bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tertium datur y dissimulazione onesta: políticas barrocas
Authors: Beraldi Gastón G.
Published: December 2024

Partiendo de la actual crisis democrática y una de sus tantas manifestaciones, este artículo explora los conceptos de tertium datur (Echeverría) y dissimulazione onesta (Accetto) desde la lógica agonista (Unamuno/Mouffe) y el artificio barroco (Gracián) con el objetivo de cuestionar la lógica injusta que sostiene nuestro mundo y vislumbrar una alternativa contra-hegemónica de acción frente al uniformismo (Badiou) actual de la política occidental. La hipótesis del artículo sostiene que la puesta en práctica de la lógica de tertium datur, con su forma honesta de disimulación, es una alternativa que, ampliamente difundida en el Barroco hispanoamericano, podría ser reconsiderada como una forma de combatir la situación actual.
Mitigating biofouling of polyamide thin-film composite RO membrane modified with AgNPs and pSBMA: an evaluation close to the actual SWRO desalination application scenario
Authors: Li Kexin , Song Lei , Liu Xiaowei , Wang Lili
Published: December 2024

The long-term sustainability of beneficial effects resulting from the modification of polyamide thin-film composite (PATFC) membranes with zwitterionic poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (pSBMA) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in real-world application scenarios remains uncertain. This study used response surface methodology and innovative anti-biofouling evaluation method to optimize the conditions for AgNP- and pSBMA-co-modified PATFC membranes, with reverse osmosis seawater desalination as the test application scenario. A 180-day continuous seawater treatment test was conducted to evaluate the long-term sustainability of anti-biofouling resistance. Results indicated that loading AgNPs before grafting pSBMA enhanced their stability during use and cleaning. Co-modification under optimal conditions led to a 6.3% improvement in membrane flux reduction over long-term operation. The effect of AgNPs was significant for 30 days, while pSBMA remained effective until the end of the test. Water contact angle measurements, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and quorum sensing signal molecule analysis revealed anti-bioflouling improvements due to the hydration layer and electrostatic barrier from pSBMA, as well as quorum sensing inhibition and disinfection from AgNPs. These findings confirm the discount effectiveness and feasibility of the pSBMA and AgNPs co-modification technique during long working time, offering valuable insights into modification operations and anti-biofouling mechanisms.
ADI Nº 5.595 e o desfinanciamento da saúde
Authors: Lima Vitor Comássio Paula , Nunes Danilo Henrique , Silveira Sebastião Sérgio
Published: December 2024

O trabalho investiga o desfinancianciamento do Sistema Único de Saúde e promove análise da Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade nº 5.595, além de correlacionar o metaprincípio da Dignidade da Pessoa Humana, presente na ratio decidendi da ação de controle concentrado em comento. Sob os métodos hipotético-dedutivo e de revisão de literatura, traz à luz noções conceituais históricas e contemporâneas sobre o Direito à Saúde como um mandamento constitucional consagrador do próprio Direito à Vida, tanto na dimensão dos direitos humanos como constitucional e infraconstitucional. O objetivo principal é analisar os reflexos deste julgamento bem como seus efeitos práticos no efetivo direito à saúde e na concreção de políticas públicas decorrentes dele, prestadas pelo Estado – aqui como Ente federativo em sentido amplo, já que União, Estados-membros, Distrito Federal e Municípios, no âmbito de suas competências constitucionais, devem prestar assistência à saúde, um dos tripés da Seguridade Social. Ao final, conclui-se que o desfinanciamento do SUS pelos seus próprios gestores configura grave óbice de exercício efetivo do direito à saúde e do próprio direito à vida.
An Overview of Pixel-Level Multi-Modal Medical Image Fusion: Modalities, Methods and Recent Trends
Authors: Kaur Harmanpreet , Kumar Naresh , Vig Renu
Published: December 2024

Image fusion is a methodology of registering and merging data from manifold sources
of the same location taken at different time, from various sensors, or at separate positions. It improves
the quality of an image, reduces randomness and redundancy thereby attracting wide variety
of application areas. Medical image fusion generates a final fused image which is more descriptive
and instructive than the independent source images. It is emerging as a powerful research area
as it progresses the clinical accuracy by combining images of different modalities for diagnosis
and evaluation of medical problems. Firstly, an extensive survey of image fusion levels and traditional
image fusion approaches are presented to give thorough view of the image fusion process.
In addition, the merits and demerits of various fusion methods are presented. Then, the existing
metrics used to quantify the performance of image fusion results are summarized. Next, the three
benchmark datasets are considered for experimental analysis of various image fusion methods and
quantitative analysis is done using standard metrics followed by discussion. Eventually, this review
paper concludes that although numerous fusion methods outperformed the fusion process but
still a lot of challenges are associated in the field of medical imaging. Hence, the technical challenges
are highlighted, and the patent paper is concluded giving insight into several future directions
in the research field. Hence, efforts are made on summarizing main approaches in image fusion
process at pixel level that would produce valuable help to developers and researchers owing
to explore this research field.
Experimental Study on the Influence of Stand-Off of Directional Measurement While Drilling (MWD) Instrument With Barrel
Authors: Wang Zhiming , Pan Feifan , Pan Yufei , Tian Bohui
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Firstly, the mapping relationship between the make-up torque and the axial
preload of directional Measurement While Drilling (MWD) instruments was obtained. Next, the
influence of thread joint stand-off deviation on their conversion relationship was studied. Finally,
the make-up work of the instrument was guided effectively.

Aims:

This patent research aims to investigate the make-up process of the MWD instruments and the impact of stand-off.

Methods:

The experiment was designed to map the relationship between the make-up torque and
axial pre-tightening force of the directional MWD instrument with a barrel. The influence of the
thread joint stand-off deviation on the said relationship was studied.

Results:

Test results have shown that the relationship between the make-up torque and the axial
preloading force is nonlinear. Further, in the American Petroleum Institute (API) standard, the relationship
between the two is defined as linear, increasing the effect of preloading within the high
torque range.

Conclusion:

For identical make-up torques, the threaded joint with positive stand-off produced a
smaller axial preloading force compared to its counterpart with negative stand-off. However, a
large enough make-up torque reduced the influence of the threaded joint stand-off deviation on
the make-up torque-axial preloading force.
Exploring the Pharmacological Mechanisms of P-hydroxylcinnamaldehyde for Treating Gastric Cancer: A Pharmacological Perspective with Experimental Confirmation
Authors: Fatima Sumaya , Song Yanru , Zhang Zhe , Fu Yuhui , Zhao Ruinian , Malik Khansa , Zhao Lianmei
Published: December 2024

Background:

Momordica cochinchinensis is a dried and mature seed of Cucurbitaceae plants, which has the effect of dispersing nodules, detumescence,
attacking poison, and treating sores, and is used in the treatment of tumors in the clinic. P-hydroxylcinnamaldehyde (CMSP) is an ethanol extract
of cochinchina momordica seed (CMS). Our previous studies have found that CMSP is an effective anti-tumor component with good anti-tumor
effects on melanoma and esophageal tumors. However, the inhibitory effect of CMSP on gastric cancer (GC) and its potential mechanism remain
to be further elucidated.

Methods:

First, we utilized network pharmacology to predict potential targets and mechanisms of action for the treatment of GC. Subsequently, a series of
biological function experiments were conducted to assess the effects of CMSP on the proliferation and apoptosis of GC cells in vitro. To elucidate
the molecular mechanism of CMSP, bioinformatics and high-efficiency liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) were
employed for analysis. Additionally, a resistant cell line of the chemotherapy drug paclitaxel for GC was established, and the impact of 10μg/mL
CMSP on the sensitivity of GC-resistant cells was examined.

Results:

The network pharmacology results demonstrated that the active components of CMS exert an anti-GC effect through multi-target and multipathway
mechanisms. The main pathways involved included the PI3K/Akt pathway, p53 signaling pathway, multi-species apoptosis pathway, as
well as ADRB2 and CAV1 genes. Cell experiments revealed that CMSP can effectively inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of GC cells
in vitro. However, it did not show any sensitizing effect on paclitaxel-resistant cells. Importantly, CMSP exhibited no toxic or side effects on
normal gastric epithelial cells. Furthermore, differential protein expression patterns following CMSP treatment were elucidated using HPLCMS/
MS and western blot analysis, highlighting its role in regulating apoptosis signaling pathways.

Conclusion:

Our study presents novel evidence regarding pertinent potential target genes and signaling pathways through which CMSP mediates its anti-GC
effects, with a particular emphasis on its role in modulating apoptotic signaling pathways. Collectively, these findings underscore the promising
candidacy of CMSP as a therapeutic agent for GC that merits further investigation in clinical contexts.
Network Pharmacology and Optimization of β-Sitosterol-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Using Box-Behnken Design for Enhanced Solubility and Sustained Drug Release in Diabetes
Authors: Aslam Ramsha , Tiwari Varsha , Upadhyay Prashant , Tiwari Abhishek
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The pharmaceutical industry has paid a lot of attention to solid lipid nanoparticles
(SLN) because they show promising drug delivery vehicles.

Method:

This work aimed to design and optimize the SLN of β-sitosterol, a hydrophobic drug, to
improve solubility and sustained action. An ultrasonication technique after melting was used to design
SLN using a randomized response surface Box-Behnken design (BBD). Network pharmacology
analysis was performed to explore the interactions between genes. According to the findings,
Compritol ATO 888 was the most soluble at a drug: lipid ratio of 1:3. Particle size, PDI, zeta, and
entrapment efficiency (EE) were observed as 168.83nm, 0.231 -28.9 Mv, and 68.29%, respectively.
The optimized formulation did not undergo any chemical changes, as depicted through DSC. The in
vitro drug release investigation showed that the SLN released the drug continuously for 28 hours.
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed homogenous, spherical particles.

Result:

The antidiabetic potential of the formulation was assessed through the potential of glucose
uptake by yeast, and the α-amylase inhibitory assay revealed its significant antidiabetic potential
when compared with that of the standard drug metformin. The network pharmacology of β-sitosterol
demonstrated gene interaction with hexokinase, phosphoglucomutases, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase,
hexose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and glutathione disulfide reductase.

Conclusion:

The β-sitosterol-loaded SLN generated by BBD was found to be a potential method for
improving drug solubility with sustained drug release and was found to be long-term storage stable.

result:

The optimized SLN formulation exhibited a particle size of 168.83nm, PDI of 0.231, zeta potential of -28.9 mV, and an entrapment efficiency of 68.29%. DSC analysis revealed no chemical changes in the formulation. In vitro drug release studies demonstrated sustained release of β-sitosterol over 28 hours. SEM images depicted homogenous, spherical particles. Assessment of antidiabetic potential indicated significant activity compared to the standard drug Metformin. Network pharmacology analysis revealed gene interactions involving various enzymes related to glucose metabolism.
Comprehensive Analysis of Oversampling Techniques for Addressing Class Imbalance Employing Machine Learning Models
Authors: Rana Shivani , Kanji Rakesh , Jain Shruti
Published: December 2024

Background:

Unbalanced datasets present a significant challenge in machine learning,
often leading to biased models that favor the majority class. Recent oversampling techniques
like SMOTE, Borderline SMOTE, and ADASYN attempt to mitigate these issues. This
study investigates these techniques in conjunction with machine learning models like SVM,
Decision Tree, and Logistic Regression. The results reveal critical challenges such as noise
amplification and overfitting, which we address by refining the oversampling approaches to
improve model performance and generalization.

Aim:

In order to address this challenge of unbalanced datasets, the minority class is
oversampled to accommodate the majority class. Oversampling techniques such SMOTE (Synthetic
Minority Oversampling Technique), Borderline SMOTE and ADASYN (Adaptive Synthetic
Sampling) are used in this work.

Objective:

To perform the comprehensive analysis of various oversampling methods for taking
acre of class imbalance issue using ML methods.

Method:

The proposed methodology uses BERT technique which removes the pre-processing
step. Various proposed oversampling techniques in the literature are used for balancing the data,
followed by feature extraction followed by text classification using ML algorithms.
Experiments are performed using ML classification algorithms like Decision tree (DT),
Logistic regression (LR), Support vector machine (SVM) and Random forest (RF) for
categorizing the data.

Result:

The results show improvement corresponding SVM using Borderline SMOTE,
resulting in an accuracy of 71.9% and MCC value of 0.53.

Conclusion:

The suggested method assists in the evolution of fairer and more effective
ML models by addressing this basic issue of class imbalance.
Basic Biochemistry
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

The eukaryotic cell is a complex structure capable of replication, carrying out reactions to maintain its intracellular environment and protect it from surrounding environmental hazards.
ENZYMES
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Enzymes are catalysts of biological systems, and most enzymes are proteins in nature. They increase the rate of reaction and decrease the energy of activation of a reaction to speed up the reaction. They are specific for substrates and products and function within a moderate pH and temperature range.
Many human diseases result from a mutation in enzymes and enzymes are used as important diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets in a number of diseases.
Chemistry and Metabolism of Carbohydrates
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Carbohydrates are hydrates of carbon and have empirical formula: (CH2O) n. Polyhydroxy aldehydes or ketones form major constituents of living systems. The primary source of energy, and provides a structural component of the cell membrane and participates in cell growth, signaling, lubrication, and immunity..
Chemistry and Metabolism of Lipids
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Lipids of major physiologic significance are fatty acids, their ester, cholesterol, and steroids. They constitute an important dietary constituent, are hydrophobic, insoluble in water, and soluble in polar solvents..
Chemistry and Metabolism of Proteins
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Proteins are complex macromolecules composed of amino acids. Each body protein has a unique sequence pattern of amino acids. Amino acid sequence of a protein dictates its 3D arrangement, and the three-dimensional structure of a protein defines its size, shape, and function. Any change in the amino acid sequence of a protein can lead to structural changes to proteins or enzymes.
Metabolism and Homeostasis
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

The central interconnecting metabolic pathway (pathways of synthesis, degradation, and interconversion of important metabolites) common to most cells and organisms is referred to as intermediary metabolism. Co-ordination of metabolic activities of different organs serves to support glucose homeostasis and provides a steady supply of glucose to meet the needs of the brain and RBCs. This also helps in the storage of fuel when available in plenty. The liver supplies glucose and ketone bodies to other tissues. Adipocytes make FA available to other tissues. The circulatory system transports metabolic fuels, intermediates, and waste products among tissues. Also, certain metabolic pathways occur in multiple tissues, namely, Cori cycle, glucose alanine cycle.
Molecular Biology
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

DNA is a double-stranded helix with major and minor grooves. It is composed of two polynucleotide chains joined by hydrogen bonds between bases. DNA is composed of a nitrogen base (A, G, C, T), deoxyribose, and phosphates. Four nitrogenous bases include purines (A, G), and pyrimidines (C, T). Adenine base pairs with thymine (two bonds) and Guanine base pairs with cytosine (three bonds). RNA is usually a single-stranded molecule. Three types of RNA are mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA. RNA differs from DNA as RNA contains ribose sugar instead of deoxyribose and uracil (U) rather than thymine.
Nutrition
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Nutrition is the study of understanding the effects of food on the human body in terms of health and disease. The major dietary components are carbohydrates, proteins, fats and dietary fiber. A healthy diet comprises important elements of fruits and vegetables. If consumed daily in sufficient amounts, it could help prevent major diseases such as CVDs and certain cancers.
The human body requires energy for each physical activity and the amount depends on the duration and type of activity. This chapter deals with different components of diet and their importance to the human body and disorders associated with their poor or increased intake.
Nutritional diseases occur when dietary intake does not contain the right amount of nutrients, or when one cannot absorb nutrients from food correctly. Kwashiorkor and marasmus are the two major types of protein calorie malnutrition seen in malnourished children. Eating a diet high in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol: linked to heart disease and related conditions, e.g., atherosclerosis.
Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses the functions of ECM, its structure, function and disorders of collagen, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and proteoglycans. For the proper functioning of the cell, it is important that each of its proteins must be localized to the correct organelle, such as mitochondria and lysosome. Also, the process of protein targeting, sorting and its biomedical importance are discussed here. Mislocalized proteins have been associated with human diseases. Therapeutic manipulation of protein localization in human diseases is promising.
Oncogenesis and Immunity
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Genes involved in carcinogenesis include tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes. They produce products involved in the control of cell cycle, intercellular adhesion and DNA repair. Oncogenes arise from protooncogenes that encode proteins having a role in cell’s normal activities. Most tumors contain alterations in both tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes They are derived from protooncogenes and activation of oncogenes can occur by mutation of the gene, duplication of the gene causing gene amplification to produce an excess of encoded protein; or chromosomal rearrangement that causes or alters expression of the gene leading to aberrant cell cycle control. Loss of function of one or more tumor suppressor genes or getting silenced epigenetically can cause cancer. Cells with irreparable genomic damage are destroyed by apoptosis normally. Apoptosis is involved in neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s). The immune system is a unique adaptive defensive system to protect from invading pathogenic microorganisms and cancer. The immune response depends on pathogens and can be categorized as innate or adaptive and is produced in response to foreign substances (antigens).
Disorders of immune regulation can be aberrations of quantity, quality or direction of response. Autoimmune diseases can arise from a malfunctioning immune system. Deficiency in antibody production results in agammaglobulinemia, hypogammaglobulinemia and specific immunoglobin deficiency.
Vaccination induces a protective immune response against target pathogens without the risk of acquiring the disease and its potential complications.
Mind Maps in Clinical Biochemistry
Authors: Kharb Simmi
Published: December 2024

Mind Maps in Clinical Biochemistry is an essential test preparation guide aimed specifically at students studying clinical biochemistry as part of their medical, nursing, or biomedical science courses and for candidates preparing for postgraduate entrance and board examinations. The book presents a series of comprehensive case- based learning modules designed to address key teaching points in clinical biochemistry in the context of real clinical experience. Students can begin to understand routine clinical cases by reading biochemical results in the context of a clinical history, examination findings and other diagnostic information. The content also equips readers with the information to propose a differential diagnosis, a treatment plan and a prognosis at later stages.

Key Features

Concept maps for basic and applied clinical biochemistry

Structured outline for clinical cases including history with lab findings, clinical correlations and clinical evaluation

Answers and explanations to facilitate learning

References for further reading

OSPE questions for self-assessment and exam preparation
Active Citizenship
Authors: MARA Daniel , VLAD Dorin
Published: December 2024

Active citizenship is an important part of creating healthy communities. It
promotes democratic collaboration that respects diversity, embraces the entire
community, and is based on the recognition of fundamental human rights and the rule
of law. Schools play a crucial role in this process, and the development of educational
programs is necessary to enhance skills like cooperation and communication, as well as
to develop critical thinking, lessen prejudice, and foster tolerance, understanding,
empathy, and an openness to variety. Active citizenship education has helped to shape
an important civil society and political culture, and there is significant official support
for working with the younger generation in the public sector to combat authoritarian
views and foster the development of intercultural and democratic capacities.
Active learning involves the learner in the creation and construction of knowledge,
social interaction, and practical acts performed for the benefit of others.
Bernard Crick argued for the inclusion of citizenship education in the National
Curriculum for England, and volunteering is a voluntary activity where individuals
donate their time to assist others in the neighbourhood or larger society. Social
enterprise is a non-profit with clearly stated social objectives, and students must be
intellectually engaged in their study for “Pedagogies of Engagement” to effectively
integrate civic learning into the curriculum. Active learning is the process of providing
students more responsibility for their own education and providing them with the
opportunity to engage actively and exchange ideas.It involves identifying educational activities that pay close attention to learning
behaviours, integrating critical thinking and lifelong learning, and associating higherorder thinking with intellectually stimulating tasks. Active citizens acquire knowledge
haphazardly and informally from their interactions with other people as well as from
their everyday experiences away from the classroom.
Workplace Social Inclusion
Authors: MARA Daniel , VLAD Dorin
Published: December 2024

Workplace Social Inclusion provides a comprehensive exploration of social inclusion practices within the workplace, focusing on people with disabilities. The book covers essential topics, including inclusive education, national and international legislative frameworks, strategies for workplace integration, and the role of active citizenship. It also addresses the lifelong learning process and its importance in fostering workplace inclusion and bridging skills gaps. This guide is an essential resource for professionals, researchers, and students interested in fostering inclusive work environments and understanding the legal and social frameworks that support workplace diversity.

Key Features:
- Overview of inclusive education concepts and frameworks.
- In-depth analysis of national and international legislation on social inclusion.
- Strategies for integrating socially disadvantaged individuals into the workforce.
- Insight into the role of active citizenship in promoting social inclusion.
- Exploration of lifelong learning as a tool for workplace integration and future growth.
Ideal for social science practitioners, managers, policymakers, researchers, and students, this book serves as a key resource for understanding workplace social inclusion and its impact on organizational well-being.
Analyzing Digital Marketing Strategies of Market Leaders in the Feminine Hygiene Product Category: Gender Perspectives and Innovations
Authors: Ganjoo Maithili , Sachdeva Gunjan
Published: December 2024

In the dynamic field of digital marketing, it is critical to comprehend the
nuances of customer behavior from a gender perspective, especially in categories like
feminine hygiene. Through the lens of gender theories, this study explores the digital
marketing strategies of three brands in the Indian sanitary napkin market: Whisper,
Stayfree, and Sofy. By examining data from their digital campaigns and engaging in
qualitative analysis, this research aims to explore the intricacies of how these brands
cater to diverse gender demographics. Drawing from the ideologies of gender-based
marketing, this study explores the dynamics that shape consumer responses to digital
marketing initiatives. By examining consumer demographics and campaign details, the
study provides useful recommendations for marketers looking to improve their
strategies, in addition to illuminating the gendered aspects of digital marketing in the
feminine hygiene industry. India has a population of 1.366 billion people, with 50.8%
of the population being female. The majority of workers in India are informal workers,
with women working mostly at the lower rung of the occupational ladder as
agricultural laborers, petty traders, manufacturing outworkers, etc. The Indian sanitary
napkin market is a highly competitive space, with brands like Whisper, Stayfree, and
Sofy vying for a share of the market. According to a report by Your Story, feminine
hygiene products need better marketing in India, and retailers are inevitably responsible
for presenting the product to the buyer. Digital marketing has emerged as a powerful
tool for brands to reach out to their target audience. With the advent of digital
platforms, brands can now reach out to their customers in a more targeted and
personalized manner. AI intervention in marketing has also enabled brands to create
more effective campaigns by analyzing consumer data and providing insights into
consumer behavior.
Artificial Intelligence for Expanding Fintech Market and Securing Financial Stability: A Case Study Analysis of Selected Companies
Authors: Begum Arshiya , Naim Arshi , Malik Praveen Kumar , Sabahath Asfia
Published: December 2024

The field of artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as the most rapidly
advancing domain within computer science, exerting a pervasive impact across various
service sectors that have harnessed its applications. The current study gives a
comprehensive exploration of the overarching applications in financial services (FS),
offering practical insights into its definition and application. Primarily qualitative in
nature, the research does not involve statistical measurement for the analysis of the
results. The study elucidates the significant advantages resulting from the integration of
AI practices in the banking and financial sectors. To illustrate this, the study analyzes
instances of AI applications in financial firms, presenting results derived from positive
observations outlined in their balance sheets and annual reports. The transformative
influence of AI extends benefits to the users and firms in the service industry. The
research paper offers a clear reason for the positive applications of AI in enhancing
decisions in financial management and in the development of the market.
Emerging Paradigms in Marketing Management: Scenario-Based Conceptual Framework
Authors: Naim Arshi
Published: December 2024

The rapidly evolving landscape of marketing management necessitates
innovative approaches to address emerging challenges and opportunities. This paper
introduces a scenario-based conceptual framework designed to enhance strategic
decision-making in marketing. By integrating contemporary paradigms such as digital
transformation, consumer-centricity, sustainability, and data-driven insights, this
framework provides a robust foundation for navigating the complexities of modern
markets. We explore how scenario planning, grounded in real-world contingencies and
predictive analytics, can inform adaptive strategies that align with dynamic consumer
behaviors and technological advancements. The proposed framework aims to equip
marketers with the tools to anticipate shifts, mitigate risks, and capitalize on new
growth avenues, ultimately fostering a more agile and responsive marketing ecosystem.
Through comprehensive analysis and case studies, we demonstrate the practical
application and benefits of this approach, offering a forward-thinking model that
bridges theoretical constructs with actionable insights.
Metaverse in Tourism: Bridging of the Digital and Actual Worlds
Authors: Masoom Kaneez , Ali Syed Haidar , Khan Shad Ahmad , Abidi Saiyid Saif Abbas
Published: December 2024

The metaverse (MV) is transforming tourism by offering immersive virtual
experiences. With VR and AR technologies, travelers can explore destinations, preview
accommodations, and plan trips with unprecedented detail. Virtual tours provide realtime information and cultural exchange opportunities, making travel more accessible
and interconnected. This study aims to analyze the current academic literature and
industry reports to investigate how MV can transform the advertising and management
of tourism. Based on a comprehensive literature review, articles from the media, and
reports from the tourism industry, this research paper identifies and conceptualizes the
MV ecosystem for the tourism industry. This study provides a novel and
comprehensive roadmap for future research on enabling and sustaining mixed-reality
travel in the MV
Leveraging Queuing Theory for Efficient Electronic Business Management in Supermarkets: A Case Study of Giant Stores in the Gulf Region
Authors: Muniasamy Anandhavalli , Naim Arshi , Meeraj Sayeda
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus, has
significantly altered the social and commercial landscape. The impact has been
particularly severe for entrepreneurs and local giant stores, leading to substantial losses.
This study aims to provide support for giant stores to operate efficiently within the
constraints of social distancing measures. It explores the integration of technology to
maintain social distancing and streamline the entire purchasing process effectively. The
study focuses on the implementation of an electronic queue system, offering insights
into how giant stores can adopt this technology to mitigate the spread of the virus and
achieve positive outcomes.
Nasopulmonary Route of Drug Delivery
Authors: Rane Bhushan R. , Amkar Akash J. , Jain Ashish S.
Published: December 2024

Nasopulmonary drug delivery has gained a lot of interest as a convenient,
reliable, and promising technique for systemic drug administration. It is especially used
for molecules that can only be delivered intravenously and are inefficient when taken
orally. This is due to the high vascularization seen above the upper nasal cavity and
alveolar region of the pulmonary system, wide surface area, avoidance of first-pass
metabolism, gut wall metabolism, and/or destruction in the gastrointestinal tract.
Numerous therapeutic compounds may be supplied intranasally for topical or systemic
administration. Presently, the nose-to-brain administration route offers targeted
delivery. Several further advantages are expected to emerge via the pulmonary route to
achieve systemic effects and treat lung disorders. Barriers that prevent absorption
through the nasal and pulmonary pathways must be overcome to achieve these
therapeutic benefits. Numerous drug delivery devices are being researched for nasal
and pulmonary administration of liquid, semisolid, and solid formulations to deliver the
medications quickly and/or efficiently to the target area. They are especially suitable
for the administration of biotechnological products like proteins, peptides, hormones,
and vaccines, as well as poorly soluble drugs, to improve bioavailability. Pulmonary
drug delivery has triggered intense scientific and biomedical interest in recent years,
and it has made significant progress in the context of local treatment for lung disorders,
owing to improved local targeting and fewer systemic adverse effects with the
administration of minute therapeutic levels. The chapter attempts to provide some
information regarding the nasopulmonary drug delivery system, including the anatomy
of the nasal cavity and respiratory tract, the mechanism of drug absorption,
characteristics that are considered during the selection of drugs for the nasopulmonary
system, factors that affect nasal and pulmonary drug absorption, techniques to improve
absorption, dose calculation specifically for intranasal delivery, formulation of dosage
forms according to requirement, novel drug formulations, recent improvements of the
nasal and pulmonary delivery systems, and some of the patents and commercially also
available formulations. The impact of COVID-19 and intranasal vaccine development
is discussed in this chapter.
Ocular Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Jani Harshilkumar S. , Patel Yashkumar R. , Prajapati Anilkumar K. , Ranch Ketan M.
Published: December 2024

Ophthalmologists and drug delivery scientists face considerable challenges
in the realm of ocular drug delivery, primarily attributable to the intricate structural and
barrier complexities inherent in the eye. The presence of various barriers, including the
multilayered cornea, sclera, conjunctival blood flow, and tear dilution, imposes
limitations on the efficacy of drug delivery, affecting both the anterior and posterior
segments of the eye. To overcome these challenges, researchers have explored diverse
delivery systems to enhance drug delivery and treatment outcomes. Among the
conventional ocular drug delivery systems, the ophthalmic solution or eye drop stands
out as a widely utilized and consumer-preferred option. Existing market formulations
include emulsions, suspensions, and ointments. Concurrently, scientists have been
investigating innovative formulations such as liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles,
nanostructure lipid carriers, nanoparticles, hydrogel, and contact Lenses as potential
future treatments, offering advancements in ocular drug delivery and serving as
alternatives to traditional delivery methods.This book chapter aims to provide a comprehensive summary of both conventional and
novel topical formulations for ocular drug delivery. By examining the current
landscape of ocular drug delivery systems, this chapter seeks to contribute valuable
insights into the ongoing efforts to improve treatment efficacy and patient outcomes in
the challenging domain of ocular therapeutics.
Nanotechnology as a Novel Approach to Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Gurumukhi Vishal C. , Chalikwar Shailesh S. , Tapadiya Ganesh G.
Published: December 2024

Nanotechnology is a new platform through which the delivery of
therapeutics takes place using nanoformulation to overcome the pharmacokinetics
challenges of the drug. This chapter presents an overview of nanotechnology-based
delivery systems such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles
(SLNs), nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), and lipid polymer hybrid nanoparticles.
The potential advantages of the use of a nanotechnology-based delivery system over
the conventional drug delivery system are highlighted. The rationale for the
development of a nanotechnology-based delivery system is discussed in detail. The
aspects of various characterization studies of nanoparticles and their effect on
performance behavior are discussed. The potential applications of nanotechnologybased delivery systems and nonparticulate drug delivery systems, such as oral, dermal,
ocular, and parenteral, are currently being explored.
A Muslim Perspective on Navigating the Postnormal Times Complexity to Build a Bet-ter Future (Interview with Dr. Shamim Miah)
Authors:   Centre for Postnormal Policy and Futures Studies, Miah Shamim , Muzykina Yelena Valentinovna
Published: December 2024

There are multiple definitions of contemporary time. One calls the present “postnormal times” or “an in-between period when old orthodoxies are dying, new ones have yet to be born, and very few things seem to make sense”. This definition appeared in 2010 in Welcome to Postnormal Times, a seminal paper by Ziauddin Sardar, a British Muslim polymath. The concept structured the interview with Dr. Shamim Mia (London, UK). During the conversation, he examined issues of modern life from the Muslim perspective in the context of postnormal times (PNT). The interview offers an analysis of the critical components of the PNT theory, such as complexity, chaos, and contradic-tions. Their examples in contemporary Muslim communities are given as well. The discussion also addresses the separation of Islamic Studies from Muslim Studies in modern academic science. Such separation can help raise awareness and proper conclusions regarding specific pressing issues related to modern Islam and those who profess it. The interview also briefly touches upon political Islam, its place and role in a modern developed society, as well as the need to nurture critical thinking among those who profess Islam.
The Muslim City on the Tourist Map of Russia: the Main Problems and Future Development
Authors:   Dagestan State University, Gusenova Djamilya Adamkadievna
Published: December 2024

The author considers some features of the Muslim city as a tourist space determined by the peculiar-ities of the Islamic creed. The theoretical studies by the German sociologist Max Weber on the soci-ology of the city, his historical digression regarding urban formation and urban management allow to explain the traditionalism and conservatism preserved in the urban culture of the Dagestan city. By definition, they should be more characteristic of a rural community, but are common among city residents acting as a deterrent to the development of tourism. The results of a pilot study presented by the author serve as supporting factual material demonstrating some concern among various cate-gories of respondents at the growth of tourist flows, which may lead to social tension in the region. The author notes that the current policy on the development of the tourism industry resembles the "Jordanian scenario", which may be a stalemate for Dagestan and can provoke protest sentiments in an already troubled region.
The Influence of Religious Identity on the Ideological Confrontation between Nahdatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah Islamic Organizations in Indonesia
Authors:   Kazan (Volga region) Federal University, Bezmenov Vladislav Vladimirovich
Published: December 2024

The article examines the influence of the religious identity of Muslims in Indonesia in the context of the confrontation between two leading organizations in the region – Nahdatul Ulama and Mu-hammadiyah. At the initial stage of their activities in the first half of the 20th century, both organi-zations called on Indonesian Muslims to return to the roots of true Islam. In its ideological agenda, Muhammadiyah promoted the ideas of a return to Islam from the time of the Prophet. As for Nahda-tul Ulama, it defended the position of national Indonesian Islam formed during a long interaction with Buddhist, Hindu and animist beliefs. The study demonstrates that in Indonesia there is no uni-versal Islamic religious identity that could unite all Muslims in the region. In many ways, today’s peaceful coexistence of the ummah is ensured by the state concept of Pancasila (Five Fundamentals) and the ideas of protecting religious and national diversity, largely conveyed by the Islamic organiza-tion of Nahdatul Ulama. Any attempts to introduce the idea of unified Islamic space into the Indo-nesian ummah are rejected by believers. This is confirmed by the collapse of Islamic parties in the parliamentary elections of 1997 and the failure of Muhammadiyah policy to introduce unified Arab Islam in the region.
From Calendar and Family Rituals of Gumbet Avars: Local and Islamic Components
Authors:   Institute of History, Archeology and Ethnography of Dagestan Federal Research  Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Seferbekov Ruslan Ibragimovich ,   Department of General Education and Legal Disciplines of the North Caucasian  Institute (branch) of VSUYU (RPA of the Ministry of Justice of Russia), Galbacev Surkhai Magomedovich
Published: December 2024

The paper is based on literary sources and field material collected in the villages of Gumbetovsky and Kazbekovsky districts of Dagestan. The authors, who apply general scientific methods (histori-cal-genetic, retrospective and systemic ones) and specific methods of ethnology (survey and observa-tion), provide an analysis of the correlation of local and Islamic components in the calendar and eve-ryday family rituals of one subethnic group – Gumbet Avars. The Islamic component in the form of zikr and mawlid rituals, reading surahs from the Qur’an, participation in the rituals of Muslim cler-gy, distribution of sadaqa (alms) is organically woven into archaic traditional ceremonies that show stability. This circumstance testifies to the centuries-old practice of “folk Islam” – the existence of a special syncretic form of belief among the peoples of Dagestan. It demonstrates the poor knowledge of the Islamic canons by the majority of the population, their reluctance, due to the peculiarities of ethnic psychology and mentality, to abandon traditional rituals rooted in the spiritual culture, which is a significant component of ethnic, religious and cultural identities in the era of globalization.
Qur’anic Borrowings in the Maqams by al-Zamakhshari and Their Functional Yield
Authors:   Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Republic of Uzbekistan, Khodjaeva Rano Umarovna
Published: December 2024

The article examines Qur’anic motifs and images in the maqams by Abul-Qasim Mahmud al-Zamakhshari, the famous medieval philologist, writer and philosopher from Khwarezm. A brilliant exegete of the Qur’an, in his work Al-Kashshaf, al-Zamakhshari expounds the holy book of Muslims not only from the point of view of its religious precepts, but also as a philologist. He was one of the first scholars to focus on the stylistic merits, lexical richness, rhetoric, and the beauty of the Qur’anic maxims. The influence of the Qur’an also extends to the literary heritage of al-Zamakhshari, which includes numerous Qur’anic reminiscences and images that carry various se-mantic yield in the works of the writer. By transferring the moral, ethical and aesthetic values of the Qur’an into his maqams, az-Zamakhshari also solves educational tasks among young people, guiding them onto the path of knowledge and creation, forming high moral foundations.
Euro-Islam on the Gaza War (2023–2024): The Case of Seyran Ateş
Authors:   Perm Federal Research Center, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (PFRC UB RAS), Mikhaleva Albina Viktorovna
Published: December 2024

The escalating conflict in Gaza and Israel is becoming another challenge for Islamic reformism in Europe, which is forced to respond to what is happening and offer its own interpretation of events in the emerging ideological, political and military confrontation. This article proposes to consider the views and attitudes of the founder of the Liberal Mosque in Berlin Seyran Ateş (FRG) regarding the latest escalation of the Middle East conflict (2023–2024), including her assessment of the main pa-rameters of the confrontations, the intensification of public sentiment in Western Europe, as well as proposed measures to stabilize the socio-political situation in the regions under discussion.
The study is based on discourse-analytical methodology, event-analysis data and the princi-ple of chronological sequence. The main sources are publications and interviews of S. Ateş in the media and the social network Instagram in the period from October 2023 to June 2024.
The socio-political views of Seyran Ateş on current events are distinguished by an incon-sistent, poorly developed theoretical concept, which is not marked by the novelty of the proposed approaches to solving socially significant problems. The leader's undeniable organizational skills, social activity and partly skillful management with a weak theoretical foundation make her a con-venient partner for interaction with government authorities. Meanwhile, the vulnerability of her concept discredits the already shaky positions of Liberal Islam as a whole.
Ijtihad and Taklid in the Activities of Dagestani Reformers of the First Third of the 20th Сentury – Opinions “for” and “against”
Authors:   Institute of History, Archeology and Ethnography, Dagestan Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Navruzov Amir Ramazanovich
Published: December 2024

The discussions about Ijtihad and taklid in Dagestan were not abstract in nature: the Ijtihad instru-ment remained relevant throughout the history of Islamic lawmaking. The discussions were con-ducted with varying degrees of intensity during several historical epochs: the pre-colonial, colonial and early Soviet periods and continued, after some interruption, in connection with the processes of re-Islamization in the 90s of the 20th century. The issues of theory were closely related to the practi-cal application of the norms of Islamic law. Emerging challenges in the sphere of socio-political rela-tions required the solution of new issues in Muslim normative practices. All discussions of taklid and Ijtihad in Dagestan were based, first of all, not on the opposition of the two methods, but rather were focused on the permissibility of different levels of Ijtihad within the Shafi'i legal tradition. For Dagestani reformers, Ijtihad served as a means of adapting the Shafi'i legal system to the Russian reality in the late imperial and early Soviet periods.