bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the mechanism of dynamic transverse mode instability mitigation through static mode degradation: a study in the two-mode fiber lasers
Authors: Li Haobo , Wu Hanshuo , Yang Cheng , Ding Xinyi , Huang Liangjin , Pan Zhiyong , Wang Xiaolin , Zhou Pu
Published: December 2024

Dynamic transverse mode instability (TMI) has become one of the primary limitations for power scaling of high-power fiber lasers. Experimental evidence has shown that static mode degradation can suppress the dynamic TMI effect. This study reveals the physical mechanisms behind the mitigation of dynamic TMI in two-mode fiber lasers through static mode degradation. Using a dynamic TMI model based on the two-beam coupling theory, we differentiate the impacts of relative intensity noise and the proportion of higher-order mode in the seed on TMI. Static mode degradation modifies the transverse gain distribution, thereby affecting the overlap between the thermally induced refractive index grating and the interference light field, which inhibits dynamic mode coupling. Our findings indicate that the effectiveness of this suppression is significantly influenced by the gain saturation. By enhancing gain saturation through strategies such as optimizing the pump injection direction, adjusting the pump wavelength, and reducing the core-to-cladding ratio, the suppression of TMI can be maximized, which is essential for advancing the performance and stability of these laser systems.
Sensing the vibration of non-reflective surfaces with 10-dB-squeezed-light enhancement
Authors: Gewecke Pascal , Zander Jascha , Schnabel Roman
Published: December 2024

Laser light with squeezed quantum uncertainty is a powerful tool for interferometric sensing. A routine application can be found in gravitational wave observatories. A significant quantum advantage is only achievable if a large fraction of the photons are actually measured. For this reason, quantum-enhanced vibrational measurements of strongly absorbing or scattering surfaces have not been considered so far. Here, we demonstrate the strongly quantum-enhanced measurement of the frequency characteristics of surface vibrations in air by measuring the air pressure wave instead. Our squeezed laser beam, which simply passes the vibrating surface, delivers a sensitivity that an ultra-stable conventional light beam in the same configuration can only achieve with ten times the power. The pressure amplitude of an ultrasonic wave of just 0.12 mPa/Hz was clearly visible with a spatial resolution in the millimeter range and a 1-kHz resolution bandwidth. We envision applications in sensor technology where distant, highly absorbing or optically inaccessible surface vibrations in air are to be measured with limited, e.g. eye-safe, light powers.
Assessment of salivary microRNA by RT-qPCR: Facing challenges in data interpretation for clinical diagnosis
Authors: Van Der Hofstadt Marc , Cardinal Anna , Lepeltier Morgane , Boulestreau Jérémy , Ouedraogo Alimata , Kahli Malik , Champigneux Pierre , Molina Laurence , Molina Franck , Van Thi Nhu Ngoc
Published: December 2024

Salivary microRNAs (miRNAs) have been recently revealed as the next generation of non-invasive biomarkers for the diagnostics of diverse diseases. However, their short and highly homologous sequences make their quantification by RT-qPCR technique highly heterogeneous and study dependent, thus limiting their implementation for clinical applications. In this study, we evaluated the use of a widely used commercial RT-qPCR kit for quantification of salivary miRNAs for clinical diagnostics. Saliva from ten healthy volunteers were sampled four times within a three month time course and submitted for small RNA extraction followed by RT-qPCR analysed. Six miRNAs with different sequence homologies were analysed. Sensitivity and specificity of the tested miRNA assays were corroborated using synthetic miRNAs to evaluate the reliability of all tested assays. Significant variabilities in expression profiles of six miRNAs from ten healthy participants were revealed, yet the poor specificity of the assays offered insufficient performance to associate these differences to biological context. Indeed, as the limit of quantification (LOQ) concentrations are from 2–4 logs higher than that of the limit of detection (LOD) ones, the majority of the analysis for salivary miRNAs felt outside the quantification region. Most importantly, a remarkable number of crosstalk reactions exhibiting considerable OFF target signal intensities was detected, indicating their poor specificity and limited reliability. However, the spike-in of synthetic target miRNA increased the capacity to discriminate endogenous salivary miRNA at the LOQ concentrations from those that were significantly lower. Our results demonstrate that comparative analyses for salivary miRNA expression profiles by this commercial RT-qPCR kit are most likely associated to technical limitations rather than to biological differences. While further technological breakthroughs are still required to overcome discrepancies, standardization of rigorous sample handling and experimental design according to technical parameters of each assay plays a crucial role in reducing data inconsistencies across studies.
Implementation of negative pressure for acute pediatric burns (INPREP): A stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Holbert Maleea D. , Wood Fiona , Holland Andrew J. A. , Teague Warwick , Kimble Roy M. , Crellin Dianne , Frear Cody C. , Storey Kristen , Phillips Natalie , Singer Yvonne , Dimanopoulos Tanesha A. , Martin Lisa , Cuttle Leila , Vagenas Dimitrios , McPhail Steven M. , Calleja Pauline , Duff Jed , De Young Alexandra , Griffin Bronwyn R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Acute application of adjunctive negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) significantly improves time to re-epithelialization in pediatric burn patients. This adjunctive treatment has not yet been broadly or routinely adopted as a standard primary burns dressing strategy. The Implementation of Negative PRessurE for acute Pediatric burns (INPREP) trial will implement and evaluate the impact of adjunctive NPWT in parallel with co-designed implementation strategies and resources across four major pediatric hospitals.

Methods

We will conduct a multi-center, prospective, stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial to implement adjunctive NPWT for acute pediatric burns. Participants will include pediatric burn patients presenting to one of four Australian tertiary pediatric hospitals for burn treatment. The intervention is adjunctive NPWT in parallel with co-designed and tailored implementation strategies and a suite of NPWT implementation resources, which form the INPREP toolkit. Using a hybrid type III design, this trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of NPWT implementation in parallel with the INPREP toolkit using (i) implementation outcomes (e.g., adoption, appropriateness, acceptability, feasibility, and sustainability) and (ii) clinical outcomes (e.g., days to re-epithelialization, scar management requirements, skin grafting requirements). The primary outcome of this trial is treatment adoption–the proportion of eligible patients who receive NPWT.

Discussion

This manuscript outlines a protocol for a hybrid type III stepped-wedge cluster randomized controlled trial of adjunctive NPWT implementation in acute pediatric burn care. We anticipate that NPWT implementation in parallel with the INPREP toolkit will be generalizable to emergency departments and burn services across Australia, and evidence generated will inform pediatric burn care internationally.

Trial registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12622000166774. Registered 1 February 2022.
Cost effectiveness of empagliflozin in adult patients with chronic kidney disease in the Netherlands
Authors: Slob Bart , Fens Tanja , Weersma Maaike , Postma Maarten , Boersma Cornelis , de Jong Lisa
Published: December 2024

Aim

The recent EMPA-KIDNEY trial showed evidence for preventing disease progression in adult patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) treated with empagliflozin. It is however yet unknown if use of empagliflozin is cost effective in the Netherlands. We aimed to evaluate the cost effectiveness of empagliflozin in adult patients with CKD in the Netherlands.

Methods

A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted using a Markov state microsimulation model, simulating kidney progression of CKD patients with eGFR <90 ml/min per 1.73 m2 comparing empagliflozin plus standard of care (SoC) and SoC alone. KDIGO classification was used to describe the risk of CKD progression. The input data were taken from the EMPA-KIDNEY trial (baseline characteristics, treatment effect, and utilities), and published data and national sources were used for general population mortality, treatment and event costs. The analyses were performed from a societal perspective with applying a lifetime horizon. Discounting was done according to the Dutch pharmacoeconomic guidelines. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was compared to a willingness-to-pay threshold of €50,000/QALY. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to explore the impact of uncertainty around the input parameters.

Results

The base-case results showed total discounted costs for empagliflozin plus SoC and SoC alone of €200,193 and €234,574 respectively, indicating total savings of €34,380. Empagliflozin plus SoC was associated with higher total discounted health benefits of 11.06 life years (LYs) and 9.01 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), compared with 9.74 LYs and 7.79 QALYs for SoC alone, resulting in an additional 1.31 LYs and 1.22 QALYs for empagliflozin plus SoC. Empagliflozin plus SoC is a dominant alternative compared to SoC alone. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings and conclusion.

Conclusion

Using empagliflozin in addition to SoC in adult patients with CKD is likely to be cost saving compared to the current SoC in the Netherlands, irrespective of diabetes status and albuminuria.
The consolidation of disinformation as a discipline: Reflections, challenges and perspectives for future action
Authors: Ufarte Ruiz María José
Published: December 2024

This viewpoint presents an overview of the theoretical developments and main research lines in the areas of disinformation, fact-checking and civic responsibility. To that end, it analyses the academic response to this issue in order to consider the primary trends and map out these questions in general terms. Three areas for future research are identified: proposals to achieve territorial, social and economic cohesion to fight this threat; exploratory studies into the new state of information and media literacy; the development of artificial intelligence systems that are free of bias to assist journalists in the early detection of disinformation.
Impact of Total Coronary Occlusion on Long-term Outcomes in Patients with ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Cho Kyung Hoon , Lee Yong-Kyu , Park Seongho , Lee Yooyaul , Lee Sang Hun , Oh Seok , Lim Yongwhan , Ahn Joon Ho , Lee Seung Hun , Hyun Dae Young , Kim Min Chul , Sim Doo Sun , Hong Young Joon , Kim Ju Han , Ahn Youngkeun , Jeong Myung Ho ,   on behalf of the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institutes of Health (KAMIR-NIH) Investigators
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the impact of preprocedural total coronary occlusion on long-term cardiovascular outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the contemporary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) era.Methods: Of 13,707 patients from the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institutes of Health database, 2,920 consecutive patients with STEMI having single-vessel disease within 48 hours of symptom onset who underwent primary PCI were categorized by preprocedural Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow grade: 0 (n = 1,966), I or II (n = 583), and III (n = 371). Co-primary outcomes were all-cause death and major adverse cardio-cerebrovascular event (MACCE) at 3 years.Results: Patients with preprocedural TIMI flow grade 0 were more likely to have longer symptom-to-door time, higher body weight, higher Killip class, lower left ventricular ejection fraction, higher peak troponin I, and lower postprocedural TIMI flow grade 3 (94.5% vs. 100%, P < 0.001) compared to those with preprocedural TIMI flow grade 3. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed no significant difference in all-cause mortality (8.1% in TIMI 0 vs. 5.9% in TIMI 3, log-rank P = 0.161) and MACCE (14.1% vs. 13.7%, log-rank P = 0.931) between the two groups. In a Cox time-to-event multivariable model with preprocedural TIMI flow grade 3 as the reference, the preprocedural TIMI flow grade 0 was not independently associated with mortality or MACCE.Conclusion: In a nationwide prospective Korean registry, total coronary occlusion before PCI was not associated with worse clinical outcomes at 3 years in patients with STEMI and single-vessel disease when treated with primary PCI.
Exploring the hidden treasures of Coptis teeta Wall.: Ethnomedicinal claims, traditional wisdom and promising avenues for research
Authors: Vaidehi V , Pankajkumar N , Radhakrishnan K V , Mukeshkumar N
Published: December 2024

Coptis teeta Wall., commonly known as Mishmi teeta, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family and is rich in various bioactive compounds. It is classified as endangered on the Red List and is endemic to the Eastern Himalayas in Northeast India, representing a valuable repository of traditional wisdom and ethno medicinal practices. This article compiles available data on C. teeta for the first time, drawing from classical Ayurveda texts, botanical floras and research databases. Since 3000 B.C., this "Goldthread" has been an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Rhizoma coptidis. Through an extensive literature search, including online published reviews, research articles, and ethnomedicinal survey reports, it has been found that various tribes in Arunachal Pradesh, India, have utilized its potent therapeutic benefits for centuries to treat ailments such as gastrointestinal disorders, malaria, diabetes, eye disorders, infectious diseases, and more. The vivid pharmacological activities of C. teeta are primarily attributed to its alkaloids and other non-alkaloidal components, although limited preclinical work has been reported to date. The roots and rhizomes of C. teeta are rich in alkaloids such as berberine, jatrorrhizine, columbamine, epiberberine, coptisine and palmatine. These compounds play a significant therapeutic role in managing various ailments, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. They possess anti- inflammatory and analgesic properties, offer neuroprotective effects, aid in metabolic regulation and exhibit antimicrobial activity. Additionally, this review discusses the extensive trade benefits of C. teeta, the reasons for its threatened status, and various practical approaches for its conservation and cultivation. By bridging ethnomedicinal knowledge with scientific modernization through a multidisciplinary research approach, this review aims to unlock the hidden treasures of C. teeta and encourage further pharmacological research and standardization.
Evaluating the impact of climatic factors and variability on rice production over varied seasons in irrigated rice system of peninsular India through Empirical approach
Authors: Nagaraj Rajarajan Anand , Geethalakshmi Vellingiri , Suresh kumar Devarajulu , Murugananthi Dhandapani , Ravikumar Rajagounder , Manonmani Swaminathan , Bhuvaneswari Kulanthaivel , Karthick Varadhan , Mantaw Chow Suliyaa
Published: December 2024

Rice is the principle and staple food crop of peninsular India, and its production is highly sensitive to climatic factors and variability. The climate change may cause considerable negative impact on rice productivity that could jeopardize food security and livelihood of smallholders. The present study investigates how the changes in mean and variability of climatic factors may impact rice yield during various rice seasons throughout the year. Panel data of districts of Cauvery Delta Region (CDR) from 2000-2022 was used for the analysis and fixed-effects regression with Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE) model was employed for all three seasons viz, Kuruvai, Samba and Navarai. The results of the study showed that temperature and rainfall significantly impacted rice yields directly and demonstrated the existence of nonlinear relationship between climatic factors and yield. It also revealed intricate, season-specific correlations between rice productivity and environmental variables. The time trend used in the study indicated a significant positive increase in yield continuously through adoption of yield improvement technologies such as high yielding, resistant and climate resilient varieties. This study helps researchers and policymakers in devising proper adaptation strategies to ensure food system security in the region when the climate conditions change and helpful for predicting future productivity.
Approximations to precisely localized supports of solutions for non-linear parabolic p-Laplacian problems
Authors: Jeli Roqia Abdullah
Published: December 2024

The shrinking of support in non-linear parabolic

p

p

-Laplacian equations with a positive initial condition

u

0

{u}_{0}

that decayed as

∣
x
∣
→
∞

| x| \to \infty

was explored in the Cauchy problem. Proofs were provided for establishing exact local estimates for the boundary of the support of the solutions.
Effect of hydrophile–lipophile balance of F-alkylated cyclic polyethylene glycol succinates on their applications
Authors: Khalfallah Ali
Published: December 2024

The hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of any surfactant determines its solubility. Selection of the ideal surfactant for a given application appears to be facilitated by a thorough understanding of the relationship between accurately measured or calculated HLB and physicochemical properties. In this study the HLB values of the mono-, bi- and bolaphilic derivatives of F-alkylated cyclic polyethylene glycol succinate were determined using the Griffin technique. It was investigated how the different applications of these surfactants can be distinguished by their HLB values.
Generative Künstliche Intelligenz als Assistenz in der Instandhaltung
Authors: Gerds Paul , Robl Laura , Jagusch Konrad , Sender Jan
Published: December 2024

Die Instandhaltung von maritimen Großstrukturen erfordert eine geeignete Dokumentation zur Verwaltung von Wartungsprozessen. Die Erfassung variiert je nach Unternehmen und erfolgt entweder manuell oder durch den Einsatz digitaler Werkzeuge. Die dort festgehaltenen Informationen dienen u. a. der Dokumentationspflicht. Der Einsatz generativer Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) ermöglicht Dokumente automatisiert zu verarbeiten, relevante Daten zu extrahieren und strukturiert für zukünftige Wartungsarbeiten aufzubereiten. Folglich werden die Prozesse vereinfacht, indem Fehlerursachen schneller identifiziert und Maßnahmen gezielt abgeleitet werden. In diesem Beitrag wird ein praxisnaher Ansatz zur Implementierung von KI-basierten Systemen vorgestellt, die die Digitalisierung und Verarbeitung von Wartungsdokumenten unterstützen und eine fundierte Entscheidungsfindung bei Instandhaltungsmaßnahmen ermöglichen.
Every Cog and Wheel: Identifying Biocomplexity at the Genomic and Phenotypic Level in a Population Complex of Chinook Salmon
Authors:   Saint Anselm College, O'Leary Shannon , Thompson Tasha ,   Michigan State University, Meek Mariah ,   Michigan State University
Published: December 2024

Genetic diversity is the fundamental building block of biodiversity and the necessary ingredient for adaptation. Specifically, the intra-specific diversity (biocomplexity) comprised of phenotypic and genetic variation partitioned within and among populations can determine the ability of a species to respond to changing environmental conditions. Here, we explore the biocomplexity of California’s Central Valley Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) population complex at the genomic level by quantifying population genomic diversity among and within migration life-history phenotypes. Notably, despite apparent gene flow among populations with the same migration (life history) phenotypes inhabiting different tributaries, each group is characterized by a distinct component of unique genomic diversity. While enumerating biodiversity contained within individual hierarchical levels is informative, it is important to consider inter- and intra-specific diversity simultaneously as there may be emergent properties at higher levels due to presence of diversity at lower ones. Our results emphasize the importance of formulating conservation goals focused to maintain biocomplexity at both the phenotypic and genotypic level. Doing so will preserve the species’ adaptive potential and increase the probability of persistence of the population complex despite changing environmental pressures.
Alianza institucional para gestión de proyectos comunitarios en zona rural de Tangua, Nariño, Colombia
Authors: Narvaez Mora Nelson
Published: December 2024

El proceso de articulación institucional para la Gestión Comunitaria de Proyectos de Desarrollo en la zona rural de Tangua, Nariño, Colombia, integra la asignatura "Proyectos de Desarrollo" del programa de Administración Pública Territorial, el programa de extensión de la ESAP – Territorial Nariño – Alto Putumayo, y el proyecto Tangua Territorio Progreso, liderado por la Fundación Grupo Social. Esta colaboración permitió desarrollar competencias en estudiantes y líderes comunitarios en la formulación y estructuración de proyectos mediante formación, capacitación, asesoría y cocreación de soluciones a las necesidades rurales. El objetivo fue fortalecer la capacidad comunitaria para la gestión de proyectos mediante el trabajo conjunto entre la Escuela, las organizaciones sociales y la Fundación Grupo Social. Se estableció un esquema de articulación entre organizaciones locales e instituciones públicas y privadas para estructurar proyectos comunitarios, se caracterizaron las organizaciones beneficiadas por el Fondo de comunidades de la Fundación, se diseñó un proceso formativo y se apoyó la formulación de proyectos comunitarios a través de la asignatura "Proyectos de Desarrollo". Como resultado, se aplicó un modelo de Aula Abierta y Escuela Popular, se estructuró un esquema de articulación basado en la innovación pública, se capacitó a líderes comunitarios y se cocrearon proyectos financiados por el Fondo de comunidades de la Fundación. Esta relación ha mejorado significativamente el bienestar de la comunidad en Tangua.
DETONATION BEHAVIOR OF ENERGETIC MATERIALS WITH NONUNIFORM MICROSTRUCTURES UNDER SHOCK LOADING
Authors: Olsen Daniel , Zhou Min
Published: December 2024

The behavior of energetic materials is significantly influenced by the spatial distributions of microstructure
heterogeneities and voids. In this study, we explored how the non-uniform spatial distribution of voids influences the detonation behavior of polymer-bonded explosive microstructures designed based on polymer bonded explosive polymer bonded explosive 9501. The microstructures had spatially varying and spatially uniform void densities at different levels. It was found that shock wave propagation
from a high void density region (low material mass density) to a low void density region corresponded with shorter run distances to detonation compared to shock loading in the opposite direction. In addition, the run distances of materials with non-uniform void densities were generally different from those of materials with uniform void densities equal to the lowest, average, or highest densities
of the non-uniform materials. This result revealed that there are complex interplays in the coupled
mechanical-thermal-chemical processes underlying the material response such that the spatial nonuniformity
of void density distribution is an additional material attribute that should be considered separately in addition to other microstructure parameters. The computationally predicted Pop plots using a history variable reactive burn model were compared with available experimental data for PBX
9501. The results showed that although the existing reported model parameters did not produce results that fully coincide with the experimental data, proper choices of the model parameters can lead to results that match the experimental data.
Tubular FoxP2 and Kidney Fibrosis
Authors: Zou Yixin , Yiu Wai Han , Lok Sarah W.Y. , Ma Jingyuan , Feng Yuchen , Lai Kar Neng , Tang Sydney C.W.
Published: December 2024

Key Points

FOXP2/Foxp2 is overexpressed in human and in murine unilateral ureteral obstruction and unilateral ischemia-reperfusion models.

Foxp2 overexpression mediates epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and G2/M cell cycle arrest in kidney tubular cells to promote fibrosis.

Background

Kidney fibrosis is the final common pathway of progressive CKD that leads to kidney failure, for which there are limited therapeutic strategies. The transcription factor, Forkhead box P2 (Foxp2), has been implicated in organ development and tumorigenesis through its association with the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. In this study, we uncovered a novel role of Foxp2 in kidney fibrosis.

Methods

Human kidney biopsies were used to assess FOXP2 expression. Tubule-specific Foxp2 knockout mice were generated through LoxP-Cre transgenic manipulation and applied to murine models of progressive CKD, including unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and unilateral ischemia-reperfusion injury (UIRI). Cultured kidney tubular epithelial cells were used to analyze the underlying cellular mechanisms.

Results

FOXP2 expression was markedly increased in the tubular nuclei of human kidney biopsies of CKD from patients with IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. In murine UUO and UIRI models that recapitulate progressive CKD, tubule-specific deletion of Foxp2 attenuated kidney inflammation and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, accompanied by reduction in cell cycle arrest. In mouse tubular epithelial cells, TGF-β upregulated Foxp2 expression through Smad3 signaling while knockdown of Foxp2 suppressed TGF-β-induced EMT and accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. Mechanistically, overexpression of Foxp2 inhibited tubular cell proliferation with induction of G2/M cell cycle arrest. Using chromatin-immunoprecipitation sequencing, we identified Foxp2 target genes that are enriched in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B and TGF-β signaling pathways and further revealed that Foxp2 directly regulated the transcriptional activities of collagen-1, E-cadherin, and p21 that are involved in EMT and cell cycle arrest, thereby promoting the profibrotic process.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate a novel role of Foxp2 in promoting kidney fibrosis in murine UUO and UIRI by activating EMT and cell cycle arrest in kidney tubules, contributing to the progression of CKD.
أدوات الحرب في شعر عَمرو بنِ مَعْدي كَرِبَ دراسة وصفية بيانية
Authors: Khalaf Zakarıa , Derşevi Salih
Published: December 2024

البحث دراسة وصفية بيانية للأبيات الشعرية التي تضمنت آلات الحرب في ديوان الشاعر عَمرو بن مَعْدِيْ كَرِبَ، تبرز أهمية البحث في كونه يبين أهميتها في زمن الشاعر، ويظهر صلتها الوثيقة بشخصيته القوية وشجاعته الفريدة. ويهدف البحث إلى دراسة السياقات التي وردت فيها أدوات الحرب، والصور البيانية التي عبر بها شاعرنا عنها. ويسعى البحث للإجابة عن الأسئلة الآتية: ما أكثر هذه الأسلحة دورانا في شعره وما دلالة ذلك؟ كيف وظف الشاعر الصور البيانية في وصف أسلحته، وما أثر البيئة المحيطة في اختيار عناصر صوره البيانية؟ وقد اتبع البحث المنهج الاستقرائي الوصفي التحليلي. وظهر للباحثين أنّ السيف أكثر هذه الأدوات ذكرًا، وأجلها أهمية بالنسبة للشاعر، فيما كانت السهام أقلها وروداً ووصفاً، وأن لبيئة الشاعر ومحيطه أثراً واضحاً في صوره البيانية، وأكثر ما اعتمد منها على فن التشبيه الذي جاءت صوره واضحة، واقعية، وثيقة الصلة بالمعارك التي خاضها ومشاهد فروسيته. بالإضافة إلى تميزها بالعفوية والسلاسة البعيدة عن التكلف.
Impact of Smallholder Irrigation Revitalisation Programme on the Exchange Irrigation Scheme in Kwekwe District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Ndige T. , Loki O.
Published: December 2024

The Smallholder Irrigation Revitalisation Programme (SIRP), a seven-year programme which started in 2016 and ended in 2023, is one recent initiative rolled out in Zimbabwe to improve smallholder irrigation in arid to semi-arid areas. The main goal of the SIRP was to help rural households become resilient to the effects of climatic change and economic volatility while simultaneously achieving food and nutrition security. This study aimed to assess the impact of SIRP on the Exchange irrigation scheme in Kwekwe District, Zimbabwe. Quantitative and qualitative data collection instruments, namely a structured questionnaire and focus group discussions (FGDs), were used to obtain responses from the participants. A multistage cluster sampling method was used, and 134 irrigators, or 13.6% of the irrigators, were sampled from a sampling frame of 982 scheme beneficiaries. A purposive sampling method was used to select 25 critical stakeholders for FGDs. Data was processed using SPSS software. Bar charts and tables were utilised to display the frequency distributions of responses graphically. Also, frequency distributions were used to summarise the response counts and percentages for each survey question. Results obtained established that while not without difficulties, smallholder irrigation has the potential to dramatically increase the incomes and quality of life for low-income rural communities in developing countries like Zimbabwe. The study concluded that despite the current challenges, SIRP is bringing about poverty alleviation and improving the livelihoods of the Exchange irrigation scheme households and the irrigation scheme's water use efficiency and profitability.
Awareness and Perception of Digital Technologies by Smallholder Farmers in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Bontsa N.V. , Mushunje A. , Ngarava S. , Zhou L.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to identify and assess smallholder farmers' awareness and perceptions of digital technologies in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The study used a cross-sectional survey of a purposively selected sample of 250 smallholder farmers from Port St Johns (PSJ) and Ingquza Hill (IH) Local Municipalities. The Likert scale and a perceptive index were used to analyse the data. The study found that 57.4% and 74.7% of smallholder farmers were aware of digital technologies. Fifty-six percent to 70.6%of smallholder farmers were aware of a combination of smartphones, radios, and TV. There was indifference to the reliability of digital technologies as indicated by 42.7% to 52.9%, with 97.8% to 98.1% highlighting the need to improve awareness of digital technologies, mainly through awareness campaigns and information days as indicated by 51.6% from PSJ and farmer training as highlighted by 50.6% from IH. About 76.4% of the smallholder farmers did not have adequate knowledge of digital technologies, while 54.4% did not find them user-friendly. However, 88.0% indicated that it made farming easier, is labour saving (69.6%), improves agricultural production (81.2%), improves access to information (77.6%), easier access to extension (65.6%), and will increase farm output (71.6%). However, digital technologies were expensive (78.8%), caused a digital divide (69.2%), and required specific skills (81.0%). There was a negative perception towards digital technologies by 69.6% of the smallholder farmers. The study concluded that negative perception is mainly influenced by cost, skill requirement, lack of knowledge, and difficulty in use. There was awareness of less complicated digital technologies. Recommendations include promoting digital technologies through farmer groups or associations such as farmer field schools. Awareness campaigns through extension officers can be used to promote digital technologies to smallholder farmers.
Farmers' Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Towards Fertiliser Indicator Pricing Approach in Mvomero District, Tanzania
Authors: Malinza A.O. , Mahonge C.
Published: December 2024

Severe irregularities and implementation challenges in Mvomero District, Tanzania, marred the implementation of the Fertiliser Indicative Pricing Approach (FIPA). However, the questions on the levels of farmers' knowledge, attitudes and practices, knowledge categories that farmers have the least knowledge of, reasons informing attitudes and dominant ineffective FIPA practices are yet to be adequately addressed. This study assessed farmers' awareness, attitudes, and practices; knowledge categories that farmers have the least knowledge; reasons for informing attitudes; and dominant ineffective FIPA practices. Interview schedules and in-depth interviews were conducted during data collection. Qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. Farmers' attitude was gauged using a five-point Likert scale, and farmers' knowledge, knowledge categories farmers had the least knowledge, reasons informing attitudes and dominant ineffective FIPA practices were described using descriptive statistics. Results revealed that most respondents had low levels of knowledge, unfavourable attitudes and ineffective practices towards FIPA. Also, knowledge categories that farmers had the least knowledge of comprised fertiliser indicative prices, FIPA rules and regulations, and key FIPA actors. Results further indicate that high fertiliser prices, weak FIPA monitoring and low-quality fertiliser were the reasons for unfavourable attitudes. In addition, non-adherence to indicative prices, rules and regulations, and the presence of low-quality fertiliser were the dominant ineffective practices of FIPA. The study generally indicates that farmers' low awareness concerning FIPA is a major threat to FIPA implementation. The findings imply that a lack of farmers' awareness of FIPA contributes to irregularities and underperformance manifested in individualistic opportunistic behaviours. Rogue actors abuse farmers' ignorance of program key result areas by maximising their utility at the expense of the majority of farmers. Concerted efforts should be directed at training and awareness building, effective monitoring and contract enforcement on indicative price and quality standards.
Yükseköğretimde Yapay Zekâ: Öğretim, Araştırma ve Topluma Hizmet Açısından Bakış
Authors: Akşab Şahabettin , Seggie Fatma Nevra
Published: December 2024

Hızlı teknolojik gelişmelerin damgasını vurduğu bir çağda, yapay zekanın (YZ) entegrasyonu çeşitli sektörlerde giderek yaygınlaşarak yaşama, çalışma ve etkileşim biçiminde değişim gerektiren birçok durum yaratmıştır. YZ’nin derin bir etki yaratmaya hazırlandığı alanlardan biri de yükseköğretimdir. Bu araştırma, yükseköğretimin öğretim, araştırma ve topluma hizmet rolleri bağlamında YZ kullanımının çeşitli yönlerini incelemektedir. Yükseköğretimin öğretim işlevinde YZ’nin öne çıkan yönleri kişiselleştirilmiş öğrenme, uyarlanabilir değerlendirme, sanal asistanlar ve içerik oluşturma olarak kategorize edilebilir. YZ, yükseköğretimin araştırma işlevinde literatür taraması, hipotez oluşturma, deney optimizasyonu ve veri analizi olarak sınıflandırılabilir. Bunlara ek olarak YZ, yükseköğretimin topluma hizmet işlevinde ise toplumsal ihtiyaç değerlendirmesi, paydaş katılımı ve iş birliği, ve sürdürülebilirlik gibi alanlarda özellikle dikkat çekmektedir. YZ’nin yükseköğretimdeki sınırlılıklarına bakıldığında veri gizliliği, veri kalitesi ve bütünlüğü, algoritmik ön yargılar, pedagojik özerklik ve insan merkezli yaklaşım/empati öne çıkmaktadır. Bu nedenle, YZ yükseköğretimde yenilik yaratma konusunda büyük bir potansiyele sahip olsa da, sınırlılıklarının dikkatli bir şekilde değerlendirilmesi ve ilgili riskleri azaltmak için proaktif önlemler alınması gereklidir.
Multi-Class Sunflower Disease Detection by Integrating Enhanced Jellyfish Search Algorithm
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Computer Science, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620002, Tamil Nadu, India, Thilagavathi T , Arockiam L
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This research aims to classify diseases observed in sunflower flowers and leaves using deep learning algorithms. The goal is to enhance agricultural output by addressing the significant issue of plant diseases, which negatively affect the security of the food supply. Methods: The study utilizes a feature selection approach to identify multi-class sunflower diseases. The Enhanced Jellyfish Search (EJFSOA) algorithm is improved in three ways: (i) optimization capabilities and convergence speed are enhanced through sine and cosine learning variables during Type B motion in the swarm, (ii) a local escape operator is added to avoid the local optimization trap, improving the exploitability of the JS algorithm, and (iii) opposition-based learning and quasi-opposition learning strengthen the population distribution. A deep learning model, Multi-class Sunflower Network (MCSFNet), combines ResNets with TensorFlow for feature extraction, multi-label classification, and a multi-spectral stacking module. Findings: The proposed model is evaluated using several criteria, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and F1-score. On a publicly available dataset, the algorithm achieves an average accuracy of 99.56%, outperforming state-of-the-art approaches with accuracies of 98.34% and 97.39%. Novelty: This work introduces improvements to the EJFSOA algorithm, significantly enhancing the precision and convergence speed of sunflower disease classification models. Combining deep learning with an optimized feature selection method leads to superior results in multi-class classification tasks.

Keywords: Sunflower Leaves, Disease Detection, Enhanced jellyfish search, Local escape operator, Multi­class Sunflower Network, Residual Networks
Intraperitoneal Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumour: A Rare Intermediate Tumour of Paediatric Age Group
Authors:   Department of Radiology, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Published: December 2024

This case report highlighted a 9 month old child with failure to thrive. Incidental finding of left sided abdominal mass during elective admission for magnetic resonance imaging brain. Radiological investigation followed by histopathological examination revealed the presence of an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour in abdomen. These were rarely reported intermediate tumours with a strong tendency for recurrence.
Atypical Presentation and Delayed Diagnosis of Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors:   Aruna Rangasamy. Urogynaecology Unit, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Hospital Tunku Azizah, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Published: December 2024

Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome (HWWS) is a rare and complex Mullerian duct abnormality that is diagnostically challenging. It is also known as OHVIRA syndrome. The triad of uterine didelphys, obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly characterises the syndrome. A 25-year-old lady was referred with prolonged foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Her periods were regular with normal flow. A vaginal examination revealed a normal cervix and fullness of left adnexa. A pelvic ultrasound showed a left adnexal mass. Computed tomography imaging of the abdomen and pelvis revealed two uterine cavities with a large cystic lesion at the level of the cervix. This lesion was communicating with the uterine cavity, raising the possibility of obstruction. Only the right kidney was present. A diagnosis of HWWS was made. The patient underwent diagnostic laparoscopy, examination under anaesthesia and excision of the vaginal septum. At follow-up, she remained well at 6 weeks and 3 months. The normal mesonephric duct plays an important role in the formation of the uterus, vagina and the upper urinary tract. HWWS occurs when one of the mesonephric ducts is absent or injured during embryogenesis. Women with HWWS usually present after menarche with varied symptoms, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, having a high suspicion index and awareness of Mullerian duct abnormalities is crucial. The gold standard for the evaluation of HWWS is magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical excision of the septum is the advocated treatment of choice. Prompt intervention lowers complications that impair fertility.
Legal features of the use and regulation of generative artificial intelligence for the development of innovative activities by business entities
Authors: Sushkova O. V.
Published: December 2024

The introduction of ChatGPT in November 2022 by OpenAI has stimulated active discussion about the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in various fields such as science, entrepreneurship, and education. Although AI has been used in many areas of the economy for several years, the use of generative AI models, for example the American ChatGPT service, is becoming the information technology that sets the vector of technological progress in the use of AI. The main areas of application of generative AI are quite simple: it is not only the creation of video and audio files as the results of intellectual activity, but also the use of this technology to predict business decisions, make such decisions, in corporate governance, etc. The extent to which the use of generative AI is justified and does not create legal uncertainty is a debatable issue. In this connection, various positions on this issue are expressed in the scientific literature.

At the same time, the legal regime actually applied to such artificial intelligence does not create legal certainty for business entities when using it. In summary, this article contributes to the growing academic discourse in an area of /significant research regarding the potential impact of AI and offers practical insight into how to use this technology to develop new or improve existing business models, taking into account its legal characteristics.
On the information sovereignty
Authors: Kholodnaya E. V.
Published: December 2024

Indicators of ensuring sovereignty cannot be aggregated and estimates should be given for a separate area or type of activity under consideration. Therefore, sovereignty can be considered systematically and structurally, depending on the industry or field of activity, which will allow us to focus on improving the effectiveness of the legal regulation mechanism. Increasing threats in the information sphere have actualized the task of ensuring sovereignty. The technical, technological and social components of the information sphere are the factors of its provision. The term “technological sovereignty” is often used, which affects the information sphere, but is not limited to it. On the other hand, not all the subject area of technological sovereignty solves the issues of the information sphere. “Digital” or network sovereignty shifts the emphasis in favor of the digital space created and mastered on the basis of digital technologies in the information and telecommunications network of the Internet. However, the assessment of sovereignty in the information sphere from the perspective of digital technologies only significantly narrows the scope of both scientific research and the possibilities of legal regulation, since in addition to digital, analog and quantum types of information technologies are distinguished, acting as a guarantee of national security and ensuring state sovereignty. It is the term “information sovereignty” that covers all the priority areas of the national state policy in the information sphere. Information sovereignty is the ability of a state to independently form an information policy and the ability to ensure security in the information sphere regardless of external influence.
Legal regulation of relations in the sphere of librarianship in a cyber environment
Authors: Pashnina T. V.
Published: December 2024

An attempt has been made to analyze the impact of end-to-end digital technologies and the cyber environment on the system of legal regulation of library information turnover.

It is noted that the social institute of the library has to operate in cyberspace, the possibilities of which contribute to the exclusion of the institute of the library from the chain of transmission and dissemination of information, which dictates the need for its adaptation to the requirements of the cyber environment. It is argued that another factor determining the need for digital transformation of librarianship is the national goals and priorities outlined in the strategic documents of the Russian Federation, in which libraries must play a role. It is concluded that it is impossible to further develop libraries without successfully mastering digital tools.

The modern level of digitalization of the library sphere is considered, the problems and prospects of digital transformation of libraries are outlined. The inextricable link between the process of successful digital transformation and the improvement of the legal framework for regulating relations in the field of librarianship is substantiated.

According to the results of the study, it was concluded that the system of legal regulation of relations in the field of librarianship and library information turnover is a complex multicomponent institution, each element of which, under the influence of scientific and technological progress, is complemented by legal and other acts regulating the use of digital technologies, primarily artificial intelligence technologies. The necessity of making changes to library legislation, local regulations, technical and ethical documents corresponding to digital tools that have found application or represent the greatest prospect for librarianship is justified.
The Main Directions of Regulation of Quantum Technologies
Authors: Minbaleev A. V.
Published: December 2024

In the article, the authors analyze the main directions of regulation of quantum technologies in Russia and in the world. The purpose of the study is to identify the current state of the regulatory legal regulation of quantum technologies in Russia and to develop basic approaches to their regulation in the short and medium term.

It is concluded that the Russian Federation today occupies a leading position in the world in terms of quantum communications both from the perspective of regulation at the level of strategic planning and the development of regulatory legal regulation of relations in the field of quantum communications. At the same time, there is a clearly insufficient level of regulation of quantum computing and the use of a quantum computer. In relation to this area of quantum technologies, neither strategic and regulatory legal regulation nor theoretical approaches to possible legal regulation of these relations have yet been formed. This requires increased attention from the state and relevant actors to the need to solve this problem. Today, by analogy with the processes of legal support for the functioning of the ecosystem of quantum communications, research and preparation of approaches to regulating relations in the field of using a quantum computer and quantum computing should be launched.
Ensuring information security as a component of the model of legal regulation of quantum communications
Authors: Dobrobaba M. B.
Published: December 2024

The article discusses the issues of information security in the aspect of developing a model of legal regulation of quantum communications. It is proved that quantum communications are a new method of information protection capable of ensuring information security in the context of a quantum threat. The development of quantum communications in Russia should be carried out on the basis of comprehensive regulation, including both the legal regulation of quantum communications and the legal regulation of quantum information security. Within the framework of this legal model, the necessity of implementing a system of legal measures that contribute to achieving a high level of information security is shown.