Apparent Efficiency Research Articles

Constant vs. cyclic flow when testing face masks and respirators as source control devices for simulated respiratory aerosols

SARS-CoV-2 spreads by infectious aerosols and droplets from the respiratory tract. Masks and respirators can reduce the transmission of infectious respiratory diseases by collecting these aerosols at the source. The ability of source control devices to block aerosols can be tested by expelling an aerosol through a headform using constant airflows, which are simpler, or cyclic airflows, which are more realistic but require more complex methods. Experiments with respirators found that using cyclic vs. constant flows affected the amount of aerosol inhaled, but similar comparisons have not been made for source control devices with exhaled aerosols. We measured the collection efficiencies for exhaled aerosols for two cloth masks, two medical masks with and without an elastic mask brace, a neck gaiter, and an N95 filtering facepiece respirator using 15 L/min and 85 L/min constant and cyclic flows and a headform with pliable skin. The collection efficiencies for the 15 L/min cyclic flow, 15 L/min constant flow, and 85 L/min constant flow were not significantly different in most cases. The apparent collection efficiencies for the 85 L/min cyclic flow were artificially increased by rebreathing and refiltration of the aerosol from the collection chamber. The collection efficiencies correlated well with the fit factors (ρ > 0.95) but not the filtration efficiencies (ρ < 0.54). Our results suggest that the aerosol collection efficiency measurements of source control devices are comparable when testing the devices using either constant or cyclic airflows and that the potential for aerosol rebreathing must be considered when conducting experiments.

Insights on further improving fast size exclusion chromatography separations of biopharmaceuticals using 2.1 millimetre column diameters

Recent trends in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries call for the miniaturization of size exclusion chromatography. The thought of such a future has been tantalizing but there are many practical and theoretical considerations that have impeded progress. Here, the capabilities of a narrow bore 2.1 mm ID SEC column have been studied and compared to reference 150 × 4.6 mm SEC columns when using UV detection. While our study reconfirms the importance of having very low system dispersion for SEC separations, it goes on to show that a 150 × 2.1 mm 1.7 µm particle SEC column can offer a balanced compromise of performance. Despite the fact that the 150 × 2.1 mm ID 1.7 µm column's intrinsic efficiency was not fully utilized, it still performed with an apparent efficiency similar to that of a 150 × 4.6 mm ID 2.5 µm column. Beyond this, our study provides insights on what more will need to be achieved to robustly establish low flow SEC separations. If SEC chromatographers aim to miniaturize sizing separations to 1 mm diameters or below, there is more work to do on chromatographic instruments and flow paths. In order for an instrument to be optimized for 1 mm ID SEC it would need to exhibit a system variance of less than 0.5 µL2.

Refining the Rent Dissipation Model in Land Use: Application to Agricultural Insurance in China

Despite apparent efficiency concerns, the use of agricultural insurance as a policy tool has surged in rural China. Its use offers a natural experiment to assess both economic theory of property rights and agricultural policy effectiveness, and to revisit the rent dissipation model that was originally developed to explain the role of property rights in unsustainable fisheries harvest decisions. We focus on evidence of resource overpricing behavior in the context of subsidized agricultural insurance, including evidence of a theoretically-expected increasing rent pattern. Our results reinforce the importance of transactions costs as a driver of economic inefficiency and highlight the role of social costs as an important factor to explicitly consider when designing agricultural policy. In particular, when employing the formal policy mechanism of rural agricultural insurance, we suggest that informal risk-bearing arrangements can be leveraged to reduce social costs behind apparent overpricing behavior and increase land users’ welfare consistent with intended policy goals.

Self-assembled zein hydrolysate glycosylation with dextran for encapsulation and delivery of curcumin

Curcumin has been widely used to promote human health and nutrition due to its high antioxidant capacity. However, its low solubility and bioaccessbility limit its practical application. In this study, we used glycosylated zein hydrolysate to encapsulate hydrophobic curcumin to improve its bioaccessbility and stability at extreme processing conditions. Glycosylated zein hydrolysate exhibited good amphiphilicity and self-assembly properties. The nanoparticles, made up of glycosylated zein hydrolysate encapsulated curcumin, had a number-average particle size of 117 nm, polydispersity coefficient (PDI) value of 0.16 and high apparent loading efficiency value of 81%. Under the observation of TEM and AFM, the nanoparticles were spherical, stable and uniform in particle size distribution, and dispersed well in the solution after dilution. Steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy showed that there is a strong affinity between curcumin and glycosylated zein hydrolysate with Ka value of 3.17 × 105 M−1. The bioaccessbility of nanoparticles was 86%, increasing the bioaccessbility of curcumin by 9 times. The covalently bound dextran formd the protective layer on the outside of the nanoparticles, which could effectively resist the destruction of gastric enzymes, significantly increase the retention rate in the gastric digestion stage and achieve release in the intestinal tract. In addition, the stability of nanoparticles in various environment with different ionic strengths NaCl (∼600 mM)/Ca2+ (∼50 mM) and temperature (∼90 °C) were significantly enhanced.

AEROBIC RICE'S YIELD PERFORMANCE AND NITROGEN USE EFFICIENCY UNDER VARIOUS NITROGEN FERTILIZER RATES

Aerobic rice, a water-saving cultivation system rice could thrive well in rain-fed areas in Sarawak which lacks in drainage and irrigation system, with appropriate fertilizer management practices. Since nitrogen (N) as a major determinant factor in rice yield is required differently based on cultivation system, soil and other in-situ conditions, a study was conducted to determine the optimum N fertilizer rate while assessing nitrogen use efficiency of aerobic rice in Lundu, Sarawak. Four N fertilizer rates (T1=0, T2=100, T3=200 and T4=300 kg N/ha) were tested with split application of urea (46% N) at 23%, 31%, and 46% at 5, 25, and 45 days after emergence (DAE) using MRIA1 variety. The findings indicated that an increase in N fertilizer of more than 100 kg N/ha had no discernible impact on yield. The highest yield recorded was 3.31 t/ha in T2 and decreased to 2.99 t/ha and 2.86 t/ha respectively in T3 and T4, while T1 recorded 1.12 t/ha. Meanwhile, significant differences in partial factor productivity (PFPN), agronomic efficiency (AEN), apparent recovery efficiency (REN) and physiological efficiency (PEN) were observed between the treatments with descending efficiency trends at higher N fertilizer rates. Optimum NUE values were recorded in T2 with PFPN = 29.30 kg/kg; AEN = 14.56 kg/kg; REN = 0.26 kg/kg; and PEN = 55.64 kg/kg. Therefore, it can be concluded that 100 kg N/ha is recommended for aerobic rice cultivation in Tanjung Purun, Lundu, as yield and NUEs were optimized.

CO&amp;lt;sub&amp;gt;2&amp;lt;/sub&amp;gt; Demand-Supply Coordination in Photosynthesis Reflecting the Plant-Environment Interaction: Extension and Parameterization of Demand Function and Supply Function

Photosynthesis consists of a biochemical process named demand and a CO2 diffusion process named supply function. The intersection (Ci, An) at equal to the demand function and the supply function reflects a steady state of the plant subjected to the environment. The intersections of these demand-supply functions under different photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) can be fitted to a regression line (names DSF) in which slope (ΔAn/ΔCi) can be defined as dsf. We found that DSF information was embedded in both Laisk method (CO2 response curve (A/Ci) measured at three sub-saturated PARs, and their intersections were used to estimate daytime respiration (Rd), and CO2 compensation point (Ci*) and light response curve measurements, which could be used to estimate dsf values. This study investigated the relationship between dsf and the parameters related to the biochemical process and the CO2 diffusion process of photosynthesis. The results showed that dsf was negatively correlated with gs, apparent carboxylation efficiency, and apparent quantum yield. This suggests that DSF may coordinate the influence of environmental conditions (light, CO2 and water) on photosynthesis in the biochemical and CO2 diffusion process. Moreover, dsf was independent of gas exchange measurement conditions and showed species specificity. In conclusion, we speculated that dsf seems to be a comprehensive parameter that might be related to the intrinsic adaptation mechanism of plants to environmental conditions. We proposed an auxiliary line perpendicular to the DSF and used it to improve the stability of Ci* and Rd estimated from the Laisk dataset.

Potential Assessment of Selenium for Improving Nitrogen Metabolism, Yield and Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Wheat

In wheat production, improving resource utilization and grain yield is the goal researcher have been pursuing. This study aimed to investigate if a regulated nitrogen (N) and selenium (Se) fertilizer management could increase wheat yield and N use efficiency (NUE). This study reports the effects of three N application levels (N0: 0 kg N ha−1, N1: 180 kg N ha−1, N2: 270 kg N ha−1) and a combination of three Se application levels (Se0: 0 g Se ha−1, Se1: 450 g Se ha−1, Se2: 900 g Se ha−1) on N metabolism, NUE and yield in wheat in 2020–2021. Compared with N0, wheat yield increased by 44.76% in N1 and by 54.32% in N2, and the activity of N-metabolizing enzymes increased by 25.15~35.03% in N1 and by 32.01~51.27% in N2. Compared with N1, the apparent recovery efficiency of N, the agronomic N use efficiency and the partial factor productivity of applied N decreased by 15.71%, 28.00% and 28.93% in N2, respectively. Compared with Se0, the 1000-grain weight increased by 3.93% in Se1 and by 4.87% in Se2, and the activity of nitrogen-metabolizing enzymes increased by 4.23~4.91% in Se1 and by 6.65~8.46% in Se2. We conclude that Se could improve the wheat 1000-grain weigh and N metabolism and has the potential to increase wheat yield and NUE.

Effects of water constituents on the stability of gas diffusion electrode during electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production for water and wastewater treatment

Electrochemically producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) with natural air diffusion electrode (NADE) is an attractive way to supply H2O2 for decentralized water treatment. In this study, the stability of NADE during H2O2 electroproduction in varying water matrices were evaluated, including synthetic electrolyte solutions (0.05 M Na2SO4) with or without calcium ions (Ca2+, 200 mg/L) and/or humic acid (HA, 40 mg/L), as well as a selected municipal wastewater (92.7 mg/L Ca2+, 3.6 mg/L Mg2+, and 23.9 mg/L total organic carbon). The results show that NADEs maintained a good stability during H2O2 electroproduction in Na2SO4 solutions regardless of the presence of HA. However, Ca2+ (and Mg2+) could form significant amounts of mineral precipitates on the surface and in the internal pores of NADEs during H2O2 electroproduction. These mineral precipitates can negatively influence H2O2 production by impeding the oxygen, electron, and proton transfer processes involved in ORR to H2O2. Moreover, the mineral precipitates shifted the NADEs from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, which may promote H2O2 reduction to H2O at the NADEs. Consequently, the apparent current efficiencies of H2O2 production decreased substantially from initially ∼90% to 50%–70% as the NADEs were continuously used for 60 h in the Ca-containing solutions and selected wastewater. These results indicate that water constituents that are commonly present in real water matrices, especially Ca2+, can cause serious deterioration of NADE stability during H2O2 electroproduction. Therefore, proper strategies are needed to mitigate electrode fouling during H2O2 electroproduction with NADEs in practical water and wastewater treatment.

Influence of B-Containing Compound on Electrodeposition of Mo and W in Molten Fluoride-Oxide Electrolyte

The production of molybdenum (Mo) and tungsten (W) utilizes ultra-high temperatures, resulting in high production costs. If Mo and W plates can be directly produced at relatively low temperatures, drastic cost reduction and energy savings are expected. It is known that molten fluoride-oxide electrolytes containing boron oxides exhibit good adhesion to substrates and provide the smoothest surface; however, the role of boron oxides is unclear. Therefore, in this study, the effect of K2B4O7 on the electrodeposition of Mo and W in molten LiF−KF−KCl−K2MO4 (M=Mo, W) at 1223 K was investigated. The apparent current efficiency for Mo and W deposition decreased drastically with increasing cathode current density in the absence of K2B4O7 addition. In Mo deposition, the apparent current efficiency reached approximately 100% with the addition of 0.1 mol% K2B4O7. In W deposition, the apparent current efficiency reached approximately 100% with the addition of 5 mol% K2B4O7. The electrodeposited films comprised columnar crystals growing from the cathode to the electrolyte, and the Mo and W films contained 0.46 mol% of B and 0.10 mol% B, respectively. It was concluded that the morphology of deposits changed from particle/dendritic crystal to flat film crystal with the addition of K2B4O7.

Sustainable Production of Soybean (Glycine max L.) Crop Through Chemical Fertilizers and Organic Manures Along with the Improvement in Soil Health

A field experiment was carried out on the black cotton soil in the years 2018 and 2019 in the district of Sangli, Maharashtra, India to evaluate the sustainable agricultural practices for improving the growth and yield of the soybean (Glycine max L.) variety JS-335 along with the soil improvement. Twelve treatments were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications. The results revealed that combined applications of chemical fertilizer (RDF-30:80:20:40) and organic manures (FYM and VCM) improved the growth attributes and seed yield as compared to control and other treatments along with a significant improvement in the soil health parameters. This agricultural practice emerged as a promising method for sustainable cultivation of soybean (C.V. JS-335) which improved the economic yield (kg.ha-1), agronomic efficiency (kg.ha-1), physiological efficiency (kg.ha-1), partial factor productivity (kg.ha-1), apparent recovery efficiency (kg.ha-1) and sustainable yield index (0.80) with maximum return having cost: benefit ratio (1:3.8). The results found statistically significant and correlated having a positive relationship between yield and sustainability parameters.

Morphological and ecophysiological responsiveness of Stipa tenacissima L. populations along a Mediterranean climatic gradient

• Stipa tenacissima populations allocate resources differently with climatic gradient. • Populations of arid sites exposed thicker and smaller leaves with lower productivity. • Xeric populations adjust gas exchange and stomatal closure to avoid water lost. • Mesic populations revealed higher photosynthesis with higher leaf productivity. • Stipa showed high tissues adaptation to dehydration and quick recovery after drought. Predicted climate change in the Mediterranean region has raised concerns about the possible impacts on Alphagrass ( Stipa tenacissima L.) steppes. To understand the vulnerability degree and acclimation capacity of S. tenacissima populations to climate warming and the CO 2 mitigation potential of Alfa steppes, we measured the physiological and morphological traits in five populations across a Mediterranean rainfall range from 100 to 600 mm/year. Results showed different response patterns to the precipitation gradient. Major differences were found in the gas exchange and leaf traits in the mesic to xeric sites. Xeric populations exhibited moderate gas exchange rates together with thicker and smaller leaves (i.e., low leaf dry matter content (LDMC), and high leaf thickness (Lth). They also presented differences in several functional traits related to water economy and earlier stomatal closure with drought. Furthermore, internal water use efficiency (IWUE) and apparent carboxylation efficiency (CE) were the lowest, and dark respiration (RD) was the highest in the arid site (Sfax) due to high temperatures. The relative water content at the turgor loss point (RWCtlp) varied from 0.91 to 0.85 from mesic to xeric sites, which demonstrates a high degree of osmotic adjustment. The leaf water retention capacity by osmotic adjustment and high cell turgor with a reduction in gas exchange activity through stomatal closure promote to S. tenacissima a sustain physiological activities under severe drought. These results suggest that S. tenacissima may have high adaptability to drought by regulating physiological activity and maintaining turgor pressure associated with suitable leaf structure.

Effects of prenatal dietary rumen-protected choline supplementation during late gestation on calf growth, metabolism, and vaccine response.

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of prenatal supplementation and dose of rumen-protected choline (RPC) on neonatal calf growth, metabolism, and vaccine response. Parous Holstein cows were blocked by calving month and randomly assigned within block to receive 45 g/d of RPC [20.4 g/d of choline ions (CHOL45), n = 19], 30 g/d of RPC [13.6 g/d of choline ions (CHOL30), n = 22], or no RPC (CON, n = 19) as a top-dress, starting 24 d before expected calving. Calf body weights were recorded for the first 3 wk of life. All calves were fed colostrum replacer (300 g of IgG) at birth, and apparent efficiency of IgG absorption was calculated. On d 1, 7, 14, and 21, blood samples were taken to quantify plasma reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, antioxidant potential, haptoglobin, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate, and glucose. Calves received an intranasal vaccine at birth, and nasal secretions were collected on d 0, 7, 10, 14, and 21 to quantify bovine respiratory syncytial virus-specific IgA. Data were analyzed using linear mixed models including the fixed effects of treatment, time (when applicable), calf sex, and prepartum dam data (-24 d) along with interactions. Treatment did not affect calf body weight, β-hydroxybutyrate, or glucose concentrations. For apparent efficiency of IgG absorption, treatment interacted with the dam's prepartum body condition score. Where the dam's body condition score was ≤3.25, IgG absorption was reduced in calves born from CHOL45 dams as compared with calves from either CHOL30 or CON dams. Calves from CHOL30 dams had a lesser oxidative stress index (OSi; reactive oxygen and nitrogen species/antioxidant potential) than calves from CON dams. Haptoglobin concentrations were less in heifer calves from CHOL45 dams as compared with heifers from CON dams. The dam's prepartum NEFA concentration interacted with treatment. When dam NEFA was minimal, calves from CHOL45 and CHOL30 dams had greater or tended to have greater NEFA, respectively. Conversely, when dam NEFA was greater, calves from CHOL30 and CHOL45 dams had lesser or tended to have lesser NEFA than calves from CON dams, respectively. For vaccine response, treatment interacted with the dam's prepartum OSi. Among calves born from dams with a greater OSi, calves from CHOL45 and CHOL30 dams had lesser bovine respiratory syncytial virus-specific IgA concentrations in nasal secretions as compared with CON. Prenatal RPC supplementation during late gestation affected IgG absorption, neonatal calf metabolism, and vaccine response with some effects dependent on the dam's prepartum parameters.

Association of a green tea extract with serum immunoglobulin G status and neonatal vitality in newborn dairy calves.

Poor vigor at birth has been associated with reduced IgG absorption from colostrum and a reduced vitality in neonatal dairy calves. Some natural compounds, such as green tea extract, may improve vitality in compromised calves. The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the potential of supplementing a green tea extract (15 mL) to calves to improve vigor and activity behavior for the first 72 h postnatal. Also, this study aimed to investigate the influence of green tea extract supplementation on calf serum IgG concentration and the apparent efficiency of absorption (AEA) of colostral IgG. Holstein calves (n = 24) weighing 42.49 ± 1.07 kg postnatal received a complete random assignment at 3 h of one 15-mL dose of green tea extract (Calf Perk, TechMix) or distilled water orally before tube feeding colostrum replacer (Premolac Plus IgG, Zinpro) at 4 h postnatal. Two observers assessed for calving time and dystocia by live video stream to retrieve all calves within 2 h postnatal. One veterinarian performed a baseline vigor assessment based on heart rate and response to stimuli on all calves at 2.5 h, before colostrum feeding at 3.75 h, as well as at 24, 48, and 72 h postnatal. Calf blood samples were taken to assess total IgG by radial immunodiffusion assay at 2.5, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Calf vitality was also observed continuously by video for all calves to determine whether treatment was associated with attempts to stand, lying time, and exploration of their pen environment for the first 24 h. We used an ordinal logistic model to evaluate the odds of green tea extract improving a calf's vigor category from 2.5 h postnatal to 72 h of age. Vigor score was categorized as abnormal (≤4), average (5), or alert (≥6), with hour as a fixed effect. We also ran mixed linear models to evaluate the effect of extract on total IgG and AEA, with time and dystocia as fixed effects. Five dystocia calves were enrolled (2 control, 3 extract), but assistance was minor (e.g., manual assistance and all were assisted within 1 h). Baseline vigor scores and baseline total IgG were not different between groups. Vigor score category was not associated with green tea extract supplementation (odds ratio 1.17; 95% CI: 0.43-3.15) but increased with time compared with controls. We observed no association of treatment with total IgG or AEA in the calves, suggesting green tea extract does not compromise IgG absorption. Calf vitality, lying behavior, and exploratory behavior were not associated with green tea extract treatment. Our findings suggest that green tea extract supplementation does not affect AEA and serum IgG concentration in calves. Future research should evaluate whether green tea extract improves vitality in calves experiencing severe dystocia.

Effects of maternal choline supplementation on performance and immunity of progeny from birth to weaning.

The objectives were to investigate whether supplementation with rumen-protected choline (RPC) during late pregnancy in Holstein cows affects offspring immunity and growth, and whether effects are utero-placental, colostrum dependent, or both. A total of 105 multiparous Holstein cows were assigned randomly to a prepartum diet (1.54 Mcal of NEL/kg of DM, and 15.8% CP) without (control) or with added RPC (12.9 g/d of choline ion). Calves (n = 111) were blocked by sex and assigned randomly to colostrum from control cows or colostrum from RPC cows, resulting in 4 treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement: (1) calves born and fed colostrum from non-supplemented dams (NN; n = 33); (2) calves from non-supplemented dams and fed colostrum from RPC-fed cows (NC; n = 25); (3) calves from RPC-supplemented dams and colostrum from non-supplemented cows (CN; n = 28); and (4) calves from RPC-supplemented dams and colostrum from RPC-fed cows (CC; n = 25). Growth, intakes, and immunity of females were evaluated up to 56 d of age. Growth and intake of male calves was evaluated up to 35 d of age, and physiological and immune responses to intravenous LPS challenge were evaluated from 21 to 35 d of age. Effects of prenatal and colostrum treatments and interactions between treatments were analyzed using mixed models. Calves fed colostrum from RPC-supplemented dams had a 17.4% increase in apparent efficiency of absorption of IgG compared with calves fed colostrum from control dams (27.4 vs. 23.3%). Incidence of fever in the first 21 d of age tended to be less in females born from RPC-supplemented dams compared with females born from control dams (31 vs. 58%). Prenatal RPC females had increased hematocrit and concentrations of red blood cells, leukocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in blood compared with prenatal females born from control dams. Compared with prenatal control females, prenatal RPC females had greater intake of milk replacer (704 vs. 748 ± 9.9 g/d) and starter (45.4 vs. 60.2 ± 5.9 g/d) during the first 21 d of age. In male calves, mean intake of DM was greater (1,074 vs. 976 ± 45 g/d) after the LPS challenge (0 to 8 d) by calves born from dams fed RPC compared with males born from control dams. Calves born from RPC-fed dams also had lower mean rectal temperature (39.0 vs. 39.2°C) and mean respiration rate (35.6 vs. 39.3 breaths/min) compared with males born from control dams. Moreover, serum concentrations of metabolites (i.e., β-hydroxybutyric acid, fatty acids, and glucose), cytokines (i.e., tumor necrosis factor-α) and acute phase proteins (i.e., serum amyloid A) were consistent with less-severe inflammatory response to LPS in males born from dams fed RPC compared with control. Source of colostrum and interaction between prenatal and colostrum treatments had minimal effects on calf responses to LPS. Overall, maternal RPC supplementation during late gestation suggests a positive effect on immunity, in that colostrum from RPC-fed dams increased efficiency of IgG absorption and maternal supplementation with RPC during late gestation, regardless of colostrum source, attenuated responses to LPS.

From Real to Virtual Worlds

In this paper I explore pathways of pedagogical enquiry that are apparently well-trodden; however, in the time of Covid-19, there has been a general revaluation of traditional ways of doing things at all levels of society. This also applies to the context of education, which has seen widespread reflection on the adaptation of existing pedagogical solutions, as well as the invention of new ones. The quasi-universal implementation of anti-viral lockdown measures has led to a drive towards the adoption of digital platforms for teaching: in many cases these have been introduced suddenly, without sufficient deliberation or the due preparation of staff and pupils (Teräs et al 2020). While digital solutions are clearly fundamental in this moment of crisis, it is important not to use their apparent efficiency to smooth over existing faults in education systems, or naturalise (Barthes 1957) these temporary solutions as resolving issues on a long-term basis. Technology, though popular with corporations and politicians, does notnecessarily offer solutions to traditional pedagogical problems (Cuban 2004: 20-21). While some studies appear to suggest that student performance has actually risen due to​ the replacement of physical with virtual instruction (Gonzalez et al 2020), it is imperative at this moment to highlight traditional values and ensure that they will not be forgotten in the emerging paradigms of future learning. The notion of education as ‘flourishing’ is central to what is felt to be the classical model, or ideal (Luntley 2016); in this conception, education concerns the growth of the person as a whole. This paper aims to contribute to this debate, in the specific context of language education, asking whether a kind of Aristotelian ‘flourishing’ is possible through Computer Mediated Communication (CMC), and problematising the adaptation of communicative language teaching methodology in an online context.

Influence of Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate on Yield, Grain Quality and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum Desf) under Algerian Semiarid Conditions

Nitrogen fertilizer application is conditioned closely by the amount of rainfall and its distribution. The current study aims at studying the effect of nitrogen (N) application rate on grain yield (GY), grain protein content (GPC), and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of durum wheat under Algerian semiarid conditions. Field trials were conducted during two contrasting and successive growing seasons (a dry year = 2016–2017 and a wet year = 2017–2018) on a local variety named Bousselam. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used with four replicates. Seven gradual treatments of fertilizer rate were studied: T1 = 0 unity of nitrogen (UN), T2 = 100 UN, T3 = 110 UN, T4 = 120 UN, T5 = 130 UN, T6 = 140 UN, and T7 = 150 UN. Results showed a significant difference between the dry and wet years. Only the GPC was higher in the dry year compared to the wet year having a difference of 2.94%. However, all other studied parameters were higher in the wet year, which resulted in a yield difference of 4.38 t ha−1. In addition, a significant effect of N rate on GY, thousand grain weight (TGW), and GPC was observed. A considerable difference between 120 UN and 150 UN was not noted in both years of study. Furthermore, the agronomic efficiency (AE) increased significantly with rainfall amount achieving a difference of 16.2 kg·kgN−1 between years. Finally, the results showed that using a high N amount led to a decrease in AE. Based on GY, apparent recovery efficiency (ARE), agronomic efficiency (AE), and marginal rate return (MRR) recorded in both years, the nitrogen application rate of 120 UN is recommended to be applied to wheat crops in Algerian semiarid conditions.

Influence of Different Rates and Frequencies of Zn Application to Maize–Wheat Cropping on Crop Productivity and Zn Use Efficiency

Nowadays, zinc (Zn) fertilizers are commonly used for quality food production globally. Knowledge about proper application time and rates of commercial Zn fertilizers is necessary to obtain higher crop production and improve Zn use efficiency. A long-term field experiment was conducted during 2012 to 2018 at Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat), India, to find out the right Zn fertilizer dose and its frequency of application in maize–wheat cropping systems grown on typic haplustepts soil. The study comprised of three frequency levels, i.e., Zn application in the first year only (F1), alternate year (F2), and every year (F3), with four different rates of Zn, i.e., 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 kg Zn ha−1 per year imposed in the maize–wheat cropping system in each kharif season (during June to September) for six years. Findings of the study revealed that Zn applications to maize at 7.5 and 10 kg ha−1 in alternate year and 5.0 to 10 kg ha−1 in every year significantly increased maize equivalent yield as compared to no-Zn treatment. Application of 10.0 kg Zn ha−1 per year produced higher grain size, straw, and total Zn concentrations compared to those observed under no-Zn application in maize and wheat crops. Diethylene triamine penta acetic acid extractable Zn concentration in soil was higher in Zn treated plots which received Zn application at 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 kg ha−1 in alternate years and 10 kg ha−1 in every year as compared to no-Zn application. Apparent Zn recovery efficiency varied from 0.17 to 1.46% for maize crop and 0.34 to 1.70% for wheat crop under different rates and frequencies of Zn application. The above results emphasize the importance of Zn retention capacity of soil regarding its response to different rates and frequencies of Zn application to maize and wheat crops.

Wheat Nutrient Management Strategies to Increase Productivity, Profitability and Quality on Sandy Loam Soils

By 2050, the population of the world is anticipated to increase from 7.7 billion to 9.7 billion people, and, and wheat is expected to continue to play a vital role in ensuring food security globally. It is the main diet for 40% of the world’s population and supplies food for more than 4.5 billion people in 94 countries contains 21% of the joules and 20% of the protein. The present investigations were carried out during rabi 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 to determine how optimal nutrient management (INM) practices enhance fertilizer usage efficiency, productivity, soil health, and viability in wheat (Variety DBW 71) through innovative nutritional sources and their modes of application methods. The treatments comprised of, viz., control, basal applications of recommended NPK (80:60:40)/NPK granules (200 kg/ha) + FYM (5 t ha−1) + bio-stimulant granules (62.5 kg/ha), +NPK bio-fertilizer (seed treatment), along with a top dressing of urea (20 kg/ha)/bio-stimulant (625 mL ha−1)/NPK Powder (1%) sprays (40/55/70 DAS), which had triplicated randomized block design (RBD) at the crop research farm of SVPUA&amp;T, Meerut (U.P.). The results revealed that wheat grown with incorporation of FYM and bio-stimulant –L attained significantly better growth and higher dry matter accumulation across the stages. The crop contained 1.63% N, 0.31% P, 0.69% K in grain, and 0.57% N, 0.11% P and 1.34% K in straw. Such crops exhibited agronomic, physiological, and apparent recovery efficiency of NPK of the order of 3.2 kg kg−1 of nutrient applied, 14.0 kg kg−1 of nutrient uptake, and 0.23% against recommended NPK. Applications of FYM, NPK bio-fertilizer+ urea, and bio-stimulant + NPK sprays worked synergistically and increased grain yields by 29.8, 35.2, 50.3 and 41.1% over their respective controls. The results also indicated that soil organic carbon (0.47%), available NPK (227.0, 27.7, 172.1 kg/ha), dehydrogenase activity, and microbial population (bacteria, fungal and actinomycetes) in soil was also highest with the treatment. Finally, the wheat crop required an investment of Rs ha−1 131,453 and fetched a net reoccurrence of Rs. 96,154, with benefits of Rs. 3.72 over cost, respectively. Therefore, the study reveals that integrated nutrient management, viz., FYM 5 t ha−1 +NPK (12–32–16) -G @ 200 kg/ha + NPK bio-fertilizer (seed treatment) + urea @ 20 kg/ha, foliar application NPK (18−18−18) -P@ 1% and bio-stimulant –L 0.62 L ha−1 improved the better growth, productivity, soil health and profitability of wheat crops. Finally, to boost production, the region must emphasize the wheat crop’s part in integrated nutrition management with foliar application of bio-stimulants. Furthermore, these investigations must be reinvestigated at different sites with different agro-climatic conditions and texturally divergent soils.

A Preliminary Study of Ultrasound-Guided Microwave Ablation for Nonpuerperal Mastitis Treatment

Introduction: This study investigated the feasibility of ultrasound (US)-guided microwave ablation (MWA) as a treatment for nonpuerperal mastitis (NPM). Methods: Fifty-three patients with NPM diagnosed by biopsy and treated with US-guided MWA at the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University between September 2020 and February 2022 were classified according to whether they underwent MWA alone (n = 29) or MWA with incision and drainage (n = 24). Patients were followed up by interviews, physical and US examinations, and evaluation of breast skin at 1 week and 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment. Data from these patients were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Results: The overall mean patient age was 34.42 ± 9.20 years. The groups differed significantly by age, involved quadrants, and the initial maximum diameter of lesions. In the MWA group, the cure rate was 34.48%, and the apparent efficiency rate was 65.52%. In the MWA with incision and drainage, the apparent efficiency rate was 91.66%, and the effective rate was 4.17%. The excellent rate for breast aesthetics in the MWA group was 79.31%, and the good rate was 20.69%. The excellent rate in the MWA with incision and drainage group was 45.83%, the good rate was 41.67%, and the qualified rate was 12.5%. The mean maximum diameter of lesions in the two groups decreased significantly. Conclusion: For NPM with small lesions in a single quadrant, MWA therapy is a direct and effective method. For larger lesions involving two or more quadrants, the combined treatment of MWA with incision and drainage showed significant improvement in a short period. MWA treatment of NPM has importance for further research and clinical applications.

Detection and Discrimination of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms by Quantification of CRISPR-Cas Catalytic Efficiency.

The specificity of CRISPR-Cas12 assays is attractive for the detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) implicated in, e.g., cancer and SARS-CoV-2 variants. Such assays often employ endpoint measurements of SNP or wild type (WT) activated Cas12 trans-cleavage activity; however, the fundamental kinetic effects of SNP versus WT activation remain unknown. We here show that endpoint-based assays are limited by arbitrary experimental choices (like used reporter concentration and assay duration) and work best for known target concentrations. More importantly, we show that SNP (versus WT) activation results in measurable kinetic shifts in the Cas12 trans-cleavage substrate affinity (KM) and apparent catalytic efficiency (kcat*/KM). To address endpoint-based assay limitations, we then develop an assay based on the quantification of Michaelis-Menten parameters and apply this assay to a 20 base pair WT target of the SARS-CoV-2 E gene. We find that the kcat*/KM measured for WT is 130-fold greater than the lowest kcat*/KM among all 60 measured SNPs (compared to a 4.8-fold for endpoint fluorescence of the same SNP). KM also offers a strong ability to distinguish SNPs, varies 27-fold over all the cases, and, importantly, is insensitive to the target concentration. Last, we point out trends among kinetic rates and SNP base and location within the CRISPR-Cas12 targeted region.