Continuous Development Research Articles

In vitro antitrypanosomal activity of synthesized nitrofurantoin-triazole hybrids against Trypanosoma species causing animal African trypanosomosis

Animal African trypanosomosis (AAT) is a disease caused by Trypanosoma brucei brucei, T. vivax, T. evansi and T. congolense which are mainly transmitted by tsetse flies (maybe the family/genus scientific name for the tsetse flies here?). Synthetic trypanocidal drugs are used to control AAT but have reduced efficacy due to emergence of drug resistant trypanosomes. Therefore, there is a need for the continued development of new safe and effective drugs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro anti-trypanosomal activity of novel nitrofurantoin compounds against trypanosomes (Trypanosoma brucei brucei, T. evansi and T. congolense) causing AAT. This study assessed previously synthesized nineteen nitrofurantoin-triazole (NFT-TZ) hybrids against animal trypanosomes and evaluated their cytotoxicity using Madin–Darby bovine kidney cells. The n-alkyl sub-series hybrids, 8 (IC50 0.09 ± 0.02 μM; SI 686.45) and 9 (IC50 0.07 ± 0.04 μM; SI 849.31) had the highest anti-trypanosomal activity against T. b. brucei. On the contrary, the nonyl 6 (IC50 0.12 ± 0.06 μM; SI 504.57) and nitrobenzyl 18 (IC50 0.11 ± 0.03 μM; SI 211.07) displayed the highest trypanocidal activity against T. evansi. The nonyl hybrid 6 (IC50 0.02 ± 0.01 μM; SI 6328.76) was also detected alongside the undecyl 8 (IC50 0.02 ± 0.01 μM; SI 3454.36) and 3-bromobenzyl 19 (IC50 0.02 ± 0.01 μM; SI 2360.41) as the most potent hybrids against T. congolense. These hybrids had weak toxicity effects on the mammalian cells and highly selective submicromolar antiparasitic action efficacy directed towards the trypanosomes, hence they can be regarded as potential trypanocidal leads for further in vivo investigation.

The Assessment of Critical Thinking Skills in Secondary School Students in Saudi Arabia

The assessment of critical thinking skills in secondary school students in Saudi Arabia involves evaluating their ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information. Various methods are employed, including traditional exams, project-based assessments, and scenario-based tasks. Traditional exams may include questions that require students to apply logic and reasoning, while project-based assessments assess their ability to solve real-world problems. Scenario-based tasks present students with situations where they must make informed decisions, encouraging critical thinking. Additionally, group discussions and debates are utilized to gauge their capacity for reasoned argumentation. Educators often use rubrics to evaluate students' thought processes and the depth of their analyses. Challenges in this assessment process may include cultural influences on critical thinking styles, language barriers, and varying educational backgrounds. Therefore, it's crucial to design assessments that consider these factors and promote a holistic understanding of critical thinking skills. Continuous professional development for teachers and the integration of critical thinking across the curriculum are essential for fostering these skills. Overall, a multifaceted approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of critical thinking skills in Saudi Arabian secondary school students, preparing them for the complexities of the modern world. The assessment of critical thinking skills in secondary school students in Saudi Arabia employs diverse methods, encompassing exams, projects, and discussions. These evaluations gauge students' abilities to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information. Exam questions are crafted to test logical reasoning, while project-based assessments measure problem-solving in real-world scenarios. Group discussions and debates assess students' reasoned argumentation, promoting critical thinking. Rubrics provide a structured evaluation framework, ensuring consistency. Cultural influences, language barriers, and diverse educational backgrounds pose challenges. Adaptable assessments considering these factors are crucial. Continuous professional development for educators and integrating critical thinking across curricula enhance skill development. A holistic approach ensures comprehensive evaluations, preparing students for the complexities of the modern world.

Using Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Enhancing Teaching Quality in Higher Education of Bangladesh

Bangladesh is crossing milestones in achieving sustainability in every sector and one of the most important sectors is the higher education sector. Thus, it is advisable to improve the quality of education in the environment by evaluating some parameters of service quality. This paper examines the quality of teaching in the higher education sector through continuing Professional Development (CPD) and examines the important role that teachers play in contributing to the development of the knowledge and values needed for teachers. However, since the study is on descriptive and analytical case studies and literature reviews based on reliable sources which shows that workshops and seminars are effective in most traditional modes has as proved to be insufficient for Coordination and evaluation of programs should be mandatory for professional development, which will help to maintain a positive environment with changing global situation. This paper identifies the definition, the dimension, the model, effectiveness, and types of CPD, the quality of service related to student satisfaction. The study helps to identify and assist in taking steps to address the lack of teaching quality whether teachers receive continuous professional development programs and whether such programs are adequate in our college.

Optimizing Internet of Things Fog Computing: Through Lyapunov-Based Long Short-Term Memory Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Energy Consumption Optimization.

In the era of continuous development in Internet of Things (IoT) technology, smart services are penetrating various facets of societal life, leading to a growing demand for interconnected devices. Many contemporary devices are no longer mere data producers but also consumers of data. As a result, massive amounts of data are transmitted to the cloud, but the latency generated in edge-to-cloud communication is unacceptable for many tasks. In response to this, this paper introduces a novel contribution-a layered computing network built on the principles of fog computing, accompanied by a newly devised algorithm designed to optimize user tasks and allocate computing resources within rechargeable networks. The proposed algorithm, a synergy of Lyapunov-based, dynamic Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), allows for predictive task allocation. The fog servers dynamically train LSTM networks to effectively forecast the data features of user tasks, facilitating proper unload decisions based on task priorities. In response to the challenge of slower hardware upgrades in edge devices compared to user demands, the algorithm optimizes the utilization of low-power devices and addresses performance limitations. Additionally, this paper considers the unique characteristics of rechargeable networks, where computing nodes acquire energy through charging. Utilizing Lyapunov functions for dynamic resource control enables nodes with abundant resources to maximize their potential, significantly reducing energy consumption and enhancing overall performance. The simulation results demonstrate that our algorithm surpasses traditional methods in terms of energy efficiency and resource allocation optimization. Despite the limitations of prediction accuracy in Fog Servers (FS), the proposed results significantly promote overall performance. The proposed approach improves the efficiency and the user experience of Internet of Things systems in terms of latency and energy consumption.

DNA as a universal chemical substrate for computing and data storage.

DNA computing and DNA data storage are emerging fields that are unlocking new possibilities in information technology and diagnostics. These approaches use DNA molecules as a computing substrate or a storage medium, offering nanoscale compactness and operation in unconventional media (including aqueous solutions, water-in-oil microemulsions and self-assembled membranized compartments) for applications beyond traditional silicon-based computing systems. To build a functional DNA computer that can process and store molecular information necessitates the continued development of strategies for computing and data storage, as well as bridging the gap between these fields. In this Review, we explore how DNA can be leveraged in the context of DNA computing with a focus on neural networks and compartmentalized DNA circuits. We also discuss emerging approaches to the storage of data in DNA and associated topics such as the writing, reading, retrieval and post-synthesis editing of DNA-encoded data. Finally, we provide insights into how DNA computing can be integrated with DNA data storage and explore the use of DNA for near-memory computing for future information technology and health analysis applications.

Prostate Cancer Detection Using Deep Learning and Traditional Techniques

Worldwide, men are affected by prostate cancer, which is a condition that is both common and has the potential to be fatal. Detection that is both timely and accurate is of the utmost importance for successfully treating patients and improving their outcomes. The technique of machine learning, which is a subfield of artificial intelligence, has recently emerged as a game-changing instrument for the identification of prostate cancer. The purpose of this work is to provide a complete overview and analysis of the use of machine learning methods in the detection, diagnosis, and prognosis of prostate cancer. The study that is being suggested makes use of a wide variety of datasets, which include genetic information, clinical records, and medical photographs. To guarantee the quality of the data, preprocessing techniques are used, and feature extraction techniques are utilized to assist the extraction of relevant information for the construction of models. There are several different machine learning algorithms that are being investigated to see whether they are effective in the identification of prostate cancer. These techniques include support vector machines (SVMs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and deep learning architectures. Several performance indicators, including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and ROC-AUC, are taken into consideration throughout the training, validation, and assessment phases of our approach processes. In addition, the research covers ethical aspects, such as data protection, fairness, and the interpretability of models, which are essential for the use of machine learning solutions in healthcare settings. These findings provide evidence that machine learning has the potential to improve prostate cancer detection, which would allow for earlier diagnosis and more individualized therapy courses of treatment. In addition, the capacity to comprehend the predictions of the model and the openness of the model facilitate the ability of healthcare professionals to make educated judgements. This study contributes to the ever-changing environment of prostate cancer diagnosis by providing insights into the incorporation of machine learning into clinical practice. This, in turn, eventually leads to improvements in patient care and outcomes. To further advancing prostate cancer diagnosis and therapy, future approaches include the continuous development of models, the implementation of larger-scale clinical trials, and the utilization of developing technology respectively.

Nexus between Democratic Governance and the Church

This article's primary goal is to investigate the Church's relationship to democratic governance. Whether the Church facilitates or hinders the process of democratic conversion and consolidation is the primary inquiry being investigated. The primary conclusion that can be drawn, therefore, is that there is no significant threat from the Church to the continued development of democracy in any nation. Additionally, the more general issue of how church and state interactions should be conducted in a democratic governance is taken into consideration. A primary inference that could be made from this research is that the existence of a powerful religious establishment does not always impede democratic processes. Instead, as long as two requirements are satisfied, collaboration between the state and the church is appropriate, even desired. Firstly, complete religious freedom must be accorded to every individual. Second, the rest of society cannot be forced to adopt the dominant religious institution's definition of the "good life."

Introduction and Demo of Virtual Reality Technology to Initiate Active Learning in Architectural Design

Architectural education is adapting to the demands of efficient, technology-driven practices, with virtual reality (VR) emerging as a critical tool in bridging communication gaps between architects and clients. This study, conducted by lecturers at Institut Teknologi Indonesia, focuses on their experience implementing VR technology in the High-rise Building Technology class. The initiative spans four sequential stages, with the introduction and demo executed hybridly (online and offline). The authors emphasize the importance of knowledge induction and firsthand demonstrations to familiarize students with VR. Notably, external instructors proficient in VR technology participate in the program. Student engagement and enthusiasm are evident, with offline demo attendance surpassing the online VR introduction seminar. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected students' motivation to learn, and the hands-on VR experience is a revitalizing approach. The two-way interaction between instructors and students enhances interest in in-person attendance. The authors advocate for the continued development of this experience in architectural education, promoting an active learning system using VR across various courses. The paper underscores the potential of VR technology to invigorate architectural education and enhance student engagement in the post-pandemic learning landscape.

Tribological properties of Al-GNP composites at elevated temperature

Lighter and more powerful next generation vehicles and other rotary machinery demand bearings to operate in harsher conditions for higher efficiency, and the continuous development of advanced low-wear and friction materials is thus becoming even more important to meet these requirements. New aluminium composites reinforced with high performance lubricate phases such as graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are very promising and have been vigorously investigated. By maintaining a low coefficient of friction (COF) and offering great strength against wear due to their self-lubricating capability, the solid lubricant like GNPs protect the bearing surface from wear damage and prevent change in metallurgical properties during temperature fluctuations. This paper first studies the high-temperature tribological performance of aluminium matrix composites reinforced with GNP, consolidated via powder metallurgy, then elucidates their tribological mechanism. We report that the best tribological performance is achieved by the composite containing 2.0 wt% GNP, with an extraordinarily low COF of 0.09 and a specific wear rate of 3.5×10−2 mm3·N−1·m−1, which represent 75% and 40% reduction respectively, against the plain aluminium consolidated under identical conditions. The in-track and out-of-track Raman analysis have confirmed the role of GNPs in creating a tribofilm on the counterpart surface which contributed to the excellent performance.

Therapeutic Targeting of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors in Cancer.

In the realm of cancer therapeutics, targeting the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway has emerged as a promising strategy. This study delves into the intricate web of HIF-associated mechanisms, exploring avenues for future anticancer therapies. Framing the investigation within the broader context of cancer progression and hypoxia response, this article aims to decipher the pivotal role played by HIF in regulating genes influencing angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and glucose metabolism. Employing diverse approaches such as HIF inhibitors, anti-angiogenic therapies, and hypoxia-activated prodrugs, the research methodologically intervenes at different nodes of the HIF pathway. Findings showcase the efficacy of agents like EZN-2968, Minnelide, and Acriflavine in modulating HIF-1α protein synthesis and destabilizing HIF-1, providing preliminary proof of HIF-1α mRNA modulation and antitumor activity. However, challenges, including toxicity, necessitate continued exploration and development, as exemplified by ongoing clinical trials. This article concludes by emphasizing the potential of targeted HIF therapies in disrupting cancer-related signaling pathways.

Empowering Independence through Real Time Object Identification and Navigation for People with Disabilities

Recent studies in assistive technologies for visually impaired individuals showcase a diverse range of methodologies, algorithms, and implementations aimed at enhancing their independence. A notable focus revolves around leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as YOLO (You Only Look Once), SSD (Single Shot Multibox Detector), and Faster R-CNN (Region-based Convolutional Neural Network) to develop real-time object detection systems and deep learning-based smartphone navigation solutions . One prevalent theme in these advancements is the incorporation of auditory feedback to facilitate enhanced user interaction. This is achieved through sophisticated text-to-speech conversion and the integration of audio cues. The utilization of auditory cues not only aids in real-time awareness of the surroundings but also significantly contributes to the overall user experience . Despite remarkable progress, challenges persist in the realm of assistive technologies for the visually impaired. Issues such as processing speed, the occurrence of false positives and negatives, and the adaptability of these systems to various environmental conditions remain prominent. These challenges underline the need for continued research and development in this field to address existing limitations and refine the effectiveness of these assistive technologies .In essence, this survey provides a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape of assistive technologies for the visually impaired. By identifying both achievements and existing challenges, it serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, contributing to ongoing advancements that ensure tailored solutions and improved independence for individuals with visual impairments

Genome-wide DNA N6-methyladenosine in Aeromonas veronii and Helicobacter pylori

BackgroundDNA N6-methyladenosine (6mA), as an important epigenetic modification, widely exists in bacterial genomes and participates in the regulation of toxicity, antibiotic resistance, and antioxidant. With the continuous development of sequencing technology, more 6mA sites have been identified in bacterial genomes, but few studies have focused on the distribution characteristics of 6mA at the whole-genome level and its association with gene expression and function.ResultsThis study conducted an in-depth analysis of the 6mA in the genomes of two pathogenic bacteria, Aeromonas veronii and Helicobacter pylori. The results showed that the 6mA was widely distributed in both strains. In A. veronii, 6mA sites were enriched at 3’ end of protein-coding genes, exhibiting a certain inhibitory effect on gene expression. Genes with low 6mA density were associated with cell motility. While in H. pylori, 6mA sites were enriched at 5’ end of protein-coding genes, potentially enhancing gene expression. Genes with low 6mA density were closely related to defense mechanism.ConclusionsThis study elucidated the distribution characteristics of 6mA in A. veronii and H. pylori, highlighting the effects of 6mA on gene expression and function. These findings provide valuable insights into the epigenetic regulation and functional characteristics of A. veronii and H. pylori.

Sustainability of learning at work: experiences of police, hospital, and ICT personnel

ABSTRACT Global megatrends, such as digitalisation, and contemporary crises have highlighted the importance of continuous development and learning in the work context. Learning can be inspiring and motivating but also stressful when generating competence that is not applicable or has poor utilisability. In this study, we approached the ambivalent nature of learning at work from the sustainability perspective. According to the literature, sustainability of learning can consist of four broad aspects: transferability and continuity of learning, well-being, and temporality. We aimed to examine experiences of learning among personnel in three work-life contexts: preventive police work, hospitals, and information and computer technology (ICT). Using theory-driven thematic analysis, we revealed a variety of aspects of sustainability of learning and their different emphases in the three studied contexts. The main finding is that learning and well-being are closely intertwined and temporally framed in sustainability of learning. Based on this finding, we discuss practical implications and future research directions.

Nature and Trend of Pharmaceutical Payments to Japanese Board-Certified Neurologists Between 2016 and 2019: A Pre-emergence Analysis Amidst the Development of Next-Generation Alzheimer's Disease Drugs.

There is insufficient data on the financial relationships between Japanese neurologists and pharmaceutical companies prior to the advent of new-generation Alzheimer's disease drugs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the magnitude, prevalence, and trend of the financial relationship between Japanese neurologists and pharmaceutical companies between 2016 and 2019. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to evaluate the financial relationships between all board-certified neurology specialists and pharmaceutical companies in Japan from 2016 and 2019. Descriptive statistics were applied to measure the magnitude and prevalence of payments among specialists, as well as their trends during the study periods. In a four-year analysis, 77 pharmaceutical companies disbursed a total of USD 36,869,204 across 50,050 payments to 2,696 neurologists in Japan, revealing a mean payment of USD 10,809 per specialist. Notably, the Gini index of 0.997 indicated a high inequality in payment distribution, with a minority of specialists receiving a substantial proportion of payments. Trends displayed irregularities, but an overall increase in total payments from 2016 to 2019, with a significant contribution from the top 10 pharmaceutical companies accounting for 74.2% of total payments, with Takeda Pharmaceutical and Eisai Company notably increasing payments in 2019. There were notable geographical variations in neurologist and payment distribution across 47 prefectures. Our analysis of neurologist payments from pharmaceutical companies in Japan showed a substantial financial relationship with overall increases, yearly varied increments, and payment inequality. Caution is warranted as financial ties may intensify with the continued development of next-generation Alzheimer's disease drugs.

New advances in artificial intelligence for the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer: a literature review

Introduction: With 1.93 million new instances of colorectal cancer (CRC) reported in 2020, the disease presents a danger to world health. With its potential to improve CRC management, artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly prominent in the medical field. This research attempts to evaluate the current status of AI applications in CRC diagnosis and treatment, considering regional differences in healthcare systems and populations. Methodology: On databases like ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and PubMed, a systematic literature evaluation was carried out using search phrases including "artificial intelligence," "colorectal cancer," "diagnosis," and "treatment." English-language research on AI applications in CRC diagnosis and treatment that were published during the previous five years met the inclusion criteria. Results: Endoscopic, non-invasive, histological, and radiographic techniques are among the AI applications used in CRC diagnosis. Prognostic forecasts, diagnostic accuracy, and tumor segmentation are all significantly enhanced by AI. AI helps with targeted therapy and chemoradiotherapy decision-making, improves surgical accuracy, and helps with personalized regimens. Conclusion: The use of AI in colorectal cancer management has the potential for timely identification, precise diagnosis, and customized care. Continuous developments in AI algorithms and clinical data support the development of precision medicine, which offers significant gains in CRC treatment and detection.

State of the art in pediatric nanomedicines.

In recent years, the continuous development of innovative nanopharmaceuticals is expanding their biomedical and clinical applications. Nanomedicines are being revolutionized to circumvent the limitations of unbound therapeutic agents as well as overcome barriers posed by biological interfaces at the cellular, organ, system, and microenvironment levels. In many ways, the use of nanoconfigured delivery systems has eased challenges associated with patient differences, and in our opinion, this forms the foundation for their potential usefulness in developing innovative medicines and diagnostics for special patient populations. Here, we present a comprehensive review of nanomedicines specifically designed and evaluated for disease management in the pediatric population. Typically, the pediatric population has distinguishing needs relative to those of adults majorly because of their constantly growing bodies and age-related physiological changes, which often need specialized drug formulation interventions to provide desirable therapeutic effects and outcomes. Besides, child-centric drug carriers have unique delivery routes, dosing flexibility, organoleptic properties (e.g., taste, flavor), and caregiver requirements that are often not met by traditional formulations and can impact adherence to therapy. Engineering pediatric medicines as nanoconfigured structures can potentially resolve these limitations stemming from traditional drug carriers because of their unique capabilities. Consequently, researchers from different specialties relentlessly and creatively investigate the usefulness of nanomedicines for pediatric disease management as extensively captured in this compilation. Some examples of nanomedicines covered include nanoparticles, liposomes, and nanomicelles for cancer; solid lipid and lipid-based nanostructured carriers for hypertension; self-nanoemulsifying lipid-based systems and niosomes for infections; and nanocapsules for asthma pharmacotherapy.

Practice and application of artificial intelligence technologies in the digital economy

With the continuous development of the digital economy, artificial intelligence technology is becoming more and more widely used in various fields. This paper mainly discusses the practice and application of artificial intelligence technology in the digital economy, including its application field, technical principle, implementation method, and future development trends. Through analyzing the current application status and existing problems of artificial intelligence technology in the digital economy, this paper puts forward some improvement measures and development suggestions, aiming to provide a reference for promoting the better application of artificial intelligence technology in the digital economy.

An analysis of the applications of mechatronics in intelligent manufacturing

With the continuous development of the social economy, countries increasingly pay more attention to mechatronics and put forward various relevant policies for the actual situation of mechatronics to promote mechatronics and achieve sustainable development. However, from the current actual situation of mechatronics, due to the influence of various external factors, its degree of development cannot meet the requirements of modern social development; therefore, the application of advanced intelligent technology to mechatronics design is inevitable. Based on this, this paper expounds the intelligent manufacturing technology and mechatronics system overview as the basis for analysing the actual situation of the development of modern mechanical and electrical equipment digital design, then analyses the advantages of intelligent technology from different aspects and applies them to the daily mechatronics design to bring huge economic benefits to enterprises, and concludes that the development level of social productivity in the future is closely related to the integration level of mechatronics and intelligent manufacturing.

Role of Nanoformulations in the Treatment of Lung Cancer.

Lung cancer is the second deadliest disease in the world. A major portion of deaths related to cancer are due to lung cancer in both males and females. Interestingly, unbelievable advances have occurred in recent years through the use of nanotechnology and development in both the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Due to their in vivo stability, the nanotechnology-based pharmacological system gained huge attractiveness, solubility, absorption from the intestine, pharmacological effectiveness, etc. of various anticancer agents. However, this field needs to be utilized more to get maximum results in the treatment of lung cancer, along with wider context medicines. In the present review, authors have tried to concentrate their attention on lung cancer`s difficulties along with the current pharmacological and diagnostic situation, and current advancements in approaches based on nanotechnology for the treatment and diagnosis of lung cancer. While nanotechnology offers these promising avenues for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, it is important to acknowledge the need for careful evaluation of safety, efficacy, and regulatory approval. With continued research and development, nanotechnology holds tremendous potential to revolutionize the management of lung cancer and improve patient outcomes. The review also highlights the involvement of endocrine systems, especially estrogen in lung cancer proliferation. Some of the recent clinical trials and patents on nanoparticle-based formulations that have applications in the treatment and diagnosis of lung cancer are also discussed.

Exploring the relationship between physical literacy levels, engagement and emotionality in physical education classes

For the researchers, physical literacy (AFi) is the objective to be achieved in Physical Education, for seeking competent subjects, capable of adhering to physical activity throughout their lives, with continuous personal, social, affective, and physical development. Quantitative, descriptive-correlational research was carried out, with a non-experimental design and a non-probabilistic sample of 322 subjects, students from 12 to 18 years old from private, public, and subsidized schools in Talca, Chile. The aim was to relate the level of AFi, engagement and perceived emotionality. Data were collected by the Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument (PPLI), Behavioral Engagement Questionnaire (BEQ) and Scale for Mood Assessment (EVEA). A positive relationship was identified with a higher level of physical literacy, higher levels of happiness (r=0.37) and emotional engagement (r=0.54), decreasing the indexes of hostility (r=-0.25) and the private establishments reach the highest levels of anxiety (X̅=3.2). It is concluded that the higher the level of AFi, the greater the commitment and the greater the regulation of emotional factors.