bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on hypoxia and the extracellular matrix in cancer: A visualization analysis
Authors: Jiang Xin , Ou Lilan , Fan Xue , Yang Jiaxin , Zhang Chun , Liu Qiuyu
Published: February 2025

Hypoxia and the extracellular matrix (ECM) are critical drivers of metastasis. To comprehensively analyze the development of hypoxia and ECM in cancer and identify potential collaborative relationships, this study employs bibliometric methods to analyze and predict emerging hotspots and potential research directions. This study collected relevant research literature (published in English; 2007 – 2024) from the Web of Science Core Collection using bibliometrics. The research status, hotspots, frontiers, and trends in the field of “hypoxia and ECM and cancer” were analyzed using the R package (bibliometrix). CiteSpace and VOSviewer were employed for visualizing the analysis of authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and co-cited references. A total of 2199 authors from 39 countries contributed to 351 articles published in 201 journals in the research domain. From 2007 to 2024, there was an overall increasing trend, with an average annual growth rate of 13.54%. Developed countries, especially the United States of America (USA) made major contributions, while China, despite its high publication volume, lagged in quality compared to the USA. Notably, Johns Hopkins University demonstrated strong international collaboration. Cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF), tumor microenvironment, and cancer metabolism are current major research areas, with future directions in clinical therapy. The analysis of hypoxia and ECM in cancer using bibliometrics reveals a rapid development from 2007 to 2016. International collaboration has intensified through partnerships with developed countries, resulting in more in-depth research contributions from some developing countries. These research efforts mainly focus on pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, glioblastoma multiforme, and breast cancer. CAF and glucose metabolic reprogramming associated with hypoxia and ECM in cancer have garnered widespread attention. Research in these areas, particularly the challenges of clinical therapy resistance in triple-negative breast cancer closely associated with ECM, is expected to be key focal points in the future.
Key drivers of volatility in BIST100 firms using machine learning segmentation
Authors: Hüseyin Yildirim Hasan , Akusta Ahmet
Published: February 2025

This study conducts a comprehensive volatility analysis among firms listed on the BIST100 index using machine learning techniques and panel regression models. Focusing on the period from 2006 to 2023, the study excludes financial firms, resulting in a dataset of 46 companies. The methodology follows a two-step process: First, firms are clustered into low and high-volatility groups using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the K-means algorithm; second, panel regression models are applied to determine the financial ratios influencing stock price volatility. The Parkinson Volatility measure is used as the dependent variable, while independent variables include Return on Assets (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE), liquidity ratios, firm beta, and leverage ratios. Results indicate that firm beta has a statistically significant positive impact on volatility across all models, while the current ratio negatively affects volatility in the model 1. These findings provide valuable insights for investors and policymakers regarding risk management in the Turkish stock market. Applying machine learning and advanced econometric techniques adds to the literature on volatility forecasting and financial decision-making.
Severe Vitamin D deficiency as a potential contributor to cherry angiomas: A case study and novel hypothesis
Authors: Akl Maher Monir , Ahmed Amr
Published: February 2025

Cherry angiomas are common benign vascular lesions with a poorly understood underlying pathogenesis. While factors such as aging, hormonal changes, and oxidative stress have been implicated, this case introduces a novel hypothesis linking severe Vitamin D deficiency to the development of cherry angiomas. We report the case of a 27-year-old Arab female with no medical, genetic, or familial predisposition to cherry angiomas. The patient presented with multiple asymptomatic, erythematous, dome-shaped lesions localized to the breast and neck regions. Comprehensive laboratory evaluations were unremarkable except for severe Vitamin D deficiency, with a serum level of 3 ng/mL (normal: 30 – 100 ng/mL). Vitamin D deficiency is known to disrupt endothelial function, increase oxidative stress, and upregulate pro-angiogenic mediators such as vascular endothelial growth factor. These molecular disturbances may promote capillary proliferation and vascular instability, providing a plausible mechanism for the sudden onset of cherry angiomas in this patient. This case highlights the importance of Vitamin D in vascular health and proposes a potential link between its deficiency and the pathogenesis of cherry angiomas. Further research is warranted to explore this relationship and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, which may offer new insights into the prevention and management of cherry angiomas in patients with Vitamin D deficiency.
Top-down rural heritage revitalization and economic development: A case study of Tangwei village, Dongguan, Guangdong, China
Authors: Law Lok-yin , Chen Huiwei , Liu Shuwen , Cheung Ming-hin
Published: February 2025

Tangwei village, located in Dongguan’s rapidly urbanizing Pearl River Delta region, Guangdong, illustrates the challenges and opportunities of balancing heritage preservation with rural revitalization in contemporary China. Designated as a major cultural heritage site in 2006, the village’s preservation strategies reflect the interplay between provincial policies, local government planning, and a broader national emphasis on tourism-driven economic development. This research examines how government-led rural heritage revitalization initiatives shape cultural preservation in Tangwei village. By analyzing this historic village – designated as a Major Cultural Heritage Site under National-level Protection in 2006 – the study reveals how local authorities strategically leverage cultural symbols and heritage practices to promote tourism development, often in ways disconnected from authentic community traditions. The findings demonstrate that while heritage tourism initiatives aim to enhance the village’s visibility and economic group, their top-down implementation primarily serves government economic objectives rather than addressing community preservation needs. Drawing on fieldwork, visual documentation, oral histories, and textual analysis, the study illuminates the complex dynamics between local governance, tourism development imperatives, and rural heritage preservation in contemporary China. It underscores how traditional cultural practices are increasingly commodified and detached from local communities through standardized festivals and artistic interventions. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how state-driven rural revitalization policies reshape heritage landscapes and alter community relationships with traditional spaces in rapidly urbanizing regions.
The role of personal and collective factors in driving residents’ willingness to engage in tourism at cultural heritage sites: A case study of the Ming Tombs Scenic Area, Beijing, China
Authors: Dai Linlin , Fan Yujie
Published: February 2025

Cultural heritage sites, celebrated for their unique historical and cultural significance, are increasingly recognized as key drivers of tourism development. Local residents, as crucial stakeholders, play a pivotal role in the sustainable development and conservation of these sites through their emotional and behavioral engagement. This study delves into the multifaceted determinants – spanning individual and collective levels – that influence residents’ willingness to engage in cultural heritage tourism. Focusing on the Ming Tombs Scenic Area in Beijing, China, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this research draws on data from 202 meticulously collected and validated questionnaires completed by residents. By integrating the cognitive–emotional–behavioral framework with community embeddedness theory and employing structural equation modeling, this study identifies the pivotal factors driving residents’ willingness to engage in tourism development. The findings underscore the substantial influence of residents’ cognitive evaluations of heritage values on their emotional attachment to the locale, which, in turn, shapes their behavioral intentions toward tourism development. Furthermore, the research reveals that community embeddedness significantly impacts both residents’ perceptions of heritage value and their behavioral intentions. This research emphasizes the necessity of aligning residents’ personal sentiments with broader community dynamics to promote sustainable tourism development at cultural heritage sites. The insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and industry professionals in achieving a delicate balance between cultural heritage preservation, community welfare enhancement, and economic development within the heritage tourism sector.
Evaluating patient Treatment Processes in Medical Clinics: a Critical Analysis of Efficiency and Effectiveness
Authors:   Mohammed Rashed M Aldossari, Abdullah Thoab M Alotaibi, Fawaz Shujaa F Alharthi, Khalid Hussain S Alahmari, Talal Abdulmuin D Alotaibi, Majed Abdurhman A Alsulami, Khalid Abdulmohsen S Alanazi and Zaid Khalaf T Alshaamari
Published: February 2025

This article critically examines the efficiency and effectiveness of patient treatment processes in medical clinics, focusing on key factors that influence patient flow, service delivery, and overall quality of care. By identifying common inefficiencies, such as long wait times, administrative burdens, and workflow bottlenecks, the study highlights the impact of these challenges on patient experience and clinical outcomes. Additionally, it explores best practices and innovative solutions, including Lean methodologies, digital health technologies, and workflow automation, to optimize efficiency and improve treatment effectiveness. The findings provide insights into how clinics can enhance their operational performance, ensure better patient satisfaction, and achieve higher standards of care.
Life Cycle Assessment and Carbon Impact Assessment
Authors: Vade Akshay , Athalye Ashok , Mundkur Suman
Published: February 2025

The textile industry is actively investigating methods and technologies to enhance its environmental performance because of its substantial and well-known impact on greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. The internationally acknowledged Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) technique is a primary tool for calculating environmental consequences. Specifically for the computation of the impact of textile products in the apparel and footwear category, Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCRs) are developed. A growing number of companies are joining the sustainable movement as customers become more conscious of the effects that the items they use have on the environment. These companies must examine their supply chains and product designs and search for ways to reduce pollution and carbon emissions to lower their effect. This paper has reviewed Case studies on the Life Cycle Assessment of T-shirts, the most commonly used garment.
RENDERING THE BIBLICAL REFERENCES AS AN IMPORTANT TRANSLATION ASPECT: FOREIGN LANGUAGE PRACTICAL COURSE
Authors:   Samara State Technical University, Zhuravlev A.P.
Published: February 2025

The paper deals with the issue of rendering intertextual Biblical references in translation of literary works from English
into Russian. The paper analyzes the concept of intertextuality which is considered to be the integral feature of any literary text. The Biblical references in literary works of all kinds are seen as a particular case of intertextuality. Because the
translation of a literary text is a transition of the authors’ message not only into another language but also into a different
social and cultural environment, being Bible-literate is one of the essential requirements a translator must meet. Being
familiar with the Bible means that a translator is able to recognize a reference in the original literary text and render it
properly in the translation. Thus, both the author’s intention and the authentic flair are preserved.
Teaching translation through analysis of particular cases, as well as the results obtained and conclusions drawn can be
used to train future translators and form a number of their professional competencies in the fields of linguistics and
translation studies.
Atypical symptoms in the diagnosis of rectus sheath hematoma after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Authors: Berlanga Jiménez L , Gallego Vela A , Chivite Moreno A
Published: February 2025

El hematoma de la vaina de los músculos rectos (HVR), es una acumulación de sangre dentro de la capa de tejido que rodea los músculos rectos del abdomen. Es una causa poco común de dolor abdominal, constituyendo aproximadamente, el 2 % del total. Se relaciona frecuentemente con el uso de anticoagulación, con el traumatismo abdominal de alto impacto y actualmente, con las heridas ocasionadas por los trócares de laparoscopia. Su curso suele ser autolimitado y con síntomas que pueden hacer que pase desapercibido, pero puede llegar a ser mortal tras un shock hipovolémico.

Con el fin de ayudar en el diagnóstico de futuros casos, exponemos el nuestro en particular.
Fast growing infraclavicular tumor. Nodular fasciitis. Is your diagnosis usually suspected?
Authors: Rodríguez Sanz MB , González de Godos A , Estébanez Peláez G , Nieto Romero de Ávila GM , Bayo Juanas P , Rodríguez Jiménez J
Published: February 2025

La fascitis nodular es una neoplasia benigna de etiología desconocida en la mayoría de los casos, que se caracteriza por una proliferación miofibroblástica de la fascia muscular en los tejidos blandos, aunque puede afectar a la dermis y tejido celular subcutáneo. Es de rápido crecimiento y a menudo se confunden con procesos neoplásicos malignos. Afecta con más frecuencia a adultos jóvenes. Presentamos un caso clínico de una mujer de 74 años con antecedentes de leucemia linfoide crónica de células B con trasplante alogénico que consultó por tumoración en pared torácica, en tercio medio infraclavicular derecha de consistencia dura y rápido crecimiento, tras la realización de ecografía con informe de adenopatía patológica se decidió exéresis quirúrgica para diagnóstico anátomo patológico con resultado de fascitis nodular.
On the Development of Table Oriented Programming with o++o
Authors: Benecke Klaus
Published: February 2025

The paper describes the essential steps in the so-far development of o++o. It started with some papers on the Relational data model, SQL, and CONVERT. Further, it was based on my PhD on a powerful algebraic specification language. The objects of our data model o++o will be described in detail. The operations of the data model were designed step by step, often redesigned, when other operations were introduced or changed. This holds also for the objects. The essential redefinition of tabments was influenced by XML and XQuery. It is demonstrated that a lot of problems can be formulated very compactly. The next-recursion is not as powerful as general recursive functions, but this kind of recursion seems to be easier to understand because all intermediated steps are gathered in a table. The bill of the material problem is solved in a new way with o++o-numbers and a slightly changed recursive operation nextonr. o++o allows querying and visualizing not only fact- but also (structured) text data in combination. Further, an example in a few lines, which requires in EXCEL more than 6 working sheets is presented. Then a very simple to use operation cross is introduced. It allows to creation of structured pivot tables. Small companies often don’t like to use database systems, because of their high complexity in usage. Finally, an example is presented that a query on many files can be formulated also in a compact way.
Data Security Methods in Mobile Applications on React Native
Authors:   Technical Lead, Photon Infotech, Los Angeles California US, Israpil Ramazanov
Published: February 2025

The article examines methods for ensuring data protection in mobile applications developed using the React Native framework, widely employed for creating cross-platform solutions. The introduction highlights the importance of ensuring security amid the growing number of mobile device users and the increasing volume of personal data processed by applications. Developers are tasked with preventing data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information, which requires meticulous attention at all stages of development.

The objective of the study is to analyze data protection methods. The discussion focuses on encryption, user authentication, API security, and the use of secure storage for sensitive data. Particular attention is paid to the features of applications built with React Native and the vulnerabilities inherent to this framework. The study includes a review of existing protection methods and practical implementation of recommendations in real-world projects.

The findings indicate that a comprehensive approach is essential to ensure the security of mobile applications on React Native. Implementing biometric authentication, including fingerprint and facial recognition, as well as data encryption on both client and server sides, is mandatory. Protecting interactions to prevent attacks aimed at intercepting or modifying data is also of critical importance.

The information presented in the study will be valuable to developers, information security experts, and professionals in mobile technologies.
Pre- and Postoperative Urea Levels in Open Heart Surgery: Assessment as a Risk Factor for Predicting Mortality - A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Toprak Burak , Kanat Toprak Çise , Cihan Hasan
Published: February 2025

Background: Open-heart surgery, while essential for managing severe cardiovascular diseases, carries a high risk of postoperative complications, particularly acute kidney injury (AKI), associated with elevated urea levels. High urea reflects renal impairment and inflammatory stress, both of which impact patient survival, highlighting the need for reliable biomarkers to predict mortality and optimize perioperative care.
Aims: This study evaluated the predictive value of preoperative and postoperative urea levels in estimating mortality risk in open-heart surgery patients. Despite the established clinical importance of urea, its potential as a prognostic tool remains underutilized.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patient data, focusing on the relationship between urea levels and mortality outcomes in individuals who had undergone open-heart surgery. Multivariate analyses were performed to assess the independent impact of urea levels on mortality risk.
Results: Findings showed that each unit increase in postoperative urea was linked to a 5% increase in mortality risk, underscoring its value as a prognostic indicator. Higher preoperative urea levels also correlated with decreased survival, particularly among high-risk patients.
Conclusions: Both preoperative and postoperative urea levels are critical indicators of mortality risk following open-heart surgery. Routine monitoring of these biomarkers could improve postoperative outcomes, especially for high-risk groups. This study supports incorporating urea levels into standard perioperative assessments to enhance patient survival rates.
Mezclas asfálticas elaboradas con agregado calizo y adición de óxido de calcio probadas a temperaturas de servicio
Authors: Wenglas Lara Gilberto , Domínguez Mendoza Sergio Adrián , Burillo Montufar Juan Carlos , Castañeda Ávila José
Published: February 2025

La cal hidratada es un material ampliamente usado para mejorar las propiedades mecánicas de durabilidad de mezclas asfálticas. Por otra parte, el agregado pétreo es esencial en el comportamiento de la capa de rodamiento de un pavimento asfáltico por lo que debe dársele especial atención en el diseño, y considerar su origen mineralógico. Además, el empleo de adiciones de bajo costo para mejorar las propiedades de mezclas asfáltica es una actividad recurrente, sin embargo, el efecto depende del tipo del agregado. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo evaluar el efecto del tipo de agregado, calizo y no calizo, así como la adición de óxido de calcio, en muestras asfálticas estándares, evaluadas con el método Marshall y la prueba de compresión simple. Las mezclas elaboradas con material calizo y 2 % de cal presentaron mejores resultados de estabilidad, flujo y de resistencia a la compresión. Estos resultados pueden ser de beneficio para la elaboración de mezclas asfálticas donde hay abundancia y disponibilidad de material calizo.
Estudio y medición experimental del coeficiente de arrastre del casco de un dron submarino por medio de un túnel de viento
Authors: Rivera López Jesús Eduardo , Arciniega Martínez José Luis , Gutiérrez Paredes Guadalupe Juliana , Rodríguez Hibert César Francisco , Martínez Cabrera Cristian Ariel , Juárez Navarro Carlos Alfonso
Published: February 2025

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo realizar el estudio, diseño y caracterización del casco de un dron submarino por medio de la medición experimental en un túnel de viento. Para ello, se realizó el diseño de concepto, el cual se construyó por medio de la manufactura aditiva. Las corridas experimentales se realizaron para dos tipos de superficies, plana y cilíndrica en la cabeza del casco del dron. Utilizando el  se determinó las velocidades de la prueba en airede 8, 10, 12, 14 y 16 m/s, de las corridas experimentales se midió la fuerza de arrastre ; del ajuste de  se estimó que el error de sesgo es menor al 6 %, por lo que se puede decir que el error en las mediciones es aceptable y se puede realizar el escalamiento de los resultados. Los resultados del coeficiente de arrastre mostraron la reducción por crecimiento de capa límite  y de la comparación de las geometrías plana y cilíndrica en la cabeza del casco del dron mostraron que el  de la superficie cilíndrica es 33.14 y 10.71 % más grande en comparación del  de la superficie plana. Para validar de una mejor manera los resultados obtenidos, se compararon con otros diseños de geometrías de casco de drones submarinos, mostrando que las geometrías curvilíneas tienen un menor , aproximadamente de 63.33 %, por lo cual este diseño no presenta el mejor resultado en arrastre en comparación con estas superficies. En la comparación con drones que no tienen casco y son geometrías de sección rectangular frontal, se tiene un 97.48 % menor arrastre, por lo cual, se puede indicar que este diseño tiene un mejor rendimiento en comparación con estas geometrías. Finalmente, se puede concluir que la geometría propuesta en este estudio tiene la longitud necesaria para disminuir el arrastre por crecimiento de capa límite y en la cabeza se debe diseñar con una superficie plana para tener un rendimiento mejorado al de los drones que no tienen casco.
Estado de salud según el funcionamiento físico y cognitivo de las personas mayores con y sin condición post Covid-19
Authors: Ortiz Cabrera María Fernanda , Claros Vargas Daniela , Roldán González Elizabeth
Published: February 2025

Este estudio se centra en la condición post Covid-19, una nueva categoría médica que comenzó a partir de 2020 para caracterizar los efectos (especialmente físicos y cognitivos) a largo plazo de la enfermedad causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2. Esta condición se considera un problema de salud pública por las deficiencias y posible discapacidad que puede generar. La investigación es realizada en el marco del programa jóvenes investigadores e innovadores del departamento del Cauca (Colombia). Objetivo: Determinar la capacidad funcional y cognitiva relacionada con la salud de las personas mayores de Popayán - Cauca con y sin condición post Covid-19. Métodos: Estudio de enfoque cuantitativo, con alcance descriptivo. Resultados: Los resultados indican una predominancia de mujeres con 88,1%, las cuales se encuentran distribuidas en el grupo de adulto mayor o anciano joven. Aunque el 77% de los participantes informaron haberse contagiado del virus en algún momento, 62,8% (n=61) refirieron algún grado de afectación en las actividades de su vida diaria por síntomas como dolor, depresión o ansiedad experimentada directamente los efectos y secuelas de la infección por Covid-19. Conclusiones: Se destaca la importancia de considerar las experiencias de salud específicas dentro de la población. Además, los resultados proporcionan una base sólida para futuras investigaciones ya que sugiere la vulnerabilidad de esta población y la necesidad de implementar programas de intervención con enfoque físico-cognitivo en los grupos satélites, puede ser una estrategia efectiva para mejorar la salud y el bienestar en individuos que han experimentado Covid-19.
Chameleon Chaotic System-Based Audio Encryption Algorithm and FPGA Implementation
Authors: Shumran Alaa , A. Al-Hussein Abdul-Basset
Published: February 2025

Audio encryption has gained popularity in a variety of fields including education, banking over the phone, military, and private audio conferences. Data encryption algorithms are necessary for processing and sending sensitive information in the context of secure speech conversations. In recent years, the importance of security in any communications system has increased. To transfer data securely, a variety of methods have been used. Chaotic system-based encryption is one of the most significant encryption methods used in the field of security. Chaos-based communication is a promising application of chaos theory and nonlinear dynamics. In this research, a chaotic algorithm for the new chaotic chameleon system was proposed, studied, and implemented. The chameleon chaotic system has been preferred to be employed because it has the property of changing from self-excited (SA) to hidden-attractor (HA) which increases the complexity of the system dynamics and gives strength to the encryption algorithm. A chaotic chameleon system is one in which, depending on the parameter values, the chaotic attractor alternates between being a hidden attractor and a self-excited attractor. This is an important feature, so it is preferable to use it in cryptography compared to other types of chaotic systems. This model was first implemented using a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which is the first time it has been implemented in practical applications. The chameleon system model was implemented using MATLAB Simulink and the Xilinx System Generator model. Self-excited, hidden, and coexisting attractors are shown in the proposed system. Vivado software was used to validate the designs, and Xilinx ZedBoard Zynq-7000 FPGA was used to implement them. The dynamic behavior of the proposed chaotic system was also studied and analysis methods, including phase portrait, bifurcation diagrams, and Lyapunov exponents. Assessing the quality of the suggested method by doing analyses of many quality measures, including correlation, differential signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), entropy, histogram analysis, and spectral density plot. The numerical analyses and simulation results demonstrate how well the suggested method performs in terms of security against different types of cryptographic assaults.
Evaluation Of Educational Environment Based On Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure Inventory In Institute Of Nursing: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ghazal Lubna , Ayyaz Afia , Iqbal Naila , Rafique Saima , Shoukat Aniqa , Afzal Ayesha
Published: February 2025

Objective: To assess the educational environment at the Institute of Nursing using the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) inventory.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Institute of Nursing, Wah Medical College from July 2022 to June 2023. All students (n= 216) enrolled in Generic and post-RN programs of BScN of the Institute of Nursing, Wah Medical College were given a DREEM questionnaire. The inventory consists of 50 items. The mean and standard deviation of all the variables were calculated and presented as tables. For each of the five domains, scores were calculated as the cumulative total of individual responses for all of the items in that domain. Data was analysed by SPSS 23.
Results: The total DREEM score was found to be 138.08+18.77 out of a maximum of 200 corresponding to 67.48% of the maximum score (95% CI: 1.08-3.65). Students tend to have a more favourable perception of their educational environment rather than a negative one. The domain with the highest mean score was the Students’ Perception of atmosphere for which the mean score was 33.63 ±6.50. The lowest mean score was for the students’ self-perception of performance for which the mean score was 17.29 ± 2.98.
Conclusion: The present study revealed that all groups of nursing students perceived the learning environment highly positively. Nevertheless, the study also revealed areas of the learning environment which can be improved further.
Positive Leukocyte Esterase Dipstick Test: Association With Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis In Patients Suffering From Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Shahzadi Sumbul , Siddiqi Fuad Ahmad , Khan Imran , Siddiqi Kanaz Ahmad , Khan Javed Ahmad , Cheema Ayesha Ashraf
Published: February 2025

Objective: To assess the diagnosing utility of the leukocyte esterase dipstick test by determining the association of a positive leukocyte esterase dipstick test with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in patients suffering from liver cirrhosis.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Medicine, Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Rawalpindi from January 2023 to December 2023. This study included a total of 65 patients with liver cirrhosis with ascites that fulfilled the exclusion and inclusion criteria. 50 mL of ascitic fluid was drawn from every patient. Afterwards, a dipstick test strip (URS-10A strip) was carefully introduced into each sample. The colour that appeared on the dipstick after 2 minutes was observed and that colour was compared with the colour significance chart mentioned on the dipstick box. Meanwhile, 100ml of the same sample of ascitic fluid was sent to a laboratory for routine evaluation of leucocyte count for the confirmation of diagnosis for SBP. The test results of the two investigations were compared using a Chi-square test. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.
Results: A total of 65 individuals participated in our study. Out of the total, 39 (60.0%) were male with the mean age of 57.03±9.063, and 26 (40.0%) were females with the mean age of 55.54±8.453. A Chi-square was performed to assess the association between the dipstick test & ascitic fluid routine evaluation results. The Dipstick test was found to have 85.18% sensitivity and 92.11% specificity (p<0.0001).
Conclusions: In conclusion, it can be stated that although various studies have reported variations in the positive predictive values (PPV) and sensitivity value, the accurate calculation of negative predictive value (NPV) in the majority of studies affirms the beneficial use of leukocyte esterase test strips in healthcare settings for patients suffering from cirrhosis-related asities with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.
Thrombocytopenia Rates In Newborns Diagnosed With Gram-Negative Sepsis. Insights From NICU Experimental Based Study
Authors: Shahalam Sobia , Iqbal Madiha , Hassan Sara , Rizwan Shazia , Waseem Rizwan , Rehman Rabeya
Published: February 2025

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of thrombocytopenia observed in neonates admitted to the hospital with sepsis.
Methods: A total of 103 patients, including both males and females with ages below 28 days, who were admitted to the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) with gram-negative sepsis were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected from each patient for sepsis and platelet analysis on the 1st and 3rd day of patients’ admission and sent to the Ghurki Hospital laboratory for analysis. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet counts <150,000/mm3. Thrombocytopenia was classified as mild, moderate, and severe. The type of organism and mortality rate related to thrombocytopenia were also recorded.
Results: Of 103 neonates, 64 (62.13%) were males while 39 (37.86%) were females. 88 (85.43%) had thrombocytopenia (p <0.001) whereas 15 (14.56%) had normal platelet count. E. coli was found to be the most common organism responsible for gram-negative sepsis. On day one, 61 (59.22%) patients had normal platelet count whereas 12 (11.65%), 14 (13.59%), & 16 (15.53%) neonates had mild, moderate & severe thrombocytopenia respectively. In contrast, on the third day, 18 (17.47%) neonates had normal platelet count, 6 (5.82%) had mild, 33 (32.03%) had moderate, and 46 (44.66%) had severe thrombocytopenia. 12/103 (11.65%) patients died, out of which 11 (10.68%) had thrombocytopenia.
Conclusion: Thrombocytopenia is a significant marker of gram-negative sepsis in neonates.
Keywords: Neonate, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Thrombocytopenia, Sepsis.
Forward Chaining Method for Diagnosing Diseases and Pests in Melon Plants
Authors: Dapiokta Jum , Nurdiansyah Rizky , Muris Anggeraeni Agustin , Kuswanto Joko
Published: February 2025

There are many problems encountered in the field of agriculture, for example problems about diseases and pests in melon plants. Experts or experts in the field of agriculture rarely need to build a system that is able to adopt human processes and ways of thinking in the form of an expert system. The purpose of this study is to build an expert system to diagnose diseases and pests in melon plants using the forward chaining method. A reasoning that starts from facts first to test the correctness of a hypothesis. The system was tested using the black box testing method which was tested on experts and melon farmers. Based on the results of testing using the black box testing method tested on experts and farmers, the results of the assessment were obtained that the expert system for diagnosing diseases in melon plants was proven to run well as expected with 100% validation. The end result of this expert system is to make it easier for users to carry out the consultation process by providing a list of indication of diseases and pests experienced. Then the control of the type of disease and pest will be displayed according to the selected indication. In addition, this expert system also makes it easier for admins to update data such as disease data, indication and control. This expert system application program is also not only beneficial for experts but can also be useful for farmers that ordinary people who do not understand a little about melon plant diseases and pests.
Experimental Comparison of Encryption Algorithms On Smart Devices
Authors: Frugh Qurban Ali , Naseri Mohammad Fahim , Hakimi Musawer
Published: February 2025

Now, the technological environments rely on a large number of users and devices interconnected in such a way as to be able to share information and exchange resources. For such reasons, security becomes of prime importance inside these networks. Especially, encryption algorithms widely used in smart metering systems form the very backbone of ensuring security. It is unique according to every single parameter: the level of security achieved, speed, operational complexity, length, and type of key used. A comparison of performance and throughput for the most used encryption algorithms, such as AES-128, AES-192, RC4, Blowfish, and ECDSA, is presented here. Such devices, for instance, smart meters, usually represent very resource-constrained computational capability, memory, and data transfer. For these reasons, the experiments investigate performance impacts of using different encryption algorithms on a smart meter environment in a scaled setup. Experiments were run on a laptop device and then downscaled according to the limitation characteristics of the smart meter target device. As for the scaling, it has been performed concerning key factors: CPU of the smart meter, RAM, and cache memory. Execution times of the encryption and decryption processes were measured, as well as the throughput of messages for various file sizes. Quantitative key results obtained included: RC4 with a throughput of 25.37 Kbytes/sec, whereas AES-128 has 4.87 Kbytes/sec, while in ECDSA-256 the performance is much lower: its verification throughput amounts to 0.0023 Kbytes/sec. The results showed significant variations in performance, speed, and throughput between these algorithms. Even considering small smart devices, the encryption and decryption processes yielded efficient throughputs. These findings underscore the importance of choosing the right encryption algorithm for smart meters, balancing both security requirements and resource limitations to ensure optimal performance.
Perdida de virulencia del hongo B. bassiana cultivado sucesivamente en su sustrato de arroz
Authors:   Centro Nacional de Investigaciones de Caf�
Published: February 2025

La t�cnica desarrollada por CENICAFE para su producci�n en fincas cafeteras (Avance t�cnico 182) ha permitido que un buen n�mero de cafeteros adopten el sistema y est�n produciendo y asperjando el hongo Boveria con buenos resultados. Sin embargo, es importante que este hongo sea de la mejor calidad para conseguir una amplia mortalidad de la broca del caf�.
�C�mo identificar los puntos calientes en un cafetal con broca?
Authors:   Centro Nacional de Investigaciones de Caf�
Published: February 2025

En el momento de realizar la evaluaci�n de la infestaci�n en un cafetal, atacado por la broca /Hypothenemus hampei/, es posible conocer aquellos lugares del lote que presenten una mayor concentraci�n de la plaga. Lo anterior se consigue revisando la hoja de registro de datos que resulta al consignar los valores del n�mero de frutos brocados por cada rama tomada al azar, al recorrer el lote en zig zag. Una vez identificados los focos, se debe revisar en ellos lo referente a: Presencia de frutos maduros, sobremaduros y secos; eficacia de la cosecha anterior (n�mero de chapolas en el plato de los �rboles); pendiente del terreno; �rboles improductivos; estado del sombr�o; Humedad del suelo; estado sanitario de los lotes vecinos. En el caso del ejemplo, se puede notar que la parte del cafetal que bordea el camino, no queda bien cubierta en el recorrido, por tanto, en la pr�xima evaluaci�n de la infestaci�n, la cual se debe realizar como m�ximo tres semanas despu�s, se debe pasar evaluando por ese lugar. El ejemplo describe la situaci�n de un lote de 15.000 �rboles. Si se tienen lotes mayores es recomendable dividirlos para poder ejercer una mejor administraci�n.
Cosecha de lotes calientes
Authors:   Centro Nacional de Investigaciones de Caf�
Published: February 2025

Es aquel que tiene el mayor nivel de infestaci�n de broca en los registros de la finca. Para un buen manejo de la broca, todos los lotes que superen el 5% de infestaci�n deben clasificarse como lotes calientes, pero habr� unos m�s importantes que otros.
Produced by Sun, Wind or Water: Visions of Renewable Energy in the West German Electricity Industry’s Advertising During the 1980s
Authors: Rother Lisanne
Published: February 2025

‘Electricity from sun, wind, and water. How much is possible?’, asks an advertisement by the electricity industries’ public relations network Informationszentrale der Elektrizitätswirtschaft during the conflictual environmental protection and anti-nuclear power debates of the 1980s. As the slogan indicates, renewable energy and the transformation of energy systems became an image-relevant factor for the West German electricity industry. Therefore, this article focuses on the visual negotiation and the images publicly promoted by this specific interest group, represented by the Rheinisch-Westfälische Elektrizitätswerke (RWE) and the Informationszentrale der Elektrizitätswirtschaft (IZE). The article explores how and why they shaped specific visions about contemporary and future energy provision. Following visual history’s social constructivist approach, the paper argues that image advertisements by RWE and IZE performatively produced visions of renewable, sustainable energy.

This article was published open access under a CC BY licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0
.
Between History and Cultural Representations. A Different Reading of American Environmental History: An interview with Christof Mauch
Authors: Agosta Alessandro
Published: February 2025

This article was published open access under a CC BY licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0
.
Giacomo Bonan and Katia Occhi (eds),
Environment and Infrastructure. Challenges, Knowledge and Innovation from the Early Modern Period to the Present
Authors: De Pretto Sebastian
Published: February 2025

This article was published open access under a CC BY licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0
.
Wall Crossing and the Fourier-Mukai Transform for Grassmann Flops
Authors:   Brigham Young University, USA, Priddis Nathan , Shoemaker Mark ,   Colorado State University, USA, Wen Yaoxiong ,   Korea Institute for Advanced Study, South Korea
Published: February 2025

We prove the crepant transformation conjecture for relative Grassmann flops over a smooth base $B$. We show that the $I$-functions of the respective GIT quotients are related by analytic continuation and a symplectic transformation. We verify that the symplectic transformation is compatible with Iritani's integral structure, that is, that it is induced by a Fourier-Mukai transform in $K$-theory.
Solar Modulation of Low-energy Cosmic-Ray Nitrogen and Its Comparison with Oxygen
Authors: Li Yun , Zhang Xiaoping , Fu Shuai , Shen Zhenning , Xu Yi , Lu Haoyu , Cao Jinbin , Zhu Tianle
Published: February 2025

The heliospheric environment is very complex and filled with diverse high-energy particles from various origins, and among these particles, cosmic rays (CRs), including anomalous and Galactic components (ACRs and GCRs), are unique as they originate from beyond the solar system. Due to their stable and long-lasting presence in the heliosphere, the study of CRs is crucial for protecting humanity and other lifeforms against the hazards of high-energy radiation. In this work, we aim to study the prolonged changes in CR nitrogen, a fundamental element that constitutes amino acids, using the measurements from the Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) spacecraft. The comparison of solar modulation on CR nitrogen and oxygen is also made using the yearly averaged ACE observations. The ACR nitrogen has a more even spectrum than ACR oxygen while the spectrum of GCR nitrogen is more abrupt than GCR oxygen. Further model results indicate that GCR nitrogen and oxygen undergo comparable modulation processes within the heliosphere and the slight difference between the observed power-law indices of nitrogen and oxygen spectrum is due to the distinct local interstellar spectrum of the two species. Besides, an analysis is made to explain the observed more flattened ACR spectrum of nitrogen than oxygen caused by the slightly different charge-to-mass ratio Z/A.
First Detection of Radio Emission from the Intermediate-mass Black Hole in POX 52: Deep Multiband Observations with ATCA and VLA
Authors: Yuan Qi , Guo Hengxiao , Gu Minfeng , Stevens Jamie , Edwards Philip G. , Chen Yongjun , Zuo Wenwen , Sun Jingbo , Yang Jun , Lira Paulina , An Tao , Su Renzhi , Liu Yuanqi , Wang Yijun , Chang Ning , Jiang Pengfei , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2025

We present the first multiband centimeter detection of POX 52, a nearby dwarf galaxy believed to harbor a robust intermediate-mass black hole. We conducted the deep observations using the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA), spanning frequencies from 4.5 to 10 GHz, as well as the sensitive observations from the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) operating in its most extended A configuration at S band (2–4 GHz) and C band (4–8 GHz). In the ATCA observations, the source shows a compact morphology, with only one direction marginally resolved. The higher resolution of the VLA allowed us to slightly resolve the source, fitting it well with a two-dimensional Gaussian model. The detected radio emission confirms the presence of active galactic nucleus (AGN) activity, indicating either a low-power jet or AGN-driven winds/outflows. Our dual-epoch observations with ATCA and VLA, together with previous nondetection flux density upper limits, reveal radio emission variability spanning two decades. In addition, we find that POX 52 aligns well with the low-mass extension of the fundamental plane for high-accretion, radio-quiet massive AGNs.
A Population Analysis of 20 Exoplanets Observed from Optical to Near-infrared Wavelengths with the Hubble Space Telescope: Evidence for Widespread Stellar Contamination
Authors: Saba Arianna , Thompson Alexandra , Yip Kai Hou , Ma Sushuang , Tsiaras Angelos , Al-Refaie Ahmed Faris , Tinetti Giovanna
Published: February 2025

We present a population study of 20 exoplanets, ranging from Neptune-like to inflated hot-Jupiter planets, observed during transit with the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS) and Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) instruments on board the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). To obtain spectral information from the near-ultraviolet to the near-infrared, we reanalyzed 16 WFC3 and over 50 STIS archival data sets with our dedicated HST pipeline. We also include 24 WFC3 data sets previously reduced with the same software. Across our target sample, we observe significant divergence among multiple observations conducted with the same STIS grating at various epochs, while we do not detect variations in the WFC3 data sets. These results are suggestive of stellar contamination, which we have investigated further using known Bayesian tools and other tailored metrics, facilitating a more objective assessment of stellar activity intensity within each system. Our findings reveal that stellar activity contaminates up to half of the studied exoplanet atmospheres, albeit at varying extents. Accounting for stellar activity can significantly alter planetary atmospheric parameters like molecular abundances (up to 6 orders of magnitude) and temperature (up to 145%), contrasting with the results of analyses that neglect activity. Our results emphasize the importance of considering the effects of stellar contamination in exoplanet transit studies; this issue is particularly true for data sets obtained with facilities that do not cover the optical and/or UV spectral range where the activity is expected to be more impactful but also more easily detectable. Our results also provide a catalog of potentially active stars for further investigation and monitoring.