bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Load of helminth eggs in environmental and stool samples of farmers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: kinfu Bethelhem Gurmassa , Gari Sirak Robele , Solomon Ephrem Tefera , Goodson Michaela L. , Walsh Claire L. , Dessie Bitew K. , Alemu Bezatu Mengistie
Published: August 2023

Background: STH infections are public health problems in countries with poor sanitation coverage. However, there is a paucity of information on the epidemiological link between the environmental sample and helminth infection among farmers in Ethiopia. This aimed to investigate the load of STH in wastewater, soil, and the relationship between helminths in the environmental samples and farmers' stool in Ethiopia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2021 and February 2022 to determine the load of STH in environmental and farmer stool samples. A stratified random sampling technique was used to pick farming households. The sample size for each district was determined by a proportionate allocation to the number of households. From the wastewater-irrigated farm, 70 wastewater, 28 soil, and 86 farmers' stool samples were gathered and analyzed. A questionnaire was used to gather qualitative data, while environmental samples were used to generate quantitative data. Stata version 14 was used for data processing and analysis. The link between helminth in an environmental sample and the farmer's health was investigated using Poisson regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results: The total load of STH eggs in the wastewater was 82.9 %, 57.1 % in the soil, and 18.6% in the farmers' stool. The concentration of Ascaris lumbricoides was found to be the highest in all investigated samples (wastewater 67 %, soil 25 %, and stool 10.5 %), followed by hookworm (wastewater 10 %, soil 21.4 %, and stool 6.9 %) and Trichuris trichiura eggs (wastewater 5.7 %, soil 10.7 %, and stool 1.2 %). The concentration of STH eggs in irrigation wastewater and agricultural soil showed a correlation with the infection in farmers', with a positive regression coefficient of 1.63 (95 % CI = 1.34 – 1.92) and 1.70 (95 % CI = 1.39 – 2.01) respectively. The association was statistically significant (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Irrigating farmland with wastewater contaminated by STH eggs is a potential route for helminth infection among farmers. Therefore, an integrated approach is essential to address the problem in the area and prevent the spread of helminth infections.
Optimizing the appearance of plant-based foods using natural pigments and color matching theory
Authors: Wannasin Dawn , Grossmann Lutz K , McClements David Julian
Published: August 2023

The appearance of food significantly affects consumer’s buying decision. For plant-based foods, consumers expect them to have the same appearance, including color and opacity, as the animal-based products they replace. Therefore, matching the color of plant-based foods to their conventional animal-based counterparts could increase their acceptance by consumers. In this study, three plant-derived food colorants, red beet (red), turmeric (yellow), and butterfly pea flower (blue), were blended to match the color of raw meat, cooked meat, cooked whole egg, and cheddar cheese. Initially, the pigments were incorporated into three separate emulsions representing the three primary colors (red, yellow, and blue). The Kubelka-Munk and color matching theories were then used to determine the amount of each emulsion required to match the spectral reflectance of the animal-based products. Our results show that color matching theory could be used to formulate plant-based emulsions with similar optical properties to animal-based products, including chroma and lightness. However, some discrepancies were observed, which may have been due to differences in the scattering of light by the complex food matrices in animal-based products. The concept of blending three primary colors and color matching model developed in this study could be useful for the development of plant-based food products with improved appearances, thereby expanding their consumer appeal.
Chemical constituents from the aerial parts of Rhododendron thymifolium and its bioactivities against Tribolium castaneum, Lasioderma serricorne and Ditylenchus destructor
Authors: Liang Junyu , Yang Yingying , Wang Xudong , Wu Haoshu , Wang Junlong , Kong Weibao , Zhang Ji
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we studied the isolation and identification of 13 compounds extracted from the aerial parts of R. thymifolium. These compounds include: one terpenoid (1), one alkane (2), one fatty acid ethyl ester (3), one thiol (4), two fatty alcohols (5 and 7), two coumarins (6 and 10), two flavonoids (11 and 12), three aromatics (8, 9 and 13). Compound (1) was isolated from R. thymifolium for the first time. The isolated compounds were tested for insecticidal activity against T. castaneum, L. serricorne and D. destructor. Apocynin (8) and Acetophenone (13) exhibited obvious contact activity against the storage pests with LD50 values of 6.46 and 8.72 μg/adult respectively. Acetophenone (13) showed excellent contact activity against D. destructor with LC50 values of 0.08 mg/mL. The study clearly showed the active fractions from R. thymifolium have might potential to be developed into potential compounds on storage insect prevention.
Influence of climate change on vector born disease (Malaria) over India
Authors: Peri Subrahmanya Hari Prasad
Published: August 2023

Vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, pose a significant global threat, and their intensity is greatly influenced by climatological factors. Tropical countries, like India, are particularly vulnerable to such diseases, making accurate estimation of malaria risk crucial. In this study, we utilized the well-known Vector-borne Disease Community Model, VECTRI, developed by the International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste. The model was implemented to estimate the Entomological Inoculation Rate (EIR) of malaria. Future climatic prediction datasets, including CMIP 5, along with population data sets, were used as inputs for the analysis. The projections covered the period from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2029. The estimated EIR for the years 2020–2029 ranged from 90 to 100 bites per person per year. There was a noticeable decline in malaria risk over the coming decade. The months of August to November, during the post-monsoon period, were identified as highly prone to malaria transmission. Spatial analysis revealed that the east coast of India faced a higher vulnerability to malaria risk. The observed decline in malaria risk is a positive development, but it is essential to exercise caution, especially in areas with heavy rainfall. This research provides valuable insights for policy-makers, highlighting the need to implement future strategies to effectively mitigate malaria risk. By utilizing these findings, appropriate measures can be taken to combat the threat posed by malaria and protect public health.
Morus alba L. leaves modulate sweet (TAS1R) and bitter (TAS2R) taste in the studies on human receptors – is it a new perspectives of white mulberry leaves utilization in food production?
Authors: Przeor Monika , Jokiel Maria
Published: August 2023

From the nutritional point, the main direction for white mulberry (Morus alba L.) elements utilization so far is to create dietary supplements or functional foods for diabetics or over-weight patients. Leaves are widely known as a valuable source of bioactive compounds responsible for its antioxidant and antidiabetic effects, both in animals and humans. We found that processed leaves can be also considered as a bitter and/or sweet taste modulators – important aspect in designing of new functional foods. The aim of the study was to validate the inhibitory effect of Morus alba L. on the TAS2R3 and TAS2R13 bitter taste and TSA1R2/TSA1R3 receptors, and determine the changes that conditioning process caused in such receptors. Effect on the receptors was evaluated in specially transfected HEK293T cells, and the inhibition ratio was measured using the calcium release test. Moreover, the stability of phenolic acids and flavonols in the simulated intestinal in vitro digestion process was determined. Results showed that the tested Morus alba leaf extracts were rich in gallic, chlorogenic and caffeic acids together with rutin and quercetin 3-(6-malonyl)-glucoside, while the conditioning process positively affected on their amount. Mostly identified phenolics were reduced as a result of in vitro digestion. In taste receptors test, it was found that the phytochemicals from conditioned Morus alba leaf extract enhanced sweet taste, together with reduction of bitter taste receptors activity in some cases. To conclude, we found Morus alba, especially conditioned for 4 hours, seems to be valuable modulator of taste, what should be considered in future as a crucial reason for its new utilization.
Suppressing effect of flavonoid compounds on lipids photooxidation of sheep red blood cells and oleic acid photooxidation
Authors: Hajimohammadi Mahdi , Mahboobi Fatemeh Sheikh , Wu Haizhou
Published: August 2023

Photosensitizers and pigments in raw meat such as porphyrins, riboflavin, and myoglobin after incorporation with light beam prompt the generation of singlet oxygen (1O2) from triplet oxygen (3O2) and causes oxidative rancidity of meat products. In this study, the results of photooxidation reactions of sheep erythrocyte (red blood cell) model as a model rich in hemoglobin and phospholipids bilayer, and oleic acid model were obtained by 1H NMR spectroscopy, TBARS assay and iodometric titration. In both models, the rate of lipid photooxidation in the presence of hydroalcoholic extracts of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) as natural antioxidants, Butyl hydroxytoluene (BHT) as a synthetic antioxidant and sodium azide (NaN3) as a well-known 1O2 scavenger were decreased in the order of NaN3 > Turmeric > Cumin > BHT. It was proved during the photooxidation process, there is a direct association between the amount of flavonoid compounds and 1O2 scavenging.
Meta-QTL analysis for mining of candidate genes and constitutive gene network development for viral disease resistance in maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Gupta Mamta , Choudhary Mukesh , Singh Alla , Sheoran Seema , Kumar Harish , Singla Deepak , Rakshit Sujay
Published: August 2023

Viral diseases substantially impact global maize production. Genetic resistance is the most feasible approach to combat losses caused by viral diseases. Various researchers have mapped several QTLs for viral disease resistance (VDR) in maize. The meta-QTL (MQTL) analysis is the best way to leverage such independent studies to find overlapping or common genomic regions governing target traits. Towards this direction, in the present study, the MQTL analysis was carried out using a total of 39 QTL mapping investigations on resistance against 14 viral diseases. 53 (27.04%) out of 196 QTLs could be projected on the maize genome. The study discovered 14 MQTLs for resistance against 11 viral diseases on chromosomes 1, 3 and 10. Marker trait associations (MTAs) in genome-wide association studies confirmed the role of two MQTLs (MQTL3_2 and MQTL10_2) for VDR. The identified MQTL regions harboured 1715 candidate genes. Further, the genes expressed constitutively in the MQTLs identified for VDR were analyzed for their involvement in metabolic pathways. The identified genes were found to be implicated in antiviral resistance, and thus, constitute a good resource for allele mining to decipher the mechanism of plant-virus interactions.
Feature Classification of Multi-source Remote Sensing Data Based on Improved U-Net Network
Authors: Zhang Guanjin , Roslan Siti Nur Aliaa , Wang Ci , Quan Ling
Published: August 2023

In recent years, remote sensing images of various types have found widespread applications in resource exploration, environmental protection, and feature classification. However, relying solely on a single optical or synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image as the data source for feature classification studies may not suffice to achieve the desired accuracy in ground information monitoring. One widely employed neural network for remote sensing image feature classification is the U-Net network, which is a classical semantic segmentation network. Nonetheless, the U-Net network has limitations such as poor classification accuracy, misclassification and omission of small-area features, and a large number of network parameters. To address these challenges, this research paper proposes an improved approach that combines both optical and SAR images in bands for feature classification and enhances the U-Net network. The approach incorporates several modifications to the network architecture. Firstly, the encoder-decoder framework serves as the backbone feature-extraction network. Additionally, a convolutional block attention mechanism is introduced in the feature extraction stage. Instead of pooling layers, convolutions with a step size of 2 are utilized, and the Leaky ReLU function is employed as the network's activation function. This design offers several advantages: it enhances the network's ability to capture feature characteristics from both spatial and channel dimensions, resolves the loss of feature map information while reducing network parameters, and ensures non-zero gradients during the training process. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated through feature classification experiments conducted on optical, SAR, and combined optical and SAR datasets. The results demonstrate that our method achieves classification accuracies of 89.05%, 86.09%, and 90.89% on the three datasets, respectively, with corresponding mIoU values of 0.8104, 0.7804, and 0.8667. Compared to the traditional U-Net network, our method exhibits improvements in both classification accuracy and mIoU to a certain extent.
Characterization of Twelve Erwinia amylovora Bacteriophages
Authors: Besarab Natalya V. , Letarov Andrey V. , Belalov Ilya S. , Golomidova Alla K. , Kulikov Eugene E. , Letarova Maria A. , Boldyreva Daria I. , Lagonenko Alexander L. , Evtushenkov Anatoly N.
Published: August 2023

E. amylovora bacteriophages are of interest as fire blight control agents. This paper presents data on the biology and molecular genetic properties of 12 E. amylovora bacteriophages. Seven of them have complete genome sequences in GenBank and belong to the representatives of Caudoviricetes; Vequintavirinae, Ounavirinae and Autographiviridae.
Dynamic Analysis and Optimal Control of Rumor Victims Affected by Positive Information on the Internet
Authors: Li Jundi , Hu Yuhan , Meng Wang
Published: August 2023

The spread of rumors can have a profound impact on people’s physical and mental health, as well as social stability and development. From the perspective of rumor victims, this article proposes a Susceptible-Infected-Victims-Removed (SQVR) model which combines positive information dissemination on the internet. The model considers the impact of positive information on both rumor victims and spreaders on the internet, and proves the existence and stability of the model’s equilibrium point. Based on the selection of optimized control variables, a control strategy was designed to effectively suppress the spread of rumors and reduce the number of victims. Numerical simulations confirmed the theoretical analysis results and the influence of the system on the changes in control parameters. Furthermore, the SQV R model was compared with the SIR model, and the research indicated that the SQV R model reached equilibrium faster than the SIR model. Expanding the scope of positive information dissemination can effectively suppress the spread of rumors, rapidly free the victims of rumors from their predicament, and reduce the harm caused by rumors.
A Fourier Integral Formula for Logarithmic Energy
Authors: Frerick Leonhard , Müller Jürgen , Thomaser Tobias
Published: August 2023

A formula which expresses logarithmic energy of Borel measures on Rn in terms of the Fourier transforms of the measures is established and some applications are given. In addition, using similar techniques a (known) formula for Riesz energy is reinvented.
Restoration of urban rivers with water quality modeling approach (Case Study: Kan River, Tehran City, Iran)
Authors: Yekta Nazli Moghadam , Rafati Maryam , Karimi Abdolreza , Sajjadi Nooshin
Published: August 2023

This research focused on the urban section of Kan river in Tehran and aimed to rehabilitate it through treated wastewater by using the HEC-RAS quality model. The study area was longitudinally divided into eight sections and the sampling stations were selected based on the research objectives, and the sampling procedure was performed during the water year 2021 (from October 2020 to September 2021. The results showed that the water quality in terms of BOD and DO was lower in Section G than in other sections. This indicates the critical status of the water quality due to the entry of sewage and surface runoff from Persian Gulf Residential Town and Behshahr industries. The results also indicated that the nitrate changes were high in sections, B, C, D, E and F because of agricultural activities, surface runoff, and human wastewater. The highest phosphate level was measured in Section E and then Section F, which can be attributed to the entry of detergents from the located buildings. The model result after the allocation of the effluent of Tehran's sixth water treatment plant demonstrated the increased water quality in all studied sections of Kan River. The vulnerability assessment of this river showed that sections B and C, with a score of 26.7 and 67.6, were exhibited the highest and the lowest restoration potential, respectively. Based on the zoning of Kan River for restoration measures, Section B fell into the nature utilization zone (NUZ) and Facility Use Zone (FUZ). In addition, sections C, D, and G fell into Artificially Development Zone (ADZ) and Facility Use Zone (FUZ), and Development and Nature Mix Zone (DNMZ) and Facility Use Zone (FUZ), respectively. Since all the sections exhibited development potential, ADZ was considered in all zones, except B. Finally, some management solutions such as Flood control, the construction of low-water channels and falls and, wastewater allocation as the main suggestion were proposed to improve the water quality, and restore Kan River.
Effectiveness of creative story therapy for dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ma JinLong , Wang Qian , Lv Shi , Xu Yuzhen , Wei Baojian
Published: August 2023

Objective To conduct a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of creative story therapy versus routine nursing alone for the treatment of dementia.Methods We manually searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China VIP Database (VIP), China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), and Wanfang Data up to May 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of creative story therapy combined with routine nursing versus routine nursing for the treatment of dementia were included.Results A total of 597 participants were enrolled in the 9 RCTs. Among them, 296 were in the creative story therapy group, and 301 were in the routine nursing group. We found statistically significant effects of creative story therapy combined with routine nursing on cognitive function [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.99, 95% CI 0.57, 1.41, P < 0.00001], CSDD score [mean difference (MD) = − 1.71, 95% CI − 3.27, − 0.14, P < 0.00001], quality of life [SMD = 0.97, 95% CI 0.04, 1.90, P = 0.04], and social communication [MD = 0.46, 95% CI 0.17, 0.74, P < 0.00001] between the creative story therapy group and routine nursing groups; no significant difference in change in basic needs communication [MD = 0.09, 95% CI − 0.58, 0.76, P < 0.00001].Conclusion This meta-analysis shows that creative story therapy combined with routine nursing has significant effectiveness in improving cognitive function, depression, quality of life, and social communication in people with dementia. More high-quality RCTs are required to validate these results.
Threshold Effect of ICT in the Impact of the Informal Economy on CO2 Emissions
Authors: Shahnazi Rouhollah , Jamshidi Neda , Shafiei Majid
Published: August 2023

The direct and indirect impacts of information and communication technology (ICT) on environmental pollution and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in developing economies are significant. This study investigates the indirect effects of ICT on CO2 emissions through the informal sector. A threshold panel model is employed to estimate the impact of ICT on the informal sector's effect on CO2 emissions in 24 high-income countries and 30 upper-middle and lower-middle income countries from 1995–2019. The findings indicate that in high-income countries, both ICT and the informal sector contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. When ICT surpasses the threshold of 64,469, the informal sector's reducing effect on CO2 emissions increases. In countries with upper-middle and lower-upper-middle incomes, ICT reduces CO2 emissions, but the informal sector increases them. ICT has two thresholds, 0.976 and 61.57, in these countries. As ICT surpasses each threshold, the incremental effect of the informal sector on CO2 emissions declines. Furthermore, the Kuznets curve is confirmed in both country groups. Energy consumption and population density have a significant positive impact on CO2 emissions.
The effect of structured exercise on non-exercise physical activity and sedentary behaviour in persons with mild Multiple Sclerosis and healthy controls
Authors: Nieste Ine , Spaas Jan , Franssen Wouter M.A. , Asch Paul Van , Savelberg Hans H.C.M. , Eijnde Bert O.
Published: August 2023

Background Exercise interventions fail to increase objective physical activity (PA) in persons with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS), while they self-report higher exercise participation. This suggests that PwMS change their non-exercise PA (NEPA). We aimed to explore NEPA changes of PwMS and healthy controls (HC), and whether these constrain exercise adaptations.
Methods Twenty-nine mildly-disabled PwMS and 26 HC completed a 10-month home-based running program. The primary outcome was time in different NEPA intensities (light intensity PA [LIPA] and moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA [MVPA]) and in sedentary behaviour ([SB]; total and uninterrupted SB) at baseline (T1), after 5 (T2) and 10 (T3) months of exercise. Data were averaged over days with and without exercise sessions (EX and NONEX days). Secondary outcomes included patient-reported and physical exercise adaptations (fatigue, walking mobility, blood pressure, body composition and cardiorespiratory fitness).
Results A significant reduction in non-exercise MVPA was observed from T1 to T2 (-113±31 min/week, p=0.006) and from T1 to T3 (-95±26 min/week, p=0.007) in PwMS, which approximately matched the weekly exercise duration at those time points. PwMS also increased their uninterrupted SB on NONEX days compared to EX days (+0.7±0.3h, p=0.003). There were no changes in MVPA or SB of HC (group×time effect MVPA: p=0.017; group×EX day effect uninterrupted SB: p=0.003). Secondary outcomes improved similarly in both groups and were not associated with NEPA/SB changes.
Conclusions In contrast to HC, PwMS significantly changed their NEPA and the pattern in which they accumulated SB in response to structured exercise. This might be a necessary behavioural compensation in order to adhere to the exercise intervention and did not constrain patient-reported and physical outcomes. Future research is warranted to unravel the underlying causes and to investigate the effects on other exercise adaptations, such as cardiometabolic health.
Trial registration The present study was registered (December 10, 2019) at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04191772.
The comparison of bone marrow and adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells effect within alginate hydrogel scaffold in burned mice infected by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Absari Javad , Ohadi Elnaz , Jahangir Mohammadsaleh , Razavi Shabnam , Darban-Sarokhalil Davood , Karimi Roya
Published: August 2023

Background
Burns are a major cause of death, with infections accounting for 75% of burn-related fatalities. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can infect burn wounds, and conventional antibiotics are not very effective. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown promise in wound healing and protection against infection with alginate scaffold showing synergistic effect and restorative properties.Therefore, we conducted a study comparing the effects of adipose-derived MSCs and bone marrow-derived MSCs, both integrated into alginate scaffolds, in a murine model infected with Staphylococcus aureus.
Methods
MSCs were isolated and encapsulated in alginate scaffolds. Animal study included seven groups (untreated, treated with antibiotic mupirocin, adipose and bone marrow MSCs, alginate scaffold, adipose and bone marrow MSCs encapsulated in alginate scaffolds). Animals examined for seven days. Histological analyses and bacterial counting were conducted to determine the effectiveness of these methods.
Results
The treatment reduced the bacterial count and histological analysis of autopsies from the combination therapy group (MSCs with alginate scaffolds) showed significant effect on the wound healing compared to other groups.
Conclusion
MSCs encapsulated in alginate scaffolds have antimicrobial activity in a model of MRSA-infected burned mice, and accelerates the overall process of burn wound healing.
Examination of risk factors for high Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale scores: a retrospective study at a single university hospital in Japan
Authors: SHIGA Tomomi , FURUI Tatsuro , MORISHIGE Ken-ichirou
Published: August 2023

Background: Perinatal mental health, such as postpartum depression, is an important issue that can threaten the lives of women and children. It is essential to understand the risk factors in advance and intervene before they can lead to postnatal depression. The risk factors of postpartum depression are reported to vary considerably in Japan. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for women with high Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores and to find women who may need our intervention to prevent postpartum depression.
Methods: This was a retrospective observational study conducted at a single center. At the one-month check-up after birth, the EPDS test was performed in 1625 women who gave birth at our hospital from 2008 to 2016. We evaluated maternal, birth, neonatal and social factors and the breastfeeding status from medical records. Thereafter, we examined the factors that contributed to a high EPDS score.
Results: There were 284 women in the high-score group with an EPDS of ≥ 9, and 1341 women in the low-score group with an EPDS score ≤ of 8. Maternal mental disorders and neonatal transport were significantly associated with high EPDS scores. Conversely, exclusive breastfeeding was significantly associated with the low-score EPDS group.
Conclusions: The principal factor for high EPDS scores was a mental disease. Based on this result, we suggest that early intervention in women at high risk for postpartum depression could prevent serious consequences such as abuse and suicide.
Mucoadhesive and thermosensitive Bletilla striata polysaccharides/chitosan hydrogel loaded nanoparticles for rectal drug delivery in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Zhao Shiyi , Zhang Junbo , Qiu Mengyu , Hou Yusen , Li Xuebo , Zhong Guofeng , Gou Kaijun , Li Jingjing , Zhang Chen , Qu Yan , Wang Xiao
Published: August 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disease with diffuse mucosal inflammation limited to the colon. A topical drug delivery system that could be facilely performed and efficiently retained at colon are attractive for clinical ulcerative colitistreatment. Herein, a novel platform for rectal administration of thermosensitive hydrogel co-loaded with nanoparticles to treat ulcerative colitis was developed. Thiolated-hyaluronic acid was synthesized, and prepared nanoparticles with zein and Puerarin. And the Bletilla striatapolysaccharides with colonic mucosa repair effect was oxidized, and mixed with chitosan and β-sodium glycerophosphate to prepare thermosensitive hydrogel. Thermosensitive hydrogels were combined with nanoparticles to investigate their mucosal adhesion, retention, and permeability, as well as their therapeutic effects on ulcerative colitis. Thiolated-hyaluronic acid nanoparticles had good stability, and could be quickly converted into hydrogel at body temperature when combined with thermosensitive hydrogel. The nanoparticles-loaded thermosensitive hydrogel also was excellent at mucosal penetration, enhancing the retention time of drugs in colon, and effectively controlling drug release. In vivo ulcerative colitis treatment revealed that the nanoparticles-loaded hydrogel significantly repaired the colonic mucosa and inhibit colonic inflammation. Therefore, the thermosensitive hydrogel co-loaded nanoparticles will have a promising application in effective treatment of ulcerative colitis by topical administration.
Effect of pressure and temperature on survivability and proliferation of microorganisms in bentonite
Authors: Bartak Deepa , Bedrníková Eva , Kašpar Vlastislav , Říha Jakub , Hlaváčková Veronika , Večerník Petr , Šachlová Šárka , Černá Kateřina
Published: August 2023

As bentonite hosts a diverse spectrum of indigenous microorganisms with the potential to influence the long-term stability of deep geological repositories, it is essential to understand the factors determining microbial activity under repository conditions. Here, we focus on two such factors, temperature and swelling pressure, using a suspension of Cerny Vrch bentonite to boost microbial activity and visualise microbial response. Suspensions were exposed to differing pressures (10–15 MPa; simulating the effect of swelling pressure) and temperatures (60–90°C), followed by a period of anaerobic incubation at atmospheric pressure/laboratory temperature to assess microbial recovery. Microbial load and community structure were estimated using molecular-genetic methods, with presence of living cells confirmed through microscopic analysis. Pressure application had no influence on overall microbial activity or proliferation, proving that pressure evolution during bentonite swelling is not the key factor responsible for microbial suppression in saturated compacted bentonites. However, pressure treatment did cause significant shifts in microbial community structure. We also demonstrated that microbial activity decreased with increasing temperature, and that heat treatment strongly influenced bentonite microbial community structure, with several thermophilic taxa identified. A temperature of 90°C proved to be limiting for microbial activity and proliferation in all bentonite suspensions.
Prospects to Enhance Arthropod Diversity of Crop Ecosystems
Authors: Jayasekharan B. Sailaja , Venkateswarlu V. , Sree U. , Madhav M. Sheshu , Pratheepa M.
Published: August 2023

Arthropods are key constituents of agro ecosystems in maintaining the stability and sustainability of the ecosystem. Their occurrence and abundance were estimated in tobacco crop ecosystem. Samples were collected periodically using pitfall traps, preserved, identified and classified taxonomically to calculate biodiversity indices. During the crop season, as many as 1691 arthropods were collected across various crop ecosystems. About 74 arthropod species were recorded belonging to about 58 families. Biodiversity indices indicate that chickpea and mustard crop ecosystems have the highest species richness of 1.8, relative to FCV planted crop and FCV nursery (1.6 each). Evenness index was also relatively higher for chickpea and mustard crops (0.67 each). It was observed that intercropping tobacco with crops such as chickpea and mustard will enhance the arthropod abundances and their ecosystem services, playing key roles in maintaining a healthy crop ecosystem.
Characterization of the combining ability of maize inbred lines containing temperate germplasm using Striga resistant testers
Authors: Adekunle Dorcas , Mengesha Wende , Abe Ayodeji , Meseka Silvestro , Bossey Bunmi , Menkir Abebe
Published: August 2023

Temperate maize inbred lines are potential sources of desirable alleles for tropical germplasm improvement. To date, the benefit of the temperate inbred lines as a potential source of beneficial alleles for Striga hermonthica resistance breeding to enhance genetic gain in tropical maize has not been fully exploited. This study was conducted to define the heterotic resemblances of the temperate inbred lines using two tropical testers and determine the impact of the temperate inbred lines when used as a parent to improve economically important agronomic traits under normal and Striga infested conditions.
Thirty-two temperate lines and two testers were crossed using line x tester mating design. The resulting 64 hybrids plus 4 checks were evaluated for two years using 17x4 alpha lattice design with 2 replications under infested and non-infested conditions at Abuja and Mokwa in Nigeria.
The mean performance of testcrosses for grain yield was generally higher under non-infested than under infested condition. Grain yield (GY) ranged from 1973.00 to 4714.00 kg/ha under Striga infested condition, and 1964.00 to 5428.00 kg/ha under non-infested condition. Ten temperate inbred lines had positive GCA effects for GY under both conditions and seventeen testcrosses had positive specific combining ability (SCA) for GY. There were significant mean square differences due to line GCA for days to 50% silking and days to 50% pollen shed and SCA of lines ×tester interaction was significant for grain yield under Striga infestation, indicating that the performance of temperate lines in testcrosses varies with the testers. These results could facilitate systematic introgression of the temperate inbred lines into the existing Striga resistant heterotic groups in IITA. The temperate inbred lines with positive GCA effects and producing high grain yields in hybrid combinations could be useful parents for enhancing Striga resistance and agronomic performance of tropical maize germplasms.
Insoluble surfactant spreading over a deep layer of a Power-law fluid
Authors: Baños Ruben , Arcos José , Bautista Oscar , Méndez Federico
Published: August 2023

In this work, a numerical study is conducted to analyze the spreading dynamics of an insoluble and non-diffusive surfactant through the Marangoni convection mechanism on the surface of a deep layer of a shear thickening fluid, whose behavior follows the power-law fluid rheological model. The momentum and convective-diffusion equations are non-dimensionalized and solved numerically by an implicit finite-difference scheme. The dynamic of the physical problem depends on dimensionless parameters that control the decay of the temporal variations in the surfactant concentration: the Reynolds number $Re$, the power index $n$, and $\varepsilon$, the latter denoting the influence of the inertia of the fluid. The main findings show that opposite to shear-thinning fluids, shear-thickening fluids require less time to reach the uniform condition in the surfactant distribution due to a lower response to the inertia of the fluid; this time is even less than that needed for Newtonian fluids. Besides, both types, pseudoplastic and dilatant fluids, showed a similar response when varying the Reynolds number; as this parameter increases, the temporal decay of the surfactant concentration on the fluid surface increases while the distance over which the fluid motion is diffused towards the bottom of the fluid layer decreases.
Census of the avian richness of the W Benin Park
Authors: Justine KOTIN M. , Jean-Cosssi GANGLO
Published: August 2023

Observations were made in the W Park to inventory the avian fauna of this site. This study was undertaken to determine the avian wealth of the Park W Benin. Periodic and regular observations from 2010 to 2017 have helped to establish a list of different species of birds found in the park, in order to develop strategies for good conservation and tourism development of this part of the biodiversity of the Park. A total of 14034 observation points were georeferenced.
Towards sub-second Solution Exchange Dynamics in Liquid-Phase TEM Flow Reactors
Authors: Merkens Stefan , Tollan Christopher , De Salvo Giuseppe , Bejtka Katarzyna , Fontana Marco , Chiodoni Angelica , Grzelczak Marek , Seifert Andreas , Chuvilin Andrey
Published: August 2023

Liquid Phase-Transmission Electron Microscopy research increasingly relies on liquid flow reactors to monitor nanoscale dynamics. Current challenges comprise fast mass transport dynamics inside the central nanochannel of the liquid cell, typically flow cells, and reliable fixation of the specimen in the limited imaging area. In this work, we present a novel liquid cell concept, the diffusion cell, that satisfies these seemingly contradictory requirements by providing additional on-chip bypasses to allow high convective transport around the nanochannel in which the diffusive transport predominates. Diffusion cell prototypes were developed using numerical mass transport models and fabricated on the base of existing two-chip MEMS-setups. Important hydrodynamic parameters such as the total flow resistance, the flow velocity in the imaging area and the time constants of mixing were improved by ~2-3 orders of magnitude compared to existing setups. Obtained solution replacement dynamics within seconds already matches the mixing timescales of many ex situ scenarios, with further improvements possible. Diffusion cells can be easily integrated into existing Liquid Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy workflows, provide correlation of results with ex-situ experiments, and can create entirely new research directions for fast nanoscale processes in liquids.
Ambiguous identity: Arab women students in STEM graduate programs in the United States
Authors: Hamad Fadwa , Pleasants Brandy
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on Arabic women in STEM graduate programs in the US. Arab women lack visibility because there are few Arab women in STEM, and it is difficult to study Arab women given their categorization as white or Asian – rather than Arab - on census documents. If we consider the religious, cultural, and language differences, in addition to the long history of sexism against women in STEM in the US, Arab women students are unlikely to be given the same opportunities and freedom to engage in STEM fields as others. Using the intersectionality framework and previous literature, this study examines the additive effect of having multiple identities for Arab women in STEM. Through in-depth interviews with Arab women graduate students in STEM, this study presents the prominent identities that Arab women value in STEM and their perceptions of experiencing challenges because of their multiple identities. In addition, this study examines how intersecting identities influence their dynamic interactions with others and impacts their success in STEM. Findings highlighted the significant impact of Muslim identity on their experiences, the role of the hijab, the conflation of their Arab and Muslim identities, the reluctance to use school resources to help with discrimination, and their high levels of self-efficacy. The results of this study shed light on his hidden population, identifying challenges to their success in STEM graduate programs in the US.
Investigation of the molecular mechanism of Xiangsha Liujun Pill in the treatment of gastritis based on network pharmacology and molecular docking
Authors: Wei Jiaen , Li Zhengxiu , Tang Tingting , Yu Ruolan , Cao Xuejing , Liu Yong , Huang Zunnan
Published: August 2023

Xiangsha Liujun Pill (XSLJP) is a traditional Chinese medical complex prescription containing ten herbs and is widely used to treat gastrointestinal diseases. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of XSLJP treating gastritis. We first identified 327 targets based on 118 active components using the TCMSP, SwissTargetPrediction and STITCH databases and 180 gastritis-related targets using the DisGeNET database. Their intersection revealed that 26 common targets may play crucial roles in gastritis therapy by XSLJP. Then, we identified 12 key active components and eight hub proteins from the ‘drug-component-common target’ network. Finally, KEGG and GO enrichment analyses revealed that the therapeutic targets of XSLJP were mainly related to inflammation and cancer pathways, such as TNF, JAK/STAT and MAPK signalling pathway. This study not only provides new ideas for further exploring the specific mechanism of XSLJP treating gastritis but also offers a theoretical basis for future research on its active components.
An improved and convenient petri plate-based method for studying the root growth of plants
Authors: Kaachra Anish , Suri Anantika , Kumar Sanjay
Published: August 2023

Plant scientists across the globe are interested in studying the root growth architecture of plants to understand different processes determining growth and development in plants. In the majority of cases, root growth-related experiments are carried out on petri plates filled with solid nutrient media. However, plants growing in these plates are often exposed to conditions that are not close to the natural conditions. Also, it is difficult to pour two different media on the same plate which is quite a useful feature to study the effect of specific treatment on plant growth. In the present work, we describe an improved and easy-to-use petri plate system useful for studying root growth characteristics of young plants grown over solid nutrient media. In comparison to the conventional methods, the present plate system offers an advantage in terms of facilitating the pouring of two different media in the same plate, avoiding contact of the aerial part of the plant with nutrient media, and ensuring the growth of roots under dark conditions. Briefly, two sections with horizontal apertures are provided across the length of the plate. While the upper section ensures that the aerial part of plants does not come in contact with nutrient media, the lower section facilitates the growth of roots in a second media having different nutrient compositions. The upper section is kept black, and a self-adhesive black film is provided to cover the root-growing region of the plate ensuring the growth of roots under dark conditions. The described plate, therefore, provides a convenient system to study root growth under conditions close to natural conditions and hence minimizing experimental artifacts.
Design and modeling of cyclotron proton circuit with helium Source
Authors: Fatemeh.zaheri  , ghapanvari Erfan , Marziye.nadi
Published: August 2023

Today, the need to build high-energy and efficient accelerators for laboratory and industrial work is more than ever. In this article, we investigate and model the behavior of protons inside a cyclotron with a helium source, which releases protons through the ionization process of electric discharge. helium source as a new source for cyclotron increases productivity. we will examine all methods and positions, as well as kinetic energy and phase change. the amount of electric and magnetic field considered in this accelerator is experimental and operational.
Ten Years of Empowering Turkish Women Farmers
Authors: Brumfield Robin G. , Ozkan Burhan
Published: August 2023

In 2011, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (New Brunswick, NJ, USA) and Akdeniz University (Antalya, Turkey) conducted a survey to identify needs, interests, and capacities of Turkish women farmers. We interviewed extension educators and female farmers in three villages and used the results to develop a pilot, 28-hour course to train 40 small-scale citrus (Citrus sp.) and greenhouse producers from Kumluca, Turkey. Training included computer literacy, citrus and greenhouse production, and business management. The municipalities of Elmali, Duzce, Korkuteli, and Boztepe, Turkey, duplicated the successful pilot program within the next 2 years. To expand the training to more women farmers, we partnered with colleagues in Germany, Spain, and Malta to develop Empowering Women Farmers with Agricultural Business Management Training (EMWOFA), which had a multiplier effect by training educators who then trained women farmers to improve their business skills. The outputs of EMWOFA were a training manual for educators, a workbook for the women farmers, and e-learning videos in English, Turkish, Spanish, German, and Maltese.
Influence of Organic Fertilizer Sources and Application Rates on Onion Production in Georgia, USA
Authors: de Jesus Hanna Ibiapina , Ribeiro da Silva Andre Luiz Biscaia , Dutta Bhabesh , Cassity-Duffey Kate , Coolong Timothy
Published: August 2023

A range of organic fertilizers are available for vegetable crops; however, there is a lack of information regarding the performance and rates of organic fertilizers commonly used in the production of Vidalia onion (Allium cepa). Two commercial organic fertilizers, a mixed source organic fertilizer [MIX (10N–0.9P–6.6K)] and a pelleted poultry litter [PPL (5N–1.8P–2.5K)], were evaluated in two soil types at application rates of 0, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 lb/acre nitrogen (N) to determine their impact in the production of Vidalia onions in Georgia, USA, with the objective of determining an optimal fertilizer source and application rate. Field trials were conducted in the 2019–20 and 2020–21 growing seasons in Watkinsville, GA, USA (Cecil series sandy clay loam soil) and Tifton, GA, USA (Tifton series loamy sand soil) on certified organic land. There were significant interactions among location, year, and fertilizer application rate for total marketable yield. In Watkinsville, total marketable yields of onions at different N rates ranged between 1320 and 4565 lb/acre in 2019–20, and between 9951 and 28,749 lb/acre in 2020–21. In Tifton, total marketable yields ranged from 3776 to 9264 lb/acre and 7094 to 14,066 lb/acre in the 2019–20 and 2020–21 seasons, respectively. Aboveground onion N accumulation at harvest was affected by an interaction among location, study year, and fertilizer rate. The largest plant N accumulation was in Watkinsville in 2020–21, ranging from 26 to 50.8 lb/acre N in the 0- and 300-lb/acre N treatments, respectively. In 2020, there were no differences in soil inorganic N at harvest between plots receiving the MIX (9 lb/acre N) or PPL (9.8 lb/acre N) in either location. In 2021, soil inorganic N was greater in plots receiving the MIX fertilizer (14.8 lb/acre N) compared with the PPL fertilizer (11.2 lb/acre N). Yields increased linearly with additional fertilizer; therefore, an optimal application rate for organic fertilizers was not determined.
Evaluating the level of electromagnetic interference generated by the ESD sourсe in the TEM-cell
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Drozdova Anastasiya A. , Komnatnov Maxim E. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR)
Published: August 2023

We evaluated the induced electromagnetic interference on a monopole and a microstrip line generated by an electrostatic discharge sourсe in a small-sized TEM-cell. Analytical, quasistatic, and electrodynamic models are presented for calculating the waveforms and amplitudes of currents and voltages induced on the monopole and the microstrip line. These waveforms are presented for analytical, quasi-static, electrodynamic calculations, and measurements. The maximum deviations of analytical and electrodynamic calculations results for the monopole and the microstrip line are 25 and 9%. An approach is presented for using half of the coaxial cell as a matching device between the electrostatic discharge source and the TEM-cell. The results of calculations and measurements agree well, which indicates the possibility of using a small-sized TEM-cell and half of the coaxial cell. These devices could be helpful to study the effect of electrostatic discharge -generated electromagnetic interference on integrated circuits, electronic component base, and small devices in general.