Abstract: Developing youth’s technical and Information and Communication Technology skills is an SDG 4 targets (4.4.), while the use of online educational material is a promoted tool to implement SDGs-related measures. This study is a case study exploring the complex role of ICT in teaching social sciences at a higher education institution using a blend of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Employing Urie Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, the research investigates how digital tools impact students' academic performance across three courses with varying levels of ICT integration. The study evaluates students' digital skills, compares the effectiveness of ICT-based and traditional teaching methods, and analyses how these methods influence the students' comprehension and performance of the subject matter. The findings revealed that while certain ICT skills and competencies enhance students’ academic performance, students value ICT tools differently depending on both the course’s subject matter and their own digital competencies. The research also highlights the importance of teachers' ability to blend ICT and non-ICT activities effectively to enhance students' understanding. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on ICT in education, emphasising the need for a more nuanced, multi-layered approach to understanding the intersection between technology and education, particularly in non-technical fields like social sciences.

Abstract: Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare inborn error of metabolism caused by pathogenic var-iants in ALPL, coding for tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase. HPP patients suffer from impaired bone mineralization and in severe cases from vitamin B6-responsive sei-zures. To study HPP we generated alpl-/- zebrafish line using CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology. At 5 days post fertilization (dpf) no alpl mRNA and 89% lower total alkaline phosphatase activity was detected in alpl-/- compared to alpl+/+ embryos. The survival of alpl-/- zebrafish was strongly decreased. Alizarin red staining showed decreased bone mineralization in alpl-/- embryos. B6 vitamer analysis revealed depletion of pyridoxal and its degradation product 4-pyridoxic acid in alpl-/- embryos. Accumulation of d3-pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (d3-PLP) and reduced formation of d3-pyridoxal in alpl-/- embryos incu-bated with d3-PLP confirmed Alpl involvement in vitamin B6 metabolism. Locomotion analysis showed pyridoxine treatment-responsive spontaneous seizures in alpl-/- embryos. Metabolic profiling of alpl-/- larvae using direct-infusion high-resolution mass spectrome-try showed abnormalities in polyamine and neurotransmitter metabolism, suggesting dysfunction of vitamin B6-dependent enzymes. Accumulation of N-methylethanolaminium phosphate indicated abnormalities in phosphoethanolamine metabolism. Taken together, we generated first zebrafish model of HPP that shows multi-ple features of human disease and is suitable to study pathophysiology of HPP and to test novel treatments.

Abstract:

Acoustic health monitoring in AI-enabled quadrocopters is a critical area of research, leveraging deep learning techniques to enhance the reliability and safety of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This paper explores the application of advanced deep learning models, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), and autoencoders, for real-time anomaly detection and fault diagnosis using acoustic data. By analyzing sound patterns generated by quadrocopter components, these techniques enable the identification of mechanical wear, rotor imbalances, and other potential failures. The integration of AI-driven acoustic monitoring not only improves predictive maintenance but also reduces operational downtime and enhances flight performance. This study highlights the challenges, including noise interference and data scarcity, and proposes solutions such as transfer learning and data augmentation. The results demonstrate the potential of deep learning in transforming acoustic health monitoring for next-generation quadrocopters.

Abstract: In this paper, based on the novel generalized Hamilton-real (GHR) calculus, we propose for the first time a quaternion Nesterov’s accelerated projected gradient algorithm for computing the dominant eigenvalue and eigenvector of quaternion Hermitian matrices. By introducing momentum terms and look-ahead updates, the algorithm achieves a faster convergence rate. We theoretically prove the convergence of the quaternion Nesterov’s accelerated projected gradient algorithm. Numerical experiments show that the proposed method outperforms the quaternion projected gradient ascent method and the traditional algebraic methods in terms of computational accuracy and runtime efficiency.

Abstract: Epilepsy is a clinical diagnosis. In a patient suspected of epilepsy, the main contribution of routine EEG is to record interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) which include spikes, sharp waves, spike-and-wave discharges, sharp-and-wave discharges, and multiple spike-and-wave discharges. Studies show that the first routine EEG fails to record IEDs in approximately 47–50% of patients with epilepsy. When the clinical history strongly suggests epilepsy, but the first EEG fails to record IEDs, various measures can improve EEG performance, which is the subject of this review. Similarly, in cases of suspected epilepsy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become the imaging technique of choice to identify structural brain abnormalities. However, in a significant number of cases of clinically suspected epilepsy, MRI is interpreted as “normal” even when performed according to an epilepsy-specific protocol and when evaluated by a specialized MRI reader. In such cases, a comprehensive epilepsy-targeted MRI protocol is the key factor to identify, localize, and characterize an epileptogenic lesion. In this regard, the ILAE Neuroimaging Working Group recommends using the Harmonized Neuroimaging of Epilepsy Structural Sequences (HARNESS-MRI) protocol, among other additional imaging tools, to look for such a lesion; this will be also described in detail below.

Abstract:

Structural features, underlying the mismatch between catalytic and cytostatic proper-ties in L-asparaginase from Rhodospirillum rubrum (RrA) and three of its mutants were investigated. The effect of point substitutions in the area of inter-subunit contacts of the enzyme (Mut1: A64V, E67K and Mut2: R118H, G120R) as well as in the region, which is probably involved in a contact area upon interaction of the enzyme with the cancer cells (Mut3: E149R, V150P, F151T) has been studied. RrA Mut1 and Mut 2 additionally con-tained an N-terminal 17-amino acid capsid peptide derived from the bacteriophage T7 (MASMTGGQQMGRGSSRQ), which could presumably impact to the conformational stability of the enzymes. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed minor alterations in the secondary structure of the RrA mutants compared to the wild-type. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy applied to the kinetic parameters analysis of Asn hydrolysis, showed that native RrA displayed a Vmax of 30 U/mg and a KM of 4.5 ± 0.5 mM. RrA Mut3 exhibited a substantially increased Vmax of 57 U/mg, whereas other mutants exhibited less pronounced changes. Thermo-denaturation studies, allowed to determine the phase transition parameters of the RrA variants in comparison with commercial EcA. The mutants RrA-Mut1 and RrA-Mut2 exhibit the most favorable phase transition parameters, with melting temperatures (Tm) of 60.3 °C and 59.4 °C, respectively, ex-ceeding that of the wild-type RrA (54.6 °C) and RrA-Mut3 (52 °C). EcA demonstrates slightly superior thermal stability, with a Tm of 62 °C. The mutations show significant effect on the protein stability to trypsinolysis. So, Mut3 showed significantly higher resistance (45% activity remaining after 30 min of trypsin exposure) compared to the native RrA retained 20% activity. EcA preparations exhibited lower stability to trypsi-nolysis (losing over 90% activity within 15 min). The cytostatic effects were evaluated using MTT assays against K562 (leukemic) and A549 (lung carcinoma) cell lines. MTT assays with K562 cells revealed that RrA Mut3 (IC50 of 10 U/mL) and RrA Mut2 (IC50 of 11.5 U/mL) exhibited superior anti-proliferative activity compared to native enzymes RrA (IC50 of 15 U/mL) and EcA-Veropharm (24 U/mL). RrA-Mut3 shows the most significant improvement in cytostatic activity. The results obtained indicate that the sub-stitutions in Mut3: E149R, V150P, F151T not only stabilize the conformation of the protein and increase resistance to trypsinolysis, but more importantly, this region is apparently involved in interaction with cancer cells.

Abstract: This review aims to place open, laparoscopic, robotic and image-guided robotic surgical interventions in the context of complex medical surgeries, taking into account patient well-being, staff effort and task reliability. It deduces the specificities of each technique and subsequently focuses on image-guided interventions and their practice in staff training, preparation and implementation of a possible autonomous intervention. These complex interventions are intended to be minimally invasive (MI), precise and safe therapies. The accuracy of robotic positioning could be improved by reductions in complexity and un-certainty involved in the intervention procedure. These can be achieved by matching the real controlled procedure and its virtual replica. The contribution discusses considera-tions for staff training and/or planning of surgical interventions using real and virtual phantoms, and the use of augmented matched digital twins (DT) for real interventions. The different topics presented in the article, although explicit, are reinforced by examples from the literature to facilitate a deeper understanding. The results of this review highlight the importance of robotic imaging-assisted procedures involving MI, nonionizing and precise interventions. Moreover, DTs currently integrated in different health applications, combined with digital tools, could provide an effective solution for the management of such interventions.

Abstract:

Complicated intra-abdominal infections are a major cause of sepsis-related mortality, with intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC) as a knowing cause. Patients in intensive care units (ICU) are at the highest risk of invasive candidiasis and treatment focuses on intra-abdominal source control and appropriate antimicrobial therapy to reduce mortality. The management of complicated intraabdominal infection is a complex scenario where other conditions, beyond antifungal treatment, play a significant role. The patient's specific conditions, as well as early and proper control of the source of infection, are key factors in determining the outcome for these patients. However, despite prevention, advancements in diagnosis and treatment, mortality rates remain high up to 60%. This review provides updates on key concepts regarding the epidemiology and impact of Candida spp. in the peritoneal cavity, as well as risk factors for managing patients with intra-abdominal complications. Finally, it discusses antifungal treatment strategies based on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) parameters.

Abstract: The global campaign to reach net zero will necessitate the use of hydrogen as an effi-cient way to store renewable electricity at large scale. Methane pyrolysis is rapidly gaining traction as an enabling technology to produce low-cost hydrogen without di-rectly emitting carbon dioxide. It offers a scalable and sustainable alternative to steam reforming, whilst being compatible with existing infrastructure. The process most commonly uses thermal energy to decompose methane (CH4) into hydrogen gas (H2) and solid carbon (C). The electrification of this reaction is of great significance, allow-ing it to be driven by excess renewable electricity rather than fossil fuels, and elimi-nating indirect emissions. This review discusses the most recent technological ad-vances in electrified methane pyrolysis and the relative merits of the mainstream re-actor technologies in this space (plasma, microwave, fluidised bed, and direct resistive heating). The study also examines the economic viability of the process, considering energy costs, and the market potential of both turquoise hydrogen and solid carbon products. Whilst these technologies offer emissions-free hydrogen production, chal-lenges such as carbon deposition, reactor stability, and high energy consumption must be addressed for large-scale adoption. Future research should focus on process opti-misation, advanced reactor designs, and policy frameworks to support commercialisa-tion. With continued technological innovation and sufficient investment, electrified methane pyrolysis has the potential to become the primary route for sustainable pro-duction of hydrogen at industrial scale.

Abstract: Debt-for-nature instruments are financial transactions that allow countries to restructure and reduce foreign debt in exchange for investments in environmental conservation measures. Debt-for-nature instruments first appeared in the market in the 1980s; however, they have seen a recent surge in popularity, with transactions predominantly focused on marine conservation. These transactions have gained attention for their size, innovative nature and conservation focus. However, they have also faced criticism surrounding sovereignty, effectiveness and transaction costs. The analysis of a comprehensive and global sample of eight debt-for-nature instruments, with a detailed case study of the Belize transaction, indicates that such deals may be costly to negotiate, the use of blue bond labeling can be misleading, conservation benefits are limited, and they have limited replicability. On the positive side, these deals have introduced innovative structures to unlock additional funds for conservation. The best examples are structured with a larger financial commitment to nature and strong enforcement mechanisms. In some cases, the transaction laid the groundwork for future marine conservation funding and commitments. If debt-for-nature instruments are not a silver bullet for either environmental impact or debt refinancing, the benefits of recent transactions indicate a role for such innovative instruments in conservation finance.

Abstract: Background: Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that is difficult to cure. Magnolia sieboldii essential oils (MSEOs) have been shown to have antidepressant effects, but there are few studies on treating insomnia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of MSEOs and to elucidate the molecular and neurophysiological mechanisms by which they alleviate insomnia. Methods: The main components of MSEOs extracted by steam distillation were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). To establish a p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) -induced insomnia model in mice, the levels of GAD65, GABAARα1, 5HT-2A, and 5HT-1A were detected by immunohistochemistry and ELISA. The normal neurons in the mouse brain were counted by Nissl staining. The relative mRNA expression levels of related genes in mice were detected by RT- qPCR. Results: A total of 69 components were identified by MSEOs, and the main components were β-elemene (19.94%), (Z)-β-ocimene (14.87%), and Germacrene D (7.05%). Different concentrations of MSEOs can successfully prolong the total sleep time and shorten the sleep latency of mice. GAD65, GABAARα1, 5HT-2A, and 5HT-1A levels still increased to varying degrees after treatment with different concentrations of MSEOs. Moreover, MSEOs could attenuate PCPA-induced neuronal death. At the same time, MSEOs enhanced the mRNA expression of 5HT-1A, 5HT-2A, GABAARα1, and GABAARγ2. Conclusions: MSEOs effectively improved sleep by prolonging total sleep time and shortening latency, potentially through upregulating GAD65, GABAARα1, 5HT-1A, and 5HT-2A levels, protecting neurons, and enhancing mRNA expression of GABAARα1, GABAARγ2, 5HT-1A, and 5HT-2A, suggesting their potential as a therapeutic for insomnia.

Abstract:

This study examines the relationship between perceived authenticity, green consumerism, and behavioral intention within the context of heritage restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia. By integrating Cognitive Appraisal Theory (CAT) and the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) framework, the research explores how authenticity perceptions influence both cultural and gastronomic experiences and contribute to sustainable consumption behavior. The study also investigates the moderating role of consumer knowledge in enhancing green consumerism and its subsequent impact on behavioral intention to dine at heritage restaurants. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study first conducted content analysis on online reviews to identify key attributes that shape authenticity perceptions. Subsequently, a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was applied to survey data collected from 417 patrons of heritage restaurants in Hail. The findings confirm that perceived authenticity significantly enhances consumers' cultural and gastronomic experiences, which in turn fosters green consumerism and strengthens behavioral intention to visit authentic restaurants. Furthermore, green consumerism acts as a key mediator between authenticity, cultural experiences, and purchase intention. Consumer knowledge further moderates this relationship, amplifying the positive effect of green consumerism on behavioral intention. The study contributes to the growing literature on sustainable gastronomy tourism by demonstrating the crucial interplay between authenticity, sustainability, and consumer knowledge in the heritage restaurant sector. It also offers practical recommendations for restaurant managers, policymakers, and tourism marketers to enhance the authentic dining experience while promoting environmentally responsible behavior. By fostering awareness of cultural and environmental values, heritage restaurants can play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable tourism development in Hail and beyond.

Abstract: This study explores the potential of Kochia prostrata and perennial grasses for sustainable rangeland rehabilitation in Jordan, a country facing significant challenges related to soil degradation, desertification, and reduced rangeland productivity. The primary purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of these plant species in restoring degraded rangelands in Jordan’s arid regions and promoting long-term ecological and economic sustainability.A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining field experiments, soil analysis, and vegetation surveys. The study involved the establishment of experimental plots across several degraded rangeland sites in Jordan, where Kochia prostrata and native perennial grasses were planted and monitored over a two-year period. Data was collected on soil properties, plant growth rates, species diversity, and vegetation cover. Qualitative interviews with local farmers and rangeland managers provided insights into the perceived benefits and challenges of using these species in rehabilitation efforts.The key findings of the study revealed that Kochia prostrata and perennial grasses significantly improved soil quality, increased vegetation cover, and enhanced biodiversity in degraded rangelands. The addition of these species also contributed to the reduction of soil erosion, improved water retention, and increased resilience to drought conditions. Additionally, Kochia prostrata was found to have potential for use as a forage resource, providing both environmental and economic benefits.In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of integrating Kochia prostrata and perennial grasses into rangeland management strategies in Jordan. These species offer a promising solution for restoring degraded rangelands, improving ecosystem services, and enhancing the livelihoods of local pastoral communities. The findings support the implementation of targeted rangeland rehabilitation programs that incorporate these species, along with proper management practices, to achieve sustainable and resilient rangeland ecosystems. Recommendations for future research include further studies on the long-term impact of these species on soil fertility and local ecosystems, as well as the exploration of broader applications in other arid and semi-arid regions.

Abstract: This study examines the effects of nutritional supplementation (NS) and resistance training on strength performance across different gender and age groups over 8 weeks. A total of 218 participants were categorized based on NS intake: L-carnitine (LcS), creatine (CS), proteins (PS), a combination of protein, creatine, and L-carnitine (PCLcS), and a non-supplemented control group (NNS). Strength performance was assessed through 1RM (one repetition maximum) tests in back squats, bench presses, deadlifts, biceps curls, triceps extensions, and pull-ups. All participants exhibited pro-gressive strength improvements, with PCLcS consumers achieving the most significant gains across all exercises (e.g., a 15.8% increase in 1RM back squat), followed by LcS (11.3%). CS and PS user (U) groups showed moderate improvements, while NNSUs recorded the lowest performance increases (5.7%). Despite these differences, statistical significance was not reached (p >0.05), suggesting that factors such as training history, genetic predisposition, and recovery strategies may influence strength adaptations. Gender-related differences were evident, with men consistently outperforming women across all exercises (20–35% higher 1RM values), likely due to physiological factors such as greater muscle mass and testosterone levels. However, both genders showed comparable relative improvements over time (men: +13.4%, women: +12.6%). Age-related trends revealed a gradual decline in performance, with the 40-49 age group displaying the lowest strength levels, particularly in the 1RM back squat (9.2% lower than the 20-29 group). However, older participants still exhibited meaningful strength gains (+9.1% over 8 weeks), reinforcing the importance of resistance training in mitigating age-related muscle decline. These findings suggest that NSs, particularly PCLcS, may enhance strength performance when combined with structured resistance training.

Abstract: Device-associated infections (DAIs) are a significant public health concern because of their attributable mortality, along with extra length of stay and cost. This two- year prospective, surveillance study aimed to assess the incidence of DAIs and their clinical impact on 4 Greek adult medical-surgical ICUs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definitions were used to diagnose DAIs. Of the 500 patients hospitalized for 12,624 days, 254 (50.8%) experienced 346 episodes of DAIs. The incidence of DAIs was 27.4/1,000 bed-days. The incidence of ventilator-associated events (VAEs), central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs), and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) was 20.5/1,000 ventilator-days, 8.6/1,000 central-line days and 2.5/1,000 catheter-days, respectively. The most common pathogen isolated was Acinetobacter baumannii (35.7%%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (29.9%). All gram-negative pathogens were carbapenem-resistant. DAIs attributable mortality was 20.1% (p = 0.000), while attributable length of stay was 18.9 days (p = 0.000), respectively. The high incidence and attributable length of stay and mortality of DAIs emphasize the need to establish an organized infection surveillance program and implement a care bundle for DAIs prevention in ICUs.

Abstract:

Background Under-representation of Muslim ethnic minorities and their mistrust in health research are known barriers to achieving digital health equity. Therefore, this study aimed to understand determinants of Muslim communities’ mistrust in digital health research and explore potential approaches to address this and increase their participation in health research. MethodsThis study employed a constructivist grounded theory design, involving focus groups with Muslim ethnic minorities living in the United Kingdom. We conducted nine focus groups in mosques, co-moderated by a digital health researcher and an Imam. Findings Muslim ethnic minorities had several negative perceptions about digital health research, which were mainly influenced by lack of their awareness about the purpose and conduct of research. They felt excluded from health research and did not perceive taking part as beneficial to them or their community. These were exacerbated by how research findings related to Muslim ethnic minorities in the UK were used or shared in public spaces (e.g., by media outlets or healthcare providers). Participants suggested that Imams and mosques could play a role in addressing these negative perceptions by raising awareness among their communities using digital resources (e.g., bite size videos, social media community groups) and during regular gatherings. ConclusionNegative perceptions about health research are common among Muslim communities, which are further exacerbated by the way research findings related to South Asians are discussed in public spaces. Despite this, there is a potential of building the Muslim community’s trust and improve their participation in health research if health researchers work collaboratively with mosques or Imams and leverage community-based networks and resources.

Abstract: Mulberry silk production in West Bengal and north-eastern India, primarily involving bivoltine and multi-bi hybrid silkworm varieties, is a cornerstone of the sericulture industry. However, seasonal climatic variations, characterized by elevated temperatures and humidity, significantly affect cocoon quality, posing challenges for silk reeling efficiency and productivity. This study examines the influence of seasonal variations on the quality and reeling performance of bivoltine and multi-bi hybrid silk cocoons in these regions. Key parameters, including filament length (FL), non-broken filament length (NBFL), and shell ratio, were analysed over five seasons. Results indicate a marked decline in cocoon quality during unfavourable seasons (June–July, August–September), with bivoltine cocoons exhibiting greater sensitivity through reductions in FL, NBFL, and reelability compared to the more resilient multi-bi hybrids. These seasonal impacts undermine reeling efficiency and silk yarn quality. The findings emphasize the importance of adaptive rearing practices and technological innovations, such as multi-end reeling machines with enhanced speed and evenness control, to bolster productivity and address climatic challenges. This research provides critical insights for improving the sustainability and economic viability of sericulture in West Bengal and north-eastern India.

Abstract: This research paper presents a novel comparative analysis of carbon taxation and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) regulations within the real estate sectors of Indonesia and Singapore. Through quantitative assessments, the study evaluates the effectiveness of these policies in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices in real estate development and management. The analysis reveals significant differences in policy implementation and outcomes between the two nations, offering insights into the efficacy of their respective approaches.

Abstract: In the process of acidizing operation, especially in ultra-high temperature wells, metal components such as wellbore tubing and surface equipment are severely corroded by acid fluids, leading to operational challenges in oilfield production. At present, the ad-dition of corrosion inhibitors is one of the most effective methods to mitigate metal corrosion. Pyridine residues, quinoline quaternary ammonium salts, aldehyde ketone amine condensates, acetylenic methyl ammonia and imidazoline corrosion inhibitors have been widely studied in the industry. Among them quaternary ammonium salts are widely used in oilfield production due to their excellent corrosion resistance, low toxicity and good water solubility. However, their limited heat resistance makes them unsuitable for ultra-deep exploration wells or scientific research wells. This study fo-cuses on N-heterocyclic quaternary ammonium salt-based corrosion inhibitors (alkyl quinolinium quaternary ammonium salts), which can withstand temperatures up to 200°C, meeting the requirements of ultra-high temperature wells.

Abstract: Aim: To determine the evolving rehabilitation needs in Brazil, considering five main impairment categories for nationwide health-service planning, and stratified per age groups as well as Brazilian regions with inequitable development. Methods: Secondary analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study (1990-2019), using Years Lived with Disability (YLD) rates, including for all ages and age-standardized metrics. The set of health conditions amenable to rehabilitation were selected and organized based on the five impairment types, derived from the Brazil’s public-based Care Network for People with Disabilities. Results: A Brazil-wide 24% growth (1990-2019) in overall rehabilitation needs per capita (i.e., YLD rates per 100,000 population) was observed, in addition to a 6% negative growth for age-standardized YLD rates. “Physical” impairments accounted for 77% of the Brazilian rehabilitation needs in 2019; 69% of these impairments come from musculoskeletal conditions. Rehabilitation-need growths were also observed across the five Brazilian regions, ranging from 16% to 25%. Conclusion: Rehabilitation needs are growing Brazil-wide and across its regions, as a result of the population ageing and epidemiological transition. Brazilian regions with lower income and lower population density (e.g. with more rural or remote populations) also had growths in rehabilitation needs even though often underserved by rehabilitation professionals.