bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problems of Recycling and Utilization of Household and Industrial Waste in the Coastline of Batumi
Authors: Loria Madona , Maia Tughushi
Published: December 2024

Development of the infrastructure of the Black Sea coastal zone is one of the priority directions of Georgia. In order to increase the potential of the tourism sector, it is important to improve the ecological conditions of the Black Sea and the coastline. Despite the national environmental protection programme and the current Law on Waste Management, the problem of waste management is still relevant and noteworthy. The seaport and the terminal operating in Batumi strictly protect the requirements foreseen by the "International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), 1973.“ Moreover, the Order "Rules for Monitoring the Movement of Ships in the Territorial Sea and Harbor Waters of Georgia and the Functioning of the Information System" has been in force since 2016. The purpose of this rule is to ensure the protection of human life, safety of navigation and protection of the marine environment by using the Vessel Traffic Monitoring System in the territorial sea and access corridors to the ports; detection of potential pollution of the marine environment from ships and their prevention. But despite the mentioned regulatory actions, there is a big problem in terms of waste recycling and utilization.The article discusses the issues that make obstacles for ensuring the compliance with environmental protection norms within the city of Batumi and its surrounding area. The authors, taking into account the international experience of obtaining biogas from waste, propose the possibility of obtaining energy from the waste of the Batumi landfill for the purpose of waste recycling and utilization.
Community Based Fisheries Management in Bangladesh
Authors: Alekuzzaman Mohammad
Published: December 2024

The Community Based Fisheries Management in Bangladesh aimed to promote the sustainable use of
inland capture fisheries by empowering fisher’s communities to manage their own aquatic resources.
This paper describes the impact of fisheries management performance using data generated under the
CBFM project, funded by the Ford Foundation and the UK Government’s Department for
International Development. Using quantitative indicators of catch per unit area, catch per unit effort,
catch per fisher’s day, biodiversity index, fishing intensity and destructive fishing ratio at up to 86
project water bodies across the country representing a variety of different habitats was compared with
that of existing fisheries management. Estimates of the slope coefficients for each performance
indicator were compared among habitat type and between CBFM and control water bodies using
ANOVA. Fish production was found to have increased significantly through time at CBFM water
bodies. Trends in fish production through time were upwards at 77% of the 64 project water bodies
that were monitored for at least three years without data gap. Trends in fish abundance, indicated by
annual average daily catch rates by fishers, were also upwards at 72% of monitored water bodies.
Changes in biodiversity index with time were found to be positive and significantly greater than in
control water bodies. Species assemblages are richer and more abundant at CBFM compared to
control water bodies. Trends in biodiversity were also upwards at 70% of monitored water bodies.
Considering all management approaches together, the score based performance indicators suggests
that a fisher managed approach ensured maximum benefits, and followed by community managed and
women managed approaches. In conclusion, community-based fisheries management appears to
perform significantly better than the existing management system in Bangladesh. Future projects
might choose to place greater emphasis on identifying habitatspecific interventions and arrangement
to meet precise management objectives. Existing information sharing networks could support
experimentation and learning under future initiatives.
Contribution of National and International NGOs for Sustainable Rural Development of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Mahbubur
Published: December 2024

Nowadays Non-Governmental Organizations or NGOs have become an extensively
discussed theme in the third world countries as well vastly in social business world.
Bangladesh is no exception. The NGOs have appeared as the savior of countless number
of people without food, cloth, education and basic health facilities. Bangladesh is one of
the top thirteen underprivileged countries. With the record of being the most densely
populated country on earth and feeble manpower competency, Bangladesh is facing
massive challenge to meet up the demand of her ever- increasing population. Hence
NGOs in Bangladesh can continue playing the role of catalyst in the attainment of
sustainable economic growth and development provided, an endurable, warm and
dependable relationship is there between the Government and NGOs where both are
working for the benefit of the people with numerable activities. Their main tasks are to
organize these people, create awareness in them and make them development oriented.
These organizations are working based on the assessed need and demand of the grass root
level farmers and women. By involving the beneficiaries directly, they are working
within the context of overall national planning for development.
Competency Based Training and Assessment System for TVET Institutions in Bangladesh
Authors: Hasina Anwara
Published: December 2024

Competency Based Training and Assessment is an approach to Technical Vocational
Education and Training that emphasizes the development of skills/competences that are
actually required in the world of work. Technical and vocational education (TVET) system
is led by the demands of the economy, and aims to transmit society’s norms and values
intrinsic to the world of work. Despite the depth of the current economic crisis, skills are
also claimed to be at the centre of the new challenge of sustaining, accelerating and sharing
the signs of economic growth across many parts of the developing world. It should be
added, however, that knock-on pressure from primary education expansion, and the urgings
of member states are important but not sufficient reasons for the development of a TVET
strategy by UNESCO. The organization must also value the intrinsic importance of a TVET
strategy, given the vital contribution of skills development in both education and training.
For this reason, the organization needs to caution against drivers of TVET that are
politically opportune, such as the mantra of skills-for-employment-creation, or skills-for
security. High quality skills are a necessary but not a sufficient condition for the creation of
decent work or secure livelihoods. As a tool to support the development of a competent
workforce, the NTVQF process has generated enthusiasm amongst stakeholders. However,
there is some skepticism about going to scale i.e. full implementation across all
occupations, the extent of curriculum development required and the governance of the
training and qualifications system across a diversity of institutions. As such, the sustained
interest of the government, committed participation of industry and continuation of donor
support beyond the pilot phase will be the key to the success of the whole endeavor.
Smart Rajshahi City Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Shaikh Forhad Zahid
Published: December 2024

Silk city - Rajshahi, recognized as the cleanest city of Bangladesh, has been implementing diversified
initiatives to transform the city into a smart one aligning with the government's Smart Bangladesh
2041 vision. Bangabandhu River City, Sheikh Russel City Park, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Hi-Tech
Park, roads, flyovers, secondary transfer stations etc. underscore the city's commitment to progress.
Recently, the Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) has formulated a comprehensive master plan to guide
the implementation of the Smart Rajshahi City initiative. This research analyzes the challenges,
opportunities and their impacts that will come up during Rajshahi's smart transformation journey and
provide valuable insights and recommendations. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research
utilizes questionnaires and surveys for data collection. The qualitative and quantitative data undergo
thorough analysis, incorporating statistical methods to derive meaningful insights.
Tâbiîn Tefsirinde Dirâyetin Yeri ve Önemi
Authors: Aygün Abdullah
Published: December 2024

Kur’ân’ı öğrenme ve anlama hususunda sahâbe Hz. Peygamber’e, tâbiînin ise sahâbeye talebelik yapmıştır. Özellikle ashâb ve tâbiînin birlikte yaşadığı zaman diliminin iyi kavranması, İslâm düşünce tarihinin ve temel İslâmî ilimlerin de doğru perspektifle anlaşılması için önem arz etmektedir. Çok sayıda tez ve makale gibi akademik çalışmada tâbiîn devri tefsir faaliyetleri konu edinilmiştir. Bunlarda dönemin incelenmesi ya genel hatlarıyla ya da bazı şehir yahut kişiler üzerinden yapılmıştır. Bir kısmında, dirâyet kapsamındaki başlık veya örneklere yer verilmiştir. Fakat tefsirin gelişiminin doğru anlaşılması ve diğer taraftan yanlış okumaların ortadan kalkması için söz konusu dönemde dirâyetin rolüne odaklanan, doğrudan dikkat çeken onlarca araştırma olması beklenir. Ancak bu kadar hayati önemdeki meseleyle ilgili elimizdeki çalışmaların sayısı çok azdır. Bu makalenin ana hedefi, tâbiîn devri dahil tefsirin, başlangıcından itibaren dirâyetle gerçekleşen bir faaliyet oluşuna dikkat çekmek ve farkındalık sağlamaktır. Bu bağlamda, tefsirde dirâyetin her dönemki gibi tâbiîn devrinde de yoğun olarak yer aldığını savunmaktır. Tâbiîn döneminde, tefsir faaliyetinde aklın, muhakemenin, tenkidin, tercihin, yeni yorum ve açıklamaların oldukça fazla yer tuttuğunu örnekleriyle ortaya koymaktır. Bilgi yetersizliği yanında oryantalist etki nedeniyle oluşan, tefsirin ilk asırlarda neredeyse tamamen rivâyete dayandığı, re’y ile tefsirden kahir ekseriyetle sakınıldığı şeklindeki yanlış okuma ve telakkilerin yanlışlığına işaret etmektir. Tâbiîn devri, İslâmî ilimlerin “kuruluş” veya “teşekkül” zamanı kabul edilmektedir. Bunun, dirâyet, içtihât, istinbât, re’y olmadan gerçekleşmesi beklenemez. Kur’ân’ın âyet âyet baştan sona tefsir edilmeye başlanması, farklı karakterlere sahip tefsir okullarının oluşması, ihtilafların ve tartışmaların çoğalması, söz konusu dönemde dirâyetin rolünün çok fazla olduğunu göstermektedir. Rivâyete verilen önem, Kur’ân’a, sünnete, sahâbeye bağlılık ve onlardan gelen bilgilere verilen benzersiz değerle ilgilidir. Fakat sadece rivâyet ile yetinilemeyeceğini çok iyi bilen tâbiîn müfessirleri, gaybî konular dışında re’yden asla kaçınmamıştır. Âyetler yorumlanırken, sahâbeden farklı izahlar yapılması, muhtelif görüşler arasında tercihlerde bulunulması, mecâzî anlamlara yönelinmesi, Arapçanın özellikleri, şiir, mantık, münasebât, siyâk gibi unsurların kullanımı, tâbiîn döneminde dirâyetin tefsirdeki belirgin yerini göstermektedir.
Recovering the Lost Histories of the Meredith Family’s Tiffany Windows at St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, Ontario
Authors: Barteet C. Cody
Published: December 2024

Cet article porte sur les quatre vitraux de Tiffany Glass & Co. installés entre 1897 et 1923 à la cathédrale anglicane Saint-Paul de London, en Ontario. Ces vitraux commémorent les souvenirs des membres de la famille Meredith de London. Cette famille a considérablement façonné les systèmes judiciaire et financier canadiens au tournant du vingtième siècle, tout en agissant à titre de mécène. Toutefois, presque l’entièreté des connaissances culturelles sur les vitraux commémoratifs a été perdue, et ce, seulement cinquante ans après l’installation du dernier vitrail à la cathédrale. Même s’ils ont été produits par une verrerie de renommée mondiale et commandés par une famille d’envergure, les vitraux Tiffany de Saint-Paul ont bien peu suscité l’intérêt de la recherche. Qui plus est, les écrits académiques publiés sur le sujet sont remplis d’inexactitudes. Cet article aborde ces questions tout en attirant l’attention sur les contributions décisives des Meredith à l’histoire de l’art de London et sur l’importance de leurs vitraux commémoratifs Tiffany au Canada.
Beyond First Impressions: Looking Anew at the Art of Georgina de Albuquerque
Authors: De Oliveira Savoi Camila , Chare Nicholas
Published: December 2024

Cet essai examine le traitement de la melindrosa ou Nouvelle Femme et de la race dans les tableaux de l’artiste impressionniste brésilienne Georgina de Albuquerque (1885-1962). En explorant sa technique impressionniste, nous offrons un aperçu important des limites et des avantages de ce style. Nous contestons les premières impressions de certains historiens et historiennes de l’art qui présentent Albuquerque comme conservatrice et réactionnaire. En réalité, elle a produit des oeuvres dont le potentiel artistique radical surpasse même celui de certains et certaines de ses contemporains de l’avant-garde moderniste brésilienne, dont Tarsila do Amaral et Candido Portinari.
Massacrer pour rasseoir l’ordre migratoire
Authors: Tyszler Elsa
Published: December 2024

À la frontière de Melilla, le massacre du 24 juin 2022, perpétré par des forces marocaines et espagnoles, a provoqué la mort d’au moins 27 personnes et la disparition de plus de 70 autres, a fait plusieurs centaines de blessés et au moins 100 prisonniers. Pour tenter de comprendre ces évènements qui s’ancrent dans un continuum de violences antimigratoires qui perdure en toute impunité depuis deux décennies, il faut replacer cette frontière dans sa matrice raciale et décrypter les rapports de genre en jeu. Se basant sur un long travail ethnographique mené entre 2015 et 2017, et sur une contre-enquête collective réalisée en 2023, le présent article dissèque la violence sous le prisme des rapports de race et de genre. Cette approche permet de comprendre que la reproduction constante de masculinités guerrières autour de la frontière, pour la défendre ou protester contre elle, a fait augmenter, année après année, l’intensité de la violence envers les migrants Noirs jusqu’à aujourd’hui. Cet affrontement perpétuel de masculinités militarisées à la frontière, engendré par les politiques migratoires européennes, espagnoles, et leur externalisation au Maroc, a renforcé un ordre raciste qui, inéluctablement, continue de semer la mort sans parvenir à étouffer complètement les résistances.
Expériences de franchissement de frontières et migration « irrégulière » : récits
et parcours migratoires de mineurs non accompagnés en France et en Suisse
Authors: Chavanon Olivier , Jimenez Estibaliz , Gakuba Théogène-Octave , Garcia Delahaye Sylvia , Benyezzar Mohamed-Walid , Borri-Anadon Corina
Published: December 2024

Dans un contexte mondial d’augmentation des mobilités et de la migration
des personnes, les mineurs non accompagnés (MNA) fuient généralement des situations
précaires et souvent dangereuses, dont la violence organisée et la guerre. Les
projets de départ répondent à des vécus singuliers et localement situés auxquels se
mêlent des aspirations multiples (personnelles, familiales, communautaires, etc.)
visant l’amélioration des conditions d’existence. Les traumatismes et formes de
victimisations vécus par certains dans leur pays d’origine et lors des
franchissements irréguliers des frontières peuvent s’aggraver lors de leur arrivée
au pays de destination du fait des politiques d’asile restrictives. De plus, en
raison de la séparation familiale, des exigences d’adaptation immédiate aux
contextes d’accueil et de la vulnérabilité liée à la difficile et aléatoire
reconnaissance de leur statut de mineur, les MNA sont exposés à différents risques.
Dans ce contexte de précarité, de vulnérabilité et de risque d’exclusion et de
victimisation, la prise en charge et la protection des MNA doivent être rapides et
efficaces afin de leur offrir un environnement stable et sécuritaire et de permettre
leur insertion dans la société d’accueil.

À partir de récits de jeunes MNA de diverses origines (Afghanistan,
Guinée, Mali, Burkina Faso, Érythrée, Somalie, Algérie, Maroc, Tunisie, etc.)
arrivés en France et en Suisse, cet article s’intéresse aux expériences de l’exil,
et plus particulièrement à l’expérience du franchissement des frontières dans leurs
diverses dimensions (visibles et invisibles) lors des différentes phases de leur
parcours migratoire.
Personalities of Russian animation: synergetic films of Alexander Svirsky
Authors: Zaitcev Aleksei Yakovlevich
Published: December 2024

Russian animation director Alexander Svirsky is known for his desire to push the boundaries of animation and avoid traditional conventions, often rejecting the standards accepted in the animation industry. His works are a synthesis of artistic techniques, where the author uses images and symbols, harmoniously intertwining graphics with a musical accompaniment. The relevance of the study is due to the fact that the director's works deserve deep analysis in order to identify promising types of artistic forms in domestic animation cinema. The object of the study is the animated films of Alexander Svirsky, a visionary artist with a unique view of the nature of animation. The subject of the study is the peculiarity of the director’s synergetic animation, which manifests itself, in particular, in the integration of visual and sound spaces into a holistic artistic image according to the type of associative flow. The work uses a complex of general scientific (comparison, analysis, generalization) and special methods (visual-iconic, artistic-evaluative). In the analysis of animated films, descriptive-analytical and structural-semantic methods were used. The scientific novelty of the work is due to the fact that in art studies the analysis of the director's work has not been given sufficient attention, while the films he creates are highly appreciated at animation festivals. The author's contribution to the study of the topic is a detailed analysis of the director's work using some of his works as an example. The main conclusions of the conducted research are that the artistic form of Alexander Svirsky's animated films predominantly belongs to the promising, actively developed in the media space, flat-conceptual type, resonating with the perception of audiovisual content by the younger generation of viewers.
Transformation of directorial intent: from linear narration to omnidirectional space
Authors: Dobrynin Oleg Vital'evich
Published: December 2024

The subject of the study is the transformation of the director's concept in the conditions of spherical cinematography. The study analyzes the peculiarities of the director's work in the omnidirectional space. New expressive means are considered, including spatial sound and multiplanar mise-en-scene, as well as changing approaches to editing and dramaturgy. Special attention is paid to the peculiarities of the viewer's perception of spherical content and the prospects for the development of this format in the film industry. The aim of this study is to examine the influence of omnidirectional space on the director's conception. The study aims to identify key changes in approaches to editing, composition and dramaturgy. The following objectives are set: to analyze the peculiarities of directorial work in 360° format; to identify new expressive means emerging in the spherical format; to determine the impact of omnidirectional narrative on the viewer's perception; to assess the prospects for the development of spherical cinema and its integration with other media. Based on the methods of comparative analysis, the paper examines the influence of omnidirectional space on directorial intent. The main conclusions of this study are that the director's usual tools are not always adapted for use in spherical space. The novelty of the study lies in the fact that the work identifies promising directions for the development of spherical cinematography. The study shows that the use of omnidirectional space requires directors to develop new expressive means and strategies of interaction with the audience. The paper offers an overview of the key problems (challenges) and opportunities of spherical cinematography, which makes it relevant for theorists and practitioners in the field of audiovisual arts and will be useful for the development of new program and methodological material for student directors of various specializations.
Changes in traditional values in Russia: modernization and retreat
Authors: Terzic Aleksandra , Kovalev Andrei Andreevich
Published: December 2024

Globalization tendencies in harmonizing social norms and their impact on social values can lead to significant clashes between modernization and tradition. This dynamic is particularly evident in Russia, where certain social groups exhibit varying degrees of resistance to these changes, reflecting a broader societal tension. Russian society is deeply rooted in conservative values such as security, solidarity, universality, and traditionalism. These values are often positioned in opposition to the more liberal and individualistic West-European cultural model, creating a clear cultural divide. The study investigates the extent to which the Russian value system diverges from other European national cultures and explores whether substantial changes in the Russian mentality have occurred under the pressures of globalization. To address these questions, the research draws on empirical analysis of quantitative data from the European Social Survey, which included Russia in 2006 and 2016. This data provides a solid basis for understanding the evolution of social values in Russia over the last decade. Additionally, the study examines recent public policy shifts in Russia that increasingly emphasize the importance of traditional society as a crucial safeguard for the nation's sovereignty and security. Ongoing political, economic, and cultural confrontations between Russia and the West have intensified the discourse on the perceived threat of Western cultural norms. Despite observable trends toward more open and individualistic lifestyles in Russia, the research findings suggest that the changes in mentality remain modest. This highlights the resilience of traditional values in maintaining Russia’s cultural identity and state sovereignty, even amid strong globalizing forces.
ARSIP DAN INFORMASI PUBLIK
Authors:   Universitas Indonesia, Surtikanti Ratih , Haryanti Susi ,   Kementrian Kesehatan RI
Published: December 2024

This article discusses the influence of public information services sourced from archives managed by archivists through the Information and Documentation Management Officer (PPID) and the application of legislation to individuals/organizations that require public information according to the classification of information disclosure. This article can contribute to improving information services to the public in the context of implementing bureaucratic reforms to the public. These laws used in the article also ensure that the community actively participates in public bodies' management and supervision processes. The research method of this article uses literature studies on archive management and public information services as well as laws and regulations which form the basis for implementing archive services as public information. This article's findings show a significant influence between archive management and the quality of public information services
Tom1p ubiquitin ligase structure, interaction with Spt6p, and function in maintaining normal transcript levels and the stability of chromatin in promoters
Authors: Madrigal Jennifer , Schubert Heidi L , Sdano Matthew A , McCullough Laura , Connell Zaily , Formosa Tim , Hill Christopher P
Published: December 2024

Phosphorylation-dependent binding of the
S. cerevisiae
Spt6p tSH2 domain (Spt6p
tSH2
) to the Rbp1p subunit of RNA polymerase II supports efficient transcription. Here, we report that Spt6p
tSH2
also binds the HECT-family E3 ubiquitin ligase Tom1p, a homolog of human HUWE1. Tom1p/HUWE1 have been implicated in targeting many small basic proteins for degradation, including excess ribosomal subunits and histones, although the mechanism of substrate recognition is not known. Our cryo-EM data revealed that Tom1p can adopt a compact α-solenoidal “basket” similar to the previously described structure of HUWE1, with the central cavity partially occupied by a disordered acidic domain. Sub-regions of this acidic domain supported binding to Spt6p or histones/nucleosomes
in vitro
, and the histone-binding region was important for Tom1p function
in vivo
. We also visualized Tom1p in more extended forms, and speculate that transitions among these forms could be important for substrate selection and ubiquitylation. Genomic analyses provided additional support for the previously observed role for Tom1p in maintaining ribosomal protein pools, and also demonstrated a role in maintaining chromatin structure near genes. This suggests that the interaction with Spt6p
tSH2
affects substrate specificity by anchoring Tom1p to localized environments where histone ubiquitylation alters chromatin architecture.
AI-enabled Alkaline-resistant Evolution of Protein to Apply in Mass Production
Authors: Kang Liqi , Wu Banghao , Zhou Bingxin , Tan Pan , Kang Yun (Kenneth) , Yan Yongzhen , Zong Yi , Li Shuang , Liu Zhuo , Hong Liang
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) models have been used to study the compositional regularities of proteins in nature, enabling it to assist in protein design to improve the efficiency of protein engineering and reduce manufacturing cost. However, in industrial settings, proteins are often required to work in extreme environments where they are relatively scarce or even non-existent in nature. Since such proteins are almost absent in the training datasets, it is uncertain whether AI model possesses the capability of evolving the protein to adapt extreme conditions. Antibodies are crucial components of affinity chromatography, and they are hoped to remain active at the extreme environments where most proteins cannot tolerate. In this study, we applied an advanced large language model (LLM), the Pro-PRIME model, to improve the alkali resistance of a representative antibody, a VHH antibody capable of binding to growth hormone. Through two rounds of design, we ensured that the selected mutant has enhanced functionality, including higher thermal stability, extreme pH resistance and stronger affinity, thereby validating the generalized capability of the LLM in meeting specific demands. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first LLM-designed protein product, which is successfully applied in mass production.
FtsK Initiates the Assembly of a Unique Divisome Complex in the FtsZ-less Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Harpring McKenna , Lee Junghoon , Zhong Guangming , Ouellette Scot P , Cox John V
Published: December 2024

Chlamydia trachomatis
serovar L2
(
Ct
),
an obligate intracellular bacterium that does not encode FtsZ, divides by a polarized budding process. In the absence of FtsZ, we show that divisome assembly in
Ct
is initiated by FtsK, a chromosomal translocase. Chlamydial FtsK forms discrete foci at the septum and at the base of the progenitor mother cell, and our data indicate that FtsK foci at the base of the mother cell mark the location of nascent divisome complexes that form at the site where a daughter cell will emerge in the next round of division. The divisome in
Ct
has a hybrid composition, containing elements of the divisome and elongasome from other bacteria, and FtsK is recruited to nascent divisomes prior to the other chlamydial divisome proteins assayed, including the PBP2 and PBP3 transpeptidases, and MreB and MreC. Knocking down FtsK prevents divisome assembly in
Ct
and inhibits cell division and septal peptidoglycan synthesis. We further show that MreB does not function like FtsZ and serve as a scaffold for the assembly of the
Ct
divisome. Rather, MreB is one of the last proteins recruited to the chlamydial divisome, and it is necessary for the formation of septal peptidoglycan rings. Our studies illustrate the critical function of chlamydial FtsK in coordinating divisome assembly and peptidoglycan synthesis in this obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen.
Taste triggers a homeostatic temperature control in hungry flies
Authors: Umezaki Yujiro , Hidalgo Sergio , Nguyen Erika , Nguyen Tiffany , Suh Jay , Uchino Sheena S , Chiu Joanna , Hamada Fumika
Published: December 2024

Hungry animals consistently show a desire to obtain food. Even a brief sensory detection of food can trigger bursts of physiological and behavioral changes. However, the underlying mechanisms by which the sensation of food triggers the acute behavioral response remain elusive. We have previously shown in Drosophila that hunger drives a preference for low temperature. Because Drosophila is a small ectotherm, a preference for low temperature implies a low body temperature and a low metabolic rate. Here, we show that taste-sensing triggers a switch from a low to a high temperature preference in hungry flies. We show that taste stimulation by artificial sweeteners or optogenetics triggers an acute warm preference, but is not sufficient to reach the fed state. Instead, nutrient intake is required to reach the fed state. The data suggest that starvation recovery is controlled by two components: taste-evoked and nutrient-induced warm preferences, and that taste and nutrient quality play distinct roles in starvation recovery. Animals are motivated to eat based on time of day or hunger. We found that clock genes and hunger signals profoundly control the taste-evoked warm preferences. Thus, our data suggest that the taste-evoked response is one of the critical layers of regulatory mechanisms representing internal energy homeostasis and metabolism.
The domesticated transposon protein L1TD1 associates with its ancestor L1 ORF1p to promote LINE-1 retrotransposition
Authors: Kavaklıoğlu Gülnihal , Podhornik Alexandra , Vcelkova Terezia , Marjanovic Jelena , Beck Mirjam A , Phan-Canh Trinh , Mair Theresia , Miccolo Claudia , Drino Aleksej , Doni Mirko , Egger Gerda , Chiocca Susanna , Modic Miha , Seiser Christian
Published: December 2024

Repression of retrotransposition is crucial for the successful fitness of a mammalian organism. The domesticated transposon protein L1TD1, derived from LINE-1 (L1) ORF1p, is an RNA-binding protein that is expressed only in some cancers and early embryogenesis. In human embryonic stem cells, it is found to be essential for maintaining pluripotency. In cancer, L1TD1 expression is highly correlative with malignancy progression and as such considered a potential prognostic factor for tumors. However, its molecular role in cancer remains largely unknown. Our findings reveal that DNA hypomethylation induces the expression of L1TD1 in HAP1 human tumor cells. L1TD1 depletion significantly modulates both the proteome and transcriptome and thereby reduces cell viability. Notably, L1TD1 associates with L1 transcripts and interacts with L1 ORF1p protein, thereby facilitating L1 retrotransposition. Our data suggest that L1TD1 collaborates with its ancestral L1 ORF1p as an RNA chaperone, ensuring the efficient retrotransposition of L1 retrotransposons, rather than directly impacting the abundance of L1TD1 targets. In this way, L1TD1 might have an important role not only during early development but also in tumorigenesis.
Syngeneic natural killer cell therapy activates dendritic and T cells in metastatic lungs and effectively treats low-burden metastases
Authors: Huang Shih-Wen , Lai Yein-Gei , Liao Hao-Ting , Chang Chin-Ling , Ma Ruo-Yu , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Liou Yae-Huei , Wu Zhen-Qi , Wu Yu-Chen , Liu Ko-Jiunn , Huang Yen-Tsung , Yang Jen-Lung , Dai Ming-Shen , Liao Nan-Shih
Published: December 2024

Natural killer (NK) cells can control metastasis through cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production independently of T cells in experimental metastasis mouse models. The inverse correlation between NK activity and metastasis incidence supports a critical role for NK cells in human metastatic surveillance. However, autologous NK cell therapy has shown limited benefit in treating patients with metastatic solid tumors. Using a spontaneous metastasis mouse model of MHC-I
+
breast cancer, we found that transfer of IL-15/IL-12-conditioned syngeneic NK cells after primary tumor resection promoted long-term survival of mice with low metastatic burden and induced a tumor-specific protective T cell response that is essential for the therapeutic effect. Furthermore, NK cell transfer augments activation of conventional dendritic cells (cDCs), Foxp3
−
CD4
+
T cells and stem cell-like CD8
+
T cells in metastatic lungs, to which IFN-γ of the transferred NK cells contributes significantly. These results imply direct interactions between transferred NK cells and endogenous cDCs to enhance T cell activation. We conducted an investigator-initiated clinical trial of autologous NK cell therapy in six patients with advanced cancer and observed that the NK cell therapy was safe and showed signs of effectiveness. These findings indicate that autologous NK cell therapy is effective in treating established low burden metastases of MHC-I
+
tumor cells by activating the cDC-T cell axis at metastatic sites.
Effect of Selected Backpack Loads Carried for Selected Durations on Temporal Pattern of Peak Forces of Walking Gait of School-Going Boys
Authors: Husain Rabiya , Wase Mola Dessalegn , Shaw Dhananjoy
Published: December 2024

Background: Backpacks are vital for students, offering stability by being close to the body’s center of gravity. However, increased weight demands more energy and can lead to negative effects like altered gait, fatigue, and a higher risk of injuries. Understanding the impact of varying backpack loads and walking durations on peak forces during gait is essential for the health and well-being of school-aged children. Objective: The primary objective of the study was to observe the effect of varying backpack loads and walking durations on temporal patterns of the first and second peak forces during the gait cycle. Method: A total of eighty-five school-going boys, aged 10 to 12 years, were randomly selected as subjects for this study. A repeated-measures experimental approach was employed, utilizing a 5x5 study design. The subjects’ gait was analyzed under five different backpack loads: 0% (no additional weight), 8%, 12%, 16%, and 20% of their body weight. And walking gait duration was recorded at five different time intervals (experimental variables) of twenty minutes walking, that is, at zero-minute, at fifth minute, at tenth minute, the fifteenth minute and the twentieth minute of walking gait. The studied variables were, time elapse to get first peak force of the left, time elapse to get the first peak force of the right foot, time elapse to get the second peak force of the left foot, time elapse to get the second peak force of the right foot, average of time elapse to get first peak force of the left and right feet as well as average of time elapse to get second peak force of the left and right feet during the gait cycle. The Zebris FDM-S pressure plate, supported by Win FDM-S software, was used for data collection. Hypotheses were tested at a significance level of 0.05. Results: The analysis revealed that the selected variables were significantly influenced by the experimental variables, namely the varying backpack loads and the durations of carrying loads. The results indicate that both increasing backpack weight and longer carrying durations alter the temporal patterns of the first and second peak forces during gait. Conclusion: The findings suggest that varying backpack loads and walking durations have a significant impact on the temporal patterns of peak forces during the gait cycle in school-going boys. These results highlight the need for further studies to explore additional gait variables to better understand the full impact of backpack loads on children’s gait.
The Effects of Carbon Insoles on Vertical Leg Stiffness and Reactive Strength as Indicators of Sprint Performance
Authors: Sims Benjamin , Shim Jaeho , Rylander Jonathan
Published: December 2024

Background: Sprinting is the peak expression of running performance and different strength and physical characteristics play roles in the expression of sprint speed. Leg stiffness and reactive strength index (RSI), which measures the strength of stretch-shortening cycle, are two major factors on rate of force development and performance. It is well known that carbon fiber insoles optimize energy return while minimizing energy loss. Objectives: The purpose of this study was: (1) to investigate the effects of a carbon fiber insole on the expression of vertical leg stiffness (kvert) and RSI during 20-yard sprint and drop jump; and (2) to examine the effects of the carbon insoles on sprint kinetics and kinematics. Methods: Using a randomized crossover design, fifteen participants performed a drop jump and a 20-yard sprint in two shoe conditions (carbon, traditional insoles) to measure RSI, Kvert, peak vGRF, ground contact time (GCT), speed, knee angle at contact, and knee angle at toe-off. Results: Significant differences between conditions for the performance variables occurred only in the drop jump (kvert, p = 0.023; peak vGRF, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Further research is needed to examine sprint kinetics and kinematics with varying insole stiffness at maximal velocity.
The Effectiveness of Neural Mobilization in Patients with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tatsios Petros I , Grammatopoulou Eirini , Patsaki Irini , Vrouva Sotiria , Koumantakis George A
Published: December 2024

Background: Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is a compression neuropathy, occurring when the distal branches of the posterior tibial nerve become entrapped within the tarsal tunnel, with no definitive evidence for its conservative management. Neural mobilization, a therapeutic approach involving joint and peripheral nerve movement, seeks to restore the nervous system’s homeostasis. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine the efficacy of neural mobilization. Objectives: Analysis of data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of neural mobilization techniques (NMT) in TTS patients. Methods: A thorough search was carried out from inception until September 2024 utilizing four scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database-PEDro) and the Google Scholar search engine. Relevant English-language research was retrieved, assessed, and given an independent methodological quality rating (PEDro scale). Meta-analyses were conducted for select outcomes, where possible. Results: 745 studies were eliminated from the total of 748 because they were duplicates or did not fit the inclusion criteria. Three RCTs were finally included, rated on average with 6.67/10 for methodological quality (PEDro scale). NMT led to a highly significant improvement of the nerve’s physiological sensitivity (p0.001), measured with the Tinel’s sign, based on evidence of high methodological quality (7.5/10) and no heterogeneity. NMT did not lead to a significant diminution of pain intensity (p=0.21) based on evidence of moderate methodological quality (6.67/10). Significant improvements in favour of NMT, however measured in one out of three studies, were identified for 2-point discrimination and light touch, the Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire, and the Functional Foot Index (p0.05). No adverse events were reported. All studies measured change immediately post-treatment. Conclusion: NMT significantly improved the tibial nerve’s mechanosensitivity. Moreover, as part of the treatment of patients with TTS, high-quality RCTs are necessary to examine the short and longer-term effects of NMT.
Financial Viability and Production Efficiency of Piggery Enterprises in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: P. K Raghavendra, , M. S Ganapathy,
Published: December 2024

The present study conducted in Bengaluru, covering Bengaluru urban and rural districts, examined the structure of piggery farms, costs and returns and production efficiency of piggery enterprises. The primary data were collected from 35 piggery farmers, 30 retailers, 10 traders, 5 processors, and 120 consumers. Financial analysis of pig farming in Bengaluru, focusing on a pig fattening and piggery breeding farms. The pig fattening farm, with a 40 average herd size, incurred a total cost of Rs. 5,93,096 /- over 8 months, yielding gross returns of Rs. 7,27,052 /- and net returns of Rs.1,33,955 /-. The financial assessment indicates positive outcomes with a NPW of Rs. 54,981 /- at 12 per cent discount rate, a BCR of 1.23, and an IRR of 14.60 per cent. Similarly, the piggery breeder's farm, with a herd size of 10 sows and 1 boar, annually demonstrates favourable financial feasibility, generating a net profit of Rs. 2,36,790 /-, NPW of Rs. 1,10,007 /- at 12 per cent discount rate, BCR of 1.31 and an IRR of 17.43 per cent. The production efficiency analyses for both piggery fattening and piggery breeding farms demonstrate positive impacts on efficiency, with significant coefficients for feed, labour, and veterinary care.
Development and Evaluation of a Helical Ribbon-Type Mixer for Mushroom Substrate
Authors: Lictawa Glaizalyn B. , Baglao Carlita
Published: December 2024

Manual substrate mixing for mushroom production such as rice straws, sawdust, and banana leaves is laborious and time-consuming. Substrates need to be thoroughly mixed to produce mushrooms of good quality. This study was done to design, fabricate, and evaluate the performance of a helical ribbon-type mixer. The performance of the ribbon-type mixer was evaluated in terms of the mixing capacity and mixing efficiency. Loading weight (5kg, 10kg, and 15kg) and operating speed (11-15rpm, 16-20rpm, and 21-25rpm) of the machine were used as the performance parameters. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for Factorial Experiment in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used to analyze the results while comparison among treatment means was tested at 5% level of significance using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results revealed that the highest machine capacity of 226.67 kg/hr was attained at a loading weight of 15kg and an operating speed of 21-25rpm. Maximum mixing efficiency (95.27%) was achieved with the combination of 15 kg loading weight and an operating speed of 11-15 rpm. The initial investment in fabricating the substrate mixer for mushroom production was Php 21, 713. Operating the substrate mixer for mushroom production had a projected annual cost of Php 3,655.475.  Break – even weight was 91,795.24 kg of substrates per year at a custom rate of Php 0.35 per kilogram.
Determinants of Agricultural Land Fallowing in Kerala, India: Insights and Implications
Authors: Mathews Rose , Bonny Binoo P , Bhange Poonam Bandu
Published: December 2024

Kerala's land use dynamics have undergone significant transformations, with increasing fallows emerged as a key concern amid changing land utilization patterns. The study explores key factors contributing to the fallowing of agricultural land in Kerala. The research was conducted across three districts selected based on implementation of fallow land development schemes representing the northern, central, and southern regions of the state. A total of 360 farmers were surveyed, comprising 180 farmers with owned fallow land and 180 beneficiaries of fallow land development schemes. Data were collected using a pretested interview schedule, developed through extensive literature review and expert inputs.
Factor analysis was employed to identify key determinants. Six major factors with eigenvalues greater than one were extracted, explaining 58.95% of the cumulative variance. These factors include perspectives on fallowing, socio-economic attributes, land use experience, risk contingencies, personal traits, and economic and agro-ecological features.
The findings highlight that perspectives on fallowing contribute the largest variance (21.96%), emphasizing the importance of farmers' perception on causes and consequences of fallowing. Socio-economic attributes (11.25%) underline the role of family size, subsidiary enterprises, land value, and wage rate in influencing land use decisions. Land use experience (9.06%) reflects farming experience and preceding crop cultivated. Risk contingencies (6.22%) emphasize challenges like wild animal attacks and distance of farm land from road. Personal traits (5.50%) comprise of age and personal reason for fallowing. Economic and agro-ecological features (4.96%) including income, extreme weather events and land fragmentation, also emerged as critical determinants.
The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the multi-dimensional factors driving agricultural land fallowing in Kerala, offering insights for policymakers and stakeholders to design targeted interventions to promote sustainable land use.
The Analysis of Determinants of Production and Optimization of Garlic Farming in Sembalun District East Lombok Regency
Authors: Madani Ismul Azam , Tajidan Tajidan , Budastra I Ketut , Yusuf M.
Published: December 2024

Each farming aims to maximize farming income but is constrained by the quantity of inputs. The limited quantity of input is faced by farmers who cultivate garlic plants. One solution is to utilize production inputs available at the location where farmers live, such as organic fertilizers, to reduce the use of inorganic fertilizers. The purpose of the study is to analyze the influence of the use of production inputs on production quantity and to determine the level of efficiency of the use of each production input. The purpose of the research was achieved through the collection of primary data from the results of the garlic farming survey in Sembalon District, East Lombok Regency. As a respondent, 71 farmers cultivate garlic. The research location is in Sembalun Bumbung village and Sembalun Lawang village. The number of sampling units in each village was selected using a proportional random sampling technique of 44 farmers in Sembalun Bumbung village and 27 farmers in Sembalon Lawang village. Production quantity and input quantity data were analyzed by multiple regression followed by an analysis of the ratio of marginal production value to the price per input unit to determine the status of efficiency in the use of production inputs. The results of the study showed that the use of organic fertilizer inputs, ZA fertilizers, and phonska fertilizers had a real effect on the production quantity. The use of organic fertilizers is not optimal, while the use of ZA fertilizers and phonska fertilizers needs to be reduced to increase efficiency.
Development of ZrO2-Coated SPME Fibers for Detecting Benzotriazole Ultraviolet Filters in Water Samples
Authors: Shen Xiaoyan , Wang Huiju
Published: December 2024

In this study, the zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZrO2NPs) were coated on the surface of stainless steel (SS) by cyclic voltammetry (CV) as solid phase microextraction fiber coating for detection of the benzotriazole ultraviolet filters (BUvFs) in different real water samples. The composition and images of the new SS@ZrO2NPs fiber were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The extraction capability of SS@ZrO2NPs fiber was investigated for the enrichment and detection of benzotriazole ultraviolet filters (BUvFs) phthalate acid esters (PAEs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) coupled with HPLC. The fabricated SS@ZrO2NPs fiber showed excellent extraction selectivity and good extraction capability for BUvFs. Under the optimized conditions, the SS@ZrO2NPs-SPME method presented linear ranging from 0.15 to 200 µg/L with correlation coefficients of higher than 0.9982. Moreover the limits of detection (LODs) varied from 0.020 µg/L to 0.138 µg/L. Relative standard deviations (RSDs) with single fiber were below 7.78% and 8.91% for intra-day and inter-day measurements, respectively. The developed method was used to the detection of trace BUvFs in different real water samples.