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Monitoring the current status of insecticide resistance of field and greenhouse-collected populations of tomato leaf miner Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in Egypt
Full text linkIn order to track changes in developments and the degree of insecticide resistance, some common insecticides used to control T. absoluta in Egyptian fields were examined for seasonal variations in resistance. Tests were designed and tested for a few years at various field sample and greenhouse locations. Ten pesticides were selected for testing, and insects were sampled from eight agricultural fields for the laboratory bioassay. The identification and measurement of resistance in various field populations, seasons, and greenhouses revealed that insects were highly vulnerable to the IGR insecticide tested and only mildly susceptible to OP, Py, carbamate, and nicotinoids. Kalubia and Menufia showed more resistance in terms of both distribution and intensity than Dakahlia, Sharkia, and Giza, which showed lower resistance levels, possibly due to less effective insecticide applications. However, lufenuron was the most effective insecticide, followed by chlorfenapyr (IGRs), methoxyfenzoid, chlorfluazuron, indoxacarb, imidacloprid, cypermethrin, and chlorpyrifos. Dimethoate and spinoteram were the least effective insecticides
Advancing project management excellence: A comprehensive framework integrating Value Engineering, Lean Six Sigma, and proven best practices
No full textIn today’s fast-paced and competitive project environment, achieving excellence in project management is vital for delivering sustained value and securing long-term strategic advantage. This study investigates the integration of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and Value Engineering (VE) within project management practices. LSS applies data-driven methods to eliminate waste, reduce variability, and optimize efficiency, while VE uses functional analysis to identify cost-effective alternatives that enhance value without compromising quality. By combining these complementary methodologies, the study proposes a unified framework grounded in the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) cycle to drive continuous improvement, reduce variability, and sustain superior performance throughout the project lifecycle. The framework defines clear guiding principles, establishes measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) aligned with strategic goals, and emphasizes proactive management of critical failure factors to ensure resilient and effective project delivery. Beyond operational gains, this approach cultivates a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and data-driven decision-making, empowering organizations to anticipate risks and maintain competitive leadership. While currently conceptual, future research will validate and refine the framework through case studies, pilot projects, and simulations to comprehensively evaluate its effectiveness, scalability, and practical application
Bridging deep segmentation and metaverse visualization: Cellpose-based 3D brain tumor reconstruction from MRI
No full textAccurate and efficient brain tumor segmentation is critical for diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome monitoring in neuro-oncology. This study presents an integrated framework that combines deep learning-based tumor segmentation with 3D spatial reconstruction and metaverse-aligned visualization. The Cellpose segmentation model, known for its shape-aware adaptability, was applied to grayscale T1-weighted MRI slices to generate binary tumor masks. These 2D masks were reconstructed into 3D surface meshes using the marching cubes algorithm, enabling the computation of clinically relevant spatial parameters including centroid, surface area, bounding box dimensions, and mesh extents. The resulting tumor models were embedded into a global coordinate system and visualized across orthogonal planes, simulating extended reality (XR) environments for immersive anatomical exploration. Quantitative evaluation using DICE, Intersection over Union (IoU), and Positive Predictive Value (PPV) validated the segmentation accuracy, with DICE scores exceeding 0.85 in selected cases. The reconstructed tumors exhibited surface areas ranging from ~45,000 to ~74,000 voxel² units and extended across more than 200 units along the Y and Z axes. Although volumetric values were not computed due to open mesh geometry, the spatial profiles provided a reliable foundation for integration into metaverse platforms. This pipeline offers a lightweight and scalable approach for bridging conventional 2D tumor imaging with immersive 3D applications, paving the way for advanced diagnostic, educational, and surgical planning tools
The first Metaverse Scientist Forum was successfully convened virtually
No full textThe first Metaverse Scientist Forum was successfully convened virtually on March 7, 2025, from 14:30 to 16:00. This pioneering session featured distinguished presentations by Prof. Adrian David Cheok from Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology and Dr. Shashi Kant Gupta of Eudoxia Research University. Academic leadership was provided by Prof. Pan Zhigeng, Dean of the Artificial Intelligence School at Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, who chaired the forum, while Dr. Wang Wenxiao, a doctoral supervisor from Macau University of Science and Technology, as invited moderator
Pathological Evaluation of Subchronic Administration of Moringa Oleifera Ethanolic Leaf Extract on Mice
No full textObjectives: This research evaluated the consequences of repeated administration of M. oleifera ethanolic leaf extract (MOEL) orally on kidneys, liver and the blood of female Institute of Cancer Research (ICR)-mice. Methods: Fifty (50) 8-week-old female mice were assigned into 5 groups of 10 mice each: groups 1 (control), 2 (125 mg/kg), 3 (250 mg/kg), 4 (500 mg/kg) and 5 (1000 mg/kg) for the sub-chronic toxicity studies of the extract. A 90-day repeated daily oral doses of MOEL extracts were administered to each mouse in the treatment groups through oral gavage. However, distilled water was administered to the control group (group 1). The mice were euthenised at the end of the experiments to collect and analysed samples. Results: An obvious (p < 0.05) elevation in the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was observed in group 5 (437.50 ± 28.63 U/L) compared to 1 (239.10 ± 22.50 U/L), and then a significant (p < 0.05) elevation in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentration in group 5 (355.90 ± 26.45 U/L) compared to 1 (207.90 ± 19.67 U/L). Histopathological evaluation of the liver revealed a moderate liver degeneration indicated by moderate vacuolation of the cytoplasm in group 5 (1.70 ± 0.24) compared to 1 (0.35 ± 0.18), as well as mild hepatic necrosis characterised by mild eosinophilic cytoplasm (1.10 ± 0.3) of the hepatocytes in group 5 compared to 1 (0.00 ± 0.00). There was also a moderate renal cytoplasmic vacuolation in group 5 (2.20 ± 0.08) compared to 1 (0.00 ± 0.00). Moreover, a moderate to severe kidney necrosis indicated by significant (p < 0.05) eosinophilic cytoplasm was observed in groups 4 (1.95 ± 0.09) and 5 (2.45 ± 0.05) compared 1 (0.00 ± 0.00), pyknosis (0.90 ± 0.27) and karyolysis (0.60 ± 0.26) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in groups 4 (1.15 ± 0.34) and 5 (1.75 ± 0.24) compared to 1 (0.00 ± 0.00). Conclusions: It is concluded from this study that MOEL extract at high dose of 1000 mg/kg is associated with hepatic and renal toxicity in ICR-mice
Bubbles help in troubles: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) as a predictor of recurrence for TIA/stroke in low-grade internal carotid artery stenosis
Full text linkIntroduction: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) allows the visualization of atherosclerotic plaque neovessels, which are the hallmark of carotid plaque instability. Aim: The purpose of our prospective study was to check the correlation between carotid CEUS analysis and the recurrence of TIA/stroke in patients with a previous recent TIA/stroke and neurological impairment congruent with vascular stenosis. Materials and methods: From November 2021 to May 2023, 62 consecutive patients (mean age 73.8 ± 12.2, 51 female) with a TIA/stroke in the previous 30 days underwent carotid ultrasound and carotid CEUS in an outpatient setting after 10 days from the acute event. The inclusion criteria were one atherosclerotic plaque inside the internal carotid artery, congruent with symptoms, which was causing a stenosis of less than 50% (low-grade stenosis). The carotid plaque neovascularization scoring method was score 0: no visible microbubbles within the plaque (A); score 1: minimal microbubbles confined to periadventitial (B); and score 2: microbubbles present throughout the plaque core (C). During the 6-month, 12-month, and 18-month follow-ups, we checked TIA/stroke recurrences. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: In our series, 22% of patients have a CEUS score of 0, 35% have a CEUS score of 1, and 43% have a CEUS score of 2. At six-month follow-up, we found 21% TIA/stroke recurrences in CEUS score 2, despite the ongoing best medical therapy as per guidelines. At 12-month follow-up, we did not find any recurrence of cerebrovascular events. In Cox regression analysis, CEUS-detected neovascularization was independently associated with TIA/stroke recurrence (hazard ratio, 5.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.36–2.31). Conclusions: Plaque neovascularization, detected by CEUS, is an independent predictor of TIA/stroke recurrence at six-month follow-up in patients with carotid atherosclerosis despite low-grade stenosis. This diagnostic method can guide the best surgical vs. medical choice in the treatment of low-grade carotid stenosis, which is determined by soft atherosclerotic plaque
Harnessing and marketing of Lejja archaeological site for tourism development in Nigeria
Full text linkThe Lejja Archaeological Site showcases Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, highlighting its historical significance through its unique features. Despite its cultural asset, the site remains unexamined in the context of tourism. The neglect is primarily due to issues like inadequate infrastructure, poor accessibility, low digital visibility, and lack of coordinated stakeholder engagement in its development and promotion. The study explores the harnessing and marketing of Lejja Archaeological Site for sustainable tourism destination in Nigeria. The study adopt qualitative research design and data sourcing, which includes in-depth interviews, semi structured interviews, and site observations for data collection. Six people were interviewed in the course of the study. The data was analysed using descriptive approach. However, the findings identify the site’s features with tourist potentials and strategies on how to harness them. Additionally, the marketing strategies tailored to target audiences, including branding, digital marketing, and cultural events were analyzed. This article provides insights into sustainable tourism development that motivates policymakers and stakeholders to support the sustainable development of Lejja Archaeological Site. Ultimately, by harnessing and effectively marketing this cultural gem, Nigeria can unlock economic opportunities, preserve its heritage, and enrich the tourism landscape. Future study recommended to investigate community-based tourism and indigenous knowledge, plan for upgrading tourism infrastructure, digital and virtual heritage tourism, and comparative heritage site analysis
Smallholder farmers in dryland agroecosystems: Understanding vulnerability to climate change and developing effective coping strategies in South Western Zimbabwe
Full text linkThis study aimed to determine the perceived effects of climate change on the livelihoods of farming communities in the semi-arid regions of southwestern Zimbabwe. A qualitative approach was used to investigate smallholder farmers’ views and experiences regarding climate change and its impacts in two wards in the Tsholotsho district, Matabeleland North province, Zimbabwe. The primary data collection methods were key informant interviews and focus-group discussions. Participants were selected using purposive sampling from established farmer groups in the study area. Most focus group discussion participants agreed that they were aware of and experienced climate-related risks in their community. They observed climate variability, particularly in the occurrence of extreme events, such as drought and insufficient rainfall, including mid-season dry spells. The 2023/2024 season was marked by very low rainfall, mid-season dry spells, and challenges to crop sustainability. Smallholder farmers in the study area indicated that they were experiencing crop failure, livestock mortality, and reduced crop yields, all of which contribute to declining agricultural productivity. In response to drought, smallholder farmers primarily employed coping strategies, such as land management through Pfumvudza, a conservation land management coping strategy; crop diversification; the use of drought-tolerant crops that are early maturing; and seeking alternative non-farming income sources
Beyond scarcity theater: Designing innovation systems around authentic constraints
Full text linkMany organizations try to spark innovation by imposing artificial constraints like tight deadlines or hackathons, hoping to replicate the ingenuity born of necessity. Yet research shows these often fall short. This article contrasts “authentic scarcity”, conditions of irreversible consequences and existential urgency, with artificially imposed constraints. Only the former reliably activates the psychological, cultural, and systemic drivers of transformative innovation. Through case studies of Mumbai’s Dharavi slum and Silicon Valley’s frugal innovation labs, we show how real constraints foster resilience and radical problem-solving, while artificial ones yield superficial creativity. We present a strategic framework for leaders to engineer purpose-driven missions with real stakes, collaborate with necessity-driven ecosystems, and cultivate high-stakes leadership. The paper concludes with a theory of authentic scarcity, explaining how genuine constraints uniquely drive breakthrough innovation by triggering focus, cohesion, and urgency, offering crucial insights for innovation management in resource-rich settings
Assessing the impact of climatic factors on the trade performance of South African maize commodity
No full textThe maize commodity is of strategic significance to the South African economy as it is a stable commodity and therefore a key factor for food security. In recent times climate change has impacted on the productivity of this commodity and this has impacted trade negatively. This paper explores the intricate relationship between climatic factors and trade performance for the South African maize. Secondary annual time series data spanning 2001 to 2023, was sourced from an abstract from Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) and World Bank’s Climate Change Knowledge Portal. Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) cointegration technique was used as an empirical model to assess the long-term and short-term relationships between explanatory variables and the dependent variable. Results of the ARDL model show that, average annual rainfall (β = 2.184, p = 0.056), fertilizer consumption (β = 1.919, p = 0.036), gross value of production (β = 1.279 , p = 0.006) and average annual surface temperature (β = −0.650, p = 0.991) and change in temperature for previous years, (β = −0.650, p = 0.991) and the effects towards coefficient change for export volumes, (β = 0.669, p = 0.0007). In overall, as a recommendation, South African policymakers should consider these findings when developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of some of these climatic factors and implementing adaptive strategies for maize producers