bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathological caudal skeleton of an ichthyodectiform fish from the Upper Cretaceous Niobrara Formation of western Kansas, USA
Authors: Bennett S Christopher
Published: May 2024

A series of 12 contiguous caudal vertebrae of an ichthyodectiform fish from the Smoky Hill Chalk Member of the Niobrara Formation is described. The vertebral centra exhibit extensive overgrowth of pathological bone and there is additional pathological bone within the centra and intervertebral spaces, which together resulted in the coossification of most centra. The extent of the pathology is greatest on preural vertebrae 1-3 and decreases anteriorly, which suggests that the pathology began posteriorly and progressed anteriorly. In addition to the pathological overgrowth on bones, the specimen preserves features interpreted as calcified and/or ossified soft tissues associated with the neural and haemal canals. The pathologies are unlike previously described examples of bony pathologies in fish, and it is suggested that they resulted from combined bacterial and fungal infections. As the pathologies developed, they would have adversely impacted the fish’s swimming and feeding abilities, and presumably eventually led to the fish’s death.
Low-grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm Masquerading as Acute Appendicitis: A Case Report
Authors: Nikhil PV , Minal Jessica , Nagabhushan Bhargavi Kalburgi , Murali Nirupama
Published: May 2024

Appendiceal mucinous neoplasms, particularly Low-grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasms (LAMN), are rare but important diagnostic entities as they are potential causes of a surgical abdomen. The clinical manifestations of this lesion are obscure and ill-defined, and these lesions are commonly misdiagnosed as acute appendicitis, adnexal masses, or retroperitoneal tumours. This lesion can rupture and seed mucin and neoplastic epithelium into the peritoneum, leading to Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP), a serious complication with a high morbidity and mortality rate. Therefore, timely identification and treatment of LAMN are crucial for reducing the risk of PMP and improving prognosis and outcomes. Ultrasonography (USG) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans are useful methods for diagnosis; however, the diagnosis is often incidental or found intraoperatively during resection for suspected acute appendicitis. Clinical awareness of the misleading presentations of LAMN should be present in cases of a surgical acute abdomen to prevent performing a dissimilar treatment intervention. Considering the rarity of this lesion and its varied presentation, it is important to study and document this type of neoplasia in the literature. Hereby, authors report a rare case of LAMN in a 33-year-old male patient with a primary diagnosis of acute appendicitis. This case highlights the importance of having a high index of clinical suspicion of appendiceal malignancy and mucocele rupture in patients planned for appendectomy. This also emphasises the fact that all excised appendicectomy tissues should be sent for histopathological examination as they can harbor pathological changes like LAMN.
Undifferentiated Embryonal Sarcoma of Liver- A Rare Case Entity
Authors: Rajaraman Gayathri B , Chandramouleeswari K , Regis M Dougul , Nivedita J
Published: May 2024

Undifferentiated Embryonal Sarcoma of the Liver (UESL) is a rare hepatic malignant mesenchymal neoplasm in the paediatric population, typically affecting children between 6-10 years of age without sex predilection. It accounts for 9-15% of paediatric liver malignancies, with an incidence of 0.6-1.2 cases per one million patients. Here, the authors present a case of an 11-year-old male, who presented with right upper quadrant pain, loss of appetite for the past one month, and high-grade fever for the past three days. On examination, a firm mass in the right hypochondrium and epigastrium, about 4 cm below the right costal margin, was noted, moving with respiration. Blood work showed normal values and normal alpha-fetoprotein levels. An ultrasonogram revealed a cystic lesion, while a contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography (CT) scan showed a large hepatic space-occupying lesion with cystic and solid architecture, with the following differential diagnosis as, embryonal sarcoma and hepatoblastoma. The patient underwent surgery for a hepatic hydatid cyst, and the procedure performed was percutaneous aspiration, irrigation and respiration. Gross examination revealed multiple grey-brown and grey-white fragments with a variegated appearance. Microscopic analysis showed a malignant neoplasm composed of spindle cells, stellate cells, multinucleated giant cells in a myxoid stroma, with many atypical mitoses present. Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) positive eosinophilic hyaline globules were observed in the tumour cell cytoplasm, along with extensive areas of haemorrhage and necrosis. The final diagnosis of embryonal sarcoma was made after a panel of Immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers. The present case is presented here due to its rarity and diagnostic challenge, arising from the lack of a characteristic clinical presentation, serological markers and inconclusive radiological findings.
Effect of Different Concentrations of Auxin as Well as Cytokinin on Shoot Initiation, Formation and Multiplication of Pepino (Solanum muricatum Ait.) cv. Valentia with MS Semi-solid Medium
Authors: Pandey Shiwanand , Prakash Satya , Tripathi Vivek Kumar
Published: May 2024

The pepino (Solanum muricatum Aiton) is conventionally propagated through vegetative means. But, this approach of propagation is not feasible for commercial production of plants and has at more time the chances of reduction yield. Therefore, the availability of quality planting material is of urgent need. Recently, there has been a promising approach for pepino multiplication at large scales through tissue culture because it generates a large number of contamination free plantlets in a minimum space and time. The combination of different growth regulators may be tried to maximize the initiation, growth and development of shoot in commercial propagation of pepino plants. The Minimum days taken for shoot initiation (5.21 days) was noted under BAP 3.00 mgl-1 + IBA 0.50 ppm, and minimum days taken for shoot development (40.82 days) was noted under of BAP 3.00 ppm + IBA 1.00 ppm. The highest length of shoot (9.52 cm) was produced in media supplemented with BAP 3.00 ppm + IBA 1.00 ppm. Maximum percent of developed shoots obtained from the established culture (67.79) was noted under the treatment of BAP 3.00 ppm + IBA 1.00 ppm; While maximum shoots per explants/ innoculums from the established culture (4.06) was noted under the treatment of BAP 3.00 ppm + IBA 1.00 ppm. Maximum number of leaves / plantlet from the established culture (10.85) was noted under the treatment of BAP 3.00 ppm + IBA 1.00 ppm and maximum fresh weight (mg) of shoot / plantlet obtained from the established culture (26.05 mg) was noted under the treatment of BAP 3.00 ppm + IBA 1.00 ppm.
How Components of Dye-sensitized Solar Cells Contribute to Efficient Solar Energy Capture
Authors: Bbumba Simon , Karume Ibrahim , Kigozi Moses , Oyege Ivan , Ntale Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Herein, we reviewed the main components of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) which are an emerging cheap and environmentally benign alternative for solar energy capture and conversion to electricity. The role of individual parts such as the semiconductor electrode, counter electrode, photosensitizer, electrolyte, and substrate and their contribution to the overall efficiency (η) of DSSCs are discussed. In addition, parameters such as short circuit current, open circuit voltage, and fill factor used to quantify the efficiency of DSSCs are addressed.  The highest solar-to-electric energy conversion efficiency of 13 % has been achieved using titanium dioxide as a semiconductor electrode, a triiodide system as a redox couple, and platinum counter electrodes. Semiconductors are made up of materials such as glass, carbon, conductive polymers and other metal oxides have lower efficiencies (< 8 %). In addition, synthetic photosensitizers especially ruthenium complexes have higher efficiencies (10-11 %) compared to natural dyes among which the highest efficiency (4.6 %) was achieved using chlorophyll. The performance of natural dyes based on efficiency of the DSSC is generally in the order: chlorophyll > anthocyanins > carotenoids that is highly attributed to their structure which not only dictates electron release and recombination but also attachment to other components. The DSSC performance is not fixed but rather tunable by variations in the components to achieve desired structural and electronic properties such as firm anchorage between the photosensitizer and the semiconductors, the reduction of the energy band gap by incorporation of other metal salts to extend the absorption range and use of additives that prevent electron recombination with the photosensitizer or any hindrances in the electrolyte redox reactions.
Socio-economic Profile of Fruit Crop Growers of Karnataka and Their Relationship with Entrepreneurial Behaviour
Authors: Chikkalaki Anil Sidaray , Krishnamurthy B. , Ghanghas Bharat Singh
Published: May 2024

The study was conducted in Vijayapura district of Karnataka during 2020 to study the socio-economic profile of fruit crop growers and their relationship with entrepreneurial behaviour. Forty each grape, lime and pomegranate growers were selected by use of simple random sampling technique. Thus, making a total sample size of 120. The statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage and chi square test were used to draw valid inferences. The findings revealed that more than two fifth (42.50%) of the fruit crop growers belonged to middle age group, one fourth of them had middle school education, nearly half (48.33%) were practicing crop production as main occupation, more than two fifth (43.33%) of them were found to have medium sized family, more than one third (37.50%) of them had medium experience in fruit crop cultivation, nearly half (49.17%) of the fruit crop growers were small farmers, 35.00 per cent of them were found under medium income category. More than two fifth (43.33%) of them were found to have medium level of social participation, 40.83 per cent of them had medium level of mass media exposure, extension participation and deferred gratification, 45.00 per cent of them had medium level of value orientation, two fifth (40.00%) had medium level of self-reliance and more than one third (35.00%) of them belonged to medium level of cosmopoliteness.
The Effect of Amortizing the Value of Human Resource Cost on the Financial Performance of Nigeria Banks
Authors: Oyetola Odewusi , David Olalere Mayowa
Published: May 2024

This study looked into how Nigerian banks' financial performance was affected by depreciating their human resource costs. The research design used in this study is the survey research design. Reliability and validity of the data sources were established by the questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the descriptive and Regression statistical technique. It was discovered that human resources had a major influence (Adj R2 = 0. 858, F (9.064)). The findings showed that financial performance benefited from the expense of human resource training. FP was significantly impacted by HRTC (β = 0.3.86, t = - 1.586, p< 0.05), and FP was significantly impacted by HRAC (β = 0.911, t = 4.143, p<0.05). According to the study, using acquisition costs for human resources has a favorable effect on an organization's financial performance. The management boards of the banks under examination are advised by the study to work toward implementing the policy of classifying human resource costs as assets. To guarantee that their employees have the technical know-how and understanding to perform their tasks more efficiently, banks must plan regular training sessions for their HR department. Since the organization's most significant asset is its human resources, the Central Bank of Nigeria ought to ensure that the funds allocated to them are appropriately declared and acknowledged as assets in bank annual reports. By doing this, the genuine financial performance of the institutions will be more accurately depicted.
Product Quality towards Brand Loyalty in the Cosmetic Industry
Authors: Tutor Renaliza R. , Cose Stephany , Almagro Ronald E.
Published: May 2024

This descriptive-correlational study aimed to examine the relationship between product quality dimensions and brand loyalty. There were 259 respondents in six cosmetic industries in Davao del Norte who were chosen through stratified sampling. This study used two adapted questionnaires. Mean, Pearson r and standard deviation were used as statistical tools. The study involved analyzing data from respondents who provided ratings on various dimensions of product quality and brand loyalty indicators. The results revealed that product quality dimensions such as environmental friendliness, conformance, aesthetic, perceived quality, performance, reliability, serviceability, and durability were rated very highly by the respondents. However, features received a slightly lower rating compared to other dimensions. In terms of brand loyalty, indicators including variety-seeking, involvement, and resistance to situational factors received high ratings, while perceived brand differences received a comparatively lower rating. The analysis also showed a weak positive correlation (R-value=0.232 & P-value= 0.000) between product quality dimensions and brand loyalty, with a rejection of the null hypothesis, indicating a significant relationship. Overall, these findings suggest the importance of considering both product quality and brand loyalty dimensions in marketing strategies to enhance consumer satisfaction and loyalty.
Students’ Response to Cross-culture Based Instruction in Teaching Listening Comprehension at Indonesian Islamic Higher Education
Authors: Nursidah . , Atmowardoyo Haryanto , Wello Basri
Published: May 2024

The present study explores the students’ response to the cross-culture based construction in teaching listening comprehension at Indonesian Islamic higher education. This research used qualitative approach with case study design. In collecting the data, the researcher used questionnaire and gave to the 34 students as the respondents by purposive sampling. They were from English language program at fourth semester. The result showed that most of the students stated that they were motivated and interested in cross culture - based instruction in learning listening comprehension. Learning listening by using cross culture based instruction make them enjoyable and they can remember the new word. It can be concluded that cross culture -based instruction is useful since the lecturer choose the appropriate material and strategise in teaching listening comprehension.
Diversity of Dematiaceous Freshwater Hyphomycetes from Dang Forest of Gujrat, India
Authors: Patil S. Y. , Pawara C. M.
Published: May 2024

Hyphomycetes paly significant role in freshwater ecosystem. Dang district is located in the south eastern part  Gujarat state of western India. Dang has an area of 1,764 km². Present paper deals with 6 species of submerged freshwater hyphomycetes belonging to 5 genera viz. Aquapteridospora bambusinum Bao, Dictyosporella aquatica Abdel Aziz, Pseudoberkleasmium chiangmaiense Lu and Hyde, Sporidesmium nujiangense Bao, Su, Hyde and Luo, Vamsapriya aquatica Bao, Su, Hyde and Luo and Vamsapriya indica Gawas and Bhat. The survey was conducted in winter season of 2019.
Response of Fertility Levels and Biofertilizers on Growth and Yield Attributes Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Crop
Authors: Jain Deepanshu , Kumar Anil , Dwarka . , Singh Ompal , Jain Sumeet Kumar , Patel Ravi
Published: May 2024

The experiment was conducted on agricultural research form with split plot design in four main treatments: F1 (control), F2 (100% recommended dose of fertilizer-RDF), F3 (75% RDF), and F4 (50% RDF), and three sub-plot treatments: B1 (Rhizobium + PSB), B2 (Rhizobium + PGPR), and B3 (Rhizobium + PSB + PGPR), each replicated three times. Growth parameters such as plant height and dry matter accumulation were significantly influenced by both fertility levels and biofertilizers. Chickpea plants showed higher growth parameter values and root parameter when treated with 100% RDF (F2). Similarly, biofertilizer treatments, particularly Rhizobium + PSB + PGPR (B3), followed by 75% RDF (F3). Root dry weight per plant was significantly affected by both fertility levels and biofertilizers across all growth stages except at 30 days after sowing (DAS). The number of pods per plant and the number of seeds per pod were significantly influenced by both fertility levels and biofertilizers at all growth stages except at 30 DAS and in the case of 100 seed weight. Chickpea plants treated with 100% RDF (F2) exhibited higher values for both the number of pods per plant and the number of seeds per pod.
Assessment of Effects of Amended Bioremediation of Toxic Metal-polluted Soil using Organic Composites and Bacillus sp on Plant Growth Parameters
Authors: Korie Maximus Chibuoyi , Osuala Ferdinand Ozurumba Uzoma , Ogbulie Jude-Anthony Nnama , Okereke Josephat Nwabueze , Anyadoh-Nwadike Sylvia Onyinyechi , Ibe Colman Chikwem , Nwachukwu Moses Ekene
Published: May 2024

It has become pertinent to develop improved bioremediation techniques, to avert the deleterious effects of heavy metal pollution on agricultural productivity, and safety of its produce. In this study, cow dung, poultry wastes and their composites used as organic amendments were collected and processed, while Bacillus sp used as plant growth promoting rhizosphere was isolated and identified. Then 24 kg of fertile soil was polluted by introducing 20 mL of 0.1M lead acetate solution, before bagging 5 kg of polluted soil into ten perforated nylons. Soil sample was then analyzed before and after treatment. After mixing with Bacillus sp suspension, two of the pot experiments were amended with each of 0.5 kg cow dung only, 0.5 kg poultry wastes only and 1:1 ratio of their composites. Control samples were set up without amendment, and they were bioremediated for 25 days. Following germination of sown corn seedlings, heights of their shoots and number of leaves were monitored on day 4, weeks 2, 4 and 7, before harvesting for analysis together with soil samples. Results obtained revealed that seedlings grown on treated samples as well as properties of treatment of soil were generally better than those of control samples. Highest percentage increase in organic matter content of soil was recorded in treatment with mixture of cow dung only and Bacillus sp, with 9.28% and 7.63% increase at 33.75 mg/kg and 52.55 mg/kg of lead (Pb) pollution. Seedlings grown on samples treated with poultry wastes only, recorded the highest protein content of 161.25±5.5 mg/g, 104.99±4.95 mg/g and 79.75±3.2 mg/g protein contents, at 32.75 mg/kg, 42.02 mg/kg and 52.44 mg/kg levels of Pb pollution, respectively. The amendments also reduced bioaccumulation of Pb in corn seedlings, which was in the order; stem<leaf<root. Therefore, these amendments can be exploited for improved bioremediation of heavy metals.
In vitro and In vivo Studies for Screening of Anti-inflammatory, Thrombolytic and Acute Toxicological Activity in Camellia Chrysantha (Hu) Tuyama
Authors: Ayshi Mariya Alam , Rakib Md. Mohiuddin Rahaman , Asif Abu Jubaer , Oishee Anjuman Ara , Amran Md. Shahi
Published: May 2024

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of methanol-prepared leaves extract of Camellia Chrysantha (Hu) Tuyama. on several in vitro activities, including anti-inflammatory and thrombolytic effects. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the acute toxicological activity of the extracts in an animal model.
Place and Duration of Study: The research study was carried out from Nov 2023 to Feb 2024 at the Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), Laboratory of Pharmacology, University of Asia Pacific and the Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, as well as the Laboratory of Microbiology at Stamford University Bangladesh, Dhaka.
Methodology: The methodology involved various doses of methanolic leaves extract of Camellia Chrysantha (Hu) Tuyama, and employed techniques such as the Inhibition of Protein Denaturation Assay for anti-inflammatory test and the clot lysis test for thrombolytic assay. The acute toxicological activity was assessed by Cinnamon oil induced toxicological and administration of acetic acid induced writhing responses in Swiss albino mice.
Result: The Inhibition of Protein Denaturation Assay test yielded findings indicating its anti-inflammatory properties against all strains used in this research. The findings from the study examining the anti-inflammatory properties indicate that Chrysantha (Hu) Tuyama exhibits a significant efficacy of 86.54% in inhibiting inflammation at a concentration of 1000 µg/mL. This level of efficacy is comparable to that of acetylsalicylic acid, which also has a similar efficacy of 98.54 % at the same concentration. Thrombolysis test is a controlled laboratory procedure that assesses the ability of plant extracts to dissolve blood clots. The study found that MECCL can reduce blood clots. Table 2 shows that MECCL's thrombolytic potential was 95.69%, which is much higher than the usual value of 91.304%. Our research found that MECCL did not induce any harmful effects in mice during the acute toxicity test, as determined by the toxicological assessment. No signs of illness or death were reported throughout the acute toxicity trial.
Conclusion: The Camellia chrysantha (Hu) Tuyama plant exhibits privileged qualities that could lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic substances. It has anti-inflammatory, thrombolytic, and mild acute toxicity properties. Further exploration of this plant could be beneficial. Our study results contribute to the growing body of evidence demonstrating that natural products may potentially have favourable effects on human health.
Corrosion Inhibition Performance of Brachystegia eurycoma Leaf Extract on Mild Steel in Acid Media
Authors: Emembolu L. N. , Iwuchukwu F. U. , Ejiofor C. C. , Ajali J. J. , Chinyelu C. E.
Published: May 2024

The aim of this work is to investigate the corrosion inhibition of B. eurycoma leaves extract as a natural inhibitor for mild steel corrosion in 3 M H2SO4 solution. The corrosion inhibitory activity was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization. The surface roughness and its properties through scanning electron microscopy (SEM).  The obtained result from EIS   divulges that the gradual increase in inhibitor concentration and time of immersion leads to progressive increase in inhibition efficiency. At the end of 8 hours immersion time and inhibitor concentration of 1000 mg/l the highest inhibition efficiency of (88%) was obtained. The potentiodynamic polarization results indicated that addition of B. eurycoma leaves extracts hindered the reaction rates of anodic and cathodic reactions thereby performing as mixed- type inhibitor. The corrosion current density also revealed that in the presence of B. eurycoma leaves extracts the value of corrosion density reduced considerably from 265.2 \(\mu\) A/cm2 for sample without inhibitor to 67.8 \(\mu\) A/cm2 for sample with inhibitor. Again, it was observed that in the presence B. eurycoma leaves extracts the mechanism of hydrogen (effervescence) evolution was unique whereas the anodic dissolution of iron mechanism experienced the impact of the inhibitor. SEM inspection revealed that the mild steel surface showed smoother and lower damage in the presence of inhibitor. Obvious correlations were found between corrosion inhibition efﬁciency and some quantum chemical parameters such   as energy of highest occupied molecular orbital (EHOMO), energy of lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (ELUMO), energy gap (EL–H) and electronic density etc. The obtained results were further elucidated with frontier molecular orbital theory.
Investigating the Characterization and Grindability Behaviour of Farin-lamba Cassiterite toward Effective Tin Oxide Production
Authors: Alabi Oladunni Oyelola , Giwa Gideon , Gitau Francis , Elizabeth Gbadamosi Yemisi
Published: May 2024

Cassiterite has been an essential source of tin; its exploration and exploitation have become a priority worldwide. The effective beneficiation of cassiterite depends mainly on its grindability and effective liberation. The Modified Bond's grindability test is a method used to determine the work index, which is crucial in estimating the energy needed to grind an ore. This is crucial during mineral processing, as a slight deviation would affect the company's operating expenditure (OPEX). This study investigates the work index for Farin-Lamba cassiterite with reference to silica sand sourced from Igbokoda. The test ore (cassiterite) was analyzed using Energy Dispersed X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (ED-XRS), Petrographic Analysis, and Scanning Electron Microscope equipped with an Energy Dispersive Spectrum (SEM-EDS) to understand their chemical and mineralogical characteristics in relation to their grindability. The test ore and the reference material (silica sand) underwent comminution using 500g of each to a 100% passing 500 μm array of sieves arranged in (√2) series from 500μm to 63μm onto an automatic sieve shaker. The chemical and mineralogical analysis revealed the presence of gangue such as SiO2 and Al2O3, which increases the energy needed during communition; further, the presence of rough and large grain size in the ore also increases the energy needed for communition. The results were subjected to Gaudin Schuman's equation to determine the ore's work index, which was 14.664 KWh/ton for the test ore, which is standard for cassiterite, which ranges from 10-15 kWh/ton. Further, the energy needed for comminution was calculated to be 33.7272 Kwh, providing valuable insights into the energy efficiency of the grinding process. The evaluation of the grindability of Farin-Lamba cassiterite in relation to the reference ore not only contributes toward understanding the ore processing dynamics but also provides information needed for the optimization of energy consumed during the process of tin oxide production.
Studies on Nutrient uptake, Nutrient use Efficiency and Water Productivity of Drip Irrigated Ratoon Sugarcane as Influenced by Water Soluble Fertilizers
Authors: N. N. Annappa , Ananthakumar M. A. , Thimmegowda M. N. , Kadalli G. G.
Published: May 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, V.C. Farm, Mandya during 2020-21 to study the Nutrient content and Uptake of Drip irrigated Ratoon Sugarcane as influenced by water soluble fertilizers. The experimental site was red sandy loam soil with neutral pH, normal electrical conductivity, medium organic carbon, low available nitrogen, medium phosphorus and potassium content. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications comprising seven treatments with VCF-0517 sugarcane variety. The results revealed that application of 150 per cent RDF through WSF (325.9 kg ha-1 N, 46.5 kg ha-1 P2O5, 338.4 K2O kg ha-1) recorded significantly higher nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake compared to 100 per cent RDF through WSF (287.3 kg ha-1 N, 37.5 kg ha-1 P2O5, 282.6 kg ha-1 K2O) and 75 per cent RDF through WSF (269.9 kg ha-1 N, 33.4 kg ha-1 P2O5, 253.6 kg ha-1 K2O). Application of WSF at 75 per cent RDF resulted in greater NUE in case of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (348.3 kg kg-1, 870.7 kg kg-1 and 696.5 kg kg-1 respectively) when compared with other fertigation levels and conventional fertilizer application.
Assessment of Biochemical Parameters and Yield Performance in Rice under Different Crop Establishment Methods
Authors: Tiwari Deepti , Patel Manoj Kumar , Priyadarsini Payal , Ankita . , Mishra Shatakashi , P. Vijai , Singh UP
Published: May 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.), a staple food for half of the global population, is cultivated using various methods, with transplanting being conventional in many Asian countries. However, challenges such as high-water consumption, labour intensiveness, and environmental degradation have prompted the exploration of alternative methods. In this study, we assessed the impact of various crop establishment methods (CE) i.e. conventional puddled transplanting, direct drill seeding on flatbed (DSR), and direct seeding on raised beds (FIRB) on five stress-tolerant rice varieties (V) i.e. DRR 42, DRR 44, Sukha Dhan 5, Sukha Dhan 6 and Sarjoo 52 by analysing biochemical parameters i.e. total sugar content, starch content, MDA content, SOD content and yield outcomes. Our findings reveal significant variations in biochemical parameters and yield across different CE and V combinations. Notably, FIRB consistently outperformed other CEs, indicating its potential for enhancing stress tolerance and yield. Similarly, DRR 44 exhibited superior performance across most growth stages. Our study highlights the potential advantages of FIRB method in mitigating water wastage and addressing the limitations of conventional transplanting practices.
Monocyte and Neutrophil Isolation and Migration Assays
Authors: Yona Simon , Hayhoe Richard , Avraham‐Davidi Inbal
Published: February 2010

This unit describes methods for isolating mouse monocytes and neutrophils, as well as in vitro protocols for measuring cell migration and polarization. The method employed here for the isolation of naïve phagocytes overcomes many of the difficulties previously encountered concerning phagocyte activation. Three in vitro protocols are provided for the analysis of cell migration, one requiring no specialized equipment, one requiring the modified Boyden chamber, and the other employing a flow chamber, which measures cell adhesion, rolling, and migration. Finally, a method is provided for imaging polarized cells by confocal microscopy. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 88:14.15.1‐14.15.14. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in the Mouse
Authors: Miller Stephen D. , Karpus William J. , Davidson Todd Scott
Published: February 2010

This unit details the materials and methods required for both active induction and adoptive transfer of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in the SJL mouse strain using intact proteins or peptides from the two major myelin proteins: proteolipid protein (PLP) and myelin basic protein (MBP). Detailed materials and methods required for the purification of both PLP and MBP are also described. A protocol for isolating CNS‐infiltrating lymphocytes in EAE mice is included. Modifications of the specified protocols may be necessary for efficient induction of active or adoptive EAE in other mouse strains. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 88:15.1.1‐15.1.20. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Presenting Exogenous Antigen to T Cells
Authors: Harding Clifford V. , Ramachandra Lakshmi
Published: February 2010

Antigen processing and presentation experiments can be done with a wide variety of antigen‐presenting cells (APCs). Most experiments will use one of the “professional” APC types: dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and B lymphocytes. Other types of cells may be used for antigen presentation in some circumstances. Each type of professional APC has an important antigen‐presentation function, but the different APC types contribute to different aspects of the immune response. Therefore, selection of an APC type for study must include consideration of the stage or aspect of immune response that is to be modeled in the experiment. An important technical distinction for some types of experiments is whether the APCs are adherent or nonadherent, since this dictates the procedures that must be used to wash the cells as the medium is changed. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 88:16.2.1‐16.2.18. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The MHC Motif Viewer: A Visualization Tool for MHC Binding Motifs
Authors: Rapin Nicolas , Hoof Ilka , Lund Ole , Nielsen Morten
Published: February 2010

In vertebrates, the onset of cellular immune reactions is controlled by presentation of peptides in complex with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules to T cell receptors. In humans, MHCs are called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs). Different MHC molecules present different subsets of peptides, and knowledge of their binding specificities is important for understanding differences in the immune response between individuals. Algorithms predicting which peptides bind a given MHC molecule have recently been developed with high prediction accuracy. The utility of these algorithms is hampered by the lack of tools for browsing and comparing specificity of these molecules. We have developed a Web server, MHC Motif Viewer, which allows the display of the binding motif for MHC class I proteins for human, chimpanzee, rhesus monkey, mouse, and swine, as well as HLA‐DR protein sequences. The binding motif for each MHC molecule is predicted using state‐of‐the‐art, pan‐specific peptide‐MHC binding‐prediction methods, and is visualized as a sequence logo, in a format that allows for a comprehensive interpretation of binding motif anchor positions and amino acid preferences. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 88:18.17.1‐18.17.13. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Role of community and individual characteristics in physician visits for persons with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Tonner Chris , Trupin Laura , Yazdany Jinoos , Criswell Lindsey , Katz Patricia , Yelin Edward
Published: February 2010

Objective

To examine the effects of individual and local level socioeconomic status (SES) and health care access characteristics on the number of self‐report physician visits for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Data derived from 755 adult participants from the 2004 to 2007 Lupus Outcomes Study (LOS) resulted in a sample of 2,926 repeated‐measures observations. The outcome measure was the number of physician visits in the prior 12 months. Information on disease activity and manifestations, demographics, health insurance, and specialty of the participants' main SLE physician was collected through yearly LOS interviews. Local area measures including neighborhood poverty, the number of subspecialists per capita, and hospital market areas were added from secondary data sources. We used a mixed model with repeated measures to estimate the number of physician visits for SLE by SES and health care access characteristics, as well as the extent of concentrated poverty and number of subspecialists per capita in the local community, and whether these relationships varied by specific hospital market area. Multivariate models were adjusted for demographic and health status covariates.

Results

LOS respondents reported a mean ± SD of 11.8 ± 10.7 (range 0–52) physician visits for SLE. After adjustment, having less than a high school education, receiving care in a health maintenance organization, being treated by a generalist, and living in a community of concentrated poverty were associated with a significantly lower number of physician visits for SLE. These relationships varied by hospital market areas.

Conclusion

Beyond health status, the number of physician visits for SLE varies by SES, neighborhood poverty, and characteristics of the health care system.
Preparation and Characterization of a pH‐ and Thermally Responsive Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid)/Porous SiO2 Hybrid
Authors: Perelman Loren A. , Moore Troy , Singelyn Jennifer , Sailor Michael J. , Segal Ester
Published: February 2010

A multifunctional nanohybrid composed of a pH‐ and thermoresponsive hydrogel, poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) [poly(NIPAM‐co‐AAc)], is synthesized in situ within the mesopores of an oxidized porous Si template. The hybrid is characterized by electron microscopy and by thin film optical interference spectroscopy. The optical reflectivity spectrum of the hybrid displays Fabry–Pérot fringes characteristic of thin film optical interference, enabling direct, real‐time observation of the pH‐induced swelling, and volume phase transitions associated with the confined poly(NIPAM‐co‐AAc) hydrogel. The optical response correlates to the percentage of AAc contained within the hydrogel, with a maximum change observed for samples containing 20% AAc. The swelling kinetics of the hydrogel are significantly altered due to the nanoscale confinement, displaying a more rapid response to pH or heating stimuli relative to bulk polymer films. The inclusion of AAc dramatically alters the thermoresponsiveness of the hybrid at pH 7, effectively eliminating the lower critical solution temperature (LCST). The observed changes in the optical reflectivity spectrum are interpreted in terms of changes in the dielectric composition and morphology of the hybrids.
Particle‐Stabilized Materials: Dry Oils and (Polymerized) Non‐Aqueous Foams
Authors: Murakami Ryo , Bismarck Alexander
Published: February 2010

Oil (liquids with low surface tension and practically immiscible with water) drops can be dispersed in air if relatively oleophobic particles are available. However, such particles with oil‐repellent surfaces cannot simply be prepared by controlling the particle surface chemistry alone. Herein the preparation of oil‐in‐air materials (oil marbles, dry oils) by changing the wetting behavior of particles by tuning the oil properties, which allows the formation of the metastable Cassie–Baxter wetting state of particle assemblies on oil drop surfaces, is presented. The oil‐in‐air materials can be converted to air‐in‐oil materials (non‐aqueous foams) by tailoring the oil properties, as the robustness of the metastable Cassie–Baxter state of the particle assemblies critically depends on the particle wettability. This conversion implies the phase inversion of dispersed systems consisting of air and oils. It is also shown that particle‐stabilized non‐aqueous foams can be utilized as template to produce macroporous polymers.
Multicomponent Reactions of 1,3‐Cyclohexanediones and Formaldehyde in Glycerol: Stabilization of Paraformaldehyde in Glycerol Resulted from using Dimedone as Substrate
Authors: Li Minghao , Chen Chang , He Fei , Gu Yanlong
Published: February 2010

Glycerol has proved to be an effective promoting medium for many multicomponent reactions of 1,3‐cyclohexanediones and formaldehyde. Styrenes, amines, 2‐naphthol, 4‐hydroxy‐6‐methyl‐2‐pyrone and 4‐hydroxy‐1‐methyl‐2‐quinolone could easily react with 1,3‐cyclohexanediones and paraformaldehyde in glycerol under catalyst‐free conditions to afford a variety of complex skeletons in fair to excellent yields. In these reactions, glycerol not only showed a significant promoting effect on the reaction yields but also endowed the reaction system with many typical properties of green chemistry, such as cheap, renewable, recyclable and biodegradable solvent, good safety and easy separation of product. The promoting effect of glycerol for the three‐component reaction of styrene, dimedone and paraformaldehyde could be attributed to a restricted formation of the methylene intermediate in glycerol. During the reaction, a physical shell, which is mainly composed of a by‐product generated in the beginning of the reaction, might be formed in the surface of paraformaldehyde and plays a key role in controlling the formation of the intermediate by means of restricting the decomposition of paraformaldehyde.
Differential expression of specific microRNA and their targets in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Cammarata Giuseppe , Augugliaro Luigi , Salemi Domenico , Agueli Cecilia , Rosa Maria La , Dagnino Lea , Civiletto Gabriele , Messana Francesca , Marfia Anna , Bica Maria Grazia , Cascio Lucia , Floridia Pietro Michele , Mineo Angelo M. , Russo Mario , Fabbiano Francesco , Santoro Alessandra
Published: February 2010

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) the most common acute leukemia in adults is characterized by various cytogenetic and molecular abnormalities. However, the genetic etiology of the disease is not yet fully understood. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small noncoding RNAs which regulate the expression of target mRNAs both at transcriptional and translational level. In recent years, miRNAs have been identified as a novel mechanism in gene regulation, which show variable expression during myeloid differentiation. We studied miRNA expression of leukemic blasts of 29 cases of newly diagnosed and genetically defined AML using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for 365 human miRNA. We showed that miRNA expression profiling reveals distinctive miRNA signatures that correlate with cytogenetic and molecular subtypes of AML. Specific miRNAs with consolidated role on cell proliferation and differentiation such as miR‐155, miR‐221, let‐7, miR‐126 and miR‐196b appear to be associated with particular subtypes. We observed a significant differentially expressed miRNA profile that characterizes two subgroups of AML with different mechanism of leukemogenesis: core binding factor (CBF) and cytogenetically normal AML with mutations in the genes of NPM1 and FLT3‐ITD. We demonstrated, for the first time, the inverse correlation of expression levels between miRNA and their targets in specific AML genetic groups. We suggest that miRNA deregulation may act as complementary hit in the multisteps mechanism of leukemogenesis offering new therapeutic strategies. Am. J. Hematol. 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Laboratory evaluation of aspirin responsiveness
Authors: Smock Kristi J. , Rodgers George M.
Published: February 2010

Aspirin is the most commonly used antiplatelet medication. Laboratory monitoring of aspirin response has recently become a topic of interest due to potential impacts on patient management and clinical outcomes. This article summarizes available laboratory testing of aspirin response with focus on technical issues, limitations, and current opinion on the utility of routine patient testing. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sickle cell disease in the United States: Looking back and forward at 100 years of progress in management and survival
Authors: Prabhakar Hari , Haywood Carlton , Molokie Robert
Published: February 2010

The past 100 years since James Herrick's first description of sickle cell disease in the United States have been characterized by the gradual development of management strategies. We review the progress in sickle cell disease management in the United States over the past 100 years, with emphasis on the diverse forces surrounding advances in disease management. Mortality and survival data are presented chronologically, with an attempt to highlight improvements in survival associated with specific advancements for pediatric and adult care. Finally, the future course for sickle cell disease management is explored, given the continued work in advancing the field. Am. J. Hematol. 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Humanities in Gross Anatomy Project: A novel humanistic learning tool at Des Moines University
Authors: Canby Craig A. , Bush Traci A.
Published: February 2010

Gross anatomy affords physical therapy students an opportunity to discover human morphology by intimately studying the dead. Moreover, it also exposes future physical therapists to the humanistic aspects of the profession. In 2007, anatomy faculty decided to socialize students to the humanities with a new course requirement: Humanities in Gross Anatomy Project (HuGA) Project. At the end of the course, students, either individually or as a group, submitted a project that described how they had been personally touched by the donor's gift and how the gift contributed to their professional growth and education. The submission could be in the form of a narrative, poem, song, video, etc. All students met the three grading criteria that were established; thus taking the first step in socializing themselves to the humanistic domain of their professional education. In summary, the HuGA project is a novel educational tool that formally provided physical therapy students with humanistic learning opportunities in a gross anatomy course and appeared to facilitate reflective learning. The utilization of reflection as it relates to clinical decision making and patient interaction is critical for physical therapy practice. Anat Sci Educ 3: 94–96, 2010. © 2010 American Association of Anatomists.
Binding Studies on CB[6] with a Series of 1‐Alkyl‐3‐methylimidazolium Ionic Liquids in an Aqueous System
Authors: Zhao Nan , Liu Li , Biedermann Frank , Scherman Oren A.
Published: February 2010

The host–guest chemistry between a series of 1‐alkyl‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium bromide ([Cnmim]Br) guests and the macrocyclic host molecule cucurbit[6]uril (CB[6]) in an aqueous system is systematically studied in neutral aqueous media. Both 1D and 2D NMR experiments in conjunction with isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) unveil the binding characteristics of the host–guest interaction. Solution binding constants (Ka) up to 105 M−1 are measured directly. Additionally, this [Cnmim]Br–CB[6] interaction was found to significantly increase the solubility of CB[6] in neutral water, in some cases by at least four orders of magnitude. From these studies, a detailed host‐guest binding model has been constructed and is fully discussed. In this model, the delocalized positive charge on the imidazolium ring becomes partially localized on either one of the nitrogen atoms upon complexation with CB[6]. Localization of the positive charge is directly related to the length of the “1‐alkyl” chain on the imidazolium ring, which causes an induced local dipole subsequently allowing for an ion–dipole interaction with the carbonyl portal of CB[6].
Reductive Benzylation of Dimetallo Hexaaryl[70]Fullerenes on the Equatorial Region
Authors: Fujita Takeshi , Matsuo Yutaka , Nakamura Eiichi
Published: February 2010

Dianions of dimetallic hexa(organo)[70]fullerene [(C5R5)2Ru2C70Ar6]2− (R=H, Me; Ar=Ph, 4‐MeC6H4, 4‐tBuC6H4) react with benzylic bromide to yield the dibenzylated product dimetallic octa(organo)[70]fullerene (C5R5)2Ru2C70Ar6(CH2Ar′)2 (Ar′=Ph, 4‐MeO2CC6H4), where the benzylic groups are attached to the equatorial belt region of [70]fullerene; this region is generally considered to be rather unreactive. This unusual structure was unambiguously determined by X‐ray crystallography. Theoretical studies on the electronic properties of the monoanionic intermediate indicated that the highest spin density resides on the two carbon atoms in the belt region; one of them then couples with a benzylic radical to yield the octa(organo)fullerene product after ionic substitution of the fullerene anion with a benzylic bromide. Electrochemical analysis of the hexa(organo) and octa(organo) ruthenium complexes suggests that the modification of the belt region does not affect the electronic communication between the two metal centers.