bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital tourism and sustainable development of rural and inland areas with food and wine tourism: the role of web portals
Authors: Migliaccio Guido , Lausi Carmine , Baldi Mariano
Published: November 2024

Rural and inland areas in Italy cover a large area. They are mainly agricultural and underdeveloped, which generates social hardship and depopulation. The study focuses on ICT as a possible tool for the development of wine and food tourism especially in these areas. After outlining an exhaustive bibliographical framework and the characteristics of the socio-economic context, it is analyzed and evaluated the innovative web portal "lacucinacampana.it", which proposes integrated information on the typical food of Campania, Italian region characterized by conspicuous tourist flows towards renowned destinations that could partially deviate towards less frequented destinations. The portal, realized by an innovative start-up, presents integrated content in 11 languages related to food products and their suppliers, local dishes with the restaurateurs offering them, associated places with their tourist attractions, itineraries, food and wine experiences, etc. The study shows that the examined web portal satisfies the needs of food and wine tourists, with a model that can be reproduced on a national and international scale, highlighting the fundamental role that ICT technologies can play in increasing food and wine tourism, especially in rural and inland areas. The study complements the modest literature on web portals aimed at tourism development, providing useful considerations and concrete proposals. The portal promotes the sale of typical food products and food and wine tourism, increasing the incomes of agri-food suppliers and registered restaurateurs. Overall, it promotes the economic development of the areas concerned, complementing the other initiatives of public institutions and trade associations. This study may also stimulate further useful analyses to address development issues in rural and inland areas.
Mapping the Tourism Industry: Insights and Implications
Authors: Guizzardi Andrea , Costa Michele
Published: November 2024

This research offers a holistic view of the tourism industry by addressing data scarcity and classification complexities. Central to this framework is the ATECO 2007 classification, spotlighting core sectors like: accommodation, food and beverage services, travel agencies but also agritourism that are often, wrongly, categorized under the agricultural sector. Methodologically, the study consolidates data from diverse sources and collaborates with regional entities to rectify classification discrepancies and fill informational gaps. We propose effective solutions, introducing imputation methods able to rectify cases where data on employed individuals is absent for specific local units. By applying our integration and imputation procedure to the provinces of Emilia-Romagna, we obtain a more accurate description of the tourism industry that better aligns with the theoretical framework of a sector at the intersection of core and extra-core sectors. The higher employment and the different spatial distribution we found may serves as a foundation for informed policy decisions and targeted policy formulation to promote economic growth, job creation, and sustainable tourism practices.
The impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on accommodation preferences in Italy: a temporal and geographical analysis (2018-2022)
Authors: Traino Federica
Published: November 2024

The spread of the Coronavirus has triggered a global crisis, significantly altering global geopolitical balance. The pandemic has profoundly disrupted the performance of the global economy, causing disruption and losses in all sectors. Once the lockdown period was over, economic production and the labor market began a delicate process of adaptation to new conditions. The tourism sector, due to the restrictions imposed to reduce national and international flows, has suffered a significant impact and has been forced to reinvent itself through new travel methods. This study aims to analyze the adaptation of the tourism sector, with attention to preferences relating to accommodation facilities. The analysis focuses on the partial replacement, during the holiday organization phase, of traditional hotel establishments with more open-space solutions, such as campsites and tourist villages. The data provided by ISTAT as part of the Occupancy in tourist accommodation establishment, relating to the period 2018-2022, is used. This time frame includes the years before the pandemic, the years characterized by the spread of the virus and the subsequent recovery period. At first, the situation at national level during the years considered is examined. Subsequently, the analysis is deepened at a regional level, in order to understand the trend in the four Italian geographical macro-areas: Northern Italy, Central Italy, Southern Italy and Insular Italy. This subdivision allows us to precisely identify the regions that follow a trend in line with the national one and those that deviate from it. The main objective of the study is to analyze consumers' choices during the pandemic, investigating whether the latter has actually permanently changed their preferences, or whether we are witnessing a return to habits prior to the health crisis. Through this analysis, we intend to provide a detailed and articulated vision of the impact of the pandemic on Italian tourism dynamics, contributing to the understanding of the changes taking place in the sector and future prospects.
E-wom and territorial analyses: the use of opinion mining in tourism
Authors: Misuraca Michelangelo , Spano Maria , Celardo Luigi
Published: November 2024

In the digital age, social media and electronic word of mouth (eWOM) have fundamentally transformed several industries, including tourism. This paper explores how opinion mining (also known as sentiment analysis) can be a strategic tool for tourism stakeholders to extract and analyse data from social media reviews and posts. The aim is to provide actionable insights to enhance customer satisfaction and destination management by assessing the sentiment expressed in online content. From a methodological viewpoint, the implemented approach integrates qualitative and quantitative data with textual data to delve into opinions embedded in eWOM. The analyses help identify patterns and trends in tourists’ feedback, offering a valuable framework for understanding their behaviour and leveraging this information for the stakeholders’ specific purposes. A case study on Naples (Italy) highlights the potential of sentiment analysis in tourism, suggesting future research directions. Practical applications range from improving customer satisfaction and destination reputation to guiding marketing strategies and supporting sustainable tourism development.
Green/Cheakamus watershed: Water quality report for the 2023 dry season
Authors: Ross Peter , Scott Samantha , Noel Marie , Klasios Natasha
Published: November 2024

Water is essential for life, and steps are needed to understand, protect and restore its health in fish habitat throughout British Columbia. The Raincoast Healthy Waters program was launched in 2023 to establish community-oriented water pollution monitoring in select BC watersheds. Two Healthy Waters sampling events take place every year in each watershed – the first in the dry season (summer), and the second being in the wet season (winter). While the Healthy Waters program typically focuses its work within singular watersheds, this partnership featured two Whistler area watersheds: the Green River, which drains through the Lillooet and Fraser Rivers into the Strait of Georgia (watershed area of 875 km2). and the Cheakamus River which drains south via the Squamish River to Howe Sound (watershed area of 1,034 km2). Combined, these watersheds cover an area of 1,909 km2. This report highlights results from the first dry (summer) season sampling carried out with the support and participation of the Whistler Lakes Conservation Foundation (WLCF). Briefly, the Healthy Waters – WLCF team determined basic water properties (temperature, conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen and turbidity) in situ at sampling sites on July 27, 2023. Water samples were collected from five water categories, including source water (2 samples), stream and river water (7 samples), road runoff (6 samples), tap water (10 samples – pooled into a single composite sample) and marine water (one sample). Samples were then analysed individually for coliform, metals, nutrients and physical parameters, and pooled by water category for analysis of pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), alkylphenol ethoxylates, bisphenols, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), sucralose and 6PPD Quinone. Overall, the Green/Cheakamus watersheds had relatively good water quality in the dry season, but additional sampling and analysis will provide additional insight into contamination impacts from forest fires, domestic wastewater, industrial chemicals and road runoff on the health of this valued watershed.
CUIDADOS PALIATIVOS EM DOMICÍLIO: É BOM PARA QUEM?
Authors: Pinto dos Santos Angela
Published: November 2024

Este artigo discute a eficácia e os benefícios dos cuidados paliativos em domicílio para pessoas em estado terminal. A pesquisa revisa a literatura atual sobre o tema, analisando a metodologia de implementação desses cuidados, os impactos na qualidade de vida das pessoas e suas famílias, além de discutir desafios e considerações éticas associadas. Conclui-se que os cuidados paliativos em domicílio são uma opção viável e benéfica para muitas pessoas, desde que seja muito bem acompanhado, proporcionando conforto físico e psicológico durante a fase final da vida.
Meninjau Ulang Perspektif Hidup Berkelimpahan Dan Hidup Berkekurangan Dalam Konteks Doa Orang Kristen
Authors: Timbuleng Nontje Mery
Published: November 2024

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk meninjau ulang perspektif hidup berkelimpahan dan hidup berkekurangan dalam konteks doa orang Kristen, dengan fokus pada peran doa dalam membentuk sikap spiritual dan pemahaman umat terhadap dua keadaan tersebut. Masalah dalam praktik iman Kristen, banyak orang merasa bingung antara menjalani hidup berkelimpahan yang diasosiasikan dengan berkat materi dan hidup berkekurangan yang sering dianggap sebagai ujian. Ketegangan antara kedua perspektif ini dapat memengaruhi cara umat berdoa dan berinteraksi dengan Tuhan serta sesama. Penelitian ini menggunakanmetode  pendekatan kualitatif dengan analisis teologis terhadap teks-teks Alkitab, literatur spiritual, dan wawancara mendalam dengan praktisi iman. Dengan demikian, artikel ini mengumpulkan berbagai pandangan dan pengalaman umat Kristen mengenai doa dalam konteks kelimpahan dan kekurangan. Hasil yang hendak dicapai bahwa doa berfungsi sebagai jembatan yang menghubungkan umat dengan Tuhan dalam berbagai keadaan. Dalam hidup berkelimpahan, doa menciptakan kesadaran akan tanggung jawab sosial dan pentingnya bersyukur. Sebaliknya, dalam hidup berkekurangan, doa menjadi sumber penguatan dan pengharapan, membantu individu untuk tetap percaya akan pemeliharaan Tuhan.Akhir dari artikel ini adalah sebuah kesimpulan yang memberi penegasan mengenai hasil penelitian yang dicapai.
political economy of ecofeminist degrowth
Authors: Houtbeckers Eeva
Published: November 2024

Socio-ecological crises pose numerous problems for the continuity of human communities and more-than-human beings. First, previous thinkers have shown how capitalism is married to continuous economic growth, which has led to overproduction and overconsumption. Second, ecofeminists point out that not everyone is responsible for these crises. Furthermore, dualist and hierarchical mindsets perpetuate the exploitation of women, minorities, and more-than-human beings. Bridging these two debates is important to dismantling gendered economic exploitation on the one hand and the capitalist growth economy on the other. This text briefly introduces the history of ecofeminism and the ecofeminist political economy. It also identifies themes in ecofeminist degrowth thinking by analysing the works of Ariel Salleh and Stefania Barca. It is important to highlight ecofeminist thinking so that current degrowth debates do not ignore the institutionalised exploitation of women, minorities, and other species in economic activity.
PROMESSAS E DESAFIOS DOS AVANÇOS BIOTECNOLÓGICOS
Authors: Maciel França Madeira Humberto
Published: November 2024

A velocidade dos avanços biotecnológicos, associada à complexidade do tema, sofre efeito de freios sociais que impedem sua adoção mais prontamente, incluindo componentes éticos e de percepção de riscos e benefícios. Por outro lado, o potencial de geração de riqueza pelo desenvolvimento da biotecnologia pressiona as economias de diversos países a tornando área prioritária de investimento. A adoção segura da biotecnologia passa pelo equacionamento dessas forças aparentemente antagônicas, pela utilização de um enfoque multidisciplinar que envolva consolidação de governança na área da bioética, comunicação culturalmente eficaz e formação de recursos humanos qualificados.
Capitalismo das crises e o Direito Econômico: o equilibrio na regulação do mercado para atenuação dos efeitos das crises na sociedade moderna
Authors: Marchetti Filho Gilberto Ferreira , Lopes Rodrigo Fernando , Bagnoli Vicente
Published: November 2024

As crises sociais e econômicas têm se tornado cada vez mais frequentes na sociedade moderna, com causas, razões e consequências diferentes do que ocorriam no passado. Trata-se de situações praticamente inevitáveis, notadamente quando se toma por base a essência humana, sua necessidade de convivência em sociedade e como está, na atualidade capitalista, essa convivência. A par disso, as crises amplificam essas consequências e trazem, dentro da convivência social, um ambiente propício para ações e interferências prejudiciais ao mercado e à concorrência. Nisso se tem a inserção da importância do direito econômico: trabalhar as crises e suas consequências na economia para minimizar seus efeitos prejudiciais à sociedade, à concorrência e aos direitos fundamentais. Seguindo essa linha, em revisão bibliográfica e da legislação, observando a metódica exploratória descritiva, esta pesquisa objetiva analisar a sociedade capitalista moderna e a atuação do direito econômico no sentido de estabelecer um equilíbrio entre regulação estatal e autorregulação do mercado para minimizar os impactos das crises nas relações sociais e econômicas.
Meio ambiente, competência e políticas públicas: em busca de uma visão sistêmica
Authors: Oliveira Chaiene Meira de , Leal Rogério Gesta
Published: November 2024

Com o presente trabalho pretende-se investigar as diretrizes constitucionais e normativas acerca da competência e políticas públicas em matéria de meio ambiente com foco em um modelo sistêmico. Dessa forma, visa-se responder ao problema de pesquisa: quais as contribuições que uma teoria sistêmica das políticas públicas pode contribuir na concretização do direito fundamental ao meio ambiente? Para tanto utilizou-se do método de abordagem dedutivo, método de procedimento adotou-se o monográfico e, as técnicas de pesquisa resumem-se a consulta a livros, artigos, periódicos, teses, dissertações, dentre outros meios. Considerando que a pesquisa encontra-se em andamento, os resultados preliminares são no sentido de que é fundamental uma observação sistêmica das políticas públicas utilizando referenciais não apenas jurídicos, mas também sociais e políticos.
O Direito Administrativo contemporâneo e a regulação assimétrica nos serviços públicos
Authors: Sparapani Priscilia
Published: November 2024

O presente artigo trata de temática bastante atual e relevante na seara do Direito Administrativo e da regulação. Na medida em que se evoluiu para um Estado regulador, que deixou de centralizar tudo em si, inclusive a prestação de serviços públicos e a gestão de uma infinidade de contratos decorrentes dessa atividade, descentralizando referida tarefa para entidades reguladoras, estas passaram a assumir de uma forma mais eficiente a regulação do seu setor. Assim, diante da variada gama de atividades a serem prestadas, verificou-se a possibilidade de se estabelecerem diversos vínculos entre o Poder Público (por intermédio das agências setoriais) e os prestadores particulares, o que deu origem à assimetria regulatória como forma de inclusão de novos players no mercado.
A (in)constitucionalidade da taxa zero para microempreendedores individuais: entre o tratamento favorecido às microempresas e a autonomia municipal
Authors: Corralo Giovani da Silva , Blum Fernando
Published: November 2024

A presente pesquisa aborda a constitucionalidade da política de taxa zero para os microempreendedores individuais prevista na LC 123/06, a perscrutar se a imposição de tal obrigação para os entes municipais fere a autonomia local.  Para tanto, discorre-se sobre a ordem econômica brasileira e o tratamento favorecido e privilegiado às micro e pequenas empresas, o que requer a compreensão da ordem constitucional e da LC 123/06.  Na sequência analisa-se a autonomia municipal e as decisões dos tribunais sobre o tema, contraditórias, aliás.  Conclui-se pela constitucionalidade da política de taxa zero aos microempreendedores individuais prevista no §3.º do art. 4.º, a incidir sobre todos os entes que integram a Federação, inclusive os Municípios, por se tratar de norma geral albergada pelo art. 146, III, “d”, da Constituição Federal, que concretiza o regime único de tributação às micro e pequenas empresas.
Tax reform in Brazil: a chance for fiscal justice and sustainability
Authors: Rahnemay Rabbani Roberto Muhájir , Carregosa Rabbani Allívia Rouse , Rahnemay Kohlman Rabbani Emilia , Narezi Gabriela
Published: November 2024

The Brazilian government has chosen a reformist approach regarding the raising of public funds. Society is often called upon to bear expenses that exceed its economic capabilities when faced with socioeconomic crises. This situation is worsened when public policies repress economic development and call on the poorer social classes to pay for public expenditures to maintain the status quo of the most privileged. At the current juncture, several factors affect the economic performance of a country, including environmental issues. Brazil stands out on these issues, as its biodiversity is one of the highest on the planet. This study analyzes the need for tax reform in Brazil that takes environmental policies into account, a strategy that has been used successfully by economically developed countries. The objective is to verify the socioeconomic profile of Brazil and map its current tax system, demonstrating the characteristics that determine if it is a progressive or regressive system. Based on this analysis, a simplified form of taxation is proposed that can provide greater social benefit and is more beneficial and effective than retrograde labor reforms. Finally, it demonstrates the feasibility of establishing a new foundation for Brazilian taxation, based on environmental steering taxes to promote sustainability.
Disaster management in the Sundarbans delta ecosystem through environmental governance and sustainable planning
Authors: Rodrigues José Noronha , Bhattacharya Sumanta , Sachdev Bhavneet Kaur , Cabete Dora
Published: November 2024

The Sundarbans region is facing significant impacts on its ecosystem, business, agriculture, and environment due to inadequate disaster management. Storm surges, cyclones, and rising sea levels threaten the mangrove environment, causing permanent damage to farming and fishing communities, poverty, and revenue loss. The loss of mangroves affects ecological services like carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and biodiversity. To mitigate these risks, laws, growth promotion, catastrophe management plans, improved infrastructure, and public engagement in disaster response planning are necessary. Balancing environmental protection and economic expansion through climate-resilient farming techniques and sustainable agriculture is crucial. Tighter regulations, sustainable development strategies, stakeholder engagement, and advanced technology like AI can contribute to creating a resilient Sundarbans that protects the environment, improves community welfare, and ensures a sustainable future.
El bitcoin: análisis desde el Derecho internacional y nacional de su funcionamiento, fiscalización y viabilidad
Authors: Patiño López Luisa María , Zapata Cano Maria Paulina , Ospina Cifuentes Valeria , Díaz Bolívar Sebastián
Published: November 2024

Este artículo emplea una metodología analítico-descriptiva para entender el Bitcoin por medio de una investigación exhaustiva de su definición, funcionamiento y regulación; explora, a su vez, las legislaciones nacionales e internacionales para comprender su fiscalización, ventajas y desventajas. Además, analiza los resultados de El Salvador tras establecer el Bitcoin como moneda de curso legal y examinando una posible aplicación en Colombia y evaluando los desafíos que se podrían presentar en ese contexto.
Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule on ovarian cancer: A case report
Authors: Guérendo Mboli-Goumba Peggy , Elowa Jean-Benoît , Ignaléamoko Noella Edwige Gambo , Boua-Akélélo Nathalie Philomène , Camengo Serge Magloire , Kobangué Léon
Published: November 2024

Sister Mary Joseph’s tumor or nodule is a cutaneous ombilical metastasis of a visceral cancer. It is a rare tumor that constitutes the calling symptom of the cancer disease. Its incidence is from 1 to 3% of all abdominal and pelvic neoplasia. They bring up etiologic diagnosis issue, since the finding of the primitive cancer could be difficult et prognosis. We are reporting a case observed in the Hepato-gastro-enterology Unit of the University Hospital Center of Sino-Central African Friendship in Bangui. This observation will help us show the difficulties of early diagnosis and therapeutic care in a limited resources context.
Sarcomatous transformation of the royal tumor in a Togolese patient with Recklinghaussen’s disease at Lomé (Togo)
Authors: Teclessou Julienne Noude , Balaka Abago , Akakpo Séfako , Kaaga Laconi , Kassang Panawè , Saka Bayaki , Kombate Koussake , Pitche Palokinam
Published: November 2024

Introduction: malignant tumors including soft tissue sarcomas can occur during neurofibromatosis type 1. We report a case of sarcomatous degeneration of a plexiform neurofibroma with multivisceral metastases in a Togolese patient with neurofibromatosis type 1. Observation: A 33-year-old female patient with neurofribromatosis type 1 presented with an altered general condition, pain and changes in the appearance of the plexiform tumour of her neurofibromatosis, which had been evolving for one month. Physical examination revealed multiple coffee-white spots (greater than 10), with tumours of soft consistency and variable size, scattered over the body. There was also a larger tumour (approx. 9cmx6 cm), located on the inside of the left ankle, fixed, firm and painful to palpation. The abdomen was enlarged and tender, with no tenderness or contracture. Examination of lymph nodes was normal. Anatomopathological examination of the biopsy-exeresis of this tumour revealed a proliferation of clusters of small, rounded, undifferentiated cells with reduced cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei, with clear anisokaryosis and numerous atypical mitotic figures. There were also a few vascular emboli. We therefore concluded that this plexiform neurofibroma was malignant, and the extension work-up revealed pulmonary, pancreatic and adrenal metastases. The patient died 3 weeks after diagnosis in respiratory distress. Conclusion: Malignant degeneration of plexiform neurofibromas is possible in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. It is therefore important to monitor these patients for early detection in order to limit the risk of metastasis and death.
Powers of the operator $u(z)\frac{d}{dz}$ and their connection with some combinatorial numbers
Authors: Petkova Ioana ,   Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, Sofia University
Published: November 2024

In this paper the operator $A = u(z)\frac{d}{dz}$ is considered, where $u$ is an entire or \linebreak meromorphic function in the complex plane. The expansion of $A^{k}$ ($k\geq1$) with the help of the powers of the differential operator $D=\frac{d}{dz}$ is obtained, and it is shown that this expansion depends on special numbers. Connections between these numbers and known combinatorial numbers are given. Some special cases of the operator $A$, corresponding to $u(z) = z, u(z) = e^{z}, u(z) = \frac{1}{z},$ are considered.
Unveiling the influence of tumor and immune signatures on immune checkpoint therapy in advanced lung cancer
Authors: Kim Nayoung , Park Sehhoon , Jo Areum , Eum Hye Hyeon , Kim Hong Kwan , Lee Kyungjong , Cho Jong Ho , Ku Bo Mi , Jung Hyun Ae , Sun Jong-Mu , Lee Se-Hoon , Ahn Jin Seok , Lee Jung-Il , Choi Jung Won , Jeong Dasom , Na Minsu , Kang Huiram , Kim Jeong Yeon , Choi Jung Kyoon , Lee Hae-Ock , Ahn Myung-Ju
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the variability among patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in their responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Recognizing that patients with advanced-stage NSCLC rarely qualify for surgical interventions, it becomes crucial to identify biomarkers that influence responses to ICI therapy. We conducted an analysis of single-cell transcriptomes from 33 lung cancer biopsy samples, with a particular focus on 14 core samples taken before the initiation of palliative ICI treatment. Our objective was to link tumor and immune cell profiles with patient responses to ICI. We discovered that ICI non-responders exhibited a higher presence of CD4+ regulatory T cells, resident memory T cells, and TH17 cells. This contrasts with the diverse activated CD8+ T cells found in responders. Furthermore, tumor cells in non-responders frequently showed heightened transcriptional activity in the NF-kB and STAT3 pathways, suggesting a potential inherent resistance to ICI therapy. Through the integration of immune cell profiles and tumor molecular signatures, we achieved an discriminative power (area under the curve [AUC]) exceeding 95% in identifying patient responses to ICI treatment. These results underscore the crucial importance of the interplay between tumor and immune microenvironment, including within metastatic sites, in affecting the effectiveness of ICIs in NSCLC.
Simple, reference-independent assessment to empirically guide correction and polishing of hybrid microbial community metagenomic assembly
Authors: Smith Garrett J. , van Alen Theo A. , van Kessel Maartje A.H.J. , Lücker Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Hybrid metagenomic assembly of microbial communities, leveraging both long- and short-read sequencing technologies, is becoming an increasingly accessible approach, yet its widespread application faces several challenges. High-quality references may not be available for assembly accuracy comparisons common for benchmarking, and certain aspects of hybrid assembly may benefit from dataset-dependent, empiric guidance rather than the application of a uniform approach. In this study, several simple, reference-free characteristics–particularly coding gene content and read recruitment profiles–were hypothesized to be reliable indicators of assembly quality improvement during iterative error-fixing processes. These characteristics were compared to reference-dependent genome- and gene-centric analyses common for microbial community metagenomic studies. Two laboratory-scale bioreactors were sequenced with short- and long-read platforms, and assembled with commonly used software packages. Following long read assembly, long read correction and short read polishing were iterated up to ten times to resolve errors. These iterative processes were shown to have a substantial effect on gene- and genome-centric community compositions. Simple, reference-free assembly characteristics, specifically changes in gene fragmentation and short read recruitment, were robustly correlated with advanced analyses common in published comparative studies, and therefore are suitable proxies for hybrid metagenome assembly quality to simplify the identification of the optimal number of correction and polishing iterations. As hybrid metagenomic sequencing approaches will likely remain relevant due to the low added cost of short-read sequencing for differential coverage binning or the ability to access lower abundance community members, it is imperative that users are equipped to estimate assembly quality prior to downstream analyses.
The impact of hsa-miR-1972 on the expression of von Willebrand factor in breast cancer progression regulation
Authors: Yu Changjiang , Zhang Tao , Chen Fan , Yu Zhenyang
Published: November 2024

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is one of most frequent female malignancies that poses multiple challenges in treatment and prevention. This study aimed to explore the role of miRNAs and their target genes during the BC progression.

Methods

Based on the BC data (113 normal and 1,118 tumor samples) from the TCGA-BRCA dataset, a single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was applied to calculate the cancer migration scores, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were performed using the WGCNA R package, with a focus on the set of genes associated with cancer migration. Key modules and hub genes related to cell migration and signaling pathways were identified. Survival analysis of hub genes was conducted using the survminer R package, and prediction of regulatory miRNAs were performed to analyze their impact on BC prognosis. In addition, the BC cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 were used to further explore the effect of hsa-miR-1972 mimics on the gene expression and angiogenic factor regulation.

Results

The study classified important modules (MEblue, MEmagenta, MEpink, and MEfloralwhite) associated with cell migration and identified three hub genes, namely, MRPL20, COL4A1 and VWF. Survival analysis showed that certain hub genes with a low expression were related to a poor prognosis, whereas low-expressed COL4A1 and VWF were related to better survival outcomes. We also found that hsa-miR-1972 mimics significantly downregulated critical genes involved in BC metastasis and angiogenesis and effectively inhibited the proliferation of BC cell lines, showing a strong therapeutic potential. Manipulation of VWF expression in cells overexpressing hsa-miR-1972 had significant effects on the malignant markers and angiogenic factors, suggesting a novel therapeutic direction for BC treatment.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted the complex interplay of genetic factors in BC progression as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting specific miRNAs and their related hub genes. These findings provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of BC and suggested new direction for the therapeutic development for the cancer.
Effectiveness of Structured Visual Pedagogy in Improving Knowledge of Nursing Graduates Regarding Oral Healthcare of Children with Special Healthcare Needs: AQuasi-experimental Study
Authors: Godbole Neil Mahendra , Mathur Aditi , Tirupathi Sunnypriyatham , Nene Krishnapriya Suhas , Nair Sneha Madhu , Patil Prachi
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Nurses are the primary contact for caregivers of Children with Special Healthcare Needs (CSHCN). Parent counselling and health screening programs are undertaken in which nurses play an important role. Along with this, it is also essential to have knowledge of oral health and the importance of maintaining oral hygiene, especially for CSHCN. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge of nursing graduates regarding oral healthcare for CSHCN at baseline, one week and one month after a Structured Visual Pedagogy (SVP) intervention, and to compare their knowledge scores before and after the intervention. Materials and Methods: This pretest-posttest quasiexperimental study was conducted at Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Nursing, Pune, Maharashtra, India, between February 2023 and June 2023, among 60 nursing graduates. An SVP was curated and delivered to the study population. It was an audio-video discussion-based intervention covering the various domains of oral healthcare for CSHCN, including their oral manifestations, barriers to oral hygiene maintenance, and their management through counselling and timely referrals. Participants completed a pre-validated questionnaire at three intervals: before the intervention, one week after and one month after the intervention, and their knowledge was analysed. The data were analysed using International Business Machines (IBM) Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 21.0, USA. Results: The mean age of study group was 21±0.85 years. Among the participants, 52 (86.6%) were females and 8 (13.4%) were males. Between the baseline and the first week of the SVP, as well as, between the baseline and the first month, nursing graduates’ understanding of the oral health requirements of CSHCN increased. The mean knowledge score at the preintervention stage was 6.83±2.35; at one week post-intervention, the mean knowledge score was 14.40±1.50; and one month post-intervention, the mean knowledge score was 13.65±1.40. It was observed that there was a statistically significant increase in the mean knowledge score one week, as well as, one month post-intervention compared to the baseline (p-value<0.05). Conclusion: The SVP was highly effective among the nursing graduates, clearly highlighted its use as a training tool for nurses.
Evaluation of Serum ApoA1 and ApoB Levels in the First-degree Relatives of Patients with Essential Hypertension at a Tertiary Care Centre in Eastern India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Thakur Bandana , Priyadarsini Pooja , Dash Sarada Asis , Bhanja Sangeeta Sanghamitra , Ray Subhashree , Nayak Sarthak Ranjan , Tiwari Rajlaxmi , Jena Prachi
Published: November 2024

Introduction: An altered serum lipid profile and lipoprotein levels are major modifiable risk factors for hypertension. Apolipoprotein A1 and B100 (ApoA1 and ApoB100) are the chief structural proteins of High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) and Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), respectively. The level of ApoB in the serum represents overall atherogenicity, whereas the level of ApoA1 can indicate total antiatherogenicity. Aim: To evaluate the serum levels of ApoA1 and ApoB in the first-degree relatives of individuals with essential hypertension. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Clinical Biochemistry laboratory in association with the Department of General Medicine at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha, India, from February 2018 to March 2019. It consisted of 165 participants: group I included hypertensive patients (n=55); group II included first-degree relatives of the above hypertensive patients (n=55); and group III included non hypertensive healthy age-matched controls (n=55). The waist-hip ratio, Blood Pressure (BP), fasting plasma glucose, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C, ApoA1, ApoB, and the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio were all measured. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25.0. Results: The mean age of subjects in groups I, II, and III was 49±8.3, 38±5.2, and 37±5.4 years, respectively, with males constituting 56% and females 44% of the total participants. The ApoA1 levels were lowest in group I (104.9±16.3 mg/dL) and highest in group III (117.4±7.3 mg/dL). The serum ApoB levels and the ratio of ApoB/ApoA1 were highest in group I (104.2±14.1; 1.1±0.64 mg/dL) and lowest in group III (60.9±18.2; 0.5±0.15 mg/dL). A highly significant negative correlation (r=- 0.40, p<0.01) was found between Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) and ApoA1. A significant correlation (r=0.26, p=0.04) was observed between SBP and the ApoB/ApoA1 ratio in group III. Conclusion: Serum ApoB levels and the ratio of ApoB/ ApoA1 were significantly elevated in the first-degree relatives of hypertensive patients, thus emphasising the importance of screening individuals with a positive family history of hypertension.
Assessing Teacher Accountability: Development and Validation of the Teacher’s Professional Accountability Scale (TPAS)
Authors: Thakuria Barnalee , Upadhyaya Amar
Published: November 2024

This study aims to develop and validate the Teachers’ Professional Accountability Scale (TPAS) constructed by the researcher, which addresses the need for a comprehensive tool to measure professional accountability among Secondary school teachers. Professional accountability is the obligation of educators to adhere established standards and practices with competence and integrity, is crucial for improving educational quality and ensuring favorable student outcomes. A descriptive survey method was employed, and the TPAS was constructed and standardized through a pilot study. The scale consists of 94 items across four dimensions: procedural responsibility, consequential responsibility, instructional responsibility, and school and classroom responsibilities for student outcomes. Item analysis and selection resulted in a final draft of 74 items with satisfactory discrimination power. Reliability analysis using split-half method and Cronbach’s alpha yielded coefficients of 0.85, indicating high internal consistency. Content validity was established through expert reviews, and norms were developed based on z-scores from a sample of 281 Secondary school teachers. The TPAS provides a validated measure for assessing professional accountability, contributing to the advancement of educational research and practice, The study reached some recommendations, including the commitment of the school administration and senior management to the accountability standards reached, and the provision of joint workshops to ensure the efficiency of the implementation of professional accountability standards for teachers.
Comparative Study of the Nutritive and Elemental Composition of Smoked and Raw Clarias gariepinus from Three Selected Fish Farms in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: D.F. Odeyemi , J. A. Oso , S. A. Oyejobi , O. E. Asawe
Published: November 2024

Clarias gariepinus is of economic importance in aquaculture due to its rapid growth, omnivorous diet, and potential as food source. It has been widely cultured and dispensed both in raw and smoked forms in various regions to meet the demand for fish protein This study assessed and compared the nutritional quality and elemental composition of smoked and raw samples of Clarias gariepinus. A total of twelve fish samples were analysed, six raw samples and six smoked samples with two fishes sampled from each farm tagged A, B and C. The Proximate and elemental analysis were done using standard procedures. The result of the study showed that moisture content measured in the raw Clarias gariepinus which ranged between (73.074 ± 1.59) % and (71.52 ± 1.83) %. was higher than that of the smoked fish ranging from (26.69±0.03) % to (32.21± 0.02) %. The protein content of smoked fish ranged (43.2±0.02) % to (46.78±0.01) while that of raw fish was between (20.52 ± 1.12) % and (22.15 ± 0.43) %. Similarly, the crude fat, ash, carbohydrate, and fibre content were higher in the smoked fish than raw catfish samples. The elemental composition of both smoked and raw catfish were within the permissible limit of World Health Organization. Arsenic was not detected in the muscle of the raw fish, while cadmium, chromium, lead and magnesium were present in values within WHO permissible limit and similar results was observed for the smoked fish samples. The result of this study presents the possibility of smoked catfish being more nutritious than the raw samples aside from the fact that it has more shelf life than raw fish. Also, both smoked and raw samples of the fish are safe as the values of heavy metal observed were all within the permissible limit of WHO.
Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Soil Characteristics and Potato Tuber Yield (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Pal Sandeep Kumar , Kumar Neeraj , Ram C.N. , Kumar Dharmendra , Maurya Shraddha , Singh Anupama , Singh Monika
Published: November 2024

This study evaluates the impact of organic, inorganic, and biofertilizers on soil characteristics and potato tuber yield in the variety Kufri Ashoka. The experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, using treatments involving different combinations of fertilizers, including recommended doses of inorganic nutrients (RDF), farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, Azotobacter, and Phosphobacteria. Key findings demonstrated that RDF treatment (150:100:120 kg N:P2O5 ha⁻¹) produced the highest tuber yield (249.2 q ha⁻¹), significantly outperforming all other treatments. However, the organic treatment T4, which included compost, crop residue, biofertilizers, and FYM, also yielded a substantial 237.1 q ha⁻¹, with improvements in soil health attributes like increased organic carbon (3.6 g kg⁻¹) and reduced pH (7.92) and electrical conductivity (0.22 dSm⁻¹). Results indicated that the integration of organic and biofertilizers led to moderate yield gains compared to RDF but significantly enhanced soil properties, contributing to long-term soil health. Organic treatments promoted improved microbial activity and soil structure, essential for sustainable agriculture. This study highlights the effectiveness of integrated nutrient management, where combining organic and biofertilizers with inorganic nutrients can enhance crop yields while maintaining soil fertility and reducing the negative environmental impact associated with exclusive inorganic fertilizer use.
Evaluating Insect Abundance and Diversity in Organic Farming using Solar and LED Light Traps for Sustainable Pest Management
Authors: N. Shreya , Mulimani Vidya , N. Sumithramma , Kumar A. R. V.
Published: November 2024

An experiment on comparison of two different light traps in an organic farming system was conducted in J-block of Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra (GKVK) maintained by the Research Institute on Organic Farming (RIOF), University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India to understand the abundance and diversity of insects caught in a Solar light trap and an electric White LED light trap. The study was conducted for 7 months from February 2022 to August 2022 in 14 days intervals.  In Solar light trap, among the total of 4713 insects collected, order Coleoptera ranked first with 3222 insects (68.36% of the total insects). In the White LED light trap, among 2795 insects collected, order Hymenoptera ranked first with 828 specimens (30% of total insects caught). In Solar light trap, among the different insect orders, Coleoptera included the highest number of operational taxonomic units (38 OTUs) contributing to 45% of the total number of OTUs caught, followed by the order Hemiptera with 26 OTUs contributing to 31%. In the White LED light trap, Hemiptera included the highest number of OTUs (43 OTUs) contributing to 41% of the total number of OTUs followed by the order Coleoptera with 25 OTUs (24%). The diversity indices for the number of insects, OTUs and families were highest in the white led light trap compared to the solar light trap and the white led light trap caught less total number of insects but with more diversity, on contradictory the solar light trap trapped a greater number of insects but with less diversity.
Validation and clinical implementation of an accurate Monte Carlo code for pencil beam scanning proton therapy
Authors: Huang Sheng , Kang Minglei , Souris Kevin , Ainsley Christopher , Solberg Timothy D. , McDonough James E. , Simone Charles B. , Lin Liyong
Published: July 2018

Monte Carlo (MC)‐based dose calculations are generally superior to analytical dose calculations (ADC) in modeling the dose distribution for proton pencil beam scanning (PBS) treatments. The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology for commissioning and validating an accurate MC code for PBS utilizing a parameterized source model, including an implementation of a range shifter, that can independently check the ADC in commercial treatment planning system (TPS) and fast Monte Carlo dose calculation in opensource platform (MCsquare). The source model parameters (including beam size, angular divergence and energy spread) and protons per MU were extracted and tuned at the nozzle exit by comparing Tool for Particle Simulation (TOPAS) simulations with a series of commissioning measurements using scintillation screen/CCD camera detector and ionization chambers. The range shifter was simulated as an independent object with geometric and material information. The MC calculation platform was validated through comprehensive measurements of single spots, field size factors (FSF) and three‐dimensional dose distributions of spread‐out Bragg peaks (SOBPs), both without and with the range shifter. Differences in field size factors and absolute output at various depths of SOBPs between measurement and simulation were within 2.2%, with and without a range shifter, indicating an accurate source model. TOPAS was also validated against anthropomorphic lung phantom measurements. Comparison of dose distributions and DVHs for representative liver and lung cases between independent MC and analytical dose calculations from a commercial TPS further highlights the limitations of the ADC in situations of highly heterogeneous geometries. The fast MC platform has been implemented within our clinical practice to provide additional independent dose validation/QA of the commercial ADC for patient plans. Using the independent MC, we can more efficiently commission ADC by reducing the amount of measured data required for low dose “halo” modeling, especially when a range shifter is employed.
A study of minimum segment width parameter on VMAT plan quality, delivery accuracy, and efficiency for cervical cancer using Monaco TPS
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Chen Li , Zhu Fengying , Guo Wanjing , Zhang Dandan , Sun Wenzhao
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to study the influence of the minimum segment width (MSW) on volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plan quality, delivery accuracy, and efficiency for cervical cancer treatment.

Methods

Nineteen patients with cervical cancer were randomly selected to design VMAT plans. Three VMAT plans were generated for each patient incorporating MSWs of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 cm while other planning parameters remained constant using the Monaco treatment planning system (TPS) with 6 MV X rays delivered from an Elekta Synergy linear accelerator. Plan quality and delivery efficiency were evaluated based on dose‐volume histograms (DVHs), control points, monitor units (MUs), dosimetric measurement verification results, and plan delivery time.

Results

Except for the small difference in target dose coverage and maximum dose, there were no statistically significant differences between the other dosimetric parameters in the planning target volumes. The 1.0 and 1.5 cm MSW plans showed lower maximum doses to the spinal cord than the 0.5 cm plan; doses to other organs at risks were similar regardless of MSWs. The mean reductions of total MUs when compared with the 0.5 cm plan were 14.5 ± 6.1% and 20.9 ± 7.9% for MSWs of 1.0 and 1.5 cm, respectively. The calculated gamma indices using the 3% and 3 mm criteria were 96.2 ± 0.6%, 97.0 ± 0.6%, and 97.6 ± 0.6% for the 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 cm MSW plans, respectively. The plan delivery times decreased with increasing MSWs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Increasing the MSW allows for improved plan delivery accuracy and efficiency without significantly affecting the VMAT plan quality. MSWs of 1.0 and 1.5 cm improved the plan quality, delivery accuracy, and efficiency for cervical VMAT radiation therapy.