bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Socio-economic Status of Tomato Growers in Solan District of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Sherpa Tenzing Palmu , Rana Pratima , Sharma Parvani , . Samriti
Published: February 2023

Tomato is one of the most consumed and produced horticulture crops in the world. It is more economical than food grains due to their higher production per unit area in less time as they provide a good source of income to farmers. The present study has been conducted to study the socio-economic status of tomato growers in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. The multi-stage sampling technique and pre-tested interview schedule were used for data collection for the study. A sample was collected from eight villages in Solan district to make a total sample size of 80 tomato growers in the study area for the agricultural year 2021-2022. Mean, percentage, frequency, and standard deviation were used to find out the socio-economic status of tomato growers. The result revealed that majority i.e., 80 per cent of tomato growers belonged to middle aged group and 33.75 per cent had primary school education. About 76.25 per cent of tomato growers had joint family with 3 to 7 family members. 77.5 per cent of tomato growers had 0.5 to 3.17 bigha under tomato cultivation with 11 to 42 years of farming experience. The gross income of tomato growers was Rs. 60,000 per bigha and net income was Rs. 38,353 per bigha. The output input ratio worked out to be 1.77. The majority i.e., 55 per cent of tomato growers had medium level of socio-economic class. This study suggests the appointment of more extension personnel at grass root level. This study will be helpful in developing suitable and effective extension programmes to increase tomato production.
Research on Abstraction Ability under the Background of Mathematics Key Competencies in Junior High School in China
Authors: Sun Qin , Yang Zezhong
Published: February 2023

The abstraction ability in junior high school is an extension of the number sense, quantity sense, and symbolic awareness in primary school, and the foundation of mathematical abstraction in senior high school. Abstraction ability is one of the key competencies that junior high school students must have. This study used the China Knowledge Network(CNKI) as a data source to analyze previous research to find out the current situations, deficiencies, and gaps in this direction and found that: (1) Current domestic research on abstraction ability against the background of mathematics key competencies mainly focuses on the following five aspects: strategies for cultivating students' abstraction ability, development status of abstraction ability, evaluation dimension division of abstraction ability, specific manifestations of abstraction ability, influencing factors of students' abstraction ability. (2) The cultivation strategies of students' abstraction ability mainly focus on six aspects, and the researchers have given more comprehensive training suggestions. The previous research mainly investigated the situations of students' abstraction ability and teachers' teaching on the training of abstraction ability. Almost all of the evaluation dimension division of abstraction ability is based on students' mastery of mathematical concepts, principles, rules, and ways of thinking in different situations. There is less research on the specific manifestations and influencing factors of abstraction ability. (3) Based on current research, future research needs to adopt more scientific research tools, a more reasonable analysis framework, expand the research scope, increase validation research, and give more scientific suggestions. So that the research on the abstraction ability of junior high school students is more comprehensive, systematic, and profound.
Comparative Analysis of Heavy Metals Concentration in Soil and Vegetable (Vernonia amygdalina) Collected from Two Sampling Sites (Farmland and Dumpsite) and the Effect on Plant DNA
Authors: Adu A. A. , Aderinola O. J. , Alaka R. O. , Olakunle O. E.
Published: February 2023

Different studies have shown that Vernonia amygdalina is enriched with proteins, fats, fibres, amino acids, minerals vitamins, and carbohydrates but no record yet on the level of heavy metals in Vernonia amygdalina collected from Ojota (dumpsite) and Badagry (control) in Lagos state. Samples of V. amygdalina were collected and analyzed for metals using standard method, while differences in concentrations were analyzed using t-test analysis at level of significance set at p=0.05. The results recorded in mg/100g for the metals content (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn) in the plant across the two stations were not significantly different (p>0.05). The Zn in leaf and stem (100.157 ±1.351, 45.743± 3.664) respectively from dumpsite were significantly higher than that of farmland (91.468 ± 2.386, 35.505 ±1.662). Also, Zn content in the root from farmland (73.671 ±2.205) was higher than that of dumpsite (69.515 ± 2.312). All the values of N, P and K recorded in the leaf, stem and roots of bitter leaf from both sites were different significantly (p<0.05). The most frequent nutrient in the leaf, stem and root of the bitter leaf was K, followed by N while the least was P. In contrast, the root contained the highest K, followed by the leaf and then the stem. The DNA band of V. amygdalina from both sites showed no alteration. In conclusion, bitter leaves from both sites were rich in minerals (N, P, and K) though their values were higher at the dumpsites. However, heavy metals content in V. amygdalina at both sites being within standard permissible limits imply it is safe for human consumption.
Beneficial Effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa in Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: Okafor Chizoba C. , Obiandu Chibuike , Owhorji Bright I. , Oriji Eunice I. , Laz-Okenwa Joy
Published: February 2023

Hibiscus sabdariffa is a yearly shrub that is widely grown in some Asian and African countries including Nigeria where it is commonly prepared as a hot or cold beverage and also used as medicine. It is applied in folklore remedies in the treatment of some ailments. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of the aqueous calyx extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa on some biochemical parameters of diabetic male Wistar rats. The rats were divided into four (4) groups of five (5) rats each. Group one (1) which served as non diabetic (negative) control received distilled water only. Group 2 served as diabetic control and received distilled water after alloxan-induced diabetes. Group three (3) and group four (4) were diabetic rats that received 250mg/kg bw and 500mg/kg bw of the aqueous calyx extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa respectively, for a period of four (4) weeks. The Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS version 21.0) was used for the analysis. Differences between group means was tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and compared using the post hoc test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results obtained showed that the higher dose of the extract caused a significant decrease in blood glucose level in 4 weeks of the study. The changes observed in the plasma concentrations of electrolytes indicated that the extract significantly improved diabetes induced decrease in Cl- level while changes in Na+, K+ and HCO3- were not statistically significant. It also significantly improved lipid profile and reduced oxidative stress in diabetic male Wistar rats. This study revealed that, the calyx extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa demonstrated anti-hyperglycemic effects in diabetic Wistar rats.
The Effect of Increasing Temperature on Crime
Authors: Faradiba Faradiba
Published: February 2023

Climate change is often associated with society's socioeconomic conditions, impacting people's welfare. On an ongoing basis, the level of interest will affect the crime rate in an area. This study aims to determine the effect of temperature changes on theft and abuse. The data used in this study are temperature data and data on theft and abuse. Besides that, this study also uses other data such as regional status, GRDP per capita, and village classification to test the model. This research uses the multiple linear regression method. The results obtained in this study showed that an increase in temperature impacted the theft and abuse that occurred in an area. Gradually increasing temperature reduces people's productivity, which will affect the level of people's welfare. The government's role is to handle this problem quickly and thoroughly. In addition, mitigating public interest due to the impact of climate change is an essential issue in maintaining the stability of the socioeconomic conditions of the community.
Determination of the Physicochemical Parameters and Pollution Indices in Soils of Obodo Community in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Okoro Duke , Ubah Lucy Ginika , Diejomaoh Lily Chovwe
Published: February 2023

Oil and gas activities are one of the environmental concerns in the crude oil-rich areas of the Niger Delta. This study aimed to determine the physicochemical level and some pollution indices in the soils of the Obodo community in Delta State to ascertain if there is an anthropogenic influence on the soil quality. Soil samples were collected from 14 sampling stations and 2 control stations during the wet and dry seasons from two soil depths (topsoil, 0 - 15cm) and (subsoil, 15-30cm) according to standard methods and procedures. The study results revealed elevated concentrations of total hydrocarbon content, polyaromatic hydrocarbon, total petroleum hydrocarbon and sulphate with mean values of 138.45 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 147.66 mg/kg (subsoil); 52.62 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 30.01 mg/kg (subsoil); 229.95 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 160.33 mg/kg (subsoil); 54.89 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 44.88 mg/kg (subsoil) during the wet season respectively; and mean values of 172.94 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 151.46 mg/kg (subsoil); 11.11 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 10.25 mg/kg (subsoil); 19.63 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 17.99 mg/kg (subsoil); 22.57 mg/kg  (topsoil) and 19.95 mg/kg (subsoil) during the dry season respectively. The high concentrations observed in this study indicates anthropogenic influence that may be due to oil spillage, emission from vehicle exhaust, incomplete combustion of coal, and the use of inorganic fertilizer. The results of the index of geo-accumulation and contamination factor showed that the levels of heavy metals were those of unpolluted soil except for the cadmium concentration observed in the topsoil of the study area, which showed moderate pollution during the wet season. The low pH values and a higher percentage of sand in the soil infer that the low heavy metals concentration observed in this study may be due to cations leaching down the aquifer which requires further studies to examine the groundwater quality.
Influence of Nano Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizer on Yield and Nutrient Content of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Maheta Aishwarya , Gaur Divya , Bhanvadia A. S. , Ramani V. P. , Patel Swati , Amin Parth
Published: February 2023

The study entitled, “Influence of nano nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer on yield and nutrient content of maize (Zea mays L.)” was undertaken by conducting a laboratory experiment of synthesis and characterization of nitrogen and phosphorus nano-fertilizer and a field experiment at Regional Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat) during summer and kharif seasons of the year 2021. The field experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design comprising fourteen treatments of T1[Control(No NPK)], T2[100% RDF (150 N-60 P-0 K kg ha-1)], T3[75% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (1000 ppm)], T4[75% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (2000 ppm)], T5[75% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (3000 ppm)], T6[50% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (1000 ppm)], T7[50% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (2000 ppm)], T8[50 % RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (3000 ppm)], T9 [25% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (1000 ppm)] and T10[25% RDF.

+ Nano N and P through foliar application (2000 ppm)], T11[25% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (3000 ppm)], T12[ Seed treatment Nano N and P + Nano N and P through foliar application (1000 ppm)], T13[ Seed treatment Nano N and P + Nano N and P through foliar application (2000 ppm)], T14[ Seed treatment Nano N and P + Nano N and P through foliar application (3000 ppm)]. In case of seed treatment with nitrogen and phosphorus NPs, seeds were soaked in nitrogen and phosphorus NPs suspension of 1000 ppm for 2 hours. The foliar application was made during crop growth period with three sprays at 15, 30 and 60 DAS of the crop. The treatments were tested against the control. Signficantly higher grain yield, straw yield, nitrogen and phosphorus content in maize was recorded was achieved under application of T4- 75% RDF + Nano N and P through foliar application (2000 ppm) during both seasons.
Effect of Organic and Inorganic Mulches on Quality and Soil Analysis in Ridge Gourd (Luffa acutangula L.)
Authors: Sushma K. , Padma M. , Rajkumar M. , Goud Ch. Raja , Kumar B. Naveen , Gouthami P.
Published: February 2023

Aim: To study the effect of different mulches on quality and soil parameters on ridge gourd.

Study Design: The experiment was carried out with 7 treatments in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The research trial was carried out at P.G block, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, SKLTSHU, Hyderabad during Kharif, 2021 and summer, 2022.

Results: Among the organic and inorganic mulch treatments, the results reported that the silver- black polyethylene mulch recorded the highest fruit quality, soil analysis and benefit-cost ratio compared to other mulches.
Electrochemical Determination of Hg2+ on a Poly (Eriochrome Blue Black R) Modified Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Mahamane Abdoulkadri Ayouba , Kalidou Abdoulaye Idrissa , Adamou Hassane , Sahirou Bachir Mijitaba , Walcarius Alain , Adamou Rabani
Published: February 2023

In this work a new, simple, fast, and efficient electrochemical approach for the determination of inorganic mercury (Hg2+) using the differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) technique was presented. This is achieved by modifying the surface of a carbon paste electrode by electropolymerization of Eriochrome blue black R. First, the behavior of Hg2+ on the modified electrode is studied by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, to evaluate performance and understand the phenomena that take place on its surface. DPASV is then used to optimize the sensor in HClO4 medium. After optimization, a linear calibration graph was obtained in the concentration range of 1x10-9 to 9x10-9 mol.L-1 with correlation coefficient R2= 0.9975%, the limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) obtained are respectively 3.23x10-10 mol.L-1 and 1.07x10-9 mol.L-1. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for 7 measurements is 3.07%, which proves that this sensor is reproducible. Finally, this method has been successfully applied in real samples of water and the results obtained are satisfactory because the recovery rates of Hg2+ vary from 99.2 to 100.1%.
Impact of COVID-19 on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh: An Owner-centric Study
Authors: Hossain Md. Tanjil , Rahman Md. Habibur , Dey Ankon Chandra , Mia Md. Lizon
Published: February 2023

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are an essential part of Bangladesh's economy, contributing significantly to the country's gross domestic product (GDP). The study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the owners of SMEs in Bangladesh. To serve this purpose, cross-sectional data were collected from 103 participants using a purposive sampling technique. We generated different frequency distribution tables based on our inputted data, and then the results of the study were presented using descriptive statistics. The results of the study showed that 58.3% of the SMEs were completely shut down due to COVID-19 pandemic. We also observed that the demand for goods reduced by 83.5%, while production costs increased by 21.4%. Thus, the overall production of goods in SMEs decreased by 48.5%. Most of the owners (90.3%) stated that their profit was dropped by 50% to 100% during corona pandemic, and 68.9% of owners had to retrench workers from their organizations to reduce costs. Approximately, 78.3% of respondents stated that their products remained unsold from 10% to 70% during the pandemic. The findings suggest that policymakers should advance the SME sector by incorporating e-commerce, more favorable government policies, facilitating bank loans, and establishing new training institutions to solve the existing drawbacks of this sector.
DOSSIÊ EXPERIÊNCIAS ETNOGRÁFICAS
Authors: Carvalho Maria Rosário de , Pavelic Nathalie Le Bouler , Reesink Edwin B
Published: February 2023

O Dossiê Experiências Etnográficas se propôs a reunir propostas documentais e/ou experimentais, empíricas, apontamentos metodológicos e/ou reflexõesteóricas sobre a produção etnográfica na contemporaneidade. A significativaacolhida ao edital – 25 artigos submetidos – foi um indicador do interesse suscitado pelo tema junto ao conjunto de autores, alguns dos quais estão lançandomão da etnografia pela primeira vez
QUANDO O CAMPO É SUA PRÓPRIA UNIVERSIDADE:
Authors: Carade Hildon Oliveira Santiago
Published: February 2023

Este artigo propõe uma reflexão acerca de uma pesquisa realizada entre 2009 e 2011 sobre as relações entre uma instituição de ensino superior e uma parcela da sociedade, a saber, a Faculdade de Filosofia e Ciências Humanas (FFCH) da UFBA e os bairros situados em seu entorno. Tomo a seguinte questão como guia: como se dá a etnografia em um setor que vislumbra a si mesmo como estando para além dos limites do Estado? Por um lado, na letra oficial das instituições estatais, a universidade pública aparece como que desprovida de poderes executivos e legislativos, estando afiançada apenas de um  poder consultivo, tendo por prerrogativa a tarefa de auxiliar os gestores públicos na arte do bom governo. Por outro, etnografias sobre setores do Estado informam que as suas instituições, não raro, operam extrapolando o seu arcabouço legal/formal. Reside aí toda a questão, pois um relato sobre a vida privada de uma instituição da qual o antropólogo está vinculado inspira dois tipos de reações: aqueles que temem ser “avaliados” negativamente e terem, assim, seu sistema de representações ferido e aqueles que querem ver “o circo pegar fogo”, conquanto não voem faíscas a chamuscar suas reputações. Desta forma, a etnografia é enquadrada como um exercício de antropologia anti-social, nos termos do antropólogo David Mosse. No caso em tela, teme-se que a análise das relações  entre  a  FFCH  e  a sua vizinhança demonstre o quão esta entidade está enredada em condicionamentos e ideologias que, a princípio, seriam vistos como alheias a ela.
HIBRIDIZAÇÃO E CURIOSIDADE ETNOGRÁFICA EM UMA PERSPECTIVA MULTI-ESPÉCIE
Authors: Bollettin Paride
Published: February 2023

O texto visa refletir sobre a pratica etnográfica, entendida tanto como estar em quanto como narrar o campo, tendo como foco a emergência e as sugestões propostas pela etnografia multiespécie. A partir de uma possível visão do desenvolvimento histórico da etnografia enquanto pratica especifica de fazer experiência do(s) mundo(s), é evidenciado o surgimento da etnografia multiespécie no contexto das discussões sobre pós-humanismo. Em seguida será apresentado um caso de produção etnográfica focada em outros-que-humanos para evidenciar os elementos na base dessas propostas. Enfim, o texto discute as possibilidades de expandir a etnografia para incluir seres outro-que-humanos, enfatizando seus aspectos epistêmicos, ontológicos e morais. A proposta do texto é que a etnografia multiespécie oferece especificas possibilidades de extensão da etnografia a partir das noções de hibridização do conhecimento e de curiosidade etnográfica.
Low mortality rate in a large cohort of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD)
Authors: Lotan Itay , Romanow Gabriela , Salky Rebecca , Molazadeh Negar , Vishnevetsky Anastasia , Anderson Monique , Bilodeau Philippe Antoine , Cutter Gary , Levy Michael
Published: February 2023

The mortality rates of individuals with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD) are currently unknown. This study aimed to assess the mortality rate in a large cohort of patients with MOGAD. Since none of the patients in our cohort died, we estimated the upper limit of a 95% confidence interval of the crude mortality rate in the cohort to be 2.1%. These data suggest that mortality in MOGAD is lower than that reported in other neuroinflammatory diseases and comparable to the age‐adjusted mortality rates of the general population in the United States. Additional studies are warranted to confirm this observation.
Adaptive fuzzy gain‐varying finite‐time command filtered backstepping control for permanent magnet synchronous motors with mismatched disturbances
Authors: Wang Yupeng , Zhao Lin
Published: February 2023

This article investigates the position tracking control problem of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) with mismatched disturbances based on adaptive fuzzy gain‐varying finite‐time command filtered backstepping method. First, the anti‐disturbance ability of the system is improved by constructing gain‐varying functions instead of the traditional static gains. Then, the command filter is adopted to overcome the explosion of complexity in classical backstepping method, and the gain‐varying error compensation mechanisms are introduced to reduce the errors produced by command filters. In addition, the finite‐time control technique makes the tracking error converges to a small neighborhood of origin in finite time. The fuzzy logic systems (FLSs) are used to approximate the nonlinear functions with strong coupling of PMSMs systems, and this article further utilizes the characteristics of FLSs to separate the states and handle the coupling of PMSMs systems. Finally, the simulation results prove the validity of the proposed strategy.
Electrorheological Response Behavior of PANI@MoS2 Core–Shell Nanocomposites
Authors: Li Changhao , Chen Yi , Wang Liyue , Wang Zishuo , Lin Yusheng , Xiong Kesi , Wang Baoxiang , Hao Chuncheng
Published: February 2023

Electrorheological (ER) fluid, as an intelligent material, is a kind of suspension composed of polarized micro‐ and/or nanoparticles dispersed into insulating oil. In recent years, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), as the hottest 2D material, has provided a new strategy to develop the high‐performance ER materials. 2D‐based ER composites can provide large surface to enhance the polarization. But the MoS2 ER material has many disadvantages such as low polarization strength and high electrical conductivity. To make up these defects, polyaniline (PANI) is used to combine with lamellar MoS2. Herein, PANI and MoS2 hybrid composite nanoparticles with special morphology are prepared by two‐step method. The coating material has special morphology, high interfacial polarization, specific surface area, and low density. The optimum reaction ratio is obtained by adjusting the proportion of MoS2 and PANI. When the proportion of PANI and MoS2 is 4:1, the material performance is best, in which the shear stresses can reach 150 Pa. In a word, it is proved that the material is an excellent electrorheological material.
Bioinspired Hierarchical Self‐Assembled Nanozyme for Efficient Antibacterial Treatment
Authors: Song Ningning , Yu Yue , Zhang Yinuo , Wang Zhengdi , Guo Zhanjun , Zhang Jianlin , Zhang Changbin , Liang Minmin
Published: February 2023

Along with the rapid development and ever‐deepening understanding of nanoscience and nanotechnology, nanomaterials hold promise to mimic the highly evolved biological exquisite nanostructures and sophisticated functions. Here, inspired by the ubiquitous antibacterial nanostructures on the wing surfaces of some insects, a NiCo2O4 nanozyme with self‐adaptive hierarchical nanostructure is developed that can capture bacteria of various morphotypes via the physico‐mechanical interaction between the nanostructure and bacteria. Moreover, the developed biomimetic nanostructure further exhibits superior peroxidase‐like catalytic activity, which can catalytically generate highly toxic reactive oxygen species that disrupt bacterial membranes and induce bacterial apoptosis. Therefore, the mechano‐catalytic coupling property of this NiCo2O4 nanozyme allows for an extensive and efficient antibacterial application, with no concerns of antimicrobial resistance. This work suggests a promising strategy for the rational design of advanced antibacterial materials by mimicking biological antibiosis.
Recent Advances and Opportunities of Eco‐Friendly Ternary Copper Halides: A New Superstar in Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Ma Zhuangzhuang , Ji Xinzhen , Lin Shuailing , Chen Xu , Wu Di , Li Xinjian , Zhang Yu , Shan Chongxin , Shi Zhifeng , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: February 2023

Recently, the newly‐emerging lead‐free metal‐halide materials with less toxicity and superior optoelectronic properties have received wide attention as the safer and potentially more robust alternatives to lead‐based perovskite counterparts. Among them, ternary copper halides (TCHs) have become a vital group due to their unique features, including abundant structural diversity, ease of synthesis, unprecedented optoelectronic properties, high abundance, and low cost. Although the recent efforts in this field have made certain progresses, some scientific and technological issues still remain unresolved. Herein, a comprehensive and up‐to‐date overview of recent progress on the fundamental characteristics of TCH materials and their versatile applications is presented, which contains topics such as: i) crystal and electronic structure features and synthesis strategies; ii) mechanisms of self‐trapped excitons, luminescence regulation, and environmental stability; and iii) their burgeoning optoelectronic devices of phosphor‐converted white light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs), electroluminescent LEDs, anti‐counterfeiting, X‐ray scintillators, photodetectors, sensors, and memristors. Finally, the current challenges together with future perspectives on the development of TCH materials and applications are also critically described, which is considered to be critical for accelerating the commercialization of these rapidly evolving technologies.
Data on data: An analysis of data usage and analytics in the agricultural supply chain
Authors: Neto Lourival Carmo Monaco , Brewer Brady E. , Gray Allan W.
Published: February 2023

The amount of data being collected throughout the agricultural supply chain has increased in both volume and velocity. All signs indicate that this will only increase as data collection technologies become more cost effective and prevalent throughout the supply chain. Previous work in this area has focused on data collection at the farm level. Our study focuses on data that originates at five different stages of the agricultural supply chain off the farm and how these stages view their firm's data collection and analysis efforts. We find that there is heterogeneity in the data collection efforts and analysis across the agricultural supply chain. Improved customer satisfaction and improved decision making were the most important benefits to data collection. We also find that the expected benefits and challenges for implementation of these efforts are not universal. Companies that exist upstream in the supply chain are more likely to disagree on intended benefits and challenges.
Preparation and characterization of an eco‐friendly sand‐fixing agent utilizing nanosilica/polymer composites
Authors: Yuan Jinke , Pei Zuan , Yang Senlin , Yu Hao , Hu Xiaohong , Liu Hai
Published: February 2023

A novel sand‐fixing curing agent was developed and applied as a sustainable sand‐fixing material. This research prepared a self‐degradable, eco‐friendly sand‐fixing curing agent by using nanosilica and a polymer as the main raw materials (nanosilicon/polymer composite, NSPC), its mechanical properties and hydration mechanism were investigated. The results showed that adsorption of the NSPC on sand particles followed pseudo second‐order kinetics, and the optimum mixing time of the NSPC and sand was 3 h. The compressive strength of the sample reached 6.07 MPa after 28 days with the optimal mass ratio of NSPC and sand. After 20 freezing–thawing cycles, the compressive strength was 3.25 MPa. The results indicated that the NSPC improved the sand's capacity for water retention. The chemical reaction between the NSPC and sand particles occurred at the microlevel and improved the sand strength by bonding the particles together. The NSPC curing agent satisfied the requirements of sand‐fixing technology during 5 months of field tests. A mixture of the NSPC and sandy soil with a mass ratio of 1:3 is recommended for wind erosion control in the field. A field engineer in these situations may take advantage of the mixture to sprayed it onto the sandy surface.
Isotope‐Guided Metabolomics Reveals Divergent Incorporation of Valine into Different Flavor Precursor Classes in Chives
Authors: Freke Ricarda , Heinemann Björn , Hakim Samuel Edward , Witte Claus‐Peter , Herde Marco , Hildebrandt Tatjana M. , Franke Jakob
Published: February 2023

Plants of the genus Allium such as chives, onions or garlic produce S‐alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxides as flavor precursors. Two major representatives are S‐propenyl cysteine sulfoxide (isoalliin) and S‐propyl cysteine sulfoxide (propiin), which only differ by a double bond in the C3 side chain. The propenyl group of isoalliin is derived from the amino acid valine, but the source of the propyl group of propiin remains unclear. Here, we present an untargeted metabolomics approach in seedlings of chives (Allium schoenoprasum) to track mass features containing sulfur and/or 13C from labeling experiments with valine‐13C5 guided by their isotope signatures. Our data show that propiin and related propyl‐bearing metabolites incorporate carbon derived from valine‐13C5, but to a much lesser extent than isoalliin and related propenyl compounds. Our findings provide new insights into the biosynthetic pathways of flavor precursors in Allium species and open new avenues for future untargeted labeling experiments.
Mechanism and Origins of Site‐Selectivity of Template‐Directed C−H Insertion of Quinolines
Authors: Fernandez Gilberto E. , Maiti Debabrata , Tantillo Dean J.
Published: February 2023

The template‐directed C−H insertion of α,β‐unsaturated esters into quinoline was interrogated by using computational quantum chemistry. An energetically viable mechanism for this complex multistep transformation was elucidated, with attention paid throughout to conformational flexibility and alternative ligand binding modes. The selectivity was found to correlate with distortion from a tetrahedral geometry for the carbon atom involved in C−H insertion, a parameter that can be applied to future template design.
Azide–Enolate Cycloaddition‐Rearrangement Enables Direct α‐Amination of Amides and Enelactam Synthesis from Esters**
Authors: Bell‐Tyrer Joseph J. , Hume Paul A. , Grant Phillip S. , Brimble Margaret A. , Furkert Daniel P.
Published: February 2023

Azide‐enolate cycloaddition‐rearrangements offer potential for rapid access to diverse molecular frameworks from simple precursors. We report here that investigations into the cycloadditions of ester or amide enolates with vinyl azides led to the identification of two reaction processes – direct α‐amination of amides and lactams, and the synthesis of ene‐γ‐lactams from esters. The outcomes of these reactions depended on the fate of key vinyl triazoline intermediates generated in the initial cycloaddition step. Isolation of reaction intermediates in the ene‐γ‐lactam synthesis revealed the unexpected addition of two enolate equivalents, one of which is later eliminated. Computational studies further suggested an unusual reaction pathway involving direct addition of an enolate to the terminal carbon of the N‐vinyl triazoline. In contrast, the α‐amination of amides and lactams proceeded by rearrangement of the intermediate triazoline to give an imine, hydrolysis or reduction of which gave access to primary or secondary α‐amino amides or lactams.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy for the Remote Eradication of Bacteria
Authors: Yan Evelias , Kwek Germain , Qing Ng Shuang , Lingesh Shonya , Xing Bengang
Published: February 2023

The emergence of multi‐drug resistant bacteria strains has been an uphill battle in modern healthcare worldwide, due to the increasing difficulty of killing them. The evolving pathogenicity of bacteria has led to researchers searching for more effective antimicrobial therapeutics to successfully eliminate them without undesirable consequences to the human body. In recent years, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (APDT), an obsolete technique for cancer treatments, has been reported to eradicate bacteria and biofilm‐related infections. The principle of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy solely relies on the photosensitizers (PSs) generating reactive oxygen species, in the presence of oxygen and light, to destroy pathogens. Thus, it can target a broad spectrum of microorganisms, owing to the indirect interaction between PSs and the bacteria, resulting in the less likelihood for the development of drug resistant bacteria strains. This review will focus on the recent progress of APDT in the last five years and some future perspectives of APDT. The mechanism of APDT against bacteria and biofilms, various PSs used for APDT, and some common multidrug‐resistant bacteria strains will be briefly introduced. The reported in vivo applications of APDT in the several types of bacterial infections that includes periodontitis, wound infections, keratitis, endophthalmitis and tuberculosis in the last five years will be summarized in detail.
Synthesis, Subcellular Localization and Anticancer Mechanism Studies of Unsymmetrical Iridium(III) Complexes
Authors: Xie Lina , Shi Le , Xiong Kai , Guan Ruilin , Chen Yu , Long Jiangang , Ji Liangnian , Chao Hui
Published: February 2023

Two novel unsymmetrical Ir(III) complexes [Ir(ppy)2(N N)Cl2] (N N=2‐(pyrazin‐2‐yl)naphtha[1,2‐e][1,2,4]triazine,Ir1; 2‐(pyrazin‐2‐yl)‐4b,4b’‐dihydroaceanthryleno[1,2‐e][1,2,4]triazine,Ir2) were developed as chemotherapy agents.Ir1was mainly located in mitochondria. In contrast,Ir2accumulated in mitochondria but subsequently migrated to the nucleus.Ir1andIr2showed cytotoxicity toward cancerous cells, especially the cisplatin‐resistant ones, indicating their ability to overcome cisplatin resistance. Although bothIr1andIr2disrupted mitochondrial metabolism, they showed different cell death mechanisms.Ir1induced mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis in cisplatin‐resistant A549R cells.Ir2was demonstrated to cause PARP‐1 activated necroptosis in A549R cells. This study provides an experimental basis for the rational design of metal‐based chemotherapeutic drugs.
Environmental Justice and Carbon Pricing: Can They Be Reconciled?
Authors: Boyce James K. , Ash Michael , Ranalli Brent
Published: February 2023

Carbon pricing has been criticized by environmental justice advocates on the grounds that it fails to reduce emissions significantly, fails to reduce the disproportionate impacts of hazardous co‐pollutants on people of color and low‐income communities, hits low‐income households harder than wealthier households, and commodifies nature. Designing carbon pricing policy to address these concerns can yield outcomes that are both more effective and more equitable.
Health insurance coverage and marriage behavior: Is there evidence of marriage lock?
Authors: Chen Tianxu
Published: February 2023

Premiums and eligibility for health insurance may cause a “marriage lock,” in which couples stay married for the sake of maintaining health insurance coverage. By using the Health and Retirement Study for adults aged 60–70, I examine whether employer‐based health insurance coverage for the spouse discourages divorce for spousal health insurance coverage‐dependent individuals. Diverse difference‐in‐difference models provide evidence of a 7 percentage points increase in the number of divorces upon achieving Medicare eligibility at age 65 for people with spousal insurance coverage relative to those without it. The estimates thus provide evidence that marriage lock exists.
Systematic screening of carbon‐based anode materials for bioelectrochemical systems
Authors: Ul Zainab , Sánchez‐Peña Pilar , Baeza Mireia , Sulonen Mira , Gabriel David , Baeza Juan Antonio , Guisasola Albert
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

The anode material of bioelectrochemical systems (BES) is crucial because its characteristics directly affect electron transfer from the bacteria to the anode. To assess its usefulness, each material must undergo evaluation under relevant operating conditions, as well as a complete electrochemical characterization.

RESULTS

Five carbonaceous materials – carbon brush (CB), carbon granules (CG), thicker carbon felt (CF1), high‐conductivity carbon felt (CF2), and high‐active‐area carbon felt (CF3) – anodes were tested in this work. The current generation with each anode material was studied, operating as a microbial fuel cell (MFC) and microbial electrolysis cell (MEC). Two MFC inoculation strategies were tested: (i) fixed 10 Ω external resistance (ER) and (ii) poised anode potential (PA) of 200 mV versus Ag/AgCl. Once reproducible cycles were obtained in MFC operation, CB yielded the highest maximum current density, amounting to 15.9 A m−2. A slightly reduced start‐up time was observed for each anode with PA than ER. When the anodes were transferred to MEC operation, the maximum hydrogen production rate of 1.04 m3 H2 m−3 d−1 was obtained for CB.

CONCLUSION

This study helps in selecting anode material for BES, allowing a shortening of the start‐up time and improving its performance using different inoculation strategies and anode materials. Among all the anode materials employed in this study, CB and CF3 electrodes presented the best overall performance. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Role of plasmonic nanoparticles for oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions in photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Shabbir Syeda Ammara , Ajmal Rabia , Haris Muhammad , Younas Muhammad , Alshahrani Thamraa , Badria Alshahrani , Latif Hamid , Zafar Nosheen , Javed Khalid
Published: February 2023

Monoclinic scheelite phase of n‐type bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) as a solar‐driven catalyst‐based photoanode is emerging as an optimistic approach for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting because of features such as maximum light harvesting potential in visible spectrum, nontoxicity, earth abundance and stability under electrochemical conditions. The photoelectrochemical cell is a coherent and eco‐friendly technique to convert solar energy into a renewable energy source like hydrogen with zero carbon emissions. Here we fabricated nanocomposite‐based photoanodes RGO/CNT/BiVO4, RGO/CNT/Ni/BiVO4, RGO/CNT/Cu/BiVO4 and RGO/CNT/Ni/Cu/BiVO4 by layering reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to act as a transmission channel for fast transport of electrons with non‐noble electrocatalyst nickel (Ni) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles and visible driven photoactive bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) nanomaterial on fluorine‐doped tin oxide by using electrodeposition and the drop casting method. The absorption edge was analyzed using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and Tauc plots, which clearly indicated a decreasing trend in the bandgap of BiVO4, thereby increasing the absorption spectrum with improved charge transfer rate. To scrutinize the proficiency of the electrochemical reaction during water splitting for hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction of photoanodes, electrochemical testing was done using linear sweep voltammetry, which distinctly showed that the fabricated photoanode RGO/CNT/Ni/Cu/BiVO4 possessed high photo‐response at an overpotential of 190 mV, with a lower Tafel slope of 119 mV dec−1. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Genome‐based comparison between the recombinant SARS‐CoV‐2 XBB and its parental lineages
Authors: Scarpa Fabio , Sanna Daria , Azzena Ilenia , Casu Marco , Cossu Piero , Fiori Pier Luigi , Benvenuto Domenico , Imperia Elena , Giovanetti Marta , Ceccarelli Giancarlo , Cauda Roberto , Cassone Antonio , Pascarella Stefano , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: February 2023

Recombination is the main contributor to RNA virus evolution, and SARS‐CoV‐2 during the pandemic produced several recombinants. The most recent SARS‐CoV‐2 recombinant is the lineage labeled XBB, also known as Gryphon, which arose from BJ.1 and BM.1.1.1. Here we performed a genome‐based survey aimed to compare the new recombinant with its parental lineages that never became dominant. Genetic analyses indicated that the recombinant XBB and its first descendant XBB.1 show an evolutionary condition typical of an evolutionary blind background with no further epidemiologically relevant descendant. Genetic variability and expansion capabilities are slightly higher than parental lineages. Bayesian Skyline Plot indicates that XBB reached its plateau around October 6, 2022 and after an initial rapid growth the viral population size did not further expand, and around November 10, 2022 its levels of genetic variability decreased. Simultaneously with the reduction of the XBB population size, an increase of the genetic variability of its first sub‐lineage XBB.1 occurred, that in turn reached the plateau around November 9, 2022 showing a kind of vicariance with its direct progenitors. Structure analysis indicates that the affinity for ACE2 surface in XBB/XBB.1 RBDs is weaker than for BA.2 RBD. In conclusion, at present XBB and XBB.1 do not show evidence about a particular danger or high expansion capability. Genome‐based monitoring must continue uninterrupted to individuate if further mutations can make XBB more dangerous or generate new subvariants with different expansion capability.
Identification and preparation of selenium‐containing peptides from selenium‐enriched Pleurotus eryngii and their protective effect on lead‐induced oxidative damage in NCTC1469 hepatocytes
Authors: Yu Anqi , Ji Yang , Ma Gaoxing , Xu Juan , Hu Qiuhui
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Lead (Pb) is a highly toxic and persistent substance that easily accumulates in living organisms, eliciting cellular toxicity and oxidative stress. Some selenium‐containing proteins and peptides prepared from plant extracts are beneficial for protecting the body's health and resisting external disturbances. In the present study, selenium‐containing peptide species were prepared from selenium‐enriched Pleurotus eryngii protein hydrolysates and to evaluate the benefits of selenium‐containing peptides on Pb‐induced oxidative stress in NCTC1469 hepatocytes.

RESULTS

Trypsin was selected as primary enzyme to hydrolyze the selenium‐enriched protein (SPH). The optimal hydrolysis conditions were: hydrolysis time, 1.5 h; initial pH 8.0. The SPH was digested by trypsin and then purified by ultrafiltration, gel filtration chromatography and reversed‐phase HPLC to obtain the selenium‐containing peptides SPH‐I‐2. Furthermore, SPH‐I‐2 was analyzed and a number of total 12 selenium‐containing peptides were identified by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectroscopy. The NCTC1469 cell culture study showed that selenium‐containing peptides were capable of reducing reactive oxygen species levels and regulating the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway by upregulating Nrf2, HO‐1, GCLC, GCLM and NQO1 genes and downregulating Keap1 genes. Moreover, selenium‐containing peptides were also able to suppress Pb‐induced elevated levels of nitric oxide (NO), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), increase antioxidant enzyme activity and alleviate cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

The present study indicated that the selenium‐containing peptides could protect cells from Pb2+‐induced oxidative stress. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparison of Ultrasound Examination and Fiberoptic Laryngoscopy for Confirmation of Laryngeal Mask Airway Placement
Authors: Malik Priti , Arora Namita , Kakkar Aanchal , Sharma Anupama Gill , Kaur Mohandeep
Published: February 2023

Objectives

1) To compare ultrasound (US) examination and fiberoptic laryngoscopy (FOL) for confirmation of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) placement. 2) To evaluate the necessity for reinsertion of LMA based on FOL.

Methods

This prospective observational study included 100 adult patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Grade I and II, undergoing elective surgery under General Anesthesia requiring Proseal LMA™ placement as an airway device. LMA placement was first confirmed by clinical tests. Clinically acceptable patients were further assessed by US and categorized as acceptable (US‐A) or unacceptable (US‐U) and again by FOL as (FOL‐A and FOL‐U). Categorical variables presented in number, percentage (%), and continuous variables presented as mean ± SD and median. Inter‐rater kappa agreement was used to find out the strength of agreement of acceptability between FOL and US.

Results

The LMA placement was clinically acceptable in 82% of patients on first attempt. FOL had 63% (FOL‐A) acceptable LMA placement as compared with US examination which had 56% (US‐A). In 85% of patients, US and FOL findings were in good agreement with each other for LMA placement (κ = 0.690 and P < .05). In all patients of FOL of unacceptable (FOL‐U) category (37%), LMA was replaced with endotracheal tube.

Conclusion

US provides a safe, non‐invasive, and real‐time dynamic assessment with 85% diagnostic accuracy for confirmation of LMA placement as compared with FOL.
Genetic characterization of the Berber‐speaking population of Souss (Morocco) based on autosomalSTRs
Authors: Dahbi Noura , Cheffi Khadija , El Khair Abderrazak , Habbibeddine Lamiaa , Talbi Jalal , Hilali Abderraouf , El Ossmani Hicham
Published: February 2023

Background

The Souss, located in southern Morocco, is one of the oldest areas of human settlement in North Africa. Despite this historical relevance, the Souss has not received sufficient attention in terms of population genetic studies.

Methods

In this study, we utilized the AmpFlSTR Identifiler PCR amplification system to establish the allelic frequencies and statistical parameters of 15 autosomal STRs (Short Tandem Repeats) in 150 healthy unrelated Berber‐speaking individuals from the Souss. We explored the genetic relationships between Souss and other reference populations based on our dataset as well as previously published population data.

Results

A total of 210 alleles were detected with corresponding allele frequencies ranging from 0.003 to 0.367. The most polymorphic locus was D18S51 with 23 alleles which was also the most discriminating locus as expected. The phylogenetic analysis clustered the Souss closer to the Azrou and southern Moroccan populations. The population comparison showed affinity between the Souss and most North African populations, as well as with Middle Easterners and Europeans.

Conclusion

Historical events and geographical proximity have contributed to the affinity between the Souss and surrounding North African, Southern European, and Middle Eastern populations. Overall, this study highlights the reliability of the 15 STRs for identifying individuals and assessing paternity in the Souss population.
Analysis of implicit system of fractional order via generalized boundary conditions
Authors: Alam Mehboob , Khan Aftab , Asif Muhammad
Published: February 2023

Our main objectives in the paper are to investigate the existence and uniqueness of solution for a class of implicit fractional‐order boundary value problem with Riemann–Liouville derivative via generalized boundary conditions. Furthermore, different kinds of Ulam stability are discussed. By giving a few examples, the key findings are demonstrated.