bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IoT Forensic Cyber Activities Detection and Prevention with Automated Machine Learning Model
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of IT, SGGSIE&T, Nanded, Maharashtra,431606 India, Sawarkar Ankush D , Hazari Anjali Deepak ,   Assistant Professor, Department of CSE, MGM College of Engineering and Technology, Nanded, Maharashtra, 431602, India
Published: July 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) has been deployed in a vast range of applications with exponential increases in data size and complexity. Existing forensic techniques are not effective for the accuracy and detection rate of security issues in IoT forensics. Cyber forensic comprises huge volume constraints that are processing huge volumes of data in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) comprised of IoT devices and platforms. Trust blockchain is effective technology those are utilized to assess the tamper-proof records in all transaction in the IoT environment. With the implementation of trust blockchain the record and transaction are processed with a distributed ledger that is managed by the network nodes. The challenge associated with the trust blockchain in IoT forensics is cost and security. To achieve significant cost-effectiveness organizations, need to evaluate the risks and benefits associated with IoT forensics in the trust blockchain technology. In this paper, developed a Block Chain Enabled Cyber-Physical system with distributed storage. The developed Blockchain model is termed as Integrated Hadoop Blockchain Forensic Machin Learning (IHBF-ML). The IHBF-ML model uses the Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) with cyberspace to improve security. Within the IHBF-ML model, IoT data communication is established with the smart contract. The smart contract-based blockchain process uses the Machine Learning model integrated with Cat Boost classification model for anomaly detection. Cost in IoT forensic is minimized with the parallel processing of the data through MapReduce Framework for the traffic translation, extraction, and analysis of the dynamic feature traffic from the IoT environment. The experimental analysis stated that constructed IHBF-ML model reduces the cost by ~25% than the other conventional blockchain Ethereum and EOS.
Praktek Transaksi Pada Koperasi Karyawan Daerah Kota Surakarta Dalam Tinjauan Hukum Islam dan Tingkat Pemahaman Anggotanya Dalam Hal Riba
Authors: Muhamad  , Rochmat Budi Santoso
Published: July 2024

This study aims to determine what transaction practices are carried out by the Surakarta City Employee Cooperative (Kokarda) and how these practices are in the view of Islamic law. In addition, this study aims to reveal how far the members of the cooperative, who are mostly Muslims, understand about usury. The technique of collecting data from literature books or data published by the Regional Employee Cooperative (Kokarda) in Surakarta is used to obtain data in literature. To support the research, data collection using a questionnaire, then analyzed quantitatively and descriptively. The questionnaire consists of questions about the respondent's knowledge of the application of the interest system, the purpose of saving or saving money and the respondents' interest in borrowing in the cooperative. Researchers also developed in the form of random interviews with some respondents. The results showed that the Surakarta Regional Employee Cooperative (Kokarda) implemented savings and loan transactions. Saving money in the cooperative earns interest on deposits. Borrowers of money are required to pay interest on the loan. The members, who are mostly Muslims, have a high enough interest in saving and borrowing money from the cooperative.
Pengaruh Metode Maserasi Konvensional dan Berbantu Gelombang Mikro Terhadap Penapisan Fitokimia dan Standardisasi Ekstrak Peperomia pellucida L.
Authors: Priamsari Margareta Retno , Kamila Iffa , Sawal Rizky Ardian Hartanto
Published: July 2024

Daun suruhan (Peperomia pellucida L.) merupakan salah satu tumbuhan obat dengan banyak khasiat. Khasiat tumbuhan obat berhubungan dengan hasil penapisan fitokimia dan standardisasi, yang tercermin melalui kualitas ekstrak yang dihasilkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menilai dampak metode ekstraksi terhadap profil skrining fitokimia dan standarisasi ekstrak daun suruhan. Sampel diekstraksi menggunakan metode maserasi dan ekstraksi bantuan gelombang mikro / Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) dengan pelarut etanol 96%. elanjutnya, penapisan fitokimia dan standarisasi dilakukan baik pada serbuk maupun ekstrak. Data yang diperoleh kemudian dianalisis secara deskriptif. Hasil penapisan fitokimia baik dari metode maserasi maupun MAE menunjukkan ekstrak daun suruhan mengandung senyawa flavonoid, saponin, fenol, tannin, steroid, triterpenoid, dan glikosida. Hasil standarisasi pada ekstrak daun suruhan metode maserasi diperoleh kadar sari terlarut air 2,15%, kadar sari terlarut etanol 67,31%, susut pengeringan 9,68%, kadar abu 37,2988%, bobot jenis 0,9805 g/mL, dan cemaran logam Pb 0,000 mg/L. Sedangkan hasil standarisasi pada ekstrak daun suruhan metode MAE diperoleh kadar sari terlarut air 30,06%, kadar sari terlarut etanol 33,84%, susut pengeringan 9,52%, kadar abu 38,1392%, bobot jenis 0,8273 g/mL, dan cemaran logam Pb 0,061 mg/L.
War-Torn Territories and Society: Migration Processes, Cases, Contexts of Ukraine
Authors: Malchykova Daria , Pylypenko Ihor
Published: July 2024

Large-scale population displacement is one of the key consequences of the Russian-Ukrainian war. It has been determined that Ukraine has abnormal demographic patterns at all levels. The aim of the research was to identify the general features of new patterns in the demographic space of Ukraine at different levels and to present case studies of migration processes in the de-occupied communities of Kherson region. An analysis of demographic history and the dramatic changes of the last ten years have revealed a restructuring of the demographic space that has changed the dominant trends of previous periods. The authors differentiate the regions of Ukraine by population concentration, which demonstrates a catastrophic drop in the demographic weight of the regions that became the battlefield. At a national level, there have been catastrophic demographic losses due to refugees, deaths, and natural decline. At a regional level, there has been a significant shift in population distribution, resulting in the rapid growth of the relative demographic importance of Ukraine's western and central regions. There have been predictable and unexpected migration cases at the local level, where emotional and psychological factors such as strengthening identity and regional belonging have become more essential alongside rational choices and decisions.
Unani Tibb students’ and educators’ perceptions of spirituality and spiritual care in education in South Africa: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Hoosen M , Roman N V , Mthembu T G , Mursaleen N
Published: July 2024

Background. Unani Tibb promotes holistic patient care, yet spirituality and spiritual care seem to be neglected in education. This theory-practice gap was previously highlighted in studies on Unani Tibb practitioners. The role of spirituality and spiritual care in Unani Tibb education in South Africa (SA) remains unclear.
Objectives. To explore Unani Tibb students’ and educators’ perceptions and attitudes of spirituality and spiritual care in SA.
Methods. A two-stage sequential explanatory mixed-method study was conducted. Quantitative data from stage 1 was obtained using a cross-sectional descriptive study followed by in-depth interviews for the qualitative study in stage 2. Stage 1 guided the interview questions in stage 2. Descriptive data analysis was performed for the quantitative study, followed by thematic analysis for the qualitative data.
Results. A total of 18 (90%) participants took part in the quantitative study followed by 10 participants (50%) in the qualitative study. Three study findings emerged: i) a heightened level of spiritual awareness was recorded for this cohort despite the lack of spirituality and spiritual care content in the curriculum, ii) participants viewed spiritual care as integral to Unani Tibb philosophy, education and practice and iii) formal integration of spirituality and spiritual care concepts in Unani Tibb education was identified as a necessity to ensure the integrity of the holistic approach required by the profession.
Conclusion. This study has implications across the health education sector and more specifically for Unani Tibb educators to consider the inclusion of spiritual care content in education programmes.
Obstetrics clinical learning needs: Priorities of undergraduate medical students
Authors: Ntsekhe-Mogashoa T , Nyoni C N , Labuschagne M
Published: July 2024

Background. The obstetrics clinical learning environment is complex and often not conducive to learning. Understanding the priority clinical learning needs of students with experience in this setting is essential for designing effective educational interventions to optimise clinical learning.
Objective. To describe the priority obstetrics-related clinical learning needs of undergraduate medical students informed by their experience of the clinical learning environment.
Methods. A multigroup nominal group technique (NGT) was applied to a purposively sampled group of medical students who had experienced obstetrics-related clinical placements in facilities at various levels of care, from primary to tertiary. Individual group priorities were further integrated into themes.
Results. Seven priorities emerged: (i) perinatal procedural skills, (ii) teaching approaches to obstetrics, (iii) pregnancy-related screening and complications, (iv) postnatal support for women, (v) interprofessional and gender roles, (vi) orientation to patient care and the clinical environment, and (vii) psychological preparation of students.
Conclusion. Educational interventions to optimise the obstetrics clinical learning environment must consider students’ priorities. These priorities extend beyond procedural skills and include collaborative practice and psychological preparation.
Enterprise Integration as a Driving Factor for Guiding Digitalization in a Manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprise
Authors:   Department of Materials and Production, Aalborg University,  Fibigerstraede 16, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark, Palade Dan , Møller Charles ,   Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering, Aarhus University, Katrinebjergvej 89, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark, Hansen Andreas Kornmaaler ,   Department of Architecture, Design & Media Technology, Aalborg University, Rendsburggade 14, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
Published: July 2024

In the face of rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer demands, businesses increasingly turn to digitalization to remain competitive and redefine industry standards. This article delves into the crucial role of enterprise integration within the context of digital transformation, with a specific focus on manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Based on fieldwork within the Innovation Factory North project in Denmark, the study presents a three-dimensional framework – architecture, capabilities, and governance – that is instrumental in guiding manufacturing SMEs through the complexities of digitalization. The architecture dimension explores the dichotomy between monolithic and fog (edge) architectures, highlighting their respective merits and challenges. The capabilities dimension introduces the concept of operational capability stacking, demonstrating how specific information systems, when integrated, yield new capabilities. A list of common capabilities in manufacturing enterprises is provided, offering inspiration for manufacturing SMEs to enhance their operational efficiency. The governance dimension injects a strategic dimension into the digitalization process, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach between technology-driven and process-driven optimization methodologies. The research underscores the strategic nature of digitalization in manufacturing SMEs, recognizing the interconnectedness of architecture, capabilities, and governance in achieving sustained success in the digital landscape. The proposed three-dimensional framework is substantiated through real-world applications within Denmark’s Innovation Factory North project, providing tangible insights and scenarios to navigate the intricacies of the digital landscape effectively.
Dignity unlocked? The Nelson Mandela Rules as a key to the transnational legal ordering of imprisonment
Authors: van Zyl Smit Dirk
Published: July 2024

This paper explains how the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (UNSMR), known since their 2015 amendment as the Nelson Mandela Rules, have become an international instrument regulating imprisonment. This explanation deals with the emergence of the original UNSMR and the process that led to their amendment. It pays particular attention to the impact of ideas about how prisons should ideally function, developed in a series of handbooks published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, both before and after the adoption of the Nelson Mandela Rules. The paper concludes that the campaign to publicise the Nelson Mandela Rules has made them an important component of discussions about prison reform worldwide. Although they are regarded as a soft law instrument, this has not lessened their impact on prison laws and policies. There is limited empirical evidence, however, of their ability to alter prison conditions substantively.
Recall to prison in Belgium: Experiences of parolees who live under licence conditions
Authors: Teugels Audrey
Published: July 2024

In the recent penological literature, the back door of a prison is often presented as a revolving door through which many prisoners leave the prison prematurely, but then return after a short period. A large number of prisoners who have been conditionally released are sent back to prison during the licence period or before the end of their sentence due to a breach of the licence conditions. Since the revocation of a release modality (such as parole) might affect reintegration, a careful balance is needed between proportionality, the risks, the possibility of behavioural change and the opportunities for reintegration. In other words, the impact on detainees should not be underestimated if a decision to recall is being taken. Since the majority of parolees in Belgium are sent back to prison after non-compliance with the imposed conditions, this article discusses the experiences of interviewees who lived under these conditions when being granted a release modality before being recalled to prison.
A penology for Europe
Authors: Daems Tom
Published: July 2024

On 22 March 2016 Belgium suffered a severe terrorist attack on its national airport, in Zaventem, close to Brussels, and the Maelbeek metro station. Thirty-two people were killed that day. Another 340 victims, some of whom suffered particularly serious injuries, will carry the scars for the rest of their lives. Such terrorist attacks, in the heart of Europe, pose an enormous challenge, one that goes beyond the role of the police and the judiciary or questions about the design and security of open or semi-open spaces, such as markets, metro stations, concert halls, nightclubs or airports. In addition to prevention and criminal investigation, there is also the question of the appropriate response when the perpetrators or their accomplices are caught. What is an appropriate punishment in such a context, for such awful offences? How long do we need to punish? And for what purpose do we punish? In this article we offer some reflections on these questions. We argue that the question of how to respond to crime – crimes of all kinds – should not be narrowed down to how we can impose “deserved” pain or how we can reach the goals of punishment more effectively; no, we should rather broaden it to the question of how we can strengthen and affirm our values and ideals through our response. “In figuring the equations of punishment … we cannot hold the punisher constant”, as James Whitman (2003) wrote in “Harsh Justice”. Punishment is not just about the defendants in the dock: it concerns us all, it affects us all.
Convergent and divergence pathways: Electronic monitoring (EM) in England and Wales and Poland
Authors: Hucklesby Anthea , Sidor-Borek Paulina
Published: July 2024

Electronic monitoring (EM) is a fixture in most criminal justice systems in Europe and around the world, but there is limited research on how EM operates in Eastern European states. Previous comparative research identified two distinct approaches to how EM is used and operated but Eastern Europe was not included in the analysis (Hucklesby, Beyens, Boone 2021). This paper addresses this knowledge gap by examining the use of EM in Poland and comparing it with England and Wales, thereby identifying similarities and differences in their approaches. The two jurisdictions are good comparators because the Polish system was originally modelled on England and Wales, they were both early adopters of EM in their respective parts of Europe, they share common problems of high prison populations and overcrowded prisons and they use EM extensively. The paper explores whether Poland has a distinct approach to EM implementation which differs from the British or Western European approaches and whether there might be a distinctive Eastern European model of EM. It argues that whilst the Polish approach to EM has evolved away from the British approach to share many of the features of the Western European model, it is sufficiently distinctive to suggest the existence of a third model or approach. Consequently, it raises questions about whether there is an Eastern European model or whether Poland’s approach is unique. The paper concludes by examining enduring questions about whether the approach of England and Wales or Poland have more effectively managed prison populations. It suggests that EM’s impact on prison populations has been marginal at best in both jurisdictions, putting ethical issues about its use into sharper focus.
Tunable continuous domain bound states based on Fabry-Perot cavities and their applications
Authors: Ren Yang , Li Zhen-Xiong , Zhang Lei , Cui Wei , Wu Xiong-Xiong , Huo Ya-Shan , He Zhi-Hui ,   Center for Optoelectronic Information and Transform, School of Physics and Electronic Information, Yan’an University, Yan’an 716000, China
Published: July 2024

Excellent optical absorbers are always characterized by high quality factors and perfect absorption; however, these absorbers usually encounter the ohmic losses due to traditional surface plasmon resonance, which limits their absorption performance in practical applications. To address the problem, a tunable bound state in the continuum (BIC) based on Fabry-Perot cavity is proposed in this work. Figure (a) shows the structural model of the designed Fabry-Perot cavity absorber, which consists of Ag as a substrate, a layer of the dielectric material Al2O3 above the Ag substrate, and a high-refractive-index grating as the top dielectric layer Si ridge. By adjusting the thickness parameter d of Al2O3, the transformation of BIC into q-BIC is achieved. Specifically, when d is increased from 273 nm to 298 nm, the BIC can be transformed into quasi-BIC, and the perfect absorption of the absorber in the continuum spectrum can be increased to 100%. In this work, the factors affecting the perfect absorption are explored by using the interference theory; theoretical calculations of the quasi-BIC are carried out by using the coupled mode theory and impedance matching theory; the physical mechanism of the BIC is explained by using the electric and magnetic field theory. The BIC is caused by the electric and magnetic dipole modes as well as the mirror image of the base Ag, which causes the interferential phase cancellation effect. Compared with the conventional absorber, the proposed absorber has excellent structural parameter robustness and a wide range of BIC modulation. More importantly, the absorber has excellent sensing performance with a maximum sensitivity of up to 34 nm/RIU and a maximum quality factor of 9.5. Last but not least, the absorber also achieves dual-frequency open-light performance, the maximum modulation depth and the minimum insertion loss of the dual-frequency switch reach 99.4% and 0.0004 dB, respectively. These findings have significant implications in the fields of photonics, optical communication, and sensor technology.
Presencia de integrones y su correlación con la multirresistencia en Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium: revisión sistemática exploratoria
Authors: Flórez Nancy Yaneth , Silva Claudia , Villarreal José Miguel , Wiesner Magdalena
Published: July 2024

La multirresistencia a los antibióticos en Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (Typhimurium) se asocia con integrones que portan genes de resistencia y que son dispersados por elementos genéticos móviles.En esta revisión sistemática exploratoria, se buscó identificar los tipos de integrones y sus genes de resistencia en aislamientos de Typhimurium multirresistentes a antibióticos. Se realizó una búsqueda de artículos en Medline, PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect, Redalyc y Google Académico, publicados entre el 2012 y el 2020, en español o inglés, con las palabras claves: “integrons”, “antibiotic resistance” y “Salmonella Typhimurium”. En el análisis se incluyeron 38 artículos que reportaron multirresistencia a cinco familias de antibióticos.Los integrones de clase 1 con casetes de genes aadA2 y blaPSE-1 fueron los predominantes, algunos probablemente relacionados con la isla genómica de Salmonella 1. No se encontraron integrones de clase 1 y 2 en un mismo aislamiento, ni se reportaron integrones de clase 3. La presencia de integrones explica en gran medida los perfiles de resistencia encontrados en aislamientos de diferentes fuentes de 15 países.
Factores asociados con la infección por el virus de la hepatitis B en comunidades indígenas de Colombia
Authors: Martínez-Gallego Jaime , Castro-Arroyave Diana , Quintero Juan Carlos , De la Hoz Fernando , Montoya Melissa , Palacio Isabela , Navas María Cristina , Rojas Carlos
Published: July 2024

Introducción. Colombia alberga dos millones de indígenas, que viven en condiciones de pobreza y tienen deficiencias en salud, por lo cual están expuestos a contraer infecciones virales como la hepatitis B. El departamento del Amazonas presenta una gran prevalencia del virus y barreras para acceder a la vacunación; por esto, parte de la población es propensa a la infección.Objetivo. Identificar factores asociados con la infección por el virus de la hepatitis B en indígenas colombianos.Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio de casos y controles en mayores de 18 años de cuatro departamentos del país. Los casos se identificaron mediante el registro nacional de notificación de hepatitis B (2015-2022). Los controles seleccionados de manera concurrente fueron pareados con los casos por edad, sexo, etnia y departamento. En una encuesta se consignaron las características sociodemográficas, los factores asociados con el contacto con sangre y fluidos, las prácticas socioculturales y los antecedentes de vacunación. El proyecto fue aprobado por Comité de Ética de la Universidad de Antioquia.Resultados. Participaron 75 casos y 150 controles de 13 grupos étnicos. El departamento del Amazonas aportó el 49 % de los participantes (83 % mujeres) con una mediana de edad de 30 años (RIC = 27-37). Los factores asociados con una mayor probabilidad de contraer la infección fueron el antecedente de algún familiar infectado con el virus de la hepatitis B (OR ajustado = 2,61) (IC95%: 1,09-6,27) y número de embarazos en mujeres, (OR ajustado = 1,61) (IC95%: 1,02-2,54). La vacunación mostró un efecto protector sin asociación significativa.Conclusión. Los aspectos asociados con la convivencia familiar y el número de embarazos contribuyen a una potencial transmisión vertical y horizontal del virus. No se identificaron prácticas culturales asociadas. Se requieren estrategias novedosas y diferenciales para reducir la transmisión del virus de la hepatitis B en poblaciones indígenas.
Análise de patologias de fachadas registradas num conjunto de edifícios na cidade de Uberlândia
Authors: Araújo Júlia Martins Vale , Guterres Paulo Roberto Cabana
Published: July 2024

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo a investigação, identificação e caracterização das patologias presentes nas fachadas externas de edifícios de maior importância histórica, tombados e/ou inventariados como patrimônio, localizados em área previamente determinada da Cidade de Uberlândia. Portanto, elaborar um diagrama de correlação para propor um modelo prático de metodologia de avaliação. Este modelo engloba a identificação e recorrência de anomalias de fachada, o diagnóstico genérico de possíveis causas desencadeantes e processos degradantes, e as respetivas recomendações de ações para futuras recuperações do edifício. Desta forma, serve de subsídio para futuras intervenções de recuperação, sejam elas privadas ou de ordem pública. Através dos estudos de caso, evidenciou-se que a origem destas lesões identificadas está, em sua maioria, associada ao uso de materiais inadequados e, posteriormente, aos erros cometidos durante as fases de projeto e execução. Outra grande causa de manifestações patológicas é o sistema de manutenção irregular, não planejado ou até mesmo inexistente. É bastante comum o desenvolvimento de patologias pela associação de dois ou mais desses fatores, aliás é raro que um único fator desencadeie todo o processo degradante. Por fim, o estudo propõe trazer ao meio científico os responsáveis ​​pela procura de reabilitação destes imóveis com o objectivo de reduzir custos proporcionando uma maior durabilidade das obras de recuperação. Além disso, serve como importante ferramenta de conhecimento devido aos registros realizados, caracterização e correlação de anomalias.
Development of a prototype to evaluate and monitor energy efficiency aiming at power quality 4.0
Authors: Barbosa Sergio Lyra , Leite Jandecy Cabral , Ribeiro Paulo Francisco da Silva , Nascimento Alarico Gonçalves do , Silva Ítalo Rodrigo Soares
Published: July 2024

In research and development projects, the need to implement prototypes to speed up the development and delivery process is paramount, offering tools to validate scenarios and anticipate challenges. The aim of this research is to experimentally develop a prototype for monitoring electrical power systems using a gateway that converts MODBUS-RTU communication protocols to TCP, providing useful information for technicians and managers of a company in the Manaus Industrial Estate (PIM) in the field of reflective tapes. To achieve this goal, it was necessary to specify the technical requirements for panel assembly and communication via MODBUS, acquire and research materials in accordance with the technical specifications and technological requirements, implement the monitoring system with an IMS Controller for reactive power compensation, and configure and parameterise the MODBUS protocol via the RTU to TCP converter. The prototype is expected to be able to take accurate measurements and, in the data acquisition process, obtain readings of electrical quantities such as: voltage per phase; current per phase; power factor per phase; active power per phase; reactive power per phase; apparent power per phase; frequency; voltage THD and voltage harmonics. The prototype must act intelligently to drive the capacitor bank to control and monitor reactive power. The development of the prototype included crucial stages such as the specification of technical requirements, the acquisition of suitable materials, and the implementation and configuration of the system. The specification ensured that the components were aligned with the project objectives, while the procurement of materials ensured the quality and efficiency of the system. The implementation of the Automatic Reactive Power Compensation Controller was vital for reactive power compensation and the configuration of the MODBUS protocol ensured precise communication between the components. To summarise, this project demonstrates the importance of prototypes in technological advancement, offering practical and efficient solutions for industry. The prototype developed to monitor electrical power systems through a MODBUS-RTU to TCP protocol converter gateway represents a significant advance, providing essential data and contributing to informed decision-making, improving the performance and management of the company's energy resources.
Adopting Pedagogical Content Knowledge Principles in Secondary School Chemistry Teaching: An Insight from Tanzania
Authors: Ngonge Rweyendera Gosbert
Published: July 2024

Tanzania is currently shifting from content-based to competence-based curriculum implementation, aligning with modern-day and global demands. Despite extensive research on enhancing science teaching methods, some gaps in understanding how these innovations diffuse into practice. This study aimed at assessing the local conditions and contexts which supported the adoption of pedagogical content knowledge principles in teaching secondary school chemistry in Tanzania. The study focuses on introducing pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) principles into secondary school chemistry education. This study was conducted from June to December 2022. Three Ordinary level secondary school chemistry modules were developed and used to empower 15 in-service secondary school teachers from 15 secondary schools across 6 regions of mainland Tanzania. A mixed approach, incorporating case study and quasi-experimental designs, along with the use of an Online Community of Practice (CoP) and the Higher-Order Thinking with Inclusion and Equity (HOTIE) framework, was employed to gain a deeper understanding of the innovation transfer. Data were collected and analyzed based on Moore and Benbasat’s [1] framework. Findings indicated positive impact in voluntariness, relative advantage, compatibility, ease of use, result demonstrability and visibility. However, findings revealed that inclusivity and equity issues were not sufficiently addressed. Participating teachers voluntarily engaged in the program and found the PCK approach compatible with their needs and experiences. The study concludes that the innovation holds promise for broader implementation, highlighting its potential scalability within Tanzania’s education system and elsewhere particularly in the developing countries. The study recommends more researches on use of PCK with inclusivity and equity.
Navigating Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges in Suspected Neuromelioidosis: A Comprehensive Case-Report of a Post-natal Mother
Authors: Martinraj Jasper Victoria Leelarani , George Keren Ann
Published: July 2024

Neuromelioidosis, a severe neurological form of melioidosis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This case report describes a 28-year-old post-natal woman with progressive right-sided weakness, facial palsy, and respiratory distress. MRI findings, including the tunnel sign, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis were crucial for diagnosis. Despite initial broad-spectrum antibiotics, targeted treatment with meropenem, ceftazidime, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to significant clinical improvement. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and appropriate management of neuromelioidosis to improve patient outcomes.
Advancing Agriculture through Artificial Intelligence, Plant Disease Detection Methods, Applications, and Limitations
Authors: Baksh Hari , Thottempudi Kavya , Khatal Manjit M , G S Sujatha , Das Nikita , Alam Mohd Aftab , Karanwal Rajshree , P Priya
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into agriculture has transformed traditional farming practices. One area of significant advancement is in the detection of plant diseases, where AI-driven technologies offer innovative solutions to mitigate crop losses and enhance agricultural productivity. This paper explores the latest methodologies, applications, and challenges in utilizing AI for plant disease detection. We review various AI techniques, including machine learning, computer vision, and deep learning, that have been deployed to accurately identify and diagnose plant diseases. Additionally, we discuss the practical applications of these technologies in real-world agricultural settings, highlighting their potential to revolutionize crop management practices. Despite the promising developments, we also address the limitations and obstacles faced in implementing AI-based plant disease detection systems, including issues related to data quality, model generalization, and scalability. By critically examining the current landscape of AI-driven plant disease detection, this paper aims to provide insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to further advance the integration of AI technologies in agriculture.
Nanobiotechnology Promotes Noninvasive High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound Cancer Surgery
Authors: Chen Yu , Chen Hangrong , Shi Jianlin
Published: June 2014

The successful cancer eradication in a noninvasive manner is the ultimate objective in the fight against cancer. As a “bloodless scalpel,” high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is regarded as one of the most promising and representative noninvasive therapeutic modalities for cancer surgery. However, large‐scale clinical applications of HIFU are still in their infancy because of critical efficiency and safety issues which remain to be solved. Fortunately, recently developed nanobiotechnology provides an alternative efficient approach to improve such important issues in HIFU, especially for cancer therapy. This Research News presents the very recent exciting progresses on the elaborate design and fabrication of organic, inorganic, and organic/inorganic hybrid nanoparticles for enhancing the HIFU ablation efficiency against tumor tissues. It is highly expected that this Research News can arouse more extensive research enthusiasm on the development of functional nanomaterials for highly efficient HIFU‐based synergistic therapy, which will give a promising noninvasive therapeutic modality for the successful cancer therapy with minimal damage to surrounding normal tissues, due to the noninvasive and site‐specific therapeutic features of HIFU.
Synthesis of Dibenzodiazepinones via Tandem Copper(I)‐ Catalyzed CN Bond Formation
Authors: Gawande Sachin D. , Kavala Veerababurao , Zanwar Manoj R. , Kuo Chun‐Wei , Huang Wen‐Chang , Kuo Ting‐Shen , Huang Hsiu‐Ni , He Chiu‐Hui , Yao Ching‐Fa
Published: June 2014

An efficient, one‐pot method for the synthesis of dibenzodiazepinone derivatives involving copper‐catalyzed tandem CN bond formation is reported. The use of various halo amide and 2‐iodoaniline derivatives permitted the synthesis of an array of dibenzodiazepinone derivatives in moderate to good yields. Moreover, a dibenzodiazepinone derivative {2‐(11‐oxo‐5H‐dibenzo[b,e][1,4]diazepin‐10(11H)‐yl)benzonitrile} was utilized to synthesize the triazapentacyclic ring derivative {12‐chloro‐ 8,15,22‐triazapentacyclo[13.7.0.02,7.09,14.016,21]docosa‐1(22),2,4,6,9(14),10,12,16(21),17,19‐decaene}.

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Dynamic Kinetic Resolution of 2‐Phenylpropanal Derivatives to Yield β‐Chiral Primary Amines via Bioamination
Authors: Fuchs Christine S. , Hollauf Manuel , Meissner Maximilian , Simon Robert C. , Besset Tatiana , Reek Joost N. H. , Riethorst Waander , Zepeck Ferdinand , Kroutil Wolfgang
Published: June 2014

The amination of racemic α‐chiral aldehydes, 2‐phenylpropanal derivatives, was investigated employing ω‐transaminases. By medium and substrate engineering the optical purity of the resulting β‐chiral chiral amine could be enhanced to reach optical purities up to 99% ee. Using enantiocomplementary ω‐transaminases allowed us to access the (R)‐ as well as the (S)‐enantiomer in most cases. It is important to note that the stereopreference of the ω‐transaminases found for α‐chiral aldehydes did not correlate with the stereopreference previously observed for the amination of methyl ketones. In one case the stereopreference switched even upon exchanging a methyl substituent to a methoxy group.

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Regioselective Benzylation of 2‐Deoxy‐2‐aminosugars using Crown Ethers: Application to a Shortened Synthesis of Hyaluronic Acid Oligomers
Authors: Mukherjee Chinmoy , Liu Lin , Pohl Nicola L. B.
Published: June 2014

The combination of benzyl bromide, sodium hydroxide and 15‐crown‐5 in tetrahydrofuran is shown to be an efficient method for installing benzyl groups at both the 4‐ and 6‐positions regioselectively directly from peracetylated N‐trichloroacetyl‐protected glucosamine and galactosamine. Application of this benzylation strategy proved to significantly shorten the synthetic route to hyaluronic acid tetra‐ and hexamers.

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Recent Developments in Asymmetric Aziridination
Authors: Pellissier Hélène
Published: June 2014

This review updates the recent developments in asymmetric aziridination using chiral substrates as well as chiral catalysts, covering the literature since the beginning of 2010. It clearly demonstrates that this reaction constitutes an important tool in organic synthesis, still attracting considerable interest due to the potential use of enantiopure aziridines as useful intermediates in the synthesis of complex important molecules, and to the intriguing biological activities of numerous aziridine‐containing compounds including natural products. Abbreviations: Ar: aryl; BINOL: 1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol; Bn: benzyl; Boc: tert‐butoxycarbonyl; BUDAM: tetra‐tert‐butyldianisylmethyl; Bz: benzoyl; Cbz: benzyloxycarbonyl; Cy: cyclohexyl; DAM: dianisylmethyl; DBN: 3,5‐dinitrobenzoyl; DCE: 1,2‐dichloroethane; de: diastereomeric excess; DEAD: diethyl azodicarboxylate; DIAD: diisopropyl azodicarboxylate; DMAP: 4‐dimethylaminopyridine; DMF: N,N‐dimethylformamide; DMSO: dimethyl sulfoxide; dr: diastereomeric ratio; ee: enantiomeric excess; esp: α,α,α′,α′‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐benzenedipropionate; FG: functional group; Hex: hexyl; HMDS: hexamethyldisilazide; LDA: lithium diisopropylamide; M: metal; MEDAM: tetramethyldianisylmethyl; MEDPM: tetramethyldiphenylmethyl; Mes: mesyl; MS: molecular sieves; Naph: naphthyl; NCS: N‐chlorosuccinimide; Ns: nosyl; PG: protecting group; Phth: phthalimido; Piv: pivalate; PMB: para‐methoxybenzoyl; PMP: para‐methoxyphenyl; PNNP: N,N′‐bis[ortho‐(diphenylphosphino)benzylidene]cyclohexane‐1,2‐diamine; r.t.: room temperature; SES: trimethylsilylethanesulfonyl; TBS: tert‐butyldimethylsilyl; TEA: triethylamine; Tf: trifluoromethanesulfonyl; TFA: trifluoroacetic acid; THF: tetrahydrofuran; TMG: 1,1,3,3‐tetramethylguanidine; TMS: trimethylsilyl; Tol: tolyl; TPS: triphenylsilyl; Troc: 2,2,2‐trichloroethoxycarbonyl; Ts: 4‐toluenesulfonyl (tosyl).

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The Use of Transesterification Method for Obtaining Phosphorus‐Containing Polymers
Authors: Ilia Gheorghe , Simulescu Vasile , Mak Carmen Andrada , Crasmareanu Eleonora
Published: June 2014

An introduction and overview of the transesterification method is presented in this review. This method is a very convenient way to obtain polyphosphoesters (PPEs). It can be simply described as a chemical reaction in which an ester is transformed into another one by the exchange of alkoxy groups. In this review, we will refer to the synthesis of PPEs via transesterification. In other words, it is focused on the applications of the transesterification method in phosphorus chemistry to obtain polymers (PPEs). The PPEs are an interesting class of organophosphorus polymers. These compounds are important for biological applications because of their biocompatibility and similarity to biopolymers. When the products are polymers, the chemical reaction is called polytransesterification. This method has also several applications in industry (esters of oil, paint industry).
Optimal interplant water networks for industrial zones: Addressing interconnectivity options through pipeline merging
Authors: Alnouri Sabla Y. , Linke Patrick , El‐Halwagi Mahmoud
Published: June 2014

To date, alternative design options that exist for interconnecting transmission and distribution networks have not been considered in water reuse network synthesis. Existing approaches that do incorporate piping expenses in the design of interplant water networks assign a separate pipeline for every water allocation. However, merging together common pipeline regions for the transmission of water from, or to nearby but different processing facility destinations may improve the overall water network performance not only in terms of cost efficiency but also in terms of complexity. A novel approach that is capable of accounting for pipeline merging scenarios that could exist within a water reuse network is introduced in this article. Two different pipeline branching possibilities have been introduced in this work, for the purpose of merging: (1) forward branching and (2) backward branching. The approach is implemented for the design of interplant water networks considering direct water reuse amongst several coexisting processing facilities within an industrial zone. A case study is presented to illustrate the application of the approach and its benefits. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 2853–2874, 2014
Rapid progression of pleural disease due to exposure to Libby amphibole: “Not your grandfather's asbestos related disease”
Authors: Black Bradford , Szeinuk Jaime , Whitehouse Alan C. , Levin Stephen M. , Henschke Claudia I. , Yankelevitz David F. , Flores Raja M.
Published: June 2014

Background

Residents and mine employees from Libby, Montana, have been exposed to asbestiform amphiboles from the vermiculite mine that operated in this location from the mid‐1920s until 1990. Clinical observations show a different form of asbestos‐related toxicity than other forms of asbestos.

Methods

Five illustrative cases from the Center for Asbestos‐Related Diseases in Libby were selected. All had clear exposure histories, multiple follow‐up visits, illustrative chest radiographic studies, serial pulmonary function tests, and sufficient length of follow‐up to characterize disease progression.

Results

These cases developed increasing symptoms of dyspnea and chest pain, progressive radiological changes that were predominantly pleural, and a restrictive pattern of impaired spirometry that rapidly progressed with significant loss of pulmonary function.

Conclusions

LA exposure can cause a non‐malignant pleural disease that is more rapidly progressive and more severe than the usual asbestos‐related disease. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:1197–1206, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Donor splice‐site mutation in CUL4B is likely cause of X‐linked intellectual disability
Authors: Londin Eric R. , Adijanto Jeffrey , Philp Nancy , Novelli Antonio , Vitale Emilia , Perria Chiara , Serra Gigliola , Alesi Viola , Surrey Saul , Fortina Paolo
Published: June 2014

X‐linked intellectual disability is the most common form of cognitive disability in males. Syndromic intellectual disability encompasses cognitive deficits with other medical and behavioral manifestations. Recently, a large family with a novel form of syndromic X‐linked intellectual disability was characterized. Eight of 24 members of the family are male and had cognitive dysfunction, short stature, aphasia, skeletal abnormalities, and minor anomalies. To identify the causative gene(s), we performed exome sequencing in three affected boys, both parents, and an unaffected sister. We identified a haplotype consisting of eight variants located in cis within the linkage region that segregated with affected members in the family. Of these variants, two were novel. The first was at the splice‐donor site of intron 7 (c.974+1G>T) in the cullin‐RING ubiquitin ligase (E3) gene, CUL4B. This variant is predicted to result in failure to splice and remove intron 7 from the primary transcript. The second variant mapped to the 3′‐UTR region of the KAISO gene (c.1127T>G). Sanger sequencing validated the variants in these relatives as well as in three affected males and five carriers. The KAISO gene variant was predicted to create a binding site for the microRNAs miR‐4999 and miR‐4774; however, luciferase expression assays failed to validate increased targeting of these miRNAs to the variant 3′‐UTR. This SNP may affect 3′‐UTR structure leading to decreased mRNA stability. Our results suggest that the intellectual disability phenotype in this family is caused by aberrant splicing and removal of intron 7 from CUL4B gene primary transcript. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A fatal case of JC virus meningitis presenting with hydrocephalus in a human immunodeficiency virus–seronegative patient
Authors: Agnihotri Shruti P. , Wuthrich Christian , Dang Xin , Nauen David , Karimi Reza , Viscidi Raphael , Bord Evelyn , Batson Stephanie , Troncoso Juan , Koralnik Igor J.
Published: June 2014

JC virus (JCV) is the etiologic agent of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, JCV granule cell neuronopathy, and JCV encephalopathy. Whether JCV can also cause meningitis has not yet been demonstrated. We report a case of aseptic meningitis resulting in symptomatic hydrocephalus in a human immunodeficiency virus–seronegative patient. Brain imaging showed enlargement of ventricles but no parenchymal lesion. She had a very high JC viral load in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and developed progressive cognitive dysfunction despite ventricular drainage. She was diagnosed with pancytopenia and passed away after 5.5 months. Postmortem examination revealed productive JCV infection of leptomeningeal and choroid plexus cells, and limited parenchymal involvement. Sequencing of JCV CSF strain showed an archetype‐like regulatory region. Further studies of the role of JCV in aseptic meningitis and in idiopathic hydrocephalus are warranted. Ann Neurol 2014;76:140–147
α‐ und β‐Lipomycin: Totalsynthesen auf der Grundlage sequentieller Stille‐Kupplungen und Zuordnung der absoluten Konfiguration aller stereogenen Zentren
Authors: Hofferberth Max L. , Brückner Reinhard
Published: June 2014

Vor 40 Jahren gelang die Strukturaufklärung von α‐Lipomycin und seinem Aglycon β‐Lipomycin bis darauf, dass die Konfiguration der stereogenen Zentren in der Seitenkette offenblieb. Wir synthetisierten alle in Frage kommenden β‐Lipomycin‐Kandidaten, von denen das (12R,13S)‐Isomer den spezifischen Drehwert des Naturstoffs aufwies, sowie das (12R,13S)‐konfigurierte D‐Digitoxid, dessen spezifischer Drehwert es als α‐Lipomycin auswies. Wir erhärteten diese Strukturzuordnungen, indem wir α‐ und β‐Lipomycin aus Streptomyces isolierten, zu den Diestern 33 und 34 abbauten und deren 3D‐Strukturen durch unabhängige Synthesen bewiesen.
Detektion von Mehrbindigkeit und differenziellen Affinitäten in großen, intrinsisch ungeordneten Proteinen mithilfe von Segmentbewegungsanalyse
Authors: Milles Sigrid , Lemke Edward A.
Published: June 2014

Intrinsisch ungeordnete Proteine (IUPs) können unterschiedliche Interaktionspartner binden. Mehrere Bindungsregionen in IUPs, die durch komplexe kooperative Effekte zusammenwirken, vereinfachen solche Interaktionen. Gleichzeitig erschweren sie aber die Analyse solcher IUP‐Komplexe. Um diese Schwierigkeit anzugehen, kombinierten wir Fluoreszenzkorrelationsspektroskopie mit zeitaufgelöster Polarisationsspektroskopie, um die Eigenschaften der Bindung des IUP Nucleoporin 153 (Nup153) mit Transportrezeptoren (TRs) des Kerntransports zu untersuchen. Die Detektion von flexibler Segmentbewegung im Rückgrat des Proteins Nup153 zeigte lokale, regionsspezifische Bindungspräferenzen von TRs. Solche Eigenschaften bleiben oft verborgen, wenn allgemeine – nicht regionsspezifische – Eigenschaften des IUP untersucht werden. Die Affinität von funktionell und strukturell unterschiedlichen TRs für bestimmte Regionen von Nup153 können sich um Größenordnungen unterscheiden – ein Befund mit Bedeutung für verschiedene Transportwege im Kerntransport.