bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimalarial Assay, Isolation, and Characterization of Compounds Responsible for Antimalarial Activity in Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) Hutch. and Dalziel (Caesalpiniaceae)
Authors: Mba Theodora Chidinma , Chukwuma Michael Onyegbulam , Chikeokwua Ikenna
Published: September 2022

Aim: The research aimed to investigate the antimalarial activity of the plant Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) Hutch. & Dalziel (Caesalpiniaceae) bark methanol extract.

Methodology: The bark dried, powdered bark of Daniellia oliveri was extracted with n-hexane followed by methanol. methanol extract of Daniellia oliveri was tested for antimalarial (curative test) by being tested against Plasmodium berghei in mice at doses of 100, 400, and 600 mg/kg. An acute toxicity study was carried out according to OECD 423 protocol, and phytochemical screening using standard protocols. HPLC-MS was also conducted using Agilent InfinityLab LC/MSD with Eclipse plus C18 5.0 µm 4.6 mm x 250 mm column and data were processed with Agilent Openlab Chemstation software.

Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, phenolics, and terpenoids. The methanol extract was found to be safe at doses up to 5000 mg/kg body weight (acute lethal dose, LD50) in mice. There was a significant difference in activity between the non-treated, standard, and extract dosage groups at (p<0.05). The HPLC-MS analysis showed the presence of 56 compounds. Daniella oliveri bark methanol extract has High activity against Plasmodium berghei, an 81.1% reduction in parasitemia at a dose of 600mg/kg body weight, and a Mean survival time of excess 5.

Conclusion: Daniellia oliveri is a rich source of phytochemicals and a potential source of antimalarial agent(s).
Essential Oil of Ocimum gratissimum L. (Lamiaceae) as Biopreservative of Peanuts in Post-harvest: Application Model and Effects on Quality of Derived Products
Authors: Adjou Euloge Sènan , Zossoungbo Marielle , Totcheme Omar , Soumanou Mohamed M.
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the use of essential oil extracted from leaves of African basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.) in post-harvest preservation of peanuts as well as the effects on the physicochemical, technological and organoleptic characteristics of derived peanut products. Preservation tests of peanuts with essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum at a concentration of 0.6 μl/g were carried out. Control was without essential oil. Evolution of the fungal flora as well as physicochemical, technological and organoleptic characteristics of preserved peanuts were evaluated. Results of microbiological analyses indicated a significant reduction (p <0.005) of the microbial quantum in peanut samples preserved with essential oil, when compared to the control. The results of physicochemical analyses revealed that preservation of peanuts using essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum had little effect on the physicochemical characteristics. However, results from evaluation of the technological aptitudes of preserved peanuts indicated that the essential oil has modified the functional properties of preserved peanut samples, with a particular impact on the elasticity of the pastes as well as the flavor and the texture of the peanut cakes. Organoleptic analyses revealed that preservation of peanuts with the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum affected the aroma and flavor of derived products.
Effect of Different Weather Relationship in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in Different Sowing Dates and Varieties in Prayagraj Conditions
Authors: Sharma Roshan , Samota Sunil Kumar , Paliwal H. B.
Published: September 2022

A field experiment entited “Effect of different sowing dates and varieties on growth and yield of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Under Prayagraj conditions” was conducted during the Rabi season of 2021-2022. The experiment was set at forestry field of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science Prayagraj U.P.  The experiment was laid out Factorial RBD with three replications having two factors. First factor comprised of three dates of sowing 15oct. 30 Oct. and 15 Nov. whereas second factor consist of three Barley varieties viz; Parth, SHB832, and RD 2052 Crop sown on 15th November recorded higher seed yield as compared to 30th October and 15th October sowing. In cases plant growth parameters of Barley maximum was recorded under 15th November as compared to 30th October and 15th October and in case of varieties maximum growth, plant height, no of tillers per plant, dry weight of per plant, length of spike, grain spike per plant, test weight, grain yield, straw yield, was recorded with 15th nov RD 2052 variety as compared to 15th Oct. Parth and 30th Oct. SHB 832. 15th November sowing with RD 2052 variety proved the most remunerative and economically feasible for cultivation of Barley under the agro climatic conditions of Prayagraj UP.
A Review of Climate-smart Agriculture is a New Approach to Farming System
Authors: Balo Sumana , Mahata Debasis
Published: September 2022

“Climate Smart Agriculture” (CSA) was born out of the converging needs of food security, human population, biofuel and adaptation, climate change mitigation, agricultural resources, and oil prices, and food pricing. This study analyses the ideas and concepts that drive community-based agriculture using the World Bank's framework. It claims that, even though the CSA promotes better multidisciplinary approach to agriculture, it operates inside a politically neutral structure that is just focused on increasing output. Depoliticization of the global food system legitimizes present policy aims and reduces power, inequality and access difficulties. Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) and Sustainable Intensification (SI) are mutually beneficial. SI aids in adjusting to climate change while simultaneously decreasing emissions per unit of production. CSA includes the advantages of “climate-smart food system”, “climate-proof farms”, and “climate- smart soils.
Does Arid Land Agroforestry Contribute to Achieving the Saudi Green Initiative Goals? A Review
Authors: Kouyate D. , Abohassan R. A. , Elfeel A. A.
Published: September 2022

Aims: Most of the land area of Saudi Arabia is either arid or hyper-arid. In the past decades, many efforts have been exerted to increase the green cover in Saudi Arabia, the most recent of which is the Saudi Green Initiative (S.G.I.), launched in 2021. S.G.I.’s main objectives are to increase the green land surface area and decrease carbon emissions. In this paper, the role of dryland agroforestry in mitigating the effects of climate change was reviewed, and its contribution to fulfilling S.G.I. was discussed.

Methodology: Previously published literature, scholarly research articles, and conference proceeding papers, on agroforestry systems (A.F.S), carbon sequestration and nutrient dynamics under A.F.S over the past 34 years were critically reviewed, examined, and analysed to find various applications of AFS for climate change mitigation and carbon sinks with focus on arid land.

Results: Forests are a vital source for climate change mitigation and adaptation and play a vital role as carbon sinks. A.F.S, eco-friendly and environmentally viable land use and management, provide immense potential to sequester carbon (C). A.F.S. is a reliable tool for increasing C sequestration. As a result of the worth granted to non-timber products, the application of A.F.S. could likewise reduce C emissions to the air by reducing the odds of concrete cutting of trees. Moreover, tree components are a source of C for the soil by means of root and leave decomposition.

Conclusion: In the perspective of the high threat facing humanity paused the climate variability and climate change, many nations and countries have taken various measures to tackle it which included protecting natural forests, afforestation, managed the natural regeneration of green cover. A.F.S leads to better land-use efficiency, increases the green cover, and thus helps in mitigating climate change.
Effect of Different Drying Methods on Physico-Chemical Attributes of Guava’s Fruit Pulp Powder
Authors: Poonam . , Singh Karan Vir , Bimal S. S. , Rajput Pushpendra , Rathour Shubham Singh , Chirolia Jitendra Kumar
Published: September 2022

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is one of the most popular fruits in tropical and subtropical regions of India. It is popularly known as” Apple of tropics”, belongs to the family Myrtaceae and often considered as “super fruit”. It is rich in vitamin A and C, omega-3 and 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and contains high levels of dietary fiber and other nutritional properties. Guava is a highly perishable fruit crop and has a very limited shelf life, so there is a need to preserve the fruits in dried form, whose powder can be used for processing purposes, value addition in off season demands. Therefore, we conducted an experiment to study the effect of different drying methods on physico-chemical attributes of guava’s fruit pulp powder (Santos et al., 2017). Fruits of guava pulp were used to prepare powder by different drying methods like freeze drying, sun drying, air drying and oven drying. Results showed that bulk density and moisture percent was highest recorded in sun drying method followed by air drying while minimum was recorded with oven drying followed by freeze drying. Maximum nutritional value likeFiber (5.97%), Ash(1.38%), Protein percent (1.82%), Total sugar (32.88%), reducing (23.14%) & non-reducing sugar (9.73%), ascorbic acid (227.90 mg/100 g), Titratable acidity (2.20%), Total phenols (250.66) and DPPH radical scavenging activity (83.40) was observed maximum with freeze drying followed by air drying. Taste, flavour, aroma and overall acceptability were better in freeze drying followed by Air drying.
Effect of Zn and B on Lentil (Lens culinaris) Growth Characteristics, Yield, and Available Nutrients in the Soil
Authors: Yadav Praveen Kumar , Kumar Satendra , Verma Shivam , Dixit Vidhu , Kumar Chandan , Verma Shikhar
Published: September 2022

To assess the effects of Zn and B treatment, a field experiment was carried out during the rabi seasion 2020–21 at the Crop Research Center of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). Ten treatments, each with a different combination of control, RDF, Zn, and B, were examined using a randomised block design with three replications. The experimental results revealed that growth attributing traits viz. Plant population (ha-1), Plant height (cm), Number of branches plant-1, Dry matter accumulation (g m-2), Effective nodules (No. plant-1), Nodules dry weight (mg plant-1), yield viz. grain yield, straw yield, biological yield and harvest index and Available nutrient in soil N, P, K, Zn, S and B in lentil differed significantly among different treatments. Growth parameters and yield were significantly better in the treatment T10 (RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1). The highest grain yield was recorded in T10 RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 was applied with Zn and B and was statistically at par with T8. From the study it may be concluded that the application of RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 with Zn and B (T10) gave best results (Grain yield increased by 26.7%, 25.7%, 21%, 22.9%, 17.2% and 59.1% over T1, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T1, respectively) and proved to be beneficial for rabi lentil followed by  RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 (T9) also gave better results. Zn and B, together with N, P, K, and S, were used in lentils in a balanced manner to preserve soil fertility while also improving growth characteristics and yield.
Cell Wall Changes of Papaya Fruit Treated with 1-Methylcyclopropene: Postharvest Analysis through SEM and FT-IR Spectroscopy
Authors: Srividhya S. , Jeyakumar P.
Published: September 2022

1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), is a widely researched and commercially used molecule to delay fruit ripening and improve the shelf life, both climacteric and non-climacteric fruits. Increasing the shelf life and keeping quality, especially of important climacteric fruits like papaya using 1-MCP, which undergoes a rapid softening during the ripening process required a detailed investigation of the structural changes of fruit cell wall. These changes include modifications in the cell wall polysaccharide structure due to increased activity of hydrolyzing enzymes, pectin, hemicellulose and cellulose degradation that results in fruit softening. Pectin degradation in papaya determines the extent of softening during ripening. Hence, the present investigation describes the role of 1-MCP in retaining the firmness, postharvest. The ultrastructural changes of papaya peel and pulp were studied using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The pectin degradation in untreated and 1-MCP treated fruits was analyzed through a rapid and reliable technique, FTIR spectroscopy (Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR)). The study revealed that postharvest application of 1-MCP at 900 ppb to papaya fruits, stored under cold storage (14°C) was effective in retaining higher fruit firmness by suppressing the rapid cell wall modifications and activity of pectin degradation, which are triggered by ethylene.
Performance Evaluation and Identification of New Quality Protein Maize Inbred Lines
Authors: Mekasha Goshime Muluneh , Seyoum Solomon Admassu , Woreti Demewoz Negera , Girma Beakal Tadesse
Published: September 2022

Background: Maize plays a critical role in meeting high food demand. It is a globally widely adopted and cultivated crop. Hybrid and open-pollinated varieties development from fixed inbred lines is one of the strategies for the improvement of maize production. Compared with the world average, the national average maize yield is low in Ethiopia. According to this development and selection of promising germplasm has indispensable value for developing high-yielding maize varieties. The study consists of 21Quality Protein Maize (QPM) lines, two QPM testers lines, and one Conventional Maize (CM) line check (FS67). They were evaluated in RCBD with two replications at Ambo and Arsi-Negele. The objective was to identify new lines with good performance compared with released QPM checks and CM lines.

Results: There is a significant difference between the lines for 28 traits in Ambo and 24 traits at Arsi-Negele. In combined mean performance analysis, the highest yielding line (L8) exceeded the mean of all line checks, mean QPM checks, CM line check (FS67), and best QPM line check (CML144) by 34.89%, 54.80%, 7.30%, and 25.31%, respectively for GY. The value of EPP ranged from 0.91 (L14) to 1.85 (L3) with an overall mean of 1.19). The highest yielding line (L8) had the 2nd highest EPP (1.63). Mean EPP of the top five QPM lines was less by 5.45%, 4.96%, 22.41%, and 6.41% compared with the mean of all checks, mean of QPM line checks, best QPM check, and CM line check, respectively. The high yielder line (L8) had a higher mean value than the mean of lines checks (CML144, CML159, and FS67), mean of QPM lines checks, best QPM check (CML144), and FS67 by 25.71%, 26.36%, 3.16%, and 24.43%, respectively.

Conclusion: In general, the study confirmed the existence of promising new QPM parental lines. These promising lines can be used as source material in the breeding program for further improvement.
Effect of Seed Priming on Germination, Plant Growth and Flowering of Cockscomb (Celosia spp.) Under Prayagraj Agro Climatic Conditions
Authors: Priyanka Ch. , Bahadur Vijay , Prasad V. M.
Published: September 2022

The present experiment was carried out during August, 2021 to January, 2022 in Research Field, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD), with nine treatments, replicated thrice, with an aim to identify the most suitable variety under the agro climatic conditions of Prayagraj. From the present experimental findings, It is concluded from the present investigations that nine treatments under study showed significant variation in all the parameters observed. To study on effect of seed priming on germination, plant growth and flowering of cockscomb (Celosia spp.). The experiment consisted with two varieties i.e Celosia cristata L. and Celosia argentea var. spicata. seeds were primed with CaCl₂ and salicylic acid. Celosia cristata L. Seeds were primed with CaCl₂ (0.56% and (2%), Salicylic Acid (0.02% and 0.04%). Celosia argentea var. spicata seed were primed with CaCl₂ (4% and 6%), Salicylic Acid (0.06% and 0.08%) the best performance in terms of Days to first seedling emergence (8.33), Days to 50% emergence (11.33), Mean emergence time (11.20), Emergence percentage (92), Emergence index (2), Vigor index (901.33), plant height (68.55 cm), number of leaves (47.44), days taken to flower bud formation (21.88), days taken to flowering (31.88), number of flowers per plant (25.44) and benefit cost ratio (7.58) gave best result in T₅ Salicylic acid 0.004% as compared to other treatments in terms of seedling, growth and floral parameters.
Effect of Plant Growth Retardants (Paclobutrazol, Alar, Maleic Hydrazide) on Growth, Flowering and Yield on African Marigold (Tagetes erecta) cv. Pusa Basanti under Open Field Conditions of Prayagraj
Authors: Arya Mansi , Fatmi Urfi
Published: September 2022

The present experiment was carried out during March, 2022 to June, 2022 in Research Field, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The research was conducted with an aim to identify the most suitable growth retardants and its appropriate dose under the agro climatic conditions of Prayagraj was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD), with three replications. Ten treatments were considered viz., Control (T0), Paclobutrazol (PBZ) at 100 ppm (T1), 150 ppm (T2), 200 ppm (T3); Maleic Hydrazide (MH) at 1000 ppm (T4), 1500 ppm (T5), 2000 ppm (T6); Alar at 1000 ppm (T7), 1500 ppm (T8), 2000 ppm (T9). From the experimental findings, it was observed that treatment PBZ at 100 ppm performed significantly better in most of the parameter like plant height (33.82 cm), plant spread (44.03 cm), number of primary branch (4.11), early bud initiation (33.6 days) and early flowering (50.6 days). The treatment MH at 1000 ppm performed significant for more fresh weight (4.28 g), flower diameter (4.07 cm), as well as shelf life (7.64 days). It also reported higher flower yield per plant (254.97 g), gross return (717093 Rs/ha), net return (426514 Rs/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.47). Through the study it can be conclude that PBZ at 100 ppm was better in vegetative parameter as well as early initiation and MH at 1000 ppm was good in producing higher yield when compared to other treatments.Include the recommendation based on results of the study.
Telehealth use and Models for Geriatric Patients Since the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ajaz Mehwish , Bouchama Manel , Khalid Komal Naz , Usman Madinah S. , Uddin Md. Giass , Alocha Henry E. , Choga Epiniah S. , Williams Daniel Kasho , Singh Prerna , Sana Maryam , Lawson Chelsey , Fagbenle Olasumbo E. , Adedoyin Adewale Mark , Batti Patrick , Hassanain Sahar
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The gaps in geriatric care provision has become prominent with the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19 pandemic). Despite the potential capability of the telehealth model to address the specific needs of geriatric patients, only a few geriatric guidelines have focused on the telehealth model during the pandemic. The following systematic review explores the current evidence of telehealth use and applications in geriatric care, which emerged post the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: Three databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, were searched by three independent reviewers to identify relevant studies.

Results: Seven studies were included in this review; two focused on the effectiveness of telehealth, three focused on the experiences of patients and providers, and two focused on the use of telehealth. Telehealth did not underperform compared to traditional care models in terms of self-efficacy, patient convenience, reduction in deferred care, increased efficiency of healthcare delivery, reduced travel issues, and improved health education. However, common challenges were disparities in access in favor of urban, cognitively sound, and younger geriatric patients.

Conclusion: The current systematic review reported the latest evidence on telehealth use and access across geriatric care since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine is gaining support from literature for being non-inferior to traditional healthcare methods, as observed in our findings.
Risk Factors for Hypotension after Anaesthesic Induction and Early Intraoperative Hypotension
Authors: Benakrout Aziz , Chlouchi Abdellatif , Jaafari Abdelhamid , Meziane Mohamed , Doghmi Nawfal , Bensghir Mustapha , Abouelalaa Khalil
Published: September 2022

Intraoperative hypotension should be differentiated with respect to the different underlying causal mechanisms. Post-induction hypotension is defined as arterial hypotension occurring during the first 20 minutes after induction of anaesthesia and early intraoperative hypotension is arterial hypotension during the first 30 minutes of surgery.

The aim of our study is to evaluate the incidence of intraoperative hypotension during surgery under general anaesthesia in a patient population and the factors influencing its occurrence.

Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study, carried out over a period of 4 months on 154 patients scheduled for surgery under general anaesthesia at the Military Hospital of Instruction Mohammed V in Rabat. We collected the following information : age, sex, ASA score, body mass index, comorbidities, drug intake and type of surgery. The occurrence or not of post induction hypotension and early intraoperative hypotension.

Results: The mean age of the patients in our case series was 58.5 ± 12 years. The sex ratio was 1.4 with a predominance of males. ASA I and II status were predominant. In univariate analysis: advanced age, the existence of chronic arterial hypertension and the decrease in systolic blood pressure before induction were factors favouring the occurrence of intraoperative hypotension. In multivariate analysis: We found that these 3 factors were independently related to the occurrence of intraoperative hypotension.

Conclusion: We found that lower pre-induction systolic blood pressure, older age and comorbidity such as hypertension are factors independently associated with post-induction and early intraoperative hypotension. We believe that this will allow preventive optimisation of the risk through early implementation of continuous haemodynamic monitoring and adequate therapeutic intervention.
Microscopic Polyangiitis Disguised in Gastrointestinal Bleed: A Rare Association
Authors: Singh Prerna , Ekpo Chidera , Igweze Udochukwu , Babalola Tolulope A. , Umer Anum , Sana Maryam , Ghobriel Naglaa
Published: September 2022

Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is an idiopathic autoimmune disease characterized by necrotizing vasculitis without granulomatous inflammation that predominantly affects small vessels. It most commonly presents in elderly patients but can occur at any age. Here we present a case of an elderly patient who presented with exertional dyspnea and fatigue in the setting of anemia and was diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis. The patient had a past medical history significant for chronic kidney disease stage IIIb with worsening creatinine over the last four months along with feeling fatigued and intermittently dyspneic associated with black stools for the previous three weeks. A kidney biopsy revealed fibro-cellular crescents consistent with microscopic polyangiitis, and the patient was started on intravenous pulse dose steroids and later put on hemodialysis for worsening creatinine. He was later discharged home on rituximab and oral steroids. MPA is a rare vasculitis that presents with renal dysfunction and occasionally with pulmonary involvement. Gastrointestinal bleeding is rarely associated with the MPO and is thought to be caused by arterial aneurysms. Therefore, MPO should be considered in mind while evaluating GI bleeding in patients with worsening kidney function.
An Appraisal of the Quality of Outpatient Healthcare Services and Patients’ Satisfaction at a Nigerian Mission Health Facility
Authors: Ugwu Collins N. , Ogbu Ogbonnaya , Ugwu Ngozi I. , Chika-Igwenyi Nneka M. , Ikeagwulonu Richard C. , Chukwu Onyedikachi E. , Kalu Amadi U. , Afolabi Olaronke F. , Iyidobi Tobechukwu C. , Uneke Chigozie J.
Published: September 2022

The cardinal goal of the hospital is to provide quality healthcare services to the patients, which is measured by patient’s satisfaction. This study aimed to determine patients’ knowledge and satisfaction about the factors that contribute to quality of outpatients’ healthcare services, to determine whether socio-demographic factors have any effect on patient satisfaction and to determine the effect of educational intervention on their knowledge and satisfaction. A quasi-experimental study (in which before-after technique) was carried over six months period. Systematic sampling technique was used to recruit adult patients exiting the out-patient department of the hospital. A semi-structured, interviewer administered modified SERVQUAL questionnaire was used to assess satisfaction and knowledge, followed by educational intervention and subsequently post intervention assessment after two months. The data generated were analysed using SPSS software version, 26. Three hundred and fifty adult patients participated in the pre-intervention stage while 165 patients were interviewed post-intervention. The proportion of the participants who had good knowledge pre-intervention, was high (91.7%) while 88.3% were satisfied with the quality of healthcare services. The empathy domain had the highest mean score of 4.02 while the responsiveness domain had lowest mean score of 3.29. Post-intervention, the knowledge level improved from 91.7% to 95.2% and satisfaction improved from 88.3% to 96.2% with mean score of 4.14. Gender did not have any influence on the level of knowledge and satisfaction across the various domains. However, there was increased satisfaction among the older patients (≥50 years) which was statistically significant [Tangible domain (X2 = 22.621, P = 0.000)]. Educational intervention was effective in improving level of knowledge about the factors that influence quality of care and level of satisfaction with the quality of care received at the hospital. The hospital management needs to prioritize interventions to improve the responsiveness of the services provided in the hospital to improve the quality of service and enhance patients’ satisfaction.
Evaluation of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Genotypes for Drought Tolerance Using Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) 6000
Authors: Gangotri Swarna , Peerjade D. A. , Awati M. , Satish D.
Published: September 2022

Chilli is an important vegetable and spice crop in India. It is cultivated under both irrigated and rainfed conditions. Most of the local genotypes are grown in rainfed conditions and they are known to withstand drought to some extent with lowered yield. Since chilli varieties or hybrids are not developed for drought tolerance, an experiment was conducted to evaluate 34 genotypes of chilli collected from different regions for drought tolerance using polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG-6000). Four genotypes viz., Arka Lohit, Arka Abhir, Byadgi Kaddi, and Byadgi Dabbi were used for standardization under different PEG concentrations from 2% to 12%. The 10% PEG was used as the optimum concentration based on the results of germination percent, root length, and shoot length. Among thethirty-four chilli genotypes screened using 10% PEG on the basis of highest germination percent, root length and shoot length chilli genotypes viz., Arka Lohit, DB variety, and Dappa were found superior over other genotypes.
Gas Exchange of Oiticica Seedlings in Response to Potassium Fertilization and Water Turning
Authors: Sousa Rosilvam Ramos de , Freire Antonio Lucineudo de Oliveira
Published: September 2022

Aims: This objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of water deficiency on physiological aspects of oiticica plants, as well as the capacity of potassium fertilization to attenuate such effects.

Study Design: The treatments were distributed in an entirely randomized design (DIC), consisting of a 4x4 factorial, with four levels of potassium (K) and four water turning, with five repetitions.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in a shaded environment, with 50% light interception, in the Forest Nursery of UAEF/UFCG, between January 2020 and July 2020.

Methodology: The relative water content (RWC), transpiration (E) and photosynthesis (A) rates, stomatal conductance (gs), and internal CO2 concentration (Ci) were evaluated, and from the values of A and E, the intrinsic water use efficiency (EUAi) was calculated and, with the data of A and Ci, the carboxylation efficiency (A/Ci).

Results: There was significant interaction of treatments in the parameters RWC, E, gs, A and EUAi and isolated effect of water turning on Ci and A/Ci. Irrigation daily or every five days provided the maintenance of higher water status and better stomatal behavior, and the plants were sensitive to water stress provided by longer water turnings (every 10 and 15 days). The fertilization with 100 and 150 mg dm-3 of K kept the values of E and A high, even under low water availability.

Conclusion: Potassium fertilization proved to be effective in attenuating the negative effects caused by water deficiency on gas exchange and WUEi of the seedlings, with highlights for 100 and 150 mg dm-3 of K levels.
Diversification of Processed Tilapia Fish Products Based on Ecopreneurship to Improve the Quality of Housewife Education Management
Authors: Mahmudah Fitri Nur , Erviana Vera Yuli , Rahayu Wahidah Mahanani
Published: September 2022

Aims: Improving the ability of housewives to become tilapia farming communities in terms of processed fish.

Study Design: Using One-Shoot Case Study.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: A farmer group of 40 people in Polaman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The time taken is 8 months.

Methodology: The method used is training and mentoring of tilapia processing practices.

Results: All members of farmer groups experienced improvements in skills, knowledge, production, new entrepreneurs, and products sold.

Conclusion: This community service program can run well. The results of the programs given to KWT Sedyo Rahayu have a good opportunity to be used as material for the creation of a new independent business unit. Thus, it can trigger business independence, and economic independence for mothers, and generate better income.
Toxicity of Methanolic Extract of Fruits of Catunaregam spinosa (Rubiaceae) on Danio rerio Embryos
Authors: Lawrence P. K. , Munasinghe M. L. A. M. S. , Senarath W. T. P. S. K. , Suresh Sugandhika
Published: September 2022

Aims: Catunaregam spinosa is an exotic plant in Sri Lanka. Fruits of this plant contain saponins, steroids, flavonoids possessing piscicidal property. Since years ago C. spinosa employs in the fishery industry, especially in rural areas. This study was established to evaluate the toxicity and the teratogenic effects of fruits of C. spinosa on D. rerio embryos.

Methodology: Semi-static renewal method was conducted to determine the median lethal concentration. Concentrations of 15.0, 17.0, 19.0, 21.0, 23.0 and 25.0 mg L-1 were tested with twenty embryos per treatment. Each concentration was triplicated. Dilution water and 3, 4- Dichloroaniline at 4.0 mg L-1 were tested for negative and positive controls respectively. Four apical observations and teratogenic effects were examined at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h time intervals.

Results: Embryos exposed to 19.5 mg L-1 concentration exhibited 50% mortality at p = 0.05 significance level. Embryos exposed to high concentrations exhibited more teratogenic deformities with a high mortality rate. Negative control recorded >90 % survival rate and positive control 95.0% lethality after 96 h exposure. Hatchability was negatively correlated with the concentration of the extract.

Conclusion: Methanolic fruit extract of C. spinosa showed concentration-dependent mortality and the teratogenic effects on D. rerio embryos. It could be concluded that the fruits of C. spinosa show moderate piscicidal activity.
Impact of Heavy Metal Pollution on the Biotic and Abiotic Components of the Environment
Authors: Ehis-Eriakha C. B. , Akemu S. E.
Published: September 2022

The environment comprises of biotic and abiotic components interacting as a system. The environment also contains organic and inorganic minerals in optimal concentration required by living organisms for growth, development, and metabolic activities. Due to anthropogenic activities and some natural occurrences, the availability of these elements has drastically increased in the ecosystem beyond the required threshold and permissible limits causing pollution. Heavy metal (HM) is one of the naturally occurring elements that threaten plant, animal, and human health. These HMs have been defined as elements with more than 5gcm-3 relative density that are not readily biodegradable but can be transformed from one state to another and are usually associated with toxicity or ecotoxicity. However, some heavy metals are biologically essential elements required in the body/plant or as constituents of important enzymes although in trace amounts while others are non-essential and are ranked as priority metals due to their high level of toxicity with no biological importance even at low concentrations.  The non-degradability property of heavy metals contributes to its persistence and subsequent accumulation in the biota and the food chain which is of public health significance to humans and animals. The soil environment is highly prone to HM contamination due to physiological, biochemical, metabolic, and biogeochemical processes that occur within the environment mostly mediated by microbes. These microbes are inarguably the drivers of ecosystem functioning, although they are significantly the most affected by HM pollution. This review, therefore, describes the ecotoxicological effect of heavy metals with special reference to the soil environment. Other sections discussed are the toxicity and general properties of some selected heavy metal, their role as environmental pollutants and essential elements. In addition, the effect of HM on soil microbes has also been analyzed in two folds: i) reduction in microbial population and diversity and ii) increased diversity and abundance of HM-resistant microbial strains which are significant in bioremediation studies
Photocatalytic Degradation of Malachite Green by NiAl-LDH Intercalated Polyoxometalate Compound
Authors: Hanifah Yulizah , Mohadi Risfidian , Mardiyanto Mardiyanto , Lesbani Aldes
Published: September 2022

Composites based on layered double hydroxide with polyoxometalate K3[-PW12O40] and K4[-SiW12O40] were synthesized to form NiAl-[SiW12O40] and NiAl-[PW12O40]. The materials were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and UV-DRS and were then applied as a photocatalyst to degrade MG. The effects of catalyst loading, pH value, and contact times on photodegradation performance were carried out in this study. The results indicated that        NiAl-LDH was successfully synthesized by showing the peak diffractions at angles 11.63°, 23.13°, and 35.16°. Both kinds of attained NiAl-[SiW12O40] and NiAl-[PW12O40] had typical structures of LDH that were proved by appearing diffraction at 2θ angles 10.76°, 26.59°, 30.8°, and 63.11° for NiAl-[PW12O40] and at 2θ angles 8.26°, 11.34°, 29°, and 35.1° for NiAl-[SiW12O40]. The materials used for the fifth regeneration were characterized by FTIR, which still presents characteristics of LDH structure. The photocatalyst was applied for the first time to degrade MG. The decrease of band gap on NiAl pristine than LDH composite from 4.76 eV to 3.22 eV for NiAl-[SiW12O40] and 3.78 eV for NiAl-[PW12O40] respectively, was presented by DR-UV analysis. LDH composite shows improved degradation photocatalytic performance in comparison with LDH pristine. It was present by the %degradation MG performances were 68.94% for NiAl LDH, 84.51% for NiAl-[PW12O40]), and 88.91% for NiAl-[SiW12O40]. The degradation percentage indicates that the LDH-polyoxometalate composite has succeeded in increasing the ability of photodegradation catalytic and the regeneration ability of LDH pristine. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Principles of Cutaneous Laser Therapy
Authors: Madan Vishal , Barlow Richard J.
Published: September 2022

Lasers and light‐based devices have become essential to the management of many dermatoses. Successful treatment is based on the selection of an appropriate device emitting the correct wavelength at a fluence sufficient to damage the target chromophore. In the skin the chromophores are haemoglobin, melanin and water, and this light–tissue interaction forms the basis of treatment. In this chapter, the reader will learn about laser–tissue interactions and indications for cutaneous laser treatments. Patient selection, pain control and complications of treatments are also discussed.
Neurological Conditions Affecting the Skin
Authors: Eedy David J.
Published: September 2022

The relationship between the nervous system and the skin is complex. Neurocutaneous disorders may be divided broadly into those associated with sensory abnormalities, and those associated with autonomic abnormalities, although there is overlap between these two groups. Skin manifestations may occur where the pathology is predominantly located either in the central nervous system or in the peripheral nervous system.
Tumours of Skin Appendages
Authors: Calonje Eduardo
Published: September 2022

This chapter on cutaneous appendageal tumours covers the spectrum of lesions displaying eccrine, apocrine, sebaceous and follicular differentiation. It includes cysts, hamartomas and benign and malignant tumours. Traditionally, appendageal tumours have been classified according to rigid criteria separating lesions with eccrine, apocrine, sebaceous and follicular differentiation. This separation is clearly artificial and it is now acknowledged that lesions regarded as strictly eccrine may well have apocrine differentiation and lesions classified as purely follicular may exhibit apocrine differentiation reflecting the close embryological relationship between the pilosebaceous unit and the apocrine gland.
Subsarcolemmal and cytoplasmic p62 positivity and rimmed vacuoles are distinctive for PLIN4‐myopathy
Authors: Wang Qi , Yu Meng , Zhang Wei , Gang Qiang , Xie Zhiying , Xu Jin , Zhou Chao , Wang Depeng , Meng Lingchao , Lv He , Jia Zhirong , Deng Jianwen , Yuan Yun , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: September 2022

PLIN4‐myopathy is a recently identified autosomal dominant muscular disorder caused by the coding 99 bp repeat expansion in PLIN4, presenting with distal or proximal weakness. Here, we report one family and one sporadic case of adult‐onset PLIN4‐associated limb‐girdle weakness, whose diagnoses were achieved by a comprehensive genetic analysis workup. We provided additional evidence that the combination of subsarcolemmal/cytoplasmic ubiquitin/p62 positive deposits and rimmed vacuoles could serve as a strong indicator of PLIN4‐myopathy. Moreover, we found novel myopathological features that were ultrastructural subsarcolemmal filamentous materials and membrane‐bound granulofilamentous inclusions formed by the co‐deposition of disrupted lipid droplets and p62 protein aggregates.
Online continuous time system identification in the presence of impulsive terms
Authors: Belkoura Lotfi
Published: September 2022

Online parameters estimation algorithms are proposed for continuous time systems subject to structured perturbations. Using a distribution framework, a matrix pencil structure, whose polynomial order is characterized by the nature of the singularities describing the impulsive effects, is proposed for the modeling of perturbed systems with different disturbance types. Then, using an appropriate projection subspace, the rectangular pencils are reformulated as square generalized eigenvalue problems subject to linear constraints, from which unperturbed regression are derived. This approach allows for the implementation of recursive estimation schemes, free of penalty terms. An identifiability analysis is also conducted, and theoretical results are illustrated with experimental and simulated data.
Molybdenum Blues with Tunable Light Absorption Synthesized by Femtosecond Laser Irradiation of Molybdenum Trioxide in Water/Ethanol Mixtures
Authors: Ye Fan , Ayub Ahsan , Chang Darren , Chernikov Roman , Chen Qiaoyun , Karimi Reza , Wettig Shawn , Sanderson Joseph , Musselman Kevin P.
Published: September 2022

Molybdenum blues (MBs) have attracted increasing attention due to their tunable structures and properties, which make them applicable in numerous fields. In this work, a novel strategy to synthesize MB nanorings by irradiating MoO3 suspended in water/ethanol mixtures with intense femtosecond laser pulses is demonstrated. It is found that the MoO3 can be dissolved in the water during laser irradiation to form molybdic acid, which provides an acidic environment for the formation of MB. Concentrations of ethanol as low as 1% result in the formation of MB and by adjusting the concentration of ethanol in the solvent, the absorption band can be tuned due to the modification of MoVOMoVI entities. The MB synthesized in 30% ethanol appears the darkest blue and assembly of vesicles 115 nm in size is observed. At high concentrations of ethanol (>70%), HXMoO3 and MoO3‐X are preferentially formed instead of MB. The photothermal conversion efficiency of the MBs synthesized in 1% and 30% ethanol is above 40%.
Gold‐Catalyzed Oxygen Transfer to Alkynylsulfones: A Diazo‐Free Route to 4‐Sulfonyl‐1,3‐Oxazoles
Authors: Chikunova Elena I. , Dar'in Dmitry V. , Kukushkin Vadim Yu. , Dubovtsev Alexey Yu.
Published: September 2022

The gold‐catalyzed annulation of alkynylsulfones, involving pyridine N‐oxides (as O‐atom transfer reagents) and nitriles (as C=N synthons), comprises a diazo‐free route to valuable 4‐sulfonyl‐1,3‐oxazoles. This reaction operates under relatively mild conditions (IPrAuNTf2 5 mol %, rt or 60 °C), and a number of functionalities was compatible (35 examples; 14–95%). In most cases, the SO2 fragment, which is typically expulsed in the previously reported Au‐catalyzed O‐transfers to alkynylsulfones, retains in the heterocyclic products. The postulated reaction mechanism suggests a key role of reactive gold α‐oxo carbene intermediates formed via the O‐atom transfer.

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Gold‐Catalyzed Oxyarylation/Hydroxylation of N‐Alkoxypropiolamides for Chemoselective Synthesis of 4‐Aryl‐3‐(2H)‐isoxazolones
Authors: Yasui Motohiro , Tahara Naoko , Matsubara Hiroshi , Takeda Norihiko , Ueda Masafumi
Published: September 2022

3‐(2H)‐isoxazolone is an important skeletal structure in medicinal and agricultural chemistry. However, its synthetic methodology has limited substrate scope and requires unconventional substrate synthesis. Meanwhile, gold‐catalyzed intramolecular oxidative cross‐coupling involving the 5/6‐endo‐dig cyclization of substrates bearing an ynone structure has not been reported because of an undesirable protonation as a side‐reaction. Thus, we hypothesized that the reactivity of cyclic N‐alkoxypropiolamides would suppress protonation and allow dual functionalization. As a result, sequential gold‐catalyzed 5‐endo‐dig cyclization, oxidative cross‐coupling, and hydroxylation of N‐alkoxypropiolamides was developed to synthesize 4‐aryl‐3‐(2H)‐isoxazolones with a hydroxy group. In an optimization study, dimethylformamide (DMF) and H2O were effective solvents for the sequential reaction. This method enabled 3‐(2H)‐isoxazolone backbone synthesis with the introduction of an aryl and hydroxy group in a single procedure. Moreover, a tolerance toward reactive functional groups, such as ketocarbonyl groups, was observed. Some chemical transformations of the synthesized 4‐aryl‐3‐(2H)‐isoxazolone were conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of functional group interconversion, C−C bond formation, and additional heterocycle synthesis. Notably, a fluorescent tetracyclic heterocycle was obtained by intramolecular oxidative cross‐coupling. Control experiments indicated that the reactivity for protonation was suppressed by an alkoxyamide moiety. Therefore, the chemoselectivity of oxyarylation was improved. Finally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to estimate the reaction pathway, which suggested that ring‐opening involving solvents (H2O or DMF) is important for these sequential reactions.

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DNA functionalized plasmonic nanoassemblies as SERS sensors for environmental analysis
Authors: Li Jinxiang , Chen Xueqin , Zhu Jun‐Jie
Published: September 2022

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is among the most widely applied analytical techniques due to its easy execution and extreme sensitivity. Target molecules can be detected and distinguished based upon the fingerprint spectra that arise when absorbed on the SERS substrates surface, particularly on the SERS‐active hotspots. Thus, rational fabricating the enhancing substrates plays a key role in broadening SERS application. Programmable DNA functionalized plasmonic nanoassemblies, where DNA acts as both structure basis and functional unit, combine the specificity of DNA recognition, and modulate the assembly of plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs). Specifically designed DNA not only improves the selectivity to target molecules but also promotes the sensitivity of the optical signals through precisely regulating the distance between the molecule and the substrate. A variety of DNA‐functionalized SERS sensors have been reported and obtained well performance in the analysis of heavy metal ions in water, toxins, pesticide residues, antibiotics, hormones, illicit drugs, or other small molecules. This review places an emphasis on the design and sensing strategies of the DNA‐functionalized plasmonic nanoassemblies, as well as basic principles of Raman enhancement, and recent advances for environmental analysis. The current challenges and potential trends in the development of DNA‐functionalized SERS sensors for environmental pollutant monitoring in complicated scenarios are subsequently discussed.
Temperature‐Robust Learned Image Recovery for Shallow‐Designed Imaging Systems
Authors: Chen Wei , Qi Bingyun , Liu Xu , Li Haifeng , Hao Xiang , Peng Yifan
Published: September 2022

Imaging systems are widely applied in harsh environments where the performance of shallow‐designed systems may deviate from expectation. As a representative scenario, environmental temperature variation may degrade image quality due to thermal defocus and sensor response, resulting in blur and noise. However, extensive athermalization in optics usually requires a complex design process and is limited by materials. Herein, a multibranch computational imaging scheme is developed, using emerging generative adversarial networks as the postprocessing to compensate for degradation of all kinds caused by thermal defocus and noise. In addition, a temperature controllable data acquisition, division, and mixture scheme is described to facilitate effective datasets for model robustness. Experiments on a vehicle lens and a mobile phone lens reveal that the proposed multibranch learned strategy notably increases image quality in the temperature range of 0–80 °C, and outperforms conventional athermalization in most instances, which is beneficial to lowering the design and manufacturing costs of imaging systems.