bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mineralogical and Geochemical Peculiarities of Rare Metal Granite Tillik (Laouni, Central Hoggar, North Africa)
Authors: Hamis Ahmed , Makhlouf Ali , Kesraoui Mokrane , Benselhoub Aissa , Sakher Elfahem , Bellucci Stefano
Published: February 2025

The Pan-African orogeny (800-570 Ma) is thought to have been the last event to affect this vast Hoggar region, while the post-collisional phase of the Pan-African chain (650-570 Ma) continued until (520 Ma) and saw the emplacement of numerous granitic plutons known as “Taourirt” for their potential sources of rare metals. In the central Hoggar, the latest magmatic episodes, represented by albite-topaz (AT) granites, are associated with Sn-Wn mineralization. These granites, which have undergone different degrees of evolution, are currently classified as Rare Metal Granite (RMG). In the Laouni terrane, the Tillik massif outcrops as a small flattened dome, backed by an NNE-SSW-trending accident. It is embedded in highly metamorphosed terrain and regional porphyroid biotite granite. The massif mainly comprises central green granite and leucocratic topaz albite granite, occupying the rest of the dome. Stockscheider pegmatites and greisens mineralized with cassiterite and wolframite occur around the edges of the massif, highlighting the area’s significant mineralization potential alongside the granites. Furthermore, the granites are leucocratic and have a mineralogical composition consisting of albite and quartz with snowball structures, which is characteristic of RMG. They are phosphorus-poor, peraluminous, and show relatively flat rare-earth spectra with a strong negative Eu anomaly. The geotectonic sites show that the various samples are projected into the collisional intraplate granite domain, highlighting the transition from the post-orogenic to the anorogenic domain. This study aims to characterize the granites of the Tillik massif petrographically, mineralogically, and geochemically, compare them with the Hoggar rare-metal granites “Ebelekan and Rechla” and with the world-renowned reference granites “Beauvoir and Yichun,” and determine whether or not they contain rare metals such as Li, Be, Nb, and Ta.
Effects of gestational and lactational exposure to ethanol on body and bone growth of rat offspring
Authors: Tamiasso Natalia Viana , Araújo Fabiana Rocha , Ocarino Natália de Melo , Reis Amanda Maria Sena , Bittencourt Athelson Stefanon , Serakides Rogéria
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Ethanol is the most widely consumed drug in the world. When this consumption occurs by pregnant women, the harmful effects extend to the fetus. There are few data available on its effects on infants. Objective: To evaluate the effects of maternal ethanol consumption during pregnancy (prenatal) as well as during pregnancy and lactation (pre- and post-natal). Methods: 12 Wistar rats were divided into ethanol and control groups. Ethanol group received ethanol (4 g/kg/day) via oral gavage from the ninth day of gestation to the 17th day of lactation. The weight and length of the pups were determined at birth and 17 days of age. The length and width of the femur and tibia and the thickness of the epiphysis were measured in the neonates, and the thickness of the articular cartilage, epiphyseal plate, and its zones were measured at 17 days of age. CDC-47 immunoexpression was evaluated and the expressions of aggrecan, collagen type II, and collagen type X were determined by RT-PCR. Results: In neonates, rats in the group with prenatal exposure to ethanol were significantly shorter (body length) than the control group. At 17 days of age, the femur of the group with pre-and postnatal exposure to ethanol showed a significantly lower percentage of proliferating chondrocytes, as evidenced by the different CDC-47 immunoexpression between groups. Conclusion: Prenatal exposure to ethanol in rats reduced body length at birth while pre- and postnatal exposure to ethanol decreased the proliferation of femoral epiphyseal plate chondrocytes.
Knee pain in adults from the northeast of São Paulo, Brazil: prevalence, risk factors, and impact on quality of life
Authors: Vitta Alberto de , Maciel Nicoly Machado , Simeão Sandra Fiorelli Almeida Penteado , Noll Matias
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The existing literature describes several risk factors associated with knee pain, including personal, psychological, and work-related factors, among others. Furthermore, several studies have shown the negative impact of knee pain on quality of life; however, there is a lack of knowledge about knee pain in Latin American populations. Objective: This study aims to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and impact on the quality of life of knee pain in Brazilian adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on a population survey with 600 individuals interviewed using questionnaires including a) sociodemographic and labor aspects; b) physical activity level (IPAC questionnaire); c) musculoskeletal symptoms (Nordic questionnaire); and d) quality of life (SF-36). Results: The prevalence of knee pain was 25.6% (95% confidence interval: 22.3–29.3%), and it was associated with being >60 years old, black ethnicity, mean or low income, overweight, depression, gastrointestinal and renal diseases, and persons who performed occupations requiring repetitive movements, sitting while using a computer, and standing. All individuals with knee pain demonstrated significantly greater risks for summaries of the physical components. Conclusion: Knee pain is associated with socioeconomic variables, work aspects, and lifestyle factors and impacts the quality of life.
Regular exercise in adolescents with ACE gene polymorphism helps preventing cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Soares Junior Nivaldo de Jesus Silva , Senna Carlan , Dias-Filho Carlos Alberto Alves , Rodrigues Bruno , Irigoyen Maria Claudia , Dias Danielle da Silva , Mendes Vinícius Santos , Dias Carlos José Moraes , Monteiro Sally Cristina Moutinho , Mostarda Cristiano Teixeira
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Polymorphisms can influence the expression and production of regulatory components in the endocrine system. These include the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which plays, along with other environmental factors, a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of essential arterial hypertension in both adults and adolescents. Objective: To analyze the influence of the level of physical activity and the polymorphism in the ACE gene on cardiac autonomic modulation and the chance of cardiovascular risk in adolescents. Methods: 136 adolescents were divided into active (AG) and sedentary (SG) groups. The genotypic frequencies in SG group are DD (38), DI (12) and II (10); and AG group are DD (38), DI (15) and II (23). Blood pressure, body composition, physical activity level, and sexual maturation were assessed to characterize the groups. Afterward, an electrocardiogram was performed to analyze heart rate variability and oral mucosal cells were collected for the genotypic of angiotensin-converting enzyme. Results: The AG presented lower systolic blood pressure and sympathetic modulation when compared to the SG DD. Additionally, the odds ratio for the cardiovascular events was increased in the SG DD compared with that in AG with DD allele (AG DD) adolescents, as verified for the autonomic variables LF%, HF%, LF/HF, and SBP. Conclusion: Regular physical activity in adolescents can contribute to the maintenance of blood pressure levels, preventing autonomic imbalance and cardiovascular risk factors in adolescents with ACE gene polymorphism.
Formação de leitores surdos e a educação inclusiva
Authors: Martins Sandra Eli Sartoreto de Oliveira
Published: February 2025

Ensinar crianças surdas a ler é o grande desafio que este livro discute. Afinal, ao longo da história da educação especial é grande a expectativa que se estabelece no processo de alfabetização da criança surda, tanto por parte de seus familiares quanto dos profissionais que a acompanham. Esta obra debate como o surdo, ao se constituir a partir das relações sociais e de outras manifestações de linguagens (oral, expressão corporal e facial, gestos e fragmentos de fala), consegue partilhar situações de produção da linguagem, por meio da leitura. Ao considerar as crianças surdas como não indiferentes à criação cultural do mundo da escrita, a autora revela preocupação com sua inclusão e com o respeito a seus direitos, percebendo-as como cocriadoras da cultura. Para ela, se não há restrição ao acesso aos bens culturais, entre os quais a língua escrita, e portanto ao ato cultural de ler, pressupõe-se que a língua falada não será para o surdo uma língua estrangeira, e sim, à medida que pode ser compartilhada, também sua própria língua. Com vasto material empírico e análise cuidadosa e focada nos aspectos da prática educativa, este livro é particularmente útil para educadores que atuam no ensino regular e são chamados a participar da educação inclusiva.
Fat body-derived cytokine Upd2 controls disciplined migration of tracheal stem cells in Drosophila
Authors: Dong Pengzhen , Li Yue , Wang Yuying , Zhao Qiang , Lu Tianfeng , Chen Jian , Guo Tianyu , Ma Jun , Yang Bing , Wu Honggang , Huang Hai
Published: February 2025

Coordinated activation and directional migration of adult stem cells are essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis.
Drosophila
tracheal progenitors are adult stem cells that migrate posteriorly along the dorsal trunk to replenish degenerating branches that disperse the FGF mitogen. However, it is currently unknown how the overall anterior-to-posterior directionality of such migration is controlled. Here we show that individual progenitor cells migrate together in a concerted, disciplined manner, a behavior that is dependent on the neighboring fat body. We identify the fat body-derived cytokine, Upd2, in targeting and inducing JAK/STAT signaling in tracheal progenitors to maintain their directional migration. Perturbation of either Upd2 production in fat body or JAK/STAT signaling in trachea causes aberrant bidirectional migration of tracheal progenitors. We show that JAK/STAT signaling promotes the expression of genes involved in planar cell polarity leading to asymmetric localization of Fat in progenitor cells. We provide evidence that Upd2 transport requires Rab5- and Rab7-mediated endocytic sorting and Lbm-dependent vesicle trafficking. Our study thus uncovers an inter-organ communication in the control of disciplined migration of tracheal progenitor cells, a process that requires vesicular trafficking of fat body-derived cytokine Upd2 and JAK/STAT signaling-mediated activation of PCP genes.
HIV-1 Vif disrupts phosphatase feedback regulation at the kinetochore, leading to a pronounced pseudo-metaphase arrest
Authors: Ghone Dhaval , Evans Edward L , Bandini Madison , Stephenson Kaelyn G , Sherer Nathan M , Suzuki Aussie
Published: February 2025

Virion Infectivity Factor (Vif) of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) targets and degrades cellular APOBEC3 proteins, key regulators of intrinsic and innate antiretroviral immune responses, thereby facilitating HIV-1 infection. While Vif’s role in degrading APOBEC3G is well-studied, Vif is also known to cause cell cycle arrest, but the detailed nature of Vif’s effects on the cell cycle has yet to be delineated. In this study, we employed high-temporal single-cell live imaging and super-resolution microscopy to monitor individual cells during Vif-induced cell cycle arrest. Our findings reveal that Vif does not affect the G2/M boundary as previously thought. Instead, Vif triggers a unique and robust pseudo-metaphase arrest, distinct from the mild prometaphase arrest induced by Vpr. During this arrest, chromosomes align properly and form the metaphase plate, but later lose alignment, resulting in polar chromosomes. Notably, Vif, unlike Vpr, significantly reduces the levels of both Protein Phosphatase 1 (PP1) and 2A (PP2A) at kinetochores, which regulate chromosome-microtubule interactions. These results unveil a novel role for Vif in kinetochore regulation that governs the spatial organization of chromosomes during mitosis.
Orexin population activity precisely reflects net body movement across behavioral and metabolic states
Authors: Tesmer Alexander L , Viskaitis Paulius , Donegan Dane , Bracey Eva F , Grujic Nikola , Patriarchi Tommaso , Peleg-Raibstein Daria , Burdakov Denis
Published: February 2025

Tracking net body movement in real time may enable the brain to estimate ongoing demands and thus better orchestrate muscle tone, energy balance, and arousal. To identify neural populations specializing in tracking net body movement, here we compared self-initiated movement-related activity across genetically-defined subcortical neurons in the mouse brain, including dopaminergic, glutamatergic, noradrenergic, and key peptidergic neurons. We show that hypothalamic orexin/hypocretin-producing neurons (HONs) are exceptionally precise movement-trackers, encoding net body movement across multiple classified behaviors with a high degree of precision, independent of head acceleration. This tracking was so precise, that video analysis of the mouse body movement reliably served as a low-cost biometric for HON population activity. The movement tracking was independent of internal nutritional states, and occurred in a communication bandwidth distinct from HON encoding of blood glucose. At key projection targets, orexin/hypocretin peptide outputs correlated with self-initiated movement in a projection-specific manner, indicating functional heterogeneity in HON outputs. Finally, we found that body movement was not encoded to the same extent in other key neural populations related to arousal or energy. These findings indicate that subcortical orchestrators of arousal and metabolism are finely tuned to encode net body movement, constituting a bridge multiplexing ongoing motor activity with internal energy resources.
Multi-omics investigation of spontaneous T2DM macaque reveals gut microbiota promote T2DM by up-regulating the absorption of excess palmitic acid
Authors: Liu Xu , Yang Shengzhi , Xie Yuchen , Jiang Cong , Shang Ke , Luo Jinxia , Zhang Lin , Hu Gang , Liu Qinghua , Yue Bisong , Fan Zhenxin , He Zhanlong , Li Jing
Published: February 2025

Although gut microbiota and lipid metabolites have been suggested to be closely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the interactions between gut microbiota, lipid metabolites and the host in T2DM development remains unclear. Rhesus macaques may be the best animal model to investigate these relationships given their spontaneous development of T2DM. We identified eight spontaneous T2DM macaques and conducted a comprehensive study investigating the relationships using multi-omics sequencing technology. Our results from 16S rRNA, metagenome, metabolome and transcriptome analyses identified that gut microbiota imbalance, tryptophan metabolism and fatty acid β oxidation disorders, long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) accumulation, and inflammation occurred in T2DM macaques. We verified the accumulation of palmitic acid (PA) and activation of inflammation in T2DM macaques. Importantly, mice transplanted with spontaneous T2DM macaque fecal microbiota and fed a high PA diet developed prediabetes within 120 days. We determined that gut microbiota mediated the absorption of excess PA in the ileum, resulting in the accumulation of PA in the serum consequently leading to T2DM in mice. In particular, we demonstrated that the specific microbiota composition was probably involved in the process. This study provides new insight into interactions between microbiota and metabolites and confirms causative effect of gut microbiota on T2DM development.
Interleukin-4 induces CD11c+ microglia leading to amelioration of neuropathic pain in mice
Authors: Kohno Keita , Shirasaka Ryoji , Hirose Keita , Masuda Takahiro , Tsuda Makoto
Published: February 2025

Neuropathic pain, a debilitating chronic pain condition, is a major clinical challenge. The pleiotropic cytokine interleukin-4 (IL-4) has been shown to suppress neuropathic pain in rodent models, but its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we show that intrathecal administration of IL-4 to mice with spinal nerve transection (SpNT) increased the number of CD11c
+
microglia (a microglia subset important for pain remission) in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH) and that this effect of IL-4 was essential for its ameliorating effect on SpNT-induced pain hypersensitivity. Furthermore, in mice with spared nerve injury (SNI), another model in which pain remission does not occur, the emergence of CD11c
+
SDH microglia was curtailed, but intrathecal IL-4 increased their emergence and ameliorated pain hypersensitivity in a CD11c
+
microglia-dependent manner. Our study reveals a mechanism by which intrathecal IL-4 ameliorates pain hypersensitivity after nerve injury and provides evidence that IL-4 increases CD11c
+
microglia with a function that ameliorates neuropathic pain.
Mesoscale functional architecture in medial posterior parietal cortex
Authors: Hira Riichiro , Townsend Leah B , Smith Ikuko T , Yu Che-Hang , Stirman Jeffrey N , Yu Yiyi , Smith Spencer LaVere
Published: February 2025

The posterior parietal cortex (
PPC
) in mice has various functions including multisensory integration
1–3
, vision-guided behaviors
4–6
, working memory
7–13
, and posture control
14,15
. However, an integrated understanding of these functions and their cortical localizations in and around the PPC and higher visual areas (
HVAs
), has not been completely elucidated. Here we simultaneously imaged the activity of thousands of neurons within a 3 x 3 mm
2
field-of-view, including eight cortical areas around the PPC, during behavior with a two-photon mesoscope
16
. Mice performed both a vision-guided task and a choice history-dependent task, and the imaging results revealed distinct, localized, behavior-related functions of two medial PPC areas. Neurons in the anteromedial (
AM
) HVA responded to both vision and choice information, and thus AM is a locus of association between these channels. By contrast, the anterior (
A
) HVA stores choice history with sequential dynamics and represents posture. Mesoscale correlation analysis on the intertrial variability of neuronal activity demonstrated that neurons in area A shared fluctuations with the primary somatosensory area, while neurons in AM exhibited diverse, area-dependent interactions. Pairwise interarea interactions among neurons were precisely predicted by the anatomical input correlations, with the exception of some global interactions. Thus, the medial PPC has two distinct modules, areas A and AM, which each have distinctive modes of cortical communication. These medial PPC modules can serve separate higher-order functions: area A for transmission of information including posture, movement, and working memory; and area AM for multisensory and cognitive integration with locally processed signals.
The magnitude and time course of pre-saccadic foveal prediction depend on the conspicuity of the saccade target
Authors: Kroell Lisa M , Rolfs Martin
Published: February 2025

We previously demonstrated that during the preparation of a large-scale saccadic eye movement, defining features of the eye movement target (i.e., its orientation) are anticipated in pre-saccadic foveal vision (Kroell & Rolfs, 2022). In this Research Advance, we show that the conspicuity of orientation information at the saccade target location influences the magnitude and time course of foveal enhancement. As in our previous study, observers prepared a saccade to a peripheral orientation signal (the target) while monitoring the appearance of a second orientation signal (the probe) in their pre-saccadic center of gaze. The probe appeared in 50% of trials and either had the same orientation as the target (congruent) or a different orientation (incongruent). In the current study, we manipulated the opacity of the target against the 1/f background noise in four logarithmic steps from 25% to 90%. An increase in opacity translated to an increase in luminance contrast and the signal-to-noise ratio of orientation information within the target region. We made three main observations: First, foveal Hit Rates for target-congruent
and
incongruent probes decreased as target opacity increased, presumably since attention was increasingly drawn to the target the more salient it became. Crucially, foveal enhancement defined as the difference between congruent and incongruent Hit Rates increased with opacity. Second, the time course of foveal enhancement appeared to show an oscillatory pattern that was particularly pronounced at higher target opacities. Interestingly, the temporal frequency of these oscillations corresponded to the frequency range typically associated with neural feedback signaling. Third, unlike the difference in Hit Rates, the difference in False Alarm Rates did not vary with opacity. Instead, reverse correlations suggest that at higher target opacities, False Alarms were increasingly triggered by signal, that is, by incidental orientation information in the foveal noise. Beyond providing new mechanistic insights into active foveal processing, these findings are relevant for researchers planning to adapt our paradigm to study related questions. Presenting the saccade target at a high signal-to-noise ratio appears beneficial as congruency effects, especially when time-resolved, are most robustly detectable.
Sperm fertility in mice with oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia restored by in vivo injection and electroporation of naked mRNA
Authors: Vilpreux Charline , Martinez Guillaume , Fourquin Paul , Court Magali , Appaix Florence , Duteyrat Jean-Luc , Henry Maxime , Vollaire Julien , Ayad Camille , Yavuz Altan , De Macedo Lisa , Chevalier Geneviève , Llano Edgar Del , Lambert Emeline , Conte Sekou Ahmed , Wehbe Zeina , Giordani Elsa , Josserand Véronique , Brocard Jacques , Charles Coutton , Verrier Bernard , Ray Pierre F , Loeuillet Corinne , Arnoult Christophe , Escoffier Jessica
Published: February 2025

Oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (OAT), a recurent cause of male infertility, is the most frequent disorder of spermatogenesis with a probable genetic cause. Patients and mice bearing mutations in the
ARMC2
gene have a decreased sperm concentration, and individual sperm show multiple morphological defects and a lack of motility – a canonical OAT phenotype. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is required to treat such a condition but it is associated with a small increase in birth defects in comparison to pregnancies not involving assisted conception . Consequently, new targeted treatments are needed to restore fertility. Here, a combination of
in vivo
injection and electroporation of capped and poly-A-tailed naked mRNA is tested as a strategy to treat
ARMC2
-related infertility in mouse. mRNAs coding for several reporter genes are tested and the efficiency and the kinetic of expression are assessed using
in vivo
and
in vitro
2D and 3D imaging experiments. We show that mRNA-coded reporter proteins are detected for up to 3 weeks in germ cells, making the use of mRNA possible to treat infertility. We compare these results with those obtained with a non-integrative plasmid Enhanced Episomal Vector (EEV), which induces low and transient expression in spermatogenic cells. Consequently, injection and electroporation of naked mRNA-
Armc2
into the testes of
Armc2
-deficient males were performed and we show the presence of normal and motile sperm in the epididymis. These motile sperm were able to produce embryos by IVF and ICSI. This study shows for the first time that mRNA-
Armc2
efficiently restores fertility and opens new paths for male infertility treatment.
A-to-I RNA editing of CYP18A1 mediates transgenerational wing dimorphism in aphids
Authors: Zhu Bin , Wei Rui , Hua Wenjuan , Li Lu , Zhang Wenlin , Liang Pei
Published: February 2025

Wing dimorphism is a common phenomenon that plays key roles in the environmental adaptation of aphid; however, the signal transduction in response to environmental cues and the regulation mechanism related to this event remain unknown. Adenosine (A) to inosine (I) RNA editing is a posttranscriptional modification that extends transcriptome variety without altering the genome, playing essential roles in numerous biological and physiological processes. Here, we present a chromosome-level genome assembly of the rose-grain aphid
Metopolophium dirhodum
by using PacBio long HiFi reads and Hi-C technology. The final genome assembly for
M. dirhodum
is 447.8 Mb, with 98.50% of the assembled sequences anchored to nine chromosomes. The contig and scaffold N50 values are 7.82 and 37.54 Mb, respectively. A total of 18,003 protein-coding genes were predicted, of which 92.05% were functionally annotated. In addition, 11678 A-to-I RNA-editing sites were systematically identified based on this assembled
M. dirhodum
genome, and two synonymous A-to-I RNA editing sites on
CYP18A1
were closely associated with transgenerational wing dimorphism induced by crowding. One of these A-to-I RNA editing sites may prevent the binding of miR-3036-5p to
CYP18A1
, thus elevating CYP18A1 expression, decreasing 20E titer, and finally regulating the wing dimorphism of offspring. Meanwhile, crowding can also inhibit miR-3036-5p expression and further increase CYP18A1 abundance, resulting in winged offspring. These findings support that A-to-I RNA editing is a dynamic mechanism in the regulation of transgenerational wing dimorphism in aphids and would advance our understanding of the roles of RNA editing in environmental adaptability and phenotypic plasticity.
Comparing Minor Connector Castability of Printed Cast Partial Dentures to Conventional Cast Partial Dentures: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Budati Meghna , Venugopalan Suresh
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Partial denture prostheses are used to restore missing teeth and oral function, with minor connectors playing a crucial role in the denture framework. Traditionally, Cast Partial Dentures (CPD) are made using wax patterns and metal casting; however, this process can sometimes result in issues such as porosity or distortion. Advances in digital dentistry have introduced 3D printing, which offers a new method for creating denture frameworks with greater precision. However, the impact of 3D printing on the castability of minor connectors compared to conventional methods remains underexplored.

Aim: To compare the minor connector castability of manually CPDs to Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) printed partial dentures. Key objectives include assessing the minor connector castability between the two groups, manual and DMLS, before and after wax-up and casting.

Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics at Saveetha Dental College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India from July 2023 to December 2023. A total of 10 samples were included and divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of five samples of manually CPDs, while group 2 included five samples of DMLS printed partial dentures. A standardised casting procedure was followed for both the manually cast and DMLS printed partial dentures to evaluate their minor connector castability. The two groups were compared for wax-up and casting. To assess castability, the number of lattice framework holes in each connector was counted after waxup and fabrication. Statistical analysis was performed using a statistical software program Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test, a non parametric test, was used, with statistical significance set at p<0.05.

Results: Comparisons between the groups revealed a statistically significant difference in the medians of manual waxup (p=0.25) and casting compared to DMLS (p=0.317) design and printing. The DMLS group demonstrated superior accuracy compared to manual casting.

Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that the Removable Partial Denture (RPD) frameworks designed and produced by DMLS exhibit better castability compared to manual wax-up and casting.
Effect of Intercropping on Growth and Yield of (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), Mesta (Roselle) in India
Authors: Rani Y. Sandhya , Sreelatha T. , Rao M. Srinivasa , Swathi B. , Babu G. Chitti , Mitra S.
Published: February 2025

Mesta, scientifically called as Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle) is an herbaceous annual plant and lignocellulosic fibre crop is more adaptive under diverse conditions of climate, soil and also resistant to drought. The area under mesta crop is gradually decreasing from the past ten years due to fluctuating price structure, erratic rainfall and introducing crops like maize. Intercropping is one of the most feasible practices under crop diversification and has been a prominent feature for crop production in small holdings in developing countries. Intercropping is promoted among the farmers not only for enhancing farm productivity per unit land but also ensure security against potential risk of monoculture. This can indeed stabilize the diversified needs of the farming households whose production is greatly influenced by vagaries of nature. Considering the importance and possibilities to save the scarce inputs like nutrients, water etc. without reducing the yield and better utilization of land, an investigation was done for three years consecutively at Agricultural Research Station, Amadalavalasa from 2021-2023 during the kharif season to study the feasibility of growing suitable intercrops with mesta on sandy loam soils. The experiment was laid in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments to study the sustainability and profitability of mesta based intercropping system. The data revealed that the mesta + groundnut (3:4) intercropping (33.14 q/ha) recorded the highest mesta fibre equivalent yield followed by mesta + blackgram (3:4). Among the treatments, highest gross returns (Rs. 71134 Rs/ha) was recorded with mesta + groundnut (3:4) treatment with a B:C ratio of 2.59, while the lowest was recorded with mesta + rice (3:4) intercropping system. Hence, keeping in view of the yield and B:C ratio, intercropping system of mesta + groundnut (3:4) followed by mesta + blackgram (3:4) can be suggested as the best alternative cropping pattern to the farmers instead of cultivating a sole mesta crop.
Impact of Firm Characteristics on Social and Environmental Accounting Disclosure Quality: A Study of Listed Non-service Companies in Nigeria
Authors: Chinda Bamenda Philip , Joseph Benedict Hirki
Published: February 2025

This study examined the impact of firm characteristics—specifically firm age, size, leverage, and performance on social and environmental accounting disclosure quality among listed non-service companies in Nigeria. Social and environmental disclosures have gained prominence due to their role in enhancing transparency, accountability, and alignment with global sustainability standards, including the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite the increasing relevance of social and environmental accounting disclosure quality, Nigerian non-service companies often face challenges such as inconsistent regulatory enforcement and economic pressures, leading to variations in disclosure quality. Using a correlational research design, this study analysed data from a sample of 47 out of 74 non-service companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group from 2018 to 2022, employing generalised least squares regression techniques. The findings revealed that firm age, size, and performance positively and significantly influenced social and environmental accounting disclosure quality at significance levels of 0.00, 0.00, and 0.00, respectively, while firm leverage showed no substantial impact. This research underscores the critical role of firm characteristics in shaping social and environmental accounting disclosure quality and offers recommendations for policymakers, regulators, and management to enhance sustainability practices in Nigeria. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into social and environmental accounting disclosure quality within the context of a developing economy. It encourages improved corporate governance and sustainable business practices aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Comparative Analysis of AI-powered Outbound Dialer Campaigns vs. Legacy Outbound Dialer Campaigns (Contact Center)
Authors: Arcot Siva Venkatesh
Published: February 2025

Aim: Scope of this work aims to explore the effectiveness of AI-powered outbound dialer campaigns with legacy outbound dialer campaigns by evaluating their technological capabilities, operational efficiencies, compliance features, customer experience impact, cost-effectiveness, and scalability.
Study Design: This is a comparative analysis study evaluating two types of outbound dialer systems used in customer engagement campaigns.
Place and Duration of Study: This study is based on a review of industry practices and integration strategies in contact centers across various organizations, focusing on solutions implemented between 2018 and 2024.
Methodology: This study employed a comparative analysis methodology to evaluate AI-powered and legacy outbound dialer campaigns. The research was conducted through secondary data collection from industry reports, case studies, and real-world deployment insights over a study period spanning 2018 to 2024. Key performance metrics assessed included call connection rates, compliance adherence, personalization capabilities, operational costs, and scalability. Data was synthesized using a structured comparative framework to highlight technological, operational, and customer experience differences. Qualitative evaluations of agent productivity and customer satisfaction were also incorporated to provide a holistic analysis.
Results: AI-powered outbound dialers demonstrated superior efficiency with call connection rates increasing by up to 30% compared to legacy systems. Automated regulatory monitoring strengthened compliance adherence, cutting violation risks by 40%. Personalization capabilities drove a 25% increase in customer satisfaction scores, while automation initiatives reduced operational costs by 20%. In contrast, legacy dialers faced higher abandonment rates and lacked real-time adaptability. Scalability and omnichannel integration were also more seamless in AI-powered systems, supporting modern customer engagement strategies.
Conclusion: AI-powered outbound dialers outperform legacy systems in nearly all critical aspects, including efficiency, compliance, personalization, and cost-effectiveness. They provide a scalable, adaptive solution for businesses aiming to optimize customer engagement. While legacy systems may still be viable in smaller or less dynamic operations, AI-driven technologies are emerging as the preferred choice for future-proof outbound campaigns. Further adoption of AI-powered systems will continue to redefine industry standards.
Antimicrobial Activity of Copper and Copper Alloys against Bacteria Pathogens in Processed Canned Fish
Authors: S. A. Ayoola, , M. O. Durowoju, , V.F. Abioye,
Published: February 2025

This research investigated the effects of copper and its alloys on bacterial pathogens in processed canned fish. The research was carried out between January 2024 and August, 2024. Five (5) samples each of canned Fish were obtained from a supermarket in Ogbomoso, Nigeria, and cultured for 24 hours by using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), MCconkey Agar (MCA) and Nutrient Agar (NA). The isolates culture was conducted by serial dilution and the bacteria isolates were biochemically characterized for identification. Five hollow cylinders were cast from copper and its alloys at varying compositions of: 100% Cu (A), 90% Cu: 10% Zn (B), 80% Cu: 20% Zn (C), 70% Cu: 30% Zn (D) and 60% Cu: 40% Zn (E). The cultured samples were put in each of the cylinders and the microbial load were recorded for 6 hrs at 2 hrs interval. Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersed Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) was used to capture surface structures of Copper and its alloys with bacteria. Biochemical characterization of bacteria isolates from canned fish showed the presence of Salmonella Aureus, Vibrio Species, Staphylococcus Species and Listeria Species. The microbial colony reduction for fish at 0 hr, 2 hrs, 4 hrs, and 6 hrs for A, B, C, D and E were 150,100, 50 and 0; 150,120, 70 and 10; 150, 130, 76 and 12; 150, 138, 78 and 18; and 150, 142, 86 and 20, respectively. The statistical analysis revealed significant variations in microbial growth inhibition, which were influenced by both the composition of the Cu-Zn mixture and the duration of exposure. For instance, at 100% Cu and 0% Zn, the colony count did not show a statistically significant reduction over time (F = 4.97, P = 0.067). Copper and its alloys have been confirmed to be good antimicrobial agent in controlling the growth of bacteria. Therefore, they can be used as canning in food industries to control microbial growth and prolong shelf life. Characterization results on culture sample on fish, deadly microorganisms like Staphylococcus aureus, is susceptible to grow if canning is defective.
Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Crop Yield and Soil Fertility: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Prashar Divyanshu , Singh Adesh , Dhama Vivek , Singh Praveen Kumar , Kumar Mukesh , Kumar Suneel , Pandey Deepa , Verma Gaurav
Published: February 2025

Adopting sustainable nutrient management solutions becomes essential as the farming sector faces issues such soil degradation, climate change, and growing global food demands. Insights from field research and recent developments in fertilizer application techniques are used to inform sustainable farming approaches that strike a balance between environmental preservation and productivity. Sustainable agriculture is critical for meeting the growing global demand for food while minimizing the environmental impact of farming practices. Among the factors influencing agricultural productivity, soil fertility plays a pivotal role. The use of fertilizers, both organic and inorganic, has long been a cornerstone of strategies aimed at improving soil fertility and crop yield. Organic fertilizers, such as farm yard manure, compost and green manure, are rich in organic matter and enhance soil structure, microbial activity, and nutrient availability. This investigation highlights the complimentary functions that organic and inorganic fertilizers play in integrated systems by examining their effects on crop productivity and soil fertility.
Financial Management Accountability of Subak Local Institutions in A Balanced Values of Hinduism and Multi-Strategic Role
Authors: Purnamawati I Gusti Ayu , Rahayu Sri
Published: February 2025

This research aims to reveal local Subak institutions' financial management accountability in a balanced and multi-strategic role. This research was conducted using qualitative methods to understand the phenomena experienced by research subjects. Data was collected from primary sources, namely data obtained directly from informants and secondary sources. This research was conducted at Subak Kali Kembar, Jembrana Regency, Bali. Interviews were conducted with Kelihan and Subak members. The results of this research show that the source of funds for Kali Kembar subak in carrying out operational activities is obtained from subak krama (contributions) and aid funds from the government; Subak's financial management process through internal and external funds, financial management accountability is carried out; The difference in financial management lies in the form of the accountability report; To establish accountability in the financial management provided, all Kramas uphold the concepts and values of Hinduism and foster mutual trust between Subak Kramas. Prajuru's understanding of bookkeeping still needs to be improved. Therefore, Subak administrators always try to present good accountability, even though they do not refer to accounting standards. The financial management of the Subak organization does not overlap between krama and Subak administrators and the use of finances in the form of Subak financial cash reports should be presented openly at meetings.
Comparative Analysis of Multimodal Large Language Model Performance on Clinical Vignette Questions
Authors: Han Tianyu , Adams Lisa C. , Bressem Keno K. , Busch Felix , Nebelung Sven , Truhn Daniel
Published: March 2024

This study compares 2 large language models and their performance vs that of competing open-source models.
Text vs Patient Portal Messaging to Improve Influenza Vaccination Coverage
Authors: Szilagyi Peter G. , Duru O. Kenrik , Casillas Alejandra , Ong Michael K. , Vangala Sitaram , Tseng Chi-Hong , Albertin Christina , Humiston Sharon G. , Clark Emma , Ross Mindy K. , Evans Sharon A. , Sloyan Michael , Fox Craig R. , Lerner Carlos
Published: March 2024

Importance

Increasing influenza vaccination rates is a public health priority. One method recommended by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and others is for health systems to send reminders nudging patients to be vaccinated.

Objective

To evaluate and compare the effect of electronic health record (EHR)–based patient portal reminders vs text message reminders on influenza vaccination rates across a health system.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This 3-arm randomized clinical trial was conducted from September 7, 2022, to April 30, 2023, among primary care patients within the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) health system.

Interventions

Arm 1 received standard of care. The health system sent monthly reminder messages to patients due for an influenza vaccine by portal (arm 2) or text (arm 3). Arm 2 had a 2 × 2 nested design, with fixed vs responsive monthly reminders and preappointment vs no preappointment reminders. Arm 3 had 1 × 2 design, with preappointment vs no preappointment reminders. Preappointment reminders for eligible patients were sent 24 and 48 hours before scheduled primary care visits. Fixed reminders (in October, November, and December) involved identical messages via portal or text. Responsive portal reminders involved a September message asking patients about their plans for vaccination, with a follow-up reminder if the response was affirmative but the patient was not yet vaccinated.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was influenza vaccination by April 30, 2023, obtained from the UCLA EHR, including vaccination from pharmacies and other sources.

Results

A total of 262 085 patients (mean [SD] age, 45.1 [20.7] years; 237 404 [90.6%] adults; 24 681 [9.4%] children; 149 349 [57.0%] women) in 79 primary care practices were included (87 257 in arm 1, 87 478 in arm 2, and 87 350 in arm 3). At the entire primary care population level, none of the interventions improved influenza vaccination rates. All groups had rates of approximately 47%. There was no statistical or clinically significant improvement following portal vs text, preappointment reminders vs no preappointment reminders (portal and text reminders combined), or responsive vs fixed monthly portal reminders.

Conclusions and Relevance

At the population level, neither portal nor text reminders for influenza vaccination were effective. Given that vaccine hesitancy may be a major reason for the lack of impact of portal or text reminders, more intensive interventions by health systems are needed to raise influenza vaccination coverage levels.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05525494
Serologic Response to the Epstein-Barr Virus Peptidome and the Risk for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Cortese Marianna , Leng Yumei , Bjornevik Kjetil , Mitchell Moriah , Healy Brian C. , Mina Michael J. , Mancuso James D. , Niebuhr David W. , Munger Kassandra L. , Elledge Stephen J. , Ascherio Alberto
Published: March 2024

Importance

It remains unclear why only a small proportion of individuals infected with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) develop multiple sclerosis (MS) and what the underlying mechanisms are.

Objective

To assess the serologic response to all EBV peptides before the first symptoms of MS occur, determine whether the disease is associated with a distinct immune response to EBV, and evaluate whether specific EBV epitopes drive this response.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this prospective, nested case-control study, individuals were selected among US military personnel with serum samples stored in the US Department of Defense Serum Repository. Individuals with MS had serum collected at a median 1 year before onset (reported to the military in 2000-2011) and were matched to controls for age, sex, race and ethnicity, blood collection, and military branch. No individuals were excluded. The data were analyzed between September 1, 2022, and August 31, 2023.

Exposure

Antibodies (enrichment z scores) to the human virome measured using VirScan (phage-displayed immunoprecipitation and sequencing).

Main Outcome and Measure

Rate ratios (RRs) for MS for antibodies to 2263 EBV peptides (the EBV peptidome) were estimated using conditional logistic regression, adjusting for total anti–EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA-1) antibodies, which have consistently been associated with a higher MS risk. The role of antibodies against other viral peptides was also explored.

Results

A total of 30 individuals with MS were matched with 30 controls. Mean (SD) age at sample collection was 27.8 (6.5) years; 46 of 60 participants (76.7%) were male. The antibody response to the EBV peptidome was stronger in individuals with MS, but without a discernible pattern. The antibody responses to 66 EBV peptides, the majority mapping to EBNA antigens, were significantly higher in preonset sera from individuals with MS (RR of highest vs lowest tertile of antibody enrichment, 33.4; 95% CI, 2.5-448.4; P for trend = .008). Higher total anti-EBNA-1 antibodies were also associated with an elevated MS risk (top vs bottom tertile: RR, 27.6; 95% CI, 2.3-327.6; P for trend = .008). After adjusting for total anti-EBNA-1 antibodies, risk estimates from most EBV peptides analyses were attenuated, with 4 remaining significantly associated with MS, the strongest within EBNA-6/EBNA-3C, while the association between total anti-EBNA-1 antibodies and MS persisted.

Conclusion and Relevance

These findings suggest that antibody response to EBNA-1 may be the strongest serologic risk factor for MS. No single EBV peptide stood out as being selectively targeted in individuals with MS but not controls. Larger investigations are needed to explore possible heterogeneity of anti-EBV humoral immunity in MS.
Visualizing Hyperhidrosis With Water-Erasable Ink
Authors: Li Cathy Meng Fei , McShane Matthew , Fraser John Alexander
Published: March 2024

This case report describes the use of water-erasable ink to visualize hyperhidrosis in Frey syndrome.