bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of Successor Commitment on Corporate Growth Strategy in local family businesses in the manufacturing sector in Nairobi County, Kenya.
Authors:   Multimedia University, Mugo Mary , Njanja Lily ,   St. Paul's University, Minja David ,   Kenyatta University
Published: February 2025

Family commitment is at the heart of the family business. Family members’ involvement and
commitment are critical to the continuity and survival of the family firm. This means that family
members’ integration into the business, the grooming process that takes place to prepare the
offspring for their leadership role in the business, the deeply entrenched community values and
family beliefs which allow the family business to have its unique corporate culture and to
develop its own governance model through its family council, all contribute significantly to the
corporate strategies adopted and hence the continuity and survival of family firms. Successors
are an important stakeholder group in the succession process. In the absence of a successor who
is managerially and physically capable of taking over the ownership, succession within the
family will rarely occur. The successor's willingness to take over depends on three main
variables: - commitment to the family; the maturity of the successor, and finally; the degree of
responsibility of the successor. The higher these three variables are, the higher the successor's
willingness to take over, and consequently the higher the overall satisfaction with the succession
process. .A successor may be willing to take over the family business but not fully committed,
thus jeopardizing the continuity and growth of the family business and all who depend on it.
Key words: Family business, Succession, Successor commitment, corporate growth strategy,
manufacturing, Kenya.
The Coverage of Africa in the Mainstream Western Media – Examining the Times Coverage of the D.R. Congo’s First Free Elections
Authors:   St. Paul's University, Djongana Chongombe
Published: February 2025

This paper seeks to investigate the on-going complaints from both African and western scholars
that Africa is still negatively represented in the western mainstream media more than 50 years
after independence even when hopeful signs and baby steps towards democratisation and
development are obvious in the continent. The study employs both content and discourse analysis
approach. The Times, which used to be one of the leading western newspapers and the British
newspaper of record, was selected. Content and discourse analysis were used to evaluate and
categorise the news items published in the sampled year (January to December 2006), to
distinguish the emerging themes, identify the sources, and to interpret the language used in the
coverage. The findings show that news stories throughout the coverage of the D.R. Congo first
free and fair elections in 2006 were written by western journalists and correspondents from The
Times and associated correspondents, while three other news agencies namely Agence France
Press (AFP), Associated Press (AP) and Reuters were the main sources for The Times
newspaper. Recurring themes such as tribal clashes, civil wars, corruption, child exploitation,
poverty, refugees, witchcraft, dependency, spreading diseases and mismanagement prevail in the
reporting. The findings reveal that the reporting of the Congo in The Times has avowedly been
through western eyes, and, as with much journalism, has not offered any real context to the
stories.
Key Words: Western Media Coverage, The Times Newspaper, African Stereotypes, The
Congo.
Challenges faced by Undergraduate Students in Academic Writing: A Case of Kenyan Students
Authors:   St. Paul's University, Mwangi Susan Wanja
Published: February 2025

There has been a growing concern by lecturers of the declining standards of writing being displayed by university students in the recent past. The principles of good writing are no longer adhered to and issues such as grammar, punctuation, choice of vocabulary and sentence structure, are generally not of the required standards. The ability to achieve communicative competence in writing is an essential element in language development and academic success among students at all levels of the education ladder. However, many students at the university have exhibited challenges in their academic writing skills and this is evident in the assignments and terms papers that they write. In this study, the researcher sought to look for empirical data to ascertain the particular challenges that the students are facing in their essay writing by evaluating the students‟ essays with the aim of identifying the particular types of errors that the students were making. This study attempts to answer two key research questions: First, what linguistic challenges are students facing in their academic writing assignments in English language? Secondly, what are the possible strategies for addressing these challenges? This study is based on a content analysis that was carried out at a Kenyan university to review the Academic Writing essays of 50 first year students. The study used purposive sampling technique to identify the students. The data revealed that students face two main types of challenges in L2 writing. These include content-related and structure-related challenges. The paper concludes with a discussion on suggestions on how to address these challenges and how to help the students to improve on their writing.

Key Words: Academic Writing Challenges, Content Analysis, undergraduate students, Kenyan students
Mainstreaming, Women Roles And Challenges For Church Growth In Africa
Authors:   St. Paul's University, Bwire John
Published: February 2025

This study examines ways that can offer solutions to challenges facing women participation in the growth of the church in Africa. The study has explored dimensions of church growth: numerical, organic, maturational and incarnational. Numerically women seem more than men and yet balance growth is lacking in terms of roles women play in the church. The study discusses some impediments or challenges such as cultural practices and beliefs, poor education, leadership, ecclesiastical positions on women and lack of general empowerment among others. This study analyses challenges facing the role of women highlighting contextual examples in Africa but with references to other continents. The paper offers viable solutions and recommendations which aims at mainstreaming women roles towards attaining balanced church growth through gender inclusivity, proper Biblical interpretation and practice.Hypothetically, holistic church growth is not just about numbers, women roles and challenges needs to be mainstreamed, planned and determination made on how to include all in church activities.

Key words are: Mainstreaming, Women, Ordination, Church Growth, Recasting
Investigation of Market Opportunities for BBA Graduates: A Case Study on Sylhet Metropolitan Area
Authors: Mohammed Safwan Ahmed  , Md Safwan Jumael Khan  , Hameem Ahmed Chowdhury  , Mehraj Ahmed
Published: February 2025

This study report aims to determine the preferences of BBA graduates in various Sylhet work sectors. To determine which company or sector in Sylhet favors recruiting BBA graduates more, the researchers have developed this quantitative study. To do that, the researchers first limit the scope of their study by focusing on specific industries that are active in Sylhet: The Banking sector, the Insurance sector, the Hospital sector, the Hotel sector, the Software and Technology sector, and the Student Consultancy and International Agencies sectors of Sylhet. To gather data for this work, the researchers surveyed various institutions within a certain sector using an 8-question, closed ended questionnaire. The institutions have been surveyed online and in person to get important data. The Likert scale average approach has been used to examine the survey findings. High preference is indicated by a higher proportion of average scores on the scale, while low preference is shown by a smaller number of average scores. According to the paper's analysis of survey results, the banking sector highly prefers BBA graduates over all others. Hospitals, Hotels, Student Consultancies and Foreign Agencies may be the next best places to work in Sylhet after that. They also prefer BBA graduates though not as much as Banks. Thus, the paper concludes by highlighting the real scenario of the job market in Sylhet for BBA graduates, and even though some sectors have a high preference for BBA graduates, this does not mean every BBA graduate is called and offered a job by the preferred sectors, therefore the paper provided some recommendations for BBA graduates and ongoing BBA students to follow to get themselves equipped with skills required for a Job. This initial effort to identify the preference of BBA graduates in Sylhet may develop some information on the untouched field of study and further research on this field is necessary due to the rising number of BBA graduates entering the job market. The fact that this study supports both theoretical and practical fields make it significant. This knowledge gap is filled by the research, which offers comprehensive data on the preferences and career prospects of BBA graduates, which is currently lacking in this field.
Nadal Critical and Ride Index Characteristics of Inspection Train Using Universal Mechanism Software on Different Back to Back
Authors: Utomo Ilham Satrio , Atmaja Dadang Sanjaya , Febrilian Benecdiktus Ergo
Published: February 2025

This research conducted dynamic simulations using the Universal Mechanism software with variations between back to back widths of 1000 mm and 990 mm, focusing on the relationship between train operating speed, vibration levels, and passenger comfort index during operation on a small curve on the PPI Madiun track with a radius of R42. The issue investigated in this study stems from PM No. 17 of 2011, which sets the standard back-to-back usage at 1000 mm. It is crucial to understand the characteristics of each back to back setting, as the operational track gauge used is 1067 mm. The simulation results indicate that the nadal criterion and ride index are more favorable with the 990 mm back to back setting. At a speed of 25 km/h, the nadal criterion for the 990 mm setting was 0.636, compared to 0.670 for the 1000 mm setting, and the ride index for the 990 mm setting at this speed was 1.315449, compared to 1.288552 for the 1000 mm setting. These results are considered valid as the error value in the data validation calculations was less than 10%, specifically 8.26%.
(wl-2310)-Inclusive Blended Learning Practices: Need for More Thoughtful Practices
Authors: Mandal Sayantan , Sareen Sheriya
Published: February 2025

The EPW commentary by Varughese and Luke, published on 20 January 2024, titled, ‘Blended Learning in Indian Higher Education: Are we prepared to set the ball rolling?’ has raised some timely questions and ends with a sense of scepticism. We would like to add to the discussion using the evidence from our large-scale, longitudinal, and empirical study focusing on integrating higher education teaching-learning with digital technologies – or blended learning in northern India. Connecting the dots, we found that Blended learning, although emerged as a policy term in post-pandemic India, its potential on the ground, especially in the remote, rural, geographically challenging and socio-economically marginal regions, does not seem to be harnessed effectively. The rolling out of blended learning faces numerous bottlenecks because of unique geo-political as well as socio-economic contexts. Taking the discussion forward, we have suggested six empirically backed principles for a more equitable future of blended higher education, which are applicable beyond the higher educational contexts of northern India. However, the question of their implementation remains wrapped in doubt, considering the ground realities.
BR 26/2024 - wl-1724- India–China:Misperceptions and Realities
Authors: Godbole Avinash
Published: February 2025

Ramachandaran, Shastri (2024); Beyond Binaries: The World of India and China (2008- 2022), New Delhi: Institute of Objective Studies; pp viii + 277, ₹ 450/ US $ 20.
Progress in resonant X-ray scattering studies of charge order in cuprate superconductors
Authors: CHAN Ying  , YAN Yujie  , WU Yuetong  , WANG Qisi  ,   Department of Physics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
Published: February 2025

Unconventional superconductivity often emerges in proximity to various competing or coexisting states. In cuprate superconductors, these states include spin order, charge order, the pseudogap state, and the strange metal phase. A comprehensive understanding of their relationship is fundamental to establishing the mechanism of high-temperature superconductivity. While spin dynamics in cuprates has been extensively investigated using inelastic neutron scattering, charge correlations remain much less understood. The recent advancement of resonant X-ray scattering (RXS) has enabled the detection of charge correlations with unprecedented sensitivity. A series of RXS studies have revealed the universal existence of charge correlations in cuprate materials, which extend across a wide range of the phase diagram. Resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) experiments further unveiled the dynamical behaviors of charge order. These findings highlight the important influence of charge correlations on the properties of cuprates. In this article, we review the latest progress in the study of charge order in cuprates using RXS, with a particular emphasis on RIXS experiments. Our focus includes recent works on dynamical charge correlations at high temperature, and uniaxial strain tuning of charge order. We discuss topics including the underlying interactions, microscopic structure and symmetry, and possible influence of charge order on both the superconducting and normal states.
Outliers Identification of the Experimental (γ, n) Reaction Cross Section via Variational Autoencoder
Authors: XIE Jinchen  , TAO Xi  , XU Ruirui  , TIAN Yuan  , XING Kang  , GE Zhigang  , NIU Yifei  ,   1 China Institute of Atomic Energy, China Nuclear Data Center, Beijing;,   2 Lanzhou University, School of Nuclear Science and Technology, Lanzhou;,   3 Lanzhou University, Frontiers Science Center for Rare Isotopes, Lanzhou
Published: February 2025

The (γ, n) cross-section is important in nuclear engineering transport calculations. The measurements of the (γ, n) reaction for some isotopes show significant discrepancies from different laboratories. Since experimental data analysis is the first tasks in nuclear data evaluation, identifying outlier data in measurements is crucial for improving the quality of nuclear data. Therefore, this work employs Variational AutoEncoder (VAE) approach to analyze experimental measurements of (γ, n) cross sections for nuclear mass from 29 to 207, aiming to provide more reliable experimental information for nuclear data evaluation.
Based on the proton Z and nuclear mass A, we constructed a Variational AutoEncoder network designed for outliers identification in measurement of (γ, n). The silhouette coeffcient method and K-Means algorithm were used to perform clustering the latent variables of VAE. Subsequently, the experimental data with and without the outliers were compared with the IAEA-2019-PD to assess VAE in application of photoneutron measurements evaluation.
The results demonstrate that VAE can effectively identify outliers in the measurements of (γ, n). After excluding outliers, the (γ, n) cross-section for 54Fe, 63Cu, 181Ta, 206Pb and 207Pb showed higher consistency with the IAEA-2019-PD evaluation results. However, 29Si and 141Pr deviated from the IAEA- 2019-PD evaluation results yet, which requires more analysis to the measurements itself in future.
The Variational AutoEncoder method effectively identifies outliers and mines the latent structures in experimental data of (γ, n) reaction. It provides more reliable experimental information for nuclear data evaluation and validating the potential application of this method in nuclear data research. However, generalization capability of Variational AutoEncoder still needs further developed especially the issues with uneven energy distribution for various measurements.
How to exploit the recycling system of a cell
Authors: Evans Sasha L , Haynes Bethany A , Capatina Delia , Isaacson Rivka L
Published: February 2025

Nature has inspired the design of improved inhibitors for cancer-causing proteins.
A375 melanoma-derived lactate controls A375 melanoma phenotypes by inducing macrophage M2 polarization via TCA cycle and TGF-β signaling
Authors: Wang Qifei , Shi Yurui , Qin Zelian , Xu Mengli , Wang Jingyi , Lu Yuhao , Zhao Zhenmin , Bi Hongsen
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Macrophage phenotypes have been linked to progression and prognosis of cutaneous melanoma. However, the association between Warburg effect in A375 melanoma and macrophages polarization, as well as the underlying mechanisms, remains less well documented.

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of lactate derived from A375 melanoma on macrophage polarization, melanoma phenotype responses and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate the expression of M1 and M2 markers, cell cycle and apoptosis. Levels of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) were determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Proliferation and invasion were assessed by CCK8 and transwell assays, respectively. The extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were analyzed using an XF96 extracellular flux analyzer. Protein expressions were determined by Western blotting.

Results

Our results revealed that melanoma A375 conditioned medium (A375-CM) induced peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to polarize toward anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages. M2 markers CD206 and ARG1 expression increased, as did TGF-β secretion. Conversely, M1 marker CD68 expression decreased. Furthermore, hypoxia promoted macrophage M2 polarization induced by A375-CM. Elevated lactate level in PIG1-conditioned medium (PIG1-CM) induced M2 polarization, whereas the lactate transport inhibitor AZD3965 suppressed this effect in PBMCs cultured with A375-CM. Additionally, lactate derived from melanoma regulated M1/M2 polarization by the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle instead of glycolysis. Significantly, polarized macrophages altered melanoma phenotypes including proliferation, clone formation, cell cycle, apoptosis, migration and invasion via TCA cycle and TGF-β.

Conclusion

Our data collectively demonstrate that lactate derived from melanoma facilitates polarization of M2 macrophages, which subsequently leads to modifications in melanoma phenotypes via TCA cycle and TGF-β signaling.
Extending the fossil record of late Oligocene non-biting midges (Chironomidae, Diptera) of New Zealand
Authors: Baranov Viktor O. , Hammel Jörg U. , Lee Daphne E. , Schmidt Alexander R. , Kaulfuss Uwe
Published: February 2025

Background

The modern chironomid fauna of New Zealand is diverse, highly endemic and reflects a complex biogeographical history. This fauna has been important for developing phylogenetic and biogeographic concepts including Brundin’s writings on transantarctic relationships but until now the fossil record to support these reconstructions has been very limited. Here we describe the first fossil species of Chironomidae, subfamily Orthocladiinae, from New Zealand, based on inclusions in amber from the late Oligocene Pomahaka Formation of the South Island.

Methods

We examined newly excavated fossil tree resin (amber) from the late Oligocene Pomahaka Formation in southern New Zealand for inclusions. Amber pieces containing chironomids were prepared and morphologically investigated using light-microscopy and µCT-scanning. Specimens were taxonomically evaluated using identification keys for modern adult chironomid midges. Habitus and key morphological features of each specimen were documented photographically and/or by line drawings.

Results

Thirteen Chironomidae specimens from Pomahaka amber were identified as members of the subfamily Orthocladiinae Kieffer. Bryophaenocladius zealandiae sp. nov. Baranov is the first Southern Hemisphere fossil of the genus. Bryophaenocladius Thienemann, 1934 is absent from the extant fauna of the main islands of New Zealand; however, it may be present on the subantarctic Auckland Islands. Two incompletely preserved specimens are described as Morphotype 1 cf. Bryophaenocladius zealandiae. Based on a male adult, Pterosis extinctus sp. nov. Baranov is described as the first fossil record of the extant genus Pterosis Sublette and Wirth, today represented by a single endemic species on the New Zealand subantarctic Auckland Islands and Campbell Island. Two female adult specimens are described as Morphotype 2 cf. Metriocnemini. The new fossils of the genera Bryophaenocladius and Pterosis belong to chironomid taxa requiring terrestrial or semi-aquatic habitats for larval development, supporting the notion of a humid forest swamp paleoenvironment for the Pomahaka amber source forest.
Genetic structure and designing a preliminary core collection of Zizania latifolia in China based on 12 microsatellites markers
Authors: Lei Xiangliang , Su Xiaona , Zhou Chengchuan , Jiang Shaolin , Yuan Xiaoquan , Zhao Yao , Jiang Shaomei
Published: February 2025

The genetic diversity and structure of wild crop relatives are crucial for their conservation and utilization in breeding programs. This study presents a comprehensive survey and collection of Zizania latifolia across its natural distribution range in China. Using 12 microsatellite markers, the genetic diversity of 357 wild Z. latifolia accessions from 25 populations was evaluated, revealing a high genetic diversity (He = 0.439). The genetic structure analysis indicated significant genetic differentiation among populations, with evidence of isolation by distance. CoreHunter3 and PowerMarker software were employed to design a preliminary core collection, and the final core collection comprised 92 wild accessions. The core collection was found to be representative of the original germplasm, ensuring the effective conservation of Z. latifolia’s genetic resources. This study would provide valuable insights for the development of conservation strategies and the utilization of Z. latifolia.
Proteomic and phosphoproteomic profilings reveal distinct cellular responses during Tilapinevirus tilapiae entry and replication
Authors: Lertwanakarn Tuchakorn , Khemthong Matepiya , Setthawong Piyathip , Phaonakrop Narumon , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Ploypetch Sekkarin , Surachetpong Win
Published: February 2025

Background

Tilapia Lake virus (TiLV) poses a significant threat to global tilapia aquaculture, causing high mortality rates and severe economic losses. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TiLV-host interactions remain largely unexplored.

Methodology

We investigated the proteomic and phosphoproteomic changes in two piscine cell lines, E-11 and RHTiB cells, following TiLV inoculation at different time points. Differential protein expressions at 10-min and 24-h post infection were selected for constructing protein-protein interactions and analyzing enriched pathways related to the viral entry and replication.

Results

Our findings revealed significant alterations in protein expression and phosphorylation states, highlighting distinct responses between the cell lines. In E-11 cells, TiLV infection suppressed proteins involved in the Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription and Fas-associated death domain protein-tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor pathways, leading to activation of nucleotide oligomerization domain signaling and apoptosis. In RHTiB cells, TiLV suppressed host cellular metabolism by reducing protein phosphatase activity to facilitate early viral entry, while later stages of infection showed increased activity of myosin heavy chain 9 and enhanced host immune responses via phosphorylation of ribosomal protein L17 and GTPase immunity-associated protein 7 (GIMAP7).

Conclusion

Our study suggested that TiLV employs different strategies to manipulate host cellular pathways depending on the cell type. Further studies are essential to validate these findings and ultimately facilitate the development of effective antiviral strategies.
Impact of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Bartolomé Roca M Camila , Masson Walter , Falconi Mariano , Iroulart Juan , Blanco Rocío , Pizarro Rodolfo
Published: February 2025

Despite advances in the management of cardiovascular risk factors, the approach to the transgender population receiving hormone therapy is not completely defined. Transgender patients are those who present with "gender incongruence," that is, a discrepancy between the individual's expressed gender and the designated gender, which generally corresponds to the biological sex. In these cases, hormonal treatment differs from the "traditional" approach in that it is a "crossover" hormonal treatment. Multiple studies have evaluated the relationship between gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), the development of cardiovascular risk factors and the occurrence of cardiovascular events, both for the transfeminine and transmasculine population. These findings are particu-larly relevant, as cardiovascular disease is the second leading cause of mortality in the transgender population. However, studies that have attempted to stratify this group according to their cardiovascular risk have faced notable difficulties and limitations. The aim of this review is to investigate the impact of GATH on cardiovascular health, to assess the need to reconsider risk stratification and therapeutic targets for these patients, and to discuss the applicability of general recommendations to this specific population.
Efficacy of Murivenna Tail Gudapurana and Yashtimadhu Ghrita Gudapurana in the Postoperative Pain Management of Haemorrhoids and Fissure in-ano: A Research Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Gautam Ayushi Chandrakant , Asutkar Sheetal Gajanan
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Lifestyle diseases resulting from sedentary work, stress, poor sleep, and unhealthy eating habits have led to an increase in anorectal disorders, such as anal fissures, fistulas, haemorrhoids, and abscesses. Haemorrhoids, which are dilated veins in the anal canal, are influenced by factors like prolonged sitting, straining, and pregnancy. Treatment options for haemorrhoids range from laxatives to surgical procedures. In Southern India, Murivenna Tail is commonly used for its antiinflammatory and analgesic properties, aiding in wound healing and postoperative pain management.

Need of the study: Surgical procedures for fissure-in-ano, such as Lord’s anal dilatation and lateral internal sphincterotomy, as well as haemorrhoid surgeries including various types of haemorrhoidectomy, can be extremely painful and typically require analgesics for pain management. However, traditional pain relief medications often come with side-effects, including diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, headaches, mood swings, dependency, and overall dissatisfaction. Murivenna Tail, known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, presents a cost-effective and readily accessible alternative for managing postoperative pain following fissure and haemorrhoid surgeries. Preclinical studies have shown its potential to reduce inflammation, indicating it could serve as a viable alternative to conventional medications for postoperative pain relief.

Aim: To compare the efficacy of Murivenna Tail against Yashitimadhu Ghrita in managing postoperative pain associated with haemorrhoids and fissure-in-ano.

Materials and Methods: A randomised controlled trial will be conducted at the Mahatma Gandhi Ayurveda College Hospital and Research Centre (MGACHRC) in Salod, Maharashtra, India, from January 2024 to June 2025. The study will include 72 participants who will provide written informed consent. They will be divided into four groups, with 18 subjects in each group. The treatments administered will be 20 mL of Murivenna Tila and Yashtimadhu Ghrita Gudapuarana, given twice a day for 14 days each. To assess the effectiveness of the four treatment groups Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) will be applied to compare mean scores if the data meet the criteria for normality and homogeneity of variance; otherwise, the Kruskal-Wallis test will be applied.
Management of Difficult Airway in Mentally Challenged Patient with TAScope and Fiberoptic Intubation: A Case Report
Authors: Shah Pooja Arpan , Shah Arpit , Sharma Tejash , Thomas Sara Mary
Published: February 2025

Managing a difficult airway is a very challenging task for practicing anaesthesiologists in day-to-day life. Addressing a difficult airway in patients with intellectual disabilities is even more challenging and requires a stepwise approach for management. The authors hereby report a case of a 26-year-old male patient, with intellectual disabilities who has a history of ankylosing spondylitis and was scheduled for an open gastrojejunostomy. The patient presented with a mouth opening of only 1.5 cm and grade IV extension, which restricted movements at the atlanto-occipital joint and resulted in a short neck. The most challenging aspect of the present case was the patient’s intellectual disability, which made it difficult to employ awake intubation techniques. Video laryngoscopy was not feasible due to the limited mouth opening and retrognathia. The authors planned for tracheal intubation using The Anaesthetist Society Scope (TAScope) and considered fiberoptic intubation as a second option. After a failed attempt at intubation under Intravenous (i.v.) anaesthesia with TAScope, fiberoptic intubation was successfully performed, albeit with difficulty. In conclusion, fiberoptic intubation is considered the gold standard for managing difficult airways.
Response of Rooting Hormone on Rooting and Media Shooting Capacity of Chrysanthemum Cuttings at Tehrathum, Nepal
Authors: Limbu Archana Singhak , Tripathi Bipana , Bhattarai Puja , Dahal Januka
Published: February 2025

Chrysanthemum is an herbaceous perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family, extensively grown all over the world. Hence, an experiment was carried out to assess the response of rooting hormone on the rooting and shooting capacity of chrysanthemum cuttings under different growing media at Tehrathum, Nepal during the year 2024. Further, the experiment was carried out in a Completely Randomized Design, with two factorial designs: rooting hormone and rooting media. As a consequence, a significance difference was observed in the rooting and shooting capacity of chrysanthemum cuttings in which rooting hormone, IBA with the concentration of 400ppm showed the best result, now that it was observed with the maximum number of roots in 29DAP (11.51), maximum length of roots (2.73cm) in 29DAP, higher leaf number (1.81) in 15 DAP, maximum leaf length (2.35cm) in 29 DAP. In like manner media composition of Soil, Sand, and Cocopeat in the ratio of 1:1:1 was observed with maximum root length (2.23cm) at 29DAP. Therefore, this study concludes that IBA as rooting hormone and the composition of Soil, Sand, and Cocopeat as media proved to be the best combination for the success of terminal Chrysanthemum cutting.
Machine Learning Models for Predicting Parkinson’s Disease Progression Using Longitudinal Data: A Systematic Review
Authors: Adeniyi Oluwabamise J. , Ayankoya Folasade Y. , Kuyoro Shade O. , Akwaronwu Bright G. , Abiodun Ayodeji G.
Published: February 2025

This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of various machine learning models in predicting PD progression using longitudinal data. Despite the increasing use of ML in PD research, gaps remain in understanding the impact of longitudinal data on prediction accuracy and model generalizability. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining how multimodal data sources, including clinical, genetic, and imaging datasets, contribute to improved predictive performance. The review focuses on the types of models used, data sources, performance metrics, and their potential to improve personalized treatment and clinical decision-making. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate to identify relevant studies published from January 2010 to February 2024. The inclusion criteria focused on studies employing ML techniques for analyzing longitudinal PD data, yielding 14 eligible studies. Data were extracted on ML models used, dataset characteristics, performance metrics, and the integration of multimodal data sources such as clinical, genetic, and imaging data. The findings were synthesized to assess model performance and generalizability. Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and ensemble methods like Random Forest and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM) are effective in capturing disease progression with high accuracy and robust performance metrics. LSTM models achieved accuracies up to 90% and AUC scores of 93.79%, while LGBM models achieved 90.73% and AUC of 94.57%. The Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) scores in longitudinal studies increased over time, and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) also improved. Integrating multimodal data, including clinical, genetic, and imaging information, further improved model reliability and generalizability. ML models, particularly those incorporating longitudinal and multimodal data, show promise in predicting PD progression. Future research should prioritize dataset diversity, enhance model interpretability, and leverage real-world wearable data for improved clinical applicability.
Drivers of Agricultural Land Use in the Terai Region of Nepal: A Case of Chitwan District, Nepal
Authors: TIMILSINA R. H. , OJHA G. P. , NEPALI P. B. , TIWARI U.
Published: February 2025

Population growth and rapid urbanization have led to agricultural land use change in the Terai region of Nepal. Both underutilization and intensification of agricultural land are common phenomena in Terai districts like Chitwan. It is important to examine the factors determining the agricultural land use intensity to develop a location and context-specific agricultural land use policy. However, due to lack of evidence-based research, land use policies in Nepal became impractical. This study used both qualitative and quantitative survey design to assess the drivers of agricultural land intensification of Terai region of Nepal. Chitwan district of Nepal was purposively selected for this study. The stratified random sampling method was used to select 384 households from the six municipalities of Chitwan. Statistical analysis was conducted using R Studio version 4.3.3. A binary logistic regression model was used, where cropping frequency, a dependent variable, of more than two per year indicated higher intensification. Two and less than two cropping frequencies were considered as low agricultural land intensification. Among different predictor variables, increased access to groundwater and canal irrigation sources, fewer land parcels, reduced home to land distance, medium family size, and land operated by the household, either owned, and owned and leased, were found to significantly influence higher cropping frequency. Key informant surveys and focus group discussions with stakeholders were used to explore the causes of low cropping frequency and land leasing practices. Policy recommendations include promoting land leasing, improving sustained irrigation sources, and land consolidation. The findings provide valuable insights for developing and implementing local-level context-specific agricultural land use plans.
Effect of Pearl Millet Flour on Quality of Chicken Patties
Authors: Prasad D , Kadam B.R. , Sakunde Deepali T. , Waskar V. S. , Jadhav S. N.
Published: February 2025

Though chicken is a nutrient-dense food, it is devoid of dietary fibre which performs various physiological activities in the human body. Consumption of foods with low dietary fibre is one of the major risk factors for the prevalence of many lifestyle diseases. Dietary fibre slows down the bowel movement and controls the blood sugar and cholesterol in the human body. The investigation was undertaken to optimize the level of pearl millet flour (PMF) for preparing chicken patties by replacing the chicken with PMF at 0, 3, 6 and 9 per cent in the product formulation. Moisture, crude fibre, and ash content of cooked chicken patties increased whereas, crude protein and fat contents decreased significantly with an increase in the proportion of PMF. The cooking yield, emulsion stability, and moisture retention percentage of chicken patties increased significantly with an increase in the proportion of PMF. Significantly higher sensory scores were recorded for the colour and appearance, flavour, texture and overall acceptability of the cooked chicken patties prepared by incorporating 3 and 6 per cent PMF. Juiciness of cooked chicken patties was not affected by various levels of PMF. It was concluded that the incorporation of 6 per cent PMF in the product formulation produced ground chicken patties of acceptability quality with higher dietary fibre content and lower production cost.
Assessing Drought Tolerance Through Biomass and Physiological Traits in Modern and Spelt Wheat
Authors: Kour Mandeep , Chand Gurdev , Sinha Bhav Kumar , Swati  , Kouser Farzana , Kalsi Jyotsana , Mehra Tushar
Published: February 2025

Drought stress significantly impacts wheat growth and productivity, necessitating an evaluation of morphological and physiological parameters to identify tolerant genotypes. This study investigated the effects of drought stress on three wheat genotypes: WH 1080, British Spelt, and Romanian Spelt. Parameters assessed included fresh weight of root, stem, and leaf, relative stress injury (RSI), relative leaf water content (RLWC), and water use efficiency (WUE). Under drought conditions, British Spelt exhibited the highest fresh weights for roots, stems, and leaves, along with maximum WUE, indicating superior drought tolerance. Romanian Spelt showed intermediate performance, with relatively high RLWC and moderate reductions in fresh weight. In contrast, WH 1080 displayed the greatest reductions in morphological parameters and the highest RSI, reflecting its lower drought tolerance. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations among genotypes and treatments, highlighting the differential responses to drought stress. These findings underscore the potential of British Spelt as a promising genotype for cultivation in drought-prone regions and provide insights into the physiological mechanisms underlying drought tolerance in wheat.
Knowledge about hiv/aids among elderly women in an interdisciplinary health promotion program / O conhecimento sobre hiv/aids entre pessoas idosas de um programa interdisciplinar de promoção à saúde
Authors: Kopti Fakoury Max , De Oliveira Bento Beatriz , Messala A. Britto Alan
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: avaliar o conhecimento sobre HIV/aids em mulheres idosas acompanhadas no programa interdisciplinar Renascer, no Hospital Universitário Gaffrée e Guinle (HUGG), no Rio de Janeiro. Método: o estudo caracterizou-se como observacional, descritivo, do tipo transversal, sendo a amostra coletada por conveniência e composta por integrantes do programa Renascer atendidas no ambulatório de geriatria, do Hospital Universitário Gaffrée e Guinle. Avaliou o conhecimento sobre HIV/aids em 51 mulheres idosas de um programa interdisciplinar, no Rio de Janeiro, aplicando questionário relativo ao conhecimento sobre HIV para Terceira Idade (QHIV3I) e o Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM). Resultados: apesar da maioria das participantes (88,2%) demonstra ter conhecimento ao acertar pelo menos 65% das questões, foram encontradas lacunas para os aspectos relacionados aos conceitos básicos do HIV, à transmissão e ao tratamento. Conclusão: entendemos que as estratégias e políticas de educação e informação em saúde, para este perfil da população, devem ser revistas.
Differential regulation of cell migration and cell cycle progression by FAK complexes with Src, PI3K, Grb7 and Grb2 in focal contacts
Authors: Shen Tang-Long , Guan Jun-Lin
Published: July 2002

Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a key mediator of integrin signaling, which has been implicated in the regulation of cell migration and cell cycle progression. Using chimeric molecules that fuse the focal adhesion targeting (FAT) sequence directly to several signaling molecules, we investigated the potential role of FAK recruitments of signaling molecules to focal contacts in the regulation of cell migration and cell cycle progression. We found that fusion of FAT to Src, the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, Grb7 and Grb2 resulted in the efficient focal adhesion targeting of these signaling molecules. We showed that expression of Src‐FAT, p85‐FAT, or Grb7‐FAT, but not Grb2‐FAT, each stimulated cell migration. Interestingly, tyrosine phosphorylation of paxillin, but not p130cas, was induced by expression of Src‐FAT, suggesting a potential role of paxillin in mediating stimulation of cell migration by the chimeric molecule. In contrast, targeting of Grb2, but not Src, p85, or Grb7, to focal contacts increased cell cycle progression. Biochemical analyses correlated Erk activation by Grb2‐FAT with its stimulation of cell cycle progression. Together, these results suggest that at least part of the role of FAK interaction with these signaling molecules is to recruit them to focal contacts and that distinct FAK signaling complexes are involved in the regulation of cell migration vs. cell cycle progression.
Extracellular signal‐regulated kinases control expression of G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2)
Authors: Theilade Juliane , Lerche Hansen Jakob , Haunsø Stig , Sheikh Søren P
Published: July 2002

G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) phosphorylates G protein‐coupled receptors resulting in uncoupling from G proteins. Receptors modulate GRK2 expression, however the mechanistic basis for this effect is largely unknown. Here we report a novel mechanism by which receptors use the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) cascade to regulate GRK2 cellular levels. ERK activation by receptor stimulation elevated endogenous GRK2 while antagonist treatment decreased cellular GRK2. Activating ERK by overexpressing constitutive active MEK‐1 or Ras elevated GRK2 protein levels while blocking ERK using PD98059 or dominant negative Ras abolished this effect. These data suggest ERK is a critical regulator of GRK2 levels.
Glucose regulates pancreatic preprosomatostatin I expression
Authors: Melroe Gregory T , Ehrman Melissa M , Kittilson Jeffrey D , Sheridan Mark A
Published: July 2002

Rainbow trout were used as a model system to evaluate the role of glucose in regulating the expression of preprosomatostatin I. Glucose increased pancreatic levels of preprosomatostatin I mRNA in vivo, in concert with elevated plasma somatostatin levels, and in vitro. Glucose‐stimulated expression of preprosomatostatin I mRNA required the uptake, phosphorylation, and subsequent metabolism of the sugar in pancreatic islets. These results suggest that glucose modulates both the production and release of somatostatin.
Exploratory Analysis of Bioprocesses Using Artificial Neural Network‐Based Methods
Authors: Simutis R. , Lübbert A.
Published: July 2002

A process data driven procedure has been developed that allows a universal time‐efficient bioprocess analysis. The procedure is particularly suited for industrial production processes which have not yet been comprehensively investigated. It makes use of artificial neural networks in combination with mass balance equations to represent the process dynamics on a commercial workstation. The essential concept behind the procedure is to start with the already available knowledge formulated by a very simple process representation which includes only those variables that are firmly known to be essential. Then, stepwise, additional variables are added to the basic representation after they passed a test procedure in which they proved to enhance the model's performance. The result of the procedure is a numerical representation of the important process relationships that immediately allows to determine improved set points and/or profiles for the manipulated variables with respect to process performance. It may be used to improve state estimation and control. The procedure has already been tested in industrial applications. In this paper, a validation of the procedure with simulated bioprocess data is presented.
Skin manifestations in food allergy
Authors: Werfel Thomas
Published: July 2002

Skin manifestations represent the most often observed clinical symptoms in food allergy. Immediate symptoms are urticaria, angioedema and sudden erythema (flush). Delayed symptoms which can be observed are exanthema and exacerbation or worsening of eczema (most often atopic dermatitis). Since delayed symptoms are difficult to diagnose, oral provocation tests are often necessary for patients with a suspected late onset of symptoms upon food ingestion. There is evidence that besides specific IgE, specific T cells play a role in the deterioration of eczema in atopic dermatitis. Although urticarial skin lesions are most often observed upon oral provocation with a suspected food, the rate of IgE‐mediated food allergy in acute or chronic urticaria is rather low. In some patients suffering from chronic urticaria, intolerance reactions are also suspected. Since no laboratory or skin tests are available yet for the identification of clinically relevant food additives causing urticaria, oral provocation tests are mandatory for these patients.
Protease‐catalyzed fragment condensation via substrate mimetic strategy: a useful combination of solid‐phase peptide synthesis with enzymatic methods
Authors: Čeřovský V. , Bordusa F.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: The concept of substrate mimetic strategy represents a new powerful method in the field of enzymatic peptide synthesis. This strategy takes advantage of the shift in thesite‐specific amino acid moiety from the acyl residue to the ester‐leaving group of the carboxyl component enabling acylation of the enzyme by nonspecific acyl residues. As a result, peptide bond formation occurs independently of the primary specificity of proteases. Moreover, because of the coupling of nonspecific acyl residues, the newly formed peptide bond is not subject to secondary hydrolysis achieving irreversible peptide synthesis. Here, we report the combination of solid‐phase peptide synthesis with substrate mimetic‐mediated enzymatic peptide fragment condensations. First, the utility of the oxime resin strategy for the synthesis of peptide fragments in the form of substrate mimetics esterified as 4‐guanidinophenyl‐, phenyl‐ and mercaptopropionic acid esters was investigated. The study was completed by using the resulting Nα‐protected peptide esters as acyl donors in trypsin‐, α‐chymotrypsin‐ and V8 protease‐catalyzed fragment condensations.
Combined apexification and orthodontic intrusion of a traumatically extruded immature permanent incisor
Authors: Alaçam Alev , Üçüncü Neslihan
Published: July 2002

Abstract – A patient with a traumatic extrusion of the maxillary right central incisor was referred to the Pedodontic Clinic of Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry after 15 days. Orthodontic repositioning of the tooth was planned in 6 months. At the beginning of orthodontic therapy it was observed that the tooth was necrotic and needed an apexification procedure. The apexification procedure and orthodontic intrusion were successfully performed at the same time. In addition, a “walking bleach” was performed after the orthodontic and endodontic procedures were completed. At the 3‐year recall, the tooth appeared normal in all respects.