bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Current Trends in Reforming the State Financial Control in the Public Procurement Sphere
Authors:   Research Centre for Industrial Problems of Development of NAS of Ukraine, Ivanova Olga Yu. , Sydorenko Oleksii M. ,   State Tax University, Skabardin Oleh V. ,   Research Centre for Industrial Problems of Development of NAS of Ukraine
Published: January 2025

The article outlines the key modern trends in reforming the State financial control in the field of public procurement. It is an indisputable fact that the establishment of the efficient State financial control of the domestic sphere of public procurement is one of the key tasks of public administration in modern conditions, since the efficient, legal and targeted use of the country’s limited financial resources, which is especially acute under the legal regime of martial law, depends on it. The article is aimed at a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the State financial control over the field of public procurement in Ukraine, the identification and systematization of key problematic aspects, in particular those related to the legal regime of martial law, and the formation of proposals for reforming the organizational and legal support of its implementation. Based on the carried out analysis, the authors have identified the key problematic aspects that exist in the field of public procurement and lead to inefficient and inappropriate spending of budget funds. At this, it was analyzed which measures of the State financial control should prevent these negative manifestations; the existing shortcomings and problematic aspects in their practical implementation are identified; appropriate theoretical and utilitarian proposals for reforming actions are formulated. The peculiarities of both the exercise of the State financial control and the functioning of the public procurement sphere under the legal regime of martial law in Ukraine are also taken into account. Based on the results of the study, the authors found that in order to eliminate or minimize the negative impact of all the above shortcomings of the State financial control of the domestic public procurement sphere and its internal imbalances, it is necessary to implement a number of complex measures that can be aggregated into the following three main blocks: organizational and managerial measures; measures to improve regulatory support; measures for further digital transformation of the area under study.
Problems and Prospects for the Development of Digital Technologies and Innovations in the Stock Market in the Context of Sustainable Development
Authors:   National Transport University, Zaiats Olga V. , Tesliuk Nataliia P. ,   National Transport University, Boiko Alona A. ,   National Transport University, Boiko Mariia О. ,   National Transport University
Published: January 2025

The development of the economy and post-war recovery involves rebuilding or restoring through increased funding across all sectors of the economy, including through the use of a variety of financial instruments. Securities should become the leading financial instruments, as conventional lending by commercial banks lacks the potential to finance economic growth and recovery. The aim of this article is to analyze the development of Ukraine’s stock market and identify the problems and prospects for its development in the context of digital transformation and innovation. The methodological basis of the research includes scientific developments concerning the stock market and digital technologies applied in stock trading operations. To achieve the research objectives, economic and statistical analysis was conducted using absolute and relative indicators, as well as correlation and regression analysis. The current state of Ukraine's stock market was studied in terms of identifying the overall dynamics of exchange contract volumes, which were identified as negative. The key securities involved in exchange contracts were identified—primarily domestic government bonds, with fewer deals involving shares and local bonds. The main stock trading organizers were identified, with their number having decreased to three by the end of 2023. Overall, the current state of stock trading is deemed unsatisfactory and does not meet the needs of the economy or post-war recovery efforts. The level of digital technology integration in the stock market was identified as insufficient due to the lack of activity in developing and updating software, as well as the upgrading of core assets. Based on correlation and regression analysis, it was shown that the volume of exchange contracts is directly proportional to the share of intangible assets in the stock exchange’s assets. The prospects for the development of digital technologies and innovations in the stock market are substantiated.
Bond Borrowing Insurance: A Method of Increasing the Debt Sustainability of Territorial Communities
Authors:   Institute of Regional Research named after M. I. Dolishniy of the NAS of Ukraine, Koblyk Ihor I.
Published: January 2025

Municipal bond insurance is an important method for ensuring the debt sustainability of territorial communities. It provides guarantees to investors, reducing the risks associated with possible financial difficulties of bond issuers, such as local authorities. This helps to improve the credit rating of issuers and increase the attractiveness of municipal bonds for investors, which, in turn, allows local communities to attract additional financing on more favorable terms. The bond insurance mechanism is beneficial for both issuers and investors. It allows local governments to reduce debt service costs by providing access to resources for socioeconomic initiatives, infrastructure development, and pivotal projects. This contributes to the sustainable development of communities and their financial stability, which is especially important in the context of limited budget resources. In the United States, the municipal bond insurance market is well developed. Major insurers such as Assured Guaranty and Build America Mutual cover a significant proportion of new bond issuances, providing credit protection and reducing investors’ vulnerability to economic fluctuations. This ensures market liquidity and helps to maintain the investment attractiveness of debt financing even during crisis periods. In Europe, municipal bond insurance is developing more slowly, but new opportunities are emerging, especially with the integration of the Ukrainian market. In addition, bond insurance allows you to expand the circle of potential investors, because the presence of an insurance guarantee makes local loan bonds more attractive even for more conservative investors, who usually avoid risky investments. Thanks to this, the municipal bond market receives additional opportunities for development, and communities have access to new sources of financing, which contributes to their resilience and stability.
Sociolinguistic Perspectives on English Phonetic Dialects: A Case Study of My Fair Lady
Authors: Di Wang
Published: January 2025

The study provides a sociolinguistic analysis of British English dialects, focusing on the phonetic variations depicted in the film My Fair Lady. It reveals how dialects and accents serve as indicators of social class and mobility, as illustrated by the character Eliza Doolittle’s transformation from Cockney to Received Pronunciation (RP). Key findings include the impact of phonetic features, such as vowel shifts and consonant omissions, on social perception and the role of intonation and grammar in signaling social status. The research underscores the significance of language as a tool for social ascent and the complex interplay between linguistic authenticity and societal expectations. The study’s outcomes contribute to the understanding of language variation as a reflection of and influence on social dynamics.
The Effect of Information Technology to the Performance of English Teachers in Selected Vocational Schools
Authors: Xu Zongfa  , Li Yiwen  , Li Guangyue  , Liu Xiaoxia
Published: January 2025

Vásquez-Pajuelo et al. (2024) and Chaipidech (2022) have highlighted the growing use of digital tools in vocational schools, particularly for teaching English. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift toward digital literacy, necessitating enhanced technological competencies in educational professionals. Chaipidech et al. (2022) highlight the potential of IT in facilitating individualized learning experiences, providing real-time feedback, and encouraging collaboration through online practice communities. Research shows that when educators have the appropriate digital skills and resources, their instructional practices improve, leading to improved student engagement and learning outcomes. However, there are still significant gaps in research, particularly in the China, where the digital divide and lack of comprehensive training programs pose challenges. The study reveals gaps in teachers' understanding of ICT's potential benefits due to inadequate infrastructure, technological support, and professional development. Despite positive attitudes, limited training and limited resources hinder ICT integration. The study suggests specific training programs, better ICT facilities, and a well-thought-out plan to make the most of ICT's effect on vocational school teachers' work and students' grades.
Wisdom of a stochastic system in cyberspace
Authors: Dzhalladova Irada
Published: January 2025

The paper offers consideration of the models that are relevant for the state of Ukraine during a full-scale war unleashed by an aggressor neighbor. Ukraine is holding on, despite great losses and great pain. Holds up on all fronts. In this work, I want to focus on events in cyberspace, where changes occur every nanosecond. Why the wisdom of the system in cyberspace? Perhaps not only there, because the fact that we are all alive, resisting — all this testifies to the wisdom of the Ukrainian people, their desire to rely on their roots, on love for their native land, for the Motherland. Іn other words, such a system of traditions and relationships has developed, which can be described as WISDOM. This work is about wisdom in cyberspace. Everyone is in cyberspace, we use information systems, learn news, hear alarms, react to pain or joy. So-called feedback loops are used in information systems and cyberspace to detect and correct errors, as well as to adapt to new conditions or changes in input signals. They allow systems to respond to changes in uncertainty or input signals by adjusting their behavior accordingly.
Pràctiques forestals i d’arboricultura als jaciments de Iesso (Guissona, Lleida) i Vilauba (Camós, Girona)
Authors: López Castillo Eva Maria , Piqué Huerta Raquel , López‑Bultó Oriol , Berrocal Barberà Anna , Castanyer Masoliver Pere , Pera Isern Joaquim , Rodrigo Requena Esther
Published: January 2025

La gestió dels boscos, com a conjunt d’estratègies aplicades, es documenten a través de les fonts escrites i de les representacions iconogràfiques a la península Ibèrica i, més concretament al nord‑est peninsular, a partir del que es pot trobar a les diferents fonts clàssiques de l’època. Aquestes pràctiques podrien haver afectat diferents espècies i amb diferents propòsits: millorar la producció dels arbres fruiters, procurar farratge per als ramats o obtenir fusta amb una forma i una mida específiques, per a les diferents aplicacions. Tot i això, les evidències directes d’aquestes pràctiques són escasses o difícils d’identificar en el registre arqueològic. L’objectiu d’aquest treball és fer una aproximació a la gestió de la fusta i les pràctiques d’arboricultura a l’antiguitat i tardo‑antiguitat al nord‑est de la península Ibèrica (des del segle II aC fins al segle VII dC), a partir de l’estudi de restes de fusta humida arqueològica. Concretament, es presenten els resultats de l’estudi de dos jaciments de Catalunya, dins de la cronologia abans esmentada, que són els jaciments de Iesso a Guissona (Lleida), d’època romana i de Vilauba a Camós (Girona), que abasta des d’època romana fins a època visigòtica. En ambdós casos, l’estudi se centra en les restes recuperades a l’interior de pous d’aigua amortitzats. La metodologia emprada ha estat l’aplicació del roundwood method (Out et al., 2013), basada en la correlació entre l’edat i el diàmetre. S’ha confeccionat una col·lecció de referència d’individus cultivats, gestionats i no gestionats, de les espècies identificades en el jaciment. Es presenten aquí les principals característiques observades en el material de referència i es comparen amb els materials arqueològics. Els resultats obtinguts han permès identificar pràctiques d’arboricultura en Prunus sp. i Vitis vinifera, a més de possibles pràctiques de gestió en taxons com el Sambucus nigra i el Salix sp. Els resultats es contextualitzen amb els obtinguts a partir d’altres estudis arqueobotànics en els mateixos jaciments i en l’àmbit històric de la regió.
La Ramaderia durant l’època romana al nord‑est peninsular: alguns exemples i reflexions
Authors: Colominas Barberà Lídia
Published: January 2025

L’estudi de les restes de fauna recuperades en jaciments romans de l’actual Catalunya ja no és una anomalia. Per tant, comencem a tenir un corpus prou important de dades per a poder caracteritzar la ramaderia en aquest territori. És el que pretenem fer amb aquest article, realitzant una triple mirada a les dades. Comencem fent una mirada global a les evidències existents pel nord‑est peninsular, seguim amb una mirada centrada en les vil·les de l’àrea de Girona, i acabem amb una mirada a diversos estudis de casos focalitzats en una espècie concreta, els bovins.
Estudi arqueozoològic de les restes de fauna de l’abocador del segle III de Mas Gusó (Bellcaire d’Empordà)
Authors: Tura Poch Clàudia , Coromina Bujons Neus , Casas Genover Josep
Published: January 2025

El jaciment de Mas Gusó (Bellcaire d’Empordà, Baix Empordà) va ser abandonat i desmantellat entre el 270‑280 dC. Tot el que se’n va treure va ser llençat a un abocador al sector sud‑est de l’edifici. L’abundància de material, la seva homogeneïtat i cronologia precisa fan d’aquest abocador el millor indret per estudiar la fase d’abandonament de l’assentament. Els resultats de l’estudi de la fauna han posat de manifest una explotació ramadera especialitzada en la cria del bestiar ovicaprí, orientada a l’obtenció de productes secundaris i carnis. El bestiar boví complementava l’aportació càrnia de l’assentament, al mateix temps que era font de productes secundaris i usat com a animal de tir. Ara bé, la cria de suids anava directament orientada a l’exportació dels recursos carnis. En definitiva, l’explotació pecuària a Mas Gusó s’encarregava des de la cria de l’animal al processament de les carcasses, tal com mostren les marques d’escorxament, desarticulació i descarnament. Una activitat que s’hauria vist complementada amb la caça de lepòrids i cérvols.
L’aprofitament dels efectius marítims en el context periurbà de Barcelona. Les evidències d’ostres durant l’època romana i l’antiguitat tardana
Authors: Fernández Liarte Marina , Nadal‑Lorenzo Jordi
Published: January 2025

En aquest treball es presenta un estudi arqueozoològic de les restes malacofaunístiques de mol·luscos marins recuperats en diverses intervencions arqueològiques desenvolupades a la ciutat de Barcelona amb fases del món romà alt‑imperial i el món romà baix‑imperial i tardoantic. Especialment, s’examina el rol de l’ostra (Ostrea edulis Linnaeus 1758), gràcies als conjunts datats entre els segles i i vii de la plaça Duc de Medinacelli, el carrer Ample i el carrer Sotstinent Navarro. Les evidències semblen demostrar la importància destacada d’aquesta espècie, en relació als restants taxons determinats, amb la presència de certes traces que proven la recollida i consum d’aquest animal. Paral·lelament, altres indicis ens encaminen a apuntar la possible pràctica d’una certa gestió del creixement d’aquests individus, a través de l’establiment de mecanismes de control del seu desenvolupament, des de com a mínim el baix imperi.
"Romani cum commercio salis mutant Bergistanorum agrum"
Authors: Farguell Josep , Sánchez Josep
Published: January 2025

El comerç de la sal, previsiblement, va ser bàsic en el desenvolupament econòmic de les comunitats de l’ager dels bergistans des que Marc Porti Cató pacificà el territori l’any 195 aC, en el període climàtic de l’Holocè tardà anomenat Òptim Climàtic Romà amb hiverns calorosos i humits. Extreta la sal a cel obert al límit sud‑oest d’aquest territori, els possibles camins romans que es documenten, se situen a l’alt Llobregat, entès aquest, com el territori d’est a oest dels quatre rius principals que neixen al Prepirineu central, és a dir, un ager centrat en el Llobregat, on a l’est hi ha la riera de Merlès i a l’oest l’Aigua d’Ora i el Cardener, tots tributaris del Llobregat. Aquestes vies previsiblement permetien el comerç de la sal vers la Cerdanya (Iulia Lívica), la Catalunya Nord i la conca del riu Ter que obre aquest comerç vers Gerunda, Emporiae, i pel Coll d’Ares travessar cap a Iliberis, Ruscino. Aquest comerç de Cardona cap a l’est, passant pel territori bergistà, eren de 2 a 3 jornades, i els traginers probablement tornaven amb mineral de ferro per les fargues del que ara coneixem com el nord de la Catalunya Central, una de les quals, està excavada i documentada al costat mateix d’un camí romà.
Hyperdense Artery Sign in Basilar Oclussion: Report of Two Cases and Review
Authors: Hernández Camilo Andrés Romero , Blanco Nathaly Cerón , Rubiano Jonathan Suárez , Moreno Nicolás Soto
Published: January 2025

Stroke represents one of the main causes of mortality in the world, being estimated as the clinical condition with the highest number of associated deaths only behind ischemic heart disease [1]. Of which approximately 80% of stroke are of ischemic origin [2]. One third of these events may correspond to proximal occlusions of the intracranial arteries of the anterior or posterior circulation. Basilar artery occlusion (BAO) represents approximately 1% of ischemic strokes and 5% of all occlusions of large cerebral vessels [3]. BAO is a catastrophic event, 70% of patients have a fatal outcome or severe disability [3].

Recent studies have shown that endovascular treatment of BAO is safe, with a greater probability of reperfusion and leads to better outcomes than medical treatment [4,5]. Successful endovascular management of BAO depends in part on the promptness of intervention. However, early identification of BAO can sometimes be difficult. Simple cranial computed tomography (CT), which is the recommended image for the initial evaluation of patients with suspected stroke, has a low sensitivity for detecting posterior fossa ischemic signs compared to brain MRI [6]. Additionally, the clinical presentation of BAO is challenging and difficult to interpret, taking into account the large territory that the basilar irrigates, which gives rise to a variety of symptoms and signs, as well as sharing some similar clinical characteristics with stroke of the anterior system [7].

In proximal occlusions of the intracranial arteries, it is sometimes possible to detect the hyperdense artery sign on simple skull CT. The sign consists of a hyperdense image corresponding to the course of an artery. Intravascular hyperdensity may appear before ischemic parenchymal changes and in this context represents acute thrombus formation. The hyperdense appearance is determined by the increase in hematocrit and the relative decrease in plasma within the thrombus [8]. The hyperdense sign has been more frequently described in proximal occlusions of the middle cerebral artery and has been associated with a greater probability of a stroke of cardioembolic origin. The hyperdense sign in BAO has been less frequently described and its association with the mechanism of ischemia and patient prognosis has not been established [9].

Two cases of the hyperdense sign on simple skull CT due to BAO are presented below.
Probable Vascular Dementia in a Tropical Environment: Study of Twenty- Six (26) Observations at the Conakry University Hospital
Authors: N Camara , ML Condé , Malé Doré , ML Touré , SD Barry , MT Diallo , B Diallo , A Sacko , MM Konaté , MM Keita , FA Cissé , A Cissé
Published: January 2025

Introduction: In a tropical environment, diagnostic certainty of vascular dementia is difficult to establish due to under-medicalization, consultation delays and especially the inadequacy of exploration methods.

Material and methods: We analyzed the files of 153 patients hospitalized for dementia syndrome over a period from January 1, 2016 to December 21, 2021 in the Neurology Department of the Hospital Center. University of Conakry. Dementia status was assessed according to the Clinical Rating Scale (CDS), confirmed by cognitive tests of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE <24) or by the Mental State Examination score. Neurobehavioral cognitive state (NCSE).

Results: 26 (twenty-six) patients met the DSM-IV criteria for vascular dementia, based on the association of dementia and cerebrovascular disease certified by the presence of focal neurological signs of vascular origin and imaging data.

Conclusion: this study shows a non-stereotyped clinical and etiological profile of the spectrum of vascular dementias in the tropics, in a context of under-medicalization. These results are useful for diagnostic and prognostic discussion.
Tandem Occlusion of the Internal Carotic Artery: About Two Cases Report
Authors: Komla Nyinèvi ANAYO , Kokou Mensah GUINHOUYA , Kossivi APETSE , Lehleng AGBA , Komi ASSOGBA , Agnon KA BALOGOU
Published: January 2025

Tandem occlusion is a simultaneous occlusion of internal carotid and the average brain artery. It is a very serious radio-clinical entity with a bad vital and functional prognosis. The diagnosis is brought by medical imaging in the occurrence magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and the angioscan of the supra-aortic trunks (SAT). The treatment is essentially endovascular in developed countries. On the other hand, in our environments where the technical plate is limited, the care is a big challenge. Thus we report two cases of tandem occasion confirmed respectively by magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and Angioscan of SAT in order to evaluate the evolutionary profile of our patients under the drug treatment.
Assessing the Awareness and Perception of Neonatal Jaundice among Expectant Mothers in Ghana
Authors: Asiedu Christiana , Edzeani Enyonam Ama
Published: January 2025

Purpose: The study aimed to investigate the awareness and perception of expectant mothers on neonatal jaundice in Ghana.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design, employing quantitative approach was used. Convenient and purposive sampling technique was employed in sampling 334 expectant mothers for the study. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaire and was analysed using IBM SPSS version 26.0 with descriptive and chi-square statistics.

Results: Majority of the responses were between the ages of 30 -34years (32.9%; n = 110), never married (57.8%; n = 193). Findings from the study concluded that a vast majority of the respondents knew about NNJ (87.1%; n =291) and consider infections (57.2%; n = 191) as a possible cause of NNJ. 85% (n= 285) of the respondents agreed that the mode of delivery could have led to the neonatal jaundice. It emerged in the study that there is a significant relationship between the level of awareness and perception of neonatal jaundice among expectant mothers in GPHA Hospital (p<0.05), X2 (24, N = 334) = 568.04, p = 0.000. About 52% (n = 182) of the mothers agreed that they engage in home treatment with local herb mediations in managing and treating children with NNJ. Per the results, 82.3% (n = 275) of the respondents agreed that the severity of the sickness (NNJ) affect their decision in management and treatment.

Conclusion: It was recommended that targeted public enlightenment program and education on identification of common newborn illness and safe initial home interventions during antenatal and postnatal sessions need to be intensified to help reduce morbidity and adverse events associate with Neonatal Jaundice.
Intraocular Lymphoma With B Cells
Authors: Dumitrache Marieta , Cioboata Miruna , ML Cioboata
Published: January 2025

Intraocular lymphoma includes a group of malignant tumors, originating in the lymphohematopoietic tissue, with reserved prognosis. The risk factors are multiple: chromosomal translocation, infections (Epstein Barr), immunodeficiency, chemotherapy, radiation exposure. Intraocular lymphoma can be primary (vitreoretinal and uveal), and secondary. The uveal one is choroidal or with damage to the iris and ciliary body. Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma, more common bilaterally asymmetric, present at 50-70 years old, can be associated with primary CNS lymphoma or by CNS dissemination with malignant cells, B lymphocytes. Clinically, the anterior pole is not affected, but the posterior pole presents cloudy vitreous with vision in haze, “leopard spot” retinal changes with subretinal infiltrates and lymphomatous foci. In choroidal uveal lymphoma, the anterior pole and vitreous are not affected or show minor signs, but multiple chorioretinal infiltrates, retinal detachment, optic disc edema, sometimes macular damage are present. Lymphoma of the iris and ciliary body, often unilateral, has an iridociliary reaction of variable intensity, with an average vitreous reaction. Secondary lymphoma is metastasis from systemic lymphoma. Treatment in lymphoma depends on the tumor's stage of evolution, stage I-II or III-IV, but also on the type of lymphoma: indolent or aggressive. Treatment options are selected depending on the age, general condition, volume, extent, histology of the tumor. Rituximab can be effective alone, or combined with: cyclophosphamide, doxurubicin, vincristine, prednisone, in repeated courses. If necessary, STEM cell transplantation can be performed, autologous, repeated with allogeneic STEM cells, CAR-T cells. If necessary, local chemotherapy can be applied with intravitreal methotrexate, rituximab, associated with systemic chemotherapy. Surgical treatment might be necessary in some cases with enucleation, exenteration.
Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted 3D Black Blood Imaging and Its Value as Predictor for Temporal Arteritis in A Real World Setting
Authors: Wallner-Essl Walter M , Ebner Barbara E , Pfaff Johannes AR , Steinbacher Jürgen , Machegger Lukas , Grimm Jochen
Published: January 2025

Giant-cell arteritis (GCA) of the superficial temporal artery presents diagnostic challenges due to its varied clinical manifestations and limitations of available laboratory markers. Imaging plays a crucial role in its diagnosis and monitoring. Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted 3D-Black Blood imaging (T1BB) offers promising potential in noninvasively assessing vascular changes associated with GCA. A retrospective, monocentric observational study involving 250 patients, including 14 with suspected GCA, was conducted using contrast-enhanced T1BB imaging alongside clinical, laboratory, histological and clinical data concerning their predictive value for diagnosing GCA. Inter-rater agreement and imaging accuracy were evaluated. The study revealed poor inter-rater agreement in detecting GCA-related changes using contrast-enhanced T1BB imaging. Sensitivity (10%) and positive predictive value (14%) were notably low, while specificity, negative predictive value, and accuracy were high (>90%). Histologically proven GCA cases often resulted in false negatives on MRI, specifically 9 out of 10 cases. While T1BB imaging demonstrated high specificity and negative predictive value, its low sensitivity and positive predictive value limit its use as a standalone diagnostic tool for GCA and complementary diagnostic methods may be necessary for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of GCA.
GIS-based analysis of water quality risk factors and CKDu prevalence in Northern Yobe State, Nigeria
Authors: Babagana-Kyari Modibbo , Yaro Nura Ahaji , Yakasai Kabiru M.
Published: January 2025

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKDu) presents a major public health challenge in Northern Yobe State, Nigeria, particularly in the Bade community, where water quality is overly suspected to influence its prevalence. This study employs a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)-based framework to analyze the spatial distribution of CKD in relation to water quality parameters. Advanced spatial analysis techniques, including hexagonal tessellation and Moran's I for spatial autocorrelation, were utilized alongside community-based surveys conducted using Kobotoolbox and Qfield applications to map CKD hotspots. The Moran's I Index of 0.1046, with a z-score of 4.9546 and a p-value of 0.000001, indicates significant clustering of CKD cases rather than random distribution across the study area. Water samples from 30 water facilities, with 10 from each classified hotspot, were analyzed for nephrotoxic heavy metals, ionic concentrations, and hardness using an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (Model 210V-GP). The spatial distribution of these parameters was modeled using Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation in ArcGIS Pro 3.4. Descriptive statistics, hazard index calculations, and Water Quality Index (WQI) assessments were conducted, with box plots facilitating comparative analysis across High, Medium, and Low disease areas. ANOVA and Tukey's HSD post-hoc tests were performed to compare specific water parameters between the disease hotspots and water facilities. The results revealed elevated concentrations of nephrotoxic heavy metals in high-disease hotspots, with maximum values observed for Arsenic (0.21 mg/L), Cadmium (0.30 mg/L), Lead (0.23 mg/L), Chromium (0.50 mg/L), and Fluoride (55 mg/L). Additionally, Nitrite and Nitrate levels exhibited high Hazard Quotients, all surpassing WHO guidelines for safe drinking water. These findings underscore the potential health risks posed by these contaminants in affected areas. Results demonstrate a significant link between the prolonged use of handpumps water and high prevalence of chronic kidney disease incidence (CKD) among affected households. Additionally, the study identified strong spatial correlations between CKD incidence and high concentrations of nephrotoxic heavy metals in water from handpumps, providing critical insights for targeted public health interventions and guiding future research efforts.
The role of university students in protecting the environment
Authors: Hassan Najmaldin Ezaldin
Published: January 2025

The global environmental crisis, characterized by challenges such as climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss, requires urgent action. As an educated and socially aware demographic, university students are uniquely positioned to contribute significantly to environmental protection and sustainability. This paper explores the multifaceted role of university students in addressing environmental issues through education, advocacy, research, and sustainable campus initiatives. It highlights how student-led movements, such as Fridays for Future, have propelled environmental awareness into public discourse and influenced institutional and policy changes. Students' involvement in research and innovation, particularly in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management, has led to groundbreaking solutions to mitigate environmental degradation. On university campuses, students drive sustainability through initiatives to reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote biodiversity. Their advocacy extends beyond campuses to regional, national, and international platforms, where they actively shape environmental policies and push for ambitious climate action. Despite challenges such as limited funding and institutional resistance, university students continue to overcome barriers by leveraging academic resources and collaborating with external organizations. Ultimately, university students play a pivotal role in fostering long-term environmental stewardship and promoting sustainable development at both local and global levels.
Screening of sugar tolerant fast-growing lactic acid bacteria for preparation of Misti dahi
Authors: Majumder Reshab , . Himanshu , Kumari Manorama , Abdul Hussain Shaik , Behare Pradip
Published: January 2025

Misti dahi, a popular fermented milk product in eastern India, is experiencing growing demand across the country. To meet the increasing demand, it is essential to identify sugar-tolerant starter cultures that can ensure more desirable and consistent fermentation outcomes while minimizing the risk offer mentation failure. This study aimed to isolate, screen, and identify sugar-tolerant cultures suitable for Misti dahi production. Out of ten isolated cultures, S. thermophilus MD3 exhibited remarkable tolerance to high sugar concentrations of up to 20%in milk without compromising cell viability and curdling time. Moreover, it consistently produced Misti dahi of superior quality in terms of physicochemical, microbiological, textural, sensory, and rheological attributes. The isolated S. thermophilus MD3culture holds potential for commercialization in Misti dahi production
Characterisation of effective antifungal Lactobacillus strain isolated fromChilika curd
Authors: Kumar Hitesh , Nanda Dhiraj Kumar , Gaare Manju , Singh Rameshwar
Published: January 2025

In this study different strains of Lactobacilli isolated from Chilika curd, (fermented milk product native to the Chilika region of Odisha, India) were assessed for their antifungal activity. Limosilactobacillus fermentum C-14 was shown to have the strongest inhibitory activity against tested yeast and mold cultures. This antifungal activity of cell free supernatant (CFS)Lb-C-14 was found to be stable at high temperature and up to pH6. Antifungal activity has been observed in the bacterial cell-free supernatant, and the compounds have been identified as Phenyl lactic acid (PLA), acetic acid and lactic acid. L. fermentumLb-C-14 has the potential antifungal activity and could be suggested as a protective culture for the biopreservation of fermented foods.
Genome-wide SNP identification and annotation from high coverage whole genome sequenced data of Bhadawari buffalo
Authors: Santhosh Ameya , Vohra Vikas , Alex Rani , Gowane Gopal
Published: January 2025

Eukaryotic genomes are rich in Single Nucloetide Polymorphisms(SNPs) which have gained immense importance as the genetic marker of choice especially for the production traits in livestock species. The high throughput sequencing technologies, which offer quick and greater coverage genome sequencing data has improved the accuracy of SNP discovery through various bioinformatic pipelines. This is the preliminary study to uncover the SNPs from high coverage (45x) sequenced data of the unique Bhadawari buffalo breed of India. Blood was collected from two pure bred animals from the breeding tract and DNA was sequenced using Illumina High seq technology. The sequences were aligned to the buffalo reference genome and variant calling was done. The variant count (SNPs, Insertions, and deletions) discoverable at six ascending read depths (2,5,10,20, 30 and 40) have been analysed. The Transition to Transversion ratio (Ti/Tv ratio) is found to be nearly 2.2. Chromosome wise distribution of SNPs showed that in all read depths maximum number of SNPs were found to be in the 1st chromosome of Bhadawari buffalo genome.
Genetic blueprinting of novel and performance traits-related SNPs in Indian Gir cattle using latest reference assembly
Authors: Sukhija Nidhi , Choudhary Anjali , KK Kanaka , Jagla Komal , Devadasan M Joel , Sivalingam Jayakumar , Verma Archana
Published: January 2025

Among the indicine breeds of cattle, Gir breed thrives in challenging arid habitats, produce more milk with less feed intake and are resistant to tropical diseases. Identification of novel and bias free SNPs are important to include in genetic studies and breeding programs. The current study aimed to explore SNPs in Gir cattle genome followed by annotation of the SNPs to different performance traits. Double-digest restriction site associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq) was done and different bioinformatic tools and software used to mine SNPs and subsequent annotation to different performance traits. A total of53,243 high quality SNPs were identified using the latest ARS-UCD 1.3reference genome (GCF_002263795.2). In all, 2,931 SNPs were annotated to 452 candidate genes related to nine different traits of interest such as, milk production, reproduction, adaptation, disease-resistance, growth, carcass, coat thickness, coat colour, and domestication traits. ddRAD-seq offers mining of ascertainment free SNPs in a cost-effective way and hence the SNPs obtained in this studied population can be successfully used for population genetic studies and in breeding programs. The information mined in this study will aid in genetic improvement, designing appropriate breed improvement programmes and leveraging conservation efforts.
Headspace volatile markers of Sandesh, a chhana-based delicacy stored at elevated temperatures
Authors: Uma Karpurapu , Panjagari Narender Raju , Raman Rakesh Kumar , Singh Ashish Kumar , Sharma Lal Chand , Ganguly Sangita , Sharma Rajan , Sharma Vivek
Published: January 2025

The present study explores the headspace volatiles of Sandesh (dessert made from heat acid coagulated milk) that contribute to the product quality during storage. Sandesh is packaged in clear and dark-coloured glass containers and stored at 30 °C and 45 °C in an incubator. Sandesh quality during the storage was estimated by biochemical, microbiological and sensory analysis. The concentration of head-space volatiles was simultaneously determined by employing headspace solid-phase micro-extraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The identified volatiles were pertaining to various functional groups, which include acids, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, alkanes, alkenes, amines, amides, esters and ethers. As a result, acetic acid, propanoic acid, valeric acid and butyric acid were suggested as headspace freshness markers, while spoilage markers were identified as 1-hexanol 2-ethyl-; 1-hexanol; 3-aminomethyl-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexanoltrans-; 1-propanol, 2-amino-; pentane, 2-methyl; hexane, 2,4-dimethyl-; hexane, 3-methyl; n-hexane; acetone; 2-heptanone;2-pentanone. The obtained volatile markers are essential to develop the intelligent packaging systems for monitoring the product’s quality
SATU KASUS LUPUS VULGARIS DENGAN PREDILEKSI JARANG: KORELASI KLINIS, DERMOSKOPI DAN HISTOPATOLOGI
Authors: Masri Tutty Ariani , Utama Redha Cipta
Published: January 2025

ABSTRAK
Pendahuluan : Lupus vulgaris (LV) adalah tuberkulosis (TB) kutis pausibasiler. Prevalensinya diperkirakan kurang dari 10% dari keseluruhan TB kutis. Penegakan diagnosis LV sering menjadi tantangan sebab basil tahan asam (BTA) sering tidak ditemukan dan gambaran histopatologinya mirip dengan TB kutis bentuk lainnya sehingga perlu korelasi pemeriksaan klinis, dermoskopi, dan histopatologi. Kasus : Laki-laki 48 tahun mengeluhkan bercak merah pada punggung tangan kanan yang tidak gatal, tidak nyeri, mudah berdarah bila terbentur sejak 9 bulan. Terdapat riwayat luka tusuk batang bambu pada lokasi bercak. Riwayat TB paru, kontak dengan pasien TB disangkal. Status dermatologis pada punggung tangan kanan ditemukan lesi serpiginosa tunggal berupa plak violaceous, tepi papul-papul aktif eritema-violaceous, dan bagian tengahnya central healing. Diaskopi tampak blanching dengan tanda apple jelly colour. Laju endap darah 30 mm, HIV non reaktif dan rontgen paru suspek tuberkulosis. Pemeriksaan sputum tidak ditemukan BTA. Dermoskopi ditemukan yellowish white globules, pinkish background, dotted vessels. Gambaran histopatologi tampak granuloma lapisan dermis, sel datia Langhans, tidak ditemukan basil tahan asam (BTA). Diagnosis ditegakkan sebagai LV. Diskusi : Gambaran klinis plak violaceous dengan tanda apple jelly colour adalah tanda radang granulomatosa. Temuan yellowish white globules di atas pinkish background pada dermoskopi merefleksikan granuloma di lapisan dermis. Gradasi warna background pada dermoskopi dan ketebalan plak berhubungan dengan aktifitas penyakit dan proses peradangan aktif dan kronis sehingga dapat dijadikan modalitas diagnostik dan evaluasi terapeutik. Kesimpulan : Kombinasi pemeriksaan klinis, dermoskopi, dan histopatologi dapat digunakan sebagai modalitas diagnosis pada kasus LV
Kata kunci : dermoskopi, lupus vulgaris, tuberkulosis kutis
O impacto dos biofilmes de pseudomonas aeruginosa na resistência antimicrobiana e nas estratégias terapêuticas emergentes
Authors: Perin Andressa , Padilha Arthur Bono , Gerolino Vitor Eduardo Paviani , Santos Nathally Claudiane De Souza
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Analisar os mecanismos de resistência antimicrobiana em Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Métodos: Este estudo consistiu em uma revisão da literatura. Foram analisados artigos publicados nos últimos 10 anos, disponíveis em bancos de dados como PubMed e SciELO. Resultados/Revisão Bibliográfica: A análise de literatura evidenciou que o biofilme, uma das principais características de P. aeruginosa, impede a penetração de antimicrobianos e favorece infecções crônicas de difícil erradicação. As β-lactamases, como as AmpC e metalo-β-lactamases (MβLs), inativam antibióticos β-lactâmicos, tornando-os ineficazes no combate à infecção. Além disso, a comunicação por Quorum Sensing (QS) permite a coordenação das células bacterianas, promovendo o fortalecimento do biofilme e aumentando a resistência a antimicrobianos. Conclusão: A resistência de P. aeruginosa é complexa, sendo mediada por mecanismos como a formação de biofilmes, produção de β-lactamases e a comunicação por Quorum Sensing.
Assessment of information quality in the largest Danish Facebook group on atopic diseases: a mixed bag of help and harm
Authors: Høj Simon , Thomsen Simon Francis , Meteran Hanieh , Sigsgaard Torben , Meteran Howraman
Published: January 2025

Background

Patient education is an important part of the management of atopic diseases such as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and asthma. Given the increasing reliance on social media platforms such as Facebook for health-related discourse, there are concerns about the accuracy and quality of the shared information.

Aim

The aim of this study was to categorize and assess the quality of the information shared within the largest Danish Facebook group focusing on atopic diseases.

Method

A total of 652 posts and 7,515 comments were scrutinized, classifying each as useful, misleading, or neutral.

Results

The analysis predominantly identified discussions around asthma (40%), allergic rhinitis (21%), and eczema (5%), with the majority of queries posed by women and related to symptoms and medications. The results indicated that 11% of comments were deemed useful, whereas 12% were categorized as misleading, with the bulk of comments being neutral. Concerningly, 52% of the comments promoting behavioral change were found to be misleading.

Conclusion

Although the Facebook group serves as a hub for peer support, its utility as a reliable educational resource is compromised. Overall, 12% of the comments were classified as misleading, while more than half of the advice encouraging behavioral change was misleading.
Influence of age and gender on gait kinematics of pelvis and hip in healthy adults aged 19–60 years
Authors: Mullerpatan Rajani , Shetty Triveni , Agarwal Bela
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Pelvic and hip motion are pivotal in maintaining postural control and energy efficient gait. An insight into influence of age and gender on the coupled motion of hip and pelvis in gait-cycle will guide clinical rehabilitation strategies and pertinent technology-design for specific age-groups. Therefore, present study evaluated pelvic and hip-joint gait kinematics in healthy females and males across adult-hood.

Methods

Following signed-informed consent, pelvic and hip kinematics in 3-planes during stance-phase of gait were measured using 12-camera motion system and 2 force-plates, in 200 healthy Indian female and male volunteers (19–60years) stratified into 4-groups (19–30 years; 31–40 years; 41–50years; 51–60 years).

Results

With advancing age, males and females demonstrated a gradual rise in hip adduction (p < 0.01) in coronal plane. Sagittal plane pelvic and hip kinematics did not change with advancing age among males whereas females above 30 years Demonstrated greater pelvic drop (49%), pelvic tilt (35%) and hip adduction (69%) compared to females below 30 years (p < 0.01). In comparison to males, females demonstrated greater peak anterior pelvic tilt (32%), greater pelvic hike (28%) and protraction (28%) in 50–60 years age-group (p < 0.05). Females across all age-groups demonstrated greater hip adduction compared to males (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Present findings add age and gender characterized gait-kinematics data of healthy adults from the most populous country to the existing 3-D data of gait from different populations. Clinicians and engineers, can leverage this knowledge of changing gait kinematics of healthy adults to design specific therapeutic strategies for aging men and women to optimize gait kinematics and advance design and development of locomotor technology suitable for people with rehabilitation needs across the globe.
GBR assisted in situ Onlay bone grafting for the posterior maxillary horizontal ridge augmentation: a case report and literature review
Authors: Li Mucong , Liu Xiuyu , Zhou Jing , You Jiaqian , Chen Sheng , Feng Jian , Wei Xuyan , Wang Hanchi , Zhou Yanmin
Published: January 2025

The posterior mandible is the primary area for occlusal function. However, long-term tooth loss in the posterior mandible often leads to rapid absorption of both buccal and lingual trabecular bone plates and subsequent atrophy of the alveolar ridge. This ultimately results in horizontal bone deficiencies that complicate achieving an optimal three-dimensional placement for dental implants. Conventional techniques employed clinically for horizontal bone augmentation have limited efficacy, cause significant surgical trauma, and require extended treatment duration. Consequently, the selection of an effective and minimally invasive bone augmentation technique for restoring bone width is an essential prerequisite for successful implant restoration in the posterior mandible. This clinical case study presented a treatment approach involving guided bone regeneration (GBR) and in situ Onlay grafting for bone level augmentation in the blade-shaped alveolar ridge of the posterior mandible, followed by implant restoration. By rotating the in situ sourced bone block, the denser bone volume at the base of the blade-shaped alveolar ridge was transferred to the crest of the alveolar ridge, obviating the necessity for a secondary operative site and mitigating complications such as pain, edema, sensory abnormalities, and nerve injury. Incorporation of trabecular bone within the recipient area enhanced fixation while augmenting vascular supply. A significant increase in bone volume by 1,628.21 mm3 was achieved within 7 months postoperatively. Overall, this novel approach offers valuable insights into minimally invasive and stable techniques for alveolar bone augmentation.