine in southern West Virginia. Treatments at planting time were 454 kg·ha-1 of 10N-4.4P-8.9K fertilizer + ≈2.5 cm of sphagnum peat (F + P) or 250 mL of micorrhizal fungi inoculum + peat (M + P) mixed into the planting hole. Both soils were low in organic matter (0.9%) and N (3.0 mg·kg-1). The MS had a pH of 7.7, while the YO had a pH of 5.0 and was low in Ca (16 mg·kg-1). Peach grew best and tomato yielded best in the F + P treatment, while viburnums responded more to M + P. Roots of all species in all treatments including noninoculated sampled nine months after planting were found to be infected with one or more of the Glomus sp., with which they had been inoculated. A noninoculated species of Glomus was also found on some roots.
Effect of Dolomite and 'Photomag' on Nutrient Status of Lowbush Blueberry
Authors: Smagula John M. , Litten Walter , Dunham Scott
Published: March 2024

Two commercial lowbush blueberry fields in Washington county were used in this study. At Brook Lot, 1.5-m × 46-m treatment plots received fluid dolomite (1670 kg·ha-1) or combinations of dolomite and PHOTOMAG at 5, 10, or 15 kg MgO/ha as foliar sprays when plants reached three-quarters full growth in late June 1996. At Pike Brook, 1.5-m × 23-m treatment plots received the same treatments plus a 10 kg MgO/ha only treatment. Nontreated plots served as controls in a randomized complete-block design with eight replications at each location. At Brook Lot, leaf Mg concentrations were raised by all treatments compared to the control. At Pike Brook, PHOTOMAG alone showed little effect on soil pH and soil Mg concentration and was ineffective in raising leaf Mg concentrations in combination with dolomite to higher levels than dolomite alone, except at the highest rate (15 MgO). Although leaf Mg concentrations were raised, no measurable changes in plant growth characteristics, potential yield, or harvestable yield were found. Applying dolomite and/or PHOTOMAG to a field deficient in Mg might have resulted in different results.
Fertigation Research with Apple Trees
Authors: Stiles Warren C.
Published: March 2024

Studies initiated in 1986 indicated beneficial effects on growth and cropping of young apple trees from trickle irrigation plus soil application of nutrient elements or fertigation with a weekly multielement complement. In 1993, an orchard facility was established to evaluate responses to alternative sources, rates, and methods of application of K, Zn, or Cu. Results of two separate experiments with K indicate the following: 1) Application of K at 112 kg·ha-1 per year increased growth and yield of `Marshall McIntosh'/M.9 and `Royal Empire'/M.9 trees. Differences between soil surface and two fertigation regimes and between KCl and KNO3 were nonsignificant. 2) There were no differences among three sources of K (Cl-, \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{NO}_{3}^{-}\) \end{document}, \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{SO}_{4}^{=}\) \end{document}) at three rates (37, 75, or 112 kg·ha-1 per year) applied in 16 weekly fertigations. All rates of K increased tree growth and yield in years 1 to 3. As cropping increased, rate effects tended to increase up to 75 kg K/ha per year. In the first 4 years, fertigation with EDTA chelates of Zn or Cu have been more effective than sulfates in increasing leaf Zn or Cu, but effects on tree growth and yield have not been significant. Results indicate no significant advantage of fertigation over conventional methods of application for K, Zn, or Cu as long as trees are irrigated adequately. E-mail wcs5@cornell.edu; phone (607) 255-1779.
Impacts of High Tunnels on Crop Production in New Hampshire
Authors: Wells Otho S.
Published: March 2024

High tunnels are unheated, walk-in greenhouse-like structures which are used primarily for season extension of high-value crops. They are relatively inexpensive to build and maintain, but require manual labor for ventilation. Research with high tunnels at the Univ. of New Hampshire began in 1987 after assessing the international use of these structures. Because of the retail value of tomatoes, this has been the primary crop grown in tunnels. The average earliness of tomatoes is 1 month compared to field tomatoes. In 1988 in New Hampshire, there were 15 14 × 96 commercial high tunnels used for tomato production, with a gross income of $45,000. In 1997 the number of tunnels had increased to =160 units with a gross income of $912,000. Over the 10-year period, the cumulative income for commercial growers is estimated at $3.63 million. Because of earliness, this represents additional income to growers. Another very important benefit of high tunnels is the almost total reduction in diseases that are common in field production. Early blight, a serious field disease requiring several fungicide applications for control, is essentially nonexistent in high tunnels. Besides tomatoes, many other crops grow well in tunnels: pepper, summer squash, cucumbers, melons, lettuce and other salad crops, root crops, strawberries, and flowers. Although insects may be a problem, most of them can be controlled biologically. Particularly beneficial, especially for young, new-entry growers, is the relative low cost of high tunnels, $1.50/ square foot.
Chilling Injury and Yield of Muskmelon Grown with Plastic Mulches, Rowcovers, and Thermal Water Tubes
Authors: Jenni Sylvie , Stewart Katrine A. , Cloutier Daniel C. , Bourgeois Gaétan
Published: March 2024

Combinations of mulch/rowcover systems were tested using 'Earligold' melon (Cucumis melo L.) transplanted between 7 and 9 May during each of 3 years. The mulches used were black (B), wavelength-selective green (G), or clear (C). In 1993 and 1994, these three mulches were combined with two rowcover systems, either a clear perforated polyethylene (PO; 500 holes/m2) or a clear nonperforated polyethylene with a water-filled tube (UT, thermal tube). Controls consisted of mulch-alone treatments. In 1995, only the green wavelength-selective mulch was tested. A clear mulch combined with an infrared-blocking polyethylene with a thermal tube (IT) and a spunbonded polypropylene agrotextile (AO) were also tested. The highest air temperatures, sometimes >40 °C, were recorded under the CIT and BUT treatments. Perforated tunnels were less efficient in increasing daytime air temperatures, particularly during windy conditions, than the nonperforated tunnels. When combined with all tunnel types, the wavelength-selective mulch produced effects intermediate between those of the clear and black mulches for air and soil temperatures, chilling injury, and days to flowering of perfect flowers. In 1994, only those plants grown with a clear mulch combined with an infrared-blocking or standard nonperforated tunnel with a thermal tube (CIT and CUT) survived seven sequential nights with temperatures between 1.6 and 5.8 °C. Plants in the nonperforated tunnels flowered first, had the heaviest biomass at anthesis, and gave the highest early yields, both in terms of fruit number and mass. However, total yields did not differ significantly between perforated and nonperforated tunnels. Plants produced smaller fruits in treatments that resulted in earlier flowering, i.e., nonperforated tunnels.
Evaluation of Tomato Transplant Production Methods for Improving Establishment Rates
Authors: Ciardi Joseph A. , Vavrina Charles S. , Orzolek Michael D.
Published: March 2024

Eight different tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) transplant production methods were tested during two growing seasons (1993-94) to determine their effectiveness in increasing both establishment rate and yield. Seven-week-old greenhouse grown transplants of `Hypeel 696' were shipped from Florida to Pennsylvania and planted at the Pennsylvania State Univ. Horticulture Research Farm. Transplants were also grown at the Pennsylvania State University to compare their growth with that of southern-grown plants. In 1993, increased nutrient levels during the last 10 days of transplant production significantly increased transplant size, establishment rate, and early yields, while the addition of Hydretain®, an aid to water retention and uptake, significantly increased total yield. In 1994, plants from Florida that were chilled for 7 days before transplanting and the Pennsylvania-grown plants had faster establishment rates than did nonchilled plants from Florida, but differences in yield were nonsignificant. Chilled and Pennsylvania-grown plants had significantly higher soluble carbohydrate levels in leaves, stems, and roots than did nonchilled and Florida-grown plants, while nutrient-conditioned plants had higher levels in leaves and stems. Establishment rate was not correlated with carbohydrate level. Chemical name used: (2-chloroethyl) phosphonic acid (ethephon).
Commercial Planting Media Effective in Screening for Verticillium Wilt of Capsicum annuum
Authors: Riley M.K. , Bosland P.W.
Published: March 2024

Three commercial planting media (Sunshine Mix#1, Sunshine Mix#5, and Metro Mix 360) were compared with the standard soil mixture prepared at New Mexico State Univ. for their effectiveness in differentiating Verticillium wilt—resistant and susceptible accessions of chile (Capsicum annuum L.) Each medium was infested with Verticillium dahliae Kleb. microsclerotia and planted with the resistant and susceptible accessions. When susceptible populations exhibited severe symptoms, individual plants were rated for disease severity (1 = no symptoms to 9 = death). Mean disease severities of populations differed among planting media, and, regardless of medium, resistant and susceptible populations were readily differentiated. Mean disease severities of plants grown in Sunshine Mix #1 and Sunshine Mix #5 differed from those grown in the standard University soil mix, but all media provided reliable screening tests. Mean disease severities of plants grown in Metro Mix 360 were most similar to those of plants grown in the University mix. Furthermore, greater differentiation was apparent between resistant and susceptible accessions in Metro Mix 360 than in accessions grown in the University medium.
Evaluation of Okra Accessions with Reported Resistance to Root-knot Nematodes for Reaction to Southern Root-knot Nematode
Authors: Thies Judy A. , Fery Richard L. , Dukes Philip D.
Published: March 2024

Forty-seven of the 53 plant introductions (PI) in the U.S. Plant Germplasm System okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] collection with reported resistance to root-knot nematodes [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood or unidentified Meloidogyne spp.] were evaluated in replicated greenhouse tests for reaction to the southern root-knot nematode (M. incognita). (Four of the 53 PI were unavailable and two accessions failed to germinate.) Preliminary evaluations identified a serious problem in evaluating this subset of okra germplasm for resistance to root-knot nematodes. The seed coats of most of the accessions were hard, and this trait delayed germination, which caused many of the seedlings to escape infection when the seeds were inoculated at planting with M. incognita eggs. A seed disinfection, scarification, and germination procedure was developed to ensure uniform seedling emergence. Except for two PI that failed to germinate, all available okra accessions with reported resistance were evaluated using these procedures. All tested accessions were susceptible to M. incognita race 3. Based on these results, we conclude that none of the accessions in the okra PI collection with reported resistance to root-knot nematodes is useful as M. incognita—resistant parental material in okra breeding programs.
Physical Characteristics of Dry Beans in Relation to Seedcoat Color Genotype
Authors: Beninger Clifford W. , Hosfield George L. , Nair Muraleedharan G.
Published: March 2024

Seedcoat color in dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is associated with physical and chemical characteristics of the seed. Allelic substitutions at a single or several seedcoat color determining loci were found to influence several seed characteristics. Whole bean fresh and dry mass and the ratios of seedcoat mass to whole bean dry mass differed significantly among nine seedcoat color genotypes. Dry mass of seedcoat increased significantly as total bean dry mass increased. Genotypes VOO59 and VO400 had the largest masses of whole dry bean, lowest ratios of seedcoat to whole bean dry weight, and the lightest colored seedcoats of the nine genotypes. In general, compared to VOO59 and VO400, the smaller seeded and darkly colored genotypes had significantly higher ratios of seedcoat to whole bean dry masses. Differences among color genotypes for seed physical characteristics are useful to estimate the fresh mass of seed needed to effectively extract seedcoat flavonoid color compounds.
Effect of Root-Applied Glufosinate-Ammonium on Free Ammonium Accumulation in Tomato Plants
Authors: You Wenqi , Barker Allen V.
Published: March 2024

Glufosinate-ammonium is herbicidal through inhibition of glutamine synthetase in chloroplasts with the resulting accumulation of phytotoxic levels of unassimilated . The herbicide is applied normally as a foliar spray at concentrations of 100 to 500 mg·L-1. Effect of root-applied herbicide on accumulation was studied in hydroponics. Tomato seedlings (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) were grown in a nitrate-based solution (Hoagland no. 1) with herbicide added to active ingredient concentrations of 0, 6, 12, 25, and 50 mg·L-1. In another treatment, an ammonium-based solution was used to assess accumulation from an external source. Harvest and analyses of plant tissue began with first symptoms of phytotoxicity from the herbicide and proceeded at 3-day intervals until plant death with the most extreme treatments. Free was extracted by homogenation of fresh tissues in a 1-m KCl–0.02–m CuSO4 solution. Ammonium was determined by volumetric procedures. By 6 days after treatment, concentrations in tissues increased curvilinearly from nil to 1.5 mg N/g fresh tissue with increases in herbicide in the solution. Classic symptoms of ammonium toxicity were evident. The 50 mg·L-1 herbicide concentration was lethal at 6 days after treatment, and the 25 mg·L-1 concentration was lethal at 12 days when the experiment was terminated. Ammonium accumulation with the lower concentrations of herbicide or with externally supplied was below phytotoxic levels at the end of the 12-day period. Amassment of in foliage followed distinctly different patterns with the herbicide or external supply. Accumulation with the herbicide was mainly in the foliage, whereas with the externally supplied , accumulation in roots exceeded that in shoots with no evidence of phytotoxicity. Results indicate that root-applied glufosinate-ammonium is translocated to shoots where it initiates accumulation of phytotoxic levels. E-mail barker@pssci.umass.edu
Paclobutrazol Residues in Recirculated Water in Commercial Greenhouses
Authors: Raudales Rosa E. , Toro-Herrera Mayra A. , Fisher Paul R. , Boldt Jennifer K. , Altland James E.
Published: March 2024

Reusing irrigation water has technical, environmental, and financial benefits. However, risks are also associated with the accumulation of agrochemicals, in addition to ions, plant and food safety pathogens, and biofilm organisms. In this project, we measured the concentration of paclobutrazol (a persistent and widely used plant growth regulator) in recirculated water in greenhouses producing ornamental plants in containers. Solutions were collected from catchment tanks at nine commercial greenhouses across seven states in the United States in Spring and Fall 2014. Paclobutrazol was detected in all samples, with differences observed by season, greenhouse operation, paclobutrazol application method, and irrigation method. Across operations, the residual concentration of paclobutrazol was higher in spring for most greenhouses (ranging from 0 to 1100 µg·L−1) compared with the fall (ranging from 0 to 8 µg·L−1). The spray-drench application method resulted in the highest residual concentrations (up to 35 µg·L−1), followed by substrate drench (up to 26 µg·L−1) and foliage spray (concentrations under 3 µg·L−1). Residual concentrations were higher with overhead irrigation (up to 35 µg·L−1) compared with subirrigation systems (up to 15 µg·L−1). Our results indicate that paclobutrazol is likely to be a growth retardant risk in greenhouse operations recirculating water. A clear understanding of the risks associated with recirculated water intends to support the development and implementation of risk management strategies to ensure and promote safe use of recirculated water in greenhouses. Overall, the most effective preventative strategy is to ensure the use of the minimum amount of the a.i. necessary per unit of space and time.
First Field Evaluation of a Polylactic Acid-based Weed Barrier with Compost for Carrot Production
Authors: Wehrbein Caleb D. , Kadoma Ignatius , Wortman Sam E.
Published: March 2024

Hand weeding is a common but expensive weed management practice in organic carrot (Daucus carota) production. To improve weed suppression and reduce hand weeding in these systems, we developed and tested different biobased polylactic acid (PLA) mulch and compost combinations for carrot production. Carrot was direct-seeded onto PLA mulches and top-dressed with a layer of compost to facilitate carrot germination and rooting through the semipermeable mulch surface. This PLA mulch reduced total weed emergence by 90% relative to bare soil. Yields were not significantly different among mulch types and bare soil controls, partly because weeds were removed weekly after counting. The PLA mulch reduced plant available soil nitrate by 47% relative to bare soil controls. The results suggest that PLA mulch paired with compost is an effective alternative to hand weeding in carrot production. Future research should seek to address the observed nitrogen immobilization.
Gen Z’s Knowledge of Halal Foods and Products on Purchase Behaviour
Authors: Purnasari Nurwulan , Astuti Septin Puji , Rusdan Ilzamha Hadijah
Published: March 2024

Consuming or utilising products derived from the pig are forbidden for Muslims. This study aims to describe the understanding of Islamic university students about pig derivative products of food and non-food products. This research was conducted by questionnaire for taking data. The indicators used in this data are information about various types of products, forms in pig terms and indicators in product purchasing decisions. The sample used in this study amounted to 350 respondents. As a whole, Islamic University students stated the status of pig derivative products, both food and non-food, is haram. This study shows a relationship between organisations that students follow towards their knowledge of pig derivative products. But this is unfollowed by their behaviour when buying non-food products. They do not consider the halal status of non-food products except on cosmetics products. This result can be valuable information in further halal awareness studies. Gen Z has to increase their knowledge about pig products and their derivatives daily.
Eye Formation in Cheese with Propionic Acid Fermentation
Authors: Mordvinova Valentina , Rogov Grigorii , Smirnova Tatiana
Published: March 2024

Semi-hard cheeses with propionic acid bacteria have gained popularity in Russia: almost all major cheese plants produce this or that variety. However, semi-hard cheeses with propionic fermentation are notorious for certain defects that emerge during production. Irregular eye formation is one of the most common and visible defects that reduce product appeal for the end consumer. In an effort to reduce production cost and increase production volumes, cheese makers only aggravate improper eye formation. This article introduces the most frequent defects of propionic cheeses. For instance, butyric acid bacteria often appear as a result of production technology and cause surface cracks. Poor or irregular eye formation in the cheese matrix is another popular defect. Rindless cheese ripening leads to two more defects, which hardly ever occur during traditional rind cheese maturation. First, eyes may develop too close to the cheese surface. Second, vacuum packaging process may trigger ragged eye formation. A comprehensive understanding of factors that affect eye formation allows cheese makers and food scientists to concentrate their efforts on efficient methods to control the development of propionic acid bacteria in semi-hard cheeses. In-depth studies of eye formation, taste, and texture make it possible to avoid defects, reduce production cost, and make domestic products more competitive.
Development of Socio-Pedagogical Technologies for Educating a State-Oriented Personality in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Yudina Vera , Tanina Mariya , Bondarenko Vladimir
Published: March 2024

The subject of the research is methodological, social, educational, and other tools aimed at socializing student youth and forming their self-determination and active civic position in the process of studying in educational organizations. The purpose is to propose methodological recommendations for the development of socio-pedagogical technologies aimed at the formation of a state-oriented personality in the process of education and upbringing in higher and secondary vocational education organizations. The research methodology is based on the applied and fundamental research of students’ patriotic, spiritual, moral, and civic education, the formation of civic identity and certain aspects of socio-pedagogical technologies used in the development of students’ social activity. A set of measures for classroom and extracurricular work aimed at the formation of a state-oriented personality has been developed. The proposed methodological, social, and educational tools can become the basis for the development and implementation of educational plans and concepts of patriotic education of student youth that meet the requirements of the humanitarian concept of education and aim at educating a state-oriented personality.
Kinetic Art Drawings with ‘Aum’ (aumkara series) by Narendra Srivastava
Authors:   Head, Associate Professor, Department of Drawing and Painting, Faculty of Arts, Dayalbagh Educational  Institute, (Deemed to be University). Dayalbagh, Agra, Thakur Meenakshi
Published: March 2024

The earliest pieces of evidence of human ability to communicate and desire to create are represented by symbols, hieroglyphics and sign language. OM’ is the root syllable of origination and dissolution, Bija’ of all mantras. Yet, it is significant to value the differences in form and expression of OM according to each culture. It is important to observe different forms of OM as independent, individual forms, and yet not just variations of OM after appreciating the difference in thinking, sense of beauty, and artistic creativity, you may envelop them in the profound meaning of OM again by seeing Narendra’s kinetic art drawings of OM. His chronicle as a graphic artist and a creative painter is awe-inspiring; he is one of the earliest artists to use typographical designs in his paintings. He adopted the geometrical forms of kinetic art and introduced the sacred symbol OM in different geometrical forms. And the result was a genuine blend of the art of East and West obsessed with ‘OM’. His “Om” series of drawings is the highlight of his career. His drawings are a broader form of kinetic art.
Relation to the Ground: An Analysis of Photographs by Jyoti Bhatt
Authors:   Faculty at Srishti-Manipal Institute of Art, Design, and Technology, Bengaluru and Ph.D. candidate at  IIIT-H, Hyderabad, Arora Naini
Published: March 2024

All forms of art embody imagination, which is medium-specific. This research investigates how Photography embodies imagination, for the method in Photography differs from the other forms of art in its unique way. The processes involved in creating photographic images, whether by analogue techniques or digital, show that it is not entirely automatic. Technology automates some features but involves thought processes, and the photographer makes precise decisions. There is some ‘occurring’ at play. This article analyses the photographs by Jyoti Bhatt, widely recognized as a painter, printmaker, and photographer. The interaction of various two-dimensional visual media in his practice is interesting; this study illuminates what photographic principles guide his practice in photography.
The Future of VR-Based Video Games in Indonesia
Authors:   Departement of Visual Communication Design Associate's degree Programme,  Vocational School Universitas Sebelas Maret Surakarta, Indonesia., Yudhanto Sigied Himawan , Risdianto Faizal ,   English Education Department, UIN Salatiga
Published: March 2024

VR devices are now part of the world’s gaming industry. VR is here to make the gaming experience more immersive. The potential for these VR devices to play video games is huge, but it is very rarely found and used by gamers in Indonesia. VR devices are more often used found in campus computer laboratories for experimentation, or as a learning process, and the gamers in Indonesia also don’t see VR devices as a new medium to get new experiences in playing games. This paper raises several issues regarding the future of VR in Indonesia.
Predicting sediment yield and locating hotspot areas in the Hamesa watershed of Ethiopia for effective watershed management
Authors: Damte Darota Fikru , Bogale Borko Habtamu , Dagnachew Adinew Chansler , Legesse Edamo Muluneh
Published: March 2024

Locating hotspots and assessing sediment accumulation are crucial aspects of water body management. The primary aim of this study was to examine sediment yield in the Hamesa watershed utilizing the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model and to propose best management practices. The basin was divided into 15 sub-basins, with 103 hydrological response units at the outlet of the Hamesa watershed. Simulation was conducted using meteorological and spatial data. Monthly streamflow and sediment data were calibrated for the period from 2000 to 2010 and validated for the period from 2011 to 2015 using the SWAT Uncertainty Calibration Program Sequential Uncertainty Fit (SUFI-2). Model performance was assessed using metrics including the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency, observation standard deviation ratio, and percentage bias, which demonstrated very good results in both calibration and validation periods. The average annual sediment production in the Hamesa watershed was estimated at 9,800 t/year. Nine out of 15 affected sub-basins were categorized as producing moderate to very high sediment content (4.54–12.82 t/ha/year) and were chosen for sediment reduction scenarios. This study will play a significant role in managing impacted watersheds affected by soil erosion.
A communication strategy for water reuse in South Africa
Authors: Slabbert Sarah , Green Nadja , Kalebaila Nonhlanhla
Published: March 2024

Water-scarce regions, including South Africa, have identified water reuse as one of the promising solutions to augment water supply to meet the ever-increasing demand for freshwater resources. However, public perceptions have been identified as a critical factor, which can either facilitate the success and acceptance of water reuse projects or become a formidable barrier. To address this challenge in South Africa, the National Strategy for Water Reuse calls for the development of a national communication strategy to promote understanding of water reuse and foster its public acceptance. This paper outlines the journey from consultation with stakeholders to development of a national communication strategy for water reuse in South Africa. The strategy has been crafted using a framework that is based on an understanding of the complex interplay of public opinions and perceptions of water reuse. The strategy targets public education and aims to empower the public to become water reuse literate. The framework used to develop the strategy is versatile, and capable of effectively addressing the multi-dimensional and context-specific aspects of water reuse.
Rainwater harvesting as a sustainable solution for the production of urban hydroponic crops
Authors: Sucozhañay Adrián , Pesántez Juan , Guerrero-Coronel Rigoberto , Guerrero-Coronel Rodrigo , Peña David , Célleri Rolando
Published: March 2024

Population growth and poor agricultural practices demand an improvement in the efficiency of food production. Urban hydroponic crops represent a potential solution to this challenge. However, the use of drinking water for urban agriculture is not a priority. Consequently, rainwater harvesting can reduce the use of drinking water for other purposes than human consumption. This study evaluated the efficiency of rainwater harvesting for the production of hydroponic crops in an Andean city. We developed a rainwater harvesting model to analyze the efficiency and optimization of two hydroponic production scenarios: (1) domestic production (30 plants) and (2) small-scale commercial production (200 plants). We found an efficiency of 99.71 and 75.79%, for scenarios 1 and 2, respectively. The 75.79% efficiency is given by the presence of low precipitation periods, which in the case of the study area are sporadic. Furthermore, scenario 2 could reach efficiencies of 100% if the roof capture area increases up to 40 m2. Rainwater harvesting in Andean cities, with sustained precipitation throughout the year, is enough to supply water for domestic and small-scale commercial hydroponic production with basic household modifications. We show promising results by combining rainwater harvesting and hydroponic crops for improving urban food and water security.
Involvement of Lipids and Lipid Mediators in Inflammation and
Atherogenesis
Authors: Kotlyarov Stanislav
Published: March 2024

Atherosclerosis is the pathophysiological basis for major diseases, such as
coronary heart disease, cerebral stroke, and peripheral arterial disease, which have become
epidemic in modern Western society. Atherosclerosis has a complex nature that involves
mutually related immune and metabolic mechanisms. Many cells of the vascular
wall and peripheral bloodstream, including endothelial cells, monocytes and
macrophages, platelets, and others, are involved in the development and progression of
atherosclerosis. These cells perform a number of innate immune functions, disorders of
which are associated with atherosclerosis. Furthermore, lipids are not only a morphological
substrate but also important participants in the development of atherosclerosis. They
are involved in the development and resolution of inflammation and mediate vascular
cell function.