bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carotenoids in Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Authors: I. Udoh Lovina , U. Agogbua Josephine , R. Keyagha Eberechi , I. Nkanga Itorobong
Published: July 2022

Cassava is produced globally and consumed as an important staple in Africa for its calories, but the crop is deficient in micronutrients such as vitamin A. Pro-vitamin A carotenoids including β-carotene are precursors of vitamin A in the human body. Carotenoids are generally associated with colors of fruits and vegetables. Although most cassava varieties have white tuberous roots and generally accepted, naturally; some cassava roots are colored yellow and contain negligible amounts of vitamin A. Several genes have been identified in the carotenoids biosynthesis pathway of plants, but studies show that Phytoene synthase 2 (PSY2), lycopene epsilon cyclase, and β-carotene hydroxylase genes have higher expression levels in yellow cassava roots. So far, the PSY2 gene has been identified as the key gene associated with carotenoids in cassava. Some initiatives are implementing conventional breeding to increase pro-vitamin A carotenoids in cassava roots, and much success has been achieved in this regard. This chapter highlights various prediction tools employed for carotenoid content in fresh cassava roots, including molecular marker-assisted strategies developed to fast-track the conventional breeding for increased carotenoids in cassava.
A Usability Analysis of the DAO Concept Based on the Case Study of a Blockchain Game
Authors: Karbach Lars , Korte Moritz , Orbat Nils , Muschiol Daniel , Jansen Marc
Published: July 2022

Games based on a blockchain exist in all variants and facets, mostly as single- or multiplayer games. This chapter deals with the implementation of a multiplayer strategy game (Connect Four), using blockchain technology for decentralized data storage and the entire game logic. The focus is on the use of the decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) principle, for coordination and voting within the teams. The chosen game just stands as an example; other games or gamification approaches in which users can take decisions collaboratively can be used here. A web application was implemented acting as a central interface between players and the blockchain. Hence, it was possible for players to compete against each other in teams and to collectively decide the next move by participating in a roundly voting. With the help of a standardized questionnaire, answered by each player after each match, possible impacts of the voting mechanism on the usability were determined.
Biological Treatment of Cannery Wastes
Authors: Hung Yung-Tse , Sharifiilierdy Seyedkiarash , H. Paul Howard , R. Huhnke Christopher , O. Abdel Rahman Rehab
Published: July 2022

This chapter reviews various methods of cannery wastewater biological treatment, namely up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB), sequencing batch reactor (SBR), three-stage aerobic rotating biological contactor (RBC), three sequentially arranged reactors (anaerobic-anoxic-aerobic reactors), lagooning, and anaerobic digestion. The general principles for dealing with the uncertainty of general wastewater treatment plants are applied to control the uncertainty in cannery wastewater treatment. An overview of on the application of Monte Carlo, support vector machine (SVM), artificial neural network (ANN), and genetic algorithm to manage the uncertainty in the biological treatment of wastewater is provided.
Gut Microbiota Potential in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Irfan Shahzad , Muzaffar Humaira , Anwar Haseeb , Jabeen Farhat
Published: July 2022

Appropriate metabolic regulation is vital for health. Multiple factors play important roles in maintaining the metabolic system in different physiological conditions. These factors range from intestinal metabolism of food and absorption of nutrients, pancreatic hormones and their interplay under feeding and fasting, hepatic regulation of macronutrient formation and metabolism storage of macronutrients in skeletal muscles. Intestinal metabolism of ingested food and subsequent nutrient absorption depends on the symbiotic microbial community residing in the gut. The specific ratio of different microbial phyla in the gut has proved to be extremely important for the beneficial role of the gut microbiome. The importance of gut microbiome in the regulation of metabolism has been highlighted with reports of the abnormal ratio of gut microbial community resulting in different metabolic disturbances ranging from obesity to the development of diabetes mellitus. The physiological impact of insulin on the metabolic regulation of macronutrients has recently been shown to be augmented by the secondary metabolites produced by anaerobic fermentation. The current chapter aims to highlight recent findings in the regulation of extraintestinal metabolism by gut microbiome with a specific emphasis on the physiology and pathophysiology of the pancreas in health and disease.
Infodemic Challenges During COVID-19 Pandemic and the Strategies to Deal with Them: A Review Article
Authors: Aslani Nasim , Behmanesh Ali , Davoodi Fereshteh , Garavand Ali , Shams Roshanak
Published: July 2022

Context: The phenomenon of infodemic following the outbreak of COVID-19 has led to several adverse public health consequences. Infodemic poses challenges at the community level, and identifying and adopting effective strategies against it can address many of these challenges. The present study aimed to determine the infodemic challenges of COVID-19 and the strategy to deal with them. Evidence acquisition: We searched PubMed and Scopus scientific databases using related keywords up to April 2022. The article selection process was based on the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data extraction was carried out using a data extraction form. We analyzed the extracted data through the content analyses method. Results: We identified infodemic challenges from related studies and classified them into nine main categories. These challenges included social hazards, improper health behavior, and scientific hazards. Other results show that strategies to deal with COVID-19 and other similar conditions can be classified into seven main categories, including the active confrontation with centers and scientific sources, the effective intervention of health care professionals, responsible participatory actions, actions of governments and authorities, monitoring and identifying incorrect information, heightening people’s awareness, and encouragement for vaccination. Conclusions: In this study, we identified and reported different coping strategies from all around the world that are very broad, and different countries and societies can use appropriate methods according to their situations and characteristics. Efforts to disseminate accurate information and prevent the propagation of incorrect information during a pandemic crisis can be vital.
Numerical investigation of nonlinear diffraction wave loads on a suspended cylinder
Authors: Wang Ming , Mujal Colilles Anna , Molins i Borrell Climent
Published: July 2022

Floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) interact with waves in complex sea conditions, inparticular wave-induced nonlinear diffraction wave loads can excite the resonant response of FOWTs in the low frequency range. In this paper, a fixed rigid suspended cylinder (considereda simplification of the support columns of a complex structure) is analyzed for nonlinear waveloads under regular waves using OpenFOAM, an open-source Computational fluid dynamics(CFD) software, to obtain nonlinear hydrodynamic load characteristics of a simple structurein regular waves. Results are compared with experimental and potential flow analysis with theCFD model yielding better estimates of first, second and third order wave diffraction loads than the engineering model using potential flow theory. Engineering models based on second-order potential flow theory are not effective in predicting the second and third order wave
diffraction loads.
The next step on the maritime education and training in the era of autonomous shipping
Authors: Campos Toresano Cristina , Mujal Colilles Anna , Castells Sanabra Marcel·la
Published: July 2022

The development of autonomous shipping is in continuous growth; technology evolution is going on faster steps and new projects are being developed looking for more efficient, more sustainable and safer shipping operations. Autonomous vessels feature a technology that uses a large range of physical sensors to control autonomous functions, as well as a high advance monitoring and control systems, including the use of the newest communications technology. This technological emergence has been driving concerns about the decline in the number of seafarers and jobs, which are expected to be replaced by Artificial Intelligence and the Autonomous Systems. However, the trend will be the opportunity for new businesses and job creation, which will require highly skilled crews and operators. As far as further steps are being developed on higher autonomy, the landscape of jobs related to seafarers will change. For instance, remote operations will transfer most of the seafarers to land-based control centres, causing that the main skills to be developed should drive to more expertise in technology, communication and network administrators without losing the standards as per STCW Convention. This literature review addresses this new and emerging topic to lead to an initial conceptualization of the new Maritime Education and Training (MET) framework and find eliciting information for developing new academic assessment. At the end, this contribution discusses published research in the era of autonomous shipping in order to describe the next step for MET, developing qualifications standards for the new crew and on-shore operators.
The Ideal of Environmental Protection as Protected Areas: a literature review
Authors: Jeronymo Carlos André Luz , Silva Elmo Rodrigues da , Fonseca Kenny Tanizaki
Published: July 2022

This article analyzes the evolution process of the Protected Areas and the changes in views regarding environmental protection. It is a literature review. In Brazil and other countries, the Protected Areas were created according to international models with different conceptions, mainly the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recommendations. In the IUCN International Protected Areas System, specific categories of strict sense protected areas allow natural resources and human occupation. In others not. The debate on this issue remains controversial worldwide. On the one hand, there are preservationists (strict protection believers) who argue that only sites with the objective of strict preservation should have the status of Protected Areas. Conservationists believe that such sites could maintain this status, even though they are not exclusively focused on strict preservation. The historical trend persists in considering land use and access to natural resources in occupying space, emphasizing issues of their domain and management, causing conflicts of views and interests. As a result, the establishment and maintenance of areas to be protected become more complex, mainly when they are historically occupied and used by man.
Articulações entre o Estudo de Impacto de Vizinhança (EIV) e o Licenciamento Ambiental Municipal (LAM): um diálogo necessário para a gestão ambiental urbana no Brasil
Authors: Abreu Emanoele Lima , Peres Renata Bovo
Published: July 2022

O
O Brasil possui dois instrumentos de planejamento local que visam contribuir na redução dos impactos de atividades ou empreendimentos no território e na melhoria da qualidade de vida da população. São eles o Estudo de Impacto de Vizinhança (EIV) e o Licenciamento Ambiental Municipal (LAM). Porém, suas conexões ainda são pouco pesquisadas e efetivadas. O presente trabalho objetivou mapear e discutir a produção acadêmica sobre EIV e LAM no Brasil, verificando suas articulações. Como metodologia utilizou-se a Revisão Bibliográfica Sistemática (RBS). Foram identificados 318 trabalhos, entre 1992 e 2021, que abordam uma ou outra temática. Destes, menos de 20% discutem possibilidades de articulações. Revelou-se que o EIV e o LAM são instrumentos de necessária integração para a gestão ambiental urbana no país, todavia restam desafios político-administrativos e de ordem técnica. A produção científica pode ajudar a refletir sobre a superação dessas lacunas, de modo a contribuir com uma gestão territorial que considere dimensões ambientais.
Geotecnologias para avaliação de conflitos ambientais da sub-bacia hidrográfica do rio Vacacaí-Mirim
Authors: Teixeira Ariel Cezar , Rizzatti Maurício
Published: July 2022

A degradação das florestas é um processo que tem se intensificado ao longo dos tempos em função de atividades humanas como a expansão agrícola, pecuária e a urbanização, causando inúmeros prejuízos aos ecossistemas e, por consequência, aos seres humanos. A análise espacial, através do emprego de geotecnologias, permite monitorar e obter informações sobre fenômenos naturais e antrópicos que ocorrem na superfície da Terra, com baixo custo e de forma remota. Tais informações podem auxiliar gestores na tomada de decisão sobre importantes recursos imprescindíveis à vida e ao equilíbrio ecológico, dentre eles a água. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi determinar as áreas ao longo de cursos hídricos e no entorno de nascentes que apresentavam conflito com a legislação ambiental vigente na sub-bacia hidrográfica do rio Vacacaí-Mirim, no ano de 2020, por meio de ferramentas de geoprocessamento e técnicas de sensoriamento remoto. Para isso, fez-se o uso de uma técnica de fusionamento de imagens de alta resolução do satélite CBERS 04A, gerando uma composição falsa-cor, onde foram identificados e quantificados os conflitos ambientais em meio às Áreas de Preservação Permanente (APP) dos cursos hídricos estudados. Os resultados apontaram a existência de conflitos de uso do solo em 29,23% das Áreas de Preservação Permanente ao longo dos cursos hídricos estudados e em 31,4% das APP no entorno das nascentes.
Estudo da relação da qualidade do ar e variáveis meteorológicas na ocorrência de morbidade respiratória
Authors: Lara Elisângela Conceição , Machado Aline Belem , Benetti Lutieri Mateus , Bueno André Luís Machado , Osório Daniela Montanari Migliavacca , Berlese Daiane Bolzan
Published: July 2022

A poluição atmosférica é responsável por vários danos à saúde humana. O aparelho respiratório está em contato direto com o meio externo e possui a capacidade de absorver elementos nocivos presentes na atmosfera ocasionando doenças respiratórias agudas e crônicas. Diante disso, este estudo buscou investigar as associações entre a qualidade do ar, variáveis meteorológicas e o número de internações hospitalares por doenças respiratórias no município de Canoas/RS, entre janeiro de 2014 a dezembro de 2018. Para a correlação estatística entre esses fatores foi utilizada a correlação de Pearson (r) através do software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), versão 26.0 para Windows, considerando significativo quando o valor de p<0,05. Os parâmetros de qualidade do ar MP10, NO2 e O3, extrapolaram os limites preconizados pelos órgãos reguladores. Nos registros de internações hospitalares, foi evidenciado maior registro de internações no gênero masculino e na faixa etária dos idosos. É possível verificar correlação significativa entre poluentes atmosféricos e internações hospitalares, bem como nas variáveis meteorológicas. Portanto, torna-se necessário à implementação de políticas e práticas efetivas para minimizar os riscos à saúde associados à poluição do ar e assim diminuir os efeitos adversos relacionados a essa exposição.
Monitoramento de sistemas fotovoltaicos utilizando diferentes bases de dados de radiação solar e temperatura
Authors: Agliardi Guinther , Gasparin Fabiano Perin , Chepp Ellen David
Published: July 2022

Com a demanda por energia elétrica crescendo, a migração para fontes renováveis é uma realidade. Na geração distribuída, os sistemas fotovoltaicos são uma alternativa renovável e sustentável às principais fontes de energia para gerar eletricidade. Monitorar um sistema fotovoltaico ao longo do tempo de operação garante o seu bom desempenho. Para isso, são necessários dados de radiação solar e temperatura medidos no local da instalação ou a utilização de bancos de dados de estações solarimétricas. Porém, ainda não são amplamente conhecidas as diferenças entre os resultados simulados com bancos de dados e com dados medidos no local da instalação, que seria o caso ideal sob o ponto de vista técnico. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a viabilidade do monitoramento de desempenho de um sistema fotovoltaico de 2,5 kWp localizado na cidade de Porto Alegre - Brasil fazendo uso da ferramenta de modelagem System Advisor Model (SAM) e um banco de dados público. Foram comparados os resultados de simulação utilizando dados fornecidos por uma estação do Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET) com os resultados obtidos com dados medidos no local do sistema fotovoltaico. Foram verificadas diferenças entre a radiação solar medida no local e a do banco de dados do INMET, sendo que a diferença na radiação acumulada foi de 9,2 % para todo o período analisado. Ao comparar a energia em corrente alternada medida e a simulada utilizando os dados de radiação e temperatura medidos no local para o horário sem sombreamento, verificou-se que a diferença entre os resultados foi de 0,5 %. Com o uso do arquivo climático do INMET, as diferenças mensais variaram em torno de -6 % a 14 % e a diferença em energia acumulada para todo o período de medição foi de 2,5 %. Os resultados mostraram que o uso de uma base de dados medidos por uma estação solarimétrica pública próxima ao local, no caso distante aproximadamente 6 km da instalação, é viável para o monitoramento de sistemas fotovoltaicos, uma vez que as diferenças encontradas não foram significativas. Este monitoramento pode identificar falhas no sistema e perda de desempenho ao longo do tempo.
Methodological proposal for Payments for Environmental Services (PES) aiming to produce clean water in springs
Authors: Pissarra Teresa Cristina Tarlé , Costa Renata Cristina Araújo , Caldas Anildo Monteiro , Rodrigues Flavia Mazzer , Fernandes Luís Filipe Sanches , Pacheco Fernando António Leal
Published: July 2022

The Payment for Environmental Services (PES) instrument aims to quantify an Ecosystem Service (ES), so that its production is valued and based on a socioeconomic financial system for conservation. The land use on the terrain and the environmental attributes of a watershed directly interfere in the capacity to store water in the system of a functional unit and can be transformed into an Environmental Service. The proposed methodology aims to determine environmental indicators that can support the valuation of the production of water of better quality. The environmental attributes of geology, soil, slope and land use land cover are measured and analyzed. The zoning of the most vulnerable rural areas was determined for possible implementation of PES programs and valuation of spring water in proportion to the contribution of their water production area in the sub-basin. The methodology has proven to be efficient in determining the most environmentally vulnerable areas, in order to classify water production by sub-basins, and it suggests a market form for financing ecosystem conservation that considers the principles of the provider-receiver (which contribute to the generation of environmental service –water and soil quality) and user-payer (who benefit from and pay for it). The financial incentive to rural producers in watershed areas is only provided when management and conservation practices are carried out through activities of plant and animal production on a sustainable land use.
Characterization of the WRKY gene family reveals its contribution to the adaptability of almond (Prunus dulcis)
Authors: Yu Zhenfan , Zhang Dongdong , Zeng Bin , Liu Xingyue , Yang Jiahui , Gao Wenwen , Ma Xintong
Published: July 2022

Background

WRKY (WRKY DNA-binding domain) transcription factors an important gene family that widely regulates plant resistance to biological and abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt and ion stresses. However, research on the WRKY family in almond has not yet been reported. Almond is an economically important fruit tree in Xinjiang that have strong resistance to various stresses.

Results

A total of 62 PdWRKY genes were identified (including six pairs of homologous genes), and the phylogenetic tree was divided into three groups according to the WRKY domain and zinc finger motifs. The members of each group had a significant number of conserved motifs and exons/introns distributed unevenly across eight chromosomes, as well as 24 pairs of fragment duplicates and nine pairs of tandem duplicates. Moreover, the synteny and Ka/Ks analyses of the WRKY genes among almond and distinct species provided more detailed evidence for PdWRKY genes evolution. The examination of different tissue expression patterns showed that PdWRKY genes have tissue-specific expression characteristics. The qRT–PCR results showed that PdWRKY genes participate in the resistance of almond to the effects of low-temperature, drought and salt stress and that the expression levels of these genes change over time, exhibiting spatiotemporal expression characteristics. It is worth noting that many genes play a significant role in low-temperature stress resistance. In addition, based on the conserved WRKY motif, 321 candidate target genes were identified as having functions in multiple pathways.

Conclusions

We conducted systematic bioinformatics analysis and abiotic stress research on the WRKY gene family in almond, laying the foundation for future PdWRKY genes research and improvements to almond production and breeding.
Curcumin effect on Acanthamoeba triangularis encystation under nutrient starvation
Authors: Boonhok Rachasak , Sangkanu Suthinee , Phumjan Suganya , Jongboonjua Ramita , Sangnopparat Nawarat , Kwankaew Pattamaporn , Tedasen Aman , Lim Chooi Ling , Pereira Maria de Lourdes , Rahmatullah Mohammed , Wilairatana Polrat , Wiart Christophe , Dolma Karma G. , Paul Alok K. , Gupta Madhu , Nissapatorn Veeranoot
Published: July 2022

Background

Curcumin is an active compound derived from turmeric, Curcuma longa, and is known for its benefits to human health. The amoebicidal activity of curcumin against Acanthamoeba triangularis was recently discovered. However, a physiological change of intracellular pathways related to A. triangularis encystation mechanism, including autophagy in the surviving amoeba after curcumin treatment, has never been reported. This study aims to investigate the effect of curcumin on the survival of A. triangularis under nutrient starvation and nutrient-rich condition, as well as to evaluate the A. triangularis encystation and a physiological change of Acanthamoeba autophagy at the mRNA level.

Methods

In this study, A. triangularis amoebas were treated with a sublethal dose of curcumin under nutrient starvation and nutrient-rich condition and the surviving amoebas was investigated. Cysts formation and vacuolization were examined by microscopy and transcriptional expression of autophagy-related genes and other encystation-related genes were evaluated by real-time PCR.

Results

A. triangularis cysts were formed under nutrient starvation. However, in the presence of the autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine (3-MA), the percentage of cysts was significantly reduced. Interestingly, in the presence of curcumin, most of the parasites remained in the trophozoite stage in both the starvation and nutrient-rich condition. In vacuolization analysis, the percentage of amoebas with enlarged vacuole was increased upon starvation. However, the percentage was significantly declined in the presence of curcumin and 3-MA. Molecular analysis of A. triangularis autophagy-related (ATG) genes showed that the mRNA expression of the ATG genes, ATG3, ATG8b, ATG12, ATG16, under the starvation with curcumin was at a basal level along the treatment. The results were similar to those of the curcumin-treated amoebas under a nutrient-rich condition, except AcATG16 which increased later. On the other hand, mRNA expression of encystation-related genes, cellulose synthase and serine proteinase, remained unchanged during the first 18 h, but significantly increased at 24 h post treatment.

Conclusion

Curcumin inhibits cyst formation in surviving trophozoites, which may result from its effect on mRNA expression of key Acanthamoeba ATG-related genes. However, further investigation into the mechanism of curcumin in A. triangularis trophozoites arrest and its association with autophagy or other encystation-related pathways is needed to support the future use of curcumin.
Effect of icaritin on autophagy-related protein expression in TDP-43-transfected SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Zhou Yanjun , Huang Nanqu , Li Yuanyuan , Ba Zhisheng , Luo Yong
Published: July 2022

Objective

To study the protective effect and mechanism of icaritin (ICT) in a SH-SY5Y cells with virus-loaded TAR DNA-binding domain protein 43(TDP-43) by examining the effect of ICT on the expression of autophagy-related proteins in TDP-43-infected SH-SY5Y cells.

Methods

A TDP-43-induced neuronal cell injury model was established by transfecting well-growing SH-SY5Y cells with virus loaded with the TDP-43 gene. The changes in cell viability were detected by the CCK-8 method. After successful transfection, the establishment of the model was verified by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot methods. After the cells were subjected to drug intervention with ICT, the changes in the expression levels of TDP-43, cleaved Caspase-3, LC3 II/I, Beclin-1 and p62 were detected by Western blotting.

Results

After ICT intervention, it was found that compared with that of the TDP-43 group, the cell viability of the TDP-43+ICT group increased, the expression level of TDP-43 decreased, and the expression levels of the apoptotic protein cleaved Caspase-3, autophagy protein Beclin-1, and LC3-II/I decreased, while the expression level of the autophagy protein p62 increased.

Conclusion

ICT has a protective effect on the SH-SY5Y cell injury model transfected with TDP-43. This protective effect may be related to reducing the protein expression of TDP-43 and inhibiting autophagy.
Morphometry of Adult Human Trachea and its Clinical Implications: A Cadaveric Study in Northern India
Authors: Mahajan Stuti , Mahajan Anupama , Lalit Monika , Verma Poonam
Published: July 2022

Introduction: There is a wide variation in different dimensions of trachea in same age group as well as in different age groups in both sexes. Besides anthropometry, the study of these morphometric variations is of profound clinical importance as it may help the pulmonologists to understand the aetiology of several pulmonary diseases like bronchitis, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis and tuberculosis. Aim: To determine the variations in the dimensions of human trachea in the cadavers of age group 20-70 years in Northern India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Amritsar, Punjab, India, during March 2019 to December 2021. A total of 40 tracheas were obtained from adult human cadavers which were included in present study by convenience sampling. The trachea was dissected with the larynx and principal bronchi and measurements were taken. Data collected was saved on Microsoft excel and was analysed by calculating percentages, mean and Standard Deviation (SD). Results: Mean length of trachea was 109.25 mm, mean subcarinal angle was 75.45°. Mean anteroposterior diameter, transverse diameter, mean height and distance between posterior ends of rings was 16.70 mm and 18.10 mm, 4.53 mm and 12.15 mm respectively and mean of inter-ring distance between 1st-2nd, 5th6th, 10th-11th, 15th-16th Tracheal rings was 1.12 mm. Conclusion: The present study revealed a wide variation in different dimensions viz. length, transverse and anteroposterior diameters, mean height, inter-tracheal ring distance and the subcarinal angle. Accurate anatomical knowledge of the variations is essential for understanding the pathophysiology and management of different airway disorders and in reconstructive surgery of tracheobronchial tree.
PREPARATION AND STANDARDIZATION OF CHITRAKADI VATI
Authors: Patel Shilpa , Patadiya Nikunj , Makvana Pooja , Patel Rikin
Published: July 2022

The present work deals with the preparation and standardization of chitrakadi vati. All the parameters of both market formulation (MF1 & MF2) and Laboratory formulation (LF) were found to be within the limit prescribed in pharmacopoeia. Average weight and weigh variation of LF was 2057 mg and 0.2±0.1 %, disintegration time was 8±2 min, hardness was 4.6±0.2 Kg/cm2 , friability was 0.9722±0.2 %, ash values were 2.4 % (acid insoluble ash) and 2.15 % (water soluble ash), extractive values were 5.6 % (acid insoluble extractive) and 7.25 % (water soluble extractive). In order to ensure quality and stability of final product, some of the important chemical markers has been separated from the mixture and for analysis by high performance thin layer chromatography was selected for qualitative and quantitative purpose. The results of standardization parameters showed marked difference among three, which fingers to authenticity of market formulations. Even HPTLC fingerprinting showed some ingredients in market formulations were taken adulterated or inferior in quality. The HPTLC method for fingerprinting was found to be precise and accurate to quantify three chemical markers plumbagin (0.84%), piperine (0.92%), zingiberene (0.71%), and it further characterized by IR, NMR, Mass spectra.
Effects of Age and Genotype on Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) and Fiber Contents in Brassica napus
Authors: Mayuniyuni Marshal , Tembo Langa
Published: July 2022

Rape (Brassica napus) is one of the major vegetables grown in Zambia and is an important source of nutrients in human diet. Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant molecule while fiber on the other hand plays a key role in mitigating constipation. However, the effects of rape genotype and the vegetative maturity (age) on nutrient content on vitamin C and fiber is not clearly understood. The objectives of the study were therefore, to; i) to evaluate the effects of age on vitamin C and fiber nutrient content in rape leaves and ii) evaluate the genotypic effect of rape leaves on vitamin C and fiber contents. The experiment was conducted Munachoonga farm, in Monze district, Zambia (16 o 16’ 45’’ S; 27o 28’25’’ E) during the 2020/ 2021 cropping season. The experiment was laid as a split plot design with three replications. Soil fertilizer amendments were the main plot while variety (genotype) as a subplot. Data was collected at 6 and 10 weeks old after transplanting. However, for each treatment, a representative sample was collected by thoroughly mixing all three associated reps and obtaining a representative leaf sample giving 18 experimental units. The dried samples were taken to the University of Zambia Lab for analysis. The results showed that the mean fiber content was higher at week 10 than week 6 (P< 0.001), while vitamin C was higher at week 6 than week 10 (P= 0.05). Implying that younger leaves are likely to supply a higher content of vitamin C than older leaves. The lesser content of fiber at younger stage of rape explains why most consumers found rape more palatable at a younger stage. It was also revealed that vitamin C and fiber nutrient contents did not depend on the type of genotype. Furthermore, a study to evaluate the precise effects of fertilizer amendment on vitamin C and fiber contents should be undertaken.
Impact of Nitrogen and Zinc Levels on Growth and Yield of Desi Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L)
Authors: Nagaraju Maila , Debbarma Victor
Published: July 2022

Background: Chickpea is the largest produced food legume in south Asia and the third largest globally, after common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and field pea (Pisum sativum L.) Chick pea is widely appreciated as health food. It is a protein-rich supplement to cereal-based diets, especially to the poor in developing countries.

Objectives: Effects of nitrogen and zinc levels on growth and yield of Chick pea.

Methods: A study was conducted to determine the effect of nitrogen and zinc levels on growth and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) var Pusa-362 under a Randomized Block Design with 9 treatments each replicated thrice. The results reported that the application of 30 kg/ha Nitrogen+15 kg/ha Zinc (treatment -9) recorded significantly higher plant height (58.40 cm), maximum number of nodules/plant (21.70), higher plant dry weight (24.0 g/plant), Maximum number of pods/plant (71.10), higher seeds/pod (1.80), higher seed yield (3.21 t/ha) and higher stover yield (4.31 t/ha) were recorded in (treatment -9) that is with 30 kg/ha Nitrogen+15 kg/ha Zinc.

Conclusion: Based on the above findings of the investigation it may be concluded that treatment with 30 kg/ha Nitrogen and 15 kg/ha Zinc in all growth and yield parameters and in obtaining higher grain yield of chickpea These results are based on a single season, therefore additional testing may be necessary for further validation.
Diagnostic Study of Serum Dickkopf 1 Level and Alpha Fetoprotein L3 as Tumor Biomarkers in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: El Sharkawy Amira Mohamed , Fouda Mohammed Hosny , Ziada Dina Hazem , Attia Gihan Farouk
Published: July 2022

Background: Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) is now the most frequently applied tumour biomarker for the early diagnosis and clinical follow-up of HCC patients. Dickkopf 1 (DKK 1) is a protein that has a role in embryonic head morphogenesis. Several investigations revealed that DKK 1 regulates a variety of pathological and physiological processes. The aim of this work was to evaluate the diagnostic role of serum DKK 1 level and AFP- L3 as tumor markers in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods: This observational research enrolled 60 participants aged above 18 years, group 1 include 10 healthy control participants, group 2 involved 25 cirrhotic cases and group 3 involved 25 cases diagnosed with HCC. All cases underwent taking of full history, clinical assessment, radiology, laboratory examination and specific investigations such as the tested two markers AFP-L3 and DKK1.

Results: AFP-L3 had 84% sensitivity and 67.7% specificity, while DKK1 had sensitivity and specificity of 76% and 80% respectively to differentiate between cirrhotic and HCC cases, using a cut-off value of 8.62 ng/ml. two markers combination had specificity and sensitivity of 92%, 72% respectively and increase the accuracy for detection of HCC up to 82%.

Conclusions: Both AFP-L3 and DKK1 could act as surrogate biomarkers for HCC and combination of two markers should be kept in mind to reach the optimum accuracy.
A Novel Synthesis of 1,2,3triazole Substituted Pyrimidine, Pyrazole by Using 1,2,3triazolchalcone
Authors: Shadakshari A. J. , Kumara T. H. Suresha , V. H. B. , Yamuna A. J.
Published: July 2022

A series of 1- benzyl-5-methyl 1,2,3 triazole pyrimidine , 1- benzyl-5-methyl 1,2,3 triazole pyrazole were synthesised by using intermediate as phenyl Substituted prop-2-en-1-one .We obtained pyrazole when we treated propenones by using hydrazine hydrate and we obtained pyrimidine by using urea and thiourea. Conformations of the compounds were done by 1HNMR and C13 NMR analysis and these compounds were screened for antimicrobial activities.

 

Graphical Abstract
Photooxidation and Virus Inactivation using TiO2(P25)–SiO2 Coated PET Film
Authors: Autthanit Chaowat , Jadsadajerm Supachai , Núñez Oswaldo , Kusonsakul Purim , Luckanagul Jittima Amie , Buranasudja Visarut , Jongsomjit Bunjerd , Praserthdam Supareak , Praserthdam Piyasan
Published: July 2022

This study chemically modified PET film surface with P25 using silicate as a binder. Different P25–binder ratios were optimized for the catalyst performance. The modified samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Diffuse reflectance UV-vis spectra revealed significant reductions in the band gaps of the P25 solid precursor (3.20 eV) and the surface-modified PET–1.0Si–P25 (2.77 eV) with visible light. Accordingly, under visible light conditions, catalyst activity on the film will occur. Additionally, the film’s performance was evaluated using methylene blue (MB) degradation. Pseudo-first-order-rate constants (min−1), conversion percentages, and rates (µg.mL−1.gcat−1.h−1) were determined. The coated films were evaluated for viral Phi–X 174 inactivation and tested with fluorescence and UV-C light illumination, then log (N/N0) versus t plots (N = [virus] in plaque-forming units [PFUs]/mL) were obtained. The presence of nanosilica in PET showed a high adsorption ability in both MB and Phi–X 174, whereas the best performances with fluorescent light were obtained from PET–1.0Si–P25 and PET–P25–1.0Si–SiO2 equally. A 0.2-log virus reduction was obtained after 3 h at a rate of 4×106 PFU.mL−1.gcat−1.min−1. Additionally, the use of this film for preventing transmission by direct contact with surfaces and via indoor air was considered. Using UV light, the PET–1.0Si–P25 and PET–1.0Si–P25–SiO2 samples produced a 2.5-log inactivation after 6.5 min at a rate of 9.6×106 and 8.9×106 PFU.mL−1.gcat−1.min−1, respectively. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Excimer Formation in the Non‐Van‐Der‐Waals 2D Semiconductor Bi2O2Se
Authors: Yu Junhong , Han Yadong , Zhang Hang , Ding Xiang , Qiao Liang , Hu Jianbo
Published: July 2022

The layered semiconductor Bi2O2Se is a promising new‐type 2D material that holds layered structure via electrostatic forces instead of van der Waals (vdW) attractions. Aside from the huge success in device performance, the non‐vdW nature in Bi2O2Se with a built‐in interlayer electric field has also provided an appealing platform for investigating unique photoexcited carrier dynamics. Here, experimental evidence for the observation of excimers in multilayer Bi2O2Se nanosheets via transient absorption spectroscopy is presented. It is found that the excimer formation is the primary decay pathway of photoexcited excitons and three‐stage excimer dynamics with corresponding time scales are established. Excitation‐fluence‐dependent excimer dynamics further suggest that the excimer is diffusive and its formation can be simply described as excitons relaxed to an excimer geometry. This work indicates the outstanding promise of unique excitonic processes in Bi2O2Se, which may motivate novel device designs.
Shear‐Induced Macropore‐Infused Nanocomposite Emulsion Thermosets
Authors: Hasan Molla , Patel Yogin , Gamboa Arielle R. , Grzenda Michael J. , Saro‐Cortes Valeria , Mhatre Vivek , Singer Jonathan P.
Published: July 2022

To create macropore‐infused nanocomposite emulsion thermosets (MINET), a mixing pathway is demonstrated in which a viscous fluid is kinetically trapped by high shear mixing of immiscible liquids, surfactant, and nanoparticles. The MINETs are prepared from common ingredients that are widely employed in industry, including epoxy resin, vegetable oil, epoxidized soybean oil, and different types of nanoparticles such as silica, activated carbon, alumina, and zinc oxide. MINETs prepared by the presented route are processed at ambient conditions and exhibit low shrinkage (<2%). Furthermore, they are suitable to form macro‐ to microscale structures with high precision and various controlled porosity. The interconnected porous architecture of MINET is even preserved in molded micrometer‐scale features and thus ensures mass transport through multiscale structures. In combination with standard microembossing or photolithography, the high throughput microfabrication of microstructured architectures with tunable pore sizes in a wide range (≈100 nm to ≈10 µm) is possible. As one application example, the parallel production of multiplexed electrospray emitters is demonstrated.
Engineered Organosilica Hybrid Micelles for Photothermal‐enhanced Starvation Cancer Therapy
Authors: Li Xianglong , Wu Huan , Jiang Cong , Zou Jinglin , Wang Qinghua , Guan Mengjia , Hao Ji‐Na , Cao Yuanyuan , Li Yongsheng
Published: July 2022

Glucose oxidase (GOD)‐based starvation therapy (ST), which inhibits the growth and proliferation of cancer cells by consuming glucose, has attracted intensive attention as an emerging non‐invasive method for fighting cancers. However, the enzyme activity of GOD is greatly limited in vivo because of its optimal catalytic activity in the temperature range of 43–60 °C. Herein, a photothermal‐enhanced starvation strategy is developed based on our engineered organosilica hybrid micelles (TiO2‐x@POMs‐GOD), in which the fluoride‐doped TiO2‐x with photothermal properties is encapsulated in the cores of organosilica cross‐linked micelles and GOD is immobilized on the carboxyl groups of PAA segments. With its internalization by cancer cells, the conjugated GOD can effectively deplete glucose to achieve the ST effect, which can be remarkably enhanced by the loaded fluoride‐doped TiO2‐x with NIR laser irradiation, thus cooperatively contributing to the efficient treatment of TiO2‐x@POMs‐GOD on various cancer cells. This suggests great potential for TiO2‐x@POMs‐GOD in photothermal‐enhanced ST in vivo.
Biostimulation of anaerobic digested wastewater using magnetic nanoparticles and an external magnetic field for biogas enhancement
Authors: Amo‐Duodu Gloria , Buthelezi K. S. , Rathilal S. , Mahlangu T. P. , Chollom M. N. , Tetteh E. K.
Published: July 2022

Energy‐driven wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) have become an interesting research focus for environmental and process engineers. To meet the rigorous discharge limit standards imposed by the environmental protection agency (EPA) and South African national standards (SANS), the conventional treatment method has been improved and advanced technologies have been adapted. As such, studies on magnetized anaerobic digestion systems for wastewater treatment with the concept of energy generation have been explored. The present study evaluated the effect of an external magnetic field (MF) on biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests using magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) for wastewater treatment. Two BMP systems were compared, where both systems were dosed with Fe3O4 (MNP) and operated at 35 °C for 10 days. One of the systems (control) was not exposed to the magnetic field while the other system had 3 h of 20 mT magnetic field exposure on daily basis. The system exposed to the magnetic field showed better performance in terms of biogas enhancement and the treatability of the wastewater. About 85% chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the wastewater (350 mg.L–1 COD remaining) was degraded by the MF, which resulted in 72% color removal, 210 mL.day–1 biogas produced and 97% methane. On other hand, 75% COD was degraded by the control system, which resulted in 175 mL.day–1 biogas and 94% methane. Exposing the BMP system coupled with MNPs to an external magnetic field was found to be feasible and promising in terms of biogas production and color removal. © 2022 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Enhancing adoptive T‐cell therapy with fucoidan‐based IL‐2 delivery microcapsules
Authors: Jeon Eun Young , Choi Da‐som , Choi Seunghyun , Won Ju‐young , Jo Yunju , Kim Hye‐bin , Jung Youngmee , Shin Sang Chul , Min Hophil , Choi Hae Woong , Lee Myeong Sup , Park Yoon , Chung Justin J. , Jin Hyung‐seung
Published: July 2022

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with antigen‐specific T cells is a promising treatment approach for solid cancers. Interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) has been utilized in boosting the efficacy of ACT. However, the clinical applications of IL‐2 in combination with ACT is greatly limited by short exposure and high toxicities. Herein, a complex coacervate was designed to intratumorally deliver IL‐2 in a sustained manner and protect against proteolysis. The complex coacervate consisted of fucoidan, a specific IL‐2 binding glycosaminoglycan, and poly‐l‐lysine, a cationic counterpart (FPC2). IL‐2‐laden FPC2 exhibited a preferential bioactivity in ex vivo expansion of CD8+T cells over Treg cells. Additionally, FPC2 was embedded in pH modulating injectable gel (FPC2‐IG) to endure the acidic tumor microenvironment. A single intratumoral administration of FPC2‐IG‐IL‐2 increased expansion of tumor‐infiltrating cytotoxic lymphocytes and reduced frequencies of myeloid populations. Notably, the activation and persistency of tumor‐reactive T cells were observed only in the tumor site, not in the spleen, confirming a localized effect of FPC2‐IG‐IL‐2. The immune‐favorable tumor microenvironment induced by FPC2‐IG‐IL‐2 enabled adoptively transferred TCR‐engineered T cells to effectively eradicate tumors. FPC2‐IG delivery system is a promising strategy for T‐cell‐based immunotherapies.
Reflections on Bayesian inference and Markov chain Monte Carlo
Authors: Craiu Radu V. , Gustafson Paul , Rosenthal Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2022

Bayesian inference and Markov chain Monte Carlo methods are vigorous areas of statistical research. Here we reflect on some recent developments and future directions in these fields.
Impact of host demography and evolutionary history on endosymbiont molecular evolution: A test in carpenter ants (genusCamponotus) and theirBlochmanniaendosymbionts
Authors: Manthey Joseph D. , Girón Jennifer C. , Hruska Jack P.
Published: July 2022

Obligate endosymbioses are tight associations between symbionts and the hosts they live inside. Hosts and their associated obligate endosymbionts generally exhibit codiversification, which has been documented in taxonomically diverse insect lineages. Host demography (e.g., effective population sizes) may impact the demography of endosymbionts, which may lead to an association between host demography and the patterns and processes of endosymbiont molecular evolution. Here, we used whole‐genome sequencing data for carpenter ants (GenusCamponotus;subgeneraCamponotusandTanaemyrmex) and theirBlochmanniaendosymbionts as our study system to address whetherCamponotusdemography shapesBlochmanniamolecular evolution. Using whole‐genome phylogenomics, we confirmed previous work identifying codiversification between carpenter ants and theirBlochmanniaendosymbionts. We found thatBlochmanniagenes have evolved at a pace ~30× faster than that of their hosts' molecular evolution and that these rates are positively associated with host rates of molecular evolution. Using multiple tests for selection inBlochmanniagenes, we found signatures of positive selection and shifts in selection strength across the phylogeny. Host demography was associated withBlochmanniashifts toward increased selection strengths, but not associated withBlochmanniaselection relaxation, positive selection, genetic drift rates, or genome size evolution. Mixed support for relationships between host effective population sizes andBlochmanniamolecular evolution suggests weak or uncoupled relationships between host demography andBlochmanniapopulation genomic processes. Finally, we found thatBlochmanniagenome size evolution was associated with genome‐wide estimates of genetic drift and number of genes with relaxed selection pressures.