bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies among Seaweed Farmers in Sorsogon, Philippines
Authors: Dumilag Richard , Malto Mark Ariel , Mirasol Maria Luisa , Escopete Ada , Capacio Ida , Malto Aireen , Tagal Stefani Reign , Abeleda Meliza , Andriesse Edo
Published: September 2024

Seaweed farming is a significant source of livelihood for many coastal communities in the Philippines. While it is one of the most profitable forms of aquaculture, seaweed farmers are nevertheless encouraged to participate in other business activities to provide financial security. Thus far, studies among seaweed farmers in the Philippines have primarily focused on production-related activities and market and value chains. Seaweed farmers’ entrepreneurial skills have yet to be evaluated. In this study, we assess the capacity of seaweed farmers in Sorsogon, the Philippines, to undertake business ventures using the personal entrepreneurial competencies (PEC) test. We found that seaweed farmers exhibit moderate entrepreneurial competencies. There were significant differences found between the mean PEC scores across traits. “Risk-taking” and “demand for quality and efficiency” indicated a significant interaction with educational attainment. Entrepreneurial competencies among seaweed farmers may be improved by pooling tacit entrepreneurial knowledge among seaweed farmers, engaging in entrepreneurial education, and establishing and maintaining groups (cooperatives, clusters, or associations) to gain matched support from NGOs and government.
Optimizing Agroforestry Plantation in Los Baños, Laguna
Authors: Tan Christinne , de Lara Mark Lexter
Published: September 2024

Agroforestry has been a necessary practice as a land management system to aid the growing pressure on the forestry land. To support the local farmers in the Learning Laboratory for Agroforestry in Los Baños, Laguna who practice this system, a linear programming model was constructed to maximize the profit while considering the land, labor hours, rotation age constraints, and the combination of crops. The crops used in this study were grouped into nitrogen and non-nitrogen fixers, and combinations of alternation of these crops were formulated while taking rotation ages into account. The maximum profit was calculated using the Linear Programming Solver or LiPS. The model allocated the total land area to the combination of cucumber, string beans, and tomato, as it was the most profitable. Results indicate that the second-best option was the combination of bitter gourd and string beans, as it had the second- smallest reduced cost. Also, the maximum profit increased by PHP 264.43 per square meter increase in the land area available. Hence, it is suggested that the local farmers must expand their land areas or increase the selling prices to obtain higher profits.
In Vitro Effectiveness of Forest Betel Leaf (Piper sarmentosum Roxb.) Extract against Haemonchus contortus Larvae
Authors: Pransiska Elma , Jesika Debora , Furtuna Dewi Klarita , Sri Martani Natalia , Immanuela Toemon Agnes , Jabal Arif Rahman
Published: September 2024

Haemonchosis is a parasitic disease that affects ruminants and humans. This study aims to determine whether its extract can kill H. contortus. The betel leaf extract was prepared: 25, 50, 75, and 100%. The extract was administered to L3 H. contortus, and 6-h observations were made. The results showed that the betel leaf extract could kill L3 H. contortus within 3 h of treatment.
Current Estimates of Philippine Marine Mollusks Taxonomic Diversity
Authors: Garcia Abigail , Anticamara Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Mollusks are among the most diverse and the most threatened invertebrate groups, with high records of recent extinctions. Yet, the assessment of mollusk diversity and records in megadiverse countries such as the Philippines greatly needs synthesis and updating. Here, we report on the current taxonomic diversity of the Philippine mollusk. Comprehensive records of mollusks in the Philippines from published literature, accessible museum records, and online databases were compiled and checked with the World Register of Marine Species. A total of 64,898 Philippine mollusk records were compiled, comprised of 14,482 distinct species. Of these distinct species records of Philippine mollusk, 51% have accepted names in WoRMS, whereas 35.8% had taxonomic name changes; 1.5% had unaccepted names in WoRMS but with no accepted names either (e.g. taxon inquirendum, nomen dubium, etc), and 11.7% did not have exactly matched records in WoRMS. After checking all Philippine mollusks records against WoRMS, there were 8,066 mollusk species in the Philippines belonging to 1,991 genera within 423 families and 51 orders, representing all molluscan classes. A total of 7,085 (88%) of the species records were marine (6,953 or 86% were strictly marine species) belonging to 1,780 genera, 368 families, and 50 orders, also representing all mollusk classes. This current account is the most comprehensive we know to date, but it certainly is an underestimate, as not all possible resources are accessible. A systematic national-scale survey of Philippine mollusk diversity is needed to improve the current account and to fill the gaps in [1] taxonomic status verification, and [2] the IUCN and conservation status of many Philippine mollusk species (which, to date, 96% of all species have no IUCN assessments).
Characterization of Pollen Grain and Pollen Extract from Common Allergenic Plants in the Philippines
Authors: Hate Krystal , Castor Mary Anne , Cruz Maria Katrina Diana , Balanag Gregg Austine , Salvador Kent Isaac , Sanchez Nicole Angelique , Reyes Roche Dana , Agcaoili–de Jesus Maria Socorro , Ocampo-Cervantes Cherie , Dalmacio Leslie Michelle
Published: September 2024

Allergic rhinitis and asthma are prevalent in tropical countries like the Philippines. Pollen grains from anemophilous plant species may trigger these respiratory allergies. Pollen extracts from common allergenic plants are currently produced locally in the Philippines and are utilized for the diagnosis and immunotherapy of patients with respiratory allergies. Further improvement of their quality is necessary to avoid false negative or false positive diagnoses, as well as to increase the effectiveness of immunotherapy and avoid adverse reactions. This study aimed to characterize the morphology of the collected pollen grains and assess the pollen purity, protein concentration, and electrophoretic profile of the allergenic pollen extracts. Pollen identification and percent purity of the pollen collections were assessed via microscopy and hemocytometer. Lowry assay was performed to identify the total protein concentration of the pollen extracts before subjecting them to SDS-PAGE and silver staining. The pollen samples from varying plant families have distinct features that will aid in their proper identification. Collected aggregates of pollen samples with pollen purity of < 90%, like T. procumbens, A. saman, L. leucocephala, and M. indica, manifest darker colors compared to their actual color. On the other hand, the color of collected pollen samples with pollen purity ≥ 90% are commonly yellow or off-white, which is their natural color. The total protein concentration of the crude pollen extracts ranges from 2.87–9.63 mg/mL. The pollen extracts revealed protein bands at molecular weights ranging from 10–250 kD on SDS-PAGE. Proper characterization of a particular pollen may help in assessing the purity of the collected pollen. Higher pollen purity may contribute to the assurance that the positive diagnosis was due to the target pollen of a plant and not due to contaminations from other components. The result of this study may be considered for the improvement of the crude pollen allergen extract production for clinical use. It is also recommended to assess the effect of the environmental condition where the pollen was collected in terms of the actual proteins present after allergen extraction.
New Distribution Record for Paraspartolus curiosus Gunther, 1939 (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae) with Notes on Taxonomy and Biogeography
Authors: Patano Jr Romeo , Kasalo Niko , Amoroso Victor , Guiang Maria Melanie , Coritico Fulgent , Mohagan Alma
Published: September 2024

Paraspartolus Günther, 1939 is a monotypic genus endemic to the Philippines. Its only species – P. curiosus Günther, 1939 – has been known only from Cape Engaño, Santa Ana, Cagayan, Luzon Island. Even though the species was described more than 80 years ago, only three specimens have been known, and nothing about the species’ coloration, variability, or ecology was noted. In this study, we provide live photographs of the species for the first time from Negros Island – some 1000 km away from the type locality. We present detailed measurements of the collected male and female specimens and describe the species’ color variations and microhabitats, including their bryophyte associates. We provide comments on the distribution of the species and identify problems with the higher classification.
Integrating Atmospheric Science Research in Chemical Education: Utility of Primary Research Articles in Fostering Student Interest in Meteorology
Authors: Reyes Ronald , Regala Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Atmospheric science research has seen significant advances in facilitating the generation of knowledge and promoting a scientific understanding of global meteorological issues and concerns with the advent of technological progress across many disciplines, including the physical and biological sciences and the breakthroughs in computational and modeling methodologies. This has resulted in a rich library of scientific literature showcasing knowledge creation and a deeper understanding of natural phenomena and their linkages to the sustenance of life embodied by the extensive systems of the hydrosphere, biosphere, and even the frontiers of outer space. This article outlines how primary research in atmospheric science can be integrated into chemical education by furnishing connections and synchronicity with chemistry, bridging the concepts, discoveries, innovations, and their immediate importance to science and society. A general overview is given on how topics or themes in general chemistry courses can utilize the power of scientific research articles on atmospheric science, fostering students' interest in meteorological concepts and related fields. A non-exhaustive list of primary research literature highlighting breakthroughs related to a specific chemistry theme serving as templates for chemical educators is provided to enable the students to see real-world applications. Integrating research into science education is an effective strategy to promote scientific thinking and literacy and should be a catalyst for the global drive for sustainability.
Transport Network Efficiency during Typhoon Relief Operations
Authors: Peralta J.C. Albert , Lim May , Reyes Reinabelle
Published: September 2024

The transport network is the backbone of relief delivery operations during natural disasters such as typhoons. In this study, we constructed a transport network model connecting the cities and municipalities of the Visayas island group in the Philippines with their regional relief or food hubs. Using this model, we simulated relief delivery under various damage scenarios arising from the impact of a chosen typhoon. Using Typhoon Haiyan (“Yolanda”) as an example, we measured the relief delivery efficiency of the transport network over a range of damage scenarios relative to the baseline undamaged case. We find that the Visayas transport network is sensitive to small damages, with 30 out of 251 town centers (12%) getting disconnected from the network and relief delivery efficiency dropping to 75%, resulting in time delays of up to 12 h, when just 1% of the nodes are damaged. Our results explain the difficulty of achieving timely relief delivery efforts in the aftermath of typhoons, especially in archipelagic geographies. We also present a prototype decision support tool that can efficiently generate simulations of multiple projected scenarios, including different typhoon paths and additional food hub locations, to help decision-makers forecast expected improvements in relief delivery efficiency. This tool underlines the importance of strategic prepositioning of relief goods and data-driven disaster risk reduction and management plans.
Role of Historical Warming on the Extreme Flooding Event Due to Typhoon Vamco (Ulysses) 2020 in the Philippines
Authors: Macalalad Rhonalyn , Delfino Rafaela Jane , Badilla Roy , Paat Jr. Socrates , Bagtasa Gerry
Published: September 2024

In November 2020, Typhoon (TY) Vamco (locally named Ulysses) made landfall on the main island of Luzon, the Philippines. It brought intense rainfall resulting in widespread flooding making it the 7th costliest TY in the Philippines. Its thermodynamic characteristic from radiosonde observations during its closest passage shows that while the convective available potential energy (CAPE) was not abnormally high, the saturated layer from 850–600 hPa height had lapse rates slightly larger than the moist-adiabat. Also, high precipitable water of up to 70.3 mm and high relative humidity (RH) from the surface to 400 hPa likely explain the heavy rainfall associated with TY Vamco. Global warming has exerted profound effects on weather patterns around the globe. Consequently, the impact of TY Vamco was used as an example of climate change in the local popular media. In this study, we investigated the influence of historical warming on the rainfall characteristics of TY Vamco using the Weather Research and Forecasting model. The pseudo-global warming method was applied using a 40-yr regression of sea surface and air temperature, and RH. We then used the modeled rainfall to simulate the river discharges of two rivers in the northern Philippines that experienced extensive flooding. Results show that SST has a major influence on the intensity of TY Vamco. However, other factors such as orography and changes in mid-tropospheric humidity negate the effects of historical warming, which resulted in comparable rainfall between the past and present simulations.
About This Special Issue [Meteorology]
Authors: Saloma Caesar
Published: September 2024

We are pleased to publish for 2023 this Special Issue on Meteorological Research in the Philippines. Meteorology is a branch of the atmospheric sciences that focuses on the challenging task of reliable weather forecasting. Long-term predictions are extremely difficult to make at high accuracy because the weather is a chaotic physical system that is quite sensitive to initial conditions. Small changes in the initial values that are caused by ambient noise or imprecise measurements can lead to significantly different future dynamical behavior. The Philippines (2020 population: 109,035,343) is prone to extreme weather events. Between 1946 and 2022, an average of 37 ± 8 tropical cyclones (TCs) were formed yearly in the Western North Pacific Basin, with 23 ± 5 of them entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and 10 ± 4 eventually making landfall in the Philippine archipelago. TCs can be categorized into five: super typhoons (max sustained wind speed > 185 kph), typhoons (118–184 kph), severe tropical storms (89–117 kph), tropical storms (62–88 kph), and tropical depressions (< 62 kph). The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship database (1950s–2010s) reveals that typhoons (at 80.85 ± 33.95 per decade) were the most numerous— followed by tropical depressions (78.57 ± 38.82), super typhoons (60.2 ± 31.14), tropical storms (56.6 ± 26.34), and severe tropical depressions (52.28 ± 23.8).
Optimizing Government Workforce Performance: A Study of Employee Engagement, Organizational Commitment, and Knowledge Sharing
Authors: Mulyana Deddy , Ahman Eeng , Sojanah Janah , Santoso Budi
Published: September 2024

The organization must preserve balance by establishing mutually beneficial relationships with its employees, who are its most valuable assets. Several essential aspects are required to maintain this equilibrium, including organizational commitment, employee engagement, and information exchange. We use social exchange theory to investigate the effects of commitment, knowledge sharing, and employee engagement on civil servant performance outcomes (ASN). This study uses a cross-sectional design and includes 115 civil servants from Tasikmalaya. Data analysis utilizes Stata/MP 17.0 for descriptive, bivariable, and multivariable analyses. The research findings indicate a positive impact of employee engagement, affective and normative commitment, and knowledge sharing on ASN performance. However, the negative effect of tenure exceeding five years and continuance commitment on ASN performance is negative. These findings illustrate that while employees are generally expected to have high organizational commitment, continuous commitment to material benefits may be detrimental. The results serve as a basis for discussion among researchers to conduct further longitudinal studies for more accurate conclusions.
A importância das competências socioemocionais nas relações de trabalho
Authors: Queiroz Santos Francielli , Ireno Leme Iara , Favato Gonçalves Cardoso Lara , Teodoro Tenile , Malvar Ribas Rafael
Published: September 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é realizar uma revisão bibliográfica a respeito dos estudos sobre as competências socioemocionais no mercado de trabalho, enfatizando as relações humanas, sua importância e benefícios. As prioridades do nosso artigo foram os temas: Engajamento com os outros, iniciativa social, assertividade, entusiasmo, amabilidade, empatia, respeito e confiança. Percebeu-se que tais habilidades são imprescindíveis no mercado de trabalho pois promovem o bem-estar, melhoram a cultura organizacional e a qualidade de vida.
Harnessing Nature’s Bounty: Phytoinsecticides for a Healthier and Sustainable World
Authors: Selvamuthukumaran Thirunavukkarasu , Dhanapriya Palanisamy , Iqbal Nusrat
Published: September 2024

Global warming fuels pest infestations, causing massive crop losses and economic damage. Chemical insecticides, though initially effective, come with a heavy toll: environmental harm, health risks, and resistance development. Their overuse creates a vicious cycle, leading to even more pesticide use and devastating consequences for beneficial insects, soil, water, and human health making our current agricultural practices unsustainable. Phyto-insecticides derived from plants are safer and more sustainable alternatives that boast a long history of use and diverse modes of action, making it harder for pests to develop resistance. They pose lower risks to human health and the environment and can be produced sustainably from renewable plant sources. While promising, phyto-insecticides face hurdles. Limited plant biomass, variable effectiveness, and unstable formulations hinder their commercialization. However, innovative solutions are emerging: (1) callus culture: this technique offers a sustainable way to mass-produce valuable secondary metabolites like Azadirachtin and Pyrethrin; (2) understanding insect interactions: Deciphering how these compounds interact with insects paves the way for effective utilization and formulation design; (3) nanotechnology: nanoparticles enhance stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery, boosting efficacy and reducing environmental impact. Excitingly, trace amounts of phyto-insecticide residues may offer additional benefits. Some compounds, like Azadirachtin, Piperine etc., possess potential nutraceutical properties, promoting bone health, managing diabetes, and even fighting cancer. This opens the door to “nutraresidiceuticals,” where food treated with phyto-insecticides might enhance consumer health. Phyto-insecticides hold immense potential as a sustainable and effective pest management strategy. By addressing challenges related to biomass, formulation, and understanding their modes of action, we can unlock their full potential for a healthier and more sustainable future. Additionally, exploring the potential “nutraresidiceutical” benefits opens up exciting new avenues for research and development.
Improvement of Barley Seed Performance and Seedling Growth by Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria
Authors: Asadi Aghbolaghi Masoumeh , Piri Ramin , Fazeli-Nasab Bahman , Shakeri Chaleshtori Zahra , Dedicova Beata , Sayyed Riyaz , Mastinu Andrea
Published: September 2024

Biostimulants are widely acknowledged as an effective method to alleviate drought-induced stress in various plant species, particularly during the crucial germination stage. The goal of this study was to investigate how plant growth-promoting bacteria (Azospirillum lipoferum and Azotobacter chroococcum) affect specific biochemical characteristics of barley under different levels of drought stress (0, −6, and −12 bar). The study employed a factorial design with three replications using a randomized complete block design. Our results show that the interaction effect of inoculation treatments and stress levels on emergence percentage, mean emergence time, seedling dry weight, and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity level is significant at a 1% probability level. Additionally, the interaction effect on the emergence index, proline content, and catalase (CAT) activity level is substantial at a 5% probability level. There are highest emergence percentage (89.33%), emergence index (4.08), and seedling dry weight (0.923 g) and the lowest emergence rate (6.47 days), proline content (0.153 mg/g fresh leaf tissue), and CAT activity (29 mg/g fresh leaf tissue) in Azospirillum-inoculated seeds. The highest APX activity (19.30 mg/g fresh leaf tissue) was obtained under non-stress conditions. Overall, inoculation with Azospirillum bacteria has an influential role in modulating the destructive effects of drought stress on the evaluated traits.
Deployment of Metal-Organic Frameworks toward Triboelectric Nanogenerators: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Abdul Basith Sayyid , P.K. Nitha , Ruksana Begum Shaik , Munirathinam Prabavathi , Viswanathan Pramila , Jacob George , Vivekananthan Venkateswaran , Chandrasekhar Arunkumar
Published: September 2024

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are versatile materials with exceptional properties, holding tremendous potential for various applications. The deployment of MOFs toward triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) has gained significant attention due to their unique advantages, such as high contact surface area and enhanced charge accumulation. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with this integration. It discusses the fundamentals of MOFs and TENGs, highlighting their characteristics and features. The chapter explores the challenges in selecting and synthesizing suitable MOFs, ensuring compatibility with TENG materials, and optimizing interface interactions. The influence of MOF properties on MOF-based TENG performance is discussed. The MOF-based TENG offers enhanced energy harvesting, improved device stability, and novel functionalities for self-powered sensing in domains, such as wireless sensor networks, wearable electronics, and environmental monitoring. The chapter proposes future research directions and strategies to overcome limitations, inspiring advancements in this exciting field. Using MOFs in TENGs promises superior sustainable energy harvesting devices with multi-functionality.
The Effects of Subchronic Methamphetamine Administration on the NLRP3 Inflammasome, Memory Function, and Hippocampal Morphology
Authors: Ibrahim Kurawa Musa , Torkaman-Boutorabi Anahita , Shafaghi Lida , Hassanzadeh Gholamreza , Zahmatkesh Maryam , Vousooghi Nasim , Zarrindast Mohammad Reza , Manouchehrabadi Mahboubeh , Gholaminejhad Morteza
Published: September 2024

Background: While it is established that addictive doses of methamphetamine correlate with inflammation-mediated neurotoxic pathways, the extent of toxicity resulting from subchronic administration at lower doses remains uncertain. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the subtle effects of daily subchronic methamphetamine (MA) administration on neuroinflammatory processes, cognitive dimensions, gene expression, and hippocampal morphology. Methods: The experimental study employed a longitudinal design with three groups (G1B, G2B, G3B) receiving methamphetamine (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, once daily) for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, respectively. Corresponding control groups (G1A, G2A, G3A) received 0.2 mL of normal saline. Spatial learning, novel object recognition, and passive avoidance tests were conducted to assess spatial, recognition, and fear avoidance memories. Hippocampal morphology was evaluated using Nissl staining, and the expressions of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 genes were measured as markers of neuroinflammation. Results: Statistical analyses, including one-way and two-way ANOVA, showed that subchronic low-dose administration of MA led to significant activation of the inflammasome (NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1), which may have resulted in pyramidal cell death in the hippocampus. The hippocampal structure in the CA1 region was completely disrupted. Spatial memory and passive avoidance learning were impaired in the MA groups, while recognition memory remained unaffected. Conclusions: The findings suggest that prolonged administration of 5 mg/kg of methamphetamine may be associated with significant inflammasome activation, pyramidal cell death, and mild cognitive decline. Contrary to previous evidence, even lower doses of methamphetamine taken over an extended period could be neurotoxic.
Cost-Utility Analysis of Erenumab Compared to Topiramate for Preventive Therapy of Migraine in Iran
Authors: Mollaee Hosein , Nadimi Parashkouhi Sadra , Fatemi Behzad , Seyedifar Meysam , Soleymani Fatemeh
Published: September 2024

Background: Migraine is a prevalent, chronic neurovascular disorder that incurs significant indirect costs due to productivity loss. Preventive therapy is an effective way to alleviate the societal and healthcare burden of migraine. Approximately 14% of both the global and Iranian populations are affected by migraine, which has substantial economic implications. Objectives: To determine the cost-effectiveness of Erenumab compared to Topiramate for migraine treatment in Iran. Methods: A three-state Markov model was used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of Erenumab. The model considered both direct and indirect costs from a societal perspective. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated by determining the cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Costs and QALYs were discounted annually at 5.8% and 5%, respectively. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) were performed to assess the robustness of the model. Results: The average cost for patients using the Erenumab strategy was 16,836 USD over five years, whereas the average cost for the Topiramate strategy was estimated to be 2,660 USD. Additionally, the average QALYs for the Erenumab and Topiramate strategies were 3.64 and 3.46, respectively. The ICER for the Erenumab strategy was 78,923 USD/QALY. This ICER is significantly higher than the fixed Iranian willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of 2,456 USD. Conclusions: The study concludes that preventive treatment of migraine with Erenumab, compared to Topiramate, is not cost-effective in Iran based on current prices. Therefore, for Erenumab to be considered cost-effective, a significant price reduction is necessary for its entry into the Iranian pharmaceutical market.
Prevalence, Incidence, and Risk Factors of Nephropathy in Patients with Prediabetes: Family History of Diabetes Mellitus Is Not Associated with Increased Risk of Nephropathy
Authors: Abbasi Shokoufeh , Amini Masoud , Vahdat Sahar , Aminorroaya Ashraf , Mortazavi Mojgan , Azimi Fatemeh
Published: September 2024

Background: Nephropathy, a vascular complication of hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and prediabetes, is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the incidence and prevalence of nephropathy and its risk factors in patients with prediabetes, with a particular focus on exploring the association between a family history (FH) of DM and nephropathy. Methods: In this retrospective study, we examined the medical records of 819 patients with prediabetes referred to the Isfahan Endocrine and Metabolism Research Center in 2004. We compared the prevalence of nephropathy in 2019 to baseline levels and assessed factors such as FH of DM in first-degree relatives and other nephropathy-related factors among patients with and without nephropathy. Results: The prevalence of nephropathy increased from 39% to 60.6% over 15 years, with a cumulative incidence of 21.6% and a mean annual incidence of 2.4%. There were differences in diastolic and systolic blood pressure, lipid markers, fasting and postprandial glucose levels, and glomerular filtration rate between patients with and without nephropathy; however, these differences were not statistically significant (P-value ≥ 0.05). Male sex (Odds ratio [OR]: 1.8), age (OR: 1.02), and Body Mass Index (BMI) (OR: 1.05) were significantly associated with nephropathy (P-value < 0.05). No significant association was found between a positive FH of DM and nephropathy (P-value = 0.638). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that a FH of DM is not associated with an increased risk of nephropathy in patients with prediabetes. Instead, sex, age, and BMI play a more significant role. Therefore, these factors may be more critical in guiding preventive and treatment measures.
Prevalence of Depression Among Dialysis Patients in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Isfahani Parvaneh , Afshin Mojgan , Alirezaei Samira , Shahraki Hadiseh , Arefi Marzieh , Corani Bahador Rasoul , Afshari Mahnaz
Published: September 2024

Context: Depression is a common issue among patients with chronic kidney disease, particularly those undergoing hemodialysis, and it can significantly impact their quality of life, treatment adherence, and disease progression. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression among dialysis patients in Iran using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) questionnaire. Data Sources: This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis. Six databases and Google Scholar were searched to identify all publications on the prevalence of depression among Iranian dialysis patients up until April 19, 2024. The quality of the identified articles was assessed, and the heterogeneity of the studies was evaluated using the I² Index. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression test and Sensitivity Analysis. Additionally, a meta-regression model was employed to evaluate variables suspected of contributing to heterogeneity at the 0.05 significance level. In the end, 17 articles were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (ver. 2.2.064). Results: The prevalence of depression among dialysis patients, after sensitivity analysis using the random-effects model, was estimated at 0.564 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.524 - 0.603). The highest prevalence rate was reported in the eastern region of Iran, at 0.705 (95% CI: 0.051 - 0.991). Sample size, year, and mean age were significantly associated with the prevalence of depression among dialysis patients (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Depression is highly prevalent among dialysis patients in Iran, with approximately half of them having experienced it. Therefore, policymakers and health system managers must take serious measures to address this significant issue.
Performance Analysis of Scattered Record Utilizing Block chain for Identifying Visual Substance Imitation
Authors:   Technical Architect, I & I Software Inc, 2571 Baglyos Circle, Suite B-32, Bethlehem, PA-18020, USA, Nagarajan Sivakumar
Published: September 2024

Visual content captured by monitoring devices are vulnerable to local or remote malicious modifications of visual information by offenders. These malicious visual content code changes (called forgeries) are divided into Cloning, Splicing, Inter-frame and Intra-frame forgeries. Rapidly improving editing software tools have made visual content manipulation feasible. Consequently, malicious attackers are trying to manipulate the visual content. Detecting visual content tampering is a major need for many applications Distributed databases can be used to detect visual content tampering by storing the evidence created by hashing the visual content at the source itself. However, these distributed databases lack in data transparency and security against Byzantine failures in an untrusted environment. Blockchain is a technology with the inherent ability to store data in a chronological chained link of events: establishing an irrefutable database. Using cryptographic hashes together with blockchain one can generate cryptographic hashes of the data content from a video recording, and consequently transmit these hashes to a blockchain. In this thesis we have proposed a model called Evidence chain based on Blockchain to ensure the credibility of the visual content. Unlike bitcoin which is a digital currency the proposed system documents content hash by using IPFS, Hash based technology, RSA, Elliptic Curve Cryptography. Image and Video segments are hashed and stored in chronological order as a chain of blocks which are detectable and non-altering guaranteeing the validity of the information. This research is significant in establishing the trust between any two parties. Key words: Block chain, Intra-frame, IPFS, Elliptic Curve Cryptography.
Delineating marker genotypes for higher reproduction performance to aid in selection of Murrah bulls
Authors: Ramendra Das  , Vikas Vohra  , Supriya Chhotaray
Published: September 2024

Unraveling the genetic variability of performance traits is the key basis of selection in farm animals. Murrah is a predominant milch breed of India, efforts were being made in the past to select them for higher production, which is negatively related with the fertility. Keeping this fact in mind and to select the animals having optimum production and fertility performance, present study was conducted to validate suitable markers and the association of their allelic variation with the fertility traits in Murrah buffaloes. Study was conducted on 280 Murrah buffaloes to explore SNPs in SPEF2 gene and their association with sire conception rate (SCR), conception rate (CR) and weight at birth of Murrah bulls. Results revealed that SNP C168T of SPEF2 gene with genotype CC was found to have non-significant but higher CR and SCR in comparison to CT and TT genotype. Although no significant association of the identified SNPs could be established with bull fertility traits, a further study with a large number of samples could make the differences due to genotypes a significant effect and can be used as an aid for early selection of high fertile Murrah bulls
An Iterative Design Process to Support Instructors and Instructional Designers in Creating a High-quality Online Statistics Course
Authors: Wang Sirui , Sanchez Juana
Published: September 2024

This study illustrates how an iterative, collaboration-nurtured approach to course design boosted student engagement, fostered collaborative learning, and showed the importance of pacing and structure in an undergraduate data science (DS) fully asynchronous online course (FAOC). The collaboration between the instructor and the instructional designer (ID) guided by the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework and the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) created engaging activities and assessments, maximized the benefits of multimedia and educational technology, addressed diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and accessibility through manageable learning sequences and design strategies, and offered an organic design model for online DS courses.
Hyocholic acid: A novel therapeutic strategy for metabolic syndrome
Authors: Rong Bohan , Zhang Qian , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhang Na , Shen Zhentong , Pang Yu , Lin Xu , Liu Di , Yang Xiuqin
Published: September 2024

The outdated definition of bile acids (BAs) as a sort of metabolic adjuvant for lipid and lipidic solubility should be expired. Mammalian BAs are widespread, tautomeric, polyphyletic, and biosynthetic metabolites that extensively serve as bio-messengers and can be used to characterize various physiological states. Among these, hyocholic acid species (HCAs) have received considerable interest due to their strong potential to alleviate energy dysmetabolism, especially glucolipid metabolic disorder. Effective integration of gut microbiomics, glycolipidomics, and other omics contributes to establishing the regulation process of BA signaling on glucolipid metabolism. In a three-dimensional system, HCAs (1) remodel the structure of the gut microbiome, the pattern of reabsorbed secondary BAs, and intestinal lipid uptake efficiency by increasing the hydrophilicity of the total BA pool and reducing cytotoxicity; (2) dynamically shape the profile of hepatic lipometabolism and primary BA biosynthesis via enterohepatic circulation and feedback regulation-based network between gut microbiota and host, and (3) serve as a serious of output signals which are responsible for tuning energy physiology of peripheral tissue. These multidimensional influences allow HCAs to improve the gut microbiome, inhibit excessive lipid uptake, and remodel glucolipid metabolic flux distribution that enhances resistance to metabolic syndrome. Increasing attention to HCAs in clinical and animal studies emphasizes the vital potential of BAs in tracing the role of environmental factors in the evolutionary process of associated species and opens a novel perspective to develop BAs into clinically therapeutic strategies and variety breeding.
ЎЗБЕКИСТОНДА КИЧИК БИЗНЕС ВА ХУСУСИЙ ТАДБИРКОРЛИК СУБЪЕКТЛАРИНИНГ ЭКСПОРТ САЛОҲИЯТИНИ ОШИРИШДА ИННОВАЦИОН ФАОЛИЯТНИНГ ЎРНИ
Authors: Камбарова Шахнозахон , Зокиржонова Феруза
Published: September 2024

Ушбу мақолада кичик бизнес ва хусусий тадбиркорлик ўрнини таҳлил қилишда мавжуд бўлган муаммолар ва потенциал имкониятлар аниқланган. Шу билан бирга кичик бизнес субъектларини экспорт салоҳиятини иқтисодиёт тармоқлари кесимида, экспорт ва инновация жараёнларини ўзаро мувофиқ холда йўлга қўйиш асосида кенгайтириш ва такомиллаштириш йўллари таклиф қилинган.
ҚИШЛОҚ АҲОЛИСИ ТУРМУШ ДАРАЖАСИНИ ЯХШИЛАШДА ТАДБИРКОРЛИК ТУЗИЛМАЛАРИНИНГ ЎРНИ
Authors: Мамажонова Саида
Published: September 2024

Қишлоқ аҳолисининг турмуш даражасини яхшилаш, қишлоқ ҳудудларида аҳоли тадбиркорлигини ривожлантириш бугунги кунда амалга оширилаётган давлат иқтисодий сиёсатининг устувор йўналишларидан бири ҳисобланади. Шундан келиб чиққан ҳолда, мазкур мақолада қишлоқ аҳолиси турмуш даражасини яхшилашда хўжалик юритишнинг самарали шакллари ҳисобланувчи фермер, деҳқон хўжаликлари ва томорқа ер эгалари фаолиятини яхшилаш масалалари муҳокама қилинади.
МИКРОСУҒУРТА РИСКЛАРНИ БОШҚАРИШНИНГ ИННОВАЦИОН МЕХАНИЗМИ СИФАТИДА
Authors: Номозова Қумри
Published: September 2024

Мақолада кичик корхоналарнинг рискли фаолияти масалалари, шунингдек, маҳаллий тадбиркорлик субъектларининг хатарларини минималлаштириш мақсадида рискларни бошқариш чоралари ва суғуртадан фойдаланиш муаммолари муҳокама қилинади. Микро суғурта маҳсулотларининг ўзига хос хусусиятлари, уларни тарқатиш каналлари, микро суғурта фаолияти моделлари аниқланди, хорижий тажриба ўрганилди. Кичик бизнес рискларини бошқаришнинг инновацион механизми сифатида микро суғуртадан фойдаланиш зарурлиги асосланади.
СТАТИСТИКА ФАОЛИЯТИНИ САМАРАЛИ ТАШКИЛ ЭТИШДА АХБОРОТ ОҚИМЛАРИНИ ОПТИМАЛ ТАШКИЛ ЭТИШ
Authors: Отажонова Гулҳаё
Published: September 2024

Мақолада статистика фаолиятини ташкил этишда ахборот оқимларини оптимал ташкил этиш ва ундаги мавжуд муаммолар ўрганилган. Cтатистика маълумотларини ишлаб чиқишнинг миллий модели босқичлари ва статистика агентлигига қабул қилинувчи маълумотлар таснифланиш белгиларига кўра гурухларга ажратилган. Шунингдек, е-Стат 4.0 автоматлаштирилган ахборот тизими истиқболлари ҳақида айтиб ўтилган.
ЧАРМ-ПОЙАБЗАЛ ТАРМОҒИНИНГ РИВОЖЛАНИШ ЙЎНАЛИШЛАРИ ВА ЎЗИГА ХОС ЖИҲАТЛАРИ
Authors: Отаниёзов Орифжон
Published: September 2024

Ушбу мақолада “Ўзчармсаноат” уюшмаси таркибидаги чарм, мўйна хом ашёси ва жун тайёрлаш, сақлаш ва қайта ишлаш, чорва моллари, жун, қоракўл ва сунъий чармдан буюмлар, чарм-атторлик маҳсулотлари, пойабзал ишлаб чиқариш билан шуғулланувчи ташкилот ва корхоналарнинг, ривожланиш йўналишлари ва ўзига хос жиҳатлари баён этилган.
ФОРМИРОВАНИЕ ПРОГНОЗНЫХ ЗНАЧЕНИЙ ДОХОДОВ БЮДЖЕТА УЗБЕКИСТАНА
Authors: Сарсенбаев Бахитжан , Алланиязова Наргиза
Published: September 2024

Подчеркивая, что формирование доходов бюджета является важным фактором развития экономики, в статье проводится анализ прогнозного значения доходов бюджета Республики Узбекистан на последующие годы.
КАМБАҒАЛЛИК ДАРАЖАСИНИ ҚИСҚАРТИРИШ БЎЙИЧА ХОРИЖИЙ МАМЛАКАТЛАР ТАЖРИБАСИ
Authors: Узаков Шерзод
Published: September 2024

Ушбу мақолада камбағаллик тушунчаси, камбағаллик чегараси, камбағалликни вужудга келиш сабаблари, Ўзбекистонда камбағаллик даражасининг ҳозирги ҳолати таҳлили, камбағаллик даражасини қисқартиришда хорижий мамлакатлар тажрибаси, Ўзбекистонда камбағаллик даражасини янда қисқартиришга қаратилган илмий таклиф ва амалий тавсиялар ёритилган.
ОПТИМИЗАЦИЯ ПРОИЗВОДСТВЕННЫХ ПРОЦЕССОВ НА ПРОМЫШЛЕННЫХ ПРЕДПРИЯТИЯХ
Authors: Холмухамедова Феруза
Published: September 2024

В статье рассматриваются современные методы и стратегии оптимизации производственных процессов на промышленных предприятиях. Особое внимание уделяется внедрению модели экономически обоснованного объема заказа (EOQ) и системы "Точно вовремя" (JIT), которые позволяют значительно снизить затраты и повысить эффективность управления запасами. Также анализируется влияние цифровизации и автоматизации на гибкость и адаптивность производственных систем. В заключение представлены рекомендации по дальнейшему совершенствованию производственных процессов в условиях глобальной конкуренции.
ИПАКЧИЛИК ТАРМОҒИДАГИ КЛАСТЕР ТИЗИМИНИ ТАКОМИЛЛАШТИРИШНИНГ МЕТОДОЛОГИК ЖИҲАТЛАРИ
Authors: Худойкулов Мамарасул
Published: September 2024

Ушбу тадқиқот ишида ипакчилик тармоғидаги кластер тизимини такомиллаштиришнинг методологик жиҳатлари ўрганилган. Ипакчилик класетрларини шаклланишида иштирок этувчи асосий манфааатдор томонлар ва уларнинг фаолиятлари таҳлил қилиниб, ипак кластерларининг ривожланиши ва рақобатбардошлигига таъсир кўрсатувчи омиллар таҳлил қилинган.
УЙ-ЖОЙ КОММУНАЛ ХЎЖАЛИГИ ФАОЛИЯТИНИ ЭКОНОМЕТРИК МОДЕЛЛАР АСОСИДА ТАКОМИЛЛАШТИРИШ ВА УНИНГ ИҚТИСОДИЙ-СТАТИСТИК ТАҲЛИЛИ
Authors: Эрназаров Гулам
Published: September 2024

Ушбу мақолада уй-жой коммунал хўжалиги фаолиятини эконометрик моделлар асосида такомиллаштириш ва унинг иқтисодий-статистик таҳлили ҳамда хусусиятлари очиб берилган. Шунингдек уй-жой коммунал хўжалиги фаолиятини эконометрик моделлар асосида такомиллаштириш бўйича амалий таклиф ва тавсиялар берилган.
Effect of National Assembly Constituency Projects on Educational Infrastructure Development in Selected Rural Communities, Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) Abuja
Authors:   Department of Public Administration, Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nigeria, Awor James Ekong , Ojobo James A. ,   Department of Public Administration, Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nigeria
Published: September 2024

This study assessed the effect of National Assembly constituency projects on educational infrastructure development in selected rural communities, (FCT), Abuja 2015-2023. It examined how these projects have affected the availability of educational infrastructure development in selected rural communities. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative analysis through surveys and qualitative insights from document review and stakeholders. The quantitative component utilised a structured survey questionnaire based on a Likert scale to assess community perceptions of the National Assembly constituency projects' effect in addressing educational infrastructure development needs in rural communities. Additionally, chi-square tests were employed to analyse the relationship between National Assembly constituency projects and their effect on the availability of educational infrastructure development in selected rural communities, FCT, Abuja. Key findings revealed that National Assembly constituency projects have significantly affected the availability of educational infrastructure development in selected rural communities, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The study recommended that policymakers should sustain funding of National Assembly constituency project interventions on educational infrastructure development in the rural communities, FCT, Abuja and beyond.
Sustainability Reporting and Earnings per Share of Listed Industrial Goods Firms in Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Accounting, Akwa Ibom State University Obio Akpa Campus, Isaac Ndifereke , Udoayang J. O. ,   Department of Accounting, Faculty of management sciences, University of Calabar, Ukpong Eno Gregory , Otung Affiong Ukana ,   Department of Accounting, Akwa Ibom State University
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the effect of sustainability reporting on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria. The specific objectives were to determine the influence of environmental sustainability disclosures on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria; examine the effect of economic sustainability disclosures on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria, and evaluate the influence of social sustainability disclosures on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria. The study adopted an ex-post facto research design and utilized panel data of one hundred and twenty (120) pooled observations gathered across a sample of twelve (12) listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria over ten (10) years (2013-2022). The study employed descriptive and inferential (correlation and panel data Generalized Method of Moments) techniques to analyse the data collected via Eviews 10.0 statistical package. The study findings revealed that environmental sustainability disclosure (Coeff. = -102.0933{0.0000}) has an insignificant negative effect on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria, while economic sustainability disclosure (Coeff. = -6.5026{0.0000) has a significant negative effect on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria and social sustainability disclosure (Coeff. = 29.72095{0.0000}) has a significant positive effect on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria. Given these, it was thus concluded that sustainability reporting has a significant effect on earnings per share of listed industrial goods firms in Nigeria at a 5% significance level. The study recommended, amongst others, that firms should strengthen social sustainability efforts by prioritizing ethical business practices, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, and actively engaging in socially responsible initiatives to not only improve earnings per share but also build a sustainable and resilient business model.