bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selected Studies in Modern Arabic Narrative
Authors: Allen Roger
Published: May 2022

No Western scholar has contributed as much to the study of modern Arabic narrative as has Roger Allen. His doctoral dissertation was the very first Oxford D.Phil. in modern Arabic literature, completed in 1968 under the supervision of Mustafa Badawi. That same year, he took a position in Arabic language and literature at the University of Pennsylvania, the oldest professorial post in Arabic in the United States. Roger Allen has been phenomenally prolific: fifty books and translations, two hundred articles and counting—on Arabic language pedagogy, on translation, on Arabic literary history, criticism and literature. He is also one of the most decorated and acclaimed translators of Arabic literature. The present volume brings together sixteen of Roger Allen’s articles on modern Arabic narrative, with a focus on genre, translation, and literary history, and features analyses of the works of Rashid Abu Jadrah, Bensalem Himmich, Yusuf Idris, Naguib Mahfouz, and Tayeb Salih.
Dcp2 C-terminal cis-binding elements control selective targeting of the decapping enzyme by forming distinct decapping complexes
Authors: He Feng , Wu Chan , Jacobson Allan
Published: May 2022

A single Dcp1–Dcp2 decapping enzyme targets diverse classes of yeast mRNAs for decapping-dependent 5′ to 3′ decay, but the molecular mechanisms controlling mRNA selectivity by the enzyme remain elusive. Through extensive genetic analyses we reveal that Dcp2 C-terminal domain cis-regulatory elements control decapping enzyme target specificity by orchestrating formation of distinct decapping complexes. Two Upf1-binding motifs direct the decapping enzyme to nonsense-mediated mRNA decay substrates, a single Edc3-binding motif targets both Edc3 and Dhh1 substrates, and Pat1-binding leucine-rich motifs target Edc3 and Dhh1 substrates under selective conditions. Although it functions as a unique targeting component of specific complexes, Edc3 is a common component of multiple complexes. Scd6 and Xrn1 also have specific binding sites on Dcp2, allowing them to be directly recruited to decapping complexes. Collectively, our results demonstrate that Upf1, Edc3, Scd6, and Pat1 function as regulatory subunits of the holo-decapping enzyme, controlling both its substrate specificity and enzymatic activation.
Migraine monoclonal antibodies against CGRP change brain activity depending on ligand or receptor target – an fMRI study
Authors: Basedau Hauke , Sturm Lisa-Marie , Mehnert Jan , Peng Kuan-Po , Schellong Marlene , May Arne
Published: May 2022

Background:

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) are novel treatments for migraine prevention. Based on a previous functional imaging study which investigated the CGRP receptor mAb (erenumab), we hypothesized that (i) the CGRP ligand mAb galcanezumab would alter central trigeminal pain processing; (ii) responders to galcanezumab treatment would show specific hypothalamic modulation in contrast to non-responders; and (iii) the ligand and the receptor antibody differ in brain responses.

Methods:

Using an established trigeminal nociceptive functional magnetic imaging paradigm, 26 migraine patients were subsequently scanned twice: before and 2–3 weeks after administration of galcanezumab.

Results:

We found that galcanezumab decreases hypothalamic activation in all patients and that the reduction was stronger in responders than in non-responders. Contrasting erenumab and galcanezumab showed that both antibodies activate a distinct network. We also found that pre-treatment activity of the spinal trigeminal nucleus (STN) and coupling between the STN and the hypothalamus covariates with the response to galcanezumab.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that despite relative impermeability of the blood-brain barrier for CGRP mAb, mAb treatment induces certain and highly specific brain effects which may be part of the mechanism of their efficacy in migraine treatment.

Funding:

This work was supported by the German Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) of ERA-Net Neuron under the project code BIOMIGA (01EW2002 to AM) and by the German Research Foundation (SFB936-178316478-A5 to AM). The funding sources did not influence study conduction in any way.

Clinical trial number:

The basic science study was preregistered in the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/m2rc6).
Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4,6 sulfation regulates sympathetic nerve regeneration after myocardial infarction
Authors: Blake Matthew R , Parrish Diana C , Staffenson Melanie A , Sueda Shanice , Woodward William R , Habecker Beth A
Published: May 2022

Sympathetic denervation of the heart following ischemia/reperfusion induced myocardial infarction (MI) is sustained by chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) in the cardiac scar. Denervation predicts risk of sudden cardiac death in humans. Blocking CSPG signaling restores sympathetic axon outgrowth into the cardiac scar, decreasing arrhythmia susceptibility. Axon growth inhibition by CSPGs can depend on the sulfation status of the glycosaminoglycan (CS-GAG) side chains. Tandem sulfation of CS-GAGs at the 4th (4S) and 6th (6S) positions of n-acetyl-galactosamine inhibits outgrowth in several types of central neurons, but we don’t know if sulfation is similarly critical during peripheral nerve regeneration. We asked if CSPG sulfation prevented sympathetic axon outgrowth after MI. Reducing 4S with the 4-sulfatase enzyme Arylsulfatase-B (ARSB) enhanced outgrowth of dissociated rat sympathetic neurons over CSPGs. Likewise, reducing 4S with ARSB restored axon outgrowth from mouse sympathetic ganglia co-cultured with cardiac scar tissue. We quantified enzymes responsible for adding and removing sulfation, and found that CHST15 (4S dependent 6-sulfotransferase) was upregulated, and ARSB was downregulated after MI. This suggests a mechanism for production and maintenance of sulfated CSPGs in the cardiac scar. We decreased 4S,6S CS-GAGs in vivo by transient siRNA knockdown of Chst15 after MI, and found that reducing 4S,6S restored tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive sympathetic nerve fibers in the cardiac scar. Reinnervation reduced isoproterenol induced arrhythmias. Our results suggest that modulating CSPG-sulfation after MI may be a therapeutic target to promote sympathetic nerve regeneration in the cardiac scar and reduce post-MI cardiac arrhythmias.
Aflatoxin B1 exposure disrupts organelle distribution in mouse oocytes
Authors: Zhang Yan-Zhe , Zhao Qian-Han , Duan Hong-Wei , Zou Yuan-Jing , Sun Shao-Chen , Hu Lin-Lin
Published: May 2022

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a secondary metabolite produced by the fungus Aspergillus, which is ubiquitous in moldy grain products. Aflatoxin B1 has been reported to possess hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, and reproductive toxicity. Previous studies have shown that AFB1 is toxic to mammalian oocytes. However, the potential toxicity of AFB1 on the organelles of mouse oocytes is unknown. In this study, we found that exposure to AFB1 significantly reduced mouse oocyte development capacity. Further analysis showed that the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) failed to accumulate around the spindle, and scattered in the cytoplasm under AFB1 exposure. Similar to the ER, the Golgi apparatus showed a uniform localization pattern following AFB1 treatment. In addition, we found that AFB1 exposure caused the condensation of lysosomes in the cytoplasm, presenting as a clustered or spindle peripheral-localization pattern, which indicated that protein modification, transport, and degradation were affected. Mitochondrial distribution was also altered by AFB1 treatment. In summary, our study showed that AFB1 exposure had toxic effects on the distribution of mouse oocyte organelles, which further led to a decline in oocyte quality.
An Observational Cross-sectional Study Section of Factors Causing Delay in Diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancers at a Rural Tertiary Care Centre in Northern India
Authors: Salaria Neha , Garg Uma , Agarwal Mitva , Kaur Swaran
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Cancer is a complex genetic disease derived from the accumulation of a variety of genetic changes, which include activation of proto-oncogenes and inactivation of tumour suppressor genes. Head and Neck Cancers (HNC) are rapidly growing tumours with a median potential doubling time of only 6-7 days. Although these cancers are easily accessible, patients rarely present early. In India, most HNCs present in advanced stages resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Hence, it is prudent to ascertain the factors which lead to delay in diagnosis of HNC as early diagnosis and treatment is the cornerstone in reducing consequences of HNC. Aim: To identify patient and professional factors causing delay in diagnosis of HNC and to identify association if any with stage of cancer presentation. Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Ear Nose and Throat, at BPS Government Medical College for women, Sonepat, Haryana, India, from September 2019 to January 2021. Study included 55 newly diagnosed histopathologically confirmed head and neck cancer patients. Clinico-demographic details were inferred using elaborate clinical examination. Data were described in terms of range, mean±standard deviation, frequency and relative frequency (percentages). Chi-square and Fisher’s-exact test was used for comparing categorical data. Delay due to patient and professional factors were calculated separately and the association of each delay with important variables were compared. Results: Most patients (43.6%) belonged to the age group of 51 to 60 years, and the mean age was 60.25±9.81 years. Majority of the patients were males (85.5%). The mean total delay from onset of symptoms to final diagnosis was 22.38±7.23 weeks. Delayed patient presentation was the main cause of total delay in diagnosis. The main factors responsible for patient delay were rural residential status, low educational, socio-economic status and poor cancer awareness. Irrational therapies still contributed significantly for delayed patient presentation. Diagnostic delay led to upstaging of disease. Conclusion: Patient delay is the main factor responsible for delay in diagnosis of HNC. Even in this era of easy availability and accessibility of information, lack of awareness still exists at the fundamental level.
Association of Maternal Nutritional Status with COVID-19 Infection and its Effects on Pregnancy OutcomesA Retrospective Study
Authors: Najam Rehana , Tomar Yugantika
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Need is felt to perform research for assessing the impact of maternal nutrition status on severity of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in pregnancy and effect of COVID-19 on maternal outcomes as it has not been established. Aim: To evaluate association of maternal nutritional status and pregnancy outcomes with COVID-19 infection in pregnancy. Materials And Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among 260 antenatal patients admitted in COVID-19 level 3 hospital (Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre), Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, from April 2020 to May 2021 with COVID-19 infection. Records were studied for the effect of maternal nutrition status along with COVID-19 and outcome of pregnancy in terms of anthropometric markers (body mass index), nutritional markers (haemoglobin, total serum proteins) and biochemical markers (oral glucose tolerance test, vitamin D). Pregnancy outcomes were assessed in terms of severity of symptoms, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, labor outcome and obstetric complications . Data were tabulated and examined using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: Mean age of the patients enrolled was 21.4±5.6 years. A statistically significant association was seen with high body mass index (88.24%), hyperglycaemia (82.35%), hypoproteinaemia (6.01±0.47) and hypoalbuminaemia (0.93±0.24). Statistically significant association between adverse pregnancy outcomes in terms of bleeding per vaginum (11.76%) , preterm labour (54.92%), gestational diabetes mellitus (82.35%), hypertension (29.41%), Intrauterine Device (IUD) baby (35.29%) with increasing severity of COVID-19 infections. Conclusion: COVID-19 adversely affects the maternal obstetric outcome. Maternal nutrition status factors associated with severity of COVID-19 were body mass index, deranged blood sugar levels and protein levels.
Preparation and Antimicrobial Activity of Corn Cob and Coir Reinforced Biodegradable Starch Biocomposite Films for Food Packaging Application
Authors: Nanda Alka , Singh Neetu
Published: May 2022

Finding a bio-composite film to replace petroleum-based synthetic plastic has received considerable attention in recent years. In this research, biocomposite films were effectively prepared using corn cob powder and coconut coir as reinforcing materials in various concentrations using solution casting and annealing techniques. Corn starch was used as a co-biopolymer, glycerol (3% v/v) and acetic acid (5% v/v) as plasticizers were added as well. Biodegradability, mechanical, physical, FTIR, SEM, XRD, tensile and antibacterial tests were performed on the biocomposite samples. The biodegradability test showed that the samples were biodegradable and that the rate of biodegradation improved with time, reaching 87.37 % in just ten days. The SEM test was used to investigate the molecular structure of the biocomposite films, and the findings demonstrated that the raw ingredients had been well mixed, resulting in a smooth surface. The antibacterial test was conducted against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) bacteria. This study examines the influence of fiber reinforcement on the mechanical properties of biocomposites based on starch. Various natural fibers may boost the strength of biocomposites, as shown by the findings. According to the results, maize starch, corn cobs, and coconut coir are all suitable for food packaging purposes.
Febrile Episodes during Chemotherapy Induced Neutropenia in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at Children Hospital –Benghazi 2013-2014
Authors: Alzehawi Salima M. M. , Beayou Amina , Elgazal Najat B. , Khalifa Fawzia S. , Alabeedi Salimah S. , Alferjani Mohamed M.
Published: May 2022

Patients undergoing chemotherapy are vulnerable to infection because of immunosuppression and prolonged hospitalizations. Chemotherapy drugs affect neutrophil production through myelosuppression (1) and low inflammatory response so that fever maybe the manifestation of infection (2).

The purpose of this study was to analyze febrile neutropenic episodes associated with infections in the 1st three phases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment, document the risk factors affecting morbidity, mortality, treatment and the outcome of treatment.

The study was a cross-sectional hospital-based descriptive survey in the Hematology-Oncology Unit at Children’s Hospital. It included all cases of (ALL) who were diagnosed within two years and treated with the Berlin Frankfurt Munich (BFM) protocol who developed fever during a neutropenic period. Data was recorded as gender, age, residence, nationality, number of episodes per patient, treatment phase, admission duration, length of stay (LOS) per episode, symptoms, physical examination and severity of fever. Investigations, the antibiotic used and the outcome were also recorded.

A total 27children, males accounting for 63%, 67<5 were included in the study. Febrile neutropenic episodes ranged 1–12. Their peak was in January. 40% were in phase II. LOS range 2-35 days. Fever showed a median of 38.8 °C, higher in phase II and III. Admission and therapy phases were longer in children ˂ 2 years old and in males. The neutrophil median was 270/mm3. Stomatitis was seen in70% of episodes, gastroenteritis in 65%, fever of unknown origin (FUO) in 16%and pneumonias in 15%. 20/23 bacterial infections were Gram-negative. 40% of episodes required a change of antibiotics. The mortality rate was 22%.
Effects of Legumes Tree Leaf Mulch Placement and N-Mineralization on Maize Productivity in a Tropical Rainforest Area
Authors: Adeyekun O. J. , Akinbowale A. S. , Arinzechi C. , Akinbi O. J.
Published: May 2022

Nutrient depletion in the rainforest area is a land use constraint that needs urgent attention. This study was carried out to investigate the effects of legumes tree leaf mulch placement and N-mineralization on maize productivity in a rain forest area. Three common indigenous nitrogen-fixing leguminous trees (Albizia ferruginea, Albizia zygia and Spondias mombin) were randomly selected around the experimental site. Fifty (50g) of freshly collected leaves from these species were bulked and weighed into 20cm x 25cm litter bags. Three litter bags were placed above-ground and three below-ground (5cm deep) at three replicates per treatment. Maize was planted at a spacing of 90cm x 30cm. Fresh samples of each mulch were applied in a ring form to the three selected plant per plot in above-ground and below-ground (5cm deep) pattern two weeks after planting. The results showed that Albizia ferruginea had the highest percentage nitrogen (5.49%) and Spondias mombin had the lowest (3.49%). The percentage calcium composition of Albizia ferruginea and Albizia zygia was the same order of magnitude (0.22%), while that of Spondias mombin was 0.16%. The decomposition rate of the samples was highest in Spondias mombin with the lowest remaining weight of 2.92g and 3.16g in above and below ground litter bags respectively at week 10. Albizia ferruginea leaf had the highest nitrogen mineralization of 61.59% at above ground placement and Spondias mombin had the lowest of 52.18%. Nitrogen mineralization in the below ground placement was highest in Spondias mombin (67.32%) and lowest in Albizia zygia (40.39%). Generally, the above ground mulch placement decomposed faster than the below ground mulch placement at week 10. Albizia zygia was found to have outstanding performance on the height, girth and yield of maize. It is therefore recommended to poor resource farmers to allow Albizia zygia to thrive in and around their farms so that the leaves could be used as mulch for crop production.
Investigating the Effect of Macroeconomic Variables on Agricultural Output in Nigeria
Authors: Daniel Okeke, Chukwujioke , Rita Okeke, Onyinye
Published: May 2022

The research work investigated the effect of macroeconomic variables on agricultural output in Nigeria. The study used annual data spanning from the period 1995 to 2020. The agricultural output growth represented the explained variable while money supply, commercial bank loan on agriculture, exchange rate, interest rate, recurrent government expenditure on agriculture and inflation rate represented the explanatory variables which served as the selected macroeconomic variables under study. The stationary of the variables were checked using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test. The long run relationship was tested using the Johansen Co-integration technique. The OLS analysis was computed which shows that the model is statistically significance, judging with the p-value of the F-statistic. The analysis also presented that money supply, exchange rate and inflation have a positive relationship with agricultural output within the given period of study while commercial bank loan on agriculture, interest rate and recurrent government expenditure on agriculture have a negative link with the explained variable. Based on the findings, the researchers recommended among others things, that a favorable interest rate should be placed for farmers to easily access the loans of the financial institutions, which will ensure increase in the productivity of the sector.
Soil Fertility Status of Patarghat Block in Saharsa District of Agro-Climatic Zone-II of Bihar
Authors: Pandey Amit Kumar , Singh Ashutosh , Singh Umesh
Published: May 2022

A soil nutrient status inventory work was carried out in some villages of Patarghat block in Saharsa district. Results shows that soil texture of the soil under investigation was loamy land. Soil pH value ranged between 6.12 to 7.57 and electrical conductance remained less than 0.38 dSm-1. Soil organic carbon ranged between 4.25 to 7.12 g kg-1. Available nitrogen content in these soil was found to be between 185 to 292 kg ha-1. Available phosphorus content varied from 20.10 to 37.26 kg ha-1. Available potash content varied from 138 to192 kg ha-1. CaCl2 extractable soil sulphur varied from 0.70 to 10.25 mg kg-1 renders the soil deficient in S. Hot water soluble boron content ranged from 0.22 to 0.47 mg kg-1. All the figures in lower range was found in upland soils while the higher value of all the parameters were found in low land. There was an increasing trend with respect to soil reaction, soil organic carbon, N, P, K, S and B from upland which is due the washing down of basic cations, organic matter and plant nutrients from upland and subsequent deposition in low land give rise to the higher value in low lying areas. Clay content was found to be positivity correlated with all the parameters except phosphorus. Significant positive correlation of organic carbon, nitrogen, potassium, and boron with soil pH. Similarly, soil organic carbon was positively correlated with clay, macro and micro nutrients.
Association of Heterosis and Heterobeltiosis for Yield and its Contributing Traits in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss)
Authors: Kumawat Swarnlata , Sharma Anil Kumar , Shekhawat Komal , Kumar Anil , Kumawat Priyanka
Published: May 2022

The heterosis breeding strategy is one of the most successful technological approaches for improving Indian mustard varieties for seed yield quality and quantity, as well as other yield contributing character. The present investigation was undertaken ten genetically diverse parents following diallel mating design excluding reciprocals. The resultant 45 F1s and all the ten parents were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications under three different environments. Data on quantitative characters were recorded and heterosis and heterobeltosis were determined that showed sufficient degree of heterosis and heterobeltiosis for all the attributes. The crosses, RGN-13 x RH-406 was identified for days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, number of secondary branches per plant, number of siliquae per plant, 1000-seed weight, oil content, leaf area index and harvest index and the cross RGN-303 x RGN-229 was identified for days to 50 per cent flowering, days to maturity, number of secondary branches, number of seed per siliqua and 1000-seed weight. Among the 45 crosses, RGN-13 × RH-406 emerged as good heterotic as well as heterobeltiotic crosses for seed yield and other contributing characters.
Screening of Carcinogenic and Non-carcinogenic Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon in a Typical Urban City Center, Owerri, Nigeria
Authors: Ogochukwu Ukachukwu, Chidinma , Chika Udebuani, Angela , Nicholas Ugwu, Tochukwu
Published: May 2022

The study screened the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic PAH in urban city center Owerri, Imo State. Soxhlet extraction-gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (SE-GC-FID) method was used to analyze PAH concentrations in the different environmental component to determine its impact. Result of the physicochemical properties of the spent engine oil polluted soil sample showed that exchangeable base (4.67g/kg), exchangeable acidity (1.25g/kg), organic carbon (6.32g/kg), organic matter (6.45g/kg), percentage nitrogen (0.46%), were higher in the polluted soil when compared to soil collected from a non-polluted agricultural farm. However, the effective cation exchange capacity (9.27g/kg), was lower in the polluted soil sample although, the pH value of the polluted soil was acidic. Result of the water sample collected from urban city center, showed that water sample properties of turbidity and magnesium, had mean values of 9.6±1.10mg/l and 26.7±0.08mg/l, respectively. Five carcinogenic PAH were detected in soil, water and sediment of the study area. The concentration of PAHs detected were within the range of 0.55±0.1 and 0.87±0.11 for sediment and water samples while, spent engine oil polluted sample and Abattoir soil sample were found in the range of 2.25±0.11 and 0.50±0.01 respectively. However, the detection of these carcinogenic PAH obtained from the different sampling point suggest the toxicity propensity of these pollutant.
Influence of Agrosystems on the Diversity of Mycorrhizae under Plantain Banana Cultivation in the Forest Region of Kisangani (Tshopo Province, DR Congo)
Authors: Kasaka D. , Onautshu O. , Muliwambene K. , Lebisabo B. , Katho G. , Baert G. , Swennen R. , Haesaert G. , Dhed'a D.
Published: May 2022

The largest genetic diversity of plantain banana (Musa AAB subgroup) is found by DRCongo. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are synergistic beneficial organisms with a positive effect on growth vigor. We determined the influence of plantain banana-based agrosystems on the diversity of AMF in agroforestry and home-garden field systems located in the Kisangani region of DR Congo. Soil samples of the different agrosystems showed a high mycorrhizal frequency (82.5%) with an overall mycorrhizal rate of 33.43%. Vigorous plantain plants are growing in soils that rich in AMF spores whereas non vigorous ones were found in soils that had few AMF spores. There were also significant differences between cultivars, in terms of the number of spores. Glomus was the most abundant genus followed by Gigaspora, Acaulospora, Scutellospora and Entrophospora. The diversity indices evaluated, richness, abundance and Shannon_H showed non-significant difference between agroforestry and home-garden plantains. However, agroforestry plantains showed a larger Inv-Simpson and Equitability-J index than home-garden plantains. Soil physico-chemical characteristics had an effect on abundance of mycorrhizal genera in all inventoried mycorrhizal taxa.
Antibiotic Suscepibility Studies on Escherichia coli O157:H7 Isolated from Vegetables Sold at Sokoto, North Western, Nigeria
Authors: Nuhu A. , Obiora U. F.
Published: May 2022

Aim: The study was aimed at antibiotic susceptibility studies on Escherichia coli O157: H7 isolated from vegetables sold at Sokoto Central Market, Northwestern, Nigeria.

Study Design: The study is a cross-sectional study involving sampling of vegetables sold at Central Market, Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria.

Place and Duration of Study: The study area is Shehu Shagari Central Market Sokoto were sample are collected and analyzed at central Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria. The research was conducted over a period of six (6) months (January, 2019 – June, 2019).

Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving sampling of vegetables sold at Central Market, Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria. Vegetable samples were processed and inoculated unto sorbiol MacConkey’s agar (SMAC) at a pH of 7.2 for the isolation of Escherichia coli by streaking method. Antibiotic susceptibility test was carried out on Escherichia coli which were isolated from the samples analyzed using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Isolates DNA was extracted using MiniPrep kit (Zymo research (ZR) California, USA) and then samples were amplified in separate reactions using the GeneAmp PCR (Polymerised chain reaction) System 9700 thermocycler for Escherichia coli O157: H7 specific gene detection.

Results: The presence of E. coli O157:H7 in vegetable samples was 2 (1.25%) and significantly low. High sensitivity patterns were observed against ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ceftazidine and cefuroxine. Resistance was found to be high for amoxycillin-clavulanic acid and gentamicin.

Conclusion: Although there was significantly low prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 in vegetable samples, investigation of non-0157 shiga toxin producing E. coli (STEC) is therefore required.
Evaluation of Advanced Kenyan Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Genotypes for Resistance to Stem Rust (Puccinia graminis Pers:.Pers. f.sp tritici Eriks. & E. Henn.) Race Ttksk and Its Variants
Authors: Ambula Kaisha Victor , James Owuoche , Charimbu Miriam Karwitha
Published: May 2022

Stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis Pers:.Pers. f.sp tritici affects all the aerial parts of wheat and barley plants leading to yield losses. The objective of this study was to determine the level of resistance in advanced Kenyan barley lines to stem rust race TTKSK and its variants. The greenhouse and field experiments were laid in complete block design and randomized complete block design respectively with all experiments replicated three times. The experiments were conducted at Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization- Njoro. In the greenhouse experiment, forty genotypes were sown in perforated plastic pots and when the seedlings attained two-leaf stage, stem rust isolate collected from wheat variety, KS Mwamba was used to inoculate the genotypes. In the field, forty genotypes were sown in a one meter twin rows of each genotype were planted and all agronomic practices implement except management of stem rust disease. Infection types (IT) on the seedlings were observed and data collected following a scale described by Stakman et al. 1962. Disease severity data was collected according to modified Cobbs scale and then subjected to Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC). All genotypes showed immunity to moderate resistance at seedling level ranging from 0 to 2+. Adult plant reactions to race TTKSK and its variants ranged from an overlap of moderately resistant (MR) to susceptible (S). In all genotypes AUDPC ranged from 225.83 to 887.92 for under this study and the Coefficient of Infection ranged from 13 to 47. High levels of slow rusting were observed in only 12.5% of the genotypes tested while 10% of the genotypes had low levels. 77.5% of the genotypes had moderate levels of slow rusting.  The genotypes with high levels of slow rusting can be advanced for release as varieties or be included in barley breeding.
Geophysical Well Log Appraisal of Okpella Field within Offshore Niger Delta Basin of Nigeria
Authors: Waziri E. U. , Udensi E. E. , Unuevho C. I. , Jimoh M. O. , Alhassan U. D. , Salako K. A. , Solomon A. A.
Published: May 2022

The Production data of Okpella Field, located within the Offshore Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria, revealed that the Okpella Field attained peak annual hydrocarbon production of 430175 MBO (Million Barrel of Oil) in 2008, and the production has presently dropped to 7839 MBO per annum. Therefore, an appraisal study was conducted to identify opportunities for reversing the low production. The sought opportunities were bypassed reservoirs with pay zones. This study uses geophysical Well log data, Biostratigraphic data, and Production data to appraise  Okpella Field. The hydrocarbon production data were analyzed for the produced reservoirs to establish the positive effects of the Bypassed hydrocarbon reservoirs zone within Okpella Field Offshore Niger Delta Basin. Before this study, the operating company had previously identified six reservoirs. They were named major reservoirs Sand A to F, of which major reservoirs B, C, and E are gas-bearing, major reservoir D bears gas and oil, and major reservoir F bears condensates. Three additional reservoirs with pay zones were identified within this study, and they were named Bypassed A to C. Bypassed A is gas bearing, Bypassed B is oil and gas and Bypassed C is oil-bearing. The petrophysical analysis of the wells within  Okpella Field determined the various reservoir properties such as the gross thickness, net thickness, net to gross ratio, the volume of shale, porosity, and hydrocarbon saturation of the major reservoir and bypassed reservoir zones. Some of the reservoirs are amalgamated upward coarsening sand bodies of distal fan lobes within the Low-stand systems tract. Others are leveed channel proximal. The Biostratigraphy data were integrated with the stacking pattern of the Gamma-ray log motif, revealing the sequence boundaries and inferring the possible depositional environment. The reservoirs within the Okpella Field were deposited within the Low-Stand System Tract (LST), reflecting a high energy environment, possibly the shoreface depositional environment.
Isolation of Fluoroquinolones Resistant Salmonella spp. from Stool Samples of Patients Attending General Hospital Minna and Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Specialist Hospital, Minna, Nigeria
Authors: Angulu Caleb Ndako , Adabara Nasiru Usman , Mamman Godiya Peter , Olusola Lucy Fatima , Jesse Innocent Apameio , Kin Agholor , Peace Oleghe Omoikhudu
Published: May 2022

Typhoid fever continues to be a major health problem despite the use of antibiotics and the development of newer antibacterial drugs. This study aim was to isolate fluoroquinolones resistant Salmonella spp from stool samples of informed and consenting patient attending General Hospital and Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Specialist Hospital in Minna Niger State Nigeria. A total 450 stool samples were collected from the Hospital. The results showed that 69 (30.4%) of the sample collected were positive for Salmonella species. On the basis of age children within the age range of 0-10 recorded the highest prevalence of 22.7% followed by age range 51-60 having the prevalence of 19.4%, age range >60 had the prevalence of 16.7% and age range 21-30 and 11-20 had a similar prevalence of (10.1% and 10.3% respectively) while age range 31-40 had the least prevalence of 7.8%. There were 69 isolates of Salmonella species Identified, 65(94.2%) were Resistant to the antibiotics used. The highest resistance was shown to Pefloxacin 62 (89.9%) and the lowest was shown to Ciprofloxacin 27 (39.1%). Salmonella species exhibited 52 antibiotic resistant patterns for the ten antibiotics tested with multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) ranging from 0.3-1.0. Molecular analysis was carried out on 5 representative isolates to identify their strains. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay showed the identified Salmonella strains were Salmonella enterica subsp. arizonae strain ATCC 13314, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhi strain 2018K-0756, Salmonella bongori strain SL18, Salmonella bongori strain GH3Rp and Salmonella enterica subsp. arizonae strain ATCC 13314, they all showed resistance to fluoroquinolones.
Assessment of Bacterial Contaminants and Nutritional Profiles of Mung Bean Sprouts (Vigna radiate L)
Authors: Abedin Mohammad Zakerin , Karmaker Pranab , Khan Mala , Shilpi Rasheda Yasmin
Published: May 2022

Background: Aerobic bacteria were found as contaminants in mung bean sprouts (Vigna radiate L). They are also well-known for their excellent nutritional value as well as their ease of digestion. They are rich in calories, total carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, macronutrients, and vitamins.

Aim: To evaluate bacterial isolates and parameters of nutritional content of native mung bean sprouts and finally to assess the antimicrobial susceptibility testing of bacterial isolates to decide which antimicrobial agent should be utilized against certain bacterial strains.

Methodology: Total viable bacterial isolates were enumerated by the spread plate method, and bacterial species were determined from the selected culture media with biochemical analysis. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns were performed by the Kirby-Bauer Disk Diffusion Method and minimum inhibitory concentrations were measured using the VITEK®-2 Compact system. The nutritional composition of the sprouts was assessed using procedures suggested by the AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists).

Results: The contaminated bacterial levels were relatively lower and the higher level of total aerobic plate counts was 7.60 log10 CFU/g and 8.46 log10 CFU/g, respectively. In this study, 20 (40.8%) of mung bean sprout bacteria were lactose fermenters, such as E. cloacae complex 9 (18.4%), E. coli 8 (16.3%), and K. pneumonie 3 (6.1%), which fermented lactose to produce acidic environments that appeared as pink colonies, and 15 (30.6%) of non-lactose fermenters, namely A. baumannii 7 (14.43%) and P. aeruginosa 8 (16.3%), produced normally colorless colonies, but the rest of 14 (28.6%) were late lactose fomenters of S. marcescens grown in red-pigmented colonies in culture media. Thirteen commercially available antibiotics were used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing of bacterial isolates. Eighteen nutritional parameters were evaluated for both raw and dry sprouts.

Conclusion: Mung bean sprouts have numerous health benefits. Because of the high number of outbreaks associated with the presence of hazardous organisms, strict safety standards must be followed.
Hidden biochemical fossils reveal an evolutionary trajectory for glycolysis in the prebiotic era
Authors: Kalapos Miklós Péter , de Bari Lidia
Published: May 2022

Glycolysis is present in nearly all organisms alive today. This article proposes an evolutionary trajectory for the development of glycolysis in the framework of the chemoautotrophic theory for the origin of life. In the proposal, trioses and triose‐phosphates were appointed to starting points. The six‐carbon and the three‐carbon intermediates developed in the direction of gluconeogenesis and glycolysis, respectively, differing from the from‐bottom‐to‐up development of enzymatic glycolysis. The examination of enzymatic reaction mechanisms revealed that the enzymes incorporated chemical mechanisms of the nonenzymatic stage, making possible to identify kinship between glyoxalases and glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase as well as methylglyoxal synthase and triose‐phosphate isomerase. This developmental trajectory may shed light on how glycolysis might have developed in the nonenzymatic era.
Proposal of LCZ categories and standards considering super high‐rise buildings suited for Asian cities based on the analysis of urban morphological properties of Tokyo
Authors: Chiba Erina , Ishida Yasuyuki , Wang Zheng , Mochida Akashi
Published: May 2022

The Local Climate Zone (LCZ) scheme is an urban classification system which classifies urban areas into discrete local climates by morphological and land cover characteristics, proposed based on urban heat island researches in 1970s to 2000s. However, while the original scheme defines high‐rise buildings as areas higher than 25 m on average, buildings over 100 m have become more common in Asia since the 2000s. With the heterogeneity of urban areas, directly applying the original LCZ scheme to Asian cities has become difficult. Studies to incorporate the heterogeneity of urban morphology into the scheme have been conducted by researchers, although the increase in the number of taller buildings is not explored. This study proposes, LCZ categories and standards considering the super high‐rise buildings in Asian cities for a detailed categorization of urban morphology. For this, the urban morphological characteristics of Tokyo Metropolis, with a wide range of morphologies that exist in Asian cities, were analyzed. The proposal was made based on this analysis in relation to the thermal characteristics. Then, the characteristics of land surface temperature in each LCZ category were investigated in Shanghai and Xi'an, which indicated the applicability of the proposed categories to mid to large scale Asian cities.
Remission and Low Disease Activity in Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis and Microscopic Polyangiitis: Prevalence and Impact on Damage Accrual
Authors: Delvino Paolo , Sardanelli Federica , Monti Sara , Cohen Pascal , Puéchal Xavier , Mouthon Luc , Montecucco Carlomaurizio , Guillevin Loïc , Terrier Benjamin
Published: May 2022

Objective

To assess the prevalence and impact on damage accrual of different levels of disease activity in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA).

Methods

Patients with GPA and MPA followed for ≥5 years in 2 different centers were included. Disease activity and damage were assessed using the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS) and Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI), respectively. Three levels of remission were defined: complete remission (BVAS = 0, negative for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody [ANCA], off treatment), clinical remission off therapy (CROffT; BVAS = 0, positive for ANCA), and clinical remission on therapy (CROnT; BVAS = 0, negative or positive for ANCA, glucocorticoids ≤5 mg/day and/or immunosuppressant). A low disease activity state (LDAS) was defined as 0 < BVAS ≤3, low‐dose glucocorticoids (≤7.5 mg/day), and/or immunosuppressant. Remission or LDAS were defined as prolonged when lasting ≥2 consecutive years.

Results

A total of 167 patients were included: 128 (76.6%) with GPA, 39 (23.4%) with MPA, mean ± SD age 51.0 ± 16.7 years. During a 5‐year follow‐up, 10 patients (6.0%) achieved prolonged complete remission, 6 (3.6%) prolonged CROffT, 89 (53.3%) prolonged CROnT, 42 (25.1%) prolonged LDAS, and 20 (12.0%) never achieved LDAS. The VDI score at 5 years progressively worsened according to increasing levels of disease activity targets (complete remission, CROffT, CROnT, and LDAS). The mean ± SD 5‐year VDI score was higher in patients not achieving prolonged remission compared to those who did (3.7 ± 2.0 versus 2.2 ± 1.9; P < 0.0001). By multivariate analysis, baseline ear, nose, and throat (P = 0.006), and lung involvement (P = 0.047) were negative predictors of prolonged remission.

Conclusion

More than 60% of patients with GPA/MPA achieved prolonged remission, which was associated with better long‐term outcomes. In contrast, prolonged LDAS correlated with increased damage accrual and was not a sufficient treatment target.
Impact of Clinical Association Between Gout and Dementia: A Nationwide Population‐Based Cohort Study in Korea
Authors: Kim Ji Hyoun , Yim Dong‐Hyuk , Choi In Ah , Lee Jeonghwan , Park Hyemi , Eom Sang‐Yong
Published: May 2022

Objective

Hyperuricemia might have neuroprotective or neurodegenerative effects on dementia via oxidative stress or inflammatory response regulation. Few studies have explored the association of hyperuricemia or gout with dementia. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the association between gout and dementia in Korea.

Methods

Altogether, 5,052 gout patients and 25,260 age‐ and sex‐matched controls were selected from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS)–National Sample Cohort database. The incidence and risk of dementia were evaluated by reviewing the NHIS record. We also performed a subgroup analysis according to age group (age <65 or ≥65 years) using the standard age of 65 years for elderly and nonelderly groups and sex.

Results

During follow‐up, 81 and 558 participants in the gout and control cohorts developed dementia, respectively. The mean follow‐up duration was 4.38 years in gout patients and 4.94 years in controls. Gout patients had a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.79 for overall dementia (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.62–1.00) and significantly lower Alzheimer's disease risk (HR 0.73 [95% CI 0.54–0.98]) after adjusting for age, sex, household income, and comorbidities. In subgroup analysis stratified by age and sex, the inverse association between gout and the risk of overall dementia (HR 0.71 [95% CI 0.52–0.97]) and Alzheimer's disease (HR 0.67 [95% CI 0.46–0.97]) were observed in the elderly male group. On the other hand, age‐ and sex‐adjusted analysis showed that the HR for vascular dementia of gout patients was 2.31 (95% CI 1.02–5.25) in the nonelderly male group.

Conclusion

Gout decreased the risk of incident Alzheimer's disease–type dementia, especially in elderly patients. The association between gout and dementia risk may differ according to age and disease duration.
Electro‐Thermo Controlled Water Valve Based on 2D Graphene–Cellulose Hydrogels
Authors: Yang Kou , Chen Musen , Wang Qian , Grebenchuk Sergey , Chen Siyu , Leng Xuanye , Novoselov Kostya S. , Andreeva Daria V.
Published: May 2022

Novel 2D hydrogels with coupled electro‐thermoregulation for water transport are constructed via self‐assembly of hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) with graphene oxide (GO) and reduced GO (rGO), where the capability of HPC to switch between hydrophobic and hydrophilic states is exploited. Amphiphilic GO surface is used to guide the ordering and alignment of liquid crystalline HPC domains. The changes in conformation and alignment of HPC serve as a switch for optical properties and water transport. A composite consisting of electrically conductive rGO and 2D hydrogel is developed to produce thermal stimulus and thus construct an electro‐thermo controlled valve for regulated water transfer. The prepared 2D hydrogel has a large swelling rate, outstanding mechanical properties (Young's modulus is 2.5 GPa), and superior electrical conductivity (176 S cm−1). The ability of HPC domains to change conformation in 2D confinement, when Joule heating is applied, can function as a 2D low footprint water switcher with optical control in smart membranes. The proposed sustainable approach to self‐assembly of HPC in 2D confinement of GO and rGO is applicable to the whole family of lower critical solution temperature polymers. Thus, a ubiquitous and sustainable synthesis of novel low dimensional robust multifunctional hydrogels is demonstrated.
Advancing Tissue Decellularized Hydrogels for Engineering Human Organoids
Authors: Moura Beatriz S. , Monteiro Maria V. , Ferreira Luís P. , Lavrador Pedro , Gaspar Vítor M. , Mano João F.
Published: May 2022

The extracellular matrix plays a critical role in bioinstructing cellular self‐assembly and spatial (re)configuration processes that culminate in human organoids in vitro generation and maturation. Considering the importance of the supporting matrix, herein is showcased the most recent advances in the bioengineering of decellularized tissue hydrogels for generating organoids and assembloids. Key design blueprints, characterization methodologies, and extracellular matrix processing toolboxes are comprehensively discussed in light of current advances. Such enabling approaches provide the grounds for engineering next‐generation tissue‐specific hydrogels with close‐to‐native biomolecular signatures and user‐tailored biophysical properties that may potentiate organoids physiomimetic potential. In a forward looking perspective, the combination of tissue‐specific decellularized hydrogels with increasingly complex multicellular assemblies and bottom‐up cell engineering technologies may unravel unprecedented tissue‐like physiological responses and further advance the exploitation of organoids and assembloids as human disease surrogates or as patient‐tailored living therapeutics.
Cholinium Cations Enable Highly Compact and Dendrite‐Free Zn Metal Anodes in Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Nie Xueyu , Miao Licheng , Yuan Wentao , Ma Guoqiang , Di Shengli , Wang Yuanyuan , Shen Shigang , Zhang Ning
Published: May 2022

Metallic Zn is believed to be an ideal anode for aqueous batteries, but its reversibility is deteriorated by noncompact and dendritic Zn deposition along with interfacial parasitic reactions. Herein, it is reported that introducing cholinium (Ch+) cations into aqueous electrolytes enables a spatially compact, non‐dendritic, and corrosion‐free Zn electrode even at high areal capacity (5.0 and 10.0 mAh cm–2) using a pressure‐free electrolytic cell. This strategy is applicable to various Zn‐salt‐based aqueous electrolytes (e.g., 1 M ZnSO4, Zn(CH3COO)2, and ZnCl2). It is found that bulky Ch+ cations create a “leveling effect” to homogenize Zn deposition and render an H2O poor electrical double layer near Zn by favorably absorbing on the Zn surface. Moreover, Ch+ cations with –OH group disrupt the original H‐bonded network of water to reduce H2O‐induced side reactions and promote the Zn2+ de‐solvation by forming H‐bond with H2O. As a result, the Zn electrode in the optimized 1 M ZnSO4 with 4 M Ch+ electrolyte manifests remarkable electrochemical performances involving high Coulombic efficiency of 99.6% in Zn//Cu cell and prolonged cycling stability over 2000 h in Zn//Zn cell (1.0 mA cm–2, 1.0 mAh cm–2). This work provides a new strategy for the design of compact and dendrite‐free Zn battery chemistry.