bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INDUCING OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE IN RATS USING THE MODIFIED 5/6 NEPHRECTOMY
Authors: Matichina A. A. , Karanina V. D. , Ustenko Zh. Yu. , Miroshnikov М. V. , Matichin A. A.
Published: January 2025

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a wide spread human illness defined as long-lasting abnormalities of kidney structure or function due to fibrosis and destruction of the normal architecture of the kidney. Pathophysiology of this process is not completely understood; thus, development of prophylactics, early detection and therapy of initial stage are complicated. Therefore, inducing of CKD in local research centers is a relevant objective for Russian pharmacology. 5/6 nephrectomy in rats is recommended by many scientists as “gold standard'” for this pathology. In this study CKD was successfully induced in Wistar rats using 5/6 nephrectomy, modified to meet the requirements of a large preclinical center. Two animal groups (control and pathology) underwent a complex of clinical diagnostic tests and pathological examination, so the CKD criteria could be specified. Elevated blood pressure and decreased glomerular filtration rate enabled assessment of the disease progress in experimental animals. At the end of the study these symptoms were partly reversible revealing prominent adaptability of rat kidney. In order to confirm pathology formation, we performed histological (hematoxylin-eosin, Masson's trichrome) and immonohistochemical (CD68, Caspase3) staining of kidney sections. During pathomorphological study we found alterations specific for CKD: apoptosis of tubule epithelium and fibrosis area crowded by CD68+ macrophages. Thus, we identified antemortem and postmortem criteria of CKD induced by modified 5/6 nephrectomy in rats in Russian research center.
PATHOGENETIC ASPECTS OF THE USE OF CONDITIONED MEDIUM FROM STROMAL STEM CELLS IN EQUINE ASTHMA SYNDROME
Authors: Romanova O. V. , Kriyachko O. V. , Dovgiy A. I.
Published: January 2025

Modern medical and veterinary practice is increasingly focused on the use of organsparing and genetically molecular technologies that help restore lost functions. In this context, cellular technologies, including the creation of recombinant chemokines and monoclonal antibodies, play an important role in the targeted therapy of serious diseases. Cellular regenerative medicine finds its application in the healing of skin and muscle structures, especially in horses. In this paper, the possibility of using the secretome of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the bronchopulmonary system in horses suffering from asthma is considered. The study was conducted on the basis of a retrospective analysis of observations of 91 horses that had signs of asthma (EAS). 70 of these horses were treated with the secret of MSC (the drug Reparin helper). Both mares and geldings aged 10-21 years took part in short-term observations. The secret was administered intrabronchially, inhaled and intravenously. The effectiveness of the treatment was assessed by changes in the clinical condition and possible adverse reactions. Analysis of the results of short-term observations showed that the majority of patients treated with secret MSC had no negative reactions. The clinical efficacy of the drug varied depending on the method of administration: the intratracheal method showed no improvement, while inhalation and intravenous administration led to positive results. Horses with severe asthma had a high degree of exercise tolerance against the background of the drug, which confirms its effectiveness. Horses that received the secret of MSC for a long time showed stable remission for 6-12 months. Among the 70 cases of the use of the MSC secretome, the results showed the most positive effects in horses with severe asthma. More than 20% of them successfully received additional therapy for two years, demonstrating long periods of remission. The study confirms the potential of using the MSC secretome in veterinary practice, and the data obtained may be useful for humane medicine.
PATHOLOGIC CHANGES IN THE ALVEOLAR PROCESS OF JAW BONES IN DOGS WITH OLIGODENTIA
Authors: Frolov V. V. , Egunova A. V. , Novikov Y. I. , Ivantsov V. A.
Published: January 2025

The article presents the peculiarities of the pathological process occurring in the dental alveoli of jaw bones in mesocephalic dogs of the older age group (10-15 years old) subjected to lifetime tooth extraction. The study was conducted on the basis of the Department of Animal Diseases and Veterinary Sanitary Examination of Saratov State University of Genetics, Biotechnology and Engineering by N.I. Vavilov and the Department of Anatomy and Histology of Animals named after Prof. A.F. Klimov of Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology – MVA by K. I. Skryabin. The object of the study were dogs with mesocephalic head shape (n=15) at the age of -15 years. Upper and lower jaws served as the material for the study. The method of anatomical dissection was used in order to obtain the head skeleton for further cranioscopy, which included evaluation of the alveolar process on both jaws. Based on the results of the study, it was found that regardless of the localization of the jawbone, all pathological processes in its dental alveoli had the same character of course. It was revealed that the structural changes in tooth loss were primarily characterized by filling of the cavity with spongy bone substance, which grew out of the interplate space of the jaw bones. Due to the filling of the alveolar cavity, the cancellous bone replaced the vestibular compact bone plate of the alveolar process on both jawbones. The obtained data are basic for improvement of classical and development of new methods of differential diagnostics and methods of extirpation in dentistry of small pets.
HORMONAL PROFILE OF FOLLICLE FLUID OF DIFFERENT DIAMETERS IN RELATION TO VIABILITY AND LIPID CONTENT IN GRANULOSA CELLS OF SUS SCROFA DOMESTICUS
Authors: Kuzmina T. I. , Prituzhalova A. O. , Kurochkin A. A. , Baranova E. I.
Published: January 2025

Modeling of oocyte maturation systems in farm animals is based on the available information on the composition of follicular fluid (FF), however, there are no data on the hormonal status of porcine follicular fluid in relation to the viability and functional state of the lipidome in granulosa cells (GCs) in the dynamics of folliculogenesis. We analyzed the hormonal profile (LH, FSH, T3, T4, cortisol) of porcine antral follicle fluid and obtained data on the effect of these hormones on the viability and lipid content (lipid droplets-LDs) of porcine GCs in follicles of different diameters (ø <3 mm, ø 3-5 mm and ø>5 mm). An inverse correlation was found between the proportion of GCs with high fluorescence intensity of the lipid droplet complex – NileRed (IFNileRed/LD - a marker of lipid droplets content) and the concentration of cortisol in the dynamics of folliculogenesis (-0.830, p<0.05), as well as an inverse correlation between the cortisol content and the proportion of viable cells (- 0.995, p<0.05). A direct correlation was found between the content of both T3 and T4 with IFNileRed/LD (0.901, 0.946, p<0.05) in GCs, which probably suggests accumulation of the energy substrate in the cytosol. There were no reliable correlation values in the content of LH in the FF and the proportion of GCs with high IFNileRed/LD intensity. The high level of correlation in the concentration of T3, T4 in the FF and cortisol with the lipid’s content in the GCs indicates a significant influence of these hormones on the energy reserve and viability of the GCs during folliculogenesis and allows us to consider them as potential candidates for an indepth study of the mechanisms of metabolic disorders that provoke abnormalities in the development of offspring obtained at in vitro maturation and fertilization of female gametes, as well as for modeling the composition of the media for the formation of a mature porcine ovum in vitro.
FSHR GENE POLYMORPHISM IN FEMALE REINDEER (RANGIFER TARANDUS)
Authors: Krutikova A. A. , Belikova A. O. , Peglivanian G. K. , Nikitkina E. V. , Musidray A. A.
Published: January 2025

Reindeer herding is an important branch of animal husbandry in Russia, especially in the northern regions of the country. Genomic selection is a method based on the analysis of genetic data on animals in order to select individuals with certain genetic characteristics for breeding. By genetic selecting, it is possible to increase the efficiency of breeding programs, reduce the time to obtain the desired results and improve the quality of the offspring. The FSHR (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor) gene encodes a protein that is a receptor for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Studying the FSHR gene is important for understanding the mechanisms of regulation of the reproductive system and searching for new genetic markers associated with reproductive functions in different animal species, including reindeer. The aim of the study was to study the polymorphism of the FSHR gene in female reindeer of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug of the Russian Federation. DNA samples from 43 reindeer females (Rangifer tarandus) belonging to the same herd were analyzed. We sequenced a 2208 bp FSHR region containing the fifth intron of the gene in females from the Yamal Peninsula. During the study of the region, we found two singlenucleotide polymorphisms: G28578A and G29110A. The first polymorphism was located in the second nucleotide of the codon and led to the replacement of serine with asparagine in the amino acid sequence of the protein. The second polymorphism was synonymous and did not lead to a change in the structure of the protein.
PRACTICAL USE OF THE CHORIOALLANTOIC MEMBRANE (CAM) MODEL IN THE CREATION OF A CRYOBANK OF GENERATIVE CELLS OF FEMALE GALLUS GALLUS DOMECTICUS
Authors: Stanishevskaya O. I. , Silyukova Y. L. , Mirzakaeva I. I.
Published: January 2025

One of the promising areas for preserving female reproductive cells of the Aves class is the use of embryonic tissues of reproductive organs and cells. Evaluation of the effectiveness of freezing methods for female reproductive organs of birds should be based on simplicity and availability. The chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model can be an accessible and effective approach to assessing the quality of frozen/ thawed avian ovarian tissues for subsequent orthotopic transplantation. The aim of the study was to determine the age of chicken embryos for obtaining sex-differentiated gonads and to evaluate the viability of transplanted embryonic female gonads on the chorioallantoic membrane by their neovascularization in the mesenchyme for further use of these screening methods in cryopreservation of embryonic female gametes of chickens. To obtain embryonic female gonads, fertilized eggs of Russian White chickens were used after incubation for 9 days - 10 pcs, and for 17 days - 10 pcs (in 3 replicates). The number of vascularized donor gonads after transplantation to the recipient's CAM from 9-day-old embryos was 75.0% of the total number of transplants; from 17-dayold embryos it was 63.6%. The presented data are intended for practical evaluation of the model of transplantation of donor embryonic ovarian tissue using the recipient's CAM for the purpose of its subsequent use in assessing the effectiveness of the vitrification protocol for embryonic gonadal tissues of chickens, as well as in the protocol for obtaining gonadal germ cells (GGCs) from embryonic ovarian tissues of chickens from 9-day-old embryos and transplantation of embryonic ovarian tissues from 17-day-old-embryos
STALLION SPERM SURVIVAL IN VARIOUS EXTENDERS WHEN COOLING AT 4-5°C
Authors: Nikitkina E. V.
Published: January 2025

Most equine artificial insemination is now carried out using chilled semen, as its fertilizing capacity is higher than cryopreserved semen. However, the possibility of long-term storage of chilled sperm is limited. The use of extenders allows to prolong the preservation of the biological value of chilled sperm. In this study, the survival rate and morphology of chilled stallion sperm were assessed using different extenders. Four extenders were used: LHСZh, recommended by the All-Russian Research Institute of Horse Breeding, Kenny, widely used abroad, extender for cooling sperm of the All -Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding, and an experimental extender based on TRIS and fructose. A reliable difference was observed in the total and progressive motility of sperm diluted with the experimental and other media during storage for 24, 48 (P˂0.05) and 72 hours (P˂0.01). After storage for 72 hours, sperm diluted with the experimental extender had an average total motility over 50% and a progressive motility 48.2±3.67%, which makes it possible to use it for artificial insemination. Evaluation of sperm morphology showed good preservation of cells during 72-hour storage at 4-5 0C when using all extenders. The results of this study showed preservation of sperm quality necessary for artificial insemination for 48 hours, and when diluted with the experimental extender for 72 hours.
Molecular biological characteristics of the intestinal microbiocenosis of dogs on a mixed diet
Authors: Loginov S. N. , Batomunkuev A. S. , Sukhinin A. A. , Krasnopeev A. Yu. , Gorshkova A. S. , Belykh O. I. , Lipko I. A. , Potapov S. A. , Tikhonova I. V.
Published: January 2025

Metabarcoding research of the domestic animal intestines is relevant for veterinary medicine. The effect of feeding and food additives on its gut microbiome is of both applied and fundamental significance and demonstrates the stimulation of the various groups of bacteria development. The objective of our work is to study the effect of the domestic complete pet feed Dilly on the microbial community of the dogs’ intestines in breeding kennel of Irkutsk. The microbiome composition was determined in 12 animals of different ages having used Illumina MiSeq amplicon sequencing of the V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA. Rates diversity had been adapted to evaluate the affluence and prominence of Bacterial operational and taxonomic units and nonparametric Mann-Whitney criteria (correlative test, p≤0,05) used to evaluate the certainty value of the difference of operational and taxonomic unit percentage in different physiological groups. All in all, 147150 the 16S rRNA gene fragment sequences were obtained. The dominant bacteria turned out to be the phyla Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, and Proteobacteria. The animals that had been under research had almost no Fusobacteriota bacteria - markers of a diet with a predominance of raw meat (predation). The Firmicutes phylum included bacteria from five families. The most numerous families among the Firmicutes were the Lactobacillaceae bacteria. Representatives of seven families were observed among Actinobacteriota bacteria, of which Bifidobacteriaceae predominated. Proteobacteria of the Enterobacterales order and Burkholderiales made up a small proportion of the entire community and depended on the animal age. The research result could be used in perspective to enlarge knowledge about the digestive process in an omnivorous animal of the wolf pack. These animals have a more or less flexible microbiome, which has several variants of normal composition. There predominated lactic acid bacteria in the microbial communities of the dogs’ intestines, which consumed feed that contained coarse dietary fibers. In its turn, lactic acid bacteria reduced the number of Fusobacteriota.
The effect of the drug "Stimul" on the bone marrow hematopoiesis of piglets with prenatal hypotrophy
Authors: Mikhailov E. V.
Published: January 2025

The article presents the results of studies evaluating the effect of the drug "Prostimul" on bone marrow hematopoiesis of piglets with perinatal hypotrophy. The experiment was conducted in a large pig farm, where newborn hypotrophic piglets were twice administered the drug "Prostimul" at a dose of 0.1 ml / kg of body weight on the 1st and 3rd days of life and changes in the bone marrow were evaluated. Background examination of the bone marrow in hypotrophic piglets showed the presence of erythroblasts and proerythrocytes and an increase in immature myeloid cells, which are an indicator of the initial stage of the inflammatory process. When analyzing the myelogram, the ratio of leukocytes to erythrocytes in normotrophic piglets turned out to be 1.4 times (p <0.05) higher than in hypotrophics, and the index of erythrocaryocyte maturation in hypotrophic piglets was 21.3% higher (p <0.05) than in normotrophic piglets. After using the drug "Prostimul", hypotrophic piglets on day 7 showed an increase in the number of polychromatophilic erythrocytes, a significant increase in the number of rodshaped and segmented neutrophils. The bone marrow index of neutrophils characterizing the activity of myelopoiesis in hypotrophic piglets after the use of the drug "Prostimul"was 8.8% higher than in normotrophic piglets. Two-time administration of the drug "Prostimul"to piglets with perinatal hypotrophy at a dose of 0.1 ml / kg of body weight had a positive effect on erythroid and myeloid sprouts, stimulating erythropoiesis and myelopoiesis. These changes indicate a positive effect of the drug on the compensatory mechanisms of hematopoiesis, which leads to an improvement in the overall health of piglets and a reduction in the risk of infections.
The Potential for Parametric Insurance Solutions to Build Resilience for Smallholder Farmers in Zimbabwe
Authors: E. Hlatshwayo, , M. Mpundu,
Published: January 2025

This study explored the potential of parametric insurance solutions to enhance resilience among smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe, particularly in the context of climate change-related risks, such as droughts and floods. The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of parametric insurance as a risk management strategy for smallholder farmers, focusing on its potential to provide timely payouts based on predefined climate triggers. The purpose of the research was to understand how parametric insurance could offer a viable alternative to traditional insurance, which is often inaccessible for smallholders due to cost, complexity, and other barriers. The literature review highlighted the challenges that smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe face in accessing conventional agricultural insurance products, such as affordability, lack of awareness, and inadequate infrastructure. It also examined the advantages of parametric insurance, including its ability to deliver faster payouts linked to measurable climatic events, thus providing a more accessible and reliable safety net. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. The study utilized a cross-sectional research design and focused on a sample of 150 smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe, selected through purposive and random sampling methods. Data were collected through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with farmers, insurance providers, and agricultural experts. Ethical considerations included ensuring informed consent, voluntary participation, and the confidentiality of respondents. The main findings revealed that while parametric insurance held significant potential for improving resilience, several challenges hindered its adoption, including limited awareness, trust issues, and affordability concerns. The study concluded that for parametric insurance to be effective, policy interventions, increased awareness campaigns, and partnerships among key stakeholders were necessary. Recommendations included strengthening institutional frameworks and providing targeted education on parametric insurance to improve uptake.
Modern aspects of the functional state of fetoplacental complex for women with infertility in anamnesis
Authors: Shchedrov Andrey
Published: January 2025

The objective:to set the modern aspects of the functional state of fetoplacental complex for women with infertility in anamnesis.Materials and methods. A complex inspection is conducted 100 pregnant after assisted reproductive technologies and them new-born (basic group). The group of comparison was made by 50 women of analogical age, in which pregnancy came in natural way. In the complex of the conducted researches were included clinical, echographic, doppler, cardiotocographic and endocrinology.Results. From complications of III trimester of pregnancy placenta disfunction which had statistically reliable differences and was 62,0% in a basic group appeared major. It can be conditioned by that development of the induced pregnancy in the conditions of primary placenta disfunction results in violation of outflow of blood from a placenta, to the insufficient entering of blood into intervillous spaces as a result of peripheral crampy, endotheliosis and thrombosis of vessels. The delay of growth of fetus (27,0%) and fetal distress appeared the clinical displays of placenta disfunction (24,0%). Preeclampsia of mild and moderate severity developed in 49,0% in a basic group. In addition, in a III trimester there was pathology of amount of amniotic fluid in the same group, so the oligohydroamnios is fixed in 18,0%, and a polihydroamnios is in 10,0% patients.Conclusions. Testifies the results of the conducted researches to high-frequency of development of placenta disfunction for women which became pregnant with the use of assisted reproductive technologies. The got results testify to the necessity of development of algorithm of diagnostic and treatment-and-prophylactic measures with a purpose to the improvement of perinatal results of delivery.Keywords:infertility is in anamnesis, fetoplacental complex, functional state.
Influence of hypothyroidism is on endocrinology status of women with external genital endometriosis
Authors: Netskar Iryna
Published: January 2025

The objective:to set the features of hormonal function of the reproductive system at external genital endometriosis on a background a hypothyroidism.Materials and methods. By us it was inspected 110 patients of reproductive age from 20 to 41 year with external genital endometriosis. All women parted on two groups. In the first group 50 patients entered with external genital endometriosis without pathology of thyroid, in a friend – 60 women with external genital endometriosis and concomitant hypothyroidism. Clinical, laboratory and functional methods were plugged in the complex of the conducted researches.Results. The results of the conducted researches testify to the presence of features of clinical motion of external genital endometriosis in combination with hypofunction of thyroid. Considerably more frequent localization of retrocervical endometriosis and presence of widespread forms of external genital endometriosis takes place at a hypothyroidism. Without regard to absence of hyperpolymenorrhea at external genital endometriosis, combination of him with a hypothyroidism is often accompanied by anaemia of mild degree. Women of reproductive age with external genital endometriosis on a background hypofunction of thyroid for certain more frequent mark infertility and miscarriage of pregnancy on early terms, thus in swingeing majority of cases on a background pregnancy which does not develop. Found out also more frequent infecting of patients with external genital endometriosis in combination with a hypothyroidism, herpesvirus and by ureaplasma infections.Conclusions. The results of the conducted researches testify to the substantial role of endocrinology status in the estimation of the functional state of the reproductive system for patients with external genital endometriosis on a background a hypothyroidism. The got results specify that the hyperproducts of thyrotropic hormone for patients with external genital endometriosis at hypofunction of thyroid are instrumental in diminishing of level of follicle-stimulating hormone to the increase of products of prolactin, that results in the decline of estrogen-producing function of ovaries. The got results must be taken into account at development of tactic of conduct of these patients.Keywords:genital endometriosis, hypothyroidism, endocrinology status.
The Quran and the Information and Communication Age (Informatics Age)
Authors: Mahdi Mahdavipanah
Published: January 2025

The modern era has created new concepts about how to perform new social roles in the direction of the progress of society, and in this situation, humanity is seeking to define its spiritual position and wants to clarify its values ​​depending on the rapidly changing situations. Because in our era, the general perception is that the world of religion is opposed to the world of the realities of the era. It is getting smaller and smaller because social progress somehow leads to personal rationality and a set of pragmatic social structures. Therefore, this article has tried to mention the significant role that Quranic verses have played in informatic societies (the era of communications and information) and the concepts that are derived from the verses of the Holy Quran. Because the appearance of the Quran is so systematic and internally consistent that it cannot withstand any damage. Also, the Quran should be considered to have codified foundations. It should be noted that the Quran contains a coherent and harmonious middle. That is, the ideal man of the Quran is a world-building and society-building man. He is not merely a passive man of the world and nature, but a developing and reforming man, because the holy religion of Islam has been the creator, creator, and founder of an open system for life that is not seen in any philosophical and scientific school. The structures of this vital system are: God, man, this world, and the hereafter.
Information Technology and the Emergence of New Manifestations in the Scientific Miracle of the Quran
Authors: Mahdi Alimohammadi
Published: January 2025

In this article, we aim to examine the relationship between information technology and its impact on new horizons that have expanded in the field of scientific miracle of the Quran. What role can information technology play in the transcendence of the wonders and phenomena of the Quran? Also, while explaining a glimpse of the process of information technology in scientific miracle, we will criticize and examine the project of "Computer-based Allegorical or Graphical Miracle". Then, the indicators of the term miracle in the Quran and its differences with the scientific miracle that is raised in the process of information technology are studied. After that, the issue of tolerance in the use of the term miracle in the present era is raised and it is stated that the sciences extracted from information technology are the product of experience, scientific, rational and induction and the possibility of error in transferring information to the computer or a slip in the problem and its premises may lead to the presentation of incorrect results. Also, applying the results to imaginary or unrealistic examples that result from misunderstanding or biased adaptation can lead to the development of incorrect interpretation by opinion.
IoT-Based Automated Irrigation System Using Raspberry Pi for Water Conservation and Plant Growth Optimization
Authors: Ratnakar N.
Published: January 2025

In the context of agricultural and horticultural daily routines, watering is a pivotal and labor-intensive task. Regardless of prevailing weather conditions—whether excessively hot and dry or overly cloudy and wet—controlling the amount of water reaching plants remains crucial. Contemporary watering systems effectively deliver water precisely when plants require it. However, manual watering necessitates considerations of both timing and quantity.
To alleviate the manual burden on gardeners and streamline their tasks, we have developed an automated plant watering system. Integrating this system into gardens or agricultural fields ensures optimal growth for all plants while promoting water conservation. This study employs a Raspberry Pi, programmed to monitor the moisture levels of plants at specific intervals. If the moisture content falls below a predefined threshold tailored to each plant’s water requirements, the system autonomously dispenses the necessary amount of water until the threshold is met.
Atypical Features of Medulloblastoma in an Adult Patient on MRI: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Khattri Yussra , Kumar Ashok , Siddiqui Danial Khalid , Shamim Bushra , Parwez Javaria
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Medulloblastoma, a malignant tumor typically located in the posterior cranial fossa, predominantly affects children under the age of 15. It is considered rare in adults. Here, we present an exceptionally uncommon instance of a 35-year-old woman who received a diagnosis of a medulloblastoma located in the cerebellum.
Case-Presentation: We report a case involving a 35-year-old female who exhibited symptoms of vomiting and experienced headaches on the right side of her head. The imaging results revealed an unusual mass that was concluded as medulloblastoma on histopathology situated in the right cerebellar hemisphere that extended into the left cerebellar hemisphere.
Discussion: The imaging findings indicate the presence of an atypical mass located within the right cerebellar hemisphere, which extends into the left cerebellar hemisphere.This case presents a significant medical concern Further evaluation and management would be necessary. This may include additional imaging studies (such as MRI with contrast), a biopsy to determine the nature of the mass (benign vs. malignant), and consultation with neurosurgeons and oncologists to determine the best course of treatment, which could involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.
Conclusion: Medulloblastoma should be considered as a potential diagnosis when evaluating a cerebellar mass. It is important to bear in mind that clinical and radiological characteristics may differ from those typically observed in medulloblastomas found in infants.
Mapping the Status of EMI Courses at the University of Messina: The EMI@UniMe Project
Authors: Rizzo Rosalba , Polli Chiara , Cambria Mariavita
Published: January 2025

English-Medium Instruction (EMI) represents a significant development in Higher Education (Pulcini & Campagna, 2015). EMI courses spread across European universities when they embraced education through English to enhance their academic offers and encourage student mobility (De Wit, 2011; Dearden, 2014). By carefully implementing and continuously improving EMI courses, universities can strengthen their internationalisation agenda and provide students with valuable skills for their future careers (Bowles & Murphy, 2020). As Higher Education institutions increasingly adopt EMI to improve their international appeal and foster a multicultural academic environment, the University of Messina (UniMe) has similarly incorporated EMI degree programmes as part of its strategy to increase internationalisation and appeal to students. By implementing EMI courses, UniMe aims to improve global competitiveness and align with European education reforms (Macaro et al., 2018). This paper investigates the current situation of EMI courses at UniMe, highlighting their role in the university’s strategic planning, the challenges encountered, and providing useful and practical recommendations for future improvements. By adapting a questionnaire on EMI developed by the University of Trento’s Interdisciplinary Laboratory for the Quality and Innovation of Didactics (LIQuID, Polli 2021), this study examines EMI lecturers’ opinions regarding institutional and pedagogical aims, teaching practices, and learning assessment methods. The analysis of courses offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels and lecturers’ feedback also highlight both the achievements and challenges associated with the EMI@UniMe project.
Studying Content in English From School to University: A Transitional Survey of Students' Awareness of Their Pre-acquired Skills and Knowledge
Authors: Sabato Bruna Di , Hughes Bronwen , Macaro Ernesto
Published: January 2025

Drawing upon a small sample of qualitative data derived from stimulated recall interviews with first-year Italian undergraduates studying Medicine on a five-year degree course taught via EMI, we report on the techniques employed by these students to facilitate their language and content acquisition. We further investigate their awareness of the added value ascribable to what they had already acquired during their high school CLIL studies in terms of learning strategies, knowledge and competences.
First-year Students in an EMI Program: Developing International Mindsets?
Authors: Mair Olivia , Cantaluppi Gabriele
Published: January 2025

Developing international and intercultural competences is often considered one of the benefits of studying in English-medium Instruction settings, but how students perceive universities’ attempts to internationalize and how much importance they place on internationalization activities, including curricular internationalization, is not yet fully clear. This paper presents the results of part of a questionnaire for first-year students in an English-taught Psychology bachelor’s degree program in Italy regarding conceptions of internationalization. The single case study design, using mixed methods, allows an in-depth, micro-level analysis. It sheds light on how students perceive pedagogical, curricular and knowledge construction aspects in EMI settings. In this section of the questionnaire, students (n=52) ranked nine dimensions relating to internationalization and responded to an open-ended question about what internationalization of the curriculum (IoC) means to them. Statistical analysis of the ranking showed students associated internationalization most frequently with preparing for employment in a globalized world, followed by putting students from different backgrounds together and studying international content in the discipline. Thematic analysis of answers to the open-ended question revealed students held multi-layered conceptions and engaged with the intercultural and epistemic aspects of Leask’s definition of IoC (2015).
Research on Digital Music Copyright Protection in China: Taking Music Infringement in Audiovisual Works as an Example
Authors: Sheng Sijie
Published: January 2025

With the advent of the information technology era, digital music has been widely disseminated in the new online media, and at the same time, digital music copyright protection problems have emerged, which, together with the explosion of audiovisual works in recent years, has led to the increasing and more complicated infringement of digital music. With the improvement of national policies and laws and regulations, public awareness of copyright protection has been formed, and relevant laws and regulations are being improved, but there are still many practical problems in the process of digital music copyright protection that need to be solved. This paper focuses on the current phenomenon of digital music infringement in audiovisual works, analyzes the problems related to digital music copyright protection, and proposes suggestions for protecting digital music copyright protection, aiming to alleviate the current phenomenon of ineffective digital music copyright protection and promote the sustainable and healthy development of China's digital music market.
Land governance arrangements in Tanzania: Actors, processes and instruments
Authors:   Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Ardhi University, Magina Fredrick Bwire , Kayuza Hidaya ,   Department of Land Management and Valuation, Ardhi University
Published: January 2025

Land governance in most developing countries remains a big challenge because of many factors particularly those related to tenure systems and institutional frameworks. This paper presents land governance arrangements in Tanzania whereby two dominant tenure systems, granted and customary, prevail. An exploratory research design was used in the study. As such, a critical review of documents embracing land governance arrangements and practices as well as training workshops on the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests (VGGTs) of 2012 conducted in four regions were useful in capturing primary data that exhibit real life cases that impact on land governance arrangements. The key respondents were professionals in the land, forestry and fisheries sectors who were the main targets in the VGGT programme. Findings revealed that Tanzania is rich in policies and laws which govern land; but still there are many challenges on land governance which have given rise to land use conflicts over time. We conclude that although a number of steps to improve land governance, poor land governance in the land sector is pivotal. Aspects of inclusive transactions, land use planning and implementation processes, local land administration capacity, transparency around valuable natural resources, women’s de facto land rights, and negotiate community driven solutions are crucial in the land governance spectrum.
Rezension von: Brümmer, Johannes, Kunst und Herrschaftsanspruch
Authors: Setzler Wilfried , Brümmer Johannes
Published: January 2025

Johannes Brümmer: Kunst und Herrschaftsanspruch. Abt Benedikt Knittel (1650-1732) und sein Wirken im Zisterzienserkloster Schöntal. (Forschungen aus Württembergisch Franken, Band 40.) Jan Thorbecke Verlag Sigmaringen 1994. 312 Seiten mit 257 Abbildungen, davon51 in Farbe. Leinen DM 68,-
Rezension von: Schoch, Oswald, Die kriegsbedingte Harznutzung an Forche (Kiefer) und Fichte in den Staatswaldungen des württembergischen Schwarzwalds von 1915 bis 1920
Authors: Wrobbel Sibylle , Schoch Oswald
Published: January 2025

Oswald Schoch: Die kriegsbedingte Harznutzung an Forche (Kiefer) und Fichte in den Staatswaldungen des württembergischen Schwarzwaldes von 1915 bis 1920. (Schriftenreihe der Landesforstverwaltung Baden-Württemberg, Band 71). Selbstverlag der Landesforstverwaltung Freiburg 1991. 452 Seiten mit 116 Abbildungen. Kartoniert DM 58,- (Zu beziehen bei der Forstlichen Versuchs-und Forschungsanstalt, Wonnhaldestr. 4, 79100 Freiburg)
Counterterrorism Planning in the Shipping Industry Leveraging Competitive Intelligence
Authors: KANELLOPOULOS Anastasios-Nikolaos , IOANNIDIS Anthony
Published: January 2025

This paper addresses the critical need to bolster Counterterrorism (CT) strategies in the Shipping industry, which is responsible for the vast majority of global goods transportation. The objective is to advocate for the integration of Competitive Intelligence (CI) into CT planning to address current security deficiencies. Key threats such as piracy in Somalia and the Gulf of Guinea, ship-borne terrorism, and attacks on ports are examined, highlighting the limitations of existing measures like the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The first chapter delves into primary threats, including hijacking, piracy, ship-borne terrorism, and portattacks, providing an in-depth analysis of their implications and necessary countermeasures. The second chapter explores current CT measures, focusing on the role of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the effectiveness of the ISPS Code, while identifying the reactive nature of existing strategies. The third chapter proposes a strategic CI framework, emphasizing comprehensive data collection, advanced analysis, threat identification, and proactive strategy development. Each component is detailed to illustrate how CI can transform CT planning, making it more anticipatory and effective.The authors anticipate that using CI will help stakeholders, including policymakers, Shipping companies, and security agencies, adopt more proactive and effective measures against emerging threats. The proposed framework emphasizes the importance of stakeholder collaboration, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation. This study aims to enhance maritime security, ensure global trade’s safe and efficient operation, and improve global maritime resilience, offering valuable insights for all industry stakeholders.
The role of civil-military cooperation in contemporary United Nations peacekeeping operations: a case study of UNIFIL
Authors: RADOJEVIC Slobodan M.
Published: January 2025

The paper explores the place and role of civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) in contemporary United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations. The author’s starting point is that civil-military cooperation is important for the success of a peacekeeping operation, as the CIMIC personnel engage in the implementation of CIMIC tasks in order to create a favorable civilian environment. Through these activities, the CIMIC personnel influence the security of the unit and contribute to the success of the mission. The paper aims to advance the understanding of civil-military cooperation by clarifying how the concept is understood, shaped, and applied in  contemporary UN peacekeeping operations. With this in mind, the interview has proven to be the best research technique forobtaining information on how the CIMIC personnel understand, implement, and develop the functions of the CIMIC in UN peacekeeping operations. This section presents experiences in the application of the CIMIC in the peacekeeping operation in Lebanon (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon – UNIFIL) as a case study. The paper emphasizes that the successful implementation of civil-military cooperation in a peacekeeping operation can affect the strategic level, i.e. exert an influence on the success of the operation itself. Emphasis is placed on presenting the range of roles and functions that the CIMIC personnel perform in peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the UN. The paper concludes that contemporary peacekeeping operations have evolved and require a significant component of civil-military cooperation.
Tenchi warfare – modern military operations based on the “tenchijin” philosophy
Authors: TOPOR Sorin
Published: January 2025

In the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the protection of material and human resources is an essential condition for regional security. The paper examines a number of trends in technological development, lessons learned from this conflict, and opportunities for applying the Japanese tenchijin philosophy to modern military operations. We propose that under the name of “Tenchi warfare” we highlight the role of advanced military technologies in military operations, with an emphasis on the exploitation of obscure spaces and knowledge, to ensure strong decision-making support in order to synchronize the rhythm of the engaged forces with the rhythm of enemy evolution. Similar to how ninja fighters approach combat, we believe such a strategy could be useful in offensive reactions in various domains, as well as for enhancing national and regional security.
Information operations, rivalry projects in the information arena
Authors: AMZA Cristinel-Marius
Published: January 2025

The organization and conduct of intelligence operations in the Intelligence Arena involves a real rivalry and confrontation among the Intelligence Services, conducted in order to gain some advantages at the expense of others. Nothing is surprising in the fact that these rivals are constantly trying on the one hand to thwart each other’s efforts to know the other, and, on the other hand, to mislead, misinform, or deceive.
State of Siege in South Dobrogea. Action plan and instructions against attacks by Bulgarian komitadjis developed by the 9th Romanian Division command
Authors: NICULAE Daniel Silviu
Published: January 2025

On December 10, 1864, at the proposal of the ruler Alexandru Ioan Cuza, was voted by the Romanian parliamentarians, the Law on Siege, a basic normative act for future regulations in the field. The first article stated that the state of siege could only be declared in the event of imminent danger to public safety and order. In the context of domestic political events that took place in 1864, regulation of the agrarian problem and electoral rights, legislative initiatives that determined the coup of May 2, 1864, the phrase safety and public order unseen in the first article of the law, it was primarily aimed at ensuring the exercise of public authority in implementing  the reforms undertaken by the government led by Mihail Kogalniceanu and implicitly protecting the populationand the territory. Like an arch in time, in 1926, in peacetime, after 62 years since the vote on the Siege Law of 1864, the attacks of the Bulgarian comitages threatening the population, territory, and the exercise of state authority at the southern border imposed the extension of the provisions on the state of siege and their application by the War Council of the 9th Division
INFLUENCE FACTOR FINANCIAL LITERACY
Authors: Nurhab Irpan
Published: January 2025

One of the intelligence that modern humans must possess is financial intelligence, namely intelligence in managing personal financial assets. Students generally have greater freedom to make personal decisions in financial matters. However, the current phenomenon does not reflect the level of student financial literacy. This is the maximum money he has. Students need to be equipped with knowledge and expertise in the field of finance and taught ways to manage finances so that students cannot take advantage of this research. This study aims to determine what factors influence the financial literacy of students at the Metro State Islamic Institute. The method used in this study was to take a direct approach to the respondents who were sampled in the study to obtain primary data. The sampling technique in this study used a proportional random sampling technique with data collection techniques using a questionnaire distribution technique. Factor analysis of 17 indicator variables produces 5 forming factors, namely: 1) Management factor, 2) Revenue factor, 3) Budgeting factor, 4) Education factor, and 5) Planning factor.
Keywords: Factor Analysis, Financial Literacy, Multivariate Analysis
Efektivitas Penggunaan WhatsApp sebagai Media Komunikasi dalam Pembelajaran Anak Usia Dini pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Kresnamurti Rira , Fauziyah Debibik Nabilatul , Syafrida Rina
Published: January 2025

Demi memenuhi hak siswa dalam mendapatkan pelayanan bidang pendidikan di masa penyebaran wabah Coronavirus Disease-19, kegiatan pembelajaran di sekolah ditiadakan dan diganti dengan pembelajaran jarak jauh melalui sistem pembelajaran online atau dalam jaringan (daring). Kebijakan ini berlaku bagi semua tingkat pendidikan dari mulai tingkat Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini sampai Pendidikanm Tinggi. Namun, tentu saja penerapan aturan belajar melalui sistem online ini secara tidak langsung merubah cara pembelajaran di satuan pendidikan anak usia dini yang belum bisa dipastikan efeknya bagi tercapainya tumbuh kembang peserta didik. Pemilihan media dalam pembelajaran akan memberi pengaruh terhadap feedback dari peserta didik. Melalui pemilihan media yang tepat, pelaksanaan pembelajaran diharapkan akan lebih aktif, kreatif dan efektif sehingga dapat meningkatkan motivasi dan minat belajar siswa. Tuntutan bagi guru agar mampu memanfaatkan sosial media khususnya WhatsApp diharapkan dapat menunjang pelaksanaan pembelajaran di era revolusi industri 4.0 yang memanfaatkan teknologi khususnya saat pandemi ini. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui bagaimana efektivitas media pembelajaran WhatsApp pada tingkat PAUD di Kab. Karawang? Metode pada penelitian ini yaitu penelitian lapangan atau field research yaitu penelitian yang dilakukan dengan cara terstruktur dengan mengambil data secara langsung di lapangan dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil penelitian ini adalah bahwa WA telah menjadi media untuk pembelajaran online yang paling banyak digunakan sekaligus sebagai sarana penghubung guru dengan orangtua siswa. Pelaksanaan pembelajaran online dinilai kurang efektif bagi PAUD, akan tetapi pemanfaatan WhatsApp sebagai media pembelajaran telah memberikan kemudahan bagi para orangtua karena aplikasi ini sudah sangat umum digunakan di kalangan orangtua siswa. Peran aktif orang tua sangat dibutuhkan guna mendukung perkembangan siswa PAUD selama wabah Covid-19 ini harus belajar di rumah.