bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinome Reprogramming of G2/M Kinases and Repression of MYCN Contribute to Superior Efficacy of Lorlatinib in ALK-Driven Neuroblastoma
Authors: Matkar Smita , East Michael P. , Stuhlmiller Timothy J. , Witek Gabriela M. , Farrel Alvin , Pastor Steven , Okumu Denis O. , Kennedy Anne , Kalna Joshua R. , Berko Esther R. , Casey Colleen E. , Krytska Kateryna , Patel Khushbu , Rokita Jo Lynne , Gerelus Mark , Maris John M. , Johnson Gary L. , Mossé Yael P.
Published: February 2025

Mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) oncogene in neuroblastoma occur most frequently at one of three hotspot amino acid residues, with the F1174* and F1245* variants conferring de novo resistance to first- and second-generation ALK inhibitors, including crizotinib and ceritinib. Lorlatinib, a third-generation ALK/ROS1 inhibitor, overcomes de novo resistance and induces complete and sustained tumor regressions in patient-derived xenograft models unresponsive to crizotinib. Lorlatinib has now completed phase 1 testing in children and adults with relapsed/refractory ALK-driven neuroblastoma and entered pivotal phase 3 testing within the Children’s Oncology Group. To define mechanisms underlying the superior activity of lorlatinib, we utilized a chemical proteomics approach to quantitatively measure functional kinome dynamics in response to lorlatinib and crizotinib in clinically relevant ALK-driven neuroblastoma patient-derived xenograft models. Lorlatinib was a markedly more potent inhibitor of ALK and preferentially downregulated several kinases implicated in G2/M cell-cycle transition compared with crizotinib. Lorlatinib treatment also led to the repression of MYCN expression and its occupancy at promoters of the same G2/M kinases. These data provide mechanistic insight into the superior efficacy of lorlatinib over crizotinib for the treatment of ALK-driven neuroblastoma.
ATAD2 Drives Prostate Cancer Progression to Metastasis
Authors: Dutta Anindita , Rodriguez-Calero Antonio , Ronaldson-Bouchard Kacey , Offermann Anne , Rahman Daoud , Vhatkar Twinkle Bapuji , Hasson Dan , Alshalalfa Mohammed , Davicioni Elai , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Rubin Mark A. , Vunjak-Novakovic Gordana , Abate-Shen Cory , Arriaga Juan Martin
Published: February 2025

Metastasis accounts for the overwhelming majority of cancer deaths. In prostate cancer and many other solid tumors, progression to metastasis is associated with drastically reduced survival outcomes, yet the mechanisms behind this progression remain largely unknown. ATPase family AAA domain containing 2 (ATAD2) is an epigenetic reader of acetylated histones that is overexpressed in multiple cancer types and usually associated with poor patient outcomes. However, the functional role of ATAD2 in cancer progression and metastasis has been relatively understudied. Here, we employ genetically engineered mouse models of prostate cancer bone metastasis, as well as multiple independent human cohorts, to show that ATAD2 is highly enriched in bone metastasis compared with primary tumors and significantly associated with the development of metastasis. We show that ATAD2 expression is associated with MYC pathway activation in patient datasets and that, at least in a subset of tumors, MYC and ATAD2 can regulate each other’s expression. Using functional studies on mouse bone metastatic cell lines and innovative organ-on-a-chip bone invasion assays, we establish a functional role for ATAD2 inhibition in reducing prostate cancer metastasis and growth in bone.

Implications: Our study highlights ATAD2 as a driver of prostate cancer progression and metastasis and suggests it may constitute a promising novel therapeutic target.
Human Papillomavirus Type 16 E6 Seroprevalence among Men Living with HIV without HPV-Driven Malignancies
Authors: Duff Ashley J. , Otieno Christopher O. , Chen Li , Mannion Kyle , Topf Michael C. , Michels Birgitta E. , Butt Julia , Woodward Beverly O. , Lima Morgan C. , Erdem Husamettin , Leonard Michael A. , Turner Megan M. , Waterboer Tim , Sudenga Staci L. , Lang Kuhs Krystle A.
Published: February 2025

Individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are at a higher risk for developing human papillomavirus–driven oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV + OPSCC). There are no methods for early detection; however, HPV16 E6 antibodies have been identified as a promising early marker. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of HPV16 E6 antibodies among men living with HIV, with secondary objectives of analyzing clinical and serologic predictors of HPV16 E6 seropositivity. Banked blood specimens from 2,320 men ages ≥40 years living with HIV in Tennessee were evaluated for the following HPV16 antibodies: L1, E1, E2, E4, E6, and E7. HPV16 E6 antibody levels were further categorized as moderate or high. Demographic, clinical, and serologic determinants of HPV16 E6 seropositivity were evaluated using logistic regression. HPV16 L1 antibodies were most common (22.8%), followed by E4 (10.5%), E6 (5.6%), E2 (4.8%), and E7 (4.0%). Of the 130 HPV16 E6 seropositives, 55 (2.4%) had moderate and 75 (3.2%) had high seropositivity. HPV16 E6 seropositive men had nearly twofold greater odds of seropositivity against one additional HPV16 E antigen [OR: 1.67 (95% CI, 1.10–2.52); P = 0.015] and more than threefold greater odds of seroreactivity against two additional HPV16 E antigens [OR: 3.21 (95% CI, 1.40–7.33); P = 0.006]. HPV16 E6 seropositivity was not associated with the clinical or demographic factors evaluated. In the largest study to date, HPV16 E6 seroprevalence was elevated compared with prior studies in HIV populations (range: 1.1%–3.2%) and likely reflects the high incidence of HPV + OPSCC in the Southeast region of the United States.

Prevention Relevance: Our findings fill an important gap, given that our study is the largest to date to evaluate HPV antibodies among men living with HIV and is the first study to do so in the Southeastern United States, the region with the highest prevalence of both HIV and HPV + OPSCC in the nation.
Inovação digital e tecnológica nos pagamentos à Administração Pública: uma proposta para sua viabilidade e adoção
Authors: Almeida Pedro Luiz Ferreira de , Souza Alexandre Magno Antunes de
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this article is to analyze the possibility of using innovative payment methods regarding taxes and other financial obligations to the Public Administration, such as credit card and cryptocurrency, using a hypothetical-deductive method. For this purpose, it is analyzed the legal regime of Administrative Law and the unavailability of the public interest, considering the need for the Public Administration to receive its values in cash and upfront. From this, it is possible to assess the feasibility of utilizing these innovative payment methods, in light of the current legal framework. To that end, it is necessary for the companies responsible for innovative payment methods to formalize a legal relationship with the Public Administration, which can be accomplished through “registration”, a form of non-competitive bidding provided for in Law 14,133/2021.
A regionalização do saneamento básico no estado de São Paulo
Authors: Ferreira Cinthia Rhemann Dias , Munhoz Daniel Ramella
Published: February 2025

A atividade administrativa de instalação e manutenção do sistema de saneamento básico, compreendido como conjunto dos serviços de abastecimento de água, esgotamento sanitário, limpeza urbana e manejo de resíduos sólidos, possui grandes impactos socioambientais, especialmente em relação à disponibilização destes serviços a setores socialmente excluídos da infraestrutura pública fundamental para o desenvolvimento sustentável, participação democrática no solo urbano e principalmente à integridade dos sistemas ecológicos, contrariando norma constitucional de promoção do meio ambiente ecologicamente equilibrado. Dada a relevância do tema, o presente artigo busca analisar a implantação do saneamento básico no Estado de São Paulo, em especial no que tange sua evolução normativa, a implantação do instrumento de regionalização e os impactos sociais da atividade. A pesquisa se desenvolverá por método dedutivo analítico do ordenamento, bem como análise bibliográfico-doutrinária. O objetivo é avaliar a efetividade da implementação regional no Estado de São Paulo, bem como os riscos socioambientais e jurídicos do modo de efetivação da atividade.
Mecanismos de consensualidade na atividade sancionadora do Banco Central: o que os dados nos dizem sobre o desempenho do Termo de Compromisso e do Acordo Administrativo em Processo de Supervisão?
Authors: Silva Lucas Lopes de Freitas da
Published: February 2025

This paper describes the performance of the Settlement Agreement and the Administrative Settlement in Supervision Process within the scope of the administrative sanctioning law of the Central Bank of Brazil. The study aims to answer how these consensual mechanisms perform. The research employs techniques from Jurimetrics, Statistics, and Data Science focused on quantitative empirical analyses. The data indicate that, from 2014 to 2023, 10,137 decisions were rendered by BACEN. The year 2017 stood out as the year with the highest number of decisions (2,365), while 2014 had the lowest number (620). Individuals were the main targets of the sanctioning decisions of the agency (75.54%), followed by non-financial legal entities (20.45%). Between 2018 and 2024, 86 TCs were concluded. The low number of TCs and APSs compared to the number of sanctioning decisions suggests that these mechanisms were not the main factors responsible for the observed reduction. It is concluded that the consensual mechanisms introduced by Law n. 13,506/2017 have not yet demonstrated a significant impact on the reduction in the number of decisions. Additionally, the analysis of pecuniary contributions and compensations reveals a greater emphasis on damage repair.
PFO‐ACCESS: Augmenting Communications for Medical Care or Closure in the Evaluation of Patients With Stroke With Cardiac Shunts
Authors: Pirahanchi Yasaman , Shifflett Benjamin , Mahmud Ehtisham , Brennan Stefanie , Meyer Dawn M. , Mortin Melissa , Hailey Lovella , Bowers Jeffrey , Ravi Vikas , Carrión Julián , Bavarsad Reza , Agrawal Kunal , Modir Royya , Hemmen Thomas , Meyer Brett C.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) contributes to a quarter of embolic strokes of undetermined source. Although the benefit of PFO closure in selected patients has been demonstrated, our system workflow still resulted in a low rate of PFO evaluation for closure. The aim of the PFO‐ACCESS (Augmenting Communications for Medical Care or Closure in the Evaluation of Stroke Patients With Cardiac Shunts) program (which included implementation of the Viz.ai PFO‐specific communications module) was to determine if there was any change in PFO management due to improved communication between stroke and interventional cardiology teams.

METHODS

In this quality improvement project, we compared pre‐PFO ACCESS (December 2022–November 2023) to post‐PFO ACCESS periods (November 2023–June 2024) regarding PFO evaluations. The Viz.ai PFO module was implemented for the stroke and interventional cardiology teams without other workflow changes. Key performance indicators included referral frequency, PFO closure rates, and referral time intervals. Statistical comparisons utilized Mann–Whitney
U
, chi‐square, Fisher's exact, and exact Poisson test where appropriate.

RESULTS

The postimplementation period noted a 492% PFO referral increase (11 versus 38,65 [annualized];
P
<0.0001). PFO closure number totals showed a 186% nonsignificant increase pre versus post (6 versus 10,17 [annualized];
P
= 0.99), with PFO closure of percentage of total referred cases showing a large but nonsignificant decrease (54.55%, 26.32%;
P
= 0.14). Time comparisons showed a marked but nonsignificant decrease in median “referral sent to referral viewed” (10:37 hours, 1:08 hours;
P
= 0.73), “referral sent to referral accepted” (10:37 hours, 1:03 hours;
P
= 0.67) time interval, and “referral sent to closure” time interval (102 days, 97 days;
P
= 0.55).

CONCLUSION

The PFO‐ACCESS program with Viz.ai PFO module use resulted in a 492% increase in PFO referrals due to enhanced communication and efficiency in managing PFO‐related stroke cases. Though the increased number of referrals and closures were observed, the PFO closure percentage of total referred cases showed a marked but nonsignificant decrease indicating selective case management. The higher number of PFO closures shows that more patients are indeed appropriate for PFO closure consideration. Future efforts should focus on expanding outpatient use and increasing provider education to optimize PFO management.
Description of two new species of the genus Hemicycliophora (Nematoda: Hemicycliophoridae) from the USA
Authors: Álvarez-Ortega Sergio , Michaud Amy , Subbotin Sergei A. , Vau Silvia , Inserra Renato N.
Published: February 2025

Two species of sheath nematodes were studied using an integrative approach, combining morphological and molecular analyses. The first species was collected from an oak tree (Quercus sp.) imported from Texas into Florida, while the second one was obtained from the ornamental palm Phoenix sylvestris in a Florida nursery. These species were compared to a closely related species, Hemicaloosia uarki, which was originally described in Arkansas. Phylogenetic analyses using partial 18S rRNA, D2-D3 expansion segments of 28S rRNA, ITS rRNA, and COI gene sequences revealed that sheath nematodes from Texas and Florida represent two new species of the genus Hemicycliophora, which are described here as Hemicycliophora ornata sp. n. and H. silvestris sp. n., respectively. In the phylogenetic tree based on ITS rRNA gene sequences, Hemicaloosia uarki grouped within a clade of other Hemicycliophora species rather than within the Hemicaloosia species clade, indicating that this species belongs to the genus Hemicycliophora rather than to Hemicaloosia. Consequently, this species was reclassified as Hemicycliophora uarki comb. n. These findings confirmed that morphological characters traditionally used to distinguish Hemicaloosia species from those of Hemicycliophora are valid but insufficient for reliable identification when some life stages, such as males, are absent. The presence of males with straight spicules is a very useful character to validate the morphological identification of Hemicaloosia species. In absence of this life stage, phylogenetic analysis of gene sequences is the only reliable method to accurately differentiate sheath nematodes resembling Hemicaloosia from Hemicycliophora.
Re-isolation of Ektaphelenchus winteri (Hooper, 1995) Heydari & Pedram, 2020 (Rhabditida: Aphelenchoididae) from Xylodiplosis nigritarsis (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) in Norway
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Fjellberg Arne
Published: February 2025

Ektaphelenchus winteri was re-isolated from the county of Færder, southern Norway. Nematodes were feeding on larvae and adults of the gall midge Xylodiplosis nigritarsis as ectoparasites, i.e., the nematode spears the host’s cuticle and sucks its blood using the stylet. Nematode specimens were collected and morphologically and molecularly examined, although only female materials were available. Generally, the typology of the re-isolated population corresponded well with the type population, with some minor differences. Molecular phylogenetic analysis suggested that E. winteri is closely related to Ektaphelenchoides fuchsi and ‘Seinura demani’, but was readily distinguished from these two species by its stylet lacking clear basal swellings, anteriorly located secretory-excretory pore, spherical-oval median bulb, and female elongate conoid posterior body. A literature review confirmed typological similarity between S. demani and E. fuchsi, as well as the vestigial rectum and anus in S. demani. Based on these characteristics, Ektaphelenchoides demani n. comb. is proposed.
The Right to Adequate Housing and Minorities
Authors: Vols Michel , Chiciu Alexandra-Iarina , Muir Phoebe , Opartyová Ina , Sedlár Matej
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the role of the right to (culturally) adequate housing in the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (fcnm) and its monitoring process conducted by the Advisory Committee on the fcnm. The research aims to reveal potential systemic failings concerning the housing of minorities across Europe by identifying common threads related to housing in the most recent Opinions and Government Comments. The paper begins by highlighting the importance of adequate housing conditions that fulfil an individual’s needs and interests, particularly for members of minorities who face uncertainty and discrimination in their journey towards adequate housing. Various international human rights treaties obligate states to respect, protect, and fulfil the right to culturally adequate housing, which plays a pivotal role in preserving their culture and traditional way of life. However, the role of the fcnm in protecting minorities’ housing rights has been understudied, and the discussion is merely ancillary. Thus, this paper aims to fill the knowledge gap by analysing all Opinions and Government Comments for each state’s two most recently completed Reporting Cycles systematically. The paper concludes that the fcnm has a significant role to play in protecting minorities’ housing rights, and more attention should be given to this aspect in the monitoring process conducted by the Advisory Committee on the fcnm. The findings of this research could help improve the protection of minorities’ housing rights across Europe and contribute to the overall goal of promoting social inclusion and equality for all.
A Failure by African States or a Gap in the Law? An Appraisal of the African and International Legal Framework for the Protection of Child Soldiers
Authors: Mushoriwa Linda , Nortje Windell
Published: February 2025

The use of child soldiers in Africa is rife. Despite the existence of comprehensive regional and international legal frameworks protecting children in armed conflict their conscription continues to severely violate their best interests. This doctrinal study analyses the duty of African states to care for children in armed conflict within the context of international and regional responses. This article calls for the International Criminal Court to make a clear pronouncement on the status of children in armed conflict over the age of 15. It also asserts that the Dominic Ongwen and Thomas Kwoyelo judgments highlight the plight of child soldiers, who arguably became child soldiers because of the failure of the State to protect them. A valuable contribution is made by specifically analysing the relevance and applicability of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union Agenda 2063 in the protection of child soldiers.
Structure of axial and radial sieve tubes and its functional significance for the phloem network in Aquilaria sinensis (Thymelaeaceae)
Authors: Luo Bei , Yoshinaga Arata , Awano Tatsuya , Sugiyama Junji
Published: February 2025

The structure of axial and radial or ray sieve tubes was examined by fluorescence microscopy and SEM. Two types of sieve areas were found on the lateral walls of axial and radial sieve tubes: one consists of a cluster of larger, more highly differentiated sieve pores, corresponding to sieve plates, and the other consists of scattered or clustered minute sieve pores, arranged in a linear array in the latter along the cell axis, covered by slime bodies, making a new structure complex associated with nutrient pathways. Migration of cytoplasmic slime bodies in axial and radial sieve tubes was observed to take place by changing shape into filamentous or tubular slimes and passing through the sieve pores, depending on the size of the pores at the xylem differentiation stage. Axial sieve tubes in the interxylary phloem were observed to be arranged axially in dense bundles rather than sparsely scattered. Rarely, it was observed that axial sieve tubes themselves branched off and merged with other axial sieve tubes without being bridged by radial sieve tubes in the ray tissue. Parenchyma cells and ray tissue in the interxylary phloem were unlignified in all the secondary xylem from the 12-year-old tree of Aquilaria sinensis. The division of ray parenchyma cells was often observed in the mature secondary xylem. Furthermore, two types of radial sieve tubes at different stages of differentiation were observed in the same ray tissue, suggesting that at least younger radial sieve tubes differentiate from ray parenchyma cells in the secondary xylem. Based on the positioning of radial sieve tubes and axial sieve tubes in the secondary xylem, three types of connections were identified; (1) radial sieve tube strand in interxylary phloem connects to axial sieve tube strand; (2) radial sieve tube strand bridges two interxylary phloems; (3) radial sieve tube strand anastomoses with interxylary phloem and connects to axial sieve tube strand. The highest frequency of (1) among the three types suggests that it is crucial for the functioning of the phloem network and that radial sieve tubes and axial sieve tubes located inside the interxylary phloem are connected to establish longitudinal transport channels.
The Epistemic Modes of Muqtada al-Sadr’s Charisma Production on Hybrid Media
Authors: Alsayegh Ali
Published: February 2025

Muqtada al-Sadr’s charismatic authority helps enable his power to emotionally motivate millions from the religious populist Sadri movement to partake in elections, protests, and armed struggle in Iraq. Hybrid media is a significant space that promotes his charisma via ‘epistemic modes’, which are contestations over what types of knowledge are deemed true. This paper conducts a virtual ethnography of Sadri hybrid media, whilst contending for the ‘affective bond’ as a suitable conceptual framework to analyse content that propagates al-Sadr’s image. The affective bond treats charisma as absolute trust, premised upon followers’ recognition of their leader as a symbol of legitimacy, hope, and authenticity. This highlights the interrelationship between these perceptions in creating charisma. Concurrently, the affective bond renders visible how everyday online communicative and interpretive practices transform Sadri hybrid media into a space whereby performance, culture, stories, narratives, structural circumstances, and religio-populist identity, intersect to produce Muqtada’s charisma through audiovisual materials.
المنام في قرار الحرب والسِّلم: قراءةٌ لمنام طارق بن زياد عشيّة فتح الأندلس
Authors: الجمّال لينا
Published: February 2025

المستخلص

‫صُنّف منام القائد العسكريّ البربريّ طارق بن زياد (ت نحو ‫102‬/720)، الذي رأى فيه النبيّ (ص) عشيّة فتح الأندلس عام ‫92‬/711، واحدًا من أكثر المنامات تأثيرًا في العالم، وذلك لارتباطه بدخول الإسلام إلى شبه الجزيرة الأيبيريّة وامتداد رقعة الدولة الإسلاميّة إلى الأراضي الأوروبّيّة. وترد أقدم رواية للمنام في كتاب تاريخ افتتاح الأندلس لابن القوطيّة (ت ‫367‬/977) بعد مرور أكثر من قرنين ونصف على الفتح. يقدّم هذا المقال قراءةً معمّقة لمنام طارق بن زياد عن طريق عرضه على منهج ابن القوطيّة في الكتابة التاريخيّة، ومنامات من السيرة النبويّة. ويخلص إلى أنّ منام طارق لم يتقاطع فحسب مع منامات ذُكرت في السيرة النبويّة، بل يستلهم بوضوح من واقع عاشه النبيّ (ص) وأصحابه في غزوة بدر. يستدعي المنام بتعابيره وصوره ما حصل من شورى قبيل هذه الغزوة، ويستحضر انقسام المهاجرين والأنصار الذي انتهى بلُحمة وتعاضد في الخروج إلى الغزو. وهو بذلك يوحي بإجماع، كذلك الإجماع، بين العرب والبربر على ابتعاث جيش طارق، ويؤكّد مشروعيّة فتح الأندلس بإذن من النبيّ (ص) نفسه.‬
Three Arabic Fishing Songs from the Musandam Peninsula
Authors: Anonby Erik , Bettega Simone
Published: February 2025

The coasts of the Arabian Peninsula are home to fishing communities with rich and diverse oral traditions. While various other types of texts have been recorded, fishing songs in this region have received little attention. The present study seeks to fill this gap through documentation of three Arabic fishing songs from the Musandam Peninsula of eastern Arabia, at the meeting point between the main body of the Gulf and the Batinah coast of northern Oman. The chapter opens with a description of the Musandam Peninsula and the languages spoken there. It reviews oral traditions of the Gulf and reflects on their enduring importance, with a focus on fishing songs. After introducing the research context and the consultant, the body of the study presents and analyses three songs: Ayāllā ‘O God’, Xəbbāṭ ‘little kingfish’, and Lā ramētə ‘I will not give it up’. The study concludes with reflections on the purpose, musical and literary structure, and dialectal patterning of the Arabic in these songs within the wider regional context.
Description of Lorentz Transformations, the Doppler Effect, Hubble's Law, and Related Phenomena in Curvilinear Coordinates by Generalized Biquaternions
Authors: Babaev Alimzhan
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the derivation of Lorentz transformations in curvilinear coordinates utilizing generalized biquaternions. Generalized biquaternions are rotations in curvilinear coordinates, including on the tx, ty, and tz planes. These space-time rotations are precisely the Lorentz transformations in curvilinear coordinates. The orbital rotation of the source and/or receiver, which mathematically represents the Lorentz transformation in spherical coordinates, is identified as the cause of the transverse Doppler effect. The change in wave frequency, specifically the "redshift," results in nonlinearities of Hubble's law manifesting as phenomena such as accelerated and anisotropic expansion of the universe, aberration, and wave polarization. Apparently, redshift exists even without radial expansion of the universe, i.e., without the "Big Bang". The reasons for the accelerated expansion of the universe, the anisotropic (angular) distribution of relic radiation, and the polarization of light from distant stars become clear in this approach. This greatly simplifies the mathematical description and understanding of the supposedly complex processes occurring in the universe.
Exploration on the Development Path and Influencing Factors of Digital Ability of Regional Elderly Learning Team —— Empirical Analysis Based on 1792 Samples and 7 Cases in the C District of S City
Authors: Wenfu Lu
Published: February 2025

This study focuses on the exploration of the path to improve the digital ability of elderly learning teams, focuses on the current situation of elderly learning teams in C District of S City, and carries out a comprehensive and in-depth questionnaire survey, with 1,792 valid questionnaires recovered, and 7 interviews recorded and relevant cases formed to validate the results of the questionnaire survey. The study found that the conditions of the elderly learning teams themselves have a decisive influence on their digital ability, and that the courses and activity experience programs at the district level can also effectively improve the digital ability of the elderly learning teams. The study suggests further development of relevant courses, brands, and activity programs, as well as the use of guided education models to stimulate team members' own active learning motivation and digital radiation influence.
The Role of Stakeholders in Supporting Student Services in Higher Education in Cambodia
Authors: Chantrea Moeurn , Chanpirun Sam , Sarom Mok
Published: February 2025

A major policy change was made in 1997 when the Royal Government of Cambodia began to privatize higher education institutions (HEIs). As a result of this reform, there were 189 HEIs in 2024, up significantly from just 8 in the late 1990s. To uphold and ensure the quality of higher education, the Accreditation Committee of Cambodia was established in 2003 as a formal legal mechanism for accreditation. Student Service is essential for improving higher education quality and students’ learning outcomes. Student Services was the fifth of nine standard criteria used to assess the quality of higher education in Cambodia. However, researchers and relevant higher education sectors have not yet shown interest in the student service area in the higher education system in Cambodia. This qualitative research study aims to explore stakeholders involved in supporting student services in higher education in Cambodia. The semi-structured interview was deployed with a purposive sampling of ten key informants from relevant institutions. This interview was in a face-to-face format. The key finding of this research revealed that seven stakeholders support student service in Cambodia's higher education. They are parent ministry, industry and community, development partner, higher education institutions, parent and guardians, religion, and student and alumni. Based on the findings, enhancing and maintaining student service quality requires the involvement of all stakeholders, high commitment, cohesive cooperation, and the upholding of student interests. Particularly, higher education institutions (HEIs) should prioritize creating a supportive environment that facilitates seamless student service processes.
Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH) in an Ancient Population of Dor and Its Relation to the Aetiology of MIH
Authors: Sharon Harel , Uri Zilberman
Published: February 2025

Background: The prevalence of MIH in modern population is increasing during the last decades. Most of the etiology factors today are based on perinatal health disorders. In order to understand if the hypomineralization of the enamel in MIH/HSPM is a novel developmental disorder, we compared the prevalence of modern population to archeological population with a high rate of mortality of young children. Objectives: To analyze the prevalence of MIH/HSPM in ancient population of Dor, Israel (16th-19th centuries). Materials: We examined 104 skulls out of 157 skeletons excavated, which had at least one permanent and/or one primary second molars for MIH/HSPM. Methods: All skulls were examined under a white light and skulls with MIH/SPMH were photographed. The skulls with suspected MIH/SPMH underwent CT analyses. Results: Three skulls out of the 104 skulls examined showed distinct enamel developmental defects on primary or permanent molars: one with MIH, one with HSPM and one with hypoplasia of second primary molars. Conclusions: Very low percentages of MIH/HSPM were found in Dor population, in comparison with modern prevalence of MIH in Israel, almost 18% of childrens 6-16 years old. Significance: In modern Israeli population with minimal perinatal health problems the prevalence of MIH/HSPM is very high and increasing. Based on the very low prevalence of MIH/HSPM in Dor population and the poor health situation of the children, we can conclude that the proposed aetiology of hypomineralization based on health or developmental problems during early childhood in modern population is questionable. Suggestion for further research: In modern populations the research should be directed to epigenetic factors in affected families.
Prevalence of Hypertension in Outpatient Consultations in a Cardiology Department in West Africa in Dakar, Senegal According to "MY MEASURE MONTH"
Authors: Ngaide Aliou , Gaye Ngone , Mingou Joseph , Ndior Amadou , Faye Atoumane , Bodian Malick , Mbaye Alassane , Kane Abdoul
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This study, conducted as part of the "My Measure Month" program in collaboration with the French Society of Hypertension, aimed to investigate the prevalence of hypertension, emphasize the importance of measuring blood pressure. Methodology: This was an observational and cross-sectional study conducted over one month in the outpatient department of a center specialized in hypertension management. The study included patients aged over 18 years. We examined hypertension data (duration, treatments, compliance) and cardiovascular risk factors. Blood pressure was measured. Three measurements were taken at one-minute intervals. In the bivariate analysis, a p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 45.6%. Hypertension was more frequent in women (54.2%), and the most represented age group was 50 to 70 years, with a prevalence exceeding 70% in patients over 70 years old. In our sample, 13% of patients not previously known to be hypertensive had elevated blood pressure readings. Successive measurements showed variations in hypertension grades, with a progressive decrease in patients with grade II and III hypertension. Among hypertensive patients, 93% had no coverage for their medications. Most patients were on pharmacological treatment, but a significant proportion remained uncontrolled (36.2%), especially those on dual therapy. Bivariate analysis showed that age ≥ 65 years, smoking, dyslipidemia and heart failure were significantly associated with hypertension. Conclusion: An integrated strategy for prevention, screening, and treatment is crucial to reduce the burden of hypertension in this population, improve the quality of life for hypertensive patients.
Eucalyptus Globules in Homoeopathy: Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Healing with Acute Case Study
Authors: Sengar Chetan
Published: February 2025

In the ancient time Eucalyptus globulus used for the various purpose. It is a tall and an evergreen tree that can grow up to the height of 70m and its diameter is about 4 to 7 ft. Which was first found on the island of Tasmania in 1792 which associate to the Myrtaceous family which is commonly called as Tasmanian Blue Gum, southern blue gum or blue gum are the different names of eucalyptus globulus grow in the various parts of India. The particular species of Eucalyptus globulus have been used for various purposes. It had been found that eucalyptus is a rich source of phytochemical constituent and also possesses medicinal use. Phytochemical analysis of this plant has revealed that Mother tincture extracted from leaf contain 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, p-cymene, cryptone and spathulenol. Due to these chemical compounds, Eucalyptus glabrous is found to be a potential anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-nociceptive and anti-oxidant agent of nature. Some recent scientific investigations have also revealed that essential oil of Eucalyptus globulus also have anti-diabatic potentials that enhances its market value due to excessive usage in number of pharmaceutical products of traditional and advanced system of medicines. The aim of this review paper is compiling all the information about Eucalyptus Globulus such as Decongestant, Antipyretic, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Anti-nociceptive, Antimicrobial, Anti-fungal, Antiviral and Anti-oxidant agent of the nature with Acute Case Records & So that which can be used effectively in Treatment of Patients of Acute Viral Conditions like URTI (Upper Respiratory Tract Infection), Influenza, COVID-19, Common Cold etc.
Execution of Justice and Provision of Judicial Security in Afghanistan
Authors: Saqib Naqibullah , Tayeb Barakatullah , Fatimi Sayed
Published: February 2025

Judicial integrity means that a person is immune from any aggression and threat to his life, property, honor, freedom, honor, prestige, job, housing, and in general all his legal and legitimate rights. It is realized when crimes and violations, fraud, and corruption and the causes of their perpetration in society are rooted out, the factors that cause financial, life, or mental damage to a person are completely eliminated, and a safe and calm environment is created so that a person can feel comfortable in it in every way. Main problem Upholding justice is a necessity and a fundamental issue in order to protect the rights of citizens. In order to ensure justice, it is necessary to provide judicial security. Importance of research. In order to maintain social and criminal justice, it is necessary to maintain the judicial security of judges because they always face problems in this field. This type of research has been conducted qualitatively with in-depth analysis. As a result, I can say that by conducting this research, if judicial security is provided, all-round justice will be provided in a good and orderly manner.
The Impact of Legal Policies and Workplace Culture on Breastfeeding in the UK Health Sector
Authors: Ndzi Ernestine , Hinchcliffe Danielle , Neilson Darcy
Published: February 2025

The UK remains one of the countries with the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world despite the well-recognised benefits of breastfeeding. The National Health Service (NHS) provides guidance on how breastfeeding mothers should be supported in the workplace. However, the implementation of the guidance is not consistent across the sector, hence impacting on mothers’ ability to initiate or sustain breastfeeding. This study draws on data collected from 983 survey responses targeted at mothers working in the health sector. The study found that health sector employees are not well supported to breastfeed upon return to work. Only 36.3% of the participants (n=983) reported their workplace had a breastfeeding policy. Participants cited breastfeeding as a reason for staying longer on maternity leave because of lack of workplace support. This also affected mothers’ ability to benefit from shared parental leave, as it would require the mother to return to work early. This study highlights the barriers mothers in the health sector face with breastfeeding upon return to work while expected to continue fulfilling their duties, which includes promoting and supporting breastfeeding to other mothers and patients. The findings of this study expose the urgent need for the UK health sector to review its workplace policy to implement the guidance provided by the NHS to support breastfeeding employees returning to work. More broadly, the study exposes the extent of breastfeeding challenges in the UK and the need for a legislative reform to include breastfeeding in the national family friendly rights which will obligate employers to provide resources to support breastfeeding mothers in the workplace.
Aromatherapy and Its Impact on Taekwondo Athletes' Performance: A Bibliographic Review
Authors: Madiha Bahouq , Hanane Bahouq , Abdelmajid Soulaymani , Ali Amassnaou , Driss Elhilali
Published: February 2025

Taekwondo, a Korean martial art, has gained worldwide popularity thanks to its combination of physical, mental, technical and psychological components. The use of aromatherapy is a factor that has received attention in the field of sports performance enhancement. It is a practice of using essential oils (Eos) for their potential therapeutic effects, has been explored for its impact on physiological and psychological processes and its positive results are now becoming a trend in research on athletes' sports performance. An exhaustive inventory of studies and works dealing with the effect of aromatherapy on the performance of taekwondo athletes was carried out. The results show that for Taekwondo athletes, the use of aromatherapy can be a natural and complementary approach to improving their competitive abilities. Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils derived from different plants to improve physical and mental well-being. Studies have indicated that certain essential oils, when diffused or applied topically, can have a positive impact on physical performance. They have also been shown to improve the body's ability to absorb essential vitamins and nutrients. In this sense, the application of these oils not only helps prevent and heal sports injuries, but also stimulate and relax the mind and body, leading to higher levels of physical fitness. Also, aimed at improving mood and performance in order to obtain a higher rate of sporting success as well as recovery after exercise. These oils can be used to speed recovery, reduce the effects of fatigue and increase the energy level of the mind and body. Therefore, the potential benefits of aromatherapy on competitive taekwondo athletes' performance warrant further research. This work is a bibliographic review of all the studies and works aimed at illustrating the listed effects of aromatherapy on the performance of Taekwondo athletes.
Drought Risk Management in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bekana Terefe
Published: February 2025

Ethiopia faces significant vulnerability to climate change due to its limited adaptive capacity and heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture for livelihoods. Drought, a critical aspect of climate change, is a persistent and silent disaster that gradually affects extensive areas across the country. Unlike sudden natural disasters such as floods or tornadoes, the impacts of drought develop slowly and are not immediately apparent. This paper examines the critical drought impacts and its risk management in Ethiopia, a country that faces recurrent droughts fanned by climate change, significantly impacting millions of people, particularly in rural areas. The aim of the paper is to investigate the socio-environmental challenges raised by water scarcity, which affects agricultural productivity, food security, and public health. The study emphasizes the importance of integrated drought management strategies that combine government initiatives, community engagement, and international support to enhance resilience among vulnerable populations. The implementation of the Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP), community-driven adaptation measures, and the role of social capital in fostering cooperation and resource sharing during crises is a key strategy of short term drought adaptation. Advanced monitoring and predictive technologies to improve preparedness and response to drought events is crucial. By addressing both the technical and social dimensions of drought risk management, this research contributes to the development of sustainable solutions that aim to mitigate the impacts of drought and promote long-term resilience in Ethiopia.
Effective Management of Provincial Pension Liability
Authors: Ghazi Aqsa , Salamat Umar
Published: February 2025

Pension expenditures have become a critical fiscal challenge for the Government of Punjab, surging to Rs. 312 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23. The accrued pension liability now stands at Rs. 6.5 trillion, significantly constraining the government's capacity for current and development expenditures. This study explores the existing regulatory framework for pension liability management and proposes actionable solutions based on global best practices. Through a comprehensive methodology that includes literature reviews, data analysis, comparative studies of national and international practices, and stakeholder interviews, the research highlights alarming trends: a 300% increase in government revenues over the past decade, contrasted with a staggering 650% rise in pension costs. Key contributors to this fiscal burden include the Defined Benefit pension scheme, regularization of temporary employees, and adverse judicial rulings. To address these challenges, the study recommends transitioning to a contributory pension scheme, reducing commutation rates, aligning pensionable pay with basic pay, indexing pension increases, and leveraging biometric verification systems. Additionally, amendments to the Civil Servants Act and better management of the Punjab Pension Fund are proposed to ensure fiscal sustainability. These measures aim to mitigate the growing financial strain, ensuring long-term stability and efficient pension liability management for the Government of Punjab.
A Qualitative Analysis of the Professionalisation of Public Procurement in the Kingdom of Eswatini
Authors: Dube Thandeka , Bimha Happyson
Published: February 2025

State-Owned Enterprises incur losses that run into millions of dollars through financial leakages, the majority of which occur in procurement departments. In public procurement, these leakages attract attention from multiple stakeholders because procurement entities use taxpayers’ money which they must account for. Therefore, the professionalisation of public procurement is gaining momentum because organisations are searching for effective ways of utilising public funds. This qualitative investigation into procurement professionalisation focused on three key elements; the status of public procurement, procurement professionalisation challenges, and recommendations for improvement. Utilising the qualitative multi-methods approach data was gathered through in-depth interviews with eight officials in charge of procurement departments in purposely selected public enterprises, one focus group discussion with six procurement staff members from local government entities, and a review of newspaper articles published in the Eswatini Observer and Times of Eswatini. Findings from literature and the collected data indicate that professionalisation of public procurement staff in the country has not been given the serious consideration it deserves because procurement is not yet represented at the strategic apex of procurement entities in the country. Major procurement activities are still treated as tactical and operational activities, while procurement departments are still under the mucky waters of finance, corporate affairs, operations or any other departments considered more strategic than procurement. Relegating procurement activities to non-strategic roles is one of the major causes of financial leakages through procurement malfeasance and unethical practices. Research has linked this to the lack of professionalism in procurement. The study concludes that policy on procurement professionalisation needs to be prioritized and staff that handle strategic procurement decisions need to be recognized and rewarded accordingly. Only staff holding appropriate procurement qualifications and relevant experience must be appointed to positions responsible for utilising public funds. The above proposal on its own may not be enough to attract and retain qualified procurement professionals hence strategies to attract and retain quality staff must be implemented and supported through appropriated policy and legislation. The methodological simplicity of the study was limited to exploring the issues raised in the study yet procurement has complex activities and processes that require more time, more funding, and deeper and comprehensive engagements with key stakeholders. Superior research approaches that tend to be more pragmatic such as the mixed methods approach is recommended for further studies. Such an approach can lead to more comprehensive analysis and findings having considered both qualitative and quantitative aspects of procurement professionalisation.
Social Governance Through Civil Justice: A Study of Rule of Law on Social Governance
Authors: Gali Wang
Published: February 2025

Social governance through civil justice stems from the foundation of modern social order, the means of national social control and the need to achieve social integration. China's judicial governance has continued from the revolutionary period to the present and has experienced development from administrative concurrent jurisdiction over judicial affairs to specialization. However, China lacks a tradition of civil judicial governance. In ancient times, the logic of criminal judicial governance was emphasized. Nowadays, the excessive power of criminal justice brings many problems. Civil justice is the need for the state power to achieve social governance. To achieve civil judicial governance, we should take the pursuit of a better life for the people as the starting point, standardize and protect private rights, overcome our own deficiencies, innovate participation methods, build a diversified dispute resolution mechanism, and rely on the joint participation of the state, society and individuals to achieve social harmony and stability.