bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeding performance of Brumoides suturalis (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley under laboratory conditions
Authors: Sharma Ramnik , Sharma Pushpendra K.
Published: December 2024

This study aims to determine the feeding performance of grubs and adults of Brumoides suturalis (Fabricius) on the cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley. The experiments were conducted in the laboratory at 25.0±1.0°C temperature, 65±5% R.H., and a 14L:10D photoperiod with ten replicates under unstarved and starved conditions. When unstarved, the first instar grub, second instar grub, third instar grub, fourth instar grub, adult male, and adult female ingested at an average of 8.5±0.26, 12.6±0.33, 19.1±0.48, 38.2±0.60, 28.0±0.29, and 33.4±0.74 mealybugs/insect/day, respectively. When exposed to starvation for 2 hours prior to the experiment, the mean consumption of the first instar grub, second instar grub, third instar grub, fourth instar grub, adult male, and adult female was recorded to be 9.2±0.09, 13.3±0.31, 20.1±0.42, 40.5±0.34, 30.0±0.50, and 34.3±0.25 mealybugs/insect/day, respectively. The study subsequently revealed that the fourth instar grub of B. suturalis is a voracious feeder of cotton mealybug, exhibiting the highest feeding potential among all the developmental stages. An adult female indicated higher feeding performance over the adult male. The starved grubs and adults consumed a higher number of mealybugs than unstarved or well-fed grubs and adults of B. suturalis .
Nurturing wheat resilience: An overview of unravelling the detrimental effects of drought and heat stress (HS) on plant growth and grain quality and mitigation approaches for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Kathuria Deepika , Singh Narpinder , Thakur Sheetal , Awasthi Tammana , Mudgal Swasti
Published: December 2024

A substantial portion of the worldwide population relies on wheat as a foundational dietary staple. However, the increased occurrence and severity of drought and heat stress events due to climate change pose significant threats to wheat production. The physiological and biochemical responses of wheat to drought and heat stress (HS) varied and had unfavorable impacts on plant growth, as well as grain yield and quality. Understanding these responses is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. The high temperature during grain synthesis alters the synthesis and proportion of major chemical constituents in the grain, thereby affecting its functionality and suitability for processing into various products. Developing drought-tolerant and heat-resistant wheat varieties through marker-assisted breeding and genetic engineering are two modern strategies that effectively combat temperature stress. Additionally, agronomic practices such as improved irrigation methods, crop rotation, and precision farming are common approaches to enhance wheat resilience under stress conditions. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, agronomists, policymakers, and processors by providing a comprehensive overview of the effects of drought and HS on wheat growth and its grain quality and by offering insights into promising strategies for sustainable wheat production and its processing. Adapting and implementing these strategies are essential steps towards ensuring global food security, safeguarding the livelihoods of wheat-growing farmers, and shedding light on changes in the composition and functionality of wheat grain that are useful for the food industry.
NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF THE PROCESS OF PRELIMINARY SEPARATION OF THE SEED MIXTURE ON THE SCREW FEEDER OF THE VIBRO-FRICTION SEPARATOR
Authors: KOZACHENKO Oleksii , ALIIEV Elchyn , PIKH Yevhenii
Published: December 2024

The separation process is the most important stage in the preparation of seed material of small-seeded oil crops. It is based on technical-technological principles of separation of seed material, the basis of which is the difference in the physical and mechanical properties of individual components. Such properties include shape, size, mass, specific gravity, surface condition and other properties that characterize the main seed of the crop and impurities.
Since the seed mixture is a polydisperse medium in its physical essence, the theoretical studies were carried out using numerical simulation software packages that contain models of discrete elements.
The goal is to carry out a numerical simulation of the process of preliminary separation of the seed mixture on a screw feeder and to substantiate its rational design parameters.
To carry out numerical simulation of the process of separation of the seed mixture on the vibro-friction separator, the improved physical and mathematical apparatus (1)–(12) of the movement of the particle of the seed mixture component, which is included in the model of the Simcenter Star-CCM+ software package, was used.
As a result of the numerical simulation of the process of preliminary separation of the seed mixture on the screw feeder, a visualization of the process of movement of their main components (seeds of the main crop, weed seeds and plant impurities) from the accepted research factors (step of the turn of the screw plate) was obtained Hf, angle of inclination of the screw plate αf, the radius of the seed injection point rf, angle of rotation of the screw plate θf).
According to the results of the calculation, the regression equations of the second order of the dependence of the radius were obtained rθ from the origin of the coordinates to the point of intersection of the trajectory of the components with a line that is at a certain angle θf rotation of the screw plate, from research factors. As an evaluation criterion, the condition of expanding the distribution zone of the components of the mixture is adopted, which consists in the fact that the radius for the seeds of the main crop rн should be the largest, and the radius for plant impurities rд should be the smallest. By solving the mathematically given condition by the method of function ranking and unification into a single criterion, rational design parameters of the screw feeder of the vibro-friction separator were obtained: Hf = 0,192 m, αf = 14,7 °, rf = 0,014 m, θf = 96,2 °.
The influence of coagulant/flocculant particle size and mass on the kinetics of coagulation process. Computer simulation. The applicability of the Smoluchowski–Müller theory
Authors: Wardzyńska Regina
Published: December 2024

Chemical coagulation is a crucial process in water treatment, hence the need for research on its optimization and increasing efficiency. This study explores coagulant/flocculant particle size, mass, and density’s impact on coagulation kinetics. The study employed a computer program that simulates the perikinetic coagulation processes. The simulation’s reliability was confirmed based on the classical Smoluchowski–Müller equations. Destabilization kinetics of the simulated sol revealed linear relationships. The coagulation rate adhered to both first-order (R2 = 0.97) and second-order kinetics (R2 = 0.98). Coagulant/flocculant particle size, mass, and density significantly influenced coagulation kinetics and efficiency. A tenfold increase in coagulant radius led to a fourfold rate increase.
Single- and multi-elemental pollution indices as a useful tool for the evaluation of road dust contaminated by trace elements
Authors: Hołtra Anna , Zamorska-Wojdyła Dorota
Published: December 2024

The challenge still is to quantify the impact of traffic volume, road type, age of the road, and the presence of road infrastructure on the content of trace elements in road dust. Samples of road dust were collected at the intersections and roundabouts of the main roads of Wrocław and the county, where traffic was accelerated. This research aimed to identify the level of Cu, Zn, Pb, Cr, Ni, and Cd in road dust, and determine the quality of road dust using individual and integrated pollution indices. A strong anthropogenic influence was noted, which causes a heterogeneous distribution of metal concentrations in the tested road dust. The principal component analysis (PCA) analysis showed that traffic intensity affects mainly the metal content in road dust. The strong Spearman’s correlations indicate the connection of trace elements to road traffic. Individual and integrated pollution indices confirm the enrichment of road dust with tested elements, although the permissible metal concentrations according to the Polish standard were not exceeded. A medium or high probability of road dust toxicity was recorded.
Small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) mimicking a pelvic mass
Authors: Hernández G , Rodríguez G , Chinelli J
Published: December 2024

Introducción: los tumores estromales gastrointestinales (GIST) son poco frecuentes y el 25% de ellos se asienta en el intestino delgado.

Caso clínico: hombre de 51 años con un tumor pélvico solitario en el que la exploración quirúrgica confirmó su origen intestinal. El estudio anatomopatológico de la pieza resecada concluyó que se trataba de un GIST maligno.

Discusión: los tumores GIST presentan en un 90% mutaciones a nivel de 1 o 2 receptores tirosin-kinasa (RTK): c-KIT y PDGFRA, confirmándose el diagnóstico con técnica de inmunohistoquímica. El tratamiento quirúrgico es de elección siempre y existe evidencia a favor del uso de inhibidores de los RTK como Imatinib, tanto en plan adyuvante como neoadyuvante en casos seleccionados.

Conclusión: los GIST de delgado son infrecuentes y de peor pronóstico que los gástricos, constituyen un reto diagnóstico y pueden simular otro tipo de masas abdomino-pélvicas solitarias.
Application of Bivariate Conditional Erlang Distribution to Sequential Medical Procedures
Authors: Dare Toluwani J , Olorunpomi Olubunmi T , Oyem Anselm O
Published: December 2024

This investigation applied Bivariate Conditional Erlang Distribution (BCED) to model two key sequential medical procedures: Time to Blood Glucose Monitoring (T1) and Time to Follow-Up Treatment (T2). The findings estimated T1 to have a shape parameter of 24.14 and a scale parameter of 0.642, while T2 had a shape parameter of 25.87 and a scale parameter of 0.847. The Goodness-of-fit tests using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov method yielded p-values of 0.9129 for T1 and 0.9462 for T2, confirming that the Erlang distribution adequately describes both processes. A strong positive correlation of 0.983 between T1 and T2, with a highly significant p-value of 3.9 × 10−223.9, indicated a close relationship between the two procedures. These outcomes confirmed that, when the time for blood glucose monitoring increases, the time for follow-up treatment also rises proportionately. Visualizations using bivariate Gaussian kernel density estimates further reinforced these findings by demonstrating the concentration of data points around the joint mode of the two variables. This investigation illuminates the appropriateness of the BCED for modelling real-world dependent stochastic processes, particularly in healthcare where interrelated tasks like T1 and T2 can be adequately trapped. The analysis offers a solid foundation for using the Erlang distribution in healthcare procedure modelling and offers insights for improving time efficiency in sequential medical operations.
A New Ridge Type Estimator in the Logistic Regression Model with Correlated Regressors
Authors: O. J Oladapo , J. I. Idowu , A. T. Owolabi , K. Ayinde , T. J. Adejumo
Published: December 2024

The maximum likelihood (ML) technique is always one of the most widely employed to estimate model parameters in logistic regression models. However, due to the problem of multicollinearity, unstable parameter estimates, and inaccurate variance which affects confidence intervals and hypothesis tests can be achieved. A new two-parameter biased estimator is proposed in this paper to handle multicollinearity in binary logistic regression models. The proposed estimator's properties were determined, and five (5) different types of biasing parameter k (generalized, maximum, median, mid-range, and arithmetic mean) were applied in this work. The necessary and sufficient criteria for the new two-parameter biased estimators to outperform the existing estimators is considered. In addition, Monte Carlo simulation studies are carried out to compare the performance of the proposed biased estimator. Finally, a numerical example is provided to support the theoretical and simulations findings.
Exploring the adoption of a cooperating teacher preparation program in agricultural education
Authors: Nesbitt Heather R. , Barry Debra M. , Bunch J. C. , Monaghan Paul F. , Chen Huan
Published: December 2024

This study presents a program review of a Cooperating Teacher Preparation and Support Program intervention within school-based agricultural education teacher preparation programs, employing Diffusion of Innovations and the Concerns-Based Adoption Model to explore the adoption behaviors of agricultural education teacher preparation university program coordinators. The study reveals the crucial role of formalized preparation and ongoing support for cooperating teachers in fostering successful mentorship experiences during student teaching internships. Drawing from the insights of program coordinators, the findings highlighted the program’s compatibility with existing structures, addressing gaps in cooperating teacher training. The Diffusion of Innovations characteristics—relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, observability, and trialability—are pivotal in shaping coordinators’ perceptions and decisions. Concerns-Based Adoption Model stages of concern, ranging from informational to refocusing, illuminate the evolution of coordinators’ concerns during the adoption process. The study contributes essential insights into the complexities of implementing mentorship programs, emphasizing the need for ongoing support, collaboration, and adaptation. Recommendations advocate for integrating structured mentorship programs in teacher preparation, collaboration among universities, and a culture of continuous evaluation.
Průvodce analýzami zubního kamene v archeologii
Authors: Chocholová Eva , Fialová Dana , Novotná Kateřina , Drozdová Eva
Published: December 2024

Dental calculus preserves information about past populations. This text aims to present the basic approaches to the rapidly developing research on this unique material and to provide recommendations for the analysis of dental calculus in archaeology, with a focus on obtaining the maximum amount of information. Optimal methodology involves a progression from non-destructive descriptive and some microscopic techniques to methods from molecular biology, biochemistry and organic chemistry that target biologically significant molecules such as ancient DNA and proteins. This can provide insights into, for example, diet, human microbiome, health, habits, contact or migration.
Přínos genetiky a izotopových analýz k poznání prehistorie a rané historie severní Číny
Authors: Maršálek Jakub
Published: December 2024

The last twenty years have seen significant development in bioarchaeological methods that have greatly increased knowledge of prehistory and early history worldwide. The area of modern China is no exception. Among the approaches mentioned, perhaps the most important contributions have come from archaeogenetics and isotopic reconstructions of the diets of ancient populations. Here, we review results from both disciplines concerning the area of northern China around the Yellow River. Genetic analyses of both modern populations and ancient DNA reveal westward migrations from the middle Yellow River valley – the so-called Central Plains – supporting the widely accepted hypothesis that these migrations are linked to the spread of the Sino-Tibetan language family, whose place of origin can be traced to the Central Plain region. Furthermore, it appears that these migrations were driven by the development and intensification of millet agriculture during the fourth millennium BC, an issue for which isotopic analyses provide substantial evidence. In the west, on the northern margins of the Tibetan Plateau, contacts between newly arriving farmers and populations settling in Central Asia led to the spread of typical western domesticates – wheat and barley – first to the upper and then to the middle reaches of the Yellow River. This process, which took place in the second and first millennia BCE, is also partly illustrated by the isotopic analyses. However, it sometimes differs from the picture depicted by the archaeobotanical research or based on the written sources. It is worth noting different ways in which western domesticates were adopted and incorporated into the local agricultural system and diet. These appear to have depended not only on environmental but also on social and cultural factors, which in the Central Plain area contrasted sharply with the approach to rice cultivated in the region since the early Neolithic.
Overview of Cenozoic Eurasian lagomorph biochronology and radiation
Authors: Erbajeva Margarita A. , Göhlich Ursusla B. , Flynn Lawrence J. , Alexeeva Nadia V.
Published: December 2024

Ochotonidae and Leporidae are two living families belonging to the Order Lagomorpha, an ancient group of mammals originating in the Paleogene of Asia. Those families diversified in the Oligocene and Miocene. More primitive stem lagomorphs inhabited Asia during a time of tropical environmental conditions. A Mid-Cenozoic change towards more continental and arid climate in parallel with Antarctic glaciation resulted in significant reorganisation of paleoenvironmental and climatic conditions in Asia and involved the opening of terrestrial connections between Asia, Europe, and North America, allowing faunal exchanges. This promoted diversification and speciation of lagomorphs in the northern continents. Pronounced lagomorph turnover is documented for Central Mongolia, with new data obtained for the Baikalian region as well as adjacent areas. The earliest lagomorphs were represented by archaic stem genera including paleolagids. These were successively replaced by modern Ochotonidae and Leporidae that flourished during the Miocene and Pliocene. The diversity and abundance of ochotonids and leporids decreased during the Pleistocene and of ochotonids, only the pika genus Ochotona survived to the present.
Utilidad Clínica de Biomarcadores en la Evaluación del Riesgo de Osteoporosis en Adultos Mayores: Una Revisión Sistemática
Authors: Ullaguari Cuenca Saira Alexandra , Jiménez Soto Rosa Elizabeth , Vanegas Espinoza Isaac John , Jima Blacio Jonathan Jefferson , Macas González Leodan Antonio , Briones Morales Victor Euclides
Published: December 2024

El presente artículo revisa la utilidad clínica de los biomarcadores en la evaluación del riesgo de osteoporosis en adultos mayores. Se destaca la importancia de identificar tempranamente a los individuos en riesgo para implementar estrategias de prevención y tratamiento efectivas. A través de una revisión sistemática, se analizan diversos biomarcadores bioquímicos, genéticos y epigenéticos, que proporcionan información complementaria a las técnicas tradicionales, como la densitometría ósea. Se observa que la combinación de biomarcadores permite una evaluación más integral del riesgo, considerando factores físicos y genéticos. Además, se explora el potencial del microbioma en la salud ósea, sugiriendo nuevas oportunidades para la intervención. La implementación de estos biomarcadores en la práctica clínica debe ser cuidadosa y complementaria a la evaluación convencional. En conclusión, la investigación continua en este campo es esencial para optimizar el manejo de la osteoporosis y mejorar la calidad de vida de los adultos mayores.
Políticas territoriales en los territorios de la complejidad. Desafíos para los saberes y las prácticas
Authors: Blanco Jorge
Published: December 2024

El artículo presenta, a modo de ensayo, algunas reflexiones sobre la necesidad y las posibilidades de implementar políticas territoriales en el contexto actual de múltiples territorialidades. Después de examinar algunos de los rasgos determinantes de los territorios contemporáneos, se aborda la idea de múltiples configuraciones territoriales y se la vincula con las variables geometrías del poder. Se repasan algunas de las características de las políticas territoriales en América Latina, durante las últimas décadas y, finalmente, se presentan desafíos para la producción de políticas territoriales apropiadas a las condiciones sociales y políticas del presente. Un primer desafío remite a la integralidad de las políticas, bajo los imperativos de la equidad social y la sostenibilidad, en tensión con las presiones y prioridades de los actores capitalistas más concentrados, y con la estructura burocrática del Estado. Esto implica el planteo de políticas sectoriales en clave social y territorial simultánea. Un segundo desafío se expresa en la necesidad de articulación vertical de políticas, en el marco del federalismo y aceptada la opción por las competencias concurrentes en materia de colaboración y solidaridad entre los niveles de estatalidad. Un tercer desafío propone abordar la cuestión de los nuevos esquemas institucionales que atiendan a las variables geometrías de los problemas territoriales.
Voces ciudadanas, asambleas comunitarias y resistencias colectivas en la Argentina reciente. Un aporte a la caracterización de los movimientos socioterritoriales en la lucha antiextractivista
Authors: Álvarez Álvaro
Published: December 2024

El 5 de octubre del año 2022, en las VI Jornadas Nacionales de Investigación en Geografía Argentina y las XII Jornadas de Investigación y Extensión del Centro de Investigaciones Geográficas, se desarrolló la mesa: Voces Ciudadanas: “Resistencias al extractivismo y conflictos ambientales” con la participación de la Unión de Asambleas de Comunidades, de la provincia de Chubut; el Taller Ecologista, de la ciudad de Rosario y; la Asamblea Ciudadana por la Preservación de las Sierras de Tandil, de la ciudad de Tandil. El objetivo de este escrito es desarrollar una sistematización de dicha mesa, remarcando aspectos centrales de las intervenciones, como un aporte a la caracterización de sus luchas y sus espacios colectivos, poniendo énfasis en un doble propósito: por un lado difundir el trabajo de cada organización en la defensa de sus espacios de vida; y por otro lado, hacer un aporte al estudio de los movimientos socioterritoriales y la lucha antiextractivista en Argentina.
QR 7
Authors: Cenicafé Federación Nacional de Cafeteros
Published: December 2024

QR 7
QR 12
Authors: Cenicafé Federación Nacional de Cafeteros
Published: December 2024

QR 12
QR 21
Authors: Cenicafé Federación Nacional de Cafeteros
Published: December 2024

QR 21
Умови існування розв’язків крайових задач для систем кінетичних реакцій
Authors: Покутний Олександр , Сігаєв Ігор
Published: December 2024

Розроблено методику розв’язування крайових задач для нелінійних систем диференціальних рівнянь, що описують моделі кінетичних реакцій. Одержано умови біфуркації і розгалуження розв’язків відповідних задач.
Imaging Spectroscopy: Earth and Planetary Remote Sensing with the PSI Tetracorder and Expert Systems from Rovers to EMIT and Beyond
Authors: Clark Roger N. , Swayze Gregg A. , Livo K. Eric , Brodrick Philip G. , Noe Dobrea Eldar , Vijayarangan Srinivasan , Green Robert O. , Wettergreen David , Candela Alberto , Hendrix Amanda , Pérez García-Pando Carlos , Pearson Neil C. , Lane Melissa D. , González-Romero Adolfo , Querol Xavier ,   the EMIT and TREX teams
Published: December 2024

A system for rapid analysis of spectroscopy data with emphasis on planetary surfaces, both imaging and single-spectrum data, is described. The system, called Tetracorder, is commanded by an expert system developed by expert spectroscopists. The Tetracorder and the expert system apply multiple algorithms to analyze a spectrum in segments, leveraging the advantages of each spectral region’s sensitivity to detecting different compounds, whether solid, liquid, or gas. The algorithms compare measured spectra to the spectral properties of materials in spectral libraries. The libraries include pure minerals, mineral mixtures that include areal mixtures, intimate mixtures, coatings, and molecular mixtures and other compounds such as organics, vegetation, liquids, and gases. Absorption bands of a particulate surface change shape with grain size, and shape changes are used in some cases to constrain grain size of each component in the surface. The different algorithm results are compared for each spectral region, and specific material composition and average grain size (when possible) are identified. The system is operational analyzing real-time data on a new generation of rovers for future planetary missions, as well as identifying materials using an imaging spectrometer on the International Space Station. Four abundance models are presented, each with increasing sophistication, that are computationally fast on imaging spectrometer data and use Tetracorder identifications to produce maps of mineral abundances. A fifth full radiative model that includes multilayer surfaces is presented but is computationally intensive. The system is open source and available on GitHub.
Two flowers on the same stem: Chinese perspectives on the status of work
Authors: He Linxin
Published: December 2024

Rethinking the status of work requires us to question the legal concept of work itself and to examine the conditions under which it was created, as well as how it operates in positive law. In this respect, the operation does indeed constitute an epistemological act and has enabled the West to create categories specific to its labour law, such as the employment contract and the collective agreement. The experience of developing countries, however, shows another side of this operation, which is no longer the enhancement of models or practices rooted in local society, but an imitation - not to say a transplantation, or even an imposition - of models from industrialised countries. Seen from this angle, Chinese law is an example of the difficulty of creating a labour status adapted to the protection of workers, thus echoing African experiences. In the face of such difficulties and despite their factual differences, African and Chinese laws will both benefit from a certain return to local resources to shape a truly adequate labour status.
Evaluation of the Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Aluminium - Based Composites Reinforced Silica Beach Sand Particulates
Authors: Ogbonna Victor Ekene , Popoola Patricia Abimbola , Popoola Olawale , Adeosun Samson , Obioha Charles
Published: December 2024

The use of silica sand tailings without leaching as a reinforcement in the development of composites remains a material class known for outstanding properties. However, owing to the availability, least expensive, and physical properties of silica beach sand, this study investigates the effect of non-leached silica (SiO2) beach sand particulates on the mechanical and tribological characteristics of aluminium (Al) alloy matrix composites. In the study, an AA6061 alloy matrix was reinforced with varying content of SiO2 beach sand (0, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) using the stir casting process. The SEM results revealed uniform dispersion of the beach sand particulates in the resultant composites with minimal agglomerations up to 30 wt% loading. Thus, the hardness and elastic modulus of the SiO2/AA6061 alloy composites were improved by 326.7% and 90.9%, respectively, at 30 wt% SiO2 particle addition. In addition, with the introduction of the SiO2 particles in the alloy matrix, a reduction in the coefficient of friction by 24.5% and wear rate by 40.79% was recorded compared to the pure Al alloy. These findings indicate the substantial potentiality of silica beach sand particulates reinforced Al alloy matrix composite material as a promising candidate for mechanical load bearing, frictional components, and high-performance engineering applications including construction, automotive component, airframe, marine and rail transport.
Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia for the practicing clinician
Authors: Matthias T. , Ranaweera P.
Published: December 2024

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. In this article, the definition, classification, and pathophysiology of the different forms of HDP and the management is discussed.
Guide to clinical audits
Authors: Mettananda Chamila , De Silva Shamila , Ediriweera Dileepa , Hettiarachchi Maduwanthi , Wanigatunge Chandanie , Wanigasuriya Kamani
Published: December 2024

No abstract available
Profile of dietary supplement consumers in the region of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Morocco
Authors: Touijri Oumaima , Al Ibrahmi Btihaj , Nahab Yassmine , Quyou Ali , Ouahidi Moulay Laarbi
Published: December 2024

Morocco’s food traditions and customs encourage the increasing consumption of dietary supplements. This study aimed to explore the profile of dietary supplement consumers in Morocco, with a particular focus on the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region. The results obtained following the analysis of our study made on 750 people, of which 36% use dietary supplements, show that 45% of users were female and 55% male. Nearly 65% of the consumers of food supplements have a higher level of education, 35% have a secondary level of education, and 0% are illiterate. 45% of consumers were in the 15-25 age group. In addition, the results showed high consumption of multivitamins (80%), and 58% of dietary supplement consumers take them occasionally. As expected, the level of education plays a big role in the consumption of dietary supplements, so we notice that most consumers are young people. Despite our progress, the number of consumers of food supplements remains small compared to their benefits and our daily needs.
Minimising harms of tight glycaemic control in older patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Thompson Wade
Published: December 2024

In older adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), tight glycaemic control (HbA1c 7%) can result in more harm than benefit, especially when using insulin or sulfonylureas. Older adults are at higher risk for adverse drug events, especially hypoglycaemia, which may cause falls, confusion and hospitalisations. This Therapeutic Letter evaluates the risks of tight glycaemic control in older adults with T2DM, focusing on deprescribing diabetes medications in those over 65, especially those with multimorbidity and polypharmacy. It assesses the evidence from clinical trials and guidelines, with a focus on preventing hypoglycaemia and improving patient-centred care through relaxed HbA1c targets. Large randomised controlled trials show that intensive glycaemic control (HbA1c ≤ 7%) does not reduce cardiovascular risk, but increases hypoglycaemia and mortality, particularly in older adults. Instead, glycaemic targets should be adjusted based on the patient’s overall health and life expectancy. Deprescribing may be considered, starting with drugs most likely to cause hypoglycaemia (sulfonylureas or insulin). Regular reassessment and patient involvement in creating individualised treatment plans are essential.
Acrodermatitis Dysmetabolica: A Masquerade
Authors: Jarang Tulasi , Katakam Bhumesh Kumar , Kusuma Pavani , Mogili Prashanthi
Published: December 2024

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is a rare autosomal-recessive inborn error of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism. It is caused by enzymatic defect in the metabolic pathway of branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine) which leads to accumulation of BCAAs and corresponding keto acids in plasma, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. The incidence of MSUD is approximately 1 in 185,000 worldwide. We present an infant with MSUD developed cutaneous lesions while on dietary treatment. 4 months old male baby was brought to hospital with complaints of excessive cry, poor feeding, failure to thrive. Initial biochemical investigations showed metabolic acidosis, normoglycemia, and ammonia was 65 μmol/L, and lactate was 2.7mmol/. Serum electrolytes, renal function tests were normal. CSF analysis was normal. Cutaneous examination revealed well defined erythematous patches over perianal area extending onto intergluteal cleft posteriorly, groins, and scrotum anteriorly. Multiple discrete erythematous macules and patches present over upper limbs, retro auricular areas, Hemorrhagic crusts were present at both upper lips and lower lips. These skin lesions developed few days after initiation of MUSD diet.
Network pharmacology approach to understand Kodo millet cardioprotective activity
Authors: Tanwar Ankur Kumar , Bhojani Meera K.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Kodo millet, commonly referred to as “Varagu” or “Kodra” is a kind of millet that plays an important role in the Ayurveda nutritional concept. According to Ayurveda, nutrition is essential for sustaining health and preventing disease. Because of its nutritional richness and potential health benefits, Kodo millet has been used in Ayurveda since ancient times. However, the network’s pharmacology technique greatly aids in understanding the scientific use of any herb.

METHODS:

Network pharmacology is an interdisciplinary approach to understanding how drugs act within intricate biological networks, such as signaling pathways, protein–protein interactions, and metabolic pathways.

RESULTS:

It studies the interactions between drugs, their targets, and biological systems. This study explores the possibility of using network pharmacology to comprehend the rationale behind the use of Kodo millet.

CONCLUSION:

Based on data obtained from various sources, pharmacology networks for Kodo millet were constructed. The paper illustrates how bioactives interact with molecular targets and how this affects diseases, particularly cardiovascular disorders.
Steel, Sheet and Strip, 0.25 Carbon, Maximum (SAE 1020), Hard Temper
Authors:   AMS E Carbon and Low Alloy Steels Committee
Published: December 2024

This specification covers a carbon steel in the form of sheet and strip.
Implicaciones para España de un brote de enfermedad por virus Marburgo en Ruanda, septiembre-noviembre de 2024
Authors: Raquel Escuredo Campos  , Guzman Herrador Bernardo , Gabriela Saravia-Campelli  , María de Salomón-Arroyo  , Miguel Dávila-Cornejo  , Gloria González-Díaz  , Rocío Palmera-Suárez  , Rocío Ruíz-Huertas  , Concepción Sánchez-Fernández  , Inma Vera-Gil  , Juan Miguel Guerras  , Rosa María Estévez-Reboredo  , Anabel Negredo  , María Paz Sánchez-Seco  , Ana Vázquez  , María José Sierra-Moros
Published: December 2024

En este trabajo, revisamos las repercusiones para España de la identificación de un brote de fiebre hemorrágica en una región endémica, centrándonos en el reciente brote de virus Marburgo que ocurrió en Ruanda durante el otoño de este año. A raíz de esta situación, describimos el proceso de evaluación rápida del riesgo llevado a cabo en nuestro país
HUMBOLDT’S FOUNDATION OF PHILOSOPHY OF LANGUAGE (Part I)
Authors:   Filozofski fakultet – Novi Sad, PEROVIĆ  A. Milenko
Published: December 2024

The time of the late Enlightenment, Sturm und Drang movement and philosophy of German idealism brought the need for philosophical reflection on essence and origin of language. Language became an important philosophical issue for Wilhelm von Humboldt. He showed that the language issue required a research of its anthropological essence. Furthermore, it opened a number of questions that make Humboldt’s philosophy of language: the relationship between language and thinking, understanding language as a system, organ, organism and activity, the relationship of language and “Volksgeist”, problem of “language and world view”, determining the “inner form of language”. The author of the present paper discusses the above issues in separate thematic sections.
THE WEDDING OF SMAILAGIĆ MEHO – A POEM AS PART OF EPIC HERITAGE
Authors:   Fakultet za crnogorski jezik i književnost – Cetinje, ČOGURIĆ Aleksandar
Published: December 2024

The author of this paper interprets Avdo Međedović’s poem The Wedding of Smailagić Meho as a representative epic and cultural heritage of Oriental-Islamic culture in Montenegro. The epic poem can be taken as a paradigm of creating cultural content and an example of how the mechanisms of culture keep its continuity during the existence of cultural or political system that forms it. Interpreting the poem, the author notes that community builds a cultural system by bringing cultural artifacts recognized as the most valuable and relevant to its needs. Following his poetic experience, social, historical and cultural continuity, Međedović greatly contributed to epic oral Oriental-Isla-mic culture in Montenegro.
REBEL TESTIMONIES (Borislav Jovanović’s Novels)
Authors:   Fakultet za crnogorski jezik i književnost – Cetinje, KALEZIĆ-ĐURIČKOVIĆ Sofija
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the author introduces the public to critical and analytical aspects of approaches to novels of Montenegrin writer Borislav Jovanović, a very versatile and prolific author whose rich creative oeuvre includes novels and collections of poetry, literary criticism and journalism, as well as books for children. Jovanović also dealt with themes from Montenegrin cultural history and as a poet he was awarded Ratković’s award, the most important Montenegrin recognition in the field of poetry.
FRAGMENTATION AS A METAFICTIONAL TECHNIQUE IN THE GOLDEN NOTEBOOK
Authors:   Univerzitet „Džemal Bijedić“ – Mostar, DŽIHO-ŠATOR Aida
Published: December 2024

The author of this paper reflects on the novel The Golden Notebook by Doris Lessing, describing it as a complex postmodern novel in which Lessing experiments with the form of the novel through techniques of metafiction, intertextuality and hybridity. In this paper, the author focuses especially on the metafiction technique, viewed as the most dominant post-modern technique in the novel, highlighting exclusively fragmentation in the service of metafiction. Thus, the intention is to show that in addition to metafictional techniques, fragmentation can also serve the author in his presentation of fictional nature of the work. The paper shows that Lessing uses fragmented forms of her novel to point to his fictional and artificial nature, classifying it into one of the earliest and most important British metafictional novels.
“JEWELS” FROM A TO VUŠČIJA (Rječnik crnogorskog narodnog i književnog jezika I (A–V), Crnogorska akademija nauka i umjetnosti, Institut za jezik i književnost „Petar II Petrović Njegoš“, Podgorica, 2016)
Authors:   Fakultet za crnogorski jezik i književnost – Cetinje, ŠUŠANJ Jelena
Published: December 2024

The paper provides a critical review of the first volume of Rječnik crnogorskog narodnog i književnog jezika (The Dictionary of Montenegrin Vernacular and Literary Language), published by the Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts. Providing a number of examples, the author proves and analyzes errors occurring as a result of poor methodological solutions, outdated linguistic approach, ignorance of the lexicographical activity. In addition, critical discourse analysis points to the specific ideological and social manipulation exercised by the authors and the publisher of the first general dictionary of the Montenegrin language.
CONTRIBUTION OF YPA MILITARY ELITE FROM MONTENEGRO TO CULTURAL AND SCIENTIFIC CREATION
Authors:   Ministarstvo odbrane Crne Gore, MARTINOVIĆ Srđa
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the author reflects on the cultural and scientific creation of Montenegrins covering high command posts during the Second World War. In the period from 1943 to 1992, there were nearly 200 generals in Montenegro. After leaving the military service, the military elite in Montenegro committed to writing memoirs and memories of the war and the period of service. Some generals engaged in literary work – a few of them wrote film and theatre screenplays, while others wrote technical books on war themes and other scientific fields. Some of them have left behind very valuable and popular memoirs of historiographical importance, without which the knowledge of that time would be scarce and limited. In terms of literary and historical significance, especially important are the works of Milovan Đilas, Veljko Kovačević, Svetozar Vukmanović and Veljko Mićunović, and Vukašin Mićunović.
VANDA BABIĆ, KULTURALNO PAMĆENJE – OGLEDI O HRVATSKOJ KULTURI I KNJIŽEVNOSTI BOKE, HNVCG, TIVAT, 2016
Authors:   Filozofski fakultet Sveučilišta J. J. Strossmayera u Osijeku, NIKČEVIĆ Milorad ,   Fakultet za crnogorski jezik i književnost – Cetinje
Published: December 2024

The author of this paper reviews the book entitled Kulturalno pamćenje – ogledi o hrvatskoj kulturi i književnosti Boke (Cultural Memory – Studies of Croatian Culture and Literature of Boka), a valuable literary-historian work which utilizes new literary theories to bring new knowledge and findings, as well as the fundamental settings for further work and study of Boka literature through the use of a cultural memory tool.
BIO-BIBLIOGRAFIJA VITOMIRA VITA NIKOLIĆAFCJK, CETINJE, 2016.
Authors:   Fakultet za crnogorski jezik i književnost – Cetinje, TERIĆ Marijana
Published: December 2024

Vito Nikolić is one of the few Montenegrin poets and one of the most important journalists who, with his unusual appearance and unique poetic expression, marked the Montenegrin poetry of the 20th century. A confirmation of this is the „Bio-bibliography“ composed by Vera Đukanović, who managed to collect all the bibliographic material and integrate it into a single unit. In addition to Nikolić’s poetry books, the Bio-bibliography includes travelogues, reports, records, and literature about the poet. Therefore, the bibliography is a valuable work that should be the starting point for the future research papers in this field.
Influence of the surface roughness, lubrication and grinding on tribological properties of the c35 steel shot-peened surfaces
Authors:   University of Žilina, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Slovakia, Vicen Martin , Bokůvka Otakar ,   University of Žilina, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Slovakia, Trško Libor ,   University of Žilina, Research Centre, Slovakia, Joch Richard ,   University of Žilina, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Slovakia, Bronček Jozef ,   University of Žilina, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Slovakia, Nikolić Ružica ,   University of Žilina, Research Centre, Slovakia, Ulewicz Robert ,   Czestochowa University of Technology, Faculty of Management, Poland
Published: December 2024

The roughness and lubrication of the contact surfaces play a major role in determining the contact forces and the coefficient of friction during contact between the two parts. The objective of the research, the results of which are presented in this paper, was to establish what, in fact, is the influence of those two important parameters on the surface properties of the shot- peened C35 steel specimens. Another important aspect that was considered was the influence of the post-treatment of the shot-peened specimen surfaces, the fine grinding. The experimental work included verification of the steel’s chemical composition (as compared to the standard values), the heat treatment, evaluation of the material’s microstructure, measurement of the mechanical properties, the shot-peening treatment and evaluation of the magnitude of the compressive residual stresses, measurement of the surface roughness profiles and the friction tests. An effect of the surface roughness and lubricant on the coefficient of friction (CoF) was established. The CoF values of the dry shot-peened steel surface after the fine grinding, as compared to the unground surface, decreased from about 30% to 39%. The application of lubricant caused the CoF to decrease by 66% and 43% for the ground and unground surfaces, respectively.
Development of an innovative cooling system at the countershaft assembly station
Authors: Espino-De la Rosa L.E. , Arcos-Gutiérrez H. , García Herrera J.E. , Garduño I.E. , Betancourt-Cantera J.A.
Published: December 2024

In automotive component manufacturing, temperature gradients are typical at workstations, especially in summer, affecting production processes. Interruptions in production lines are unacceptable, as constant flow is crucial to avoid financial losses. This issue is evident at the assembly station for the countershaft of truck transmissions, which can reach 181.7°C after welding. During summer, downtimes increase due to inadequate cooling process, as indicated by 235 minutes of downtime in May, coinciding with rising temperatures and increased demand in September, highlighting the need for an effective cooling system. This research proposes a novel design to homogenize cooling times for the countershaft. The cooling cabin was designed to fit the shaft dimensions, with air inlets strategically positioned based on assembly geometry, focusing on the hottest area. Numerical simulations using the finite element method integrated a turbulence model to analyze airflow at the cabin’s inlet and outlet. The goal was to reduce the shaft temperature from 181.7°C to an ambient range of 28°C to 34°C, minimizing cooling time and reducing downtime. Results showed a successful reduction, achieving 26.9°C.
Optimizing process parameters for enhancing mechanical properties of aa6061 composites reinforced with walnut shell ash and silicon carbide
Authors:   Department of Manufacturing Engineering, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India, Angirekula Rajesh , Manickam S. ,   Department of Manufacturing Engineering, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India, Ravindra Babu P. ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, S R Gudlavalleru Engineering College, India
Published: December 2024

Aluminium 6061 (AA6061) plays an important role in modern engineering due to its versatile applications, including aerospace, automotive, and construction. This study explores AA6061 as a matrix material reinforced with walnut shell ash (WSA) and Silicon Carbide (SiC), produced through the ultrasonic-assisted stir casting technique. The research aims to improve the process parameters using the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. The parameters include weight percentage of reinforcement – 2% (1%WSA+1%SiC), 4% (2%WSA+2%SiC), and 6% (3%WSA+3%SiC), Stirring speed (SS) -300 rpm, 350 rpm, and 400 rpm, and Stirring time (ST) -2, 3, and 4 minutes. The response properties examined are hardness, impact strength, and compressive strength. Optimal parameters for achieving maximum hardness are 6% reinforcement, 300 rpm stirring speed, and 2 minutes of stirring time. For optimal impact strength, the best conditions are 2% reinforcement, 300 rpm stirring speed, and 2 minutes of stirring time. For maximum compressive strength, the ideal parameters are 6% reinforcement, 400 rpm stirring speed, and 3 minutes of stirring time. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images confirmed the uniform distribution of reinforcements, supporting the results. This study demonstrates the impact of optimizing process parameters to improve the mechanical properties of AA6061 composites, contributing significantly to their potential applications.
Hamming Matrix and Hamming Energy of a Graph
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Science, Serbia, Vučićević Nemanja , Redžepović Izudin ,   State University of Novi Pazar, Sebia, Stojanović Nenad ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Science, Serbia
Published: December 2024

Hamming distance is a highly valuable quantity in computer
science. In this work, we establish the Hamming matrix H of a
graph G, H(G). This is a square matrix, where the elements of the
H(G) are Hamming distances. Also, we define the Hamming energy
of a graph, HE(G), which is a sum of the absolute eigenvalues of
H(G). Finally, we present some bounds on the HE(G) and its
predictive potential.