bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Bone Regeneration and Osseointegration using rhPTH(1-34) and Dimeric R25CPTH(1-34) in an Osteoporotic Beagle Model
Authors: Shin Jeong-Oh , Lee Jong-Bin , Lee Sihoon , Kim Jin-Woo
Published: September 2024

Despite continuous parathyroid hormone (PTH) exposure potentially accelerating bone resorption, intermittent PTH administration has shown anabolic effects on bone microarchitecture. This study investigates the therapeutic impacts of two PTH analogs, rhPTH(1-34) and dimeric
R25C
PTH(1-34) on bone regeneration and osseointegration in a postmenopausal osteoporosis animal model.Twelve female beagles, osteoporotic post-ovariectomy, underwent implant surgeries. Animals were divided into three groups: control, daily rhPTH(1-34) injection, and daily dimeric
R25C
PTH(1-34) injection. After 10 weeks, bone regeneration and implant osseointegration were evaluated using micro-CT, histological/histomorphometric analyses, and serum biochemical analysis.While the rhPTH(1-34) group demonstrated improved microarchitectural characteristics, such as BMD, BV, trabecular metrics, and osseointegration degree, the dimeric
R25C
PTH(1-34) group showed similarly enhanced anabolic effects around the titanium implants, albeit these were less pronounced than the rhPTH(1-34), yet significantly better than the control group. Histologic and TRAP assays revealed that both PTH analogs significantly promoted bone regeneration and remodeling, especially in artificially created bone defects.This study demonstrated the therapeutic effects of rhPTH(1-34) and dimeric
R25C
PTH(1-34) on bone regeneration and titanium osseointegration in a beagle model with osteoporosis.
Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to study inflammation-induced aberrant calcium transient
Authors: Tatekoshi Yuki , Chen Chunlei , Shapiro Jason , Chang Hsiang-Chun , Blancard Malorie , Lyra-Leite Davi , Burridge Paul W , Feinstein Matthew , D’Aquila Richard , Hsue Priscilla , Ardehali Hossein
Published: September 2024

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is commonly found in persons living with HIV (PLWH) even when antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses HIV viremia. However, studying this condition has been challenging because an appropriate animal model is not available. In this paper, we studied calcium transient in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) in culture to simulate the cardiomyocyte relaxation defect noted in of PLWH and HFpEF and to assess whether various drugs have an effect. We show that treatment of hiPSC-CMs with inflammatory cytokines (such as interferon-γ or TNF-α) impair their Ca
2+
uptake into sarcoplasmic reticulum and that SGLT2 inhibitors, clinically proven as effective for HFpEF, reverse this effect. Additionally, treatment with mitochondrial antioxidants (like mito-Tempo) and certain antiretrovirals resulted in the reversal of the effects of these cytokines on calcium transient. Finally, incubation of hiPSC-CMs with serum from HIV patients with and without diastolic dysfunction did not alter their Ca
2+
-decay time, indicating that the exposure to the serum of these patients is not sufficient to induce the decrease in Ca
2+
uptake
in vitro
. Together, our results indicate that hiPSC-CMs can be used as a model to study molecular mechanisms of inflammation-mediated abnormal cardiomyocyte relaxation and screen for potential new interventions.
Systematic evaluation of multifactorial causal associations for Alzheimer’s disease and an interactive platform based on Mendelian randomization analysis —— MRAD
Authors: Zhao Tianyu , Li Hui , Zhang Meishuang , Xu Yang , Zhang Ming , Chen Li
Published: September 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex degenerative disease of the central nervous system. Traditional epidemiological studies have reported several risk factors for AD. However, most epidemiological studies are insufficient to draw definitive conclusions on causal association due to the potential for reverse causality and confounding bias. Therefore, elucidating its pathogenesis remains challenging. Mendelian randomization (MR) was developed for assessing causality using genetic variants as a new approach in epidemiological research. In this study, we used MR analysis to investigate potential AD risk factors to support extensive AD research. We used the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) model as the major analysis method to perform hypothesis-free Mendelian randomization analysis on the data from MRC IEU OpenGWAS (18,097 exposure traits and 16 AD outcome traits), and conducted sensitivity analysis with six models, to assess the robustness of the IVW results, to identify various classes of risk or protective factors for AD, early-onset AD, and late-onset AD. We generated 400,274 data entries in total, among which the major analysis method of IVW model consists of 73,129 records with 4840 exposure traits, which fall into 10 categories: Disease (n=17,168), Medical laboratory science (n=15,416), Imaging (n=4,896), Anthropometric (n=4,478), Treatment (n=4,546), Molecular trait (n=17,757), Gut microbiota (n=48), Past history (n=668), Family history (n=1,114), and Lifestyle trait (n=7,038). For the convenience of display and operation, an online platform called MRAD has been developed using the Shiny package with MR analysis results. MRAD can be freely accessed online at https://gwasmrad.com/mrad/. Moreover, novel potential AD therapeutic targets (CD33, TBCA, VPS29, GNAI3, PSME1) are identified, among which CD33 was positively associated with the main outcome traits of AD, as well as with both EOAD and LOAD. TBCA and VPS29 were negatively associated with the main outcome traits of AD, as well as with both EOAD and LOAD. GNAI3 and PSME1 were negatively associated with the main outcome traits of AD, as well as with LOAD, but had no significant causal association with EOAD. This is one of the most comprehensive studies in this field. The findings of our research advance understanding of the etiology of AD.
A robust brain network for sustained attention from adolescence to adulthood that predicts later substance use
Authors: Weng Yihe , Kruschwitz Johann , Rueda-Delgado Laura M , Ruddy Kathy L , Boyle Rory , Franzen Luisa , Serin Emin , Nweze Tochukwu , Hanson Jamie , Smyth Alannah , Farnan Tom , Banaschewski Tobias , Bokde Arun LW , Desrivières Sylvane , Flor Herta , Grigis Antoine , Garavan Hugh , Gowland Penny A , Heinz Andreas , Brühl Rüdiger , Martinot Jean-Luc , Martinot Marie-Laure Paillère , Artiges Eric , McGrath Jane , Nees Frauke , Papadopoulos Orfanos Dimitri , Paus Tomas , Poustka Luise , Holz Nathalie , Fröhner Juliane , Smolka Michael N , Vaidya Nilakshi , Schumann Gunter , Walter Henrik , Whelan Robert ,   IMAGEN Consortium
Published: September 2024

Substance use, including cigarettes and cannabis, is associated with poorer sustained attention in late adolescence and early adulthood. Previous studies were predominantly cross-sectional or under-powered and could not indicate if impairment in sustained attention was a predictor of substance use or a marker of the inclination to engage in such behavior. This study explored the relationship between sustained attention and substance use across a longitudinal span from ages 14 to 23 in over 1000 participants. Behaviors and brain connectivity associated with diminished sustained attention at age 14 predicted subsequent increases in cannabis and cigarette smoking, establishing sustained attention as a robust biomarker for vulnerability to substance use. Individual differences in network strength relevant to sustained attention were preserved across developmental stages and sustained attention networks generalized to participants in an external dataset. In summary, brain networks of sustained attention are robust, consistent, and able to predict aspects of later substance use.
NAB2-STAT6 drives an EGR1-dependent neuroendocrine program in Solitary Fibrous Tumors
Authors: Hill Connor M , Indeglia Alexandra , Picone Francis , Murphy Maureen E , Cipriano Cara , Maki Robert G , Gardini Alessandro
Published: September 2024

The pathogenesis of many rare tumor types is poorly understood, preventing the design of effective treatments. Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are neoplasms of mesenchymal origin that affect 1/1,000,000 individuals every year and are clinically assimilated to soft tissue sarcomas. SFTs can arise throughout the body and are usually managed surgically. However, 30-40% of SFTs will relapse local-regionally or metastasize. There are no systemic therapies with durable activity for malignant SFTs to date. The molecular hallmark of SFTs is a gene fusion between the
NAB2
and
STAT6
loci on chromosome 12, resulting in a chimeric protein of poorly characterized function called NAB2-STAT6. We use primary samples and an inducible cell model to discover that NAB2-STAT6 operates as a transcriptional coactivator for a specific set of enhancers and promoters that are normally targeted by the EGR1 transcription factor. In physiological conditions, NAB2 is primarily localized to the cytoplasm and only a small nuclear fraction is available to operate as a co-activator of EGR1 targets. NAB2-STAT6 redirects NAB1, NAB2, and additional EGR1 to the nucleus and bolster the expression of neuronal EGR1 targets. The STAT6 moiety of the fusion protein is a major driver of its nuclear localization and further contributes to NAB2’s co-activating abilities. In primary tumors, NAB2- STAT6 activates a neuroendocrine gene signature that sets it apart from most sarcomas. These discoveries provide new insight into the pathogenesis of SFTs and reveal new targets with therapeutic potential.
A Ctnnb1 enhancer transcriptionally regulates Wnt signaling dosage to balance homeostasis and tumorigenesis of intestinal epithelia
Authors: Hua Xiaojiao , Zhao Chen , Tian Jianbo , Wang Junbao , Miao Xiaoping , Zheng Gen , Wu Min , Ye Mei , Liu Ying , Zhou Yan
Published: September 2024

The β-catenin-dependent canonical Wnt signaling is pivotal in organ development, tissue homeostasis, and cancer. Here we identified an upstream enhancer of
Ctnnb1
– the coding gene for β-catenin, named ieCtnnb1 (intestinal
e
nhancer of
Ctnnb1
), which is crucial for intestinal homeostasis. ieCtnnb1 is predominantly active in the base of small intestinal crypts and throughout the epithelia of large intestine. Knockout of ieCtnnb1 led to a reduction in
Ctnnb1
transcription, compromising the canonical Wnt signaling in intestinal crypts. Single-cell sequencing revealed that ieCtnnb1 knockout altered epithelial compositions and potentially compromised functions of small intestinal crypts. While deletion of ieCtnnb1 hampered epithelial turnovers in physiologic conditions, it prevented occurrence and progression of Wnt/β-catenin-driven colorectal cancers. Human ieCTNNB1 drove reporter gene expression in a pattern highly similar to mouse ieCtnnb1. ieCTNNB1 contains a single-nucleotide polymorphism associated with
CTNNB1
expression levels in human gastrointestinal epithelia. The enhancer activity of ieCTNNB1 in colorectal cancer tissues was stronger than that in adjacent normal tissues. HNF4
α
and phosphorylated CREB1 were identified as key trans-factors binding to ieCTNNB1 and regulating
CTNNB1
transcription. Together, these findings unveil an enhancer-dependent mechanism controlling the dosage of Wnt signaling and homeostasis in intestinal epithelia.
Ocular biomarker profiling after complement factor I gene therapy in geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Hallam Thomas M , Gardenal Emanuela , McBlane Fraser , Cho GaEun , Ferraro Lucy Lee , Pekle Eva , Lu Darlene , Carney Kate , Wenden Claire , Beadsmoore Hannah , Kaiser Sergio , Drage Lauren , Haye Thomas , Kassem Iris , Rangaswamy Nalini , Obeidat Ma’en , Grosskreutz Cyndy , Saint-Geniez Magali , Steel David H , MacLaren Robert E , Ellis Scott , Harris Claire L , Poor Stephen , Jones Amy V
Published: September 2024

Complement biomarker analysis in ocular fluid samples from subjects with geographic atrophy (GA) in a Phase I/II clinical trial of subretinal AAV2 complement factor I (
CFI
; FI) gene therapy, PPY988 (formerly GT005), to understand target pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics. Clinical findings were subsequently utilized to investigate the therapeutic dose in an
in vitro
complement activation assay.Biomarker data were evaluated from 28 subjects in FOCUS, a Phase I/II clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of three ascending doses of PPY988.Vitreous humor (VH), and aqueous humor (AH) from subjects before surgery and at serial timepoints (week 5 or 12, 36, 96) were evaluated for changes in levels of intact complement factors I, B and H (FI, FB, FH) components C3, C4, and C1q and breakdown products (Ba, C3a, C3b/iC3b, C4b) using validated assays and OLINK
®
proteomics.A modified
in vitro
assay of complement activation modelling VH complement concentrations was used to compare PPY988 potency to the approved intravitreal C3 inhibitor pegcetacoplan (Apellis) and complement Factor H (FH).An average 2-fold increase in VH FI was observed post-treatment at week 36 and week 96. This correlated with a marked post-treatment reduction in VH concentration of the FB breakdown product Ba and Ba:FB ratio, but minimal changes in C3a and C3b/iC3b levels. Variable concordance in complement biomarker levels in VH versus AH suggest AH is not a reliable proxy for VH for complement activation. During the experimental comparison of doses, a 2-fold increase of FI achieved in the vitreous had only a minor effect on the complement amplification loop
in vitro
, indicating limited impact [IC50: 1229nM]. Pegcetacoplan completely blocks C3a generation at concentrations much lower than the estimated trough level for monthly intravitreal injections [IC50: 2nM]. Supplementation with FH in the assay revealed similar potency to pegcetacoplan [IC50: 6nM].PPY988 subretinal gene therapy may not have provided sufficient FI protein to meaningfully modulate complement activation to slow GA growth. Reviewing VH biomarkers is important for understanding target expression, pathway engagement, and determining optimal dose, thereby informing future clinical development.
ECO_CARE Multisensory and Experimental Workshop 2024 “We are the ocean, and the Ocean is us. A Living Laboratory to learn from each other and learn from the ocean”
Authors: Montaña Mónoga Ana María , Parola Giulia , Poto Margherita Paola , Panieri Giuliana , Muniz de Souza (Otomorinhori’õ  Xavante) Júlia , Médici Machado Natalia , Wennerstrom Aline , Barrenechea Angeles Ines , Zimmermann Jane
Published: September 2024

This report provides an overview of the Multisensory and Experimental Workshop organized by the ECOCARE team. The workshop took place in the Aldeia Maraka’nà, as a collaborative initiative coordinated by Giulia Parola, Júlia Xavante, Ana María Montaña Mónoga, Natalia Médici Machado, and Aline Wennerstrom, with the participation of Rodrigo Tavares. Law, marine science and Indigenous knowledge systems were interwoven to develop activities that involved scholars, community members, teachers and learners.
Injusticia ambiental en la calidad del aire para repartidores de plataformas digitales de Bogotá, Colombia, 2021
Authors: Agudelo-Londoño Sandra Milena , Blanco-Becerra Luis Camilo , Hernández Mabel Rocío , Suárez-Morales Zuly Bibiana , Mantilla-León Laura Clemencia , Solís Nathalia
Published: September 2024

Introducción. La calidad del aire es un asunto de interés para la salud pública por su rápido deterioro en los países de bajos y medianos ingresos, y los efectos del aire contaminado en la salud de las poblaciones.Objetivo. Explorar las condiciones de la calidad del aire en las que los repartidores de plataformas digitales desarrollaron su trabajo en las localidades de Kennedy y Usaquén de Bogotá durante el 2021.Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio mixto, paralelo y convergente, basado en cuatro fuentes de información: 1) observación etnográfica en cinco ubicaciones comerciales de las dos localidades; 2) monitoreo de PM10 y PM2.5 en 56 rutas de reparto, empleando un equipo de bajo costo; 3) bitácoras diarias de los recorridos que apoyaron la interpretación de los datos del equipo, y 4) entrevista semiestructurada con el rutero para explorar sus percepciones frente a los peligros durante los recorridos. Resultados. Se identificaron diferencias en las condiciones de trabajo, las percepciones y las exposiciones a material particulado de los repartidores entre las dos localidades de estudio que constituyeron fuentes de injusticia ambiental. Los recorridos que realizaron los repartidores en la localidad de Kennedy registraron mayores concentraciones de PM10 y PM2.5. Las fuentes de contaminación atmosférica identificadas por los repartidores mostraron los peores parámetros en Kennedy.Conclusiones. Se evidenció que la calidad del aire, el equipamiento urbano, la infraestructura vial, las fuentes móviles y la ubicación geoespacial son elementos que marcan la presencia de injusticia ambiental para los repartidores. Para disminuir esta inequidad, es necesario que las plataformas de reparto digital y el gobierno distrital implementen estrategias que reduzcan la exposición y la emisión de contaminantes del aire con el fin de proteger la salud de los repartidores de plataformas.
Omics approaches to unravel insecticide resistance mechanism in Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Rosli Muhammad Aqil Fitri , Syed Jaafar Sharifah Nabihah , Azizan Kamalrul Azlan , Yaakop Salmah , Aizat Wan Mohd
Published: September 2024

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) whitefly (BtWf) is an invasive pest that has already spread worldwide and caused major crop losses. Numerous strategies have been implemented to control their infestation, including the use of insecticides. However, prolonged insecticide exposures have evolved BtWf to resist these chemicals. Such resistance mechanism is known to be regulated at the molecular level and systems biology omics approaches could shed some light on understanding this regulation wholistically. In this review, we discuss the use of various omics techniques (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) to unravel the mechanism of insecticide resistance in BtWf. We summarize key genes, enzymes, and metabolic regulation that are associated with the resistance mechanism and review their impact on BtWf resistance. Evidently, key enzymes involved in the detoxification system such as cytochrome P450 (CYP), glutathione S-transferases (GST), carboxylesterases (COE), UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT), and ATP binding cassette transporters (ABC) family played key roles in the resistance. These genes/proteins can then serve as the foundation for other targeted techniques, such as gene silencing techniques using RNA interference and CRISPR. In the future, such techniques will be useful to knock down detoxifying genes and crucial neutralizing enzymes involved in the resistance mechanism, which could lead to solutions for coping against BtWf infestation.
The Influence of Financial Literacy, Lifestyle, and Self-control on Student Consumptive Behavior
Authors: Anatasya Putri Syifa , Putri Alifa Rizki , Kholifah Siti , Oktavia Devi Tiara , Febriani Dila Dwi , Pratama Bima Cinintya
Published: September 2024

Aims: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the influence of financial literacy, lifestyle, and self-control on the consumptive behavior of students of the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto.
Study Design: Quantitative and descriptive research was used in this study.
Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto, Indonesina country, between April to July.
Methodology: The study use purposive sampling resulted in 129 students (33 male, 96 female; class range 2023-2021; study program Accounting S1, Accounting D3, Management S1, Digital Business S1).
Results: The study showed that financial literacy, students’ lifestyle, and students' self control are positively associated with students' consumption behavior. The analysis results show that financial literacy has a positive influence on consumptive behavior, with a path coefficient value of 0.144 and a p-value of 0.024. Similarly, lifestyle also has a positive influence on consumptive behavior, with a path coefficient value of 0.667 and a p-value of 0.000. Meanwhile, self-control has a negative influence on consumptive behavior, with a path coefficient value of -0.156 and a p-value of 0.010. Therefore, it can be concluded that financial literacy, lifestyle, and self-control affect the consumptive behavior of college students.
Conclusion: This implies that the students must be able to control her/himself to be not consumptive.
Performance of Apis mellifera L. Colonies Developed from Artificially and Naturally Inseminated Queens
Authors: Borah Pooja , Rahman Ataur
Published: September 2024

A comparative study between artificially and naturally inseminated queens of Apis mellifera L. colonies was recorded in the apiary and under laboratory condition of Department of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat from September’2015 to March’2018.The selection studies were carried out from April, 2015 to January, 2016 from 99 colonies of A. mellifera L. and ten viable colonies were selected which were later used for preparation of queen and collection of drones. Comparative performance between artificially inseminated (AI) and naturally inseminated (NI) colonies of A. mellifera L. in the year 2016-17 revealed that brood area (3151.1±86.3 sq.cm in AI and 2966.8±89.3 sq.cm in NI), pollen area (798.4±75.2sq.cm in AI and 622.8±40.4sq.cm in NI) and nectar area (1626.9±131.8sq.cm in AI and 1421.7±126.9sq.cm in NI) have significant difference in all the months. Similarly, in the year 2017-18, brood area (3155.4±92.1sq.cm in AI and 3015.08±86.9 sq.cm in NI), pollen area (742.3±42.03sq.cm in AI and 651.4±40.4sq.cm in NI) and nectar area (1589.3±130.0sq.cm in AI and 1471.3±130.6sq.cm in NI) have significant difference in all the months. In 2016-17, the pollination efficiency (9.2±0.4mg and 7.1±0.4mg pollen load in AI and NI, respectively) has significant difference between AI and NI colonies in all the months except for May, December, January and February. Whereas, in 2017-18, pollination efficiency (9.1±0.5mg and 7.5±0.4mg pollen load in AI and NI, respectively) has significant difference in all the months except for October and March. Honey yield (3.75±.11 sq.cm in AI and 3.27±.10sq.cm in NI) showed significant difference in April, May, June, December, January and February during 2016-17 and in 2017-18, honey yield (3.89±.11 sq.cm in AI and 3.38±.10 sq.cm in NI)  revealed significant difference between AI and NI colonies in May, June, December, January and February. Therefore, in both 2016-17 and 2017-18, the performance of AI colonies was significantly higher than NI colonies.
Impact of NPKS and Foliar Nano Fertilizer Application of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) Growth in Himachal Pradesh’s Mid Hill Region
Authors: Sharma Manish , Alam Mohd Shah , Patel Jay Nath
Published: September 2024

The present study was performed during Rabi season of 2022-23 at Research Farm, School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University, Chail Chowk, Mandi (H.P.) India. The experimental design utilized a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight different treatments, replicated three times. T1 was the absolute control with no fertilizers or chemicals. T2 used 100% NPK and sulfur (S) with zinc (Zn) at 5 kg ha⁻¹. T3 included 100% NPK and S with bio stimulants. T4 applied 100% NPK and S with Nano Zn spray at 40 days after sowing (DAS). T5 used 75% NPK and S with NPK consortia. T6 applied 75% NPK and S with Nano nitrogen (N) spray at 40 DAS. T7 combined 75% NPK and S with both Nano N and Nano Zn sprays at 40 DAS. T8 used 75% NPK and S with NPK consortia and Nano Zn spray at 40 DAS. The highest values of growth attribute viz. [highest plant height (cm), and dry matter accumulation (g m-2)], yield attributes and yield viz. [Number of siliquae plant-1, Siliquae length (cm), Number of seed siliquae plant-1, 1000 seed weight, weight of siliquae plant-1, seed yield (q ha-1), stover yield (q ha-1) and biological yield (q ha-1) was found with application of 100% NPK and S with Nano Zn spray at 40 DAS. While, some attributes namely- test weight (g), number of seed siliquae plant-1, harvest index (%) was found non-significant. However, the lowest values for all parameters were observed under treatment T1 (absolute control). Therefore, using nanofertilizers to accelerate plant growth and production can lead to new developments in agricultural practice. However, the kind of plant species, stage of growth, and type of nanomaterial all affect how plants react to nanofertilizers.
Study of the Impact of climatic Factors on the Progression of Powdery Mildew on Okra incited by Erysiphe cichoracearum DC and Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Chemical Salts in Its Control
Authors: M Vineeth , Umashankar Madduri , Shree Divya , L K Vidyashree , K N Pallavi , J Harish
Published: September 2024

One of the major vegetable crops, Okra, is a member of the Malvaceae family. Among the diseases, one of the most dangerous fungal diseases that severely reduces yield is powdery mildew, which is brought on by Erysiphe cichoracearum DC. During meteorological weeks 49, 2, and 3, the projected and observed PDI values were nearly equal. Between the 52nd and 1st week, the maximum apparent rate of infection (r) of 0.0758 was recorded; this value was comparable to the "r" value between the 3rd and 4th week. The crop is sensitive to powdery mildew at stage 60 DAS, with a maximum PDI of 64.65%. This is because nutrients are translocated from the source to the sink in later stages of the plant's life, rendering it susceptible. When the amount of chlorophyll in various disease-grade leaves is estimated, it is found that leaves with mildewed 0-scale content have larger amounts of chlorophyll "a," chlorophyll "b," and total chlorophyll, at 0.230, 0.083, and 0.327 mg/g, respectively, while leaves with mildewed 5-scale content have the lowest amounts.
Influence of Different Hydrogel Levels and Irrigation Scheduling on Leaf Protein Content of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Singh Shalini , Sharma Richa
Published: September 2024

The present research focuses on optimizing the water use efficiency and enhancing crop quality in chickpea cultivation. Hydrogels, known for their water retention capabilities, can potentially mitigate the effects of water stress in arid and semi-arid regions by maintaining soil moisture levels. When combined with precise irrigation scheduling, the application of hydrogels may not only improve the growth and yield of chickpeas but also enhance their leaf protein content, a crucial nutritional parameter. The field experiment was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2021-22 at the Department of Biological Sciences, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, U.P. which is characterized by a semi-arid climate. The experiment utilized a randomized block design with combinations of four levels of hydrogel and two levels of irrigation across 11 treatments, each replicated three times. Protein content in chickpea leaves was estimated using Bradford's method, which is based on the binding of proteins to Coomassie Brilliant Blue G-250. Results indicated that different levels of hydrogel application had a non-significant effect on the protein content of chickpea during both years. The highest protein content of protein content of 1.03, 1.07 and 1.05 was recorded in the treatment combination T10 during                       cropping year 2020, 2021 and in pooled respectively followed by treatment combination T9 and recorded protein content as 1.02, 1.02and 1.02 in both the years of investigation as well as in pooled respectively.
Agroforestry Practices and Their Impact on Soil Health and Fertility: A Review
Authors: Sekhar M. , Lallawmkimi Michelle C. , Rani Doppalapudi Vijaya , Upadhyay Lalit , Tiwari Prashant , Verma Urvashi , Rajput Aashu
Published: September 2024

The diverse applications and benefits of agroforestry, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing soil health and fertility. Agroforestry, the integration of trees, crops, and livestock within the same land management system, presents numerous advantages. These include improved soil structure, enhanced nutrient cycling, and increased carbon sequestration, contributing to overall ecosystem sustainability and resilience against climate change. Agroforestry systems have been shown to improve soil physical properties by enhancing soil structure and porosity, reducing erosion, and increasing water infiltration and retention. These systems boost soil chemical properties through increased organic matter, enhanced nutrient status and cycling, and favorable changes in soil pH and cation exchange capacity. Key findings from various case studies across tropical, temperate, and arid regions demonstrate the multifunctionality of agroforestry systems. For instance, in the Sahel region of Africa, the integration of Faidherbiaalbida significantly improved soil fertility and increased crop yields. In the temperate regions of the United States, alley cropping with black walnut and corn improved soil structure and provided additional income through timber production. In arid regions like the Thar Desert of India, Prosopis-based agroforestry systems enhanced soil organic carbon and nutrient levels, leading to higher crop yields. Despite these benefits, the adoption of agroforestry practices faces significant challenges. Socio-economic barriers, such as the initial investment costs and land tenure insecurity, hinder widespread adoption. Additionally, a lack of knowledge and training among farmers and insufficient policy and institutional support further impede the implementation of agroforestry. Potential negative impacts, such as competition between trees and crops for resources, allelopathic effects, and management complexity, also need to be addressed through careful planning and management. Emerging trends in agroforestry research focus on integrating climate-smart agriculture principles and exploring the multifunctionality of these systems. Innovations such as precision agroforestry, biochar application, and the development of agroforestry-based bioproducts show promise in enhancing system efficiency and sustainability. However, research gaps remain, particularly in understanding the long-term impacts on soil health, the socio-economic benefits, and the integration of modern technologies. Addressing these gaps requires comprehensive, multidisciplinary approaches to fully realize the potential of agroforestry as a sustainable land management strategy.
Morphological and Molecular Characterisation of Fusarium Wilt Pathogen Isolated from Sunhemp
Authors: H S Chandana , B H Nithya S Raju , K B Chethan Kumar , Veershetty  , S K Prajwal , Machanoor Aditya V
Published: September 2024

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. crotalariae (Kulkarni) Subram. is a significant disease affecting sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea) production, leading to substantial yield losses. To understand the pathogen's biology and enhance management strategies, comprehensive investigations were conducted under laboratory and field conditions at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, during 2019-20. The pathogen was cultured on various solid media, with Richard’s agar identified as the most conducive for fungal growth, while potato dextrose agar, Czapeck’s dox agar, and Richard’s agar facilitated good sporulation. Notable variation was observed in colony morphology, including color, texture, margin, growth nature, and sporulation across the different media. Molecular characterization confirmed the pathogen as closely related to F. udum, with a 99.79% similarity to an isolate with the GenBank accession number MK575503.1. These findings provide valuable insights into the pathogen's growth characteristics and                    genetic identity.
Study on Genetic Diversity in 45 Elite Sunflower Inbred Lines (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Reddy Y. Prudhvi Kumar , Reddy B.V. Ravi Prakash , Shanthi P. , Venkataramanamma K.
Published: September 2024

The present investigation aimed to study the genetic diversity of 45 sunflower inbred lines to identify genetically distinct parents for hybridization, facilitating the development of high yielding hybrid cultivars. The field experiment was carried out during the Rabi 2023-2024 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh, India. Findings revealed significant differences among inbred lines for the studied traits. The inbred lines were grouped into six clusters using Tocher’s method. Cluster I is the largest cluster with 34 inbred lines. Maximum intra cluster distance of 15.17 is associated with cluster I whereas maximum inter cluster distance of 79.75 is found between cluster II and cluster V. Cluster VI recorded maximum means for six traits. Among the studied traits, seed yield (g/plant) (50.81) contributed maximum towards total diversity. Based on the significant genetic diversity observed among the 45 sunflower inbred lines, the study successfully identified genetically distinct parental genotypes for hybridization. This provides a foundation for developing superior hybrid cultivars with enhanced seed yield potential.
Evaluation of Antifungal Potential of Macro-Algae for Controlling Leaf Spot of Tuberose (Polianthus tuberosa L.) Incited by Alternaria polianthi
Authors: P. Mahalakshmi. , K. Manonmani. , K. Sujatha. , A Elanselvi. , L Karthiba.
Published: September 2024

Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) is one of the major commercial flower crops cultivated in Tamil Nadu. Although it has been cultivated for a long time, the significant increase in productivity is yet to be achieved. It is well recognized that the disease constitutes a major constraint in increasing the flower production. The incidence of leaf spot disease caused by the fungal pathogen Alternaria polianthi is a severe problem that leads to reduced growth and flower yield. The occurrence of seaweeds viz., Sargassum myricocystum (Brown algae), Kappaphycus alvarezii, Gracilaria edulis (Red algae), Caulorpa racemosa (Green algae) and Ulva lactuca (Green algae) from Munakkadu, Thonithurai, and Vedhalai at Mandapam, Rameshwaram taluk where as in Chennai Chaetomorpha antennia were collected. In vitro evaluation of seaweeds revealed that methanol extract of Sargassum myricocystum (5%) found to be effectively inhibited the mycelial growth of Alternaria polianthi which showed 70.33 per cent inhibition over control. A pot culture experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of seaweeds on incidence of leaf spot was revealed that foliar spray of Sargassum myricocystum @ 3% two spray at 45 and 60 days after planting was significantly reduced the leaf spot which recorded disease incidence of 21.65 PDI.
Pelaksanaan Imbal Jasa Lingkungan dalam Pemanfaatan Sumber Daya Alam Menjadi Produk Bernilai Lebih di Kecamatan Winongan, Kabupaten Pasuruan
Authors: Wicaksono Hari , Huda Nurul , Purjoko Purjoko , Juman Juman , Pujiwat Rutma , Pradhani Fastha Aulia
Published: September 2024

Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Alam berkelanjutan seiring dengan upaya pelestarian lingkungan dan peningkatan kesejahteraan ekonomi masyarakat merupakan salah satu tantangan global dan membutuhkan soludi inovatif. Salah satu pendekatan yang dapat dilakukan untuk mewujudakannya adalah dengan konsep imbal jasa lingkungan (Payment for Enviromental Service / PES), Implementasi PES dapat bervariasi, mulai dari skema lokal hingga internasional, dan mencakup berbagai jasa lingkungan seperti penyediaan air bersih, pemulihan ekosistem, perlindungan keanekaragaman hayati, perbaikan unsur hara dan penyerapan karbon. Indonesia termasuk negara yang telah melakukan implementasi konsep Pembayaran Jasa Lingkungan, salah satunya yang telah dilakukan oleh PT. Tirta Investama Aqua Keboncandi berkolaborasi dengan Yayasan Sekola Konang Indonesia (YSKI) dalam rangka konservasi tanah dan air, serta peningkatan kesadaran masyarakat mengenai pentingnya pelestarian lingkungan. Salah satu kegiatan yang telah dilaksanakan adalah program pendampingan pembuatan kompos untuk warga di kecamatan Winongan, Kabupaten Pasuruan, yang lokasinya berdekatan dengan pabrik Aqua Keboncandi. Kegiatan ini sejalan dan merupakan keberlanjutan dari program Taman Kehati Pabrik Aqua Keboncandi untuk kelestarian sumberdaya hayati dengan memanfaatkan sampah daun dan ranting di area Taman Kehati, kemudian diolah di rumah kompos dengan penambahan EM4. Hasil kegiatan menunjukkan bahwa program ini mampu meningkatkan kesadaran lingkungan masyarakat dengan 75% peserta program melaporkan perubahan perilaku positif dalam pengelolaan lingkungan. Selain itu juga diperoleh manfaat lingkungan berupa pengurangan limbah organik dan peningkatan kesuburan tanah; serta manfaat ekonomi dari pengurangan biaya produksi pertanian hingga 30% dan terciptanya sumber pendapatan tambahan bagi masyarakat. Pupuk kompos yang telah dihasilkan tidak hanya dipergunakan sebagai pupuk untuk Taman Kehati, tetapi juga dimanfaatkan oleh kelompok tani di Winongan untuk budidaya padi ramah lingkungan dan sekolah dampingan program STOMATA.
Orocline‐driven transtensional basins: Insights from the Lower Permian Manning Basin (eastern Australia)
Authors: White Llyam , Rosenbaum Gideon , Allen Charlotte M. , Shaanan Uri
Published: February 2016

The New England Orogen in eastern Australia exhibits an oroclinal structure, but its geometry and geodynamic evolution are controversial. Here we present new data from the southernmost part of the oroclinal structure, the Manning Orocline, which supposedly developed in the Early Permian, contemporaneously and/or shortly after the deposition of the Lower Permian Manning Basin. New U‐Pb detrital zircon data provide a maximum depositional age of ~288 Ma. Structural evidence from rocks of the Manning Basin indicates that both bedding and preoroclinal fold axial planes are approximately oriented parallel to the trace of the Manning Orocline. Brittle deformation was dominated by sinistral strike‐slip faulting, particularly along a major fault zone (Peel‐Manning Fault System), which is marked by the occurrence of a serpentinitic mélange, and separates tectonostratigraphic units of the New England Orogen. Our revised geological map shows that the Manning Basin is bounded by faults and serpentinites, thus indicating that basin formation was intimately linked to deformation along the Peel‐Manning Fault System. The Manning Basin is thus interpreted to be a transtensional pull‐apart basin associated with the Peel‐Manning Fault System. Age constraints and structural relationships indicate that basin formation likely occurred during the incipient stage of oroclinal bending, with block rotations and fragmentation of the transtensional pull‐apart system occurring subsequently. The intimate link between oroclinal bending and basin formation in the New England oroclines indicates that back‐arc extension, accompanied by transtensional deformation, could have played an important role in the early stage of orocline development.
Earth's ion upflow associated with polar cap patches: Global and in situ observations
Authors: Zhang Qing‐He , Zong Qiu‐Gang , Lockwood Michael , Heelis Roderick A. , Hairston Marc , Liang Jun , McCrea Ian , Zhang Bei‐Chen , Moen Jøran , Zhang Shun‐Rong , Zhang Yong‐Liang , Ruohoniemi J. Michael , Lester Mark , Thomas Evan G. , Liu Rui‐Yuan , Dunlop Malcolm W. , Liu Yong C.‐M. , Ma Yu‐Zhang
Published: February 2016

We report simultaneous global monitoring of a patch of ionization and in situ observation of ion upflow at the center of the polar cap region during a geomagnetic storm. Our observations indicate strong fluxes of upwelling O+ ions originating from frictional heating produced by rapid antisunward flow of the plasma patch. The statistical results from the crossings of the central polar cap region by Defense Meteorological Satellite Program F16–F18 from 2010 to 2013 confirm that the field‐aligned flow can turn upward when rapid antisunward flows appear, with consequent significant frictional heating of the ions, which overcomes the gravity effect. We suggest that such rapidly moving patches can provide an important source of upwelling ions in a region where downward flows are usually expected. These observations give new insight into the processes of ionosphere‐magnetosphere coupling.
Synchronicity between ice retreat and phytoplankton bloom in circum‐Antarctic polynyas
Authors: Li Yun , Ji Rubao , Jenouvrier Stephanie , Jin Meibing , Stroeve Julienne
Published: February 2016

Phytoplankton in Antarctic coastal polynyas has a temporally short yet spatially variant growth window constrained by ice cover and day length. Using 18‐year satellite measurements (1997–2015) of sea ice and chlorophyll concentrations, we assessed the synchronicity between the spring phytoplankton bloom and light availability, taking into account the ice cover and the incident solar irradiance, for 50 circum‐Antarctic coastal polynyas. The synchronicity was strong (i.e., earlier ice‐adjusted light onset leads to earlier bloom and vice versa) in most of the western Antarctic polynyas but weak in a majority of the eastern Antarctic polynyas. The west‐east asymmetry is related to sea ice production rate: the formation of many eastern Antarctic polynyas is associated with strong katabatic wind and high sea ice production rate, leading to stronger water column mixing that could damp phytoplankton blooms and weaken the synchronicity.
Enzyme Micropump‐Based Inhibitor Assays
Authors: Ortiz‐Rivera Isamar , Courtney Taylor M. , Sen Ayusman
Published: February 2016

Rapid, easy‐to‐use, and portable devices that can provide a read‐out without the need for expensive equipment represent the future of sensing technology, with applications in areas like environmental, food, chemical, and biological safety. Enzymes immobilized on a surface function as micropumps in the presence of species (e.g., substrate, cofactor, or biomarker) that trigger the enzymatic reaction. The flow speed in these devices increases with increasing reaction rate. This allows the detection of substances that inhibit the enzymatic reaction. Using this principle, sensors for toxic substances, like mercury, cadmium, cyanide, and azide, were designed using urease and catalase‐powered pumps, respectively, with limits of detection well below the concentrations permitted by the Environmental Protection Agency. The study was also extended to other inhibitors for these enzymes. The sensing range of fluid flow‐based inhibitor assays depends on the type of inhibition, the enzyme concentration on the sensing platform, and, for competitive inhibition, the concentration of substrate used.
Photovoltaic and Amplified Spontaneous Emission Studies of High‐Quality Formamidinium Lead Bromide Perovskite Films
Authors: Arora Neha , Dar M. Ibrahim , Hezam Mahmoud , Tress Wolfgang , Jacopin Gwénolé , Moehl Thomas , Gao Peng , Aldwayyan Abdulah Saleh , Deveaud Benoit , Grätzel Michael , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: February 2016

This study demonstrates the formation of extremely smooth and uniform formamidinium lead bromide (CH(NH2)2PbBr3 = FAPbBr3) films using an optimum mixture of dimethyl sulfoxide and N,N‐dimethylformamide solvents. Surface morphology and phase purity of the FAPbBr3 films are thoroughly examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction, respectively. To unravel the photophysical properties of these films, systematic investigation based on time‐integrated and time‐dependent photoluminescence studies are carried out which, respectively, bring out relatively lower nonradiative recombination rates and long lasting photogenerated charge carriers in FAPbBr3 perovskite films. The devices based on FTO/TiO2/FAPbBr3/spiro‐OMeTAD/Au show highly reproducible open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.42 V, a record for FAPbBr3‐based perovskite solar cells. Voc as a function of illumination intensity indicates that the contacts are very selective and higher Voc values are expected to be achieved when the quality of the FAPbBr3 film is further improved. Overall, the devices based on these films reveal appreciable power conversion efficiency of 7% under standard illumination conditions with negligible hysteresis. Finally, the amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) behavior explored in a cavity‐free configuration for FAPbBr3 perovskite films shows a sharp ASE threshold at a fluence of 190 μJ cm−2 with high quantum efficiency further confirming the high quality of the films.
Novel Biological Functions of ZIF‐NP as a Delivery Vehicle: High Pulmonary Accumulation, Favorable Biocompatibility, and Improved Therapeutic Outcome
Authors: Li Suxin , Wang Keke , Shi Yujie , Cui Yanan , Chen Binlong , He Bing , Dai Wenbing , Zhang Hua , Wang Xueqing , Zhong Chongli , Wu Hounan , Yang Qingyuan , Zhang Qiang
Published: February 2016

Though zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF) emerges as an advanced functional material for small‐molecule delivery due to its unique features such as high loading and pH‐sensitive degradation, there are extreme short of knowledge regarding its biological functions. To qualify this category of delivery vehicle, ZIF‐8 nanoparticles (ZIF‐NPs) with or without cargo are engineered and comprehensively investigated in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, ZIF‐NPs demonstrate strong bioadhesion but with limited internalization themselves, which enhance the membrane‐mediated ROS and are different from that of inorganic ZnO inducing mitochondria‐mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) without biomembrane damage. Unexpected high concentration is found in lung, probably due to the particle size and distribution of the nanocarriers; however, the drug levels drop dramatically with time, revealing the fast degradation and elimination. At the given doses, ZIF‐NPs exhibit reasonably biosafety in animal tests as evidenced by their acceptable system and blood biocompatibilities, and minimal impacts on the liver and renal functions, immune cells, inflammatory factors, etc. ZIF‐NPs with fluorouracil loading (5F@ZIF‐NPs) significantly improve the therapeutic outcome of lung metastasis tumor in a nude mice model. Generally, ZIF‐NPs demonstrate unique biological functions in terms of bio–nano interaction, pulmonary accumulation, biocompatibility, and antitumor therapy, which endow them potential as the delivery vehicles.
Direct Imprinting of Porous Silicon via Metal‐Assisted Chemical Etching
Authors: Azeredo Bruno P. , Lin Yu‐Wei , Avagyan Arik , Sivaguru Mayandi , Hsu Keng , Ferreira Placid
Published: February 2016

Conventional lithographical techniques used for bulk semiconductors produce dramatically poor results when used for micro and mesoporous materials such as porous silicon (PS). In this work, for the first time, a high‐throughput, single‐step, direct imprinting process for PS not involving plastic deformation or high‐temperature processing is reported. Based on the underlying mechanism of metal‐assisted chemical etching (MACE), this process uses a pre‐patterned polymer stamp coated with a noble metal catalyst to etch PS immersed in an HF‐oxidizer mixture. The process not only overcomes the difficulties in patterning PS but it does so with a stamp that may be reused multiple times depending on its chemical and mechanical degradation. The process is shown to be capable of centimeter‐scale parallel 3D patterning with sub‐20 nm resolution. It is found that PS facilitates mass transport of reactants and products, and the overall etch rate is limited by local depletion of reactants. The versatility of this direct imprinting technique is demonstrated by its ability to produce curvilinear and planar 3D features (e.g., paraboloids, parabolic cylinders, sinusoidal waves, and straight sidewall channels). Miniaturized optical elements such as diffraction gratings and microconcentrators are built and characterized highlighting potential use of PS in silicon photonics.