Seroprevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis B in Blood Donors at the N’Zérékoré Regional Blood Transfusion Centre in Guinea

Blood transfusion saves lives and reduces morbidity and mortality for a large number of diseases and clinical conditions, but it is not without danger. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of HIV and hepatitis B in blood donors received at the regional Blood Transfusion Centre of N’Zérékoré (Guinea). This was a 5-year retrospective analytical study. We included records of blood donors aged 18 to 60 years admitted to the N’Zérékoré Regional Blood Transfusion Centre for blood donation from January 2016 to December 2020. We performed a descriptive analysis followed by Chi-2 or Fish-er-exact tests and the Student or Wilcoxon test, followed by multivariate logistic regression. In this study, donor age ranged from 18 - 60 years, with a pre-dominance of donors aged 25 - 34 (44.2%). Male donors were the most represented in our study (79.0% versus 21.0% female). More than half of the donors were blood group O (55.6%). We observed a seroprevalence of 3.6% for HIV, 13.4% for HBsAg and 0.2% for co-infection. In our series, age 25 - 34 (OR = 1.89 and P = 0.001) and 35 - 44 for HIV (OR = 2.01 and P = 0.001), HBsAgserostatus (OR = 3.04 and P = 0.001) and blood donation history (OR of 3.04 and P = 0.001) were factors associated with HIV positivity (P < 0.05). In our study, HIV serostatus (OR = 3.04 and P = 0.001) and blood donation history (OR = 0.01 and P = 0.001) were factors associated with HBsAgseropositivity. We reported a high prevalence of HIV and HBsAg. Sex, serological status and blood donation history were associated factors.

Long-term outcomes after endoscopic removal of malignant colorectal polyps:Results from a 10-year cohort

BACKGROUND Choosing an optimal post-polypectomy management strategy of malignant colorectal polyps is challenging,and evidence regarding a surveillance-only strategy is limited.AIM To evaluate long-term outcomes after endoscopic removal of malignant colorectal polyps.METHODS A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate outcomes after endoscopic removal of malignant colorectal polyps between 2010 and 2020.Residual disease rate and nodal metastases after secondary surgery and local and distant recurrence rate for those with at least 1 year of follow-up were invest-igated.Event rates for categorical variables and means for continuous variables with 95%confidence intervals were calculated,and Fisher’s exact test and Mann-Whitney test were performed.Potential risk factors of adverse outcomes were RESULTS In total,135 lesions(mean size:22.1 mm;location:42%rectal)from 129 patients(mean age:67.7 years;56%male)were enrolled.The proportion of pedunculated and non-pedunculated lesions was similar,with en bloc resection in 82%and 47%of lesions,respectively.Tumor differentiation,distance from resection margins,depth of submucosal invasion,lymphovascular invasion,and budding were reported at 89.6%,45.2%,58.5%,31.9%,and 25.2%,respectively.Residual tumor was found in 10 patients,and nodal metastasis was found in 4 of 41 patients who underwent secondary surgical resection.Univariate analysis identified piecemeal resection as a risk factor for residual malignancy(odds ratio:1.74;P=0.042).At least 1 year of follow-up was available for 117 lesions from 111 patients(mean follow-up period:5.59 years).Overall,54%,30%,30%,11%,and 16%of patients presented at the 1-year,3-year,5-year,7-year,and 9-10-year surveillance examinations.Adverse outcomes occurred in 9.0%(local recurrence and dissemination in 4 patients and 9 patients,respectively),with no difference between patients undergoing secondary surgery and surveillance only.CONCLUSION Reporting of histological features and adherence to surveillance colonoscopy needs improvement.Long-term adverse outcome rates might be higher than previously reported,irrespective of whether secondary surgery was performed.

Constructing a biofunctionalized 3D-printed gelatin/sodium alginate/chitosan tri-polymer complex scaffold with improvised biological andmechanical properties for bone-tissue engineering

Sodium alginate(SA)/chitosan(CH)polyelectrolyte scaffold is a suitable substrate for tissue-engineering application.The present study deals with further improvement in the tensile strength and biological properties of this type of scaffold to make it a potential template for bone-tissue regeneration.We experimented with adding 0%–15%(volume fraction)gelatin(GE),a protein-based biopolymer known to promote cell adhesion,proliferation,and differentiation.The resulting tri-polymer complex was used as bioink to fabricate SA/CH/GEmatrices by three-dimensional(3D)printing.Morphological studies using scanning electron microscopy revealed the microfibrous porous architecture of all the structures,which had a pore size range of 383–419μm.X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses revealed the amorphous nature of the scaffold and the strong electrostatic interactions among the functional groups of the polymers,thereby forming polyelectrolyte complexes which were found to improve mechanical properties and structural stability.The scaffolds exhibited a desirable degradation rate,controlled swelling,and hydrophilic characteristics which are favorable for bone-tissue engineering.The tensile strength improved from(386±15)to(693±15)kPa due to the increased stiffness of SA/CH scaffolds upon addition of gelatin.The enhanced protein adsorption and in vitro bioactivity(forming an apatite layer)confirmed the ability of the SA/CH/GE scaffold to offer higher cellular adhesion and a bone-like environment to cells during the process of tissue regeneration.In vitro biological evaluation including the MTT assay,confocal microscopy analysis,and alizarin red S assay showed a significant increase in cell attachment,cell viability,and cell proliferation,which further improved biomineralization over the scaffold surface.In addition,SA/CH containing 15%gelatin designated as SA/CH/GE15 showed superior performance to the other fabricated 3D structures,demonstrating its potential for use in bone-tissue engineering.

Effect of heat treatment on the microstructure,mechanical properties and fracture behaviors of ultra-high-strength SiC/Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composites

A high-zinc composite,12vol%SiC/Al-13.3 Zn-3.27 Mg-1.07Cu(wt%),with an ultra-high-strength of 781 MPa was success-fully fabricated through a powder metallurgy method,followed by an extrusion process.The effects of solid-solution and aging heat treat-ments on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the composite were extensively investigated.Compared with a single-stage sol-id-solution treatment,a two-stage solid-solution treatment(470℃/1 h+480℃/1 h)exhibited a more effective solid-solution strengthen-ing owing to the higher degree of solid-solution and a more uniform microstructure.According to the aging hardness curves of the com-posite,the optimized aging parameter(100℃/22 h)was determined.Reducing the aging temperature and time resulted in finer and more uniform nanoscale precipitates but only yielded a marginal increase in tensile strength.The fractography analysis revealed that intergranu-lar cracking and interface debonding were the main fracture mechanisms in the ultra-high-strength SiC/Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composites.Weak regions,such as the SiC/Al interface containing numerous compounds and the precipitate-free zones at the high-angle grain boundaries,were identified as significant factors limiting the strength enhancement of the composite.Interfacial compounds,including MgO,MgZn2,and Cu5Zn8,reduced the interfacial bonding strength,leading to interfacial debonding.

Assessing the Viability of Gandhar Field in India’s Cambay Basin for CO_(2) Storage

Our research is centered on the Gandhar oil field, which was discovered in 1983, where daily oil production has declined significantly over the years. The primary objective was to evaluate the feasibility of carbon dioxide(CO_(2)) storage through its injection into the siliciclastic reservoirs of Ankleshwar Formation. We aimed to obtain high-resolution acoustic impedance data to estimate porosity employing model-based poststack seismic inversion. We conducted an analysis of the density and effective porosity in the target zone through geostatistical techniques and probabilistic neural networks. Simultaneously, the work also involved geomechanical analysis through the computation of pore pressure and fracture gradient using well-log data, geological information, and drilling events in the Gandhar field. Our investigation unveiled spatial variations in effective porosity within the Hazad Member of the Ankleshwar Formation, with an effective porosity exceeding 25% observed in several areas, which indicates the presence of well-connected pore spaces conducive to efficient CO_(2) migration. Geomechanical analysis showed that the vertical stress(Sv) ranged from 55 MPa to 57 MPa in Telwa and from 63.7 MPa to 67.7 MPa in Hazad Member. The pore pressure profile displayed variations along the stratigraphic sequence, with the shale zone, particularly in the Kanwa Formation, attaining the maximum pressure gradient(approximately 36 MPa). However, consistently low pore pressure values(30-34 MPa) considerably below the fracture gradient curves were observed in Hazad Member due to depletion. The results from our analysis provide valuable insights into shaping future field development strategies and exploration of the feasibility of CO_(2) sequestration in Gandhar Field.

Comprehensive analysis of glacier recession(2000-2020)in the Nun-Kun Group of Glaciers,Northwestern Himalaya

Himalayan glaciers are shrinking rapidly,especially after 2000.Glacier shrinkage,however,shows a differential pattern in space and time,emphasizing the need to monitor and assess glacier changes at a larger scale.In this study,changes of 48 glaciers situated around the twin peaks of the Nun and Kun mountains in the northwestern Himalaya,hereafter referred to as Nun-Kun Group of Glaciers(NKGG),were investigated using Landsat satellite data during 2000-2020.Changes in glacier area,snout position,Equilibrium Line Altitude(ELA),surface thickness and glacier velocity were assessed using remote sensing data supplemented by field observations.The study revealed that the NKGG glaciers have experienced a recession of 4.5%±3.4%and their snouts have retreated at the rate of 6.4±1.6 m·a^(-1).Additionally,there was a 41%increase observed in the debris cover area during the observation period.Using the geodetic approach,an average glacier elevation change of-1.4±0.4 m·a^(-1)was observed between 2000 and 2012.The observed mass loss of the NKGG has resulted in the deceleration of glacier velocity from 27.0±3.7 m·a^(-1)in 2000 to 21.2±2.2 m·a^(-1)in 2020.The ELA has shifted upwards by 83.0±22 m during the period.Glacier morphological and topographic factors showed a strong influence on glacier recession.Furthermore,a higher recession of 12.9%±3.2%was observed in small glaciers,compared to 2.7%±3.1%in larger glaciers.The debris-covered glaciers showed lower shrinkage(2.8%±1.1%)compared to the clean glaciers(9.3%±5%).The glacier depletion recorded in the NKGG during the last two decades,if continued,would severely diminish glacial volume and capacity to store water,thus jeopardizing the sustainability of water resources in the basin.

In-depth analysis of Bt cotton adoption:farmers'opinions,genetic landscape,and varied perspectives——a case study from Pakistan

Background Bt technology has played significant role in controlling bollworms and increasing cotton yield in earlier days of its introduction,a subsequent decline in yield became apparent over time.This decline may be attributed to various environmental factors,pest dynamics,or combination of both.Therefore,the present biophysical survey and questionnaire were designed to evaluate the impact of Bt cotton on bollworms management and its effect on reducing spray costs,targeting farmers with varied landholdings and educational backgrounds.Additionally,data on farmers'cultivated varieties and the prevalence of bollworms and sucking insects in their fields were recorded.Subsequently,about eleven thousand cotton samples from farmer fields were tested for Cry1Ac,Cry2Ab and Vip3A genes by strip test.Results In this analysis,83% of the farmers planting approved varieties believe that Bt technology control bollworms,while 17% hold contradictory views.Similarly,among farmers cultivating unapproved varieties,77% agree on effectiveness of Bt technology against bollworms,while 23% disagree.On the other hand,67% of farmers planting approved varieties believe that Bt technology does not reduce spray costs,while 33% agree with the effectiveness.Similarly,78% of farmers cultivating unapproved varieties express doubt regarding its role to reduce spray costs,while 22% are in favour of this notion.Differences in opinions on the effectiveness of Bt cotton in controlling bollworms and reducing spray cost between farmers planting unapproved and approved varieties may stem from several factors.One major cause is the heavy infestation of sucking insects,which is probably due to the narrow genetic variation of the cultivated varieties.Additionally,the widespread cultivation of unapproved varieties(21.67%)is also an important factor to cause different opinions on the effectiveness of Bt cotton.Conclusion Based on our findings,we propose that the ineffective control of pests on cotton crop may be attributed to large scale cultivation of unapproved varieties and non-inclusion of double and triple transgene technologies in country's sowing plan.On the basis of our findings,we suggest cotton breeders,regulatory bodies and legislative bodies to discourage the cultivation of unapproved varieties and impure seed.Moreover,the adoption of double and triple Bt genes in cottons with a broad genetic variation could facilitate the revival of the cotton industry,and presenting a promising way forward.

MXenes for Bioinspired Soft Actuators:Advancements in Angle-Independent Structural Colors and Beyond

Soft actuators have garnered substantial attention in current years in view of their potential appliances in diverse domains like robotics,biomedical devices,and biomimetic systems.These actuators mimic the natural movements of living organisms,aiming to attain enhanced flexibility,adaptability,and versatility.On the other hand,angle-independent structural color has been achieved through innovative design strategies and engineering approaches.By carefully controlling the size,shape,and arrangement of nanostructures,researchers have been able to create materials exhibiting consistent colors regardless of the viewing angle.One promising class of materials that holds great potential for bioinspired soft actuators is MXenes in view of their exceptional mechanical,electrical,and optical properties.The integration of MXenes for bioinspired soft actuators with angle-independent structural color offers exciting possibilities.Overcoming material compatibility issues,improving color reproducibility,scalability,durability,power supply efficiency,and cost-effectiveness will play vital roles in advancing these technologies.This perspective appraises the development of bioinspired MXene-centered soft actuators with angleindependent structural color in soft robotics.

Influence of edaphic factors on distribution and condition of Himalayan silver birch(Betula utilis D.Don)communities in the northwestern Indian Himalayas

The basic concept of phytosociology is crucial for the assessment of species composition and dynamic ecological succession of forests supporting ecological services,functions,disturbance,and resilience that lead to the development of integrated areas such as ecological niche modeling and contribute to identifying the valuable bio-indicators which can be used in framing conservation and management planning.B.utilis is one of the most dominant tree species of treeline ecotone in the Himalayan Region.The species is also considered as indicator species for monitoring the past and recent climate change impact.The current study was carried out in the natural populations of B.utilis from the sub-alpine zone of North-western Indian Himalaya.The birch dominated forest harbors a total of 305 plant species comprising Angiosperms(51 families,160 genera and 277 species),Gymnosperms(03 families,05 genera and 07 species)and Pteridophytes(07 families,11 genera and 21 species)with Asteraceae,Ranunculaceae and Rosaceae as dominant family.Birch forests are found dominant in shady moist habitat and North West aspect.Geographical characteristics,anthropogenic and developmental activities affect the population structure of B.utilis and associated species.However,the species has fair regeneration status in the study area.The acidic nature of soil pH and spatial variation in edaphic characteristics may be due to geographical differences,rooting patterns and litter accumulation of below and above-ground vegetation.Biomass estimation of a representative population of B.utilis from each site showed that TAGBD,TCD and TBD were found maximum in ST3(Hamta Pass II site).The CCA analysis determined that environmental variables such as altitude,organic matter,available phosphorous,organic carbon,available nitrogen,and electrical conductivity played a significant role in determining tree species composition and distribution in B.utilis dominated forests.

Understanding the catalytic performance and deactivation behaviour of second-promoter doped Pt/WO_(χ)/γ-Al_(2)O_(3) catalysts in the glycerol hydrogenolysis for selective and cleaner production of 1,3-propanediol

The selective aqueous-phase glycerol hydrogenolysis is a promising reaction to produce commercially useful 1,3-propanediol(1,3-PDO).The Pt-WOx bifunctional catalyst can catalyse the glycerol hydrogenol-ysis but the catalyst deactivation via sintering,metal leaching,and coking can predominantly occur in the aqueous phase reaction.In this work,the effect of reaction temperature,pressure and second promoter(Cu,Fe,Rh,Mn,Re,Ru,Ir,Sn,B,and P)on catalytic performance and deactivation behaviour of Pt/WOx/-Al2O3 was investigated.When doped with Rh,Mn,Re,Ru,Ir,B,and P,the second promoter boosts catalytic activity by promoting great dispersion of Pt on support and increasing Pt surface area.The increased Bronsted acid sites lead to selective synthesis of 1,3-PDO than 1,2-propanediol(1,2-PDO).The characterization studies of fresh and spent catalysts reveal that the main cause of catalyst deactivation is the Pt sintering,as interpreted based on XRD,CO chemisorption,and TEM analyses.The Pt sintering is affected depending on the second promoter that can either or reduce the interaction between Pt,WO_(χ)/γ and Al_(2)O_(3).As an electron acceptor of Pt in Pt/WO_(χ)/γ-Al_(2)O_(3),Re and Mn as second promoters resulted in increased Pt^(2+) on the catalytic surface,which strengthens the contact between Pt andγ-Al_(2)O_(3) and WO_(χ),resulting in a decrease in Pt sintering.The metal leaching and coking are not affected by the presence of second promoter.The catalyst modified with a second promoter possesses improved catalytic activity and 1,3-PDO production,however the stability continues to remain a challenge.The present work unrav-elled the determining parameters of catalytic activity and deactivation,thus providing a promising pro-tocol toward effective catalysts for glycerol hydrogenolysis.

Predicting potential invasion risks of Leucaena leucocephala(Lam.)de Wit in the arid area of Saudi Arabia

The presence of invasive plant species poses a substantial ecological impact,thus comprehensive evaluation of their potential range and risk under the influence of climate change is necessary.This study uses maximum entropy(MaxEnt)modeling to forecast the likelihood of Leucaena leucocephala(Lam.)de Wit invasion in Saudi Arabia under present and future climate change scenarios.Utilizing the MaxEnt modeling,we integrated climatic and soil data to predict habitat suitability for the invasive species.We conducted a detailed analysis of the distribution patterns of the species,using climate variables and ecological factors.We focused on the important influence of temperature seasonality,temperature annual range,and precipitation seasonality.The distribution modeling used robust measures of area under the curve(AUC)and receiver-operator characteristic(ROC)curves,to map the invasion extent,which has a high level of accuracy in identifying appropriate habitats.The complex interaction that influenced the invasion of L.leucocephala was highlighted by the environmental parameters using Jackknife test.Presently,the actual geographic area where L.leucocephala was found in Saudi Arabia was considerably smaller than the theoretical maximum range,suggesting that it had the capacity to expand further.The MaxEnt model exhibited excellent prediction accuracy and produced reliable results based on the data from the ROC curve.Precipitation and temperature were the primary factors influencing the potential distribution of L.leucocephala.Currently,an estimated area of 216,342 km^(2)in Saudi Arabia was at a high probability of invasion by L.leucocephala.We investigated the potential for increased invasion hazards in the future due to climate change scenarios(Shared Socioeconomic Pathways(SSPs)245 and 585).The analysis of key climatic variables,including temperature seasonality and annual range,along with soil properties such as clay composition and nitrogen content,unveiled their substantial influence on the distribution dynamic of L.leucocephala.Our findings indicated a significant expansion of high risk zones.High-risk zones for L.leucocephala invasion in the current climate conditions had notable expansions projected under future climate scenarios,particularly evident in southern Makkah,Al Bahah,Madina,and Asir areas.The results,backed by thorough spatial studies,emphasize the need to reduce the possible ecological impacts of climate change on the spread of L.leucocephala.Moreover,the study provides valuable strategic insights for the management of invasion,highlighting the intricate relationship between climate change,habitat appropriateness,and the risks associated with invasive species.Proactive techniques are suggested to avoid and manage the spread of L.leucocephala,considering its high potential for future spread.This study enhances the overall comprehension of the dynamics of invasive species by combining modeling techniques with ecological knowledge.It also provides valuable information for decision-making to implement efficient conservation and management strategies in response to changing environmental conditions.

Emerging potential of progranulin-dependent SorCS2 signaling in healthy and diseased nervous systems

The formation of the mammalian nervous system and its maturation into sensory,motor,cognitive,and behavioral circuits is a complex process that begins during early embryogenesis and lasts until young adulthood.Impaired neurodevelopment can result in various neurological and psychiatric conditions,jointly named neurodevelopmental disorders(NDDs).

Photocatalytic application of magnesium spinel ferrite in wastewater remediation:A review

This review paper explores the efficacy of magnesium ferrite-based catalysts in photocatalytic degradation of organic contaminates(antibiotic and dyes).We report the influence of different doping strategies,synthesis methods,and composite materials on the degradation efficiency of these pollutants.Our analysis reveals the versatile and promising nature of magnesium ferrite-based catalysts,offering the valuable insights into their practical application for restoring the environment.Due to the smaller band gap and magnetic nature of magnesium ferrite,it holds the benefit of utilising the broader spectrum of light while also being recoverable.The in-depth analysis of magnesium ferrites'photocatalytic mechanism could lead to the development of cheap and reliable photocatalyst for the wastewater treatment.This concise review offers a thorough summary of the key advancements in this field,highlighting the pivotal role of the magnesium ferrite based photocatalysts in addressing the pressing global issue of organic pollutants in wastewater.

Genetic diversity of the S-type small subunit ribosomal RNA gene of Plasmodium knowlesi isolates from Sabah,Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia

Objective:To determine the genetic diversity of Plasmodium(P.)knowlesi isolates from Sabah,Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia,targeting the S-type SSU rRNA gene and including aspects of natural selection and haplotype.Methods:Thirty-nine blood samples infected with P.knowlesi were collected in Sabah,Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia.The S-type SSU rRNA gene was amplified using polymerase chain reaction,cloned into a vector,and sequenced.The natural selection and haplotype of the S-type SSU rRNA gene sequences were determined using DnaSP v6 and illustrated using NETWORK v10.This study's 39 S-type SSU rRNA sequences and eight sequences from the Genbank database were subjected to phylogenetic analysis using MEGA 11.Results:Overall,the phylogenetic analysis showed no evidence of a geographical cluster of P.knowlesi isolates from different areas in Malaysia based on the S-type SSU rRNA gene sequences.The S-type SSU rRNA gene sequences were relatively conserved and with a purifying effect.Haplotype sharing of the S-type SSU rRNA gene was observed between the P.knowlesi isolates in Sabah,Malaysian Borneo,but not between Sabah,Malaysian Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia.Conclusions:This study suggests that the S-type SSU rRNA gene of P.knowlesi isolates in Sabah,Malaysian Borneo,and Peninsular Malaysia has fewer polymorphic sites,representing the conservation of the gene.These features make the S-type SSU rRNA gene suitable for comparative studies,such as determining the evolutionary relationships and common ancestry among P.knowlesi species.

Transplantation of a pectoralis major flap for the repair of myiasis wounds

Myiasis is a disease caused by the invasion and colonization of human tissues and organs by the larvae of flies.This is manifested by the formation of necrotic tissue in the lesion,the colonization of fly eggs and the spread of fly larvae.This disease is mostly found in areas with poor sanitary conditions.Poor wound care,necrotic tissue formation,reduced immunity,and frequent contact with flies are risk factors for this disease.Myiasis can be divided into obligate and facultative parasitism,^([1])while some scholars have classified myiasis according to its location.^([2])In addition,some cases of myiasis are secondary to wound infection or poor surgical maintenance.^([3,4]).

Groundwater Modelling of Motloutse Alluvial Aquifer, Eastern Botswana

The potential groundwater reserve in alluvial aquifers and sandy river beds has not been well studied, and yet their benefit in meeting rural water supply demands cannot be underestimated. A three-dimensional steady-state finite difference numerical groundwater flow model was used to assess the groundwater resource potential on a one-kilometre river stretch scale along the Motloutse River catchment in eastern Botswana. The model area is a single-layer unconfined aquifer system. A uniform grid was laid over this phreatic aquifer, and an overall size of 50 columns x 54 rows was developed. The model yielded calibrated K values of 145 m/day and 11 m/day for the riverbed and riverbank sediments, respectively, and calibrated recharge and evaporation of 172 mm/yr and 120 mm/yr, respectively. A sustainable groundwater yield of 120 m3/day with the potential to irrigate an area of 2.4 hectares was determined. The result also shows that the Motloutse alluvial aquifer yields a safe yield of 29,400 m3 for a kilometre of river stretch.

The wheat sucrose synthase gene TaSus1 is a determinant of grain number per spike

Some haplotypes of the sucrose synthase gene TaSus1 are associated with thousand-grain weight(TGW)in wheat(Triticum aestivum L.).However,no mutations have been identified within the gene to test this association.The effects of TaSus1 on grain number per spike(GNS)also are largely unknown.Our previous genome-wide association study identified TaSus-A1 as a candidate gene controlling fertile spikelet number per spike(FSN).In the present study,we generated two independent mutants for the three TaSus1 homoeologs by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing.The triple mutants displayed lower FSN,GNS,grain number per spikelet(GNST),and TGW than wild-type plants.In 306 hexaploid wheat accessions,two single-nucleotide polymorphisms in TaSus-A1 contributed differently to GNS.Introgression of the two alleles into a wheat genetic background confirmed their effects.The alleles differed in geographical distribution among the accessions.

A review:Health benefits and physicochemical characteristics of blended vegetable oils

Oil blending is the method of choice used worldwide to improve oxidative stability and nutritional value.There is no such edible oil/fat that meets all the recommendations from the health point of view.The fatty acid composition of vegetable oils decides the fate of the oil.Pure single oil is unable to provide a balanced amount of fatty acids(FAs)required/recommended on a daily intake basis.Blending oils/fats is an appropriate procedure of physically mixing multiple oils in suitable proportions which may provide functional lipids with improved antioxidant potential and desirable physical and chemical properties.This review piled up the accessible data on the blending of diverse oils/fats in the combination of binary,ternary,quaternary,or other types of oils into a single blended oil.Blending can be found very convincing towards appropriate FA profile,enhancement in physicochemical characteristics,and augmented stability for the period of storage or when used as cooking/frying processes which could ultimately serve as an effectual dietary intervention towards the health protectiveness.

Antimicrobial Activities of Extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla against Gram-Positive Oral Biofilm-Formers from School Children in Southwestern Nigeria and Toxicity Studies Using Brine Shrimps

The world will benefit from more effective antimicrobial agents against oral conditions arising from the actions of biofilm forming bacteria. Also, information is lacking on the oral biofilm-forming bacterial diversity in Southwestern Nigeria. In this study, we isolate and characterize oral biofilm producing bacteria in the oral cavities of schoolchildren in Southwestern Nigeria. We also investigate the antimicrobial properties of Macrosphyra longistyla extracts against the biofilm-formers and the toxicity of potent extracts. Samples were obtained from 109 schoolchildren aged 4 - 14 years from Lagos, Oyo and Osun States. Agar well diffusion technique was used in the antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Toxicity testing was done using brine shrimps (Artemia salina). Biofilm-formers in this study are Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., and Micrococcus sp. Ethanol leaf extracts had the highest activity against all biofilm-producing bacteria. Ethanol stem bark extract, which elicited activity against Klebsiella only, was found to be less toxic than the ethanol leaf extract. Staphylococcus showed >10 mm susceptibility to the ethanol and aqueous extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla. Streptococcus and Micrococcus were susceptible to the antimicrobial actions of the ethanolic leaf extracts. Although the ethanol extracts of the leaves had lower minimum inhibitory concentrations than the ethanol extracts of the stem bark, toxicity studies showed ethanol extracts of the stem-bark to be more toxic than the ethanol extracts of the leaves. In conclusion, ethanolic extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla show potential as sources of antimicrobials against gram-positive, oral biofilm-forming bacteria.

Flood Risk Assessment in the Lower Valley of Ouémé, Benin

In response to the increased frequency of flood events in recent years, it has become crucial to enhance preparedness and anticipation through precise flood risk assessments. To this end, this study aims to produce updated and precise flood risk maps for the Lower Valley of Ouémé River Basin, located in the South of Benin. The methodology used consisted of a combination of geographical information systems (GIS) and multi-criteria analysis, including Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods to define and quantify criteria for flood risk assessment. Seven hydro-geomorphological indicators (elevation, rainfall, slope, distance from rivers, flow accumulation, soil type, and drainage density), four socio-economic vulnerability indicators (female population density, literacy rate, poverty index, and road network density), and two exposure indicators (population density and land use) were integrated to generate risk maps. The results indicate that approximately 21.5% of the Lower Valley is under high and very high flood risk, mainly in the south between Dangbo, So-Ava, and Aguégués. The study findings align with the historical flood pattern in the region, which confirms the suitability of the used method. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive approach, the incorporation of AHP for weighting factors, and the use of remote sensing data, GIS technology, and spatial analysis techniques which adds precision to the mapping process. This work advances the scientific understanding of flood risk assessment and offers practical insights and solutions for flood-prone regions. The detailed flood risk indicator maps obtained stand out from previous studies and provide valuable information for effective flood risk management and mitigation efforts in the Lower Valley of Ouémé.