bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Transformational Leadership terhadap Work Engagement Pegawai PT PLN Unit Induk Distribusi Jawa Timur
Authors: Putri Nisrina Kartika
Published: January 2025

Transformational leadership, characterized by individuals leading and motivating their employees through exemplary behavior, significantly influences the work engagement of employees. Work engagement, representing an individual's positive attitude while working, plays a crucial role in organizational dynamics. This research focuses on examining the impact of transformational leadership on the work engagement of employees at PT PLN (Persero) Distribusi Jawa Timur, with a specific case study in the fields of communication, law, and administration. The study involves 21 subjects selected from a total population of 39 employees in the specified fields. Data collection utilizes Likert scale assessments, employing the MLQ scale for measuring transformational leadership and the UWES scale for assessing work engagement. Employing a quantitative approach, the findings of this research reveal a significant influence of transformational leadership on work engagement among employees in the specified fields of PT PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Distribusi Jawa Timur. This conclusion is supported by statistical analysis, particularly the Pearson correlation test, which indicates a correlation coefficient of 0.654 with a significance level of 0.05.
Keywords: Transformational Leadership, Work Engagement
Pendekatan Konstruktivisme dalam Kebijakan Pembelajaran Berbasis Proyek: Transformasi Pendidikan Menuju Kreativitas dan Kolaborasi
Authors: Pratami Risti
Published: January 2025

This research seeks to provide practical and theoretical guidance in the context of developing educational policies that always support positive transformations in the context of the learning process that uses the constructivism approach. This research is a qualitative research with a descriptive approach using secondary data sourced from books, the internet, and journals. Based on the results of the literature review from various sources, it shows that the constructivism approach in project-based learning not only pays attention to the needs of each student, but it is also relevant to educational policies that emphasize aspects of creativity, inclusion, independence, collaboration, and preparation of students in facing global challenges. The implementation of this policy reinforces a holistic vision of education that unites practical knowledge with 21st century skills development in line with national education goals. This is in accordance with Law No. 20/2003 on the National Education System in Indonesia which is oriented towards the importance of developing students' potential according to their interests and talents in order to optimally achieve national education goals.
Keywords: Education Policy, Constructivism Approach, Project-based Learning
Politeness Strategies for Criticizing in the Japanese Workplace: A Pragmatic Study
Authors: Santoso Teguh , Slamet  , Miftah Nugroho
Published: January 2025

Criticism plays a crucial role in improving individual and team performance and addressing shortcomings in workplace processes. However, the way criticism is delivered significantly impacts how it is received. This study examines politeness strategies in delivering criticism in Japanese workplaces, drawing on Nguyen's (2005) politeness theory. Using the Discourse Completion Test (DCT) method, the study involved 25 students from the Japanese Literature Program at Universitas Ngudi Waluyo who work in Japan. The findings reveal that direct criticism is rarely used in Japanese workplaces as it risks disrupting wa (harmony) and causing embarrassment, particularly in formal or peer relationships. Direct criticism is employed only in urgent situations or within hierarchical relationships, characterized by explicit, firm language aimed at immediate correction. Conversely, indirect criticism is more prevalent, utilizing linguistic strategies such as suggestions, invitations, or questions to maintain politeness and relational stability. From a sociopragmatic perspective, cultural norms, status hierarchies, and social contexts influence the choice of criticism strategies. From a pragmalinguistic perspective, subtle and implicit linguistic elements are effective in preserving harmony and avoiding confrontation. The study concludes that the success of delivering criticism relies on balancing communicative effectiveness with maintaining harmonious workplace relationships.
Evaluation of Standard Procedures Operational in Tabanan District General Hospital: Usage of Special Control Antimicrobials (Restrictions)
Authors: Noviyani Rini , Putri A. A. Sagung Indah Candra , Putri Ni Wayan Prasanthi Swarna , Ekayanti Ni Kd Rintan Listiani , Widatama Agata
Published: January 2025

Latar belakang: Sektor fasilitas pelayanan kesehatan, seperti rumah sakit, umumnya lebih rentan terhadap resistensi antimikroba. Karena jenis pelayanan kesehatan dan pasien yang bervariasi, serta kemungkinan penggunaan antimikroba yang intensif secara berkelanjutan. Resisten antimikroba dianggap sebagai ancaman kesehatan global dan nasional. Penerapan program antimicrobial stewardship diperlukan untuk mengurangi kemunculan dan penyebaran resistensi antimikroba di lingkungan rumah sakit. Sebagai tenaga kesehatan, Farmasi menjalankan antimicrobial stewardship melalui pelayanan kefarmasian sesuai dengan Standar Prosedur Operasional (SPO).
Tujuan: Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi SPO Penggunaan Antimikroba Pengendalian Khusus (Restriksi) di RSUD Tabanan guna meningkatkan mutu pelayanan kefarmasian di RSUD Tabanan.
Metode: Studi ini merupakan studi deskriptif, data diperoleh melalui wawancara dengan Kepala IFRS RSUD Tabanan, studi literatur terhadap peraturan perundang-undangan terbaru, serta didukung dengan teori-teori lain yang relevan.
Hasil: SPO Penggunaan Antimikroba Pengendalian Khusus (Restriksi) di RSUD Tabanan perlu diperbaharui karena ditemukan beberapa hal yang tidak relevan dengan peraturaran perundang-undangan terbaru di Indonesia.
Kesimpulan: SPO Penggunaan Antimikroba Pengendalian Khusus (Restriksi) di RSUD Tabanan disusun ulang sesuai dengan peraturaran perundang-undangan terbaru. Disertai dengan pembaharuan daftar jenis antimikroba kategori restriksi, formulir penggunaan antimikrobaa pengendalian khusus, dan prosedur distribusi antimikroba kategori restriksi dari petugas kesehatan ke pasien.
Low-Carbohydrate (Ketogenic) Diet in Children with Obesity: Part 1 – Diet Impact on Anthropometric Indicators and Indicators of Metabolic Syndrome and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Paskaleva Ivanka Nikolova , Kaleva Nartsis Nisim , Dimcheva Teodora Dimcheva , Markova Petya Petkova , Ivanov Ivan Stefanov
Published: January 2025

Background: Ketogenic diet has been successfully used in the last 100 years in the treatment of epilepsy and other neurological disorders. In recent decades, it gained wider application in the treatment of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. However, there have been only a few studies on its use in children with obesity and associated metabolic disorders. Objectives: To determine the clinical and metabolic effects of a well-formulated low-carbohydrate (ketogenic) diet in children with obesity. Methods: One hundred children with obesity and metabolic disorders underwent initial anthropometric, laboratory, and ultrasound examinations. They were placed on a well-formulated ketogenic diet and monitored for 4 months. The 58 patients who completed the study underwent follow-up examinations to assess the effects of the diet on anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory markers of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk factors, and certain hormone levels. Compliance with the diet, common difficulties in adhering to it, side effects, and positive changes in the patients' health were analyzed. Results: At the end of the study, the average weight loss for the entire group was 6.45 kg, with a reduction in BMI of 3.12 kg/m². Significant improvements were also observed in insulin resistance indicators, including fasting insulin levels, HOMA-IR index, QUICKI (P<0.0001), and adiponectin (P=0.04). The cases of hepatosteatosis decreased twofold, the number of patients with arterial hypertension was significantly reduced, as well as the number of children receiving antihypertensive therapy. Additionally, the number of patients meeting the criteria for metabolic syndrome decreased threefold. Conclusion: A well-formulated short-term ketogenic diet is effective in treating obesity, metabolic syndrome, and related comorbidities, and can be part of a comprehensive approach for these patients.
Fabrication of a Zinc-Based Coating with Titanium Dioxide on AM50 and AZ91 Magnesium Alloys
Authors: Lugovskoy Svetlana , Fredj Elias Aviva , Cohen Harel
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the formation of zinc coatings incorporated with titanium dioxide (TiO2) on magnesium alloys designated as AM50 and AZ91. The coating process involved electrochemical zinc deposition, with and without concurrent electrophoresis of TiO2 particles in the deposited flux. Various analytical techniques were employed, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electrochemical methods. The resulting zinc-TiO2 coating exhibited a titanium concentration approximately double that of the initial electrolyte. Additionally, an unexpected phase transition from rutile to anatase TiO2 was observed at room temperature. Corrosion tests revealed that while the pure zinc-coated alloys exhibited higher corrosion rates compared to their uncoated counterparts, the inclusion of TiO2 in the zinc coating slightly reduced this corrosion rate. The corrosion behavior of both the coated AM50 and AZ91 alloys differed from that of the uncoated alloys.
Reevaluating Tourism Gravity Models: Insights from Small Island Destinations
Authors: Padrón-Ávila Hugo
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the applicability of gravity models in predicting tourist arrivals in small island destinations. The aim of this study is to determine the applicability of gravity models to the case of small island destinations, as these models were not designed to be used to predict tourist behavior and due to the particularities of small island destinations. Using linear regression analysis, we examined the significance of two key gravity model variables: economic size and distance, across 34 small islands. The results revealed that neither economic size nor distance was a significant predictor of tourist arrivals in these islands. These findings underscore the unique challenges faced by small island destinations, which often defy the conventional assumptions of gravity models. This study has important implications for destination management, suggesting that alternative models and research methodologies should be explored to better capture the drivers of tourism in small island destinations.
Learning from the Multiple Fossil Records— Bridging a Gap Between Modern Research and Teaching Practices in Paleontology Education
Authors: Rojas Alexis , Moreno Andres , Barrera Yerli , Patarroyo Pedro , Garcia Martha
Published: January 2025

Physical specimens have been always the primary resources for teaching and learning paleontology in formal educational environments. However, there is a growing interest in the use of paleontological data in higher education, supported by the increased use of digital tools and large paleontological databases for data-driven learning (DDL). In the context of the ongoing data revolution in modern paleontological research, the notion of the two fossil records has emerged to distinguish the physical record consisting of specimens, from the abstracted record consisting of the data derived from those specimens. Here we argue that the so-called abstracted record extends beyond the digital data (e.g., databases, digital models, and imagery) to include (i) network-based representations of high-dimensional fossil data (e.g., The Earth-Life System), and (ii) point process models describing spatially explicit events (e.g., community-scale spatial distributions; distribution of biotic traces on shelled invertebrates). We discuss these multiples fossil records from a didactical perspective, highlighting their promise for DDL in the paleontology classroom. Network science and spatial point processes modeling are transforming paleontological research by enhancing modeling capacities and helping researchers to reveal the complexity of the global biosphere over deep-time. Our perspective paper aims to bridge the gap between the state-of-the-art paleontological research and current teaching practices in higher education courses of paleontology, by calling on educators to leverage these breakthroughs into their classrooms.
Molecular Docking Analysis Of Heparin-Diclofenac Complexes: Insights Into Enhanced Cox Enzyme Inhibition For Pain Management
Authors: Amzoiu Manuel Ovidiu , Taisescu Oana , Amzoiu Emilia , Popescu Georgeta Sofia , Rău Gabriela , Ciocîlteu Maria Viorica , Manda Costel Valentin
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study is to investigate the molecular interactions of heparin, diclofenac, and their complexes with cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) using computational docking techniques. Molecular modeling and docking simulations were performed with HyperChem and HEX software, utilizing receptor structures from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Binding energies and lipophilicity (logP) values were analyzed to evaluate the interaction strength and hydrophobic properties of the complexes compared to the individual drugs. The results demonstrated that both the heparin-diclofenac and diclofenac-heparin complexes exhibit stronger binding affinities to COX-1 and COX-2 than the drugs alone. Notably, the heparin-diclofenac complex showed the strongest binding, sug-gesting that molecular orientation significantly influences interaction efficiency. Further-more, differences in binding behavior between COX-1 and COX-2 were observed, likely due to structural variations in their active sites, with COX-2 providing a more favorable environment for complex interactions. The analysis also highlighted the impact of lipophilicity on binding properties, emphasizing the relevance of physicochemical characteristics in drug-receptor dynamics. These findings suggest that the formation of heparin-diclofenac complexes may enhance COX inhibition, presenting a potential strategy for developing more effective pain management therapies.
Development of an Anomaly Classification Model and a Decision Support Tool for Firewall Policy Configuration
Authors: Park Jin Yong , Park Byeongjo , Kim Tae-Sung
Published: January 2025

A firewall is a device that is used generally to prevent cyberattacks and protect internal assets by blocking unauthorized access. Information security managers have many difficulties in managing firewall policy due to errors or anomalies in the policy that are caused by frequent internal and external requests. This paper intends to develop an anomaly classification model to detect anomalies and measure priority of resolution in firewall policy, and a visualized tool that supports information security managers to manage their firewall policy efficiently. This model and tool help information security managers to resolve anomaly in firewall policy and enable efficient firewall policy management and protect internal assets effectively.
The AGDAC: Arduino Gasometer Data Acquisition for Advanced Biogas Measurements
Authors: Flores Rodriguez Carla Isabel , Mockaitis Gustavo
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the Arduino Gasometer Data Acquisition Control (AGDAC), a prototype interface offering a cost-effective and customizable alternative to pricey and restrictive commercial systems such as Rigamo, commonly paired with Ritter Milligas Counters. AGDAC, built on the Arduino Uno and a Python-based control application, enhances experimental flexibility by expanding data acquisition capabilities. It records and displays measurement data, supporting biogas production monitoring at the lab scale. User-friendly and based on open-source software, AGDAC lowers technical barriers, encourages interdisciplinary research, and reduces costs, democratizing data acquisition for scientific applications.
Morphoagronomic Characterization and Chemical Quality of Conilon Coffee Clones in an Irrigate System in the Savanna
Authors: Brige Felipe Augusto Alves Augusto , Amabile Renato Fernando , Fialho Arlini Rodrigues , Malaquias Juaci Vitória , Veiga Adriano Delly , Fagioli Marcelo
Published: January 2025

The Coffea canephora species has been gaining prominence in national coffee production due to its high productive potential, adaptability, and beverage quality potential. Productive genotypes and clones of Coffea canephora with sensory quality adapted to irrigated systems in the Savanna region are pressing demands, aligned with technological innovation. In this context, the aim of this study was to characterize Coffea canephora (Conilon) clones based on agronomic and chemical traits of the beans and to assist in selecting promising materials for use in the genetic improvement program of irrigated Coffea canephora in the Savanna. During the 2019/20 and 2020/21 harvest seasons, 33 and 35 Coffea canephora genotypes, respectively, were evaluated for productivity, morpho-agronomic traits, and concentrations of chlorogenic acid, sucrose, caffeine, citric acid, and trigonelline in raw beans. The data were subjected to cluster analysis based on the Canberra genetic distance matrix, and grouping was performed using Ward's method. The means were subjected to non-parametric univariate analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test. In the first year, five groups were defined, with Group G1 showing the best rank numbers for the evaluated traits. In the second year, six groups were identified, with Group G6 standing out for morpho-agronomic traits associated with productivity and Group G5 excelling in the levels of chemical compounds evaluated, as well as productivity and physical grain characteristics. The genotypes L3.L16.P6 (22) and L4.L25.P123 (31), present in the groups that stood out in both years, were identified as promising, showing high potential for the genetic improvement program of irrigated conilon coffee in the Savanna, in both morphoagronomic and grain quality aspects.
Predictors of Antenatal Care Service Utilization Among Women of Reproductive Age in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yoseph Amanuel , Guillen-Grima Francisco
Published: January 2025

Background: Previous primary studies reported controversial findings on the association between predictors and antenatal care (ANC) service use. Therefore, we aimed to provide pooled predictors of ANC service use among women of reproductive age in Ethiopia.Methods: All observational studies done in Ethiopia between 2002 and 2022 were included in this review. Studies were systematically searched from PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Google. We conducted a database search from June 1-31, 2023. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) tool was utilized for quality assessment (risk of bias). The review was registered in the PROSPERO register with the registration number CRD42022322940. All data analyses were conducted by utilizing Stata version 17. A random-effects model was used to get the pooled predictors of ANC use. The publication bias was checked using a funnel plot and Egger's regression test. Results: A total of twenty-two studies with a total sample size of 25,671 were comprised for this review. Based on the NOS checklist assessment, we classified eight studies as low quality. The identified predictors of ANC use were highest wealth rank (AOR 1.92 [95% CI: 1.53 - 2.31]), formal women education (AOR 2.40 [95% CI: 1.75 - 3.06]), formal husband education (AOR 1.49 [95% CI: 1.36 - 1.66]), women age > 20 (AOR 1.75 [95% CI: 1.47 - 2.17]), mass media exposure (AOR 1.44 [95% CI: 1.21 - 1.66]), good maternal knowledge about the pregnancy complication (AOR 1.49 [95% CI: 1.11 - 1.88]), planned pregnancy (AOR 1.59 [95% CI: 1.28 - 1.91]), women autonomy (AOR 1.42 [95% CI: 1.23 - 1.62]), and positive husband attitude about the ANC service use (AOR 2.63 [95% CI: 1.47 - 3.79]). Conclusions: Several predictors have increased the ANC utilization, like wealth status, women's and their husbands' education, older/increasing women's age, media exposure, maternal knowledge about the pregnancy complications, planned pregnancy, women's autonomy to decide on household health care, and positive husband attitude about the ANC service utilization. Thus, the government and stakeholders should create women-focused economic reforms such as encouraging women's involvement in rural saving and credit cooperative organizations and productive safety net programs to increase their income, advocate ANC in mass media, and increase the mechanism of ANC service messages to reach the largest women of reproductive age groups.
Advanced Noise Filtering Techniques with Horizontal Visibility Graphs and LogNNet: A Study on White Noise Suppression
Authors: Velichko Andrei , Conejero J. Alberto , Izotov Yuriy , Pham Viet-Thanh
Published: January 2025

In modern audio processing systems like speech recognition, medical devices, and IoT sensors, effective noise filtering is crucial. High noise levels degrade signal quality and reduce system accuracy. Traditional methods often fail under high noise, requiring new approaches. This paper presents an innovative method combining horizontal visibility graph (HVG) features with the LogNNet neural network, previously unused for audio noise filtering. LogNNet operates in regression mode, predicting the original signal from features extracted from the noisy input. This approach allows the model to reconstruct clean signals by analyzing patterns within the noisy data, improving filtering accuracy. Experiments show that HVG features in LogNNet significantly reduce MAE in noisy audio, achieving up to 70% noise reduction for high noise levels (Noise = 0.3–0.4). As the number of features increases (NF = 21), the impact of HVG lessens, indicating parameter saturation. Cascading LogNNet models progressively reduce noise until further filtering becomes ineffective. This method shows strong potential for real-world audio tasks, including speech recognition and IoT. The paper highlights HVG’s importance in enhancing LogNNet’s noise robustness. Future research will focus on expanding model architecture and training on diverse noise types to improve accuracy and reliability.
Zingiber mioga Alters Testicular Immune Microenvironment and Spermatogenesis by Decreasing Androgen Synthesis in Mice
Authors: Zhang Ruina , Daolun Yu , Huang Renshu , Cai Yongping , Chen Naifu
Published: January 2025

Androgen from the testis is critical for maintaining immune environmental homeostasis and male spermatogenesis. Zingiber mioga (Z. mioga) is an edible vegetable belonging to the ginger family that has shown antimicrobial activity. Previous research has reported that the ginger species showed potential treatment effects in androgen-driven disease to enhance the immune system by inhibiting androgen synthesis and function. However, the anti-androgen effect of the ginger family and subsequently reproductive outcome has not been evaluated. In this study, the testis development and sperm generation were evaluated in control and feeding Z. mioga mice. The global gene expression pattern was examined in testis by RNA-sequencing and qRT-PCR. The results showed that testis/body weight significantly decreased from 32.5%±0.01 to 25%±0.01 and sperm concentration reduced from 7.6*106/ml±0.6 to 4.9*106/ml±0.6 after feeding Z. mioga. RNA-Seq data revealed that 480 transcripts were differentially expressed between control and treatment groups, with 300 upregulated genes and 180 downregulated genes in the treatment group compared with the control. Further analysis revealed that differential transcripts were associated with androgen synthesis and immunity function, including downregulated Scd1, Star, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b6, Cyp17a1, Hsd17b3, Lhcgr and upregulated MHC II+ marker genes. The results of gene expression difference were confirmed by qRT-PCR. This study demonstrated the important effects of Z. mioga intake on the process of spermatogenesis and revealed the potential anti-androgen action mechanism of ginger species regulating androgen synthesis and improving immunity homeostasis.
Understanding the Impact of Service Quality on Customer Loyalty in the Hospitality Industry
Authors: Anderson Matthew
Published: January 2025

This study explores the impact of service quality on customer loyalty within the hospitality industry, focusing on how various dimensions of service quality contribute to the long-term retention of guests. The research utilizes qualitative methods, conducting in-depth interviews with 42 respondents who shared their experiences and perceptions of service quality in various hotels. The study identifies key factors such as reliability, responsiveness, empathy, cleanliness, and technological integration that significantly influence guests' satisfaction and their decision to return to a hotel. Reliability, as a core aspect of service quality, emerged as a fundamental driver of loyalty, with guests valuing consistent and dependable service that meets their expectations. Additionally, responsiveness to guest needs, including prompt problem resolution and personalized attention, was found to enhance customer satisfaction and increase the likelihood of repeat visits. Empathy and the emotional connection between guests and hotel staff also played a crucial role, with personalized care leading to stronger guest attachment to the hotel brand. Cleanliness and the physical upkeep of the hotel were highlighted as critical factors in shaping guests' perceptions of service quality. Technological integration, when executed seamlessly, contributed to enhancing convenience and satisfaction but was found to be most effective when complementing human interaction rather than replacing it. Overall, the research concludes that service quality is a multifaceted construct that impacts customer loyalty in significant ways, suggesting that hotels must focus on these dimensions to build lasting relationships with their guests and secure long-term success in a competitive market.
Molecular Perspective of Proteases in Modeling of Cell Death Signaling
Authors: Pathak Chandramani , Ansari Aafreen , Kumar Ashish , Ranjan Kishu
Published: January 2025

Proteases are hallmarks of various physiological processes and cellular signaling net-works that maintain homeostasis and cellular fate. This regulation is particularly medi-ated by carboxypeptidases, cysteine proteases, and metalloproteases, which function by cleaving peptide bonds, thereby modulating the activity of proteins and influencing their functional outcomes. Proteases play a regulatory role in various cellular processes, in-cluding cell growth, differentiation, cell death, immunity, and inflammation. Protease signaling influences the terminal outcomes of several forms of cell death, including apop-tosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy. Similarly, during inflammatory stimula-tion, proteases orchestrate a cascade of pathways that optimize the immune response to pathogens. Proteases are significant contributors to the development of various human diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and inflammatory disorders. The acti-vation of specific proteases determines the outcomes of different forms of cell death high-lighted in this review. Proteases are therefore critical targets for exploring future research on modulating their activity in various diseases and therapeutic targets. This review high-lights the important functions of protease family members in managing different aspects related to cellular balance and disease conditions.
Towards Decarbonization: Sustainable Incentives in a Price-Competitive Maritime Supply Chain with Environmentally-Conscious Shippers
Authors: Yang Lijuan , Liao Fangcheng , He Yong
Published: January 2025

Transitioning to low-emission technologies for carriers needs a huge investment, and subsidies have proven to be efficient tools in overcoming cost barriers. In this paper, we formulate game-theoretical models to study the impact of subsidies on carbon emission reduction with green shippers in a price-competitive environment. Equilibrium solutions for three scenarios are derived and numerical analysis is conducted. Results indicate that (1) Government subsidies are effective and advantageous for decarbonization with carriers’ competition, but will lower service prices, profits and social welfare; (2) Intensified price competition leads to the increase in carbon emission, service prices and social welfare, while decreasing demands and profits in some scenarios; (3) Shippers’ green preferences have a positive effect on carbon emission reduction, profits and social welfare. Our findings can provide valuable managerial insights for both the government and shipping companies in promoting a more sustainable environment.
Response of a Benthic Sargassum Population to Increased Temperatures: Decline of Non-Photochemical Quenching of Chlorophyll a Fluorescence (NPQ) Precedes That of Maximum Quantum Yield of PSII
Authors: Chaloub Ricardo M. , da Costa Rodrigo Mariath V. , da Silva João , Nassar Cristina A.G. , Reinert Fernanda , Széchy Maria Teresa M.
Published: January 2025

Sargassum is an important primary producer of rocky bottom communities in coastal ecosystems. Like other parts of the planet, benthic populations of S. natans from Ilha Grande Bay, southeastern Brazil, have been suffering from different forms of natural and anthropogenic disturbances, in particular increasing seawater temperatures. In this study, we focused on understanding the effects of temperature on the photosynthetic performance of S. natans using PAM fluorometry. Measurements in the field revealed the dynamics of effective and maximum quantum yields (ΔF/F’m and Fv/Fm, respectively), as well as the dynamics of photoprotection mechanisms. The stress induced by incubation at 32-35°C, caused a decrease in Fv/Fm by 33% on the first day and approximately 20% on subsequent days. Additionally, direct estimates of the net photosynthesis of S. natans by measurements of dissolved oxygen concentration showed that an increase in temperature inhibited photosynthesis. In the laboratory, using specimens of S. natans and Padina gymnospora, we verified the effect of temperature on the fate of the energy absorbed by the PSII antenna using complementary quantum yields. Exclusively in Sargassum, temperatures in the range of 32 to 35ºC promoted a decline of non-photochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence before the decline of Fv/Fm, indicating that PSII is destroyed in the absence of the NPQ photoprotection.
The Role of Accounting and Financial Management in Humanity's Transition to the Interstellar Era
Authors: Chen Bing
Published: January 2025

As humanity stands on the cusp of an interstellar age, propelled by advancements in quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and space exploration, the disciplines of accounting and financial management face unprecedented transformations. This paper explores how accounting will adapt to the new economic, social, and technological paradigms of interstellar expansion. Drawing from scholarly and futuristic perspectives, it examines the evolving responsibilities of accountants and finance professionals, the implications of quantum technologies, and the multidimensional challenges posed by the era of interplanetary economies. This discussion underscores the indispensability of accounting as a framework for resource allocation, ethical governance, and socio-economic stability in the emerging age.
Toward a Universal, Clinically Usable Theory of Mitochondrial Regulation of Advanced, Treatment-Resistant Carcinomas
Authors: Bingham Paul , Zachar Zuzana
Published: January 2025

It has long been clear that mitochondria play important roles in metastatic disease, including regulatory contributions. Nonetheless, our knowledge in this area was too fragmentary to be of practical clinical use. However, over the last decade a robust community of investigators has extended our knowledge such that it is practical to begin to build testable theories. Moreover, these theories can plausibly give clinicians actionable opportunities to effectively attack advanced, currently treatment-resistant carcinomas.
Our goal here is to contextualize and review important features of this recent new data base. We will also illustrate the kind of testable speculative theories that might be built on this foundation.
Specifically, we will explore the evidence that many or most advanced, treatment-resistant tumors converge on a uniform state in which mitochondria play a universal, indispensable regulatory role (Figure 1 [1]). Speculative hypotheses of this form are robustly testable/falsifiable. Moreover, such theories suggest a specific novel approach to clinical attack on advanced, currently treatment-resistant carcinomas.
Stealth-Maneuver Generation for Non-Stealth Aircraft: A Control Barrier Function Approach
Authors: Demir Mustafa , Altunkaya Ege C. , Çatak Akın , Erol Fatih , Koyuncu Emre , Özkol İbrahim , Zengin Uğur
Published: January 2025

Aiming to address the vulnerability of non-stealth aircraft to radar detection due to inherent design limitations, this paper proposes a method to generate maneuvers that reduce an aircraft’s radar cross-section (RCS) value below a specified threshold. The proposed method employs control barrier functions and leverages the relationship between control inputs and the RCS. Due to confidentiality concerns, the required RCS database for the F-16 aircraft was generated through analyses performed using the created geometry. The results are compared with a virtual path that excludes RCS constraints and does not alter the aircraft’s attitude. Simulations reveal that 89.6% of the cases using the proposed method achieve a mean RCS value below the threshold, compared to only 1.26% for the virtual path. Moreover, the ratio of the time during which the RCS constraint is successfully met to the total simulation time averages over 78% across all simulations, demonstrating the method’s effectiveness in reducing the RCS value below the specified threshold.
Validation of Polymorphisms Associated with the Immune Response After Vaccination Against Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus in Replacement Yorkshire Gilts
Authors: Icedo-Nuñez Salvador , Luna-Ramirez Rosa I. , Enns R. Mark , Speidel Scott E. , Hernández Jesús , Zeng Xi , Sánchez-Castro Miguel A. , Aguilar-Trejo Carlos M. , Luna-Nevárez Guillermo , López-González Martha C. , Reyna-Granados Javier R. , Luna-Nevárez Pablo
Published: January 2025

Porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome (PRRS) is a viral disease that affects health and profitability in swine farms, largely due to a high variation in vaccination response. The objective was to discover and validate molecular markers associated with the antibody response in gilts after vaccination against PRRS virus. The study included one hundred (n=100) 6-month-old gilts from the breed Yorkshire that were PRRS virus-negative. After 7 days of acclimation period, all gilts were vaccinated with a modified live PRRS virus (day 0). Blood samples collected on day 21 were used to evaluate the antibody response, as the sample-to-positive (S/P) ratio, to PRRS virus after vaccination. DNA was extracted and genotyped using a low-density chip including 10,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed to discover candidate SNPs associated with the S/P ratio, which were validated in two independent gilt populations (n=226). The SNPs rs80904326, rs80896559 and rs81358818 in the genes RNF144B, XKR9 and BMAL1, respectively, were associated (p < 0.01) with the S/P ratio and exhibited an additive effect. In conclusion, three SNPs are proposed as candidate markers for an improved immune response to vaccination against PRRS virus and may be useful in genetic selection programs.
Biopesticides Potential to Protect Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Production from Early Blight Disease (Alternaria solani) and Leaf Miners (Tuta absoluta)
Authors: Abel Fikiri , Mkindi Angela , Mbega Ernest , Stevenson Philip C. , Belmain Steven R , Venkataramana Pavithravani
Published: January 2025

Early blight disease (Alternaria solani) and leaf miners (Tuta absoluta) pose significant biotic constraints to tomato production, causing 80 -100% yield loss. A study involving laboratory, screen house and field experiments evaluated the efficacy of plant and bio product pesticides including extracts of Azadirachta indica, Lantana camara , Cymbopogon citratus, Capsicum frutescens, Zingiber officinal and rabbit urine. We report significant inhibition of fungal mycelial growth ranging from 20% with a 5% rabbit urine to 98.25% by 10% hot pepper in the laboratory. Screen house trials showed a positive inhibitory effect of plant extracts on controlling leaf miners. The most effective extracts were 10% lantana (80%), 10% hot pepper (76.6%) and 10% ginger (72.6%).The most successful four extracts were used in field trials and resulted in an average 50% reduction in disease severity compared to the control. Also, 10% ginger, hot pepper (both 5% and 10%) and 10% lantana were effective in controlling Tuta absoluta and significantly reduced leaf damage. A cost benefit analysis showed that the 5% hot pepper treatment had the highest revenue benefit compared to the negative control and conventional tomato production methods. Further research is needed to integrate these biopesticides into crop management practices.
Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Conservation of Miombo Woodlands in the Lubumbashi Charcoal Production Basin (Haut-Katanga, DR Congo)
Authors: N'tambwe Dieu-donné Nghonda , Khoji Héritier Muteya , Cabala Sylvestre Kaleba , Malaisse François , Kyale Justin Koy , Masengo Wilfried Kalenga , Bogaert Jan , Useni Yannick Sikuzani
Published: January 2025

The over-exploitation of forest resources in the Lubumbashi Charcoal Production Basin in south-eastern DRC is accelerating deforestation and miombo woodlands degradation, jeopardizing the livelihoods of local communities. In this situation, current forestry policies remain ineffective, not least due to the failure to integrate traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). This study explores this knowledge through focus groups and individual interviews in four villages (Maksem, Mwawa, Nsela and Texas), selected according to the availability of forest resources and the number of inhabitants. Interviews gathered data on sacred sites and trees, conservation practices, the transmission of traditional knowledge, the role of ceremonies and the socio-demographic determinants of their application. These data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (citation frequency), Fisher's exact test for associations between variables, and Jaccard's similarity index to compare villages. The results show that 75% of people surveyed in both types of villages were aware of sacred sites in their village, as opposed to cemeteries, where logging is forbidden. Thirty sacred wood species were identified, with stricter observance of related prohibitions in villages with a high availability of forest resources. Knowledge is transmitted orally, via family councils and traditional ceremonies. Conservation practices include small-scale farming, intercropping, the ban on cutting trees on sacred sites and the use of dead wood. However, only the first two are still widely practiced, especially in villages with limited resources (64%). These practices are mainly applied by women and the elderly, and those involved in charcoal production and the collection of non-timber forest products. Nevertheless, the application of these TEK is strongly affected by population growth and the consequent low availability of forest resources, amplifying the pressure on miombo woodlands. These results underline that the integration of this traditional ecological knowledge into DRC forestry policies would significantly strengthen forest restoration initiatives, through a fine-tuned understanding of local ecosystems, sustainable practices and key woody species, while fostering community involvement. Decision-makers must integrate these TEK into DRC forest policy to strengthen biodiversity conservation and miombo woodlands restoration efforts.
Advancing Taxonomy with Machine Learning: A Hybrid Ensemble for Species and Genus Classification
Authors: Nanni Loris , Gobbi Matteo De , Junior Roger De Almeida Matos , Fusaro Daniel
Published: January 2025

Traditionally, classifying species has required taxonomic experts to carefully examine unique physical characteristics, a time-intensive and complex process. Machine learning offers a promising alternative by utilizing computational power to detect subtle distinctions more quickly and accurately. This technology can classify both known (described) and unknown (undescribed) species, assigning known samples to specific species and grouping unknown ones at the genus level—an improvement over the common practice of labeling unknown species as outliers. In this paper, we propose a novel ensemble approach that integrates neural networks with support vector machines (SVM). Each animal is represented by an image and its DNA barcode. Our research investigates the transformation of one-dimensional vector data into two-dimensional three-channels matrices using discrete wavelet transform (DWT), enabling the application of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that have been pre-trained on large image datasets. Our method significantly outperforms existing approaches, as demonstrated on several datasets containing animal images and DNA barcodes. By enabling the classification of both described and undescribed species, this research represents a major step forward in global biodiversity monitoring. The MATLAB/PyTorch source code for our ensemble method, along with the datasets used in this study, will be publicly available at: https://github.com/LorisNanni/Advancing-Taxonomy-with-Machine-Learning-A-Hybrid-Ensemble-for-Species-and-Genus-Classification
Efficient Techniques for Processing Medical Texts in Legal Documents Using Transformer Architecture
Authors: Yuan Jiayu
Published: January 2025

The extensive utilization of medical texts in legal documents has led to the emergence of a significant research topic: the development of efficient methods for processing these texts in order to extract key medical information. This paper puts forth an enhanced model based on the Transformer architecture with the objective of optimising the processing efficiency of medical texts in legal documents. Based on the existing Transformer model, we have devised a multi-level attention mechanism that combines multi-task learning and domain adaptation technology. This mechanism enables the simultaneous capture of the association between medical terms and legal language in the text, thereby enhancing the model's ability to comprehend complex legal language. Furthermore, domain knowledge graph-assisted training is employed to enhance the precise matching of medical and legal terminology by the model. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model markedly enhances the precision and efficiency of information extraction in diverse medical text processing tasks, outperforming the traditional model.
The LISTEN (Lactation Support afTer pEriNatal loss) Project: Pathways of Loss and Lactation Care in Italy
Authors: Ravaldi Claudia , Mosconi Laura , Adami Anna , Bonaiuti Roberto , Detassis Ilaria , Ferrari Mariacecilia , Fracasso Valentina , Frati Francesca , Matricardi Elisabetta , Neri Serena , Pirani Laura , Tarantino Antonella , Tisbi Noemi , Vannacci Alfredo
Published: January 2025

Background. In the aftermath of perinatal loss, the physiological onset of lactation presents a complex array of emotional responses for women, including grief and despair. Effective lactation management is essential for maternal health, yet it is often inadequately ad-dressed by healthcare professionals, potentially compromising the physical and psy-chological recovery of the bereaved mother. Aim. The aim of this study is to investigate how Italian HCPs support mothers in managing lactation after a perinatal loss. Methods. This study is web-based and cross sectional. HCPs involved in perinatal bereavement care were asked to answer a survey consisting of three areas: sociodemographic information, knowledge and experience about perinatal loss and about lactation after perinatal loss. Findings. In this study, 1,227 healthcare professionals participated. A significant majority, 60.2%, had received formal training on perinatal loss care, expressing high satisfaction with an average score of 4.7 out of 5. However, less than half, at 42.5%, reported having a protocol for bereavement care in their workplace. A notable 25% of the respondents did not provide lactation information when possible. Discussions predominantly centred on pharmacological suppression of lactation in cases of stillbirth (89.5%) and neonatal death (83.8%), as well as complications associated with these events. Post-discharge follow-up was reported as lacking by 78.2% of the sample. Conclusion. The discrepancy between HCPs' training and their practice reveals a critical need for enhancing the implementation of bereavement care protocols and follow-up support, reflecting the importance of inte-grating lactation management into the perinatal loss care continuum.
Exploring the Potential of Zeolites for Sustainable Environmental Applications
Authors: Mancinelli Maura , Martucci Annalisa
Published: January 2025

Zeolites are amongst the most extensively explored crystalline microporous materials because of their variable chemical composition, framework geometry, pore dimensions, and tunability. Due to their high surface area, adsorption selectivity, mechanical, biological, chemical, and thermal sta-bility, these molecular sieves are widely used in adsorption, catalysis, ion exchange, and separation technologies. This short review highlights the notable progress achieved in leveraging the properties of zeolite materials for multiple applications, including gas separation and storage, adsorption, catalysis, chemical sensing, and biomedical applications. The aim is to emphasize their capabilities by showcasing important achievements that have driven research in this field toward new and unforeseen areas of material chemistry.