bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Silent Suffering of Women in Christina Reid’s Tea in a China Cup
Authors: Dhuha Hussien Ali Rese. , Marwa Ghazi Mohammed Prof. Dr.
Published: January 2025

Families, groups, and individuals were deeply affected by the Troubles, a period of severe political and sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted from the late 1960s to the late 1990s. While most of the existing research on the Troubles concentrates on men's experiences and the wider political backdrop, this study turns attention to the often-overlooked suffering of women. The paper examines the trauma experienced by women during the Troubles as presented in Christina Reid's play Tea in a China Cup. The paper extensively examines Reid's play, focusing on female characters' emotional problems, psychological traumas, and the long-term effects of violence and political chaos. It investigates how these women manage their daily lives in the face of violence, strained familial connections, and cultural expectations. Drawing on trauma theory and feminist perspectives, this study explores how Reid's work exposes the special issues that women faced during this turbulent time. It investigates the portrayal of silenced voices, the influence of patriarchal systems, and the endurance and responsibility shown by female protagonists in their quest for healing and empowerment. The study contributes to comprehending the human cost of violence and the necessity for gender-sensitive historical research by highlighting women's trauma during the Troubles. It points to the necessity of recognizing women's experiences, gaining vital insights into their lived realities, and enhancing the discourse on trauma and conflict.
واقع النظام الصحي في العراق (التحديات والمستويات)
Authors: نورا نوري عبدعون م. م , سلام عبدعلي العبادي أ. د
Published: January 2025

لقد عانى العراق على مدى العقود الماضية من تراجع مستمر في الوضع الصحي ، وشهد نظامه الصحي خللا كبيرا منذ منتصف القرن الماضي بسبب  الحروب المتتالية والحصار الاقتصادي الذي استمر لأكثر من اثني عشر عاما ، فضلا عن الاحتلال الامريكي للعراق في عام ( 2003 ) وعدم الاستقرار السياسي والاقتصادي والفساد الاداري والمالي، الأمر الذي أسهم بدرجة كبيرة في تدهور وتراجع ملحوظ في مستوى الخدمات الصحية والطبية في ظل غياب الإرادة السياسية والرؤية الاستراتيجية للنهوض بواقع هذا القطاع المهم والحيوي ضمن منظومة التنمية الشاملة ، فواقع الخدمات الصحية في العراق يعد ضعيفًا من ناحية الخدمات اللوجستية او الأداتية ولا يتلاءم مع الزخم الحاصل على الخدمات الطبية ، لهذا نجد ان مؤشر نسبة العجز في تقديم الخدمات الصحية مرتفع الى حد كبير ، فالمراكز الصحية والمستشفيات لا تكفي لسد  حاجة الناس في هذا الجانب ، ناهيك عن فقدان ابسط انواع الخدمات الطبية التي من المفترض ان تقدمها هذه المراكز والمستشفيات لمستفيديها .
    وانطلاقاً من هذا التصور تمحور هذا البحث قي معرفة واقع النظام الصحي في العراق. والكشف عن المستويات النظام الصحي في العراق والتعرف على مهددات النظام الصحي في العراق. ومن ابرز النتائج التي توصل اليها البحث هي وجود وعي من قبل الافراد باتباع عادات غذائية صحية في الطعام. وعدم حرص الافراد على متابعة الفحوصات الطبية بشكل منتظم.
أهداف تصحيح العقود ( دراسة مقارنة بين القانونين العراقي والإيراني)
Authors: إشراق حسن عذيب الباحثة , محمد صالحي مازندراني ا.د.
Published: January 2025

تناولنا موضوع أهداف تصحيح العقود لأهميته لاسيما إن من أهداف تصحيح العقد هو تحقق المنفعة العقلائية ؛ إذ تناول الفقه الإسلامي موضوع المنفعة العقلائية ،وتحققها عند تصحيح العقد الباطل حيث قد يبرم العقد ، ويكون محله غير متقوم ماليًا فيكون باطلًا إلا أنّ تحقق المنفعة العقلائيّة في العقد يجعله صحيحًا ومنتجًا لآثاره القانونية كما في حالة بيع كلب يكون البيع باطلًا؛ لأنه مال غير متقوم إلا أنّ تحقق المنفعة العقلائية في العقد من الكلب ، وهي حراسة الدار يجعل بيعًا صحيحًا فضلا عن أنّ المشرع العراقي لم ينظم موضوع المنفعة العقلائية وتحققها في تصحيح العقد لا في محل العقد ولا في سبب العقد ، و هذا يعد نقصًا تشريعيًّا على خلاف المشرع الإيراني فقد أشار إلى المنفعة العقلائية كباعث دافع على التعاقد ، وفي محل العقد، ومن ثَمَّ تحقق دورها في تصحيح العقد وإنقاذه من البطلان .
دور الشعر الأطفال في التربية والتعليم ديوان (جريوةكان) ل ع. ع. شونم نموذجا
Authors: نیجیروان جاسم ولي د. , سروشت جەوهەر حەوێز الباحث , زانکۆى سەڵاحەددین الباحث
Published: January 2025

هذا البحث الموسوم ب(دور الشعر الأطفال في التربية والتعليم ديوان (جريوةكان) ل ع. ع. شونم نموذجا) يتكون من المقدمة وثلاث محاور وقائمة المصادر.
   حاول الباحث في المحور الأول أن يبين مصطلح الشعر الأطفال وأبرز سماته من ناحية الشكل والمضمامن.
في المحور الثاني حاول الباحث أن يعرف القراء بمدى الإنعكاس رسائل التربوية في أشعار وتناولنا بنماذج الشعرية وظهرنا بعض جوانب من رسائل وقيم التربوية.
في المحور الثالث حاول الباحث أن يبحث عن الإنعكاس رسائل التعلمية في أشعار الشاعر.
وفي أخر البحث نشیرنا إلى أهم نتائج التي حصلنا خلال هذا البحث.
اتجاهات الطلبة نحو الارشاد النفسي والتربوي وعلاقتها بالتكيف النفسي والاجتماعي
Authors: حيدر جبار حمدان ناشور م. م.
Published: January 2025

يصل الطلبة الى مرحلة تعليمية جديدة تختلف عن سابقاتها من المراحل التي مروا بها من حيث تنوع التخصصات العلمية المقترحة امامهم التي تتطلب منهم اختيارها كذلك صعوبة تحديد التخصص المناسب لقدراتهم وصعوبة تحقيق التكيف والاندماج فيه ايضا كما ان هنالك مشكلات تخص الطلبة انفسهم تتعلق بمدى المامهم وقناعتهم بأهمية الارشاد الاكاديمي ، وقد تبرز مشكلات اخرى لديهم تتمثل في صعوبة تكيفهم مع النظام التعليمي المتمثل في نظام الوحدات الدراسية فضلا عن المشكلات الأخرى التي قد تتعلق بالنواحي النفسية لديهم ، والتي تتمثل في صعوبة تكيفهم مع تخصصهم العلمي ومدى تحقيق النجاح فيه كما قد يواجهون مشكلات اجتماعية اخرى تتمثل في سلامة علاقاتهم مع زملائهم الطلبة ، الأمر الذي قد يضع امامهم جملة من المشكلات التي قد تؤثر فيهم وعلى مدى تحقيقهم لأهدافهم بشكل عام وكذلك على سلامة نموهم النفسي والاجتماعي  ، إذ إن كل تلك المشكلات التي تواجه الطلاب الجامعيين في الكليات المختلفة بداية من اختيار التخصص العلمي المرغوب فيه بناء على رغباتهم وميولهم وقدراتهم وكذلك اختيار المقررات الدراسة طوال مدة دراستهم الجامعية حيث يعد وجود المرشد الاكاديمي عاملًا مهمًّا ومساعدًا لهم في اجتيازهم لمقرراتهم الدراسية المطلوب انجازها وتحقيق النجاح الاكاديمي كما يؤدي المرشد الاكاديمي ايضا دورًا مهمًّا في حياة الطلبة لما له من دور فعال في توفير المساعدة والدعم النفسي اللازمين لهم وحل المشكلات التي قد تعترض طريقهم بحيث ينعكس ذلك في مساعدة المؤسسة التعليمية ايضا في تحقيق اهدافها .
The Process of Metathesis in English and Kurdish: A Phonological Study
Authors: Ibrahim Othman Mohammed Asst. Lect.
Published: January 2025

Metathesis is a phonological process whereby a sound hops out of its proper place and appears in another position within a word or words. Different views have been proposed about the nature of metathesis. Some believe it to be a minor sound change that affects a small portion of sounds; others claim that it is a common linguistic process that is found in almost all languages, hence, a universal process. The present paper is concerned with investigating metathesis in both in English and Kurdish so as to uncover the points of similarities and differences between the two languages. the study tries to follow a specific typology that can be applied to both languages so as to gain scientific objective results. The comparative analysis findings show that metathesis is more flexible in Kurdish than it is in English. What is more enthralling is the process of productivity. In both languages, the borders for the process have no limits.
Load Forecasting Model for Battery Swapping Stations Based on Fuzzy Clustering-Markov Chain
Authors: Yi Zhang
Published: January 2025

Battery-swap stations significantly reduce the replenishment time for electric vehicles and offer substantial potential for grid regulation. An accurate load prediction model is essential for their effective participation in grid auxiliary services. To address the stochastic nature of user power exchange demand, this study proposes a load prediction model for swap stations based on fuzzy clustering and a Markov chain. First, the Poisson distribution is employed to predict the number of EVs requiring power exchange at each time step, establishing demand constraints. Second, an adaptive fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm is utilized to dynamically partition battery clusters in the swap stations based on their state of charge, eliminating the subjectivity of manual partitioning. Finally, a Markov chain is used to model the battery clusters across multiple states, including charging, discharging, and waiting. The proposed demand prediction method and load prediction model are simulated, validated, and compared with the Monte Carlo simulation method. Results demonstrate that the Poisson distribution effectively predicts EV demand, while the load prediction model accurately captures the power states of the swap station during charging and discharging, reducing load prediction volatility.
DMT micro-phenomenology
Authors: Sanders James W. , Millière Raphaël , Daily Zachary G. , Carhart-Harris Robin , Timmermann Christopher
Published: December 2024

DMT reliably induces profound experiences of immersion in other worlds and encounters with seemingly autonomous presences, yet the lived qualities and unfolding of these experiences remain poorly understood. Using micro-phenomenological interviews with twenty-three healthy participants who received DMT during fMRI scanning, this study explores how these experiences arise and develop in awareness. Micro-phenomenological analysis reveals rich dimensions of immersive experience - from multisensory engagement to radical reconfigurations of self and world - and illuminates the varied ways presences can be seen, felt, or otherwise sensed. Rather than focusing on specific content, we follow the micro-phenomenological method to identify the structural features and temporal dynamics that characterise the rich subjective landscape of DMT experience. The findings extend beyond traditional constructs like 'ego dissolution' or 'mystical experience' to reveal how immersion and presence phenomena emerge through specific dimensions, particularly the layering of sensory effects, and subsequent layering of spatial, self-related, and social effects. This detailed phenomenological mapping advances our understanding of both DMT's effects and the architecture of conscious experience, while demonstrating the value of systematic first-person methods for studying profound alterations of consciousness. The findings invite comparative analysis with other transformations of consciousness, such as meditation and lucid dreaming, and especially with presence phenomena observed across different experiential contexts such as lab-induced presence hallucinations, and Parkinson’s disease.
Change in empathic disequilibrium across childhood and associations with socioemotional difficulties
Authors: Shalev Ido , Waller Rebecca , Wagner Nicholas J. , Uzefovsky Florina
Published: December 2024

BackgroundEmpathy is an early-appearing, socioemotional capacity with emotional and cognitive components that develop from infancy onward. An imbalance between these components, termed empathic disequilibrium, is related to socioemotional difficulties in adulthood. However, the developmental trajectory of empathic disequilibrium has not been characterized, nor do we know if changes in empathic disequilibrium are associated with socioemotional difficulties. This study investigated developmental change in empathic disequilibrium in children aged 3 to 12 years and its associations with socioemotional outcomes.Methods303 children from the general population were assessed at three time points, each four months apart. Well-validated parent-reported measures of cognitive and emotional empathy, as well as socioemotional outcomes, including conduct problems, emotional difficulties, callous-unemotional traits, and prosocial behavior, were analyzed. Considering both within and between participant variability in age, we characterized typical empathic disequilibrium development. Then, we examined whether socioemotional strengths and difficulties at the last time point moderated this trajectory.ResultsEmpathic disequilibrium followed a developmental pattern shifting from emotional empathy dominance at age 3 years to equilibrium typically reached between ages 4.7 and 6.9. After this period, a trend toward cognitive empathy dominance emerged, which declined during early adolescence, following a non-linear pattern. Children with socioemotional difficulties at the final measurement point showed distinct developmental patterns of empathic disequilibrium. Specifically, children with high emotional problems, callous-unemotional traits, and low prosocial behavior were less likely to achieve empathic equilibrium by age 12, with those showing high conduct problems tending to reach equilibrium later than their peers.ConclusionsThis study illustrates how empathic disequilibrium develops from early childhood to early adolescence and how variations in this developmental path are associated with different socioemotional outcomes. These findings suggest that tracking empathic disequilibrium could provide insights for identifying children who may benefit from tailored intervention.
Expert or Novice? Visual Working Memory Reveals the Difference Under Load
Authors: Jozranjbar Bahareh , Rafiei Mohsen
Published: December 2024

This study examines the relationship between visual working memory (VWM) and object recognition, focusing on category expertise (faces vs. houses) and processing strategies (featural vs. configural) under varying cognitive loads. Participants performed a VWM task with numerical sequences and an object recognition task manipulating featural and configural attributes. Results indicated a strong relationship between VWM performance and configural processing of houses, a non-expert category, in high-load conditions, suggesting greater demands of this task on general VWM resources. Conversely, faces-an expert category-appeared to rely less on VWM because of specialized holistic processing mechanisms. Featural processing of non-expert categories was also found to require fewer VWM resources. These findings highlight how expertise and processing strategies contribute to VWM, where non-expert categories rely more on the general mechanisms and the expert categories exploit domain-specific efficiencies to alleviate cognitive load.
Improving human and machine classification through cognitive-inspired data engineering
Authors: Epping Gunnar Paul , Caplin Andrew , Duhaime Erik , Holmes William , Martin Daniel , Trueblood Jennifer S
Published: December 2024

Crowdsourcing offers a fast and cost-efficient approach to obtaining human labeled datasets. However, crowdsourced datasets and the models trained on them can inherit the cognitive constraints and biases of their annotators. In a process we refer to as cognitive-inspired data engineering, we investigate whether ideas from cognitive science can be applied to mitigate the presence of cognitive constraints and cognitive biases in crowdsourced datasets and, as a result, improve the performance of models trained on these datasets. We evaluate our approach by crowdsourcing labels for medical image diagnostic tasks using two different crowdsourcing platforms across two experiments. In Experiment 1, we collect subjective probability judgments from novice annotators through Amazon Mechanical Turk and, in Experiment 2, we collect subjective probability judgments and binary classifications from skilled annotators though DiagnosUs, a crowdsourcing platform specializing in medical and scientific data annotation. In both experiments, we find that de-biasing subjective probability judgments via recalibration leads to more accurate crowdsourced datasets and more accurate models trained on these datasets. Our results suggest that cognitive-inspired data engineering offers a promising avenue to improve the quality of crowdsourced datasets.
Comment on Kempster, G. B., Nagle, K. F., & Solomon, N. P. (2024, November 12). Development and Rationale for the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice – Revised (CAPE-Vr)
Authors: Calaf Neus
Published: December 2024

This commentary reviews the recently uploaded manuscript Kempster, G. B., Nagle, K. F., & Solomon, N. P. (2024, November 12). Development and Rationale for the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice – Revised (CAPE-Vr). https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/e84tn. Drawing from perspectives as a developer of a digital CAPE-V application and co-author of a bilingual adaptation of the original CAPE-V, the commentary examines key modifications, including the elimination of textual severity markers, the optimization of vocal tasks, adoption of neutral speech prompts, the transition from visual analog scales to categorical descriptors for Pitch and Loudness to capture deviation direction, and the introduction of resonance evaluation separated from nasality. The revised CAPE-Vr further introduces a dedicated section for inconsistencies, expands options for instability-related features, and incorporates space for overall impressions, thereby addressing longstanding challenges and enhancing ease of use. The addition of sections for documenting recording and playback conditions further enhances replicability and communication among practitioners. This commentary also identifies potential limitations, such as the exact definition of the right endpoint on the visual analog scale (VAS), and could benefit from a more comprehensive definition of resonance. Overall, the CAPE-Vr update represents a significant advancement in achieving greater usability, consistency, and clarity in perceptual voice assessment. The revised instrument is poised to improve diagnostic precision, facilitate more robust research, and support the development of cross-cultural adaptations, ensuring its continued role as a cornerstone in voice evaluation.
Bacterial Assay of Drinking Water Commercially Marketed in Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Khanal Bipin , Pokhrel Galaxy , Khanal Ranjana , Bhattarai Bodh Babu , Pokhrel Ganga Raj
Published: December 2024

The bacterial assay of Drinking Water Commercially Marketed in Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Chitwan, Nepal is still not understood clearly. Out of twenty samples, ten samples were collected from 1 L bottles and ten samples were collected from 20 L water jars. The pH of the sample solution was evaluated using pH meter (AUTO DEULEX METERMODEL; LT-10). The most probable number (MPN) method was used to analyze Salmonella, yeast, and Mould while the membrane filtration technique was used to evaluate coliforms and fecal coliforms. Yeast and mold were cultured in Sabouraud Dextrose Broth while M-Lauryl Sulphate Broth solution was used for total coliform  and fecal coliform. Salmonella was cultured in Rappaport Vassiliadis Salmonella Enrichment Broth media. The pH of most of samples lies between 6.5–8.5 which is very close to the National Drinking Water Quality standard, Nepal and WHO while some samples ranges below the National Drinking  Water Quality Standard, Nepal. There is no any growth of the Fecal coliform bacteria in all the samples of one 1 L bottles whereas 50% of the samples of 1 L water bottle showed the abundance  of total coliform. The result revealed that the 20 L jar water was contaminated with total and faecal coliform bacteria. Out of the ten samples of one 1 L water bottle, nine samples were contaminated with total coliform whereas samples from 20 L jar showed 70% contamination with fecal coliform. Neither of the samples spotted Salmonella, mould and yeast. This study reveals the importance of monitoring the quality of drinking water production system.
Enumeration and Categorization of the Indoor Plant of Bharatpur Metropolitan City
Authors: Acharya Jamuna , K.L. Das Manoj
Published: December 2024

This study investigates indoor gardening practices in Bharatpur, Nepal. A combination of vision observations, online questionnaires, and a random selection of plant species were used to collect data. 41 respondents to the survey revealed a variety of indoor plants: 39% have less than five plants, 24.4% own ten or more, 19.5% own more than ten, and 17.1% own more than twenty. While 34.1% water their plants weekly, most participants (48.8%) water twice a week. Fertilizer is applied less regularly, with most people using it twice yearly (43.9%). Though gardeners face challenges such as  dryness (41.5%) and insect infections (29.3%), indoor plants are recognized for their good energy (34.1%) and air purifying features (26.8%). Significant choices are available for specific plants, with the Epipremnum aureum coming in second at 31.7%, and the Dracaena trifasciata at 46.3% being the most popular. With a few of those received as gifts or online, nurseries consider 68.3% of plant purchases. The study identifies important plant families: Arecaceae, Asparagaceae, Asphodelaceae, Asteraceae, and Euphorbiaceae each have two to six species, while Araceae is the family with the greatest number with eleven. Just 1-2 species represent some families, such as Apocynaceae and Piperaceae.
Teachers' Unions: Cadres of Political Parties or Distinct Curriculum Ideologies?
Authors: Ghimire Shurendra
Published: December 2024

School teachers as professionals have been segregated into different trade unions in Nepal. The basis of this separation is whether on distinct curriculum ideology of professionals or just a grouping of the caders of different political parties has not been empirically assessed yet, however, common understanding is the later. As the educational quality is influenced by teachers’ consciousness and ideology, the study captured their curriculum ideology by employing the qualitative survey methodology. A set of five questions was developed to explore put their views, and thus obtained views of 16 teachers who are active in three largest trade unions were coded and tabulated. I got insight in three aspects from the thematic analysis of the information. First, the teachers how long they have been in leading positions did not answer the questions, only those who were already familiar to me replied. This indicates that leader teachers are not confident to put their curriculum ideology forward. Second, those teachers who shared their views were unable to present a comprehensive curriculum ideology. Last, there is no distinctness in curriculum ideology as they are affiliated to the distinct trade unions. This study concludes that teachers’ partition in different trade unions is just an affiliation to the political party instead of cultivating and promoting a distinct curriculum ideology.
Inflation and Cost of Living in Nepal: A Short- and Long-Term Analysis Using ARDL Modeling
Authors: Poudel Omkar , Kafle Sarad Chandra , Rijal Umesh , Acharya Pradeep
Published: December 2024

Inflation significantly affects the cost of living, particularly in developing nations such as Nepal. This research investigates the correlation between inflation and the cost of living, emphasizing crucial economic factors like food prices, exchange rates, and money supply, and employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model for analysis. A quantitative methodology is adopted, utilizing secondary data spanning from 1977 to 2023. The study analyzes time series data through unit root tests, ARDL bounds testing, and an Error Correction Model (ECM) to assess both short-term and long-term interactions between inflation and the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Results reveal that food prices, inflation rates, and foreign exchange rates have a significant effect on CPI in both short and long durations. Conversely, money supply and real GDP do not demonstrate significant long-term impacts on inflation. The error correction term indicates a long-term equilibrium relationship among the variables. The research recommends that regulating food prices and exchange rates may help alleviate inflationary pressures in Nepal. It also advises policymakers to prioritize price stabilization initiatives to enhance economic welfare, especially for vulnerable populations. Additionally, the study underscores the necessity of controlling inflation to foster sustainable economic development.
Knowledge Management Practice on Digital Financial Innovation
Authors: Dahal Chhetri Ashmita
Published: December 2024

The study examines the influence of knowledge management (KM) on digital financial innovation in banks. The research was conducted in Bharatpur, involved surveying 161 bank employees at various management levels through purposive sampling. The study found that digital financial innovations significantly enhance customer satisfaction, with popular trends such as AI, digital platform integration, advanced data analytics, and blockchain technology. Banks effectively manage knowledge sources to improve performance and demonstrate competitive responsiveness. The banking sector actively promotes knowledge integration among employees and external partners, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing cultures. Statistical analysis revealed moderate positive relationship between knowledge utilization, acquisition, and integration with digital financial innovation. The study identified barriers to KM, such as organizational culture, technological infrastructure, regulatory constraints, and worker resistance. It also identified significant KM challenges for digital financial innovation, including internal expertise, resistance to change, integration issues, and security concerns. Regular training, workshops, and internal newsletters were the main methods for disseminating knowledge about innovations. The study concludes that banks should prioritize customer needs and invest heavily in digital financial innovation to maintain competitiveness and enhance customer satisfaction
Impact of Anthropocentrism in Robert Frost’s “A Brook in the City”: An Eco-critical Reading
Authors: Poudel Bimal Prasad
Published: December 2024

This article on Robert Frost’s poem “A Brook in the City” analyzes the exploitation of nature resulting from human encroachment. The poem presents the transformation of the brook from “an immortal force” to a mortal one with the advancement in science and technology. The poem evokes images of a serene brook from the past and contrasts them with scenes of a modern city, drawing a comparison between the two. The article uses eco-critical perspective to examine the destructive consequences of human intrusion on nature, linking these ideas with concepts from Val Plumwood’s “The Blindspots of Centrism and Human Self-enclosure”, and Arne Naess’ “Deep Ecological Movement: Some Philosophical Aspects”. Characteristically, the primary interest of eco-criticism has focused on literary representation of the Culture/Nature relationship, especially on the current ecological crisis and possible ways for its solution. The poem “A Brook in the City” gives a picture about the destruction of nature and Frost’s critique of massive exploitation of nature due to anthropocentric attitude on human beings. The findings highlight Frost’s implicit warning against the ecological harm caused by prioritizing development over environmental harmony. The study concludes that the poem serves as a poignant critique of humanity's exploitative tendencies, urging reflection on the need for a sustainable relationship with nature to address the ecological crisis.
Investigation of Medicinal Plants Utilized by Indigenous People in Saptari District of Madhesh Province, Nepal
Authors: Das Bishnu Dev , Sah Prativa Kumari Sah , Sardar Amrita , Paudyal Som Prasad , Paudel Niroj
Published: December 2024

The study has been carried out to investigate the traditional knowledge of ethnomedicine among the indigenous people of Saptari district, Nepal. The study has identified 83 plant species from 46 plant families overall. Out of the total number of plant species, 41 were domesticated and 42 were wild. Herbs account for the largest percentage of the 83 species of plants, followed by trees (31.32%), shrubs (20.48%), and climbers (6.024%). The Fabaceae family includes up to nine plant species that are used medicinally. Malvaceae, Moraceae, Solanaceae, and Lamiaceae all have four species apiece. From the Amaranthaceae, Apocynaceae, Apiaceae, and Poaceae plant families, three plant species were noted. From the Rutaceae, Amaryllidaceae, Araceae, Meliaceae, Brassicaceae, Zingiberaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, and Combretaceae plant families, two species are noted. The remaining families each represent a different type of plant. The plant species that have been collected are renowned for their ability to treat ailments like tonsillitis, elephantiasis, tonsillitis, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, colds, arthritis, gastritis, gonorrhea, diarrhea, dysentery, jaundice, and leprosy. Plant species from the list are reported to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including arthritis, cancer, diabetes, asthma, bronchitis, leprosy, tuberculosis, intestinal worms, anemia, syphilis, skin disease, and others
Index of Social Vulnerability to Natural Disasters in Nepal
Authors: Kumar Nand Kishor
Published: December 2024

Social vulnerability to natural hazards is a significant issue in Nepal, a country prone to earthquakes, floods, landslides, and other disasters. Despite existing studies, there remains a gap in comprehensive vulnerability assessments that account for multiple hazards and socio-economic factors. This study aims to develop a modified Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) to assess social vulnerability across Nepal’s provinces using updated data and a multi-hazard approach. Using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), the study analyzed 18 socio-economic and demographic variables to derive three principal components explaining 88.55% of the variance in vulnerability. The SVI scores for each district were calculated and aggregated at the provincial level. Data from the 2021 Nepal Census and historical disaster records from 2015 to 2021 were used to quantify vulnerability. The study found significant regional differences in vulnerability. Madhesh (SVI = 21.84) and Karnali (SVI = 4.46) provinces were identified as very high vulnerability regions, while Gandaki province (SVI = -18.75) showed very low vulnerability. Terai regions were generally highly vulnerable, especially in terms of flooding. The findings emphasize the need for multi-hazard assessments in disaster risk management. The SVI is a practical tool for targeted disaster preparedness, resource allocation, and vulnerability monitoring over time. This study offers a comprehensive vulnerability assessment for Nepal, providing policymakers with essential tools to reduce disaster risks and enhance resilience across provinces.
Effect of Various Mulching Materials on Yield and Quality of Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus) in Mahottari, Nepal
Authors: Chaulagain Supriya , Shrestha Sailesh , Paudel Subodh , Rajbahak Deena , Chaudhary Bijay , Shrestha Susma , Adhikari Shreeram , Rajput Avishek Singh
Published: December 2024

An experiment was conducted from April to July 2023 in the Mahottari district of Nepal to evaluate the influence of various mulching materials on the yield and quality of okra, specifically the Arka Anamika variety. The study employed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications and included five treatment variations: T1 (Control), T2 (Black plastic), T3 (Silver plastic), T4 (Rice straw), and T5 (Sawdust). The findings revealed that the type of mulch significantly affected all growth and yield parameters. Among all treatments, black plastic mulch yielded the highest seed germination rate at 89.01%, while the control plot had the lowest rate at 68.00%. At 35, 50, and 65 days after sowing (DAS), plants in black and silver plastic mulch plots were significantly taller than those in other treatments. Black plastic mulch also enhanced leaf number, promoted earlier flowering, and produced higher yields compared to bare soil, with silver plastic mulch being the next most effective. Crops grown with plastic mulch exhibited superior vegetative growth and yield attributes compared to those with organic mulches. The highest productivity was recorded in the black plastic mulch treatment (30.00 Mt/ha), followed by silver plastic mulch (27.00 Mt/ha). Moreover, black plastic mulch resulted in the highest net return and benefit-cost ratio (3.23), while the control plot had the lowest (1.8). Consequently, the use of plastic mulch, particularly black plastic mulch, is recommended to enhance vegetable production in the research area.
Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(4): 207-114.
The Impact of Various Priming Treatments on Rato Basmati Rice Variety
Authors: Dhami Arati , Limbu Anka Kumari , Karki Mamata , Kshetri Karishma , Subedi Kabita , Gaire Achyut
Published: December 2024

An important crop, used as stable food worldwide is rice. The germination stage is crucial for rice crop and is mainly affected by drought stress. A laboratory experiment was conducted in GAASC laboratory, Gokuleshwor, Baitadi to study the impact of various priming treatments on Rato basmati rice variety. The experiment was done in a completely randomized design using 9 treatments replicated thrice. The treatments were Hydro priming 24hrs, Hydro priming 12hrs, Gibberellin 5mg/liter, Gibberellin 10mg/liter, Gibberellin 15mg/liter, NaNO3 0.5%, NaNO₃ 5%, NaNO₃ 15%, and control where seeds were washed three times followed by 5 hours drying at room temperature. For 10 days, each Petri plate was observed every 12 hours. The priming treatment with Gibberellin 10mg/L showed the most promising results for germination percentage (100%) within 120 hours, Germination index (11.06) and germination energy (0.97), while Gibberellin 15 mg/L showed higher vigor index (1522), plumule length (40.02 cm), radicle length (15.73 cm). However, the germination energy (0.93) was found similar in Gibberellin 15 mg/L and 24hrs hydropriming. Regarding Plumule to radicle length ratio, highest result was obtained from 24hrs hydropriming (0.55 cm). Thus, this study suggests that using Gibberellin of both 10 and 15 mg/L for priming in rato basmati variety of rice showed the best results compared to other treatments.
Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(4): 187-193.
Modeling of the Extraction Kinetics of Oil from Safou Pulp (Dacryodes edulis H.J. Lam) by Heating in Hexane with Stirring
Authors: Bopoundza Feueltgaldah-Christian , Binaki Anicet Fréderic , Biassala Eliane Thérèse , Loumouamou Bob Wilfrid , Ngueko Séraphin Nguié , Massamba Julin Aaron Siassia , Silou Thomas
Published: December 2024

The continuous extraction of oil from safou pulp in hot hexane with stirring was studied. Two factors were considered: the method with two modes, M1 and M2, respectively without and with prior preheating of the solvent, and the temperature with two modes as well, 90 and 105°C for M1, and 50 and 70°C for M2. The results showed that continuous extraction by direct contact of the substrate with the solvent yields lower results compared to Soxhlet extraction, which has the advantage of regenerating the pure solvent each time, leading to more efficient recovery of the solute. However, the extraction rate is proportional to the preheating of the solvent, temperature, and agitation of the system, compared to previous results. The extraction curves exhibit the usual pattern of solid-liquid extraction of plants, with an ascending phase followed by stabilization. The temperature stabilization phase was not observed. The experimental curves validate the Peleg model, but not the first-order kinetic model. The oil is extracted by elution and diffusion. Peleg's lines, t/Yt = 0.01855t + 0.13074 at 90 °C and t/Yt = 0.02076t + 0.05839 at 105 °C for method M1, and t/Yt = 0.01842t + 0.03657 at 50 °C and t/Yt = 0.01934t + 0.02647 at 70 °C for method M2, characterizing the extraction process, confirm the previous conclusions. The initial extraction rates, respectively equal to 7.65, 17.13, 27.34, and 37.77 %.min-¹, are proportional to the extraction temperature and higher when the solvent is preheated. The activation energy values, 61.31 kJ.mol-¹ for method M1 and 14.88 kJ/mol for method M2, clearly show the benefit of preheating the solvent before starting the extraction.
Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(4): 224-234.
Physicochemical Characteristics and Soil Suitability for Semi-Irrigated Rice Cultivation in The Tandjile Province of Chad
Authors: Issiné Agoubli , Justin Kao-mbassi Yerima Keda , Gomoung Doloum
Published: December 2024

A study carried out in Tandjilé-Est, a region located in the South-Central part of Chad, aimed to examine the pedoclimatic and socio-economic parameters that cause the variability of rice yield (Oryza sativa) in an irrigated system. Three sites in the Kabalaye canton were chosen for soil sampling; these are Satégui, Mala and Djongo; in each site, five soil samples were taken. To assess the suitability of irrigated areas, two assessment methods were used on the two types of soils in the study area, including a Vertisol and a Planosol. This assessment shows that Vertisols are suitable for growing rice in an irrigated system, while Planosols are marginal. The main limitation in Planosols is the low nutrient content. To overcome this problem, it is necessary to improve the management of field fertility, rotate crops, and train producers in integrated fertility management and provide them with credit and adequate agricultural equipment.  
Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(4): 180-186.
Gut Content Analysis of Oreochromis niloticus and Chanda nama of Begnas Lake, Kaski, Nepal
Authors: Husen Md. Akbal , Basnet Alisha , Shahi Rabina , Khanal Naresh
Published: December 2024

Gut content analysis provides insights into fish species' feeding preferences, tropical interaction, and geographical and seasonal variations in their diets. Guts of Oreochromis niloticus and Chanda nama were analyzed and index of preponderance (IP) was calculated. IP depicts that in O. niloticus, phytoplankton (61.92%) was the most commonly consumed food followed by zooplankton (24.39%), debris, sand (12.57%), nematodes (0.7%) and hatchling (0.42%), In C. nama, micro-crustaceans (48.82%) contributed the most for total volume of food items, followed by scales (37.76%), insects (13.53%), and phytoplankton (0.29%). Begnas lake supports 28 phytoplankton and 12 zooplankton species out of which 24 phytoplankton, seven zooplankton species and seven phytoplankton and four zooplankton species were found in O. niloticus gut and C. nama gut respectively. O. niloticus's diverse feeding habits and C. nama's lepidophagous behavior have caused challenges for native fish, which may be reason for decline in native fish population.
Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(4): 215-223.
Impact of Digital Marketing on Purchasing Behaviour of Consumer Apparel
Authors: Rai Bharat , Sherpa Dawa
Published: December 2024

Purpose: The major goal of the study was to examine the effect of dimensions of digital marketing such as social media marketing, email marketing, and mobile marketing on consumer purchasing behaviour towards consumer apparel.
Methods/Design: Six-point Likert scale structured questionnaire was utilized for the collection of primary data. The study’s population was consumers of consumer apparel in Nepal. The sample size was 385 consumer apparel users. A convenient sampling method was used in the study. A causal effect research design was used for the research. Regression analysis was used to identify the effect of independent variables on purchasing behaviour.
Findings: The result of the study showed that social media marketing and mobile marketing have a strong significant role in the development of purchasing behaviour but there is not any significant effect of email marketing in the development of purchasing behaviour in Nepal.
Conclusions: It is concluded that social media marketing and mobile marketing have significant roles in the development of consumer buying behaviour and can lead to an increase in consumer buying behaviour, but email marketing does not have any role in shaping consumer buying behaviour.
Recommendation: Based on some limitations of the study, the variables that are not captured in the study can be used. This research can also be done on other products, like smartphones, laptops, motorcycles, and other service industries. Demographic variables can be used as moderating variables in this model.
Originality/Value: This study is useful for consumer apparel sellers. By understanding factors affecting digital marketing on purchasing behaviour, the sellers can improve their business strategies. The study also suggests that marketers should consider mobile marketing and social media marketing to increase the sales of consumer apparel. The study's findings offer a guide for future researchers and policymakers regarding consumer apparel.
Impact of Liquidity and Risk on Dividend Policy: A Mediating Role of Investment
Authors: Silwal Prem , K.C Roshan , Paudel Phadindra
Published: December 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyze the influence of liquidity and risk on dividend policy in the nepalese banking sector, with a specific focus on examining the mediating role of investment in the relationship between liquidity and risk and the dividend policy.
Methods/Design: The study uses a questionnaire survey, gathering 356 responses from bank managers in Nepal representing various banking categories. It adopts a descriptive and correlational research design, incorporating regression analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) using AMOS to achieve its objectives.
Findings: The results indicate that investment significantly mediates the relationship between liquidity, risk, and dividend policy. Specifically, firms with higher liquidity and greater risk are more likely to invest in profitable projects, which are expected to lead to increased profit distribution within the banking sector in the future.
Implications/Limitations: These insights are valuable for both financial managers and policymakers in the Nepalese banking sector. However, the study is limited to the banking sector in Nepal and may not generalize to banks in other regions or financial systems.
Originality: This study provides a unique perspective on the interaction between company risk and dividend policy in Nepalese banks, filling a gap in the literature on risk management and shareholder value within the context of emerging economies.
Transformational Leadership for Employee Commitment to Sustainable Practices: Mediating Role of Occupational Delight
Authors: Gautam Prakash
Published: December 2024

Purpose: As organizations increasingly emphasize sustainability, understanding how leadership styles affect employee engagement becomes crucial. This research aims to analyze the effect of transformational leadership on employee commitment to sustainable practices, highlighting the mediating role of occupational delight.
Methodology: This study adopted a causal-comparative research design and a quantitative approach. It collected data from bank employees with different job responsibilities and analyzed it using descriptive and inferential statistics following the PROCESS Macro.
Findings: This study posits that transformational leadership enhances employee commitment to sustainable work practices towards sustainability by fostering occupational delight. The findings suggest that creating a work environment that promotes fulfillment can significantly contribute to sustainability practices.
Originality/Value: This study concludes that effective leadership is essential for employees’ commitment and that leaders should follow transformational leadership. Further, the study integrated occupational delight into the relationship between transformational leadership and employees’ commitment to sustainable work practices.
Implications: The study's findings and conclusion will help organizations develop a strategic leadership approach in the competitive business environment.
Trade - Growth Nexus in Nepal: A Gravity Model Approach
Authors: Kadel Suren , Bhusal Tara
Published: December 2024

Purpose of the Study: This study investigates the relationship between trade and economic growth in Nepal, focusing on how factors such as GDP, population, and geographical distance affect Nepal’s exports and imports. The research question addresses: "How do these factors influence Nepal's trade dynamics?"
Methods/Design: A gravity model framework was used, with panel data analysis employing fixed and random effects models. The Hausman test determined the appropriate model. Data on trade partners' GDP, population, and geographical distance were collected to estimate the model.
Findings: The analysis shows that Nepal’s exports are positively influenced by the GDP and population of trade partners, while geographical distance negatively impacts trade. Closer countries are more favorable trading partners. The random effects model proved to be the most appropriate estimator, with both the export and import models demonstrating strong explanatory power.
Conclusion/Implications: The findings suggest that Nepal should focus on export diversification and strengthen regional trade relations to foster economic growth. Policymakers can use these insights to improve trade strategies and regional cooperation.
Limitations of the Study: The study is limited by data constraints and does not account for informal trade flows, which could affect the results.
Originality of the Study: This study uniquely applies the gravity model to Nepal’s trade context, addressing challenges faced by landlocked developing countries.
Climate Change Impacts of Health Workers Without Safety Measures on Working Places
Authors: Ghimire Mayanath
Published: December 2024

This study aims to explore the effects of climate change on health workers in Nepal, particularly in workplaces lacking safety measures. Climate change poses significant threats that can accumulate over time, leading to long-term changes in health and reliance on occupational safety and health (OSH). Factors such as rising ambient temperatures, air pollution, ultraviolet radiation exposure, and extreme weather events adversely affect OSH. Examples of climate change impacts include sea-level rise, warming oceans, shrinking ice sheets, glacial retreat, ocean acidification, and reduced snow cover. This research employs a review-based approach, utilizing systematic literature analysis to recommend pragmatic solutions. The researcher primarily employs deductive reasoning throughout the review process, employing in-depth archival analysis and intensive review strategies. The study finds that climate change affects organizational operations, leading to illnesses or injuries among health workers and increasing stress levels. Many health workers in Nepal operate without adequate safety measures; for example, healthcare personnel often lack gloves and masks, construction workers do not use protective gear, and farmers apply pesticides without safety equipment. These unsafe practices expose workers to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reproductive dysfunctions, vector[1]borne diseases, and other climate-sensitive health risks. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved occupational safety measures to protect health workers from the adverse effects of climate change.
Relationship of Conflict Management on Employees’ Performance in a Private Sector Organisation in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Arbind , Singh Balgopal
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the ways in which approaches for resolving disagreements influence the performance of workers in private sector organisations. The following strategies for conflict resolution were taken into consideration: competing, avoiding, accommodating, compromising, and collaborating. With the descriptive survey design, the questionnaire that was prepared by the researcher was utilised. Both the Employee Performance Questionnaire and the Conflict Management Strategies that were tagged were utilised in the process of data collecting. According to the findings of the studies, techniques for conflict management have a major influence on the performance of employees. As a result, it was recommended that, in order to enhance the productivity of workers at their place of employment, disagreements of any kind should be skillfully managed rather than ignored. Individuals working at all levels of the organisation should be provided with the right behavioural guidance and training on how to handle conflict. Supervisors are required to get continual training on how to settle disagreements in order to bring about an increase in the productivity of workers while they are on the job.