bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing Practical Tools and Scenarios for Entrepreneurial Exploration
Authors: V. Mohana Sundari
Published: October 2024

Entrepreneurship is a dynamic process driven by the exploration of opportunities and the creation of innovative solutions. This chapter uses a case study approach to examine the interplay between practical tools and entrepreneurial scenarios, aiming to understand their impact on entrepreneurial exploration. Drawing from a literature review, this study explores how entrepreneurs identify, evaluate, and exploit opportunities in various contexts. The methodology involves selecting case studies from different industries and venture stages. Through in-depth analysis, including interviews and document analysis, this research uncovers tools like market analysis techniques, lean startup methods, and networking strategies. It examines scenarios like market uncertainty, resource constraints, and regulatory challenges, and strategies to navigate these complexities. The study reveals the importance of adaptability, resilience, and creativity in responding to unforeseen scenarios and leveraging opportunities for innovation and growth.
Artificial Intelligence and Language Learning
Authors: Costa Ana Rita , Vasconcelos Sandra Vieira , Balula Ana
Published: October 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has shifted from an emerging trend to a mainstream topic in education, impacting various educational settings, including teacher training. This chapter emphasizes the need to equip teachers with competencies to integrate AI into their practices, particularly in foreign language teaching and learning. By compiling a comprehensive list of AI platforms and tools, the authors aim to support teachers by offering options that can be tailored to different learning designs and outcomes, moving away from “one size fits all” solutions. The chapter provides an annotated list of AI tools, highlighting their features, applications, benefits, and limitations. Referencing Mollick and Mollick's (2023) approaches to AI in education, it includes language chatbots, generative AI, machine translation, and personalized textbooks, showcasing practical examples and reflecting on recent trends. As a result, the chapter seeks to inform and inspire future initiatives in language learning and teaching, helping other practitioners to effectively incorporate AI into their practices.
Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Second Language Acquisition
Authors: Rodrigues Ines
Published: October 2024

As technology advances, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education is prompting a paradigm shift. This chapter explores AI's impact on English as a second language (ESL) acquisition, focusing on its role in developing listening, writing, reading, and speaking skills among students in Portugal. The study highlights the importance of considering students as active participants in shaping their learning environments and ensuring their perspectives influence educational practices. Data were gathered through an online questionnaire targeting secondary school students from public schools in Portugal. Although AI is still emerging in Portuguese schools, students generally view AI-powered tools positively for both English learning and daily tasks. Importantly, they do not see AI as compromising the teacher's role, recognizing the irreplaceable value of empathy and human connection. The study calls for further research into students' perceptions of AI in education.
Enhancing Special Education Using AI
Authors: Scott Lynn M. , Wilder Tahnee , Zaugg Tiffanie , Romualdo Annette
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and personalized learning, highlighting the potential to revolutionize accessibility and inclusivity in special education. Drawing from psychological and pedagogical research, the chapter delves into the nuanced impact of AI-driven tools' capacity to transform instruction, enrich educational experiences, and bolster access to various disciplines. Challenges, bias, and potential exclusionary barriers emerge, necessitating a critical examination of how AI's potential transformative impact reshapes the landscape of inclusion and accessibility in the educational sphere. By identifying emerging challenges and proposing pathways for advancement, the chapter underscores the importance of ensuring that AI technologies advance rather than hinder inclusive and accessible educational practices, with an ultimate aim to establish a more accessible learning environment tailored to the diverse needs of students with disabilities.
Exploring AI in Special Education With a Qualitative Study
Authors: Gallup Jennifer L. , Chambers Dianne , Perihan Celal , Crotteau Tiffany
Published: October 2024

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into special education teacher preparation programs represents a transformative approach to addressing the complex needs of diverse learners. By leveraging AI, teachers can enhance pedagogical competencies, foster inclusive classroom environments, and optimize instructional practices tailored to individual student needs. Furthermore, using AI in special education promotes innovation, efficiency, and effectiveness. This chapter presents initial findings from preservice special education teachers regarding their experiences learning to use AI technologies in the context of supporting students with disabilities through 1) effective lesson plan development, 2) implementation of evidence-based practices, and 3) identifying ways that AI can support their individual challenges.
Transactions to Relationship
Authors: Chakraborty Tanusree , Sharada V. S. , Sai Siram Dwaraka Datta
Published: October 2024

In today's fast-paced technological world, client engagement is crucial for successful corporate operations. As AI and automation improve procedures, traditional face-to-face communication channels are diminishing. Companies must prioritize consumer engagement to maintain sustainable relationships and capitalize on the internet as the primary communication channel. Chatbots are a significant technological advancement in this context. Our study identifies a gap in the literature, prompting an exploration of customer trust, perceptions of chatbots versus human support, challenges, ethical considerations, and chatbots' potential to foster emotional connections and enhance loyalty. This investigation provides novel perspectives and valuable insights into customer engagement with chatbots. The findings offer practical implications for businesses seeking to optimize chatbot usage, establish customer trust, and leverage emotional connections to cultivate increased loyalty, bridging gaps in the literature and shedding light on critical aspects of AI-driven customer interactions.
Customer Centricity Orientation in Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT)
Authors: Ho Ree Chan , Li Meiyi , Tran Minh Tung , Teo Teck Choon , Malan Irfah Najihah Binti Basir , Lin Woon Leong
Published: October 2024

This study aims to investigate the usage of Artificial Internet of Things (AIoT) for the food and beverage retailing industry, and the experiences of customers in satisfying their gratifications. A conceptual framework based on the uses and gratification theory was constructed and the data was analyzed with covariance-based structured equation modeling. Three gratification dimensions were identified, hedonic gratification encompassing hedonic value, utilitarian gratifications including convenience and information quality, and social gratification comprising familiarity and social influence. In addition, the study empirically supported the role of anthropomorphism as moderator under AIoT usage. This study offers a novel perspective on AIoT adoption with a customer-centric approach, highlighting the importance of AIoT in enhancing customer satisfaction and engagement throughout the purchasing process.
Can Digital Transformation Foster Customer Centricity in a Developing Country Under Western Economic Sanctions?
Authors: Mojdehy Maryam
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the effects of dynamic capabilities on digital transformation and interaction between digital transformation and perceived customer centricity in Iran. In recent years, Iranian users have not had the necessary access to foreign platforms in various fields. Therefore, one of the Iranian private banks has presented a unique plan of a comprehensive platform called Pod Smart Land which integrates a large number of different platforms in the fields such as banking and finance, education, energy, health, tourism, games and entertainment, logistics, and agriculture. By using this platform, users can meet their needs faster, easier, safer and at the lowest cost. Moreover, some products and services that provided in Pod Smart Land increase the number of users and improve perceived customer centricity and lead to make more profits for the organization.
Strategic Sustainability
Authors: Keswani Mamta
Published: October 2024

In a competitive business environment, companies face the challenge of sustaining products in declining markets. This article proposes an innovative inventory model tailored for perishable products in stochastic settings. The model integrates linear pricing, time dynamics, promotional efforts, and greening initiatives, with a focus on environmental sustainability and retailer profitability. It considers factors like demand rate dependence on greening efforts, partial backlogging, lost sales, and product deterioration. The objective is to calculate the profit function, incorporating cycle time, selling price, promotions, and greening efforts. An algorithm is introduced to find feasible solutions, and graphical analysis demonstrates the concavity of these solutions. A numerical example illustrates the model's application, with sensitivity analysis showing how inventory parameters affect decision variables.
The Stimulating Effect of E-Wallet on Impulse Purchase From the Perspective of Customers in Klang Valley
Authors: Toh Evelyn Bee Hwa , Kung Zhen Xiang
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, the number of transactions using e-wallets is rapidly increasing worldwide. Amongst the reason for this rapid growth is because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This in itself caused a change in consumer lifestyles. E-wallets have replaced the use of paper and plastic money. Approximately 29 million people in Malaysia own smart phones (devices) and this has increased the number of e-wallet apps downloaded by users. Amongst the popular e-wallet apps downloaded in Malaysia were Grab, TouchnGo, MAE, ApplePay, Boost and Setel. As we are now in the endemic stage, the growth e-wallet usage has been on the upward trend with many users having a choice of apps to choose from when making transactions. Retailers have responded to the e-wallet initiatives by going cashless or offering various payment platforms for users. This study examines e-wallets usage can induce impulsive purchasing. This research analyses the relationships between convenience, security, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and satisfaction of e-wallet usage as predictors of impulse buying behaviour.
The Role of Blockchain in Virtual Tourism Transactions
Authors: Abou Amer Adel , Maqsood Maida , Ali Aitizaz , Rusho Maher Ali , Imran Asma , Ahmad Munir
Published: October 2024

This chapter explored how blockchain technology can transform virtual tourism by ensuring secure, transparent transactions for VR/AR experiences, virtual museums, and interactive destinations. Blockchain enables verifiable ownership of digital souvenirs, customizable avatars, and virtual land, fostering vibrant in-world economies through secure virtual currencies and seamless in-experience purchases. Tourists can benefit from enhanced security, reduced transaction fees, and increased control over their virtual assets, while businesses can enjoy streamlined operations, lower costs, and new revenue streams. Despite challenges like scalability, user education, and regulatory uncertainty, advancements in blockchain and supportive policies can unlock the full potential of virtual tourism, creating immersive and trustworthy experiences for users
Innovative Systems
Authors: Bhambri Pankaj
Published: October 2024

The chapter delves into the transformative impact of the metaverse on entertainment and gaming. It begins by providing an overview of the metaverse, highlighting its significance and the revolutionary changes it brings to the entertainment and gaming industries. The chapter traces the evolution of gaming and entertainment systems from their traditional forms to the highly immersive digital experiences of today, emphasizing the rise of virtual and augmented reality technologies. Key concepts and components of the metaverse, including blockchain and NFTs, are explored to understand their role in shaping this new digital frontier. The integration of entertainment and gaming within the metaverse is examined through case studies of successful implementations and analysis of key industry players. The chapter discusses the technological foundations essential for developing and designing metaverse games and entertainment systems, such as VR, AR, AI, and cloud computing.
Sustainable Financing and Supply Chain Financial Risk Management
Authors: Mushtaq Naveed , Altaf Mohsin , Mustafa Muhammad Bilal
Published: October 2024

Sustainable financing has emerged as a novel approach to ensuring that supply chains have access to the funds they need promptly, even in the face of volatile economic situations. Sustainable, flexible, and environmentally friendly supply chains may be established with the use of financial tools like social bond frameworks, green bonds, and sustainability-linked credit platforms. We also go over the problems with sustainable finance, possible solutions, and upcoming projects and studies in this area. In conclusion, we emphasize the fundamental ideas that guide company-level management decisions, giving the company a rare chance to be a pioneer in sustainable development while preserving its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global market.
An Exploratory Study of the Complex Interplay Between Society and Finance
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Sohail , Fatima Taskeen
Published: October 2024

This study aims to evaluate the relationship between society and finance using Butler's theory of precarity. People are the workforce of society and they are divided into multiple institutions like family, education, religion, healthcare finance etc. The study addresses how these institutions especially that of finance work to empower society and vice versa. The study uses Butler's theory of precarity to highlight the elements that lead to social and financial precarity. Moreover, how precarity in one of the two factors i-e; finance and society leads to the same in the other. The study concludes that not only are the marginalized or differentiated groups precarious, but when financial or social precarity prevails, every single life becomes a victim.
AI for Large-Scale Communication Networks
Authors: Venket Krithikaa , Freeda Adline R. , Vijay Frank
Published: October 2024

There are techniques representing data mining, information theory and statistical analysis that can bring machine learning capabilities into the analyses of complex networks. The network analysis projects that can be performed by machine learning are the anomaly detection, prediction of problems and Root Cause Analysis for each. ML turned out to be a powerful tool for analysis and management of large scale networks such as social, communication or transportation network. At large-scale networks, machine learning supports in discovering sophisticated patterns, forecasting of net behaviors the performance optimization and anomaly detection. The roles involve using algorithms that learn from or make predictions/decisions based on network data. This may mean understanding network structure, predicted futures, optimization in the use of resources, anomaly detection, and performance improvement. Machine Learning for Network Analysis, or MLNA in short, is a subarea of machine learning interested in developing algorithms and techniques aimed at analysing, comprehending, and predicting complex behaviors in large-scale networks. MLNA brought together ideas from machine learning, graph theory, and network science to gain insights from network data. You can picture any network as a graph, with entities as nodes or vertices, and the connections or interactions between entities as edges or links. This study also looked at how to analyze network structure using ML, ML-based ways to spot unusual patterns in networks how to make ML network analysis work better and faster, and how to use ML network analysis to create visual representations and understand what they mean.
AI-Based Security Solutions for Protecting Communication Networks
Authors: Goel Pawan Kumar , Gupta Varun
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the field of artificial intelligence (AI) security solutions designed with communication network protection in mind. Traditional security solutions become insufficient as cybercriminals' threats change the digital landscape. The limitations of the present methodology are revealed through a detailed review of similar research and existing approaches, emphasizing the urgent need for novel strategies. The suggested methodology combines anomaly detection methods, predictive analysis, and machine learning algorithms to improve real-time threat identification, reduce risks, and adjust to evolving cyberthreats. The chapter's conclusions demonstrate how effective AI-driven security frameworks can be in raising overall network resilience, decreasing false positives, and increasing threat detection accuracy. This research highlights the vital role of AI in defending communication networks against evolving cyberthreats, paving the way for future developments in AI-based security.
Comparative Analysis of Traditional vs. AI-Driven Network Security
Authors: Choudhury Nobhonil Roy , Paul Shyamalendu , Ghosh Sanchita
Published: October 2024

The increasing complexity of cyber threats has exposed the limitations of traditional network security methods like firewalls and IDS, which rely on established guidelines and signature-based detection. AI introduces a new paradigm, leveraging machine learning, behavioral analytics, and automated threat detection to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and response time. AI-driven systems handle large data volumes better, reduce false positives, and adapt to new threats, making them more effective against zero-day attacks. While initial costs are high, AI's long-term benefits include scalability, adaptability, and cost-efficiency. Ethical concerns and complexity remain challenges, but integrating AI with traditional methods can create a more resilient security posture.
Harmony Wave
Authors: Sudha T. , Raja P. , Bharathi V.
Published: October 2024

Smart music therapy is a cutting-edge approach that harnesses the power of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), to enhance the therapeutic potential of music in promoting mental and emotional well-being. Rooted in the longstanding practice of using music as a therapeutic tool, smart music therapy goes beyond traditional methods by integrating advanced technologies to create a personalized, immersive, and data-driven therapeutic experience. By integrating AI and IoT into the therapeutic process, this approach elevates the potential of music to heal, soothe, and elevate the human spirit. Smart music therapy not only expands the possibilities of what music can achieve in the realm of mental health but also exemplifies how technology can amplify the positive impact of ancient healing practices in our contemporary world.
Leveraging Networked Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare Transformation
Authors: Gupta Kapil , Garg Neha , Pala Sasmita
Published: October 2024

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare has signified the starting of a new era of innovation, with improved diagnostic accuracy, personalized treatment plans, and operational efficiency. This chapter investigates how networked AI systems, defined as interconnected AI models that analyze and process healthcare data from multiple sources, can lead to significant modifications in patient care, diagnosis, treatment, and operational efficiency. This chapter describes the technical architecture of AI, challenges associated with AI, including data security and privacy, computational cost, and the necessity for unbiased frameworks. Ethical and legal aspects of decentralized data processing are discussed with a focus on methodologies for ensuring compliance with global health data regulations. This chapter gives a detailed overview of the present state and possible future directions of AI in healthcare. It aspires to guide researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in grasping its complete potential for improved health outcomes and medical enhancements.
The Role of Transportation in Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Mitigation
Authors: Tepecik Aylin
Published: October 2024

The type of transportation used in urban areas is important in terms of environmental sustainability. Cities trigger greenhouse gas production and thus climate change with the services they offer. Environmental problems have increased with increasing greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion. In ensuring environmental sustainability, the importance of green transportation types that reduce the number of motor vehicles and fossil fuel dependency, consume less energy, and reduce vehicle-related pollutant problems are mentioned and play an active role in reducing environmental problems. The importance of this study is to address the transportation sector, which is an important source of greenhouse gases, the relationship between the effects of climate change and the transportation sector, and the examination of green transportation policies in reducing the effects of climate change. The study reveals environmentally friendly transportation types in sustainable transportation policies with green transportation systems.
Analysis on Enhancing Urban Mobility With IoT-Integrated Parking Solutions
Authors: Priyadarshi Supriya , Subudhi Sanjana , Kumar Shivam , Bhardwaj Divya , Mohapatra Hitesh
Published: October 2024

Parking in the conventional way is a very tedious and time-consuming job in the current world due to poor handling. Using Internet of Things (IoT) to ease parking management without any human interference seems to be a convenient technique. IoT is described as the network of intelligent devices such as sensors, actuators, and other technologies which can make informed decisions in accordance with the environment. This technology can be exploited to help in identifying the various empty parking slots, efficiently allocating them, and promoting sustainable urban development. To make parking systems smart, IoT integrated with various common approaches, such as real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and blockchain models, is being used. Through a thorough analysis of existing literature, this paper highlights the potential and consequential benefits of IoT-enabled Smart Parking Systems. In conclusion, the adoption of IoT in parking management can significantly enhance efficiency, reduce human effort, and contribute to the development of sustainable urban environments.
Road Aesthetics and Its Effect on Road Users
Authors: Jaiswal Anuj , Parashar Arshi , Lalramsangi Vicky
Published: October 2024

Aesthetics is synonymous to beauty. Anything which adds beauty to the road is a component of road aesthetics. Like safety, utility and comfort; road aesthetics is of equal importance for our road system. Road aesthetics is having a great value to the public and to the visitors who use it every day and in-turn becomes a field of great interest to planners, engineers, architects and designers. It influences road user's perception and behavior and becomes important as effective time spent on roads has increased manifold with increasing globalization and better transport and communication facilities. This paper investigates into the need and the technicalities of an aesthetically positive road environment taking into consideration human characteristics. A possible relationship between aesthetics and behavior is described through interdisciplinary research within arts & aesthetics, environmental psychology and traffic safety.
Pesquisas e práticas decoloniais e interculturais nas Educações em Ciências e Matemática: insurgências, esperanças e vozes acadêmicas plurais
Authors: Carvalho Fabiana Aparecida de , Marín Yonier Alexander Orozco , Cassiani Suzani
Published: October 2024

Apresentação do Dossiê "Pesquisas e práticas decoloniais e interculturais nas Educações em Ciências e Matemática: insurgências, esperanças e vozes acadêmicas plurais".
A extinção das políticas públicas educacionais e a Biologia no Ensino Médio: BNCC, ‘caça rendas’ e colonialidade epistêmica
Authors: Carvalho Fabiana Aparecida de , Bellini Marta
Published: October 2024

O presente trabalho perfaz uma crítica à implantação da Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC), destacando as disputas neoliberais na reforma curricular da educação básica e na desregulamentação das políticas públicas educacionais. Em destaque, problematiza o Ensino de Biologia no Ensino Médio na Área de Ciências da Natureza proposta pelo documento. O entendimento de aprendizagem essencial circunstanciado por competências e habilidades comuns padroniza o ensino em termos de uma racionalidade técnica e da adequação dos conteúdos aos interesses do mercado econômico mundial, contribuindo para a manutenção da colonialidade epistêmica. Tal visão restringe a compreensão de uma Biologia relacional, especialmente preocupada com a vida orgânica, política e com as temáticas socioculturais necessárias ao entendimento da sociedade, a visões que corroboram para o euro-USA-centrismo, para a acriticidade dos estudantes e para a perpetuação do pensamento único.
Biologia Antirracista: sequência didática para o ensino de anemia falciforme
Authors: Assis Bárbara Letícia de Freitas , Ferreira Alessandra Pavolin Pissolati , Siqueira Luciana
Published: October 2024

A falta de professores capacitados para abordarem Educação das Relações Étnico-raciais dentro dos espaços de aprendizagem é evidenciada por pesquisas do campo. Buscando reparar tal lacuna no ensino de Ciências e Biologia, foi desenvolvido uma sequência didática para o ensino da anemia falciforme numa perspectiva antirracista e humanizada. As bases teóricas para esse trabalho são assentadas na educação antirracista. A elaboração da sequência didática surgiu no contexto do Programa Residência Pedagógica, subprojeto Biologia, quando foi observado o apagamento e inviabilização de tal conteúdo nos documentos curriculares oficiais e nos livros didáticos de Biologia. Esta investigação adota uma abordagem qualitativa envolvendo: busca de elementos teóricos, observação de aulas, registro em diário de campo e a elaboração de uma sequência didática. Desse modo, contribuindo para a produção de uma Biologia outra, menos excludente, que considere a multiplicidade da vida e a diversidade dos corpos.
Decolonizando o ensino de ciências: estratégias pedagógicas feministas e interculturais para uma abordagem crítica e transformadora
Authors: Silva Alcione Aparecida da , Neves Marcos Cesar Danhoni
Published: October 2024

O estudo propõe estratégias pedagógicas para a decolonização do ensino de ciências, desafiando hierarquias de conhecimento e promovendo uma visão mais inclusiva da ciência. A contextualização revela a predominância de perspectivas eurocêntricas e patriarcais nas narrativas científicas, resultando na marginalização de saberes não ocidentais e na perpetuação de desigualdades epistêmicas. Diante disso, o objetivo do estudo que é investigar e propor estratégias pedagógicas que possam contribuir para a decolonização do ensino de ciências, buscando identificar e analisar abordagens feministas e interculturais que desafiem as hierarquias de conhecimento e promovam uma visão mais ampla e inclusiva da ciência. A análise crítica das narrativas científicas dominantes revela sua tendência a marginalizar contribuições não ocidentais. Ao integrar decolonialidade, feminismo e interculturalidade, o estudo destaca a importância de reconhecer e valorizar múltiplas perspectivas e saberes. A conclusão destaca a necessidade de uma educação baseada na decolonialidade para criar espaços mais justos e equitativos.
Feminismos ao Sul: práticas de resistência e contra hegemônicas na formação de professores de Ciências na Educação do Campo
Authors: Oliveira Maira , Von Linsingen Irlan
Published: October 2024

Este artigo é um desdobramento da tese de doutorado "Feminismos ao Sul: Possibilidades e desafios para a formação de professores e a Educação em Ciências". Ele analisa como o Ensino de Ciências perpetua padrões hegemônicos e destaca a importância de modificá-los. Utilizando a abordagem pesquisa-ação em uma disciplina sobre Gênero na formação de professores de Ciências, o estudo examina discussões para identificar perspectivas contra hegemônicas. Destaca-se uma possível abordagem baseada nos feminismos do Sul Global, que não apenas promovem a igualdade de gênero, mas também combatem outras formas de opressão. Os resultados enfatizam a necessidade de uma abordagem feminista, interseccional e decolonial na formação de professores para enfrentar desafios sociais e educacionais, e a importância de abordar desigualdades socioeconômicas, identidades de gênero e sexualidade para criar ambientes escolares inclusivos e seguros. As discussões em sala de aula desafiaram padrões pré-estabelecidos, estimulando reflexões sobre patriarcado, machismo e violência de gênero.
Single-cell Sequencing of Circulating Human Plasmablasts during Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Kerkman Priscilla F , de Vor Lisanne , van der Vaart Thomas W , ten Doesschate Thijs , Muts Remy M , Depelteau Jamie S , Scheepmaker Lisette M , Ruyken Maartje , de Haas Carla J C , Aerts Piet C , Marijnissen Renoud J , Schuurman Janine , Beurskens Frank J , Gorlani Andrea , Bardoel Bart W , Rooijakkers Suzan H M
Published: October 2024

Staphylococcus aureus is the major cause of healthcare-associated infections, including life-threatening conditions as bacteremia, endocarditis, and implant-associated infections. Despite adequate antibiotic treatment, the mortality of S. aureus bacteremia remains high. This calls for different strategies to treat this infection. In past years, sequencing of Ab repertoires from individuals previously exposed to a pathogen emerged as a successful method to discover novel therapeutic monoclonal Abs and understand circulating B cell diversity during infection. In this paper, we collected peripheral blood from 17 S. aureus bacteremia patients to study circulating plasmablast responses. Using single-cell transcriptome gene expression combined with sequencing of variable heavy and light Ig genes, we retrieved sequences from >400 plasmablasts revealing a high diversity with >300 unique variable heavy and light sequences. More than 200 variable sequences were synthesized to produce recombinant IgGs that were analyzed for binding to S. aureus whole bacterial cells. This revealed four novel monoclonal Abs that could specifically bind to the surface of S. aureus in the absence of Ig-binding surface SpA. Interestingly, three of four mAbs showed cross-reactivity with Staphylococcus epidermidis. Target identification revealed that the S. aureus–specific mAb BC153 targets wall teichoic acid, whereas cross-reactive mAbs BC019, BC020, and BC021 target lipoteichoic acid. All mAbs could induce Fc-dependent phagocytosis of staphylococci by human neutrophils. Altogether, we characterize the active B cell responses to S. aureus in infected patients and identify four functional mAbs against the S. aureus surface, of which three cross-react with S. epidermidis.
Development of a Spectral Flow Cytometry Analysis Pipeline for High-dimensional Immune Cell Characterization
Authors: Vardaman Donald , Ali Md Akkas , Siam Md Hasanul Banna , Bolding Chase , Tidwell Harrison , Stephens Holly R , Patil Mallikarjun , Tyrrell Daniel J
Published: October 2024

Flow cytometry is used for immune cell analysis for cell composition and function. Spectral flow cytometry allows for high-dimensional analysis of immune cells, overcoming limitations of conventional flow cytometry. However, analyzing data from large Ab panels is challenging using traditional biaxial gating strategies. We present, to our knowledge, a novel analysis pipeline to improve analysis of spectral flow cytometry. We employ this method to identify rare T cell populations in aging. We isolated splenocytes from young (2–3 mo old) and aged (18–19 mo old) female C57BL/6N mice and then stained these with a panel of 20 fluorescently labeled Abs. We performed spectral flow cytometry and then data processing and analysis using Python within a Jupyter Notebook environment to perform dimensionality reduction, batch correction, unsupervised clustering, and differential expression analysis. Our analysis of 3,776,804 T cells from 11 spleens revealed 35 distinct T cell clusters identified by surface marker expression. We observed significant differences between young and aged mice, with clusters enriched in one age group over the other. Naive, effector memory, and central memory CD8+ and CD4+ T cell subsets exhibited age-associated changes in abundance and marker expression. We also demonstrate the utility of our pipeline in a human PBMC dataset that used a 50–fluorescent color panel. By leveraging high-dimensional analysis methods, we provide insights into the immune aging process. This approach offers a robust and easily implemented analysis pipeline for spectral flow cytometry data that may facilitate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets for age-related immune dysfunction.
Kikuchi lymphadenitis, a rare case: an overview of its clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Alwa Karuna Sree , Kallem Srinivas Reddy , Vemuri Mahesh Babu , Kumar Saahil , Rath Ashutosh
Published: October 2024

Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease (KFD), also known as histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis, is a rare, self-limiting condition typically presenting with lymphadenopathy and fever. The etiology remains unclear, but it is thought to be associated with viral infections and autoimmune processes.
We report a case of a female who presented with cervical lymphadenopathy. An excisional biopsy of the lymph node was performed, showing characteristic histopathological features of KFD.
Based on the clinical presentation and histopathological findings, a diagnosis of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease was made. 
The patient was managed with supportive care, including antipyretics and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). No antibiotics or corticosteroids were administered. The patient's symptoms gradually resolved over a period.
Follow-up at three months revealed the resolution of symptoms with no recurrence. The patient remained asymptomatic at subsequent visits.
KFD should be considered in young patients presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy. Diagnosis is confirmed through lymph node biopsy demonstrating characteristic histopathological features. The disease typically follows a benign course with spontaneous resolution, and management is primarily supportive.
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) Curriculum for Collegiate Athletic Trainers: An Educational Technique
Authors: Slovin Kelly , Jones Kelly
Published: October 2024

Context

Since the consensus statement on relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) was released in 2014, little research has been done to increase awareness to expand prevention and early detection efforts. Collegiate athletes have a high risk for the health and performance consequences of REDs due to busy schedules and social pressures, yet knowledge about the syndrome is limited among collegiate athletic staff. As integral members of the support staff for college athletes, it is important for athletic trainers (ATs) to have a strong understanding of REDs and an ability to recognize potential risk factors to play a role in prevention and early detection.

Objective

To provide prevention and intervention strategies for REDs in college athletes.

Background

The goal of this curriculum is to offer standardized REDs education to collegiate ATs so they can more easily identify at-risk athletes. With proper training, ATs can refer these athletes to appropriate medical professionals for evaluation and treatment.

Description

Registered dietitians (RDs) can use this technique to educate collegiate ATs about REDs. Athletic trainers can help bridge the gap between college athletes and the limited access they have to an RD.

Educational Advantage(s)

Early referral to a sports medicine physician and RD for further evaluation and treatment increases athletes’ health and ability to excel in their sport. This curriculum in particular bridges the gap between scientific literature and commercial programs designed to spread awareness of REDs.

Conclusion(s)

Increasing REDs awareness with this novel curriculum could help athletes avoid injury and illness, including potential long-term health consequences of REDs.
Whistleblowing: Is it morally or ethically justifiable?
Authors: Ogunbanjo Gboyego A. , Knapp van Bogaert Donna
Published: October 2024

No abstract available.
Public sector district health system: Is seven to ten minutes enough for patient management?
Authors: Haque M.
Published: October 2024

This paper looks at the reasons for the excessive workload of grass-root and primary health care physicians at the Mitchells Plain Community Health Centre in the Cape Town Metropolitan (CTM) South (Mitchells Plain) district in South Africa. The development of a municipality based district health system has created an opportunity to practice family medicine in Mitchells Plain, but lack of clinical time to practice family medicine in the current setting raises questions about the quality and efficiency of primary health care in the municipality based district based health system. To prevent the situation from developing into a Diseased District System!1, enough clinical time and dedicated resources are urgently required.
Aspects-based representative significance of Machine Learning algorithms & natural language processing applications in nanotechnology.
Authors: Mah Pascal Muam
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The rapid changes in computational power of machine learning algorithms and natural language processing applications have led to multi-scale and many core designs in nanotechnology. Machine learning algorithms and natural language processing applications are easing the burden engineers have to go through to understand nanoparticles.Problem: There is still a challenge to predict and control particles of nanomaterials at nanoscale. Aspect-based climatic conditions are negatively impacting the world with huge modification on nanoparticles, nanomaterials and nanostructures.Objective: Study examines aspects of machine learning algorithms and natural language processing applications that can be used to predict and control particles, and structure of nanomaterials at nanoscale. Method and materials. The study examines significance of machine learning algorithms & applications in nanotechnology, examines aspects of machine learning algorithms & natural language processing applications applied in nanotechnology, and discusses current-future trends of nanotechnology based on learning algorithms & natural language processing applications.Results and conclusions. The findings result in the conclusion that machine learning & natural language processing application in nanotechnology is implementing an advanced microscopic revolution with the potential to metamorphose the world's industrialization and scale human existence. Machine learning algorithms have the potential to predict and classify nanomaterials and natural language processing has the potential to retrieve relevant data hidden within the classified nanomaterials which results has a huge significance in the pharmaceutical industry
FLOOD RISK INDEX MAPPING OF AN AREA DOWNSTREAM OF A DAM IN CASE OF A BREAK
Authors: Alves Junior Francisco Moreira , Kobiyama Masato , Corseuil Cláudia Weber
Published: October 2024

We aimed to evaluate the flood risk index due to the hypothetical break of the São Bento dam (SC, Brazil). The risk index was obtained by combining the hazard and vulnerability indices. The hazard index was obtained by multiplying the velocity by the depth of the water, simulated with HEC-RAS 2D. The simulated flood extent was 64.8 km², with a maximum flow of 3586.60 m³·s-1, a depth of up to 2.0 m, and a velocity of up to 2.0 m·s-1 in most of the area. The formation of the breach occurred in 2.85 h, and the peak flow occurred at 1.67 h. The volume that overflowed with the break was 44.75 hm³. The flood wave reached 22.0 km in length, where the municipality of Forquilhinha is located. The risk index map showed that the risk is high up to 6 km from the dam since most people were at least 60 years old and had low incomes. In this location, the people were not safe inside buildings because they had a high probability of being destroyed. Thus, risk mapping may be adopted as a preventive measure to assist in preparing an emergency action plan and serve for environmental education and territorial planning. Keywords: Dam Break; HEC-RAS 2D; Risk Mapping.
ARE WE STILL AN OVERSEAS PROVINCE OF PORTUGAL? COMMEMORATIVE TOPONYMS AND THE COLONIAL PRESENCE IN THE CITY CENTRE OF KUITO, ANGOLA
Authors: Costa Dinis Fernando , Daniel Hilton Fortuna
Published: October 2024

In the recent past, the world, with particular mention of the African continent, has witnessed a mass of protests, mostly by student movements. Among other things, they demanded the removal of colonial heritage from the spatial landscape as well as the decolonization of education. Nearly half a century after independence from the Portuguese colonial regime, the Angolan spatial landscape still celebrates the greatness of the so called heroes of the Portuguese civilization mission, whereas for many, the recognition of national historical figures remains an illusion. This article attempts to stir a debate, stemming from the sentiment that names of streets that constitute colonial cultural heritage and identity should be de-commemorated in the Kuito city centre and elsewhere in Angola. This is because they offer direct exposure to unbearable psychological memories of the ruthless regime that tortured natives for centuries. We argue, that by preserving these names, we are directly or otherwise abettors of the colonial´s tale that they were the ´heroes´ of the African people who needed to be saved from their uncivilized modis vivendi. The paper examines all the names surrounding the urban area of the city centre of the Kuito municipality and exposes the contributing role, if so, of each, in order to examine the impetus behind their preservation. Keywords: colonial. commemorative toponyms. City of Kuito. Angola
Tissue pool of hypersegmented neutrophils in patients with precancerous and tumor diseases of the larynx and laryngopharynx
Authors: Kologrivova E. N. , Pleshko R. I. , Cheremisina O. V. , Boldyshevskaya M. A. , Gereng E. A. , Nasibov T. F.
Published: October 2024

The presence of neutrophils in a tumor often correlates with an unfavorable prognosis, however, there is still no clear answer about the role of tumor-associated neutrophils and the relationship of their morphofunctional features with the prognosis of the course of the disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the structural features of tissue neutrophil nuclei in the pathological zone in patients with precancerous changes and malignant neoplasms in the larynx. Eight people with precancerous changes in the larynx, 18 patients with localized cancer of the larynx (stages II and III of the tumor process and the absence of metastases – T2- 3N0M0), and 12 patients with advanced cancer (stage III of tumor diseases and regional metastases – T3N1- 2M0) were examined. Blood slides and smear prints of tissue biopsies from three localizations were examined: 1 – zones of the pathological focus; 2 – boundaries between the pathological focus and conditionally healthy tissue; and 3 – conditionally healthy tissue. In the blood of patients with precancerous changes in the larynx and cancer patients, the main part of neutrophils was represented by cells with a 4-segment nucleus, and the number of hypersegmented forms (5 or more segments) was higher than in the blood of healthy volunteers (p 0.002). The same type of changes in smear prints of biopsies from different areas of the pathological focus in patients with precancerous and malignant neoplasms were revealed: as they approached the pathological focus, an increase the cells with 4-5 or more segments was observed. The content of hypersegmented forms was maximum in the pathological focus. Only in patients with a widespread tumor process, neutrophils with a 4-segment nucleus dominated the immediate environment of the tumor. As the tumor spreads and metastases form, the proportion of hypersegmented cells increases in the population of intra-tumor neutrophils. It is very likely that the morphological features of tissue neutrophils in different zones of the pathological focus reflect their functional heterogeneity, and hypersegmetation of nuclei can be considered as a potential predictor of the development and progression of the tumor process.
Specific features of cytokine synthesis in adolescent girls with oligomenorrhea and low body mass index
Authors: Kamalov T. M. , Muzafarova S. A.
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the cytokine component of immunity in teenage girls with oligomenorrhea, underweight and with normal body weight in comparison with teenage girls with a normal menstrual cycle and normal body weight, which is of great importance to pediatric gynecology. Studying of the cytokine profile in oligomenorrhea will allow early identification of the development of many gynecological pathologies, including polycystic ovary syndrome, endometrioid neoplasms, as well as for understanding the pathogenesis of these conditions and developing approaches to their diagnosis and treatment, which is of great practical importance. The authors conducted an immunological study of teenage girls with oligomenorrhea with underweight and normal body weight in comparison with teenage girls with a normal menstrual cycle and normal body weight. Purpose of the study: to study the levels of IL-6, IL-17A, IL-18 and IL-10 in adolescent girls with oligomenorrhea and underweight. Teenage girls (N = 52) aged 13 to 17 years with established menstrual irregularities were examined. The control group consisted of 24 practically healthy girls of the same age. From the study, it was established that girls with oligomenorrhea and underweight have a pronounced increased synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-17A and IL-18. In the same group of girls, an increase in the level of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was detected, which may be an attempt by the body to compensate for inflammatory processes. However, IL-10 levels remain elevated, which may indicate an immune imbalance. The discovered imbalance in the cytokine profile emphasizes the complexity of the pathogenesis of oligomenorrhea in girls with underweight, and the identified levels of the studied cytokines can serve as biomarkers that will help in diagnosis, assessment of severity, and prediction of the course of the disease state.