bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The New Great Game in Central Asia and Afghanistan : Geopolitical Influence of Major Powers
Authors:   सहायक आचार्य , संजीवनी महाविद्यालय, विजयनगर, ब्यावर(राजस्थान)., Jangid Rajkumar
Published: February 2025

मध्य एशिया और अफगानिस्तान में "नया महान खेल" एक बहुस्तरीय भू-राजनीतिक प्रतिस्पर्धा का प्रतीक है, जिसमें संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका, रूस और चीन जैसी प्रमुख वैश्विक शक्तियाँ शामिल हैं। ऊर्जा संसाधनों से समृद्ध और व्यापार मार्गों व वैश्विक वाणिज्य के लिए एक महत्वपूर्ण केंद्र के रूप में स्थित यह क्षेत्र, सामाजिक-आर्थिक असमानताओं, शासन की चुनौतियों और बाहरी हस्तक्षेपों के कारण गहरी अस्थिरता का सामना कर रहा है। इस जटिल परिदृश्य के केंद्र में चीन की बेल्ट एंड रोड इनिशिएटिव (बीआरआई), रूस की यूरेशियन इकोनॉमिक यूनियन (ईएईयू), और संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका की रणनीतिक नीतियाँ हैं, जो इस क्षेत्र में प्रभाव और वर्चस्व के लिए प्रतिस्पर्धा कर रही हैं।
Revival of the past : A History of Aboriginal Ecological Knowledge and Environmental Sustainability
Authors:   सहायक आचार्य राजकीय महाविद्यालय बीरमाना, श्री गंगानगर., Amarjeet Amarjeet
Published: February 2025

यह शोधपत्र पर्यावरणीय स्थिरता को बढ़ावा देने में स्वदेशी पारिस्थितिकी ज्ञान (IEK) के ऐतिहासिक आधारों और समकालीन प्रासंगिकता का अन्वेषण करता है। बर्केस की सैक्रेड इकोलॉजी, किम्मेरर की ब्रेडिंग स्वीटग्रास और स्मिथ की डिकोलोनाइजिंग मेथडोलॉजीज जैसे प्रमुख कार्यों की अंतःविषयक समीक्षा के माध्यम से, यह अध्ययन उन स्वदेशी ज्ञानों का पुनरुद्धार करता है जिन्होंने दीर्घकालीन रूप से सतत संसाधन प्रबंधन प्रथाओं का मार्गदर्शन किया है। उत्तरी अमेरिका और अन्य वैश्विक संदर्भों से प्राप्त ऐतिहासिक मामलों के विश्लेषण से यह सिद्ध होता है कि आधुनिक विज्ञान के आगमन से पहले ही स्वदेशी समुदायों ने पारिस्थितिकी संतुलन बनाए रखने के लिए अनुकूलनीय और समग्र रणनीतियाँ विकसित की थीं। यह शोधपत्र IEK और पश्चिमी वैज्ञानिक दृष्टिकोण के बीच विद्यमान ज्ञानमीमांसा अंतर को पाटने वाले पद्धतिगत दृष्टिकोणों पर प्रकाश डालता है, और पर्यावरणीय कथानकों को उपनिवेशवाद मुक्त करने की आवश्यकता पर जोर देता है। अंततः, यह अध्ययन तर्क देता है कि पारंपरिक पारिस्थितिकी प्रथाओं को समकालीन नीति ढांचे में एकीकृत करना जलवायु परिवर्तन और पारिस्थितिकी क्षरण से निपटने के लिए अत्यंत आवश्यक है, जिससे सतत और सांस्कृतिक रूप से सूचित पर्यावरणीय प्रबंधन के माध्यम से एक लचीला भविष्य सुनिश्चित हो सके। ये अंतर्दृष्टियाँ IEK को अनुकूलनीय, प्रगतिशील नीति ढांचों में शामिल करने की आवश्यकता की पुष्टि करती हैं।
Assessment of Higher Education Institutions' Man-Made Disaster Preparedness Nairobi, Kenya.
Authors: Otuya M. A. Kivunga, A. E. Mwavali, Petronilla A.
Published: February 2025

The aim of this paper is to discuss the higher institutions level of man-made disaster preparedness. It is based on a study carried out in educational institutions in Nairobi County Kenya. The study sought to answer the questions: How are the universities prepared for all existing and potential man made hazards? Are there any risky areas and practices in the universities? And do the universties have a practical disaster preparedness and emergency action plan? With the view of gaining more insight on this matter a descriptive survey design which focused on the level of disaster preparedness in the institutions was used. The assessment was conducted between October 2015 and January 2016. The sample size constituted four universities; 3 public universities and 1 Private University with a total of 452 respondents. The universities were purposively sampled due to their location within Nairobi city. The respondents were proportionately sampled from the universities using simple random sampling technique. Data was collected through use of questionnaires, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, observations and secondary data were also used. The research established that 59.9% of the respondents professed that the target institutions were not prepared with respect to man-made disasters while, 41.1% perceived otherwise. About half of the respondents 49.73% reported having low level of awareness on responding to man-made disasters. The assessment concludes that there exist unsafe prevailing circumstances in the target institutions premises that increase the vulnerability of their population to man-made disasters. The target institutions are unprepared to handle potential man-made disasters and the situation could be worsened due to the low levels of awareness among their population. The study recommends that the institutions endeavor to establish operational emergency preparedness/action plans for common man-made disasters and invest in man-made disaster preparedness training to enhance awareness among the population at the institutions.Key Words: Disaster, Preparedness, Assessment, Hazards, Institutions and Education
Enhancing Effectiveness of the Public Sector Internal Auditors’. Evidence from Government Treasuries in Rift Valley Region, Kenya.
Authors: Ndung'u Stephen Kanini
Published: February 2025

This paper focuses on the factors that enhance the effectiveness of internal auditors’ in government treasuries within the Rift Valley region, Kenya. Variables of the study include internal auditors’ independence, remuneration, reputation, training and how these factors impact on the effectiveness of internal auditors’. The need for public finances oversight cannot be wished away as Kenya has experienced widespread misappropriation of these resources. Through Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) the Kenyan government intends to build a strong Public Financial Management (PFM) system which ensures that the government and its departments are able to raise, manage, and spend public resources in an efficient and transparent manner. Despite these measures, management of public resources has not been very effective and in fact, what has been observed is that amounts being misappropriated have reached astronomical levels. Relevant literature was reviewed, theoretical bases expounded, gaps in literature highlighted, data collected and analyzed. The researchers found that positive correlation ranging from medium to strong existed between all the independent and the dependent variables. Using multiple regression analysis, the researchers sought to establish the relationship between remuneration, independence, training and reputation and the effectiveness of auditors’ in the audit of financial statements. The results indicated R was 0.758 implying that there was a positive relationship between all the four independent variables. R2 was 0.575 implying that 57.5% of the dependent variable could be explained by the independent variables and hence recommended that for an effective audit function in government treasuries, adequate resources have to be allocated to remunerate internal auditors’, treasuries should ensure the internal auditors’ are free from management influence, internal auditors’ engaged in treasuries audit have high competency in auditing and the internal auditors’ reputation is critical and every effort should be ma
Environmental Stewardship: Biblical Theology as a Basis for Ecclesial Participation.
Authors: Kipkemboi Lagat Daniel
Published: February 2025

Environmental problems and climate change have recently emerged asenormous problems affecting the world. Various organizations and groups have been actively trying to respond to this menace. Christians however all over the world are demonstrating passive attitude towards environmental management. Many Christians believe that there is lack of clear Biblical guidance on their role in environmental matters. They thus do not know how God expects them to act. Other Christians are trying to get such guidance from non-biblical sources, which are not authoritative enough to compel Christians to act in certain ways. This study seeks to answer the question: “How should a Christian act towards the environment?”To answer the question, a descriptive exegetical study was conducted on scriptural passages linked to key doctrines (Creation, Man, Sin, Covenant, Christology, Eschatology and Salvation) to find out if they also provide direction on how Christians need to treat the environment. These key theological themes were chosen because they are regarded fundamental to orthodox Christian faith. The findings of this study show that most of the scriptures linked to key theological themes also provide guidance on how Christians should treat the environment.Key Words: Environment, Stewardship, Theology, Biblical, Dominion, Responsible.Bible Version used: New International Version.
Using Tows Matrix as a Strategic Decision-Making Tool in Managing KWS Product Portfolio
Authors: Mugo Florence Kamau, Mary Mukabi, Christine Kemunto, Mary
Published: February 2025

In today's changing business environment, product portfolio management is a vital issue. Majority of companies are developing, applying and attaining better results from managing their product portfolio effectively, as the success of any organization is dependent on how well it manages its products and services especially in an unpredictable business environment. The aim of this study was to understand the concept of SWOT analysis as a decision making tool that can be used to manage the product portfolio of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) with the aim of maximizing returns and staying competitive in a dynamic business environment. The study was conducted in the eight KWS conservation areas. Primary data was collected through semi structured questionnaires and in depth interviews. Collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Research findings revealed that each conservancy had its own strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities; some unique and others similar. The most common strengths were the unique products offered by each conservancy giving the ultimate panoramic view for any tourist, rich history, partnership with other organizations, and well-known internationally. However, lack of aggressive marketing and product diversification, poaching, logging, human encroachment, lack of community participation, competition from other destinations offering similar products, insecurity, economic recession, poor marketing research and infrastructure in some conservancies have been limiting factors. Road infrastructure improvement, park beautification, diversification of products and services, new product development, improvement in facilities as well as local and international tourism marketing are opportunities that KWS can exploit to remain competitive.Keywords: SWOT Analysis, Product Portfolio, Product Portfolio Management, Competitive Strategies, Kenya Wildlife Service, TOWS Matrix
Bacteriological Evaluation of Selected Food Drinks Commercially Produced in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.
Authors: - Alexander Kofi Egote , - Asumadu Prince , - Owusu-Brenya Lawrence, , - Hubert Maxwell Antwi , - Addo Bless Hayford , - Newton C , - Egote AK
Published: February 2025

Every day, on average, one million six hundred thousand people get sick due to food, contamination by microorganisms, or chemical substances worldwide. Food safety can also include practical measures and scientific discipline taken to ensure that food products are safe for consumption, free from contamination and do not pose any risk to public health. . This research focuses on human pathogenic bacteria for which food is conclusively demonstrated as their transmission mode to humans and the impact of foodborne diseases on public health.
Aim: This study aims to examine and identify common pathogenic bacteria present in locally made food drinks in the Kumasi market.
Methods: Two sites, Kejetia and Abinkyi markets were used for the sampling of the various food products. Convenient sampling was employed in the selection of the food products. A total of eight samples were taken, four from each market. The food products include Pineapple juice, Zonkom, Tiger nut drink, and Brukina. Samples were kept at the same temperature as on the market. The samples from retailers were kept immediately in an ice chest containing ice cubes and were transported to the laboratory. 20 ml of each food product was transferred into a 100 mL sterile container in a 1:5 dilution. A 1-unit sample volume (20 mL) was added to 4-unit volumes of distilled water to produce five units of total volume (100 mL). Temperatures of the various samples were controlled to attain room temperature before subjecting them to culturing.
Results: The results indicate that over 62% of the total samples are contaminated with yeast and Staphylococcus. Klebsiella sp. was 15% of the total samples, and Enterobacter species was 7%.
Conclusion: The results show that local drinks has a potential health threat of bacterial pathogens present in these drinks.
Ethnobotanical Study of Dye-Yielding Plants and Traditional Dyeing Practices Among the Meitei Community of Manipur
Authors: - Naorem Ingochouba Singh , - Akoijam Pete Meitei , - Dr Takhelmayum Sunitibala Chanu , - Thokchom Victoria Devi
Published: February 2025

This study explores the ethnobotanical knowledge of dye-yielding plants and traditional dyeing practices among the Meitei community of Manipur, Northeast India. It documents the plants used for dyeing, the dye extraction and application methods, and the cultural significance of natural dyes in handloom products. The Study highlights the rich biodiversity of Manipur and the indigenous knowledge embedded in dyeing techniques, which are at risk due to modernization and the increased use of synthetic dyes. Traditional dyeing methods employed by the Meitei community involve labour-intensive techniques, with specific knowledge passed down through generations. Despite the availability of synthetic dyes, natural dyes hold significant cultural, economic, and ecological importance. The Study emphasizes the need for conservation strategies, sustainable harvesting practices, and policy interventions to revive and promote the use of natural dyes. The findings contribute to ethnobotanical research and advocate for sustainable practices in the textile industry, ensuring the preservation of indigenous knowledge and ecological balance.
Comparison Analysis Between the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023
Authors: - Tanmay Pradeep
Published: February 2025

The Indian legal framework regarding evidence has undergone a significant transformation with the enactment of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, which replaces the colonial-era Indian Evidence Act, of 1872. This journal examines the similarities and differences between the two legislations, highlighting key reforms, judicial interpretations, and their impact on contemporary legal proceedings. Additionally, domestic and international case studies are analyzed to understand evidentiary laws' evolution comprehensively.
Fractional Calculus and Its Applications: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: - Dr. V.P. Singh , - Swati Singh
Published: February 2025

Fractional calculus (FC) extends classical differentiation and integration to non-integer orders, offering powerful tools for modeling complex systems in physics, engineering, and finance. This review explores the fundamental concepts of fractional calculus, its historical development, and its broad spectrum of applications. Key theoretical aspects, numerical methods, and real-world implementations are discussed. The review also highlights challenges and future directions in the field, including recent research findings and experimental validations. The subject of fractional calculus has applications in diverse and widespread fields of engineering and science such as electromagnetics, viscoelasticity, fluid mechanics, electro- chemistry, biological population models, optics, and signals processing. It has been used to model physical and engineering processes that are found to be best described by fractional differential equations. The fractional derivative models are used for accurate modelling of those systems that require accurate modelling of damping. In these fields, various analytical and numerical methods including their applications to new problems have been proposed in recent years. This special issue on “Fractional Calculus and its Applications in Applied Mathematics and Other Sciences” is devoted to study the recent works in the above fields of fractional calculus done by the leading researchers. The papers for this special issue were selected after a careful and studious peer-review process.
Numerical investigation of Maxwell Hybrid Nanofluid flow with polystyrene oil as base fluid
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Mehmood Yasir , Shaheen Tabinda
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the thermal enhancement of nanofluids, specifically graphene oxide (GO)/polystyrene and a hybrid nanofluid made of GO + silver (Ag)/polystyrene, over a stretched sheet in porous media under an applied magnetic field. The analysis considers thermal dissipation, convective boundary conditions, heat sources, and wall-to-wall mass transpiration. A non-Newtonain Maxwell fluid is considered. An activation energy impact is also considered for the stagnation point flow over the sheet. Using a Runge-Kutta technique in MATLAB, the shooting method is applied for the flow and heat transfer phenomena to examine the impact of varying key parameters. Results show that higher magnetic field and porosity resistances slow the fluid motion and increase the temperature. Additionally, silver content improves heat transfer efficiency when compared with graphene oxide. This work highlights hybrid nanofluids as effective heat-transport agents with potential industrial applications, especially under natural convection conditions, due to their enhanced thermal properties compared to standard fluids.
Synthesis and Characterization of TiO2-MWCNTs Nanocomposit: A Novel route for the efficient degradation of N, N-Dimethylformamide
Authors: Naz Muniba Yaseen , Jamshad Fatima , Ghani Tayyaba , Shah Atta Ullah , Hadi Uroosa , Mehmood Mazhar , Ahmad Suleman
Published: February 2025

In the present work, titanium dioxide and multiwall carbon nanotubes (TiO2-MWCNTs) based nanocomposite is prepared. The MWCNTs has been prepared through Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), and TiO2 nanoparticles are synthesized by wet-chemical method. Morphology, average size, crystalline nature and optical behavior of the nanomaterial is measured through Scanning electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Uv-visible spectroscopy. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed the existence of well-dispersed TiO2 nanoparticles (diameter ~90 nm) over the synthesized MWCNTs (tube outer diameter ~90-95 nm). It is observed from the uv-visible spectroscopy that an increase in the light absorption towards longer wavelength <400 nm also occurred for the TiO2-MWCNTs nanocomposites as compared to bare MWCNts. Finally, photocatalysis is performed over a toxic organic solvent N, N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) using synthesized TiO2-MWCNTs nanocomposite. It is found that TiO2-MWCNTs resulted in ~80% DMF degradation in 90 minutes. Owing to the better size distribution, crystalline nature and light absorption properties, the synthesized TiO2-MWCNTs performed well for the photocatalytic conversion of N, N-Dimethylformamide. This study also concludes that the TiO₂-MWCNts nanocomposites may also pave the way for broader environmental remediation based applications.
Synthesis, Charecterization and Photocatlytic Application of the Grassy-Free Standing Titanium dioxide Nanotunes (Gfs –TiNts)
Authors: Naz Muniba Yaseen , Ahmad Suleman , Hadi Uroosa , Ghani Tayyaba , Mehmood Robab , Shah Atta Ullah , Mehmood Mazhar
Published: February 2025

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of high performance Grassy-Free standing TiO2 nanotubes (Gfs-TiNts). The scalable 2-step anodization technique is selected to formulate the Gfs-TiNts. The synthesis route provided ordered and a few micrometers long TiO2 nanotubes with nanotubular morphology. Initially, Ti base layer is utilized as a substrate for the synthesis of 1-step anodized TiNts. Certain parameters are carefully chosen to synthesize the nanotubes. After 2nd step anodization, the nanotubes are removed from the substrate and obtained as free standing Grassy TiO2 nanotubes. Furthermore, the various characterizations are also performed including Field-emission Scanning Electron microscopy (FE-SEM), UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) respectively. These characterizations confirmed the formation of ordered free standing TiNts. Through these viable characterizations, some morphological, structural and optical properties are also analyzed. The optical band gap for Gfs-TiNts is also calculated through tauc-plot method that aided in the requirement for the Photodegradation. At the end, the synthesized nanomaterials were utilized for the photocatlalytic conversion of the Electrochromic Black T-dye (EBT). The synthesized 2-step free standing grassy TiNts resulted in 40% photocatalytic conversion (80 minutes) due to their nanotubular morphology and a lower charge recombination. Thus, the synthesized Gfs-TiNts based nanomaterials can contribute to sustainable environment management through the degradation of various toxic organic dyes.
La improbable embajada en Roma del cardenal De Solís
Authors: Rivas Álvarez José Antonio
Published: February 2025

En 1769 el cardenal de Solís fue enviado a Roma para asistir al cónclave en el que Clemente XIV fue elegido papa. Tras el cónclave, los periódicos especularon con su permanencia en Roma como embajador. Vuelto a España, esta idea cobró fuerza, al punto de hacerse realidad. Sin embargo, Solís hubo de renunciar y regresar a Sevilla. Este artículo pretender acercar el eco de estas noticias en la prensa extranjera. Y sugerir que no sus gastos sino las presión de los golillas fue la razón más probable de que el arzobispo de Sevilla no fuera a Roma como embajador.
Screenshots as data and documentation
Authors: Lassen Julie Münter
Published: February 2025

Journalistica: The Methods Section
In this section, Journalistica puts a spotlight on research methods used in journalism studies and/or journalism practice.
Must US Medical Professionals Treat Ebola Patients?
Authors: Nowell Robert
Published: February 2025

In this paper I examine the duty of US healthcare providers (HCPs) to treat patients in the context of the current Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak. In particular, I consider how EVD and subsequent treatment is different from other infectious diseases like influenza or SARS, and how this impacts duty of care for US HCPs. I conclude that, given proper protective measures and support, HCPs at present face a strong moral obligation to care for patients with EVD. This duty is dependent upon individual position and context, and it may change if, for example, the situation turns into a pandemic.
To Avoid Pain or Die Trying: A Philosophical interpretation of Epicureanism
Authors: Beard Kristen
Published: February 2025

The school of Epicureanism promotes a philosophy based on hedonism, arguing that pleasantness constitutes goodness. Thus the goal of life is to pursue pleasure. For the Epicureans, the highest pleasure is simply the total absence of pain, and nothing more. Mental pains are much more powerful than physical ones, so the best way to maximize pleasure is to abandon mental pains. Traditional interpretation of Epicurean text says that the primary mental pain that burdens human pleasure is fear, especially the fear of death. Further, humans can eliminate their fear completely by evaluating it with rational discourse.
I argue, however, against this traditional interpretation. I interpret the Epicurean texts to hold that fear cannot be eliminated completely: based on Epicurean texts, fear results when basic needs such as food, water, and shelter become threatened.
Laser trapping and manipulation of micro/nano-objects on polymer substrates
Authors: YIN Yue  , DOU Lin  , SHEN Tian-Ci  , LIU Jia-Tong  , GU Fu-Xing  ,   School of Optical-Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
Published: February 2025

Polymer substrates overcome the limitations of rigid planar substrates in spatial deformation scenarios and can be combined with photolithography to fabricate complex, three-dimensional irregular polymer structures. Photothermal-shock tweezer is a laser trapping technique based on the photothermal shock effect. Photothermal-shock tweezer leverages pulsed laser induced transient photothermal shock to generate micro-newton-scale thermomechanical strain gradients force, enabling the capture and manipulation of micro/nano-objects at solid interfaces. Integrating this technique with polymer substrates can address the demands of new application scenarios.In this work, we use commonly employed polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and negative photoresist (SU-8) as polymer substrates, on which SiO2 nanofilms are fabricated using the sol-gel method. This approach effectively mitigates thermal damage caused by photothermal shock effects, enabling laser trapping and manipulation of micro/nano-objects.
SiO2 nanofilms, characterized by low thermal conductivity, effectively inhibit heat transfer. The nanofilm fabrication technique utilized in this study enables the synthesis of large-area SiO2 nanofilms with large-area coverage, low surface roughness (Rq ~ 320 pm) and uniform thickness, making it broadly applicable to flexible polymer substrates and irregular structures. Direct contact between the polymer layer and micro/nano-objects during photothermal shock tweezers manipulation can induce irreversible substrate degradation due to transient photothermal shock effects. Experimental results demonstrate that depositing an SiO2 nanofilm thicker than 110 nm on the polymer substrate significantly enhances thermal insulation and protection, effectively mitigating laser-induced damage under typical optical manipulation conditions.
Additionally, by analyzing the temperature field distribution of the gold nanosheet, PMMA substrate, and SiO2 nanofilm during a single photothermal shock trapping of a gold nanosheet, we found that the SiO2 nanofilm can reduce the PMMA surface temperature by at least 111 ºC and delay the time for PMMA to reach its peak temperature by 13.2 ns compared to the peak temperature time of the gold nanosheet. The experimental results expand the environmental media for laser trapping of objects, offering new possibilities for applications in micro/nano-manipulation, micro/nanorobotics, and micro/nano-optoelectronic devices.
Feasibility analysis study of discrete modulation continuous variable quantum key distribution for spatial channels
Authors: SUN Xin  , GUO Junjie  , CHEN Yujie  , CHENG Jin  , LIU Ao  , LIU Wenbo  , YIN Peng  , CHEN Lanjian  , WU Tianyi  , DONG Chen  ,   College of Information and Communication, National University of Defense Technology, Hubei 430033, China
Published: February 2025

Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution (CV-QKD) has emerged as a promising candidate for quantum-secure communication due to its experimentally demonstrated high key rates in fiber-optic channels. However, the feasibility of discrete modulation CV-QKD in satellite-to-ground downlinks remains an open question due to practical challenges such as high transmission loss, limited communication windows, and atmospheric turbulence. In this paper, a comprehensive framework is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of discrete modulation CV-QKD by integrating orbital dynamics and atmospheric channel models, with a full analysis of the impact of the parameter space on free-space discrete modulation CV-QKD. To achieve this, a free-space CV-QKD simulation platform is employed, which calculates the elevation angle and transmission distance based on precise orbital models, thereby providing a more practical assessment of the key rate for discrete modulation CV-QKD. Simulation results verify the feasibility and practicality of discrete modulation CV-QKD in satellite-based quantum communication systems. Furthermore, critical factors affecting the key rate performance are identified, and parameter optimization strategies are proposed, offering theoretical support for the future implementation of satellite-to-ground discrete modulation CV-QKD.
Research on quantum gyroscope based on frequency entangled biphoton and cascaded Hong-Ou-Mandel interference
Authors: ZHAI Yiwei  , PAN Zhanpeng  , XUE Shengchun  ,   School of Electrical and Control Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
Published: February 2025

The optical gyroscope, which measures the attitude information of spatial carriers, has emerged as a research hotspot in inertial navigation system. Real-time measurement of rotation angular velocity is crucial for obtaining accurate attitude information. However, the measurement precision of traditional optical gyroscope is limited by the short noise limit (SNL), which restricts its further application. Existing research indicates the need to employ quantum technology to address the measurement limitations of traditional optical gyroscopes. A triaxial rotation angular velocity measurement scheme based on frequency entangled biphoton and cascaded Hong-Ou-Mandel (HOM) interference is proposed. By leveraging the Sagnac effect induced by the rotation between signal and idler photons, the triaxial angular velocity is introduced into the corresponding measurement arm of a cascaded HOM interferometer. A coincidence measurement device is used to obtain the cascaded HOM interferogram, and the relationship between the positions of symmetric dips and the three independent time delay differences is analyzed. The characteristic parameters of HOM interferogram, including a half-height full width (FWHM) of 0.3 ps and visibilities of 1, 0.25 and 0.06, respectively, are obtained. According to quantum Fisher information theory, the maximum quantum Fisher information of the three independent time delay differences （τ1,τ2,τ3） is calculated as 1, 0.1, and 0.006, respectively. Furthermore, by incorporating measurement uncertainty, it is demonstrated that the precision of the time delay measurement can exceed the SNL. Combined with the relationship between time delay and angular velocity, the results show that the angularvelocity measurement precision exceeds that of classical optical gyroscopes. Therefore, this scheme provides a theoretical foundation for the further application of quantum gyroscopes in global navigation sensing and precision measurement systems.
Multidimensionality of tree communities structure host-parasitoid networks and their phylogenetic composition
Authors: Wang Ming-Qiang , Guo Shi-Kun , Guo Peng-Fei , Yang Juan-Juan , Chen Guo-Ai , Chesters Douglas , Orr Michael C , Niu Ze-Qing , Staab Michael , Chen Jing-Ting , Li Yi , Zhou Qing-Song , Fornoff Felix , Shi Xiaoyu , Li Shan , Martini Massimo , Klein Alexandra-Maria , Schuldt Andreas , Liu Xiaojuan , Ma Keping , Bruelheide Helge , Luo Arong , Zhu Chao-Dong
Published: February 2025

Environmental factors can influence ecological networks, but these effects are poorly understood in the realm of the phylogeny of host-parasitoid interactions. Especially, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the ways that biotic factors, including plant species richness, overall community phylogenetic and functional composition of consumers, and abiotic factors such as microclimate, determine host-parasitoid network structure and host-parasitoid community dynamics. To address this, we leveraged a 5-year dataset of trap-nesting bees and wasps and their parasitoids collected in a highly controlled, large-scale subtropical tree biodiversity experiment. We tested for effects of tree species richness, tree phylogenetic, and functional diversity, and species and phylogenetic composition on species and phylogenetic diversity of both host and parasitoid communities and the composition of their interaction networks. We show that multiple components of tree diversity and canopy cover impacted both, species and phylogenetic composition of hosts and parasitoids. Generally, phylogenetic associations between hosts and parasitoids reflected nonrandomly structured interactions between phylogenetic trees of hosts and parasitoids. Further, host-parasitoid network structure was influenced by tree species richness, tree phylogenetic diversity, and canopy cover. Our study indicates that the composition of higher trophic levels and corresponding interaction networks are determined by plant diversity and canopy cover, especially via trophic links in species-rich ecosystems.
Image-based identification and isolation of micronucleated cells to dissect cellular consequences
Authors: DiPeso Lucian , Pendyala Sriram , Huang Heather Z , Fowler Douglas M , Hatch Emily M
Published: February 2025

Recent advances in isolating cells based on visual phenotypes have transformed our ability to identify the mechanisms and consequences of complex traits. Micronucleus (MN) formation is a frequent outcome of genome instability, triggers extensive disease-associated changes in genome structure and signaling coincident with MN rupture, and is almost exclusively defined by visual analysis. Automated MN detection in microscopy images has proved extremely challenging, limiting unbiased discovery of the mechanisms and consequences of MN formation and rupture. In this study we describe two new MN segmentation modules: a rapid model for classifying micronucleated cells and their rupture status (VCS MN), and a robust model for accurate MN segmentation (MNFinder) from a broad range of fluorescence microscopy images. As a proof-of- concept, we define the transcriptome of non-transformed human cells with intact or ruptured MN after inducing chromosome missegregation by combining VCS MN with photoactivation-based cell isolation and RNASeq. Surprisingly, we find that neither MN formation nor rupture triggers a strong unique transcriptional response. Instead, transcriptional changes appear correlated with small increases in aneuploidy in these cell classes. Our MN segmentation modules overcome a significant challenge with reproducible MN quantification, and, joined with visual cell sorting, enable the application of powerful functional genomics assays, including pooled CRISPR screens and time-resolved analyses of cellular and genetic consequences, to a wide-range of questions in MN biology.
Development of LAMP assay for early detection of Yersinia ruckeri in aquaculture
Authors: Abbas Hoda , Best Nickala , Zerna Gemma , Beddoe Travis
Published: February 2025

Yersinia ruckeri is the causative agent of yersiniosis or enteric red mouth disease (ERM) that causes significant economic losses in the salmonid aquaculture industry. Due to an increasing number of outbreaks, lack of effective vaccines and the bacteria’s ability to survive in the environment for long periods, there is a necessity for novel measures to control ERM. New techniques capable of rapidly detecting Y. ruckeri are critical to aid effective control programs. Molecular methods, like real-time polymerase chain reaction, can detect Y. ruckeri; however, that methodology is not field-deployable and cannot support local decision-making during an outbreak. We present a field-deployable molecular assay using loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and water filtering method for the detection of Y. ruckeri eDNA from water samples to improve current surveillance methods. The assay was optimised to amplify the glutamine synthetase gene (glnA) of Y. ruckeri in under 20 min. The assay demonstrated high specificity and sensitivity, as it did not amplify any non-target bacteria typically present in water sources. It achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.5 × 10−7 ng/µl, significantly surpassing the LOD of 0.5 × 10−4 ng/µl obtained through conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR). When applied to environmental water samples spiked with transformed Escherichia coli containing the G-block of the Yersinia ruckeri (glnA) target gene, the Yr-LAMP method exhibited an analytical sensitivity of 0.08 cells/µl from the initial filtered water sample. Notably, the cumulative time for sample preparation and amplification was under 1 h. The simplicity of the developed field-deployable Yr-LAMP assay makes it suitable as a routine procedure to monitor fish for ERM infection. This will enable informed decision-making on mitigating pathogen prevalence in aquaculture farms.
Exploring the Effects of Human Development Index on Agricultural Output in Nigeria (1999 – 2022)
Authors: G. L. Tuaneh, , E. Agbenyi, , M. O. Obe-Nwaka,
Published: February 2025

This study empirically analysed the impact of Human Development Index (HDI) on agricultural output in Nigeria from 1999 to 2022. The research utilised annual secondary data obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and the Index Mundi Database. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag Error Correction Model was used to ascertain both short and long run effects of HDI indicators on agricultural output. The findings indicated that, in the long run, the birth rate had a positive and significant effect on agricultural output (PV < 0.05), while government expenditure on education had a negative and significant impact (PV > 0.05). In the short run, the birth rate remained positive and significant at the 5% level, whereas both the death rate and life expectancy showed negative and significant effects. The study recommended that the government should leverage on the population growth resulting from an increased birth rate to increase agricultural participation and consequently enhance productivity.
Modelling Interest Rate Return in Nigeria: The Asymmetric Power Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity
Authors: G. L. Tuaneh, , A. E. Ntul,
Published: February 2025

This study modeled the Nigerian commercial bank interest rates using Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (GARCH). The data spanning January 1997 to December 2023 was sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) statistical bulletin. The time plot of the original and return series initially followed a trend and metamorphosed, which caused it to become stationary. The variables were stationary at lag one, according to the results of the series' Augmented Dickey-Fuller test. To simulate the interest rate return series, the study used both symmetric and asymmetric (GARCH) models, which captures the characteristics of financial time-series data such as volatility clustering and leverage impact. Asymmetric power autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (APARCH (1,1)), however, was chosen as the best model for the return series after six models were estimated for the conditional variance. Ultimately, the asymmetric APARCH model was the most suitable model to estimate the interest rate volatility. The model's post-estimation revealed that its distribution was normal.
Lotus Cultivation in Contaminated Water: Potential Risks and Solutions
Authors: Gadekar Anup , Katre Disha
Published: February 2025

This article explores the potential risks associated with lotus cultivation in polluted water sources and presents viable solutions to mitigate these challenges. Lotus cultivation plays a significant role in agriculture, providing economic, cultural, and medicinal benefits. However, the increasing contamination of water bodies due to industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and domestic waste poses serious risks to the safety and productivity of lotus farming. Toxic chemicals such heavy metals, pesticides, and infections can accumulate in lotus plants due to contaminated water, which can then have an impact on soil quality, marketability, and human health. Strategies such as water quality monitoring, phytoremediation, sustainable farming practices, and policy interventions are discussed to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of lotus production. Farmers can embrace environmentally friendly practices while preserving their financial viability by highlighting the significance of safe growing techniques.
Replacement of a High-fat Diet with a Standard Chow Diet Reduces Daytime Food Intake in Obese Mice and Normalizes Fat Accumulation and Metabolic Parameters
Authors: Melo Vanessa Cristina de Souza , Vettorazzi Jean Franciesco , Couto Julia Nicoly Bohn , Cabreira Julia Martins , Balbo Sandra Lucinei
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The consumption of ultra-processed foods rich in fat has contributed to the global rise in obesity and other metabolic disorders, including excess adipose tissue accumulation and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Although physical exercise and dietary education are first-line treatments for weight loss, restrictive diets are often used to accelerate weight reduction. However, these diets are generally unsustainable in the long term and frequently lead to weight regain.
Aims: To evaluate the effects of replacing a high-fat diet with a standard chow diet (ad libitum) on food intake, fat accumulation, glycemic homeostasis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Methodology: Animals were divided into two groups: one fed a high-fat diet and the other a standard diet for 8 weeks. Then, half of the animals on the high-fat diet had their food replaced with a standard diet. Body weight was measured weekly. After an additional 7 weeks, food intake was assessed, and glucose and insulin tolerance tests were performed. The animals were euthanized 8 weeks after the dietary intervention, and liver tissue was collected for histological analysis.
Results: The high-fat diet induced obesity and metabolic changes, including hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis. Replacing it with a standard diet, even without influencing total caloric intake, reduced daytime food intake and successfully restored body weight, normalized blood glucose and lipid profiles, and improved   hepatic steatosis.
Conclusion: Switching to a standard chow diet, even without reducing total caloric intake, decreased daytime food intake, restored body weight, normalized blood glucose and lipid profiles, and improved hepatic steatosis in mice.
A Scoping Review of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction and Orofacial Pain Education in Undergraduate Dentistry Programs
Authors: Rodacoski Isabela , Pires Ivan Araujo , Bellani William Augusto Gomes de Oliveira
Published: February 2025

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) and Orofacial Pain (OFP) are prevalent yet inconsistently addressed in undergraduate dentistry programs, leading to gaps in clinical competency. This scoping review examines the current state of TMD and OFP education, identifying deficiencies and proposing curriculum improvements. A systematic search across six databases identified 87 studies, with nine meeting inclusion criteria. The analysis followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework. Findings indicate significant variability in teaching approaches, with many programs offering limited or outdated training focused on occlusal models rather than biopsychosocial frameworks. Students demonstrated inadequate knowledge (average accuracy of 54%), and a shortage of specialized faculty further restricts education. While countries like Sweden and Germany incorporate interdisciplinary models, others, including Brazil, exhibit inconsistent integration of TMD and OFP content. To enhance education, curricula should adopt standardized guidelines, integrate interdisciplinary approaches involving psychology and physiotherapy, expand clinical training opportunities, increase faculty specialization, and promote continuing education programs for graduates. Addressing these deficiencies through structured curriculum reforms will improve student preparedness and patient care in TMD and OFP management.
Interação entre Professores e Estudantes na Educação Inclusiva: Uma Revisão da Literatura
Authors: M. C. Andrade Mírian Daniela , Fukuda Cláudia Cristina
Published: February 2025

The objective of this article was to analyze how scientifi c literature addresses interactions between teachers and students with specifi c educational needs in basic education. To this end, a literature review was carried out based on the Prisma method. The search was carried out in the databases on the Capes/Periódicos Portal for peer-reviewed articles published between 2019 and 2023, in Portuguese, Spanish, French and English after applying the descriptors “interaction” and “teacher” and “student” and “inclusion” in Portuguese and English. At the end of the searches, 10 articles were selected for analysis. The results indicated a low scientifi c production on the topic, however the research analyzed demonstrated that the support received in the school environment had an impact on the number of teacher interactions with SEN students, that interventions can favor these interactions and that the improvement in interactions promoted learning and interaction of students with SEN and their peers. Such results confi rm the importance of research on teacher-student interaction with SEN for Inclusive Education and, therefore, the need to increase national and international scientifi c production on the topic, especially research analyzing the eff ects of interventions.Keywords: Interaction, teacher, Basic Education, Inclusive Education, specifi c educational need
Patients Are Flocking to Compounded Weight-Loss Drugs, but Are They Safe?
Authors: Ruder Kate
Published: January 2025

This Medical News article discusses safety concerns around compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide, including how clinicians can help prevent dosing errors.
Health Care Spending Increases and Value in South Korea
Authors: Park Sungchul , Dieleman Joseph L. , Weaver Marcia R. , Bae Giryeon , Eggleston Karen
Published: January 2025

Importance

Health care spending in South Korea (hereafter Korea) nearly doubled from 2010 to 2019. However, little is known about the drivers and effectiveness of these spending increases in terms of changes in disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs).

Objectives

To evaluate the factors contributing to changes in health care spending and DALYs and estimate the value of health care spending from 2010 to 2019 in Korea.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study of the population of Korea used 2010 and 2019 data from the National Health Insurance Service for health care spending, and from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 for DALYs. Changes from 2010 to 2019 were decomposed into changes in several factors, including population size, aging, and per-person measures of spending or DALYs. Data analyses were performed from April 2023 to June 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Health care spending was calculated as the total expenditure on medical and long-term care, and health gains were measured as DALYs averted. The value of health care spending was estimated as the ratio of changes in spending per person to changes in DALYs per person.

Results

Total health care spending in Korea increased from $55.0 billion in 2010 to $92.0 billion in 2019. Increases in spending per person accounted for 52.9% of the increase, followed by population aging and population size (35.6% and 11.4%). Total DALYs increased from 11.4 million to 12.2 million. Population aging accounted for 269.4% of the increase, followed by population growth (64.0%). However, DALYs per person decreased (−233.4%), reflecting a lower per capita health burden given the country’s age structure. Assuming 50% and 80% of these health improvements could be attributed to health care spending, the estimated spending per DALY averted was $20 678 and $12 924, respectively. The estimate was slightly larger when excluding DALYs not directly impacted by medical care ($23 687). Korea’s spending per DALY averted is at the lower range of estimates and comparable to that of other high-income countries.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study indicates that increased spending per person, which accounted for half of the total health care spending increase, was associated with improved overall health, evidenced by substantially fewer DALYs. These findings contribute to understanding and evaluating the value of health care spending in Korea.