Transition Phase Research Articles

The Lake Paravani archive – a contribution to the late Quaternary landscape evolution of the Lesser Caucasus (Georgia)

Lake Paravani, located on the volcanic Javakheti Plateau in the central part of the Lesser Caucasus at 2073 m a.s.l., forms a unique geo‐bio‐archive for palaeoenvironmental reconstructions in this remote region. Based on sediment cores from the southwestern part of the lake we expand the existing palynological and sedimentological records beyond the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). For the first time, it is possible to reconstruct the palaeoenvironment in this part of the Lesser Caucasus back to c. 28 cal. ka BP. Our study shows that until 16 cal. ka BP glacial conditions dominated (Phase I) in the region; there is, however, proof that the lake already existed during the LGM. In the following transitional Phase II from 16 until 6 cal. ka BP, cold and arid conditions with sparse steppe vegetation and a lowered lake level prevailed. Around 10 cal. ka BP, tree pollen started to expand while herbaceous pollen, especially Chenopodiaceae, declined. In Phase III, since 6 cal. ka BP, mixed forest probably represented the Holocene climatic optimum. Fluctuating lake levels indicate shifting climatic conditions. The minor changes of arboreal pollen hin the uppermost part of Phase II may be an indication of human activity. The more humid, vegetation‐rich environment and mild climate around 4.5–2 cal. ka BP correlate with the expansion of the Late Bronze Age settlements in this area (from ~3.5 cal. ka BP/~1.5 ka BC). The proliferation of sites on the plateau, along with even higher‐altitude sites possibly dating to the same period, may indicate that this climate amelioration played an important role in enabling more sustained human occupation. The results extend the record on Lake Paravani by several millennia beyond the LGM and complement the palaeo‐lake reconstructions of the wider region, e.g. at Lake Van (Türkiye) or Lake Sevan (Armenia).

A broken debris cascade as a possible source of hot dust emission in transitioning planet-forming disks

Context. Planet-forming disks go from gas-rich, massive disks made of dust and gas into planetary systems containing only small amounts dust. This dust is produced by collisions between smaller planetary objects, such as planetesimals, asteroids, and comets. Traditionally, we talk about protoplanetary (age ~1 Myr), transitional (~5-10 Myr), and debris disks (~10-hundreds of Myr) even though the overlap between these phases may be relevant. Aims. We aim to show that in the transition phase of a disk, when the gas surface densities are reduced but not yet negligible, a seemingly small amount of collisional activity may lead to the production of dust on a level that is observationally relevant by creating regions characterised by an optical depth of 1 or above. In particular, we aim to show that the hot dust emission component of transitional disks may in fact be debris dust that has been produced in such collisions. Methods. We developed an analytical model to derive the conditions in which observationally relevant amounts of dust can be produced. We focussed on the effect of the gas surface density during the transition phase of a disk from fully gas-dominated to the gas-poor debris stage. Results. We show that the decrease in the gas surface density has an important effect. It allows for smaller planetesimals to become collisional, initiating a cascade. At the same time, small particles are not destroyed by collisions. This interrupted cascade is critical in terms of preserving the produced dust for significant time intervals, allowing for a seemingly minor amount of planetesimal collisions to be effective in producing detectable amounts of dust. Conclusions. The warm emission of low amounts of dust in many transitional planet-forming disks might be caused entirely by second-generation dust, exposing planetary material at a much earlier time than the age that debris disks have traditionally been characterised by.

Benefits of a Smart Building Design in Public Library Facilities, Lagos State, Nigeria

The study refers to the benefits in the adoption of a smart building design in public library facilities, Lagos State, Nigeria. Public libraries in Lagos serve as vital resources for education, information, and community activities. However, challenges such as outdated infrastructure, limited financial resources and varying levels of technological literacy among the community need to be addressed to ensure successful integration. The study examined the practicality, benefits, challenges, costs associated with integrating smart technologies and infrastructure such as smart lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems, occupancy sensors, energy management systems etc. The research methodology present in this study was sampling technique and sampling procedure, sampling frame, instrument for data collection, and data analysis techniques. The study discussed public library facilities, the criteria for categorization smart buildings, basic smart devices needed in public library buildings, problems and solutions identified with public library buildings in Lagos. The findings of this study indicated that introducing smart building design for a public library facility offers several notable benefits which include significant energy savings, improved indoor environmental quality, enhanced user experience through personalized services, and efficient space utilization. Moreover, smart building features enable real-time monitoring and data analytics for informed decision-making and maintenance. However, the challenges that needs to be addressed during the assessment process include high upfront costs, interoperability and data security concerns, potential disruptions during the transition phase, and the need of training staff to utilize the new technologies effectively. Overall, with careful planning, stakeholder involvement, and appropriate fundings, the library can embrace smart technologies to enhance its operational efficiency, user experience, sustainability, and contribute positively to the surrounding community.

Analysis Of Factors Causing Sexual Deviance (Lesbian) In Adolescents In The Coastal Region Of Southeast Sulawesi

Background: Adolescence is a transitional phase that causes a lot of turmoil both positive and negative. One of the developmental tasks of adolescence is being able to accept and understand their sexual role. Teenagers begin to understand and have sexual attraction to the opposite sex. However, the fact is that there are many deviations in adolescence, one of which is the tendency to like the same sex and not be sexually attracted to the opposite sex. Of course, there are many factors behind this condition. This study aims to analyze the various factors that cause the emergence of sexual deviation (lesbi) in female adolescents. Methods: This study uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. The participants involved in this study were 3 female adolescents with sexual deviation (Lesbian). The data collection techniques used were observation and in-depth interviews. Data analysis used descriptive qualitative and then continued with data triangulation. Results: This research resulted in 4 main factors for the emergence of sexual deviant behavior (Lesbi) including: 1) Environmental factors 2) Psychological factors (trauma); 3) Family factors; 4). Curiosity; Conclusions: sexual deviant behavior (lesbi) appears with a variety of factors and backgrounds. So it is very necessary for special handling and prevention so that this behavior does not spread widely and become a destroyer of future generations.

Expectations for the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: A Research on the Perceptions of Tourism Faculty Students

Rapid transformation and shaping of the education sector by evolving technologies are inevitable. The study aims to explore the transformative potential of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) within higher education, particularly in the tourism sector, and investigate students' perspectives on its usage. Existing research on this topic is limited, prompting a qualitative research approach in this study to obtain more in-depth findings. This involved conducting focus group discussions with nine first-year tourism management students who had attended four training seminars on digital transformation and artificial intelligence applications and possessed basic knowledge of the subject. The outcomes of these discussions, covering students' views on the impact of GenAI on academic performance, critical thinking and research skills, its contribution to post-graduation capabilities, potential misuse scenarios, and likely challenges, were subjected to content analysis. Among the primary research findings was that students are aware of security and ethics issues related to generative AI but are not concerned due to the availability of solutions. They perceive GenAI as an opportunity to enhance their learning experiences, academic performances, and future employability, but emphasize the necessity of using it as an auxiliary tool rather than relying entirely on these applications. Additionally, rather than immediately implementing these applications across all higher education institutions and departments, there is an emphasis on the necessity of transitional phase plans. Consequently, the study aimed to propose recommendations to higher education institutions, educators, and students based on both literature and practical insights to develop a framework aimed at a generative AI-centric approach. Moreover, valuable insights were sought to enhance the educational experience of future tourism professionals.

Parameter optimization and anisotropy mechanism in different build directions of the microstructures and mechanical properties for laser directed energy deposited Ti6Al4V alloy

The effects of laser power, scanning speed, and build directions (BDs) on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of laser directed energy deposited (LDEDed) Ti6Al4V alloy were systematically investigated in this study. All the finished LDED specimens were not heat treated and the tensile properties were not influenced by surface roughness. Particularly, the differences in grain size, grain boundary distribution, geometrically necessary dislocation (GND) density, grain orientation spread (GOS), and Schmid factor (SF) of the specimens in different BDs were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, electron backscattering diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and tensile test. The results showed that the aspect ratio, dilution rate, and deposition angle all tended to increase with increasing laser power and scanning speed. The yield strength and the ultimate tensile strength decreased with the increase of laser power, while the elongation was the opposite. The parent grain reconstruction results indicated that the high-temperature transition phase (β phase) of the 0° LDEDed specimen was equiaxial, whereas that of the 90° LDEDed specimen was columnar. The differences in the β phase of the specimens in different BDs were directly inherited to the corresponding low-temperature sub-phase (α phase), resulting in finer grain sizes, greater GND density, larger GOS, and smaller SF in the 0° LDEDed specimen, thereby contributing to higher strength and hardness. In contrast, these values were reversed for the 90° LDEDed specimen, resulting in better plasticity and toughness. Finally, the anisotropy mechanism of the microstructures and mechanical properties of the LDEDed Ti6Al4V alloy in different BDs were revealed. This work could provide more systematic and comprehensive guidance in parameter optimization and offer valuable insights into the anisotropy mechanism of the microstructures and mechanical properties of LDEDed Ti6Al4V alloy.

Investigation and Research on the Statues of Northern Zhou Grottoes in the Longdong Area

The Longdong region, as a pivotal birthplace of Chinese cave art, holds a distinctive geographical position. Its collection of cave temples from the Northern Dynasties period is notably well-preserved, bearing significant academic value. Moreover, the cave temples from the late Northern Dynasties period constitute a crucial component of research on Chinese cave temples, marking the transitional phase between the Northern Wei and Tang dynasties, which represent two pinnacle epochs in the domain of Chinese cave art. The text primarily delves into the evolution of the Northern and Southern cave temples during the Northern Zhou Dynasty, exploring their impact on the regional Buddhist culture. Additionally, it thoroughly analyzes the influence of external cultures on the cave sculptures in the Longdong region during the Northern Zhou period, as well as their integration with local and ethnic minority cultures. The research reveals that the cave art in the Longdong region not only imitates the cave art of the Central Plains and the Western Regions but also embodies the unique regional cultural characteristics and spirit of innovation. Through a comprehensive examination of cave sculpture styles, clothing features, and other aspects, this study holds significant implications for understanding the developmental trajectory of Buddhist art in the Longdong region during the Northern Zhou period and regional cultural exchanges.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE OPTIMUM TECHNOLOGY FOR THE TRANSPORTATION OF GRAIN LOADS TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE EXISTING TRENDS OF THE INDUSTRY

An algorithm and management procedure for the distribution of grain cargoes at port stations have been developed. A list of necessary conditions has been created under which the introduction of graded routes eliminates the problem of direct distribution of cargo by unloading points in the port infrastructure. The proposed technology for the distribution of bulk cargo allows to attract a larger number of participants in the transportation process and create conditions for the attraction of other accompanying cargo.The above problems of railway transport, a significant reduction in the volume of transportation against the background of the existence of a fairly wide network of railways form a trend for route shipments, the vast majority of which, in turn, go to the port.The introduction of staged loads as a compromise in the conditions of the trends acquired by the industry requires the creation of the necessary conditions along the entire route of the cargo.Market conditions as the main driver of the transportation process require a proactive response to variability. It is this approach with the use of transitional phases in the view of port stations that gives the technology such qualities that it becomes especially relevant when the operator of port stations becomes effective.Areas of concentration of freight work, potential infrastructure facilities and port stations, where the formation of groups of wagons for unloading at the ports will take place, were determined by systematizing the collected information and identifying patterns that can be introduced taking into account the existing system of restrictions.Looking directly at the composition of the transport sector for the above-mentioned period, it turns out that the share of cargo processed in Ukrainian ports is 159 million tons. For comparison, in the same period, rail transport was 314.3 million tons, road 222.6 million tons. The above problems of railway transport, a significant reduction in the volume of transportation against the background of the existence of a fairly wide network of railways form a trend for route shipments, the vast majority of which, in turn, go to the port. Analyzing the above in the existing conditions, it is the ports that should set the vector for both the formation of sending and step routes based on the principles of resource conservation.

KONSEP LIMINALITAS DALAM RITUAL ANDHERENAT

Liminality is a concept referring to the transitional phase in which individuals or groups experience a suspension of hierarchy and social structure, fostering a sense of togetherness, collective solidarity, and equality. The andherenat ritual on Gili Iyang Island, Sumenep Regency, is a tradition of the migrant Buton-Binongko community aimed at invoking rain and maintaining soil fertility. This study explores and analyzes liminality in the andherenat ritual and its sociocultural implications for the assimilative community. A qualitative method and case study strategy were used, focusing on the cultural activities of the andherenat ritual. The research findings reveal that the andherenat ritual involves three phases of liminality: separation, liminality, and incorporation. The separation phase is marked by the performance of tawassul, yasin, tahlil, and praise, separating participants from everyday life. The liminality phase is a transitional period where participants undergo spiritual transformation through activities such as the topak lober procession and circling the island. The incorporation phase reintegrates participants into society with renewed identities, highlighted by a communal feast.

Extending the Physical Functionality of Bioactive Blends of Astrocaryum Pulp and Kernel Oils from Guyana

Natural lipids with nutritional or therapeutic benefits that also provide desired texture, melting and organoleptic appeal (mouthfeel, skin feel) are difficult to procure for the food and cosmetics industries. Natural Astrocaryum pulp oil (AVP) and kernel fat (AVK) from Guyana were blended without further modification to study the potential of extending the physical functionality of the blends beyond that of crude AVK and AVP. An evaluation of non-lipid components by ESI-MS indicated twenty-four (24) bioactive molecules, mainly carotenoids (90%), polyphenols (9%) and sterols (1%) in AVP, indicating important health and therapeutic benefits. Only trace-to-negligible amounts of these compounds were detected in AVK. The thermal transition phase behavior, solid fat content (SFC), microstructure and textural properties of five AVP/AVL blends were used to construct phase diagrams of the AVK/AVP binary system. Binary phase diagrams constructed from the cooling and heating DSC thermograms of the mixtures and description of the liquidus line indicated a mixing behavior close to ideal with a tendency for order, with no phase separation. Melting onsets, solid fat content and measurements of solid-like texture all predictively increased with increasing AVK content. The descriptive decay parameters obtained for SFC, crystal size, hardness, firmness and spreadability were similar and predictive and indicate the way the binary system structure approaches that of a liquid or a functional solid. The bioactive content of the blends was accurately calculated; the work provides a blueprint for the blending of AVP and AVK to deliver targeted bioactive content, stability, spreadability, texture, melting profile, organoleptic appeal and solid content. SFCs at 20 °C ranged from 9.1% to 39.1%, melting onset from −17.5 °C to 27.8 °C, hardness from 0.1 N to 3.5 N and spreadability from 3.3 N·s to 147.1 N·s; indicating a useful dynamic range of physical properties suitable for bioactive oils to bioactive butters.

Human Activities Have Altered Sediment Transport in the Yihe River, the Longest River Originating from Shandong Province, China

Climate change and human activities affect regional sediment transport and ecological environment construction. Investigating sediment transport and its influencing factors in the Yihe River Basin (YHRB) will provide guidance for regional soil and water conservation and sustainable development. We analyzed the chronological changes, cycles, spatial distribution and influencing factors using Mann–Kendall (M-K) trend analysis, wavelet analysis, and the Pettitt mutation point (PMP) test, then quantified the role of precipitation and human activities in sediment transport changes. The results showed that annual precipitation decreased marginally, whereas sediment load has noticeably declined. Four precipitation cycles were observed: 4–8a, 9–14a, 16–19a, and 20–28a, where 9–14a was dominant; sediment transport cycles were tracked: 3–5a, 9–15a, and 30a, where 30a was dominant with a decreasing trend. The sediment load was higher in the central, northern, and southwestern sub-basins of the YHRB, while it was lower in the southeast. The contribution of human activities and precipitation changes to sediment transport was 73.14% and 26.86% in transitional phase I (1965–1980) and 71.97% and 28.03% in transitional phase II (1981–2020), respectively. Hydraulic engineering construction, water resource development, land-use changes, and soil and water conservation measures intercepted precipitation and sediment, making them the primary factor affecting sediment transport changes in the YHRB.

Accuracy of Glucagon Testing Across Transition in Young Adults with Childhood-Onset Growth Hormone Deficiency.

The 2019 AACE guidelines suggested peak GH-cutoffs to glucagon test (GST) of ≤3 µg/L and ≤1 µg/L in the diagnosis of permanent GH deficiency (GHD) during the transition phase. Aim of the study was to evaluate the accuracy of GST compared to insulin tolerance test (ITT) in the definition of GHD at adult height achievement. Ninety-seven subjects with childhood-onset GHD (median age, 17.39 years) underwent ITT, GST and IGF-1 testing; 44 subjects were idiopathic (isolated GHD), 35 moderate organic GHD (0-2 hormone deficiencies-HDs) and 18 severe organic GHD (≥3 HDs). Bland and Altman analysis showed a high consistency of GH peak measures after ITT and GST. Receiver operating characteristic analysis-ROC- identified 7.3 μg/L as the optimal GH peak cutoff to GST (95% CI 4.15-8.91; sensitivity 95.7%, specificity 88.2%, positive predictive value-PPV-88.0%, negative predictive value-NPV-95.7%), able to correctly classify 91.8% of the entire cohort while 5.8 μg/L was the best GH peak cutoff able to correctly classify 91.4% of moderate organic GHD patients (95% CI 3.16-7.39; sensitivity 96.0%, specificity 80.0%, PPV 92.3%, NPV 88.9%). Patients with ≥3HDs showed a GH peak <5μg/L at ITT and <5.8μg/L at GST but one. The optimal cutoff for IGF1 was -1.4 SDS (95% CI -1.94-0.77; sensitivity 75%, specificity 94%, PPV 91.7%, NPV 81.0%) that correctly classified 85.1% of the study population. A GH peak to GST <5.8 μg/L represents an accurate diagnostic cutoff for young adults with childhood-onset GHD and high pre-test probability of permanent GHD.

Hyper-resolution flood hazard mapping at the national scale

Abstract. Flood hazard mapping is currently in a transitional phase involving the use of data and methods that were traditionally in the domain of local studies in a regional or nationwide context. Challenges include the representation of local information such as hydrological particularities and small hydraulic structures, as well as computational and labour costs. This paper proposes a methodology of flood hazard mapping that merges the best of the two worlds (local and regional studies) based on experiences in Austria. The analysis steps include (a) quality control and correction of river network and catchment boundary data; (b) estimation of flood discharge peaks and volumes on the entire river network; (c) creation of a digital elevation model (DEM) that is consistent with all relevant flood information, including riverbed geometry; and (d) simulation of inundation patterns and velocities associated with a consistent flood return period across the entire river network. In each step, automatic methods are combined with manual interventions in order to maximise the efficiency and at the same time ensure estimation accuracy similar to that of local studies. The accuracy of the estimates is evaluated in each step. The study uses flood discharge records from 781 stations to estimate flood hazard patterns of a given return period at a resolution of 2 m over a total stream length of 38 000 km. It is argued that a combined local–regional methodology will advance flood mapping, making it even more useful in nationwide or global contexts.

Changes in Plasma Free Amino Acid Profile in Endurance Athletes over a 9-Month Training Cycle.

We aimed to evaluate long-term changes in proteinogenic and non-proteinogenic plasma free amino acids (PFAA). Eleven male endurance triathletes participated in a 9-month study. Blood was collected at rest, immediately after exhaustive exercise, and during 30-min recovery, in four consecutive training phases: transition, general, specific, and competition. Twenty proteinogenic and 22 non-proteinogenic PFAAs were assayed using the LC-ESI-MS/MS technique. The structured training modified the patterns of exercise-induced PFAA response, with the competition phase being the most distinct from the others. Branched-chain amino acids (p = 0.002; η2 = 0.216), phenylalanine (p = 0.015; η2 = 0.153), methionine (p = 0.002; η2 = 0.206), and lysine (p = 0.006; η2 = 0.196) declined more rapidly between rest and exhaustion in the competition phase. Glutamine (p = 0.008; η2 = 0.255), glutamate (p = 0.006; η2 = 0.265), tyrosine (p = 0.001; η2 = 0.195), cystine (p = 0.042; η2 = 0.183), and serine (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.346) levels were reduced in the competition phase. Arginine (p = 0.046; η2 = 0.138) and aspartate (p = 0.011; η2 = 0.171) levels were highest during exercise in the transition phase. During the competition phase, α-aminoadipic acid (p = 0.023; η2 = 0.145), β-aminoisobutyric acid (p = 0.007; η2 = 0.167), β-alanine (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.473), and sarcosine (p = 0.017; η2 = 0.150) levels increased, whereas phosphoethanolamine (p = 0.037; η2 = 0.189) and taurine (p = 0.008; η2 = 0.251) concentrations decreased. Overtraining indicators were not elevated. The altered PFAA profile suggests adaptations within energy metabolic pathways such as the tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, ammonia neutralization, the purine nucleotide cycle, and buffering of intracellular H+ ions. The changes seem to reflect normal adaptations.

Tailoring phase transformation pathways to enhance magnetic performance in Ga-doped sintered Nd-Fe-B magnets

The RE6Fe13Ga phase (RE, Rare Earth) exhibits tremendous promise for achieving high-performance magnets. However, the challenge of controlling its formation and distribution hinders improvements in coercivity and squareness of Ga-doped magnets. In this study, we present a strategy to regulate the chemical composition of the RE-rich phase (0–9 at.% Cu, without Ga) and subsequently modify the phase transformation pathways of the RE6Fe13Ga phase in Ga-doped magnets by incorporating a Pr-rich Ga-Cu-containing aiding alloy. Remarkable magnetic performance was achieved, with values of Br=13.36 kGs, μ0Hcj=20.82 kOe, (BH)max=43.75 MGOe, and μ0Hk90/μ0Hcj=0.99. Through quantitative analysis of chemical and structural properties and phase fractions at grain boundary (GB) triple junctions, we elucidate the phase transformation pathways in the magnets. The reaction between amorphous RE-Ga-rich phases and the matrix phases, along with partial consumption of the RE-rich phases with the Mn2O3-type structure (space group Ia3¯), led to the formation of the RE6Fe13Ga phase, accompanied by the presence of an amorphous Fe-rich transitional phase sharing a similar chemical composition. The gradual and partial involvement of the RE-rich phase improved the melt's wettability and delayed the formation of the RE6Fe13Ga phase. Consequently, a uniform microstructure was achieved, establishing the conditions for high magnetic performance. Thin metallic GBs and thick RE-rich, amorphous Fe-rich, and RE6Fe13Ga GBs were formed in the magnet. The former ensured squareness, while the sufficient coverage of the latter contributed to exceptional coercivity. The Pr-rich aiding alloy induces chemical heterogeneity, reinforcing the magnetic properties. This study advances our understanding of phase transformation pathways in Ga-doped magnets and introduces an effective approach for achieving high-performance magnets.

Insights into plant-based food resource harvesting and processing: A microfossil analysis of stone tools at the Xinzhai Site, China

The Xinzhai site, located in the heartland of China’s Central Plains, served as the capital site of the Xinzhai Period (1850–1750 BCE), representing a transitional phase from the Longshan Culture (ca. 3000–1900 BCE) to the Erlitou Culture (1750–1520 BCE). To investigate the types of plant-based food resources that were harvested and processed, along with the tools and methods that were used, we analyzed plant microfossils (primarily starch and phytoliths) recovered from 29 stone tools that were suspected to be related to the harvesting and processing of plant-based food resources. Research findings suggest that millets (Setaria italica and Panicum miliaceum) were the primary crop harvested and processed by residents of the Xinzhai site, followed by Job’s tears (Coix lacryma-jobi), rice (Oryza sativa), and beans (Fabaceae). Additionally, tubers and nuts served as supplementary food resources, however further investigation is required to understand the utilization of wheat (Triticum aestivum). Stone knives served as the primary harvesting tools, with single-plant earhead cutting being the predominant harvesting method. In contrast, the widespread adoption of batch-harvesting methods using stone sickles was not evident. Stone mortars and grinding rods were the two types of processing tools found at the site. Although relatively few starch grains were found on these tools, phytoliths were abundant. However, grinding rod likely did not play a role in the processing of plant-based foods. Furthermore, stone mortars may have been used in conjunction with wooden pestles instead of stone pestles. Notably, some whetstones, may have functioned as grinding slabs in conjunction with grinding rods.

Agile Establishment of ERP System Roll Out in Maintaining Production Sustainability during the PSC Transition &amp; Liquidation Phase Case Study a Site Acquisition in the Oil &amp; Gas Industry

In the dynamic landscape of the Oil &amp; Gas Industry, Information Technology (IT) emerges not only as an enabler but as the central driving force reshaping business operational paradigms. This paper delves into the transformative power of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, with a spotlight on the agile approach unveils the critical role of the Software as a Service (SaaS) Systems establishment of the Applications, and Products in Data Processing (SAP), in providing a means to mitigate the business process gaps anticipates the indefinite time of Gazettal issuance, streamlining operations, and accelerate business deployment to maintain the oil production sustainability during liquidation and transition phase for a new Production Sharing Contract (PSC) in the case study of a site acquisition in Oil &amp; Gas Industry. The primary data collection is gathered through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with key stakeholders, including the Company’s Management, Subholding Upstream, and Holding’s task force team consisting of SAP Consultants, and Business Process Owners (Subject Matter Experts) who are well-versed in the business requirements and current surrounding issues. Combining the literature review for secondary data collection for broader context and insights into best practices and lessons learned in similar cases. The data analysis focuses on the External Strategic Factors Analysis Summary (EFAS) is conducted using PESTLE, Porter’s Five Forces, and the Competitor Analysis to gain a competitive landscape, while the Internal Strategic Factors Analysis Summary (IFAS) with the VRIO framework, assessing a firm’s internal resources and capabilities to maintain a competitive edge over the long term, summarizes the key external &amp; internal factors for the SWOT analysis resulting the alternative strategies. The ultimate best alternative strategy utilizes the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) method by analyzing attractiveness scores to the factors &amp; enhances the probability of selecting the best strategic options. Through real-world case studies on a site acquisition and Oil &amp; Gas Industry insights, the paper underscores how SAP SaaS Roll-Out with an established Shared Service Centre as a support organization could revolutionize the Oil &amp; Gas sector, paving the way for enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and strategic decision-making would benefit in the Liquidation and Transition phase of a PSC. Ultimately, this research illuminates the indispensable nature of the SAP applications, as the linchpin driving the industry’s progression towards a more agile, competitive, and ready-to-use landscape as it opens further feasibility study of SAP SaaS “packaged-solution” deployment for the benefit of next block acquisition.

Research advances in serum chitinase-3-like protein 1 in liver fibrosis.

While liver fibrosis remains a serious, progressive, chronic liver disease, and factors causing damage persist, liver fibrosis may develop into cirrhosis and liver cancer. However, short-term liver fibrosis is reversible. Therefore, an early diagnosis of liver fibrosis in the reversible transition phase is important for effective treatment of liver diseases. Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1), an inflammatory response factor that participates in various biological processes and is abundant in liver tissue, holds promise as a potential biomarker for liver diseases. Here, we aimed to review research developments regarding serum CHI3L1 in relation to the pathophysiology and diagnosis of liver fibrosis of various etiologies, providing a reference for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of liver diseases.

Enhanced Target Localization in the Internet of Underwater Things through Quantum-Behaved Metaheuristic Optimization with Multi-Strategy Integration

Underwater localization is considered a critical technique in the Internet of Underwater Things (IoUTs). However, acquiring accurate location information is challenging due to the heterogeneous underwater environment and the hostile propagation of acoustic signals, especially when using received signal strength (RSS)-based techniques. Additionally, most current solutions rely on strict mathematical expressions, which limits their effectiveness in certain scenarios. To address these challenges, this study develops a quantum-behaved meta-heuristic algorithm, called quantum enhanced Harris hawks optimization (QEHHO), to solve the localization problem without requiring strict mathematical assumptions. The algorithm builds on the original Harris hawks optimization (HHO) by integrating four strategies into various phases to avoid local minima. The initiation phase incorporates good point set theory and quantum computing to enhance the population quality, while a random nonlinear technique is introduced in the transition phase to expand the exploration region in the early stages. A correction mechanism and exploration enhancement combining the slime mold algorithm (SMA) and quasi-oppositional learning (QOL) are further developed to find an optimal solution. Furthermore, the RSS-based Cramér–Raolower bound (CRLB) is derived to evaluate the effectiveness of QEHHO. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of QEHHO under various conditions compared to other state-of-the-art closed-form-expression- and meta-heuristic-based solutions.

Comparative proteomics of sugarcane smut fungus - Sporisorium scitamineum unravels dynamic proteomic alterations during the dimorphic transition

Life cycle of the dimorphic sugarcane smut fungi, Sporisorium scitamineum, involves recognition and mating of compatible saprophytic yeast-like haploid sporidia (MAT-1 and MAT-2) that upon fusion, develop into infective dikaryotic mycelia. Although the dimorphic transition is intrinsically linked with the pathogenicity and virulence of S. scitamineum, it has never been studied using a proteomic approach. In the present study, an iTRAQ-based comparative proteomic analysis of three distinct stages was carried out. The stages were: the dimorphic transition period - haploid sporidial stage (MAT-1 and MAT-2); the transition phase (24 h post co-culturing (hpc)) and the dikaryotic mycelial stage (48 hpc). Functional categorization of differentially abundant proteins showed that the most altered biological processes were energy production, primary metabolism, especially, carbohydrate, amino acid, fatty acid, followed by translation, post-translation and protein turnover. Several differentially abundant proteins (DAPs), especially in the dikaryotic mycelial stage were predicted as effectors. Taken together, key molecular mechanisms underpinning the dimorphic transition in S. scitamineum at the proteome level were highlighted. The catalogue of stage-specific and dimorphic transition-associated-proteins and potential effectors identified herein represents a list of potential candidates for defective mutant screening to elucidate their functional role in the dimorphic transition and pathogenicity in S. scitamineum. Biological significanceBeing the first comparative proteomics analysis of S. scitamineum, this study comprehensively examined three pivotal life cycle stages of the pathogen: the non-pathogenic haploid phase, the transition phase, and the pathogenic dikaryotic mycelial stage. While previous studies have reported the sugarcane and S. scitamineum interactions, this study endeavored to specifically identify the proteins responsible for pathogenicity. By analyzing the proteomic alterations between the haploid and dikaryotic mycelial phases, the study revealed significant changes in metabolic pathway-associated proteins linked to energy production, notably oxidative phosphorylation, and the citrate cycle. Furthermore, this study successfully identified key metabolic pathways that undergo reprogramming during the transition from the non-pathogenic to the pathogenic stage. The study also deciphered the underlying mechanisms driving the morphological and physiological alterations crucial for the S. scitamineum virulence. By studying its life cycle stages, identifying the key metabolic pathways and stage-specific proteins, it provides unprecedented insights into the pathogenicity and potential avenues for intervention. As proteomics continues to advance, such studies pave the way for a deeper understanding of plant-pathogen interactions and the development of innovative strategies to mitigate the impact of devastating pathogens like S. scitamineum.