bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational analysis of Salmalia malabarica (Bombax ceiba) for the management of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Bhosale Savita , Jadar Prashant G. , Jalalpure Sunil S. , Patil Vishal S. , Hiremath Kashinath
Published: August 2024

Bombax ceiba leaf petiole is used as an enema in the management of ulcerative colitis, but its molecular mechanisms are yet to be established. The current study employed gene set enrichment, network pharmacology, and molecular docking studies to infer the phytocompounds from B. ceiba responsible for the modulation of therapeutic targets of UC First, data of phytocompounds present in the leaf petiole were retrieved from the literature and public phytocompounds databases and their druggability and toxicity prediction was performed by MolSoft and AdverPred online servers, respectively. Furthermore, phytocompounds probable proteins were predicted by SwissTargetPrediction, and targets of UC were retrieved from the GeneCards database. A set of genes molecular pathways were identified by the STRING, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomics database, and pathways involved in UC were sorted and their network between compounds, targets, and pathways was constructed by the Cytoscape software. Molecular docking of hub-gene and targets was performed by the POAP pipeline. Out of 10 compounds, 7 (showed druggability in which Rutin scored the highest druglikeness score of 0.91. A total of 2830 genes were identified for UC, of which 39 matched with targets of phytocompounds (total of 297). These 39 targets were involved in 125 pathways, of which 14 were associated with UC mainly VEGF, IL-17, Neurotrophin, JAK-STAT, cAMP, TNF, TGF-beta, and NF-kappa B, MAPK, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Among the predicted targets, MAPK3, TNF, and PTGS2 were identified as a hub gene. Rutin scored the lowest binding energy of −7.9 kcal/mol and possessed 22 interactions with PTGS2 and Astragalin and Isoquercitrin were the next lead hit against PTGS2. It has been concluded that the use of B. ceiba leaf petiole could be a valuable source against UC.
Enhanced bioavailability through quality by design optimization of ceritinib nanostructured lipid carriers: Formulation, characterization, and stability evaluation
Authors: Janakiraman Kunchithapatham , Madhav Katla Venu , Chaitanya Padavala Sunil Kumar , Pamujula Naga Haritha
Published: August 2024

Ceritinib is a lung cancer treatment that inhibits the Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK). ALK is a protein involved in cell signaling and growth regulation. Initially discovered in anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALK has since been found to play critical roles in various cancers and neurodevelopmental processes. Targeted therapies that inhibit ALK have revolutionized treatment for ALK-positive cancers, improving outcomes significantly. Research continues to explore ALK’s intricate mechanisms and its potential as a therapeutic target beyond oncology, highlighting its broad biological importance. In this study, Ceritinib-drug loaded nanostructured lipid carriers were produced using a modified homogenization process by increasing number of homogenisation cycles followed by probe sonication. A central composite design was utilised to investigate the effect of liquid lipid (A), emulsifier (B), and co-surfactant (C) concentrations on particle size (Response 1) and entrapment efficiency (Response 2). The specific impacts of these parameters on particle size and entrapment efficiency were shown in response surfaces, using Derringer’s desirability technique. Formulation 8 with 0.1% Capmul, 0.15% egg lecithin, and 0.37% poloxamer 188 was subjected to further evaluation as it had minimal particle size and maximum entrapment efficiency. The SEM analysis was performed to confirm the size of the particle which was within the nano range. The in vitro studies indicated the maximum drug release (84.6%±2.3% in 12 hours) from that of the marketed formulation (54.2%±2.5% in 12 hours). After 90 days of stability testing, there was no significant variation (p < 0.05) in parameters like particle size and entrapment efficiency.
Magnesium modulates phospholipid metabolism to promote bacterial phenotypic resistance to antibiotics
Authors: Li Hui , Yang Jun , Kuang Su-fang , Fu Huan-zhe , Lin Hui-yin , Peng Bo
Published: August 2024

Non-inheritable antibiotic or phenotypic resistance ensures bacterial survival during antibiotic treatment. However, exogenous factors promoting phenotypic resistance are poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that Vibrio alginolyticus are recalcitrant to killing by a broad spectrum of antibiotics under high magnesium. Functional metabolomics demonstrated that magnesium modulates fatty acid biosynthesis by increasing saturated fatty acid biosynthesis while decreasing unsaturated fatty acid production. Exogenous supplementation of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids increased and decreased bacterial susceptibility to antibiotics, respectively, confirming the role of fatty acids in antibiotic resistance. Functional lipidomics revealed that glycerophospholipid metabolism is the major metabolic pathway remodeled by magnesium, where phosphatidylethanolamine biosynthesis is reduced and phosphatidylglycerol production is increased. This process alters membrane composition, increasing membrane polarization, and decreasing permeability and fluidity, thereby reducing antibiotic uptake by V. alginolyticus. These findings suggest the presence of a previously unrecognized metabolic mechanism by which bacteria escape antibiotic killing through the use of an environmental factor.
Magnesium modulates phospholipid metabolism to promote bacterial phenotypic resistance to antibiotics
Authors: Li Hui , Yang Jun , Kuang Su-fang , Peng Bo
Published: August 2024

Non-inheritable antibiotic resistance or phenotypic resistance ensures bacterial survival upon antibiotic treatment. However, exogenous factors in promoting phenotypic resistance is poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that
Vibrio alginolyticus
are recalcitrant to killing by a broad spectrum of antibiotics under high magnesium. Functional metabolomics demonstrate that magnetism modulates the biosynthesis of fatty acids in increasing the biosynthesis of saturated fatty acids while decreasing unsaturated fatty acids. Exogenous supplementation of fatty acids confirm the role of fatty acids in antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, functional lipidomics reveal that glycerophospholipid metabolism is the major metabolic pathway remodeled by magnetism, where the biosynthesis of PE is decreased but PG is increased. Thus, the membrane composition is altered, leading to increased membrane polarization, and decreased permeability and fluidity. These together reduce the uptake of antibiotics by the bacteria. Thus, our study suggest a previously unrecognized metabolic mechanism by which bacteria escape antibiotic killing by utilizing environmental factor.
Decoding the physics of observed actions in the human brain
Authors: Wurm Moritz F , Erigüç Doruk Yiğit
Published: August 2024

Recognizing goal-directed actions is a computationally challenging task, requiring not only the visual analysis of body movements, but also analysis of how these movements causally impact, and thereby induce a change in, those objects targeted by an action. We tested the hypothesis that the analysis of body movements and the effects they induce relies on distinct neural representations in superior and anterior inferior parietal lobe (SPL and aIPL). In four fMRI sessions, participants observed videos of actions (e.g. breaking stick, squashing plastic bottle) along with corresponding point-light-display stick figures, pantomimes, and abstract animations of agent-object interactions (e.g. dividing or compressing a circle). Cross-decoding between actions and animations revealed that aIPL encodes abstract representations of action effect structures independent of motion and object identity. By contrast, cross-decoding between actions and point-light-displays revealed that SPL is disproportionally tuned to body movements independent of visible Interactions with objects. Lateral occipitotemporal cortex (LOTC) was sensitive to both action effects and body movements. Moreover, cross-decoding between pantomimes and animations revealed that right aIPL and LOTC represent action effects even in response to implied object interactions. These results demonstrate that parietal cortex and LOTC are tuned to physical action features, such as how body parts move in space relative to each other and how body parts interact with objects to induce a change (e.g. in position or shape/configuration). The high level of abstraction revealed by cross-decoding suggests a general neural code supporting mechanical reasoning about how entities interact with, and have effects on, each other.
Oxidized low-density lipoprotein potentiates angiotensin II-induced Gq activation through the AT1-LOX1 receptor complex: Implications for renal dysfunction
Authors: Ihara Jittoku , Huang Yibin , Takami Yoichi , Nozato Yoichi , Takahashi Toshimasa , Kakino Akemi , Wang Cheng , Wang Ziwei , Guo Yu , Liu Weidong , Yin Nanxiang , Ohara Ryoichi , Fujimoto Taku , Yoshida Shino , Hongyo Kazuhiro , Koriyama Hiroshi , Akasaka Hiroshi , Takeshita Hikari , Sakai Shinsuke , Inoue Kazunori , Isaka Yoshitaka , Rakugi Hiromi , Sawamura Tatsuya , Yamamoto Koichi
Published: August 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and atherosclerotic heart disease, frequently associated with dyslipidemia and hypertension, represent significant health concerns. We investigated the interplay among these conditions, focusing on the role of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and angiotensin II (Ang II) in renal injury via G protein αq subunit (Gq) signaling. We hypothesized that oxLDL enhances Ang II-induced Gq signaling via the AT1 (Ang II type 1 receptor)-LOX1 (lectin-like oxLDL receptor) complex. Based on CHO and renal cell model experiments, oxLDL alone did not activate Gq signaling. However, when combined with Ang II, it significantly potentiated Gq-mediated inositol phosphate 1 production and calcium influx in cells expressing both LOX-1 and AT1 but not in AT1-expressing cells. This suggests a critical synergistic interaction between oxLDL and Ang II in the AT1-LOX1 complex. Conformational studies using AT1 biosensors have indicated a unique receptor conformational change due to the oxLDL-Ang II combination. In vivo, wild-type mice fed a high-fat diet with Ang II infusion presented exacerbated renal dysfunction, whereas LOX-1 knockout mice did not, underscoring the pathophysiological relevance of the AT1-LOX1 interaction in renal damage. These findings highlight a novel mechanism of renal dysfunction in CKD driven by dyslipidemia and hypertension and suggest the therapeutic potential of AT1-LOX1 receptor complex in patients with these comorbidities.
SEF-UNet: advancing abdominal multi-organ segmentation with SEFormer and depthwise cascaded upsampling
Authors: Zhao Yaping , Jiang Yizhang , Huang Lijun , Xia Kaijian
Published: August 2024

The abdomen houses multiple vital organs, which are associated with various diseases posing significant risks to human health. Early detection of abdominal organ conditions allows for timely intervention and treatment, preventing deterioration of patients’ health. Segmenting abdominal organs aids physicians in more accurately diagnosing organ lesions. However, the anatomical structures of abdominal organs are relatively complex, with organs overlapping each other, sharing similar features, thereby presenting challenges for segmentation tasks. In real medical scenarios, models must demonstrate real-time and low-latency features, necessitating an improvement in segmentation accuracy while minimizing the number of parameters. Researchers have developed various methods for abdominal organ segmentation, ranging from convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to Transformers. However, these methods often encounter difficulties in accurately identifying organ segmentation boundaries. MetaFormer abstracts the framework of Transformers, excluding the multi-head Self-Attention, offering a new perspective for solving computer vision problems and overcoming the limitations of Vision Transformers and CNN backbone networks. To further enhance segmentation effectiveness, we propose a U-shaped network, integrating SEFormer and depthwise cascaded upsampling (dCUP) as the encoder and decoder, respectively, into the UNet structure, named SEF-UNet. SEFormer combines Squeeze-and-Excitation modules with depthwise separable convolutions, instantiating the MetaFormer framework, enhancing the capture of local details and texture information, thereby improving edge segmentation accuracy. dCUP further integrates shallow and deep information layers during the upsampling process. Our model significantly improves segmentation accuracy while reducing the parameter count and exhibits superior performance in segmenting organ edges that overlap each other, thereby offering potential deployment in real medical scenarios.
The postcranial anatomy of Moschorhinus kitchingi (Therapsida: Therocephalia) from the Karoo Basin of South Africa
Authors: Stuart Brandon P. , Huttenlocker Adam K. , Botha Jennifer
Published: August 2024

Therocephalia are an important clade of non-mammalian therapsids that evolved a diverse array of morphotypes and body sizes throughout their evolutionary history. The postcranial anatomy of therocephalians has largely been overlooked, but remains important towards understanding aspects of their palaeobiology and phylogenetic relationships. Here, we provide the first postcranial description of the large akidnognathid eutherocephalian Moschorhinus kitchingi by examining multiple specimens from fossil collections in South Africa. We also compare the postcranial anatomy with previously described therocephalian postcranial material and provide an updated literature review to ensure a reliable foundation of comparison for future descriptive work. Moschorhinus shares all the postcranial features of eutherocephalians that differentiate them from early-diverging therocephalians, but is differentiated from other eutherocephalian taxa by aspects concerning the scapula, interclavicle, sternum, manus, and femur. The novel anatomical data from this contribution shows that Moschorhinus possessed a stocky bauplan with a particularly robust scapula, humerus, and femur. These attributes, coupled with the short and robust skull bearing enlarged conical canines imply that Moschorhinus was well equipped to grapple with and subdue prey items. Additionally, the combination of these attributes differ from those of similarly sized coeval gorgonopsians, which would have occupied a similar niche in late Permian ecosystems. Moreover, Moschorhinus was the only large carnivore known to have survived the Permo-Triassic mass extinction. Thus, the subtle but important postcranial differences may suggest a type of niche partitioning in the predator guild during the Permo-Triassic mass extinction interval.
Potential role of Manilkara Zapota L in treating bacterial infection
Authors: Febriza Ami , Usman Fityatun , Rasyid Andi Ulfah Magefirah , Idrus Hasta Handayani , Mokhtar Mohd Helmy
Published: August 2024

The increasing problem of antibiotic resistance in bacteria leads to an urgent need for new antimicrobial agents. Alternative treatments for bacterial infections need to be explored to tackle this issue. Plant-based substances are emerging as promising options. Manilkara zapota L. contains compounds with antibiotic activities, and anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antipyretic, and antioxidant properties. It has medicinal properties and contains bioactive compounds, like tannins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids. This review aimed to comprehensively evaluate the existing literature on the potential medicinal and therapeutic benefits of M. zapota in bacterial infections by utilizing data from in vivo and in vitro studies. M. zapota has the potential to be a nutritional source of antimicrobial food. Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated the antibacterial activities of M. zapota and its components. The antibacterial mechanisms of this fruit could interact with bacterial cell structures such as cell walls or membranes.
Genetic and transcriptomic studies of testa color of Chilean landraces of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors:   , Rodríguez Alvarez Yohaily
Published: August 2024

El color de la testa de la semilla es una característica influenciada por la expresión de genes responsables de la producción y acumulación de compuestos fenólicos. Este rasgo resulta relevante en la capacidad comercial del poroto común y la calidad nutricional de su semilla. En este proyecto de tesis doctoral, se realizó un estudio genético y transcriptómico del color de la testa y la respuesta a déficit de riego utilizando variedades chilenas de poroto común. Consideradas muy probablemente el reservorio más antiguo del pool andino de poroto común y un recurso genético crucial para fines evolutivos, de mejoramiento y alimentarios. Se realizó un análisis de los compuestos fenólicos asociados al color de la testa en tres etapas reproductivas diferentes del desarrollo fenológico del cultivo, bajo el efecto de tratamientos hídricos contrastantes. Se realizó un análisis RNAseq para identificar genes candidatos responsables de la producción y acumulación de compuestos fenólicos en la testa, y se cuantificó su expresión. Se encontró que durante los estados fenológicos R7 y R8 de la variedad 'Peumo', se acumula un mayor contenido de taninos condensados, incluyendo catequina y epicatequina, en la testa del poroto en comparación con la variedad 'Tórtola'. Se identificó cuatro genes candidatos (Phvul.007G206000, Phvul.002G079300, Phvul.010G090300 y Phvul.009G040700) implicados en la producción y acumulación de taninos condensados, en este tejido bajo riego deficitario. Se realizó un análisis combinado de datos metabólicos y transcriptómicos un gen candidato (Phvul.002G079300) con regulación a la baja del flujo metabólico para reducir la producción y el transporte de monómeros de proantocianidinas en 'Tórtola' en comparación con 'Peumo'. Por primera vez, se reportan hallazgos novedosos para futuros estudios moleculares y bioquímicos de la coloración de la testa del poroto chileno que son importantes para los productores de poroto, la industria alimentaria y los consumidores.
Las representaciones sobre el estudiante en el proceso de diseño de los documentos curriculares nacionales
Authors:   , Maldonado Maldonado Jorge Luis
Published: August 2024

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo describir las representaciones sobre el estudiante evidenciadas en el discurso de los diseñadores curriculares, generales y específicos de la asignatura de Matemática en educación media, en el contexto del proceso de diseño de los Documentos Curriculares Nacionales (DCN). La información se generó a partir de entrevistas a seis Coordinadores Nacionales y cuatro Coordinadores del equipo de Matemática de la Unidad de Currículum y Evaluación del Ministerio de Educación de Chile. En el marco de una investigación cualitativa, se utilizó Análisis Temático para analizar la información. Así, se obtuvo una descripción del proceso de diseño de los DCN y representaciones sobre el estudiante que tuvieron los diseñadores cuando lo evocaron en su discurso. El proceso de diseño de los DCN se evidenció como un proceso complejo, que contempla múltiples etapas que van desde la elección de los diseñadores hasta la aprobación de la propuesta de DCN. Las temáticas de las representaciones sobre el estudiante evidenciadas con mayor frecuencia estuvieron en relación con el aprendizaje de la Matemática, la perspectiva psicológica del aprendizaje, lo curricular y el estudiante como persona activa en su aprendizaje. Los resultados que se obtienen invitan a repensar el proceso de diseño de los DCN y el rol que tiene el estudiante en él. Además, se abre la posibilidad de reflexionar el proceso de diseño de los DCN como un ámbito de formación específica para estudiantes de posgrado y diseñadores curriculares que son parte del Ministerio de Educación.
Liderazgo intermedio y su influencia en la mejora escolar implementando prácticas de liderazgo instruccional en tercero básico, Escuela Particular subvencionada en la comuna de Conchalí.
Authors:   , Muñoz Briones Catalina Belén
Published: August 2024

El tema central de este informe es la figura del líder intermedio en el contexto nacional. A través de un proyecto de mejora, se busca fortalecer el liderazgo intermedio, instruccional y distribuido en una escuela particular subvencionada de Conchalí. Este objetivo surge como respuesta a una brecha identificada al interior de la organización. La propuesta es fortalecer el liderazgo del coordinador del departamento de lenguaje y comunicación, para así potenciar un liderazgo con foco en lo instruccional y, por lo tanto, en la mejora de resultados de los estudiantes. Este informe da cuenta de una investigación-acción puesto que el investigador se encuentra inserto en el contexto educativo intervenido. Se puede concluir que existe un fortalecimiento de la figura del coordinador a través de las claves para equipos de liderazgo instruccional, no obstante, se requiere avanzar hacia una colaboración e integración de más miembros de la comunidad escolar.
Cidades inteligentes: uma abordagem bibliométrica da utilização de indicadores de performance
Authors: Pereira Thaís Helena Zero de Oliveira , Rebehy Perla Calil Pongeluppe Wadhy , Souza Luiz Gustavo Antonio de , Capucelli Rodrigo Crepaldi Perez
Published: August 2024

As cidades enfrentam desafios urbanos em áreas como cadeia de abastecimento, resiliência, cultura e turismo, densidade populacional, mobilidade urbana e emissão zero de carbono. Cidades que adotam soluções tecnológicas para enfrentar esses desafios são conhecidas como cidades inteligentes, utilizando a tecnologia para melhorar a qualidade de vida dos cidadãos e a eficiência governamental. Os conceitos de cidades inteligentes e sustentáveis focam no estabelecimento e monitoramento de indicadores de desempenho para promover o desenvolvimento sustentável, abrangendo fatores econômicos, sociais, ambientais e digitais. No Brasil, esses indicadores são alinhados ao conceito de cidade inteligente, com ênfase especial nos aspectos sociais e de tecnologia da informação e comunicação. Desde 2015, o interesse por cidades inteligentes aumentou devido à urbanização crescente, mudanças climáticas e avanços em big data e inteligência artificial. No entanto, desde 2022, o interesse diminuiu devido a desafios como questões regulatórias, atrasos tecnológicos, restrições orçamentárias e a crise financeira global. Este artigo busca determinar a pertinência teórica de estudar cidades inteligentes e indicadores de performance a partir de perspectivas internacionais de pesquisa. Para isso, foi realizado um mapeamento do comportamento e desenvolvimento das publicações científicas utilizando a metodologia de análise bibliométrica, com o objetivo de identificar estudos relacionados a cidades inteligentes e desempenho. Verifica-se grande participação da China e proeminência de artigos relacionados à sustentabilidade. Conclui-se que há grande pertinência do estudo conjuntos das áreas.
Educational Management Stratagems and Instructional Standpoints of Teachers in Public Elementary Schools
Authors: Mendador April Mariz G. , Baguio Josephine B.
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the relationship between educational management strategies and instructional practices of teachers in public elementary schools in Mati District, Davao Oriental, Philippines. A correlational research design was employed to examine the data collected from 131 teachers through a quantitative survey. Mean, Pearson r, and regression analysis were utilized to analyze the data. Results indicated that both educational management strategies and instructional practices were moderately manifested among teachers. A significant positive relationship was found between these variables, with specific educational management domains significantly influencing instructional practices. Based on these findings, it is recommended that school administrators enhance their management strategies by addressing areas with lower manifestation levels. Furthermore, targeted professional development programs should be implemented to improve teachers' instructional capabilities.
Intervention of Smallholder Homegarden Agroforestry Enhanced Soil Fertility Status and Soil Organic Carbon Stock in Tigray Lowlands, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Abay Kiros , Tewolde- Berhan Sarah , Teka Kassa
Published: August 2024

Justification: To reverse the challenges of land degradation, improve soil fertility and access to feed and wood, communities in the lowlands of northern Ethiopia started to establish homegarden agroforestry (HAF) decades ago. However, limited information is available and there was information gap on the effects of homegarden agroforestry systems (HAF) on soil properties and soil organic carbon stock enhancement in the Tigray lowlands, Northern Ethiopia.
Aim: The objective of this was to explore the effect of conversion of mono-cropping systems (MCS) to HAF in Tselemti district, Tigray lowland, Northern Ethiopia.
Materials, Methods and Statistical Methods Used: Two land use types, HAF and MCS fields replicated 15 times were considered. Thus, 30 fields, 15 from HAF & 15 from MCS were used. From each field, 1 composite soil sample for analysis of soil nutrients and 1 undisturbed soil sample for soil bulk density (BD) determination were collected from a depth of 0-30cm. All values were subjected to SPSS version 20 and analyzed using paired samples t-Test statistics at 5% level of significance.
Results: The intervention of HAF resulted in significantly higher (p<0.05) and enhance SOC by 76% (1.66 +0.06 and 0.94 + 0.05 %); SOC stock by 82% (73+ 3 and 40+2); N by 75% (0.14 +0.02 and 0.08 + 0.01 %);avP by 37% (6.07 +0.58 and 4.42 + 0.21 ppm) and K by 26% (67.05+ 4.5 and 53.39+ 4.3 mg kg-1) (p<0.05) as compared to the MCS.
Conclusion: This study elucidated that home gardening can help for maintaining soil nutrients and soil organic carbon stock. Hence, additional HAF have to be established in the area and in areas with similar bio-physical and socio-economic set up and the government should establish programs and campaigns to disseminate HAF systems and promote the importance of the land use.
Biosynthesis of Ascorbic Acid and Its Metabolism across Plant Growth Stages, Fruit Maturation, and Postharvest Physiology: A Review
Authors: Martey Abraham , Osei Richard
Published: August 2024

Ascorbic acid (AsA), generally known as vitamin C, is essential for horticulture crops to grow, develop, and maintain themselves after harvest. It is essential for plant health, fruit quality, and human nutrition because of its role in enzymatic processes, hormone production, and antioxidant activity. Important plant hormones, including auxins and gibberellins, which control the growth and development of fruit, are involved in its production. The maintenance of optimal AsA levels in horticultural crops can help ensure their nutritional value and quality for consumers. This is done by utilizing suitable postharvest practices and by understanding the variables like temperature, light exposure, and oxygen that influence AsA content. To fully comprehend the function of ascorbic acid in horticulture crops throughout plant growth, fruit development and ripening, and postharvest physiology, more study is required. This information may be used to increase the ascorbic acid content of crops and improve their nutritional value. Key intermediates in the AsA biosynthesis pathway have been shown in a simplified schematic diagram. The control of plant AsA production and subsequent responses to horticulture crops throughout plant growth, fruit development and ripening, and postharvest physiology may now be better understood through future study.
Covid-19 Anxiety among Students and Teachers and Compliance to Prevention Protocols in Selected Schools in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: S. U. Tuoyo-Olulu, , A. E. Oghounu,
Published: August 2024

This study examined Covid-19 anxiety among students, teachers and compliance to prevention protocols in selected schools in Delta State. Ten null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted a correlational research design. The sample size consisted of 381 students and 341 teachers, who were selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure. The instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire. The psychometric properties of the instrument were established and adjudged to be adequate. The data obtained were analysed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that there was a significant correlation between Covid-19 anxiety and adherence to preventive Handwash protocol among secondary school students and teachers; that there was a significant correlation between Covid-19 anxiety and adherence to preventive ocial distancing protocol among secondary school students and teachers; that there was a significant correlation between Covid-19 anxiety and adherence to preventive wearing of facemasks protocol among secondary school students and teachers; and that there was a significant correlation between Covid-19 anxiety and adherence to preventive self-isolations protocol among secondary school students and teachers. The study revealed that there was no significant moderating impact of sex on the relationship between Covid-19 anxiety and compliance with preventive measures among secondary school students and students. The study recommended amongst others, that since compliance to preventive protocols was a product of high anxiety, it is recommended that in times of epidemic of this nature, the citizenry must be exposed to cases of infected patients through videos, jingles, film shows, television and social media so as to increase anxiety level and subsequent compliance.
Kinetics and Equilibrium Studies of the Detoxification of Aqueous Solutions of Phenolic Derivatives using Activated Carbon
Authors: Tochi Nkwocha Stephen , Akinbulu Isaac Adebayo , Joseph Oke Temidayo , Michelle Medubi Kayode
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the kinetics and equilibrium of phenolic derivative detoxification from aqueous solutions using activated carbon derived from coconut husk (CHAC). Phenolic compounds, prevalent in industrial wastewater, are highly toxic to humans and aquatic life. The removal efficiency of 4-Nitrophenol (PNP) and 4-Chlorophenol (PCP) was examined using batch adsorption experiments under varying conditions including adsorbent dose, contact time, initial concentration, and temperature. Coconut husk was chemically activated and characterized for its adsorption properties. The optimal adsorbent dose for PNP removal was determined to be 0.2 g, achieving a maximum adsorption capacity of 64.65 mg/g after 120 minutes. Adsorption data were fitted to pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models to understand the adsorption mechanism. The results indicated that the adsorption of PNP onto CHAC followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, suggesting chemisorption as the dominant process. The findings demonstrate that activated carbon from coconut husk can be an effective and sustainable adsorbent for removing phenolic derivatives from wastewater, offering a potential solution for environmental detoxification. Further studies on isotherm models and thermodynamics are recommended to optimize the adsorption process for large-scale applications.
Genetic Variability Studies for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes
Authors: Anusha K. , Srinivas B. , Hari Y. , Shankar V. Gouri , OmPrakash S. , Kumar R. Shravan
Published: August 2024

Forty five rice genotypes were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) at Regional Agricultural Research station, Polasa, during kharif 2023 to determine the genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for  ten traits. Analysis of variance showed significant variation for all the characters in the genotypes studied. Moderate level of Phenotypic Coefficient of variation Genotypic Coefficient of variation was recorded for plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, 1000 grain weight, grain yield and head rice recovery. Low level of Phenotypic Coefficient of variation Genotypic Coefficient of variation was recorded for days to 50% flowering, panicle length, hulling and milling percentage. Moderate Genotypic coefficient of variation and high  Phenotypic Coefficient of variation was recorded for number of grains per panicle. Heritability was high for days to 50% flowering, plant height, panicle length, number of productive tillers per plant,1000 grain weight, grain yield, milling and head rice recovery. Genetic Advance (% mean) was high for the traits plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight, grain yield and head rice recovery . High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, 1000 grain weight, grain yield and head rice recovery. It indicates that these characers are controlled by additive gene action. Low heritability coupled with low genetic advance as per cent mean was recorded for hulling percentage which indicates that this character is governed by non additive gene action. It is vitally important to evaluate variability for yield and other characteristics in order to plan an appropriate breeding strategy for genetic improvement. For the purpose of a potential breeding program, the current study set out to ascertain the genetic variability and heritability of the necessary qualities among genotypes of rice.
Determining the Effect of Chemical Mutagens on Vegetative Growth of Calendula officinalis L. (cv. Calypso Orange)
Authors: Kaur Navdeep , Singh Jujhar
Published: August 2024

The present investigation was carried out at the laboratory of floriculture and experimental farm of Mata Gujri college, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments were T1 i.e., Sodium azide @1500ppm, T2 i.e., Sodium azide @2500ppm, T3 i.e., Sodium azide @3500ppm, T4 i.e., Sodium azide @4500ppm, T5 i.e., Diethyl sulphate @1500ppm, T6 i.e., Diethyl sulphate @2500ppm, T7 i.e., Diethyl sulphate @3500ppm, T8 i.e., Diethyl sulphate @4500ppm and T9 i.e., control. Observations were recorded for vegetative among all treatments maximum plant height (24.84cm), number of leaves per stem (8.95), number of stems per plant (7.48), stem length (22.85cm), leaf length (9.48cm), plant spread (24.89cm2) and diameter of main stem (9.39mm) were found maximum in T1 i.e., Sodium azide @1500ppm. Best vegetative parameters were recorded in Sodium azide @1500ppm Therefore, Sodium azide @1500ppm is best dosage for Calendula officinalis cv. Calypso orange. From the present study it can be concluded that the lowest concentration of Sodium Azide (1500ppm) reported the best performance of vegetative parameters such as plant height, number of leaves per stem, number of stems per plant, stem length, leaf length, plant spread, and diameter of main stem. From the results, it can be concluded that Sodium Azide @1500ppm is best dosage for Calendula officinalis cv. Calypso orange.
Oxidative Coupling of Alkenes with Aldehydes and Hydroperoxides: One‐Pot Synthesis of 2,3‐Epoxy Ketones
Authors: Wei Wen‐Ting , Yang Xu‐Heng , Li Hai‐Bing , Li Jin‐Heng
Published: November 2014

A new transition metal‐free oxidative coupling of unactivated terminal alkenes with aldehydes and hydroperoxides in the presence of 10 mol% potassium tert‐butanolate (t‐BuOK) is described thereby realizing trifunctionalization of alkenes toward 2,3‐epoxy ketones. This method is applicable to a wide range of aldehydes, including aryl and alkyl aldehydes, with excellent functional group tolerance, and provides for the one‐step assembly of 2,3‐epoxy ketones.

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Occupational variations in obesity, smoking, heavy drinking, and non‐adherence to physical activity recommendations: Findings from the 2010 National Health Interview Survey
Authors: Shaikh Raees A. , Sikora Asia , Siahpush Mohammad , Singh Gopal K.
Published: November 2014

Background

Understanding occupational variations in health risks is necessary to identify high risk groups. We examined the recent prevalence of obesity, heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, and leisure time physical activity (PA) across occupations.

Methods

Data from the 2010 National Health Interview Survey were used. Analysis was limited to adults, 18 and older who had a job or business the week before the interview (n = 14,754). Adjusted prevalences of outcomes across occupations were calculated using logistic regression.

Results

The highest prevalence of obesity was within community and social services and morbid obesity was in computer and mathematical occupations. That of smoking was highest in healthcare support, heavy drinking in food preparation and serving related, and non‐adherence to PA recommendations in the farming, fishing, and forestry occupations.

Conclusion

Important health risk factors vary across occupations. Worksite and public health interventions need to be designed and modified to address such occupational health disparities. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:77–87, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rekrutierung Sulfhydryl‐haltiger Peptide an Lipid‐ und biologische Membranen durch eine Maleimid‐funktionalisierte Palmitinsäure
Authors: Haralampiev Ivan , Mertens Monique , Schwarzer Roland , Herrmann Andreas , Volkmer Rudolf , Wessig Pablo , Müller Peter
Published: November 2014

Diese Studie präsentiert einen neuen und leicht anwendbaren Ansatz, um Sulfhydryl‐enthaltende Biomoleküle unter Verwendung einer Maleimid‐funktionalisierten Palmitinsäure an Membranen zu rekrutieren. Insbesondere können auch vorgeformte (biologische) Membranen durch diese Strategie manipuliert werden. Die Anwendungsmöglichkeit der Methode wird durch Bindung eines Rhodamin‐markierten Peptids an Lipid‐ und zelluläre Membranen mittels Fluoreszenzspektroskopie, Fluoreszenzlebensdauermessungen und Fluoreszenzmikroskopie demonstriert. Unser Ansatz eröffnet neue Möglichkeiten für die Herstellung biologisch aktiver Liposomen und die Manipulation lebender Zellen.
Phosphide Delivery to a Cyclotrisilene
Authors: Robinson Thomas P. , Cowley Michael J. , Scheschkewitz David , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: November 2014

The reactivity of the 2‐phosphaethynolate anion (PCO−) towards a cyclic trisilene (cSi3(Tip)4) is reported. The result is the net activation of the PC and SiSi multiple bonds of the precursors affording a heteroatomic bicyclo[1.1.1]pentan‐2‐one analogue ([P(CO)Si3(Tip)4]−; 1). This reaction can be interpreted as the formal addition of a phosphide and a carbonyl across the SiSi double bond. Photolytic decarbonylation of 1 results in the incorporation of the phosphide vertex into the cyclotrisilene scaffold, yielding a congener of the cyclobutene anion with considerable allylic character.
Revisiting the Arthritogenic Peptide Theory: Quantitative Not Qualitative Changes in the Peptide Repertoire of HLA–B27 Allotypes
Authors: Schittenhelm Ralf B. , Sian Terry C. C. Lim Kam , Wilmann Pascal G. , Dudek Nadine L. , Purcell Anthony W.
Published: November 2014

Objective

The association of HLA–B27 with spondyloarthropathy is one of the strongest documented for any autoimmune disease. A common hypothesis for this association is the arthritogenic peptide concept. This dictates that differences in the peptide binding preferences of disease‐associated and non–disease‐associated HLA–B27 allotypes underlie the presentation of bacterial and self‐peptides, leading to cross‐reactive T cell immunity and subsequent autoimmune attack of affected tissues. The aim of this study was to analyze and compare self‐peptides from 8 HLA–B27 allotypes, to increase existing data sets of HLA–B27 ligands, to refine and compare their consensus‐binding motifs, and to reveal similarities and differences in the peptide repertoire of the HLA–B27 subtypes.

Methods

Qualitative differences in the peptides bound to the 8 most frequent HLA–B27 subtypes were determined by tandem mass spectrometry, and quantitative changes in allelic binding specificities were determined by highly sensitive and targeted multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry.

Results

We identified >7,500 major histocompatibility complex class I peptides derived from the 8 most common HLA–B27 allotypes (HLA–B*27:02 to HLA–B*27:09). We describe individual binding motifs for these alleles for the 9–12‐mer ligands. The peptide repertoires of these closely related alleles showed significant overlap. Allelic polymorphisms resulting in changes in the amino acid composition of the antigen‐binding cleft manifested largely as quantitative changes in the peptide cargo of these molecules.

Conclusion

Absolute binding preferences of HLA–B27 allotypes do not explain disease association. The arthritogenic peptide theory needs to be reassessed in terms of quantitative changes in self‐peptide presentation, T cell selection, and altered conformation of bound peptides.
Brief Report: Intestinal Dysbiosis in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Costello Mary‐Ellen , Ciccia Francesco , Willner Dana , Warrington Nicole , Robinson Philip C. , Gardiner Brooke , Marshall Mhairi , Kenna Tony J. , Triolo Giovanni , Brown Matthew A.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a common, highly heritable immune‐mediated arthropathy that occurs in genetically susceptible individuals exposed to an unknown but likely ubiquitous environmental trigger. There is a close relationship between the gut and spondyloarthritis, as exemplified in patients with reactive arthritis, in whom a typically self‐limiting arthropathy follows either a gastrointestinal or urogenital infection. Microbial involvement in AS has been suggested; however, no definitive link has been established. The aim of this study was to determine whether the gut in patients with AS carries a distinct microbial signature compared with that in the gut of healthy control subjects.

Methods

Microbial profiles for terminal ileum biopsy specimens obtained from patients with recent‐onset tumor necrosis factor antagonist–naive AS and from healthy control subjects were generated using culture‐independent 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing and analysis techniques.

Results

Our results showed that the terminal ileum microbial communities in patients with AS differ significantly (P < 0.001) from those in healthy control subjects, driven by a higher abundance of 5 families of bacteria (Lachnospiraceae [P = 0.001], Ruminococcaceae [P = 0.012], Rikenellaceae [P = 0.004], Porphyromonadaceae [P = 0.001], and Bacteroidaceae [P = 0.001]) and a decrease in the abundance of 2 families of bacteria (Veillonellaceae [P = 0.01] and Prevotellaceae [P = 0.004]).

Conclusion

We show evidence for a discrete microbial signature in the terminal ileum of patients with AS compared with healthy control subjects. The microbial composition was demonstrated to correlate with disease status, and greater differences were observed between disease groups than within disease groups. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that genes associated with AS act, at least in part, through effects on the gut microbiome.
Photoluminescence of Dy3+ activator sensitized by Ce3+ in KNaSO4 microphosphor
Authors: Manik Urvashi , Gedam S. C. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: November 2014

The KNaSO4 microphosphor doped with Ce or Ce and Dy prepared by a wet chemical method was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and characterized by photoluminescence (PL). KNaSO4 has a 5‐µm particle size detected by SEM. The KNaSO4:Ce3+ spectrum shows a single emission band at 327 nm for an excitation of 269 nm due to 5d → 4f transition of the Ce3+ ion, indicating weak spin orbiting coupling of the Ce3+ ground state. Efficient energy transfer takes place from Ce3+ → Dy3+ sublattices indicating that Ce3+ could effectively sensitize Dy3+ (orange emission) and that the Ce3+ emission weakens significantly in KNaSO4. The powder form of prepared KNaSO4 show negligible change in morphologies and hence no effect on the particle size. The characteristics of this powder could provide improved luminescence properties. The development and understanding of this photoluminescence and the effect of Dy3+ on KNaSO4: Ce3+ are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dual‐Functional Semithiobambusurils
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Solel Ephrath , Keinan Ehud , Reany Ofer
Published: November 2014

Semithiobambusurils, which represent a new family of macrocyclic host molecules, have been prepared by a convenient, scalable synthesis. These new cavitands are double functional: they strongly bind a broad variety of anions in their interiors and metal ions at their sulfur‐edged portals. The solid‐state structure of semithiobambus[4]uril with HgCl2 demonstrates the ability of these compounds to form linear chains of coordination polymers with thiophillic metal ions. The crystal structure of semithiobambus[6]uril with tetraphenylphosphonium bromide exhibits the unique anion‐binding properties of the host cavity and the characteristics of the binding site.
A Computational Study of Vicinal Fluorination in 2,3‐Difluorobutane: Implications for Conformational Control in Alkane Chains
Authors: Fox Stephen J. , Gourdain Stephanie , Coulthurst Anton , Fox Clare , Kuprov Ilya , Essex Jonathan W. , Skylaris Chris‐Kriton , Linclau Bruno
Published: November 2014

A comprehensive conformational analysis of both 2,3‐difluorobutane diastereomers is presented based on density functional theory calculations in vacuum and in solution, as well as NMR experiments in solution. While for 1,2‐difluoroethane the fluorine gauche effect is clearly the dominant effect determining its conformation, it was found that for 2,3‐difluorobutane there is a complex interplay of several effects, which are of similar magnitude but often of opposite sign. As a result, unexpected deviations in dihedral angles, relative conformational energies and populations are observed which cannot be rationalised only by chemical intuition. Furthermore, it was found that it is important to consider the free energies of the various conformers, as these lead to qualitatively different results both in vacuum and in solvent, when compared to calculations based only on the electronic energies. In contrast to expectations, it was found that vicinal syn‐difluoride introduction in the butane and by extension, longer hydrocarbon chains, is not expected to lead to an effective stabilisation of the linear conformation. Our findings have implications for the use of the vicinal difluoride motif for conformational control.
Synthesis of Non‐Toxic Triethyl Citrate Plasticizer by Esterification of Renewable Citric Acid Using Modified Zeolite
Authors: Nandiwale Kakasaheb Y. , Borikar Sanjay P. , Bokade Vijay V.
Published: November 2014

Triethyl citrate (TEC), a non‐toxic plasticizer, was synthesized by esterification of renewable citric acid (CA, from entire waste of oranges) with ethanol over modified H‐ZSM‐5 (HZ‐5) zeolite. Different micro–meso composites (M‐HZ‐5) with varying crystallinities were prepared by alkaline treatment of HZ‐5. M‐HZ‐50.6 (87% crystallinity) was observed to be a potential and environmentally benign catalyst with 96% CA conversion, 64% TEC selectivity (61.44% TEC yield), and a reusability of six cycles. The probable catalytic mechanism of esterification was also proposed.