bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ayurvedic Management of Huntington’s Chorea (Tandava Roga): A Case of Rare Genetic Condition
Authors: Bole Mrunal Sunil , Deshmukh Sourabh , Thakre Trupti
Published: January 2025

Huntington’s chorea is a rare genetic neurodegenerative disorder. It is an inherited disease that manifests as motor, cognitive, and psychiatric abnormalities. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation involving Cytosine-Adenine-Guanine (CAG) repeat expansion on chromosome 4. According to Ayurveda, Huntington’s chorea can be correlated with Tandava Roga, as mentioned in the Sharangdhara Samhita. A 50-year-old male patient presented to the Outpatient Department of Kayachikitsa, diagnosed with Huntington’s chorea based on positive family history, molecular genetic analysis, and chief complaints of abnormal involuntary movements. The Ayurvedic treatment approach was classically based on Shodhana and Shamana. The principles used included Balya (strengthening), Vatahara, Rasayana, and nerve-stimulating actions. The patient underwent Shodhana with medicated enema (basti) for strotoshodhana (detoxification of body channels), along with other procedures such as Shashti Shali Pind Swedan, Nasya, Shirodhara, and Shirotalam for three sittings. The same treatment was followed, with the patient returning for Panchakarma procedures every two months (three sittings). Along with Shodhana, some Shamana medications were advised during the course of treatment for six months, accompanied by Pathya sevan. Assessment was done using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), which showed marked improvement, with the score reducing from 33 to 11 over six months of treatment. The Ayurvedic approach can help improve the condition of patients with Huntington’s chorea. Similar treatments can be utilised in such patients to study their efficacy in varied individual cases.
Level of Physical Activity and its Correlation with Mental Health in Community-dwelling Older Individuals: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Dalal Vipra Paragkumar , Khatri Subhash
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The global population is ageing rapidly. Physical activity is one of the important factors that can positively impact physical function, mental health and quality of life. Hence, the promotion of healthy living and active ageing is essential for achieving an active and healthy life during this phase.

Aim: To evaluate the level of physical activity and its correlation with mental health in community-dwelling older individuals.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 at the Apollo Institute of Physiotherapy in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Data was collected from various community-dwelling older individuals in East Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. The nature and purpose of the study were explained and written informed consent was obtained from a total of 111 participants. The level of physical activity was measured using the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity (RAPA) (in both English and Gujarati versions). Wellbeing status was measured using the World Health Organisation-5 (WHO-5) wellbeing index (also in English and Gujarati versions). Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to determine the correlation between the level of physical activity and wellbeing status in community-dwelling older individuals. The level of significance was set at a p-value of <0.05.

Results: The ages of participants ranged from 60 to 80 years, with a mean age of 70.11±3.98 years. Out of 111 participants, 65 were male (58.56%) and 46 were female (41.44%). The mean RAPA score for the study participants was 2.42±1.14, and the mean WHO-5 wellbeing index score of participants was 13.99±3.39. A positive correlation was found between the level of physical activity and wellbeing status (r-value=0.922, p-value=0.001), which was statistically significant.

Conclusion: The present study showed a significant very strong positive correlation between the level of physical activity and the mental health of community-dwelling older individuals. Clinicians may advise older individuals to engage in physical activity to improve their mental health outcomes.
Youth Participation and Challenges in Rural Agribusiness: A Study of Agripreneurs in Haryana, India
Authors: Jyoti  , Rani Seema , Khushbu
Published: January 2025

This study explores the participation of rural youth in agribusiness enterprises, focusing on their involvement, motivations, experience, and the challenges they encounter. However, despite its significance, rural youth often face obstacles such as limited access to resources, market linkages, and relevant skills. To address these issues, this research was conducted across four districts of Haryana—Bhiwani, Jind, Hisar, and Kurukshetra—where Agri Business Centers are located. A total of 60 agripreneurs formed the study sample and data were gathered through structured interviews based on a well-validated questionnaire. Results revealed that over half of the participants had 3 to 5 years of experience in farming and agribusiness. Key motivational factors for engaging in agribusiness included well-developed entrepreneurial skills and easy access to raw materials. Most respondents were involved in livestock management and food processing activities. However, they faced significant challenges, such as difficulties in obtaining certification, lack of access to loans, limited awareness of modern agricultural technologies, and low confidence levels. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to overcome financial, infrastructural, and skill-related barriers faced by rural youth in agribusiness, recommending enhanced access to credit, certification support, entrepreneurial training, and public-private partnerships to foster sustainable rural development.
Enhancing Sustainability with Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan (l.) Millsp) Based Cropping Systems in India: Insights and Practices
Authors: Honnappa H. M. , Bhogi Basavarajappa , G.K.Ningaraju  , Niak K. P. Suresh
Published: January 2025

Intercropping systems involving pigeon pea significantly enhance productivity, economic returns, and land-use efficiency compared to sole cropping systems. Studies highlight that transplanting 4–5-week-old pigeon pea seedlings, particularly with finger millet, soybean, or mungbean, improves pigeon pea equivalent yield (PEY), land equivalent ratio (LER), and net returns due to better resource utilization and reduced competition. Legume-based intercropping systems leverage complementary nutrient dynamics and higher market value, achieving superior returns. Integrated nutrient management (INM) further optimizes growth, yield, and soil fertility, enhancing system sustainability. Strategic planting geometries, such as paired rows and additive systems, maximize the synergy between crops, while spatial arrangements like pigeon pea + black gram-wheat sequences yield high productivity (17.70 q ha⁻¹) and profitability (₹23,867 ha⁻¹). Utilizing nitrogen-fixing legumes in rotation systems significantly boosts land-use efficiency and energy utilization. Conventional tillage systems improve yields of pigeon pea and finger millet through enhanced weed control, while INM strategies provide synchronized nutrient supply in rotation systems, optimizing grain and straw yields. Intercropping pigeon peas with sorghum or sunflower notably reduces pod damage and wilt incidence. These systems also promote ecological benefits, such as enhanced activity of predators, parasitoids, and insectivorous birds, which mitigate pest populations. Integrated pest management (IPM) within intercropping systems further reduces pod borer damage and improves productivity. For instance, pigeon pea intercropped with sorghum recorded reduced pest incidence, lower pod damage, and higher productivity compared to sole cropping. These benefits stem from intercrop-emitted volatile compounds that deter pests and encourage predator activity. Overall, the adoption of intercropping systems with pigeon pea, coupled with INM and IPM practices, ensures sustainable intensification of agriculture by enhancing productivity, profitability, and ecological balance while maintaining soil health. This makes intercropping a vital strategy for achieving sustainable agricultural growth.
Perceived Effectiveness of AgriTecH in Disseminating Oil Palm Production Technologies in Western Tanzania
Authors: Adam Moses Richard , Kidudu Joshua S. , Mwaseba Dismas L.
Published: January 2025

Dissemination of agricultural technology is vital to increasing sustainability and productivity; hence it is important to assess how well it reaches and benefits farmers. This study aimed at evaluating farmers’ perceived effectiveness of AgriTecH in the dissemination of improved oil palm production technologies in Tabora and Katavi regions in the Western zone of Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods research design involving quantitative and qualitative methodologies. A semi structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from a sample of 120 respondents while focus group discussions and key informant interviews were employed to obtain qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme while content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The study found that overall, farmers’ perception about AgriTecH’s effectiveness was positive with a mean score of 4.11 ± 0.03 suggesting that they perceived AgriTecH as effective in the dissemination of improved oil palm production technologies. In particular, AgriTecH was perceived to be the most effective in the reliability indicator with a mean score of 4.13 ± 0.03 and the least effective in the tangibility indicator with a mean score of 3.96 ± 02.
The study concludes that while AgriTecH supports farmers with services that are accessible, responsive, and reliable; however, improvements in the physical infrastructure and upholding high standards in service delivery are necessary for effective extension delivery.
Study on the Regional Differences of New Quality Productivity in Various Regions of China
Authors: Huang Wenpeng , Su Wei , Liu Siqi
Published: January 2025

This paper constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system for new quality productive forces based on three core dimensions: laborers, objects of labor, and means of production. The study emphasizes that improving new quality productive forces is a critical driver for promoting regional development and fostering balanced growth in China's national economy. Using the entropy method, it quantitatively measures the development levels of new quality productive forces across 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2022. The selection of these 30 provinces excludes Special Administrative Regions, Autonomous Regions, and Municipalities to ensure consistency in administrative structure and data comparability. Data were sourced from official statistical yearbooks and related reports, with normalization conducted to ensure the comparability of indicators across regions and time periods. Furthermore, the Kernel density estimation method is applied to analyze spatial-temporal distribution differences and the dynamic evolution characteristics of new quality productive forces nationwide and in the three major regions: Eastern, Central, and Western China. The results indicate that the overall development level of new quality productive forces shows a continuous upward trend, albeit with significant regional disparities. The Eastern region leads significantly, driven by its strong economic foundation, policy support, and innovation-driven growth. The Central region exhibits fluctuations in certain years and provinces, but the overall development trend remains positive. The Western region has relatively low overall development levels, though provinces such as Sichuan and Chongqing show promising potential. These findings highlight the need for targeted policies to address regional imbalances and unlock new drivers of economic growth.
Agroforestry Systems Based on Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae): Socio-Economic Yield and Environmental Insights from the Peripheries of Benoué National Park, Cameroon
Authors: HAIWA Gilbert , DJIBRILLA Mana , TISSIDI David , MAILAISSO Marie Yvonne , GREY Bossera , Tchobsala
Published: January 2025

Biodiversity, a natural biological capital of the earth that presents important opportunities for all societies, provides goods and services essential for human livelihoods and aspirations. Thus, this study aims to investigate agroforestry models of western Anacardium parks in the southern and western zones of the Bénoué National Park (North Cameroon), in order to determine the most appropriate system for the study area. More specifically, the aim is to: characterize the diversity of crops associated with Anacardium occidentale; estimate crop yields obtained in Anacardium occidentale parks; assess the socio-economic and environmental impact of the Anacardium occidentale parks established. The Ishikawa tool enabled us to analyze and visualize the socio-economic and environmental impact of the agroforestry parks established, and using the KoboCollect tool, the survey form was drawn up and administered to the producers. Crops associated with Anacardium occidentale include maize, soya, cowpeas, groundnuts, cotton, yams, cassava, millet and sesame. The most common are cashew-peanut (27 %), cashew-maize (24 %), cashew-cassava (21 %) and cashew-millet (17 %). The results showed that the cashew-rachis system produced 42,800 kg, the cashew-maize system 36,700 kg and the cashew-manioc system recorded the highest production of 46,100 kg. The study also highlighted the potential socio-economic benefits of collaboration between trees and crops associated with the preservation of soil biological activity by cashew trees. In the environmental level, the equipment used by growers is traditional and has no impact on soil quality. Western Anacardium plantations offer growers numerous partnership opportunities, with cashew by-products widely consumed, sold and recycled. This integration can have mutual benefits for both partners (trees and crops). This research topic provides added value in the environmental field, in that it provides a solution to the problem of soil degradation from which many farmers suffer, and increases production while maintaining the soil in a healthy state. It also contributes to achieving the goals of sustainable development, which are to protect biological diversity (ODD15), ensure food security (ODD2) and the living conditions of human populations (ODD3).
Assessment of the Diversity of Endophytic, Rhizospheric and Soil Bacteria Using a Targeted Metagenomic Approach in Mali
Authors: Kassogué Adounigna , Traore Soufiana , Dao Sognan , Dara Antoine , Sissoko Sekou , Cissé Cheickna , Diallo Kangaye Amadou , Fané Rokiatou , Traoré Atia , Wélé Mamadou , Babana Amadou Hamadoun
Published: January 2025

Aims: This study investigates the diversity of endophytic, rhizospheric, and soil bacterial species in agricultural ecosystems in Mali using a targeted metagenomic approach based on 16S rRNA sequencing. The primary aim is to characterize microbial communities and understand their potential roles in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in Mali's unique environmental conditions.
Study Design: The study involved several key steps to ensure rigorous data acquisition and analysis. First, the raw sequence files (ab1 format) were converted into FASTA format, followed by the concatenation of sequenced fragments with both sense and antisense primers. Next, forward and reverse sequences were aligned, and a consensus sequence was generated for each sample. The sequences were then compared using the BLAST algorithm to identify bacterial species, and phylogenetic analysis was performed to assess evolutionary relationships and microbial diversity across samples.
Location and Duration of the Study: The research was carried out at the African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and LaboREM-Biotech, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Bamako, Mali, from [insert time frame of study].
Methodology: Bacterial strains were selected from the microbial collection at LaboREM-Biotech. 16S rRNA sequencing was performed using the Sanger sequencing method. Data were processed and analyzed using a combination of bioinformatic tools, including sequence alignment, BLAST for species identification, and phylogenetic tree construction using relevant software. This methodology allowed for the precise identification of bacterial species and provided insights into the diversity of microbial communities in agricultural soils, rhizospheres, and plant roots.
Results: A total of 35 bacterial species were identified, representing four major phyla and six bacterial classes. Among these, Bacillus emerged as the most predominant genus. Detailed phylogenetic analysis highlighted significant genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships in the Bacillus genus.
Significance and Applications: The diversity of microbial communities identified in this study has significant implications for sustainable agriculture in Mali. The Bacillus and Alcaligenes genera, could be harnessed to improve soil fertility and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, these microbial strains can be used to manage soil-borne diseases and enhance crop resilience.
Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the microbial diversity in Mali’s agricultural environments, highlighting the importance of bacteria in maintaining soil health and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Characterisation of Eggplant (Solanum melongena) Sauerkraut Stored in Sugar-Salt Osmotic Solution
Authors: Ojo Moses Ayodele , Ohijeagbon O. R. , Ngoddy L. A. , Ade-Omowaye B. I. O.
Published: January 2025

Eggplant (Solanum melongena), one of the most common food crops in the world, has been reported to be a source of nutritionally important phytochemicals that are of health benefits although there is a dearth of its harness in the diversity of diets. The study aimed at evaluating sauerkraut produced from eggplant during storage in a sugar-salt osmotic solution. The eggplant sauerkraut was produced by fermentation in 2.5% brine for 2 weeks and storage studies (28±2 ˚C, 4 weeks) were conducted on the sauerkraut in 2.5% brine (sample A0), 1% sucrose in 2.5% brine (A1), 2% sucrose in 2.5% brine (A2) and 3% sucrose in 2.5% brine (A3). Selected parameters were monitored on the raw eggplant, freshly prepared and stored sauerkraut using standard methods in the literature. The pH, crude fibre, ash, protein and vitamin C contents of the raw eggplant were 6.50, 0.66%, 0.55%, 0.94% and 9.12 mg/100g, respectively. Storing the sauerkraut in osmotic solutions caused significant changes  in the nutritional properties. The highest fibre and protein contents of 2.41 and 2.63%, respectively were recorded for sample A3 after four weeks of storage. Although the osmotic solutions provided a good medium for product stability, all the sauerkraut samples experienced a decrease in the vitamin C content with an increase in storage time. Sauerkraut stored in medium containing 3% sucrose (Sample A3) had the highest sensory scores in appearance, aroma, taste and overall acceptability and the best judgment in terms of saltiness and firmness among samples stored in sucrose-containing osmotic solutions. Storing eggplant sauerkraut in osmotic solutions can reduce postharvest loses, enhance dietary diversity, product stability, and availability of eggplant during off-season thus, contributing to achieving SDGs 1 and 2 (zero hunger and no poverty).
Antibiotics Resistance and Abundance of Some Bacteria from Agricultural and Non-agricultural Soil in One of the Most Agriculturally-active Settings in West Cameroon
Authors: Nkamguia Loïc Kevin Kamgaing , Youté O’Neal Dorsel , Kweyang Blandine Pulcherie Tamatcho , Kougang Esther Guladys , Koul Pascal Blaise Well à Well à , Feukeu Adolarice Nana , Noche Christelle Domngang , Kwetche Pierre René Fotsing
Published: January 2025

Background: Agriculture is also concerned with the problem of bacterial resistance because agricultural soils are reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistant genes.
Objective: An investigation about ARB was carried out on agricultural soils in Mangoum, a neighborhood of the Foumbot municipality (Noun division, West Cameroon).
Methods: It was conducted as a cross-sectional descriptive study with a total of 46 soil specimens collected from plant farms and a control plot. Isolation, enumeration and antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed according to standard protocols.
Results: The bacteria recovered included Aeromonas spp., Chryseobacterium spp., Pseudomonas spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Gram-positive rods. Their loads in the farmland soils were significantly lower than in the control plot. Overall, susceptibility tests performed with 169 bacterial colony morphotypes revealed high resistance rates. Also, most of the isolates expressed multidrug-resistance to the antibiotics used, while highest resistance rates were recorded with isolates form agricultural plots. Levofloxacin, Imipenem, Gentamicin and Ciprofloxacin were globally the most effective.
Conclusion: Agreeing with previous surveys conducted on animal farms, these findings could provide support to the sustainable orientation of policies regarding the control of antimicrobial resistance in Cameroon from the One Health perspective.
Water-Smart Farming: Strategies, Technologies, and Practices for Smallholder Farmers in a Changing Climate
Authors: Rao Abhishek Govind , Singh Shailesh Kumar , Sharma Sanjay Kumar , Sahay Ratna , Sharma NK , Kumar Mohil
Published: January 2025

Increases in human population and world temperatures, which have risen by 1.1°C in the last ten years, are already making it more difficult for agriculture to get water in areas where it is limited. The concept of "water-smart farming" was created to solve issues related to the accessibility, availability, and usage of agricultural water. In climate-smart agriculture, it supports aims and practices pertaining to agricultural water. It includes several water-saving techniques, tools, and technology for growing food sustainably, as well as cropping systems that adapt to changing climate conditions. The urgent problem of agricultural water competition can be lessened with the successful application of water-smart farming. Therefore, this review introduces the conceptual framework of water-smart farming and its main components or ideology. In situations when water is scarcer than land and other resources used in production, increasing crop water productivity is an important response strategy. A growing, wealthier, and more urbanized population places increasing demands on food, which can be met with improvements in agricultural water productivity. However, there is also a pressing need to achieve improvements in agricultural water management because of pressure to reallocate water from agriculture to cities and to increase the amount of water available for environmental purposes. Water clearly has a role in reducing poverty and promoting economic progress. The review also briefly shows the contribution of some of these best practices and adaptive technologies of water-smart cropping toward promoting water-saving methods used for crops and vegetables.
Effect of Irrigation, Tillage and Residue Retention on Performance and Economics of Soybean–Wheat Cropping System
Authors: Sonpure S. B. , Raut V. G. , Patil V. V. , Tumbare A. D.
Published: January 2025

A field experiment was conducted during 2017-18 and 2018-19 at Post Graduate Institute Research Farm, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist. Ahilyanagar Maharashtra (India). The soil of experimental field was sandy loam in texture with low in available nitrogen (181.25 kg ha-1), medium in available phosphorous (15.70 kg ha-1) and very high in potassium (470.40 kg ha-1). The soil organic carbon content, pH and EC were 0.55 %, 8.04, and 0.32 dSm-1, respectively. The physical properties of soil viz., field capacity (33.35 %), permanent wilting point (16.67 %) and bulk density (1.28 g cm-3) indicates that soil was good in water retention capacity. The experiment was laid out in split plot design during kharif season and split-split plot design during rabi season with three replications. The treatment consists of four main plot treatments of irrigation scheduling i.e. DASM- depletion of available soil moisture viz., I1 – 40 % of DASM, I2 – 50 % of DASM, I3 – 60 % of DASM and I4 – As per CGS (critical growth stages) and two sub plot treatments of tillage practices viz., T1 – Zero tillage, T2 – Conventional tillage for kharif soybean. During rabi season the main and sub plot treatments remain same but the sub plot treatments were divided into three sub plot treatments of crop residue management viz., R1 – No crop residue, R2 – Crop residue, R3 -  Crop residue + composting culture to wheat crop as a sub-sub plot treatment. The conventional tillage practice and scheduling of irrigation at 40 per cent of DASM to kharif soybean followed by cultivation of rabi wheat under conventional tillage practice with scheduling of irrigation at 40 per cent of DASM and application of soybean crop residue + composting culture obtained higher system productivity, production efficiency and economic efficiency, gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and B:C ratio in soybean-wheat cropping system.
Screening of Potato Varieties/Entries Against Common Scab (Streptomyces scabiei) of Potato
Authors: Patel J. K. , Jaiman R. S. , Zapadiya D. M. , Vaghela S. J. , Patel R. N. , Shinde Manisha S.
Published: January 2025

Common scab of potato, caused by Streptomyces scabiei (Thaxter) Waksman & Henriki, a significant and increasingly prevalent disease in North Gujarat, is a major threat to potato cultivation in the region. The field experiment was carried out at the Potato Research Station, S. D. Agricultural University, Deesa, Gujarat in two successive cropping seasons (2021-22 and 2022-23) to screen the potato varieties/entries against common scab (Streptomyces scabiei) of potato. Out of 30 varieties/entries screened against common scab, non was found free from disease but two varieties namely, Kufri Sindhuri and Kufri Gaurav were found moderately resistant, four varieties/entries (K. Chipsona-3, AICRP-PH-3, K. Sukhyati and K. Lalit) were found as moderately susceptible and twenty-one varieties/entries were found as susceptible while three varieties/entries were found as highly susceptible.
Protein Fouling Characteristics of Graphene Oxide Membranes
Authors: Rode Richard , Schmid Michael , Moghaddam Saeed
Published: December 2021

Advancing the knowledge of surfaces and protein interactions is paramount to development of non‐fouling membranes for many applications, particularly continuous blood flow wearable and implantable devices. Here, highly controlled experiments to understand the effect of graphene oxide (GO) surface properties on its protein adsorption are presented. A newly developed self‐assembly process is implemented to build a GO membrane with an atomically smooth surface to eliminate the effect of surface roughness on protein adsorption. The GO oxidation level is varied to change the overall membrane hydrophilicity while the nanoplatelets size and edge area is maintained constant. The fouling characteristics of the membrane are examined through scanning electron microscope imaging and long‐term water flux measurements. These measurements unambiguously prove that proteins are primarily adsorbed on the basal areas of nanoplatelets, on the graphitic regions, away from the nanoplatelets edges. As a result, while decreasing the oxidation level reduced the overall surface hydrophilicity leading to more protein adsorption, the membrane mass flux is minimally impacted. Studies on a polymer membrane under similar conditions show expansion of protein agglomerates over time leading to formation of large biofilm domains, while the GO nanoplatelets edges function as a barrier to formation of an expansive biofilm.
Utility practices and perspectives on monitoring and source control of cyanobacterial blooms
Authors: Kibuye Faith A. , Almuhtaram Husein , Zamyadi Arash , Gaget Virginie , Owen Christine , Hofmann Ron , Wert Eric C.
Published: December 2021

Thirty‐five utilities across the United States (54%), Australia (26%), and Canada (20%) were surveyed to identify their experiences with early warning monitoring and source control of cyanobacteria. All utilities experience pelagic blooms, but only 20% monitor for benthic cyanobacteria. Most utilities (86%) have early warning monitoring programs. However, monitoring frequencies and long analytical turnaround times negatively impacted the effective use of monitoring data for rapid bloom detection and prompt implementation of reactive measures to control blooms/bloom‐related issues. Thus, a tiered monitoring approach is recommended: Tier 1–event detection, Tier 2–cyanobacteria confirmation, and Tier 3–metabolite confirmation. Most utilities (68%) implement source control strategies for cyanobacteria, with algaecides and aeration being the most frequently used (36%). Utilities relied on manufacturer recommendations to design source control strategies, although site‐specific optimization is needed based on water quality/bloom conditions. Control strategies were restricted by source geometry, limited optimization, metabolite generation, and environmental impacts. Successful source control of cyanobacteria was further negatively impacted by external nutrient loading. Therefore, source control strategies should be implemented jointly with external nutrient control initiatives.
Development of a new CO2 liquefaction system using the Linde–Hampson process, Kalina power generation unit, and flat plate solar collectors with Al2O3/H2O nanofluid
Authors: Ghorbani Bahram , Khatami Jouybari Alireza
Published: December 2021

Greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere have had devastating environmental effects, including ozone depletion and global warming. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is widely used in oil and gas plants, the food industry, and as a working fluid in the power industry. Carbon dioxide is liquefied for long‐term storage, to be transported to remote areas, and is used for peak shaving in the power plants. Solar flat plate collectors and wasted heat from the CO2 liquefaction system can be used in power plant systems. Also, the use of nanoparticles in the collectors improves the thermal properties of the working fluid and increases the efficiency of solar collectors. This study has developed a new hybrid system for CO2 liquefaction using Linde–Hampson system, Kalina power generation unit, and flat plate solar collectors. The Linde–Hampson system's dissipated heat and solar collectors are used to supplying part of the power of the CO2 liquefaction system. The combined system produces 9416 kmol/h of liquid CO2 by absorbing 35.97 MW of power. The Kalina power generation unit provides 9.546 MW of power by absorbing 76.98 MW of the CO2 liquefaction cycle's dissipated heat and 91.18 MW from flat plate collectors. Based on the output of exergy assessment, exergy efficiency and exergy degradation of the developed integrated structure are 44.16% and 118.3 MW, respectively. Moreover, significant portions of exergy destruction in the combined process belong to solar collectors (74.68%), heat exchangers (12.47%), and compressors (7.157%), respectively. The use of Al2O3 nanoparticles in pure water has been investigated for heat transfer in flat panel solar collectors. According to the sensitivity analysis results, as the volume ratio of particles in nanofluid increases to 6%, the production capacity of the Kalina cycle and exergy efficiency improves to 9.56 MW and 9.522%, respectively. Also, as the pressure of the pumped fluid in the Kalina cycle increases from 800 to 1600 kPa, the exergy yield of the Kalina cycle and the exergy yield of the whole combined system increase to 36.34% and 44.26%, respectively.
COVID‐19 and access to cancer care in Kenya: patient perspective
Authors: Umar Shahid , Chybisov Andriy , McComb Kristie , Nyongesa Catherine , Mugo‐Sitati Christine , Bosire Anastacia , Muya Charles , Leach Corinne R.
Published: December 2021

COVID‐19 disruptions severely impacted access to health services for noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, but few studies have examined patient perspectives of COVID‐19‐induced barriers to care in low/middle‐income countries. Data come from a survey completed online, over the phone or in person of 284 adult people with cancer in Kenya. One‐third (36%) of participants had primary or no education and 34% had some or complete secondary education. Half of the participants (49%) were aged 40 to 59, 21% were 18 to 39 and 23% were 60 or older. Two‐thirds were female (65%) and most visited a national referral hospital in Nairobi to receive care (84%). Mean travel time to Nairobi from the respondent county of residence was 2.47 hours (±2.73). Most participants reported decreased household income (88%) and were worried about their ability to afford cancer treatment due to COVID‐19 (79%). After covariate adjustment, participants who lost access to hospitals due to COVID‐19 travel restrictions were 15 times more likely to experience a cancer care delay (OR = 14.90, 95% CI: 7.44‐29.85) compared to those with continued access to hospitals. Every additional hour of travel time to Nairobi from their county of residence resulted in a 20% increase in the odds of a cancer care delay (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.06‐1.36). Transportation needs and uninterrupted access to cancer care and medicines should be accounted for in COVID‐19 mitigation strategies. These strategies include permits for cancer patients and caregivers to travel past curfew time or through block posts to receive care during lockdowns, cash assistance and involving patient navigators to improve patient communication.
mdm2 gene amplification is associated with luminal breast cancer progression in humanized PDX mice and a worse outcome of estrogen receptor positive disease
Authors: Wege Anja Kathrin , Rom‐Jurek Eva‐Maria , Jank Paul , Denkert Carsten , Ugocsai Peter , Solbach Christine , Blohmer Jens‐Uwe , Sinn Bruno , van Mackelenbergh Marion , Möbus Volker , Trumpp Andreas , Marangoni Elisabetta , Pfarr Nicole , Irlbeck Christoph , Warfsmann Jens , Polzer Bernhard , Weber Florian , Ortmann Olaf , Loibl Sibylle , Vladimirova Valentina , Brockhoff Gero
Published: December 2021

Estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer is a highly prevalent but heterogeneous disease among women. Advanced molecular stratification is required to enable individually most efficient treatments based on relevant prognostic and predictive biomarkers. First objective of our study was the hypothesis‐driven discovery of biomarkers involved in tumor progression upon xenotransplantation of Luminal breast cancer into humanized mice. The second objective was the marker validation and correlation with the clinical outcome of Luminal breast cancer disease within the GeparTrio trial. An elevated mdm2 gene copy number was associated with enhanced tumor growth and lung metastasis in humanized tumor mice. The viability, proliferation and migration capacity of inherently mdm2 positive breast cancer cells in vitro were significantly reduced upon mdm2 knockdown or anti‐mdm2 targeting. An mdm2 gain significantly correlated with a worse DFS and OS of Luminal breast cancer patients, albeit it was also associated with an enhanced preoperative pathological response rate. We provide evidence for an enhanced Luminal breast cancer stratification based on mdm2. Moreover, mdm2 can potentially be utilized as a therapeutic target in the Luminal subtype.
Phosphorus‐nitrogen compounds part 59. The syntheses of tetrachloro and tetraamino‐2‐pyridylmethylspiro(N/N)ethylenediaminocyclotriphosphazenes: Structural characterization, bioactivity, and molecular docking studies
Authors: Bozkurt Bilge , Elmas Gamze , Yakut Mehtap , Okumuş Aytuğ , Çerçi Nebahat Aytuna , Zeyrek Celal Tuğrul , Kılıç Zeynel , Açık Leyla , Hökelek Tuncer
Published: December 2021

In this study, primarily, tetrachloro‐2‐pyridylmethylspiro‐N/N‐ethylenediamino‐cyclotriphosphazenes (4 and 5) were prepared from the reactions of equimolar amounts of N‐alkyl‐N′‐2‐pyridylmethylethylenediamines, [PyCH2NH(CH2)2NHR (R:CH3, 2 and R:C2H5, 3)], and hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene [(HCCP, trimer), N3P3Cl6 (1)]. Compounds 4 and 5 react with secondary amines to yield the fully substituted tetraamino‐2‐pyridylmethylspiro‐N/N‐ethylenediamino‐cyclotriphosphazenes (4a–5c) in dry THF, respectively. These derivatives were obtained by both conventional and microwave‐assisted reactions, and their yields were compared. In addition, it should also be noted that these cyclotriphosphazenes were obtained for use in the investigation of their spectral, crystallographic, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. The structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectral data. The crystal structures of 4, 5a, and 5c were clarified by the single crystal X‐ray diffraction technique. Antibacterial activities and biofilm preventions of 4a–c and 5a–c against bacteria, and their antifungal activities against fungi were investigated. According to broth microdilution method, the results showed that all compounds were highly effective against C. albicans. The interactions of these compounds with DNA and their cytotoxic activities against L929 fibroblast and A549 lung cancer cell lines were investigated. In addition, Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations of 4, 5a, and 5c were made, and molecular docking studies with DNA and cytochrome P450 enzyme were presented.
The effect of casirivimab with imdevimab on disease progression in nonsevere COVID‐19 patients in a single hospital in Japan
Authors: Komagamine Junpei , Yabuki Taku , Yoshihara Satsuki , Tanaka Nao
Published: December 2021

Background

Recent randomized trials have revealed that neutralizing monoclonal antibodies can reduce disease progression in mild–moderate COVID‐19 patients. However, no studies have investigated the effect of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies on clinical outcomes in Japan.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective and prospective cohort study was conducted. All consecutive febrile nonsevere COVID‐19 patients with at least one risk factor were included. The primary outcome was progression to severe COVID‐19. Severe COVID‐19 cases were defined as patients requiring oxygen therapy and dexamethasone. The differences in the primary outcomes between the patients who were treated with casirivimab with imdevimab (treatment group) and those who were not (control group) were compared using the chi‐squared test.

Results

A total of 128 patients were included. Of those, the mean age was 53.6 years old (SD 9.9), and 52 (40.6%) were women. Fifty‐three patients were treated with casirivimab with imdevimab, and 75 patients were given the standard treatment only. The primary outcome occurred in eight (15.1%) of the 53 patients in the treatment group and 33 (44.0%) of the 75 patients in the control group (odd ratio [OR] 0.23, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.55). The multivariate analysis revealed that the use of casirivimab with imdevimab (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.54) was the only independent risk factor associated with progression to severe COVID‐19. No patients died during hospitalization in either group.

Conclusion

Similar to other countries, casirivimab with imdevimab significantly reduced disease progression in early nonsevere COVID‐19 patients with fever and risk factors in Japan.
Can augmented reality satisfy consumers' need for touch?
Authors: Gatter Shirin , Hüttl‐Maack Verena , Rauschnabel Philipp A.
Published: December 2021

Consumers with a high autotelic need for touch tend to experience deprivation because they cannot touch products while shopping online. Augmented reality (AR) in retail allows consumers to explore products virtually as if they were present in the physical environment, except the fact that they are not touchable. This study investigates whether AR can compensate for this lack of touch or whether, on the contrary, these consumers are skeptical because they crave even more real haptic input. The results of four studies consistently show that consumers' autotelic need for touch is associated with benefits that positively impact various managerially relevant outcomes such as store and product attitudes or purchase intentions. However, the results also point to differences between expected and experienced hedonic and utilitarian benefits along the customer journey. Hedonic benefits prevail when consumers with a high need for touch actually experience AR, while they instead expect utilitarian benefits. The findings contribute to the AR marketing and online retailing literature by demonstrating that AR features can mimic touchable features of products. They also highlight the practical benefits of AR as a powerful tool in digital marketing.
A new phosphorus flame‐retard curing agent for epoxy resin/anhydride system
Authors: Han Yichen , Zhao Hui , Chen Jichuan , Wang Xinlong , Chen Lixin , Ran Di , Wang Zhenyu , Zeng Panjin
Published: December 2021

A new phosphorus containing anhydride (DPO‐MA) curing agent is successfully synthesized via the addition reaction between diphenylphosphinoxid (DPO) and maleic anhydride (MA). It can improve the flame retardancy of epoxy resin (EP) without significantly deteriorating its mechanical properties. Due to the high efficiency of the gas phase flame‐retard mechanism, only 1.0 wt% of phosphorus is sufficient to increase the LOI value to 33.1% and UL‐94 to V0 rating. Cone calorimetry data shows that the peak of heat release decreases more than 42% than that of neat EP during combustion. Besides, the rigid DPO skeleton in the molecular chain can greatly improve the Tg value of the DPO‐MA/EP‐1.0, which is as high as 125°C, much higher than that of neat EP. Thus, this work exhibits a great potential value for EP materials.
Quantitative features to assist in the diagnostic assessment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia progression†
Authors: Merino Anna , Rodellar José
Published: December 2021

The use of artificial intelligence methods in the image‐based diagnostic assessment of hematological diseases is a growing trend in recent years. In these methods, the selection of quantitative features that describe cytological characteristics plays a key role. They are expected to add objectivity and consistency among observers to the geometric, color, or texture variables that pathologists usually interpret from visual inspection. In a recent paper in The Journal of Pathology, El Hussein, Chen et al proposed an algorithmic procedure to assist pathologists in the diagnostic evaluation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) progression using whole‐slide image analysis of tissue samples. The core of the procedure was a set of quantitative descriptors (biomarkers) calculated from the segmentation of cell nuclei, which was performed using a convolutional neural network. These biomarkers were based on clinical practice and easily calculated with reproducible tools. They were used as input to a machine learning algorithm that provided classification in one of the stages of CLL progression. Works like this can contribute to the integration into the workflow of clinical laboratories of automated diagnostic systems based on the morphological analysis of histological slides and blood smears. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Deciphering the fluorescence quenching mechanism of a flavonoid drug following interaction with human hemoglobin
Authors: Sett Riya , Paul Bijan K. , Guchhait Nikhil
Published: December 2021

The present work demonstrates comprehensive spectrofluorometric characterization of interaction of a bioactive flavonoid quercetin (QCT) with the transport protein human hemoglobin (Hb) by protein‐induced quenching phenomenon. Interaction between such a pharmacologically essential drug and Hb has been enlightened by means of steady‐state and time‐resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The protein‐induced Stern–Volmer quenching study of QCT depicts an upward curvature that cannot be an outcome of only the static quenching arising from ground‐state complexation. Therefore, an extensive time‐resolved fluorescence characterization of the quenching process has been performed to discern the actuating quenching mechanism. However, the estimated value of bimolecular quenching constant (kq) from the diffusion‐controlled quenching study hints for dynamic quenching phenomenon. Finally, the significant amplification of the average lifetime of QCT as a function of protein concentration aids to resolve this conflict affirming the quenching phenomenon to be an exquisite drug–protein binding interaction. Not only the quenching mechanism has been established, but also the binding parameters and location of binding within the microheterogeneous cavity of Hb has been explicated. AutoDock‐based “blind docking” simulation has been employed to conquer probable binding location of the drug within protein cavity. Nevertheless, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy depicts the modification of the native conformation of Hb, which is indicative of this binding phenomenon.
Dual Junction GaInP/GaAs Solar Cell with Enhanced Efficiency Using Type‐A InP Quantum Wells
Authors: Verma Manish , Mishra Guru Prasad
Published: December 2021

Multijunction solar cells (SCs) have excellent potential to achieve higher efficiency for increased sun concentration. The two‐step photon absorption in the quantum wells (QWs) can further enhance the performance of the solar cell. A GaInP/GaAs dual junction solar cell is proposed with InP QWs. The type‐A InP QWs are inserted in the intrinsic region of the top cell because in the top cell, short‐circuit current governs the overall cell current. The voltage preservation is applied by careful structuring of the p–i–n region at the top cell. The sub‐band photon absorption enhances the external and internal quantum efficiency (QE) of the top cell, and both cells have above 90% QEs. The peak efficiencies of 44.09% under 1 sun and 48.18% under 1000 sun concentrations are achieved, and the performance is compared with the available experimental and simulated data.
Differentiation of leucine and isoleucine residues in peptides using charge transfer dissociation mass spectrometry (CTD‐MS)
Authors: Edwards Halle M. , Wu Hoi‐Ting , Julian Ryan R. , Jackson Glen P.
Published: December 2021

Rationale

The function of a protein or the binding affinity of an antibody can be substantially altered by the replacement of leucine (Leu) with isoleucine (Ile), and vice versa, so the ability to identify the correct isomer using mass spectrometry can help resolve important biological questions. Tandem mass spectrometry approaches for Leu/Ile (Xle) discrimination have been developed, but they all have certain limitations.

Methods

Four model peptides and two wild‐type peptide sequences containing either Leu or Ile residues were subjected to charge transfer dissociation (CTD) mass spectrometry on a modified three‐dimensional ion trap. The peptides were analyzed in both the 1+ and 2+ charge states, and the results were compared to conventional collision‐induced dissociation spectra of the same peptides obtained using the same instrument.

Results

CTD resulted in 100% sequence coverage for each of the studied peptides and provided a variety of side‐chain cleavages, including d, w and v ions. Using CTD, reliable d and w ions of Xle residues were observed more than 80% of the time. When present, d ions are typically greater than 10% of the abundance of the corresponding a ions from which they derive, and w ions are typically more abundant than the z ions from which they derive.

Conclusions

CTD has the benefit of being applicable to both 1+ and 2+ precursor ions, and the overall performance is comparable to that of other high‐energy activation techniques like hot electron capture dissociation and UV photodissociation. CTD does not require chemical modifications of the precursor peptides, nor does it require additional levels of isolation and fragmentation.