bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Effects of Rooting Medium and IBA Concentration on Rooting and Shoot Development of Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.) Cuttings
Authors: Rasul Ary Taher , Ak Bekir Erol , Abdurrahman Yousif Ali , Hatipoglu Ibrahim Halil
Published: January 2025

In this study, the effect of different rooting mediums (peat moss, peat + sand, peat + loam) and IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) concentration was investigated on hardwood cuttings taken from Bougainvillea glabra, Bougainvillea spectabilis, and Bougainvillea x buttiana species. The cuttings were treated with 0, 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/l IBA. Statistical evaluation was performed according to a randomized block experimental design with three factors and three repetitions. The results showed that Bougainvillea x buttiana cuttings had the highest number of roots, root fresh weight, longest shoot length, and shoot fresh weight. Cuttings grown in 100% peat medium had the highest rooting percentage, root number, root dry weight, leaf number, and shoot fresh weight. Regarding IBA concentrations, the cuttings treated with 3000 ppm IBA had the highest number of roots, root length, and root fresh weight. Furthermore, in all of the Bougainvillea species, the highest rooting percentage and leaf number were observed in cuttings treated with 2000 ppm IBA. Notably, Bougainvillea x buttiana cuttings treated with 1000 ppm IBA dose and planted in peat medium provided the longest shoot length, highest shoot fresh weight, and shoot dry weight. In conclusion, the findings show that the growing medium has a statistically significant effect on the rooting and root quality of cuttings and that it would be useful to investigate various rooting hormones, dasages and rooting media to increase rooting and shoot development. Considering growing medium plays a crucial role in plant growth, it can be stated that further improvements in rooting and growth can be realized via utilizing the enhanced physical and chemical properties of peat-based mixtures.
Migration and space use by porbeagle sharks Lamna nasus in the northeast Atlantic
Authors: Saunders RA , Ratcliffe N , Farrell ED , Clarke MW
Published: January 2025

The porbeagle shark Lamna nasus, a top predator in the North Atlantic, is vulnerable to anthropogenic stressors due to its life history characteristics. Understanding its biology, abundance and spatial ecology is crucial for underpinning effective conservation and management strategies. We collected satellite tag data from 10 porbeagle sharks caught off the north coast of Ireland to study migration behaviour and space use. Data from pop-up satellite archival tags and platform terminal telemetry tags collected between July 2010 and February 2014 (for deployments up to ~9 mo) showed long-distance (1479-25707 km), seasonal migrations, with autumnal movements along the shelf-break to regions around Portugal, the Bay of Biscay and the Azores via the Mid-Atlantic ridge. Migrations to waters off Norway and the Faroe/Shetland Islands were also evident prior to these autumnal southward migrations. In spring, some sharks returned northwards, and there was evidence of site fidelity for shelf waters around the northern Irish coast and western Scotland and the Celtic Sea in summer. Porbeagles exhibited seasonal changes in vertical space use as they traversed various habitats during migration, with deeper occupancy of the water column in winter than in summer. There was a distinct day-night pattern in porbeagle depth distribution during their off-shelf residency in winter, consistent with diel vertical migrations between deep waters in daytime and the surface layers at night. Nocturnal depth distribution was closely associated with the lunar cycle, with deeper residency/diving occurring during periods of full moon. Porbeagles occupied and traversed both the open ocean and coastal areas of high fishing activity, highlighting the challenge of managing this stock because of large-scale migratory behaviour.
Discovery of indirect parasite life cycles at deep-sea hydrothermal vents
Authors: Dykman LN , Tepolt CK , Blend CK , Mullineaux LS
Published: January 2025

Deep-sea hydrothermal vents are extreme, isolated, and ephemeral ecosystems populated by unique endemic fauna, making them a potentially challenging setting for the survival of parasites with indirect (multi-host or ‘complex’) life cycles. We examined the animal communities at a frequently disturbed hydrothermal vent field (9°50’N, East Pacific Rise) to explore whether parasites with indirect life cycles complete their life cycles within this island-like, ephemeral marine habitat, which has been previously hypothesized but is not known. Our dissections of individuals from 51 vent species revealed 7 morphogroups of parasitic flatworms (trematodes) including the genera Biospeedotrema, Caudotestis, and Neolebouria, and 4 life stages in the multi-host trematode life cycle. Adult trematode life stages lived in the vent fishes Thermarces cerberus and Thermichthys hollisi, while the intermediate life stages were found in a variety of crustacean, gastropod, and polychaete species. Genetic barcoding of the 18S, 28S, and ITS2 regions linked sequential life stages for some of the morphogroups, revealing the phylogenetic position and routes of transmission between hosts for vent trematodes. This study provides the most direct evidence yet that parasites very likely complete indirect life cycles in deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems, with important implications for the persistence and diversity of parasites in disturbed environments.
Sentinels of change: divergence in trophic niche of New Zealand sea lions and fur seals from first human contact to today
Authors: Wing LC , Wing SR , Kinaston R , Sabadel AJM
Published: January 2025

New Zealand sea lions Phocarctos hookeri were once widespread on New Zealand’s coasts but were hunted to remnant populations in the Subantarctic islands during expansion of European settlements. In contrast, New Zealand fur seals Arctocephalus forsteri maintained their widespread distribution, persisting at remote colonies. The resource niche positions of these species provide insights on structure of underlying food webs and contribution of alternate sources of organic matter to ecosystem function. We measured changes in their resource niche positions with stable isotope analysis (δ13C, δ15N and δ15NAA) of bone collagen from first Māori settlement (1250-1450 CE), middle European expansion (1650-1850 CE) and modern (2016 CE) time periods. Samples from each time period were collected from the Subantarctic islands, central region and from reestablishing sea lion populations on the mainland South Island. In the Subantarctic islands, high trophic positions were maintained through time but divergence in the resource niche of the 2 species between pelagic and benthic food webs occurred in the modern time period, consistent with resource limitation. In the central and mainland regions, both species declined in trophic position during the modern time period. In the central region, the 2 species maintained distinct resource niche discrimination while in the mainland region, they converged in the modern time period, consistent with high overlap on a reduced diversity of low trophic level pelagic prey. These patterns provide a unique view of the long-term changes in trophic relationships between marine top predators during the full history of human occupation in New Zealand.
Life after Childhood Cancer
Authors:   , Maas Anne
Published: January 2025

Thanks to advancements in the treatment of childhood cancer, the five-year survival rate has increased to approximately 80%, leading to a growing number of childhood cancer survivors (CCS). These CCS may experience long-term physical and psychosocial consequences. Therefore, it is important to better understand their long-term functioning.

This thesis examines the psychosocial long-term outcomes of CCS, the factors that are associated with these outcomes, and the use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for systematically monitoring their health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

The results, derived from the LATER Psycho-Oncology (LATER PSY) study, part of the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (DCCSS), show that CCS have similar mental health compared to the general population. However, they score slightly lower on HRQOL, particularly regarding fatigue and health perceptions. Additionally, many CCS face survivor-specific worries, such as fear of cancer recurrence and worries about infertility. However, most CCS also report positive outcomes of childhood cancer, including feeling stronger as a person and having a greater appreciation for life. Psychosocial factors like illness perceptions, illness cognitions, self-esteem, and social support play a larger role than socio-demographic and medical characteristics in explaining psychosocial outcomes.

The KLIK LATER study demonstrates that the KLIK method is a feasible and valuable tool for systematically monitoring and discussing HRQOL in survivorship care. As part of this method, CCS complete questionnaires (PROMs) about their HRQOL prior to the consultation, which are then discussed during the consultation with the healthcare provided.

This thesis advocates for a stepped model of care for CCS, focusing on information provision, HRQOL monitoring, targeted interventions for mild issues, and specialized care for severe psychosocial problems. This model is essential for a holistic approach to the care of CCS, with special attention to vulnerable subgroups.
BIMBINGAN DALAM PENGEMBANGAN POTENSI WISATA BUDAYA KEPADA PARA PENENUN DAN PELAKU USAHA LOKAL DI DESA MASALILI KABUPATEN MUNA SULAWESI TENGGARA
Authors: Hermina Sitti , Burhan Faika , Koso Halijah , Latif Abdul , Wahidin La Ode
Published: January 2025

Kegiatan pengabdian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan bimbingan kepada para penenun dalam mengembangkan aktivitas mereka sebagai salah satu daya tarik wisata budaya dan menyiapkan para penenun untuk menjadi tuan rumah (winisatawan) yang akan berinteraksi langsung dengan wisatawan. Selain itu, memberikan bimbingan kepada para pelaku usaha lokal mengenai desain produk wisata yang dapat dijadikan sebagai souvenir. Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini diharapkan mampu memberikan kontribusi bagi masyarakat lokal melalui kegiatan bimbingan tersebut yaitu adanya partisipasi aktif para penenun dan pelaku usaha lokal dalam mengembangkan kegiatan wisata budaya dan meningkatkan keterampilannya dalam mendesain produk wisata yang dapat dijadikan sebagai cenderamata yang diminati oleh wisatawan. Selain itu, hasil dari pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini dapat membantu meningkatkan partisipasi masyarakat dalam menjaga dan melestarikan warisan budaya lokal sebagai ikon dari wilayah tersebut. Pelaksanaan pengabdian masyarakat ini dilakukan di Desa Masalili Kabupaten Muna Sulawesi Tenggara dengan peserta dari masyarakat setempat khususnya para penenun dan pelaku usaha lokal. Pengabdian ini dilakukan dengan memberikan bimbingan melalui tahapan observasi, identifikasi penenun dan para pelaku usaha lokal, persiapan materi, pelaksanaan pembimbingan, praktek sebagai tuan rumah yang siap memberikan pelayanan kepada wisatawan dan pemandu wisata, mendesain produk wisata berupa souvenir dan evaluasi kegiatan.
Sosialisasi Pemanfaatan Situs Sejarah sebagai Laboratorium Lapangan Jurusan Ilmu Sejarah
Authors: Mukadas Aswati , Aslim Aslim , Burhan Faika , Sarman Sarman , Hasan Hasni
Published: January 2025

Pelaksanaan kegiatan ini bertujuan memberikan sosialisasi pemanfaatan situs sejarah sebagai laboratorium lapangan  sebagai salah satu upaya menjaga dan melestarikan situs sejarah. Metode yang dilakukan adalah sosialisasi pemberian pemahaman pada masyarakat, serta tanya jawab terkait kondisi situs sejarah yang ada. Hasil dari pengabdian ini antara lain memberikan edukasi pemahaman kepada masyarakat untuk menjaga situs sejarah dan bekerjasama dalam upaya pelestarian situs sejarah melalui kegiatan laboratorium lapangan yang terdapat di Kelurahan Kampung Salo Kecamatan Kendari Kota Kendari. Kegiatan sosialisasi dilaksanakan pada bulan Oktober 2022 di Kelurahan Kampung Salo Kecamatan Kendari Kota Kendari.
PENGUATAN IDENTITAS BUDAYA LOKAL MELALUI PELESTARIAN DAN PENGEMBANGAN INDUSTRI TENUN MASYARAKAT MUNA DI DESA MASALILI KABUPATEN MUNA
Authors: Marhadi Akhmad , Ashmarita Ashmarita , Samsul Samsul , Sofian Nur Israfyan , Keke Ahmad
Published: January 2025

Jurnal Ini membahas studi kasus tentang penguatan identitas budaya lokal melalui pelestarian dan pengembangan industri tenun tradisional di Desa Masalili. Penelitian ini menggambarkan bagaimana sebuah program pemberdayaan masyarakat dapat membawa dampak positif yang signifikan pada komunitas pedesaan dengan mengutamakan warisan budaya lokal. Program ini berfokus pada tiga aspek utama: penguatan keterampilan pengrajin tenun, penguatan pendapatan masyarakat lokal, dan penguatan kesadaran budaya di kalangan masyarakat. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa program ini berhasil meningkatkan keterampilan pengrajin, menghasilkan produk tenun berkualitas tinggi, dan menjadikan mereka sebagai penjaga pengetahuan tradisional. Selain itu, program ini memberikan peluang ekonomi yang signifikan dengan peningkatan pendapatan masyarakat lokal dan meningkatkan kesadaran budaya dalam komunitas. Artikel ini memberikan wawasan penting tentang bagaimana pelestarian warisan budaya lokal dapat menjadi pendorong pengembangan ekonomi dan sosial di pedesaan, serta menjaga keberlanjutan tradisi berharga.
PELATIHAN PENULISAN ARTIKEL ILMIAH DAN PENGENALAN ONLINE JOURNAL SYSTEM (OJS) PADA GURU BAHASA MAN I KENDARI
Authors: Rasiah Rasiah , Sofian Nur Israfyan , Gultom Eva Solina , Azi Rahmawati , Ulya Afriani , Bilu La Bilu , Samarudin Samar , Aji Adin Purnomo
Published: January 2025

Pengabdian ini bertujuan untuk mensosialisasikan publikasi ilmiah melalui platform Online Journal System (OJS) pada guru-guru bahasa MAN 1 Kendari. Analisis situasi mitra (MAN 1 Kendari) menunjukkan bahwa guru-guru bahasa kurang memiliki motivasi untuk publikasi karya yang juga menunjang tidak hanya dalam peningkatan kompetensi mereka, tetapi juga menunjang  pengusulan pangkat/golongan. Kurangnya motivasi tersebut diperkuat dengan adanya pemutakhiran sistem operasional jurnal ilmiah yang mulai mengoperasikan sistem jaringan internet atau OJS sehingga publikasi jurnal menjadi paperless. Tim Pengabdian kemudian merancang kegiatan pelatihan penulisan artikel ilmiah dan pengenalan OJS pada guru-guru bahasa MAN 1 Kendari. Dalam kegiatan tersebut, Tim pengabdian menghadirkan narasumber yang membahas  publikasi ilmiah dan sistem pengelolaan OJS yang terdiri dari tim Dosen dari Universitas Halu Oleo. Kegiatan tersebut di laksanakan pada tanggal 12 Agustus 2023 bertempat di ruang Multimedia MAN 1 Kendari. Luaran kegiatan PKM ini diharapkan terjadinya peningkatan keberdayaan mitra dalam penulisan artikel ilmiah dan publikasi di jurnal ilmiah.
PENINGKATAN KESADARAN MASYARAKAT TENTANG POTENSI EKONOMI KREATIF SEBAGAI BASIS KESEJAHTERAAN DI DESA SOROPIA KECAMATAN SOROPIA
Authors: La Niampe La Niampe , Syahrun  , Suraya Rahmat Sewa , Bana Sahindomi , Alias Alias , Laniampe Hasdairta
Published: January 2025

Pengabdian ini berupaya untuk meningkatkan partisipasi dan kesadaran masyarakat terhadap potensi ekonomi kreatif sebagai alat untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan di Desa Soropia, Kecamatan Soropia. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa saat ini tingkat kesadaran masyarakat tentang peluang ekonomi kreatif masih rendah. Namun, terdapat semangat yang kuat untuk berpartisipasi dalam sektor ini sebagai sarana untuk peningkatan kesejahteraan. Dengan fokus pada pendidikan, pelatihan, promosi, dan kolaborasi komunitas, masyarakat dapat memaksimalkan potensi ekonomi kreatif mereka. Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan penting tentang bagaimana meningkatkan partisipasi masyarakat dalam ekonomi kreatif di tingkat pedesaan. Implikasinya adalah bahwa dengan dukungan yang tepat, Desa Soropia dapat menjadi contoh sukses dalam memanfaatkan ekonomi kreatif untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan komunitasnya.
A study on the assessment of milking machine teat cup liner size fitting in indigenous dairy animals
Authors: Lal Gayathri Sherly , Bhakat Mukesh , Mohanty Tushar Kumar , Sinha Chitranayak
Published: January 2025

Milking machines aim to efficiently harvest high-quality milk while ensuring animal comfort and protecting against mastitis. The present study focused on 128 and 125 teats of Sahiwal cows and Murrah buffaloes by measuring the teat morphometric parameters and comparing them with the dimensions of the teat cup liner size of the milking machine. The intra-mammary infection status was assessed using thermal imaging and the California Mastitis Test (CMT). Results showed that 37.50% of Sahiwal cows had the best fitting teat sizes for milking machine liners based on upper teat diameter (UTD), while62.50% had a natural fitting. For Murrah buffaloes, 37.00% had the best-fitting teat size, and 63.00% had normal fitting teat size. In Sahiwal cows, 53.75 and 22.50% of teats were affected by subclinical (SCM) and clinical mastitis (CM) in normal-fitting UTD groups, whereas 43.75% and 18.75% were affected in the best-fitting UTD groups, respectively. In Murrah buffaloes, normal-fitting teat size related to UTD revealed 27.27 and 3.63% of SCM and CM-affected teats, and the mean values of UTD among the various groups based on the CMT score showed a significant difference (p<0.05). The mean UTD values for teats of the best-fitting size showed no mastitis incidences. The mean values of middle and lower teat diameters differed significantly (P<0.05)among both breeds’ best and normal fitting groups. These findings present an exciting opportunity for improving milking efficiency and animal welfare in Sahiwal and Murrah breeds by addressing variations in teat size and optimizing teat cup line rfitting with milking machines
Mineral status of soil, water, fodder, buffalo’s milk and blood of Meerut District in Western Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Arya Vaibhav , Roy Debashis , Kumar Ajit , Singh Ram Kumar , Singh Rajbir , Chandra Gulab , Fahim Ahmad , Ali Nazim , Vaswani Shalini , Yadav Vivek Kumar , Kumar Rohit , Kumar Anuj
Published: January 2025

A total of 140 feed samples, 120 fodder samples, 105 water samples, 58 milk samples, 51 blood samples and 29 soil samples were collected randomly from all the 12 blocks of Meerut districts in western Uttar Pradesh. After processing, the samples were analysed for different macro and micro elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) instrument (instrument nameMY2015CQ05 of Agilent Technologies). Among the feeds, wheat bran was found deficient in copper by 15%. Both copper andzinc content in Mustard oil cake was found marginal. Copper was deficient in bajra fodder, berseem fodder and jowar fodder by 7.5%, 30% and 29.3%, respectively. Sugarcane top, bajra fodder, berseem fodder and jowar fodder were found deficient in zinc by 7.3%, 14.67%, 5% and 2%, respectively. Copper and zinc were also found deficient in blood sample by 15.38% and 1.25%,respectively whereas animal milk samples were deficient in copper by 66.67%. It was found that most of the feed, fodders, blood, milk and soil samples were found deficient in copper and zinc content. Macro minerals were not found deficient.
Growth performance and economics of feeding Soymilk in Murrah buffalo calves
Authors: Hashm Mohammed Ishan i , Yadav Dipin Chander , Singh Narender , Bidhan Devender Singh , Sharma Vishal , . Amandeep , Jaiswal Umesh Kumar , Sharma Rohit
Published: January 2025

This research was designed to evaluate the effect of Soymilk on growth and economics of feeding in Murrah buffalo calves. Total 15 buffalo calves were randomly divided into three treatment groups. Whole milk/dam’s milk fed experimental calves were taken in control group. The experimental groups consist of Whole milk and Soymilk in 75:25 and 50:50 ratio. Standard feeding and management practices were followed throughout the experimental period. To assess the efficacy of Soymilk feeding on the growth performance, body weight and body measurements(body height, heart girth, abdominal girth and body length) were recorded at the start of the experiment and thereafter at fortnightly interval. The results of the study indicated that body weight parameters (average body weight, body weight gain, cumulative body weight gain and average daily body weight gain) and body measurements parameters (body height, cumulative body height gain, heart girth, cumulative heart girth gain, abdominal girth and cumulative body length gain) did not differ significantly among the control group and Soymilk fed treatment groups. The economics of feeding calculated at the end of experiment revealed that net profit in total feeding cost/kg weight gain was Rs. 106.92and 130.35 for 25 percent and 50 percent Soymilk replacement group, respectively. It can be concluded that Soymilk has similar effect on growth performance of calves as whole milk and more economical than whole milk feeding, therefore Soymilk may possibly replace whole milk up to 50 percent level.
Economic impact of milk price incentive scheme on dairy farming in Karnataka
Authors: Patil Kiran Kumar R , H.S Sowmya , Y.S. Ramesha
Published: January 2025

The present study attempts to examine the economic impact of milk price incentive scheme announced by Government of Karnataka on production, productivity and profitability of milk production in Karnataka. To assess the impact of scheme on production and productivity of milk, time series data on number of milch cows and buffaloes, production and productivity were collected from livestock census reports from 1997 to 2019. To examine its impact on profitability, pertinent information was elicited from 60 sample dairy farmers coming under the jurisdiction of SHIMUL, Karnataka. Exponential growth models, production function considering production/productivity as dependent variable and share of cross bred in total milch bovine population, dummy variable to capture the influence of scheme as independent variables and enterprise budgeting to examine profitability were employed. The results indicated that number of indigenous milch cows and buffaloes have decelerated while that of cross bred cows have accelerated at a greater pace. Substantial and significant Milk production in case of cross bred cows was due to extensive production while in case of indigenous bovines it was mainly due to intensive production. The milk price incentive of Rs.5 per litre announced by Government of Karnataka in 2016 has increased milk production by 79.90 percent and productivity by 115 percent compared to milk production and productivity without milk incentive (prior to 2008). The share of cross bred cows has almost doubled after the implementation of the scheme. In terms of profitability, farmers were under loss of Rs. 1.43 per litre of milk in the absence of incentive while they realized profit of Rs. 3.57 per litre with Rs. 5 per litre as incentive. Delay in the payment of incentive and its inability to keep the rising pace of growth in input prices are considered as the major lacuna of the scheme. Farmers have suggested for doubling the existing incentive to Rs. 10 per litre to absorb the shock of rising prices of inputs and to obtain sustained profit.
Knowledge level of dairy farmers about bovine tuberculosis as neglected zoonosis
Authors: Jadav S.J. , Patel J.K. , Wadhwani K.N. , Chaudhary J.H.
Published: January 2025

The study entitled “consciousness of dairy farmers about Bovine Tuberculosis as neglected zoonosis” was carried out between the periods of August to October 2020. A total of180 dairy farmers from 36 villages of 6 talukas of Panchmahals and Mahisagar districts of Gujarat state (India) were randomly selected. Most dairy farmers (95.00%) had high to very high consciousness about bovine tuberculosis. The majority of dairy farmers had a medium to high level of knowledge (71.11%), a very high level of sensitivity (77.78%), and a favorable to most favourable attitude (95.55%) towards the control of bovine tuberculosis. Path analysis shows the maximum positive direct effect exerted by scientific orientation, mass media exposure, and education. Economic motivation, extension participation, and training exerted maximum indirect positive effects. Dairy farmers can enhance their consciousness about bovine tuberculosis through formal education and participation in social-extension activities using mass media, the internet, and other psychological variables. The research findings serve as a guideline for training institutions, researchers, planners, extension agencies, and concerned organizations to form effective & realistic training programmes to impart consciousness amongst dairy farmers about tuberculosis and other zoonoses.
Prioritization of extension interventions for empowering resource poor dairy farm households in Haryana state
Authors: Pandey Saurabh , Ponnusamy K.
Published: January 2025

Dairy farming is practised mainly by resource poor farmers whose limited access to knowledge, skill, training and credit hamper their socio-economic and technological empowerment. Extension interventions would help these farmers to enhance their access to knowledge and technologies leading to better standard of living. Therefore, the present study was undertaken in three districts of Haryana state namely Karnal, Jind and Jhajjar representing three different Agro climatic zones in Haryana in 2022 to understand their existing level of knowledge, adoption and needs in dairy farming. The study constituted a sample size of 120 respondents by selecting 40 respondents in a cluster of villages with the predominance of resource poor dairy households in each of selected districts. The findings revealed that most of the respondents were middle aged (44.17%), male(81.67%), acquired secondary level of education (26.67%), landholding up to 1 acre (35.83%), belonged to medium level of income group and had joint family (58.33%). Extension interventions were prioritised as per the expert opinion by using Analytical Hierarchy Process methodology which indicated that training has acquired the highest rank with a value of 0.35 followed by demonstration with value of 0.34. Among policy interventions, subsidy has acquired the highest rank with a value of 0.37 and then incentive acquired 2nd rank with value of 0.25.The study suggests the importance of intensive training, demonstration and exposure visit to research institution and progressive farmers for gradual empowerment of the resources poor farmers.
hsa-miR-548d-3p: a potential microRNA to target nucleocapsid and/or capsid genes in multiple members of the Flaviviridae family
Authors: Cayatineto H. W. , Hakim S. T.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Flaviviridae comprise a group of enveloped, positive-stranded RNA viruses that are mainly transmitted through either mosquitoes or tick bites and/or contaminated blood, blood products, or other body secretions. These viruses cause diseases ranging from mild to severe and are considered important human pathogens. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding molecules involved in growth, development, cell proliferation, protein synthesis, apoptosis, and pathogenesis. These small molecules are even being used as gene suppressors in antiviral therapeutics, inhibiting viral replication. In the current study, we used bioinformatic tools to predict a possible miRNA sequence that could be complementary to the nucleocapsid (NP) and/or capsid (CP) gene of the Flaviviridae family and provide an inhibitory solution.

Methods

Bioinformatics is a field of science that includes tremendous computational analysis, logarithms, and sequence alignments. To predict the right alignments between miRNA and viral mRNA genomes, we used computational databases such as miRBase, NCBI, and Basic Alignment Search Tool–nucleotides (BLAST-n).

Results

Of the 2,600 mature miRNAs, hsa-miR-548d-3p revealed complementary sequences with the flavivirus capsid gene and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) capsid gene and was selected as a possible candidate to inhibit flaviviruses.

Conclusion

Although more detailed in vitro and in vivo studies are required to test the possible inhibitory effects of hsa-miR-548d-3p against flaviviruses, this computational study may be the first step to study further, developing a novel therapeutic for lethal viruses within the Flaviviridae family using suggested candidate miRNAs.
Achieving myoblast engraftment into intact skeletal muscle via extracellular matrix
Authors: Dohi Kitora , Manabe Yasuko , Fujii Nobuharu L. , Furuichi Yasuro
Published: January 2025

Cell therapy of skeletal muscles is a promising approach for the prevention of muscular diseases and age-related muscle atrophy. However, cell transplantation to treat muscle atrophy that does not involve disease, such as sarcopenia, is considered impossible because externally injected cells rarely engraft into non-injured muscle tissue. Additionally, skeletal muscle-specific somatic stem cells, called satellite cells, lose their ability to adhere to tissue after being cultured in vitro and transforming into myoblasts. To overcome these hurdles, we explored using extracellular matrix (ECM) components to create a niche environment conducive for myoblasts during transplantation. We demonstrated that myoblasts mixed with ECM components can be engrafted into intact skeletal muscle and significantly increase muscle mass in a mouse model. These findings implicate cell transplantation therapy as a viable option for the treatment of sarcopenia. The findings will inform advancements in regenerative medicine for skeletal muscles.
A computational chemistry-based approach to optimizing PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors
Authors: Zhai Meijuan , Ji Shiliang , Hu Haoran , Wu Yongjie , Shi Yi , Zhu Ruifang , Jiang Yiguo , Yang Yang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

To design effective small molecule inhibitors targeting the immune checkpoint PD-1/PD-L1 and to explore their inhibitory activity.

Methods

In this paper, a total of 69 PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors with the same backbone were searched through opendatabases, and their docking mechanism with PD-L1 protein was investigatedby molecular docking method, and the active conformation of the inhibitors was explored. The biological activity of the four newly designed inhibitors was also evaluated using ELISA.

Results

The most active molecule 58 in the dataset formed six hydrogen bonds with Phe67, Val55, Ile116 and Tyr123, while the second most active molecule 34 formed five hydrogen bonds with Phe67 and Ala121, both of which formed π-π stacking interactions with Tyr56. The analysis of the inhibitor docking results determined that the residues Tyr123, Gln66, Thr20, Met115, Asp122 and Ile116 had the greatest influence on the active conformation of the inhibitor. ELISA assays suggested that the four novel inhibitors designed had high inhibition rates, with the inhibition rate of compound N2 being as high as 68.53%.

Discussion

In this paper, we have designed and synthesized various PD-1/PDL1 inhibitors, which provide a basis for drug discovery targeting the PD-1/PDL1 signaling pathway.
Innovative epitopes in Staphylococcal Protein-A an immuno-informatics approach to combat MDR-MRSA infections
Authors: Zhou Pengjun , Shi Xing , Xia Jinquan , Wang Yifei , Dong Shaowei
Published: January 2025

Background

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant challenge in clinical environments due to its resistance to standard antibiotics. Staphylococcal Protein A (SpA), a crucial virulence factor of MRSA, undermines host immune responses, making it an attractive target for vaccine development. This study aimed to identify potential epitopes within SpA that could elicit robust immune responses, ultimately contributing to the combat against multidrug-resistant (MDR) MRSA.

Methods

The SpA protein sequence was retrieved from the UniProt database, with various bioinformatics tools employed for epitope prediction. T-cell epitopes were identified using the Tepitool server, focusing on high-affinity interactions with prevalent human leukocyte antigens (HLAs). B-cell epitopes were predicted using the BepiPred tool. Predicted epitopes underwent docking studies with HLA molecules to evaluate binding properties. In-silico analyses confirmed the antigenicity, promiscuity, and non-glycosylated nature of the selected epitopes.

Results

Several T and B cell epitopes within SpA were identified, showcasing high binding affinities and extensive population coverage. A multi-epitope vaccine construct, linked by synthetic linkers and an adjuvant, was modelled, refined, and validated through various bioinformatics assessments. The vaccine candidate was subsequently docked with Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) to evaluate its potential for immunogenicity.

Conclusion

This study lays the groundwork for developing epitope-based vaccines targeting SpA in MRSA, identifying promising candidates for experimental validation and contributing to innovative immunotherapeutic strategies against MRSA infections.
Optimal timing of pharmacoinvasive strategy and its impact on clinical and economic outcomes in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a real-world perspective
Authors: Stephanus Andrea Dias , Santos Alice Pacheco , Rodrigues da Cunha Ana Carolina Machado , Rocha Ana Carolina Augusto , Meireles Amanda de Amorim , de Oliveira Mariana Guimarães Souza , Matsunaga Pietra Arissa Coelho , Soares Alexandre Anderson de Sousa Munhoz , Nogueira Ana Claudia Cavalcante , Guimarães Adriana de J. B. de Almeida , Alexim Gustavo de Almeida , Campos-Staffico Alessandra M. , de Carvalho Luiz Sergio Fernandes
Published: January 2025

Background

The pharmacoinvasive (PhI) strategy is the standard-of-care for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients when primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is unfeasible. Optimal timing for post-fibrinolytic PCI (lysis-PCI) remains elusive. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the clinical and economic impacts of early vs. delayed lysis-PCI in patients with STEMI.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 1,043 STEMI patients classified by lysis-PCI timing. The primary outcome was in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events (4p-MACE), with secondary outcomes such as 3p-MACE, in-hospital mortality, and costs. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between lysis-PCI timing and outcomes. Cost analyses were conducted from the perspective of Brazilian public healthcare system, with values converted to international dollars (Int$) for broader applicability.

Results

Every 4-h delay in lysis-PCI was associated with a 44% reduction in in-hospital mortality [OR = 0.560 (95% CI: 0.381–0.775); p = 0.001] and a 13% decrease in 4p-MACE [OR = 0.877 (95% CI: 0.811–0.948); p = 0.001]. Additionally, 4-h delay in lysis-PCI was also associated with a significant reduction in in-hospital costs (Int$916.20 ± 99) and disease-induced years of productivity lost (β = −41.79 ± 151 years; p = 0.001). These significant trends remained consistent even after adjusting for confounders and applying propensity score matching. Older adults (aged ≥80) experienced an increase in 3p-MACE with earlier lysis-PCI.

Conclusion

Delaying lysis-PCI was found to be associated with reduced in-hospital cardiovascular adverse events and lower costs, particularly among older adults. Further research should develop evidence-based lysis-PCI protocols that optimize both clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy via left bundle branch pacing in heart failure with complete left bundle branch block: is the defibrillator needed?
Authors: Yang Dandan , Ma Qunchao , Zhu Hong , Wang Lihua , Xiang Meixiang , Wang Jian’an , Pan Xiaohong
Published: January 2025

Aims

This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the efficacy of dual-chamber left Bundle branch pacing (LBBP) as an alternative therapy for heart failure patients with complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB) and indications for defibrillator with cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT-D).

Methods

34 patients met inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. These criteria included a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of lower than 35%, a New York Heart Association functional class of II–IV, CLBBB meeting Strauss's criteria, intraventricular dyssynchrony, and confirmed correction of CLBBB during LBBP. Patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, left ventricular noncompaction, significant late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and indications for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) as secondary prevention were excluded.

Results

Post-LBBP, the LVEF improved from 31.1 ± 4.0% to 61.0 ± 6.0% (P < 0.001). All patients exhibited a super-response to LBBP cardiac resynchronization therapy, achieving complete improvement in cardiac function with a LVEF exceeding 50%. Septal-to-posterior wall motion delay (SPWMD) and systolic dyssynchrony index (SDI) were indicators of intraventricular synchrony, SPWMD decreased from 271.4 ± 76.4 ms to 42.2 ± 22.9 ms (P < 0.001), and SDI decreased from 12.5 ± 5.3% to 1.9 ± 1.0% after implantation (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Heart failure patients meeting the following criteria may be considered for dual-chamber pacing as an alternative to CRT-D, potentially avoiding the need for ICD implantation: (1) CLBBB meeting Strauss's criteria, (2) presence of intraventricular dyssynchrony on echocardiogram, (3) exclusion of secondary prevention ICD indications, (4) absence of evident LGE on CMR, and (5) successful correction of CLBBB during LBBP.
A 7,000 years trajectory of socio-ecosystems in the montane belt of the northern French Alps
Authors: Julien Andréa , Messager Erwan , Doyen Elise , Etienne David , Marquer Laurent , Giguet-Covex Charline
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study, conducted on the Plateau des Glières, in the northern French Alps, investigates the evolution of vegetation composition over the past 7000 years. This site, within a montane ecosystem, offers a new opportunity to understand the human and landscape interactions under the influence of climate. To study these interactions as a whole and by integrating their complexity, we used two conceptual frameworks: the agroecosystem and the trajectory.

Methods

The analyses conducted are based on a detailed analysis of pollen, NPP, macro-charcoal, and geochemical data from peat cores.

Results

The vegetation history of the Plateau des Glières is dominated by forest, due to its location within the montane belt (1,435 m). However, the vegetation composition trajectory of the Glières reveals three regimes: two are characterized by an evolutionary trend of the system, and between them, the a third regime is characterized by a “dynamic steady state” of the system. The first regime, corresponding to the Neolithic period, is initially characterized by a closed forested environment with a progressive trend toward a more open landscape due to the first agro-pastoral activities. The second regime is recorded from the very end of the Neolithic until the High Roman Empire. It corresponds to a relatively stationary system, characterized by the progressive development of pastoral activities leading to low impacts on the landscape. This long period (4300 to 1800 cal. BP) is characterized by the sustainability of the agroecosystem that developed. After this long pseudo-stable phase, a tipping point in the vegetation composition trajectory is highlighted. The third regime, spanning from the Migration Period to the present day, is the result of the intensification and diversification of agro-pastoral activities (pastoralism, cereal crops, and fruit trees). The landscape that we can see today in the Plateau des Glières is the legacy of this trajectory characterizing the interactions between ecosystems and human societies, i.e., the socio-ecosystem.

Discussion

While the agroecosystem trajectory reconstructed on the Plateau des Glières is rather consistent with the altitudinal model of anthropization previously proposed for this region, the vegetation response to the activities is unusual because it shows a long phase of ecosystem stability despite the relatively high human pressure.
Melt inclusion bubbles provide new insights into crystallisation depths and CO2 systematics at Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat
Authors: Howe TiVonne A. , Christopher Thomas E. , Moune Séverine , Tuffen Hugh , Schiavi Federica
Published: January 2025

Improved understanding of the magmatic system of Soufrière Hills Volcano, Montserrat (SHV) is needed to inform future hazard management strategy, and remaining uncertainties include the depth of magma storage and the source of ongoing gas emissions. Eruptive activity between 1995 and 2010 has been proposed to be sourced from either a dual chamber or transcrustal mush-based magmatic system, with volatile solubility models using H2O and CO2 from melt inclusion (MI) glass estimating depths of 5–6 km. To date, published SHV MI volatile data have neglected the vapour bubbles now known to sequester the bulk of MI magmatic carbon. Total CO2 concentrations in SHV magma are therefore underestimated, together with volatile-derived entrapment pressures and inferred magma storage depths. Here, we present a new dataset of volatile (H2O and total CO2) and major element concentrations in plagioclase- and orthopyroxene-hosted SHV MI, that span almost all of the eruptive activity (Phases 1, 2, 4, and 5), and include the first measurement of bubble-hosted CO2 for SHV and indeed the Lesser Antilles Arc. Analyses were conducted using Raman spectroscopy, ion microprobe, and electron probe analysis. Dacitic–rhyolitic MI occur within andesitic whole rock compositions. Volatiles in MI glass are similar to published studies (H2O 2.47–7.26 wt%; CO2 13–1243 ppm). However, bubble-hosted CO2 contributes 9–3,145 ppm, to total inclusion CO2 with 5%–99% (median 90%) of CO2 sequestered within bubbles, and total CO2 concentrations (131–3,230 ppm) are significantly higher than previously published values. Inferred entrapment depths from our dataset range from 5.7 to 17 km – far greater than previous estimates – and support a vertically elongated magmatic system where crystallisation spanned both upper- and mid-crustal depths. Our CO2 measurements enable new estimation of CO2 sources and fluxes. As a total of 4.5 Mt of CO2 was held in SHV magma during the aforementioned phases, the maximum amount of CO2 that can be emitted from a batch of SHV magma is ∼1500–1750 tonnes/day. Measured CO2 fluxes are significantly higher, indicating additional input of CO2 into the system from greater depths. Our study shows that including bubble-hosted CO2 redefines understanding of the SHV plumbing system.
Loading of Ce and n co-doped TiO2 composites onto modified shell powder synergism of adsorption and photocatalysis phytic acid removal: performance and mechanism
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Zheng , Shu Jinkai , Wang Aihe , Lin Hai , Yan Xuchao
Published: January 2025

Phytic acid was investigated as an organophosphorus pollutant. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) doped with Ce and N was prepared using the sol-gel method and loaded onto a modified shell power to produce modified shell powder/Ce-N-TiO2 (Msp/CeNT). The combined effects of adsorption and photocatalysis on phytic acid were explored. The actual phytic acid degradation rate with the composite photocatalyst was higher than the sum of the adsorption removal rate of phytic acid using the modified shell powder and the photocatalytic degradation removal rate of phytic acid using the Ce-N-TiO2 photocatalyst. Msp/CeNT synergistically affected adsorption and photocatalytic degradation. The effects of different factors, such as reaction temperature, catalyst dosage, initial pH, stirring speed, and light intensity, on the combined effect were investigated. The results showed that the synergistic effect increases with the increase of light intensity. Increasing the reaction temperature, catalyst dosage, initial pH, and stirring speed first increased and then decreased the synergistic effect of the composite photocatalysts. Phytic acid (69.54%) was degraded within 4 h when the temperature, pH, catalyst dosage, stirring speed, and light intensity were 25 °C, 5, 1 g/L, 300 rpm, and 500 W, respectively. We investigated and prepared a composite photocatalytic material, developing a new theoretical method for degrading organophosphorus dissolved in water and providing a basis for treating lake eutrophication as a practical application.
Impact of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and of seasonal variations on the innate immune inflammatory response
Authors: Jarras Hend , Blais Isalie , Goyer Benjamin , Bazié Wilfried W. , Rabezanahary Henintsoa , Thériault Mathieu , Santerre Kim , Langlois Marc-André , Masson Jean-François , Pelletier Joelle N. , Brousseau Nicholas , Boudreau Denis , Trottier Sylvie , Baz Mariana , Gilbert Caroline
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The innate immune response is an important first checkpoint in the evolution of an infection. Although adaptive immunity is generally considered the immune component that retains antigenic memory, innate immune responses can also be affected by previous stimulations. This study evaluated the impact of vaccination on innate cell activation by TLR7/8 agonist R848, as well as seasonal variations.

Methods

To this end, blood samples from a cohort of 304 food and retail workers from the Quebec City region were collected during three visits at 12-week intervals. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and polymorphonuclear neutrophils were isolated during the first and third visits and were stimulated with R848 to assess the innate immune response.

Results

Our results show that IL-8 production after stimulation decreased after vaccination. In addition, the IL-8 response was significantly different depending on the season when the visit occurred, for both COVID-19 vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

Discussion

This study highlights that innate immune responses can be affected by SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and fluctuate seasonally.
Effects of macrophages in OSCC progression
Authors: Dong Xiaodan , Dong Chunling , Li Bo
Published: January 2025

Macrophages are crucial immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME), involved in regulating tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, ECM remodeling, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression. Although more and more experimental evidence and clinical data indicate that macrophages are involved in the onset and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the exact pathogenesis of OSCC associated with macrophages has not been fully elucidated. Enhanced knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involving macrophages in OSCC will aid in the creation of treatments targeted specifically at macrophages. This review outlines the pro-tumoral and anti-tumoral effects of macrophages in OSCC, emphasizing the interaction between OSCC cells and macrophages. It can provide theoretical basis for the establishment of complex regulatory network centered on macrophages and explore novel therapeutic strategies for OSCC.