bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A MAQASID-BASED WELFARE INDEX IN INDONESIA: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION
Authors: Suliswanto Muhammad Sri Wahyudi , Mahyudi Mohd , Barom Mohd Nizam
Published: February 2025

Acknowledging the importance of having an alternative welfare measurement to the prevailing material-based conventional welfare index, this study formulates a maqasid-based welfare index that encapsulates the material, spiritual, and social needs of individuals and then calculates the index for all regions in Indonesia. Our proposed index is based on a comprehensive set of maqasid indicators and on appropriate weighting of each maqasid indicator to arrive at the index scores for all regions in the country. From the results, four provinces in Indonesia are at the high level of Maqasid-based welfare. They are Aceh, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Gorontalo, and Sulawesi Barat. Meanwhile, twenty-five provinces are at the medium range of welfare. The index we compute for each region should prove useful as it would allow policymakers to tailor welfare strategies to each province’s strong and weak areas of the maqasid al-shariah.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Special thanks to Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang and International Islamic University Malaysia for their invaluable support and contributions to this work.
ESG AND BANKING PERFORMANCE IN EMERGING AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: DO ISLAMIC BANKS PERFORM BETTER?
Authors: Fakhrunnas Faaza , Kenc Turalay , Hengchao Zhang
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the effects of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) implementation on banking performance in emerging and developing countries. Applying the Two-step System Generalized Method of Moments (System-GMM) to panel data of 179 banks across 29 countries spanning 2016-2022, we find that ESG implementation significantly enhances overall banking profitability. However, when we assess the implications of ESG on Islamic banks,  we find that overall ESG commitment significantly reduces profitability. As for the individual ESG pillar, we note the profit-enhancing effect of environmental pillar on both Islamic and conventional bank profitability. Some evidence is also uncovered for the significant positive effect of social pillar on conventional bank profitability. Finally, we note no significant influences from governance pillar. These results highlight the divergent impacts of ESG implementation on Islamic and conventional banks. We conclude that policymakers should exercise caution in designing and implementing ESG policies, ensuring they are tailored to promote optimal performance across different banking models. This study contributes to the growing body of the literature on sustainable finance and provides valuable insights for regulators and bank managers in emerging and developing economies.
Toward a Renewables-Driven Industrial Landscape: Evidence on investment decisions in the Chemical and Steel Sectors
Authors: Quitzow Rainer , Eicke Laima
Published: February 2025

Renewable hydrogen can decarbonize energy-intensive industries like chemicals and steel. This article demonstrates that this shift will likely alter the geography of climate-friendly industrial production. Prior theoretical debates suggest a “renewables pull effect,” where industries relocate to areas with high renewable energy potential. This study provides empirical evidence from a survey of managers at the 50 largest chemical and steel companies worldwide. The results indicate that renewable energy potential will drive locational investment decisions in these sectors by 2050. Additionally, the paper examines the role of industrial policy frameworks and geopolitical developments in these investment decisions, analyzing sectoral and regional specifics. The findings contribute to academic debates on the geopolitics of decarbonization and are relevant to industry and policy decision-makers involved in industrial decarbonization.
Transcriptional Atlas of Cardiac Disease
Authors: Meijers Wouter , Yousif Laura , Sijtema Aukje , Mayr Manuel , Silljé Herman , Thum Thomas , de Boer Rudolf
Published: February 2025

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including diseases of the cardiac muscle (cardiac disease), account for a substantial proportion of global morbidity and mortality. Although there are several life-saving drugs and devices that have improved the prognosis, the improvement in the last decade has stabilized, largely because there are no or very few targeted treatments in the combat against CVD. In search for a better understanding of CVD and new therapeutic targets, basic and mechanistic studies are warranted. One important tool is the use of single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) approaches. Several individual diseases and specific phenotypes have been studied in this way, but efforts to pool all of this data into one comprehensive dataset are lacking. We created the first human cardiac disease reference atlas so far, encompassing snRNAseq data from 7 datasets, spanning 8 different cardiac diseases (n=117) and healthy tissues (n=37), with over 1.6 million nuclei. This database integrated datasets of cardiac tissue from patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), acute myocarditis (AM), ischemic heart disease (IHD), myocardial infarction (MI), ACM (arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy), DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy), HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) and NCM (noncompaction cardiomyopathy). We revealed transcriptional disparities dividing the diseases into acquired cardiac diseases and (genetic) cardiomyopathies, which was supported by pathway analyses based on the differentially expressed genes. Hallmarks of acquired cardiac diseases were dysregulated cellular communication and motility processes, and a strong proof for the cardiac fibroblast as a central mediator. Cardiomyopathies on the other hand were accompanied by processes involved in the contractile function of the heart, with a high contribution of cardiomyocytes. Employing the novel cardiac atlas to explore if repurposing of drugs may be useful, it was revealed that prime targets for fibroblasts (ENO2) and cardiomyocytes (HTR5A) exist. In summary, this atlas represents an important step in cardiac research by recapitulating analyses from various distinct studies and presenting a novel way of gaining insights on multiple cardiac diseases simultaneously.
Exploring the effects of tree presence on maize pest damages, seed health, grain yield, nutritive value, and nutraceutical compounds
Authors: Finocchi Matteo , Ripamonti Alice , Mantino Alberto , Cella Fabrizio Giuseppe , Cesarini Marco , Sarrocco Sabrina , Castagna Antonella , Ricciardi Renato , Lauro Alessandra Di , Mele Marcello , Serra Andrea
Published: February 2025

The present study evaluates the effects of tree presence in an agroforestry system on maize performance, focusing on yield, nutritive value, fatty acid composition, and resistance to biotic stresses. Two maize hybrids, FAO C300 and FAO C500, were cultivated (i) in the narrow alleys of an agroforestry alley-cropping system based on SRC poplar tree rows and (ii) in a treeless control system. In 2023, the results indicate that tree presence does not reduce the average grain yield. However, a significant interaction between systems and maize hybrids was observed. FAO C500 demonstrated superior adaptability to the agroforestry environment, likely due to its longer growth cycle and more developed leaf and root systems, which allow for better resource utilization under water stress conditions. Tree presence did not affect the fatty acid profile of the grains, although FAO C500 accumulated more linoleic acid, while FAO C300 showed higher levels of oleic acid. The agroforestry environment reduced seed infestation by Aspergillus niger, particularly in the FAO C500 hybrid, but increased damage by insects on ear surfaces. These findings highlight the variability in maize hybrid suitability for agroforestry; however, since these results are based on only one year of experimentation, further trials over multiple years are necessary to validate these findings and gain a deeper understanding of tree effects on maize performance.
Computational modeling and optimization of peptide-based CAR-T cell receptors targeting CD19 for enhanced efficacy and minimized toxicity
Authors: Krishnan Kadalmani , Chugh Anita , Rajaram Ravikrishnan , Sridha Sid , Setlur Anagha S , K Chandrashekar , Uttarkar Akshay , Niranjan Vidya
Published: February 2025

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has revolutionized the treatment of B-cell malignancies, with CD19 being a primary target due to its stable expression in lymphomas. However, current CAR-T therapies face challenges related to antigen escape, treatment resistance, and toxicity. In this study, we employed a computational approach to design and optimize peptide-based CAR-T cell receptors with improved specificity and reduced toxicity. We utilized in silico techniques, including PSI-BLAST sequence validation, molecular docking, machine learning-based toxicity prediction, and molecular dynamics simulations, to refine CAR-T receptor design. Our structural modeling and docking studies identified an optimized single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody (H8_L1) that demonstrated high binding affinity and stability with both wild-type and mutated CD19 variants. Toxicity assessments confirmed minimal off-target effects, ensuring safety in therapeutic applications. Additionally, computational mutation docking studies revealed that the optimized receptor maintained stable interactions despite antigenic variations, addressing a critical limitation of current CAR-T therapies. These findings provide a robust framework for designing next-generation CAR-T therapies with enhanced efficacy, reduced toxicity, and resilience against antigenic drift, paving the way for further experimental validation and clinical applications.
Mathematical Model of Hearing Loss caused by Noise Hazard
Authors: Karmand Khdr Ahmad  , Grace O. Agaba  , Rahman Bootan
Published: February 2025

Hearing loss is a growing public health concern with serious implications for individual’s quality of life. One major cause of hearing loss is exposure to loud noise. This study proposes a mathematical model of hearing loss caused by noise exposure using ordinary differential equations with the aim of providing a framework for understanding the dynamics of the impact of noise hazard. The model is analyzed using local and global stability to determine conditions under which the level of noise pollution remains constant or changes over time and the threshold level beyond which the effect of noise becomes uncontrollable. Sensitivity analysis is performed to determine parameters with greater influence and the ones to control in order to reduce impact of noise exposure. The findings highlight the importance of various parameters in the dynamics of hearing loss by noise exposure and in developing effective strategies for preventing and managing hearing loss.
Antifungal Activity of Selected Medicinal Plants Against Grey Mold Disease and Extension of Strawberry Shelf Life
Authors: Rashid Tavga Sulaiman , Aziz Brwa Azad
Published: February 2025

Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of grey mold disease in many plant species and presents serious losses cost problems globally; hence, it has to be controlled. This research work was aimed at ascertaining how aqueous extracts of selected medicinal plants work against B. cinerea and extend the shelf life of strawberry fruits. For this study, the following plant materials were selected: amethyst garlic, cinnamon, cloves, sumac, ginger and pelargonium plants with the potential to inhibit the growth of the newly isolated and identified B. cinerea (accession number PQ590382) using the well diffusion method. Two concentrations were utilized: 10 and 15 mg/mL. Subsequently, Strawberry fruits were immersed in these extracts for five minutes to assess their effects on shelf life and pathogen protection. Pelargonium and amethyst garlic manifested huge antifungal effects against the growth of B. cinerea. The plant extracts have considerably extended the shelf life of fungal-inhibited strawberries, reduced their spoilage, and maintained quality compared to controls. In another application, 15 mg/mL concentration of effective extracts was sprayed on seedlings of strawberry plants to determine their effect on the incidence and severity of the disease and biocontrol efficacy. Amethyst garlic and pelargonium exhibited a considerable reduction in grey mold incidence and disease severity. The biocontrol efficacy increased to about 85% when both plants were combined. These results indicate that the extracts of medicinal plants could act as natural and efficient substitutes of synthetic fungicides for grey mold management and the extension of strawberry postharvest life.
Isolation and Identification of some Fungal Species from Common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758) in Taqtaq District in Erbil Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
Authors: Hussein H. Mala  , Shamall M. A. Abdullah
Published: February 2025

In this study, a sample of 220 common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus 1758) was obtained from two distinct ponds in the Taqtaq District, situated in the northeastern region of Erbil Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Specifically, 98 specimens were sourced from Pond A, while 122 were collected from Pond B., between September 2021 and April 2022. The fish underwent examination to determine the presence of fungal infections. The study identified eight species of fungi through morphological analysis of colony characteristics, specific growth media, and the VITEK II compact system (Biomerieux-USA). This research marks the initial documentation of five fungal species (Aspergillus flavus, Naganishia albidus, Penicillium vermiculatus, Cystobasidium minutum, and Sporothrix schenckii) infecting common carp in Iraq. Additionally, three fungal species (Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, and Saprolegnia parasitica) were reported for the first time in common carp within the Kurdistan Region.
A Molecular Technique for Detecting Cow’s Dried and Liquid Packaged Milk products Adulteration
Authors: Naji Noor M , Taha Kamaran M. , Ali Hemin H , Khdr Dilger M , Resol Adnan H S , Muhammad Hero M
Published: February 2025

The authenticity of animal-based products is a significant concern when it comes to protecting consumer rights and ensuring accurate product labeling. Molecular techniques, such as DNA barcoding using the cytochrome b gene (Cyt b), are powerful tools for species identification. Our research addresses knowledge gaps in the authentication of cow's dried powder and liquid packaged milk. By analyzing genetic sequences, we have been able to detect genetic variations and construct phylogenetic trees to differentiate cow's milk from other species. DNA was extracted, and a specific region of the cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene, a 359 base pair was amplified. The amplified DNA fragments were then sequenced. The obtained Cyt b sequences were aligned with a reference sequence using Clustal Omega software and further refined using Jalview software. Our analysis did not reveal any significant differences in the ratio of transitions to transversions (Ts:Tv) among the sequences. Consequently, the milk samples from the Kurdistan region formed a distinct, single-origin group (monophyletic clade) in the phylogenetic tree with reference sequence (OQ535548.1) with high identic values (100%). The Cyt b sequences of the samples were submitted to GenBank with accession numbers PP957613 to PP957618. The base composition of the Cyt b gene sequence had a higher AT content (59%) than GC content (41%). These results positively dispelling the concern regarding the authenticity of dried milk powder and liquid packaged milk.
Functional subcultures in the implementation of organizational changes: A case of an energy company in Kazakhstan
Authors:   Graduate School of Business, HSE University, Yermolayev Mikhail O. , Filonovich Sergey R. ,   Graduate School of Business, HSE University
Published: February 2025

Purpose: to identify the influence of the functional subcultures of organization on organizational changes in an energy company.

Methodology: an empirical study of functional subcultures was conducted using the OCAI questionnaire survey, semi-structured personal interviews, group interviews, and focus group in an energy companу.

Findings: the factors of differentiation and fragmentation of organizational functional subcultures negatively affecting the implementation of organizational changes in the energy company were identified. The scheme of interaction of functional subcultures that promotes the integration of organisation and effective implementation of organizational changes was developed.

Originality and contribution: this study considers the problems of integration of functional organizational subcultures of an energy company, the solution of which contributes to the implementation of organizational change. This practice is applicable to a wide range of production companies.
Assessing the effects of menstrual hygiene, water, and sanitation on girls’ academic performances in public schools, Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Geteneh Moges , Stulz Virginia , Mengie Gizachew , Atnafe Lisan , Gezahegn Wossen , Smet Eefje , Muluneh Muluken Desalegn
Published: February 2025

This study examined the relationship between menstrual hygiene management (MHM), water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, and girls' academic performance, Ethiopia. This study employed a cross-sectional mixed-study design with 912 schoolgirls, 22 key informants, six focused group discussions in 37 randomly selected primary and secondary schools. The median age of the schoolgirls was 16 years. Two of the five schoolgirls reported missing classes during menstruation. Of the 912 schoolgirls, 82.5% (95% CI 81–84%) achieved good academic performance during the academic year. Schoolgirls who attended class regularly during menstruation (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 14.82, 95% CI 8.652–25.391), schoolgirls who were informed about menstrual hygiene before menarche (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.011–3.229), schoolgirls whose mothers were educated (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.063–3.313), schoolgirls who had basic water services (AOR = 4.72, 95% CI 2.315–9.618), schoolgirls who had basic sanitation services (AOR = 6.32, 95% CI 4.643–33.670), and who had limited sanitation services (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.768–6.636) were significantly associated with good academic performance. Educating mothers, increasing access to WASH, and providing safe spaces for girls can have a positive ripple effect on their daughters' academic success. The findings of this study provide critical evidence to inform decision makers to address MHM challenges in alignment the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Regulating Mandatory Due Diligence Standards to Safeguard European Art Market Against Illicit Trade and Money Laundering
Authors: Jerzyk Karolina
Published: February 2025

This article looks at the efficient regulatory tools used to curb illicit trafficking and money laundering on the art market. It focuses on the European Union (EU) due to its robust regulatory framework that consists of a matrix of legal instruments under public international law and EU secondary legislation. It endeavours to assess whether the complexity of an art trade regulatory framework allows the market participants to self-regulate by applying due-diligence standards. It also seeks to highlight the role of public institutions in delivering the guidelines on the minimum due diligence standards adapted to the current art market challenges, particularly stemming from many laundering schemes. This article commences with the legal framework for the protection of cultural heritage in the EU in the face of art market money-laundering schemes. Next, it outlines the longstanding tradition of codes of ethics in art market practice, and emphasizes its role in supporting due diligence as a tool preventing illicit art trade. Further on, the article looks at the regulatory framework of due diligence in art transactions. It concludes with an outlook of the enforceability of due diligence standards by way of self-regulation by art market participants.
Iniciativa empresarial y la carrera de Ingeniería Empresarial de la Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina
Authors: Núñez Gorriti María Inés
Published: February 2025

Esta investigación, la primera sobre el tema, recopila y ordena las respuestas de 38 entrevistas aplicadas a egresados de la carrera de Ingeniería en Gestión Empresarial. Estas fueron efectuadas de marzo a abril del 2024, siendo 26 hombres y 12 mujeres los empresarios entrevistados. La carrera citada se distingue por ser la segunda más requerida dentro de la oferta educativa de la Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (UNALM) y tener una reconocida aceptación en el mercado laboral. Las entrevistas versaron sobre siete temas relativos al desarrollo empresarial. Los principales resultados fueron los siguientes: la expresión de las características del espíritu empresarial muy desarrolladas en los entrevistados; la existencia de alta diversidad de negocios en los que intervienen; la proveniencia del capital para la actividad empresarial de recursos propios y no de endeudamiento; la acentuada dedicación a la satisfacción del cliente; la sistemática orientación a la creación y el mantenimiento de redes profesionales, y una alta valoración de lo aprendido en la especialidad y en la universidad.
Chlorogenic Acid as a Neuroprotective Agent: Enhancing Plasticity and Promoting Brain Health and Functional Reserve
Authors: Hernández-Echeagaray Elizabeth , Vázquez-Roque Rubén , Morales-Medina Julio Cesar , Torres-Cruz Francisco M. , Monroy Elibeth , Galindo-Paredes Gulmaro , Gutiérrez-Ospina Gabriel , Flores Gonzalo
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Functional reserve, the process that warrants the brain to have resources to
maintain key functions and processes when facing neurodegeneration, may be strengthened in nominally
healthy subjects by measures that prompt neural plasticity throughout life.

Method:

In this work, we administered Chlorogenic Acid (CGA) to evaluate its ability to promote
functional morphological plasticity in the frontal cortical-striatal circuit of healthy mice, a pathway
exposed constantly to oxidative challenges, excitotoxicity, and neuroinflammation. The magnitude
of neural plasticity was estimated by assessing spontaneous motor behavior (open field), the relative
magnitude of neuronal activation (number of c-Fos positive neurons), dendritic remodeling (Golgi-
Cox impregnation), the availability of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) (semiquantitative
Western blotting), and lipid peroxidation (TBARS assay) in CGA- or vehicle-administered
C57BL/6 male mice.

Results:

CGA administration increased c-Fos in the Dorsal striatum (Ds), changed the availability
of BDNF and Pro-BDNF in the Frontal Cortex (FC) and DS, induced dendritic remodeling in FC
and DS neurons, and reduced FC and DS lipid peroxidation without affecting motor performance or
the availability of TrkB receptor isoforms.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that CGA increases functional reserve by promoting neuronal
plasticity in healthy male mice. Future research should determine whether these additional resources
indeed protect against neurodegeneration.
Long-Term Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Implantation of Long and Short Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stents
Authors: Ultramari Frederico Thomaz , Ultramari Flávia Klas Blanski Pinheiro , Morales Kormann Adrian Paulo , Fernandes Anne Louise Trisotto Marchi , Batista Jádina Spricigo , Fernandes Tadeu Augusto , Maestri Rafael , Guérios Ênio Eduardo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Despite the introduction of first-generation drug-eluting stents, lesion length has remained a predictor of target lesion revascularization. To address this limitation, stents with thinner struts, more advanced polymers, and drugs with more controlled release were developed. However, the impact of second-generation drug-eluting stent (DES2) length on clinical outcomes remains uncertain.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of DES2 length on long-term safety and efficacy by comparing outcomes between patients who underwent implantation of long and short DES2.

Methods

This observational, retrospective, non-randomized, single-center study included all patients who received only DES2 from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2017. Patients were divided into two groups based on the length of the implanted DES2: 1) long stent group (LSG) with at least one stent measuring 30 mm or longer, and 2) short stent group (SSG) with one or more stents measuring 20 mm or shorter without overlap. The primary endpoint was target lesion failure (TLF) during a three-year follow-up period.

Results

A total of 278 patients were assigned to the SSG (mean stent length: 19.32±8.6 mm), while 436 patients were assigned to the LSG (mean stent length: 55.38±23.3 mm). The LSG showed a significantly higher incidence of TLF: 16.7% versus 10.4% [SHR (95%CI): 1.78 (1.15-2.76), p=0.01]. No significant differences were observed in the secondary endpoints.

Conclusion

Despite technological advances, the use of DES2 measuring 30 mm or longer has been associated with a higher TLF rate. Therefore, the implantation of longer DES2, compared with DES2 measuring 20 mm or shorter, significantly impacted long-term clinical outcomes related to TLF, while secondary outcomes were not affected.
The Prevalence and Pattern of Oral and Maxillofacial Injuries in Al Fujairah Population, UAE- A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jaber Mohamed A , Al-Hmoudi Asmaa , Mathew Asok , Arumuganainar Deepavalli , Yadalam Pradeep Kumar , Saeed Alia , Abdulla Sara , Al Kaabi Salem
Published: February 2025

Background

There is inadequate documentation of Maxillofacial Injuries prevalence and patterns of occurrence in the UAE. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and trends of maxillofacial injuries among patients at Al-Fujairah Hospital, UAE, focusing on gender distribution, affected age groups, common causes, injury locations, associated soft tissue damage, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches.

Methodology

The retrospective study was conducted at Al Fujairah Hospital, UAE, between January 2003 and February 2015 and included 716 medical records of patients [59 males and 118 females] with maxillofacial injuries. The age range was from 3 to 64 years, with a mean [SD] age of 27[6.23] years. The data included demographic details, clinical findings, radiological findings, and intervention modalities. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used to study the prevalence and trends of maxillofacial injuries.

Results

The age group 21-40 was the most affected. The age group older than 60 years old was the least affected. Oral and maxillofacial injuries were more prevalent in urban regions [n=113 [82.5%]] cases compared to rural areas [n=24[17.5%]]. The majority of the victims were students. Road traffic accidents were the predominant cause of oral and maxillofacial injuries [34.5%], followed by workplace accidents [28.2%], falls [25.2%], assaults [7.7%], and others [4.1%]. Among the patients, 76.4% experienced mandible or midface fractures or both. Among these, the most sustained were mandibular fractures [46.8%], followed by zygomatic complex fractures [17.0%], and 12.7% sustained mid-facial fractures. Additional fracture locations comprise nasal [27%], orbital [16%], dentoalveolar [10%], and frontal bone [7%]. Of the Mandibular fractures, condylar fractures were the most common [5.4%], followed by fractures of the angle [3.8%], body [3.3%], symphysis [1.6%], and parasymphysis [1.1%]. The predominant soft tissue injury was laceration, followed by contusions and incised wounds. Regarding the radiological investigations, OPGs were most commonly used for diagnosing mandibular fractures. In contrast, CT scans were commonly used to diagnose midfacial injuries, and the differences were statistically significant [p<0.05].

Conclusion

The study underscores the need for targeted preventive strategies for maxillofacial injuries, primarily caused by road traffic accidents in Al-Fujairah.
Inheritance Studies of Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne Species) Resistance in Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Frimpong Matilda , Osei Michael Kwabena , Osei Kingsley , Prempeh Ruth Naa Ashiokai , Gyau Joseph , Boakye-Mensah Isaac Newton , Abugri Bismark , Asante Maxwell Darko
Published: February 2025

Plant-parasitic nematodes threaten tomato cultivation in Ghana, particularly the root-knot nematodes, causing substantial economic yield losses. However, these yield losses can be prevented through resistant varieties. This study aims to determine the type of gene action, heritability, heterosis and inbreeding depression for root-knot nematode resistance in tomato. A cross between CSIR/CRI-P005 (P1), an adapted variety with good yield but susceptible to root-knot nematode and VFNT (P2), which is resistant to root-knot nematode but low-yielding were used to generate six tomato populations. Average fruit weight, yield, root gall index, and reproduction factor were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The six tomato populations (P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1.1, and BC1.2) were subjected to generation mean analysis. The means of all the populations differed widely for all traits studied. The joint scaling test revealed significant mean, additive, and dominance gene effects for all traits. Still, the additive-dominance model alone was inadequate in explaining the genetic actions of the studied traits. Using the six-parameter model, epistatic, additive, and dominance gene actions were significant for most traits. Average fruit weight, reproduction factor, and root gall index were found to duplicate dominant or recessive epistasis, while fruit yield per plant showed complementary epistasis. Better parent heterosis was observed for root gall index. Broad sense heritability estimations were high for yield per plant (90.94%), root gall index (92.82%), average fruit weight (78.69%), and reproduction factor (84.71%). Narrow sense heritability estimates were high for reproduction factor (76.59%) and root gall index (71.73%), moderate for yield per plant (32.32%), and low for average fruit weight (0%). High levels of inbreeding depression were detected for average fruit weight (-34.61%), yield per plant (-31.04%), reproduction factor (41.54%), and root gall index (-125.33%). This research suggests that traits with fixed genetic effects can be enhanced through pedigree breeding, whereas traits with non-fixed genetic effects are suitable for heterosis breeding.
The Impact of Microbiota on Neurological Disorders: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Merra Giuseppe , Placa Giada La , Covino Marcello , Candelli Marcello , Gasbarrini Antonio , Franceschi Francesco
Published: February 2025

Interactions in the gut-brain crosstalk have led to the development of an entirely new concept: the "microbiota-gut-brain axis". Microbiota has gained considerable attention in relation to disorders of a more neurological nature, such as neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric illnesses like autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and mood disorders. This review aims to summarize the recent trends and insights into the role and consequences of gut microbiota in brain health and pediatric neurological disorders. Dysbiosis may be associated with an increased risk of neurological diseases that lead to different disruptions and conditions, including mental health issues. During microbiota dysbiosis, neuropsychological stress hormones that usually affect oxytocin and GABA neurons are significantly reduced. Current studies report that anxiety, major depression, and cognitive dysfunction are closely associated with dysbiosis. In the last few years, a handful of clinical studies have emerged, illustrating the potential for a bidirectional relationship of gut-brain interactions in humans. Perhaps some of the most crucial clinical investigations demonstrating overlapping relationships with the human gut-brain axis come from human trials focusing on modulating the microbiota significantly and noting significant cognitive correlates. A new field is emerging such as gene-editing technology that could represent a potential tool to improve gut microbial characteristics. This approach could be particularly relevant for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders and brain-gut axis diseases linked with loss of microbial species and/or high pathobiont load.
Large language model-assisted surgical consent forms: readability gains and content integrity challenges in a non-English language (Preprint)
Authors: Oh Namkee , Kim Jongman , Park Sunghae , An Sunghyo , Lee Eunjin , Do Hayeon , Baik Jiyoung , Gwon Suk Min , Rhu Jinsoo , Choi Gyu-Seong , Park Sunmin , Cho Jai Young , Lee Hae Won , Lee Boram , Jeong Eun Sung , Lee Jeong-Moo , Choi YoungRok , Kwon Jieun , Kim Kyeong Deok , Kim Seok-Hwan , Chun Gwang-Sik
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Surgical consent forms must convey critical information, yet their complex language can limit patient comprehension. Large language models (LLMs) may improve readability, but evidence of their impact on content preservation is lacking in non-English contexts.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the impact of LLM-assisted editing on the readability and content quality of surgical consent forms in Korean, focusing on standardized liver resection consent documents across multiple institutions.

METHODS

Standardized liver resection consent forms were collected from seven South Korean medical institutions and simplified using ChatGPT-4o. Readability was assessed using KReaD and Natmal indices, while text structure was evaluated based on character count, word count, sentence count, words per sentence, and difficult word ratio. Content quality was analyzed across four domains—Risk, Benefit, Alternative, and Overall Impression—using evaluations from seven liver resection specialists. Statistical comparisons were conducted using paired t-tests, and a linear mixed-effects model (LME) was applied to account for institutional and evaluator variability.

RESULTS

AI-assisted editing significantly improved readability, reducing the KReaD score from 1777 ± 28.47 to 1335.6 ± 59.95 (p<0.001) and the Natmal score from 1452.3 ± 88.67 to 1245.3 ± 96.96 (p=0.007). Sentence length and difficult word ratio decreased significantly, contributing to increased accessibility. However, content quality analysis showed a decline in risk description scores (2.29 ± 0.47 before vs. 1.92 ± 0.32 after, p=0.0549) and overall impression scores (2.21 ± 0.49 before vs. 1.71 ± 0.64 after, p=0.134). The LME confirmed significant reductions in risk descriptions (β₁ = -0.371, p=0.012) and overall impression (β₁ = -0.500, p=0.025), suggesting potential omissions in critical safety information. Despite this, qualitative analysis indicated that evaluators did not find explicit omissions but perceived the text as overly simplified and less professional.

CONCLUSIONS

While LLM-assisted surgical consent forms significantly enhance readability, they may compromise certain aspects of content completeness, particularly in risk disclosure. These findings highlight the need for a balanced approach that maintains accessibility while ensuring medical and legal accuracy. Future research should include patient-centered evaluations to assess comprehension and informed decision-making, as well as broader multilingual validation to determine LLM applicability across diverse healthcare settings.

CLINICALTRIAL

N/A
On the Chinese Narratives of the Foreign Blogger “YChina” on Bilibili
Authors: Li Mengdi , Jiang Lingqin , Hu Zhongqing
Published: February 2025

With the advancement of technology and the popularity of new media, short videos have become increasingly prominent in the field of cultural communication. Bilibili, a platform known for encouraging high-quality video production and providing a highly interactive environment, is favored by young people. The “YChina” has gained significant influence on this platform due to its solid fan base and strong cultural communication capabilities. Therefore, this study selects 60 videos released by the “YChina” on Bilibili from January 9, 2023, to April 3, 2024, as research samples. We employ content analysis, case analysis, and other diverse research methods. Utilizing tools such as “Xinxiang Toolbox”, Converter App, and Python’s jieba and WorldCloud, it conducts word frequency analysis to explore the role of foreign bloggers in cultural communication from the “other” perspective and seeks new ways to tell Chinese stories well. The study finds that the “YChina” achieves high recognition and effectively enhances cultural communication through a rich variety of themes, relatively neutral emotional tendencies, diverse narrative subjects, multiple narrative methods, and mixed Chinese and English narrative languages, providing a reference for telling Chinese stories well.
Large Language Models Empowering Interpreting Teaching: A Research on User Satisfaction Survey and Functional Optimization Strategies
Authors: Dong Jiachen
Published: February 2025

To address the limitations of the "DeepSeek" large language model (LLM) in interpreting education, this study investigates user satisfaction and proposes optimization strategies by analyzing its application across pre-interpreting, while-interpreting, and post-interpreting phases. Targeting translation majors and learners, a questionnaire was designed to identify key factors influencing user satisfaction. Data analysis reveals critical insights, leading to tailored optimization strategies for each phase. The findings emphasize the necessity of integrating LLMs into interpreting pedagogy to enhance training efficiency, reduce cognitive load, and foster cross-disciplinary research capabilities.
The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) in Enhancing Construction Site Visualization and Planning
Authors: Alowa Alshrif Abdslam Alsonosi
Published: February 2025

Augmented Reality (AR) is revolutionizing the construction industry by providing immersive, real-time visualization
and planning tools. This paper explores the applications of AR in construction site visualization, planning, and project
management. It highlights the benefits of AR, such as improved accuracy, enhanced collaboration, and reduced errors, while
also addressing challenges like cost, technical limitations, and user adoption. Case studies and emerging trends are discussed to
demonstrate the transformative potential of AR in construction.
Experiências vivenciadas no PIBID de ciências exatas em tempo de pandemia
Authors: Berticelli Danilene Güllich Donin , Friedrich Leidi Celilia , Parisoto Mara Fernanda
Published: February 2025

O capítulo 1 faz um apanhado geral das atividades realizadas ao longo destes dois anos no Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID) nos campi do interior da Universidade Federal do Paraná, com menção a tópicos como: convivência com autistas, ciência forense, escrita científica, avaliação, entre outros.
O capítulo 2 descreve o desenvolvimento de um projeto de ensino interdisciplinar com foco no conhecimento científico relacionado ao funcionamento de um biodigestor. O tema escolhido adequava-se ao contexto do colégio agrícola em que foi desenvolvido.
Já no capítulo 3, apresenta-se outro projeto de ensino multidisciplinar centrado na produção, industrialização, comercialização, preparo e degustação do café, tão popular na sociedade brasileira.
O capítulo 4 narra a elaboração e aplicação de uma oficina de ciência forense na qual os participantes são instigados a investigar um crime simulado por meio de conceitos e argumentação científica.
O capítulo 5 traz as percepções dos docentes supervisores a respeito das atividades, interações, relacionamentos e aprendizagens vivenciadas por professores, licenciandos e estudantes da Educação Básica ao longo do período de execução do PIBID. Destaca-se o relato de como as ações do PIBID levaram à criação da AUPAR (Associação dos Amigos do Autista de Palotina e Região).
O capítulo 6 narra a utilização de metodologias ativas por meio do ensino remoto de forma contextualizada à realidade sócio-econômica dos municípios do litoral do Paraná. Descreve-se o uso de softwares e plataformas online, inclusive por meio da gamificação como instrumento para motivação e formação de laços sociais em um contexto online.
O capítulo 7 traz um relato de experiência do curso de Licenciatura em Ciências Exatas da UFPR, Campus Jandaia do Sul com o PIBID.
Educação e experiências: relatos de professores voluntários e ex-alunos do PREVEC
Authors: Parisoto Mara Fernanda , Carvalho Joselene Ieda dos Santos Lopes de
Published: February 2025

A presente obra é resultado de reunir em algumas páginas, um pouco do esforço de professores, ex-professores e ex-alunos que fizeram parte da história do cursinho pré-vestibular comunitário (carinhosamente conhecido como PREVEC) da Universidade Federal do Paraná, campus de Palotina. Venha se emocionar e se inspirar com esses lindos relatos.
FACTORS AND STRATEGIES TO DEVELOP CRITICAL THINKING IN ACADEMIC WRITING: A CASE OF EFL STUDENTS AT ONE UNIVERSITY IN JAMBI
Authors: Yeni Fitra , Fajaryani Nunung , Abrar Mukhlash
Published: February 2025

At the university level, critical thinking is an essential yet challenging skill for EFL students. EFL students often face various barriers to developing this skill. The purpose of this study is to explore the factors that influence EFL students' abilities and to investigate the strategies they employ to develop critical thinking skills in academic writing. This study used a qualitative research design with a case study approach while the data was collected through semi-structured interviews with ten participants, specifically eighth-semester students majoring in English at a public University in Jambi. The researcher used purposive sampling to select participants based on specific criteria. The researcher used thematic analysis as a method to examine and interpret the collected data. The findings show that EFL students face several factors that affect their ability to develop critical thinking in academic writing including personal competence factors (lack of topical knowledge), linguistic factors (grammar and vocabulary), and psychological factors (low motivation, lack of self-confidence, and anxiety in supervision),. However, despite these influencing factors, EFL students also apply strategies to overcome challenges when developing critical thinking in academic writing, specifically self-management, technology support, learning atmosphere, support system, and mentorship schedule management. It can be concluded that this research is expected to be useful as suggestions and recommendations aimed to develop critical thinking in academic writing, especially for Indonesian students at the undergraduate level.
KNOWLEDGE MAPPING OF THREE READING COURSES FOR UNDERGRADUATE EFLTEP STUDENTS AT ONE INDONESIAN UNIVERSITY
Authors: Susanah Susanah
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to identify how reading knowledge is constructed in three reading courses for EFLTEP students at one state university in Jambi and to investigate the degree of alignment between course content with the learning outcomes stipulated in the 2017 ELT curriculum implemented in that university and the 2013 ELT curriculum for secondary education. This study employed a content analysis by extracting information from the course syllabi. Data were gained solely from three sets of syllabi for Reading for General Purposes, Reading for Academic Purposes, and Critical Reading and Writing courses. The study showed that course content catered to the expected learning outcomes, although knowledge discrepancies and genres were overlapping among those three courses. It was also noticed that the contents were aligned with reading knowledge stipulated in the 2013 ELT curriculum as the courses continue to develop reading skills in terms of text structure, types, and comprehension level.
Transformation in enhancing financial inclusion and the mediating role of performance efficiency: An applied study on commercial banks’ strategy
Authors: Qwader Amjad Salem Younes , AlSboul Sumia Akram
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to explore the impact of digital transformation on enhancing financial inclusion in Jordanian commercial banks, focusing on the role of performance efficiency as a mediator in this relationship. The study employed a descriptive-analytical approach, distributing a questionnaire to 200 employees from 13 banks, and analyzing the data using SPSS v. 26 and SmartPLS software. The results showed a positive relationship between the dimensions of digital transformation (digital strategy, digital technologies, and digital skills) and both financial inclusion and performance efficiency. This can be attributed to digital transformation enhancing performance efficiency by reducing human errors, speeding up processing and auditing, improving collaboration, and enhancing communication between employees and clients, thereby contributing to increased financial inclusion. Additionally, the results indicated that performance efficiency plays a partial mediating role in the relationship between digital transformation and financial inclusion, as digital transformation enhances performance efficiency by minimizing human errors and accelerating procedures, which contributes to greater financial inclusion. In light of these findings, the study recommends that commercial banks in Jordan focus on developing digital transformation strategies, updating technological infrastructure, and providing appropriate training for employees to foster a culture of innovation.
United States of Eureka
Authors: Tolga Theo Yalur
Published: February 2025

There has been an overwhelming mediatization of corruption, pandemics, wars and conflicts for decades going on through the 2000s. When the “Israel-Hamas War” had just begun in the fall of 2023, for instance, the mainstream media was covering it with wordy psycho-politics. Instead, what I suggest in this article is a detour to a centennial relevance for the psychopolitics of Israeli, Turkey, the USA and current global realities. A relevance that was missing in the psychopolitical realities of countries founded in the interwar and post-war world. Comparing two countries of these stages, Israel to Turkey, I think they are similar in regards to the constitution of national identity politics. It is Sigmund Freud’s relevance shrouded in the shadows for a century, which is not merely a relevance of his own. His work is as powerful a founder of psychoanalysis as the foundations of countries like Turkey and Israel.

keywords: USA, Turkey, Israel, War, Psychoanalysis, Biopolitics
A Note from an Independent Mix-Mash Research on Atatürk’s Nutuk / Discourse (1927) and Its Relevance to NATO
Authors: Tolga Theo Yalur
Published: February 2025

Integrity of science would surely be challenged by possibilities of bias, errors, mistakes or misinterpretations. Science is charged with methods evaluating the relevance and significance of these — even when the first-person singular, which doesn’t sound objective, is in their research question of any scientific claim. With or without relevance and significance, I mash-up here a narrative with the scientific notes from Atatürk’s Nutuk / Discourse (1927) with respect to NATO.

keywords:
CORRECTED EULER-MACLAURIN-TYPE INEQUALITIES FOR ψ-HILFER FRACTIONAL INTEGRALS
Authors: BAŞ UMUT , BUDAK Hüseyin , Yildirim Huseyin , ACAR YAREN
Published: February 2025

Abstract. In this article, novel Euler-Maclaurin type inequalities have
been derived. These inequalities have been obtained through the use of
ψ-Hilfer fractional integrals. In the process of deriving these
inequalities, the condition that the absolute value of the derivative of
the function f is convex has been taken into consideration.
Furthermore, to facilitate the understanding of the main results
presented in the article, special cases of the derived theorems have
been examined, and various examples have been provided to illustrate
these results concretely. Thus, the study also demonstrates how the
obtained theoretical findings can be applied in a broader context.