bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Productivity and the Qualitative Response of Sorghum to Different Planting Patterns and Various Cultivars
Authors: Asim Muhammad , Israr Khan Muhammad , Rab Abdul
Published: September 2022

Planting patterns and different cultivars play a significant role in forage crops quality and productivity. Therefore, we conducted a field experiment under different planting patterns and cultivars to evaluate sorghum crop yield, yield components, and quality at Agronomic Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, in 2015. The experiment consists of three sorghum cultivars (Jawar 2002, Sorghum-2011, and JS-2002) with a seed rate of 75 kg ha-1 at different planting patterns (P1=60 cm  × 20 cm, P2=50cm  ×  24 cm, and P3=340 cm × 30 cm). Results showed that sorghum 2011 resulted in higher growth and qualitative attributes than other cultivars. For example, increase in plant height (237.11 cm), dry weight plant-1 (40.61 g), forage yield (57.66 ton ha-1), crude protein contents (6.12 %), fiber contents (32.12 %) and ash contents (8.73%) was observed in sorghum 2011 as compared to other cultivars. Whereas, among planting pattern P3 (40 x 30 cm ) produced maximum plant height (236.33 cm), leaves plant-1( 13.66), stem diameter (1.09 cm), forage yield (55.52 ton ha-1), dry matter yield (18.53 ton ha-1) and crude protein contents (6.06 %) as compared to P1 and P2. This study suggested that the cultivar sorghum 2011 with a planting pattern of 40 x 30 cm is a promising option to improve yield, yield components and quality of sorghum crop.
The role of assistive devices in frail elderly people with fragility fractures: a narrative review
Authors: Iolascon Giovanni , Michini Carla , Sentinella Robin Kuruvila , Aulicino Milena , Moretti Antimo
Published: September 2022

Fragility fractures commonly lead to disability. To improve and/or maintain physical function and independence in patients with bone fragility, several aids and orthoses are often prescribed in clinical practice for different purposes. Walking aids such as crutches, canes, walkers and wheelchairs are designed to assist walking and prevent falls in people with gait and balance impairments, or who are unable to walk alone. To facilitate transfers in patients with balance and coordination disorders, muscle weakness and impaired respiratory function, mobility devices such as toilet, shower and bed aids may be useful. Hip protectors are designed to decrease the impact forces generated by a fall on the greater trochanter. Wearing these devices at the time of a fall can decrease the risk of hip fracture. Spinal orthoses support a specific vertebral region, and they are worn, in the case of fractures, with the aim of providing stability, relieving pain and improving mobility. However, to maximise the beneficial effects and reduce the risk of adverse events, physicians need to promote correct use of assistive devices, as their incorrect use may increase the risk of both falls and of fall-related injuries.
Dental and periodontal features and management in XLH children and adults
Authors: Biosse Duplan Martin , Le Norcy Elvire , Courson Frédéric , Chaussain Catherine
Published: September 2022

The formation and homeostasis of the mineralized tissues that make up the tooth and its periodontium show many similarities, but also differences, with respect to bone tissue. Accordingly, oral manifestations are often present in skeletal diseases. The manifestations in X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) are a good illustration of the potential impact of skeletal diseases on the teeth and periodontium: they can affect all oral mineralized tissues; they differ between children and adults; and they have a strong impact on the quality of life of the affected individual. In addition, the frequency and severity of the oral manifestations depend on the general management of the skeletal disease. The main dental tissues affected by XLH are the dentin and cementum, whose formation and mineralization are impaired. Clinically, poorly mineralized dentin leads to spontaneous endodontic infections, and dental abscesses in seemingly intact teeth are frequent in affected children. Reduced cementum formation results in periodontal attachment loss, and the prevalence and severity of periodontitis are elevated in adults with XLH. Prevention or improvement of these dental manifestations is first achieved by conventional treatment of XLH with active vitamin D analogs and phosphate supplementation. In addition, local treatments preventing bacterial invasion of dentin are beneficial.
Perspective Chapter: Telehealth Technologies for the Elderly People
Authors: Shamsabadi Ahmadreza , Mehraeen Esmaeil , Pashaei Zahra
Published: September 2022

Home telehealth technology delivers a telemedicine tool for elder adults to take an active role in the management of their chronic diseases. This study aimed to determine the requirements and applications of home telehealth systems to monitor health parameters of the elderly. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science complemented by Google Scholar were searched. This systematic review was conducted based on preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. In this study, 21 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. There were 80 different requirements and 15 types of applications to create a home telehealth system specifically for the elderly. The highest frequency of applications element was related to the “blood pressure” (18%) and the lowest frequency related to items such as blood coagulation (1%) monitoring. Other systems` elements were “alert system” (12%), “information analysis” (12%), smartphone (20%), and internet (23%). Recognizing all used requirements and achieved capabilities may assist in designing more effective systems. They might be expanded at national level to meet the elderly’s needs at a greater scale.
Perspective Chapter: Cryptocurrencies Effectiveness for Nature
Authors: Cruz Villares Luiz
Published: September 2022

The rise of cryptocurrencies based on Blockchain platforms have provided multiple solutions for social and nature projects supported by concerned investors with sustainable development initiatives. Speculation and unclear uses of a cryptocurrency plays a negative role for the projects they claim to support. A positive relationship between coin investors and supported projects must position the coin value on the scale of the community involvement among the coin and project issues, thus placing the project results above speculative moves. Coin nature and social based projects may include a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), combined with a digital currency to contribute to social and nature improvements. This organization provides a framework for the engagement of investors, beneficiaries, and implementation partners, with results measured by reliable third parties. The potential funding from non fiduciary sources for sustainable development targets may be framed under the fundraising and financial solutions models, addressing the cryptocurrency volatility risks with responsible tokenomics in attention to transaction and regulatory issues. Overall, the more clear are the object and transaction issues of a nature conservation project supported by a currency, the more successful it will be in terms of nature and social improvements and the currency valuation for all parties involved.
Perspective Chapter: A Novel Method for Integrated Multicriteria Decision-Making with Uncertainty – A Case Study on Sustainable Agriculture in Colombia
Authors: Juanpera Marc , Ferrer-Martí Laia , Garfí Marianna , Domenech Bruno , Pastor Rafael
Published: September 2022

Multicriteria decision-making usually requires a set of experts to evaluate the importance of selected criteria and the adequacy of feasible alternatives according to the criteria. Uncertainty can arise in these evaluations, since experts can be hesitant about their responses due to the difficulty of quantifying human language or lack of required knowledge. The Methodology for Integrated Multicriteria Decision-making with Uncertainty (MIMDU) tackles both factors of uncertainty by using non-predefined fuzzy numbers that are continuously adapted taking into account the level of confidence of the experts’ opinions. The methodology also offers useful and complementary information to lead to a robust decision-making. This chapter proposes a novel methodology and provides a sample use case to demonstrate its capability to model uncertainty during decision-making process. In particular, a sensitivity analysis is included, which demonstrates (i) how uncertainty is incorporated into alternatives evaluation, and (ii) that the integrated multicriteria decision-making with uncertainty can be more reliable for decision-makers. The methodology is applied to the robust selection of the most sustainable technology to improve agriculture efficiency in rural areas by means of a case study of a low-cost biogas digester in a small-scale farm in Colombia.
A Decolonial Approach of Indigenous Identity in Africa
Authors: J.A. Juanena Coro
Published: September 2022

European African studies traditionally deny the existence of indigenous communities in Africa, even though in the same way as the American continent, Africa was once too a region colonised by Europe. The new social and historical identities created under the coloniality of power, endure in the political and academic imagination to the extent of negating the current indigenous status of a large proportion of African nations. This issue is of great relevance in contemporary international politics due to the resurgence of the idea of indigenous identity on a global scale and as a response to modern capitalism. Particularly, following the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples adopted by the General Assembly in 2007. My objective of this article is to deconstruct the historical processes that have resulted in the current denial of the existence of indigenous peoples on the African continent as part of a decolonial project.
Water Stress, Heat, and Salinity in the Physiological Quality of the Seeds
Authors: Pinedo-Taco Rember , Figueroa-Serrudo Cecilia , Alvarado-Huamán Leonel
Published: September 2022

Plant seeds, being sessile, are simultaneously exposed to favorable or adverse conditions from sowing to harvest. The physiological quality of the seed is affected by the type of biotic and abiotic stress to which the mother plant is exposed, especially in the stages of embryogenesis, development and seed filling. Therefore, the behavior of their progeny will be reflected when the seeds are capable of maintaining acceptable viability standards with a high-germination potential to generate a normal seedling and establish themselves without difficulties under field conditions. Most of the species cultivated under abiotic stress conditions reduce their physiological quality; however, some species are salt dependent, and prolonged absence of NaCl in the soil inhibits seed development, results in lower seed quality and thus limits progeny-seedling growth as is the case of Suaeda salsa, and typical annual extreme halophytic herb with succulent leaves develops well and produces high-quality seeds when grown under high salinity conditions. Consequently, the response of the plant to adverse factors depends on the genotype and its stage of development at the time of stress, the duration and severity of the type of stress and the environmental factors that cause it. Depending on the severity and duration of the stress, plants could activate mechanisms to adapt or tolerate abiotic stress conditions at the molecular, morphological, physiological and cellular levels.
The Effect of a Gym- and Home-based Training on Plasma TXNIP Level, Insulin Sensitivity, and Lipid Profile in Hypertensive Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Masoudi Maryam , Saghebjoo Marziyeh , Kazemi Toba , Hedayati Mehdi
Published: September 2022

Background: Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) is a possible factor in the relationship between metabolism and cellular redox state and plays a key role in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. Objectives: The present study aimed at evaluating the effects of combined training in the gym and at home on TXNIP plasma level, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profile in men with primary hypertension. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, forty-six hypertensive men (age 48 ± 9 years, BMI 30 ± 4 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to the gym-based training (GBT: ten weeks, four days/week of moderate-intensity resistance and aerobic training followed by stretching training), home-based training (HBT: the type, duration, and intensity were similar to the GBT), and control groups. Selected blood biochemical parameters were measured at baseline and after ten weeks of training programs. Results: The plasma levels of TXNIP in the GBT (P = 0.04) and HBT (P = 0.005) groups decreased significantly compared to the control group. Moreover, the levels of plasma total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased and insulin sensitivity increased following GBT compared to the control group (P = 0.03, P = 0.02, and P = 0.01, respectively), with no significant difference observed between GBT and HBT (P = 0.47, P = 0.36 and P = 0.14, respectively). Conclusions: GBT was more effective compared to HBT in positive changes in blood glucose and lipid profile. However, HBT improved some important biochemical parameters and can be an alternative to complementary strategies strategy instead of GBT. Our data manifest that combined training has a positive effect on reducing the protein level, which negatively affects glucose and lipid metabolism in hypertensive men.
Treatment of depression after acute phase of the disorder
Authors: Knežević Vladimir
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Depression is one of the most prevalent and, in terms of its public health impact, the most significant mental disorders. The effectiveness and safety of the currently available pharmacotherapeutical options most often make it possible to achieve remission in patients, but insufficient attention is paid to the continuation of treatment. The purpose of this review is to remind both psychiatrists and general practitioners about the need to continue treatment after achieving remission in the acute phase of depression, in order to prevent the occurrence of relapse or recurrence of the disorder. Method: The recommendations and conclusions of the most relevant domestic and foreign clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of depression, as well as experimental works that dealt with the aforementioned issues, were discussed and presented. Results: All available literature, as well as clinical practice, indicate the necessity of continuing the treatment of depression for at least 6-9 months after achieving remission in the acute phase of the disorder, with the same type and the same dose of antidepressants in order to avoid an almost certain relapse. After that, it is necessary to take into account risk factors for recurrence, which include: greater number of previous episodes, previous psychotic episodes, the presence of comorbid mental or somatic disorders, psychosocial stressors, all in order to decide the length of the next stage of the treatment, maintenance phase, using therapy that previously led to remission. Conclusion: It is necessary to continuously remind psychiatrists, general practicioners, patients and their families that achieving remissions after an acute episode of depression does not allow treatment discontinuation due to the high degree of recurrence in this disorder.
A step further in uncontrolled hyperlipidemia
Authors: Irić-Ćupić Violeta
Published: September 2022

In the genesis of the origin and development of cardiovascular diseases and the ischemic heart disease, the process of atherosclerosis plays a key role. Since hyperlipidemia is a potentially variable risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis, its treatment is a basic clinical imperative for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Treatment of hyperlipoproteinemia aims to slow the development of atherosclerosis and reduce the frequency of its consequences and involves the use of statins, ezetimibe, fibrates, nicotinic acid and ion exchangers. A monotherapeutic approach is recommended, when the degree of lipid metabolic disorder is such that it can be estimated that monotherapy will be sufficient to achieve the desired values of lipoprotein profile parameters. The advantages of the monotherapeutic approach are shown by the latest generation statins, atorvastatin and rosuvastatin,which in high doses exhibit a highly intense hypolipidemic effect, and have proven pleiotropic effects. When monotherapy is not sufficient, it is necessary to conduct combination therapy with ezetimibe to potentiate the hypocholesterolemic effect, or fibrate to potentiate the reduction in triglycerides, but may be combined with other available hypolipidemics. This work should facilitate decision-making on the choice of therapeutic approach, in accordance with current guidelines for the treatment of hyperlipidemia, according to the estimated target values of LDL cholesterol. Target LDL values are determined depending on the assessed cardiovascular risk, according to the SCORE table (for persons without comorbidities, to assess the probability of fatal cardiovascular events in a ten-year period, expressed as a percentage), as well as risk assessments for the population diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or renal failure. The target value of LDL, for people with an estimated low risk is < 3 mmol / l, high risk < 2.6 mmol / l, very high < 1.8 mmol / l. The choice of treatment for hyperlipidemia depends on the estimated cardiovascular risk, and the estimated desired LDL values. High-intensity statins are preferred in the monotherapy approach, and if this approach is not sufficient to achieve the desired LDL values, or there is statin intolerance, combination therapy should be considered.
Indoor air quality in elderly homes in Serbia: Evidence-based design methodology
Authors: Vujović Milica , Komatina Mirko , Manić Dimitrije , Miloš Marko
Published: September 2022

This study represents the first phase of research into the relationship between indoor air quality and the architectural and thermotechnical characteristics of buildings. The focus is on specific categories of users such as the elderly. The research methodology based on the scientific method is presented, which examines the condition of real objects on the territory of the Republic of Serbia. The aim is to provide a structured methodology for establishing the link between architecture, mechanical systems and indoor air quality, on evidence-based design principles, in order to propose guidelines for future interventions in the construction or adaptation of facilities for the elderly. Second objective of the study is to point to the relevance of contextualized interventions according to the target user groups and reinforce application of scientific evidence in contemporary building design. Namely, tailor-made solutions would be necessary in the future, and consideration towards different user needs should be framed and structured to meaningfully operationalize the design.
On the approaches to the defining and operationalization of the concept of school safety
Authors: Tadić Violeta
Published: September 2022

The paper looks at different approaches to the defining and operationalization of the concept of school safety, with the aim of identifying the fundamental conceptual and operational dilemmas and problems, as well as highlighting the importance of the concept and of its adequate definition, in view of the implications it has for understanding the phenomenon, for research, and for the creation of school policy. The fundamental question which is the focus of the paper is examined in terms of the conceptual definition of school safety, the problem of operationalization and the problem of research. As part of this question, we have sought to define the concept of school safety, pointing to the broader and narrower definitions of the concept itself, and its relationship with other, related concepts and the conceptual dilemmas arising from this. The problem of the operationalization of this concept is represented through three approaches in the identification of school safety dimensions: the risk management approach; the approach linked to school violence; and the approach of creating a learning-focused school environment. In the last section - the research question - the difficulties identified by researchers while conducting research into school safety are presented. The conclusion states that only a clearly defined and well-founded conceptual framework, the defining of research objectives, that is, the selection of the range of behaviors and experiences relevant to the topic, and the evaluation of the characteristics of the cultural environment and the respondents' age, can lead to the adequate selection and determination of indicators of school safety, as well as the removal of difficulties in its operationalization and measurement.
New approach for graph based data mining model
Authors: Janićijević Stefana , Mihajlović Anđelija , Kojanić Anđela , Ćuk Aleksa
Published: September 2022

This paper presents new approach of Communication Network Analysis (CNA) that is interdisciplinary subfield of advanced concept of important Social Network Analysis (SNA). Objects in CNA are members of network discovered as vertices that are linked by edges. Identification of relevant vertices within connected components in telecommunication network graphs, such as influencers are proposed. Beside this result, the algorithm describes behaviour between component members, research interactions between components and telecom services usage. Algorithm is based on a combination of two important machine learning techniques - Classification technique Extreme gradient boosting (XGB) and Graph algorithm that consists from Pruning, K-Neighbourhood, Isolated islands and Centrality measure calculation. This data mining model is used in telecommunication companies as part of marketing strategies and campaign management processes since influencers are awarded for contribution in network services spreading and adopting between members.
C-class and pair upper class functions and other kind of contractions in fixed point theory
Authors: Ansari A.H. , Tomar A.
Published: September 2022

In 2014 was introduced C-class and pair upper Class functions that cover more papers before and after that .base on them some other ideas like :1-1-upclass functions, multiplicative C-class functions, inverse-C-class functions,CF-simulation functions were planed. In this glance we look for some condition that can use them or can not.
How do children value animals? A developmental review
Authors: Neldner Karri , Wilks Matti
Published: September 2022

From a young age, children are deeply curious about animals. Stable patterns exist in the types of attitudes children display towards different kinds of animals: they love pets, value animals that are beautiful, and fear snakes and spiders (Borgi & Cirulli, 2015, https://doi.org/10.2752/089279315X14129350721939). Until recently, we’ve known little about what children think about the moral standing of animals, particularly relative to other entities, including humans. In this review, we synthesize the literature examining children’s perceptions of the moral worth of animals. We present factors about the animal, and factors about the judge (the child), shown to impact children’s evaluations of animal moral worth. Based on current evidence, we make the claim that children grant animals a high moral standing early on in childhood, but that this decreases during late childhood, throughout adolescence, and into adulthood. We provide some suggestions for the cognitive and cultural mechanisms that might drive these differences, and make recommendations for the field going forward.
Improvisação como espetáculo: processo de criação e metodologias de treinamento do ator-improvisador
Authors: Muniz Mariana Lima
Published: September 2022

A improvisação como espetáculo é um estilo teatral no qual atores criam cenas no instante, junto ao público e no calor da ação. Este livro apresenta uma proposta metodológica de ensino-aprendizagem da improvisação, contextualizada nas principais experiências artísticas e técnicas da improvisação como espetáculo a partir da segunda metade do século XX. É resultado de dez anos de pesquisas praticas e teóricas sobre o tema e pretende contribuir para o desenvolvimento técnico e artístico da improvisação tanto como espetáculo quanto nos processos de formação em teatro com adultos e crianças.
Characterisation and Evaluation of Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antibiofilm Activities of Silver Nanoparticles Biosynthesised from Harpullia arborea Bark Extract
Authors: Rajeswari Ramasamy , Murugesh Shunmugasundaram , Kumar Dhanasekaran Jegadeesh , Prakash B , Gayathri Kasirajan
Published: September 2022

Introduction: In recent years, plant-based antibacterial substance has replaced the conventional chemical synthesis method. Harpullia arborea belongs to the Sapindaceae family; its bark, fruit, and seeds are used by Indians as leech repellent, hair wash, and antirheumatic agents. Plant-mediated green synthesis of nanomaterials is gaining popularity due to its environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness. Aim: To synthesise Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) using bark extract of Harpullia arborea and evaluate their antibacterial efficacy against food borne pathogens. Materials and Methods: The in-vitro study of antimicrobial activity of Harpullia arborea bark extract was utilised for the synthesis of nanoparticles with 2 mM of silver nitrate. The study was conducted from March 2017 to April 2017. The synthesised nanoparticles were confirmed and characterised using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, while Fourier transform infrared, and electron microscopy utilised for the determination of shape and size of the synthesised particle. The synthesised AgNPs were subjected to antibacterial activity against food isolates using agar well diffusion method. Furthermore, Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and antioxidant were also measured with titre plate and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazylhydrate (DPPH) method, respectively. Results: The UV-Vis spectra showed conformation of AgNPs with surface resonance peak of 430 nm, and Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra confirmed the involvement of biological molecules in AgNPs synthesis. In addition, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed AgNPs with a spherical shape with diameters from 26.3-40.6 nm. The well diffusion method showed the antibacterial activity of AgNPs against bacterial isolates. The results showed that AgNPs possess higher antimicrobial potency than non AgNPs. The lowest Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was observed against Staphylococcus aureus [3.5 mg] and followed by Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa [4.5 mg]. The DPPH method has confirmed that silver nanoparticles have a similar antioxidant activity compared to ascorbic acid. Conclusion: It can be concluded that Harpullia arborea bark extract can be used effectively in the production of potent antimicrobial and antioxidants for commercial use.
Effect of Aging on Speech Discrimination
Authors: Choi Jiwon , Kim Taeho , Kim Sunhong , Kim Yoonho , Kim Dong-Kee
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with decrease in speech discrimination ability seen in patients with presbycusis and whether aging has a significant effect on the observed decline.Subjects and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients aged >40 years who had undergone pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and auditory brainstem response for hearing loss at our hospital from January 2019 to June 2021, and investigated the factors that correlated with speech discrimination score.Results: We enrolled 103 patients with 120 ears, with a mean age of 65.8±11.9 years. The pure-tone average of the patients’ thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz was 37.2±27.7 dB HL, and their mean speech discrimination score was 82.5%± 22.3%. A correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the patients’ speech discrimination scores and age. In addition, all variables of pure-tone audiometry and the patients’ auditory brainstem responses were significantly correlated with the speech discrimination scores. The pure-tone average had the strongest negative correlation. On analyzing the significant predictors of lower speech discrimination scores, using a multiple linear regression analysis, pure-tone average and age showed significant results.Conclusions: The speech discrimination ability of older patients with hearing loss significantly decreases with increasing pure-tone average and age.
Impact of Rice Mill Pollution on Surrounding Environment: A Case Study in Sadar Upazila, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Mannan M. A. , Nuruzzaman Md. , Bari M. S. , Rahman M. S.
Published: September 2022

A study was conducted to find out the impact of rice mill pollution on the surrounding environment, agricultural production and human health status at Dinajpur Sadar Upazila through a semi-structured questionnaire during the period from October 2018 to October 2019. Nine rice mills were randomly selected and data were collected from a number of 104 respondents. Data were collected from the respondents at four distant places away from a rice mill viz. 0 meter (in and around mill area), 100, 500, and 1000 meter away. Appropriate scales were developed to measure both the independent and dependent variables by using Microsoft excel and SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) program. Results showed maximum respondents attitude (>50%) towards the impact of rice mill pollution on envielnment, agricultute and their health status were not positive (score was 8-15 out of 32) i.e. they were suffering from the rice mill pollutions. Study on four different distances showed that the closest surroundings were highly affected category (impact score >40 out of 60) by the rice mill pollution. The pollution effect on agricultural productivity and human health was in the highest category up to 500 meter away from the mill site and it was found in decreasing trend (impact score <20) at the distance of 1000 away from the rice mill. The overall findings of the study suggested that rice mill should be established more than half a kilometer away from the human settlement and arable land to minimize the rice mill pollution hazards.
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth Parameters of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) cv. MGH-4
Authors: Wamiq Mohd , Gaur Manish , Kaushik Krishna , Kumar Deepak , Gangwar Vishal , Gheware Kedar Mahadev , Prasad V. M.
Published: September 2022

An experiment entitled " Effect of plant growth regulators on growth, yield and fruit quality of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) cv. MGH-4" was conducted at Horticulture Research Field, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) during 2019. Plant Growth regulators are regarded as one of the most important treatments, used nowadays in agriculture, which in most cases modify the plant growth and the subsequent fruiting. The experimental trial consisted two plant growth regulators having different concentration NAA (30, 40, 50, 60, 70 & 80 ppm) and GA3(30,40, 50, 60 & 70 ppm). Water was used as a control. The application of plant growth regulators significantly affects the vegetative as well as reproductive attributes of the crop. Application of plant growth regulators at the 2-4 leaf stage was found to be the most productive in terms of growth attributes of bottle gourd. Treatment T7 (80 ppm NAA) at 2-4 leaf stage showed the maximum vine length (8.20 m), Number of Leaves Per Plant (103.50) and took minimum Days to First Female Flower Initiation (53.33). However, the treatment T9 (40 ppm GA3) showed the maximum Number of Male Flowers Per Vine (54.08) and Number of Female Flowers Per vine (17.08). Plant Growth regulators are one of the most significant treatments currently used in agriculture, and they typically alter plant growth and subsequent fruiting and growth attributes.
Effect of Seedling Age on Growth and Yield of Local Aman Rice Varieties in the Low Land Area of Southwestern Coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Azad Sultana Faraha Diba , Ali Md. Yasin , Quddus Khan Golam , Sarker Bidhan Chandro , Ray Joyanti
Published: September 2022

Suitable variety and optimum seedling age are important agronomic decisions for better productivity of rice particularly in the low land area. A field experiment was conducted at the experiment field of Agrotechnology Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna, Bangladesh during aman season (monsoon) to investigate the effect of seedling age on growth, yield attributes and yield of different local aman rice varieties in the coastal low land area of southwestern Bangladesh. Four different seedling ages (15, 30, 45 and 60-days old) and three local rice varieties (Ranisalute, Jatai balam and Basful balam) were used as experimental treatments. The experiment was arranged in a factorial randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. Earlier age seedling (15 days) substantially influenced the growth parameters but yield attributes and yield were significantly higher with 30-days old seedlings yet no significant variation with 45-days old seedling. 30-days old seedling produced 8-32% more grain yield than other seedling ages. Among the varieties, the highest plant height, yield components and yield were achieved from Ranisalute yet the yield variation was only 3-5%. From the findings of this experiment, it can be concluded that Ranisalute variety with the use of 30-days old seedling is better for low land area of southwestern coastal Bangladesh.
Application of Multivariate Mapping in Classification of Diseases of Bunaji Cattle Slaughtered at Jos Abattoir, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Patrobas M. N. , Dunka H. I. , Buba D. M. , Gurumyen Y. G. , Oragwa A. O. , Oziegbe S. D. , Nanbol H. D.
Published: September 2022

The study aimed at describing objectively, the interdependence among diseases of cattle slaughtered in Jos abattoir and mapping using multivariate techniques.  In the study, slaughter health records of cattle slaughtered in Jos abattoir, Plateau State for ten years (2006-2016) was reviewed. The cases at ante-mortem and postmortem were based on examination of animals, organs and carcasses by Veterinary officers. We performed principal component and factor analysis using R 3.0.3 statistical software. Factor 1 was sensitive to lumpy skin disease, wound, mastitis, tuberculosis (TB), Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) and jaundice while factor 2 had high scores for abscess, helminthosis and TB. The appearance of TB in both factors implies that TB was a major public health threat among the cattle slaughtered in Jos abattoir from the year 2006 – 2011. From 2012-2016, however, mastitis, splenomegaly, hardware disease and TB were diseases and conditions observed to be more prevalent in Jos abattoir slaughter records. Bovine tuberculosis has been mapped to be the most prevalent disease with significant animal-human interface on the Plateau. Testing using molecular tools and development of algorithm tracker for the detection of bovine tuberculosis should be of great significance to public health in attempt to mitigate the wave of transmission of zoonotic diseases between animals and humans.
Evaluation of Anteroposterior Lip Position in Different Skeletal Malocclusions
Authors: Jabbar Abdul , Madiha . , Mushtaq Maryam
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The horizontal position of upper and lower lips have been of great concern when planning a treatment plan of an orthodontic patient, because the purpose of orthodontic treatment is to establish an esthetic facial profile and not just a functional occlusion.

Objectives: The objective of this research was to determine anteroposterior lip position in three skeletal malocclusion groups and to analyze different soft tissue lines.

Material and Methodology: This study comprised of eighty one subjects and lateral cephalographs were taken in natural head position. Five reference lines—Sushner, Steiner, Burstone, Holdway, and Ricketts were drawn after radiographs were traced. The linear measurement between the lips and the five reference lines was recorded. For statistical analysis, SPSS 21 was used.

Results: Using five soft tissue reference lines, a significant difference between the anteroposterior position of the lips in various skeletal malocclusions was discovered.

Conclusion: The skeletal malocclusion pattern was shown to be related to the sagittal lip positions. For sagittal lip position analysis, Every group of skeletal malocclusions had a different preferred reference lines.
Epigallocatechin gallate inhibits SNARE‐dependent membrane fusion by blocking trans‐SNARE assembly
Authors: Zhu Min , Xu Han , Jiang Yuting , Yu Haijia , Liu Yinghui
Published: September 2022

Insulin secretion is a signal‐triggered process that requires membrane fusion between the secretory granules and plasma membrane in pancreatic β cells. The exocytosis of insulin is mediated by target‐soluble N‐ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) on the plasma membrane and vesicle‐SNAREs on the vesicles, which assemble into a quaternary trans‐SNARE complex to initiate the fusion. Expression of fusion proteins is reduced in the islets of patients with type II diabetes, indicating that SNARE‐mediated fusion defect is closely related to insulin‐based metabolic diseases. Previous studies have suggested that epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has an inhibitory effect on membrane fusion. In the present study, we performed in vitro reconstitution assays to unravel the molecular mechanisms of EGCG in SNARE‐mediated insulin secretory vesicle fusion. Our data show that EGCG efficiently inhibits insulin secretory SNARE‐mediated membrane fusion. Mechanistic studies indicated that EGCG blocks the formation of the trans‐SNARE complex. Furthermore, calcium/synaptotagmin‐7‐stimulated fusion kinetics were largely reduced by EGCG, confirming that it is a potential regulator of SNARE‐dependent insulin secretion. Our findings suggest that the trans‐SNARE complex might be a promising target for controlling SNARE‐dependent vesicle fusion.
Fuzzy adaptive event‐triggered control of high‐power nonlinear systems with fixed‐time convergence
Authors: Yang Tingting , Kang Haobo , Ma Hongjun
Published: September 2022

This article investigates the adaptive fuzzy event‐triggered practical fixed‐time control for a class of non‐strict feedback high‐power nonlinear systems with completely unknown function. Compared with similar results, the system model considered here is more general, including powers equal to 1 and this article relaxes the restrictions of nonlinear functions. As we all know, high‐power systems have the uncontrollable ability in the process of linearization, so that successfully presented for standard (low‐order) nonlinear systems may fail to work. In the adding one power integrator framework, this article overcomes the difficulty of control design caused by the powers of control input and the relative threshold event‐triggered signal is introduced to reduce the unnecessary waste of communication resources. Then, an adaptive fuzzy event‐triggered controller is designed via backstepping technique, which can ensure that all the closed‐loop signals are practical fixed‐time stability. Finally, numerical simulation and practical example are provided to validate the effectiveness of the presented control algorithm.
High‐Entropy Catalyst—A Novel Platform for Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Zhai Yiyue , Ren Xiangrong , Wang Bolun , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: September 2022

High‐entropy materials (HEMs) have been in the spotlight as emerging catalysts for electrochemical water splitting. In particular, HEM catalysts feature multi‐element active sites and unsaturated coordination as well as entropy stabilization in comparison with their single‐element counterparts. Herein, a comprehensive overview of HEM catalysts used in electrochemical water splitting is provided, covering both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Particularly, the review begins with discussions of the concept and structure of HEMs. In addition, effective strategies for rationally designing HEMs on the basis of computational techniques and experimental aspects is described. Importantly, the importance of computationally aided methods, that is, density functional theory calculations, high‐throughput screening, and machine learning, to the discovery and design of HEMs, is described. Furthermore, the applications of HEMs in the field of water electrolysis are reviewed. Eventually, an outlook regarding the prospects and future opportunities for HEMs is provided.
Extreme Ion‐Transport Inorganic 2D Membranes for Nanofluidic Applications
Authors: Kim Sungsoon , Choi Hong , Kim Bokyeong , Lim Geonwoo , Kim Taehoon , Lee Minwoo , Ra Hansol , Yeom Jihun , Kim Minjun , Kim Eohjin , Hwang Jiyoung , Lee Joo Sung , Shim Wooyoung
Published: September 2022

Inorganic 2D materials offer a new approach to controlling mass diffusion at the nanoscale. Controlling ion transport in nanofluidics is key to energy conversion, energy storage, water purification, and numerous other applications wherein persistent challenges for efficient separation must be addressed. The recent development of 2D membranes in the emerging field of energy harvesting, water desalination, and proton/Li‐ion production in the context of green energy and environmental technology is herein discussed. The fundamental mechanisms, 2D membrane fabrication, and challenges toward practical applications are highlighted. Finally, the fundamental issues of thermodynamics and kinetics are outlined along with potential membrane designs that must be resolved to bridge the gap between lab‐scale experiments and production levels.
Multifunctional Biomimetic Microstructured Surfaces for Healthcare Applications
Authors: Jia Lianghao , Jiang Jinrui , Xiang Tao , Zhou Shaobing
Published: September 2022

Creatures in nature have evolved fascinating functions in the natural selection of superiority and inferiority to adapt to complex and harsh survival environments. Some special and excellent functions have been found to originate from the multilayered physical microstructure and chemical composition of biological surfaces, providing humans with a wide range of bionic references and inspirations. Inspired by the biological surfaces, numerous novel functional materials have sprung up to achieve unexpected results by mimicking the physical and chemical structures. Herein, some typical applications for healthcare advances of various biomimetic microstructured surfaces including sensors, adhesives, and superhydrophobic surfaces are reviewed, which are associated with the working mechanism around biological surfaces. The techniques and methods to fabricate biomimetic microstructured surfaces are also reviewed. The future challenges and opportunities for biomimetic microstructures are presented.
Helical Stacking Assembly of Orderly Silicon Nanowire Multilayers for Ultrastrong Dissymmetrical Amplification of Circularly Polarized Light
Authors: Dong Tai‐Ge , Wu Zheng‐Guang , Li Fang‐Ling , Wang Jun‐Zhuan , Zheng You‐Xuan , Yu Lin‐Wei
Published: September 2022

Circularly polarized organic light‐emitting diodes (CP‐OLEDs) are ideal candidates to explore novel applications such as 3D displays, optical storage, and quantum computing. However, the low dissymmetry (g) factor of most chiral organic materials remains as a major challenge for practical applications. In this work, a helical stacking assembly of orderly silicon nanowires (hs‐SiNWs) into a flexible multilayer 3D superstructure is demonstrated to accomplish a strong chiroptical activity. These orderly SiNWs are batch‐fabricated via a low temperature in‐plane solid–liquid–solid growth mechanism, with precisely‐controlled spatial arrangement and mean diameter and length of Dnw = 126 ± 24 nm and Lnw > 100  µm, respectively. To construct such helically‐stacked superstructure, the SiNW arrays are transferred and stacked upon transparent glass or flexible polymer substrates, with incremental rotational angle for each layer, which can strongly augment the circularly polarized electroluminescence (CPEL) from conventional CP‐OLEDs. Strikingly, the dissymmetry factor increases with more stacking layer up to g = ±0.17, which is more than 40 times of magnitude higher than that of the original CPEL, among the highest ones reported for CP‐OLEDs. These results indicate a promising helical‐stacking avenue to boost the chiroptical performance of various CP‐OLEDs for scalable and flexible chiroptical applications.
Conjugated‐Polymer‐Based Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Lu Yaru , Wu Wenbo
Published: September 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising method for cancer treatment owing to its high spatiotemporal precision and minimally invasive properties. The efficiency of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by photosensitizers (PSs) directly affects PDT efficacy. Conjugated polymers (CPs) exhibit excellent light‐harvesting capabilities and effective intra‐ and intermolecular energy transfer between CPs and traditional PSs by the “molecular wire effect,” leading to a significant improvement in ROS generation efficiency when PSs are carefully paired with suitable CPs as energy donors. The recently proposed “polymerization‐enhanced photosensitization effect” further reveals that donor–acceptor type CPs can directly function as high‐performance PSs. Recently, two‐photon excitation and chemiluminescence excitation technologies are employed to enhance the penetration depth, a common challenge in phototherapy of CP‐based PDT systems. Furthermore, if precisely designed, CPs can endow the system with useful functions such as photothermal effects and drug‐delivery capacity, which can lead to a synergistic therapy with PDT. Here, recent advances are summarized in CP‐based PDT, including its underlying phenomena, mechanisms, and applications. Strategies for improving PDT performance are the focus of the discussions. In the conclusion, challenges and opportunities are discussed by considering further perspectives.