bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leading Like a Coach: A Research-Based Approach to Bringing Out the Best in Your Team
Authors: Westover Jonathan
Published: October 2024

This article explores how leaders can apply principles of coaching to fuel greater employee engagement, development and performance. Drawing from both consulting experience and scholarly literature, core tenets of coach-like leadership are examined, including empowering others through questioning rather than directives, believing in employees' potential and providing ongoing stretch opportunities and feedback. Case studies illustrate how large organizations across industries have successfully scaled coaching frameworks to energize workforces and boost business results. The article culminates by outlining five essential coaching practices leaders can start integrating immediately, such as scheduling regular one-on-ones, collaboratively setting stretch goals, providing consistent feedback and recognizing contributions. Adopting even some of these strategies can help leaders unleash extraordinary potential in their people and organizations.
PEMBINAAN MASYARAKAT DESA SIMPANG PETAI MELALUI PEMBERDAYAAN SANITASI LINGKUNGAN
Authors: Wulandari Cahya , Riska Eka , Malaika Shera , Krisdayanti  , Rahayu Tasya , Agustin Marsya
Published: October 2024

Pembangunan suatu daerah, biasanya diawali dengan peningkatan kesehatan masyarakat. Dengan kondisi sehat, maka masyarakat akan dapat melakukan segala aktivitas dengan baik. Tujuan kegiatan ini adalah meningkatkan sanitasi dan kesehatan lingkungan masyarakat desa Simpang Petai Dengan kondisi sanitasi dan kesehatan lingkungan yang lebih baik, diharapkan program pembangunan masyarakat akan tercapai.Untuk mengetahui upaya pemerintah dan masyarakat setempat dalam menangani masalah sanitasi dilingkungannya. Pemberdayaan masyarakat melalui program sanitasi lingkungan dapat melibatkan edukasi, partisipasi aktif dalam pengelolaan sampah, dan pembangunan fasilitas sanitasi yang ramah lingkungan.
The impact of power decentralization on the regional development of Ukraine under martial law
Authors: Kulinich Oleg , Popov Oleksandr
Published: October 2024

Regional development in the context of implementing European practices is a key factor in the realization of Ukraine's European integration strategy. This requires the further introduction of tools aimed at overcoming centralized management practices in favor of decentralization tools that provide greater autonomy for local and regional authorities, creating conditions for accelerating the development of communities and regions. This topic becomes particularly relevant during the state of martial law in Ukraine, which necessitates the consolidation of resources to ensure national security and defense, while also requiring the resolution of pressing social issues (refugees, business relocation, etc.). Therefore, the aim of the article is to study the impact of decentralization on regional development processes in wartime conditions. The methodological basis of the research is a harmonious synthesis of three approaches: systemic, institutional, and structural-functional, each of which allows for the analysis of the role and potential of implementing practices and mechanisms of decentralization to enhance the effectiveness of public management during large-scale crises. It has been determined that the war has already inflicted colossal damage on the country’s economy, the overcoming of which is impossible without the implementation of flexible management practices, further redistribution of resources in favor of communities and regions, and the attraction of donor assistance and investments for recovery. Decentralization facilitates targeted resource use and allows for attracting investments for specific projects that will aid the development of communities and regions. On the other hand, decentralization tools enable local and regional problems to be addressed more promptly. The positive impact of decentralization on government bodies has been demonstrated in terms of their responsiveness to new challenges and threats posed by the war. It has been noted that the success of decentralization depends on the level of civic engagement: the degree of citizen involvement in decision-making, public initiatives, and so on. The main promising directions of decentralization have been identified, which should ensure the development of both territorial communities and regions, as well as promote the attraction of investment for post-war recovery. All of this is intended to enhance the resilience of Ukrainian regions and promote sustainable post-war development.
Charakterystyka wybranych cech hydrologicznych jezior przymorskich jako konsekwencja zmiany klimatu = Characteristics of selected hydrological features of coastal lakes as these reflect climate change
Authors: Cieślińsk Roman , Chlost Izabela
Published: October 2024

W pracy przedstawiono wybrane charakterystyki hydrologiczne i fizyczne jezior przymorskich ukształtowane pod wpływem obserwowanej zmiany elementów klimatycznych. Charakterystyki objęły: opady atmosferyczne, dopływ potamiczny, stany wody jezior, wahania poziomu oraz alimentację od strony morza, rozpatrywane dla lat 1961‑2010. W badaniach uwzględniono zmiany powierzchni i wypłycanie jezior oraz zmiany temperatury i zlodzenia. Do badań wybrano dwa jeziora przymorskie – Gardno i Łebsko. W toku badań ustalono, że kierunek ewolucji badanych jezior nie jest jednoznaczny, chociaż wiele wskazuje na to, iż zachodzący w czasie geologicznym proces ich przekształcania się będzie podlegał przyspieszeniu, w wyniku którego końcowe stadium zaniku zostanie osiągnięte o wiele szybciej niż wynikałoby to z naturalnego procesu starzenia się jezior. Wiele z przebadanych parametrów opisujących własności hydrologiczne i fizyczne obu jezior wykazało tendencje skorelowane z globalnym ociepleniem. Zanotowany wzrost dopływu potamicznego o wartości 0,20 m3 ·s-1/10 lat (Łupawa) i 0,27 m3 ·s-1/10 lat (Łeba) oraz poziomu morza (1,6‑1,8 cm/10 lat) są gwarancją formowania się stabilnych zasobów wodnych w jeziorach i powinny wpływać na wzrost ich stanów wody. Jednak, jak pokazały przeprowadzone badania, oba jeziora reagowały odmiennie na zasilanie, czego efektem był ujemny trend poziomu wody w jeziorze Gardno (-0,17 cm/10 lat), ale dodatni w jeziorze Łebsko (1,40 cm/10 lat).
О влиянии растворения CO2 в воде на эффективность газовых методов увеличения нефтеотдачи
Authors: Афанасьев Андрей Александрович , Андреева Анна Игоревна , Сыпченко Ирина Михайловна , Чернова Анна Александровна
Published: October 2024

CO2- enhanced oil recovery (CO2-EOR) methods, which are based on the injection of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the oil reservoir through an oil production well are complicated by  phase transitions and compositional effects. Thus, after penetrating into the oil reservoir, CO2 dissolves not only in oil, but also in water, which always exists in oil-saturated rocks. At temperatures and pressures typical of oil-bearing strata  the concentration of dissolved gas in both these phases can be rather high.  Standard algorithms used to model filtering processes is based on the assumption that the concentration of CO2 in water is zero. Consideration for gas dissolution in water requires the usage of improved algorithms, in which the state of stratum mixtures is calculated using the equations of state rather than correlations derived from the experimental data.. In this paper, we present such an algorithm, which is implemented in our MUFITS reservoir simulator. We then apply it to estimate the influence of the CO2 solubility in water on the oil recovery using carbonized water and supercritical CO2. It has been found that neglecting CO2 solubility results in the underestimation of the oil recovery. We present the qualitative and quantitative estimates of the above phase transition effects on the oil recovery factor. The  simulation demonstrates that the solubility of CO2 in water causes an increase in the oil recovery factor both in the case of injection of carbonated water and supercritical CO2. However, the dissolution of CO2 in water exhibits a rather limited influence on  the multistage mixing during CO2-EOR and as well as on the oil recovery factor. If the solubility of CO2 in water is neglected during simulation, the recovery factor at a later stage of the injection is underestimated only by a few percent.
Моделирование связанных процессов, сопровождающих набор ранней прочности цементной полифракционной системой
Authors: Дмитриева Мария Александровна , Лейцин Владимир Нояхович , Когай Алина Дмитриевна , Товпинец Александр Олегович
Published: October 2024

Numerical simulation of changes in the structure of cement composites performed for a wide range of varying factors makes it possible to develop optimal technological modes for producing concrete with desired characteristics. The complexity of physical and chemical processes, by which concrete gains strength, contributes to the development of various model approaches, each of which has a number of limitations. In this paper, the model of coupled processes in reacting media is modified to describe the structural changes of cement stone in the presence of fine polyfractional inert aggregate in the early stages of strength gain (hydration). It is believed that the initial blend after mixing with water has a macroscopic structure. The maximum achievable packing density of fine inert filler helps to improve the mechanical and microstructural characteristics of concrete and is ensured, in turn, by the optimal choice of the proportions of individual fractions in the entire volume of filler (sand). The material throughout the considered volume is assumed to be a heterogeneous medium that is based on both reactive components and inert substances of different concentrations, including pores. The possibility of forming a substructure of contacting particles of inert filler at various hierarchical levels is taken into account. The characteristics of cement are set in accordance with the mass fractions of clinker minerals that contribute to the hydration activity of the binder. Thermal processes are described by two temperature heat balance equations, which are solved by the finite difference method using the central difference scheme. At a time of heating the volume of the mixture caused by the exothermicity of a hydration reaction, the problems of macrokinetics and filtration are solved. Macrokinetic transformations are found in terms of the activation energy determined by isothermal calorimetry during cement setting at temperatures of 20, 30 and 40°С. Forced filtration of the liquid phase is assessed taking into account the capillary pressure caused by the peculiarities of the pore structure formation of cement stone.
Biomethanation Through the Application of Waste-Derived Filter Materials
Authors:   , Kušnere Zane
Published: October 2024

The aim of the Thesis is to test the suitability of materials made from waste glass and waste wood ash for biomethanation in biotrickling filter reactors through experimental investigation and data analysis. The study focuses on the determination of the main parameters of filter materials affecting biomethanation, the characterisation and experimental evaluation of wood ash and glass foam materials in biomethanation, and the validation of the results by gas analysis. A multi-criteria analysis to select the most sustainable filter materials is also included.
A neurotrophin functioning with a Toll regulates structural plasticity in a dopaminergic circuit
Authors: Sun Jun , Rojo-Cortés Francisca , Ulian-Benitez Suzana , Forero Manuel G , Li Guiyi , Singh Deepanshu , Wang Xiaocui , Cachero Sebastian , Moreira Marta , Kavanagh Dean , Jefferis Gregory , Croset Vincent , Hidalgo Alicia
Published: October 2024

Experience shapes the brain, as neural circuits can be modified by neural stimulation or the lack of it. The molecular mechanisms underlying structural circuit plasticity and how plasticity modifies behaviour, are poorly understood. Subjective experience requires dopamine, a neuromodulator that assigns a value to stimuli, and it also controls behaviour, including locomotion, learning and memory. In
Drosophila
, Toll receptors are ideally placed to translate experience into structural brain change.
Toll-6
is expressed in dopaminergic neurons (DANs), raising the intriguing possibility that Toll-6 could regulate structural plasticity in dopaminergic circuits.
Drosophila
neurotrophin-2 (DNT-2) is the ligand for Toll-6, but whether it is required for circuit structural plasticity was unknown. Here, we show that
DNT-2
expressing neurons connect with DANs, and they modulate each other. Loss of function for
DNT-2
or its receptors
Toll-6
and kinase-less Trk-like
kek-6
caused DAN and synapse loss, impaired dendrite growth and connectivity, decreased synaptic sites and caused locomotion deficits. By contrast, over-expressed
DNT-2
increased dendrite complexity and promoted synaptogenesis. Neuronal activity increased synaptogenesis in DNT-2 and DANs, and over-expression of DNT-2 could mimic this effect. Altering the levels of DNT-2 or Toll-6 could also modify dopamine-dependent behaviours, including locomotion and long-term memory. We conclude that an activity-dependent feedback loop involving dopamine and DNT-2 labelled the circuits engaged, and DNT-2 with Toll-6 and Kek-6 induced structural plasticity in this circuit, modifying brain function.
A real-time feeding behavior monitoring system for individual yak based on facial recognition model
Authors: Yang Yuxiang , Liu Meiqi , Peng Zhaoyuan , Deng Yifan , Gu Luhui , Peng Yingqi
Published: October 2024

Feeding behavior is known to affect the welfare and fattening efficiency of yaks in feedlots. With the advancement of machine vision and sensor technologies, the monitoring of animal behavior is progressively shifting from manual observation towards automated and stress-free methodologies. In this study, a real-time detection model for individual yak feeding and picking behavior was developed using YOLO series model and StrongSORT tracking model. In this study, we used videos collected from 11 yaks raised in two pens to train the yak face classification with YOLO series models and tracked their individual behavior using the StrongSORT tracking model. The yak behavior patterns detected in trough range were defined as feeding and picking, and the overall detection performance of these two behavior patterns was described using indicators such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The improved YOLOv8 and Strongsort model achieved the best performance, with detection accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score of 98.76%, 98.77%, 98.68%, and 98.72%, respectively. Yaks which have similar facial features have a chance of being confused with one another. A few yaks were misidentified because their faces were obscured by another yak’s head or staff. The results showed that individual yak feeding behaviors can be accurately detected in real-time using the YOLO series and StrongSORT models, and this approach has the potential to be used for longer-term yak feeding monitoring. In the future, a dataset of yaks in various cultivate environments, group sizes, and lighting conditions will be included. Furthermore, the relationship between feeding time and yak weight gain will be investigated in order to predict livestock weight.
Is it worth the extra mile? Comparing environmental DNA and RNA metabarcoding for vertebrate and invertebrate biodiversity surveys in a lowland stream
Authors: Macher Till-Hendrik , Arle Jens , Beermann Arne J. , Frank Lina , Hupało Kamil , Koschorreck Jan , Schütz Robin , Leese Florian
Published: October 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has emerged as a promising approach to assess biodiversity and derive ecological status classes from water samples. However, a limitation of eDNA surveys is that detected DNA molecules may originate from other places or even dead organisms, distorting local biodiversity assessments. Environmental RNA (eRNA) metabarcoding has recently been proposed as a complementary tool for more localized assessments of the biological community. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of eDNA and eRNA metabarcoding for inferring the richness and species distribution patterns of vertebrates and invertebrates in a Central European lowland river. We collected water samples and analyzed them using a 12S marker for vertebrates and a COI marker for invertebrates. We detected 31 fish, 16 mammal, 10 bird and one lamprey species in the vertebrate dataset. While results were largely consistent, we detected a higher number of species when analysing eRNA (mean = 30.89) than eDNA (mean = 26.16). Also, eRNA detections had a stronger local signature than eDNA detections when compared against species distribution patterns from traditional fish monitoring data. For invertebrates, we detected 109 arthropod, 22 annelid, 12 rotiferan, eight molluscan and four cnidarian species. In contrast to the pattern of vertebrate richness, we detected a higher richness using eDNA (mean = 41.37) compared to eRNA (mean = 22.42). Our findings primarily show that eDNA and eRNA-based detections are comparable for vertebrate and invertebrate taxa. Biological replication was important for both template molecules studied. Signal detections for vertebrates were more localized for eRNA compared to eDNA. Overall, the advantages of the extra steps needed for eRNA analyses depend on the study question but both methods provide important data for biodiversity monitoring and research.
Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of a Chinese self-intermittent catheterization quality of life scale among patients with neurogenic bladder
Authors: Tang Rong , Zhou Liqiong
Published: October 2024

Background

Intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) is widely considered the gold standard for treating patients with neurogenic bladder (NB). Healthcare professionals and catheter users must optimize ISC care to improve patients’ quality of life. To achieve this, the Intermittent Self-Catheterization Questionnaire (ISC-Q) is a valuable tool with clear and easy-to-understand items. However, this scale has yet to be adapted for use in China, and its reliability and validity need to be tested through cross-cultural adaptation.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to culturally adapt the ISC-Q and develop the Chinese version of the ISC-Q (C-ISC-Q), and assess its reliability and validity among patients with NB.

Methods

With the authorization of the ISC-Q author, the Beaton mode was used to adapt the scale cross-culturally. The study was conducted from June 2020 to June 2021 in three phases: committee-based translation from English to Chinese, Delphi expert consultations (n = 5) for cultural adaptation, and a cross-sectional study (n = 149) for validation.

Results

The C-ISC-Q has 24 items and four dimensions. The critical ratio of each item is over 3.0, and the correlation coefficient between each item and the scale’s total score is above 0.4. The Cronbach’s α value for the scale is 0.930, and for each dimension, it is between 0.870–0.92. The retest reliability for the scale is 0.894, and for each dimension is between 0.751–0.889. The content validity at the item level ranges from 0.8~1.0, and at the scale level is 0.9. The criterion-related validity of the scale was −0.708, and the correlation for each dimension was 0.329–0.624. The principal component analysis identified four common factors, with a cumulative contribution rate of 67.846%.

Conclusions

The C-ISC-Q is culturally sensitive, reliable, and valid to measure the quality of life for patients with NB. It can assist nurses and researchers in tailoring strategies to enhance the quality of life for patients with NB.
Remote care instruction via the WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Jiang Chao Yun , Li Ci Juan , Zhang Rong , Cai Tian Hong , Zhan Teng Hui
Published: October 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to estimate the effect of remote nursing guidance based on WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of clinical data, including demographic data and anticoagulation complications, of 126 female patients who received subcutaneous anticoagulation therapy and received remote nursing guidance using WeChat platform in our hospital from January 2022 to December 2022. The Anti-Clot Treatment Scale (ACTS) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) scale were used to evaluate patients’ satisfaction with anticoagulation and quality of life at the beginning of anticoagulation, half a month after anticoagulation, and after three months of anticoagulation.

Results

In total, 126 patients were involved in this study, all of them were female, 115 cases were natural pregnancy, 11 cases were assisted reproduction. This study included seven cases of lower extremity deep vein thrombosis, 100 cases of hypercoagulable state, 10 cases of antiphospholipid syndrome, and eight cases of protein S deficiency, one case of hyperhomocysteinemia. During the follow-up period, four patients (3.17%) had subcutaneous injection complications, including three cases of subcutaneous hemorrhage and one case of liquid leakage. A total of 123 patients had completed the planned anticoagulation therapy or were receiving anticoagulation therapy as planned, and three patients did not receive anticoagulation therapy as planned (zero cases lost contact, two cases changed treatment units, and one case refused treatment). ACTS score (55.03 ± 1.73) and WHOQOL-BREF score (62.18 ± 3.17) after three months of anticoagulation, ACTS score (54.18 ± 1.20) and WHOQOL-BREF score (60.37 ± 2.25) after half a month of anticoagulation was significantly higher than the ACTS score (47.81 ± 1.69) and WHOQOL-BREF score (55.25 ± 1.85) at the beginning of anticoagulation, and the difference was statistically significant (P value < 0.01).

Conclusions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, remote nursing instruction via the WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation can increase anticoagulation compliance, satisfaction, and quality of life.
Current status of the remaining Mexican cloud forests: landscape findings and conservation initiatives
Authors: Dáttilo Wesley , Cabrera-Cruz Sergio A. , Gallo-Gómez César A. , Serio-Silva Juan Carlos , Villegas-Patraca Rafael
Published: October 2024

Tropical montane cloud forests are known for their unique biodiversity and their critical role in sustaining ecosystem services; however, approximately 50% of their original cover in Mexico was estimated to have been lost by 1998. The Mexican ecoregion that supports these ecosystems experienced one of the highest rates of deforestation between 2001 and 2021. Thus, a more recent evaluation of Mexico’s cloud forests is required. There is limited data on the landscape structure of cloud forests in Mexico, despite the possible application of landscape factors in conservation planning. Here, we estimated the average total area, number of patches, effective mesh size, total edge, and the shape of mixed forests that was present in 2020 within polygons of cloud forests defined in 1999 by Mexico’s National Commission for the Use and Knowledge of Biodiversity (CONABIO for its acronym in Spanish). We estimated land cover using data from the North American Land Change Monitoring System, which classifies cloud forests as mixed forests. We found that eight out of the 109 polygons have no mixed forests and that an average of 49% of the 1,768,914 ha of cloud forests polygons are now covered by mixed forests distributed across 13 states. Additionally, within the remaining 101 polygons that do contain this type of vegetation, mixed forest is distributed on average across 140 patches (range = 1–1,473); 80% of these forests have very low effective mesh size values; 90% of them have low total edge values (<2,000 km); and their shapes tend to be uniformly distributed. Furthermore, most of cloud forest polygons are located outside of federal protected areas. Overall, our results suggest that the remaining Mexican cloud forests are extremely vulnerable and fragmented and that their extent has steadily declined since 1999. To ensure the survival of Mexican cloud forests, it will be crucial to prioritize high-diversity areas, strengthen protection in critical zones, establish ecological corridors, encourage sustainable practices, and actively engage local communities. This study highlights the complex issues and inherent heterogeneity that characterize cloud forest ecosystems in Mexico and provides crucial insights for conservation.
Evaluation of Bruhaniya Effects of Kushmanda Granules and Ashwagandha Granules in Karshya: A Randomised Controlled Trial Protocol
Authors: Yadav Pankaj , Kuchewar Vaishali , Yadav Tanika , Joshi Twinkle
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Ayurveda asserts that a healthy diet can prevent many health issues. Food is essential as a source of nutrition and possesses significant medicinal value. Nutritional deficiencies, often referred to as undernutrition, arise from insufficient dietary intake. Karshya is a condition in which an individual's body becomes emaciated, characterised by a reduced quantity of rasa dhatu, leading to a state of Mamsahinata or Manskshaya. Need for the Study: Many individuals experience a lack of confidence and depression due to their emaciated condition. Various nutritional and bulk-promoting products available in the market are often very costly. Ashwagandha is commonly used by Ayurveda practitioners for its Bruhan effect. Although Kushmanda is mentioned as Bruhaniya in the Bhavaprakash Nighantu, there have been very few studies conducted on it. Since Kushmanda is more economical than Ashwagandha, research is needed to explore this cost-effective bulk-promoting medicine. Aim: To conduct a comparative evaluation of the Bruhaniya (bulk-promoting) effects of Kushmanda granules (Benincasa hispida) and Ashwagandha granules (Withania Somnifera Linn.) in cases of Karshya (Undernutrition). Materials and Methods: A single-blinded, randomised controlled trial will be conducted at the Department of Kayachikitsa, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurveda College Hospital and Research Centre (MGACHRC), Salad Hirapur (H), Maharashtra, India, from October 2023 to September 2024. A total of 60 subjects will be divided into two groups for the present study, with 30 subjects in each group. In Group A, Trikatu Churna will be administered in doses of 2 grams once a day with lukewarm water for the first seven days, followed by Ashwagandha granules in doses of 10 grams with milk twice a day for 90 days. In Group B, 2 grams of Trikatu Churna will be given once a day with lukewarm water for the first seven days, followed by Kushmanda granules in doses of 10 grams with milk twice a day for 90 days. Assessments will be made on the 0, 30th, 60th, and 90th days. The assessment will be based on improvements in body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and arm and waist circumference. Statistical analysis will be performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0, and the statistical tests applied will include the Chi-square test, Wilcoxon’s rank sum test, and Wilcoxon’s signed rank test, with a significance level set at 0.05.
Efficacy of Novel PRP Loop versus Opus Loop for Anterior En-Masse Retraction in Angle’s Class I Dewey’s Type 2 Malocclusion: A Randomised Clinical Trial Protocol
Authors: Kolhatkar Krushnali N , Niranjane Priyanka , Daigavane Pallavi , Taori Kushal
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Optimal space closure is a pivotal aspect of orthodontic treatment, particularly challenging in patients with bimaxillary protrusions and Angle’s class II division 1 malocclusion. Two primary methods, friction, and frictionless mechanisms, are employed for anterior teeth retraction. However, concerns over prolonged treatment duration and increased anchorage demands have prompted exploration into non-frictional approaches. Biomechanical properties significantly influence the efficacy of retraction loops, with ideal loops exhibiting high Moment-to-Force (M/F) ratios and low Force-to-Deflection (F/D) ratios. The “PRP loop” was developed inspired by existing designs, showing promising biomechanical characteristics in a finite element study. However, its clinical efficacy remains unexplored. Need of the study: More research is required to assess the clinical efficacy of the recently created PRP loop in promoting retraction. This trial attempts to evaluate the effectiveness of the PRP loop compared to current techniques, focusing on attaining effective anterior en-masse retraction. Through an analysis of the benefits and limitations of both methods, the research aims to shed light on which loop provides the best space closure. Aim: This study aims to evaluate and compare the PRP loop with the Opus loop for anterior en-masse retraction in Angle’s class I Dewey’s Type 2 malocclusion. Materials and Methods: A prospective single-blinded randomised clinical trial will be conducted in the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Sawangi, Wardha, Maharastra from September 2024 to April 2026. Thirty patients between the age of 15-30 years having Angle’s Class I Dewey’s type 2 malocclusion requiring maxillary premolar extraction will be included and divided into two groups (PRP and Opus loop groups) with the exclusion of Angle’s Class II and III cases. Treatment procedures include initial alignment, maxillary premolar extractions, and retraction using respective loops. Evaluation criteria encompass retraction rate, efficacy, and anchorage loss measured through study models and radiographic assessments. Statistical analysis will employ Student’s paired and unpaired t-test and Chi-square test with GraphPad Prism 7.0 and SPSS 27.0 software and a significance level of p<0.05.
A Comparative Analysis of Accounting Ethics in Decision Making between Private and Public Organizations: A Case Study of Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
Authors: Masangura Albano A. , Tlegray John B.
Published: October 2024

Ethics in organizations is a matter of great interest to those entrusted to run the organizations. The purpose of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of accounting ethics in decision making between private and public organizations within Morogoro Municipality, aiming to explain how ethical standards are maintained and perceived in these differing organizational contexts. It was guided by four objectives which were to determine the extent to which there is objectivity, to determine the extent to which there is  integrity in decision making by private and public organizations in Morogoro Municipality, to determine the extent to which there is  professional competence in decision making by private and public organizations in Morogoro Municipality,  to determine the extent to which there is confidentiality in decision making by private and public organizations in Morogoro Municipality.
The study used a descriptive research design. The target population of this study comprised personnel who are directly or indirectly involved with accounting practices in private and public organizations. The sample size for this study was 176 respondents. Descriptive statistics and t-tests were used to analyze quantitative data. The findings indicate that while both sectors value ethical principles, private organizations generally exhibit higher levels of commitment to objectivity, professional competence, confidentiality, and ethical behavior. In contrast, public organizations show a stronger inclination towards accountability. To address these differences, private organizations should focus on enhancing ethical training, fostering accountability, investing in professional development, and strengthening confidentiality policies. Public organizations, on the other hand, should develop targeted ethical training, promote a strong ethical culture, invest in professional skills development, and review their confidentiality policies to better align with sector-specific needs.
Progress in the Treatment of Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Jiao Wenyan , Agamedov Muhammetaly , Kerimov Guvanch , Zheng Jiaru , Bittmann Stefan , Annaye Begench , Jiao Fuyong
Published: October 2024

Tourette Syndrome, a persistent neuropsychiatric condition predominantly encountered in childhood, significantly influences an individual's behavior, social engagement, and daily life activities. Current therapeutic strategies for managing Tourette Syndrome can broadly be classified into two primary categories: (1) pharmacological interventions, relying on medication, and (2) non-pharmacological approaches, which do not involve drug usage. This paper aims to delve into the existing literature on both these treatment modalities, with a primary emphasis on providing updated insights into pharmacological interventions.
Object: To investigate the methodology of treating children with Tourette Syndrome.
Methods: Collected 19 English references through a retrospective review of new treatment methods on the internet.
Results: Treatments are divided into two categories: drug treatment and non-drug treatment, with drug treatment being the primary focus.
Conclusion: The two categories of therapy have different curative effects and must be chosen in accordance with the actual clinical situation of patients.
Highly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Appendix
Authors: Bittmann Stefan
Published: October 2024

Pediatric neuroendocrine tumors (NET) of the gastrointestinal tract are uncommon, with appendiceal NETs usually being found incidentally. Neuroendocrine tumors are a diverse group of neoplasms that share common features such as a similar histological appearance, special secretory granules, and the production of biogenic amines and polypeptide hormones. The term "neuro" refers to dense core granules similar to those found in serotonergic neurons, while "endocrine" refers to the synthesis and secretion of these monoamines. The neuroendocrine system includes endocrine glands like the pituitary, parathyroids, and neuroendocrine adrenals, as well as endocrine islet tissue in the pancreas and scattered cells in the exocrine parenchyma, known as the diffuse endocrine system. Limited research has been conducted in pediatric patients, and guidelines are primarily derived from adult data. Diagnostic tests specific to NETs are currently lacking. We report a case of a 16 years-old boy where incidentally a highly differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (NET, G1) was found during laparoscopic appendectomy.
Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Pop Corn (Zea mays l.) Production and soil Physical and Chemical Properties
Authors: Onwu Clement Alex , Ojima Nelson Chukwunweike
Published: October 2024

A field experiments were conducted at Teaching and Research Farm of Federal University of Wukarito examine the effect of organic and inorganic fertilization on maize productivity and soil properties improvements. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), with four treatments and three replications. Popcorn is used as test crop in this experiment. The results showed that maize growth parameters such as plant height, number of leaves and leaf area were significantly affected at 5% probability level. Treatment Poultry droppings + NPK had the highest values in all the yield parameters and was significantly different from the control in both cropping seasons. Soil total organic C and total N, P, K contents increased when inorganic fertilizers were applied alone or in combined with organic manures. However, soil pH increased due to application of organic fertilizer as it provides exchangeable cations such as Ca, Mg etc. Therefore, this study suggests that an appropriate proportion of organic fertilizer with inorganic fertilizer not only for higher yield maize productionwith an assurance of improve and maintain the soil fertility and should be adopted.
Cytotoxic and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Two Medicinal Plant Recipes Decoctions, acphyx and chryfa, Used in Traditional Medicine of Burkina Faso
Authors: Laurent Boly Abdoul Gilchrist , Bagora Bayala , Sergine Kaboré , Mohamed Belemlilga Bonewendé , Madinatou Ouédraogo Annick , Boubacar Yaro , Zacqueline Yabre , Moumouni Koala , Dénise Ilboudo , Charles Sombié , Pascal Nadembega , Jean-Marie Compaoré , Paul Darga , Théodora Zohoncon , Aristide Traore , Noufou Ouédraogo , Sylvin Ouédraogo , Rasmane Semdé , Jacques Simporé , Pierre Guissou Innocent
Published: October 2024

Aims: Cancer is a major public health problem worldwide and in Burkina Faso. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties of ACPHYX and CHRYFA, two medicinal plant recipes used against inflammatory diseases in traditional medicine in Burkina Faso.
Study Design:  The anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity on prostate and cervical cancer cells of a recipe orients on its possible anti-cancer properties. Then would help to realize ethnopharmacological evidence study for its validation or not as a phytomedicine against prostate or cervical cancer.
Place and Duration of Study: The studies were carried out in the laboratories of the Pietro Anignoni Biomolecular Research Center (CERBA) and the Health Sciences Research Institute (IRSS/CNRST) from December 2021 to March 2023 in Burkina Faso.
Methodology: An aqueous decoction of ACPHYX recipe and CHRYFA recipe, were made. The phytochemical groups of interest and the phenolic compound content of the extracts were determined. The antioxidant test was performed by the DPPH and FRAP methods. The cytotoxic activity on cancer cells was evaluated by the MTT test. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by pro-inflammatory enzyme inhibition tests (15-lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenases), anti-edema and antihistamine tests.
Results: ACPHYX decoction showed the best antioxidant activity by DPPH method (IC50 of 12.80 ± 0.5μg/mL). The chelation capacity evaluated by FRAP method was also better with ACPHYX decoction (1.94 ± 0.296 mmol EAA/g). ACPHYX decoction also showed the best cytotoxic activity on prostate cancer DU145 cells (175.5 ± 3.79 μg/mL) and cervical cancer HeLa cells (302.5 ± 64.36 μg/mL). In vitro, the extracts inhibited 60% edema at 400 mg/kg dose and 79.32% scratching inhibition at 600 mg/kg dose.
Conclusion: The strongest anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo was observed with ACPHYX extract. ACPHYX recipe compared to CHRYFA showed better cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its use could help to treat tumor and inflammatory conditions through further studies.
Performance Evaluation of Tomato Hybrids Arka Samrat and Arka Abedh in Alluri Sitarama Raju District of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Murthy K C Bhanu , Kameswari P Laitha
Published: October 2024

Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Pandirimamidi, DR. YSRHU conducted on farm trials from 2019-20 to 2021-22, in four selected villages involving eighteen farmers covering an area of 4.5 acres. The principal objective of this study was varietal assessment of high yielding tomato hybrids i.e. Arka Abedh (multiple disease resistant) and Arka Samrat (triple disease resistant) for ascertaining and recommending the cultivars best suited for the region. The results showed that tomato hybrid Arka Abhed (T2) (528.23 q/ha, 564.65 q/ha and 589.78 q/ha) proved to be the best in yield followed by Arka Samrat (T3) (501.24 q/ha, 538.67 q/ha and 558.75 q/ha) and INDAM - Rashmi hybrid (T1) (402.72 q/ha, 434.55 q/ha and 455.45 q/ha) for the three consecutive years of the study. The net returns increased steadily in the demonstration plots ranged from Rs. 2,54,261/- to Rs. 3,38,074/- in tomato hybrid Arka Abhed, whereas tomato hybrid Arka Samrat recorded Rs. 2,35,368/- to Rs. 3,13,250/- from 2019-20 to 2021-22. An Extension gap of 125.51 to 134.33 q/ha and 98.52 to 103.30q/ha were recorded in Arka Abhed and Arka Samrat respectively. Technology Index for tomato hybrids observed as i.e. INDAM - Rashmi (13.24%), Arka Abhed (18.65%) and Arka Samrat (30.15%).
Ethnobotanical Knowledge and Market Status of Garcinia indica from Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, India
Authors: Rathod Aravind B , Ramana P
Published: October 2024

The genus Garcinia comprises many species distributed in tropical regions, with G. indica being one of the most significant native trees found in the Western Ghats of India. This study tried to document the Ethnobotanical knowledge of Garcinia indica among the rural populations of Uttara Kannada district, India. The survey and interviews conducted with 120 families across different study area revealed substantial utilization of Garcinia indica for culinary, medicinal, and commercial purposes. The fruit rind, which contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), serves as an ingredient in Indian cuisine and is purported to have anti-obesity effects. Its seed butter is utilized in cosmetics and medicine globally due to its therapeutic properties. There exists considerable economic potential for seed processing as a substrate in butter extraction; however, it is not scalable due to prohibitively labour intensive practices. Consequently, this study emphasizes the importance of developing an improved processing technique for these leaves, which could potentially add value and increase market price substantially. Such advancements would further generate revenue for conservation efforts, providing local communities with a sustainable source of income through the application of traditional knowledge.
Políticas Públicas: Um Estudo Sobre As Ferrovias No Brasil
Authors: Gomes Vitor Carvalho , Ito Fabricio Mitsuyochi
Published: October 2024

O objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar a consistência das políticas públicas para o transporte ferroviário no Brasil, buscando identificar a causa da não realização, em sua totalidade e nos períodos previstos, dos programas governamentais de investimentos em transportes para o setor ferroviário de cargas. Averiguando os motivos, fatores ou razões que impedem o cumprimento do planejamento elaborado para esse modal de transporte no País. Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura, por meio de levantamento bibliográfico em bases de dados científicos e sites governamentais. A análise dos Planos Plurianuais de Investimentos – PPA’s 2008 – 2011 e 2012 – 2015 indicou a necessidade do governo federal em melhorar seu planejamento no setor de transporte ferroviário para que possa avançar em direção a conclusão dos empreendimentos ferroviários de carga estabelecidos em seus Planos Plurianuais. As metas financeiras previstas nos PPA’s, para o setor de transporte ferroviário, não corresponderam com as suas respectivas metas físicas nos PPA’s 2008 – 2011 e 2012 – 2015. Fato que evidencia a importância de haver uma associação do recurso financeiro à respectiva meta física prevista no programa para que as ações, atividades, projetos e obras de fato ocorram. A falta de planejamento de longo prazo e de política pública eficiente para o setor de transporte ferroviário tem sido evidenciada pelo baixo desenvolvimento da infraestrutura deste modal de transporte e indica a necessidade da implantação de uma estrutura institucional, responsável pelo planejamento sistemático, coordenado, permanente, integrado da infraestrutura ferroviária de cargas, que favoreça a integração com outas modalidade de transporte e contribua, efetivamente, para o desenvolvimento econômico do país.
Robustness Metrics: How Are They Calculated, When Should They Be Used and Why Do They Give Different Results?
Authors: McPhail C. , Maier H. R. , Kwakkel J. H. , Giuliani M. , Castelletti A. , Westra S.
Published: January 2018

Robustness is being used increasingly for decision analysis in relation to deep uncertainty and many metrics have been proposed for its quantification. Recent studies have shown that the application of different robustness metrics can result in different rankings of decision alternatives, but there has been little discussion of what potential causes for this might be. To shed some light on this issue, we present a unifying framework for the calculation of robustness metrics, which assists with understanding how robustness metrics work, when they should be used, and why they sometimes disagree. The framework categorizes the suitability of metrics to a decision‐maker based on (1) the decision‐context (i.e., the suitability of using absolute performance or regret), (2) the decision‐maker's preferred level of risk aversion, and (3) the decision‐maker's preference toward maximizing performance, minimizing variance, or some higher‐order moment. This article also introduces a conceptual framework describing when relative robustness values of decision alternatives obtained using different metrics are likely to agree and disagree. This is used as a measure of how “stable” the ranking of decision alternatives is when determined using different robustness metrics. The framework is tested on three case studies, including water supply augmentation in Adelaide, Australia, the operation of a multipurpose regulated lake in Italy, and flood protection for a hypothetical river based on a reach of the river Rhine in the Netherlands. The proposed conceptual framework is confirmed by the case study results, providing insight into the reasons for disagreements between rankings obtained using different robustness metrics.
Hydrological Response and Complex Impact Pathways of the 2015/2016 El Niño in Eastern and Southern Africa
Authors: Siderius C. , Gannon K. E. , Ndiyoi M. , Opere A. , Batisani N. , Olago D. , Pardoe J. , Conway D.
Published: January 2018

The 2015/2016 El Niño has been classified as one of the three most severe on record. El Niño teleconnections are commonly associated with droughts in southern Africa and high precipitation in eastern Africa. Despite their relatively frequent occurrence, evidence for their hydrological effects and impacts beyond agriculture is limited. We examine the hydrological response and impact pathways of the 2015/2016 El Niño in eastern and southern Africa, focusing on Botswana, Kenya, and Zambia. We use in situ and remotely sensed time series of precipitation, river flow, and lake levels complemented by qualitative insights from interviews with key organizations in each country about awareness, impacts, and responses. Our results show that drought conditions prevailed in large parts of southern Africa, reducing runoff and contributing to unusually low lake levels in Botswana and Zambia. Key informants characterized this El Niño through record high temperatures and water supply disruption in Botswana and through hydroelectric load shedding in Zambia. Warnings of flood risk in Kenya were pronounced, but the El Niño teleconnection did not materialize as expected in 2015/2016. Extreme precipitation was limited and caused localized impacts. The hydrological impacts in southern Africa were severe and complex, strongly exacerbated by dry antecedent conditions, recent changes in exposure and sensitivity and management decisions. Improved understanding of hydrological responses and the complexity of differing impact pathways can support design of more adaptive, region‐specific management strategies.