Management Research Articles

A new principal in a low-performing school and school members’ reactions: an organizational socialization perspective

PurposeImproving the management efficiency of new principals in low-performing schools has important practical value and theoretical significance. Based on organizational socialization theory, this study adopts a single case study method to analyze in-depth the organizational socialization process of a new principal after taking over a low-performing school.Design/methodology/approachThrough three years of longitudinal data analysis in a Chinese school, the study establishes four stages that the new principal experienced after taking office. Then, it analyzes the interaction between the new principal and school members (vice-principals, department heads and teachers) in each stage.FindingsThree main determinants can be perceived to affect the effectiveness of the new principal: the former principal’s imprint, school members’ internal contagion and school members’ demand contradiction. The study further shows that the new principal needed to pay attention to school members’ attitudes toward himself and the former principal as well as focus on building relationships with management.Originality/valueThis study expanded the analysis from teachers to school members (including vice-principals and department heads) to comprehensively analyze the organizational socialization of a new principal.

Pneumatosis intestinalis in systemic sclerosis: navigating diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Pneumatosis intestinalis, characterised by the presence of intramural bowel gas, is a radiological finding with varied clinical implications, ranging from incidental detection to severe underlying pathology, including bowel ischaemia or perforation. Its association with systemic sclerosis, a connective tissue disorder, remains rare and poorly understood, presenting unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analysing 34 documented cases of pneumatosis intestinalis associated with systemic sclerosis, examining demographic profiles, clinical features, diagnostic findings, and outcomes of various management strategies. Pneumatosis intestinalis in systemic sclerosis predominantly occurs in older female patients and is associated with gastrointestinal dysmotility and microvascular damage. Symptoms range from asymptomatic presentations to severe abdominal pain with obstructive symptoms, with the latter increasing the likelihood of surgical intervention. Non-operative management, encompassing antibiotic therapy, oxygen supplementation, and dietary modifications, was associated with favourable outcomes and the lowest mortality. In contrast, surgical intervention, often necessitated by suspected ischemia or perforation, was associated with significantly higher morbidity and mortality. Pneumatosis intestinalis in systemic sclerosis is a complex clinical entity demanding a nuanced, multi-disciplinary approach to management. Non-operative management should remain the cornerstone of treatment for clinically stable presentations, with surgery reserved for those with clear indications. The absence of standardised guidelines underscores the need for further research to refine diagnostic criteria and therapeutic protocols, ultimately improving long-term outcomes in this complex intersection of gastrointestinal and systemic disease.

Study of a Power Supply System Operation Based on Methane Generator Supported by an Energy Storage System, to Cover High Fluctuation Electrical Loads: Greenhouse Case Study

The operation of a greenhouse requires the consumption of high amounts of energy. The problem is strengthened by the energy crisis that characterizes our days. This article studies an energy management strategy based on the utilization of methane generators (MG) for energy saving in greenhouses. The management strategy includes covering the energy needs of a greenhouse unit (GHU) by directly injecting the energy produced by the generator units. If the energy produced from MG cannot meet the energy needs of the GHU, an energy storage system (ESS) or a backup (in case ESS is unavailable) is used to support the load, covering the gap between production and consumption. In case of excess energy, priority is given to charging the ESS, and the possible presence of excess energy is led to the network. The main objective of energy management is the optimal design of the MG-ESS system to minimize the possibility of energy excess and deficit. The analysis presented is based on actual GHU energy demand. The special feature of this load is the existence of strong daily fluctuations in energy consumption, especially during the summer months. This study presents a methodology for managing such loads with the main objective of maximizing the operating efficiency of MG. Briefly, this article brings a new look to the existing literature in the following areas: (I) a methodology for the efficient operation of methane generators in combination with ESS to cover both mild and intense power fluctuations has been developed, (II) The mapping of the load profile and its division into zones of different power levels providing the possibility of choosing different sizes of generators that will operate at their optimal power has been achieved and (III) a techno-economically optimal ESS to support the generators in meeting load needs and absorbing excess energy has been designed. The analysis based on the use of three different MGs in the three mapped load zones that will operate at constant power due to their support by an ESS led to the identification of the appropriate combination of MG-ESS for the autonomous operation of the GHU. The preliminary economic evaluation of the optimal MG-ESS combination based on LCOE showed that the proposed system (LCOE = 0.216 – 0.279) is competitive with the existing system (LCOE = 0.392) responsible for covering the load’s energy demand.

Role of AMP-activated protein kinase in regulating hatching of Nilaparvata lugens.

RNA interference (RNAi) has been proposed as a promising strategy for sustainable and eco-friendly pest management. Nutrient and energy signals are vital for embryonic development and hatching in insects. A key player in cellular energy sensing is adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which functions in embryonic development and hatching, and remains poorly understood. In this study, we identified the three subunits of the NlAMPK gene, NlAMPKα, NlAMPKβ, and NlAMPKγ, in the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that all these three subunits were highly expressed in eggs and ovaries. RNAi of NlAMPKα, NlAMPKβ, and NlAMPKγ in newly emerged BPH females resulted in hatching failure of the eggs they laid. Transcriptomic analysis identified a significant down-regulation of a chitinase (NlChit) gene's transcription on the NlAMPK subunits' knockdown. Notably, NlChit knockdown led to up-regulation of the three NlAMPK subunits, and reduced hatchability and thicker serosal cuticle. Our findings demonstrate that NlAMPK could serve as a potential RNAi target for BPH control, and its mechanism is probably by down-regulating the expression of NlChit. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Psychological effects of water scarcity on community members: a case study of Lephalale municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa

IntroductionWater is essential for human survival and serves various purposes, including domestic, socioeconomic, and agricultural activities. However, water scarcity has emerged as a significant threat to this vital resource, posing a global challenge. While discussions surrounding the consequences of water scarcity typically emphasizes its effects on physical health and socioeconomic impacts, the mental and psychological effects on communities are often overlooked. Thus, the study aimed to explore the psychological effects of water scarcity on community members in Lephalale municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa.MethodsA qualitative research approach was used in the study. Participants were selected using purposive sampling and twenty participants who relied mainly on communal taps to access water were included (10 males and 10 females). Semi-structured in-depth interviews were used to collect data and interviews were audio recorded and later transcribed and translated by a language expert. Data were analyzed using content thematic analysis.ResultsThree main themes emerged from the study results: (1) emotional distress; (2) interpersonal conflicts; (3) disruptions in the activities of daily living. Emotional distress included feelings of shame, embarrassment, anger, disappointment, hopelessness and helplessness. Additionally, interpersonal conflicts arose due to competition for water resources, and disruptions in daily activities were linked to water access challenges.ConclusionThe study findings demonstrated that water scarcity has a significant psychological impact on community members. The study concludes by recommending the integration of psychological principles and involvement of mental health care practitioners when developing water management programmes, strategies, interventions, and policy. The study can provide policy makers and mental health care practitioners valuable insights into the mental health challenges faced by communities affected by water scarcity. Moreover, these study findings can assist mental health care practitioners to tailor their interventions to address the specific needs of communities experiencing water scarcity, particularly community members presenting with mental health challenges associated with this issue.

Molecular uncovering of important helminth species in wild ruminants in the Czech Republic

Monitoring gastrointestinal helminth infections in wild ruminants poses significant challenges for managing wildlife health, particularly regarding invasive species. Traditional coprological methods are often limited by their labor-intensive nature and potential for erroneous identification due to morphological similarities among parasite species. This study employed advanced molecular techniques to assess the prevalence and distribution of several helminth taxa, including the invasive nematode Ashworthius sidemi and the trematode Fascioloides magna, in wild ruminant populations in the Czech Republic (CR). A comprehensive and extensive survey on parasite occurrence, unique in its nationwide scope, was conducted on 983 fecal samples collected from red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), fallow deer (Dama dama), and mouflon (Ovis musimon) across various regions of the CR. The samples were analyzed using multiplex real-time PCR assays specifically designed to detect the DNA of six helminth representatives: the nematodes A. sidemi and Haemonchus spp., as well as the trematodes F. magna, Dicrocoelium dendriticum, Fasciola hepatica, and Calicophoron daubneyi (and representatives of the family Paramphistomidae, respectively). These assays targeted regions of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and were designed to exhibit high sensitivity and specificity, enabling accurate detection of helminth parasites directly in fecal samples. The molecular assays revealed that invasive nematode A. sidemi was the most prevalent helminth species, detected in 15.8% of all samples (155/983), with the highest infection rate observed in red deer at 30.7% (124/404). Haemonchus spp. were also frequently detected, identified in 14.9% of samples (146/983), particularly in roe deer, with a prevalence of 23.2% (86/371). Spatial analysis of these nematodes across various regions of the CR revealed the extensive distribution of both A. sidemi and Haemonchus spp. in nearly all regions. In contrast, trematode infections were less common, with F. magna and D. dendriticum each found in only 1.5% of samples (15/983). Members of the family Paramphistomidae were detected in 0.2% of the samples (2/983) and were confirmed through sequencing as C. daubneyi. The geographical distribution patterns identified in this study indicate potential hotspots for specific helminth species. These findings are critical for planning health management and conservation strategies to mitigate the impacts of helminth infections, especially in areas affected by invasive species.

Identification and management of a novel Danshen leaf anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum karstii in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge in China

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge), a member of the genus Salvia within the Lamiaceae family, holds significant economic and medicinal value. Regrettably, the emergence of a novel leaf anthracnose in 2020 has significantly impacted its cultivation, leading to decreased yield and compromised quality. This newly identified pathogen was meticulously isolated from affected leaves, employing meticulous single conidia isolation techniques. Subsequent confirmation of pathogenicity was achieved through strict adherence of Koch’s postulates. To ensure precise identification, morphological characteristics were supplemented with tandem sequence analysis targeting the rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS), β-tubulin (TUB), and histone (His3) regions. Combining molecular biology techniques with morphological observation and Koch’s postulates, the pathogen was conclusively identified as Colletotrichum karstii. Further investigations focused on understanding the environmental factors influencing the mycelial growth and sporulation of the pathogen. The optimum temperature for the growth of C.karstii is 25°C, the suitable light conditions are 12h light/12h dark or 24h dark, and the suitable pH is 5 to 9. Utilizing BIOLOG phenotypic analysis technique, the metabolic utilization of carbon and nitrogen sources by the pathogen was assessed across different temperatures (20°C, 25°C, and 30°C). Results indicated the highest utilization rates at 25°C, particularly for arbutin and L-tryptophan. Lastly, the efficacy of 15 chemical fungicides and six botanical fungiticide against C. karstii was evaluated in vitro, revealing fluazinam as the most potent inhibitor against mycelial growth with EC50 of 0.0725 mg/mL for mycelium and 0.0378 mg/mL for spore germination, respectively. The 1 % osthole emulsion in water was found to have the strongest inhibitory effect on the growth of mycelium, with an EC50 value of 4.8984 µg/mL. Spore germination was most strongly inhibited by the 80 % ethylicin EC, which had an EC50 value of 0.5541 µg/mL. This study represents the first documentation of C. karstii as a causative agent of anthrax in Danshen, underscoring the significance of these findings for agricultural management and disease control strategies.

Attraction of cabbage stem flea beetle (Psylliodes chrysocephala) to host plant odors.

Oilseed rape (OSR, Brassica napus) faces substantial yield losses in Europe due to the cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB, Psylliodes chrysocephala). Synthetic insecticide use is constrained by resistance and environmental concerns, necessitating innovative pest control strategies. Understanding CSFB host plant selection, particularly through volatile organic compounds (VOCs), is essential for developing sustainable and efficient methods. This study investigated the olfactory response of CSFB in their pre-aestivation stage to plant VOCs. Olfactometer bioassays showed that female CSFB were attracted to VOCs from mechanically damaged OSR plants (BBCH 10 and BBCH 14), while undamaged OSR plants elicited no response. Damaged seedlings of Sinapis alba and Brassica rapa were not attractive. When testing individual isothiocyanates, again only female CSFB showed a positive response in the olfactometer bioassays, while no response was found for two green leaf volatiles. This research provides insights into the olfactory behavior of CSFB and, to our knowledge, is the first to show behavioral responses of adult CSFB towards host plant volatiles in olfactometer tests. Interestingly, only females responded to VOCs, suggesting sexual dimorphism in olfactory sensitivity during this life stage. These findings may help to lay the groundwork for further studies aimed at improving pest management strategies in OSR cultivation. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Predictors of in hospital mortality in cardiogenic shock following ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)

Objectives: Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a severe complication of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and is associated with high mortality rates. This study aimed to identify predictors of in-hospital mortality in patients experiencing cardiogenic shock following STEMI. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Afshar Hospital in Yazd from 2018 to 2023, analyzing clinical data from 62 STEMI patients diagnosed with CS. The mean age of the cohort was 64.9 ± 13.5 years, with a male predominance of 69.5%. Key variables assessed included left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), comorbidities, and treatment interventions. Survival analysis and Cox regression were employed to evaluate mortality outcomes. Results: LVEF less than 30% emerged as a significant predictor of in-hospital mortality, with a hazard ratio of 11.1 (95% CI: 2.6–47.4; p < 0.001). The mean survival time was 7.0 days (95% CI: 5.8–8.3). Additionally, hyperlipidemia was associated with increased mortality, presenting an odds ratio of 11.3 (95% CI: 1.1–114.1; p = 0.040). The prevalence of chronic kidney disease was notably higher in the deceased cohort (28.0% vs. 8.1%; p = 0.042). Although urgent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed in the majority of cases, mortality remained significant. Conclusions: This study highlights that LVEF and hyperlipidemia are critical predictors of in-hospital mortality in patients with cardiogenic shock following STEMI. Other studies also suggest the prognostic value of LVEF in various cardiac conditions, particularly in the context of acute coronary syndromes [14, 15]. Also, the combination of renal dysfunction left ventricular ejection fraction, and advanced age has been proposed as a predictor of in-hospital mortality [18]. These findings underscore the importance of early identification and targeted management strategies to improve patient outcomes in this high-risk population.

Optimizing Fruit Production: A Review of Sensor-based Approaches in Orchard Management

Fruit crops produce higher yields per hectare than other horticultural crops. Fruits are also a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is necessary to monitor and maintain the orchard properly to increase both production and quality of fruits. However, maintaining large orchards is quite difficult. The application of different sensors in fruit crops helps in precise orchard management and, therefore, helps in sustainable production in the long run. Remote sensing tools are useful in gathering data on factors necessary and act as a constraint for increasing the yield potential of fruit crops. An increase in the cost incurred in maintaining the orchards resulted in a low benefit cost ratio in the production of fruits. The application of sensors for the continuous monitoring of orchard facilitates in increased water use efficiency and precise orchard management strategies. This article reviews the use of sensors in various aspects related to fruits crops management.

Noninvasive oxygenation and ventilation strategies for viral acute respiratory failure: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a critical shortage of respiratory ventilators, highlighting the urgent need to explore alternative treatment options for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by respiratory viruses, as an alternative to invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in future pandemics. Objectives The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of alternative noninvasive oxygenation and ventilation strategies in comparison to invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in patients with virus-induced acute respiratory failure (ARF). The primary outcome was the all-cause ICU mortality rate. Methods A systematic review was conducted following the Cochrane guidelines and PRISMA reporting guidelines. The search encompassed databases such as Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Embase to identify relevant indexed literature. Additionally, gray literature was included by consulting regulatory agencies. The included studies compared various oxygenation and ventilatory alternatives, such as high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) with IMV. An exploratory meta-analysis was performed by calculating the risk ratio (RR) by random effects and meta-regression to explore possible sources of heterogeneity and to compare ventilatory alternatives against IMV to reduce mortality, length of stay (LOS) days in ICU, nosocomial infection, and barotrauma. Results A total of forty-seven studies were included in this systematic review. NIMV had an RR of 0.70 (0.58–0.85), HFNC had an RR of 0.54 (0.42–0.71), and CPAP had an RR of 0.80 (0.71–0.90), with meta-regression models that reduced heterogeneity to 0%. For LOS days in ICU, NIMV had 0.38 (− 0.69: − 0.08) lower days and HFNC 0.29 (− 0.64: 0.06) lower days with meta-regression models that reduction heterogeneity to 0% for HFNC and 50% for NIMV. Not enough studies reported nosocomial infection or barotrauma to evaluate them in a meta-analysis. The overall quality of evidence, as assessed by GRADE evaluation, was determined to be from very low to medium certainty depending on the ventilatory strategy and outcome. Conclusions The findings of this systematic review support the use of alternative noninvasive oxygenation and ventilation strategies as viable alternatives to conventional respiratory ventilation for managing viral-induced ARF. Although it is essential to interpret these findings with caution given the overall low to medium certainty of the evidence, the integration of these modalities as part of the management strategies of these patients could help reduce the utilization of ICU beds, invasive ventilators, and costs in both developed and developing countries.

Development of a realistic simulation program for the treatment of extremely low birth weight infants

Premature babies are extremely vulnerable. The care they receive after birth is critical to their survival. Professor Shigeo Iijima, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Japan, is a specialist neonatologist devoted to improving the care that premature babies receive. As short‐ and long term prognosis are affected by the resuscitation procedures at birth and the management of sudden deterioration in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants, accurate situational assessment, rapid decision-making and prompt and reliable skills for interventions during birth and in emergencies are crucial. Iijima believes that outcomes can be improved through the development of a robust standard neonatal resuscitation program tailored to ELBW infants. There is no standardised national training programme for ELBW neonates in Japan and the standard neonatal resuscitation programme currently in place is designed for term infants. Iijima wishes to develop a programme that simulates real-life scenarios of resuscitation at birth to train young doctors responsible for ELBW babies. This will include scenario-based training for emergencies that may occur during the NICU stays of ELBW infants. The goal is to provide invaluable tools to develop the skills needed to assess each situation and determine and carry out a suitable management strategy. The scenario-based training utilises real equipment such as cardiorespiratory monitors and arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) monitors and clinically realistic training scenarios.

Outcomes of endovascular thrombectomy in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis: A cohort study of 325 patients.

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare condition that presents with significant treatment challenges and has traditionally been managed with anticoagulation. However, for patients who fail anticoagulation or present with severe symptoms, endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has emerged as a favorable treatment modality. This study examines the outcomes, complications, and comorbidities associated with EVT in patients with CVT. A query of the 2015-2019 National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample was performed for patients admitted to hospitals with ICD-10 diagnosis codes for CVT and ICD-10 procedure codes for usage of EVT. Demographic information, baseline comorbidities, complications, and discharge dispositions were compared between patients who underwent EVT and those who were managed medically. A total of 36,005 patients diagnosed with CVT were identified from 2015(Q4) to 2019. Of these patients, 325 (0.9%) received EVT. Patients who underwent EVT were older (<0.001), more likely to be female (p = 0.016), and had higher rates of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.012), hypertension (p < 0.001), and obesity (p < 0.001). These patients also presented with more severe neurological symptoms, including higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores (p < 0.001), coma (p < 0.001), and cerebral edema (p < 0.001). Patients undergoing EVT had a higher incidence of in-hospital mortality (p = 0.007) and were less likely to be discharged routinely (p < 0.001). This study found that patients with CVT who underwent EVT were older, more likely to be female, and presented with more severe neurological conditions. After controlling for severity, EVT in patients with CVT was associated with significant risks, including higher rates of complications and inpatient mortality. Although EVT is associated with significant risks, the findings of this study suggest that its outcomes may reflect the severity of the underlying condition rather than the procedure itself. Careful patient selection and individualized management strategies are essential for optimizing outcomes in this high-risk population.

Managing the Acute Cardiac Functional Crisis: A Comprehensive Review of Cardiogenic Shock Management Strategies

Abstract Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life-threatening condition defined by the heart's inability to adequately pump blood to meet metabolic demands, leading to systemic hypoperfusion and insufficient tissue oxygenation. Despite treatment advancements, CS continues to carry high morbidity and mortality rates, especially when it follows acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Various expert groups and scientific societies have proposed recommendations and management pathways, each contributing unique insights yet sometimes overlooking important clinical considerations. This mini-review provides an updated, integrated overview of distinct CS scenarios, including ischemic, non-ischemic, and post-cardiotomy categories, and their respective treatment strategies. Additionally, this review explores management approaches that underscore the importance of early detection of inflammatory markers in non-ischemic CS and targeted therapeutic interventions for each CS subtype. Specifically, the role of pharmacological treatments is examined alongside the relevance and timing of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices. A deeper understanding of the pathophysiology and tailored management pathways for each CS type may enable clinicians to improve interventions and enhance survival and recovery in patients with CS.

Analysis of the Influence of Instagram Social Media on Brand Loyalty Through Brand Trust and Brand Equity on Bilka Supermarket Product Salesin Surabaya

This research aims to analyze the impact of Instagram on sales through brand loyalty, trust, and equity and examine the management strategies Bilka uses to maintain product purchases via social media. A quantitative approach with questionnaires was used involving active Instagram users. Descriptive statistical analysis and SEMPLS were applied. The results show a diverse consumer age range, with most respondents aged 18-35. Instagram significantly influences brand loyalty, trust, and equity, positively impacting sales. The management strategies include continuous promotions, active consumer interaction, and attractive offers. In conclusion, Instagram effectively strengthens consumer relationships and boosts sales with the right strategy. Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):SDG 3: Decent Work and Economic GrowthSDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and InfrastructureSDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Waterfront property owners' shoreline preferences amid salt marsh to mangrove transitions

Abstract We examined the influence of mangrove encroachment into salt marsh areas along the northern Gulf of Mexico (USA) on waterfront property owners' perceptions of coastal health and preferences for shoreline management. Using mail‐in and online surveys, we targeted over 3000 waterfront property owners across four jurisdictions experiencing or anticipating mangrove encroachment. Our findings revealed a nuanced perception of coastal health, with many respondents recognizing the potentially environmental impacts of mangrove encroachment but favouring low‐cost management strategies, such as maintaining current shoreline or passive monitoring. This reluctance to engage in active management highlights a perception‐behaviour gap, likely influenced by the gradual nature of mangrove transitions, which diminishes urgency for active intervention. Socio‐demographic factors such as age, gender, income, residency and reliance on coastal resources significantly shaped preferences for shoreline management and regional responses. These preferences varied across jurisdictions, reflecting the importance of incorporating localized community values into management decisions. Our findings highlight the need for a balanced approach to shoreline management that integrates ecological insights with the socio‐cultural priorities of local communities. By aligning adaptation strategies with regional perceptions and values, it is possible to protect individual properties while enhancing the long‐term resilience of coastal ecosystems under climate change pressures. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

The Present State and Potential Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment.

An aberrant increase in cancer incidences has demanded extreme attention globally despite advancements in diagnostic and management strategies. The high mortality rate is concerning, and tumour heterogeneity at the genetic, phenotypic, and pathological levels exacerbates the problem. In this context, lack of early diagnostic techniques and therapeutic resistance to drugs, sole awareness among the public, coupled with the unavailability of these modern technologies in developing and low-income countries, negatively impact cancer management. One of the prime necessities of the world today is the enhancement of early detection of cancers. Several independent studies have shown that screening individuals for cancer can improve patient survival but are bogged down by risk classification and major problems in patient selection. Artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly advanced the field of oncology, addressing various medical challenges, particularly in cancer management. Leveraging extensive medical datasets and innovative computational technologies, AI, especially through deep learning (DL), has found applications across multiple facets of oncology research. These applications range from early cancer detection, diagnosis, classification, and grading, molecular characterization of tumours, prediction of patient outcomes and treatment responses, personalized treatment, and novel anti-cancer drug discovery. Over the past decade, AI/ML has emerged as a valuable tool in cancer prognosis, risk assessment, and treatment selection for cancer patients. Several patents have been and are being filed and granted. Some of those inventions were explored and are being explored in clinical settings as well. In this review, we will discuss the current status, recent advancements, clinical trials, challenges, and opportunities associated with AI/ML applications in cancer detection and management. We are optimistic about the potential of AI/ML in improving outcomes for cancer and the need for further research and development in this field.

New record of Orientus ishidae (Matsumura, 1902) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in Bulgaria with notes on the distribution of Acanalonia conica (Say, 1830) (Hemiptera: Acanaloniidae)

Orientus ishidae (Matsumura, 1902), a leafhopper species native to East Asia, has been increasingly reported in Europe due to its potential role as a vector of phytoplasmas affecting agricultural crops. In this study, we present the first confirmed record of O. ishidae in Bulgaria, collected from Varna town during field surveys in 2024. The occurrence of O. ishidae in Bulgaria raises concerns about its potential impact on the country’s agriculture, particularly grapevines and fruit crops, which are vulnerable to the phytoplasma diseases vectored by this species. A new distribution records of Acanalonia conica (Say, 1830), previously known only from the most southeastern parts of the country, is indicating that the species established in the north-east and west parts. These records expand the known distribution of both species, O. ishidae and A. conica in Europe, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and management strategies.

Can gurus wear blue collars? Samuel Gompers’ voluntarism as a management strategy

Can gurus wear blue collars? Samuel Gompers’ voluntarism as a management strategy

Intrinsic Mechanisms of Differences in Wetting-Induced Deformation of Soils on Chinese Loess Plateau: Insights into Land Stability and Sustainable Management

Wetting-induced soil deformation significantly impacts land stability and management on the Chinese Loess Plateau. This study analyzed silt soils from the Late Pleistocene (1 m depth) and Middle Pleistocene (25 m depth) to investigate compression and collapsible deformation during wetting. The compression in both soils progressed through three stages: slow deformation under low pressure, accelerated deformation under moderate pressure, and decelerated deformation under high pressure. Wetting intensified the compression in the 1 m sample but reduced it in the 25 m sample, with the deformation becoming more sensitive to the initial water content under higher pressures. Collapse tests showed contrasting behaviors: the 1 m sample exhibited collapsibility, while the 25 m sample displayed expansiveness (a negative collapsibility coefficient). Microstructural analysis revealed that the 1 m sample with abundant macropores and overhead structures had a lower structural stability than the 25 sample with more stable, rounded micropores. The wetting-induced deformation was governed by the balance between clay mineral expansion and structural collapse, with collapsibility prevailing when collapse dominated and expansiveness prevailing when expansion was predominant. These findings provide valuable insights into soil–water interactions and support improved land use and management strategies in the loess region.