bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory IL-10-producing CD4+ T cells are T-bet-dependent and facilitate cytomegalovirus persistence via coexpression of arginase-1
Authors: Clement Mathew , Ladell Kristin , Miners Kelly L , Marsden Morgan , Chapman Lucy , Cardus Figueras Anna , Scott Jake , Andrews Robert , Clare Simon , Kriukova Valeriia V , Lupyr Ksenia R , Britanova Olga V , Withers David R , Jones Simon A , Chudakov Dmitriy M , Price David A , Humphreys Ian R
Published: July 2023

Inhibitory CD4+ T cells have been linked with suboptimal immune responses against cancer and pathogen chronicity. However, the mechanisms that underpin the development of these regulatory cells, especially in the context of ongoing antigen exposure, have remained obscure. To address this knowledge gap, we undertook a comprehensive functional, phenotypic, and transcriptomic analysis of interleukin (IL)-10-producing CD4+ T cells induced by chronic infection with murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV). We identified these cells as clonally expanded and highly differentiated TH1-like cells that developed in a T-bet-dependent manner and coexpressed arginase-1 (Arg1), which promotes the catalytic breakdown of L-arginine. Mice lacking Arg1-expressing CD4+ T cells exhibited more robust antiviral immunity and were better able to control MCMV. Conditional deletion of T-bet in the CD4+ lineage suppressed the development of these inhibitory cells and also enhanced immune control of MCMV. Collectively, these data elucidated the ontogeny of IL-10-producing CD4+ T cells and revealed a previously unappreciated mechanism of immune regulation, whereby viral persistence was facilitated by the site-specific delivery of Arg1.
OpenApePose, a database of annotated ape photographs for pose estimation
Authors: Desai Nisarg , Bala Praneet , Richardson Rebecca , Raper Jessica , Zimmermann Jan , Hayden Benjamin
Published: July 2023

Because of their close relationship with humans, non-human apes (chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, orangutans, and gibbons, including siamangs) are of great scientific interest. The goal of understanding their complex behavior would be greatly advanced by the ability to perform video-based pose tracking. Tracking, however, requires high-quality annotated datasets of ape photographs. Here we present OpenApePose, a new public dataset of 71,868 photographs, annotated with 16 body landmarks of six ape species in naturalistic contexts. We show that a standard deep net (HRNet-W48) trained on ape photos can reliably track out-of-sample ape photos better than networks trained on monkeys (specifically, the OpenMonkeyPose dataset) and on humans (COCO) can. This trained network can track apes almost as well as the other networks can track their respective taxa, and models trained without one of the six ape species can track the held-out species better than the monkey and human models can. Ultimately, the results of our analyses highlight the importance of large, specialized databases for animal tracking systems and confirm the utility of our new ape database.
Importance of glutamine in synaptic vesicles revealed by functional studies of SLC6A17 and its mutations pathogenic for intellectual disability
Authors: Jia Xiaobo , Zhu Jiemin , Bian Xiling , Liu Sulin , Yu Sihan , Liang Wenjun , Jiang Lifen , Mao Renbo , Zhang Wenxia , Rao Yi
Published: July 2023

Human mutations in the gene encoding the solute carrier (SLC) 6A17 caused intellectual disability (ID). The physiological role of SLC6A17 and pathogenesis of SLC6A17-based-ID were both unclear. Here, we report learning deficits in Slc6a17 knockout and point mutant mice. Biochemistry, proteomic, and electron microscopy (EM) support SLC6A17 protein localization in synaptic vesicles (SVs). Chemical analysis of SVs by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) revealed glutamine (Gln) in SVs containing SLC6A17. Virally mediated overexpression of SLC6A17 increased Gln in SVs. Either genetic or virally mediated targeting of Slc6a17 reduced Gln in SVs. One ID mutation caused SLC6A17 mislocalization while the other caused defective Gln transport. Multidisciplinary approaches with seven types of genetically modified mice have shown Gln as an endogenous substrate of SLC6A17, uncovered Gln as a new molecule in SVs, established the necessary and sufficient roles of SLC6A17 in Gln transport into SVs, and suggested SV Gln decrease as the key pathogenetic mechanism in human ID.
Vacuolar H+-ATPase determines daughter cell fates through asymmetric segregation of the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complex
Authors: Xie Zhongyun , Chai Yongping , Zhu Zhiwen , Shen Zijie , Guo Zhengyang , Zhao Zhiguang , Xiao Long , Du Zhuo , Ou Guangshuo , Li Wei
Published: July 2023

Asymmetric cell divisions (ACDs) generate two daughter cells with identical genetic information but distinct cell fates through epigenetic mechanisms. However, the process of partitioning different epigenetic information into daughter cells remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex is asymmetrically segregated into the surviving daughter cell rather than the apoptotic one during ACDs in Caenorhabditis elegans. The absence of NuRD triggers apoptosis via the EGL-1-CED-9-CED-4-CED-3 pathway, while an ectopic gain of NuRD enables apoptotic daughter cells to survive. We identify the vacuolar H+–adenosine triphosphatase (V-ATPase) complex as a crucial regulator of NuRD’s asymmetric segregation. V-ATPase interacts with NuRD and is asymmetrically segregated into the surviving daughter cell. Inhibition of V-ATPase disrupts cytosolic pH asymmetry and NuRD asymmetry. We suggest that asymmetric segregation of V-ATPase may cause distinct acidification levels in the two daughter cells, enabling asymmetric epigenetic inheritance that specifies their respective life-versus-death fates.
¿Es el sonido una materia del espacio arquitectónico?
Authors: Rivadeneira Barrios Enrique
Published: July 2023

El presente artículo aborda la posibilidad de considerar el sonido como materia que forma parte del espacio arquitectónico. Esto significa no sólo reconocer su presencia en el espacio, sino que su diseño incluye darle forma al sonido y su aparición. Esto se realiza mediante un caso de estudio, la participación en el diseño conjunto de un espacio lúdico de estimulación para la infancia temprana. La propuesta para este espacio es una intervención sonora, que pueda contribuir en la estimulación auditiva temprana, evaluada desde tres condiciones. Los resultados muestran que la interacción con elementos sonoros contribuye no sólo a la estimulación auditiva, sino que se inserta con las componentes motora y socio-emocional, avanzando hacia una estimulación integral. Por último, la naturalización del sonido como elemento de juego permite suponer una inclusión de éste como parte constituyente del espacio, ampliando las posibilidades de juego para los niños y contribuyendo de manera positiva a la consideración formal del sonido como parte del espacio arquitectónico.
Effectiveness of Family Centered Art Intervention on Anxiety among Hospitalised Children in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Mangaluru, India: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Navitha K , D’Souza Renita Priya , , Benazeera
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Children become fearful, frightened, or unhappy when they attend the hospital. Art intervention can support their capacity to take responsibility and make decisions. It assists children and their families to explore and express their emotional reactions to the hospital admission, which can be difficult to explain. Aim: To find the effectiveness of family centred art intervention on anxiety among hospitalised children in selected tertiary care hospital, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in Department of Paediatric, Yenepoya Medical College and Hospital, Mangaluru, Karnataka, India, from December 20, 2021, to April 10, 2022. A non probability purposive sampling technique was used to enlist study participants, who were then divided into the intervention (n=35) and control (n=35) groups. The level of anxiety was assessed on the first day of admission. Diversional activities were given to the hospitalised child in interventional group, for the first three days of admission, for a duration of 35-45 minutes per day and control group received routine care. The data was collected using the demographic performa, RMS (Raghavendra, Madhuri, Sujatha) pictorial scale and a parent report on their child’s anxiety. A post-test was done each day 30 minutes after the intervention. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Bonferroni posthoc test, Independent t-test and Chi-square-test were used for statistical analysis. Result: A total of 70 hospitalised children, aged between four to eight years, were split into two groups. There were 35 participants per group. The majority of the intervention group (25.7%) were seven-year-old, while the majority of the control group (34.3%) were four-year-old. A 60% of the intervention group participants and 74.3% of the control group participants were males, respectively. A comparison of anxiety scores at different points in the intervention group showed a significant decrease from pretest to post-test (p-value <0.05). The control group showed no difference (p-value>0.05), while at all the posttests, the difference in the anxiety level of children between groups was significant (p-value<0.05). Conclusion: In present study, family centered art intervention significantly reduced the anxiety among children in intervention group as compared to control group.
Comparison of Respiratory Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation and Segmental Breathing on Pulmonary functions, Dyspnoea and Exercise Tolerance in COPD Patients: A Comparative Study
Authors: Prajapati Pankaj , Pawaria Sonia , Reylach Neha
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable disease marked by airflow limitation, destruction of lung parenchyma and other associated respiratory symptoms (e.g., dyspnoea and coughing). Pathological changes and symptoms do not appear altogether, symptoms may not appear but pathological changes are likely to be present. Segmental breathing and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques are both effective techniques in improving pulmonary functions in COPD patients. Aim: To compare PNF and Segmental breathing with respect to pulmonary functions to relieve dyspnoea and improve exercise capacity in COPD patients. Materials and Methods: This was a comparative study conducted from July 2020 to June 2021 at Department of Physiotherapy, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, India. On 30 in-patient aged between 40-60 years with Forced Expiratory Volume in 1st second/Forced Vital Capacity (FEV1/ FVC) < 0.7, hospitalised clinically stable patients . Out of these, 15 were allocated in the segmental breathing group and another 15 participants were allocated into the respiratory PNF group through the sealed envelope. The session was of 10-15 minutes under the protocol of 18-20 repetitions of each technique in segmental breathing and respiratory PNF in either respective group. The dyspnoea was assessed by Modified Borg Scale, pulmonary functions was done with spirometry, followed by the 6-Minute Walk Test (6-MWT). The data was statistically analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences(SPSS) version 24.0. Paired t-test was used to compare the means of measurements within the groups. The independent t-test was used to compare the means of all the variables between the groups. Results: Both of these techniques improved SpO2 (change in mean from 81.27 to 86.20 and 82.13 to 90.67 in segmental and PNF group, respectively) and relieve dyspnoea post-exertion (8.33 to 6.60 and 8.0 to 5.67 in segmental and PNF groups) within 1-week of intervention (p < 0.01). There was improvement seen in pulmonary functions (FEV1 from 0.87 to 0.95 and 0.78 to 1.02 in segmental and PNF groups) and exercise tolerance (6- Minute Walk Test (MWT) from 149.47 to 204.80 and 151.77 to 242.20 in segmental and PNF groups) as well. And out of both, respiratory PNF is more efficient in improving pulmonary function, dyspnoea and exercise tolerance in a week (p<0.01) which makes the master improvement and pulmonary rehabilitation can proceed with further advancement. Conclusion: Segmental breathing and respiratory PNF are effective techniques for patients with COPD admitted to hospital whose modified Borg’s dyspnoea score is higher even at rest and intolerant to physical exercise and peripheral capillary oxygen saturation is lower than 88%.
Assessment of QRISK3 Score in Normoglycaemic, Prediabetic and Diabetic Subjects: An Observational Study
Authors: Rao Aayushee , Kacker Sudhanshu , Saboo Neha , Kumar Munesh
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and diabetes mellitus have a high correlation. Compared to individuals without diabetes, adults with diabetes have a greater prevalence rate of CVDs. This risk steadily increases along with Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) levels, even before they are high enough to be classified as diabetes. One of the factors contributing to death among people with diabetes mellitus is CVD. QRISK3 algorithm calculates a person's risk of developing a heart attack or stroke over the next 10 years. Aim: To assess the QRISK3 cardiovascular risk score in normoglycaemic, prediabetic and diabetic subjects. Materials and Methods: The present analytical observational study was carried out in the Department of Physiology and Medicine, RUHS College of Medical Sciences and associated Hospital, Jaipur, India, from November 2021 to April 2022. A total of 200 subjects were recruited with >20% QRISK3 CVD risk scores out of 7154 screened patients. Subjects were categorised into three groups (normoglycaemic, prediabetics and diabetics) according to American Diabetes Association criteria. The following parameters were recorded for data collection: anthropometric {Body Mass Index (BMI) Waist Hip Ratio (WHR)}, blood pressure and biochemical {Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) and lipid profile parameters). All data collected was entered into Microsoft Excel sheet 2019 and was analysed with help of Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 21.0 and tests of significance considering level of significance as p-value<0.05. Data was analysed by applying Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results: According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) for Diabetes Classification, there were 44 (26.19%) normoglycaemic, 21 (12.5%) prediabetic and 103 (61.31%) diabetic subjects out of the total 200 high-risk subjects. the mean age of was 49.06±9.65 years, 51.15±11.05 years and 51.02±9.74 years for normoglycaemic, prediabetic and diabetic subjects, respectively. There was significant difference of mean values of FBG, HbA1c, total cholesterol, High Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Cholesterol (Chl)/HDL ratio, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), Triglycerides (TG) and QRISK3 score in three groups. But there was no significant difference in following parameters i.e., age, weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist-hip circumference, WHR, Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP). There was hypertriglyceridaemia and low HDL level in prediabetic and diabetic subjects. Conclusion: The present study showed that the cluster of risk factors for CVD also grows as FBG levels and HbA1c levels increase. This study could also assert that these risk factors also increasing with progression of diabetes, which eventually results in increase in risk of CVDs.
The Corticosteroids in Paraquat PoisoningAre They the Sole Life-saving Drugs?: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Krishnamurthy HA , Bharathi S , Bhangari Vijay Sai
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Paraquat poisoning has the highest mortality rate, as high as, 50%-90% due to multiorgan failure, inspite of early interventions by symptomatic medications in the best intensive care settings.The high degree of acute inflammation was found in the subjects of paraquat poisoning with multiorgan failure. There are no specific antidotes at present for the paraquat poison. Aim: To know the role of corticosteroid as a life-saving drug in paraquat poisoning. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Internal Medicine at KR Hospital, Mysuru, Karnataka, India. The duration of the study was eight months, from August 2022 to March 2023. A total of 108 subjects suffering from paraquat poisoning and were divided into two arms, arm one constitutes 70 (64.8%) subjects, they were given 1 gm of methylprednisolone, intravenously for five days with haemoperfusion. The arm two constitutes 38 (35.2%) subjects, they were treated with symptomatic drugs with haemoperfusion. Both the groups were followed-up during the hospital stay, to look for the outcome. The Chi-square test was applied to assess the association between two variables. The data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 (IBM Chicago). Results: The present study was done on 108 subjects, 43 (39.81%) were females and 65 (60.18%) were males. The majority of subjects showed high level of acute inflammatory mediators with multiorgan dysfunction. The subjects on corticosteroids (i.v. methylprednisolone) with haemoperfusion showed low mortality 12 (17.14%) and high survival rate 58 (82.85%) (p-value=0.001) as compared to the subjects on symptomatic treatment with haemoperfusion, with mortality of 36 (94.73%) (p-value=0.01). Conclusion: The early administration of high doses of corticosteroids in subjects with paraquat poisoning had been shown to provide tangible and measurable mortality benefits as compared to the symptomatic medications.
Opioid-based Anaesthesia versus Opioid Free Anaesthesia in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies: A Randomised Clinical Study
Authors: Pal Rashmi , Rajput Santosh , Arora KK
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Intravenous opioids have been frequently used to provide analgesia and supplemental sedation during general anaesthesia or monitored anaesthesia care. Opioid Free Anaesthesia (OFA) is a multimodal approach which combines different drugs likes lignocaine, dexamethasone, paracetamol and dexmedetomidine with different techniquessuch as hypnosis, sedation, analgesia and sympatholysis. Thus, reducing and avoiding opioids perioperatively will lead to decrease in opioid related adverse effects with better postoperative outcomes. Aim: To compare OFA and Opioid-based Anaesthesia (OBA) in terms of haemodynamic stability, speed and quality of recovery, postoperative pain score and analgesic requirement. Material and Methods: The present study was a randomised study conducted over a period from June 2021 to September 2022, in which 90 patients of American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) Grade I,II, 20-60 years of age undergoing elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) were divided into OBA fentanyl and OFA-lignocaine and dexmedetomidine. A standard general anaesthesia protocol of the institute was followed. OBA group received fentanyl (2 μg/kg) over 10 minutes before induction of anaesthesia and OFA group received lignocaine (2 mg/kg) and dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg) both intravenously over 10 minutes before induction of anaesthesia. In OFA group analgesia was maintained by infusion of lignocaine 2 mg/kg/hr and dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg/kg/hr whereas in OBA group fentanyl 0.5 μg/kg was given whenever required till the gallbladder was resected. Postoperative intraperitoneal instillation of gallbaldder fossa was done with 20 mL 0.5% bupivacaine. Intraoperative mean Heart Rate (HR) and Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) were recorded. Postoperative speed and quality of recovery, pain score, analgesic requirements and incidence of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) were noted. Paracetamol 15 mg/kg was given intravenously whenever Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) score was ≥6. Comparison of means between the two groups was done using unpaired t-test, association between two non parametric variables was done using Pearson Chi-square (χ2 test) test. Results: The mean age, sex, weight, ASA and duration of surgery were comparable in both the groups. The mean HR and mean MAP were significantly lower in OFA group compared to the OBA group at all the time points (p-value=0.001). Although postoperative speed of recovery was slower in OFA group, the overall quality of recovery was better (p-value=0.001). The postoperative pain score, analgesic requirement and incidence of nausea and vomiting were all significantly less in OFA group as compared to OBA group with p-values of 0.02, 0.001 and 0.02, respectively. Conclusion: OFA is new anaesthetic approach that provides better perioperative haemodynamic stability, postoperative pain control with less PONV and thus can be used safely and successfully
Introducing Case Study-based Panel Discussion as an Effective Means of Self-Directed Learning in Phase 2 MBBS Students: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Raychaudhuri Sujata , Kahlon Namrata , Sidam Dipti , Singh Mitasha , Pujani Mukta , Singh Kanika , Chauhan Varsha , Das Asim
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The introduction of Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum in 2019 in India has endorsed many new concepts like Early Clinical Exposure (ECE), Self-Directed Learning (SDL) etc. SDL is an active learning approach in which case-based scenarios are provided and learners are guided by questions, leading them to answers using recommended learning resources. Aim: To evaluate the outcome of introducing case study-based panel discussion as SDL and analyse student and faculty perception. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Department of Pathology of ESIC Medical College, Faridabad, Haryana, India from May 2021 to October 2021 on 100 Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) phase 2 students. First, Didactic Lecture (DL) was taken on Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Then case study-based panel discussions were done during the practical classes assigned for SDL. Students were divided into five cohorts of 20 students each. Two faculty members were assigned for each cohort of 20 students. The assigned faculties observed and gave their inputs to their respective cohorts. Data from pre and post-test questionnaires having 15 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ's) both theory (n-7) and problem based learning questions (n-8) was analysed statistically. Feedback from students and teachers was collected using a questionnaire in the five-point Likert scale format. Results: The pre (8.43±1.79) and post-test (12.53±1.46) scores comparison revealed statistically significant (p<0.001) improvement in the post-test scores. An 89% of students opined that CBL improved their clinical, logical, analytical and communication skills and 92% students found the whole experience of CBL enjoyable. A 100% of the faculty felt the whole experience was motivating (25% strongly agree and 75% agree) and 33.34% of faculty strongly agreed that CBL helped in bridging the gap and 41.67% strongly agreed that it improved student involvement. However, all faculty found it to be time consuming (25% strongly agree and 75% agree) and 83.34% felt it was an extra burden for them. Conclusion: Students reported an improvement in their learning, interaction, communication and analytical skills through the introduction of this innovative method of teaching Pathology using case study-based panel discussion as a means of SDL.
Determination of the Feasibility of a Renewed Approach to the Mechanical Cleaning Stage in Wastewater Treatment Plant: A Laboratory Study
Authors: Dölle Klaus , Röhlen Philip
Published: July 2023

Growing population and industrial complexes require municipalities to initiate costly upgrades of their wastewater treatment facilities in order to protect the environment and nearby water bodies. This research project explores if a process combination of centrifugation, flocculation and filtration could increase the treatment capability of a wastewater treatment plant.

For all wastewater samples the first process step of centrifugation decreased the total solids content by 23.5%, the chemical oxygen demand between 5.0% and 30.0%, and the total phosphorus content by 20.7% and 32.1% in the supernatant.

Flocculation with Ca(OH)2, FeCl3 and Al2(SO4)3 followed by centrifugation increases the solids content of the supernatant, but decreased the chemical oxygen demand and total phosphorus content of up to 55.0% and 95% respectively. Filtration increased the total removal of chemical oxygen demand up to 70% and total removal of phosphorus to 96.4%.

The best removal process for Total phosphorus was achieved using Ca(OH)2 as a flocculant due to a precipitation process that forms calcium phosphate Ca(PO4)2.

Based on the results a maximum removal rate for chemical oxygen demand of and total phosphorus of 70% and 96.4% respectively could be achieved, which could make future wastewater treatment more effective.
Investigating Misconceptions in Linear Equations and its Impact on Students’ Achievement at Middle Secondary Schools of Bhutan
Authors: Phuntsho Dorji , Wangmo Sangay
Published: July 2023

Aims: The objective of this study was to investigate and address ninth-grade students’ misconceptions in learning linear equations with the use of three-tier diagnostic test.

Study Design: The present study is built upon an explanatory sequential mixed approach, in which the researcher first does quantitative research, evaluates the results, and then uses the results to create a more in-depth qualitative analysis. The qualitative data is viewed as explanatory because it helps to explain the initial quantitative results.

Methodology: This study used a mixed-method approach, gathering, analyzing, and interpreting both quantitative and qualitative research in a single study. This strategy was chosen since the study's objective was to thoroughly analyze students' misconceptions about learning linear equations using both a quantitative and a qualitative approach.

Results: The conceptual knowledge examined in the test items were balancing equation, equation with brackets, fractions and negative signs, finding the table of values, finding slope and y-intercept, and graphing the equations. The diagnostic test was administered to 29 ninth grade students. It was revealed that majority (58.6%) of the students possessed misconceptions. The sources of misconceptions were attributed to inadequate mastery of subject knowledge of teachers, wrong information in the textbooks, prior knowledge and imprecise use of terminology.

Conclusion: Mobile apps were used to rectify the misconceptions held by the students to prevent the propagation of those misconceptions in students. Thus, a teacher can successfully read the cognitive conflict of his or her pupils and increase the likelihood of conceptual change by identifying, interpreting, and controlling it. A teacher can also successfully assist and lead students to engage in meaningful mathematics learning experiences.
Use of Electronic Resources in Teaching and Learning Physics in Higher Secondary Schools under Pemagatshel District, Bhutan
Authors: Norbu Sonam , Pem Ugyen
Published: July 2023

The study explored the use of electronic resources in teaching and learning Physics by teachers and students of Higher Secondary Schools under Pemagatshel Dzongkhag. The study employed mixed methods approach. Survey questionnaires, semi-structured interview and observation check list were employed to collect data from the field. The respondents were selected using non-probability convenience sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative data was statistically analysed and interpreted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 and qualitative data was analysed thematically.

The key findings suggest that majority of teachers and students were aware of, and utilized e-resources to support teaching and learning Physics. The Khan Academy site was explored the most by both teachers and students. Majority of the students made use of journal articles to complete their Physics project work. The findings of this study concluded that teachers and students have a positive attitude towards the use of e-resources. They perceived the use of e-resources makes Physics lessons interactive and lively.
Evaluation of Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids under Agro-climatic Conditions of Prayagraj, U.P., India: Experimental Investigation
Authors: Vinayak B. G. , Singh Vikram
Published: July 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2022 at Crop Research Farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (UP) to investigate the “Evaluation of Maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids under agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj, U.P”. The treatments consists of 18 hybids. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments replicated thrice. The significantly highest plant height (169.75 cm), number of leaves ( 15. 75 ), dry weight (138.35 g/plant), CGR (0.0419 g/m2/day), number of cobs/plant (2.41), cob length (19.38 cm), number of Seeds/row (19.17/row), number of rows per cob (17.45), seed yield (5.24 t/ha) stover yield (11.13 t/ha) were recorded in hybrid M-702. Hybrid M-702 fetched maximum gross return (₹ 157200.00 /ha), net return (₹ 104105.00 /ha) and B:C ratio (1.96).
Response of Iron and Boron on Uptake of Nutrients and Soil Nutrient Status after Harvest of Safflower Crop (Carthamus tinctorius L.) in Kalyan Karnataka, India
Authors: Ravi S. , Jadhav R. L. , Bhat S. N. , Shankar Kamble Anand
Published: July 2023

Micronutrients are required by the plants in small quantities, but they are very important for plant to compete life cycle with this the present experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Hagari, Ballari, Karnataka to evaluate the response of iron and boron on uptake of nutrients and soil nutrient status after harvest of safflower during two consecutive years 2020-21. The experiment consisted of seven treatments, includes T1: Absolute control, T2: RDF (40:40:12.5 kg NPK +30 kg Sulphur +15 kg ZnSO4 ha-1), T3: RDF + 15 kg FeSO4ha-1, T4: RDF + 1.0 kg Boron ha-1, T5: RDF + 15 kg FeSO4 ha-1+ 1.0 kg Boron ha-1, T6: RDF + 20 kg FeSO4 ha-1, T7: RDF + 1.5 kg Boron ha-1 and T8: RDF + 20 kg FeSO4 ha-1 +1.5 kg Boron ha-1 which replicated thrice in randomized complete block design. The results of the experiment revealed that the combined application of iron and boron i.e. 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) along with 20 kg iron per ha and 1.5 kg boron per ha (T8) recorded significantly higher uptake of N. P. K. Fe and B by safflower crop. The higher availability of soil nutrients N, K were recorded in control and P, Fe and B were in T8:RDF + 20 kg FeSO4 ha-1+1.5 kg Boron ha-1  treatments.
Response of Bio-organics on Soil Fertility Status, Growth and Yield Parameters of Black Gram (Vigna mungo) var. Shekar 2
Authors: Venkatagopalakrishna Dosakayalapati , Swaroop Narendra , Thomas Tarene , Mohanta Satya Ranjan
Published: July 2023

An experiment to study the response of bio-organics on soil fertility status, growth and yield parameters of Black Gram (Vigna mungo) was conducted during Zaid (April- July) season in 2021-22 at central research farm department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The Experiment was a randomized block design with having two factors and three levels of both vermicompost and b Neemcake 0,50, and 100% per ha resulting in nine treatments Data collected included soil bulk density, particle density, pore space, water holding capacity, pH, EC, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. On both growth and yield parameters of Black gram plant height, number of leaves per plant, pod length, number of pods per plant, test weight, dry weight and grain yield were collected. Treatment 9 which comprised of 100% vermicompost and 100% neem cake at 5 t ha-1 had an effect on physical and chemical properties of soil. Results were significant with maximum values on pore space 48.20% and 46.96%, water holding capacity of 43.22 and 41.98%, organic carbon (%) (0.181and 0.182%) , Nitrogen 264.45 and 265.50 kg ha-1) , Phosphorus 24.82 and 24.15 kg ha-1 and Potassium 186.58 and 178.41 per kg at 0-15 and 15-30 cm soil depths respectively. The same treatment 9 recorded maximum plant height of 34.6; number of leaves per plant of number of branches per plant of 37.33; number of pods of 31.66; test weight of 32.88; dry weight per plant of 21.65; maximum (B:C) ratio of 1:1.56; maximum gross returns of Rs/ha-1 129600 with net profit of Rs/ha-1 74720 per ha highest grain yield of 12.096 per ha 75 DAS respectively. Further experimentation will help to better understand the effects and make desirable recommendations.
A REVIEW OF ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF ARCHI-PRENEURSHIP PRACTICE IN NIGERIA
Authors: Ayo-Odifiri Solomon Oisasoje
Published: July 2023

This article appraises issues and opportunities of architectural entrepreneurship (archi-preneurship) practice in Nigeria. It recognises the relevance of entrepreneurial orientation in the architectural syllabus as a consequence of the emerging issues facing the career path and derived from students' long-term educational needs to prepare them for a successful job in a competitive global economy. Hence, industrialisation, job creation, and poverty alleviation processes are accentuated by entrepreneurship. To find out these issues and opportunities of archi-preneurship, a systematic review approach was adopted to source current relevant data from Academia, Elsevier, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, MDPI, and ResearchGate databases for this study, which focused on programmes relating to the architecture profession that can help entrepreneurs grow and make conclusions. The concepts of entrepreneurship, architecture, and technology were explored. Five specialisation areas that would potentially facilitate entrepreneurial prospects in Nigeria were identified, and the challenges they present to architects. These components include architecture consultation; research and application of building information modeling (BIM) technologies; property development and construction, retrofitting and energy efficiency; sustainable building material science; and urban design. Some available skills architecture graduates could engage in include landscaping, interior design, graphics and animation, project management, architecture blogging, forensic architecture, and building pathology among others. The study outlines different aspects that architects should consider to de-emphasise the hunt for non-existent office employment and embrace self-occupation. Also, more entrepreneurial training skills and development programmes should be established, as well as a reassessment of the present syllabi to instill business knowledge at all stages of architecture education.
THE USE OF BAMBOO FACADES’ FREQUENCY TO IMPROVE APARTMENT USER’S WELL-BEING
Authors: Ongkojoyo Tiffany Aurelia , Elsiana Feny , Arifin Liliany Sigit
Published: July 2023

Noise from the road exceeding 40 dB disturbs the room atmosphere and quality of rest in an apartment. The aim of this research will utilize the wind to swing the kinetic facade to create background noise that supports the user's well-being. The aim of this research is to invent a kinetic façade system that supports the apartment user's well-being. To achieve this, the research utilizes wind to blow kinetic facades to produce background noise which also reduces glare from sunlight thereby improving well-being. Experiments were carried out by comparing the results of measuring frequencies of bamboo musical instruments with solfeggio frequencies. The bamboo musical instruments analyzed included 18 angklungs, 3 windchimes and 21 variations of bamboo models. The frequencies obtained by the final model are close to that of solfeggio frequencies, namely 432Hz, 639Hz, 747Hz and 852 Hz. This can reduce Daylight Glare Probability (DGP) by 13.36%, 9.69%, and 5.01%.
Continuous‐discrete high gain observer design with PI output predictor
Authors: Zhuang Xincheng , Tian Yang , Wang Haoping , Ali Sofiane Ahmed
Published: July 2023

In this article, a continuous‐discrete high gain observer with a proportional integral (PI) output predictor structure is designed for a class of nonlinear systems subject to sampled‐delayed data measurements. To counteract the effect of the well‐known sensitivity of the high gain observer to the noise measurements, a novel PI output predictor structure is proposed. The uniform ultimate boundedness (UUB) of the proposed observer is demonstrated by means of Lyapunov function and small gain method. The effectiveness of our proposed observer is demonstrated through numerical simulations and performances comparison with previous observer design methods in the literature.
Strain Anisotropy Driven Spontaneous Formation of Nanoscrolls from 2D Janus Layers
Authors: Sayyad Mohammed , Qin Ying , Kopaczek Jan , Gupta Adway , Patoary Naim , Sinha Shantanu , Benard Emmie , Davis Austin , Yumigeta Kentaro , Wu Cheng‐Lun , Li Han , Yang Shize , Esqueda Ivan Sanchez , Singh Arunima , Tongay Sefaattin
Published: July 2023

2D Janus transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have attracted attention due to their emergent properties arising from broken mirror symmetry and self‐driven polarization fields. While it has been proposed that their vdW superlattices hold the key to achieving superior properties in piezoelectricity and photovoltaic, available synthesis has ultimately limited their realization. Here, the first packed vdW nanoscrolls made from Janus TMDs through a simple one‐drop solution technique are reported. The results, including ab initio simulations, show that the Bohr radius difference between the top sulfur and the bottom selenium atoms within Janus (M = Mo, W) results in a permanent compressive surface strain that acts as a nanoscroll formation catalyst after small liquid interaction. Unlike classical 2D layers, the surface strain in Janus TMDs can be engineered from compressive to tensile by placing larger Bohr radius atoms on top (to yield inverted C scrolls. Detailed microscopy studies offer the first insights into their morphology and readily formed Moiré lattices. In contrast, spectroscopy and FETs studies establish their excitonic and device properties and highlight significant differences compared to 2D flat Janus TMDs. These results introduce the first polar Janus TMD nanoscrolls and introduce inherent strain‐driven scrolling dynamics as a catalyst to create superlattices.
Sodium‐Ion and Polyaniline Co‐Intercalation into Ammonium Vanadate Nanoarrays Induced Enlarged Interlayer Spacing as High‐Capacity and Stable Cathodes for Flexible Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhao Song , Wang Shuai , Guo Jiabin , Li Lei , Li Chunsheng , Sun Yan , Xue Pan , Wu Dongling , Wei Lei , Wang Yongjiang , Zhang Qichong
Published: July 2023

Vanadate oxides with low price and high theoretical capacity are competitive cathodes for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs). However, the existing problems such as sluggish Zn2+ ion mobility, weak conductivity, and complicated flexible electrode preparation hinder the development of their practical applications in flexible AZIBs (FAZIBs). Herein, sodium‐ion and polyaniline are co‐inserted into ammonium vanadate (NaNVO‐PANI) nanoarrays, which can serve as the novel freestanding cathodes for FAZIBs. By virtue of synergistic pillar effect of sodium ions and polyaniline, the interplanar spacing of NaNVO‐PANI expands to ≈13.8 Å. Both experimental data and theoretical calculation confirm that the optimal spacing of NaNVO‐PANI can boost enhance the electronic conductivity and reduce Zn2+ diffusion barrier. As expected, the resulting coin‐type AZIBs exhibit high capacity of 610.7 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and remarkable capacity retention of 98% after 5000 cycles at 5 A g−1. More encouragingly, quasi‐solid‐state FAZIBs with sandwich structure are assembled, achieving impressive energy density of 345.59 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 380.46 W kg−1. This study is of great significance for developing high‐performance vanadium‐based electrode for wearable FAZIBs.
Mean age at menarche and climate variables on a global scale
Authors: Gold Claire L. , Kitrinos Catherine E. , Sievert Lynnette L. , Kamilar Jason M.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Cross‐population variation in age at menarche is related to many factors. The purpose of this study was to examine climate variables in relation to mean age at menarche among 87 modern human populations. We hypothesized a later age at menarche among populations living in areas with high precipitation variability, heavy seasonal rainfall, and high temperatures year‐round due to water‐borne diseases and periods of resource scarcity.

Methods

Using a comparative dataset, we examined geospatial distribution and climate variables in relation to age at menarche for 87 modern human populations.

Results

We found the strongest predictor of a later age at menarche was higher fertility followed by a later mean age at death. In addition, higher annual rainfall, higher precipitation seasonality, and lower annual mean temperature were moderate predictors of age at menarche.

Conclusions

We propose that later ages at menarche in countries with high fertility may be a life‐history strategy developed in response to climatic conditions that have resulted in higher immunological load. In these conditions, females may prioritize growth rather than reproduction. Shifts in climate and global population growth may change the future biological landscape of age at menarche.
Graphitic Carbon Nitride as Photocatalyst for the Direct Formylation of Anilines
Authors: Sportelli Giuseppe , Grando Gaia , Bevilacqua Manuela , Filippini Giacomo , Melchionna Michele , Fornasiero Paolo
Published: July 2023

The use of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN) for the photocatalytic radical formylation of anilines, which represents a more sustainable and attractive alternative to the currently used approaches, is reported herein. Our operationally simple method occurs under mild conditions, employing air as an oxidant. In particular, the chemistry is driven by the ability of g‐CN to reach an electronically excited state upon visible‐light absorption, which has a suitable potential energy to trigger the formation of reactive α‐amino radical species from anilines. Mechanistic investigations also proved the key role of the g‐CN to form reactive superoxide radicals from O2 via single electron transfer. Importantly, this photocatalytic transformation provides a variety of functionalized formamides (15 examples, up to 89 % yield).
The development of a novel non‐leaching flocculant, derived from activated carbon and polyacrylamide
Authors: Scotland Kevin M. , Bégin Sarah , Strong Oliver K. L. , Pede Paul R. , Vreugdenhil Andrew J.
Published: July 2023

Canadian oil sands are the third largest oil reserves in the world, containing an estimated 28.3 billion m3 of recoverable bitumen. Extraction of bitumen via surface mining and water‐based extraction leads to the formation of tailings ponds, which contain slow settling mature fine tailings (MFT). These MFT can take hundreds of years to settle on their own. Polymer flocculants are used to improve the settling rate of the MFT. This requires a significant amount of polymer, which may itself have environmental impacts. Here, we describe development of a solid‐state flocculant using activated carbon (AC) as a backbone for polyacrylamide (PAM) flocculant branches, with the intention that this solid‐state flocculant would reduce the amount of polymer applied, replacing the bulk of the material with hydrophobic AC, and limit leaching of these materials. The development of this flocculant is achieved by bromination of AC followed by reaction with cis‐octadecen‐1‐ol at the carbon surface. Subsequently, PAM was attached to the alkene of the enol via thermally induced radical polymerization. This AC‐PAM demonstrated effective flocculation of 5% MFTs at a minimum dosage of 120,000 ppm with an initial settling rate of 33 m/h. Thermogravimetric analysis determined that the AC‐PAM had 2% PAM content, indicating that the system only uses 2400 ppm polymer, which is a significant reduction when compared to the typical 20,000 ppm of PAM otherwise required to flocculate 5% MFTs. This demonstrates a marked reduction in the polymer required to flocculate MFTs, reducing potential environment impact.
Comparative analysis of Diospyros (Ebenaceae) plastomes: Insights into genomic features, mutational hotspots, and adaptive evolution
Authors: Huang Yue , Ma Qing , Sun Jing , Zhou Li‐Na , Lai Chan‐Juan , Li Pan , Jin Xin‐Jie , Zhang Yong‐Hua
Published: July 2023

Diospyros (Ebenaceae) is a widely distributed genus of trees and shrubs from pantropical to temperate regions, with numerous species valued for their fruits (persimmons), timber, and medicinal values. However, information regarding their plastomes and chloroplast evolution is scarce. The present study performed comparative genomic and evolutionary analyses on plastomes of 45 accepted Diospyros species, including three newly sequenced ones. Our study showed a highly conserved genomic structure across the Diospyros species, with 135–136 encoding genes, including 89 protein‐coding genes, 1–2 pseudogenes (Ψycf1 for all, Ψrps19 for a few), 37 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. Comparative analysis of Diospyros identified three intergenic regions (ccsA‐ndhD, rps16‐psbK and petA‐psbJ) and five genes (rpl33, rpl22, petL, psaC and rps15) as the mutational hotspots in these species. Phylogenomic analysis identified the phylogenetic position of three newly sequenced ones and well supported a monophylogenetic (sub)temperate taxa and four clades in the pantropical taxa. The analysis codon usage identified 30 codons with relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) values >1 and 29 codons ending with A and U bases. A total of three codons (UUA, GCU, and AGA) with highest RSCU values were identified as the optimal codons. Effective number of codons (ENC)‐plot indicated the significant role of mutational pressure in shaping codon usage, while most protein‐coding genes in Diospyros experienced relaxed purifying selection (dN/dS < 1). Additionally, the psbH gene showed positive selection (dN/dS > 1) in the (sub)temperate species. Thus, the results provide a meaningful foundation for further elaborating Diospyros's genetic architecture and taxonomy, enriching genetic diversity and conserving genetic resources.
Providing clinicians with ‘how to’ knowledge for technology‐based innovation: Introducing the SMS4dads texts
Authors: Fletcher Richard , Regan Casey , StGeorge Jennifer
Published: July 2023

Issue Addressed

Male partners are key supports for women in birth preparation and postnatally. Text‐messaging can deliver timely information to expectant and new fathers to increase their support of the mother. However, technological innovations in healthcare often fail to be adopted. This study aims to assess the impact of disseminating a ‘taster’ set of SMS messages to increase clinicians' engagement with the intervention.

Methods

Example messages from SMS4dads were delivered to clinicians over a 3‐week period and a link provided to an evaluation survey. Agreement to two closed questions was rated on a five‐point Likert scale; the frequency of specific recalled messages was calculated for the first open‐ended question. Responses to the remaining open‐ended questions were analysed with a descriptive thematic approach.

Results

A total of 418 participants (female 61.5%) working in health organisations (80.4%), mostly in nursing (33.9%) or midwifery (19.6%) enrolled. Of the 77 (18.4%) participants who provided an evaluation, 96% agreed or strongly agreed that the Professional Taster gave them a better understanding of how to explain the program, and 88% agreed or strongly agreed that they are now more likely to tell parents about the program. Analysis of the remaining two open‐ended questions revealed clinicians' concerns for fathers alongside their primary focus on maternal wellbeing.

Conclusion

Providing ‘how to’ knowledge through receiving a sample of the intervention may increase clinicians' acceptance of technological innovation.

So What?

Health‐promoting digital interventions using text are increasing. Novel tested strategies for gaining buy‐in from healthcare staff will be needed.