The Comet assay is finding increasing application as a biomarker assay for the genotoxic potential of contaminants in field transplantation experiments involving mussels. Especially in estuaries, habitats that are of particular concern, environmental variables, such as salinity, can vary significantly. Although hinted at in the literature, there is a lack of clarification as to whether changes in salinity or emersion-induced hypoxia have the potential to alter background DNA damage in mussels, thus masking the extent of potential genotoxic effects following exposure to environmental contaminants. The present study exposed Mytilus edulis in the laboratory to static salinities (25, 50, 75, and 100 %) for 72 h. Mussels were also subjected to simulated tidal cycles, including periods of emersion, for 72 h. None of these treatments resulted in a significant change in the level of DNA damage expressed as % tail DNA. These experiments demonstrate that salinity, within the limits of the concentrations tested, and temporary emersion are not confounding factors for Comet assay data derived from M. edulis.

This paper presents the results of a cluster-randomized controlled trial of a digital extension program in cashewgrowing communities in Andhra Pradesh, India, which provided agricultural information using a combination of in-person video, SMS, and interactive voice recording messages. The study finds that the use of mobile channels significantly improved farmers' recall, knowledge, and adoption of new techniques relative to farmers who only received videos. We do not find positive effects on farmer production or yield. We conclude that in our context, mobile-based services are a promising supplement that can improve farmer outcomes and boost the reach and inclusivity of agriculture extension.

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Verrucous epidermal nevus is the most common form of epidermal nevi with usual onset at birth or early life. Adult onset is rare, and we report a case of verrucous epidermal nevi with onset in the fourth decade, dermatoscopy and histopathology of which were consistent with verrucous epidermal nevi.