bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ethnobotanical Survey and Pharmacological and Toxicity Review of Medicinal Plants Used in the Management of Obesity in the North Central Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Anyanwu Gabriel O. , Anzaku Dorathy , Bulus Yanga J. , Girgi Jemimah N. , Donwell Chinda C. , Ihuma Jerome O. , Onyeneke Eusebius C. , Bermano Giovanna , Steenkamp Vanessa
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Obesity is increasing worldwide. Due to the unavailability of affordable obesity drugs in most parts of Nigeria, many overweight and obese people rely on medicinal plants to manage obesity. Thus, the aim of this study is to document medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment and management of obesity in the North Central Zone of Nigeria, determine the plants to which pharmacological assessment of their use in obesity management has not been reported, and assess their toxicity based on the literature.

Methods: Semistructured questionnaires and interviews were used to assess sociodemographic information of the 700 herb sellers/practitioners (100 for each state) who consented to participate in the study. Information gathered on plants that are traditionally used in the management of obesity included administration/dosage, method of preparation, plant part used, method of growth, and plant type. The field study was conducted over a one‐year period, from March 2018 to March 2019. Reports of pharmacological activity pertaining to obesity as well as toxicity of the plants were obtained from the literature via scientific databases (Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, SciFinder, AJOL, PubChem, and other web sources) after the field survey.

Results: A total of 39 families and 70 plant species were used to treat or manage obesity. The majority of plant species used resulted in the family Leguminosae. The relative frequency of citation (RFC) and percentage values for the five most frequently used plants were as follows: Citrus aurantifolia (0.0500; 3.56%), Citrus limon (0.0457; 3.26%), Garcinia kola (0.0429; 3.05%), Zingiber officinale (0.0429; 3.05%), and Allium sativum (0.0414; 2.95%). The majority of the medications were prepared as decoctions (50.5%), and cultivated plants (62.86%) were in the majority of plants used. Results showed that 23 plants have no pharmacological report for antiobesity activities while among the five frequently used plants, only Garcinia kola was reported toxic in preclinical models.

Conclusions: This paper provides a valuable compilation of the plants used in obesity treatment in the study area by indigenous healers, highlights plants with no reported pharmacological activity pertaining to obesity, and indicates the toxicity profile of used plants. However, further studies on the mechanism of action are warranted, especially where no reports were obtained.
Supplementary Figure 6 from The Selective WEE1 Inhibitor Azenosertib Shows Synergistic Antitumor Activity with KRASG12C Inhibitors in Preclinical Models
Authors: Jameson Nathan M. , Kim Daehwan , Lee Catherine , Skrable Blake , Shea Alexandra , Guo Xiao , Izadi Hooman , Abed Mona , Harismendy Olivier , Ma Jianhui , Kim Doris S. , Lackner Mark R.
Published: February 2025

Treatment of CDX and PDX models with azenosertib + KRASG12C inhibitors is well tolerated in vivo
Supplementary Figure 4 from The Selective WEE1 Inhibitor Azenosertib Shows Synergistic Antitumor Activity with KRASG12C Inhibitors in Preclinical Models
Authors: Jameson Nathan M. , Kim Daehwan , Lee Catherine , Skrable Blake , Shea Alexandra , Guo Xiao , Izadi Hooman , Abed Mona , Harismendy Olivier , Ma Jianhui , Kim Doris S. , Lackner Mark R.
Published: February 2025

Treatment of an NSCLC model with azenosertib + sotorasib results in reduced proliferation and minor histological changes in vivo.
Figure 3 from The Selective WEE1 Inhibitor Azenosertib Shows Synergistic Antitumor Activity with KRASG12C Inhibitors in Preclinical Models
Authors: Jameson Nathan M. , Kim Daehwan , Lee Catherine , Skrable Blake , Shea Alexandra , Guo Xiao , Izadi Hooman , Abed Mona , Harismendy Olivier , Ma Jianhui , Kim Doris S. , Lackner Mark R.
Published: February 2025

Treatment of an NSCLC CDX model with azenosertib + sotorasib results in tumor regressions and increased DNA damage and apoptosis in vivo. A, Mean tumor volume ± SEM of subcutaneous NCI-H2122 xenografts in NOD/SCID mice treated for 25 days (n = 9/group). P < 0.0001 for all comparisons with vehicle; P < 0.0001 for combination compared with monotherapies. B, Percent change in tumor volume (ΔTV) of individual mice on day 25 of treatment. Values below 0 indicate regression. C, Mean percent change in body weight relative to day 0 (ΔBW) ± SEM. NCI-H2122 was noted to be cachexic in NOD/SCID mice (seen by minor weight loss in the vehicle group), but treatments were well tolerated and did not exacerbate weight loss relative to vehicle. Red dashed line indicates −15% cutoff in weight change. D, Top, Western blots of protein expression from NCI-H2122 tumors treated with one dose of the indicated compounds. Bottom, Quantification of γH2AX and c-Casp-3/7 protein levels in response to treatment. Results are expressed as fold change relative to DMSO control. DDR, DNA damage response.
Data from The Selective WEE1 Inhibitor Azenosertib Shows Synergistic Antitumor Activity with KRASG12C Inhibitors in Preclinical Models
Authors: Jameson Nathan M. , Kim Daehwan , Lee Catherine , Skrable Blake , Shea Alexandra , Guo Xiao , Izadi Hooman , Abed Mona , Harismendy Olivier , Ma Jianhui , Kim Doris S. , Lackner Mark R.
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) is a potent oncogenic driver that results in the downstream hyperactivation of MAPK signaling while simultaneously increasing replication stress (RS) and accumulation of DNA damage. KRASG12C mutations are common and targetable alterations. Therapeutic inhibition of KRASG12C and eventual resistance to these inhibitors are also known to drive RS and DNA damage through adaptive mechanisms that maintain addiction to high MAPK signaling. High levels of RS result in a stronger reliance on cell-cycle checkpoints, thereby introducing a vulnerability to inhibition of cell-cycle checkpoint regulators such as the WEE1 kinase. This provides a rationale for combining azenosertib, a novel, selective, and orally bioavailable WEE1 inhibitor, with KRASG12C inhibitors. An in vitro combination of azenosertib with multiple KRASG12C inhibitors demonstrated synergistic cell growth inhibition across a panel of KRASG12C cell lines in both 2D and 3D assays. In vivo studies demonstrated that azenosertib exhibited significant monotherapy activity as well as synergistic tumor growth inhibition (TGI) when combined with KRASG12C inhibitors, including tumor regression in cell-derived xenograft models of non–small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Importantly, KRASG12C inhibitor–resistant cell-derived xenograft and patient-derived xenograft models demonstrated synergistic TGI in combination arms. Finally, analysis of biomarkers from in vitro and in vivo tumor samples displayed increases in protein markers of RS, DNA damage, and apoptosis after combination treatment. Taken together, our results suggest that the combination of azenosertib with KRASG12C inhibitors enhances TGI over single-agent therapy and may be an effective treatment strategy for patients with KRASG12C tumors.
Significance:
Resistance to KRASG12C inhibitors is a growing clinical concern. The synergistic interaction observed between azenosertib and multiple KRASG12C inhibitors could result in deeper and more durable responses.
A Phase 2 Study of Sotigalimab, a CD40 Agonist Antibody, plus Concurrent Chemoradiation as Neoadjuvant Therapy for Esophageal and Gastroesophageal Junction Cancers
Authors: Ko Andrew H. , Chao Joseph , Noel Marcus S. , Shankaran Veena , Sohal Davendra , Crow Mary , Oberstein Paul E. , Scott Aaron J. , McRee Autumn J. , Rocha Lima Caio Max Sao Pedro , Fong Lawrence , Keenan Bridget P. , Soto Maira , Filbert Erin L. , Hsu Frank J. , Yang Xiaodong
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (NCRT) followed by surgical resection represents a standard approach for patients with locally advanced esophageal/gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers. Sotigalimab is a high-affinity CD40 agonist antibody capable of inducing and expanding antitumor immune responses by activating dendritic cells, T and B lymphocytes, NK cells, and M1 macrophages. This study examined the safety and efficacy of combining sotigalimab with NCRT in patients with esophageal or GEJ cancers.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with resectable (T1-3 Nx) adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus or GEJ were eligible. T1N0 and cervical tumors were excluded. Study treatment: weekly carboplatin/paclitaxel with concurrent radiation 5,040 cGy plus 3 to 4 doses of sotigalimab prior to Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. Primary efficacy endpoint was the pathologic complete response (path CR) rate.

Results:

Thirty-three patients were enrolled (adenocarcinoma 76%, squamous cell carcinoma 24%; and clinical stage III 67%). Ninety percent of patients received all planned doses of sotigalimab. The most common adverse events attributed to sotigalimab were nausea, fever/chills, fatigue, and cytokine release syndrome; most of these were grade 1 to 2. Grade ≥3 cytokine release syndrome was observed in 3 patients (9%). Twenty-five of the 29 efficacy-evaluable patients underwent an R0 resection (87.9%), with an overall path CR rate of 37.9% (11/29). Post-tumor samples demonstrated increased infiltration and activation of dendritic cells, monocytes, and cytotoxic T cells compared with baseline.

Conclusions:

Sotigalimab combined with NCRT for esophageal or GEJ cancers was generally well tolerated and achieved path CR rates that compare favorably with historical data and are promising for this treatment strategy. Clinical trial information: NCT03165994.

Significance:

The current study represents the first report to evaluate a CD40 agonist antibody in combination with concurrent chemoradiation in the neoadjuvant setting for patients with esophageal/GEJ cancers. This novel strategy was both safe and feasible, producing encouraging path CR rates that compare favorably with historical data. Our findings support the further evaluation of how immune-based therapies may be incorporated into perioperative treatment paradigms for upper gastrointestinal malignancies.
The Diagnostic Trap: When PSA Results Mislead. A Case Report.
Authors: Birk-Korch Johan Baden , Vestergaard Madsen Christine , Kromann-Tofting Tobias , Ellegaard Mortensen Jonas , Madsen Jonna Skov , Soerensen Patricia Diana
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Immunoassays used in clinical practice can occasionally yield falsely elevated or suppressed results due to assay interference. We present a patient case of metastatic prostate cancer where plasma prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentrations were falsely low. This was discovered incidentally, when a different laboratory, using another PSA assay, reported significantly higher values.
Case presentation:
A 77-year old man, diagnosed with prostate adenocarcinoma in 2011, developed bone metastases in 2015 and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) in 2016.
Between 2016 and 2017, PSA measurements at a different hospital using the Roche Cobas e602 assay, showed significantly higher plasma PSA concentrations compared to those measured at the initial hospital, using the Abbott Architect assay. Due to this discrepancy, which was inconsistent with the patient’s clinical status, the clinician contacted the laboratory. Subsequent investigation revealed an assay interference leading to falsely low PSA results with the Abbott Architect Assay.
Conclusion:
This case underscores the importance of close collaboration between clinicians and laboratories, as well as the need to consider analytical interference when clinical findings do not match laboratory results. Laboratories must continue working with assay manufacturers to minimize interference risks, and clinicians should remain vigilant for potential diagnostic pitfalls and consult the laboratory when inconsistencies arise.
Normative Beliefs for Older Adults and Volunteering Intentions
Authors: Wirth Maria , de Paula Couto Clara , Fung Helene Hoi-Lam , Pavlova Maria Konstantinovna , Rothermund Klaus
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The idea that older adults should contribute to the common good has become a social normative belief (i.e., social activation). Younger and – even more so – older adults prescribe social activation to the group of older adults. Older adults are assumed to behave in line with what is socially expected of them. However, previous studies did not establish a link between the old-age norm of social activation and older adults’ social engagement. Following the reasoning of stereotype embodiment theory, we investigated the role of self-endorsement of social activation for older adults’ social engagement (i.e., formal volunteering). Method: We conducted two preregistered experiments in which older participants (60 – 90 years, N = 1,463) reflected on agreeing or disagreeing with the norm of social activation. We then assessed endorsement of social activation and intention to engage in formal volunteering. Results: Replicating our previous studies, participants who reflected on agreement with the norm of social activation reported higher endorsement of this norm compared to participants who reflected on disagreement. Endorsing the norm of social activation for (other) older adults translated into endorsing social activation for oneself (internalization). Furthermore, reflecting on agreement with social activation was indirectly related to volunteering intention via endorsement of self-related social activation (embodiment). Conclusion: Our findings elucidate the role of societal normative beliefs for older adults’ behavior and offer insights into the discourse on the continued social participation of older adults.
Posterior chamber phakic intraocular lenses for correcting ametropia in stable keratoconus
Authors: Berger Osvaldo , Garikapati Naveen , Naveed Hasan , Hajjar-Sese Aida , Matsou Artemis , Gatzioufas Zisis , Hamada Samer , Elalfy Mohamed
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The use of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lenses are a reasonable option in the armamentarium to treat refractive error in patients with keratoconus. We present our experience with the use of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (PCPIOL) for the management of ametropia in patients with keratoconus. Methods: Patients included those with stable keratoconus treated in the Corneoplastic Unit, Queen Victoria Hospital. East Grinstead, United Kingdom, with PCPIOL (ICL Staar Surgical and IPCL Care Group) to improve their visual acuity. Data were obtained from preoperative visit and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Clinical characteristics, pre- and postoperative uncorrected (UDVA) and best corrected (CDVA) logMAR visual acuities and perioperative complications were analyzed. Results: 23 eyes of 21 patients were included. UDVA changed from 0.75 preoperatively to 0.18 post-surgery (P = < 0.001) and CDVA from 0.07 to 0.12 (P = 0.12). Seventy percent of the cases increased 3 or more lines of UDVA while none of the eyes lost more than 2 lines of CDVA. No significant difference in final UDVA was found between patients with and without previous keratoplasty (0.27 and 0.18, P=0.38), previous corneal collagen crosslinking (0.16 and 0.3, P=0.24), intracorneal ring segments (0.2 and 0.2, P=0.94) or type of lens implanted (0.2 ICL and IPCL. P = 0.94). One intraoperative complication reported was an inverted PCPIOL insertion and postoperatively 4 axis rotations and 1 cataract were observed. Conclusions: The use of PCPIOL in patients with stable keratoconus is effective in improving their UDVA, even in cases with previous corneal procedures such as keratoplasty, crosslinking and intracorneal rings. Rotation is the most common postoperative complication.
Identification of Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 4 as a Potential Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for ANCA-Associated Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Cheng Lu , Ren Qian , Liu Jing , Yu Mei-Lian , Huang Rong-Shuang , Guo Fan , Ma Liang , Gou Shen-Ju , Fu Ping
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) is a novel adipokine that is critically involved in many inflammatory and immune diseases. However, the role of FABP4 in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN) remains unclear. The current study aimed to investigate the role of FABP4 in patients with ANCA-GN.
Methods:
Plasma and urine samples from 37 patients with active ANCA-GN and kidney biopsy specimens from another group of 56 patients with ANCA-GN were collected. The plasma and urinary level of FABP4 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the kidney FABP4 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. Associations between FABP4 levels with clinical and pathologic parameters were analyzed. To further elucidate the role of FABP4 in ANCA-GN, a novel FABP4 inhibitor BMS309403 was employed in a recognized rat model of experimental autoimmune vasculitis (EAV).
Results:
Plasma and urinary levels of FABP4 in active ANCA-GN patients were significantly higher than those in normal controls (52.8 ± 23.6 ng/ml vs. 16.9 ± 8.8 ng/ml, P<0.01; median 126.6 [interquartile range (IQR) 28.4-311.2] ng/g Cr vs. median 0.0 [IQR 0.0-0.0] ng/g Cr, P<0.01, respectively). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed higher glomerular and tubular expression of FABP4 in the kidneys of ANCA-GN patients than those in normal controls (0.015 ± 0.012 vs. 0.004 ± 0.003, P<0.001; 0.053 ± 0.026 vs. 0.011 ± 0.010, P<0.001, respectively). Moreover, for ANCA-GN patients, urinary FABP4 levels were significantly higher in active ANCA than those in remission (184.3 ± 187.0 ng/g Cr vs. 9.4 ± 23.9 ng/g Cr, P<0.01). Correlation analysis showed that urinary levels of FABP4 correlated with serum creatinine (r=0.596, P<0.0001), urinary albumin/Cr (r=0.523, P=0.001), blood neutrophil ratio (r=0.386, P=0.018), PT (r=0.583, P=0.001), APTT (r=0.364, P=0.034), hemoglobin level (r=-0.398, P=0.015), eGFR (r=-0.680, P<0.0001), crescent proportion (r=0.661, P=0.032) and all-cause death of ANCA-GN patients (HR 2.93, 95%CI (1.05-8.19)). Furthermore, FABP4 inhibition by BMS309403 ameliorated renal injury in a rat mole of ANCA-GN.
Conclusions:
Urinary FABP4 levels might reflect the disease activity and renal involvement of ANCA-associated vasculitis, and FABP4 might act as a promising therapeutic target against ANCA-GN.
Microbial contamination of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube and nasogastric tube with drug-resistant bacteria
Authors: Kanamori Shota , Koya Hiroaki , Kurata Naomi , Ishino Keiko
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Enteral nutrition is used in patients with stroke, head-and-neck or esophageal cancer surgery, or repeated aspiration pneumonia. Japanese enteral nutrition guidelines recommend percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube (PEG) for long-term use of >4 weeks and nasogastric tube (NGT) for short-term use of <4 weeks. Catheters may be contaminated with microorganisms because enteral feeding products passed through them daily, but there are few reports on catheter contamination in Japan and no reports on the duration of catheter use. There are also reports that enteral feeding is a risk factor for the appearance of drug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether microorganisms could be isolated from enteral feeding catheters and determine the percentage of drug-resistant bacteria.
Methods: Forty-six PEGs and 59 NGTs were collected at Showa University Hospital and Showa University Fujigaoka Rehabilitation Hospital from May 2019 to March 2020. Microorganisms were cultured by incubating 20 mL pass/wash solution of sterile purified water on BHI agar medium (37°C) for 24–72 h. The strains were isolated and cultured, then frozen (80°C) and stored. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by broth microdilution method.
Results: Microorganisms were detected in 37 PEGs and 57 NGTs (p = 0.007). Bacteria were detected in 27 PEGs and 53 NGTs (p < 0.001), and yeasts were detected in 29 PEGs and 28 NGTs (p = 0.112). Drug-resistant bacteria were isolated from 19.6% (9 of 46) in PEGs and 23.7% (14 of 59) in NGTs.
Conclusions: PEGs and NGTs were contaminated with microorganisms, and drug-resistant bacteria were isolated. This study provides a rationale for future appropriate use in enteral feeding catheters.
Responsabilidade do agente público: uma análise do artigo 28 da LINDB à luz de aspectos estruturais e esferas da responsabilidade, fenômeno interpretativo e incerteza do Direito
Authors: Macera Paulo Henrique
Published: February 2025

This article seeks to reflect on the debate around the responsibility of the public agent, suggesting that it is necessary to rescue some structural points that are not appropriately considered in current discussions. For this purpose, it brings some introductory considerations on the legal nature of the spheres of sanction and responsibility to which the public agent is subject, as well as some thoughts about the interface between interpretation and responsibility and article 28 of the LINDB under the focus of structural impacts on the responsibility of public agents.
Downregulated PSME3 Contributes to Severe Preeclampsia by Promoting Trophoblast Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Liu Lin , Chen Hui , Wu Renfei , Wang Qiongyao , Guan Qiujing , Chen Yang , Cao Siyuan , Tang Longying , Lin Zaijun , Li Lei , Ge Xiaoli
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Severe preeclampsia (sPE) is a serious condition posing risks to both maternal and fetal health. Based on mass spectrometry analysis, we identified a key protein, PSME3 (proteasome activator subunit 3), an 11S proteasome activator, whose protein level was significantly downregulated in sPE placentas and whose function in sPE remains unknown.

METHODS:

PSME3 protein levels in human placental tissue were detected using Western blot, and PSME3 concentration in serum was detected by ELISA assay. The human preeclampsia-like phenotypes of
Psme3
−

/
−

pregnant mice were examined. Trophoblast cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Pregnant mice were treated with 9.5% O
2
to construct a preeclampsia mouse model for detecting placental Psme3 expression. The regulation of PSME3 expression by hypoxia was detected in trophoblast cell lines treated with 21% O
2
or 1% O
2
.

RESULTS:

PSME3 protein levels were significantly downregulated in sPE placentas and serum. Pregnant mice with
Psme3

−
/
−

embryos and placentas spontaneously presented human preeclampsia-like symptoms, including hypertension and proteinuria, increased serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 concentration, fetal growth restriction, and increased cellular apoptosis. Mechanically, PSME3 knockdown promoted the apoptosis of trophoblast cells by repressing the degradation of UBE2V2 (ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2 V2). Moreover, the placentas of hypoxia-induced preeclampsia mice presented significantly reduced Psme3 protein levels and elevated Ube2v2 protein levels. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α functioned as a transcriptional repressor of PSME3.

CONCLUSIONS:

In sPE placentas, hypoxia of the placenta may lead to the transcriptional inhibition of PSME3. PSME3 deficiency promotes the accumulation of UBE2V2, thereby inducing trophoblast cell apoptosis. Our study provides a new perspective for elucidating the pathogenesis of sPE.
Wildfire Air Pollution and Rates of Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Northern California in 2018
Authors: Alexeeff Stacey E. , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Deosaransingh Kamala , Sidney Stephen , Liao Noelle S. , Rana Jamal S.
Published: February 2025

Background

We examined the association between acute cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and wildfire air pollution in California in 2018.

Methods

The study included adult (≥18 years) members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California, an integrated health care system. Outcomes included CVD events (hospitalizations for acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, or stroke, and CVD death) and death from any cause. Fine particulate air pollution (particulate matter <2.5 microns in diameter; PM
2.5
) exposure was assessed in categories (Good <12 μg/m
3
, Moderate 12–34 μg/m
3
, High ≥35 μg/m
3
) and continuously. Poisson time series regression was used to model daily event rates during July 1 to December 31, 2018, using a spline to adjust for long‐term time trends. We calculated rate ratios (RR) to estimate the association between wildfire air pollution and daily rate of CVD events and deaths.

Results

Our study included 3.2 million adults with a total follow‐up of 587.9 million person‐days. High PM
2.5
concentrations during the Mendocino Complex wildfire in July to August was associated with an increased rate of CVD events (RR, 1.231 [95% CI, 1.039–1.458]) and death (RR, 1.358 [95% CI, 1.128–1.635]) compared with Good PM
2.5
concentrations. In contrast, there was no evidence of increased risk during the Camp wildfire in November (RR for CVD events, 0.966 [95% CI, 0.894–1.044]; RR for all‐cause mortality, 0.985 [95% CI, 0.904–1.074] High versus Good PM
2.5
concentrations).

Conclusions

There was some evidence of increased rates of CVD events and death during wildfires, but results were inconsistent. With ongoing climate change, large wildfires are a pressing public health concern and future work is needed to understand differences in health outcomes by wildfire.
Harvesting the Sea in Southeastern Arabia
Authors: Watson Janet C.E. , Anonby Erik , Morris Miranda J.
Published: February 2025

The Arabian Peninsula has long been home to peoples subsisting where often-inhospitable coasts meet the historically rich and productive marine ecosystems. This chapter introduces the first volume of Harvesting the Sea, a collection of studies on three main regions of southern and eastern Arabia: the Musandam Peninsula, Dhofar and al-Mahrah, and the island of Soqotra. The authors set out the purpose and scope of the work – exploring and reflecting on traditional maritime livelihoods of the region through oral literature, traditional scientific knowledge, and ocean-related resources and activities. They show how these studies fit within the literature on the endangered Kumzari and Modern South Arabian languages (MSAL) and their distinctive cultures. An explanatory section on “translanguaging” helps situate complexities related to characteristic interactions among language communities of the region. The chapter concludes with an overview of data and information sources, along with explanations of phonological inventories and transcription conventions for the languages studied here.
Harvesting the Sea among the Bəṭāḥira
Authors: Morris Miranda J.
Published: February 2025

This chapter discusses how the Bəṭāḥira, a tribe small in number and inhabiting a desolate strip of the southern Arabian seaboard, used to survive by harvesting the sea. How they managed this is described as much as possible in their own words. Their language is Bəṭaḥrēt, the least known of the Modern South Arabian languages (MSAL), while the community itself has long been overlooked by researchers studying traditional cultures and languages. This section is followed by a series of transcribed, translated and annotated Bəṭaḥrēt audio materials collected by the author in the late 1970s and 1980s, and later on, between 2013 and 2016, and with a Baṭḥari field assistant, further material given by the few elderly Bəṭaḥrēt speakers who remained. As the younger generations are now monolingual in Arabic, this was a last chance to gather material in this dying language. The recordings are available in the Endangered Languages Archives (ELAR). The documentation and ethnolinguistic analysis of Modern South Arabian: Bathari are also available at the Endangered Languages Archive (elararchive.org)
Role of Dynamic Facial Expressions in Judgement of Attractiveness: AI and Human Analysis
Authors: Yamaguchi Mayu , Ikeda Kazuhiro , Kawasaki Yayoi , Sugimori Eriko
Published: February 2025

Facial attractiveness plays a crucial role in social interactions and mate selection, influencing judgments and behaviors in various contexts. While extensive research has examined structural facial features such as symmetry and averageness, the dynamic and modifiable nature of facial expressions remains underexplored. This study explores the influence of dynamic, modifiable facial expressions on perceived attractiveness through two experiments utilizing both human raters and artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze the relationship between facial expression positivity and attractiveness. In Experiment 1, we examined the effects of the experimenter’s control over the facial expressions on the facial expression and attractiveness ratings using two types of videos: one in which the stimulus models introduced themselves and another in which the subjects were controlled to be expressionless. Results revealed that the positivity and intensity of facial expressions, as assessed by facial expression analysis software, fluctuated based on the experimenter’s manipulation. Additionally, the variation in raters’ evaluations of facial expression positivity led to corresponding changes in attractiveness ratings. In Experiment 2, we investigated the relationship between facial expression ratings by humans and AI and their connection to attractiveness. The positivity of facial expressions in the video stimuli was analyzed by students and an AI-based facial expression analysis software, whereas a separate group of students rated the attractiveness of the same stimuli. Findings showed a positive correlation between the attractiveness ratings for both male and female stimuli and the positivity of facial expressions rated by both humans and AI. This indicates that attractive faces were perceived as having positive expressions and the actual positivity of the expressions themselves influenced attractiveness evaluations. These findings indicate that positivity in facial expressions plays a significant role in attractiveness perception. Future research should investigate how the relationship between attractiveness and expressions may be shaped by evolutionary pressures and social behaviors.
Demonstration of Pre-Determined ECONAT Organic Liquid Fertilizers on Tef Production in Bora District of East Shewa Zone of Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Birru Tilahun , Husien Abdurahman , Haile Getachew
Published: February 2025

The use of organic fertilizers aligns with sustainable agricultural practices, promoting soil health and reducing dependency on chemical inputs, which can have adverse effects on the environment and human health. The study conducted a pre-extension demonstration and evaluation of pre-determined ECONAT organic liquid fertilizers compared to combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha over sole recommended in various locations. The trail was implemented in Bora district. On-farmers field, the overall mean yield 1129 kg ha-1 and 1124 kg ha-1 were obtained from recommended NP and combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha; respectively. Moreover, sole recommended econat and controls gave the lowest yield. The mean yields of the four applied treatments were summarized as follows. Which showed that, combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha is stable and showed good performance across locations in the study area. Mini farmers' field days further engaged stakeholders, with participants expressing appreciation for the demonstrated recommendations' positive impact on multiple yield-related traits. Based on the comprehensive evaluation and positive feedback from farmers and stakeholders, it is recommended to promote and adopt combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha over sole recommended econat. The demonstrated and evaluation consistently delivered with the observation of higher yields and exhibited desirable traits crucial for successful crop cultivation. Further extension programs and awareness campaigns could enhance the adoption of this technology among farmers, contributing to increased agricultural productivity and overall farm sustainability. In conclusion, combination of recommendation NP and econat 3.2 lit/ha demonstrated superior performance in terms of yield. To capitalize on this success, incorporating targeted awareness programs, training sessions, and collaboration with agricultural experts. This approach aims to facilitate a widespread shift towards adopting combination of recommendation NP and econat at 3.2 lit/ha among farmers, thereby optimizing crop outcomes and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the study area.
Non-Destructive Testing Techniques for Condition Assessment of Concrete Structures: A Review
Authors: Tefera Belay , Tarekegn Abrham
Published: February 2025

Non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques have developed as important instruments in the evaluation of concrete structures, providing a way to analyze structural integrity and material qualities without causing damage. In analyzing the uniformity, homogeneity, approximate compressive strength, durability, the level of rebar corrosion in concrete, and other properties of damaged buildings, NDT technologies have a significant benefit. This paper offers a thorough examination of several NDT methods, emphasizing their usefulness in finding internal flaws, locating embedded items, and measuring surface-hardness and in-situ stress. Each method's applicability, limitations, and measured parameters are thoroughly addressed. The criteria for selecting appropriate NDT methods are discussed, followed by a comparison of different approaches to facilitate decision-making. The interpretation of NDT results is discussed, highlighting the significance of precise data processing and the relevance of sophisticated technology. Case studies were also provided to demonstrate the actual implementation and efficacy of NDT techniques in real-world circumstances. The assessment also suggests investing in advanced data visualization tools to better the interpretation and sharing of NDT results, as well as combining NDT data with Building Information Modeling systems to provide a more complete picture of structural problems. Finally, the paper indicates that NDT techniques are critical for assuring the safety, durability, and preservation of concrete structures, thereby significantly contributing to the upkeep of our built environment.
Evaluating Feasibility and Effectiveness of Implementing Cross-Country Mhealth Interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Stephen Ogweno , Roger Harrison , Bernard Murithi , Bonface Otieno
Published: February 2025

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where traditional healthcare systems in Sub-Saharan Africa often grapple with limited infrastructure, healthcare worker shortages, and accessibility challenges. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have emerged as promising tools to enhance health promotion and literacy, providing innovative solutions to these challenges. This study evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of cross-country mHealth interventions through a secondary analysis of the NCD 365 project, which utilized outcome data from January to December 2020. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select participants from five countries, and data were collected via an online Google form. The analysis focused on platform usage, literacy distribution, and the relationship between health literacy levels and the platforms used. Descriptive statistics and the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to evaluate the data. Results indicated that WhatsApp was the most widely used platform in four of the five countries, while Twitter predominated in Uganda. Adjusted literacy levels varied slightly, with Kenya and Nigeria showing higher levels compared to Cameroon, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. Gender differences in literacy were minimal, with males displaying marginally higher literacy scores. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed no significant differences in literacy levels across platforms or countries, reinforcing the feasibility and effectiveness of cross-country mHealth interventions. These findings suggest that initiatives like the NCD 365 project can effectively promote health literacy and healthcare delivery across diverse settings in Sub-Saharan Africa. While regional differences in platform preferences exist, the overall success of the project highlights the potential for scalable and adaptable mHealth strategies. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts and platform-specific effectiveness to further optimize mHealth interventions.
Application of Statistical Thermodynamics to Modelling Fluid Discharge Through a Circular Orifice System
Authors: Okafor Obiora , Achebe Chinonso , Mbaka Uchechukwu
Published: February 2025

This study presents the application of statistical thermodynamics in modeling orifice discharge function. Micro-based variables such as the velocity of fluid flow at the midpoint of the reservoir elevated to the mid-height of the orifice and the head loss due to sudden expansion that was neglected in the classical discharge model were considered in the modeling operation. Bernoulli’s equation was used to determine the velocity model at the exit point of the orifice. Some classical thermodynamic models were used to compute certain parameters like: the flow pressure of fluid (water) (Pf), pressure drop (Pd), exit temperature, polytropic work (W), heat absorption/rejection (Q), and flow energy (E). The grand canonical ensemble which applies to open systems was used to establish a relationship between the flow discharge and energy variables according to the micro-based behavior of fluid flow through the orifice that generates the observable macro-flow behavior of a fluid. The discharge values obtained using the experimental (Qe), classical (Q(c,)) and statistically derived orifice discharge (Qs) models were compared and accessed statistically using the indices of: mean bias error (MBE), mean percentage error (MPE), root mean square error (RMSE), Nash-Sutcliffe equation (NSE), and coefficient of correlation (R). The results of the study showed that the new model that was derived using a statistical thermodynamics approach outperformed the classical orifice model as its MBE value of 5.032E-05, MPE of 5.62, RMSE of 5.24E-05, NSE of 0.873 and R of 0.999 were all better than that of the classical model having an MBE value of -1.0042E-04, MPE of -11.30 (underestimation), RMSE of 5.814E-05, and R of 0.999. In addition, the values of Pf, T2, W, Q, and E increased as the flow head increased. The polytropic work, W was negative, indicating that the system did some work. The positive values of Q and E showed that the system absorbed energy from its environment during the fluid flow operation. Furthermore, all the orifice discharge functions (Qs, Q(c) and Qe) had a direct linear relationship with flow energy, E which therefore satisfied the grand canonical ensemble model for the open system’s thermodynamic micro-variable description. Hence, the new orifice discharge model is recommended for the industry's volumetric flow rate measurement of Newtonian fluids.
Comparison of the Transistor Channel Length and Performance Parameters of a Fully Differential Operational Amplifier
Authors: Genzebu Tsegaye
Published: February 2025

Today's practical applications require an amplifier with high-performance specifications. Researchers have been trying to design small size transistors to get more performance. Reduce the scale of transistor sizes in operational amplifiers (op-amps) to obtain better values for the performance characteristics are important. The main objective of this study was to understand the relationship between the performance parameters of a fully differential amplifier and the channel length of the transistors. In this study, fully differential op-amp performance metrics were examined and contrasted with their channel lengths utilizing a common 1.8V power supply. The graphs were plotted using Python software. The outcome demonstrates that, as the transistor's channel length decreases, the gain and unity gain band width of the fully differential op-amp increase. This demonstrates how reducing the transistor's size allows for high amplification devices. There for to obtain amplified signal one cane use small size transistors. The totally differential op-amp's power dissipation and settling time are also decreased as the transistor's channel length is decreased. This shows that in order to create fully differential op-amps that operate for long periods of time, the transistor size needs to be decreased. Therefore in this work we can understand that to get an op-amp which operates better we must reduce their size as much as possible.
Study of the Prevalence of Animal Rabies in Guinea During the Year 2022
Authors: Bah Boubacar
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of rabies in dogs and other domestic animals, including two sheep, using data collected from the regional veterinary laboratories in Labé, Kankan, and Nzérékoré. In total, 44 samples were submitted to these veterinary laboratories and analyzed using the direct immunofluorescence assay method. This technique is the standard diagnostic procedure recommended for rabies by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). The results of the testing revealed a high prevalence of rabies, estimated at 84.09%, with 37 out of the 44 samples testing positive for the disease. Rabies is commonly associated with dogs, which are well-known carriers of the virus. However, it is important to recognize that rabid dogs can transmit the disease to a wide range of mammals through bites, scratches, and other forms of contact. Consequently, farm animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and other domestic species are also at risk. Once these animals are bitten by a rabid dog, they can contract the disease and, in many cases, succumb to its effects. This underscores the importance of monitoring and controlling rabies not only in dogs but also in other animals that might be exposed to this fatal disease. Another major piece of information is that only animals that showed signs of rabies and were slaughtered for this purpose or died naturally were analyzed.
Assessment of Groundwater Potential and Vulnerability Using Electrical Resistivity Techniques: A Case Study of the FUPRE Campus and Agbarho Axis, Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Babasola Olaseni , Infeanyi Nmoka
Published: February 2025

The quality and availability of groundwater are increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities, including oil extraction and inadequate environmental management. This study focuses on the groundwater potential and vulnerability of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) campus and Agbarho axis in Delta State. The research employs Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) techniques to assess the subsurface structure and derive geoelectric parameters, such as transverse unit resistance (Tr), longitudinal resistance (ρL), and transverse resistivity (ρt), which inform the groundwater potential and vulnerability. The study also integrates second-order geoelectric indices, including Dar Zarrouk’s parameters, to evaluate aquifer protective capacity using the GOD index and longitudinal conductance. Results indicate that while parts of the study area exhibit promising groundwater potential (high Tr values), the overall aquifer protective capacity is poor, with low longitudinal conductance values suggesting a high susceptibility to contamination. Geoelectric curve types, resistivity contrast, and coefficient of anisotropy further reveal a heterogeneous subsurface with varying permeability and porosity. The GOD index categorizes most of the area as moderately vulnerable to contamination, highlighting the need for enhanced groundwater management. This study underscores the importance of integrating hydrogeological and geophysical data for effective groundwater exploration, management, and protection in regions at risk of contamination.
Dermatoses in Ivorian Rural Areas: A Case Study of the Health District of Zouan Hounien
Authors: Almamy Diabaté , Yotsu Rie , Mutiyu Sule , Vagamon Bamba , Yao Aubin , Blanton Ronald
Published: February 2025

Objective: To improve the management of skin diseases in rural areas of the Zouan-Hounien health district. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted over five (5) days, from December 13, 2023, to December 17, 2023, in villages within the Zouan-Hounien health district. Results: The study included 558 patients. The age group of 0-5 years was the most represented (16%). There were more women (54%) than men. Majority were farmers (31.4%) and single (52%). Infectious dermatoses were the most common (80.1%), with fungal infections being predominant (42.5%). Scabies was the only parasitic condition (100%), frequently affecting farmers (31.1%) and children aged 0-5 years (47.6%). Among bacterial dermatoses, boils were the most prevalent (66.7%). Molluscum contagiosum was the dominant viral dermatological condition (75%). Urticaria was the leading immuno-inflammatory dermatosis (59.5%), often observed among farmers (16.4%) and the 56-85 age group (24.6%). Lipoma was the only reported tumor-related dermatosis (1 case). There were only six (6) cases of sexually transmitted infections (1.1%). Other dermatoses were primarily sweat rash (44%). Conclusion: Skin diseases in rural areas of the Zouan-Hounien were predominantly infections. In light of these findings, it is necessary to strengthen the capacity of paramedical personnel to improve the management of skin diseases in rural settings. In the absence of a specialist in every village, implementing tele dermatology should be considered to bridge this gap.
Impact of Preoperative Systemic Inflammation Score on Key Prognostic Risk Factors in Early Cervical Cancer
Authors: Naher Syfun , Akter Naznine , Sharmin Riffat , Roy Rita , Hossain Fawzia , Faika Jakanta , Rahman Khandker , Saha Asim , Hossen Mofazzal
Published: February 2025

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy in women across the world. Treatment decisions for early cervical cancer are guided by prognostic risk factors including tumor size, LVSI, depth of stromal invasion and nodal involvement. Systemic inflammation score (SIS) is a novel prognostic biomarker which is potential for different types of malignancies. But its role in early stage cervical cancer is unexplored. This study evaluate the impact of SIS on prognostic risk factors for early stage cervical cancer. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted at Department of Gynecological Oncology, BSMMU, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2022 to June 2023. A total of 90 women with IA-IIA clinical stage cervical cancer are included in this study. SIS was categorized into 3 categories (0, 1, 2) and calculated. Chi-square tests and ANOVA were used to analyze associations between SIS and clinicopathologic parameters. Results: SIS was greatly correlated with adverse prognostic features. In 73.7% of patients tumors were >2 cm in patients with SIS 2 compared to 54.5% with SIS 1 and 18.4% with SIS 0 (p<0.001). SIS 2 was present in 92.3% of patients with positive LVSI and in 7.7% (p=0.006) of patients with SIS 0. Higher SIS levels were also associated with increased deepth of stromal invasion and pelvic lymph node metastases. Conclusion: SIS is associated with adverse prognostic factors in early stage cervical cancer. These results may help improve personalized treatment and outcomes through incorporation of SIS into risk assessment models.