bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seeing Hope in Trial : Kierkegaard and Shi Tiesheng Reading Job
Authors: Chen Luying
Published: January 2025

This essay compares the theme of suffering as a trial in Repetition (1843) and Shi Tiesheng’s Fragmented Writings between Sicknesses (2002). I identify four movements of the young man reading Job: turning inward, identifying with Job, identifying a false theology that suffering is a divine punishment, and teaching about “trial” affirming contending with God and pointing to hope. In similar moves, Shi reads Job to refute the Buddhist concept of suffering as karmic retribution. Shi’s narrative of becoming an individual and an author echoes Kierkegaard’s warning about the crowd. Doubting the existence of a preternatural heaven, Shi does not commit to the Christian religious subjectivity. He offers an antithesis to Kierkegaard’s individual, sharing existing Chinese literary and religious subject positions that he must reject in order to exist. This reading illuminates Shi’s thinking pattern in its affinity with and departure from Kierkegaard, clarifying the nature of Shi’s “religious syncretism.”
Kierkegaard’s Existential Quest
Authors: Furtak Rick Anthony
Published: January 2025

Søren Kierkegaard as well as his pseudonym Johannes Climacus argue against an objective thinking that does not concern itself with the thinker, claiming instead that “subjectivity is truth.” When too abstract a notion of existence is philosophically taken for granted, the existing individual will not get clear about what it means for him to be. For the existential philosopher, who is concerned with the kind of “edifying truth” that can inform a life in pursuit of wisdom, the “truth which builds up” is the only truth worthy of the name. This truth does not carry the self-contained security of a mathematical proof, for it requires the passionate, love-based interest of the person to whose life it pertains. Following in the footpath of Socrates involves realizing that our life prior to doing philosophy has largely been wasted, and hence that life becomes worth living only after a change of priorities. This article examines Kierkegaard’s own existential quest in light of this personal transformation.
Consultas en psiquiatría legal
Authors: Gómez Jara Mariano
Published: January 2025

Una estadística interna del Gabinete de GTG Abogados muestra las necesidades de asesoramiento jurídico sanitario del médico especialista en psiquiatría, entre las cuales destacan por su incidencia las consultas sobre documentación clínica con un 26% y con un 25% las consultas sobre actividades directa o indirectamente relacionadas con los juzgados, ya sea por su participación en calidad de testigo y/o perito o bien porque elabore informes para uso judicial solicitados por el paciente o su representante legal.

El libro reproduce una selección de las consultas recibidas ordenadas alfabéticamente por temas, añadiendo en su final un comentario jurídico que completa los aspectos no recogidos en las respuestas, puesto que las consultas son sobre casos muy concretos.
Acción positiva para la igualdad de mujeres y hombres en el régimen jurídico del personal docente e investigador de las universidades públicas
Authors: Casado Casado Lucía
Published: January 2025

A pesar de los avances jurídicos y sociales alcanzados en los últimos años, así como de la existencia de un marco normativo avanzado en materia de igualdad de género, los datos disponibles demuestran que la discriminación por razón de sexo sigue siendo una realidad persistente en las universidades españolas. Esta desigualdad es particularmente evidente en el Personal Docente e Investigador (PDI) de las universidades públicas, especialmente en los niveles más altos de la carrera académica y en los cargos de gestión directiva, donde la presencia femenina continúa siendo minoritaria.

Además, esta situación no puede resolverse simplemente con el paso del tiempo dentro de un período razonable, lo que subraya la necesidad de adoptar medidas de acción positiva. Estas medidas resultan fundamentales para romper el techo de cristal y reducir progresivamente la brecha de género existente. En este contexto, la presente obra tiene un doble propósito: por un lado, visibilizar el estado de desigualdad y desventaja que afecta a las mujeres del PDI en las universidades públicas a través de datos concretos; y, por otro, analizar el papel de la acción positiva como herramienta de reequilibrio.

Se presta especial atención a las medidas de acción positiva en los procesos de dotación de plazas y concursos de acceso para el PDI, tanto funcionario como laboral. Entre estas medidas se incluyen reservas de plazas, criterios de preferencia en las condiciones de contratación y desempates favorables a mujeres, con el objetivo de fomentar su acceso y contribuir a alcanzar una igualdad real y efectiva entre hombres y mujeres en el ámbito universitario.
South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association 2024 guidelines for the use of biologic and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
Authors: Van Duuren E , Potts J , Brijlal U , Botha S , Didi S , Makan K , Van Dam M , Chinniah K , Hodkinson B
Published: January 2025

Biologic and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs) target a specific pathway of the immune system, and are usually prescribed after failure of conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy. The choice of b/tsDMARD depends on the disease profile and comorbidities, patient preference, registered indications of the drugs, and risks associated with therapy. It is recommended that b/tsDMARDs for immune-mediated inflammatory rheumatic diseases are prescribed by a rheumatologist, and all patients must be included in the South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association biologic registry. Knowledge of and vigilance for adverse events, particularly infections, associated with b/ts DMARD therapies are of paramount importance.
Introduction to the South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association 2024 guidelines
Authors: Hodkinson B , Van Vuuren E , Maharaj A , Paruk F , Makan K
Published: January 2025

The guidelines in this series provide evidence-based practical guidance for the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of persons with inflammatory joint diseases. The purpose of these guidelines is to aid in shared decision-making between patient and physician, aiming to support high-quality clinical care. These guidelines have been prepared using the AGREE II instrument and based on adoption and, where appropriate, adaptation of international guidelines.
Fractal cycles of sleep, a new aperiodic activity-based definition of sleep cycles
Authors: Rosenblum Yevgenia , Jafarzadeh Esfahani Mahdad , Adelhöfer Nico , Zerr Paul , Furrer Melanie , Huber Reto , Roest Famke F , Steiger Axel , Zeising Marcel , Horváth Csenge G , Schneider Bence , Bódizs Róbert , Dresler Martin
Published: January 2025

Sleep cycles are defined as episodes of non-rapid eye movement (non-REM) sleep followed by an episode of REM sleep. Fractal or aperiodic neural activity is a well-established marker of arousal and sleep stages measured using electroencephalography. We introduce a new concept of ‘fractal cycles’ of sleep, defined as a time interval during which time series of fractal activity descend to their local minimum and ascend to the next local maximum. We assess correlations between fractal and classical (i.e. non-REM – REM) sleep cycle durations and study cycles with skipped REM sleep. The sample comprised 205 healthy adults, 21 children and adolescents and 111 patients with depression. We found that fractal and classical cycle durations (89±34 vs 90±25 min) correlated positively (r=0.5, p<0.001). Children and adolescents had shorter fractal cycles than young adults (76±34 vs 94±32 min). The fractal cycle algorithm detected cycles with skipped REM sleep in 91–98% of cases. Medicated patients with depression showed longer fractal cycles compared to their unmedicated state (107±51 vs 92±38 min) and age-matched controls (104±49 vs 88±31 min). In conclusion, fractal cycles are an objective, quantifiable, continuous and biologically plausible way to display sleep neural activity and its cycles.
Nitric oxide modulates contrast suppression in a subset of mouse retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Gonschorek Dominic , Goldin Matías A , Oesterle Jonathan , Schwerd-Kleine Tom , Arlinghaus Ryan , Zhao Zhijian , Schubert Timm , Marre Olivier , Euler Thomas
Published: January 2025

Neuromodulators have major influences on the regulation of neural circuit activity across the nervous system. Nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to be a prominent neuromodulator in many circuits and has been extensively studied in the retina. Here, it has been associated with the regulation of light adaptation, gain control, and gap junctional coupling, but its effect on the retinal output, specifically on the different types of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), is still poorly understood. In this study, we used two-photon Ca2+ imaging and multi-electrode array (MEA) recordings to measure light-evoked activity of RGCs in the ganglion cell layer in the ex vivo mouse retina. This approach allowed us to investigate the neuromodulatory effects of NO on a cell type-level. Our findings reveal that NO selectively modulates the suppression of temporal responses in a distinct subset of contrast-suppressed RGC types, increasing their activity without altering the spatial properties of their receptive fields. Given that under photopic conditions, NO release is triggered by quick changes in light levels, we propose that these RGC types signal fast contrast changes to higher visual regions. Remarkably, we found that about one-third of the RGC types, recorded using two-photon Ca2+ imaging, exhibited consistent, cell type-specific adaptational response changes throughout an experiment, independent of NO. By employing a sequential-recording paradigm, we could disentangle those additional adaptational response changes from drug-induced modulations. Taken together, our research highlights the selective neuromodulatory effects of NO on RGCs and emphasizes the need of considering non-pharmacological activity changes, like adaptation, in such study designs.
Intra-mesenteric steroids for steroid-refractory graft-versus-host disease in pediatric patients: A safe option
Authors: Aristizábal Ana M. , Montaña Lina P. , Gutiérrez Jaiber , Medina Diego , Franco Alexis A. , Manzi Eliana , Zapata Ángela Devia , Mosquera Walter
Published: January 2025

Introduction. Graft-versus-host disease is a serious complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is a major cause of death post-transplantation. Approximately 50% of acute graft-versus-host disease patients do not respond to systemic steroids and their prognosis is poor regardless of the treatment. This study describes our experience with pediatric patients diagnosed with steroid-refractory graft-versus-host disease who received intra-mesenteric steroid treatment.Objective. To determine the outcomes of intra-mesenteric steroid use in the management of pediatric patients diagnosed with refractory graft-versus-host disease.Materials and methods. The study included patients under 18 years old with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation who underwent intra-mesenteric steroid injection for resistant gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease between January, 2016, and December, 2021. Methylprednisolone was administered via intra-arterial injection through the celiac trunk and the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries.Results. We collected data on 21 patients: nine (90%) responded with a subjective decrease in fecal output and a reduction in bilirubin and transaminases. Seven patients required a second intra-mesenteric injection and presented a complete response in 85% of the cases. Only one patient experienced local complications after the procedure. Twelve patients (57%) died with one death due to acute graft-versus-host disease. Conclusion. Reports in the adult population have shown an approximately 50% response rate with few complications, making it a second-line management standard. As far as we know, this is the largest pediatric cohort reported in Latin America. Our findings suggest that intra-mesenteric steroid administration for managing hepatic and gastrointestinal graftversus-host disease may be considered an early adjuvant treatment in patients with steroidrefractory graft-versus-host disease.
Lymphoproliferation and hyper-IgM as the first manifestation of activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase δ syndrome: A case report
Authors: Fernandes-Pineda Mónica , Zea-Vera Andrés F.
Published: January 2025

Activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase δ syndrome is an inborn error of immunity due to mutations within the genes responsible for encoding PI3Kδ subunits. This syndrome results in an excessive activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathway. Gainof-function mutations in the gene PIK3R1 (encoding p85α, p55α, and p50α) lead to the development of the activated PI3K δ syndrome. Notably, the clinical presentations of this syndrome often closely resemble those of other primary immunodeficiencies.We present a case involving a 15-year-old male who displayed an immunological phenotype that bore a striking resemblance to hyper-IgM syndrome. Whole exomesequencing was undertaken to pinpoint the underlying genetic mutation.Our investigation successfully identified a heterozygous splice site mutation previously reported within the well-established hotspot of the PIK3R1 gene (GRCh37, c.1425+1 G>T). The diverse spectrum of inborn errors of immunity underscores the pivotal role of identifying gene mutations, particularly in patients presenting clinical manifestations spanning autoimmune disorders, lymphoproliferative conditions, and antibody deficiencies. Such precise genetic diagnoses hold significant potential for improving patient care and management.
Aspergilosis invasiva con compromiso óseo en lactante de cuatro meses con enfermedad granulomatosa crónica
Authors: Gómez-Tello Héctor , Mamani-Velásquez Estefany Graciela , Gómez-Gutiérrez Ana Karen , Sánchez-Flores Carlos , Lora-Téllez Virginia , Espinosa-Padilla Sara , Blancas-Galicia Lizbeth
Published: January 2025

La enfermedad granulomatosa crónica es el error innato de la inmunidad que se acompaña con mayor frecuencia de aspergilosis invasiva. En esta enfermedad, la aspergilosis invasiva se presenta en la adolescencia y es rara antes del año de vida. Se presenta el caso de un infante con enfermedad granulomatosa crónica y aspergilosis invasiva.Se trata de un lactante de sexo masculino de cuatro meses de edad, de madre hipotiroidea y con quien convive en la celda de la cárcel. El infante presentó tumores en la región axilar izquierda y la radiografía de tórax sugirió fracturas costales; fue hospitalizado ante la sospecha de maltrato infantil. En la tomografía de tórax se observó un absceso axilar, osteólisis de costillas, neumonía y nódulos pulmonares; el paciente recibió antibióticos de amplio espectro y fue dado de alta.A los ocho meses, reingresó por fiebre y extensión del absceso purulento hacia la región escapular izquierda; en la tomografía se observaron imágenes de empeoramiento de la condición. Se aisló Aspergillus fumigatus de la secreción del absceso y se diagnosticó aspergilosis invasiva; se inició tratamiento con voriconazol por 28 días. Mediante la prueba de dihidrorrodamina, se diagnosticó enfermedad granulomatosa crónica causada por la variante patógena c.80_83del/Y del gen CYBB, portada por la madre (c.80_83del/WT).A los 12 meses, el paciente reingresó nuevamente por aspergilosis invasiva, resistente al tratamiento, con desenlace fatal.
Diez años del “Programa de evaluación de desempeño de laboratorios de inmunogenética” y su impacto en la “Red de donación y trasplantes”
Authors: Arias-murillo Yazmin rocio , Salinas-Nova María Angélica , Toloza-Pérez Yesith Guillermo , Castro-Jiménez Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2025

Introducción. El uso de las pruebas inmunológicas antes del trasplante de órganos sólidos es fundamental para disminuir el riesgo de rechazo y las complicaciones de los trasplantes. Los sistemas de control de calidad de los laboratorios que las realizan son, por tanto, necesarios para la práctica clínica. El Instituto Nacional de Salud implementó el “Programa de evaluación externa del desempeño para laboratorios de inmunogenética de trasplantes” en el 2014.Objetivo. Evaluar el desempeño de los laboratorios con base en los resultados de cinco pruebas inmunológicas para trasplantes en Colombia entre el 2014 y el 2023, según las directrices del “Programa de evaluación externa del desempeño para laboratorios de inmunogenética de trasplantes”.Materiales y métodos. Se estudió el desempeño de los laboratorios mediante la evaluación de cinco pruebas inmunológicas para trasplante: clasificación del HLA de clase I y II, prueba cualitativa y prueba cuantitativa para el panel de anticuerpos reactivos, PRA (Panel Reactive Antibodies), pruebas para antígenos individuales y pruebas cruzadas. Se recolectaron los datos de los informes de cada laboratorio. Con base en las comparaciones entre laboratorios, se calificó el desempeño de cada uno como «bueno», «aceptable» o «inaceptable» para cada prueba. Se calcularon proporciones y se hizo un análisis de valores predichos con intervalos de confianza del 95 %.Resultados. El número de laboratorios participantes varió entre 5 y 12 para cada prueba. La categoría de desempeño «buena» fue menor en el primer año. El mejor resultado fue para la PRA cualitativa, calificada como «buena» en todos los laboratorios durante ocho años. En las pruebas de HLA (2014), PRA cualitativo (2017 y 2019), pruebas cruzadas (2019) y single antigen (2017 y 2019), el porcentaje de laboratorios con desempeño catalogado como «bueno» fue menor que el esperado.Conclusión. El desempeño observado fue «bueno» en todos los laboratorios en el último trienio, excepto para dos de las cinco pruebas: el HLA y la PRA (Panel Reactive Antibodies) cuantitativa.
A Student-Centric Analysis of Faculty Competences and Competencies for Effective Educational Experiences
Authors: Lozada Paolo Roberto
Published: January 2025

Competences represents different characteristics of a holistic approach to personal development and community engagement and Competencies are aspects that plays a crucial role in effective teaching and contributes to creating meaningful learning experiences for students.  The objectives of the study are to determine the competences and competencies that provides effective teaching at San Sebastian College – Recoletos de Cavite Inc., to analyze the faculty performance based on student perspectives using the Student Evaluation of Teachers tool, and to develop recommendations for improving faculty competences and competencies from a student-centric perspective. The study used a descriptive quantitative design and evaluation results from the Center of Research and Creative Works of San Sebastian College – Recoletos de Cavite, Inc. are gathered to analyze the data. The evaluation of faculty competencies across three academic years (2020-2021, 2021-2022, and 2022-2023) reveals consistent high performance. In 2020-2021, the majority of faculty received high-level ratings in both competences and competencies, with 146 and 148 faculty members respectively. This trend continued in 2021-2022, with a significant increase to 352 and 356 faculty members receiving high-level ratings. The 2022-2023 data shows a slight decrease, with 183 and 186 faculty members rated at a high level. Across all years, very few faculty members were rated at low or very low levels, indicating overall strong faculty performance. Continuous curriculum adaptation, incorporating online teaching methods, and improving collaboration with the industry while supporting effective work-life routines will help educational institutions to improve their academic performance.
Program Satisfaction of the Pioneering Graduates of the Bachelor in Secondary Education –Science in a Philippine State University
Authors: Basagre Rey-Mark
Published: January 2025

After the implementation of the new teacher education curricular program, the BSE major in Science program had its first batch of graduates in the academic year 2021-2022. Yet, studies on the implementation of this new curricular offering have not yet been carried out. This study utilized a descriptive survey as a method of research. This study uses a scale to gather data on the BSEd - Science program graduates' satisfaction with the curriculum and instruction, facilities, and student support. Data were treated using mean, frequency, and rank. Interviews with college administrators, graduates, and the employers of the graduates were also conducted to gather relevant data that could help in the analysis of results. Results showed that the graduates are "satisfied" with the program's curriculum and instruction, support to students, and facilities, with a mean of 4.4, 4.37, and 4.01, respectively. Further, the strengths and areas for improvement of the program were identified. The identified strengths of the program are an organized and flexible curriculum, learner-centered and academic freedom, relevant competencies, approachable and competent faculty, and good resources and facilities. The identified themes for the areas for improvement of the program are the improvement of the laboratory room and apparatus, hands-on laboratory activities, and others. Overall, the students are "satisfied" with implementing the new program.
Technical and technological training at IFAM: impact of graduates on the labor market in the Manaus Industrial Pole (PIM) from 2022-2023
Authors: Almeida Fernando Rodrigues de , Cabral Alderlan Souza
Published: January 2025

Technology has changed the way people live, move, eat, study and communicate. However, the growth of electronics courses in the most diverse areas of study can be observed, enabling graduates of the Federal Institute of Amazonas to enter the industrial job market. In view of these challenges in the area of ​​education, the theme of this research was chosen as “Teaching and electronics at IFAM: the importance of technicians, technologists and engineers in the job market, Manaus-Amazonas/Brazil, in the period 2022-2023” Having as a general objective: To identify, historically, the academic, pedagogical and social context of electronics teaching at IFAM in Manaus-Amazonas, to construct a diagnosis of the relationship with the industrial hub of Manaus. Specific objectives: Analyze the context of the courses included in the teaching of electronics at IFAM, in its curricular structure. Methods and techniques applied to theoretical and practical teaching; present a business vision on the acceptability of graduates in the job market; contribute to strengthening professional training based on ethics and technical knowledge for business management through courses made possible by IFAM; The methodological process started from an analytical bibliographical research, which is a research approach that seeks to describe in more detail the data obtained in a specific study. The focus is a qualitative and quantitative approach, adopting documentary research and survey operationalized through analysis as a technical procedure. The main results show that IFAM has been training good professionals for the job market and that it continues to be a challenge to always implement new teaching methodologies that serve the professional market.
Intercultural Interpretation of Scripture: Evaluating the Approach of Jean-Claude Loba-Mkole for Interpreting the Bible in Africa
Authors: Aryeh Daniel Nii Aboagye
Published: January 2025

Intercultural methods of biblical interpretation are gradually gaining popularity and are preferred for biblical studies in the African context. Appropriate methods or approaches for biblical interpretation are critical if the objective of the interpretation is to engage the receptors’ or the target audience’s cultural features and that of the text for a mutual understanding of cultural values in a text to shape contemporary cultural issues. Intercultural criticism of scripture has been variedly engaged by biblical scholars for the interpretation of biblical passages. In this study, I explore the proposition of intercultural mediation by Jean-Claude Loba-Mkole and how he employed it to interpret scripture for the benefit of Africans. It emphasises the uniqueness and the weakness of the approach modelled by Loba-Mkole towards intercultural mediations and motivate others to consider intercultural mediation for biblical studies.
New Horizons in Gingival Depigmentation: A Case Report Comparing Blue®m Oxygel and Coe-PakTM Periodontal Dressing
Authors: Kotecha Sakshi Vishal , Jaiswal Priyanka , Bhagat Shweta
Published: January 2025

Gingival hyperpigmentation can be defined as a darker gingival colour beyond what is normally expected. The colour of the gingiva is vital for facial beauty and contributes in a great manner to the appearance of an aesthetic and confident smile. A dark colour of gingiva can have a negative psychological impact, particularly when combined with a higher lip line or a smile with visible gingiva. The gold standard for managing gingival pigmentation is by scalpel surgical technique, despite its disadvantage of resulting in an open wound that requires special care and dressing. Hereby, the authors present a case report of 21-year-old-male patient with concern about dark colour of gums and used scalpel surgical technique for gingival depigmentation and aimed to assess and evaluate the efficacy of reactive oxygen available in gel form (Blue®m gel™) and long-accepted Coe-Pak™ dressing on healing of the gingiva, pain perception, and re-epithelisation following surgical depigmentation. On follow-up, it was inferred that gingival healing, pain tolerance, and re-epithelisation was better with Blue®m gel™.
Alkylphenols and Alkylphenol Ethoxylates in Freshwater Fish: Levels and Human Health Risk Estimates from River Benue, Central Nigeria
Authors: Wase Geoffrey Aernyi , Eneji Ishaq Shaibu , Wuana Raymond Ahule , Tongu Sylvester Mbaavaga , Sha’Ato Rufus
Published: January 2025

Alkylphenols (APs) and Alkylphenols ethoxylates (APEs), are ubiquitous estrogenic chemicals, widely distributed in fish due to their persistence and lipophilicity. This study determined levels of APs and APEs, and the associated human health risk in two fish species, 16 Labeo coubie (African carp) and 16 Hydrocynus vittatus (African Tiger fish) sampled quarterly from River Benue, central Nigeria between September 2019 and June 2020. Compounds were identified and quantified using Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometric detection (GC-MS). Levels of twenty APs (∑20APs) in Labeo cubie ranged from ND-16.0 ng g-1 wet wt, with total and maximum values of 94.5 ng g-1 wet wt, and 16.0 ng g-1 wet wt respectively.  Residues of four APEs (∑4APEs) ranged from ND-3.1 ng g-1 wet wt, total of 5.0 ng g-1 wet wt, and maximum of 3.1ng g-1 wet wt respectively. In Hydrocynus vitatus, ∑20APs ranged from ND-27.8 ng g-1 wet wt, total and maximum of 205 and 27.8 ng g-1 wet wt, respectively. Estimated risk from ingestion of compounds in Labeo cubie and Hydrocynus vitatus by adult and children indicate no immediate potential harm as the hazard quotient (HQ) value was less than one (HQ < 1). However, children could suffer higher body burdens of these pollutants than adults if they are fed with these fish. This study provides baseline data on levels and estimated human health risk from ingestion of these two species of fish contaminated by APs and APEs to regulatory agents and future researchers.
Mite Borne Diseases in Sri Lanka: A Hidden Iceberg of Vector Borne Diseases
Authors: Bandaranayaka Kalpani. O.
Published: January 2025

Aims: Mite infections in Sri Lanka are seldom reported or studied in animals and humans. The existing few studies are case studies reporting human infection of scabies and reporting rodents and avian mites. The epidemiology of mite infestations and mite-borne diseases in Sri Lanka are not well established due to the limited knowledge of mite species present, types of disease transmitted, distribution and the prevalence. Hence, this systematic review intends to summarize the current knowledge, which will be helpful to the researchers in understanding the disease burden of mites in humans and animals in Sri Lanka and to identify the knowledge gaps in the specific subject.
Study Design: Systematic Review.
Methodology: The current systematic review on mite infestation and mite-borne diseases in Sri Lanka was written following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in the following databases: PubMed, SciVerse Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published before the 31st of July 2024 using the keywords; “mites”, “diseases” and “Sri Lanka”.
Results: The literature search identified the following number of articles in the respective databases: PubMed (12), SciVerse Scopus (400), and Google Scholar (450). Only 15 articles were eligible for this review, and they were categorized based on articles that reported mite-borne diseases and mites reported in animals. Four cross-sectional studies have reported the prevalence of scrub typhus, while two cross-sectional studies have been conducted on scabies and asthma. Six studies reported the burden of mite infestation in wild animals, among them three surveys have been conducted in rodents, two on bats and one on bird nests.
Conclusion: A very few research on mites and mite-borne diseases in Sri Lanka focus on diseases such as scrub typhus and scabies, and only a handful noting mite infestations on wild animals. Therefore, it is critical to identify these mites and the epidemiological role they play in our environment to understand the health implications of mites.
Biofortification of Potato Tubers with Zinc Fertilizer Through Soil
Authors: Ahammed S. , Rahim M. A. , Hossain M. I.
Published: January 2025

Zinc deficiency is a well-documented problem in food crops, causing decreased crop yield and nutritional quality. Generally, the regions in the world with Zn-deficient soils are also characterized by widespread Zn deficiency in humans. Nearly 25% of the world’s population is considered to be zinc (Zn)-deficient. An estimated 44.6% of preschool-age children are at risk of Zn deficiency, while 57% of non-pregnant and non-lactating women are deficient in Zn in Bangladesh. The key reasons for such deficiency are an intensification of cropping systems and the adoption of high-yielding cultivars of crops. Plant breeding approach (e.g., genetic biofortification) is a long-term processes requiring substantial effort and resources. It is essential to have a short-term approach to improve Zn concentration in tubers. Application of Zn fertilizer (e.g., agronomic biofortification) offers a rapid solution to the problem and represents a useful complementary approach to ongoing breeding programs. The experiment was set up in a two-way factorial randomized complete block design with three replications. Soil application of Zn resulted in a significant increase of tuber Zn concentration with an increase of tuber yield of potato under study. Tuber yield 17-23% and tuber Zn concentration 56-116% increased over control as influenced by added Zn in soil @ 8 kg ha-1 and this rate also reached an average of 1.92-fold tuber Zn increase of the varieties. Zinc biofortification strategy appears to be essential in keeping sufficient amounts of available Zn in soil solution and maintaining adequate Zn transport to the seeds during the reproductive growth stage. Enrichment of potatoes with high bioavailable Zn is suggested as a way to generate significant health benefits for a large number of susceptible people across the world. Finally, agronomic biofortification would be a very attractive, quick and useful strategy in mitigating widespread Zn-driven malnutrition-related health problems globally and effectively.
Recognizing the Importance of Ecoinformatics in Agricultural Entomology
Authors: Arya PS , Rajna S , Chander Subhash , Dey Debjani , Prabhulinga T , Yele Yogesh , Joni K
Published: January 2025

Ecology relies on collecting, integrating, and interpreting large volumes of diverse data, which remains a greater challenge for ecologists. Ecoinformatics could provide a solution that integrates agricultural and ecosystem sciences with computer sciences, geographic information sciences and quantitative methods. It provides tools and techniques for organizing and converting ecological data into information and knowledge. The use of ecoinformatics in entomology progresses from documenting pest and disease patterns and their colonization, pest impact on crop yield to the food web and farmer’s decision making. However, there are still numerous obstacles to overcome, particularly when it comes to integrating ecoinformatics methods into mainstream research and education. Several technical and sociocultural challenges like collaboration with statisticians, developing data sources, data privacy concerns and developing mobile platforms for pest management remain some of the major hurdles. Since it is akin to experimental methodology, ecoinformatics-based techniques when well-integrated, give a more optimal solution to pest management problems than any single strategy employed independently.
Comparative Assessment of Ground and Surface Water Sources from Awo Mmama Community, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: V.C.S. Ubah, , M.O. Nwachukwu, , C.E. Ubah, , J.N. Azorji, , O.C. Amoke,
Published: January 2025

The study was carried out to evaluate the water quality of some selected boreholes and river, in Awo Mmama Local Government Area of Imo State with respect to microbial and physicochemical parameters. Water samples were collected and analyzed using microbiological protocols. Results were compared to World Health Organization standards. The physicochemical parameters from Ground and Surface Water Sources within the river showed low turbidity level corresponding with WHO/EPA-Nigeria recommended guideline value of 0-50NTU. Nitrate concentration was also low in the river. Faecal coliforms, E. coli and Salmonella were also recorded at some points were higher above the recommended level for drinking water by WHO. The study underscores the need for periodic monitoring of the boreholes and River Njaba water to forestall outbreak of water borne diseases in the area.
Evaluation of Tall Spindle Planting System of Apple Cultivars at Low, Mid, and High Altitudes of Kulgam District of J&K (UT), India
Authors: Rehman Haseeb ur , Mubarak Tasneem , Ganai Manzoor Ah. , Shergojry Shahid Ahmad , Khanday Ab Shakoor
Published: January 2025

A study to evaluate the apple tall spindle system located in low, mid, and high altitudes of district Kulgam was undertaken during 2022-23 and 2023-24 covering production, quality, and profitability parameters. The highest average yield/ha (kg) in all apple cultivars was observed in the Qaimoh zone. Average A-grade apple/ha were obtained highest in the Manzgam zone in all studied apple cultivars although the same zone resulted in the lowest average yield/ha (kg). The lowest average B-grade apples/ha in case of Red Chief (2994.15kg), Jeromine (3281.89kg), Red Velox (3759.62kg) and Golden Delicious Reinders (9406.47kg) was obtained under high altitude Manzgam zone while as Redlum Gala performed better in terms of least B-grade apple production as compared to other studied cultivars across zones. Similarly, the maximum C-grade apple (kg/ha) resulted in tall spindle system of low altitude Qaimoh zone followed by Kulgam zone and the least quantity in the Manzgam zone. Red Chief laid in TSS located at low altitude zone resulted in maximum fancy-grade apple (2217kg/ha) whereas, highest fancy-grade apple in Redlum Gala (2033.43kg/ha) and Golden Delicious Reinders(1826.48kg/ha) was obtained in Kulgam zone. Manzgam zone outperformed other zones in terms of average fancy-grade/ha in case of Jeromine (3281.89kg/ha) and Red Velox (2227.93kg/ha). The highest gross return/ha was obtained in Manzgam zone (Rs. 2333051.39) followed by Qaimoh zone (Rs. 2236214.50) and the least in case of Kulgam zone (Rs. 1803882.09). Redlum Gala followed a similar trend with the highest in the Manzgam zone (Rs. 3147745.19/ha) and the minimum in the Kulgam zone (Rs. 2183754.57/ha). In case of Red Velox and Golden Delicious Reinders, low altitude of Kulgam proved to be better sites as far as average gross income/ha is concerned. Jeromine cultivated in Manzgam zone outperformed the same cultivar grown in other zones on an average gross returns/ha basis.
Impact of Various Levels of Biochar on Growth and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: D Rajeev Varma, , Naik Anand , Reddy Mallikarjun , M. A Bellakki, , S. R Balanagoudar, , Siddaram
Published: January 2025

An experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2021-2022 at the College of Agriculture, Kalaburagi. The study aimed to assess the impact of biochar on various growth and yield parameters of chickpeas. Results indicated that the treatment involving 100% of the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and biochar applied at 4 t ha-1 significantly enhanced grain yield, stover yield, and harvest index of chickpea. Additionally, plant height, number of branches per plant, dry matter production, number of pods per plant, and 100-seed weight were also notably higher under this treatment compared to others. In conclusion, the application of 100% RDF along with biochar at 4 t ha-1 demonstrated superior performance in increasing both grain and stover yield of chickpea. These findings underscore the potential of biochar as a beneficial soil amendment in enhancing crop productivity, particularly in chickpea cultivation.
Nanotechnology in Agriculture: Enhancing Seed Quality, Yield and Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Authors: Selvarani K. , Theivasanthi T. , Ajitha M.
Published: January 2025

Applications of nanotechnology have the potential to transform agricultural production by enabling improved conservation and management of plant and animal production inputs. The primary input that determines a crop's productivity is seed. Currently, a team of researchers is focusing on carbon nanotubes and metal oxide nanoparticles to enhance rainfed crop germination. The industrial manufacture of these technological systems and their field use present a number of challenges, such as scale-up, seed priming conditions, and harmful effects on plants and other creatures. Nevertheless, it is evident that the use of nanoparticle systems can change crop management by lowering the amounts of agricultural chemicals like fertilizers, fungicides, insecticides and pesticides used and the dangers of contamination, leading to safer farming methods for farmers, consumers, and the environment. In this case study analysis, the potential processes by which nano-priming triggers breaking seed dormancy, promotes seed germination, and affects the generation of primary and secondary metabolites are described in depth. Furthermore, taking into account their current status and potential future developments, the application of nano-based fertilizers and insecticides as efficient materials in nano-priming and plant growth development was also covered. Nanotechnology is emerging as a transformative technology in agriculture, especially in enhancing seed quality and increasing crop yield. By leveraging nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, metal oxide nanoparticles, and other forms, nanotechnology can revolutionize the way crops are grown, providing solutions for challenges like poor seed germination, resource inefficiency, and environmental degradation. This technological advancement directly aligns with the achievement of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to a more sustainable and productive agricultural system. Although the use of nanomaterials can have a positive impact, there are concerns about their potential toxicity.
Studies on Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Yield Associated Traits in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes
Authors: Choudhary Shivani , Gaur S. C. , Kumar Sunil
Published: January 2025

A randomized complete block design with three replications was used to plant twenty bread wheat genotypes inside Mosul B.R.D P.G. College in Deoria (U.P.). The rows were spaced three meters apart, with a split-plot system. The objective was to evaluate the relationship between grain yield and specific traits, including plant height, number of spikes, number of grains per spike, biological yield, 1000-grain weight and harvest index. Additionally, the study aimed to perform genotypic and phenotypic path coefficient analysis to identify key traits influencing grain yield.  According to the data, the biological yield, number of spikes and grain yield exhibited the highest means when row spacing was 2.5 cm. Comparing this row space to 2.5 and 0.25 m row spaces, respectively, the grain yield was 0.615% and 0.2373% greater. Grain yield was one of the several qualities certain genotypes substantially exceeded, placing them at the forefront of PBW-343, Black and K-1006 followed by the genotypes HD-3086, PBW-107, DBW14 and Raj-4120. The yield/unit area was found to have phenotypically significant positive correlations with the number of spikes per unit area and to have substantial positive genotypic and phenotypic correlations with plant height, biological yield, number of grains/spike, 1000 grain weight, and harvest index. Path coefficient analysis showed that the number of grains/spike and harvest index had greater direct effects on grain yield from genetic and phenotypic factors as well as indirect effects through some other traits, with biological factors being the most important. This information helps determine the reliability of these three traits as selection criteria for higher yield performance in breeding programs.
Rhetorical Devices Used To Make Emphasis In Brian Tracy’s Talk “How To Build A Business That Works”
Authors: Faith Christopher , Nugroho Aylanda Hidayati Dwi
Published: January 2025

This research investigates the types of rhetorical devices that Brian Tracy used in his business presentation, three types of rhetorical devices that are mostly used, and how these rhetorical devices are used to make emphasis on his business tips and suggestions.  This research used Harris (2018) and Fahnestock (2011) theories on rhetorical devices. The findings showed that Brian Tracy utilized different types of rhetorical devices to aid him in emphasizing his main idea, such as metaphor, simile, sentential adverb, asyndeton, polysyndeton, hyperbole, paralepsis, litotes, and climax. The three most used types of rhetorical devices in his presentation are Metaphor, Sentential Adverb and Simile. Brian Tracy utilized metaphor to create a clearer imagery, sentential adverb to separate the anecdotes and conclusion, and simile to give comparison of two subjects. From the findings, the writer concludes that rhetorical devices can help the presenter in delivering his main points. Rhetorical devices help in emphasizing the main idea and creates a more engaging presentation with the audience, hence creating a more impactful and beneficial presentation.
The Impoliteness Strategies and Their Functions Used by the Chairperson at the 2023 Hearing of the TikTok CEO
Authors: Fortunata Fransisca
Published: January 2025

This qualitative study examines impoliteness strategies and their functions used by Cathy McMorris Rodgers (the chairperson) during a hearing with Mr. Chew (TikTok CEO). The hearing focused on the data security, regulation, TikTok’s relationship with China, and her impolite response to Mr. Chew’s questions. This study highlights Ms. Rodger’s role in leading the hearing is higher than the TikTok CEO’s who is the defendant. This increases the likelihood that she uses impolite language. Theories by Culpeper (1996, 2005), Culpeper et al. (2003), and Culpeper (2011) used to analyze the impoliteness strategies and functions. The findings showed that the chairperson utilized all impoliteness strategies, except withholding politeness. Negative impoliteness strategy was often used to limit the freedom of Mr. Chew’s explanation, whereas sarcasm strategy was least used to uphold formality. She chose straightforward over presupposition. Meanwhile, she used all the types of impoliteness functions, with coercive impoliteness function being the most used, followed by affective and entertaining functions. She applied coercive most often to get clear answers from Mr. Chew and to exercise her power. In conclusion, the chairperson utilized impoliteness strategies on purpose to exercise her power, to obtain social dominance, and to establish superiority during the conversation.
The Relation of Market Orientation, Learning Orientation, and Competitive Advantages of F&B SMEs Using E-Commerce on Instagram
Authors: Daniel Christophorus , Lyonabel Vigo , Andreani Fransisca
Published: January 2025

With the rise of e-commerce, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in the food and beverage sector, focus on market orientation to foster a learning organization and gain competitive advantages. These SMEs often use Instagram for consumer communication. This research explores how market and learning orientations influence competitive advantages for food and beverage SMEs on Instagram. This quantitative study uses non-probability judgmental sampling, with data collected from 100 respondents. The analysis was conducted using SmartPLS 3.0 software. The findings reveal that market orientation positively affects learning orientation, positively influencing competitive advantages. Additionally, market orientation directly impacts competitive advantages. By understanding market orientation, food and beverage businesses can assess their strengths and weaknesses, enhancing their products and services to compete more effectively and deliver greater customer value.
“Comparing The Clinical Response Of Ormeloxifene, Evening Primrose Oil And Topical Diclofenac For Treatment Of Mastalgia In Benign Breast Disorders”
Authors: Trehan Dr. Ashish , Moudgil Dr. Ashish , Kale Dr. Ravi
Published: January 2025

Mastalgia, or breast pain, affects up to 75% of women, often raising concerns about breast cancer. This study
compares the efficacy of three treatments—ormeloxifene, evening primrose oil (EPO), and topical diclofenac—in
reducing pain, nodularity, and lump size associated with benign breast disorders. A comparative study was
conducted at Sharda Hospital from May 2023 to April 2024 with 48 patients aged 18–35 years and patients
followed up at 4, 12 and 18 weeks. The results demonstrated significant improvement with ormeloxifene, in pain reduction, regression of breast nodularity and fibroadenoma, making it a promising treatment option.