bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PUBLIC TRUST IN CUSTOMS SUPERVISION ON THE INDONESIA-TIMOR LESTE BORDER
Authors: Wiratmoko Doris , Djani William , Susanti Susanti
Published: December 2024

This research intends to analyze the Public Trust's customs supervision of imports at the Indonesia-Timor Leste border in the KPPBC TMP B Atambua supervision area. Increasing customs supervision is very necessary for economic growth by increasing national income through various programs, one of which is exports and imports. The progress of exports and the reduction of imports are the benchmarks for a country's success. The problem is the slow rate of GRDP growth where in the last 5 (five) years Belu (Atambua) Regency has been ranked number 8 (eight) in the province of East Nusa Tenggara, which is a potential place for increasing economic progress in the border areas between Indonesia and Timor Leste. Apart from that, there are still many customs violations in the Indonesia - Timor Leste border area which have an impact on decreasing public confidence in customs supervision at KPPBC TMP B Atambua. The main theoretical basis used is supervision theory. This research uses a qualitative approach. The data sources in this research consist of primary and secondary data. Primary data was obtained from interviews, observation and documentation. Meanwhile, secondary data is also used in the data collection process, obtained from data including: Government Agency Performance Accountability Reports (LAKIN), Service User Satisfaction Surveys (SKPJ), and other documents. The research results show that accountability, synergy and collaboration, motivation, consistency, socialization of regulations, and public awareness influence Public Trust in government agencies or bureaucracy, especially KPPBC TMP B Atambua.
The Role of Community Engagement in Enhancing Teacher Staffing and Quality Education in Bunda District, Tanzania
Authors: George Arende E. , Onyango Yambo J. M.
Published: December 2024

The study investigates the role of community engagement in enhancing teacher staffing and the provision of quality education in Bunda District, Tanzania. In light of persistent challenges such as teacher shortages and resource constraints, the community plays a significant role in addressing these gaps by funding the hiring of Board of Management (BOM) teachers, contributing to school infrastructure, and participating in governance through Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meetings. The study employed a descriptive survey design, targeting a population of 109 primary schools, 1,290 teachers, 2,450 parents, and 1 District Education Officer (DEO). Using stratified random sampling, 28 head teachers, 278 teachers, and 370 parents were selected. Data collection instruments included questionnaires and interviews. The findings reveal that while community contributions are vital in alleviating staffing issues and improving learning conditions, they cannot substitute for government intervention. The study recommends formalizing community participation, increasing governmental support, and fostering stronger partnerships between communities and the government to achieve sustainable improvements in educational outcomes.
Muhammed et-Trabzonî el-Medenî’nin Tafdîl Konusuna İlişkin Mülahazaları -Temyîzü’l-Fâdıl Ani’l-Mefdûl Adlı Eseri Örnekliğinde
Authors: Birinci Züleyha
Published: December 2024

Tafdîl konusu kelâm ilminin tartışmalı meselelerinden biridir. Çeşitli varlıklar arasında üstünlük bakımından tercihte bulunmak anlamına gelen tafdîl meselesine, İslâm âlimleri farklı şekillerde yaklaşmıştır. Çoğunluk, tafdîl meselesinde görüş beyan ederken bazı âlimler bu hususta tevakkuf etmiş ve derecelendirmeyi Allah’ın ilmine havale etmiştir. Bu çerçevede melekler ile insanlar arasındaki tafdîl, öncelikli tartışma konularından birini teşkil etmiştir. Benzer şekilde peygamberler, ashab ve diğer insanlar arasındaki tafdîl de ihtilaf konusu olmuştur. Özellikle sahabenin birbirine üstünlüğü konusundaki farklı tercihler, imamet tartışmalarının temel sebeplerinden birini teşkil etmiş ve bu ihtilafların olumsuz etkisi günümüze dek varlığını sürdürmüştür. Bu makalede tafdîl konusuna ilişkin Muhammed et-Trabzonî el-Medenî’nin (ö. 1200/1786) görüşleri ele alınmıştır. Makalede Trabzonî’nin tafdîl konusuna dair mülahazaları Temyîzü’l-fâdıl ani’l-mefdûl isimli eseri örnekliğinde incelenmiştir. Zira müellif konuyu müstakil olarak bu eserinde beyan etmiştir. Makalemizde nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden biri olan doküman analizi metodu kullanılmıştır. Mezkûr eserinden hareketle müellifin konuyla ilgili görüşleri tespit edilmeye çalışılmış ve tespit edilen görüşlere dair değerlendirmeler yapılmıştır. Makalenin amacı Trabzonî’nin kelâmî fikirlerinin ve kelâmcı yönünün anlaşılmasına katkı sağlamaktır. Tespitlerimize göre müellif tafdîl konusunu peygamberler, melekler, ashab, tâbiîn, kadınlar ve sahabe evladı arasında olmak üzere altı kısımda ele almıştır. Bu meselede o, Mu‘tezile, Şîa ve Hâriciyye gibi fırkaların fikirlerine katılmamış ve Sünnî düşünceyi benimsemiştir. Üslup olarak alıntılara çok fazla yer vermiştir. Hatta eserin bütünüyle alıntılardan oluştuğunu söylemek mümkündür. Müellif başka kaynaklara da müracaat etmekle birlikte özellikle Ali el-Karî’nin farklı eserlerinden çok sayıda nakil yapmıştır. Yazar temelde Ali el-Karî’nin düşüncelerine bağlı kalmıştır. Fakat nispeten kendine özgü tercihlere sahip olduğu da ifade edilebilir. Neticede 18. asırda yaşamış bir Osmanlı âlimi olan Muhammed et-Trabzonî el-Medenî, bu eserinde, kelâmî açıdan dönemin genel özelliklerini yansıtan bir profil çizmiştir.
Esmâ-i Hüsnâ Literatürüne Bir Katkı: Muhammed b. Mahmud et-Trabzonî el-Medenî’nin el-Maksadü’l-esnâ fî şerh-i esmâi’l-hüsnâ risalesi
Authors: Demirci Osman
Published: December 2024

Öz
Allah-âlem ilişkisinin keyfiyetini anlamak ve Allah’ı isimleri ve sıfatları aracılığıyla tanımak amacıyla esmâ-i hüsnâ konusu etrafında tarihi süreç içerisinde bir literatür vücuda gelmiştir. İslam filozoflarının teşbihe düşme endişesiyle Allah’a isim ve sıfat nispet etmeyi uygun görmeyen tavırları bir yana bırakılırsa esmâ-i hüsnâ meselesi İslam düşünce gelenekleri içerisinde gerek kelâmcılar gerekse mutasavvıflar tarafından Allah-âlem ilişkisini, marifetullahı ve insanın nasıl bir ahlakî yapı üzerinde olması gerektiği konularını temellendirecekleri bir zemin olarak telakki edilecektir. Dinin temel metinleri olan Kur’an ve hadislerde de bu konuya dair birçok ayet ve hadisin bulunması konunun ele alınmasının önemini âdeta bir kat daha arttırmıştır. Kâinatı ilâhî isimlerin tecelligâhı olarak tasavvur eden mutasavvıflar bu isim ve sıfatları Allah hakkındaki bilgimizin yegâne kaynağı gören kelâmcıların yanında esmâ-i hüsnâ aynı zamanda sanatın da konusu haline gelmiş ve bu alanda da bir esmâ-i hüsnâ literatürü oluşmuştur. Biz bu çalışmamızda Mahmud et-Trabzonî’nin esmâ-i hüsnâ konusunu ele alış biçimini, yorumlarını, kullandığı referansları ve nihayetinde konuyla ilgili literatüre yaptığı katkıyı ele almaya çalışacağız. Öncelikle konuyu alfabetik bir tasnif yöntemiyle ele alan müellif, bazı isimler konusunda sadece kelime anlamıyla yetinirken bir kısım isimler üzerinde genişçe durmakta, varsa kelâmî tartışmalara kısaca atıflar yapmakta, tercihlerini belirtmekle yetinmekte kelâmî tartışmalara ise neredeyse hiç girmemektedir. Esmâ-i hüsnâ listesindeki esmanın sayısı, değişik rivayetler arasındaki seçimleri ve çok tercih edilmeyen bir tasnif yöntemini kullanmasıyla dikkat çeken müellif, konuya daha çok bir hadisçi hassasiyetiyle yaklaşmakta, rivayetler üzerinde yoğunlaşmaktadır. Müellifin bu eserinde diğer risalelerinde olduğu gibi Kur’an ve hadisler başta olmak üzere Ali el-Kārî ve Münâvî temel referans kaynakları olarak kullanılmaktadır
Yazma Eserlere Düştüğü Notlar Çerçevesinde Muhammed et-Trabzonî’nin Musahhih ve Okur Yönü
Authors: Koç Fatma Esmanur , Koç Emine Esranur
Published: December 2024

Alimlerin okuma, tashih ve tahşiye pratiklerine yönelik çalışmalar ilmi kimliklerinin incelenmesinde tamamlayıcı bir rol üstlenir. Bir alimin kitaplarına düştüğü notlar, okur olarak kitapla kurduğu ilişkiyi göstermesi bakımından önemlidir. Alimlerin yaptıkları tashih ve mukabele gibi faaliyetlerle ilgili bilgilerin derlenmesi aynı zamanda biyografilerine katkıda bulunabilir. Bu çalışmada 18. yüzyıl çok yönlü Osmanlı alimlerinden olan Muhammed et-Trabzonî el-Medenî’nin (ö. 1200/1786) yazma eserlere düştüğü notların incelenmesiyle hem onun hem de 18. yüzyıl çok yönlü aliminin nasıl bir okur olduğuna dair bir izlenim sunulacaktır. Ayrıca, çalışmada metodoloji itibariyle yazma eserlerdeki kayıtların önemi vurgulanacaktır. Trabzonî’nin Süleymaniye Medresesi’nde müderrislik, hâfız-ı kütüblük yaptığı ve vefatından önce kitaplarını Süleymaniye Camii kütüphanesine vakfettiği bilinmektedir. İstinsah veya mukabelesini yaptığı pek çok kitap Süleymaniye Kütüphanesi’nde bulunur. Çalışma, Süleymaniye Yazma Eser Kütüphanesi başta olmak üzere çeşitli kütüphane koleksiyonlarında Trabzonî ile ilişkili olduğu tespit edilen eserlerle sınırlandırılmıştır. Yazma eser katalogları, yazma eserlerdeki kayıt ve derkenar notlarındaki bilgilerden faydalanılarak Trabzonî’nin okuduğu eserler tespit edilmiş ve çalışmanın örneklemini oluşturmuştur. Bu eserlerdeki kayıtlar ve derkenar notları okunmuş ve araştırmanın amacına uygun olanlar tasnif edilip yorumlanmıştır. Bu analiz sayesinde, Trabzonî’nin ilmi eser mukabelesine verdiği önem ve metinlerin en sahih nüshasını elde etme arayışındaki azmi ortaya konulmuştur. Elindeki nüshaya yaptığı müdahaleler bağlamında Trabzonî’nin müellif metnine bağlılığı ve müstensih metninin özgünlüğünü koruma hassasiyeti gösterilmiştir. Trabzonî’nin bir alim olarak kendi görüşlerini, müellif metnine yaptığı müdahaleleri ve çeşitli kaynaklardan derlediği bilgileri içeren derkenarların incelenmesiyle Trabzonî’nin musahhih, okur ve muhaşşî yönüne yakından ele alınabilmiştir. Bu çalışma, Trabzonî’nin daha önce hayatı ve eserleri üzerine yapılan araştırmalara ek olarak, özellikle onun okuma faaliyetlerine dair değerlendirme sunmaktadır.
Muhammed et-Trabzonî el-Medenî’nin Sârimu’l-vâridât Adlı Eserinin Vehhâbîliğin Ortaya Çıkış Tarihi Bağlamında Kaynaklık Değeri
Authors: Gömbeyaz Kadir , Çoban Muhammed İkbal
Published: December 2024

Muhammed et-Trabzonî el-Medenî (ö. 1200/1786) Trabzon’dan İstanbul’a, Şam’dan Kudüs’e, Mekke’den Medine’ye ve nihayet tekrar İstanbul’a uzanan hayatını farklı coğrafya ve şehirlerde geçirmiş, şer‘î ilimlerin pek çoğunda eserler kaleme almış velûd bir âlimdir. Kaleme aldığı eserlerden biri de “Necdli İhtiyâr (eş-Şeyhü’n-Necdî)” diye adlandırdığı birinin kendisine ulaşan (vârid) dört görüşünü ele aldığı ve bunlara karşı aklî ve naklî delillerle karşı çıktığı Sârimü’l-vâridât adlı eseridir. Bu eseri çarpıcı kılan husus, Necdli Şeyh diye bahsettiği kişinin görüşleri ve faaliyetleriyle Hicaz topraklarında etkili olmaya başlayan Muhammed b. Abdilvehhâb olmasının kuvvetle muhtemel oluşu ve eserin onun hareketinin (Vehhâbiyye) ortaya çıktığı bir bölgede ve zamanda yaşayan bir müellif tarafından kaleme alınmasıdır. Böylece hareketin ortaya çıkış ve gelişim sürecinde aynı zamanda yaşamış bir müellifin tarihsel şahitliği söz konusu olabilmektedir. Bu risâleyi diğer Vehhâbîlik reddiyelerinden farklı kılan bir durum Necdli Şeyh’e nispet edilen dört görüşten özellikle ikisinin (“Allah’ın her fiili güzel değildir” ve “Peygamberlerin bedenlerinin kurtlanması, bayılmaları veya haşereler yüzünden ölmeleri caiz değildir”) başka reddiyelerde bulunmamasıdır. Bu risâlede Trabzonî’nin Necdli Şeyh’e yönelik ifadeleri oldukça ağır ve hakaretâmizdir. O, birçok kötü isimle anmasının yanında Necdli Şeyh için “Şeyhu’l-hanâzira (Domuzların Şeyhi)” şeklinde başka eserlerde görmediğimiz, kendisi için anlamlı bir gerekçeye dayanan kendisine özgü bir niteleme de kullanmaktadır. Ancak eserin müellif hattı olduğu düşünülen ve elimize ulaşan tek nüshasında özellikle hakaret ve aşağılama içeren ifadelerin üstünün çizildiği görülmektedir.
Hâsılı bu yazıda, İbn Abdilvehhâb ve hareketinin ortaya çıktığı ve geliştiği bir döneme şahitliğin ürünü sayılabilecek Sârimü’l-vâridât adlı eserin muhtevası, Trabzonî’nin reddettiği görüşlerin neler olduğu ve bunları nasıl reddettiği ortaya konulduktan sonra Trabzonî’nin bu şahitliğinin Vehhâbîliğin doğuş tarihi ve görüşleri incelenirken ne derece isabetli bir şahitlik yapıp yapmadığı sorgulanacaktır. Ayrıca Trabzonî’nin Vehhâbîliğe reddiye sadedinde yazdığı ileri sürülen diğer bazı risâlelerin muhatap ve hedefinin gerçekten İbn Abdilvehhâb ve Vehhâbîler olup olmadığı da tartışılacaktır. Nihai olarak nispet ettiği görüşler üzerinden İbn Abdilvehhâb’ı eleştirdiği anlaşılan Sârimü’l-vâridât’ın tam anlamıyla bir Vehhâbîlik reddiyesi olarak kabul edilip edilemeyeceği değerlendirecektir.
Empowerment Disaster-Resilient Village Forums for Health Crisis Preparedness: A Participatory Action Research Approach
Authors: Sunarto Sunarto , Nugroho Heru Santoso Wahito , Suparji Suparji , Prasetyo Aries , Sulikah Sulikah , Rahayu Teta Puji
Published: December 2024

This study aims to enhance the Disaster Resilient Village (Destana) forum's preparedness for disaster-related health crises. The key challenges identified are low community response to early warning systems and slow mobilization of health resources, both contributing to high victim numbers and exacerbating health crises. The study focuses on creating an accessible early warning system and accelerating health resource mobilization, prioritizing these elements based on an analysis of disaster preparedness parameters. Using Action Research with a Participatory Action Research (PAR) design, the research was conducted in Magetan Regency, East Java, involving 150 Destana forum administrators. The study explores the development of early warning procedures, health contingency plans, emergency response structures, and simulation plans. The findings reveal that the Destana forum successfully developed tailored health contingency plans for each village, including an inclusive early warning system Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for vulnerable groups. Additionally, an integrated health command structure was formed, enhancing emergency response coordination. Emergency response simulations with 90 participants demonstrated improved readiness and community engagement in handling health crises. The study highlights the importance of a participatory, sustainable approach to building resilience, showing that active community involvement fosters collective responsibility for managing health crises during disasters.
Análisis del desarrollo de competencias emprendedoras en una muestra de estudiantes de tres programas de pregrado en la Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana Seccional Palmira, durante el semestre académico 2024 – 1.
Authors: SALAZAR CASTILLO MANUEL ALBERTO
Published: December 2024

El propósito de esta investigación es diagnosticar el nivel de desarrollo de las competencias emprendedoras con que ingresan los estudiantes de los diversos programas de la UPB Seccional Palmira. Se utiliza como instrumento base el diagnóstico de competencias emprendedoras desarrollado por Confecámaras, realizando análisis univariados y tablas de contingencia para determinar los niveles, normalidad y homogeneidad de los grupos, a través de medidas de dispersión, confiabilidad de la prueba utilizada y por último se aplica el ANOVA de grupo. Como resultados mas importantes se pueden mencionar que no existen diferencias significativas en el nivel de desarrollo de las competencias emprendedoras con las que ingresan los estudiantes, es decir aun siendo estudiantes de administración, publicidad o ingeniería industrial, la falta de iniciativa, planeamiento sistemático y convincente, esta generalizada en la juventud, los estudiantes que escojan una u otra carrera no poseen un nivel más alto de estas competencias, con algo similar en las competencias emprendedoras mas desarrolladas y que una posible variable a introducir para mejorar esto son las tecnologías de la comunicación en la formación y la transversalidad del fomento al emprendimiento.
Relaciones de poder entorno a la minería tradicional de oro en el municipio de Unión Panamericana, Chocó (Colombia)
Authors: Betty Leonor Perea Lemus  , Tito Morales Pinzón
Published: December 2024

Este artículo estudia las relaciones de poder en la minería de oro desarrollada en Unión Panamericana, Chocó, y revela una red compleja de actores comunitarios, institucionales y empresariales que interactúan para gestionar y controlar esta actividad económica. El Consejo Comunitario Mayor de Unión Panamericana (COCOMAUPA) se desenvuelve como el actor central, ejerciendo control sobre el territorio y la emisión de licencias mineras. Las empresas mineras, como EMAGROAUP, y los operadores privados realizan las operaciones diarias bajo contratos que requieren cumplir con las normativas establecidas por el Consejo y otras entidades gubernamentales. También se analizan los roles de entidades como la Agencia Nacional Minera y CODECHOCÓ que desempeñan relaciones cruciales en la supervisión y regulación ambiental y de seguridad. Además, se observa que algunos actores ilegales influyen significativamente mediante la imposición de pagos a los mineros y la intimidación del Consejo Comunitario. Por ello, se concluye que la gobernanza en la región se caracteriza por la colaboración interinstitucional y el esfuerzo por formalizar la minería, mejorar la sostenibilidad ambiental, promover el desarrollo económico local buscando nuevas alternativas y mejorar las condiciones de vida.
Magmatic evolution and architecture of an oceanic intraplate volcano: Vesteris Seamount, Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Beloša L. , Murphy D. T. , Ubide T. , Callegaro S. , Meyzen C. M. , Bizimis M. , Mazzini A.
Published: December 2024

Vesteris is a large (33 × 27 km) and young (summit age: 0.65–0.010 Ma) intraplate seamount in the Greenland Sea, formed from ocean island basalt (OIB) magmatism. The volcano is composed of alkali basalt, basanite/tephrite, phonotephrite, mugearite, and benmoreite. Its phenocryst assemblage includes clinopyroxene, plagioclase, olivine, amphibole, rare haüyne, and oxides (Ti–magnetite and Cr–spinel), with phenocrysts hosting inclusions of apatite, sulfides (pyrrhotite), and melt. Despite its geological significance, the processes governing magma storage, ascent, and eruption dynamics remain poorly understood. To address this, we conducted detailed micro–chemical analyses of phenocrysts, groundmass microcrysts, melt inclusions, and groundmass glass. Using mineral–melt thermobarometry, we characterized the pre– to syn–eruptive crystallization conditions and reconstructed the architecture of the volcanic plumbing system. Our findings indicate that basanite liquids were primarily stored in the upper mantle (∼6.4 kbar; ∼22 km depth) with evidence of multi-level storage extending to ∼9 kbar (∼30 km depth). Textural and compositional zoning in clinopyroxenes suggests rapid magma ascent, while mafic recharge emerged as a key mechanism for remobilizing evolved clinopyroxene mush. Mafic recharge magmas also introduced early olivine crystals, which were later overgrown by high-Mg clinopyroxene upon mixing with more evolved melts. These results demonstrate that major crystal fractionation occurs in the upper mantle beneath Vesteris, resembling processes observed in low-flux ocean island basalt volcanoes. The evidence for rapid magma ascent highlights the dynamic nature of magma movement within the plumbing system, driven by mafic recharge and crystal-melt interactions.
Operation mode and scheduling plan optimization approach for multiple balancing zones in a distribution system
Authors: Huang Kai , Yi Zhongkai , Xu Ying , Zhou Zhaozheng , Han Liu
Published: December 2024

Modern power systems are developing rapidly, with distributed energy, energy storage devices, adjustable loads, and other flexible resources consolidated through microgrids, virtual power plants, and integrated source–network–load–storage systems. This consolidation under various balancing zone models facilitates synergistic operations and has become critical to enhancing distributed power consumption and ensuring the reliability of electricity supply. Therefore, in light of the challenges of inadequate economic efficiency, reduced accommodation of renewable energy, and poorer operational reliability in distribution networks, this study proposes a category selection and flexibility resource scheduling method that considers the differences in multiple balancing zone models and modes. Firstly, the approach establishes a multi-dimensional characteristic evaluation index and multiple balancing zone operation models. The characteristic evaluation indicators are then utilized to assess the unique properties of the balancing zone system and eliminate unreasonable operating modes. Finally, through analyzing the effectiveness and differences of various balancing zone operation modes, an optimal operation mode is selected, and a scheduling plan is formulated. We conclude that the scheduling plan optimization method considering the operation mode can realize a reasonable choice of operation modes and achieve benefit optimization.
Calcium signaling in tunicate development
Authors: Glover Joel C. , Tolstenkov Oleg , Mikhaleva Yana
Published: December 2024

A comparative overview is provided of Ca2+ signaling and its potential mechanistic roles during development in tunicates. As background, the review presents an introduction to tunicate taxonomy, and then a general overview of Ca2+ signaling and methods for recording and measuring Ca2+ signals. It then covers the dynamics and implicated mechanisms of Ca2+ signals during different phases of development from oocyte to larva. These include signals arising in the unfertilized oocyte, signals associated with fertilization and meiosis, intercellular signals occurring from early cleavage stages through gastrulation, intercellular signals during organogenesis, and signals associated with early behavior. Comparisons are made among different tunicate species and where relevant to other chordate species. In many tunicate species, Ca2+ currents across the oocyte membrane are present prior to fertilization, and in the appendicularian Oikopleura dioica regular Ca2+ transients have been recorded optically prior to fertilization. Ca2+ signals at this stage have been implicated in pre-fertilization oocyte maturation events. The fertilization transient is the most well-studied Ca2+ signal and is triggered by factors from the sperm, including pivotally a phospholipase C (PLC) isoform that catalyzes the generation of IP3, which elicits release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum. Post-fertilization signals are similarly dependent on IP3 signaling and are regulated by cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1), and thereby linked to the meiotic divisions required for zygote formation. Ca2+ signals associated with early cleavages through gastrulation arise in blastomeres of the muscle lineage and spread from these in a coordinated fashion to other blastomeres through gap junctions. Post-gastrulation Ca2+ signals begin to show tissue-specificity in their temporal pattern as organogenesis proceeds, likely associated with loss of general gap junction transmission. Once neurulation has occurred, Ca2+ signals arise first in the nervous system and are transmitted synaptically to muscle, while Ca2+ signals arising spontaneously in the epidermis follow a separate temporal pattern. Species differences in the spatiotemporal characteristics of pre- and postgastrulation Ca+2 signals are discussed.
Identification and expression analysis of Th2 immune-related gene IL4/13A in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus)
Authors: Huo Huanhuan , Liu Baoliang , Wang Zirui , Zhou Qiubai
Published: December 2024

Th2 immunity is a primary host defense against extracellular pathogens, and different IL4/13 paralogues are involved in this immune response in fish. Here, we identified IL4/13A for further Th2 immune response providing information in turbot. The results showed that the full length of the IL4/13A gene is 1,333 bp, containing a 432-bp open reading frame (ORF) that encoded 144 amino acids. Phylogenetic analysis recently showed that turbot IL4/13A has a relationship with Dicentrarchus labrax. Moreover, syntenic analysis revealed similar neighboring genes associated with turbot IL4/13A, compared with other teleosts and mammals. In addition, IL4/13A was widely expressed in all examined tissues with the highest expression level in skin, followed by liver and gill. Finally, IL4/13A showed a general trend of upregulation in immune tissues following bacterial challenge. The significant quick induction of IL4/13A indicated its key roles to prevent pathogens. Characterizations of IL4/13A will probably contribute to understanding of Th2 immunity in fish.
Evaluation of the peripheral visual performance of DIMS spectacle lenses versus single vision lenses
Authors: Liu Kenneth Ka King , Zhang Han Yu , Leung Daisy Ka Yan , Lam Carly Siu Yin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study evaluates differences in the visual field performance when wearing the Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) spectacle lens compared to wearing a conventional single vision (SV) spectacle lens.

Methods

Twenty-one children aged 9–14 years with spherical equivalent refraction (SER) between −1.13D to −4.75D were recruited. Mid-peripheral near visual acuity (NVA) under room lighting condition (500 lux ±10%) was measured using DIMS and SV lenses, respectively. Automated static perimetry (Zeiss, Humphrey Visual Field HFA 750i) with SITA Fast 30–2 protocol was used to investigate the visual field sensitivity. During the test, the study lens (Plano DIMS or SV lens) were inserted into the lens holder in front of the trial lenses with each child’s compensated prescription.

Results

Three children were not able to complete the reliable visual tests due to fixation losses (>20%) or high false positive rate (>15%) while 18 children successfully completed the test. The mean visual field sensitivity was 29.2 ± 3.7 decibels (dB) and 29.3 ± 3.5 dB when wearing DIMS and SV lens, respectively. The mean sensitivity differences between DIMS and SV lens among 76 locations ranged from −2.4 ± 3.9 dB to 1.6 ± 3.9 dB. No statistically significant difference in sensitivity was observed across 76 locations within the central 30o between DIMS and SV lens (Wilcoxon signed rank test with bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons, p > 0.00065). Compared to SV lens, 0.05 logarithm of minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) reduction in mid-peripheral NVA in all 4 quadrants (Superior, Temporal, Inferior and nasal, p < 0.05) was noted with the DIMS lens (N = 18). However, no statistically significant correlation was found between the mid-peripheral NVA and visual sensitivity at the specific locations.

Conclusion

Although the mid-peripheral NVA was slightly reduced using DIMS lens, wearing DIMS lens did not change the children’s visual sensitivity to detect the static stimulus within 30o visual field when compared to wearing SV lens.
Advances in the application of colorectal cancer organoids in precision medicine
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Meng Ruoyu , Sha Dan , Gao Huiquan , Wang Shengxi , Zhou Jun , Wang Xiaoshan , Li Fuxia , Li Xinyu , Song Wei
Published: December 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the most prevalent gastrointestinal tumors globally and poses a significant threat to human health. In recent years, tumor organoids have emerged as ideal models for clinical disease research owing to their ability to closely mimic the original tumor tissue and maintain a stable phenotypic structure. Organoid technology has found widespread application in basic tumor research, precision therapy, and new drug development, establishing itself as a reliable preclinical model in CRC research. This has significantly advanced individualized and precise tumor therapies. Additionally, the integration of single-cell technology has enhanced the precision of organoid studies, offering deeper insights into tumor heterogeneity and treatment response, thereby contributing to the development of personalized treatment approaches. This review outlines the evolution of colorectal cancer organoid technology and highlights its strengths in modeling colorectal malignancies. This review also summarizes the progress made in precision tumor medicine and addresses the challenges in organoid research, particularly when organoid research is combined with single-cell technology. Furthermore, this review explores the future potential of organoid technology in the standardization of culture techniques, high-throughput screening applications, and single-cell multi-omics integration, offering novel directions for future colorectal cancer research.
Combining Acmella oleracea and Boswellia serrata extracts: a novel pharmacological approach in inflammatory vestibulodynia
Authors: Fusco Antimo , Perrone Michela , Ricciardi Federica , Morace Andrea Maria , Bonsale Roozbe , Teweldemedhin Milena Melake , Di Martino Emanuele , Limongelli Rebecca , Papa Alfonso , Maione Sabatino , Guida Francesca , Luongo Livio
Published: December 2024

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition that affects the vulvar area, often resulting in significant discomfort and a reduced quality of life. Current treatments for vulvodynia are limited, and there is a need for more effective therapeutic options. Acmella oleracea, known for its spilanthol content, and Boswellia serrata, rich in boswellic acids, have been explored for their potential analgesic properties in pain management. In this study, vulvodynia-like symptoms were induced in female mice using Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). After the induction of symptoms, the mice were treated with a combination of Acmella oleracea and Boswellia serrata extracts (AO + BS). Behavioral pain assessments were conducted to monitor the effects of the treatment. Additionally, biochemical and functional evaluations were performed to measure spinal microgliosis and neuronal overexcitation. The combination of Acmella oleracea and Boswellia serrata (AO + BS) resulted in a significant reduction of vulvar hypersensitivity in mice. Besides alleviating pain, AO + BS therapy also reduced spinal microgliosis and neuronal overexcitation in mice with vulvodynia. The findings suggest that the AO + BS combination has the potential to alleviate vulvodynia associated pain through mechanisms involving the reduction of spinal microgliosis and neuronal overexcitation. These results point to the therapeutic promise of these plant extracts for chronic pain conditions like vulvodynia. The combination of Acmella oleracea and Boswellia serrata shows potential as a treatment for vulvodynia. However, further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and to optimize the dosage for clinical use.
Dynamics analysis of epidemic spreading with individual heterogeneous infection thresholds
Authors: Li Feng
Published: December 2024

In the real world, individuals may become infected with an epidemic after multiple exposures to the corresponding virus. This occurs because each individual possesses certain physical defenses and immune capabilities at the time of exposure to the virus. Repeated exposure to the virus can lead to a decline in immune competence, consequently resulting in epidemic infection. The susceptibility of individuals to an epidemic is heterogeneous. We model this characteristic as the individual heterogeneous infection threshold. Then, we propose an individual logarithmic-like infection threshold function on a single-layer complex network to reflect the heterogeneity of individual susceptibility on infecting the virus and the associated epidemic. Next, we introduce a partition theory based on the edge and logarithmic-like infection threshold function to qualitatively analyze the mechanisms of virus infection and epidemic spreading. Finally, simulation results on Erdő–Rényi (ER) and scale-free (SF) networks indicate that increasing both the epidemic infection initial threshold and outbreak threshold, as well as decreasing the virus and epidemic infection probability, can all effectively suppress epidemic spreading and epidemic infection outbreak. With an increase in the epidemic infection outbreak threshold, the increasing pattern of the final epidemic infection scale transitions from a second-order continuous phase transition to a first-order discontinuous phase transition. Additionally, degree distribution heterogeneity also significantly impacts the outbreak and spread of diseases. These findings provide valuable guidance for the formulation of immunization strategies.
A multi-stage balancing scheduling method for flexible loads of large-scale electric vehicles
Authors: Pang Songling , Zhao Hailong , Huo Meiyi
Published: December 2024

To address the degradation of grid quality and charging efficiency associated with the large-scale integration of electric vehicles (EVs), a multi-stage balanced flexible load scheduling method is proposed. This approach is designed to facilitate peak shaving and valley filling, balance intermittent energy fluctuations, and provide auxiliary services, thereby significantly altering system load characteristics, smoothing energy fluctuations, reducing operational costs, and enhancing the regulatory capabilities of power grid dispatching operations. A multi-objective optimization mathematical model is developed, focusing on key indicators that impact the scheduling process, including network loss, operational cost, and user satisfaction. A multi-stage flexible load scheduling framework is introduced within the competitive swarm optimization (CSO) algorithm, resulting in the design of an advanced CSO algorithm. This algorithm is distinguished from traditional methods by the implementation of advanced learning based on grouping after a random competitive learning phase, which enhances the efficiency of particle swarm learning while ensuring stable population convergence throughout the optimization process. Furthermore, the CSO framework is maintained to ensure effective population diversity, greatly improving the optimization performance. Simulation results indicate that the voltage fluctuation index of the proposed algorithm is 1.8% lower than that of the standard CSO algorithm, while network loss and operational costs are reduced by 2.83 and 5.81%, respectively, thereby validating the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed approach.
The incorporation of MALDI mass spectrometry imaging in studies to identify markers of toxicity following in utero opioid exposures in mouse fetuses
Authors: Barnette Dustyn , Inselman Amy L. , Kaldhone Pravin , Lee Grace S. , Davis Kelly , Sarkar Sumit , Malhi Pritpal , Fisher J. Edward , Hanig Joseph P. , Beger Richard D. , Jones E. Ellen
Published: December 2024

Introduction

In 2015, the FDA released a Drug Safety Communication regarding a possible link between opioid exposure during early pregnancy and an increased risk of fetal neural tube defects (NTDs). At the time, the indications for opioid use during pregnancy were not changed due to incomplete maternal toxicity data and limitations in human and animal studies. To assess these knowledge gaps, largescale animal studies are ongoing; however, state-of-the-art technologies have emerged as promising tools to assess otherwise non-standard endpoints. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI MSI) is a dynamic approach capable of generating 2D ion images to visualize the distribution of an analyte of interest across a tissue section.

Methods

Given the importance of lipid metabolism and neurotransmitters in the developing central nervous system, this study incorporates MALDI MSI to assess lipid distributions across mouse gestational day (GD) 18 fetuses, with and without observable NTDs following maternal exposure on GD 8 to morphine (400 mg/kg BW) or the NTD positive control valproic acid (VPA) (500 mg/kg BW).

Results

Analysis of whole-body mouse fetuses revealed differential lipid distributions localized mainly in the brain and spinal cord, which included several phosphatidylcholine (PC) species such as PCs 34:1, 34:0, and 36:2 localized to the cortex or hippocampus and lyso PC 16:0 across all brain regions. Overall, differential lipids increased in with maternal morphine and VPA exposure. Neurotransmitter distributions across the brain using FMP-10 derivatizing agent were also assessed, revealing morphine-specific changes.

Discussion

The observed differential glycerophospholipid distributions in relation to treatment and NTD development in mouse fetuses provide potential targets for further investigation of molecular mechanisms of opioid-related developmental effects. Overall, these findings support the feasibility of incorporating MALDI MSI to assess non-standard endpoints of opioid exposure during gestation.
Detection of Irrigated and Non-Irrigated Soybeans Using Hyperspectral Data in Machine-Learning Models
Authors: Oliveira Izabela Cristina de , Gava Ricardo , Santana Dthenifer Cordeiro , Seron Ana Carina da Silva Cândido , Teodoro Larissa Pereira Ribeiro , Cotrim Mayara Favero , Santos Regimar Garcia dos , Alvarez Rita de Cássia Félix , Junior Carlos Antonio da Silva , Baio Fábio Henrique Rojo , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo
Published: December 2024

The objectives of this work are (i) to classify soybean cultivars under different irrigation managements using hyperspectral data, looking for the best machine-learning algorithm for the classification and the input that improves the performance of the models. The experiment was implemented in the 2023/24 harvest in the experimental area of the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Câmpus Chapadão do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, and it was conducted in a strip scheme with seven cultivars subjected to irrigated and rainfed management. Sixty days after crop emergence, three leaves per plot were collected for evaluation by the hyperspectral sensor. The spectral data was then separated into 28 bands to reduce dimensionality. In this way, two databases were generated: one with all the spectral information provided by the sensor (WL) and one with the 28 spectral bands (SB). Each database was subjected to different machine-learning models to ascertain the improved accuracy of the models in distinguishing the different eucalyptus species. The models tested were artificial neural networks (ANN), decision trees (DT), linear regression (LR), M5P algorithm, random forest (RF), and support vector machine (SVM). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of machine-learning models in differentiating soybean management under rainfed and irrigated conditions, highlighting the advantage of hyperspectral data (WL) over selected spectral bands (SB). Models such as the support vector machine (SVM) showed the best levels of accuracy when using the entire available spectrum. On the other hand, artificial neural networks (ANN) performed well with spectral band data, demonstrating their ability to work with smaller data sets without compromising the classification.
Tradeoffs When Building and Running Cohort and Patient-Level Markov Simulation Models
Authors: Nagy Balázs , Fasseeh Ahmad Nader , Campbell Jonathan D. , Kaló Zoltán , El-Fass Kareem Ahmed , Hren Rok , Németh Bertalan
Published: December 2024

The choice of health care modeling approaches is driven by trade-offs between various modeling techniques. This study evaluates cohort (CH) versus patient-level (PL) Markov modeling techniques within a cost-effectiveness analysis framework to understand the practical decisions analysts face. Both the CH and PL models were constructed using identical datasets and similar assumptions. Each model included eight health states to capture disease severity and symptom types and allowed switching from first-line to second-line treatment. We assessed model outcomes and performance using various quantitative and qualitative techniques. The CH and PL models yielded very similar base case results; only minor differences in functionality and outcome consistency were detected. The CH model offered greater stability and easier parameter testing, while the PL model provided superior flexibility for structural adjustments and detailed patient pathway and subgroup analysis. However, the PL model required substantially more computational time for sensitivity analyses and more technical skills to understand and interpret patient pathways and model results. CH modeling faced more challenges when extensive structural changes were initiated. Choosing between CH and PL modeling techniques involves the careful assessment of trade-offs between the need for a flexible and informed model and the optimization of human and computational resources.
Isotopic Signatures and Fluxes of N2O Emitted from Soybean Plants and Soil During the Main Growth Period of Soybeans
Authors: Xia Zongwei , Chen Guanxiong , Yu Kewei , Xu Hui , Yu Xiuling
Published: December 2024

Soil microorganisms have long been recognized as primary producers of biogenic N2O in terrestrial ecosystems. Terrestrial plants can contribute to N2O emissions by transporting N2O produced in soils, and there is also evidence that plants may serve as direct producers of N2O. However, to date, direct evidence for N2O production by plants remains limited. To exclude N2O emissions resulting from soil-to-plant transport, this study conducted incubation experiments using cut soybean branches and leaves (cSBF) and intact soil cores under an N2O-free air background. The natural isotopic signatures (δ15N and δ18O) and fluxes of N2O produced by cSBF and soil were compared across different soybean growth stages over two growing seasons. The observed δ15N and δ18O values of N2O from soil ranged from −26.7‰ to −5.3‰ and −24.1‰ to 22.8‰, respectively. In contrast, the values for N2O produced from cSBF ranged from −4.7‰ to 33.1‰ and from 23.7‰ to 88.8‰, respectively. Notably, N2O emitted from plants exhibited significantly higher δ15N and δ18O values than soil-derived N2O (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that the pathways and mechanisms of N2O production and emission in soybean plants differ from those mediated by soil microorganisms and nitrogen transport processes. Additionally, a significantly higher amount of N2O emission was observed during early growth stages compared to late growth stages (p < 0.01), suggesting that plant N2O production may be associated with elevated water content and oxygen-limited conditions within plant cells. In addition to the N2O uptake by plants observed in some literature, the positive relationship between δ15N values and N2O fluxes suggests that N2O could be consumed in plant cells (p < 0.01), with a high consumption rate often associated with a high production rate. The results of this study provide compelling evidence that plants may represent an overlooked source of N2O in terrestrial ecosystems.
Assessing Roles of Aggregate Structure on Hydraulic Properties of Saline/Sodic Soils in Coastal Reclaimed Areas
Authors: Fei Yuanhang , She Dongli , Tang Shengqiang , Wang Hongde , Sun Xiaoqin , Han Xiao , Liu Dongdong
Published: December 2024

During coastal reclamation processes, land use conversion from natural coastal saline/sodic soils to agricultural land changes the soil’s physicochemical properties. However, the impact of soil structure evolution on soil hydraulic properties (SHPs, e.g., hydraulic conductivity and soil water retention curves) during long-term reclamation has rarely been reported. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of reclamation duration and land use types on the soil aggregate stability and SHPs of coastal saline/sodic soils and incorporate the aggregate structures into the SHPs. In this study, a total of 90 soil samples from various reclaimed years (2007, 1960, and 1940) and land use patterns (cropland, grassland, forestland, and wasteland) were taken to analyze the quantitative effects of soil saline/sodic characteristics and the aggregate structure on SHPs through pedotransfer functions (PTFs). We found that soil macroaggregate contents in the old reclaimed areas (reclaimed in 1940 and 1960) were significantly larger than those in the new reclamation area (reclaimed in 2007). The soil saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) of forestland was larger than that of grassland in each reclamation year. Soil structure contributed to 22.13%, 24.52%, and 23.93% of the total variation in Ks and soil water retention parameters (α and n). The PTFs established in our study were as follows: log(Ks) = 0.524 − 0.177 × Yk3 − 0.093 × Yk1 + 0.135 × Yk4 − 0.054 × Yk2, 1/α = 477.244 − 91.732 × Yα2 − 81.283 × Yα4 + 38.106 × Yα3, and n = 1.679 − 0.086 × Yn2 + 0.045 × Yn1 − 0.042 × Yn3 (Y are principal components). The mean relative errors of the prediction models for log(Ks), 1/α, and n were 79.30%, 36.1%, and 9.89%, respectively. Our findings quantify the vital roles of the aggregate structure on the SHPs of coastal saline/sodic soils, which will help us understand related hydrological processes.
What Gets Measured Gets Managed-Circular Economy Indicators for the Valorization of By-Products in the Olive Oil Supply Chain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Spina Daniela , Carbone Roberto , Pulvirenti Angelo , Rizzo Marcella , D’Amico Mario , Di Vita Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

The olive oil supply chain generates a substantial number of by-products, presenting significant environmental, economic, and social challenges. However, these by-products, such as pomace, wastewater, and biomass, also offer valuable opportunities for implementing a circular economy (CE) model that enhances sustainability. Despite increasing attention to the valorization of these by-products, understanding of the indicators used to measure circularity in this context remains limited. This systematic review examined the existing literature on circular economy indicators employed to assess the use of by-products in the olive oil supply chain. The aim was to provide a comprehensive overview of the most suitable indicators in this sector, while identifying best practices for quantifying and monitoring progress towards a more circular system. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and bibliometric analysis was conducted using CiteSpace 6.4 R1 software. The results highlighted a key indicator, the Material Circularity Indicator (MCI). Additionally, methodologies such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and water footprint (WF) were evaluated, while challenges were identified, including the need for standardized metrics and improved data collection across the supply chain. This review provides valuable insights for both future research and policy decisions aimed at promoting sustainability and circularity in the olive oil industry.