bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clocks at a snail pace: biological rhythms in terrestrial gastropods
Authors: Salvador Rodrigo Brincalepe , Tomotani Barbara Mizumo
Published: October 2024

Biological rhythms are ubiquitous across the tree of life. Organisms must allocate their activities into moments of the day and of the season that will increase their probability of surviving and reproducing, which is done in the form of daily and annual rhythms. So far, the vast majority of studies on biological rhythms have focused on classical laboratory model species. Still, the use of non-model species is gaining traction, as part of an effort to achieve a more holistic understanding of clock/calendar mechanisms in the “real world” but this requires species that can be studied in both the lab and in nature. Terrestrial gastropods, i.e., land snails and slugs, have the potential to be exciting models for the study of biological rhythms in nature. Therefore, we provide a review of the research on biological rhythms in terrestrial gastropods, with a focus on ecology and evolution. We present the state of the art in the field while giving a historical perspective of the studies, exploring each of the main lineages of terrestrial gastropods. We also point out some interesting directions that future studies could take to fill some of the more urgent gaps in current knowledge. We hope that our contribution will renew interest in this area and spark novel projects.
In-depth study of pyroptosis-related genes and immune infiltration in colon cancer
Authors: Shang Bingbing , Qiao Haiyan , Wang Liang , Wang Jingyu
Published: October 2024

Background

Pyroptosis is a form of regulated necrosis that occurs in many cell and tissue types and plays a critical role in tumor progression. The diagnostic value of pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) in colon cancer has been widely investigated. In the present study, we explored the relationship between PRG expression and colon cancer.

Methods

We retrieved genomic and clinical data pertaining to The Cancer Genome Atlas-Colon Adenocarcinoma from the UCSC Xena database, along with the corresponding genome annotation information from the GENCODE data portal. Utilising these data and a list of 33 pyrogenic genes, we performed principal component analysis and unsupervised clustering analysis to assess the pyroptosis subtypes. We analysed the differential expression between these subtypes to obtain PRGs, ultimately selecting 10 PRGs. We conducted Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, gene set variation analysis, protein–protein interaction, and immune infiltration analyses of these PRGs. We validated the expression of TNNC1 via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real-time quantitative PCR.

Results

After rigorous screening, excluding patients with incomplete survival data and unmatched transcriptomes, we refined our study cohort to 431 patients. We performed differential mRNA analysis and identified 445 PRGs, 10 of which were selected as hub genes. These genes were associated with various immune cell types. Specifically, TNNC1 expression was positively associated with immature dendritic cells and NK CD56+ cells. IHC staining indicated higher TNNC1 expression levels in tumor samples. Notably, TNNC1 expression levels were high in all the colon cancer cell lines, particularly in SW480 cells.

Conclusion

In this study, we explored the characteristics of PRGs in colon cancer and identified novel biological targets for early individualised treatment and accurate diagnosis of colon cancer, thus contributing to the advancement of clinical oncology.
Genomic evaluation of the probiotic and pathogenic features of Enterococcus faecalis from human breast milk and comparison with the isolates from animal milk and clinical specimens
Authors: Badr Lobna , Yasir Muhammad , Alkhaldy Areej A. , Soliman Samah A. , Ganash Magdah , Turkistani Safaa A. , Jiman-Fatani Asif A. , Al-Zahrani Ibrahim A. , Azhar Esam I.
Published: October 2024

Enterococcus faecalis is considered a probiotic, commensal lactic acid bacterium in human breast milk (HBM), but there are circulating antibiotic resistant and virulence determinants that could pose a risk in some strains. The study aimed to conduct genomic analysis of E. faecalis isolates recovered from HBM and animal milk and to evaluate their probiotic and pathogenic features through comparative genomics with isolates from clinical specimens (e.g., urine, wound, and blood). Genomic analysis of 61 isolates was performed, including E. faecalis isolates recovered from HBM in Saudi Arabia. Genome sequencing was conducted using the MiSeq system. The fewest antibiotic resistance genes (lsaA, tetM, ermB) were identified in isolates from HBM and animal milk compared to clinical isolates. Several known and unknown mutations in the gyrA and parC genes were observed in clinical isolates. However, 11 virulence genes were commonly found in more than 95% of isolates, and 13 virulence genes were consistently present in the HBM isolates. Phylogenetically, the HBM isolates from China clustered with the probiotic reference strain Symbioflor 1, but all isolates from HBM and animal milk clustered separately from the clinical reference strain V583. Subsystem functions 188 of 263 were common in all analyzed genome assemblies. Regardless of the source of isolation, genes associated with carbohydrate metabolism, fatty acid, and vitamin biosynthesis were commonly found in E. faecalis isolates. In conclusion, comparative genomic analysis can help distinguish the probiotic or pathogenic potential of E. faecalis based on genomic features.
Comparison of Intravenous Lignocaine and Dexmedetomidine in Attenuating the Haemodynamic Response to Laryngoscopy and Intubation: A Randomised Double-blind Clinical Study
Authors: Seelwal Deepika , Bangarwa Nidhi , Tyagi Ankit , Manohar Manisha , Johar Sanjay , Gehlaut Preeti
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Endotracheal intubation often triggers a sympathetic response, leading to an increase in Heart Rate (HR) and blood pressure. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) and lignocaine have shown the potential to mitigate cardiovascular changes secondary to intubation. Aim: To compare the efficacy of 0.25 mcg/kg and 0.5 mcg/kg DEX with 1.5 mg/kg lignocaine in attenuating haemodynamic responses during the peri-intubation period. Materials and Methods: This randomised double-blind study included 90 patients classified as American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) I and II, aged 16-65 years. Patients were divided into three groups: Group A received lignocaine (1.5 mg/kg); Group B received DEX (0.25 mcg/kg); and Group C received DEX (0.5 mcg/kg). Haemodynamic parameters were recorded at various intervals before and after laryngoscopy. Data were checked for normality before statistical analysis using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Normally distributed continuous variables were compared using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), while categorical variables were analysed using the Chi-square test. For all statistical tests, a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered indicative of a significant difference. Results: All groups were found to be comparable in terms of age, weight, and gender distribution. The mean age in Group A was 36.10±12.60 years, in Group B was 36.10±13.47 years, and in Group C was 37.37±11.49 years. Inter-group comparisons between Group A and Group C showed statistically significant lower HR values in Group C (79.23±10.37 vs. 90.7±17.68) at T0 as well as T1 (90.07±14.65 vs. 99.93±17.02, p-value 0.019). The comparison between Groups A and C revealed significantly lower Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) values in Group C at T0, T1, T3, and T5. Inter-group comparisons between Groups A and B showed that Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) values were significantly lower at T5 in Group B (69.33±10.09 vs. 62.33±9.11, p-value 0.006). Between Groups A and C, significant differences were noted at T0, T1, T3, and T5 in Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP). Conclusion: DEX at a dose of 0.5 mcg/kg appears to be a more effective option for managing haemodynamic responses compared to lignocaine. Nevertheless, the haemodynamic stability achieved with 0.25 mcg/kg of DEX is nearly equivalent to that observed with both 0.5 mcg/kg of DEX and 1.5 mg/kg of lignocaine.
Evaluation of Red & Purple Skinned Advance Clones Suitable for Eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains of India
Authors: Yadav Sarla , Luthra S.K. , Singh R. K. , Singh S.P.
Published: October 2024

An experiment was conducted at ICAR Central Potato Research Institute, Regional Station, Patna, Bihar during the year 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to evaluate 04 red skinned and 02 purple skinned Potato advance clones with 05 controls as popular potato varieties in confirmatory yield trials. The performance of advance clones was evaluated with respect to their yield and yield attributing traits, dry matter, nutritional status of the tubers. The experiment was planted in Randomized Block design with 03 replications, plant to plant distance was 20 cm and row to row distance 60 cm. The experiment was planted in two sets i.e. 75 days & 90 days duration crop. The potato clones PS/16-02 & PS/16-17 were selected on the basis of their remarkable high marketable tuber yield (26.29 and 22.45 t/ha in 75 days duration and 30.16 t/ha & 25.81 t/ha at 90 days duration crop respectively). The nutritional status of the tubers were high, tuber shape ovoid to round, colour purple (PS/16-02) & red (PS/16-17), shallow eyes and good organoleptic qualities after boiling and frying. The dry matter content of these selected advance clones were 20.17 & 20.42 respectively. The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the performance of advance clones for the above-mentioned traits and to select suitable advance clones for introduction in All India Coordinated Research Project on Potato.
Effects of Tin Mining on Water Sources in Mwerasandu Tin Mine, Ntungamo District, Uganda
Authors: Akampondi Pamela , Kalukusu Amos Ronald , Barakagira Alex
Published: October 2024

Tin mining is a widespread economic activity across various regions worldwide. Understanding the consequences of such operations is crucial for sustainable water management and environmental conservation. The current study aimed at determining the concentrations tin, lead and mercury in the water sources of Nyakahiimbura Stream in Mwerasandu, and assessed the physico-chemical properties including pH, turbidity, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the water from the Nyamuhimbura stream, Ntungamo district. Water samples from three locations, that is; the upstream, impact area and downstream of the Nyakahiimbura water stream were collected during the dry and wet seasons of the year 2024. The samples collected were analyzed for the physico-chemical properties in the laboratory while the Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP – OES) was used to determine the concentration of heavy metals in the water samples. The pH, COD values obtained were within the acceptable effluent standards while the turbidity values at the upstream and downstream of the dry season and downstream during the wet season were above the acceptable effluent Standards. The tin concentration was high in the dry season (0.09mg/L) as compared to concentration (0.118mg/L) in the wet season. Lead concentration was the same (0.015mg/L) in both seasons.  The concentrations of the heavy metals showed some variations in both dry and wet seasons in the upstream, impacted area and the downstream of the study area as compared to the values of the effluent standards.  The study recommends that alternative sources of water for domestic use should be sought of. Also, the government officials especially from the Ministry of Health should carry out awareness campaigns to members of the community about the health risks associated with the uptake of the contaminated waters for domestic purposes. Constructed wetlands should be in place around the mining sites to act as filters for the dangerous metals before the water enters the surrounding environment.
Seed Priming and Foliar Spraying with Biosynthesized Zinc Nanoparticles on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Production
Authors: Nazma S. , Sudha T. , Biradar D.P. , Krishnaraj P.U. , Chandrashekhar S.S. , Ravikumar H.
Published: October 2024

The research was carried out at the Green Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, with a specific emphasis on the biosynthesis of zinc nanoparticles using Pseudomonas and actinobacteria. The zinc nanoparticles were biosynthesized and characterized through UV-Visible spectroscopy, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), (EDX), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). After biosynthesis and characterization of the nanoparticles (NPs), a pot experiment was conducted under controlled condition to know the effect of biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles on wheat. Seed priming at 500 ppm and foliar spraying at 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through actinobacteria (T12) recorded significantly higher plant height (93.73 cm), number of tillers per plant (4.87), total dry matter production (45.57 g pot-1), number of grains per spike (46.73), grain weight per spike (1.83 g), test weight (42.26 g), grain yield (3.95 g plant-1) and straw yield (5.97 g plant-1)and found on par with seed priming at 500 ppm and foliar spraying at 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through Pseudomonas (T5).
The Effects of Excessive Use of Computer Screen on Visual Acuity among Non-academic University Staff
Authors: Eni Chinasa Godsgift , Uahomo Precious Ojo
Published: October 2024

Background: The increasing prevalence of computer vision syndrome (CVS) necessitates a thorough understanding of its impact on visual health among users. This study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of long-term computer usage on the visual acuity of non-academic staff at the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 321 non-academic staff members aged 18-45 years with at least two years of computer usage experience. The participants were randomly selected and completed a structured questionnaire assessing demographic details, computer usage habits, and visual health status. Visual acuity was measured using the Snellen eye chart, and the data were analysed using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for significance.
Results: Among the 159 computer users, 32.7% reported using screens for more than six hours daily. Common symptoms included eye strain (17.6%), blurred vision (14.7%), and headaches (13.2%). Visual acuity assessments indicated that 66.9% of computer users had normal vision in the left eye, whereas 82.6% of computer users exhibited abnormal visual acuity compared with non-users (χ2 = 29.89, p = 0.00). A significant association was found between increased screen time and reduced normal visual acuity, with 27.3% of users with over five years of screen time reporting normal vision.
Conclusion: This study highlighted the adverse effects of prolonged computer usage on visual acuity among non-academic staff, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures to mitigate the risk of CVS in this population.
Effective Information Flow In Project Management: Lessons From An Information Technology Project
Authors: Shodeinde Azeez Olatubosun
Published: October 2024

Network analysis of scheduled activities is a widely-applied project management tool which promotes timely and efficient project delivery. However, lack of coherent network of information flow during the project implementation can render the project objectives and targets unrealisable. In this study, the researcher analysed lessons on information management from a plant installation process in an information technology (IT) company within the Manchester neighbourhood. The lessons were relatable because the researcher was a member of the team who managed the plant installation. In particular, an electronic information model (under the auspices of Excel software) was designed and implemented in collaboration with the project team. This immediately kept the team well informed of the project progress, corrected slowdowns in activity execution and facilitated timely completion of the plant assembly. The multiple-machine plant was successfully prepared for production operation within the specified timeline. This study therefore argues that project managers may take lessons from this experience in creating a network of information flow such that the project team implements their assigned activities with full information knowledge of what comes before and after each activity.
Research On Infinite Series Involving Circular Cotangent Function And Fourier Series
Authors: Prasad Pratham
Published: October 2024

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Thermal Performance Of Termite Mold Bricks Reinforced With Empty Fruit Bunch Spikelet And Coconut Fibers
Authors: Mofor Wannyuy Kingsly , Nafu Yakum Reneta , Gilbert Tchemou , Wilfred Ngonge Viyof , Tendo Foba Josepha
Published: October 2024

The use of natural fibers to enhance the thermal properties of earth bricks has become increasingly popular. This study investigates the thermal performance of termite mold soil (TMS) reinforced with two types of fibers: coconut fibers (CF) and empty fruit bunch spikelet fibers (EFBSF). Various fiber compositions (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, and 2.5%) were combined with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatments at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%. Laboratory results reveal that TMS exhibits promising physical properties, including a moisture content of 23.64%, a maximum dry density of 1.63 g/cm³, and a plasticity index of 20%, indicating its structural stability and suitability for earth block production. The study also analyzes the chemical properties of EFBSF and CF fibers, noting that CF has a higher holocellulose content (88.0%) compared to EFBSF (33.5%), which impacts moisture retention and structural integrity. Thermal analysis demonstrates that incorporating these natural fibers significantly enhances the thermal performance of TMS. With a 2.5% fiber content, CF reduces thermal effusivity from 1771.43 J/m²Ks^1/2 to 1079.39 J/m²Ks^1/2 and thermal conductivity from 0.86 W/mK to 0.38 W/mK, making it particularly effective in improving insulation in hot conditions. EFBSF also lowers thermal effusivity and conductivity, but to a lesser extent than CF. Additionally, the presence of these fibers reduces volumetric calorific capacity, with CF showing a more pronounced effect. Overall, TMS reinforced with coconut fibers, especially at 1% NaOH and 2.5% fiber content, offers the best thermal performance, suggesting its potential for sustainable construction. This research promotes the use of locally sourced, natural fibers in earth block manufacturing, contributing to the development of more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly building materials.
Rhizostimulation of Hydrocarbon Degrading Microorganisms Using Chrysopogon zizanioides and Eucalyptus camaldulensis Species During Bioattenuation of Hydrocarbon Polluted Soils
Authors: (Phd) Prof. Ayuba D. K. , M. O Oluwole , E. O Adeshina
Published: October 2024

Background: This study was carried out to compare the rhizostimulation potentials of C. zizanioides and E. camaldulensis on microorganisms cfu during the phytoremediation of hydrocarbon contaminated potted soils. The objectives were to: i). determine the best treatment for the rhizostimulation of the microbial population in soils during the bioattenuation process. ii). examine the most efficient plant species in the Phytostimulation of hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms during the bioattenuation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils. iii). identify the various bacterial and fungal colonies associated with the bioattenuation of hydrocarbon. Materials and Method: The design was the Split-Split Plot experiment (4 x 4 x 2). The main plot factors were the crude oil contamination (4 levels), the sub-Plot factors were the soil amendments (4 levels) while the subsub-Plot factors were the plant species (2 levels). Results: Results indicated that there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in rhizostimulation potentials of the plant species in different crude oil contamination levels and in the different soil amendments for both bacteria and fungi. Although E. camaldulensis species was involved in biostimulation of microbial cfu, C. zizanioides was found better efficient (16.13 x 106 soil bacteria cfu g g -1 at 9 WAT and 10.04 x 106 soil fungal cfu g g -1 at 12 WAT respectively. Microorganisms found involved in bioattenuation of hydrocarbon include Bascillus spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp for bacteria and Aspergillus spp., Rhizopus spp., and Penicillium spp for fungi. The most frequently occurred genus of microorganisms were Bacillus and Rhizopus. Conclusion: In conclusion, C. zizanioides was recommended as efficient rhizostimulating plant species. It was concluded that the mixture of both the grass and woody plant species are required for optimum growth and stimulation of hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms during phytoremediation procedure in the field. Additionally, bacterial and fungal cfu was observed to have increased with increasing hydrocarbon concentration under the influence of the two plant species and the applied landfarming treatments of a mixture of NPK (g g-1) and Cowdung (3:1 v/v) fertilizer. The most frequently occurred genus of microorganisms were Bacillus and Rhizopus.
Determinants Of Adoption Of Soil Conservation Technologies Among Smallholder Farmers In Izzi Local Government Area Of Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwofoke Christian , Georginia Umeonuora Tochukwu , Baya Baynachew Bargissa , Fi Anagah , Idike Sampson Chinweike
Published: October 2024

The study examined the determinants of adoption of soil conservation technologies among smallholder farmers in Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to select 160 respondents for the study. Data collected with the aid of structured questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that farmers in the area had average age of 47 years and operated on 1.5 hectares of land with an average farm income of ₦152,125. Further analysis revealed that the smallholder farmers had an adoption index of 2.21 which implied that they used at least two (2) soil conservation technologies with an average source of information of 2.72 showing that they got information on soil conservation technologies from at least three different sources. Furthermore, results revealed erosion, deforestation, reduced soil fertility and indiscriminate bush burning as the forms of soil degradation existing in the area while adopted coping strategies were crop rotation, use of organic manure, intercropping practices, appropriate use of fertilizer, use of mixed cropping system and planting of trees. The results of OLS multiple regression analysis showed that the coefficient of multiple determination (R2 ) of the regression model was 0.760. This implies that seventy-six percent (76%) of the variations in level of soil conservation technology adoption were accounted for by the independent variables socio-economic characteristics of the smallholder farmers included in the model. The result of factor analysis identified social, institutional and economic factors as constraints militating against adoption of soil conservation technologies among the smallholder farmers in the study area. The rejected hypothesis concluded that there is a significant relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics of smallholder farmers and their adoption of soil conservation technologies in the area. Based on the findings, the study recommends; that local government authorities and NGOs working in areas that are prone to soil fertility losses should introduce programmes that will train and promote soil conservation technologies to be adopted by farmers to improve productivity; provision of Infrastructural facilities such as good road network to ensure easy movement of agricultural inputs to the farmers field; and Agricultural extension services which are saddled with the responsibility of disseminating timely, complete actionable information should be re-positioned and strengthened to ensure smallholder farmers access to information, through appropriate channels.
Biodegradation Of Propanil by Fusarum Oxysparum from Rice Farm
Authors: Ngozi Ewoh Anthonia , Chinedu Onuorah Samuel
Published: October 2024

Propanil is a widely used aniline contact herbicide. It has been reported that poor handling and application of propanil have adverse effects on non -target organisms and can cause water pollution through runoff, persistence of propanil and its by–by-products, human health problems, and reduced crop yields Propanil is a widely used aniline contact herbicide. It has been reported that poor handling and application of propanil have adverse effects on non-target organisms. It can cause water pollution through runoff, persistence of propanil and its by–products, human health problems, and reduced crop yields. The propanil degraders were further characterized with molecular typing using 16s rRNA sequencing. The biodegradation study was conducted for fourteen days and the residual concentration of propanil was determined using gas chromatography. The microbial examination of contaminated propanil soil showed the presence of Fusarium sp and a preliminary test showed Fusarium oxysporum. The study showed that the application of propanil to agricultural fields is safe as there are indigenous microorganisms that can degrade it and the consumption of rice grown on propanil-contaminated soil will not be hazardous to human health as the residual propanil concentration is much below the level stipulated by regulatory authorities
Perception Des Eleveurs Face Aux Effets Du Changement Climatique : Cas Des Eleveurs Du Parcours Gadoudhe Dans La Commune Rurale De Fabidji Au Niger
Authors: Ibrahim Djibo , Hassimi Moussa
Published: October 2024

L’objectif de cette étude est d’apprécier la perception des éleveurs face aux effets du changement climatique au niveau du parcours Gadoudhe, dans la commune rurale de Fabidji au Niger. Matériel et méthodes : Une enquête a été faite individuellement et en groupe pour recueillir des informations complémentaires. Résultats : Les résultats ont montré que le changement climatique est un phénomène qui affecte les pratiques d’élevage, très dépendantes de l’environnement. Les éleveurs (selon 84,4%) ont noté une augmentation des températures ; et une diminution de la pluviométrie (selon 62,5% des enquêtés). Il y a aussi la disparition de quelques espèces herbacées et ligneuses dans le parcours. Les éleveurs font face à des maladies des animaux liées au changement climatique. Ces facteurs impactent négativement l’activité pastorale dans la conduite d’élevage et la rend très vulnérable. Pour y faire face, et notamment pour atténuer les effets du changement climatique, les éleveurs ont adopté quelques stratégies qui se résument à l’achat d’aliments, le ramassage des fourrages pour les animaux et le stockage du fourrage. A cela s’ajoute, l’effort fourni par les éleveurs pour la recherche d’eau d’abreuvement et les dépenses liées au maintien de la santé du cheptel. Conclusion: Pour mieux s’adapter aux effets du changement climatique, les éleveurs du parcours Gadoudhe ont été obligés d’abandonner quelques anciennes pratiques et adopter des nouvelles pratiques.
Analyse Spatio-Temporelle Et Dynamique De La Biodiversité Floristique De La Localité De GanahaMoutourwa (Extrême-Nord Cameroun)
Authors: Benjamine Anguessin , Bertine Tiokeng , Guidawa Fawa , Adamou Ibrahima , Marie Et Mapongmetsem Pierre
Published: October 2024

Le travail qui était axé sur l’analyse spatio-temporelle et la dynamique de la biodiversité floristique de la localité de Ganaha avait pour objectif d’étudier l’évolution de la végétation du terroir de Ganaha au cours de ces quarante dernières années. Cette recherche s’est basée sur l’analyse des images satellitaires prises en différentes périodes (1980, 2000 et 2020). Des relevés floristiques des ligneux ainsi que des enquêtes de terrain ont également été effectués. Il ressort de cette étude qu’on retrouve dans ce site 663 plantes ligneuses regroupées en 9 familles et 17 espèces. On note une dominance de la famille de Fabaceae (29,41%) suivie des Combretaceae (17,64%), des Moringaceae (11,76%) et des Bombacaceae (11,76 %). Les résultats de l’analyse des images satellitaire montrent que la localité de Ganaha se caractérise par une dynamique régressive de son couvert végétal ligneux. L’essor des activités humaines caractérisées principalement par la coupe du bois à conduit à la régression du couvert végétal. Pour les populations du village, ce site est perçu comme une source d’énergie ce qui accentue sa dégradation. Si rien n’est fait pour bloquer cette dynamique, la localité de Ganaha en terme de biodiversité floristique pourrait disparaitre
Effect Of Annealing Temperature On The Optical And Structural Properties Of Zinc-Doped Cd2SnO4 Thin Films Prepared By Dip-Coating Method
Authors: Osewe Zachary O. , Oduor Andrew O. , Onyinge George O.
Published: October 2024

As demand for solar PV modules steadily increases studies on cheaper alternative TCO materials, with low resistivity and high transmittances in the visible spectrum to replace ITO are been undertaken. Among TCO materials considered as alternative to Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) is Cd2SnO4, owing to its availability in large quantities at relatively lower costs. Studies on optical properties of N2 and F2 doped Cd2SnO4 films have revealed increased transmittance 99%, and reduced band gap 3.3 eV. On the other hand Fe doped films have been observed to exhibit higher refractive indices, extinction and absorption coefficients with lower transmittance and optical band gap. Although studies have been carried out on Zinc doped Cd2SnO4 films, the effect of annealing temperature on the properties of the films have not been reported. This study investigated the effect of annealing temperature on the optical and structural properties of Zinc-doped Cd2SnO4 films. Thin films of Zincdoped Cd2SnO4 were prepared by mixing 0.1 M Cadmium Acetate with 0.1 M Tin II Chloride in ratio 1:1 to prepare Cd2SnO4 which was doped with 0.1 M Zinc Nitrate then dip-coated on clean glass substrates. The coated substrates were dried at room temperature and annealed in air the films annealed at 350 o C, 400 o C and 450 o C for 90 minutes Optical transmittance and reflectance were measured in wavelength range 200-1200 nm and with the results: prominent XRD peak oriented in the (2 0 0) direction, transmittance of 78.7% at 700 nm wavelength, absorption coefficient of 3.891 - 5.591 x 104 cm-1 , extinction coefficient of 0.1852 - 0.2126, refractive indices of 1.983-2.121 at 588 nm wavelength and band gap values range 3.45-3.65 eV. Annealing was observed to reduce refractive index and does not affect transmittance therefore doesn’t enhance suitability of films as TCO materials for Photovoltaic applications.
Effect Of Mn2+On Physical And Spectroscopic Features Of Li2B4O7 And K2B4O7Glasses With Teo2
Authors: Satyanarayana T. , Srinivas B. , Rani N.Usha , Shareefuddin Md
Published: October 2024

The present manuscript is to provide information about the preparation, and identification of the glassy nature, primary physical parameters, and structural studies of the effect of Mn2+ on K2B4O7 -TeO2 and Li2B4O7-TeO2 MnO[LTM] glasses. The glasses of thickness around 1 mm were obtained by the melt quenching method. These glasses are transparent enough to recognize them as glassy species but their amorphous nature was scientifically identified with peak-free XRD spectra. Several properties like density, molar volume, optical absorption, FTIR, Raman, and EPR spectra were measured and analysed, and discussed in detail. Density drastically decreased from 2.5176 gm/cc (LTM) to 2.3868 gm/cc (KTM) which is due to the presence of K2B4O7. Molar volume increased from 66.27 (LTM) to 115.61 (KTM) glass sample. From Optical absorption spectra, optical band gap energy decreased from 3.278 eV (LTM) to 2.888 eV (KTM) and the refractive index increased. FTIR and Raman studies combined reveal the existence of certain structural groups and the domination of a few borate modes. EPR studies confirmed the presence of Mn2+ ions
Proton Predominance At UHE Cosmic Rays Through Analysis Of Different Mass Composition Models
Authors: Phukan Dr. Jyoti Prasad
Published: October 2024

Recently, detection of giant (1017 to 1020eV ) and super giant ( Ep >1020 eV ) air showers is gaining importance as the investigation of EAS in these energy ranges is expected to give necessary information on characteristics of high energy nuclear interactions in one hand and for solving the astrophysical problem of Cosmic Ray origin , beyond the Greisen-Zatsepin-Kuzmin cut-off energy near 1020 eV. Due to the very low Cosmic Ray flux in the UHE range ( > 1017 eV ) direct measurement by balloons or satellites are not possible. The experimental approach realized conventionally uses extended ground-based installations catching data of the induced air showers . An alternative approach is to use a low cost particle detector array called mini-array for detecting UHE cosmic rays by Linsley’s method of arrival time measurement. The miniarray consist of eight plastic scintillation counters covering an area of 2m2 operating for detecting EAS particles of primary energy 1017 -1018 eV based on Linsley’s method of arrival time measurement. An optical detector (5 inch diameter PMT) has been installed at the centre of the miniarray to record the associated optical Cerenkov pulse produced by the ultra-relativistic shower particles in the atmosphere with an aim to derive primary mass composition above 1017 eV. Optical pulses are recorded in one channel of the DSO and the stored data in the wave form memory are transferred to the computer via GPIB interface. The particle detector pulses are triggered with the help of trigger circuit and recorded through other channel of the DSO and transferred to the same DSO. However, the data are subjected to large fluctuation both in particle detection and optical photon detection. Primary energy is estimated through the parameter shower size which is also indirectly measured from a small sample of shower front using miniarray data. Mass composition estimated indirectly relies on simulation model. On the basis of pulse height distribution measurement, the inferred mass composition is predominantly protons, with a tendency of mass composition becoming lighter at the highest energies.
How Does The Chemical Structure Of Morphine Affect Its Analgesic Properties?
Authors: Vaish Maya
Published: October 2024

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Multidecadal Changes and Interannual Variation in Springtime Phenology of North American Temperate and Boreal Deciduous Forests
Authors: Melaas Eli K. , Sulla‐Menashe Damien , Friedl Mark A.
Published: March 2018

The timing of leaf emergence is an important diagnostic of climate change impacts on ecosystems. Here we present the first continental‐scale analysis of multidecadal changes in the timing of spring onset across North American temperate and boreal forests based on Landsat imagery. Our results show that leaf emergence in Eastern Temperate Forests has consistently trended earlier, with a median change of about 1 week over the 30 year study period. Changes in leaf emergence dates in boreal forests were more heterogeneous, with some sites showing trends toward later dates. Interannual variability in leaf emergence dates was strongly sensitive to springtime accumulated growing degree days across all sites, and geographic patterns of changes in onset dates were highly correlated with changes in regional springtime temperatures. These results provide a refined characterization of recent changes in springtime forest phenology and improve understanding regarding the sensitivity of North American forests to climate change.
T
hermaceae
Authors: da Costa Milton S. , Rainey Fred A. , Albuquerque Luciana
Published: March 2018

Ther.ma.ce'ae. N.L. masc. n.
Thermus
, type genus of the family; L. suff. ‐
aceae
, ending to denote a family; N.L. fem. pl. n.
Thermaceae
, the
Thermus
family.

“Deinococcus–Thermus” / Deinococci / Thermales / Thermaceae

Cells are straight rods of variable length; filaments are also present. Nonmotile; flagella are not present. Stain Gram‐negative. Endospores are not observed. Most strains form yellow‐ or red‐pigmented colonies, but some strains are nonpigmented. Thermophilic or slightly thermophilic, with an optimum growth temperature range of about 45–75°C. Some strains are slightly halophilic. Chemoorganotrophic; some strains are facultative chemolithoorganotrophs oxidizing sulfur compounds and molecular hydrogen. Aerobic or facultatively anaerobic with a strictly respiratory type of metabolism. Some strains are microaerophilic; several strains grow anaerobically with nitrate (NO
3
−
), nitrite (NO
2
−
), Fe
+3
, and elemental sulfur (S) as terminal electron acceptors. Other ions, such as Mn
+4
, Co
+3
, Cr
+6
, and U
+6
, are also reduced by some strains. Oxidase positive; most strains are catalase positive. Menaquinone 8 is the predominant respiratory quinone. Ornithine is the principal diamino acid of peptidoglycan. One major phospholipid is present in all strains. One or two major glycolipids are also present. Phospholipids and glycolipids are primarily glycerol‐based, but some organisms also possess 1,2‐diol‐based lipids. Fatty acids are predominantly
iso
‐ and
anteiso
‐branched; some strains possess 3‐hydroxy fatty acids and 2‐hydroxy fatty acids. The family
Thermaceae
represents a distinct lineage within the phylum “Deinococcus–Thermus” and the species of the family share 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities in the range of 80.0–89.4% to other taxa in the phylum. Isolated from and detected in terrestrial and marine hydrothermal areas with neutral to alkaline pH; also commonly isolated from man‐made thermal environments.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 60.9–71.3 (
T
m
or HPLC).

Type genus
:
Thermus
Brock and Freeze 1969, 295
AL
. emend Nobre, Trüper and da Costa 1996, 605.
An evaluation of the stability of image quality parameters of Elekta X‐ray volume imager and iViewGT imaging systems
Authors: Stanley Dennis N. , Rasmussen Karl , Kirby Neil , Papanikolaou Nikos , Gutiérrez Alonso N.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

A robust image quality assurance and analysis methodology for image‐guided localization systems is crucial to ensure the accurate localization and visualization of target tumors. In this study, the long‐term stability of selected image parameters was assessed and evaluated for the cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) mode, planar radiographic kV mode, and the radiographic MV mode of an Elekta VersaHD.

Materials and Methods

The CATPHAN, QckV‐1, and QC‐3 phantoms were used to evaluate the image quality parameters. The planar radiographic images were analyzed in PIPSpro™ with spatial resolution (f30, f40, f50), contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and noise being recorded. For XVI CBCT, Head and Neck Small20 (S20) and Pelvis Medium20 (M20) standard acquisition modes were evaluated for uniformity, noise, spatial resolution, and HU constancy. Dose and kVp for the XVI were recorded using the Unfors RaySafe Xi system with the R/F low detector for the kV planar radiographic mode. For each metric, values were normalized to the mean and the standard deviations were recorded.

Results

A total of 30 measurements were performed on a single Elekta VersaHD linear accelerator over an 18‐month period without significant adjustment or recalibration to the XVI or iViewGT systems during the evaluated time frame. For the planar radiographic spatial resolution, the normalized standard deviation values of the f30, f40, and f50 were 0.004, 0.003, and 0.003 and 0.015, 0.009, and 0.017 for kV and MV, respectively. The average recorded dose for kV was 67.96 μGy. The standard deviations of the evaluated metrics for the S20 acquisition were 0.083(f30), 0.058(f40), 0.056(f50), 0.021(Water/poly‐HU constancy), 0.029(uniformity) and 0.028(noise). The standard deviations for the M20 acquisition were 0.093(f30), 0.043(f40), 0.037(f50), 0.016(Water/poly‐HU constancy), 0.010(uniformity) and 0.011(Noise).

Conclusion

A study was performed to assess the stability of the basic image quality parameters recommended by TG‐142 for the Elekta XVI and iViewGT imaging systems. The two systems show consistent imaging and dosimetric properties over the evaluated time frame.
Is the centralization of potentially traumatic events always negative? An expansion of the Centrality of Events Scale
Authors: Broadbridge Carissa L.
Published: March 2018

The autobiographical memory model of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) argues that centralizing a traumatic event into one's life story is a maladaptive process associated with increased PTSD symptoms. Current measures of event centralization make no reference to whether individuals centralize the event in a positive or negative way. This study examined 400 undergraduate participants using a modified version of the Centrality of Events Scale composed of 2 factors measuring both positive and negative event centralization. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed the 2‐factor structure. Negative event centralization was associated with PTSD symptoms to a greater degree than was positive event centralization, and negative event centralization mediated the relationship between neuroticism and PTSD symptoms. Combined, these results suggest that the effect of event centralization is dependent on the valence with which the individual centralizes the event. The relationship shown between negative event centralization and PTSD symptoms supports the autobiographical memory model of PTSD.
Dynamic Transformation Mechanism for Producing Ultrafine Grained Steels
Authors: Zhao Lijia , Park Nokeun , Tian Yanzhong , Shibata Akinobu , Tsuji Nobuhiro
Published: March 2018

Ultrafine grained (UFG) steels with grain sizes around 1 micron exhibit an excellent strength‐ductility combination and have been extensively studied worldwide. Among the different grain refinement strategies, thermomechanical controlled processing (TMCP) employing dynamic transformation (DT), that is, ferrite transformation during deformation of austenite, is considered as the simplest and commercially exploitable approach to produce ultrafine ferrite (UFF) with grain size of a couple of microns or below. The present paper reviews the research history of DT and highlights the major aspects of continuous interest including the methods and evidences for identifying DT, thermodynamics and kinetics of DT, mechanism for UFF formation and the effects of some key thermomechanical parameters on DT (and UFF formation), together with an outlook for the future research, and new TMCP design for industrial application. This paper also discusses some areas remaining under debate such as the diffusional or displacive mechanism, thermodynamic modeling, and the mechanism for UFF formation, etc.
Designing Multicolor Micropatterns of Inverse Opals with Photonic Bandgap and Surface Plasmon Resonance
Authors: Lee HanGyeol , Jeon Tae Yoon , Lee Su Yeon , Lee Seung Yeol , Kim Shin‐Hyun
Published: March 2018

Structural coloration provides unique features over chemical coloration, such as nonfading, color tunability, and high color brightness, rendering it useful in various optical applications. To develop the structural colors, two different mechanisms of coloration–photonic bandgap (PBG) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR)–have been separately utilized. In this work, a new method is suggested to create structurally colored micropatterns by regioselectively employing SPR in a single film of inverse opal with PBG. The inverse opals are prepared by thermal embedding of opal into a negative photoresist and its subsequent removal. The inverse opals have a hexagonal array of open pores on the surface which serves as a template to make SPR‐active nanostructures through a directional deposition of gold, a perforated gold film and an array of curved gold disks are formed. With a shadow mask lithographically prepared, the gold is regioselectively deposited on the surface of the inverse opal, which results in two distinct regions of gold‐free inverse opal with PBG and gold nanostructure with SPR. As PBG and SPR develop their own structural colors respectively, the resultant micropatterns exhibit pronounced dual colors. More importantly, the micropatterns show the distinguished optical response for evaporation of volatile liquids that occupy the pores.
Elucidating the Detectivity Limits in Shortwave Infrared Organic Photodiodes
Authors: Wu Zhenghui , Yao Weichuan , London Alexander E. , Azoulay Jason D. , Ng Tse Nga
Published: March 2018

While only few organic photodiodes have photoresponse past 1 µm, novel shortwave infrared (SWIR) polymers are emerging, and a better understanding of the limiting factors in narrow bandgap devices is critically needed to predict and advance performance. Based on state‐of‐the‐art SWIR bulk heterojunction photodiodes, this work demonstrates a model that accounts for the increasing electric‐field dependence of photocurrent in narrow bandgap materials. This physical model offers an expedient method to pinpoint the origins of efficiency losses, by decoupling the exciton dissociation efficiency and charge collection efficiency in photocurrent–voltage measurements. These results from transient photoconductivity measurements indicate that the main loss is due to poor exciton dissociation, particularly significant in photodiodes with low‐energy charge‐transfer states. Direct measurements of the noise components are analyzed to caution against using assumptions that could lead to an overestimation of detectivity. The devices show a peak detectivity of 5 × 1010 Jones with a spectral range up to 1.55 µm. The photodiodes are demonstrated to quantify the ethanol–water content in a mixture within 1% accuracy, conveying the potential of organics to enable economical, scalable detectors for SWIR spectroscopy.
Photoinduced Self‐Assembled Nanostructures and Permanent Polaron Formation in Regioregular Poly(3‐hexylthiophene)
Authors: Neto Newton M. Barbosa , Silva Marcia D. R. , Araujo Paulo T. , Sampaio Renato N.
Published: March 2018

Solution processing of conjugated polymers into ordered self‐assembled precursors has attracted great interest in the past years owing to the ability to manipulate their structural and physical properties. Regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) has become the benchmark polymer in this scenario, where ordered lamellar structures significantly improve carrier mobility of the thin films due to increased crystallinity, extended intrachain conjugation, and ordered interchain π‐stacking. Here, a new photoinduced approach is presented for the generation of highly ordered P3HT aggregate structures that is amenable to the use of visible light to control the aggregate formation. Strong intra‐ and interchain interactions in the solution precursors allow for permanent formation of localized and delocalized polarons that are stable for months. Spin‐coated thin films are found to preserve, in part, the morphological and physical properties of the aggregated P3HT solution precursors with high degree of crystallinity and short π‐stack interchain distances.