bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peran Guru Penggerak dalam Meningkatkan Profesionalisme Guru Sekolah Dasar: Sebuah Kajian Fenomenologi
Authors:   Dinas Pendidikan Kabupaten Grobogan, Kusumaningtyas Wahyu
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi peran guru penggerak dalam meningkatkan profesionalisme guru sekolah dasar (SD) di Kecamatan Toroh, Kabupaten Grobogan. Dengan menggunakan metode kualitatif naratif, penelitian ini melibatkan 10 guru SD dan 5 kepala sekolah yang berpartisipasi dalam program Guru Penggerak. Data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara mendalam yang dilakukan dari Januari 2024 hingga April 2024. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa guru penggerak memberikan dukungan moral dan teknis yang signifikan, membantu meningkatkan rasa percaya diri dan kinerja guru lainnya. Mereka juga memfasilitasi implementasi praktik pembelajaran inovatif seperti metode pembelajaran berbasis proyek dan flipped classroom. Selain itu, guru penggerak mempromosikan budaya kolaborasi melalui kegiatan professional learning communities (PLC), yang meningkatkan keterampilan profesional dan semangat kebersamaan di antara guru. Kepala sekolah melaporkan bahwa guru penggerak berperan sebagai pemimpin pembelajaran yang efektif, memotivasi dan mengarahkan guru lain dalam strategi pengajaran yang berfokus pada kebutuhan siswa. Kesimpulannya, program Guru Penggerak efektif dalam menciptakan lingkungan belajar yang lebih baik dan mendukung pengembangan profesional guru.
Feasibility of single antiplatelet therapy after stent assisted coiling for ruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Woo Min-Seok , Kang Dong-Hun , Son Wonsoo , Kim Myungsoo
Published: August 2024

Object: We retrospectively analyzed clinical data to evaluate the safety and efficacy of single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) after stent-assisted coil embolization (SAC) for ruptured cerebral aneurysms.Methods: In total, 176 stent-assisted coil embolization procedures were investigated. Among them, 77 ruptured and 99 unruptured aneurysms were grouped and compared respectively. In the ruptured group, only SAPT (aspirin) was administered after the procedure. Meanwhile, in the unruptured group, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) (aspirin and clopidogrel) was administered before and after the procedure following standard guidelines. We compared both groups in regards to thromboembolic complications by analyzing post procedural diffusion-weighted images (DWI), hyperacute thrombosis during the procedure, and post-procedural symptoms.Results: The single antiplatelet therapy ruptured intracranial aneurysm (SAPT-RIA) group had 77 saccular aneurysms (62 ICA, 3 MCA, 4 ACA, 8 posterior circulation) with a mean diameter of 8.07 mm. The dual antiplatelet therapy unruptured intracranial aneurysm (DAPT-UIA) group had 99 aneurysms (81 ICA, 5 MCA, 3 ACA, 10 posterior circulation) with a mean diameter of 6.32 mm. DWI positivity rates were similar between groups, but hyperacute thrombosis was higher in the SAPT-RIA group (10.4%) compared to none in the DAPT-UIA group. Each group had one symptomatic complication.Conclusions: SAPT could be a viable option for the peri-procedural management of SAC in acutely ruptured cases.
Single-cell RNA sequencing of the holothurian regenerating intestine reveals the pluripotency of the coelomic epithelium
Authors: Medina-Feliciano Joshua G , Valentín-Tirado Griselle , Luna-Martínez Kiara , Beltran-Rivera Alejandra , Miranda-Negrón Yamil , García-Arrarás José E
Published: August 2024

In holothurians, the regenerative process following evisceration involves the development of a “rudiment” or “anlage” at the injured end of the mesentery. This regenerating anlage plays a pivotal role in the formation of a new intestine. Despite its significance, our understanding of the molecular characteristics inherent to the constituent cells of this structure has remained limited. To address this gap, we employed state-of-the-art scRNA-seq and HCR-FISH analyses to discern the distinct cellular populations associated with the regeneration anlage. Through this approach, we successfully identified thirteen distinct cell clusters. Among these, two clusters exhibit characteristics consistent with putative mesenchymal cells, while another four show features akin to coelomocyte cell populations. The remaining seven cell clusters collectively form a large group encompassing the coelomic epithelium of the regenerating anlage and mesentery. Within this large group of clusters, we recognized previously documented cell populations such as muscle precursors, neuroepithelial cells and actively proliferating cells. Strikingly, our analysis provides data for identifying at least four other cellular populations that we define as the precursor cells of the growing anlage. Consequently, our findings strengthen the hypothesis that the coelomic epithelium of the anlage is a pluripotent tissue that gives rise to diverse cell types of the regenerating intestinal organ. Moreover, our results provide the initial view into the transcriptomic analysis of cell populations responsible for the amazing regenerative capabilities of echinoderms.
Distinct catecholaminergic pathways projecting to hippocampal CA1 transmit contrasting signals during navigation in familiar and novel environments
Authors: Heer Chad M , Sheffield Mark E J
Published: August 2024

Neuromodulatory inputs to the hippocampus play pivotal roles in modulating synaptic plasticity, shaping neuronal activity, and influencing learning and memory. Recently it has been shown that the main sources of catecholamines to the hippocampus, ventral tegmental area (VTA) and locus coeruleus (LC), may have overlapping release of neurotransmitters and effects on the hippocampus. Therefore, to dissect the impacts of both VTA and LC circuits on hippocampal function, a thorough examination of how these pathways might differentially operate during behavior and learning is necessary. We therefore utilized 2-photon microscopy to functionally image the activity of VTA and LC axons within the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus in head-fixed male mice navigating linear paths within virtual reality (VR) environments. We found that within familiar environments some VTA axons and the vast majority of LC axons showed a correlation with the animals’ running speed. However, as mice approached previously learned rewarded locations, a large majority of VTA axons exhibited a gradual ramping-up of activity, peaking at the reward location. In contrast, LC axons displayed a pre-movement signal predictive of the animal’s transition from immobility to movement. Interestingly, a marked divergence emerged following a switch from the familiar to novel VR environments. Many LC axons showed large increases in activity that remained elevated for over a minute, while the previously observed VTA axon ramping-to-reward dynamics disappeared during the same period. In conclusion, these findings highlight distinct roles of VTA and LC catecholaminergic inputs in the dorsal CA1 hippocampal region. These inputs encode unique information, with reward information in VTA inputs and novelty and kinematic information in LC inputs, likely contributing to differential modulation of hippocampal activity during behavior and learning.
Biallelic pathogenic variants in DNAH3 cause male infertility in humans and mice
Authors: Wang Xiang , Shen Gan , Yang Yihong , Jiang Chuan , Ruan Tiechao , Yang Xue , Zhuo Liangchai , Zhang Yingteng , Ou Yangdi , Zhao Xinya , Long Shunhua , Tang Xiangrong , Lin Tingting , Shen Ying
Published: August 2024

Axonemal protein complexes, including the outer and inner dynein arms (ODA/IDA), are highly ordered structures of the sperm flagella that drive sperm motility. Deficiencies in several axonemal proteins have been associated with male infertility, which is characterized by asthenozoospermia or asthenoteratozoospermia. Dynein axonemal heavy chain 3 (DNAH3) resides in the IDA and is highly expressed in the testis. However, the relationship between DNAH3 and male infertility is still unclear. Herein, we identified biallelic variants of
DNAH3
in four unrelated Han Chinese infertile men with asthenoteratozoospermia through whole-exome sequencing (WES). These variants contributed to deficient DNAH3 expression in the patients’ sperm flagella. Importantly, the patients represented the anomalous sperm flagellar morphology, and the flagellar ultrastructure was severely disrupted. Intriguingly,
Dnah3
knockout (KO) male mice were also infertile, especially showing the severe reduction in sperm movement with the abnormal IDA and mitochondrion structure. Mechanically, nonfunctional DNAH3 expression resulted in decreased expression of IDA-associated proteins in the spermatozoa flagella of patients and KO mice, including DNAH1, DNAH6, and DNALI1, the deletion of which has been involved in disruption of sperm motility. Moreover, the infertility of patients with
DNAH3
variants and
Dnah3
KO mice could be rescued by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. Our findings indicated that
DNAH3
is a novel pathogenic gene for asthenoteratozoospermia and may further contribute to the diagnosis, genetic counseling, and prognosis of male infertility.
Systematic genetic characterization of the human PKR kinase domain highlights its functional malleability to escape a poxvirus substrate mimic
Authors: Chambers Michael James , Scobell Sophia B , Sadhu Meru J
Published: August 2024

Evolutionary arms races can arise at the contact surfaces between host and viral proteins, producing dynamic spaces in which genetic variants are continually pursued.  However, the sampling of genetic variation must be balanced with the need to maintain protein function. A striking case is given by protein kinase R (PKR), a member of the mammalian innate immune system. PKR detects viral replication within the host cell and halts protein synthesis to prevent viral replication by phosphorylating eIF2α, a component of the translation initiation machinery. PKR is targeted by many viral antagonists, including poxvirus pseudosubstrate antagonists that mimic the natural substrate, eIF2α, and inhibit PKR activity. Remarkably, PKR has several rapidly evolving residues at this interface, suggesting it is engaging in an evolutionary arms race, despite the surface’s critical role in phosphorylating eIF2α. To systematically explore the evolutionary opportunities available at this dynamic interface, we generated and characterized a library of 426 SNP-accessible nonsynonymous variants of human PKR for their ability to escape inhibition by the model pseudosubstrate inhibitor K3, encoded by the vaccinia virus gene K3L. We identified key sites in the PKR kinase domain that harbor K3-resistant variants, as well as critical sites where variation leads to loss of function. We find K3-resistant variants are readily available throughout the interface and are enriched at sites under positive selection. Moreover, variants beneficial against K3 were also beneficial against an enhanced variant of K3, indicating resilience to viral adaptation. Overall, we find that the eIF2α-binding surface of PKR is highly malleable, potentiating its evolutionary ability to combat viral inhibition.
TSFF: a two-stage fusion framework for 3D object detection
Authors: Jiang Guoqing , Li Saiya , Huang Ziyu , Cai Guorong , Su Jinhe
Published: August 2024

Point clouds are highly regarded in the field of 3D object detection for their superior geometric properties and versatility. However, object occlusion and defects in scanning equipment frequently result in sparse and missing data within point clouds, adversely affecting the final prediction. Recognizing the synergistic potential between the rich semantic information present in images and the geometric data in point clouds for scene representation, we introduce a two-stage fusion framework (TSFF) for 3D object detection. To address the issue of corrupted geometric information in point clouds caused by object occlusion, we augment point features with image features, thereby enhancing the reference factor of the point cloud during the voting bias phase. Furthermore, we implement a constrained fusion module to selectively sample voting points using a 2D bounding box, integrating valuable image features while reducing the impact of background points in sparse scenes. Our methodology was evaluated on the SUNRGB-D dataset, where it achieved a 3.6 mean average percent (mAP) improvement in the mAP@0.25 evaluation criterion over the baseline. In comparison to other great 3D object detection methods, our method had excellent performance in the detection of some objects.
PSA-HWT: handwritten font generation based on pyramid squeeze attention
Authors: Zhao Hong , Huang Jinhai , Li Wengai , Chang Zhaobin , Wang Weijie
Published: August 2024

The generator, which combines convolutional neural network (CNN) and Transformer as its core modules, serves as the primary model for the handwriting font generation network and demonstrates effective performance. However, there are still problems with insufficient feature extraction in the overall structure of the font, the thickness of strokes, and the curvature of strokes, resulting in subpar detail in the generated fonts. To solve the problems, we propose a method for constructing a handwritten font generation model based on Pyramid Squeeze Attention, called PSA-HWT. The PSA-HWT model is divided into two parts: an encoder and a decoder. In the encoder, a multi-branch structure is used to extract spatial information at different scales from the input feature map, achieving multi-scale feature extraction. This helps better capture the semantic information and global structure of the font, aiding the generation model in understanding fine-grained features such as the shape, thickness, and curvature of the font. In the decoder, it uses a self-attention mechanism to capture dependencies across various positions in the input sequence. This helps to better understand the relationship between the generated strokes or characters and the handwritten font being generated, ensuring the overall coherence of the generated handwritten text. The experimental results on the IAM dataset demonstrate that PSA-HWT achieves a 16.35% decrease in Fréchet inception distance (FID) score and a 13.09% decrease in Geometry Score (GS) compared to the current advanced methods. This indicates that PSA-HWT generates handwritten fonts of higher quality, making it more practically valuable.
Favour the best in case of emergency cricothyroidotomy–a randomized cross-over trial on manikin focused training and simulation of common devices
Authors: Didion Nicole , Pohlmann Fabian , Pirlich Nina , Wittenmeier Eva , Jänig Christoph , Wollschläger Daniel , Griemert Eva-Verena
Published: August 2024

Background

Performing an emergency cricothyroidotomy (EC) is extremely challenging, the devices used should be easy to handle and the selected technique reliable. However, there is still an ongoing debate concerning the most superior technique.

Methods

Three different techniques were compared using a standardized, simulated scenario regarding handling, performing, training and decision making: The scalpel-bougie technique (SBT), the surgical anatomical preparation technique (SAPT) and the Seldinger technique (ST). First, anaesthesia residents and trainees, paramedics and medical students (each group n = 50) performed a cricothyroidotomy randomly assigned with each of the three devices on a simulator manikin. The time needed for successful cricothyroidotomy was the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included first-attempt success rate, number of attempts and user-satisfaction. The second part of the study investigated the impact of prior hands-on training on both material selection for EC and on time to decision-making in a simulated “cannot intubate cannot ventilate” situation.

Results

The simulated scenario revealed that SBT and SAPT were significantly faster than percutaneous EC with ST (p < 0.0001). Success rate was 100% for the first attempt with SBT and SAPT. Significant differences were found with regard to user-satisfaction between individual techniques (p < 0.0001). In terms of user-friendliness, SBT was predominantly assessed as easy (87%). Prior training had a large impact regarding choice of devises (p < 0.05), and time to decision making (p = 0.05; 180 s vs. 233 s).

Conclusion

This study supports the use of a surgical technique for EC and also a regular training to create familiarity with the materials and the process itself.The trial was registered before study start on 11.11.2018 at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT: 2018-13819) with Nicole Didion as the principal investigator.
Study of LY9 as a potential biomarker for prognosis and prediction of immunotherapy efficacy in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Deng Kun , Yuan Liqiang , Xu Zhanyu , Qin Fanglu , Zheng Zhiwen , Huang Liuliu , Jiang Wei , Qin Junqi , Sun Yu , Zheng Tiaozhan , Ou Xinhuai , Zheng Liping , Li Shikang
Published: August 2024

Background

Lymphocyte antigen 9 (LY9) participates in the development of several tumors and diseases but has not been reported yet in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

First, we analyzed the expression and prognostic value of LY9 in pan-cancer, including LUAD. Additionally, we conducted a correlation analysis of LY9 expression in LUAD with immune cell infiltration using the TIMER database and the CIBERSORT algorithm, and with immune checkpoints using the GEPIA database. Also, we constructed a potential ceRNA network for LY9. Furthermore, we explored LY9-related pathways by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Finally, validation of differential expression at the mRNA level was obtained from the GEO database. We collected LUAD tissues for Quantitative Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) to verify the expression of LY9, CD8, and CD4 and calculated the correlation between them. We also conducted immunohistochemistry (IHC) to verify the protein expression of LY9.

Results

Results showed that LY9 was highly expressed in various tumors, including LUAD. Besides, patients with high LY9 expression presented longer overall survival (OS) and more multiple lymphocyte infiltrations. The expression of LY9 in LUAD strongly and positively correlates with multiple immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoints. The functional enrichment analysis indicated that LY9 was involved in multiple immune-related pathways and non-small cell lung cancer. Moreover, a ceRNA regulatory network of LINC00943-hsa-miR-141-3p-LY9 might be involved. Finally, GSE68465 dataset confirmed differential expression of LY9 mRNA levels in LUAD and the qRT-PCR results verified LY9 had a strong and positive correlation with CD4 and CD8 T cells. Unfortunately, IHC did not detect the expression of LY9 protein level in tumor tissues and WB experiments validated the protein expression of LY9 in the OCI-AML-2 cell line.

Conclusions

Therefore, we hypothesized that LY9 could serve as a potential, novel prognostic biomarker for LUAD and could predict immunotherapy efficacy at the mRNA level.
DNA methylation and gene expression profiling reveal potential association of retinol metabolism related genes with hepatocellular carcinoma development
Authors: Zhao Yanteng , Wan Kangkang , Wang Jing , Wang Shuya , Chang Yanli , Du Zhuanyun , Zhang Lianglu , Dong Lanlan , Zhou Dihan , Zhang Wei , Wang Shaochi , Yang Qiankun
Published: August 2024

Background

Aberrant DNA methylation patterns play a critical role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanisms associated with these aberrantly methylated genes remain unclear. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the methylation-driven gene expression alterations in HCC using a multi-omics dataset.

Methods

Whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) techniques were used to assess the methylation and gene expression profiles of HCC tissues (HCCs) and normal adjacent tissues (NATs). The candidate genes’ potential function was further investigated using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA seq) data.

Results

We observed widespread hypomethylation in HCCs compared to NATs. Methylation levels in distinct genomic regions exhibited significant differences between HCCs and NATs. We identified 247,632 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 4,926 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between HCCs and NATs. Integrated analysis of DNA methylation and RNA-seq data identified 987 methylation-driven candidate genes, with 970 showing upregulation and 17 showing downregulation. Four genes involved in the retinol metabolic pathway, namely ADH1A, CYP2A6, CYP2C8, and CYP2C19, were identified as hyper-downregulated genes. Their expression levels could stratify HCCs into three subgroups with distinct survival outcomes, immune cell infiltration, and tumor microenvironments. Validation of these findings in an independent dataset yielded similar outcomes, confirming the high concordance and potential prognostic value of these genes. ScRNA seq data revealed the low expression of these genes in immune cells, emphasizing their role in promoting malignant cell proliferation and migration. In conclusion, this study provides insights into the molecular characteristics of HCC, revealing the involvement of retinol metabolism-related genes in the development and progression of HCC. These findings have implications for HCC diagnosis, prognosis prediction, and the development of therapeutic targets.
Efficacy and safety of etrolizumab in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Yong gang , Sun Dajuan , Liu Jiahui , Wei Xiunan , Chi Lili , Wang Hongya
Published: August 2024

Background

To explore the efficacy and safety of etrolizumab in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through meta-analysis.

Method

A comprehensive exploration encompassed randomized controlled trials examining the efficacy of etrolizumab in treating IBD across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and Web of Science, with a search deadline of 1 December 2023. Quality assessment leaned on the Cochrane manual’s risk-of-bias evaluation, while Stata 15 undertook the data analysis.

Result

Five randomized controlled studies involving 1682 individuals were finally included, Meta-analysis results suggested that compared with placebo, etrolizumab could improve clinical response (RR = 1.26, 95% CI [1.04–1.51]), clinical remission (RR = 1.26, 95% CI [1.04–1.51]) in IBD patients. Endoscopic alleviate (RR = 2.10, 95% CI [1.56–2.82]), endoscopic improvement (RR = 2.10, 95% CI [1.56–2.82]), endoscopic remission (RR = 2.10, 95% CI [1.56–2.82]), Endoscopic improvement (RR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.30–1.89]), histological remission (RR = 1.62, 95% CI [1.26–2.08]), and did not increase any adverse events (RR = 0.95, 95% CI [0.90–1.01]) and serious adverse events (RR = 0.94, 95% CI [0.68–1.31]).

Conclusion

According to our current study, etrolizumab is a promising drug in IBD.
Role of Bee colonies in Honey production for Sustainable Livelihood in Anantnag District of Kashmir Valley, J & K
Authors: Mushtaq Ruyida , Singh Harmeet
Published: August 2024

Kashmir Valley has a tremendous potential for beekeeping due to the abundance of honey bee species, favourable climatic conditions and floral diversity. It contributes to the sustainable livelihood by increasing crop productivity through the process of pollination. The present study aims to examine Karl Pearson correlation between number of bee colonies and honey production since 2005-06 to 2017-18 in the district Anantnag of Kashmir valley. The secondary sources of data used for the investigation reveal that there is a strong positive correlation between bee colonies and honey production (0.834) in the study area. The number of bee colonies is seen as a dominating factor for honey production, thereby achieving sustainable livelihood and develop economy of the region. Beekeeping appears to be a critical component of sustainable agriculture and integrated rural development, as well as important for achieving food security and conservation of natural resources in the study area. Availability of diverse bee floral resources throughout the year helps in exporting quality honey to different parts of the world which promotes beekeeping in the study region.
Studies on the Rotiferpopulation in relation to some physico-chemical parameters.
Authors: Patra Subhendu Bikash
Published: August 2024

The present dissertation provides the results of the study done on the Rotiferpopulation of a sewage fed wetland of West Bengal, India, along with the influence of some physico-chemical parameters on them. The water parameters studied were Water temperature (WT), pH, Dissolved Oxygen(DO), Carbon di Oxide(CO2), Total alkalinity(TA), Dissolved Organic Matter(DOM) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD).During the study among the above mentioned water parameters WT variedfrom 15.5oCto 32.75oC, pH from 7.98 to 8.75, DO from 4.3 mg/lit to 16 mg/lit, CO2from 00 to 46 mg/lit, TA from 164 mg/lit to 251 mg/lit, DOM from 1.13 mg/lit to 4.73 mg/lit and BOD from 5.62 mg/lit to 28.8 mg/lit.One noticeable feature aboutthe seasonal variation of those parameters in the wetland was that its variation pattern differsin actual magnitude. The wetland had fairly high DO content and pH was always alkaline. The water was also rich in DOM. BOD was moderate and not appreciably high as expected in a polluted aquatic system.The combine effect of above physico-chemical parameters might have promoted the luxurious growth of rotifer population of the wetland.During the study except the above mentioned physico-chemical parameters of water,Rotiferpopulation was also observed.A total of 22 species of 12 generaof rotiferwere noticed during study.Among them 11species were dominant and occur more than six months throughout the study period.This population in the wetland overwhelmingly predominated by Brachionusspecies.Not only that they were also numerically superior over other. Among Brachionusspecies,Brachionus angulariswas most dominant.From the statistical analysis different species of rotifer showed positive correlation with pH and inverse correlation with CO2and TA.
Quality evaluation and techno-economic feasibility study of Gluten free bread prepared with Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) and Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: Kulkarni Dhanashri , Sakhale B.K. , Deshpande H.W.
Published: August 2024

The gluten free breads were prepared with nutritionally rich buckwheat and pearl millet flour to replace the refined wheat flour from the diet of celiac people. The breads from five different combinations with increasing proportion of buckwheat and pearl millet flour along with control (rice flour) were analyzed for its physico-chemical, textural, microbial and sensory parameters. The mean volume and specific volume of the formulated gluten free bread samples decreased with increasing portion of rice flour (220.86-166.30 Cm3 and 1.4-1.1 Cm3/gm respectively). The moisture, carbohydrates and total energy decreased from (33.96-30.10% 86.24-73.85% and 408.11-362.13Kcal respectively) while proteins, fats, crude fibers and ash were increased (7.6-11.45, 1.2-3.8, 1.2-4.9 and 0.5-1.4% respectively) with the addition of buckwheat and pearl millet in the flour. The hardness of sample S00100 (93.2 g) was lowest in comparison with sample with pure buckwheat and pearl millet flour. The hardness increased with higher portion of buckwheat flour in the mixture. The chewiness (48.2 to 11.4 mJ.) and cohesiveness (1.9-0.9 g) showed decreasing trend with increasing buckwheat and pearl millet flour in the samples. The results of microbial as well as storage studies indicated that the breads are not shelf stable after 3 days of preparation. The overall organoleptic acceptability of sample with 30% buckwheat and pearl millet flour was found high (8.13). The total cost of production of the most accepted gluten free bread sample S3040 was 62.50 Rs/kg, which was found higher than control (56.25 Rs/kg).
ZnO particles assisted removal of Arsenic [As(V)]
Authors: Agarwal Bikash , Das Trishna Moni , Baruah Sunandan , Dakua Indrani
Published: August 2024

The problem of arsenic content in drinking water is one of the oldest issues and yet scientists and researchers are struggling to find affordable and fast methods to remove arsenic from drinking water. The ill effect of arsenic to human health is very serious and in this paper effort is being made to remove arsenic from water by following the method of adsorption assisted by ZnOnanoparticles. Hydrothermal method is used to synthesize the nano particles and different characterization techniques used to confirm the formation. The optimal values for parameter like pH value, temperature and contact time were found and the same were used to get the maximum adsorption at minimum time to remove the arsenic from drinking water.
Geospatial analysis of impact of changing land use pattern on Paddy wetlands: a case study of Thrissur District, Kerala, India
Authors: Zainulabdeen Yomna. P. , Nagaraj H.
Published: August 2024

Paddy wetlands of Kerala are a victim of incongruous land use pattern and a major portion of paddy lands in the state has already been converted to other purposes. This study employs geospatial technology to analyse the conversion of paddy wetlands to other land uses and also compares the reclamation of paddy fields before and after the enactment of the KeralaConservation of Paddy Land and Wetland Act in 2008. The study area is Thrissur district, Kerala, India and the period of study is from 1995 to 2021. The results of the analysis revealed that a significant percentage (4.28%) of paddy wetlands got reclaimed during the period 1995- 2008. Conversion to mixed crops, built-up and wasteland was 10,098.41 hectares, 2,151.38hectares 747.37 hectares respectively. After 2008 there is a marked reduction in the reclamation, but pollution and degradation of the wetlands still continues. This encroachment and deterioration of paddy lands have impacted the rice production of the study area.
A SWOT analysis for sustainable municipal solid waste management in Gurugram city, Haryana (India).
Authors: Chauhan Suman , Sandeep
Published: August 2024

In developing countries, solid waste is typically disposed of inappropriately, which has a negative impact on the environment and healthcare. One of the most serious environmental issues is the management of municipal solid waste because of the huge increase in waste generation brought on by industrialization, economic development, urbanization, and the exponential growth of Gurugram City's population. Municipal Corporation Gurugram (MCG) handles solid waste collection, transportation, and disposal. The city generates over 1100 tons of solid waste per day. In consideration of this, the current study employed the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats framework called SWOT analysis to critically examine the city's current methods for the management of municipal solid waste to provide more effective policy solutions. For conducting the analysis, the questionnaires and other interviews were conducted to gather information from households and officials in the city, and the observation made during field visits were recorded. The analysis shows that the waste management issue is getting worse for a variety of causes, including a lack of regulatory enforcement, insufficient technical and financial resources, insufficient people’s participation, inadequate execution of policies, a lack of political priorities, and poor coordination between authorities.
Keywords: Solid Waste, Sustainable, SWOT, Urbanization
Isolation, production and application of fibrinolytic enzyme from fermented rice, pulse and groundnut.
Authors: Singh Nitika , Shera Shailendra
Published: August 2024

Accumulation of fibrin in blood vessels usually results in thrombosis, leading to myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular disease. For Thrombolytic therapy, microbial fibrinolytic enzymes have now attracted much more attention than typical thrombolytic agent because of the expensive prices and undesirable side effects of the latter. The fibrinolytic enzymes were successively discovered from different microorganisms. The most important among which is the Genus Bacillus from traditional fermented food. The physiochemical properties of these enzymes have been further identified. Therefore microbial fibrinolytic enzymes, especially those from food grade micro-organism, have the potential to be developed as functional food additive and drugs to prevent or cure other related diseases. In order to obtain Bacillus species producing fibrinolytic enzymes, the fermented food sample such as sprouted grain and processed grain were used. The heat tolerant isolates initially were selected for catalase test. Fibrinolytic activity of the selected isolates was determined by using Fibrin plate assay. From the above work, it can be concluded that the fibrinolytic enzyme produced by Bacillus from fermented food samples had the ability to degrade the fibrin and hence can be used for functional food formulation.
Effect of different cooking methods on vitamins, minerals and antinutritional factors of immature drumstick pods.
Authors: Kachhawa Kavita , Chawla Pramjit
Published: August 2024

Drumstick tree is a miracle source of phytonutrients in the drought prone areas of tropicaland subtropical countries. With the emphasis to increase adoption ofimmature drumstick pods at homestead level, this study was planned to assess the effect of different cooking methods on vitamins (β-carotene; Rangana, 1995) & Ascorbic acid: AOAC 2000), minerals (iron & calcium;AOAC 2000) and antinutritional factors (phytates; Haug and Lantzsch, 1983, total phenols; AOAC method 2000, andoxalates; Abeza et al, 1968). The findings of present study revealed that all the cooking methods ledsignificant decrease(p≤0.01) in nutrients and antinutritional factors of immature drumstick pods except total phenols. In all cooking methods, sauteing resulted in higher retention of β-carotene, iron, calcium andantinutritional factors in immature drumstick pods. In wet cooking methods, both microwave cooking and pressure cooking were found to preserve more nutrients in immature drumstick pods than boiling and blanching.
Particle board using rice husk and coconut fibre
Authors: Chandran Ajay , Ismail Althaf , Charles Bestin , Thejal Thejal Tom
Published: August 2024

Particle boards are one of the primary products used in buildings and furniture sectors. These materials are manufactured under pressure, by combining wood particles and other lignocellulosic fibrous materials by using an adhesive. The extensive use of particle boards can add to the economic advantage of low-cost wood raw material, inexpensive agents and, simple processing. For the manufacturing of particle boards based on renewable resources, the search for lignocellulosic substitutes for wood is one of the biggest challenges that the wood industry is facing. In this project, particle boards were made using rice husk and coconut fibre, as a substitute for wood. Rice husk is the hard-protective shell of grains, obtained from rice mill. Coconut fibre is the natural fibre extracted from the coconut husk. Three boards of different coconut fibre content (15%,20%, and 25%) were casted. The coconut fibre and rice huskwere exposed to Alkali Treatment to make the fibre free from hydrophobic substances. They were then processed into particle board using poly-ester resin as binder. The effect of fibre content on Density, Water Absorption (WA), Thickness Swelling (TS), Modulus of Rupture (MOR) and Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) were analyzed. This investigation appears as a better solution for environmental problems associated with wastes and it is economical to use for the manufacturing of composite fibre boards.
Impact of nutrition intervention on the nutritional status and cognitive function among children (6-12 years) – An Interventional Study from South India
Authors: Anitha R. , Pa Raajeswari
Published: August 2024

Good nutrition is a basic pillar for adequate health, productivity, and general functional capacity. Consuming safe, sufficient, and nutritious food is critical for child growth and development. Children who fail to grow adequately during this critical period may not make up for the growth loss even on an adequate diet, later in life. The present study aimed to provide nutritional supplementation using formulated nutritious health mix made out of selected potential ingredients and nutrition and health education on child nutrition to mother. This is an intervention study that included 90 children aged between 6 and 12 years based on the inclusion criteria. The children were subdivided in to three groups (CG, EGI and EGII) with 30 children in each group. The raw ingredients were procured, processed, powdered and mixed for preparing health mix for supplementation for three months. The children were able to consume 50gm of health mix per day in the form of ladoos as mid - morning and mid-evening snacks. The results revealed that the selected children in the Experimental Group II who received health mix supplementation along with health and nutrition education to mother improved in nutritional status and cognitive function. This study offers new insight for formulating policies and intervention programs in the future.
Exploring the impact of sprouting on the chemical and physical properties of green gram and gram flour-based biscuits
Authors: Gupta Sonam , Bhatt Devender Kumar
Published: August 2024

Pulses, such as green gram and gram, are excellent sources of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The botanical names of green gram and gram are Vigna radiata and Cicer arietinum, respectively. This research paper explores the impact of incorporating sprouted green gram flour and sprouted gram flour into refined flour-based biscuits. The study analyses the chemical and physical properties of the biscuits by varying the blending ratios of the three flours. The results show that the addition of sprouted flour increases the protein content and decreases the carbohydrate and fat content of the biscuits. Moreover, the physical properties of the biscuits, such as weight, thickness, diameter, and spread ratio, were also affected by the addition of sprouted flour. The significant differences in the mean square, F value, and p-value indicate that the differences in nutritional content and physical content between the different flour blends are unlikely to be the result of chance. Overall, the study provides insights into the potential of using sprouted flour in biscuit production to enhance their nutritional quality and physical attributes.
Keywords: Sprouted green gram flour, sprouted gram flour, Refined flour, Biscuit, Physical properties, Chemical properties, Sensory evaluation
Target firm takeovers and corporate governance: Evidence from BRICS
Authors: Gautam Harsh , Singh Archana , Maheshwari Girish Chandra
Published: August 2024

The study analyses the role of various corporate governance mechanisms in the takeovers of target firms in BRICS countries. Based on a sample of 837 M&A deals that occurred between 2010 and 2022, the results show that corporate governance mechanisms significantly influence both the likelihood of takeover and M&A performance. Board attributes such as size, independence and gender diversity have a favourable impact on the likelihood of takeover completion as well as performance. Among ownership attributes, activist institutional investors such as sovereign wealth and hedge funds and private equity/venture capitalists have a consistent and strong influence on both takeover completion success and performance. While other investors such as mutual and pension funds and insurance firms do not seem to have a strong relationship. Lastly, Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG)-linked CEO compensation is strongly related to both takeover completion likelihood and performance.
A Review of Naringenin's Nutraceutical Properties: A boon in the Sustainable Food System
Authors: Saxena Dr Dipali , Dr Shweta Keswani  , Aditi Gupta
Published: August 2024

Many of the medications on the market today are derived from natural sources. Apart from their physiological roles in plants, flavonoids are vital components of the human diet, despite not being classified as nutrients. Flavonoids are an important class of secondary metabolites found in plants that perform a variety of activities, including pigmentation and antioxidant activity. Naringenin is a flavanone (flavonoid) that occurs naturally and is known to have a bioactive influence on human health. It is mostly found in fruits (grapefruit and oranges) and vegetables. This phytochemical has been linked to a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties. Although few clinical trials have been conducted, the primary focus has been on naringenin bioavailability and cardioprotective effect and memory enhancement. Many molecular pathways underpinning its positive effects have been identified. This review also intends to bring newer insights, which will undoubtedly usher in a new era of flavonoid-based nutraceutical properties for the treatment of numerous infectious and degenerative disorders.
Keywords: Naringenin, flavonoids, biological, antioxidant, antibacterial, nutraceutical etc.
Growth and yield of Jatropha curcas l. as influenced by different regimes of apical bud removal
Authors: Adeniji, I.T.  , Togun, A.O.  , Adediran, J.A.  , Adeniji, A.M.  , Ogunwade, O.A.  , Omenna, E.C.
Published: August 2024

An experiment was conducted on the influence of time of apical bud removal on the growth and yield of Jatropha curcas which has low performance due to poor production practices. Removal of apical dominance by decapitation has potential to improve yield of plants. However, the capacity at which decapitation can improve growth and yield of Jatropha curcashas not been adequately explored. The effects of decapitation was assessed on growth in pots in a research garden, University of Ibadan and growth and seed yield were examined on the field, at 6, 10, 14 and 18 weeks after sowing in the Institute of Agricultural Research and training, Ibadan. A control (without decapitation) was used as check. The experiments were arranged in pot and field studies using CRD and RCBD, respectively replicated four times. Number of leaves, number of branches, leaf area(cm2), dry weigh(g), days to flowering, days to fruiting, and days to fruit maturity and seed yield (g) were determined. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α0.05. The results from the pot experiment showed that plants decapitated at 6weeks had significantly (p>0.05) higher number of branches (6.3), Leaf area (1647.6cm2) and Dry weight (245.0g) than control (1.8; 898.7cm2 and 188.5g, respectively) and other treatments. On the field, days to flowering and days to fruit maturity showed that  control plants (220.5 and 310.3)flowed and produced matured fruits earlier thanplants decapitated at 6weeks (223.8; 314.3).This was followed by decapitation at10 weeks(230.0; 321.0) and decapitation at 14weeks (238.0; 321.0).Plants decapitated at18weeks were the last to fruits and matured  (240.8; 323.5). Highest Seed yield was at D6 (75.8) and least in control (29.0). The results showed that decapitation at six weeks after sowing increased growth and seed yield of Jatropha curcas.
Development and comparative study of nutribars prepared from pearl millet.
Authors: Simon Sherin , S Anamika , C M Athira , Thomas Jain
Published: August 2024

Nutrition bar is a complete and convenient energy source for people. They are designed to be eaten quickly or while on the go. It is the most popular and healthy snack that can be consumed by everyone without any age limits. The present study was carried out to prepare nutribars from Dried pearl millet crushes and Malted pearl millet crushes and their comparative study. The dried pearl millet or sprouted pearl millet was mixed with an appropriate amount of oats, dates, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, peanut and honey. These ingredients were mixed to make it into a bar like form. The main reason for selecting pearl millet was that they are rich in vitamins, minerals, energy, protein and dietary fibers. Among all the millets micronutrients are highest for pearl millet. They are significantly rich in resistant starch, soluble and insoluble dietary fibers. Pearl millet is ideal as it is the only grain that retains its alkaline properties after being cooked as it is gluten free.
The global need for high quality, nutrient dense food is rising. By combining practical novel ingredients, the food business has been forced to develop innovative goods to improve the nutrient content and % daily value per serving due to customer lifestyle changes and increased health consciousness .
Isolation of Bacillus thuringiensis from soil and their impact on mosquito larvae
Authors: John Shanthi Jenila J S , Sumathy Victor V. Judia Harriet
Published: August 2024

Mosquitoes are vectors of various disease causing agents and are responsible for the transmission of pathogens causing more life threatening and debilitating human diseases than any other organism. Over one million people worldwide die from mosquito borne diseases which include Malaria, Chikungunya, Yellow fever and Dengue fever yearly within disease- endemic countries. Continuous use of chemical-based insecticides has resulted in the development of resistance in mosquito and cause detrimental effects on non-target organisms and thus causes human health problems. Bacillus thuringiensis is an important insect pathogen is highly toxic to mosquito larvae and related dipterans. Bacillus thuringiensis during the sporulation phase produces proteinaceous parasporal crystals called as delta-endotoxin. This crystal protein is active in alkaline condition of midgut of insects and gets solubilized  and when activated by intrinsic protease results in an active toxin that selectively binds specific receptor in the cell membrane, leading to pore formation and consequent  insect larvae death. Thus the present study reveals Bacillus thuringiensis to be highly active on mosquito pests and less likely to cause resistance and no effect to non-target animals and is thus considered beneficial to humans in the eradication of Mosquitoes.
Efficacy of bigel in improving the viability of probiotic: experimental study
Authors: Noman Soaad , Singh Neetu
Published: August 2024

Gel formulations of oleogel, hydrogel, and oleo-hydrogel (bigel) were evaluated as transdermal drug delivery systems, but recently various studies have proved that gel-based delivery systems are also able to improve the stability and bioavailability of many bioactive food ingredients. The aim of this study was to prepare different formulations of edible bigel and compare their effect on probiotic viability. This work was an experimental research design conducted in Food Technology Laboratory at B.B. Ambedkar University with technical assistance provided by CytoGene Research and Development in Lucknow, India. The experimental work was conducted from January to April 2021. The primary analysing technique was based on quantitative microbial analysis using two nutrient agar media, Reinforced Clostridial Agar RCA and De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe Agar MRS. To these agar medias, two probiotic bacteria was introduced, Clostridium butyricum and Lactic acid bacillus (Lactobacillus sporogenes) in two different phases, in the first phase (control), the probiotic was free from any type of gel while in the second phase, the probiotic was incorporated with bigel. When the number of colonies formed was compared in both phases, it was observed that the second phase had more colonies, and within the second phase, the best formulation that had maximum number of colonies was 7:3 OG:HG ratio. In RCA media, the results showed that, Clostridium butyricum count was raised from 472 to 624 colonies, on the other hand, In MRS media, the Lactic acid bacillus count was raised from 13 to 53 colonies. At the physical level, the most stable form of bigel with solid, jelly-like structure and viscoelastic nature was 7:3 OG:HG ratio, and all this work led to a conclusion that, 7:3 OG:HG ratio of bigel is physically and microbiologically ideal to be a potential substance used for coating and encapsulation of probiotic supplement.