bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work-related musculoskeletal disorder and health risk behaviors in market-vendors: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Cetthakrikul Salila , Perngparn Usaneya
Published: September 2024

Background

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMDs) are frequently observed among market vendors, and engaging in health risk behaviors can exacerbate these issues, leading to various health problems. Common health risk behaviors among market vendors include alcohol consumption and insufficient physical activity. However, there is currently a lack of research examining the prevalence of WRMDs and health risk behaviors among market vendors in Bangkok. Furthermore, the emerging trend of drug misuse within this group remains poorly understood. This study aims to explore the prevalence of muscle pain and flexibility issues and assess health risk behaviors, including alcohol consumption, inadequate exercise, and drug misuse, among market vendors.

Methods

A mixed-method study was undertaken among 213 market vendors in Bangkok. Data collection utilized direct observation techniques, questionnaires, and muscle flexibility tests. Qualitative data were elucidated and showcased through textual descriptions and quotations. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to present numerical and percentage values.

Results

Qualitative findings revealed that market vendors often engage in static muscular work and maintain awkward postures due to their job characteristics and workstation setups. Quantitatively, the right arm was the most common pain region (34.7%), followed by the left leg (31.0%), right leg (30.0%), and left arm (28.6%). Additionally, 64.3% of participants showed poor muscle flexibility. The study also found that 35% of market vendors resorted to alcohol and 11.7% to drug misuse to cope with fatigue and prevent adverse symptoms. Moreover, 68.5% of participants reported no regular exercise due to lack of time.

Conclusion

The study highlights the prevalence of musculoskeletal issues among market vendors, largely attributed to static muscular work and awkward postures dictated by their job roles and workstation arrangements. The right arm emerged as the most commonly affected area, followed by the left leg, right leg, and left arm, with significant rates of reported pain. The research also points to a notable lack of muscle flexibility in a majority of vendors and a concerning tendency towards alcohol and drug misuse as coping mechanisms for fatigue and symptom management. Furthermore, a significant portion of the vendors do not participate in regular exercise, primarily due to time constraints. These findings can be used to implement health prevention programs within the market vendor group.
Data gap or biodiversity gap? Evaluating apparent spatial biases in community science observations of Odonata in the east-central United States
Authors: Bullion Christian M. , Bahlai Christie A.
Published: September 2024

Odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) have become popular study organisms for insect-based climate studies, due to the taxon’s strong sensitivity to environmental conditions, and an enthusiastic following by community scientists due to their charismatic appearance and size. Where formal records of this taxon can be limited, public efforts have provided nearly 1,500,000 open-sourced odonate records through online databases, making real-time spatio-temporal monitoring more feasible. While these databases can be extensive, concerns regarding these public endeavors have arisen from a variety of sources: records may be biased by human factors (ex: density, technological access) which may cause erroneous interpretations. Indeed, records of odonates in the east-central US documented in the popular database iNaturalist bear striking patterns corresponding to political boundaries and other human activities. We conducted a ‘ground-truthing’ study using a structured sampling method to examine these patterns in an area where community science reports indicated variable abundance, richness, and diversity which appeared to be linked to observation biases. Our observations were largely consistent with patterns recorded by community scientists, suggesting these databases were indeed capturing representative biological trends and raising further questions about environmental drivers in the observed data gaps.
Relation between peripheral blood inflammatory indices and severity of central retinal artery occlusion
Authors: Hu Weiwen , Huang Yikeng , Zhou Qiong , Huang Xionggao
Published: September 2024

Background

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) has been identified as an acute emergency resulting in vision loss, with its pathogenesis potentially involving systemic inflammation and abnormal lipid metabolism. Over recent years, it has been established that peripheral blood inflammatory indices, including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), the systemic immunoinflammatory index (SII), and the monocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein ratio (MHR), play significant roles in assessing systemic inflammation and lipid metabolism. However, the role of these indices in assessing the severity of CRAO has rarely been explored. This study aimd to investigate the relationship between these inflammatory indices and the severity of CRAO.

Methods

This was a retrospective clinical study with a total of 49 CRAO patients and 50 age- and sex-matched controls involved. The patients with CRAO were divided into three groups (13 with incomplete CRAO, 16 with subtotal CRAO and 20 with total CRAO). Data were compared across these groups, and additionally, correlation analysis, restricted cubic spline plots, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed.

Results

The values of NLR, SII and MHR were significantly higher in the CRAO group compared to controls (NLR: 2.49(1.71,3.44) vs 1.60(1.24,1.97), P<0.001; SII: 606.46(410.25,864.35) vs 403.91(332.90,524.31), P=0.001; MHR: 0.33(0.26,0.44) vs 0.25(0.21,0.34), P<0.001). MHR was also significantly higher in total CRAO than in incomplete CRAO and subtotal CRAO (0.41(0.32,0.60) vs 0.29(0.21,0.43), P=0.036; 0.41(0.32,0.60) vs 0.29(0.23,0.38), P=0.017). Significant positive associations were found between MHR, NLR, SII and both the incidence (all P<0.001) and severity (P<0.001, P<0.001, P=0.003, respectively) of CRAO. MHR had a linear relationship with both the occurrence and severity of CRAO (P-overall=0.013, P-non-linear=0.427 and P-overall=0.013, P-non-linear=0.825). Combining MHR and NLR significantly improved diagnostic efficacy for CRAO and total CRAO, with area under the curve of 0.816 and 0.827, respectively, compared to using MHR alone (0.705 and 0.816).

Conclusion

Elevated levels of peripheral blood NLR, SII, and MHR are positively associated with CRAO incidence, highlighting their potential as early predictive markers. The combined NLR and MHR index further enhances diagnostic accuracy and may facilitate timely assessment of CRAO severity by ophthalmologists and internists.
Fragmentación del patrimonio colonial en el centro fundacional de Santiago de Chile : casa colonial urbana como ventana de aprendizaje y observación
Authors:   , Lobos Peña Paulina
Published: September 2024

El centro fundacional de Santiago de Chile, entendido como el triángulo fundacional, se ha consolidado como un centro heterogéneo. Conformado por un legado de edificios y espacios públicos desde la colonia hasta la actualidad, ha consagrado un perfil variado en cuanto a data histórica, estilo arquitectónico, volumetría y programa. El estado actual del patrimonio colonial, consta de catorce inmuebles, permaneciendo sólo cuatro viviendas urbanas de tipología colonial. En consecuencia, la fragmentación, desvinculación de las piezas coloniales entre sí, la descontextualización respecto de sus entornos construidos, y la legislación urbana y patrimonial, han condicionado y limitado la valoración y percepción de su significado e importancia, exponiéndolas a una serie de situaciones que distan mucho de lo que podríamos entender como bienes patrimoniales. Como una manera de avanzar del monumentalismo a una visión patrimonial, se propone un circuito patrimonial por estas últimas cuatro casas, que vincula la importancia de sus significados culturales. Para ello, se utilizan las preexistencias espaciales representativas que permanecen, y en base a esos fragmentos, se organiza el guion del circuito como una sumatoria de elementos que se potencian entre sí, desarrollando variables asociadas al modo de habitar en la colonia, permitiendo una perspectiva integral de su valor.
Ruina moderna : percibida, recordada e imaginada : posibilidades de intervención ante la desaparición de la memoria material Villa San Luis, Santiago de Chile (1997-2021)
Authors:   , Torres Esquivel Catalina Nikita
Published: September 2024

En las ciudades se nos presentan edificios subutilizados o en condición de ruina que nos hablan de una modernidad utópica fallida y, en algunos casos, se adhieren otras capas en relación con el pasado reciente que dejó la dictadura militar; lugares de coexistencia de historias, culturas, memorias, identidades y tensiones diversas que se ven reflejadas tanto en las huellas materiales como en narrativas. La Villa San Luis de Las Condes y sus ruinas modernas son ejemplo de las consecuencias de intereses políticos y económicos que, a través de un largo proceso, han buscado borrar e invisibilizar lo que este lugar podría representar. La investigación surge desde la reflexión en torno a estas ruinas, las cuales nos hablan e interrogan de ideas pasadas de un futuro imaginado de ciudad y de proyectos fallidos; reflexiones y preguntas que nos interpelan, al mismo tiempo, sobre el presente y futuro de nuestra ciudad y cómo habitamos en ella. Para esto, se propone una metodología de investigación desde el análisis y estudio de la “ruina moderna”, en tensión con las categorías analíticas de memoria e interpretación. Además, un estudio de fuentes, entrevistas y levantamiento fotográfico de su presente deterioro- en contraposición a su contexto en pleno desarrollo inmobiliario–que ha derivado en la pérdida material y su condición actual, lo cual presenta reflexiones en torno a qué nos hablan y representan estas ruinas, cómo habitamos el abandono y el deterioro y, de qué manera se podría activar un proceso colaborativo para imaginar y construir colectivamente estos lugares. Ante esto, se propone un proyecto curatorial temporal que toma como ejes centrales el patrimonio, la memoria y el arte; modos de expresión para revelar nuevas perspectivas y así desplazar el espacio de la narración y exposición desde museos y la academia al espacio público; las ruinas del lugar y sus comunidades. De esta manera, se busca levantar las principales expectativas, lineamientos, programa y usos que podría tener el lugar, a modo de insumo para las bases del concurso público para el diseño del Museo Memorial que lanzará el Colegio de Arquitectos de Chile.
Effect of Aerobic Exercises on Abdominal Strength, Sexual Dysfunction, Pain and Menstrual Parameters in Women with Caesarean Section Delivery Suffering from Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Pilot Study
Authors: . Nisha , Das Jaganjyoti , . Aditi
Published: September 2024

Aim: To find out the effect of aerobic exercise on abdominal strength, sexual dysfunction, pain and menstrual parameters in women with caesarean section delivery suffering from primary dysmenorrhea. This will help effective management of patients suffering from dysmenorrhea after caesarean section delivery. Materials and Methods: A total of 16 subjects were divided into 2 groups (i.e., aerobic exercise, control group). 16 subjects with diagnosed dysmenorrhea after caesarean section delivery were randomly allocated to experimental and control groups (N=16; n=8) participants of both groups were asked to perform a set of exercises. The intervention of the experimental group consisted of aerobic exercise along with stretching and hot packs whereas the control group was given only stretching exercise and hot pack. The intervention was prescribed 4 days a week for 6 weeks. All the outcome variables were recorded at the baseline and the end of 6 weeks. The mean and standard deviation of all dependent variables of both groups were calculated. For all the variables within group analysis was done using paired sample T-test and between group analysis was done by independent sample T-test. The significance level was set at 95% (p≤0.05). Results: Statistically, a significant difference (p≤0.05) was found in the mean amplitude of pre- and post-values of the experimental group as well as between the groups were found to be significantly improved, whereas, in the experimental group, difference is found to more than the control group in abdominal strength, sexual dysfunction, pain and menstrual parameters. Conclusion: There was a significant improvement in abdominal strength, sexual dysfunction, pain and menstrual parameters in the aerobic exercise group in the experimental group. A focused rehabilitation program for dysmenorrhic females after caesarean section delivery will help in improving the quality of life and functional efficacy.
A Literature Review on Maximising Pain Management in Low Back Pain: A Combined Approach of High-intensity LASER Therapy and Exercise Therapy
Authors: Chauhan Divya , Sharma Sunita , Jangra Mandeep Kumar
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Low Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions in the world which impairs one’s ability to move, and their general quality of life. In modern medicine, High-intensity Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) Therapy (HILT) in particular, is commonly used in conjunction with exercise therapy to enhance the effectiveness of treating musculoskeletal complaints. However, there is insufficient data to support the combined therapeutic efficacy of HILT and exercise therapy in treatment of LBP. Aim: To investigate several databases to find out the effectiveness of combined approach of HILT and exercise therapy in pain alleviation in LBP. Materials and Methods: Using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) keywords, authors searched across various electronic databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Medline, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). Full text randomised clinical and controlled studies were included from last 15 years. After an initial screening of 3,913 records and the removal of articles whose title and abstract didn’t meet the inclusion criteria, 54 records were considered for eligibility. Among these, the review incorporated three articles focusing on the treatment of LBP using a combination of HILT and exercise therapy. Results: The findings demonstrated the advantages of HILT, especially in terms of pain relief, may improve exercise compliance by lessening limitations brought on by pain and permitting more thorough low back rehabilitation. Conclusion: The current literature analysis showed that treating individuals with LBP with a combination of HILT and exercise therapy is more effective in reducing pain.
Development and Validation of a Multidimensional Rehabilitation Protocol for Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Maurya Poornima , Saxena Akanksha
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Menopause is a normal aging phenomenon in women. The overall prevalence of menopausal symptoms in all domains was reported as 87.7% which includes hot flushes, cognition, autonomic nervous disorders, sleep disturbances, mood changes, anxiety, etc. Therefore, it is necessary to manage these symptoms to improve the quality of life. Aim: To develop and validate a multidimensional rehabilitation protocol for Postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to February 2024 after thorough literature review, a 45-50 minute protocol was developed which included warm-up, resistance training, cognition training followed by a cool down session. After which a Delphi survey method was employed to evaluate the content validity of the formed protocol by a multidisciplinary expert panel on the basis of relevancy. Then I-CVI (Item-level Content Validity Index) and S-CVI (Scale- level Content Validity Index) of the developed protocol was calculated. Results: The protocol has been validated by a group of multidisciplinary experts with an average experience of 9.5 years working in Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology/Women’s Health. A total of seven experts responded and evaluated each item of the protocol and suggested modifications. The I-CVI of each item was found to be between 0.86 and 1 whereas the S-CVI by average method was found to be 0.93 which was above the satisfactory level as suggested by Lynn i.e. above 0.83. Conclusion: The above generated multidimensional rehabilitation protocol for Postmenopausal women is valid.
Establishing the Normative Reference Values of Timed Up and Go Test among Normal Weight and Overweight Schoolage Children: A Study Protocol
Authors: Sushma KC , Goyal Kanu , Goyal Manu
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The dynamics of body posture to avoid falling are generally referred to as balance. It has been shown that child developmental skills are influenced by their body compositions. When compared to their peers who are at a healthy weight, children who are overweight or obese frequently show poorer levels of motor proficiency including balance, mobility and related features. Need of the study: The protocol will determine the typical TUG test results in children relative to their body composition, enabling clinicians to effectively screen for balance deficits in children and will enable timely interventions to prevent falls, accidents, and sports injuries in children. Aim: To find the reference values of Timed Up and Go (TUG) test in normal weight and overweight children and compare the values between them. Materials and Methods: A study protocol on school-going children aged 5 to 15 years will be recruited using convenience sampling and divided into two groups based on their Body Mass Index (BMI): normal weight and overweight. The procedure for performing TUG test will be taught to the children, and the time taken for completion will be recorded using a stopwatch. To check the normality, Kolmogorov test will be applied as sample size estimated is above 50. Parametric or non parametric tests will be used for between group analyses.
Exploring and Clustering the Influence of Social Media Influencers
Authors: Wang Chih-Chien , Chang Shu-Chen , Lu Chi Heng
Published: September 2024

Industry practitioners and academic researchers have accorded social media influencer marketing considerable attention. Marketing professionals must identify potential social media influencers as endorsers. A well-known social media influencer is not always a good endorser. The popularity of social media influencers does not imply their influence on their followers. In this paper, we present a survey of the influence power of social media influencers based on their followers' attitudes toward trustworthiness, expertise, likability, social attractiveness, physical attractiveness, opinion leadership, enjoyability, similarity, interactivity, identification, fitness, originality, informativeness, entertainment, and self-serving. We gathered 4,919 responses to a user survey regarding the influence of Taiwan's leading social media influencers. Based on the survey results, we categorized social media influencers into five groups: high-impact influencers, knowledge influencers, entertainers, content creators, and product promoters.
Transforming Transcriptomics: The Impact of RNA Sequencing Technology
Authors: Nirmal Ashish Kumar , Mishra N T Pramathesh , Mishra Shweta , Talreja Shreya , Fatima Bushra , Srivastava Sakshi , Nigam Chandani , Misra Shivendra
Published: September 2024

Aim: This study aimed to explore the advancements, methodologies, and applications of RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology, emphasizing its transformative impact on genomic research.
Study Design: The research involved an in-depth review of RNA-seq technology, focusing on the steps of sample preparation, sequencing, and data analysis.
Place and Duration of Study: Conducted through a detailed literature review over six months, at Hygia college of Pharmacy the study sourced information from various molecular biology and genomics publications.
Methodology: Advanced computational techniques were utilized to map and quantify RNA sequences, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of gene expression patterns, alternative splicing, and novel transcript discovery. High-throughput sequencing platforms like Illumina and PacBio generated extensive datasets from diverse biological samples, including tissues, single cells, and environmental microbiomes.
Results: The results highlighted RNA-seq's ability to provide a high-resolution view of the transcriptome, surpassing previous technologies in both sensitivity and accuracy. RNA-seq uncovered critical insights into differential gene expression, identifying significant pathways involved in development, disease, and environmental responses. The technology also discovered numerous previously unannotated transcripts and isoforms, contributing to the expansion of existing genomic databases.
Conclusion: The study concludes that RNA-seq is a crucial advancement in molecular biology, offering unprecedented insights into gene regulation and expression. Its adoption has facilitated significant breakthroughs in understanding cellular processes, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic targets. As RNA-seq technology continues to evolve, it promises to drive further innovations and applications across diverse fields in the life sciences.
Effect of Different Tillage and Organic Inputs on Soil Properties and Yield of Cotton on Vertisols
Authors: Ravali Esampally , Konde N.M. , Bhoyar S.M. , Kanase Nilam , Singh Akanksha , Thite Mohini D. , Shrirao Tanvi
Published: September 2024

The present investigation was carried out at Research Farm, Department of Soil Science, Dr. PDKV, Akola during Kharif 2023-24 to study the effect of different tillage practices and organic inputs on soil properties and yield of cotton on Vertisols. Intensive tillage accelerates the loss of soil organic carbon (SOC) and reduces soil quality and yields, particularly in rainfed areas. This is further worsened by imbalanced fertilization and insufficient recycling of organic residues. Conservation tillage, when combined with organic inputs like FYM, vermicompost and phospho-compost, can help to restore soil structure, increase SOC and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The study aimed to assess the effect of different tillage practices and organic inputs on soil properties and on yield of cotton. The factorial randomized block design with two factors and four tillage treatments as factor A and four sources of manure as factor B were adopted. The treatments were composed of factor A consisting of four tillage operations [conventional tillage (T1), reduced tillage (T2), minimum tillage (T3) and zero tillage (T4)] and factor B consisting of organic manures such as farmyard manure (10 t ha-1) (M1), vermicompost (5 t ha-1) (M2), phospho-compost (5 t ha-1) (M3) and no manure (M4) replicated thrice. The results clearly indicated that conventional tillage resulted in the significantly highest seed cotton yield (14.10 ha-1), stalk yield (27.78 ha-1), total uptake of N (46.46 ha-1), P (7.86 ha-1) and K (33.05 ha-1) relative to other tillage practices examined. Among the organic manure treatments the highest seed cotton yield (11.21 ha-1), stalk yield (21.95 ha-1), total N (37.27 ha-1), P (6.57 ha-1) and K (31.25 ha-1) uptake by cotton was observed with phospho-compost application. Based on the observed results, it was notable that the available soil N, P and K were significantly influenced by the distinct tillage practices and organic manures. Among the tillage practices, the highest content of available soil N (182.14 kg ha-1), P (17.14 kg ha-1) and K (312.95 kg ha-1) were exhibited by the reduced tillage. The use of vermicompost resulted in the highest available soil N (185.93 kg ha-1) and K (316.68 kg ha-1), while the highest available soil P (18.22 kg ha-1) was observed with phospho-compost. The results revealed that conventional tillage combined with phospho-compost improves cotton yield and nutrient uptake, while reduced tillage along with the application of vermicompost and phospho-compost improves soil fertility. Therefore, combined use of tillage and organic inputs could be beneficial for enhancing soil properties and higher productivity of cotton in Vertisols as well as the whole of Maharashtra.
Comparative Study of Fuzzy Logic Operators
Authors: LUKENZU Anyta MUKAWA , ENGOMBANGI Jonathan OPFOINTSHI , TAPASA Fernand MAMANYA , BINENE Camile LIKOTELO , MAZONI Grace NKWESE
Published: September 2024

Fuzzy logic is currently very relevant because it offers a new way to approach tuning and decision-making problems. In this paper, we discuss a comparative study between Zadeh fuzzy operators and probabilistic operators, which are used during the activation   outputs of the rules, to see which of them maximize or minimize the result of the defuzzification, in a fuzzy inference system used to create the fuzzy command control model, in artificial intelligence.
The aim of this paper is to conduct a comparative study of rule output values by applying Zadeh's fuzzy operators and those of probability when activating rule outputs; and not to create other applications or to compare our solutions with previous results.
We point out that we have carried out this comparative study of Zadeh fuzzy operators and probabilistic ones by exploiting several numerical examples such as in [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
But to lighten the writing of this article, knowing that the steps of fuzzy inference are manually tedious, we consider the control data of a house fan, with two inputs (temperature and humidity) and one output (fan speed) processed by Baali Sabeur & Mahmoudi Messaoud in 2022.
We have presented the cuts of the outputs from Zadeh's methods compared to those called probabilistic.
After Fuzzification, activation of the Rules outputs, Aggregation of the outputs and defuzzification, we identified the fuzzy operators which maximize and those which minimize the net outputs, among the two families.
Maximizing Growth and Yield Components: Comparative Analysis of Surface and Subsurface Drip Irrigation in Intensively Farmed Rice Systems
Authors: V Mani Chandana , Singh Manoj Kumar , Singh Sudhanshu , Peramaiyan Panneerselvam , Kumar Sunil , Lakshmi Udaya , Sangeetha
Published: September 2024

Water scarcity is a critical issue in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide, necessitating efficient irrigation methods in agriculture. This study evaluated the effectiveness of surface and subsurface drip irrigation systems in direct-seeded rice (DSR) followed by zero-till wheat or maize, compared to conventional puddled transplanted rice (PTR) systems. The two-year experiment, conducted at the International Rice Research Institute's South Asia Regional Centre in Varanasi, India, employed a randomized complete block design with eight treatments. Results showed that DSR followed by zero-till wheat with subsurface drip irrigation at 60-cm spacing significantly outperformed other treatments. This system increased rice grain yield by 6.52% and 18.82%, straw yield by 7.68% and 13.45%, and total biomass by 8.30% and 9.73% in 2020 and 2021, respectively, compared to PTR followed by zero-till wheat. Subsurface drip irrigation also led to improved plant growth parameters, including plant height and number of tillers, and enhanced yield attributes such as number of panicles and filled grains per panicle. The study concludes that subsurface drip irrigation in DSR systems offers a promising solution for sustainable intensification and efficient use of water and energy in rice-based cropping systems. However, long-term, multi-location trials are recommended to establish precise water and energy savings under various conditions.
Assessing the Impact of Casing Material Thickness on Yield and Biological Efficiency of Milky Mushroom (Calocybe indica P&C)
Authors: Elangovan Marimuthu , Gopinath Vaithiyalingam , Rathinakumar Ganesan , Sakthivel Madhaiyan , Biswas Mohan Kumar
Published: September 2024

Calocybe indica, known as the milky mushroom, has significant potential for agricultural expansion and economic development, particularly in West Bengal, India. This study investigates the impact of different casing material thicknesses (0.5”, 0.75”, 1.0”, and 1.5”) on the yield and biological efficiency of C. indica. Using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), the effects on primordia initiation, sporophore maturation, yield, and biological efficiency were assessed. Results indicated that a casing thickness of 1.0” was optimal, leading to the quickest primordia initiation (10.4 days) and sporophore maturation (9 days), and yielding the highest total yield (717.5 g) and biological efficiency (71.75%). In contrast, thinner and thicker casings resulted in lower yields and efficiencies. The findings suggest that a 1.0” casing thickness significantly enhances C. indica cultivation, providing practical recommendations for commercial mushroom farming. This optimization can support the development of milky mushroom farming in West Bengal, offering new opportunities for local farmers and contributing to regional agricultural diversification and economic growth.
Delineation of Selection Criterion Using Correlation and Path Analysis in Forage Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) in North Gujarat Condition
Authors: Sharma Ritu , Viradiya Y. A. , Jivan Patel Parth , Donga A. R.
Published: September 2024

Knowledge of genetic and phenotypic association among economic traits helps plant breeders in outlying efficient breeding strategies for development of high yielding forage pearl millet variety. An experiment was conducted at the research farm of Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat to evaluate plant characteristics associated with green forage yield and its attributes in forage pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] genotypes in north Gujarat condition through correlation and path analyses during 2023. Twelve independent and 1 dependent variables were evaluated for the character association analysis of the 30 forage pearl millet genotypes. The evaluation was performed in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Data collection was done from 5 randomly selected plants and this data was used for analysis using R Studio. The green forage yield per plant had positive and significant correlation with plant height, number of tiller per plant, stem thickness, leaf length, leaf width, and dry fodder yield per plant at both genotypic and phenotypic level. Path analysis revealed the importance of leaf width and dry fodder yield per plant by showing high and positive direct effects towards green forage yield per plant. These characters also exhibited significant and positive association with green forage yield per plant at the genotypic and phenotypic. Hence, these traits could be considered as the vital component characters for development of high yielding genotypes in forage pearl millet.
Mechanical properties of protoamine-induced vesicles
Authors: Park Jin-Won
Published: September 2024

The change in the mechanical properties was an indicator to understand the effect of the agents on the biological membranes. The vesicles were prepared with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and protoamine at their desired ratio and exposed to the approaching probe of the atomic force microscope (AFM). The movement of the probe was analyzed with the Hertzian model to estimate Young’s modulus and Bending modulus. The properties became lower with the higher ratio of protoamine to DPPC, but were saturated at 0.5 of the ratio. These results appear to be the basis for the antimicrobial activity associated with protoamine, i.e. cellular penetration, on the physical properties of cell membranes
Zinc finger protein X‐linked promotes expansion of EpCAM+ cancer stem‐like cells in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Chao , Fu Si‐yuan , Wang Ming‐da , Yu Wen‐bo , Cui Qin‐shu , Wang Hong‐ru , Huang Hai , Dong Wei , Zhang Wei‐wei , Li Peng‐peng , Lin Chuan , Pan Ze‐ya , Yang Yuan , Wu Meng‐chao , Zhou Wei‐ping
Published: February 2017

Zinc finger protein X‐linked (ZFX) is frequently upregulated in multiple human malignancies and also plays a critical role in the maintenance of self‐renewal in embryonic stem cells. However, the role of ZFX in liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) remains obscure. We observed that the elevated expression of both ZFX and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) was associated with aggressive clinicopathological features and indicated poor prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). ZFX was commonly enriched in liver EpCAM+ CSCs. Knockdown of ZFX decreased the proportion of EpCAM+ CSCs in HCC cells and suppressed their expression of stemness‐related genes, self‐renewal capacity, chemoresistance, metastatic potential, and tumorigenicity. Conversely, upregulation of ZFX in CSCs rescued these inhibitory effects and enhanced stem‐like properties. Mechanistically, depletion of ZFX reduced nuclear translocation and transactivation of β‐catenin, thereby inhibiting the self‐renewal capacity of EpCAM+ CSCs. Moreover, knockdown of β‐catenin attenuated the self‐renewal of EpCAM+ HCC cells stably expressing ZFX, further indicating that β‐catenin is required for ZFX‐mediated expansion and maintenance of EpCAM+ CSCs. Taken together, our findings indicate that ZFX activates and maintains EpCAM+ liver CSCs by promoting nuclear translocation and transactivation of β‐catenin. Furthermore, combination of ZFX and EpCAM may serve as a significant indicator for prognosis of patients with HCC.
Magnetic Nanoparticles for Efficient Delivery of Growth Factors: Stimulation of Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Giannaccini Martina , Calatayud M. Pilar , Poggetti Andrea , Corbianco Silvia , Novelli Michela , Paoli Melania , Battistini Pietro , Castagna Maura , Dente Luciana , Parchi Paolo , Lisanti Michele , Cavallini Gabriella , Junquera Concepción , Goya Gerardo F. , Raffa Vittoria
Published: February 2017

The only clinically approved alternative to autografts for treating large peripheral nerve injuries is the use of synthetic nerve guidance conduits (NGCs), which provide physical guidance to the regenerating stump and limit scar tissue infiltration at the injury site. Several lines of evidence suggest that a potential future strategy is to combine NGCs with cellular or molecular therapies to deliver growth factors that sustain the regeneration process. However, growth factors are expensive and have a very short half‐life; thus, the combination approach has not been successful. In the present paper, we proposed the immobilization of growth factors (GFs) on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for the time‐ and space‐controlled release of GFs inside the NGC. We tested the particles in a rat model of a peripheral nerve lesion. Our results revealed that the injection of a cocktail of MNPs functionalized with nerve growth factor (NGF) and with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) strongly accelerate the regeneration process and the recovery of motor function compared to that obtained using the free factors. Additionally, we found that injecting MNPs in the NGC is safe and does not impair the regeneration process, and the MNPs remain in the conduit for weeks.
Ultra‐Fast Supercritical Hydrothermal Synthesis of Tobermorite under Thermodynamically Metastable Conditions
Authors: Diez‐Garcia Marta , Gaitero Juan J. , Dolado Jorge S. , Aymonier Cyril
Published: February 2017

Tobermorite is a fibrillar mineral of the family of calcium silicates. In spite of not being abundant in nature, its structure and properties are reasonably well known because of its interest in the construction industry. Currently, tobermorite is synthesized by hydrothermal methods at mild temperatures. The problem is that such processes are very slow (>5 h) and temperature cannot be increased to speed them up because tobermorite is metastable over 130 °C. Furthermore the product obtained is generally foil‐like and not very crystalline. Herein we propose an alternative synthesis method based on the use of a continuous flow reactor and supercritical water. In spite of the high temperature, the transformation of tobermorite to more stable phases can be prevented by accurately controlling the reaction time. As a result, highly crystalline fibrillar tobermorite can be obtained in just a few seconds under thermodynamically metastable conditions.
Catalytic Friedel–Crafts Reactions of Highly Electronically Deactivated Benzylic Alcohols
Authors: Vuković Vuk D. , Richmond Edward , Wolf Eléna , Moran Joseph
Published: February 2017

Highly electronically deactivated benzylic alcohols, including those with a CF3 group adjacent to the OH‐bearing carbon, undergo dehydrative Friedel–Crafts reactions upon exposure to catalytic Brønsted acid in 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoro‐2‐propanol (HFIP) solvent. Titration and kinetic experiments support the involvement of higher order solvent/acid clusters in catalysis.
Production of Primary Amines by Reductive Amination of Biomass‐Derived Aldehydes/Ketones
Authors: Liang Guanfeng , Wang Aiqin , Li Lin , Xu Gang , Yan Ning , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2017

Transformation of biomass into valuable nitrogen‐containing compounds is highly desired, yet limited success has been achieved. Here we report an efficient catalyst system, partially reduced Ru/ZrO2, which could catalyze the reductive amination of a variety of biomass‐derived aldehydes/ketones in aqueous ammonia. With this approach, a spectrum of renewable primary amines was produced in good to excellent yields. Moreover, we have demonstrated a two‐step approach for production of ethanolamine, a large‐market nitrogen‐containing chemical, from lignocellulose in an overall yield of 10 %. Extensive characterizations showed that Ru/ZrO2‐containing multivalence Ru association species worked as a bifunctional catalyst, with RuO2 as acidic promoter to facilitate the activation of carbonyl groups and Ru as active sites for the subsequent imine hydrogenation.
Tetraacylgermanes: Highly Efficient Photoinitiators for Visible‐Light‐Induced Free‐Radical Polymerization
Authors: Radebner Judith , Eibel Anna , Leypold Mario , Gorsche Christian , Schuh Lukas , Fischer Roland , Torvisco Ana , Neshchadin Dmytro , Geier Roman , Moszner Norbert , Liska Robert , Gescheidt Georg , Haas Michael , Stueger Harald
Published: February 2017

In this contribution a convenient synthetic method to obtain tetraacylgermanes Ge[C(O)R]4 (R=mesityl (1 a), phenyl (1 b)), a previously unknown class of highly efficient Ge‐based photoinitiators, is described. Tetraacylgermanes are easily accessible via a one‐pot synthetic protocol in >85 % yield, as confirmed by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray crystallography. The efficiency of 1 a,b as photoinitiators is demonstrated in photobleaching (UV/Vis), time‐resolved EPR (CIDEP), and NMR/CIDNP investigations as well as by photo‐DSC studies. Remarkably, the tetraacylgermanes exceed the performance of currently known long‐wavelength visible‐light photoinitiators for free‐radical polymerization
Structure of the Ribosomal RNA Decoding Site Containing a Selenium‐Modified Responsive Fluorescent Ribonucleoside Probe
Authors: Nuthanakanti Ashok , Boerneke Mark A. , Hermann Thomas , Srivatsan Seergazhi G.
Published: February 2017

Comprehensive understanding of the structure–function relationship of RNA both in real time and at atomic level will have a profound impact in advancing our understanding of RNA functions in biology. Here, we describe the first example of a multifunctional nucleoside probe, containing a conformation‐sensitive fluorophore and an anomalous X‐ray diffraction label (5‐selenophene uracil), which enables the correlation of RNA conformation and recognition under equilibrium and in 3D. The probe incorporated into the bacterial ribosomal RNA decoding site, fluorescently reports antibiotic binding and provides diffraction information in determining the structure without distorting native RNA fold. Further, by comparing solution binding data and crystal structure, we gained insight on how the probe senses ligand‐induced conformational change in RNA. Taken together, our nucleoside probe represents a new class of biophysical tool that would complement available tools for functional RNA investigations.
Strain‐Promoted Thiol‐Mediated Cellular Uptake of Giant Substrates: Liposomes and Polymersomes
Authors: Chuard Nicolas , Gasparini Giulio , Moreau Dimitri , Lörcher Samuel , Palivan Cornelia , Meier Wolfgang , Sakai Naomi , Matile Stefan
Published: February 2017

Simple cyclic disulfides under high tension mediate the uptake of giant substrates, that is, liposomes and polymersomes with diameters of up to 400 nm, into HeLa Kyoto cells. To place them at the surface of the vesicles, the strained disulfides were attached to the head‐group of cationic amphiphiles. Bell‐shaped dose response curves revealed self‐activation of the strained amphiphiles by self‐assembly into microdomains at low concentrations and self‐inhibition by micelle formation at high concentrations. Poor colocalization of internalized vesicles with endosomes, lysosomes, and mitochondria indicate substantial release into the cytosol. The increasing activity with disulfide ring tension, inhibition with Ellman's reagent, and inactivity of maleimide and guanidinium controls outline a distinct mode of action that deserves further investigation and is promising for practical applications.
High‐Throughput Synthesis of Mixed‐Metal Electrocatalysts for CO2 Reduction
Authors: He Jingfu , Dettelbach Kevan E. , Salvatore Danielle A. , Li Tengfei , Berlinguette Curtis P.
Published: February 2017

The utilization of CO2 as a feedstock requires fundamental breakthroughs in catalyst design. The efficiencies and activities of pure metal electrodes towards the CO2 reduction reaction are established, but the corresponding data on mixed‐metal systems are not as well developed. In this study we show that the near‐infrared driven decomposition (NIRDD) of solution‐deposited films of metal salts and subsequent electrochemical reduction offers the unique opportunity to form an array of mixed‐metal electrocatalyst coatings with excellent control of the metal stoichiometries. This synthetic method enabled us to develop an empirical structure–property correlation to help inform the development of optimized CO2 catalyst compositions.
Remote Regulation of Membrane Channel Activity by Site‐Specific Localization of Lanthanide‐Doped Upconversion Nanocrystals
Authors: Ai Xiangzhao , Lyu Linna , Zhang Yang , Tang Yanxia , Mu Jing , Liu Fang , Zhou Yixi , Zuo Zhenghong , Liu Gang , Xing Bengang
Published: February 2017

The spatiotemporal regulation of light‐gated ion channels is a powerful tool to study physiological pathways and develop personalized theranostic modalities. So far, most existing light‐gated channels are limited by their action spectra in the ultraviolet (UV) or visible region. Simple and innovative strategies for the specific attachment of photoswitches on the cell surface without modifying or genetically encoding channel structures, and more importantly, that enable the remote activation of ion‐channel functions within near‐infrared (NIR) spectral window in living systems, remain a challenging concern. Herein, metabolic glycan biosynthesis is used to achieve site‐specific covalent attachment of near‐infrared‐light‐mediated lanthanide‐doped upconversion nanocrystals (UCNs) to the cell surface through copper‐free click cyclization. Upon irradiation with 808 nm light, the converted emission at 480 nm could activate a light‐gated ion channel, channelrhodopsins‐2 (ChR2), and thus remotely control the cation influx. This unique strategy provides valuable insights on the specific regulation membrane‐associated activities in vivo.
Bioelectrochemical Haber–Bosch Process: An Ammonia‐Producing H2/N2 Fuel Cell
Authors: Milton Ross D. , Cai Rong , Abdellaoui Sofiene , Leech Dónal , De Lacey Antonio L. , Pita Marcos , Minteer Shelley D.
Published: February 2017

Nitrogenases are the only enzymes known to reduce molecular nitrogen (N2) to ammonia (NH3). By using methyl viologen (N,N′‐dimethyl‐4,4′‐bipyridinium) to shuttle electrons to nitrogenase, N2 reduction to NH3 can be mediated at an electrode surface. The coupling of this nitrogenase cathode with a bioanode that utilizes the enzyme hydrogenase to oxidize molecular hydrogen (H2) results in an enzymatic fuel cell (EFC) that is able to produce NH3 from H2 and N2 while simultaneously producing an electrical current. To demonstrate this, a charge of 60 mC was passed across H2 /N2 EFCs, which resulted in the formation of 286 nmol NH3 mg−1 MoFe protein, corresponding to a Faradaic efficiency of 26.4 %.
Conservation needs for the endangered New Zealand sea lion, Phocarctos hookeri
Authors: Chilvers B. Louise , Meyer Stefan
Published: February 2017

Understanding population size and trend is critical information in species management and conservation. To enable accurate population trend estimates, consistent robust monitoring of a species is essential, particularly for a species such as the New Zealand (NZ) sea lion, Phocarctos hookeri, which has experienced an almost continuous decline in pup production since the late 1990s.

This research examines the pup production estimates for all known breeding sites for this species, and using a stage‐structured matrix population model, estimates population size and trend between 1995 and 2015.

Overall, it is estimated that 2,316 pups were born in 2015, a decrease of 13% since 1995 and a 27% decline since the highest pup production estimate in 1998. This decline has been driven by the significant decline of 48% at the main breeding area, the Auckland Islands since 1998.

Using the stage‐structured matrix population model a total species population size of 11,767 sea lions (95% CrI: 10,790–12,923) was estimated. This is the lowest population size of any sea lion species. Trend data for the Auckland Islands indicated that pup and population numbers have decreased at 1.9% yr−1 in the last 20 yr, while total species population decline is 0.6% yr−1.

Estimates of population trends for this species have been hindered by inconsistent monitoring at most breeding sites. This study strengthens the growing field of research highlighting the need for consistent long‐term monitoring for the conservation management of endangered species.