bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflation in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsharari Adhullah
Published: August 2023

Objective: This research is about inflation in Saudi Arabia over the period from 1970 to 2021. The aim of this paper is to analyze the inflation in Saudi Arabia, during determine the effect of financial structure of Saudi Arabia on the future changes in overall inflation.

Methodology: The way used to study inflation in this research is to search and get information from different available data such as government websites and previous studies. Financial structure of Saudi Arabia was analyzed to understand inflation in the country.

Results: Economy of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia mainly relies on petro-chemical and oil export as inflation rate has been very low during past decades.

Limitations: This study caters with the future changes in overall inflation. Dramatic price changes in different sectors like food, household and house rent were also studied. Fluctuations in the general price level which occurs on a successive basis was then related to specific causes.

Practical Implications: Different causes of raising prices are discussed along with the steps taken by the government to minimize inflation effects on public of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This study also provides valuable information for future researchers interested in analyzing the effects of inflation on different contexts.
CD31 signaling promotes the detachment at the uropod of extravasating neutrophils allowing their migration to sites of inflammation
Authors: Andreata Francesco , Clément Marc , Benson Robert A , Hadchouel Juliette , Procopio Emanuele , Even Guillaume , Vorbe Julie , Benadda Samira , Ollivier Véronique , Ho-Tin-Noe Benoit , Le Borgne Marie , Maffia Pasquale , Nicoletti Antonino , Caligiuri Giuseppina
Published: August 2023

Effective neutrophil migration to sites of inflammation is crucial for host immunity. A coordinated cascade of steps allows intravascular leukocytes to counteract the shear stress, transmigrate through the endothelial layer, and move toward the extravascular, static environment. Those events are tightly orchestrated by integrins, but, while the molecular mechanisms leading to their activation have been characterized, the regulatory pathways promoting their detachment remain elusive. In light of this, it has long been known that platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule (Pecam1, also known as CD31) deficiency blocks leukocyte transmigration at the level of the outer vessel wall, yet the associated cellular defects are controversial. In this study, we combined an unbiased proteomic study with in vitro and in vivo single-cell tracking in mice to study the dynamics and role of CD31 during neutrophil migration. We found that CD31 localizes to the uropod of migrating neutrophils along with closed β2-integrin and is required for essential neutrophil actin/integrin polarization. Accordingly, the uropod of Pecam1-/- neutrophils is unable to detach from the extracellular matrix, while antagonizing integrin binding to extracellular matrix components rescues this in vivo migratory defect. Conversely, we showed that sustaining CD31 co-signaling actively favors uropod detachment and effective migration of extravasated neutrophils to sites of inflammation in vivo. Altogether, our results suggest that CD31 acts as a molecular rheostat controlling integrin-mediated adhesion at the uropod of egressed neutrophils, thereby triggering their detachment from the outer vessel wall to reach the inflammatory sites.
Decoupled neoantigen cross-presentation by dendritic cells limits anti-tumor immunity against tumors with heterogeneous neoantigen expression
Authors: Nguyen Kim Bich , Roerden Malte , Copeland Christopher J , Backlund Coralie M , Klop-Packel Nory G , Remba Tanaka , Kim Byungji , Singh Nishant K , Birnbaum Michael E , Irvine Darrell J , Spranger Stefani
Published: August 2023

Cancer immunotherapies, in particular checkpoint blockade immunotherapy (CBT), can induce control of cancer growth, with a fraction of patients experiencing durable responses. However, the majority of patients currently do not respond to CBT and the molecular determinants of resistance have not been fully elucidated. Mounting clinical evidence suggests that the clonal status of neoantigens (NeoAg) impacts the anti-tumor T cell response. High intratumor heterogeneity (ITH), where the majority of NeoAgs are expressed subclonally, is correlated with poor clinical response to CBT and poor infiltration with tumor-reactive T cells. However, the mechanism by which ITH blunts tumor-reactive T cells is unclear. We developed a transplantable murine lung cancer model to characterize the immune response against a defined set of NeoAgs expressed either clonally or subclonally to model low or high ITH, respectively. Here we show that clonal expression of a weakly immunogenic NeoAg with a relatively strong NeoAg increased the immunogenicity of tumors with low but not high ITH. Mechanistically we determined that clonal NeoAg expression allowed cross-presenting dendritic cells to acquire and present both NeoAgs. Dual NeoAg presentation by dendritic cells was associated with a more mature DC phenotype and a higher stimulatory capacity. These data suggest that clonal NeoAg expression can induce more potent anti-tumor responses due to more stimulatory dendritic cell:T cell interactions. Therapeutic vaccination targeting subclonally expressed NeoAgs could be used to boost anti-tumor T cell responses.
The zebrafish mutant dreammist implicates sodium homeostasis in sleep regulation
Authors: Barlow Ida L , Mackay Eirinn , Wheater Emily , Goel Aimee , Lim Sumi , Zimmerman Steve , Woods Ian , Prober David A , Rihel Jason
Published: August 2023

Sleep is a nearly universal feature of animal behaviour, yet many of the molecular, genetic, and neuronal substrates that orchestrate sleep/wake transitions lie undiscovered. Employing a viral insertion sleep screen in larval zebrafish, we identified a novel gene, dreammist (dmist), whose loss results in behavioural hyperactivity and reduced sleep at night. The neuronally expressed dmist gene is conserved across vertebrates and encodes a small single-pass transmembrane protein that is structurally similar to the Na+,K+-ATPase regulator, FXYD1/Phospholemman. Disruption of either fxyd1 or atp1a3a, a Na+,K+-ATPase alpha-3 subunit associated with several heritable movement disorders in humans, led to decreased night-time sleep. Since atpa1a3a and dmist mutants have elevated intracellular Na+ levels and non-additive effects on sleep amount at night, we propose that Dmist-dependent enhancement of Na+ pump function modulates neuronal excitability to maintain normal sleep behaviour.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae DJ-1 paralogs maintain genome integrity through glycation repair of nucleic acids and proteins
Authors: Susarla Gautam , Kataria Priyanka , Kundu Amrita , D'Silva Patrick
Published: August 2023

Reactive carbonyl species (RCS) such as methylglyoxal and glyoxal are potent glycolytic intermediates that extensively damage cellular biomolecules leading to genetic aberration and protein misfolding. Hence, RCS levels are crucial indicators in the progression of various pathological diseases. Besides the glyoxalase system, emerging studies report highly conserved DJ-1 superfamily proteins as critical regulators of RCS. DJ-1 superfamily proteins, including the human DJ-1, a genetic determinant of Parkinson’s disease, possess diverse physiological functions paramount for combating multiple stressors. Although S. cerevisiae retains four DJ-1 orthologs (Hsp31, Hsp32, Hsp33, and Hsp34), their physiological relevance and collective requirement remain obscure. Here, we report for the first time that the yeast DJ-1 orthologs function as novel enzymes involved in the preferential scavenge of glyoxal and methylglyoxal, toxic metabolites, and genotoxic agents. Their collective loss stimulates chronic glycation of the proteome, and nucleic acids, inducing spectrum of genetic mutations and reduced mRNA translational efficiency. Furthermore, the Hsp31 paralogs efficiently repair severely glycated macromolecules derived from carbonyl modifications. Also, their absence elevates DNA damage response, making cells vulnerable to various genotoxins. Interestingly, yeast DJ-1 orthologs preserve functional mitochondrial content, maintain ATP levels, and redistribute into mitochondria to alleviate the glycation damage of macromolecules. Together, our study uncovers a novel glycation repair pathway in S. cerevisiae and a possible neuroprotective mechanism of how hDJ-1 confers mitochondrial health during glycation toxicity.
Tank fouling community enhances coral microfragment growth
Authors: Page Christopher , Perry Riley , Lager Claire VA , Daly Jonathan , Bouwmeester Jessica , Henley E. Michael , Hagedorn Mary
Published: August 2023

Anthropogenic stressors threaten reefs worldwide and natural in situ coral reproduction may be inadequate to meet this challenge. Land-based culture can provide increased coral growth, especially with microfragments. We tested whether culture methods using different algal fouling communities could improve the growth and health metrics of microfragments of the Hawaiian coral, Porites compressa. Culture method fouling communities were: (1) similar to a reef environment (Mini Reef); (2) clean tanks managed to promote crustose coralline algae (Clean Start); and (3) tanks curated beforehand with poorly-competing algae (Green Film) assessed in winter and summer months. The Green Film method during the winter produced the fastest microfragment mean growth at 28 days until the first row of new polyps developed, and also the highest tank and plate metric health scores. Time efficient, standardized methods for land-based culture designed to maximize growth and production of coral fragments will contribute considerably to the success of large-scale restoration efforts.
Effects on the yield and fiber quality components of Bt cotton inoculated with Azotobacter chroococcum under elevated CO2
Authors: Li Zhuo , Gao Min , Liu Rujie , Chang Chunyan , Ge Feng
Published: August 2023

Background

The raising trend of cultivation of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-transgenic cotton is faced with a new challenge what effects on the growth and yield of Bt cotton under elevated CO2.

Methods

Rhizobacteria is the significant biological regulator to increase environmental suitability and ameliorate soil-nitrogen utilization efficiency of crops, especially Bt cotton. Pot-culture experiments investigated the effects on the yield and fiber quality components of Bt cotton (transgenic Line SCRC 37) inoculated with Azotobacter chroococcum (AC) under elevated CO2.

Results

The findings indicated that the inoculation of azotobacter significantly improved the yield and fiber quality components of Bt cotton, the elevated CO2 significantly increased the soil density of A. chroococcum and the partial yield indexes (as cottonweightper 20 bolls, lint yield per 20 bolls and boll number per plant), and non-significant decrease the fiber quality components of Bt cotton except uniform.

Discussion

Overall results obviously depicted that the inoculation of azotobacter and the elevated CO2 had positive effects on the yield and fiber quality components of Bt cotton. Presumably, azotobacter inoculation can be used to stimulate plant soil-nitrogen uptake and promote plant growth for Bt cotton under elevated CO2 in the future.
The Building Material Use Study of the Eco Learning Camps Design for Elementary and Middle School Students: A Case Study
Authors: Liu Qiqi , Zhu Chenghao , Wu Xin
Published: August 2023

The design of Eco Learning Camps (ELC) for primary and secondary school students endeavors in building individuals’ awareness to care for the environment through environmental-based value education. Against the backdrop of achieving China’s goal of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, it seems to be an urgent task to answer the question of how to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings in the design and operation of ELC. This paper selects the camp of ancient dragon kiln in Huangshi Village, a village in Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, as a case study for design and research. Comparing with relevant cases, it finds out that the carbon footprints of different building materials used in the existing Eco educational buildings are much lower comparing with the traditional building materials. The results of this study show that carbon emissions can be significantly reduced by replacing the main building materials of the camp. On this basis, this study proposes the four major design strategies that need to be followed in the selection of materials for the design of ELC.
Visual Analysis of the Hot-Spots and Trends of Literary “Animal Image” Research in CNKI Based on Cite Space
Authors: Lu Huijuan
Published: August 2023

The goal of cite space mapping analysis is to identify structures and then make comparison of the related mapping objects, such as probing knowledge structures, scientific change, research frontiers, invisible contact, and domain analysis, etc. In this study, Cite Space software was used to analyze the knowledge map of the published research articles containing “animal images” in China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) to provide a basis for relevant research work.
Rapid and Effective Absorption of Mercury(II) in Aqueous Solution Using CuS Composites Supported by SiO2 Aerogel
Authors: Cai Zhenzhen , Wang Jun , Lin Xuyin , Guo Tuanyu
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, pollution caused by heavy metals has become an urgent problem to be solved today, especially Hg(II) in heavy metals can cause diarrhea, neurological weakness and serious life threatening. Therefore, new materials are urgently needed to adsorb Hg(II) ions in water. Herein, we loaded sulfide (CuS) particles onto SiO2 aerogel obtained from boron slag, which was used to prepare new SiO2/CuS adsorbents. The influence of pH in the solution, the initial Hg(II) ion concentration, contact time, and co-existing cations on the adsorption behavior of mercury(II) ions by SiO2/CuS was investigated. At the optimal conditions, the removal rate and adsorption amount of mercury(II) ions by SiO2/CuS reached 93.16% and 232.90 mg/g within 60 min. The results show that the adsorption process of SiO2/CuS is consistent with the PSO model. The adsorption mechanism of SiO2/CuS on Hg(II) ions is a chemisorption process.
Status of Cultivation Practices and Constraints Faced by the Respondents in Terms of Horticultural Crop Production and Management in the Selected District of Meghalaya, India
Authors: Kharlukhi Cordilia , Jha Kaushal Kumar
Published: August 2023

The study was carried out to examine the status of cultivation practices and analysed the constraints faced by the respondents in terms of horticultural crop production and management. Ex-post facto research design was followed. The study was conducted in East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts. Two Community and Rural Development (C&RD) blocks from each district were selected. Further, eight villages were selected where twenty respondents were randomly selected from each, village. Hence, a total sample of 160 respondents for the study was selected. The study revealed that the majority of the respondents stated that selling and profit was the major reasons for growing the various selected crops and most sold their produce directly to the consumer. Land preparation for potato, cabbage and ginger was done in a traditional method, locally called Nur Bun method. "Nur" means an agricultural component in Khasi local language which indicate as “one raised bed”.  Major constraints faced by the respondents included extension constraints. Major constraints faced by the respondents can be countered and also can be solved with the intervention of the government.
An Economic Analysis of Production of Magur Hatcheries in Bankura District of West Bengal
Authors: Roy Souvik , Kumar Sanjay
Published: August 2023

The study was conducted in Bankura district of West Bengal which has the highest production of Magur seed in the Hatchery. Ramsagar or 7 more villages were selected on the basis of highest no. of magur hatcheries availability. A sample of 100 farmers was surveyed for this magur seed production in the hatcheries. The sample included 12 marginal, 22 small, 30 semi-medium, 29 medium and 7 large magur seed producer in the hatchery. The analysis of data revealed that the growth rates of area and productivity were significant. On an overall basis, average cost of production of magur seed in the hatchery was Rs. 23627.27. On an average, the gross income was Rs. 60000, net income was Rs. 36372.71, the family labour income was Rs. 38812.65, the farm business income was Rs. 42613.8,the farm investment income was Rs. 38646, with cost benefit ratio 1:2.536.
Assessment of Genetic Variability for Yield and Yield Contributing Characters in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Shahin Md. Nazmul Hasan , Md. Harun-Or-Rashid  , Atikuzzamman Md. , Uddin M. Raihan , Kobir Md. Shahriar
Published: August 2023

The study was conducted at the department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Bangladesh during the period from April 2018 to August 2018 to study variability, heritability, genetic advance, interrelationship among 14 important characters among the 15 popular rice genotypes of Bangladesh. Significant variation in plant height of BRRI dhan43, in 50% flowering BRRI dhan42 and BRRI dhan43, for days to maturity BRRI dhan42 and BRRI dhan43, for number of unfilled grain per panicle BRRI dhan48, for flag leaf length Lakhi Lata, for flag leaf width Lohar Gura, for panicle plant-1 BRRI dhan27, for number of filled grain per panicle Kalo Jamvi, number of filled grain per panicle Lakhi Lata, for 100-grain weight BRRI dhan48, for yield plant-1 BRRI dhan48 were found.  Besides, yield per plant and 100-grain weight showed high genotypic and phenotypic co-efficient of variation while other characters showed moderate genotypic and phenotypic co-efficient of variation, except days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, panicle length, flag leaf length, flag leaf width, dry matter, and harvest index. All but, plant height and spikelet per panicle, all other characters studied in this experiment showed high heritability and high genetic advance in percent of mean. Panicle per plant, no. of filled grain, 100-seed wt., and harvest index are positively correlated. Yield per plant is also significantly and positively correlated with flag leaf length at the genotypic level but non-significant at phenotypic level. Grain yield showed non-significant positive association with flag leaf width and panicle length. Above information suggests that yield per plant would increase with increase of these characters. Path co-efficient analysis suggested that flag leaf length, panicle per plant, and flag leaf width showed moderate to low direct effect, but 100-seed weight showed highest positive direct effect toward yield per plant. Plant height showed a low negative direct effect on grain yield per plant while days to maturity, panicle length, no. of filled grain, no. of unfilled grain per panicle and dry matter had considerable negative direct effect on grain yield per plant and showed a negligible indirect effect. Thus, selection based on maturity period, number of panicles per plant, panicle length and higher number of filled grains per panicle might be effective for improving yield of rice.
Condition and Status of Shrimp Fisheries in West Papua Province: Case from Bintuni Bay Regency, Sorong City, and South Sorong Regency
Authors: Yarangga George , Bawole Roni , Monim Hanike , Tebay Selvi , Mudjirahayu  , Suruan Sampari S. , Allo Albertus Girik , Henan Zulkifli
Published: August 2023

The aim of this research was to determine the condition and status of shrimp fisheries in Bintuni, Sorong, and South Sorong Regency. This research was conducted from May to July 2019 in the center of the shrimp industry. Variables measured in this study include the status of shrimp fisheries, shrimp fisheries production data for 10 (ten) years, conditions of shrimp availability, size, and type of shrimp obtained through interviews using questionnaires used to obtain an overview of shrimp stock conditions in nature. Analysis of the estimation of potential shrimp resources using the surplus production method from FAO (Food Agriculture Organization). Surplus Production is based on the assumption that Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE) is a function of f (catching effort/effort) which is linear. Data analysis, it was found that the highest number of shrimp catches occurred in 2010-2015, while the status of shrimp fisheries from the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) was 10,943.1 tons per year. Based on data collected for 10 years, from 2010 to 2020, the number of shrimp catches in the waters of Bintuni Bay and South Sorong has not exceeded the value of shrimp sustainable potential. The highest shrimp catch in the waters of Bintuni Bay and South Sorong occurred in 2015, which was 5,473 tons. The utilization rate of shrimp in the waters of Bintuni Bay and South Sorong is 5,473/10,943.1 which is 50.01%, respectively. Based on calculations using the catch effort data analysis package (CEDA 3.0), the value of the catchability coefficient (q), intrinsic growth rate (r), and carrying capacity (k) are used to determine the population growth rate. In equilibrium condition, when the growth rate is equal to zero, the shrimp population is equal to a carrying capacity of 15.519,9 tons per year, respectively.
Salinity Tolerance of Dormitator lebretonis (Pisces: Eleotridae: Steindachner, 1870) Reared in Water Tanks: Implications for Coastal Wetlands and Swamp Valorizations
Authors: Sonon P. S. , Imorou R. Sidi , Adite A.
Published: August 2023

Dormitator lebretonis (Eleotridae: Steindachner, 1870) is a fish species that inhabits West African coastal environments from Senegal to Angola where this squeaker appears to be an important component of the artisanal fisheries. In particular, this eleotrid is widespread in Benin coastal waters including wetlands, and is intensively exploited for food. The current rearing experiment aimed to determine the salinity levels that favor the survival and growth factors of this squeaker. Six (6) treatments corresponding to six (6) salinity levels (0‰, 5‰, 10‰, 15‰, 20‰, 25‰) and three replicates with 15 individuals of D. lebretonis per replicate were considered for the experiment. Appropriate salinity levels were obtained from a mixture of sea water and fresh water. Overall, within each six (6) treatments, physicochemical features showed insignificant (P>0.05) variations. Regardless of rearing water salinity (0‰ - 25‰), D. lebretonis displayed high survivals ranging between 86.66% (salinity: 0‰) and 100% (salinity: 5‰ - 20‰). Percent weight gained (PWG: 7.94±0.01% - 14.39±0.02%) were moderate and significantly (P<0.05) varied with treatments. Also, significant (P<0.05) variations in the condition factors (K) were recorded, with means ranging between 1.68±0.04 and 1.92±0.01. Nevertheless, specific growth rates (SGR) did not show any significant (F5,18=0.328; P=0.890) variations across treatments. These findings could serve as reference data for an extensive aquacultural valorization of D. lebretonis in numerous Benin coastal wetlands and swamps.
Particle in a Box with Generalized Uncertainty Principle
Authors: Moniruzzaman Md. , Akter Liza
Published: August 2023

in ordinary quantum mechanics for the position uncertainty since the minimum value for the uncertainty can be tend to zero. Different theories of quantum gravity, such as string theory, loop quantum gravity, and black hole physics, confirm a minimal observable length. Kempf et al have formulated The minimal length is a fundamental length for position measurement, although there is no lower bound a generalized uncertainty principle (GUP) by modifying the Heisenberg uncertainty principle to include an appearance of the length in quantum mechanics. In this study, we have found out the influence of the GUP on the particle for its confinement in a 1D potential box and calculated energy eigenvalues. The modified Schrödinger equation for the particle is factorized to be of second order to obtain the eigenvalues in a handy way. The obtained energy levels are modified from the usual result with GUP parameter dependency. The modification in the energy spectrum due to the GUP characterized by the presence of the minimal length has been also explored graphically.
Disseminated Cryptococcosis in an Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Study
Authors: Islam Jemima , Ali Mir Wasim , Chowdhury Sabyasachi , Rakshit Soumyadip , Mondal Md. Karimulla , Datta Anup Kumar , Banerjee Kokila , Ghosh Soumitra
Published: August 2023

Cryptococcosis is the fungal infection caused by the yeast that belongs to the cryptococcus species which is divided into two broad categories, Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. Cryptococcosis is the opportunistic infection in the immunocompromised individual, particularly in HIV infected individual. In immunocompetent individuals, there may be serological evidence of cryptococcal infection, but cryptococcal disease is very rare in the absence of impaired immunity. Here we are reporting a case of disseminated cryptococcosis (multiple cold abscesses, sacroiliitis and asymptomatic pulmonary nodules) in an immunocompetent patient, which was initially thought to be mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
Land Suitability for Chili and Tomato Crops in Wayamiga Village East Bacan Sub-District South Halmahera District, Indonesia
Authors: Umar Efendi , Hadun Ramli , Sofyan Adnan , Teapon Amiruddin
Published: August 2023

Chili (Capsicum annum L.) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) crops are two vegetable horticultural commodities with high economic value and market demand and it’s becomes extremely important to consider land suitability and environmental sustainability factors to reduce losses and increase the probability of success. This research aimed to identify land suitability, land limiting factors, and land management for the development of chili and tomato crops in Wayamiga Village East Bacan Sub-district. The research uses a land survey method with a free survey observation distance system. The land characteristics identification employs the Boring Technique on 13 land units and land sampling of 7 samples. Land suitability analysis refers to the FAO’s land suitability classification system (1976) up to the sub-class of land suitability using a matching method. The research results indicate that the land is actually suitable for chili in Wayamiga Village with the analysis result suggesting a suitable land and S3(write this in full since it is the first time it appears) for chili and tomato is 1.940,7 ha (42,1%) and not suitable (N) is 2.666,3 ha (57,9%). Suitable land for chili and tomato crops is usually moderately suitable land (S2) (do same as foe S3) and marginally suitable land (S3). The land limiting factors that affect the land suitability for chili and tomato crops include rainfall during the growth period, humidity, soil drainage, base saturation, soil pH, organic C, soil salinity, total nitrogen nutrients (N-total), phosphorus (P2O5), potassium (K2O), flood hazard class, land average temperature, soil effective depth, surface rocks, and slope. Land management applied to maintain the sustainability of chili and tomato farming in Wayamiga Desa consists of the improvement of environmental humidity conditions, tillage, construction of drainage channels, application of lime and organic fertilizers, application of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers, and flood prevention.
Cosmic Ray Detector Using Geiger Tubes and Coincident Pulses
Authors: Kumari Anna Reddy Saila , Raghavendra Ratnakaram
Published: August 2023

Cosmic Rays (CRs) are extreme strength particles resigning from outside the Earth and transported through space. These atoms can considerably impact human fitness, aviation and photo electric suppliers. A high energy radiation from space indicator is a tool that detects and measures the force of limitless beams. In this project, one can build a high energy radiation from space indicator utilizing two Geiger Muller tubes, Lead sheets, a stiff frame, a Microcontroller and a Protractor to regulate the frame at certain angle. At different altitudes, at different temperatures, at different humidities, we can identify and record CRs. A portable Muon Detector project that incorporates two Geiger Tubes enclosed within a lead sheet for detecting CRs. The system utilizes a coincidence circuit login to enhance the detection accuracy and reduce false positive rates. Additionally, the device is equipped with sensors to collect data on Temperature, Humidity, Latitude, Longitude and Atmospheric Pressure. The combination of these features provides a comprehensive and versatile solution for studying Muons and their interactions with the surrounding environment.
Evaluation of Agricultural Marketing of Tomato and Cucumber in Qatar Agro Climatic Zone
Authors: Khan Muvin , Garg Amar Prakash
Published: August 2023

There is a great demand of tomato and cucumber in Qatar than their production. Qatar has been categorized as BWh (B=Arid or Dry; W=Waste or Desert; h=hot) based on the Köppen's classification. In addition to having high summer temperatures, high humidity, intense sun radiation, poor soil, and strong winds, Qatar also has limited precipitation. As a result, the climate is no longer favorable for agricultural production. Furthermore, the conditions are made worse by the scarcity of cultivable agricultural land. Due to these unfavorable circumstances and the growing emphasis on self-sufficiency, Qatar has adopted protected farming methods including greenhouse farming. The current state of Qatar's agriculture production has been examined in this review by taking into account the amount of crop output, the amount of cultivated land, the reliance on imports, and the value of crop production with reference to two major vegetable crops identified as critical commodity by Qatar National Food Security Strategy Programme (QNFSS) i.e. Tomato and Cucumber.
Spatial Estimation of Runoff Using SCS-CN Embedded in GIS Environment: A Case Study of Nalgonda District of Telangana, India
Authors: Akash K. , Rejani R. , Jawaharlal D. , Hari N. , Pasha Latheef
Published: August 2023

The main aim of the study was to calculate runoff using the Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS-CN) approach in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. The data required for the study was a soil map and a land use land cover map for the calculation of the curve number. The curve number ranges from 1-100 for different land use and soil condition. CN I = 62.57, CN II = 79.22, and CN III = 89.93 are the hydrological soil groups of the AMC conditions for dry, normal, and wet conditions. Rainfall is the most important factor influencing the runoff. The daily rainfall data from 2011 to 2020 were collected from the NASA POWER data viewer website based on latitude and longitude. The highest rainfall was observed during 2013 and 2020 with 987.05mm and 1136.62mm respectively. The runoff was also observed highest in the years 2013 and 2020 with 89.24mm and 89.60mm respectively. The year 2015 is absorbed as a drought year by the Telangana state government with rainfall of 451.68mm and the runoff was observed the lowest at 0.22mm. The total average annual volume of runoff calculated for the Nalgonda district is 207773154.2 m3 from the study area of 7148077000 m2. From 2011 to 2020, the observed percentage of rainfall converting to runoff in the study area was 24.22%. According to this study, it has been concluded that an increase in rainfall results in an increase in runoff. The information is useful for the water resource Engineers to plan the water harvesting methods to increase groundwater resources.
Influence of Sulphur and Molybdenum on Growth and Yield of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.)
Authors: Sastry Yedla Sunayan , Dawson Joy
Published: August 2023

The field experiment was carried out at Crop Research Farm (CRF) during the Zaid season (march to June – 2023). The Department of Agronomy at SHUATS in Prayagraj (UP) on soil with sandy loam in texture to find out the effect Sulphur and Molybdenum on Growth and Yield of Black gram. The treatments consist of three doses of Sulphur viz., 30 kg ha-1, 40 kg ha-1 and 50 kg ha-1 and Molybdenum 0.5 kg/ha, 1 kg/ha, foliar molybdenum 1500 ppm whose effect is observed on Black gram (var. Shekhar 2). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with Ten treatments replicated thrice. The treatment with application of Sulphur - 50 kg/ha+ Foliar Molybdenum 1500 ppm recorded significantly higher plant height (53.77 cm), number of branches plant-1 (15.33) and plant dry weight (23.68 g), number of pods per plant (26.27), number of seeds per pod (9.53), test weight (30.52 g), seed yield (1.37 t ha-1) and Straw yield (2.95 t ha-1) compared to other treatment combinations.
Cost-Economic Evaluation of Leafy Vegetable Harvester versus Conventional Harvesting: A Comparative Study
Authors: Nag Ramineni Harsha , Sharma P. K. , Mani Indra , Kushwaha H. L. , Yadav R. K. , Chakraborty Debashish , Sarkar Susheel Kumar , Kushwah Ajay
Published: August 2023

The process of harvesting green vegetables is labor-intensive and costly, demanding a substantial workforce. To address the challenges associated with manual harvesting, mechanization is essential for reducing costs, saving time, and improving worker comfort. By precise and comprehensive evaluations of ownership and operational expenses, farmers can acquire valuable information. This knowledge empowers them to make well-informed decisions about purchasing new machinery, optimizing existing equipment, or even exploring alternative methods to enhance their farm's productivity and financial outcomes. Therefore, a battery-operated leafy vegetable harvester is compared with manual harvesting in terms of cost economics. The present results reveal that the ownership and operating costs of the developed harvester are 76.86 Rs/h and 83.702 Rs/h. Compared to traditional methods, it saves an impressive 85.71% of the time and reduces costs by 54.12% during harvesting. The study determined that using battery-operated leafy vegetable harvesters is not only more cost-effective than manual harvesting but also environmentally friendly when compared to fuel-operated harvesting methods.
Enhancing Soil Degradation Assessment through the Integration of GIS and RS: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Rai Vishakha , Singh Sangya , Tekam Yagini , Upadhyay Sunil Kumar , Sahu David Kumar
Published: August 2023

GIS and RS are powerful tools that play a crucial role in natural resource management, especially when it comes to assessing soil degradation. Soil degradation is a long-standing global problem, and to understand the role of GIS and RS in addressing it, data from secondary sources were collected and analyzed. Several researchers have utilized GIS and RS, integrated with the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), to assess soil degradation. Their findings reveal that soil erosion, triggered primarily by water, is a critical form of land degradation. This erosion significantly reduces the potential capacity of the soil, posing threats to economic growth, environmental resources, and social assets. Furthermore, the severity of soil erosion varies across different regions of the country. Despite the valuable insights gained through studies using GIS and RS for soil degradation assessment, their contributions are not yet widely recognized by government organizations, NGOs, policymakers, decision-makers, environmentalists, and researchers. This lack of recognition hinders the attention and action that could be directed towards mitigating soil degradation. To address this issue, this paper aims to comprehensively review the contributions of GIS and RS in assessing soil degradation. By doing so, it seeks to raise awareness among key stakeholders and foster greater attention and support for tackling this critical environmental challenge.
Different Farming Systems Concerning Soil Health and Yield of Arecanut and Black Pepper
Authors: Hongal Shivanand , Sowjanya T. V. , Kulkarni Sudheesh , Maheswarappa H. P. , Gurumurthy S. B. , Shivakumar K. M. , Phatak Rahul , Nagesh  , Bhat Divya S. , Muttappanavar Roopa K.
Published: August 2023

We conducted two year (2020 and 2021) field experiment in the farmer’s field at Hanagal, Sirsi, Karnataka to study the impacts of different farming practices (Recommended package of practice; (RPP), Organic farming, Natural farming and Chemical farming) on rhizosphere microflora, soil nutrient status and yield of arecanut and black pepper. The results revealed that, soil pH and electrical conductivity did not vary significantly due to different farming systems. Whereas, the significantly (p<0.05) highest soil organic carbon content was in organic farming (0.74%) which was on par with natural farming (0.66%) and least in chemical farming (0.71%). The highest available nitrogen (258.31 kg ha-1), phosphorus (39.06 kg ha-1) and potassium (205.47 kg ha-1) were in RPP. Whereas the highest secondary nutrients and micronutrients content were in organic and natural faming. The lowest of all these nutrients were recorded in chemical farming at the harvest stage of arecanut. Soil microflora, dehydrogenase and phosphatase activity in the arecanut and black pepper rhizosphere were significantly (p<0.05) highest in natural farming and lowest in chemical farming. Concerning yield, the significantly highest arecanut (Chali yield 29.35 q.ha-1) and black pepper (dry yield 12.07 q. ha-1) yield was in RPP and maximum net return also observed in RPP (Rs. 10, 62, 500 ha-1).
Effect of Varying Levels of pH and Edible Dyes on Tinting and Vase Life of Tuberose
Authors: Sunder R. , Sahu Jitendra Kumar , Konsam Sunaina
Published: August 2023

Aims: The objective of this study is to explore how manipulating pH levels and incorporating edible dyes can extend the vase life, enhance the tinting, and improve the overall quality of tuberose flowers (Polianthes tuberosa).

Study Design:  The experiment was designed as a complete randomized design with three replications and a total of twenty-eight treatments.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Horticulture lab in Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab. The study was carried out over a specific duration in 2022.

Methodology: Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) flowers were obtained from a local supplier. The flowers were carefully selected based on their uniformity in size and maturity. The study followed a completely randomized design (CRD) with 28 combinations of treatments. The pH levels included three treatments (pH 4, pH 5, and pH 6), while the edible dyes consisted of three treatments (Apple green, Lemon yellow, and orange red) at varying concentrations (1%, 2.5%, and 4%).

Results: This research reveals that the best conditions for attaining the desired tinting effect on tuberose flowers are a slightly acidic pH level (pH 5) and a moderate concentration of lemon-yellow color (2.5%). This treatment combination was suitable for increasing the water uptake, floret opening, percent increase in floret opening and vase life. While the concentration of the dye influences the strength of the coloration, the pH level has a significant impact on how the color solution is taken up and absorbed by the flowers.

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate that maintaining a pH level of 5 and using a moderate concentration (2.5%) of lemon-yellow color positively impacted both the tinting process and the longevity of cut tuberose flowers in vases.
Effect of Integrated Weed Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Green Chilli (Capsicum annum L.)
Authors: Kharwal Nitesh , Yadav Deependra
Published: August 2023

Weed infestation in chilli production, especially during early growth stages, is a major constraint leading to significant yield loss. Effective weed management during this critical phase is crucial for maximizing chilli crop productivity. Keeping this in view a field experiment was conducted at the research farm of Abhilashi University, Mandi (H.P) during the Kharif season of 2022-23. The main objective was to assess the impact of various integrated weed management strategies on the growth and yield of green chilli crops. The experiment consisted of seven treatments with control, laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The treatment details viz., T1[Weedy check (Control)], T2(Weed free), T3[Hand weeding at 30 and 60 days after transplanting (DAT)], T4[organic mulch (paddy straw)], T5 (Oxyfluorfen 1.0 kg/ha, T6 Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha) and T7 (Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha. + HW after 60 DAT). The results of the study revealed that the "Weed-free" treatment (T4) exhibited the highest plant height (80.35 cm), number of leaves per plant (120), number of fruits per plant (85) with an average weight of fruits per plant (276.74 g), dry weight of fruits per plant (33.21 g) and yield (7.56 kg/plot and 189.05 q/ha). The treatment "Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + Hand weeding after 60 DAT" (T7) followed closely, recording the plant height (75.78 cm), number of leaves per plant (114.66), number of fruits per plant (82.33) with an average weight of fruits per plant (251.56 g), dry weight of fruits per plant (32.7 g) and yield (7.12 kg/plot and 178.08 q/ha). The "Weedy check" treatment (T1) required the longest duration for 50% flowering and the first and final harvest, with 76, 108 and 124 days, respectively. On the other hand, the "Weed-free" treatment (T2) required the shortest period, with 66, 93, and 106 days, respectively. Regarding weed-related parameters, the "Weedy check" treatment (T1) demonstrated the highest weed count (110), fresh weight of weeds (2160.03 g) and dry weight of weeds (388.81 g), while the "Weed-free" treatment (T2) exhibited the minimum weed count (0.00), fresh weight of weeds (0.00 g) and dry weight of weeds (0.00 g). The highest weed control efficiency (WCE) of 100% and the lowest weed index (0.00%) were observed in the "Weed-free" treatment (T2), whereas the lowest WCE (0.00%) and the highest weed index (69.69%) were recorded in the "Weedy check" treatment (T1). Economically, the combined treatment of "Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha with hand weeding after 60 DAT" (T7) resulted in the highest net return of 4,39,192.78 ₹/ha, followed by the "Weed-free" treatment (T2) with 4,35,207 ₹/ha. The lowest net return was observed in the "Weedy check" treatment (T1) with 62,117.28 ₹/ha.
The Influence of Various Growing Media on Flowering Parameters of Zinnia
Authors: Sahu Sunidhi , Verma Lilagar Singh , Minj Shashi Kiran , Khilari Madhavi
Published: August 2023

Zinnia is a loose flower used for religious purposes and for social functions in India. The present experiment entitled “The effect of various growing media  on quality of Zinnia” was carried out at Horticultural nursery, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur, (C.G) during the year 2022 and the experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 10 treatments and 3 replications. All the media treatments studied recorded superior over control. Among the media treatments studied  T10 (Garden soil 50% + FYM 25% + VC 25% + Azotobacter showed significant effect with different parameters viz. minimum days taken to first flower bud initiation (34.73 days), maximum blooming period (12.03 days), maximum flower weight (1.95 g), maximum flower yield (42.4 g), maximum number of flowers per plant (37.96). The findings revealed that all the characters linked flowering parameters were greatly affected by all the growing media treatments and quality as well.
Influence of Phosphorus and Zinc on Physio-chemical Properties of Soil on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)
Authors: Jabeen Farkhanda , Bharose Ram , Thomas Tarence , Sinha Aman Kumar
Published: August 2023

The field experiment was conducted at the central research farm Soil Science Research Farm of SHUATS Prayagraj, (U.P.) on, sandy loam soil to “Influence of Phosphorus and Zinc on Physio-chemical Properties of Soil on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)” during Kharif season of 2022. There are nine treatment combinations comprised in randomized block design with three replications making a total of 27 experimental plots. The soil samples were taken in two depths (0-15 cm & 15-30 cm) for analysis. The results showed that the application of Phosphorus and Zinc had a significant and non-significant effect on soil physico-chemical properties. The maximum bulk density (1.52 and 1.52 Mg-3), particle density (2.61 and 2.63 Mg m-3), and pH (7.20 and 7.25) were recorded in T1 (Absolute control) at 0-15 and 15-30 cm depth. Similarly, the maximum percentage EC (0.48 and 0.49 dS m-1), pore space (48.49 and 47.99%), water holding capacity (44.75 and 44.03%), percentage organic carbon (0.47 and 0.46%), available nitrogen (288.14 and 287.68 kg ha-1), phosphorus (29.60 and 28.85 kg ha-1) and potassium (192.41 and. 191.54 kg ha-1) was recorded in T9 (P2O5 @100% + Zn @ 100%)
Pollution Assessment of Two Urban Soils in the City of Ngaoundere, Cameroon
Authors: Hareinda Ngoudzeu Lontsi , Boukar Hassana , Robert Adjia , Dalatou Talba , Adamou Ibrahima
Published: August 2023

Urban soils contain high concentrations of both inorganic and organic pollutants due to anthropogenic activities that compromise their physicochemical quality. The aim of the present study is to assess the contamination level of the soils around the central prison and the regional hospital of Ngaoundere (Cameroon) exploited for crop production. To achieve this objective, soil samples were collected from the surface at a depth of 0-20 cm and 20-30 cm and were analysed to determine heavy metals level on one hand and the enrichment factor (EF) and the geo-accumulation index (IGEO) on the other hand to better assess the level of contamination. Results showed that the concentrations of heavy metals in soils varied according to sites and ranged from 0.51±0.01 to 4.93±0.07 mg/kg for Cd, 10.57±0.01 to 99.47±0.80 mg/kg for Cu, 595.57±0.60 to 872.85±1.58 for Fe, 24.35±0.56 to 43.62±0.65 mg/kg for Ni, 35,25±0.26 to 307.21±0.32 mg/kg for Pb and 31.73±0.11 to 384.32±5.84 mg/kg for Zn. The sequence of heavy metal concentrations in the hospital and prison soils was as follows: Fe>Zn>Pb>Cu>Ni>Cd. Base on the IGEO and the EF the results showed, apart from iron, an accumulation of various metals in both prison and hospital soils. These soils are not suitable for crop production because there is a risk of contamination of the human food chain.
Diltiazem for clozapine-induced generalized hyperhidrosis
Authors: Kenton Emma M. , Zoellner Samantha M. , Nelson Leigh Anne
Published: August 2023

Background

Clozapine can be associated with significant side effects and tolerability issues. Hyperhidrosis occurs less commonly and is unanticipated by clinicians because of clozapine's significant anticholinergic activity.

Case Report

A 34-year-old female developed clozapine-induced nocturnal, generalized hyperhidrosis following initial titration to 400 mg/day. Dose reduction did not decrease the side effect. Treatment with an anticholinergic medication could not be initiated because of constipation. Treatment with a beta blocker resulted in worsening of asthma. Treatment with a calcium channel blocker, diltiazem CD 180 mg/day, resulted in a significant reduction in hyperhidrosis.

Conclusion

This case supports the use of calcium channel blockers to reduce clozapine-induced hyperhidrosis and offers an alternative to anticholinergic medications that may negatively impact clozapine tolerability.
Full Court Press
Authors: Boyle Katharine , Wellons John C.
Published: August 2023

This essay describes a care team and family rallying around a young girl facing what seem to be insurmountable odds.