bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multipurpose Use of Laser-Sensitive Materials for Temporary Bonding and Debonding Applications in Wafer-Level Packaging
Authors: Prenger Luke
Published: January 2025

New technologies and purposes for older existing technologies in wafer-level packaging (WLP) are consistently being developed further in order to help with the performance increase and cost reduction gap left by the end of Moore’s Law. With further investment from outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) facilities, packaging houses, foundries, and integrated device manufacturers (IDMs) in advanced packaging, it opens doors for further expansion of the use of conventional temporary bond and debond (TB/DB) methods such as mechanical, thermal slide, and laser debond. In particular, laser debond technologies offer the highest flexibility compared to mechanical and thermal slide debond techniques due to their ability to offer high adhesion systems, high-temperature processing capability, and the potential for additional applications in WLP that are not traditionally TB/DB applications. In this paper, several different innovative laser-active systems will be covered, spanning from single-layer multifunctional material systems to a traditional two-layer system setup. Each of these laser-sensitive systems offers its own benefits and disadvantages in terms of cost effectiveness and processability. These systems will help enable processing of highly warped substrates, such as epoxy mold compound (EMC) wafers, processing of higher temperatures up to 300°C, and have the flexibility of cleaning by commonly used organic solvents and plasma cleaning. These laser-sensitive thermoplastics and thermosets will also alleviate concerns of laser device damage due to their high absorption at the specified wavelength or the ability to be used a thick film of 20 µm or greater.

Furthermore, a laser-sensitive thermoset material designed for laser etching and patterning applications will be presented. These new materials, compared to traditional laser etching and patterning materials, offer faster etching time and lower residues generated from the ablation process. With the faster etching time and lower post-ablation residues, the throughput of these materials will increase compared to previous materials. Further development of laser materials will offer the versatility and robustness able to be used in many different types of processing with similar types of tooling.
Addressing inhaler technique challenges in cognitively impaired chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: the impact of customized training programs
Authors: Gaonkar Vaishnavi V , Shanbhag Vinay V , Kajave Shreya S , Mattikop Mahek R , Reddy Mandati Santhosh
Published: January 2025

Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cognitive impairment (CI) often face difficulties accurately administering inhalers, which are essential for managing their respiratory condition. Many elderly individuals make major errors that prevent proper medicine administration. Maintaining proper inhaler use skills is critical in controlling COPD. Our goal was to examine and evaluate the inhaler use skills of CI patients with COPD during both the initial evaluation and subsequent appointments. The Respiratory Department of KLEs Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi, Karnataka, India, was the site of this prospective interventional study. Based on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA), a subset of patients with COPD exhibited mild CI. Patients exhibiting improper inhaler-using skills were detected, corrected, and trained. Inhaler techniques were reassessed immediately and at follow-up visits. The modified Medical Research Council scale score (mMRC), COPD assessment test (CAT) score, St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and pulmonary function tests were reassessed. A total of 56 COPD and CI patients who had made at least one significant mistake when using an inhaler device were added to the study. The mean age was 66.89±9.85 years. When evaluated with MoCA, the mean score was 17.02±3.91. At baseline, the mean number of mistakes was 1.38±0.93, which decreased to 0.54±0.57 after face-to-face demonstration of correct inhaler techniques. Correlational analysis revealed MoCA scores were negatively associated with the number of mistakes (r=-0.344). At follow-up, CAT score (25±5.61 vs. 18.48±5.24 p=0.001), SGRQ score (53.82±20.59 vs. 37.61±22.17 p=0.001), mMRC score (3.21±0.76 vs. 3.20±0.75 p=0.001), and forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity score (66.86±9.35 vs. 70.08±9.07 p=0.001) had significantly improved in patients demonstrating the correct technique. Pharmacist-led interventions demonstrated improvements in health-associated quality of life and therapeutic outcomes for individuals with COPD and CI. The study highlighted the importance of cognitive evaluation in routine COPD therapy, identifying potential impediments to effective therapy, and offering face-to-face presentations of inhaler techniques. The best inhalers and methods for COPD patients experiencing CI should be further investigated, according to the study.
Gene of the month: C-KIT
Authors: Kumari Niraj , Lingaiah Raghavendra
Published: January 2025

KIT is a gene coding for tyrosine kinase receptor, which was identified as the ligand of stem cell factor. Its role in disease was first identified in gastrointestinal stromal tumor. However, later, this gene was found to be implicated in many other benign and malignant tumors. C-KIT has been studied as the first biomarker for targeted therapy. Herein we review its structure, function and role in various non-neoplastic and neoplastic diseases.
Case report on adenoid cystic carcinoma of larynx and review of the literature
Authors: Lakshmi JS , Ullattil Pushpaja K. , Ashitha M K , Bibin
Published: January 2025

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignant tumor, accounts for <1% of laryngeal malignancy. Majority tumors are found in subglottis and supraglottis region. These tumors show female predominance and diagnosed at advanced stage.

Case 1:

A 42-year-old woman presented with foreign body sensation and pain in the throat. Laryngoscopy and computerized tomography imaging showed submucosal lesion involving entire larynx. Suspicious bilateral lymph nodes were noted. Following biopsy, she underwent total laryngectomy with neck dissection. Final histopathological report confirmed ACC with extensive perineural invasion. Now at 8 months of follow-up, there was no evidence of recurrence.

Case 2:

A 32-year-old man presented with hoarseness of voice, dysphagia, and stridor for which emergency tracheostomy was done. Following scopy and imaging, he underwent total laryngectomy with neck dissection and adjuvant radiotherapy. At 2.10 years of follow-up, there was no evidence of recurrence. Thus, our patients require long-term follow-up to assess the benefit and survival outcome.
Advancements in graft-versus-host disease prevention in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Das Soumyajit , Singh Mahendra Pratap , Balaraman Ashok Kumar , Mehta Rachana , Sah Sanjit
Published: January 2025

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a critical obstacle in the success of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), adversely affecting patient survival and posttransplant quality of life. Recent advancements in GVHD prophylaxis emphasize achieving a delicate equilibrium between effective immunosuppression and preservation of the graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effect. This article synthesizes cutting-edge developments, including immune modulation strategies such as regulatory T-cell expansion and cytokine blockade, novel pharmacological approaches like Janus kinase inhibitors and posttransplant cyclophosphamide, and cellular therapies leveraging mesenchymal stromal cells and ex vivo-expanded regulatory T cells. Furthermore, the advent of biomarkers such as ST2 and microRNA signatures has enabled early risk stratification, fostering personalized, risk-adapted prophylactic strategies. By integrating these innovations, HSCT outcomes can be significantly improved, offering enhanced safety, reduced GVHD incidence, and optimized long-term patient care.
The Relationship between Balance and Mobility in Poststroke Survivors: A Narrative Review
Authors: Parmar Merlin J. , Gandhi Nensi V.
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background:

Stroke often leads to impaired balance and mobility, significantly impacting functional abilities. This narrative review investigates the relationship between balance and mobility in poststroke survivors.

Materials and Methods:

A comprehensive literature review was conducted. A total of 21 relevant articles were identified through electronic sources, print materials, and search engines. Articles were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and critically appraised using the Bigby and Gadenne tool with scores ranging from 13 to 26 for randomized controlled trials and cross-sectional studies. Data were analyzed to uncover patterns and correlations between balance and mobility in stroke survivors.

Results:

The review indicated that targeted balance interventions enhance mobility and promote greater independence in activities of daily living. Improved balance is strongly associated with better mobility outcomes, though mobility is also influenced by factors like age, lower limb strength, and the severity of motor impairments.

Conclusion:

The findings underscore the importance of integrating balance and mobility-focused strategies into stroke rehabilitation. The multifactorial nature of mobility demands personalized rehabilitation protocols that consider individual characteristics such as age, motor impairment severity, and lower limb strength. This approach contrasts with traditional “one-size-fits-all” methods, such as generalized mat-based functional activities.
A novel approach for graph-based real-time anomaly detection from dynamic network data listened by Wireshark
Authors: Kaya Muhammet Onur , Ozdem Mehmet , Das Resul
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel approach for real-time anomaly detection and visualization of dynamic network data using Wireshark, globally's most widely utilized network analysis tool. As the complexity and volume of network data continue to grow, effective anomaly detection has become essential for maintaining network performance and enhancing security. Our method leverages Wireshark’s robust data collection and analysis capabilities to identify anomalies swiftly and accurately. In addition to detection, we introduce innovative visualization techniques that facilitate the intuitive representation of detected anomalies, allowing network administrators to comprehend network conditions and make informed decisions quickly. The results of our study demonstrate significant improvements in both the efficacy of anomaly detection and the practical applicability of visualization tools in real-time scenarios. This research contributes valuable insights into network security and management, highlighting the importance of integrating advanced analytical methods with effective visualization strategies to enhance the overall management of dynamic networks.
A counterexample to marked length spectrum semi-rigidity
Authors: Gogolev Andrey , Marshall Reber James
Published: January 2025

Given a closed, orientable, negatively curved Riemannian surface

(M,g)

, we show how to construct a perturbation

(M,g^{\prime})

such that each closed geodesic becomes longer, and yet there is no diffeomorphism

{f \colon (M,g^\prime)\to (M,g)}

which contracts every tangent vector.
Bounds on the dimension of lineal extensions
Authors: Bushling Ryan E. G. , Fiedler Jacob B.
Published: January 2025

Let

E \subseteq \mathbb{R}^{n}

be a union of line segments and

F \subseteq \mathbb{R}^{n}

the set obtained from

E

by extending each line segment in

E

to a full line. Keleti’s
line segment extension conjecture
posits that the Hausdorff dimension of

F

should equal that of

E

. Working in

\mathbb{R}^{2}

, we use effective methods to prove a strong packing dimension variant of this conjecture. Furthermore, a key inequality in this proof readily entails the planar case of the generalized Kakeya conjecture for packing dimension. This is followed by several doubling estimates in higher dimensions and connections to related problems.
Nasal secretions trace epithelial type 2 response to allergen-specific immunotherapy
Authors: Jakwerth C A , Zissler U M , Oelsner M , Pechtold L , zur Bonsen L , Plaschke M , Kau J , Davidovic M , Mootz M , Haller B , Chaker A M , Schmidt-Weber C B
Published: January 2025

Background: Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is a disease-modifying therapy and is effective to reduce the symptoms of grass pollen-allergy. The airway epithelium of these patients releases inflammatory mediators including type-2 cytokines, which are associated with cellular processes involved in the symptomatic response of the affected tissue. Aim of the study was to identify epithelial biomarkers indicating AIT progress. Methods: In an exploratory, observational allergy cohort, we longitudinally phenotyped 56 grass pollen-allergic patients undergoing AIT for over three years and 18 controls using nasal secretions at critical time windows during therapy to assess peak-season responses along the course of therapy. Type-2 cytokine protein levels were analyzed using the high-sensitivity multiplex electrochemiluminescence mesoscale technique. Results: The type-2 cytokines CCL26 and POSTN oscillated seasonally, in contrast to TSLP and IL-33. However, only POSTN was reduced over the three-year AIT progression. In addition to POSTN, IL-24 and IL-37 levels were continuously reduced during AIT, while IFN-g and CCL27 were increased. Compared to healthy individuals, AIT did not restore healthy secretion levels but rather induced a novel homeostasis Conclusion: Nasal secretions trace the epithelial response during different phases of AIT. We demonstrate that AIT only partially controls the epithelial type 2 cytokine CCL26, which also adapts to seasonal changes, while POSTN and IL-24 are potential indicators of therapy success. Therefore, nasal secretions represent a promising, non-invasive tool for monitoring seasonal progress of AIT.
Golpe de Estado en Chile: La ruptura sonora del 11 de septiembre de 1973
Authors: Rodríguez-Ortiz Raúl , Godinez-Galay Francisco
Published: January 2025

Este artículo busca descubrir e identificar las transformaciones sonoras y radiofónicas que provocó el golpe de Estado en Chile en 1973. Con una metodología cualitativa, esta investigación de carácter exploratorio analiza información documental proveniente, principalmente, de los estudios sonoros y radiofónicos. A partir de ella se reconoce un quiebre sonoro en cuatro dimensiones: paisaje sonoro público, paisaje sonoro privado, la radio, y la música. Esta ruptura opera en tres momentos diferentes: previo al golpe, en el golpe en sí mismo, y en la vida que se inaugura después de él. El análisis de sus impactos y consecuencias permite valorar el rol que tiene el sonido y la radiodifusión en la cultura y en la identidad colectiva, como también en la construcción y reconstrucción de las memorias tras eventos traumáticos, como fue este golpe de Estado.
Narrativas de la memoria y representaciones juveniles. El caso de Actores secundarios en el contexto transicional chileno
Authors: Varas-González René , Aguilera-Ruiz Óscar
Published: January 2025

Se analizan las representaciones juveniles que construye la narrativa de Actores secundarios, película sobre la experiencia del movimiento de estudiantes secundarios que luchara contra Pinochet en Chile durante la década de 1980, y que también considera el posterior devenir de sus integrantes y de la sociedad. Metodológicamente, el análisis procede a la reconstrucción genealógica de una juventud mediatizada por la representación cinematográfica, considerando las condiciones de posibilidad que tal discurso tuvo al momento de producirse. Problematizando las relaciones de poder y las disputas por la memoria y la igualdad, de las que la narrativa de la película participa en el contexto sociohistórico de la transición a la democracia, el análisis concluye que: la película relata un capítulo de la historia colectiva reciente del país, rescatando las voces de una generación marcada en su juventud por la violencia y la exclusión política. Además, advierte el carácter heterotópico de la película y sus efectos performativos en la subjetivación política de nuevas generaciones de estudiantes secundarios, indicando algunas consecuencias teóricas que esto acarrearía para las ciencias sociales.
The Use of Pressure Constructs in Aerodynamics May Lead to
Misinformation
Authors: Burgers Phillip
Published: January 2025

From biology, to genetics, and paleontology, these fields share the DNA as a
common and time-proven tool. In science, pressure may be such a
tool, shared by thermodynamics, material science, and astrophysics, but not by
aerodynamics. Pressure is a shorthand for a force acting perpendicular to a
surface. When this surface is reduced to zero, so should the pressure. The wing
area of an aircraft acts as a reference area to calculate its parasite drag
coefficient. In this scenario, the parasite drag acts as a force over the wing
area. If the wing area is reduced to zero, its parasite drag does not, as the
fuselage is still generating parasite drag. The ratio of the parasite drag and
wing area is an example of a pressure construct that uses a physically
irrelevant reference area and has no absolute zero. Pressure
constructs, more frequently used than pressures in
aerodynamics, are a math-based parameter that preserve dimensional propriety
according to the Buckingham Pi theorem but lacks a physical meaning and causes
geometry bias, which may lead to misinformation. This
article discusses the shortcomings of using pressure constructs
in the legacy lift and drag equations, and the benefits of using actual
pressures within the recently introduced aerodynamic
equation of state of engineered and biological flyers.
Augmenting Airworthiness Education via Concept Maps: An Exploratory
Study among University Students
Authors: Kourousis Kyriakos , Chatzi Anna
Published: January 2025

Aerospace engineering programmes typically cover airworthiness philosophies,
principles, structures, processes, and procedures. The industry has recently
recognized the need to enhance the graduate engineers’ skills around
airworthiness. This has led to introduction of standards acting as guides for
developing curricula and content for university airworthiness courses. Concept
maps, a visual mapping of concepts in a hierarchical way, enjoy wide use in
engineering education (teaching and assessment). Airworthiness courses are both
technical and legalistic, presenting challenges to students when it comes to
understanding complex and intertwined regulations. Schematic representations of
concepts can foster the cognitive processes of learning. Concept maps can assess
efficiently and comprehensively a multitude of airworthiness topics. This study
examines the feasibility of applying concept maps in airworthiness education.
Fill-in-a-map concept maps were developed as assessment tools for an
airworthiness course, covering topics in aircraft type design, production
organization approvals, and maintenance documentation. They were used in tests
alongside multiple-choice questions. The results were analyzed via descriptive
and inferential statistics, complemented by qualitative evaluation of the
concept map results. The students gained experience in concept maps, while the
multiple-choice questions were present to compensate the overall test grade.
Prior exposure to concept maps can assist the students to familiarize with their
structure and function. The gradual increase in the concept maps’ difficulty was
consistent with the increasing complexity of the airworthiness material. When
concept maps are not accompanied by lists of concept words they can be
challenging to complete.
Diversity and Selection of Cotton Germplasm Based on Morpho-Agronomic Character Performance
Authors: Rahman Side Taufiq Hidayat , Yamin Mayasari , Mulyani Sri , Qadri Sri Nur , Ayunawati Luthfi , Aji Agung Pangestu
Published: January 2025

Cotton is a plant that produces natural fibers of high economic value. Developing a new superior variety of cotton is expected to support fiber demand in Indonesia. The purpose of this study was to determine the diversity of morpho-agronomic characters and obtain secondary characters and cotton accessions that support the development of a new superior cotton variety. The genetic material used was 266 cotton accessions from the ISFCRI germplasm collection. Primary data of the 16 quantitative morphological characters were observed and analyzed using descriptive data, correlation analysis, path analysis, scatterplot, and grouping. The fiber length character has a very low diversity with a value of 0.01, and the plant height character has the highest variance, which is 637.42. The lint percentage with a variance value of 9.37 is influenced by duplicate epistasis genes and controlled by many genes. The fiber's fineness character has a positive and very significant correlation value to the character of the lint percentage. It has fairly high direct and total effect values of 0.156 and 0.134, respectively. Four accession groups can potentially support developing a new superior variety; accession CEA N 268, CEDIX, or L21999-10-71 can be used as the parent of new superior cotton varieties.
Effects of Copper on Euglena sp. Local Strains and Remediation Capabilities
Authors: Ardipeni Witia , Suyono Eko Agus , Dewayanto Nugroho , Mufida Na’imatul , Erfianti Tia , Amelia Ria , Kurnianto Dedy
Published: January 2025

One of the well-known industries in Yogyakarta is the Kotagede silver craft, which produces heavy metal waste, one of which is copper. The copper content in the liquid waste of electroplating Kotagede silver crafts is 4.628 mg/L. At the same time, Indonesian Government Regulation No. 22 (2021) stipulates a critical limit of Copper (Cu) content in river and lake water, which is 0.2 mg/L. The purpose of the study was to analyze the effects of copper on local strains of Euglena sp. (growth, photosynthetic pigment production, and superoxide dismutase enzyme) as well as the effectiveness of Euglena sp. in copper remediation. The study was conducted by adding a copper solution obtained from CuSO4•5H2O to the culture medium of Euglena sp. The parameters observed in the study were growth (number of cells and biomass), photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoid total), Superoxide dismutase enzyme of Euglena sp. as well as the effectiveness of Euglena sp. in copper remediation. The results showed that copper inhibited the growth of Euglena sp. The highest growth was the control treatment (without adding copper to the culture medium). Likewise, the content of photosynthetic pigments and the culture of Euglena sp. exposed to copper were lower when compared to the control culture. The activity of the SOD enzyme is increased in cultures exposed to copper. The result of the research is Cu metal absorption efficiency by Euglena sp. by 21.93%, 10.93%, and 9.47% for a Cu concentration of 10 ppm, 15 ppm, and 20 ppm.
Diversity of Indigenous Bacteria from Mangrove Sediments in the Waters of Ambon Bay, Maluku
Authors: Tuasalamony Mutia Musdalifah , Widiyanto Tri , Rusmana Iman
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to analyze the diversity of indigenous bacteria by comparing culture and non-culture methods and to analyze the physicochemical effects on bacterial diversity in polluted and natural mangrove sediments. The environmental parameter values of mangrove sediments for bacterial growth can change owing to differences in adaptation and tolerance to fluctuations in physicochemical conditions. The number of colonies in natural and polluted areas using the culture method was 6.2 × 104 CFU/g and 5.5 × 104 CFU/g, respectively. A total of 33 isolates were identified, with 17 and 16 isolates from the natural and polluted areas, respectively. The most common isolates found in both areas were Acinetobacter haemolyticus strain FBC636 and Exiguobacterium acetylicum strain IAE17. Using the nanopore sequencing method, the total number of colonies in the natural and polluted areas was 69,761 and 58,412 colonies, respectively. A total of 12,954 bacterial species were identified, with 6,837 species in the natural area and 6,117 in the polluted area. The most common isolate found was Sulfurovum aggregans. Physicochemical conditions influenced the differences in bacterial diversity between the natural and polluted areas in the mangrove areas of Ambon Bay.
Scrutinize the Taxonomical Identity of Green Edible Russula from Sulawesi (Indonesia)
Authors: Nurhayat Oktan Dwi , Putra Ivan Permana , Riffiani Rini , Taridala Sitti Aida Adha , Arif Zulhan
Published: January 2025

Russula Pers. (Basidiomycota) is recognized as one of the most widely distributed macrofungi globally. This genus includes several edible species with distinct color variations, such as R. cyanoxantha. However, in Indonesia, knowledge of this species remains limited as colourful mushrooms are often mistakenly considered poisonous. During a fungus expedition in Southeast Sulawesi, we collected a green edible wild mushroom consumed by locals. Our study aimed to verify the taxonomic classification of our specimens through morphological and molecular analysis. The fresh basidiomata were examined based on their macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Molecular analysis using ITS 1/2 sequences was conducted to construct a phylogenetic tree. Our findings identified the green mushroom as R. cyanoxantha (Schaeff.) Fr. (Synonym: R. lilacina). Morphologically, our specimens can be distinguished from R. virescens by their smooth cap. They differ from R. aeruginea and R. heterophylla by having flexible, persistent gills. Additionally, our R. cyanoxantha specimen BO24636 can be separated from R. dinghuensis and R. subpallidirosea by their forked gills near the stalk. A BLAST comparison revealed a 96% similarity to R. lilacina from Thailand as the closest match. The phylogenetic tree (Maximum Likelihood) placed our specimens within the R. lilacina group (BS value 99%). Our research contributes to the taxonomic understanding of this edible wild green macrofungi in Indonesia, and future studies should explore its nutritional composition.
The Invasive Plant Maeopsis eminii: A Key Dietary Resource for Primates in the Tropical Rainforests of West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Noer Mohamad Isnin , Lestari Alvita Dwi , Ramadhini Kiky , Prasetya Priya Yuga , Sedayu Agung , Komala Ratna
Published: January 2025

Animal-plant interactions are crucial for understanding the ecological dynamics and predicting ecosystem changes. This study explores the role of the invasive plant Maesopsis eminii in the Bodogol Nature Reserve, Gunung Gede National Park, West Java, Indonesia, focusing on its interaction with diurnal vertebrate species. Primates, including Javan gibbon and Javan langur, were identified as primary consumers of Maesopsis eminii, with Javan gibbon showing the highest consumption rates. Dietary analysis revealed that both primate species utilized M. eminii fruits and leaves, whereas Javan gibbons relied more on Maesopsis eminii than Javan langurs. Other vertebrates, such as squirrels and birds, are occasional visitors with minimal fruit consumption. This study highlights that Maesopsis eminii is a primary resource of Javan gibbon, Javan langur, and Javan surili. This nearly year-round fruiting plant is crucial for supporting primate populations, especially given its contribution to their diet. Considering the mutualistic interaction between Maesopsis eminii and its visitors, the Javan gibbon was the only species that probably dispersed seeds through endozoochory, making this primate species a crucial part of the dispersal of Maesopsis eminii in Gunung Gede National Park. Because invasive plants can threaten native flora and fauna, future studies must emphasize balancing the beneficial and detrimental effects.
Pollinator activity on the flowers of safflower Carthamus tinctorius and its effect on some qualitative and quantitative parameters of the plant in Sohag Governorate, Egypt
Authors: Mazeed A.R. , Attia M.A. , Mohamed G. Ghazy , Amer S.M.
Published: January 2025

Safflower, Carthamus tinctorius L., has been cultivated for its seeds. Pollinators can affect the seed yield, so the current studies were conducted at the Research Farm of Agricultural Research Center at Shandaweel, Sohag Governorate, for two successive growing seasons, 2021/2022 and 2022/2023, to study the role of pollinators on the productivity of three varieties of safflower, (Giza 1, Kharga 1, and L. Assad 1). The results indicate the presence of 9 species of arthropods belonging to 5 families and 3 orders. In both seasons, Apis mellifera L. was detected during the last week of February. The population increased gradually and reached its peak, which recorded (6.0, 4.3, and 2.7) and (5.7, 3.3, and 2.0) individuals/m2/5min. for the cultivars, Giza1, Kharga1, and L. Assad 1, respectively, on the 1st week of March. Statistically, significant differences were found among tested safflower varieties, either open pollination or control pollination plants, for all quantitative and qualitative safflower yield parameters over two years. The pollinators of uncaged plants significantly increased the measured parameters than caged plants for all studied traits, except Oil % during both seasons. The highest oil% in our study was obtained from L. Assad 1, (19.84 and 20.21%). While the lowest oil content was determined as (18.04 and 19.03%) in the Giza 1 variety, at both seasons, respectively. L. Assad 1 is a promising line and can be used for large-scale production of edible oil.
Relation of allelochemicals and nutritive value of mango cultivars Mangifera indica to infestation with the scale insect Aulacaspis tubercularis (Hemiptera: Diaspididae)
Authors: Asmaa A. Tharwat , Samah M.Y. Helmy , Dalia Nabil , Lobna R. Amin
Published: January 2025

The effect of mango (Mangifera indica L.) chemical composition of different cultivars (Keitt, Fagriklan, and Alphonso) on the infestation level with the white mango scale insect Aulacaspis tubercularis (Newstead) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) was evaluated. The highest seasonal abundance of A. tubercularis was recorded on 1st May. The number of insects of different instars (Nymph, adult, and gravid) that infested mango leaves were 1200, 748, and 630 individuals/25 leaves for Keitt, Fagriklan, and Alphonso, respectively. Mango cultivars' susceptibility levels could be grouped in the following way: Keitt>Fagriklan>Alphonso. The lowest abundance occurred during mid-January for different cultivars. Analysis of fresh leaf composition on 1st May revealed that A. tubercularis numbers that infested mango leaves had a strong positive correlation with leaf protein (r= +0.997), Nitrogen (N) (r= +0.994) and Potassium (K) (r= +0.999). On the contrary, it had a high negative correlation with terpenoids (r= -0.949), and a medium negative correlation (r= -0.442) with carbohydrates. Phosphorus (P), allelochemicals such as phenols, and flavonoids showed a weak negative correlation. Variations in chemical content among different mango cultivars were also discussed. It can be concluded that nutritive components and some allelochemicals of mango leaves may play a significant role in the susceptibility of mango leaf cultivars to infestation with the white mango scale insect, A. tubercularis.
Efficiency of gibberellic acid on feeding, biological and biochemical parameters of Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on tomato Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Anwaar M. Abaza , Salem M.M. Hagar , Ayat I. El-Kholy
Published: January 2025

The plant growth regulators (PGRs), such as gibberellic acid (GA3), are used to improve the quality and quantity of the tomato crop, Solanum lycopersicum. The effect of different concentrations of GA3 on feeding, biological, and biochemical parameters of Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae was studied. After foliar spray of GA3 concentrations on S. lycopersicum plants, the treated leaves were brought to the laboratory for this study. The larvae fed on treated leaves with GA3 exhibited feeding inhibition, where feeding inhibition indices (FII) increased as the concentration increased and days post-treatment. The calculated sublethal concentration (LC50) of GA3 caused disturbance in the biological parameters of S. littoralis; it prolonged larval and pupal periods. The pupation (68.75%) and emergence (80%) percentages were decreased for treated larvae. The reduction in larvae weights can only result from insufficient feeding caused by the anti-feeding activity, which appears from the results of FII indices. Some malformations were observed when larvae reached the pupation stage, these malformations may be responsible for mortality and decreasing in pupation percentage. The LC50 of GA3 decreased the phenoloxidase and protease enzyme activities relative to control larvae by (-20.79%) and (- 60.16%), respectively. It slightly increased the activity of α-and β-esterase enzymes by 3.74 and 20.18%, respectively. It also decreased the amount of total carbohydrates in treated larvae by (-25.26%) compared with control ones. This study supported the idea that plant growth regulator GA3 can be used as a potential insecticide against S. littoralis larvae. GA3 treatment caused feeding inhibition and disturbance in both biological and biochemical parameters of S. littoralis larvae.
Analysis Of Timber Marketing In Selected Markets In Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Ezekiel Y Zaman , Neri N Akemien , Blessing O Adaaja , Godwin I Otiwa , Bernard O Odey
Published: January 2025

This study was carried out to analyze timber marketing in selected markets in Jos metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria. Respondents were selected through multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaire administered to 120 timber marketers in Katako and Building Materials timber markets located in Jos metropolis. Data were subjected to profitability, marketing efficiency, and multiple regression analyses. The findings revealed that timber marketing was profitable in the study area with black plum (Vitex doniana) providing the highest monthly gross margin (GM) of N99,162.88 which was higher than the monthly GM of each of the other five major timber species, and the mean aggregate GM (N76, 818.82). Teak (Tectona grandis) was the best, having the lowest gross ratio (0.57) and the highest rate of return on investment (0.75). The marketing efficiency of timber was 1.48. The regression analysis revealed that marketing experience, occupation, and labour cost were statistically significant (p< 0.05) determinants of timber sales. The study identified irregular timber supply, inadequate market facilities, high cost of energy, inadequate credit facilities, unfavourable government policies, and high transportation costs as challenges to timber marketing. The study recommended among other measures, the need to ensure sustainable supply of timber products from the forest plantations and also the provision credit to timber marketers at low interest rates.
Case Report - Unexpected histopathological finding: a case report of Schistosoma ova in prostate adenoma
Authors: Kura M.M. , Ibrahim R. , Damina M.M. , Lawan A.I.
Published: January 2025

Background: Schistosomiasis of the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts is wellknown, yet its chronic effect on host genitalia such as the prostate is often ignored or overlooked. This report describes an incidental finding of Schistosoma ova in a prostate adenoma.
Case: A 66-year-old man from a schistosomiasis endemic area in northeastern Nigeria presented with symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction. The Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was normal, and he had no family history of prostate cancer. Histopathology of the prostate adenoma removed at open prostatectomy had multiple foci of acute and chronic inflammation with calcified Schistosoma ova and areas of luminal abscesses, and there were no foci of malignancy. A diagnosis of prostate adenoma with schistosomiasis was  made.
Conclusion: Genital schistosomiasis should be a differential diagnosis of prostate pathologies, especially in patients who live in or have recently visited schistosomiasis endemic communities.
Prevalence and predictors of HIV status disclosure by young people on HAART in selected healthcare facilities of Benue, Nigeria: A Rural-Urban Comparison
Authors: Ukpabi D.E. , Audu O. , Shaahu N.V. , Jasper T. , Nwuniji R.G. , Odunze P. , Irowa O. , Adikwu M.
Published: January 2025

Background: Due to increased accessibility to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), HIV-infected children have improved long-term outcomes, reaching adolescence and adulthood. With this comes different challenges, one of which is HIV status disclosure: from parents to children (passive disclosure) and from young people to others (active disclosure). The challenge of disclosure has been found to impact adherence to treatment and, consequently, the lives of these young people. This study aimed to determine and compare the prevalence and determinants of passive and active HIV disclosure among young people attending urban and rural health facilities in Benue State, Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 354 young people aged 10 – 24 years in an urban facility (Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi) and a rural facility (NKST Hospital, Gboko) using an interviewer-administered, pretested questionnaire. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics were generated and tests for association between subgroups were carried out using chi-square and Fisher’s exact test.
Results: There was a high rate of passive disclosure of HIV in both facilities (85.8% in the urban facility and 81.4% in the rural facility). Active disclosure was 41.9% and 74.5% in the urban and rural facilities respectively. Predictors of passive disclosure included duration on HAART, route of transmission, while predictor of active disclosure of HIV in both facilities was age less than 17 years.
Conclusion: HIV disclosure support through disclosure counselling should be provided to young people, especially adolescents, parents and guardians.
Participation of women in the blue economy value chain at Kilifi, Kenya
Authors: Njenga Solomon
Published: January 2025

Participation of women in the blue economy value chain in Kilifi County in Kenya was assessed based on household surveys and key informant interviews. A sample of 96 households from the coastal Malindi sub-county was selected based on cluster sampling. The most senior female in each household was interviewed, and an additional 10 women leaders from 10 self-help groups were interviewed as key informants.  Data from the household survey were analysed for mean, percentages and frequency while content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. Based on the interview data, 88.5 % of women worked in fish processing, 63.2 % in trading of fish products, 62 % in fish eateries, 18.4 % in fishponds, 23 % in solid waste management, and 20.7 % in mining.  Consequently, individual women participated in more than one activity, with a mean of 2.75 activities per woman. Work-related, cultural and economic challenges inhibited women's participation with mean responses of >3 on a 4-point Likert scale. Low levels of participation were observed in economic decision-making, access to information, ownership of productive resources, leadership positions and women's living conditions. Participation of women in the blue economy value chain should be prioritized in strategic decisions by government and stakeholders.
Meretas Kesejahteraan Mental: Eksplorasi Potensi Terapi melalui Pendekatan Soteriologi pada Gangguan Kecemasan
Authors: Herman Samuel , Trifosa Florence
Published: January 2025

This research explores the role of soteriology in managing anxiety disorders. Utilizing a literature review method with a descriptive analysis approach, this journal indicates that soteriology, through its holistic approach encompassing spiritual dimensions, personality theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, has the potential to enhance mental well-being. While the literature provides a positive overview, further research is needed to delve into the impact of soteriology on the anxiety disorder cycle, compare it with conventional therapy, and evaluate its influence on the subjects' quality of life. The results highlight the necessity to incorporate spiritual aspects and personality theory in future research to comprehend the effectiveness of soteriology. With a deeper understanding, the application of this approach is anticipated to make a valuable contribution to addressing anxiety disorders. AbstrakPenelitian ini mengeksplorasi peran soteriologi dalam mengelola gangguan kecemasan. Menggunakan metode studi pustaka dengan pendekatan analisis deskriptif, jurnal ini menunjukkan bahwa soteriologi, melalui pendekatan holistiknya yang mencakup dimensi spiritual, teori kepribadian, dan terapi kognitif-behavioral, memiliki potensi untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan mental. Meskipun literatur memberikan gambaran positif, penelitian lebih lanjut diperlukan untuk mendalami dampak soteriologi pada siklus gangguan kecemasan, membandingkannya dengan terapi konvensional, dan mengevaluasi pengaruhnya terhadap kualitas hidup subjek. Hasilnya menyoroti kebutuhan untuk melibatkan aspek spiritual dan teori kepribadian dalam penelitian mendatang untuk memahami efektivitas soteriologi. Dengan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam, penerapan pendekatan ini diharapkan dapat menjadi kontribusi berharga dalam mengatasi gangguan kecemasan.
Sang Gambar Otoritas Ilahi: Pelayanan yang Bertanggung Jawab dengan Lensa Vocation Dei dan Imitatio Christi
Authors: Tarigan Karel Benridho
Published: January 2025

Church ministers organize church life institutionally and guide church member's spirituality. This research focuses on the spiritual dimension, especially on morality. Church Ministers are seen as role models and are not treated as examples only, but also as actors of good-moral. The benchmark of good-moral in this research is Christ as the main nomos because the church minister is the image of divine authority in the church's life. however, how can Christ the Nomos be interpreted, so that the service carried out is full of passion and responsibility? Therefore, this research uses the idea of vocation Dei which has nuances of responsibility fulfillment. In addition, the idea of imitatio Christi and the theology of participation are elaborated to emphasize that fulfilling the responsibility of the call to serve is an attempt to demonstrate the image of divine authority. The results of this study show that as an image of divine authority, ecclesiastical ministers are responsible for "mediating" the citizens of the congregation to the Head of the Church because they are in the two scopes. AbstrakPara pelayan gerejawi tidak hanya sekadar mengatur kehidupan jemaat secara institusional, melainkan juga membimbing perkembangan spiritualitas warga jemaat. Penelitian ini berfokus pada cakupan dimensi spiritual, terutama tentang moralitas dalam pelayanan gerejawi. Para pelayan gerejawi kemudian dilihat sebagai role model yang tidak hanya menjadi contoh, tetapi juga menjadi pelaku moral-baik. Tolok ukur moral-baik dalam penelitian ini adalah pribadi Kristus sebagai Nomos utama, karena para pelayan gerejawi adalah gambaran dari otoritas ilahi dalam kehidupan jemaat. Lantas, bagaimana Kristus Sang Nomos dapat dimaknai, sehingga pelayanan yang dilakukan penuh gairah dan tanggung jawab? Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini menggunakan gagasan dari vocation Dei yang memiliki nuansa pemenuhan tanggung jawab. Selain itu, ide imitatio Christi dan teologi partisipasi dielaborasi untuk menegaskan bahwa pemenuhan tanggung jawab dari panggilan untuk melayani merupakan upaya untuk mendemonstrasikan gambaran otoritas ilahi. Hasil penelitian ini menampilkan bahwa sebagai gambaran otoritas ilahi, para pelayan gerejawi bertanggung jawab untuk menjadi “pengantara” warga jemaat kepada Sang Kepala Gereja, karena mereka berada dalam dua cakupan tersebut.
Urgensi Standar Kompetensi Pendeta: Tinjauan terhadap Dokumen Standar Kompetensi Pendeta di Sinode Gereja Kristus
Authors: Wattimury Costansa , Surbakti Pelita Hati
Published: January 2025

The church in the Northern Hemisphere has been in a state of decline, while the church in the Southern was predicted to experience growth. In the context of Asia, including Indonesia and South Korea, this prediction does not seem to match reality. The level of congregational participation in some of the older churches in Indonesia is still low, some even very low. Will what happened to the church in the Northern also happen to the church in the Southern? One thing that can be done to avoid this is to hand over the leadership of the church to a leader or Pastor who is competent and relevant to the context of his time. Unfortunately, the two aspects have not received serious attention. Many churches do not have instruments to measure the two aspects. Among those who have it, it is also not sufficient because the instrument in question has not been compiled by considering the context. Through qualitative research, by collecting data through literature studies and interviews, this article shows that some of the above realities are indeed true. Specifically, this article takes the measurement instrument document used in the Synod of Gereja Kristus as a case study. At the end of this article, we propose a process of establishing competency standards for Pastors and the stages of making competency measurement instruments. AbstrakGereja di bagian bumi Utara telah mengalami kondisi yang memprihatinkan, sementara gereja di bagian Selatan diprediksi mengalami pertumbuhan. Dalam konteks Asia, termasuk Indonesia dan Korea Selatan, prediksi ini kelihatannya belum sesuai dengan realitas. Tingkat partisipasi jemaat di sejumlah gereja tua di Indonesia masih rendah, bahkan ada di antaranya sangat rendah. Akankah yang dialami oleh gereja di Utara juga akan dialami oleh gereja di Selatan? Salah satu yang bisa dilakukan untuk menghindarinya adalah menyerahkan kepemimpinan gereja kepada pemimpin atau Pendeta yang kompeten serta relevan dengan konteks zamannya. Sayangnya kedua hal di atas masih belum mendapat perhatian yang serius. Banyak gereja tidak memiliki instrumen pengukuran kedua aspek di atas. Di antara yang telah memilikinya juga belum cukup memadai oleh karena instrumen yang dimaksud belum disusun dengan mempertimbangkan konteks. Melalui penelitian kualitatif, dengan melakukan pengumpulan data melalui studi kepustakaan serta wawancara, tulisan ini memperlihatkan bahwa sejumlah realitas di atas memang benar adanya. Secara khusus tulisan ini mengambil dokumen instrumen pengukuran yang digunakan di lingkungan Sinode Gereja Kristus sebagai sebuah studi kasus. Pada bagian akhir tulisan ini, kami mengusulkan sebuah proses pembentukan standar kompetensi Pendeta serta tahapan pembuatan instrumen pengukuran kompetensinya.