bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pramipexole has a neuroprotective effect in spinal cord injury and upregulates D2 receptor expression in the injured spinal cord tissue in rats
Authors: Liu Xuchen , Wang Chengqiang , Peng Qingshan , Peng Birong , Zhu Lixin
Published: September 2023

Spinal cord injury (SCI) has emerged as a prevalent condition with limited effective treatment options. The neuroprotective role of pramipexole (PPX) in inhibiting nerve cell apoptosis in central nervous system injuries is well established. Therefore, we investigated the effects of PPX in SCI. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups (sham, SCI, PPX-0.25, and PPX-2.0 groups) according to the PPX therapy (n = 24). Then, SCI was induced using the modified Allen method, and PPX was intravenously administered into the tail at dosages of 0.25 or 2.0 mg/kg following the injury. Motor function was evaluated using the Rivlin-modified inclined plate apparatus and the Basso Beattie Bresnahan (BBB) workout scale. Western blotting assay was used to measure protein expression levels of DRD2, NeuN, Bax/Bcl-2, and caspase-3. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry assessed the effect of PPX on the quantity of NeuN-positive cells in the spinal cord tissue after SCI. Our findings revealed that the BBB and slanting board test scores of the PPX-treated model groups were considerably higher for the SCI group and significantly lower for the sham operation group (P < 0.001). Moreover, the PPX-2.0 group exhibited significantly higher NeuN expression levels than the SCI group (P < 0.01). Our findings indicate that PPX exerts a neuroprotective effect in secondary neuronal injury following SCI, facilitating the recovery of hind limb function by downregulating Bax/Bcl-2, caspase-3, and IL-1β.
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Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Economía, Valenzuela Pimentel, Alexander Andrés
Published: September 2023

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Image based automatic wind velocity profiler for adaptive optics
Authors:   , Díaz Sebastián J.
Published: September 2023

Los sistemas de óptica adaptativa (AO, por sus siglas en inglés) corrigen las aberraciones o desfases generados por la atmósfera. Para ello, se requieren estimadores en línea de los parámetros de turbulencia atmosférica. Para la familia de sistemas de óptica adaptativa de campo amplio (WFAO, por sus siglas en inglés), esta información debe ser estratificada en altitud. Entre estas estimaciones vectorizadas, el perfil del viento en altitud es deseable para reducir los errores temporales en los lazos de AO y para estimar el tiempo de coherencia de la turbulencia. Esta tesis propone un estimador de viento llamado Algoritmo de Seguimiento de Picos basado en Procesamiento de Imágenes (IPTA, por sus siglas en inglés). IPTA está basado en procesamiento de imágenes y estima de manera automática y confiable la velocidad del viento para varias capas turbulentas a lo largo de la línea de visión. La estimación de cada capa de viento se logra mediante el seguimiento de picos presentes en mapas de correlación cruzada generados con datos de pares de sensores de frente de onda (WFS, por sus siglas en inglés). Estos mapas son generados utilizando la técnica conocida como SLODAR (Slope detection and Ranging). Resultados para datos simulados y reales muestran que IPTA supera a uno de los métodos de estimación de viento del estado del arte (el algoritmo CovAriance parametrization of Wind velocity, CAW) en términos de precisión y recuperación. Los resultados también muestran que, en términos de tiempo de ejecución, IPTA escala mejor cuando se incrementa el número de lentes de los WFS. Siendo de código abierto y confiable, IPTA puede ser una herramienta útil para la comunidad de óptica adaptativa.
Effect of Heating and Cooling of Aluminium-Based Fibre-Metal Laminates on Their Tensile Strength
Authors: Boczar Kamil , Wasłowicz Karol , Kubit Andrzej , Chodorowska Dorota , Fejkiel Romuald
Published: September 2023

The widespread use of composite materials in the construction of machines encourages to better understand their properties and the impact of various external factors on these properties. Fibre metal laminates (FMLs) consist of alternating layers of metal and a polymer matrix laminate reinforced with continuous fibres. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of cyclical temperature changes and thermal shocks (heating the sample to a high temperature in a short time) on the strength properties of FMLs from AW-1050A aluminium sheet, glass fibre fabric and carbon fibre fabric. The research concerns the determination of how cyclical temperature changes affect the tensile strengths properties of FMLs. The results indicate a small effect of the cycles on the tensile strength of the composites. The composites with glass fibre reinforced laminate also showed high resistance to delamination, moreover, the samples did not delaminate even after they were broken. The carbon fibre reinforced laminate composites showed a tendency to delaminate after heat treatment.
Determination of Natural Radioactivity Levels and Resultants Radiological Hazard from Soil Samples around Gold Mining Area in Ijesa-land South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Olatunji K. O.  , Bamidele L.  , Aluko O. M.  , Akinboro S. S.  , Martins G.
Published: September 2023

Activity concentration levels and some radiological parameters owing to natural radioactivity in the soil samples randomly obtained in gold tailing sites in Ijesa­-land Southwestern Nigeria were analyzed. Analyzed results from 30 soil samples using multi-channeled NaI gamma detector show that the activity concentration of 233U; ranged from 17.42 0.54 to 49.892.42 BqKg-1; 232Th ranged from 22.10 4.70 to 76.557.44BqKg-1 and 40K; ranged from 307.0023.90 to 693.5851.50 BqKg-1 in the samples were measured. The mean absorbed dose rate calculated was marginally higher than the world average of 59nGyh-1. The average annual effective dose rate (outdoor) for all samples ranged from 0.08 + 01. 11mSv.y-1 with a mean of 0.07 which stays far below the permitted worldwide limit of 1mSv.y-1hy by International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP 2010). The calculated hazard indices for external and internal remained to be lower than unity signifying that mineworkers and individuals active in such area are not exposed radiation hazard.
Varietal Response of Cola Species to Fertilizer Application on Field Establishment, Growth, Development and Canopy Characteristics
Authors: Babadele Famuwagun Idowu , Akeredolu Medinat Idowu , Aiyelari Olaiya Peter
Published: September 2023

Responses of Cola nitida and Cola acuminata to NPK and Super-gro fertilizers on seedling development, field establishment, and canopy characteristics were investigated in 2019-2020. Seedlings of the two Cola species were transplanted as a randomized complete block design with three replications on the field. Fertilizer treatments were imposed and the shoot and root growth parameters of the cola were monitored for two growing seasons. From the results, application of NPK fertilizer positively enhanced leaf and stem branch development as well as canopy features of the cola species compared to super-gro and the control treatments. Seedling height and leaf area development were higher significantly through application of super-gro compared with other treatments. Seedlings establishment were enhances by the application of super-gro over NPK and the control plots. Leaf production, stem branch number, stem girth development and leaf area development in Cola nitida were significantly higher than in Cola acuminata.  Cola acuminata seedlings height were significantly higher compare to Cola nitida during the two growing seasons. The interactions of fertilizers and crop species reveals that NPK and super–gro application significantly influenced leaf production in C acuminata over C nitida. Stem branch production in C acuminata was better significantly under the treatment of NPK than that of C nitida under super-gro and the control plots. Canopy development was significantly higher under Cola acuminata treated with Super-gro followed by NPK with the control having the least. Canopy development in Cola nitida were significantly lower compared with Cola acuminata across the fertilizer treatments.
Enhancement of Refrigerated Shelf Life of Foods against Microbial Spoilage Using Indian Spices
Authors: Roy Priya , Garg Amar P.
Published: September 2023

AIMS: Evaluation of the effects of treatment of aqueous extracts and powder of spices on enhancement of refrigerated shelf life of vegetables.

Study Design: Aqueous extract and powder of turmeric (Curcuma longa), black pepper (Piper nigrum), garlic (Allium sativum)and cumin (Cuminum cyminum)were used to enhance refrigerated shelf life of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum), taro roots (Colocasia esculenta), bottle gourd (Lagennaria siceraria)and tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum).

Place and Duration: The study was made at Shobhit Institute of Engineering & Technology, Meerut during the period of January to December, 2022.

Methodology:  Microbial counts technique was used to evaluate the impact of spice treatment on boiled foods stored in the refrigerator.

Results: We found that aqueous treatment of spices was not as effective as treatment with powdered spices. Black pepper treatment enhanced the storage life of all four vegetables followed by turmeric, garlic and cumin. The mixed treatment with turmeric, black pepper, garlic and cumin was very effective and safe for consumption for up to 3 days when stored in refrigerator.

Conclusion: Unconsumed extra foods are commonly stored in refrigerator throughout the world and it is suggested that if the boiled vegetables are treated with a mixture of powder of turmeric + black pepper + garlic + cumin, they may be stored for longer time.
A Study on Agricultural Mechanization Status under Paddy and Wheat Crop Production in Central Region of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Chaudhari Anand , Moses Sheen C.
Published: September 2023

The technological progress in agricultural machinery since the mid-1960s has led to a revolutionary increase in crop yield in India. Northern states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh (especially the western and central region have experienced rapid growth in the adoption of mechanized farming practices. A study was conducted to evaluate the present state of farm mechanization in four districts of Uttar Pradesh. The average farm power accessible in this area was recorded at 2.05 kWha-1, surpassing the national average (1.9 kW/ha). The lowest mechanization index in wheat crop was observed in plant protection operations (20.6%) whereas highest mechanization index was observed in harrowing operation (94.2%). Similarly, in paddy crop, the lowest mechanization index was observed in transplanting operations (0%) whereas highest mechanization index was observed in harrowing harrowing and puddling operations (99%).With the exception of tasks like transplanting paddy and ensuring pest control in rice and wheat cultivation, almost all stages of crop production employed tractor-driven machinery. The primary obstacle observed in farm mechanization in the region was the lack of timely access to farming equipment.
Assessment of Integrated Pest Management Modules against Fall Army Worm and Its Economic Impact in Maize
Authors: Narayanamma V. Lakshmi , Ratnakar V. , Prasad M. Ram , Shiva B. , Vishwatej R. , Veeranna G. , Reddy R. Uma
Published: September 2023

Aim: The present study was undertaken to assess the IPM modules and their economic impact against Fall Armyworm in maize through on farm trail (OFT).

Place and Duration of Study: The present study was carried out in the farmers’ fields of Bhadradri Kothagudem district of Telangana during Rabi 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22.

Methodology: The main objective of on farm trail is to test and evaluate the findings of the research stations at the farmer's field and to refine and modify the technologies, if required for better adoption by farmers. The KVK, Bhadradri Kothagudem conducted on farm trail for the management of fall armyworm in maize during Rabi 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22, as part of technical programme of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bhadradri Kothagudem in KVK operational area of adopted villages.

Results: In technology assessment plot (On farm trail) the treatments followed were avoiding staggered sowing of maize, installation of pheromone traps @ 8-10 per acre, clean cultivation, balanced application of fertilizers, erection of bird perches @10/acre, spraying of Azadiractin (1500ppm) to repel the egg laying and need based whorl application of Emamectin benzoate @ 0.5g/l and Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 5g/l of water, if more than8 adult moths were trapped in the pheromone trap for three consecutive days. It was compared with the farmers practice plots i.e application of Carbofuran 3G granules @ 3kg/acre and indiscriminate usage of fertilizers and insecticides. The experiment was conducted in five locations. The benefit cost ratio (BC Ratio) was higher in technology assessed plots with 2.78, 2.63 and 2.75 whereas BC ratio was comparatively lower in farmers practice plots with 2.43, 2:21 and 2.25 in corresponding Rabi 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22 respectively. 

Conclusion: Technology assessed package proved its effectiveness among maize farmers with increased net returns, lower per cent of FAW incidence and high yield and BC ratio compared to the farmers practiceduring Rabi 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively. Hence, this on farm trial proved to be feasible for demonstration in wide scale to farming community of Bhadradri Kothagudem district.
Sterilization and Substrate Level Optimization for Improving Yield and Biological Efficiency of Paddy Straw Mushroom
Authors: Gopinath V.  , Elangovan M.  , Thakur Nisha , Biswas M. K.
Published: September 2023

A study was conducted to determine the impact of surface sterilization techniques and different quantity of bed substrate on yield and biological efficiency in paddy straw mushroom cultivation. Among the various combinations of sterilization methods i.e., Plain water, Plain water + Calcium oxide @ 2%, Plain water + Bavistin 75 ppm & Formalin 500 ppm and steam sterilization 55  for ½ hour respectively tried on paddy straw substrate, Maximum yield and biological efficiency (1966 g & 15.2%) was obtained. To evaluate the biological efficiency of different layers and quantity of straw in bed method of cultivation i.e., 5 layers (4.0 kg), 4 layers (3.2 kg), 3 layers (2.4 kg) and 2 layers (1.6 kg) were tested. on biological efficiency four layers bed proved its superiority among all the number of substrate layers experimented, and gave highest biological efficiency (17.6%) followed by three layers and five layers (15.2%) and (14.5%) respectively. Two layers of bed (1.6 kg) were found to be less suitable and gave 13.8% biological efficiency of paddy straw. Maximum average weight of sporophores (24.21 g) was observed from four layers of beds followed by three layers and five layers (20.88 g) and (19.98 g) respectively. Smaller size sporophores were noticed in two layers of beds (14.18 g).
A Comprehensive Review on Post Harvest Physiological Disorders in Citrus Fruit Crops (Citrus spp.)
Authors: Jain Shubham , Singh Harpal , Kore Deepak S. , Sonkar Abhishek , Shivani  , Saxena Saransh , Mishra Satyam , Sharma Rohit
Published: September 2023

Post-harvest physiological disorders in citrus fruit crops (Citrus spp.) present significant challenges that impact both the economic and environmental aspects of global agriculture. This comprehensive review explored various dimensions of the subject, ranging from the description and classification of major disorders, such as chilling injury, rind staining, water loss, and mold, to the innovative detection and diagnostic techniques being employed in the industry. Through an extensive examination of prevention and management strategies, the review sheds light on pre-harvest factors, post-harvest treatments, and the role of modern technologies and agronomic practices in mitigating these disorders. It also delves into the economic losses and environmental consequences linked to different management approaches, underlining the need for sustainability and eco-friendly solutions. A particular focus is given to the emerging trends and technologies in the field, including nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and natural treatments, all of which signal a shift towards a more integrated and sustainable management approach. By identifying current research gaps and the necessary future research direction, the review highlights opportunities for innovation and collaboration among growers, researchers, and policymakers. In addition, it emphasizes the broader implications of these disorders and their management on global trade, labor markets, and regulatory landscapes. This review serves as a valuable reference for stakeholders in the citrus industry, providing insights and guidance on best practices, technological advancements, and future perspectives. It represents an essential step towards aligning the citrus production with global sustainability goals and fostering a resilient industry capable of adapting to the ever-changing demands and challenges of the modern world.
A Review on Soil and Phytomicrobiome for Plant Disease Management
Authors: Prashanth Kumar A.  , Murali V.
Published: September 2023

Pests and pathogens significantly reduce crop yields and cost the global economy USD 540 billion annually. The phytomicrobiome is becoming a cornerstone of a comprehensive rethink of agricultural management practices, with microbiome-assisted plant breeding focusing on three principles: minimal soil disturbance, continuous soil cover with crops, cover crops, or a mulch of crop residues, and crop rotation. Plant diseases, phytomicrobiomes, and agricultural practices can all affect plant health. Conservational agricultural practices like minimum tillage and no-tillage have been implemented to reduce anthropogenic activity and preserve microbial diversity. Mulching is a common practice in agriculture to stop moisture loss, maintain soil temperature, control weed growth, and stop soil erosion. Monoculture farming is the practice of cultivating a single crop continuously over several growing seasons on the same field. Intercropping systems encourage the growth of beneficial fungi, such as mycorrhiza, endophytes, saprophytes, decomposers, and bioprotective fungi, and can benefit forest ecosystems by creating disease-suppressive soils. By combining conservation tillage and crop rotation, farmers can reduce disease pressure by disrupting the life cycles of soil-borne pathogens linked to particular crops or genotypes. Composed manure and plant residues can control plant pathogens like Pythium, but the effect is thought to be due to microbial competition or plant host resistance. Green manure can control plant diseases brought on by pathogens in Rhizoctonia, Verticillium, Sclerotinia, Phythophthora, Pythium, Aphanomyces, and Macrophomina, but manure-derived fertilizers may contain antibiotic resistance genes and mobilomes, which could pose risks to both human and animal health. Climate change impacts crop yields by reducing crop physiology and productivity, increasing pathogen diversity, and affecting pathogen genetic traits and speciation. The state of the environment and the availability of suitable hosts significantly impact the ability of these pathogens to survive and spread. However, PGPRs are unpredictable and soil warming can interfere with their effectiveness. Interdisciplinary collaborations between plant biologists, microbiologists, climatologists, and agronomists are required to create effective strategies to reduce the effects of climate change on plant health, crop production, and ecosystem stability.
Studies on Symptomatology, Morphological and Molecular Characterisiation of Erysiphe cichoracearum Causing Powdery Mildew of Okra
Authors: Ashwini, R.  , Amaresh Y. S. , Yenjerappa S. T. , Kulkarni Sunil , Aswathanarayana D. S.
Published: September 2023

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) is a globally important annual vegetable belongs to family malvaceae, it is most broadly distributed vegetable all over the world. Among the fungal diseases affecting okra crop, powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. is the most important disease causing considerable yield losses. The disease was characterized by the appearance of small white powdery specks on upper surface of the lower leaves which enlarged and coalesced forming bigger patches. Later on the disease spread to the upper leaves, coalescing of the white powdery specks and enlargement in their size ultimately resulted in complete coating of white fungal mass on the leaves. The morphological studies of the pathogen in the laboratory revealed, that the mycelium is septate, ectophytic, hyaline and adjacent to the mycelium, basal septum of the conidiophores was seen. The conidiophores were erect, on which conidia were produced either singly or in short chains. The conidia were found cylindrical or barrel in shape, hyaline, non-septate and measured 75.23 µm x 40.65 µm. Molecular characterisation of the native isolate resulted in the DNA amplicon at the region 531 bp. Further, DNA sequence was obtained for ITS Rdna and was deposited in NCBI gene bank. Accession number ‘MW774352’ was obtained and it was confirmed that the causal pathogen of okra powdery mildew of Raichur region is Erysiphe cichoracearum.
Recent Advances in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Cultivation: A Review
Authors: Asangi H.  , Ravi Y.  , Ashoka N.  , Kavan Kumar V.  , Harisha C. B.  , Verma Arvind K.
Published: September 2023

Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.), also known as carom seed, belongs to the family Apiaceae, a native from Egypt. It is a popular seed spice crop in India. It is an annual herbaceous plant bearing small egg shaped greyish brown fruits. Seeds contain medicinal values, especially for curing indigestion, stomach pain, and elements concerning the digestive system. Thymol (30-35%), γ-terpinene (23.92%), and p-cymene (22.9%) are the major constituents present in the seeds. The essential oil extracted from Ajwain seeds is being used in minor quantities in perfumery, food flavouring as preservatives, and most extensively in folk medicines, especially for remedies of stomach disorders. Dry and hot fruit fermentation is externally applied on the chest to cure asthma, and a crushed fruit paste is applied for colic pains. Evaluation and characterization of seed spices germplasm is required for their documentation and cataloging crop wise for further use by plant breeders and biotechnologists to improve yields, quality, and resistance against biotic as well as biotic stresses. There is an urgent need to enhance the productivity and quality of the crop by adopting suitable agronomic practices such as population densities per hectare and the nutritional status of the soil. Major research is needed on pesticide residue management to earn better foreign exchange. Recent available advanced research and development have been described in this article.
Botanical Pesticides for the Management of Callosobruchus chinensis Infesting Chickpea during Storage
Authors: Herald Persis , Tayde Anoorag R.
Published: September 2023

The present research on efficacy of botanicals against pulse beetle in stored chickpea was conducted under laboratory conditions at Department of Entomology, SHUATS, Prayagraj, India during 2020-2021. The experiment was carried in the Completely Randomized Design with twelve treatments (Neem oil, Castor oil, Pungam oil  and plant powders neem leaf powder, neem seed kernel powder, Vasambu rhizome powder, Turmeric powder, Custard apple leaf powder, Eucalyptus leaf powder, Lantana camara leaf powder, Notchi leaf powder,  insecticide (Rynaxypyr) and  untreated control. The results were evaluated on the basis of adult mortality, weight loss and Feeding Detterent Index. Vasambu rhizome powder, Neem oil, Castor oil, and Pungam oil were discovered to be the most successful treatments, demonstrating 100% adult mortality, negligible weight loss, and 100% Feeding Detterent Index.The effectiveness of the plant oils is due to their repellency and ovipositional detterent effects on stored products and the effeciency of vasambu rhizome powder was due to the presence of active principle, keta osarone which induces premature death of insects.
In vitro Evaluation of Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) Rhizospheric Bradyrhizobium Traits for Dinitrogen Fixation
Authors: Aravinthkumar A.  , Aravindh A.  , Dinakar S. , Arivukkumar N.
Published: September 2023

Aims: To decipher the nitrogen fixing potential of Bradyrhizobium sp.

Study Design: Random sampling method was followed for the representative soil sample collection and Completely Randomized Design was used for the in vitro experiments.

Methodology: Six random locations in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu (India) were selected and groundnut rhizospheric soil samples were collected during Feb 2019. Traits of Bradyrhizobium sp. were isolated by serial dilution method. Followed by the purification of isolates and the purified isolates were subjected for biochemical characterization studies. After confirming, the traits were evaluated and graded for their nitrogen fixing ability by Microkjeldahl assay.

Results: The highest count of Bradyrhizobium cells, reaching, 5.87 log10 CFU g-1 of dry soil was recorded from the samples of rhizosphere soil, collected at Thiruvamur location (Cuddalore taluk). Whereas the lowest population was recorded in samples collected from Ramapuram location of Cuddalore district. In terms of nitrogen fixation efficiency per gram of mannitol, the strains BM-1 and BM-5 fell into the first classification, while the second category included BM-3 and BM-6, followed by BM-2 and BM-4 to the third category based on their performance.

Conclusion: This study, clearly deciphers the Nitrogen fixing potential of Bradyrhizobium traits of groundnut crop and the species holds the promise of using them as the efficient nitrogen fixers in legume crops in future.
Green Molecules in Plant Health Management
Authors: Vaniya Ravikumar , Mahatma Lalit
Published: September 2023

Green molecules, includes salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, saponins, chitosan, etc offers many promising avenues for plant health management. They offer a natural and sustainable approach for crop protection, with a lower environmental impact than synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Furthermore, green molecules can enhance plant growth; improve abiotic stress tolerance such as drought, salinity, and heavy metal toxicity, improving crop performance under adverse environmental conditions which ultimately result in better yield. Green molecules have been shown to be effective against a range of plant pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. In the future, the use of green molecules in plant health management is likely to continue to grow. As consumers increasingly demand sustainable and environmentally friendly products, the demand for green molecules in agriculture is likely to increase. Furthermore, as research into the mechanisms of action of green molecules continues, new and more effective green molecules are likely to be developed, further expanding their potential applications in plant health management. Nevertheless, there are also some challenges associated with the use of green molecules in the field. For example, the effectiveness of green molecules can vary depending on environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity. Furthermore, the use of green molecules can require higher application rates and more frequent applications than synthetic pesticides, which can increase costs and labor requirements.
Usage of Life-saving Equipment by Commercial Boat Users and Operators in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Wokoma, N. O.  , Akpoghomeh, O. S.
Published: September 2023

Non-usage of life-saving equipment while on water may increase disaster risk such as boat capsizing, injury, and drowning; studies find generally low levels of lifejacket wear among drowning victims and among some cultural groups. Considering this, the study examined the usage of life- saving equipment by commercial boat users and operators in southern Nigeria. The finding revealed that among the boat operators, 41.9% uses of life-saving equipment is always and 63.4% for the boat users. The determinant factor for the use of life- saving equipment among boat operators were compliance (38.7%) and compulsory for boat entry (27.4%) while for boat users it was prevention from drowning (44.4%) and safety (30.1%). Considering the usage of life-saving equipment along Nigerian waterways, it was concluded that commercial boat operators and users use life-saving equipment always and regularly.
How Can Palliative Care Help Me?
Authors: Warrier Govind , Gupta Arjun , Sedhom Ramy
Published: September 2023

This JAMA Internal Medicine Patient Page describes details of palliative care, including who it can benefit and when it should be considered.
Use of Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Incidence of Hypertension and Initiation of Statins
Authors: Rivera Adovich S. , Pak Katherine J. , Mefford Matthew T. , Hechter Rulin C.
Published: September 2023

Importance

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an important tool for preventing HIV infection. However, PrEP’s impact on cardiometabolic health is understudied.

Objective

To examine the risk of incident hypertension and statin initiation among adult (age ≥18 years) health plan members starting PrEP with tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) compared with propensity score–matched adults taking tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used electronic health records (EHRs) from Kaiser Permanente Southern California. Adult members starting PrEP in Kaiser Permanente Southern California between October 2019 and May 2022 were included. Propensity score matching with multiple imputation (50 matched data sets) was conducted to generate 1 TAF:4 TDF matched data sets with balanced baseline covariates.

Exposures

PrEP initiation with either TAF or TDF during the study period.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incident hypertension and statin initiation within 2 years of PrEP initiation were ascertained through blood pressure and outpatient pharmacy records, respectively. Risk differences and odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using logistic regression and g-computation.

Results

A total of 6824 eligible individuals were identified (mean [SD] age, 33.9 [10.3] years; 6618 [97%] male). This pool was used to generate 2 cohorts without baseline hypertension or statin use for matching (hypertension: n = 5523; statin: n = 6149) In both cohorts, those starting PrEP with TAF were older and were more likely to be non-Hispanic White compared with those starting with TDF. In matched analysis adjusting for baseline covariates, TAF use was associated with elevated risk of incident hypertension (TAF: n = 371; risk difference, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.12-1.50]; OR, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.05-2.56]). TAF use was also associated with elevated risk of statin initiation (TAF: n = 382; risk difference, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.37-1.33]; OR, 2.33 [95% CI, 1.41-3.85]). Subgroup analyses restricted to individuals 40 years and older at PrEP initiation showed similar results with larger risk difference in statin initiation (risk difference, 4.24 [95% CI, 1.82-6.26]; OR, 3.05 [95% CI, 1.64-5.67]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study of people taking PrEP, TAF use was found to be associated with higher incident hypertension and statin initiation compared with TDF use, especially in those 40 years or older. Continued monitoring of blood pressure and lipids for TAF users is warranted.
Combination disease‐modifying treatment in spinal muscular atrophy: A proposed classification
Authors: Proud Crystal M. , Mercuri Eugenio , Finkel Richard S. , Kirschner Janbernd , De Vivo Darryl C. , Muntoni Francesco , Saito Kayoko , Tizzano Eduardo F. , Desguerre Isabelle , Quijano‐Roy Susana , Benguerba Kamal , Raju Dheeraj , Faulkner Eric , Servais Laurent
Published: September 2023

We sought to devise a rational, systematic approach for defining/grouping survival motor neuron‐targeted disease‐modifying treatment (DMT) scenarios. The proposed classification is primarily based on a two‐part differentiation: initial DMT, and persistence/discontinuation of subsequent DMT(s). Treatment categories were identified: monotherapy add‐on, transient add‐on, combination with onasemnogene abeparvovec, bridging to onasemnogene abeparvovec, and switching to onasemnogene abeparvovec. We validated this approach by applying the classification to the 443 patients currently in the RESTORE registry and explored the demographics of these different groups of patients. This work forms the basis to explore the safety and efficacy profile of the different combinations of DMT in SMA.
PAPRIKA: A Question Bank for Assessing Psoriatic Arthritis Risk in Individuals of Diverse Ancestries
Authors: Walsh Jessica A. , Carroll Courtney , Callis Duffin Kristina , Wang Jing , Krueger Gerald G. , Feng Bing‐Jian
Published: September 2023

Objective

We aimed to create a question bank about clinical factors for predicting the diagnoses of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis of various ancestries and skin tones, which can be completed entirely by patients.

Methods

Utah Psoriasis Initiative participants without a psoriatic arthritis diagnosis at enrollment were observed for diagnosis during the study period. We inferred ancestry from exome sequencing data and performed Cox proportional hazards regression to identify clinical predictors of psoriatic arthritis in different ancestry groups. Based on results and literature review, we developed a question bank for assessing psoriatic arthritis risk among patients with psoriasis in various ancestries.

Results

Patient‐reported untreated psoriasis induration and history of fingernail psoriasis were associated with psoriatic arthritis in participants of European and non‐European ancestry. We developed the Psoriatic Arthritis Prediction and Identification Question Bank for Diverse Ancestries (PAPRIKA) version 1.0, which included questions regarding psoriasis characteristics, arthritis symptoms, comorbidities, family history, and demographics. PAPRIKA is accessible at http://bjfenglab.org/.

Conclusion

The clinical features (untreated psoriasis induration and history of fingernail psoriasis) that can predict psoriatic arthritis in European individuals also work for non‐European individuals. PAPRIKA can be used to gather psoriatic arthritis predictive data from patients with psoriasis without provider assistance and is relevant for patients across ancestries.
Greening Industrially Applied Toxic Cadmium Plating with γ‐Ni2Zn11 Alloy in Deep Eutectic Solvents: Promising Electroplating Efficiency and Chemical Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Cihangir Salih
Published: September 2023

Cadmium is an industrially applied plating metal used in aerospace applications, but electrodeposition of cadmium is toxic, and current production method will soon be banned. Therefore, electrodeposition of alternative alloys in environmentally friendly solutions is an attractive research area. An additive‐free, nonaqueous, deep eutectic solvent (DES) containing Ni and Zn halide salts is developed in a greener environmental method. Gamma‐phase nanocrystalline Ni2Zn11 is coated onto hot‐rolled mild steel via pulse reverse current (PRC) in the developed nonaqueous solvent. The employed DES’ relatively low viscosity and sufficient conductivity enable the simultaneous reduction of Ni2+ and Zn2+ cations on microelectrode. Electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (eQCM) analysis proves the absence of the commonly reported problem of electrode blocking during electrodeposition, revealing an efficiency of 86.07%. Appropriate PRC parameters are applied for scaled macroelectrode deposition. The plating profile exhibits 20 μm‐thick alloy deposition without cracks around 3 h. Scanning electron microscopy–electron‐dispersive spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction analyses reveal that 15.5 wt% Ni is in the nanograin phase, and all crystal planes belong to the γ‐Ni2Zn11 phase, which is needed as an alternative to cadmium plating. Hardness and corrosion tests performed on the γ‐Ni2Zn11 coating reveal better hardness and corrosion resistance with supporting morphological evidence.
C─N Coupling Enabled by N─N Bond Breaking for Electrochemical Urea Production
Authors: Liu Junxian , Smith Sean C. , Gu Yuantong , Kou Liangzhi
Published: September 2023

Urea electrosynthesis under mild conditions has emerged as a promising alternative strategy to replace the harsh industrial HaberBosch process, which is however limited by sluggish CN coupling and low selectivity. Here, a novel mechanism based on the synergistic effect of NN bond cleavage and CN coupling for highly efficient urea production is proposed. It is found that dual vanadium atoms anchoring onto defective graphene (V2N6) can activate the adsorbed *N2, in which the stable N≡N bond can be gradually weakened until being broken after two protonation steps, with superior thermodynamic and kinetic feasibility. CO molecules can be easily adsorbed on the dissociated *NH, followed by an exothermic CN coupling to form the urea precursor *NHCONH with a low kinetic energy barrier of 0.20 eV. The dual‐atom V2N6 not only exhibits superior intrinsic activity for urea formation, with a limiting potential of −0.26 V, but also can significantly suppress the competitive N2 reduction and hydrogen evolution reactions. This study presents a new avenue for developing novel mechanisms and efficient catalysts for urea electrochemical synthesis.
Alignment‐Free Angular Momentum Detection via Spin‐Independent Astigmatic Transformation
Authors: Jiang Mengna , Chen Yan , Zhang Fei , Pu Mingbo , Guo Yinghui , Xu Mingfeng , Yue Weisheng , He Qiong , Gao Ping , Luo Xiangang
Published: September 2023

Light beam carrying spin angular momentum (SAM) and orbital angular momentum (OAM) have attracted great interest due to their great potential for high‐capacity optical communication, optical tweezers, and quantum information. However, the current detection methods suffer from the lack of robustness to misalignments in the optical system, which limits the detection accuracy and the application for off‐axis vortex array detection. Here, a high‐efficiency, broadband, and single‐layer metasurface design is proposed for alignment‐free angular momentum detection via spin‐independent astigmatic transformation (SIAT). The SAM and OAM states can be recognized from the diffraction direction and patterns, respectively. Proof‐of‐concept demonstrations are experimentally carried out on different incident beams including circular‐polarization, linear‐polarization, and vector vortex beams, as well as vortex beam arrays, showing a high diffraction efficiency of ≈81% at 1064 nm while operating within the broadband region of 900–1300 nm. The alignment‐free merit for the incident position, incident angle, and detector distance grants the device great potential for integrated quantum systems and multiparticle micromanipulation with optical tweezers.
Optical Signals for Quantitative and Qualitative Monitoring of Temperature‐Sensitive Products
Authors: Zhu Xuanyu , Yu Xue , Liu Hongxue , Gao Wei , Liu Haozhe , Nie Lin , Zhao Feng , Yakovlev Alexey Nikolaevich , Hu Tingting , Qiu Jianbei , Xu Xuhui , Yu Siufung , Wang Ting
Published: September 2023

Monitoring the real‐time quality and validity of thermo‐sensitive foods during storage and transportation can be achieved with time‐temperature indicators (TTIs). However, the available TTIs still need to be improved in terms of accuracy, recoverability, environmental tolerance, and quantitative monitoring. Here, a novel TTI based on the optical signals originating from the as‐explored Sr3Y2Ge3O12: Mn2+, Er3+ (SYGO: Mn2+, Er3+) phosphor is developed. Thanks to the fact that the release of the captured carriers is tightly related to the storage time and ambient temperature, distinct optical signals of the as‐obtained TTI under multi‐stimulus (980 nm laser irradiation, thermal stimulation, and mechanical force) can be distinguished to judge the validity of temperature‐sensitive products. This work reveals the promising potential of SYGO: Mn2+, Er3+ phosphors with cryogenic optical storage properties as advanced TTIs, especially for packaged products in cold chain logistics.
Stiffness of Contacts between Adsorbed Particles and the Surface of a QCM‐D Inferred from the Adsorption Kinetics and a Frequency‐Domain Lattice Boltzmann Simulation
Authors: Johannsmann Diethelm , Leppin Christian , Langhoff Arne
Published: September 2023

A simulation based on the frequency‐domain lattice Boltzmann method (FreqD‐LBM) is employed to predict the shifts of resonance frequency, Δf, and half bandwidth, ΔΓ, of a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM‐D) induced by the adsorption of rigid spheres to the resonator surface. The comparison with the experimental values of Δf and ΔΓ allows to estimate the stiffness of the contacts between the spheres and the resonator surface. The contact stiffness is of interest in contact mechanics, but also in sensing because it depends on the properties of thin films situated between the resonator surface and the sphere. The simulation differs from previous implementations of FreqD‐LBM insofar, as the material inside the particles is not included in the FreqD‐LBM algorithm. Rather, the particle surface is configured to be an oscillating boundary. The amplitude of the particles' motions (displacement and rotation) is governed by the force balance at the surface of the particle. Because the contact stiffness enters this balance, it can be derived from experimental values of Δf and ΔΓ. The simulation reproduces experiments by the Krakow group. For sufficiently small spheres, a contact stiffness can be derived from the comparison of the simulation with the experiment.
Structural Insight into the Catalytic Mechanisms of an L‐Sorbosone Dehydrogenase
Authors: Li Dong , Deng Zhiwei , Hou Xiaodong , Qin Zhijie , Wang Xinglong , Yin Dejing , Chen Yue , Rao Yijian , Chen Jian , Zhou Jingwen
Published: September 2023

L‐Sorbosone dehydrogenase (SNDH) is a key enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of 2‐keto‐L‐gulonic acid , which is a direct precursor for the industrial scale production of vitamin C. Elucidating the structure and the catalytic mechanism is essential for improving SNDH performance. By solving the crystal structures of SNDH from Gluconobacter oxydans WSH‐004, a reversible disulfide bond between Cys295 and the catalytic Cys296 residues is discovered. It allowed SNDH to switch between oxidation and reduction states, resulting in opening or closing the substrate pocket. Moreover, the Cys296 is found to affect the NADP+ binding pose with SNDH. Combining the in vitro biochemical and site‐directed mutagenesis studies, the redox‐based dynamic regulation and the catalytic mechanisms of SNDH are proposed. Moreover, the mutants with enhanced activity are obtained by extending substrate channels. This study not only elucidates the physiological control mechanism of the dehydrogenase, but also provides a theoretical basis for engineering similar enzymes.
Bioinspired Young's Modulus‐Hierarchical E‐Skin with Decoupling Multimodality and Neuromorphic Encoding Outputs to Biosystems
Authors: Duan Shengshun , Wei Xiao , Zhao Fangzhi , Yang Huiying , Wang Ye , Chen Pinzhen , Hong Jianlong , Xiang Shengxin , Luo Minzhou , Shi Qiongfeng , Shen Guozhen , Wu Jun
Published: September 2023

As key interfaces for the disabled, optimal prosthetics should elicit natural sensations of skin touch or proprioception, by unambiguously delivering the multimodal signals acquired by the prosthetics to the nervous system, which still remains challenging. Here, a bioinspired temperature‐pressure electronic skin with decoupling capability (TPD e‐skin), inspired by the high‐low modulus hierarchical structure of human skin, is developed to restore such functionality. Due to the bionic dual‐state amplifying microstructure and contact resistance modulation, the MXene TPD e‐skin exhibits high sensitivity over a wide pressure range and excellent temperature insensitivity (91.2% reduction). Additionally, the high‐low modulus structural configuration enables the pressure insensitivity of the thermistor. Furthermore, a neural model is proposed to neutrally code the temperature‐pressure signals into three types of nerve‐acceptable frequency signals, corresponding to thermoreceptors, slow‐adapting receptors, and fast‐adapting receptors. Four operational states in the time domain are also distinguished after the neural coding in the frequency domain. Besides, a brain‐like machine learning‐based fusion process for frequency signals is also constructed to analyze the frequency pattern and achieve object recognition with a high accuracy of 98.7%. The TPD neural system offers promising potential to enable advanced prosthetic devices with the capability of multimodality‐decoupling sensing and deep neural integration.
Enhancement in the Efficiency of Sb2Se3 Solar Cells by Triple Function of Lithium Hydroxide Modified at the Back Contact Interface
Authors: Guo Huafei , Huang Shan , Zhu Honcheng , Zhang Tingyu , Geng Kangjun , Jiang Sai , Gu Ding , Su Jian , Lu Xiaolong , Zhang Han , Zhang Shuai , Qiu Jianhua , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning
Published: September 2023

The efficiency of antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) solar cells is still limited by significant interface and deep‐level defects, in addition to carrier recombination at the back contact surface. This paper investigates the use of lithium (Li) ions as dopant for Sb2Se3 films, using lithium hydroxide (LiOH) as a dopant medium. Surprisingly, the LiOH solution not only reacts at the back surface of the Sb2Se3 film but also penetrate inside the film along the (Sb4Se6)n molecular chain. First, the Li ions modify the grain boundary's carrier type and create an electric field between p‐type grain interiors and n‐type grain boundary. Second, a gradient band structure is formed along the vertical direction with the diffusion of Li ions. Third, carrier collection and transport are improved at the surface between Sb2Se3 and the Au layer due to the reaction between the film and alkaline solution. Additionally, the diffusion of Li ions increases the crystallinity, orientation, surface evenness, and optical electricity. Ultimately, the efficiency of Sb2Se3 solar cells is improved to 7.57% due to the enhanced carrier extraction, transport, and collection, as well as the reduction of carrier recombination and deep defect density. This efficiency is also a record for CdS/Sb2Se3 solar cells fabricated by rapid thermal evaporation.