bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Activity of Salvia compressa Vent.
Authors: Noorbakhsh Firoozeh , Zare Somayeh , Firuzi Omidreza , Sakhteman Amirhossein , Chandran Jima N. , Schneider Bernd , Jassbi Amir Reza
Published: September 2022

Background: Salvia extracts have various biological activities and are rich sources of bioactive metabolites. Objectives: We identified five phytochemicals from S. compressa extract and assessed its biological properties. Methods: The plant's shoots were extracted using dichloromethane, and the constituents were isolated using column chromatography. High-resolution NMR spectroscopy characterized the chemical structures of the compounds (1 - 5). The cytotoxic effect of the extract was examined against MCF-7 cells by MTT reduction assay, while cisplatin was tested as a reference cytotoxic compound. The antibacterial activity was assessed using nutrient broth micro-dilution (NBMD), and chloramphenicol was used as the positive control Results: Citrostadienol (1), β-sitosterol (2), two glyceride esters of linolenic, linoleic, and palmitic acids (3, 4), and geraniol (5) were isolated from S. compressa for the first time. The extract showed activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells and reduced cell viability to 68.2 ± 13.1% compared to the control drug at the concentration of 50 µg/mL, while it was not active against seven test bacteria. Conclusions: The anti-complementary activity of the isolated steroids suggests S. compressa for future anti-inflammatory research.
“To be Transformed into Thought Itself”
Authors: Golestaneh Seema ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: September 2022

Ali Shariati is typically understood as a theorist of “political Islam.” Yet his theological innovations within what is called “mystical thought” are also worthy of attention. Shariati does not consider mystical thought as an escapist, transcendent paradigm, but as a means to interpret and navigate the socio-political world. Of particular relevance to Shariati is an idea ubiquitous across Islamic mysticism: the transformation of the self. Within Islamic mysticism, there are various iterations of the idea that to become closer to God, one must enact a radical transfiguration of the self, one that occurs simultaneously at the divine and existential registers. For Shariati, this transformation of the self is tied not only to one’s relationship with God, but also to the desire to alter the social realm. This is an ethos that, for Shariati, should infiltrate all aspects of life, material and immaterial, cerebral and social. If one wishes to overturn the status quo, one must cultivate not only a revolutionary subjectivity but a mystically-oriented subjectivity as well, or one that is characterized by constant change and growth.
Returning Comparative Literature to Itself: Shariati Reads Dante
Authors: Akbari Atefeh ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: September 2022

At the time of his premature death at the age of forty-three, the written output of Ali Shariati was remarkable. He wrote in a variety of styles and forms and read extensively from vastly distinct literary traditions. While in recent years, Anglophone scholarship on his work has situated him rightfully among critical anticolonial thinkers such as Frantz Fanon, his contribution to a worldly reimagining of comparative literature has not received the same attention. This essay offers a framing of his work within the field of comparative literature, with a particular focus on his adaptation of Dante’s Divine Comedy. By studying his mode of engagement with this canonical text, this essay provides an introductory analysis to the comparative literary practice of a towering Iranian intellectual. It can also serve as a model for a comparative literature practicum that privileges the work of a writer from the Global South.
Scalar Epistemic Consequentialism
Authors: Cavedon-Taylor Dan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: September 2022

The following is an advertisement for scalar epistemic consequentialism. Benefits include an epistemic consequentialism that (i) is immune from the the no-positive-epistemic-duties objection and (ii) doesn’t require bullet-biting on the rightness of epistemic tradeoffs. The advertisement invites readers to think more carefully about both the definition and logical space of epistemic consequentialism.
Cytomegalovirus Hepatitis in Allograft Livers May Show Histologic Features of Acute Cellular Rejection
Authors: Shih Angela R. , Naini Bita V. , Westerhoff Maria , Alpert Lindsay , Masia Ricard , Misdraji Joseph
Published: September 2022

Context.—

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) hepatitis in allograft livers is an important infectious complication, with histology that historically has been described to overlap with that of acute cellular rejection (ACR), a diagnosis that compels a different treatment regimen.

Objective.—

To update the clinicopathologic features of CMV hepatitis and explore its clinical and histologic relationship with ACR.

Design.—

A retrospective analysis of 26 patients with a diagnosis of CMV hepatitis across 4 institutions was performed, including clinical, histologic, and immunohistochemical features.

Results.—

Patients were predominantly CMV donor positive/recipient negative (D+/R−; n = 9 of 15) and received a diagnosis of CMV hepatitis at a mean age of 52 years (SD, 17 years), at a mean interval of 184 days (SD, 165 days) from transplantation. Mean CMV viral load at diagnosis was 241 000 IU/mL (SD, 516 000 IU/mL), and liver biochemical enzymes were elevated (mean alanine aminotransferase, 212 U/L [SD, 180 U/L]; mean aspartate aminotransferase, 188 U/L [SD, 151 U/L]; mean alkaline phosphatase, 222 U/L [SD, 153 U/L]). Ten cases did not show histologic features of ACR, and 16 cases demonstrated features of ACR (including marked bile duct injury and endotheliitis). Viral cytopathic change was found in all cases. All patients were treated with a combination of antiviral therapy and CMV intravenous immunoglobulin, with near resolution of biochemical enzymes in all patients with undetectable serum CMV viral titers.

Conclusions.—

CMV hepatitis and ACR are complex processes with interlinking mechanisms that are important to distinguish. A subset of transplantation patients with CMV hepatitis show histologic changes that mimic ACR but were treated successfully with antiviral therapy alone.
Antioxidative behavior of a2-macroglobulin in intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Chen Yuhong , Wei Huaixiang , Xu Feng
Published: September 2022

Background: To clarify if a2-macroglobulin (a2M) has an antioxidative effect during the progression of the intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Methods: The content of a2M and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured to compare mildly and severely degenerated human nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue by immunohistochemistry, mass spectrometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Additionally, exogenic a2M was used to culture severely degenerated NP tissue in vitro. The effects of a2M on hypochlorite (HOCl)-treated NP cells were evaluated, containing antioxidative enzymes, ROS level, collagen II, and aggrecan expression, MMP3/13, and ADAMTS4/5. Results: ROS level increased in severely degenerated NP, accompanying with a decreased a2M content. Supplement of a2M could decrease the ROS level of cultured NP in vitro, meanwhile, the MMP13 and ADAMTS4 expression were also reduced. It was found that treatment of HOCl resulted in oxidative damage to NP cells and decreased a2M expression in a dose and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, exogenic a2M stimulation reversed the HOCl-triggered ROS accumulation. The promotion of SOD1/2, CAT, GPX1, collagen II, and aggrecan, and suppression of MMP3/13, ADAMTS4/5 expression caused by a2M were also observed. Conclusions: Our study indicates that a2M has an antioxidative ability in degenerated NP cells by promoting the antioxidative enzyme production.
Evaluation of the physico-mechanical properties of polyester/corn stalk composite
Authors: Anozie Okoye , Ifeanyi Ntunde
Published: September 2022

In this study, corn stalk/polyester composites were prepared using molding techniques at several percentage filler loadings per weight and the physiomechanical properties were studied. The composite showed moderate improvement in tensile strength 13.582MPa for 3% corn stalk which was the highest. The composite also reported the highest values for impact strength 744.90(J/m2 ) and flexural strength 23.947MPa, respectively for filler loading of 3% corn stalk and 93% polyester and 2% corn stalk and 98% polyester composite samples. The significant strengths recorded can be attributed to the good surface intermingling bonding between the corn stalk fillers and the polyester matrix. The study also revealed that, density of the composites decreased with increase in filler loading and the density dropped from 0.116 g/cm3 to 0.108g/cm3 . The composites recorded increase in water uptake with increasing filler loading. The results showed that the highest water absorption rate was at 5% corn stalk loading which had maximum water absorption of 4.55% by the composite samples. The physiomechanical properties of the composites indicate that it can be useful in applications which require moderate strengths. These composites could be considered as a potential way of utilizing agricultural waste materials and as sustainable resources for manufacturing of structural materials such as particle board, partitioning panels, ceiling boards thereby reducing the amount of agricultural wastes and eliminating the pollution caused by burning of corn stalk waste.
Importance of deferred income tax in insurance companies: Case of the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Vržina Stefan
Published: September 2022

Insurance companies in the Republic of Serbia (RS) are required to report deferred income tax in accordance with the International Accounting Standards (IAS) 12 - Income Taxes. They recognize deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities on the balance sheet or deferred tax expenses and deferred tax income on the income statement. This paper examines the materiality of the deferred income tax in Serbian insurance companies, as well as its impact on assessing profitability and corporate income tax burden. The research conducted from 2017 to 2020 covered 16 insurance companies, and has shown that the effective tax rates in an average Serbian insurance company are lower than the prescribed rate of income tax. The research results have shown that typically, deferred tax does not materially represent a significant item in a statement of financial position of insurance companies. In addition, when assessing profitability and corporate income tax burden of insurance companies, deferred income tax is not a significant item on a balance sheet.
РАЗВИЈАЊЕ РИТМИЧКИХ СПОСОБНОСТИ УПОТРЕБОМ БРОЈАЛИЦА И ОРФОВОГ ИНСТРУМЕНТАРИЈА
Authors: Бабић Марица
Published: September 2022

Оно што нам је свима јасно, јесте чињеница да је за формирање сваке личности од посебне важности упознавање са музичком културом. Циљ је овог рада да размотримо шта све утиче на развој ритмичких способности ученика, да сазнамо на који начин можемо допринијети том развоју и помоћу чега све можемо развијати ритмичке способности. Сви знамо да је основна школа мјесто гдје се стичу праве моралне вриједности, подстичу се стваралачке способности као и когнитивни развој личности. Свирањем на дјечијим музичким интрументима, дјеца стичу основна знања о инструментима, развијају љубав према свирању и музици уопште. Свако дијете, свирајући на омиљеном инструменту, има осјећај сопствене вриједности, који је од посебне важности за дјетињство, као и за стварање успјеха у будућности.
POMOĆNI GLAGOLI U PASIVU U SAVREMENIM GRAMATIČKIM UDŽBENICIMA ENGLESKOG JEZIKA
Authors: Kujundžić Maja
Published: September 2022

U većini tradicionalnih i savremenih gramatika engleskog jezika, glagolska fraza u pasivnoj konstrukciji opisana je kao kombinacija odgovarajućeg oblika pomoćnog glagola i prošlog participa glavnog glagola (Kujundžić, 2016). Glavni predmet ovog rada su pomoćni glagoli u pasivnoj glagolskoj frazi. Naime, cilj ovog rada je da da sažeti pregled tretmana pomoćnih glagola u nekim od najučestalije korištenih savremnih gramatičkih udžbenika engleskog jezika, kako bi se na osnovu njega stekao uvid u vezi sa tim na koji način i u kojoj mjeri je tertiran ovaj segment pasivne konstrukcije. Ovaj rad će takođe nastojati da da odgovore na pitanja u vezi sa učestalošću upotrebe pomoćnih glagola, različtim oblicima u kojima se javljaju, njihovim specifičnim značenjima, te tipovima pasivnih konstrukcija i registara u kojima se najčešće pojavljuju. Rezultate ovog pregleda ćemo u zaključku uporediti sa rezultatima rada u kojem je dat detaljan pregled pomoćnih glagola u nekim od najpoznatijih tradicionalnih gramatikama engleskog jezika (Kujundžić, 2020)
Convergence in measure of intuitionistic fuzzy observables
Authors:   Mathematical Institute, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Čunderlíková Katarína , Babicová Dušana ,   Mathematical Institute, Slovak Academy of Sciences
Published: September 2022

The aim of this paper is to define a convergence in measure m, where m is an intuitionistic fuzzy state. We prove a version of weak law of large numbers for a sequence of independent intuitionistic fuzzy observables, too.
Existence and uniqueness of intuitionistic fuzzy solution for semilinear intuitionistic fuzzy integro-differential equations with nonlocal conditions
Authors:   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and Scientific Computing Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Belhallaj Zineb , Elomari M'hamed ,   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and Scientific Computing Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Melliani Said ,   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and Scientific Computing Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Chadli Lalla Saadia ,   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and Scientific Computing Sultan Moulay Slimane University
Published: September 2022

n this paper, we study the existence and uniqueness of an intuitionistic fuzzy solution for semi-linear intuitionistic fuzzy integro-differential equations with non-local conditions using the Banach fixed point theorem. Theorem on the existence and uniqueness of intuitionistic fuzzy solution for these problems with nonlocal conditions are presented under certain assumptions. Finally, an example is established to illustrate the effectiveness of this theorem.
Seasonal cruise Q2 2021
Authors: Ludvigsen Martin , Assmy Philipp , Adams Matthew James Samuel , Amargant-Arumí Martí , Mo-Bjørkelund Tore , Bodur Yasemin , Bremnes Jens Einar , Flo Snorre , Gawinski Christine , Giebichtenstein Julia , Halvorsen Elisabeth , Hatlebakk Maja , Hess Silvia , Hop Haakon , Itkin Polona , Jones Elizabeth , Karlsson Konrad , Keck Amalia , Kohlbach Doreen , Kohler Stephen Gustav , Krapp Rupert , Leopold Peter , Marquardt Miriam , Jorda Molina Eric , Nowicki Robynne , Mork Olsen Lasse , Anglada Ortiz Griselda , Petit Tristan , Ricardo de Freitas Thaise , Saubrekka Karoline , Sen Arunima , Steer Adam , Summers Natalie , Thiele Stefan , Thorstensen Helene , Vihtakari Mikko
Published: September 2022

The spring season was the target for the Nansen Legacy cruise organized in late April and first half of May 2021 following the transect defined for this series of cruises to capture the variations of the year sampling physical, biological and chemical conditions in the ice and the sea. The transect went through both open water and ice. Seven process stations were visited (P1 through P7) together with smaller NLEG stations according to the program for the seasonal investigations. The first station (P1) was in open waters, while the remaining six main station had ice coverage of varying degree. Each of the process stations lasted 24 hours or more to allow a full diurnal cycle. Sampling included ice physics, ice samples, phytoplankton, zooplankton, marine chemistry and eco toxicology using acoustic, optical and robotics methods together with lab analyses of physical samples. Remote sensing data were also matched with in situ observations of both sea and ice conditions.
Study on the cultivation of seedlings using buds of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Wang Chaonan , Du Chong , Yang Zhongmin , Wang Huilin , Shang Leijuan , Liu Lili , Yang Zhiyi , Song Shuyao , Amanullah Sikandar
Published: September 2022

Background

Potato, a vegetable crop grown worldwide, has many uses, a short growth period, a large market demand and high economic benefits. The loss of potato seediness due to traditional potato growing methods is becoming increasingly evident, and research on new ways of growing potatoes is particularly important. Bud planting technology has the advantages of more reproduction, faster growth, and simplified maintenance of crop plants under cultivation.

Methods

In this study, a bud planting method was adopted for the cultivation of potato seedlings. Specifically, we assessed different types of treatments for the production of high-quality buds and seedlings of potato. A total of four disease-free potato varieties (Fujin, Youjin, Zhongshu 4, and Feiwuruita) were selected, potato buds with three different lengths (3 cm, 5 cm, and 7 cm) were considered the T1, T2, and T3 treatments, and terminal buds, middle buds, and tail buds were used as the T4, T5, and T6 treatments. A nutrient pot experiment was performed following a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates and a natural control (CK) treatment. Cultivation was performed with the common horticultural practices of weeding and hoeing applied as needed. The photosynthetic indices, physiological indices, growth indices and quality of potato seedlings and quality of potato buds were measured at two-week intervals, and yield indices were measured when the final crop was harvested 14 weeks after planting.

Results and Conclusions

Cultivation of seedlings from potato buds of different lengths increased the reproduction coefficient and reduced the number of seed potatoes needed for cultivation. All morphological, physiological, and yield indices showed positive trends. A potato bud length of 7 cm was optimal for raising seedlings. Moreover, buds located at the terminal of the potato yielded seedlings with the best quality. In conclusion, we recommend that our proven bud planting technique be adopted at the commercial level, which could support good crop production with maximum yield.
A retrospective study of real-world effectiveness and safety of rivaroxaban in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alosaimi Hind M. , Alqahtani Saeed , Balkhi Bander , Alqahtani Mishari , Alzamil Faisal , Alhossan Abdulaziz , Alqahtany Fatmah S. , Alharbi Abdullah A. , Alqahtani Nawaf Abdullah , Albackr Hanan , Elgohary Ghada , Algahtani Farjah H.
Published: September 2022

Background

Real-world evidence on factor Xa inhibitor (rivaroxaban) prescribing patterns, safety, and efficacy in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) is rare. Herein, we sought to examine the above outcomes in the largest academic center in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study designed to examine the prescribing pattern, safety and real-world effectiveness of the factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban in patients with NVAF and VTE. Data on rivaroxaban prescriptions were collected and analyzed. Bleeding outcomes were defined as per the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) definition.

Results

A total of 2,316 patients taking rivaroxaban recruited through several departments of King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC). The mean age was 61 years (±17.8) with 55% above the age of 60 and 58% were females. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (VTE) was the most prevalent reason for prescribing rivaroxaban, followed by NVAF. A total daily dosage of 15 mg was given to 23% of the patients. The incidence rate of recurrent thrombosis and recurrent stroke was 0.2%. Furthermore, rivaroxaban had a 0.04 percent incidence rate of myocardial infarction. Half of the patients with recurrent thrombosis and stroke were taking 15 mg per day. The incidence rate of major bleeding was 1.1%. More over half of the patients who experienced significant bleeding were taking rivaroxaban at a dosage of 20 mg per day. According to the HAS-BLED Score (>2 score), 48 percent of patients who experienced significant bleeding had a high risk of bleeding. Non-major bleeding occurred in 0.6% of cases. Similarly, 40% of patients with non-major bleeding were taking rivaroxaban at a dosage of 20 mg per day. According to the HAS-BLED Score, just 6.6% of these individuals had a high risk of bleeding. 93.4% of the patients, on the other hand, were at intermediate risk.

Conclusion

The prescription of rivaroxaban in this real-life cohort study differs from the prescribing label and the outcomes of a phase 3 randomised clinical trial. However, for individuals with VTE and NVAF, the 20 mg dose looked to be more efficacious than the pivotal trial outcomes. Furthermore, among patients with VTE and NVAF, rivaroxaban was linked to a decreased incidence of safety events such as recurrent thrombosis, recurrent stroke, MI, major bleeding, and non-major haemorrhage in a real-world environment.
East or West, home is the best?: a comparative study of reading proficiency and strategy use on learners with and without study abroad experiences
Authors:   Facultad de Estudios Hispánicos, Universidad de Estudios Extranjeros de Beijing, Wang Mengmeng
Published: September 2022

Previous research has shown that generally the learners who studied in foreign countries outpaced their peers in domestic contexts in terms of productive language proficiency, but used fewer strategies. This study explored the effects of study abroad on receptive proficiency and strategies in reading forms of undergraduate students majoring in Spanish. Proficiency test and strategy questionnaires were administered to students, who were first divided into 2 groups: at-home and study-abroad; the later was then subdivided into 3 subgroups according to the host country. The results showed that the study-abroad group’s reading proficiency was significantly higher than at-home group. Additionally, they used similar strategies. Significant differences of proficiency and skills were also found among students who studied in Mexico and those who studied in Spain or other countries. This study supported that study-abroad generally has positive effects on reading proficiency and the differences among host countries’ programs have become a decisive factor
ARTEMIS: parsing non-peripheral complex sentences in ASD-STE100
Authors:   Departamento Filología Inglesa y Alemana, Universidad de La Laguna, González-Orta Marta , Martín-Díaz Auxiliadora ,   Departamento Filología Inglesa y Alemana, Universidad de La Laguna
Published: September 2022

The simulation of natural language understanding is one of the main objectives of natural language processing (NLP). Within the different applications designed for this purpose, the ARTEMIS prototype follows the paradigm of unification grammars, and unlike other trending computational resources, it is theoretically grounded in Role and Reference Grammar (RRG). The syntax-to-semantics linking algorithm proposed in this functional grammar lies at the basis of a parsing process that starts with a natural language sentence, extracts its morphosyntactic features and provides a representation of these in terms of the so-called layered structure of the clause (LSC). The Grammar Development Environment (GDE) in ARTEMIS is a major component where feature- based production rules (syntactic, lexical and constructional) are stored and ready to allow the generation of the enhanced layered structure of the clause of natural language expressions. Syntactic rules that account for phrasal constituents and simple sentences have already been described, but it is now turn to focus on the study of non-peripheral complex sentences. In an attempt to validate these syntactic rules and to avoid some of the common problems that may arise in parsing applications, our research will concentrate on the analysis of RRG’s juncture-nexus combinations as found in a controlled natural language (CNL) such as ASD-STE100 (Aerospace and Defence Simplified Technical English).
Factors affecting translation of realia in classical literary masterpieces: access to the previous translations, the SL natives, and the SL experts
Authors:   University of Isfahan, Afrouz Mahmoud
Published: September 2022

Literary works of each nation have their roots in that nation’s culture. Because of the uniqueness of all cultures, various kinds of realia can be found in the literature of almost all nations. Persian literature is not an exception. The study aimed to discover the impact of accessibility to the SL natives, the SL experts, and the previous translations on the quality of rendering realia embedded in the classical Persian literary-text. The corpus included the translation of realia in Sa’di’s The Gulistan by Rehatsek (1888), Eastwick (1880), Anderson (1861), and Ross (1823). The findings revealed that a mixture of three factors (consulting previous translations, as well as consulting an expert SL native speaker) would provide a great help for translators. Although the results did not confirm that the mere accessibility to the SL natives would tremendously boost the quality of rendering realia, further research is required to investigate the issue by focusing on various classical literary texts, including those of other language pairs.
Isolation, Screening and Identification of Cellulolytic Bacteria from Soil
Authors: Maravi Pratibha , Kumar Anil
Published: September 2022

Background: Cellulose is the most abundant carbohydrate on earth and is considered as a good candidate for production of second generation biofuel (ethanol) and many other products of routine use. For degradation, cellulases are used which are mostly secreted by microbes such as fungi. Cellulases also play an important role in senescence of plants and in host-parasite relationship for invading the plant cell wall. However, comparatively lesser studies have been carried out on cellulase producing bacteria. Therefore, present study was aimed to isolate cellulase (Endo-β-1,4-D-glucanase; EC. 3.2.1.4.) from bacterial sources.

Methodology: To isolate thermophilic/ mesophilic cellulase producing bacteria, soil samples were collected from wood furnishing area and agricultural farm around Indore. Besides, soil sample was also collected from the vicinity of Amlai Paper Mill in Budhar district, Madhya Pradesh. These soil samples after suitable dilutions were streaked on different nutrients agar petri-dishes having carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as an inducer. After screening, four colonies were isolated capable of producing good amount of cellulase. Screening was done using Congo red staining and confirmation was done after growth of the bacteria in liquid nutrient medium having CMC. These colonies individually were grown in suitable nutrient media having CMC as an inducer and enzyme activity was determined in the nutrient media after harvesting bacterial cells by centrifugation.

Results: The highest enzyme producing bacteria were identified as Bacillus lichenoformis and Ochrobactrum anthropi after biochemical analyses, 16S rRNA sequencing and subsequently phylogenetic tree analysis.
Seroprevalence of Cattle Brucellosis in Al Gadarif State – Eastern Sudan
Authors: G. A. Hafiz , H. A. Hamad , Bilal Hussam Aldeen Mustafa Abdalrazig , Onsa Raghad A. H. , K. Selma , Kh Maha , Elgadal Ali Abdelgani
Published: September 2022

Aims: This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of bovine brucellosis in Al Gadarif state -Eastern Sudan- and to evaluate the sensitivity of RBPT, mRBPT, and milk ring test for serodiagnosis of bovine brucellosis.

Study Design: Collect serum and milk samples and apply the recommended tests for diagnosis.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in Al Gadarif state regional laboratory and Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL) in 2015.

Methodology: A total of 367 serum samples were collected from 12 localities which include: Al Fao, Fashaga, Baldiat Al Gadarif, Wasat Gadarif, West Gadarif, Basonda, Al Gorisha, Al rhad,Mafaza , Butana, East Galapat and Gla nahl. Also, 100 bulk milk samples have been collected from Baldiat Al Gadarif, West Gadarif, Wasat Gadarif, and Fashaga and subjected to the milk ring test. All collected sera samples were tested for Brucella antibodies using the following serological tests: Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), modified Rose Bengal Plate test (mRBT 1:2 and 1:3) and, c.ELISA test, the last test was done for 143 serum samples only.

Results: The overall seroprevalence was 35.7%, 38.4%, 42.2% and 8.4% using RBPT, mRBPT (1:2), mRBPT (1:3) and c.ELISA tests respectively. According to this study the lowest seroprevalence was observed in Al Fao locality (11.1%), and the highest seroprevalence was in Al Gorisha Locality (71.4%).There was similarity in seroprevalence rate results using RBPT (1:2) and RBPT (1:3) in Al rahd (43.6%), Al Gorisha (85.7%) and Mafaza (50%) localities. Seroprevalence rate showed 10.9% and 9.1% in males and females respectively. There was no association between sex-as risk factor- and cattle brucellosis. Using the milk ring test the overall prevalence of positive milk samples was 39% (39/100). The highest prevalence was in Fashaga (60%), followed by Wasat Gadarif (46.7%). Baldiat Al Gadarif showed the lowest prevalence (22.9%).

Conclusion: The serological investigation proved the occurrence of bovine brucellosis in Al Gadarif state -Eastern Sudan - using the recommended tests.
Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Growth, Flowering and Yield of Gladiolus (Gladiolus hybridus Hort) cv. Pusa Srijana
Authors: Bajpai Vanshika , Prasad V. M. , Topno Samir E.
Published: September 2022

The experiment was conducted on “Effect of organic manures and biofertilizers on growth, flowering and yield of gladiolus (Gladiolus hybridus Hort) cv. Pusa Srijana”. The observations were recorded on various growth, flowering and yield contributing characters. Based on the results obtained from the present investigation, it is concluded that the T7 (RDF + Vermicompost + Azotobacter @ 5Kg/ha+ PSB @ 5Kg/ha) was found superior followed by T6 (RDF + Vermicompost + Azotobacter @ 4.5Kg/ha+ PSB @ 4.5Kg/ha) and T5 (RDF + Vermicompost + Azotobacter @ 4Kg/ha+ PSB @ 4Kg/ha) in growth and flowering with higher yield factors. In this investigation the T7 was found most suitable for cultivation for better yield per hectare of corms, cormels and spike and best returns in terms of economics of the crop with high net returns and Benefit cost ratio.
Effect of NPK Levels with Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) in Alluvial Soil of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Singh Kanhaiya , Patle Tirunima , Yadav Shankar Lal , Yadav Shashi S. , Singh Nivedita
Published: September 2022

A field experiment was carried out during rabi season in December 2021-May 2022 at the Crop Research Center Department of Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry, School of Agriculture, ITM University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to investigate the effect of different levels of N, P and K fertilizers with biofertilizers on growth, dry matter accumulation and yield of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) in Alluvial soil of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The experimental treatments comprised nine NPK with biofertilizers combinations as control, (no nutrient added) 50% RD of NPK, 75% RD of NPK, 100% RD of NPK, 50% RD of NPK with N-fixer, 50% RD of NPK with Aspergillus niger, and 50% RD of NPK with N-Fixer & Aspergillus niger, 75% RD of NPK with N-fixer, 75% RD of NPK with Aspergillus niger, and 75% RD of NPK with N- Fixer & Aspergillus niger. Growth and yield significantly influenced by different doses of NPK with biofertilizers. Application of 75% RD of NPK with N- Fixer & Aspergillus niger) produced the tallest plant height maximum dry matter production at harvest-1), highest green chilli and stover yield of chilli (122.54 q ha-1 and 14.38 qha-1). Based on the results of this study, it can be suggested that the combined use of 75% RD of NPK with N- fixer + Aspergillus niger increased plant growth and fruit yield of chilli.
The Effect of Differential Pest Load of Leaf Folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee) on Extent of Leaf Damage and Alteration in Leaf Biochemical Composition in Rice
Authors: Adhikari Bhubanananda , Mohapatra L. N. , Mohapatra S. D. , Senapati Radhakrushna , Singh Rashmirekha , Satapathy Satya Narayan
Published: September 2022

The effect of feeding damages induced by the leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee) at various damage levels on the biochemical parameters of rice leaves was investigated along with the estimation of leaf roll rate. The leaf roll rate was shown to be higher as the pest population increased. Biochemical profile of rice leaves damaged by a leaf folder was studied for quantitative and qualitative variations in soluble carbohydrate, starch and the ratio of chlorophyll a/b using standard biochemical procedures. The tests were carried out on a susceptible rice variety TN1. The result revealed that with increase in infestation by C. medinalis resulted in decreased soluble carbohydrates and starch content in rice leaves. But the trend was different for chlorophyll a/b and the ratio was found higher in pest infested vegetation.
Dr Fauci and the Art of Science Communication
Authors: Suran Melissa
Published: September 2022

Anthony Fauci, MD, who announced he will step down as chief medical advisor to US President Joe Biden and as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, discusses best practices for conveying scientific information to the public in a polarized era.
Bioengineering 3D Neural Networks Using Magnetic Manipulations
Authors: Plen Reut , Smith Alejandra , Blum Ofir , Aloni Or , Locker Uri , Shapira Zehavit , Margel Shlomo , Shefi Orit
Published: September 2022

Controlling nerve cells to form pre‐designed 3D neural networks that recapitulate the intricate neural interconnectivity in the brain is essential for developing neuronal interfaces and new regeneration approaches. Here, nerve cells within 3D biomaterials are dynamically localized using nano‐based magnetic manipulations. Nerve cells are transformed into magnetic units and their organizational layout is manipulated using external magnetic field gradients. Iron oxide nanoparticles are incorporated into both Pheochromocytoma cell‐line 12 (PC12) cells and primary mice cortical neurons and the magnetized cells are subjected to multiple magnetic fields using pre‐designed magnetic arrays. Their movement is controlled inside multi‐layered 3D collagen scaffolds, which simulate the innate properties of in‐vivo tissue structures. Via these magnetic manipulations, functional 3D microarchitectures of neural networks are created. In light of the clustered and layered structure of the mammalian central nervous system, this strategy paves the way to creating customized 3D tissue architectures for bioengineering applications, enabling a broad range of advanced implementations and providing efficient models for investigating cellular and tissue behavior.
Sustainable Synthesis of Dual Single‐Atom Catalyst of PdN4/CuN4 for Partial Oxidation of Ethylene Glycol
Authors: Moges Endalkachew Asefa , Chang Chia‐Yu , Huang Wei‐Hsiang , Lakshmanan Keseven , Awoke Yohannes Ayele , Pao Chih‐Wen , Tsai Meng‐Che , Su Wei‐Nien , Hwang Bing Joe
Published: September 2022

Catalysts assumed that properly designed bimetallic systems would provide superior catalytic performance due to the cooperative effects between two atoms. Dual single‐atom catalyst (DSAC) PdN4/CuN4 is synthesized using a simple, cost‐effective, and efficient electrochemical reduction method. The palladium single‐atom is prepared first by electrochemical reduction of copper phthalocyanine to create defective N4 sites. The new structural feature is characterized by copper reduction from Cu‐N4 coordination and the formation of defected N4 (▫M‐N4) sites, which react with a Pd precursor and form PdN4 on the host surface. The DSAC PdN4/CuN4 technique synergistically improves electrocatalytic performance toward the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction. It possesses excellent glycolate selectivity (above 88%) in an alkaline solution with an onset oxidation potential as low as 0.6 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode, compared to commercial Pd/C. The DSAC electrocatalyst is characterized by its high current density of 83.92 mA cm−2 and high faradic efficiency value (>80%) for glycolate at 1.0 VRHE. The findings suggest a promising method to synthesize the DSACs in varying transition metals to achieve highly efficient, selective, and environmentally friendly catalysts for different applications.
A Highly Efficient and Robust Bifunctional Perovskite‐Type Air Electrode with Triple‐Conducting Behavior for Low‐Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Ma Zilin , Ye Qirui , Zhang Bingkai , Yang Wenying , Dong Feifei , Ni Meng , Lin Zhan
Published: September 2022

Cobalt‐rich materials have generally been recognized as the prevailing candidates of cathodes for low‐temperature solid oxide fuel cells (LT‐SOFCs, 400–600 °C). Regrettably, their instability and high cost are the major concerns for future commercialization. In response to these drawbacks, here, an A‐site‐deficient low‐cobalt‐containing perovskite‐type oxide, Ba0.95Fe0.7Co0.2Sc0.1O3‐δ (BFCS0.95), as an efficient bifunctional electrode with triple‐conducting (H+|O2−|e−) nature for oxygen‐ion conducting SOFCs (O‐SOFCs) and proton conducting SOFCs (H‐SOFCs) is proposed. BFCS0.95 electrode exhibits impressive versatility in catalyzing oxygen reduction reaction, i.e., ultralow area‐specific resistances (0.072 Ω cm2 for O‐SOFCs and 0.4 Ω cm2 for H‐SOFCs at 550 °C, respectively), extraordinarily high power outputs (1092 mW cm−2 for O‐SOFCs and 419 mW cm−2 for H‐SOFCs at 550 °C, respectively), excellent long‐term durability (>100 h for O‐SOFCs and H‐SOFCs at 600 °C), remarkable reversibility between pure air and CO2‐containing air, and superior resistance against temperature fluctuations. The combined experimental and computational studies elucidate the roles of A‐site deficient state and triple‐conducting behavior, both of which are essential to overall electrochemical performance. Low‐cobalt‐containing feature also makes BFCS0.95 cathode economically competitive among all cobalt‐containing analogues. Overall, the finding paves a highly efficient route to develop bifunctional electrodes for LT‐SOFCs toward a sustainable energy future.
Large‐Scale Production of Rectorite Nanosheets and Their Co‐Assembly with Aramid Nanofibers for High‐Performance Electrical Insulating Nanopapers
Authors: Pan Xiao‐Feng , Yu Guan‐Hua , Gao Huai‐Ling , Wang Zhe‐Zhao , Bao Zhiwei , Li Xiaoguang , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: September 2022

Compared with raw rectorite microplatelets (RMs), rectorite nanosheets (RNs) have considerably greater application prospects in the preparation of advanced composite materials because of their larger aspect ratio, higher surface reactivity, and intrinsically superior mechanical and physical properties. However, the difficulty in the efficient preparation of RNs significantly limits their large‐scale applications. Here, a scalable poly(vinylpyrrolidone)‐assisted stirring approach is developed to prepare ultrathin RNs from the abundant natural RMs. A higher production rate (≈0.675 g h−1) is achieved compared with that of most other nanosheets. Additionally, instead of using conventional time‐ and energy‐consuming high‐speed centrifugation, an efficient poly(dienedimethylammonium chloride)‐assisted sedimentation strategy is proposed here to rapidly separate the exfoliated RNs from the RN dispersion. Then, the RNs are co‐assembled with aramid nanofibers (ANFs) into large‐scale nacre‐mimetic ANF‐RN nanopapers with considerably enhanced mechanical, electrical insulating, and high‐temperature‐resistant properties compared with pure ANF nanopapers and ANF‐RM micropapers. Moreover, these properties are superior to those of previously reported ANF‐based nanopapers and commercial insulating micropapers.
Multifaceted Catalytic ROS‐Scavenging via Electronic Modulated Metal Oxides for Regulating Stem Cell Fate
Authors: Tian Qinyu , Wang Weiwen , Cao Lijian , Tian Xinggui , Tian Guangzhao , Chen Mingxue , Ma Lang , Liu Xikui , Yuan Zhiguo , Cheng Chong , Guo Quanyi
Published: September 2022

Developing reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging nanostructures to protect and regulate stem cells has emerged as an intriguing strategy for promoting tissue regeneration, especially in trauma microenvironments or refractory wounds. Here, an electronic modulated metal oxide is developed via Mn atom substitutions in Co3O4 nanocrystalline (Mn‐Co3O4) for highly efficient and multifaceted catalytic ROS‐scavenging to reverse the fates of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in oxidative‐stress microenvironments. Benefiting from the atomic Mn‐substitution and charge transfer from Mn to Co, the Co site in Mn‐Co3O4 displays an increased ratio of Co2+/Co3+ and improved redox properties, thus enhancing its intrinsic and broad‐spectrum catalytic ROS‐scavenging activities, which surpasses most of the currently reported metal oxides. Consequently, the Mn‐Co3O4 can efficiently protect the MSCs from ROS attack and rescue their functions, including adhesion, spreading, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. This work not only establishes an efficient material for catalytic ROS‐scavenging in stem‐cell‐based therapeutics but also provides a new avenue to design biocatalytic metal oxides via modulation of electronic structure.
Single Iron Atom Anchored on ZIF‐8 Derived Carbon Framework to Directionally Regulate Lithium Deposition with Minimum Nucleation Overpotential
Authors: Guan Zhixing , Ullah Zaka , Zheng Surong , Yang Ruizai , Zhu Penghao , Cheng Qing , Song Penghao , Li Qi , Liu Liwei
Published: September 2022

Lithium (Li) metal has earned valuable status among the most auspicious anodes for the assembly of next‐generation rechargeable batteries. However, the dendritic growth and infinite change in volume of metallic Li anode strongly hinder its use for practical applications. Here, the preparation of atomically dispersed iron doped ZIF‐8 through pyrolysis (Fe@NC) to lower the Li nucleation overpotential and control the Li deposition on specific positions is reported. Thermodynamic and kinetic simulations show that the doped single Fe atoms can improve the atomic structure, increase the adsorption energy and enhance the diffusion capacity of Li. Moreover, the specific framework structure of Fe@NC can induce Li metal to nucleate in interior space of the material which can hinder the Li growth along one direction and restrain its volume expansion. As‐fabricated electrode displays nearly no nucleation overpotential at current density of 2 mA cm–2 and offers higher average Coulombic efficiency up to 99.0% for 100 cycles at current density 2 mA cm–2, and higher areal capacity up to 5 mAh cm–2. Also, the fabricated Fe@NC/LiFePO4 based full cells exhibit a longer lifespan of 100 cycles at 0.5 C. The results provide new insights for future rechargeable Li metal batteries.
The Role of Cobalt Clusters (Con, n = 1–5) Supported on Defective γ–Graphyne for Efficient Hydrogen Adsorption: A First Principles Study
Authors: Celaya Christian A. , Muñiz Jesús , Salcedo Roberto , Sansores Luis Enrique
Published: September 2022

In this theoretical work, density functional theory calculations show the effect of small cobalt clusters (Con, n = 1–5) adsorbed on pristine γ‐graphyne (γ‐GY), and modify N‐doped γ‐GY monolayers (GYNs‐def). Different geometrical configurations are assessed with the adsorption energy, charge transfer, and density of states. The system with vacancy defects shows a large adsorption energy (19.96 eV) for the Co5 cluster. This behavior may be associated to the overlapping of the electronic state contributions between cobalt and carbon atoms in the valence states. This indicates that the Co5 cluster could be deposited on N‐doped γ‐GY monolayers (Con@GYNs‐def). The lowest‐energy systems are evaluated to estimate the strength of the interaction with hydrogen molecules (xH2, where x = 1–5). According to the adsorption energy values, the modified γ‐GY monolayers are allowed to be a suitable support material to capture H2 molecules via the small Con clusters. The hydrogen retention capacity for the supported cobalt atoms corresponding to the lowest‐energy configurations and larger systems are evaluated by using molecular dynamics simulations with the Born–Oppenheimer approximation. The role played by defects in the GYNs‐def monolayers is important, since the Con clusters remain attached to the vacancy with the absence of surface diffusion. This study may represent a guide to tailor novel nanostructures based on small cobalt clusters supported on graphyne monolayers modified to be applied in H2 adsorption.
Cost of free open‐access medical education (FOAM): An economic analysis of the top 20 FOAM sites
Authors: Lee Matthew , Hamilton David , Chan Teresa M.
Published: September 2022

Background

Free open‐access medical education (FOAM) is a growing resource within the field of medicine, in particular, emergency medicine. Yet despite FOAM's contribution to advancing medical education, the precise value of FOAM has never been calculated. As a result, content creators have not been acknowledged, either financially or academically, for their deliverables. The aim of this paper was to meet this challenge by determining a value for the top 20 FOAM sites as determined by web traffic in emergency medicine through two approaches. The first approach was to value the websites through a market‐based method, where the value of the website was extrapolated from the number of blog posts published. The second approach was through a traffic analysis for each website.

Methods

The top 20 FOAM websites in emergency medicine were identified and the monetary value of each resource was calculated through two methods, the first by extrapolating the number of blog posts published by each resource and the second through traffic analysis conducted by a third‐party industry specialist based on the number of unique visitors and page visits.

Results

The median page views per month was 194,850 and the median number of unique visitors was 138,350. Based on the content valuation method, the median value of content produced in a year was $2337.06 per website. Through the traffic valuation method, the median overall value of a website was $22,815.

Conclusions

Although two different approaches were used to value FOAM, both came to the same conclusion that there is substantial economic value being produced. This value should not go unrewarded and content creators should be acknowledged either academically or financially for their contributions.