bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Education System In The United Kingdom Of Great Britain And Northern Ireland And Its Implications On The Education System In The Republic Of Serbia
Authors: Voskresenski Kosta , Deretić Olga , Voskresenski Vanja
Published: October 2024

The harmonisation process of education systems of European countries started in the 1990s. The Anglo-Saxon system developed in the United Kingdom became generally adopted and globally dominant because it proved to be more flexible and effective in the age of globalization and changes in society, economy and labour market. Serbia joined this process in 2003 with the education reform which was supposed to introduce some novelties based on the UK system. The paper reviews those characteristics of the education system in the UK which Serbia adopted as objectives of its reform in order to make it more effective and compatible with other European education systems.
Sensor Web Technology Application for Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Veljković Nataša , Bogdanović-Dinić Sanja , Stoimenov Leonid
Published: October 2024

Pollution of the environment is a problem of the modern age. The technology developed and used over the past decades has left serious consequences on human environment and implied the need for resolving them. Preserving quality of water, air and soil are quite common issues in many countries. This paper presents one way of dealing with these challenges, based on sensor networks and the Sensor Web concept. The solution is given as GinisSense system. GinisSense is designed accordingly to Open Geospatial Consortium specifications and recommendations for the field of Sensor Web. This paper explains GinisSense architecture and presents its opportunities for environmental monitoring, preservation and protection.
Determination of limit bearing capacity of statically indeterminate truss girders
Authors: Petrović Žarko , Milošević Bojan , Hadžimujović Mirza , Mijalković Marina
Published: October 2024

After the theoretical base of the structure limit analysis being presented, this paper presents the algorithm for calculation of limit load in statically indeterminate truss girders. The algorithm is based on the application of matrix structure analysis and is used for determining static and deformation values within the structural limit analysis step by step method, which gives a detailed view into the behavior of a girder in a gradual load increasing, until the formation of failure mechanism. This algorithm has been the base for making a computer program for determining the load limit in truss girders and this has been presented in this paper in numerical example and also presented in this example is the application of linear programming in determination of the limit load.
Software Process Self-Assessment Methodology
Authors: Grceva Solza
Published: October 2024

Controlling and improving the process used to develop and maintain a software product has been widely proposed as a primary answer to the poor quality and non-conforming software products. The ultimate goal of those efforts is to create a continuous SPI (Software Process Improvement) space. Once the organization is committed to begin the SPI effort, the first step is an assessment of the current process and the current capability of the organization to develop and maintain quality software. In this paper, the author presents a methodology for continuous software process self-assessment, developed, tested and successfully applied in several companies in Macedonia. The methodology, using the SW-CMM (Software Capability Maturity Model) as a referent model, is unique in: Development of a suitably structured Database of Documents covering nearly every practice used by the actual software process. The documents are grouped according to aspects of development, quality assurance, configuration management and project management. The database provides software input to the referent model. Formalization of the complex structure of the referent model SW-CMM, enabling statistical evaluation of the practices used versus baselines of the model, starting from the bottom up to the Levels of Maturity. For that purpose a software tool has been created and applied. There are very few methodologies and techniques, which include processes, modeling and documentation in a single package (Curtis et al. 1992). The main finding of this study is that an efficient, easy to use, sustainable and objective self-assessment and consequently self-improvement process should involve significant, well-designed initial efforts. This paper presents the methodology itself and reports our experiences in developing and conducting a selfassessment process that follows such a systematic approach.
Future-Ready Governance: Technology as a Catalyst for Change in India
Authors: Godara Ajay Kumar
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the transformative role of technology in modern governance in India, highlighting its impact on transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement. With the advent of digital tools and platforms, the Indian government has embarked on numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing public service delivery and strengthening democratic processes. This study examines key technological interventions, such as e-governance initiatives, data analytics, and mobile applications, and their implications for policy-making and public administration. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by technology in the Indian governance landscape, offering recommendations for leveraging digital innovations to foster inclusive and accountable governance.
Cybersecurity in Tanzanian Maritime Operations: Exploring Global Best Practices and Their Local Adaptation Using the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (C2M2)
Authors: Patrick Mayala , Mugisha Edrick , Mbaga Keneth , Likamba Mansour
Published: October 2024

The increasing integration of digital technologies in maritime operations has significantly enhanced efficiency in cargo tracking, port management, and communication systems. However, this digital transformation also introduces substantial cybersecurity risks, particularly in developing regions like Tanzania, where technological infrastructure and specialized skills may lag behind global standards. This study evaluates the cybersecurity readiness of three key Tanzanian maritime organizations Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), Tanzania Shipping Agency Corporation (TASAC), and SINOTASHIP using the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (C2M2). Through a detailed assessment across ten C2M2 domains, the study identifies existing strengths and critical gaps in areas such as risk management, asset management, and incident response. The findings reveal that while basic cybersecurity practices exist, they are largely reactive, with most domains scoring between Level 1 (Initial) and Level 3 (Defined). This lack of advanced, proactive measures poses significant risks to Tanzania's maritime infrastructure, particularly given the strategic role of ports like Dar es Salaam in regional trade. The study highlights the need for tailored improvements, including enhanced asset management, continuous workforce training, and real-time monitoring systems, to bridge the gap between global standards and local practices. By implementing these measures, Tanzanian maritime operations can strengthen their resilience against cyber threats, ensuring secure and efficient port operations in an increasingly interconnected world.
Analysis of Firm Value Mediated by Investment Decisions of Coal Subsector Companies Listed on The Indonesian Stock Exchange
Authors: Manihuruk Ruthyanti , Yuniningsih Yuniningsih
Published: October 2024

Firm value can be interpreted as a measure of the success of the company's performance in increasing shareholder prosperity. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of company size, liquidity and leverage on firm value and the role of investment decisions as mediating variables in property and real estate companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019-2023 period. The sampling technique in this study used purposive sampling technique with a total sample of 19 companies. The analysis technique used is path analysis. This study found that company size and liquidity have a significant positive effect on firm value, while leverage has no significant effect on firm value, investment decisions are able to mediate the effect of company size and liquidity on firm value, and investment decisions are not able to mediate the effect of leverage on coal company value.
Vozes ressoantes: o currículo vivenciado por mulheres negras cotistas no ensino superior
Authors: Oliveira Andresa Fernanda Almeida de , Oliveira Ozerina Victor de
Published: October 2024

As Políticas de Ações Afirmativas (PAAs) têm demonstrado efeitos positivos nas Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES), onde estudantes negros/as constituem a maioria do corpo discente. Não obstante esse efeito positivo, as mulheres negras têm sido afetadas interseccionalmente por violências produzidas ao longo do tempo (Kilomba, 2019). Entendendo as PAAs como política cultural, indagamos sobre a condição configuradora da presença de mulheres negras cotistas no ensino superior, problematizando processos culturais gerados no currículo de dois cursos de graduação, Pedagogia e Direito, em uma universidade pública. O objetivo que atravessa ambas as pesquisas é dar visibilidade a processos de significação de identidades, mais especificamente de mulheres negras cotistas, fazendo ressoar suas vozes a partir do por elas vivenciado. A análise ocorre sob orientação teórico-metodológica do ciclo de políticas (Ball et al., 1992; Ball et al., 2016) articulada à teoria de escrevivência de Evaristo (2017) por meio de entrevista semiestruturada com estudantes negras cotistas dos dois cursos. Exercitamos a escrevivência de movimentos subjetivos de insurgência de duas estudantes negras cotistas que se reposicionam enquanto mulheres negras nessa IES com práticas culturais que reverberam coletivamente em ações que significam e ressignificam suas presenças no currículo.
Obozy koncentracyjne
Authors: Stone Dan , Morawiec Arkadiusz , Morawiec Maciej
Published: October 2024

Autor podejmuje rzadką w światowym piśmiennictwie próbę uchwycenia istoty obozów koncentracyjnych. Rzetelnie kreśli ich historię, rozpoczynając od „prehistorii”, czyli obozów kolonialnych: hiszpańskich na Kubie, brytyjskich w Afryce Południowej, amerykańskich na Filipinach oraz niemieckich w Niemieckiej Afryce Południowo-Zachodniej. Najwięcej uwagi poświęca obozom najlepiej znanym, a w każdym razie najlepiej poznanym – nazistowskim i sowieckim. Czytelnik znajdzie tu również próby filozoficznego i socjologicznego ujęcia zjawiska obozów jako piętna współczesnego świata czy wręcz klucza do zrozumienia nowoczesności.
Pestrost in pojavljanje domačih in tujerodnih drevesnih in grmovnih vrst na ploskvah nacionalne gozdne inventure v Sloveniji
Authors: Pintar Anže Martin , Ferreira Andreja , Krajnc Luka , Skudnik Mitja
Published: October 2024

In Slovenia, the National Forest Inventory (NFI) is used to monitor the state and development of forests at the national level. In this paper, we analysed the diversity of tree and shrub species and assessed the presence of non-native tree species in Slovenian forests. According to the literature, Slovenia hosts 71 autochthonous tree species, of which 60 were found among the trees measured on the 2 x 2 km NFI density plot grid. The highest average number of trees and shrubs, as well as the Shannon-Wiener index of species diversity, were observed in sample plots located in the Pre-Alpine Ecological Region (H’ = 0.85), while the lowest values were found in the Alpine Ecological Region (H’ = 0.58). The total growing stock of trees and shrubs in Slovenia is 330.7 m3/ha ± 2.1%, with the growing stock of small trees and shrubs (less than 10 cm DBH for trees and shrubs) estimated at 9.7 m3/ha ± 5.9%. Common beech (Fagus sylvatica) (31.9%) and Norway spruce (Picea abies) (28.2%) dominate the growing stock of tree and shrub species, while common hazel (Corylus avellana) (85.0%) represents the highest proportion of shrub species. Ten different non-native tree species were identified across 138 NFI plots, with the highest distributions in the Sub-Mediterranean and Pre-Pannonian Ecological Regions. Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) dominates the growing stock of non-native tree species. Among small trees (those with a DBH of less than 10 cm), common beech represents 32.4%, with Norway spruce and manna ash (Fraxinus ornus) each contributing more than 10.0%. The growing stock of small shrub species (shrubs with a DBH of less than 10 cm) is dominated by common hazel (Corylus avellana) with 78.3%, while more than 2% is also represented by cornel (Cornus mas), old man’s beard (Clematis vitalba) and elderberry (Sambucus nigra). The results show that the combination of a panel system, a large number of sample plots (3027) and an improved coding system enabled the first comprehensive and objective assessment of tree and shrub species diversity, as well as the presence of non-native species in Slovenian forests.
Problemas de industrialización avanzada en capitalismos tardíos y periféricos
Authors: Tavares Maria da Conceição
Published: October 2024

En una economía atrasada, pero en la que el capital Industrial ya es dominante en el movimiento de acumulación, podemos definir la tasa de salarios de base como la remuneración al trabajo directo no calificado en la industria. Entendemos que el capital industrial es dominante cuando la industria de transformación ya haya alcanzado un suficiente desarrollo productivo (en términos de diferenciación técnica, de productos y de mercados) que le permita liderar el crecimiento de la economía, independientemente del tamaño absoluto de la agricultura y de los servicios de baja productividad.
Kantaron Yağı Üretim Parametrelerinin Optimizasyonu
Authors: Gölükcü Muharrem , Uysal Bayar Fatma , Bayram Emine , Çınar Orçun , Tokgöz Haluk , Bayır Yeğin Arzu , Yüceol Fulya
Published: October 2024

Tıbbi ve aromatik bitkiler, bunlardan üretilen ürünler ile bu ürünlerin kullanım alanları ve etkileri konusuna olan ilgi sürekli olarak artma eğilimindedir. Bu ürünlerden birisi de kantaron yağı olup birçok amaçla kullanımı oldukça yaygındır. Kantaron yağı üretiminde kaliteyi etkileyen birçok parametre bulunmaktadır. Bu çalışma kapsamında kantaron yağı üretiminde yer alan bitki/zeytinyağı oranı, maserasyon ortam ve süresi parametrelerinin optimize edilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Optimizasyon ürün kalitesinde belirleyici olan hiperisin, hiperforin, pseudohiperisin etken maddeleri ile birlikte serbest yağ asitliği ve peroksit sayısı verileri dikkate alınarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çalışma bulguları hiperforin, hiperisin ve pseudohiperisin etken madde miktarları açısından gölgede, %25 bitki oranı ve 30 günlük maserasyon süresinin en başarılı sonucu verdiğini göstermiştir. Ortalama değerlere göre gölgede üretilen örneklerde hiperforin, hiperisin ve pseudohiperisin miktarlarının sırasıyla 44.70 mg L-1, 0.104 mg L-1, 0.075 mg L-1, güneş altında üretime örneklerde ise yine aynı sıra ile 31.51 mg L-1, 0.079 mg L-1 ve 0.108 mg L-1 olarak tespit edilmiştir. Hiperforin (48.57 mg L-1), hiperisin (0.155 mg L-1) ve pseudohiperisin (0.162 mg/L) etken madde miktarları en yüksek %25 bitki oranında belirlenmiştir. Maserasyon sürelerine göre yapılan değerlendirmede de en yüksek hiperforin (69.30 mg/L), hiperisin (0.235 mg/L) ve pseudohiperisin (0.121 mg/L) etken maddeleri 30. gün örneklerinde tespit edilmiştir. Bu süreden sonra etken madde miktarlarında azalış olduğu görülmüştür.
Socio-Economic Factors Influencing the Adaptation Strategies of Tomato Producers’ to Climate Change in North West, Nigeria
Authors: Maharazu Ibrahim , Alabı Olugbenga Omotayo , Oladele Ayoola Olugbenga , Aluwong Jeremiah  Samuel
Published: October 2024

This work evaluated socio-economic factors influencing the adaptability strategy of tomato producers to climate change in the North West, Nigeria. Primary data utilized were based on well-designed questionnaire distributed to 100 tomato producers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, using an adaptability strategy use index, multinomial Logit model, and principal component model. The outcome shows that the average age of tomato producers approximates 44 years. They are literate with an average of 12 years of school education. About 51% of tomato producers had access to credit, and they are smallholder farmers with an average of 0.81 hectares of farm land. The major climate change adaptation strategies used by tomato producers and their corresponding indexes include the planting of heat and drought tolerant crops (0.9725), use of improved seeds (0.9682), mulching (0.8981), soil and water conservation technique (0.8321), and use of organic manure (0.7931). The significant predictors influencing the choice of low climate change adaptation strategy users include years of school education, age, experience in tomato farming, and income earned from tomato farming. The significant predictors influencing high climate change adaptation strategy users include years of school education, and income earned from tomato farming. The major challenges faced by tomato producers and their corresponding Eigen values include a lack of improved seeds (8.6935), lack of technology (5.93660), lack of processing and storage facilities (3.9274), and lack of capacity building for producers (3.5173). Improved seeds, irrigation facilities, and farm technologies should be made available to tomato producers to combat threats of climate variability and increase productivity.
Historical, Technological, Biochemical and Microbiological Aspects of Pastırma, an Ethnic Meat Product from Asia to Anatolia: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: GÜNGÖREN Alper
Published: October 2024

Pastırma is an ethnic meat product defined as dry-curing, drying, pressing the whole muscles of cattle and buffalo, and coating them with a special paste containing fenugreek seed flour, garlic, milled red capia pepper, and water. In this narrative literature review, historical aspects of pastırma, its definition and classification, detailed production steps, composition and yield, chemical and microbiological properties, pastırma fraud and customer concerns are mentioned. In the shape of the narrative review, relevant studies were identified by searching Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science, Trdizin, and Google Scholar Search included English- or Turkish-based articles, online reports, books, and electronic books. The keywords "pastırma, pastirma, çemen, cemen, cemening, cemen paste, Fenugreek" were used. The results of this review indicate that future studies on pastırma may focus on related cultural aspects, elimination of unpleasant odour from fenugreek, histological and chemical effects of pressing meat parts, kinetics of drying, osmotic dehydration, and developing new starter combinations.
Hybrid Integent Staging of Age-Related Macular Degeneration for Decision-Making on Patient Management Tactics
Authors: Lopukhova Ekaterina A. , Yusupov Ernest S. , Ibragimova Rada R. , Idrisova Gulnaz M. , Mukhamadeev Timur R. , Grakhova Elizaveta P. , Kutluyarov Ruslan V.
Published: October 2024

Treatment efficacy for age-related macular degeneration relies on early diagnosis and precise determination of the disease stage. It involves analyzing biomarkers in retinal images, which can be challenging when handling a large flow of patients and compromise the quality of healthcare services. Clinical decision support systems offer a solution to this issue by employing intelligent algorithms to recognize biomarkers and specify the age-related macular degeneration stage through the analysis of retinal images. However, different stages of age-related macular degeneration may exhibit similar biomarkers, complicating the application of intelligent algorithms. This paper introduces an approach to overcome these challenges using hybrid and hierarchical classification. By leveraging the hybrid structure of the classifier, we can effectively manage issues commonly encountered with medical data sets, such as class imbalance and strong correlations between variables. The modifications to the intelligent algorithm proposed in this work for staging age-related macular degeneration resulted in an increase in average accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity by 20% compared to initial values. The Cohen’s Kappa coefficient used for consistency estimation between the regression model and expert assessments of the intermediate class severity was 0.708, indicating a high level of agreement.
Chemical Investigation of the Mediterranean Sponge Crambe Crambe by UHPLC-HRMS/MS via Manual and Computational Dereplication Approaches
Authors: Vlachou Pinelopi , Tsafantakis Nikolaos , Milic Nikola , Polyzois Alexandros , Baira Eirini , Termentzi AIkaterini , Le Goff Géraldine , Ouazzani Jamal , Fokialakis Nikolas
Published: October 2024

The CH2Cl2-MeOH extract of the Mediterranean sponge Crambe crambe was investigated via UHPLC-HRMS/MS employing manual dereplication and in silico mass spectrometry tools. A deconvolution approach was implemented toward the extensive metabolic characterization of the sample, resulting in the annotation of 53 compounds. The analysis of data-dependent HRMS/MS scans was conducted to establish fragmentation patterns characteristic of each crambescin A, B and C sub-families. Among the 39 compounds identified from these groups, 22 analogues were reported for the first time including 4 new homologous series that differed by the ratio of methylene units in the upper (n+2) and lower (m+2) alkyl side chains. More specifically, crambesins presenting m= 5 or 6 and n=5 (compounds 7, 11, 22 and 24) as well as m=5 or 6 and n=4 (compounds 5, 6, 8, 9, 12 and 14) were characterized. Additionally, 4 new crambescidin analogues (compounds 13, 15, 35 and 39) were also reported. The identity of the dereplicated features was further validated by studying crambescins spectral similarities through feature-based molecular networking approach. Overall, this study suggests UHPLC-HRMS/MS—through integration of manual and computational dereplication approaches—as a valuable tool for the investigation and high-throughput characterization of C. crambe metabolome.
AI-Generated Context for Teaching Robotics to Improve Computational Thinking in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Hijón-Neira Raquel , Pizarro Celeste , Borrás-Gené Oriol , Cavero Sergio
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of AI-generated contexts on preservice teachers' computational thinking (CT) skills and their acceptance of educational robotics. This article presents a methodology for teaching robotics based on AI-generated contexts aimed at enhancing CT. An experience was conducted with 122 undergraduate students enrolled in an Early Childhood Education program, aged 18-19 years, who were training in a Computer Science and Digital Competence course. The experimental group utilized a methodology involving AI-generated practical assignments designed by their lecturers to learn educational robotics, while the control group engaged with traditional teaching methods. The research addressed five key questions: the effectiveness of AI-generated contexts in improving CT skills, the specific domains of CT that showed significant improvement, the perception of student teachers regarding their ability to teach with educational robots, the enhancement of perceived knowledge about educational robots, and the overall impact of these methodologies on teaching practices. Findings revealed that the experimental group exhibited higher engagement and understanding of CT concepts, with notable improvements in problem-solving and algorithmic thinking. Participants in the AI-generated context group reported increased confidence in their ability to teach with educational robots and a more positive attitude towards technology integration in education. The results underscore the importance of context and support in fostering both confidence and acceptance of educational technologies among future educators. This research contributes to the growing body of literature at the intersection of AI, robotics, and education, advocating for the integration of AI and robotics into teacher training curricula. Future research should explore the long-term effects of these methodologies on CT skills and teaching practices across diverse educational settings.
Impact of camera settings on 3D Reconstruction quality: Insights from NeRF and Gaussian Splatting
Authors: Rangelov Dimitar , Waanders Sierd , Waanders Kars , Keulen Maurice van , Miltchev Radoslav
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the influence of various camera settings on the quality of 3D reconstructions, particularly in indoor crime scene investigations. Utilizing Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) and Gaussian Splatting for 3D reconstruction, we analysed the impact of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture settings on the quality of the resulting 3D reconstructions. By conducting controlled experiments in a meeting room setup, we identified optimal settings that minimize noise and artifacts while maximizing detail and brightness. Our findings indicate that an ISO of 200, a shutter speed of 1/60 seconds, and an aperture of f/3.5 provide the best balance for high-quality 3D reconstructions. These settings are especially useful for forensic applications, architectural visualization, and cultural heritage preservation, offering practical guidelines for professionals in these fields. The study also highlights the potential for future research to expand on these findings by exploring other camera parameters and real-time adjustment techniques.
Advanced Formulation of Ecological Biopesticides Based on Citrus Limonum in Clayey Matrices: Optimization of Diffusive Dynamics
Authors: Mohamed Abdoul-Latif Fatouma , Ainane Ayoub , Mohamed Houda , Merito Ali Ali , Cacciatore Stefano , Ainane Tarik
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the innovative use of natural porous clays from the Bejaad region in Morocco as a support matrix for the encapsulation and controlled release of lemon essential oil (Citrus limonum, EOCL), a natural compound with well-documented insecticidal properties. The research aims to address the inherent challenges of essential oils, particularly their high volatility and rapid degradation, by improving their stability and insecticidal efficiency against the grain pest Sitophilus granarius. By anchoring EOCL onto clay matrices, the study seeks to achieve a sustained and controlled release of the active components, thereby enhancing their practical application as biopesticides. The clays were comprehensively characterized using advanced analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). These techniques revealed the mineralogical composition, thermal properties, and morphology of the clays, demonstrating their suitability for effectively adsorbing and retaining EOCL. The insecticidal performance of the clay/EOCL composites was rigorously tested under controlled conditions, revealing a marked improvement in efficacy, with significantly lower lethal doses required to achieve high mortality rates in Sitophilus granarius. The diffusion of EOCL through the clay matrix was modeled using Fick law of diffusion, and the results were further refined through statistical optimization to identify key parameters that influence the release and effectiveness of the active compounds. Complementing the experimental approach, a bioinformatics analysis was conducted to explore the molecular interactions between limonene, the primary active component of EOCL, and target proteins in insects. This theoretical investigation provided insights into the potential mechanisms of action, reinforcing the empirical findings. The study concludes that encapsulating EOCL within porous clay matrices not only enhances the stability and controlled release of the oil but also significantly boosts its insecticidal effectiveness. This approach presents a promising, environmentally sustainable strategy for crop protection, integrating material science, theoretical modeling, and bioinformatics to develop more efficient and durable biopesticides.
Clinical Course of Parotid Carcinoma with Hepatic and Nodal Metastases: A Case Report
Authors: Doronzo Antonio , Sergi Maria Chiara
Published: October 2024

Salivary gland tumors are relatively rare neoplasms, comprising approximately 3-6% of all head and neck tumors. Parotid gland carcinoma (PGC) represents approximately 70-80% of all salivary gland malignancies. Treatment strategies depend on tumor histology, stage, and molecular characteristics, with surgical resection and adjuvant radiotherapy being the mainstays of treatment for localized disease. Conversely, in advanced stages therapeutic approaches, including chemotherapy and targeted agents, are more challenging. We present a case report of a 60-year-old patient with hepatic and nodal metastases of parotid gland’s carcinoma, with the aim of highlighting the management and treatment outcomes.
GIS-Based Approach for investigate transboundary transport of air mass over the lake Baikal in raining season
Authors: Safronov Alexander N.
Published: October 2024

In this study the transboundary transport of air masses over the water table of Lake Baikal during the raining period of July–August 2010–2019 was investigated. For this purpose, the backward trajectories with an interval of 6 hours were constructed by using the NOAA hysplit method. These trajectories started at the center of Lake Baikal at altitudes of 250 and 2500 m. It was shown that during these years the western air mass transport passed over the marshland of Western Siberia, as well as over the steppe and forest-steppe regions of south of Western Siberia, and the angular sectors of WNW (West - North West) and WSW (West - South West) directions, accordingly, dominated. In July, at altitudes of 2500 m, in average 23.68 % percents of the total amount of trajectories have passed over the arid areas, which are located at WSW direction, and 34.42 % of trajectories passed from the WNW direction. In August, at altitudes of 2500 m, in average arid WSW part in the trajectory ensemble was equal to 24.22 %, and the wet WNW part from the swamps of Western Siberia was equal to 41.05 %. It was also shown that the air masses that passed in July and August 2010–2019 over the polluted industrial agglomerations, that are allocated in the south of Beijing, did not passed over the area of the Lake Baikal, and therefore these air masses can not participate both in the ecological situation change in the area of the Lake Baikal, and in the processes of nuclearization at the cloud formation. For the period of 2010–2019 the average value of the SSE (South-South-East) part in the trajectory ensemble, which is corresponding to the transfer from the Central regions of China, was equal at an altitude of 250 m: in July to 1.00 %, in August to 0.49 %. At an altitude of 2500 m SSE sector in July was equal to 1.77 % and in August – 2.09 % of the total number of studied trajectories.
Role of Chikungunya E2 Protein in Human Cell
Authors: Kumar Anuj
Published: October 2024

Chikungunya is mosquito born disease that is spread across continents. This research provides valuable insights into the potential functional significance of the hydrophobic tail and cysteine-rich regions in E2 proteins. These findings lay the groundwork for future investigations into the specific roles of the C-terminal domain and post-translational modifications, which could ultimately lead to a better understanding of viral mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets..
Management of Postpartum Cardiorespiratory Failure in a Patient with Sickle Cell Trait Requiring Ecmo Support and Airflight Transportation
Authors: Pelouze Alexandre , Massias Sylvain , El Manser Diae , Koeltz Adrien , Balram Patricia Shri , Soualhi Mohamed , Licker Marc
Published: October 2024

Acute cardiovascular disorders are incriminated in up to 33% of maternal death and the presence of sickle cell anaemia (SCA) aggravates the risk of peripartum complications. Herein, we present a 24-year Caribbean old woman with known SCA who developed vaso-occlusive crisis at 36-week gestation that justified emergency caesarean section in Pointe à Pitre (Guadeloupe). In the early postpartum period, she experienced acute res-piratory distress in the context of COVID-19 infection that required tracheal intubation with mechanical ventilation. Cardiogenic shock with severe biventricular dysfunction developed that was initially treated with inotropes and vasopressors. As the hemody-namic condition worsened, the cardiac surgical and intensive care team at the Universi-ty Hospital of Martinique (UHM) was requested to apply veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support and, a few hours later, the patient was trans-ferred by helicopter to the UHM. Administration of cardiovascular drugs was rapidly tapered off, there were no signs of ongoing hemolysis and progressive recovery of ven-tricular function allowed weaning of ECMO support, three days after implantation. The patient was extubated one day later, chest-X-Rays showing partial resolution of lung edema and she was transported back to Guadeloupe under medical treatment.
Will The Real Immunogens Please Stand Up: Exploiting the Immunogenic Potential of Cryptococcal Cell Antigens in Fungal Vaccine Development
Authors: Avina Samantha L. , Pawar Siddhi , Rivera Amariliz , Xue Chaoyang
Published: October 2024

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that is a continuous global health concern especially for immunocompromised populations. The World Health Organization recognized C. neoformans as one of four critical fungal pathogens, thus emphasizing the need for increased research efforts and clinical resource expansion. Currently there are no fungal vaccines available for clinical use. Exciting new findings in cryptococcal vaccine development have identified whole cell-based and protein subunit-based vaccinations to help mitigate health risks and make commercialization attainable. Importantly, recent work has focused on how different cryptococcal cell wall antigens modified in these vaccine candidates allow us to manipulate their immunogenicity to produce a desired long term protective anti-fungal immune response. In this review we discuss the different cryptococcal cell immunogens, namely the polysaccharide capsule, glucans, chitin/chitosan, mannoproteins, and extracellular vesicles and their role in novel cryptococcal vaccination approaches. Additionally, we examine the immunological mechanisms responsible for protection in these vaccine candidates and the similar host response stimulation pathways induced through different immunogen exposure.
Analysis of Extreme Rainfall Events in the Oti Watershed, Togo (West Africa)
Authors: KOUNGBANANE Dambré , KODJA Japhet Domiho , LEMOU Faya , TOTIN VODOUNON Henri Sourou , AMOUSSOU Ernest
Published: October 2024

Global climate change, characterised mainly by an upsurge in extreme rainfall events, is affecting the precarious economies of most vulnerable countries. The aim of this study is to analyse extreme rainfall events in the Oti watershed, which is characterised by high climatic variability. Daily observed and simulated rainfall and temperature data from two models (CCLM and REMO) in the Cordex programme were used. The data is subjected to statistical processing methods. Climatic indices were calculated using RclimDex software. The results obtained show a spatio-temporal variability in observed and simulated rainfall that follows an increasing north-south gradient. Both models overestimate observed rainfall, with deviations of 1.95 for the CCLM and 8.53 for the REMO. This shows that the CCLM is more realistic in reproducing observed rainfall, is therefore validated for the rainfall projection. The rainfall indices show a non-statistically significant increase in PRCPTOT, R99p, RX1day, RX5 days and CWD on the one hand, and a decrease in the SDII, R10 mm, R20 mm and R95p indices on the other for the observed rainfall. For simulated rainfall, the RCP 8.5 and RCP 4.5 scenarios predict an upward trend in some indices and a downward trend in others from 2025 to 2069.
Food Classification for Dietary Support Using Fine-Grained Visual Recognition with the HERBS Network
Authors: Chen Chi-Sheng , Yang Yu-Hsuan , Chen Guan-Ying , Chang Shao-Hsuan
Published: October 2024

Background: Food properties can directly influence individual dietary intake. Therefore, computer vision-based food recognition could be used to estimate meal contents for patients with metabolic diseases. Food recognition based on deep learning can create opportunities for breakthroughs in dietary interventions for personal health management and have rapidly emerged as dietary assessment strategies. Methods: This study proposed a methodology for automatic food recognition based on fine-grained visual classification, the High-temperaturE Refinement and Background Suppression network (HERBS). A technical investigation was conducted involved in the HERBS model on CNFOOD241 benchmark to verify the model effectiveness. The visualization analysis of HERBS was compared with the VGG16 and RepViT on CNFOOD241. Results: The system achieved classification accuracy of 82.72 % and 97.19 % in Top-1 accuracy and Top-5 accuracy respectively. Data showed that HERBS structure widened the attention area and outperformed VGG16 and RepViT on feature maps. Conclusions: Our findings elucidated that the proposed methodology using HERBS model establishes a new benchmark for SOTA performance in food recognition on CNFOOD 241 dataset. This study proved the feasibility of the proposed approach in a challenging food dataset. We further described a vision-language model structure consisting of a multi-modal vision model, language encoder and a multilayer perceptron classifier for food composition recognition.
Teams, Tools, Processes and Resources to Manage Oncologic Clinical Decision Support: Lessons Learned from City of Hope’s Multistate, Academic, and Community Oncology Enterprise
Authors: Bosserman, MD, PhD Linda D Diana , Lin, PharmD YiHsuan , Shayani, PharmD Sepideh , Moore Brian , Morse Denise , Enwere, PharmD Emmanuel , Kosel Mike , Lardner Michelle , Trisal, MD Vijay , Samara, PharmD Wafa
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) consisting of computerized physician order entry (CPOE) and oncology pathways serve as the foundation of high-quality cancer care. However, the resources needed to develop and maintain these systems have not been characterized for oncology enterprises. Methods: Missing CPOEs for oncology treatments were identified by comparing current CPOEs to those in the Elsevier ClinicalPath treatment pathways. New FDA oncology drug approvals were used to estimate ongoing CPOE build needs. The impacts of missing orders on clinicians and pharmacists were surveyed. Benchmarking from two other large oncology enterprises supported new resource needs to build and maintain CPOE in our EPIC Beacon system. A program to manage oncology pathways and CPOE for an enterprise using EPIC was developed and implemented. Results: Resources and impacts of CDSS for oncology enterprises are described. Program management is described. Conclusions: Updating and maintaining CDSS for an oncology enterprise requires program management and resources for which a framework has not been previously reported. We present this work as a framework for others to understand the components and resources for budgeting and management of CDSS. We report on the work of the City of Hope enterprise using the EPIC electronic health record.
How Forests May Reduce the Incidence of Destructive Tropical Cyclones, Hurricanes and Typhoons
Authors: Sheil Douglas
Published: October 2024

Tropical cyclones, hurricanes and typhoons (“cyclones”) threaten the lives and livelihoods of many millions of people. The magnitude of this threat justifies scrutiny of all potential mitigation strategies. Here we consider a neglected factor: forests. Forests may influence storm formation, intensity, and behaviour through interactions involving temperature, friction, moisture and aerosols. Understanding these relationships could guide cyclone mitigation and preparedness. With global deforestation continuing and reforestation efforts expanding, the relationships between forests and cyclones are not simply academic—it's a critical consideration for climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development. Here we show that, despite major unknowns and uncertainties, forest conservation and expansion are likely to reduce cyclone frequency and severity.
Characterization of Lattices in Terms of (∈γ,∈γ∨qδ)-Fuzzy Ideals
Authors: Farajdadeh Ali , Kocinac Ljubisa
Published: October 2024

In this paper, $(\alpha,\beta)$-fuzzy sublattices and
$(\alpha,\beta)$-fuzzy ideals of a lattice, where $\alpha\in\{
\in_{\gamma}, q_{\delta}, \in_{\gamma}\vee q_{\delta}\}$,
$\beta\in\{ \in_{\gamma}, q_{\delta}, \in_{\gamma}\vee
q_{\delta},\in_{\gamma}\wedge q_{\delta}\}$, are introduced and
studied. In the special case, $(\in_{\gamma}, \in_{\gamma}\vee
q_{\delta})$-fuzzy sublattices and $(\in_{\gamma}, \in_{\gamma}\vee
q_{\delta})$-fuzzy ideals of a lattice are presented and their
characterizations by three level sublattices and ideals are given.
In-Vitro Cell-Model Investigation of Alpha-Synuclein Aggregate Morphology Using Spectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Swaminathan Priyanka , Klingstedt Therése , Theologidis Vasileios , Gram Hjalte , Larsson Johan N.K. , Hagen Lars , Liabakk Nina-Beate , Gederaas Odrun Arna , Hammarström Per , Nilsson K. Peter R. , Van Den Berge Nathalie , Lindgren Mikael Olof
Published: October 2024

Recently, it has been hypothesized that alpha-synuclein protein strain morphology may be as-sociated to clinical subtypes of alpha-synucleinopathies like Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy. However, direct evidence is lacking due to a caveat of conformation-specific characterization of protein strain morphology. Here we present a new cell model based in-vitro method to explore various alpha-synuclein (αsyn) aggregates morphotypes. We performed a spectroscopic investigation of the HEK293 cell model transfected with human wildtype-αsyn and A53T-αsyn variants using the amyloid fibril specific heptameric luminescent oligomeric thio-phene h-FTAA. The spectral profile of h-FTAA binding to aggregates displayed a blue-shifted spectrum with a fluorescence decay time longer than in PBS, suggesting a hydrophobic binding site. In-vitro spectroscopic binding characterization of h-FTAA with αsyn pre-formed fibrils suggested a binding dissociation constant Kd < 100 nM. The cells expressing the A53T-αsyn and human wildtype-αsyn were exposed to recombinant pre-formed fibrils of human αsyn. The en-suing intracellular aggregates were stained with h-FTAA followed by evaluation of spectral features and fluorescence lifetime of intracellular syn/h-FTAA, in order to characterize aggregate morphotypes. This study exemplifies the use of cell-culture together with conformation-specific ligands to characterize strain morphology by investigating the spectral profiles and fluorescence lifetime of h-FTAA based upon its binding to a certain αsyn aggregate. This study paves the way for toxicity studies of different αsyn strains in-vitro and in-vivo. Accurate differentiation of specific alpha-synucleinopathies is still limited to advanced disease stages. However, early sub-type-specific diagnosis is of utmost importance for prognosis and treatment response. The po-tential association of αsyn aggregates morphotypes detected in biopsies or fluids to disease phenotypes would allow for subtype-specific diagnosis in subclinical disease stage and potentially reveal new subtypes specific treatment targets. Notably, the method may be applied to the entire spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases by using a combination of conformation-specific ligands in a physicochemical environment together with other types of polymorphic amyloid variants and assess the conformation specific features of various protein pathologies.
Transforming Irrigated Agriculture in Semi-Arid and Dry Subhumid Mediterranean Conditions: A Case of Protected Cucumber Cultivation
Authors: Darwish Talal , Shaban Amin , Faour Ghaleb , Jomaa Ihab , Moubarak Peter , Khadra Roula
Published: October 2024

Pressure from population growth and climate change stress the limited water resources in the Mediterranean region and threaten food security and social stability. Enhancing food production requires the transformation of irrigation systems and enhancement of local capacity for sustainable water and soil management in irrigated agriculture. The aim of this work is the conversion of traditional irrigation practices, by introducing the practice of optimal irrigation scheduling based on local ET estimation and soil moisture monitoring, and the use of continuous feeding by fertigation to enhance both water and nutrient use efficiency. For this, two trials were established between August and November 2023 in two different pedoclimatic zones (Serein and Sultan Yacoub) of the inner Bekaa plain of Lebanon, characterized by semi-arid and dry subhumid conditions and different soil types. Protected cucumber was tested to compare the prevailing traditional farmer’s practice of empirical nutrient and water management using closed tanks with the advanced methods of water accounting and soil moisture monitoring using differential injector that allow more homogeneous application of nutritive solutions and simple tensiometers. Results showed a significantly higher amount of water applied by the farmers to the protected cucumber with a potential for average saving of 105 mm by improved practices. Water input was accompanied by higher amplitude of variation of soil moisture in the farmer’s practice before and after the irrigation cycle revealing potential stress to plant performance caused by higher water depletion followed by over irrigation. With more than 20% increase in cucumber yield by the transformed practices, a general trend in both locations was observed in the fertilization approach and amounts resulting in lower nutrient recovery in the farmer’s plots. The science-based practices of water and nutrient management showed higher application and agronomic water use efficiency of full fertigation, exceeding 60%, associated with double and triple higher nitrogen use efficiency, compared to those results obtained by the traditional water and fertilizer application methods. The monitored factors contribute to severe economic and environmental consequences from nutrient buildup in the soil-groundwater system in the Mediterranean region.
Whole Genome Sequencing and Biocontrol Potential of Streptomyces luteireticuli ASG80 Against Phytophthora Diseases
Authors: Xu Gang , Zhu Liqian , Liang Yanqiong , Liang Minli , Tan Shibei , Chen Helong , Huang Xing , He Chunping , Lu Ying , Wu Weihuai , Yi Kexian , Ma Xiang
Published: October 2024

Phytophthora-induced crop diseases, commonly known as “plant plagues,” pose a significant threat to global food security. In this study, strain ASG80 was isolated from sisal roots and demonstrated broad-spectrum antagonistic activity against several Phytophthora species and fungal pathogens. Strain ASG80 was identified as Streptomyces luteireticuli via phylogenetic analysis, digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH), and average nucleotide identity (ANI). Whole-genome sequencing identified 40 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) related to secondary metabolite production, including antimicrobial compounds. Strain ASG80 extract exhibited broad-spectrum inhibitory activity against Phytophthora nicotianae, P. vignae, P. cinnamomi, and P. sojae. Pot experiments showed that strain ASG80 extract significantly reduced sisal zebra disease incidence, with efficacy comparable to the fungicide metalaxyl. These findings suggest that strain ASG80 is a promising biocontrol agent with substantial potential for managing Phytophthora-related diseases in agriculture.