bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated production of batched unclonable micro-patterns anti-counterfeiting labels with strong robustness and rapid recognition speed
Authors: He Yuzheng , Zhang Zunshuai , Xing Yifei , Lang Zhiyuan , Wu Jinbo , Yang Jiong
Published: November 2024

Anti-counterfeiting technologies are indeed crucial for information security and protecting product authenticity. Traditional anti-counterfeiting methods have their limitations due to their clonable nature. Exploring new technologies, particularly those based on pixel-level textures, is a promising avenue to address the clonable issue due to high encoding capacity. However, research in this field is still in its early stages. This work introduces a new fluorescent anti-counterfeiting label technology with four key characteristics: efficient laser etching, high-throughput fabrication and segmentation, robustness aided by data augmentation, and an exceptionally high recognition speed. Specifically, the etching achieves a speed of 1,200 labels/3s, the high-throughput procedures yield a rate of 2,400 labels/4 min, and the total count is about 5.2 × 104 labels. The number of labels is further augmented to about 5.2 × 106 by implementing arbitrary rotation and brightness variation to enhance the robustness in the recognition procedure. We divide these labels into 44 categories based on differences in patterns. Utilizing machine learning methods, we have achieved a total recognition (including extraction and search process) time per label averaging 421.96 ms without classification, and 40.13 ms with classification. Specifically, the search process with classification is nearly fiftieth times shorter than the non-classification method, reaching 8.52 ms in average. The overall recognition time is much faster than previous works, and achieves an accuracy of over 98.7%. This work significantly increases the practical significance of pixel-level anti-counterfeiting labels.
Taxonomic notes on the genus Hymenopyramis (Lamiaceae) in Thailand with one new species, four lectotypifications and one new synonyms
Authors:   Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand., Bongcheewin Bhanubong , Paton Alan ,   Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE, UK.
Published: November 2024

Hymenopyramis sabuletorum, a new species from the sandstone plateau in Pha Taem National Park, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand is described and illustrated. Four species are lectotypified, i.e. H. acuminata, H. cana, H. siamensis and H. vesiculosa. Hymenopyramis parviflora var. nitida and H. pubescens are placed in synonymy of H. parviflora and H. siamensis, respectively. A key to the seven species recognised in Thailand is provided.
Enhancing student success beyond COVID-19 through professionalised academic advising: A model for identifying academic advisors for South African higher education contexts
Authors: de Klerk D. , Jadhav A. , Hundermark G.
Published: November 2024

At South African universities, the role of academic advisors is not easily defined and there is limited literature about the attributes and characteristics required of those who occupy advising positions in the country. This article proposes a model for identifying academic advisors for South African higher education contexts. The authors adopt a phenomenological approach to construct this model. Based on existing literature and data collected from advising interactions with students, the authors share and explain their model for identifying suitable candidates for academic advisor roles in South African higher education contexts. The model consists of seven dimensions: cultural quotient, data analytics, personal/ emotional support, psychosocial and socioeconomic support, scholarly activities and networking, skills formation and support, and teaching and learning. The authors conclude by emphasising the importance of academic advising for South Africa, before making recommendations for using the model to identify suitable candidates for advisor roles Keywords: academic advising, academic advisor, advising, higher education, South Africa, student success, student support
The perceptions of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology students towards online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: Considerations for the future professoriate
Authors: Govender S. , Kyarkanaye T. , Eslick C.
Published: November 2024

The widespread effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 led to the suspension of various activities, including education. Institutions responded by shifting to online learning, albeit facing challenges. Student perceptions on online learning are valuable for academic leadership in shaping pedagogies and policies. This study examines Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology students’ perceptions (n=43) of online classes during the pandemic. Findings from a descriptive online survey with convenience sampling show that students favoured advantages such as recorded lectures, access to online materials, and self-paced study. However, they highlighted drawbacks like technical issues, limited patient interaction, and reduced engagement with lecturers. Online learning was regarded as effective for enhancing knowledge than for developing clinical skills or social competencies, whilst face-to-face teaching was seen as more effective for fostering clinical skills and social competence compared to online learning. While online learning was initially seen as a response to the pandemic, its formalization as part of a blended education approach in South African universities should align with global trends. Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face learning, higher education, online learning, perceptions of SLPA students, university
Digital transformation in the Biological Sciences: A comprehensive perspective from the discipline of biosciences within the Future Professors Programme
Authors: Sabiu S. , Aruwa C. E.
Published: November 2024

The concept of digital transformation (DT) has revolutionized different facets of society including institutions of learning, where it has continued to influence teaching, learning and research. Over time and with the continued technological advancements in biological science disciplines, it has become clear that the increased convergence between these disciplines and digital systems application will become more apparent. For example, the advent and application of next-generation sequencing (NGS), machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI) and other automated biological processes have afforded unique huge data sets with high societal impact. As such, digitalization of the bioeconomy remains necessary. The digitalization of the biosciences has birthed emerging concepts like “digital biology”, “engineered biology” and “bio-revolution” and involve computer-centered biosciences. These are built around the integration of scientific data, modeling at several levels, as well as networked science. Nonetheless, it is still plagued by information derivation policies and technicality issues. Although, digital biology has seen a major boost in recent years with the emergence of new and updated digital biology databases and platforms for advanced computational modelling, and connection and visualization of bio-data at a molecular level, more efforts are needed from governmental stakeholders (policy makers), industry and academia to enhance the impact of computational automation and digital transformation in bioscience activities. Hence, a steady upscale in digitalization of the biosciences would ensure bioprocess development, increase teaching, research efficiency and productivity, birth more innovative future applications for various industries, and thereby impact several aspects of life. This article presents how selected biological science disciplines have been digitally transformed through data analytics and how the concept could be further explored in advancing teaching, learning and research. Keywords: Digital transformation, Biological sciences, digitalization, higher education, automation, process development
Voter management devices in South Africa’s elections, 2021-2024
Authors: Maseko Maxwell
Published: November 2024

This paper tracks the performance of Voter Management Devices (VMDs) in South Africa from their piloting in the 2021 local government election to their adoption in the 2024 general elections. It seeks to unpack what this performance means for further modernising electoral processes in the country, and especially for the introduction of e-voting. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) argues that hand-held touch-screen electronic devices ushered in a new era for election management in South Africa. Procured for millions of rand, VMDs replaced the old Zip-Zip barcode machines used since 1998 which could not capture real-time information. They were introduced at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic posed a threat to electoral participation in the democratic world. While the IEC and some observers argue that VMDs strengthened tough health controls in the voting process during their piloting, as with most new technology they still experienced several challenges and technical glitches. Nevertheless, the IEC resolved to deploy the new devices in the 2024 general elections. Following further glitches in the general elections, two main research questions have emerged: is South Africa technologically ready to handle e-voting based on the performance of VMDs? and what can other African countries learn from South Africa regarding modernising their voting systems? Data for this study was collected using qualitative methods. This study found that political will alone is insufficient for the modernisation of voting systems. The performance of VMDs requires further scrutiny before e-voting can be successfully implemented in South Africa.
Women’s participation in Nigeria’s 2023 elections: a micro-level analysis
Authors: Adebayo Adedeji Victor , Olutayo Molatokunbo A. S.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates a micro-level dimension of women’s participation in Nigeria’s electoral politics. It focuses on a particular local government area: Ikere, in Ekiti state in southwestern Nigeria, during the 2023 general election. The paper uses a qualitative approach to analyse the contributions of women towards the successes of their political parties at the polls, although they have not had full opportunity to contest as candidates. Key informant and in-depth interviews were conducted with respondents who were purposively selected from the leadership of political parties, academia, market and religious institutions, as well as interested onlookers. Additionally, campaign and mobilisation processes were observed during the period of this election. The study concluded that the wait for cultural and socio¬economic development to turn in favour of women’s numerical increase might not offer any realistic hope. However, the adoption of discretionary affirmative action strategies by party leaders could have a reverse effect and also reinforce prejudice.
Genotypic Clustering of H5N1 Avian Influenza Viruses Detected in North America
Authors: Tawidian Patil , Torchetti Mia K. , Killian Mary L. , Lantz Kristina , Dilione Krista E. , Ringenberg Jourdan M. , Bevins Sarah N. , Lenoch Julianna B. , Ip Hon S.
Published: November 2024

The introduction of HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses to North America in late 2021 resulted in avian influenza outbreaks in poultry, mortality events in many wild bird species, and spillover into many mammalian species. Reassortment events with North American low pathogenic virus were identified as early as February 2022 and over 100 genotypes have been characterized. Such diversity increases the complexity and time required for monitoring virus evolution. Here, we performed ordination and clustering analyses on sequence data from H5N1 viruses identified in North America between January 2020 to December 2023 to visualize virus genotypic diversity in poultry and wildlife populations. Our results reveal that ordination and cluster-based approaches can complement traditional phylogenetic analyses specifically for the preliminary assignment of H5N1 viruses to genotypic groups or to identify novel genotypes. Our study expands current knowledge on genotype diversity of H5N1 viruses in North America and describes a rapid approach for early virus genotype assignment.
Intensity-Based Quantification of Land Use Dynamics in Biodiversity Hotspot Area of Southern Rift Valley Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Seid Mohammed , Simane Belay , Teferi Ermias , Boyana Asnake
Published: November 2024

Although enriched biodiversity and ecological services, most of Ethiopia’s protected areas currently operate at minimum functionality status with terrible biodiversity loss due to anthropogenic‑driven land use change(LUC) and degradation. Despite efforts made to quantify a few aspects, there is no full information regarding the entire LUC patterns and processes which are vital for better understanding and feasible interventions. This study quantified the LUC characteristics compressively at interval, category and transition levels(1986 to 2002 and 2002 to 2020) in Nechsar National Park(NNP) using intensity analysis model, based on the area coverage data of six land types extracted from Landsat imageries. Results revealed ≈78% of the study area exhibited LUC, of which 50.41% was net change during the last 34 years. The change intensity was faster(1.8%) in 2nd time interval than 1st (1.7%). Besides >82% persistent land, net gain was observed in bush/shrub(147%), cultivated(127%) and water(15%) at the cost of 39%(10435ha) net loss from woodland, forest and grassland. The most active gain of cultivated and bush/shrub was intensively targeted forest and woodland, respectively, and avoided others. Beyond losing ≈50% of land, woodland followed by forest experienced the most active loss, profoundly attributed to the intensiveness of the drivers rather than area proportion, while its gain was dormant. Generally, the study indicates NNP has been under serious transition processes with negative implications for biodiversity and ecosystem services. It also provides adequate evidence regarding stationarities, highly vulnerable ecosystems and targeted interventions to sustain and scale up the parks’ functionality.
Innovations and Challenges in Optimizing Biotechnological Processes for Non‐Animal Protein Production
Authors: Muniz Emanuel do Nascimento , Montenegro Rebeca Teixeira de Queiroz , da Silva Daniel Nascimento , D'Almeida Alan Portal , Gonçalves Luciana Rocha Barros , de Albuquerque Tiago Lima
Published: November 2024

This review explores recent advances in the design of fermentation processes for producing alternative proteins, with a focus on the utilization of agro-industrial waste and renewable substrates. Key bioprocess strategies, such as optimized bioreactor designs and strict fermentation parameter control, are discussed to enhance substrate conversion efficiency into protein biomass. The role of enzyme technologies in improving digestibility and protein quality is also highlighted. The article underscores the importance of developing cost-effective fermentation solutions that minimize environmental impact while addressing technical challenges such as scalability and contamination control. Furthermore, it emphasizes the growing need for innovations in fermentation process design to ensure the sustainability of industrial protein production. The review concludes that improvements in process design are fundamental to overcoming technological and regulatory barriers, particularly in increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of non-meat proteins in the global market.
Double-Sided Metasurfaces for Dual Band Mid-Wave and Long-Wave Infrared Reflectors
Authors: Ko Yeong Hwan , Magnusson Robert
Published: November 2024

We present an innovative method for dual band mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR) reflectors. By using double-sided metasurfaces, two high reflection bands can be generated with a single device. As individual guided-mode resonance (GMR) reflectors are combined with interlayer (or substrate) on the top and bottom sides, we achieve high reflection in the MWIR and LWIR bands simultaneously. Each GMR reflector is optimized as a germanium (Ge) grating structure on a potassium bromide (KBr) substrate. In our analysis, it is found that the transparency of the interlayer is critical to produce the dual-band reflection. The simulation results on the Ge/KBr/Ge double-sided metasurfaces demonstrate wideband reflection from ~3.3 to 4.8 μm and ~8.8 to 11 μm. Additionally, the device exhibits favorable angular tolerance. The work contributes to developing capability of metasurface technologies in various application fields.
Evaluating the Share of Atmospheric Deposition of Priority Pollutants Cadmium and Lead in Soil Pollution with the Use of Ombrotrophic Peat Bogs as Natural Archives
Authors: Miszczak Ewa , Stefaniak Sebastian , Steinnes Eiliv , Twardowska Irena
Published: November 2024

Sustainable soil resource management requires detailed knowledge of soil pollution sources and their share in total pollution level. Spatial pollution caused by the total cumulative atmospheric deposition remains largely unknown, as the biggest pollutant emissions occurred in XIX/XX centuries. The use of ombrotrophic peatlands that are specific isolated ecosystems fed only through atmospheric deposition may serve as its natural archives. Accumulation of Cd and Pb from atmospheric deposition in undisturbed soil layers in relation to their total deposited cumulative loads recorded in the ombrotrophic peat bog was exemplified in the Izera Mountains. area historically heavily affected with the transboundary long-range transmission of pollutants from Germany, Czech Republic and Poland. Balance of deposited Cd and Pb loads in soil in relation to the total cumulative deposition determined from peat records, showed 30% depletion of Cd load in the soil profile due to washout of mobile phases, while that of Pb practically did not decline. The deposited element accumulation and release/depletion in undisturbed soil profiles can thus be quantified in relation to the total cumulative load of atmospheric deposition. This shows a new prospective application of peat bog records as monitors of total cumulative loads of trace elements supplied to soils from atmospheric deposition.
Continuous Risk Assessment of Late and Term Preeclampsia Throughout Pregnancy: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Rolle Valeria , Chaveeva Petya , Diaz-Navarro Ander , Fernández-Buhigas Irene , Cuenca-Gómez Diana , Tilkova Tanya , Santacruz Belén , Pérez Teresa , Gil Maria del Mar
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of widely available biomarkers longitudinally measured throughout pregnancy to predict all and term (delivery at ≥ 37 weeks) preeclampsia (PE). Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study performed at Hospital Universitario de Torrejón (Madrid, Spain) and Shterev Hospital (Sofia, Bulgaria) between August 2017 and December 2022. All pregnant women with singleton pregnancies and non-malformed live fetuses attending their routine ultrasound examination and first-trimester screening for preterm PE at 11+0 to 13+6 weeks' gestation at the participating centers were invited to participate in a larger study for the prediction of pregnancy complications. The dataset was divided into two subsets to develop and validate a joint model of time-to-event outcome and longitudinal data, and to evaluate how the area under the receiving operating characteristic curve (AUROC) evolved with time. Results: 4056 pregnancies were included in the training set (59 all PE, 40 term PE) and 944 in the validation set (23 all PE, 20 term PE). For the joint model and all PE, the AUROC was 0.84 (95% CI 0.73 to 0.94) and the detection rate (DR) for a 10% screening positive rate (SPR) was 56.5 (95% CI 34.5 to 76.8). For term PE, AUROC was 0.80 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.91), and DR for a 10% SPR was 55.0 (95% CI 31.5 to 76.9). The AUROC using only information from the first trimester was 0.50 (95% CI 0.37 to 0.64) and it increased up to 0.84 (0.73 to 0.94) when using all information available. Conclusions: Routinely measuring MAP and UtA-PI throughout pregnancy may improve the predictive prediction power for all and term-PE.
Recent Development of Fourier Domain Mode-Locked Laser
Authors: Chen Lu , Zhang Hongcui , Yu Song , Luo Bin , Jiang Tianwei
Published: November 2024

Since the advent of Fourier Domain Mode-Locked (FDML) lasers, they have demonstrated outstanding performance in several fields. They achieve high-speed, narrow-linewidth laser output with the new mode-locking mechanism, which has been intensively researched in the past decades. Compared with conventional wavelength-scanning light sources, FDML lasers have successfully increased the scanning rate of frequency-sweeping lasers from kHz to MHz. They are widely used in optical coherence tomography, spectral analysis, microscopy, measurement, and microwave signal generation. With the deepening research on FDML lasers, several performance metrics have been optimized and improved, offering superior performance for FDML laser-based applications. This paper reviews the principles and key performance indicators of FDML lasers, as well as the recent progress made in some important applications, and highlights further research directions for FDML lasers in the future.
The Post-Acute Covid-Vaccination Syndrome in the light of Pharmacovigilance
Authors: Platschek Barbara , Boege Fritz
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Clinical studies show that SARS-Cov-2 vaccination sometimes entails a severe and disabling chronic syndrome termed post-acute-Covid-vaccination syndrome (PACVS). PACVS shares similarities with long COVID. After more than three years, PACVS is still not officially recognised, while long Covid has been registered by health authorities within little over a year. Here we address possible reasons for that discrepancy. Methods: We analyse to which extent common symptoms of PACVS have been registered by European pharmacovigilance as adverse vaccination reactions and which consequences have been drawn thereof. Results: (i) PACVS is distinguished from normal vaccination reactions solely by prolonged duration. (ii) Symptom duration is poorly monitored by post-authorization pharmacovigilance. (iii) PACVS-specific signals were faithfully recorded by health authorities but haven’t prompted appropriate reactions. (iv) The most widely applied SARS-Cov-2 vaccine has been modified after roll-out without renewed phase III evaluation; the modification has increased DNA-contamination, which is thought to aggravate the spectrum of adverse events. (v) Crossing of Pharmacovigilance data with corresponding estimates of applied vaccine doses suggest a PACVS-prevalence of 0.003 % in the general population. In contrast, occupational surveillance studies suggest a PACVS-prevalence of 0.9 % in young and middle-aged persons. Conclusions: (a) Denial of official recognition of PACVS is unjustified. (b) PACVS seems to target preferentially young and middle-aged persons. (c) Without official disease recognition, access to public health care and welfare services is made difficult for PACVS-affected persons, which creates considerable socio-economic problems. (d) Without official disease recognition, development and evaluation of therapies for PACVS is impaired.
Xanthine Oxidase: A Longstanding Target in Acute Pancreatitis with New Ways
Authors: Han Chenxia , Wu Yaling , Rong Juan , Xia Qing , Du Dan
Published: November 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a potentially fatal organ disease that is widespread globally. Although significant progress has been made in the previous decade, the study of mechanisms and therapeutic strategies is still far from being completed. Xanthine oxidase (XO) is an enzyme that generating urate and also responsible to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Considerable clinical and mechanical research has been conducted over many decades to explore the function of XO in AP and its promising therapeutic applications. Unquestionably, XO is a key part of starting and progressing AP by ROS production. Not fully known, though, are XO's many other functions besides ROS resource in both local and global processes, such as its role in cellular signaling or metabolism regulation. This review seeks to summarize the function of XO in AP pathophysiology by analyzing the inherent biological and chemical properties of XO, and lastly provide fresh concepts for future research.
Exploring Hypofractionated Radiotherapy Efficacy in Prostate Cancer: In-Vitro Insights
Authors: du Plessis Peter , Nkosi Pauline Busisiwe , Nair Shankari , Akudugu John
Published: November 2024

The rising incidence of prostate cancer necessitates innovative treatment approaches, particularly as diseases like the COVID-19 pandemic can disrupt traditional cancer care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of hypofractionated versus conventionally fractionated radiotherapy on prostate cancer cell lines in vitro. Prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3 and DU-145) were exposed to varying doses of radiation alongside non-cancerous BPH-1 cells. We assessed radiation effects on cell proliferation, viability, colony formation, DNA repair, migration, invasion, and cytotoxicity. Results demonstrated that the prostate cell lines exhibited varying responses, with hypofractionation favourably impacting aggressive PC-3 cells while preserving non-cancerous cells. In contrast, conventional fractionation led to increased invasion and cytotoxicity in both prostate cancer cell lines. These findings advocate for personalised radiation therapy approaches that enhance treatment efficacy by considering the distinct behaviours of differing prostate cancer subtypes.
Matrix Manipulations and Tridiagonal Structures New Schemes in Secure Data Encryption
Authors: Kharal Athar , Bokhary Syed Ahtsham Ul Haq , Saeed Maha Mohammad
Published: November 2024

This paper presents four novel schemes for secure data encryption utilizing mathematical transformations. The first scheme employs matrix manipulations and partitioning of numerical values derived from plain text characters, constructing a cipher through matrix additions. The second scheme introduces division operations and additional transformation layers for enhanced data obscurity. The third scheme incorporates tridiagonal matrices, creating a structured encryption process. The fourth scheme refines this approach with quotient-remainder operations and symmetric keys to construct a tridiagonal matrix cipher. Detailed algorithms for encryption and decryption are provided, with examples illustrating practical applications. This work contributes to mathematical cryptography by offering enhanced security methods for digital communication.
Systematic Intravenous Administration of Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cells Is Safe
Authors: Matsuoka Takaaki , Kobayashi Nana , Itohara Takaaki , Hara Yurie
Published: November 2024

The therapeutic applicability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for a range of conditions has garnered increasing interest. This study aimed to evaluate the mean major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular event (MACCE)-free period in a population of 2,504 patients (age, 54.09 ± 11.65 years) receiving MSC therapy (mean dose, 1.49 ± 0.75 billion cells) for various indications (over two-thirds [n=1,700, 67.89%] received MSC therapy as an anti-ageing therapy) and evaluate for potential risk factors for MACCE development in this cohort. In multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, age, but not sex and MSC dose, was significantly associated with MACCE risk (hazard ratio=1.127; 95% confidence interval=1.0418, 1.219; p=0.0029). The adverse event rate was 0.8%, and none of the reported adverse events were severe. In conclusion, our study showed that stem cell therapy was safe in a large cohort of individuals and was associated with a low rate of MACCE.
Digital Transformation Hyper-Framework – the Meta-Specification Based Life Cycle Model, Architecture, Configuration, and Information Resources Handling
Authors: Perisic Ana , Perisic Branko
Published: November 2024

To cope with the complexity, the digital transformation of cyber-physical and socio-technology systems demands the utilization of heterogeneous tailorable development environments with dynamic configuring ability and transparent integration of independently developed dedicated frameworks. Hyper-frameworks, aka Framework-of-Frameworks, correspond to the System-of-Systems paradigm and designate a software-supported, meta-model-based generator of executable configurations. Armed with a meta-modeling layer, the incremental development of hybrid architecture instances focuses on language-based models and their transformations into functional, interpretable environments. Data-driven reasoning and decision support for the entire life cycle of digitally transformed systems critically depends on the effectiveness of involved generative mechanisms and the trustworthiness of related information resources. The Architecture, Meta-Configuration, and Information Resource Handling are the essential segments of the initial version of the proposed evolution prototype. In this article, we formulate five essential hypotheses founding the proposed digital transformation hyper-framework project that integrates the framework model with a meta-configuration-based generative mechanism. The Life Cycle Modeling component framework creatively integrates System, Software, and Operation Engineering. Specification and development of the additional component frameworks, in compliance with specified generative mechanisms, direct further refinements of the proposed Hyper-framework.
A Case Series Focusing on Blunt Traumatic Diaphragm Injury at a Level 1 Trauma Center
Authors: Sharma Bharti , Kafaru Musili , Agriantonis George , Davis Aden , Bhatia Navin D. , Twelker Kate , Shafaee Zahra , Dave Jasmine , Mestre Juan , Whittington Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Detection of diaphragmatic injury in blunt trauma can be challenging in the absence of surgical exploration. Here we explore the mechanisms of injury and detection modes for patients with blunt trauma who had a diaphragmatic injury. Methods: This is a single-center, retrospective review conducted in a level 1 trauma center, 2016 to 2023, inclusive. We included all patients who presented with a blunt traumatic diaphragm injury (TDI). We identified nine patients with TDI using AIS injury description and type of trauma. Patient demographics, mechanism of injury, injury severity score (ISS), mode of diagnosis, and clinical outcomes were reviewed. Results: Of the nine patients identified with blunt TDI, two were associated with motor vehicle collisions, four were pedestrians struck, 1 from stab wounds, and 2 fell from the stairs. The mean ISS for the nine patients is 39.7. Of the nine patients with blunt TDI, four died in the trauma bay – two from traumatic arrest, and two died spontaneously. One patient died two days after admission. Of the four patients who survived, one had a diaphragm injury identified during video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) for retained hemothorax, and one patient had a diaphragm injury repaired during emergent exploratory laparotomy for other injuries. One patient had a diaphragm injury identified and repaired during diagnostic laparoscopy that was converted to open surgery, and the remaining patient had no diaphragm injury on diagnostic laparoscopy evaluation. Conclusions: Blunt trauma to the torso is usually a consequence of high-energy impact but can also occur following low-energy incidents, such as falls in elderly individuals. Imaging can be useful in detecting such injuries but is not 100% sensitive. A high index of suspicion should be maintained for diaphragmatic injury in high-energy blunt trauma.
Azelastine Nasal Spray in Non-Hospitalised Subjects with Mild COVID-19 Infection: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group, Multicentric, Phase II Clinical Trial
Authors: Meiser Peter , Flegel Michael , Holzer Frank , Groß Dorothea , Steinmetz Charlotte , Scherer Barbara , Jain Rajesh
Published: November 2024

Availability of nasal spray treatments that inhibit the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) entry into nose and nasopharynx at early stages can be an appropriate approach to stop or delay the progression of the disease. We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicentric, phase II clinical trial comparing the rate of hospitalization due to COVID-19 infection between azelastine 0.1% nasal spray and placebo nasal spray treatment groups. The study furthermore assessed the reduction in virus load in SARS-CoV-2 infected subjects estimated via quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using nasopharyngeal swabs in both the groups during the treatment period. A total of 294 subjects with mild COVID-19 infection were screened and randomized in a 1:1 ratio.
Tumor-Colonizing E. coli Expressing Both Collagenase and Hyaluronidase Enhances Therapeutic Efficacy of Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Cancer Models
Authors: Avsharian Lara C. , Loganathan Suvithanandhini , Ebelt Nancy D. , Shalamzari Azadeh F. , Rodarte Muñoz Itzel , Manuel Edwin R.
Published: November 2024

Desmoplasia is a hallmark feature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) that contributes significantly to treatment resistance. Approaches to enhance drug delivery into fibrotic PDAC tumors continues to be an important unmet need. In this study, we have engineered a tumor-colonizing, E.coli-based agent that expresses both collagenase and hyaluronidase as a strategy to reduce desmoplasia and enhance intratumoral perfusion of anticancer agents. Overall, we observed that the tandem expression of both these enzymes by tumor-colonizing E.coli resulted in the reduced presence of intratumoral collagen and hyaluronan, which likely contributed to enhanced chemotherapeutic efficacy observed when used in combination. These results highlight the importance of combination treatments involving the depletion of desmoplastic components in PDAC prior to, or during, treatment.
Discrete-Time Surplus Process Model for Productive Waqf Integration Scheme with Fishermen’s Welfare Benefits Using Multiple Threshold Levels
Authors: Cahyandari Rini , Sukono Sukono , Riaman Riaman , Zamri Nurnadiah
Published: November 2024

Insurance companies have a risk of bankruptcy if the funds disbursed exceed the reserves owned, or the surplus is negative. The risk of bankruptcy can be predicted using a mathematical model to anticipate the possibility of bankruptcy early on, so the surplus process needs to be observed in its evolution over time, assumed to be discrete time because it refers to the budget year period. The surplus process model is generally determined by three components, namely company capital, total premiums, and total claims. The sharia insurance scheme separates the management of the company's capital account from the premium and claim fund accounts, making it easier to monitor the evolution of its surplus process. This study systematically reviews the surplus process model for the sharia insurance scheme. The systematic review method is carried out by collecting scientific papers published in the Scopus, ScienceDirect, Dimensions, and Google Scholar databases. The PRISMA flowchart selects and then produces three scientific papers that are relevant to the topic. The results of this study provide insight into the form of the surplus process model and four sharia insurance schemes, namely mudharabah, wakalah, hybrid, and waqf. However, the scheme introduced is still a general description, there is no scheme based on needs or social problems in society such as the integration of productive waqf with welfare benefits for groups in need such as fishermen. This research was conducted towards the transition towards sustainable development of sharia insurance.
Oligo-Recurrence in Lung Cancer; The Most Curable State Among Advanced Disease?
Authors: Shimada Yoshihisa
Published: November 2024

The introduction of effective systemic therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and molecular-targeted agents, along with advancements in precision medicine, has significantly improved survival outcomes for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, recurrence or progression remains common, and only a fraction of patients can achieve long-term control. For a subset of patients with more localized metastatic disease—referred to as oligometastases—emerging evidence suggests that a multimodal approach combining systemic therapy with local ablative therapies (LAT), such as radiotherapy or surgical resection, may offer curative potential. The concept of oligo-recurrence is defined by the presence of a limited number of metastases and recurrences in patients with controlled primary lesions. A key distinction between oligometastasis and oligo-recurrence lies in the status of the primary lesion: whether it is controlled or uncontrolled. In cases of oligo-recurrence, all gross recurrent or metastatic sites are potentially treatable with LAT. According to a European consensus, oligo-recurrence is regarded as the most favorable subgroup among various oligometastatic classifications, showing a promising response to LAT. However, this classification remains a topic of ongoing debate and requires further exploration. In addition to an ongoing randomized clinical trial on oligo-recurrent NSCLC, further rigorous studies focusing specifically on oligo-recurrence could help refine treatment strategies for this advanced but potentially curable state. These investigations are essential for developing effective, tailored approaches to optimize outcomes for patients within this prognostically favorable subgroup.
A Survey of Efficient Lightweight Cryptography for Power-Constrained Microcontrollers
Authors: Soto-Cruz Jesús Alejandro , Ruiz-Ibarra Érica Cecilia , Vázquez-Castillo Javier , Espinoza-Ruiz Adolfo , Castillo-Atoche Alejandro , Mass-Sanchez Joaquin
Published: November 2024

Protecting sensitive data, such as data collected from sensors, is crucial for ensuring the accurate assessment of sensing devices and preventing unauthorized access. In this regard, Internet of Things (IoT) devices offer a promising alternative for in-situ monitoring. However, IoT sensing devices are often constrained by limited processing power and memory. Therefore, lightweight and efficient security algorithms are essential. This review paper assesses the implementation of lightweight cryptographic algorithms for power-constrained microcontrollers in IoT systems using symmetric cryptography. The implemented algorithms analyze the resource constraints of the IoT devices and compare their performance for efficient implementation of secure monitoring systems. Experimental results demonstrate the performance of various lightweight encryption algorithms on low-power microcontrollers. The analysis reveals the comparative performance of these algorithms in terms of average power and energy consumption, memory usage, latency, and throughput.
Synthesis of N-P-Fluorothiosemicarbazone and of bis(N-P-Fluorophenylthiourea). Crystal Structure and Conformational Analysis of N, N’-bis(4-Fluorophenyl)hydrazine-1,2-Bis(carbothioamide)
Authors: Salhi Sirine , Dorra Kanzari-Mnallah Dorra , Jourdain Isabelle , Knorr Michael , Strohmann Carsten , Kirchhoff Jan-Lukas , Mrabet Hédi , Ben Akacha Azaiez
Published: November 2024

Reaction of the phosphonated hydrazone (2-hydrazineylidenepropyl) diphenylphosphine oxide 1 with p-fluorophenyl-isothiocyanate yields as major product the thiosemicarbazone Ph2P(=O)CH2{C=N-NH(C=S)-N(H)C6H4F}CH3 (2-(1-(diphenylphosphoryl)propan-2-ylidene)-N-(4-fluorophenyl)hydrazine-1-carbothioamide) 2 along with bis(N-p-fluorophenylthiourea) 3 as minor product. This latter product 3 was isolated as main product by direct treatment of p-FC6H4N=C=S with hydrazine in a 2:1 ratio. Both 2 and 3 were characterized by NMR. Furthermore, the molecular structure of 3 was elucidated by an X-ray diffraction study. A conformational DFT study, at the B3LYP/6311 G++ (d, p) level of theo-ry, confirmed a good match between the calculated structure and the experimental one.
Effect of Precipitation-Free Zone on Fatigue Properties in Age-Strengthened Aluminum Alloys: Crystal Plasticity Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Chen Xin , Zheng Xiaoyu , Pan Meichen , Liu Yuling , Kong Yi , Hartmaier Alexander , Li Liya , Du Yong
Published: November 2024

Age-strengthened aluminum alloys as important structural lightweight materials have much lower fatigue properties than conventional steel. This study focuses on the effect of the precipitation-free zone (PFZ) on the mechanical properties of age-strengthened aluminum alloys. A polycrystalline model containing PFZ was created by secondary development of the traditional polycrystalline model and combined with the crystal plasticity finite element method to simulate the stress-strain response and local plastic deformation behaviors under different microstructures. The presence of PFZ significantly reduces the yield strength of the alloy and concentrates the stresses in the PFZ region, especially under cyclic loading, and the strain energy dissipation in the PFZ region is significantly higher than that in the intracrystalline region, and far exceeds that without the precipitation zone. region and far exceeds the model without PFZ, indicating that PFZ is the main region for fatigue crack initiation. In addition, the introduction of a rotation factor to simulate the inhomogeneous rotation within the grain reveals that the additional stress concentration in the PFZ introduced by the aluminum alloy forming process further increases the fatigue crack initiation driving force.
Demographic Analysis of Tree Populations Helps to Prioritize Nature Conservation Efforts: A Case of the Białowieża Forest, Ne Poland
Authors: Brzeziecki Bogdan , Zajączkowski Jacek , Ksepko Marek , Kolendo Łukasz , Koźniewski Marcin
Published: November 2024

Preserving natural biodiversity of forest ecosystems is one of the greatest challenges of modern, multifunctional forest management. Among the many different groups of forest organisms trees are of major importance as they often act as the so-called foundation species, i.e. species that create conditions on which the existence of virtually all other organisms depends, either directly or indirectly. The essential condition for trees to permanently play this role is their demographic sustainability, which is reflected in the balanced proportions of individuals representing different developmental stages (from seedlings and saplings to mature trees). The main goal of this study was to assess the possibility of tree species occurring in the Białowieża Forest (important biodiversity hotspot) to maintain the role of foundation species in a sustainable manner. Comparison of species-specific, equilibrium vs. actual size distributions revealed that almost half of all trees growing in the Białowieża Forest represent "inappropriate", i.e. occurring in excess compared to the balanced model, species and/or diameter ranges. Similarly high was also the amount of deficits, concerning primarily the smallest trees. It is suggested that, in order to permanently preserve a high biological diversity of the Białowieża Forest, active actions should be taken to bring the current tree diameter distributions as close as possible to the desired sustainable model.
Impact of International Oil Price Shocks and Inflation on Bank Efficiency and Financial Stability: Evidence from the Saudi Arabian Banking Sector
Authors: Bouzidi Fathi Mohamed , Nefzi Aida Arbi , Al Yousif Mohammed
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to examine the short-run and the long-run equilibrium relationship between banking sector’s efficiency and stability and its endogenous and exogenous determinants such as inflation and international oil prices shocks in Saudi Arabia over the period 2004–2022. This study differentiates between the direct and indirect effects of international oil price changes on bank efficiency and stability to investigate the extent to which these changes can affect the banking sector through inflation. The first stage consists of using a panel Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL). The empirical result confirms the existence of a long/short run relationship between oil price shocks and stability and efficiency of banks. In the long run the relationship is statistically significant and positive and is negative in the short run.
On the other hand, this study finds that oil price shocks directly affect the stability and efficiency of banks. In the second stage, this study uses a nonlinear ARD (NARD) to examine the short- and long-run asymmetric impacts of oil price shocks on the stability and efficiency of banks by decomposing the oil price index into positive and negative changes. The finding confirms an asymmetric relationship between oil prices and the stability and efficiency of banks in Saudi Arabia. In addition, a positive change in oil price can affect the stability and efficiency of banks more than a negative one. Overall, the finding highlights the need for policymakers in Saudi Arabia to be vigilant in addressing the potential risks arising from oil price fluctuations and to adopt appropriate policy measures to maintain stability and efficiency in the banking sector.
Antimicrobial Preservatives in Cyclodextrin-containing Drug Formulations
Authors: Jansook Phatsawee , Sigurdsson Hákon Hrafn , Pilotaz Frédéric , Loftsson Thorsteinn
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial preservatives are essential components of multidose pharmaceutical formulations to prevent microbial growth and contamination, many of which contain lipophilic and poorly water-soluble drugs in need of solubilizing excipients such as cyclodextrins (CDs). However, CDs frequently reduce or even abolish the antimicrobial activities of commonly used pharmaceutical preservatives. The degree of inactivation depends on the CD complexation of the preservatives, which in turn depends on their chemical structure and physiochemical properties. In general, lipophilic preservatives are more likely to be inactivated; however, CDs are also known to inactivate highly water-soluble preservatives. In some drug formulations, preservative inactivation has been offset by including excipients that possess some antimicrobial activity on their own. In this review we explain how CDs interact with some commonly used pharmaceutical preservatives and why some preservatives are more susceptible to CD inactivation than others are.
5-Bromo-N'-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)furan-2-carbohydrazide
Authors: Aijijiyah Nur Pasca , Fadlan Arif , Ningsih Sri , Santoso Mardi
Published: November 2024

5-Bromo-N'-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)furan-2-carbohydrazide (1) was successfully synthesized in 81% yield from commercially available isatin and 5-bromofuran-2-carbohydrazide in acidic conditions under reflux. The structure of synthesized compound 1 was confirmed by 1H and 13C NMR, FTIR, and HRMS spectrometers. This study used in vitro models to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of compound 1, which included the inhibition of BSA denaturation, proteinase activity, and heat- and hypotonicity-induced hemolysis. Compound 1 displayed an inhibitory effect comparable to the standard drug diclofenac sodium. Compound 1 inhibited 50% of BSA denaturation, proteinase activity, and heat- and hypotonicity-induced hemolysis at concentrations of 3.54, 3.04, 2.25, and 1.82, respectively, while diclofenac sodium was 1.99, 3.38, 2.28, and 2.00 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, compound 1 was considered a drug-like candidate with no violation of Lipinski’s rule of five, had good ADME properties, and did not show any toxic properties. A molecular docking study of compound 1 (binding energy -9.63 kcal/mol) revealed that compound 1 occupied a unique channel of the cyclooxygenase active site, contributed to the specificity of COX-2 protein, and interacted with some channel hydrophobic residues. These findings indicated that compound 1 has the potential to be optimized into an anti-inflammatory agent.