bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transforming the Health Sector in Kenya by Adopting Integrated Health Management Information System
Authors: Kyalo C. , Odhiambo-Otieno G.
Published: February 2025

Achieving better health outcomes is every health organization’s dream.Several health management strategies have been developed;a key one being production of quality information for purposes of informed decision making.Most public health facilities in Kenya are by large extent using manual health information systems,which are cumbersome and fragmented leading to delayed or uninformed decision making. Five key drivers are viewed to influence Integration of Health Management Information System(IHMIS): i) organizational factor, ii) technical factor, iii) behavioral factor, iv) adopted leadership style and v) operationalization of the functions of management.The purpose of the study was to prescribe an ideal design of an IHMIS.A mixed method research design was adopted to determine the significance of the drivers identified in influencing the IHMIS.Both semi-structured questionnaire and a key informant guide were used to collect data that was analyzed and reported using mean scores,correlation and regression analysis.Integration of HMIS was found to positively and significantly correlate with organizational factor,technical factor,behavioral factor,leadership style adopted and operationalization of the functions of management.The study also showed that all variables accounted for total variation in the integration of HMIS.In a multiple regression analysis,the study found the model valid.However only 4 out of 5 of the predictor variables(operationalization of management functions,behavioral factor,technical factor,leadership style adopted) were good in explaining total variations in the integrated HMIS in Kenya. This implies that the more these variables are improved the better it gets in achieving integration of HMIS which is achievable if all the study variables are taken into account.The study suggests that the ideal design of an integrated HMIS would be in the form of an automated web based system in each health organization as opposed to the current manual system.IHMIS will be more successful,if integration within a single health organization is successful.The study recommends a central database for each level of care.
Relationship between Systems and Programs and Business Performance of Pharmaceutical Firms in Nairobi County
Authors: Karimi James Ngari
Published: February 2025

Organizations that aspire to be successful and competitive need to demand and find better ways to improve their business performance by utilizing their systems and programs as a construct for structural capital which comprises of non-human assets. Systems and programs are mechanisms that firms have put in place in order to execute their organizations objectives. They include succession management programs, recruitment programs, and reward systems among others.   Systems and programs play a crucial role in the current ever-challenging and aggressive business environment, particularly in knowledge-intensive organizations such as pharmaceutical industry. This study sought to establish the relationship between systems and programs for business performance of pharmaceutical firms in Nairobi County. Systems and programs research question was used to test the relationship between business performances of the pharmaceutical companies in Nairobi County. Descriptive research design was used for the study. Data was collected from 19 pharmaceutical firms using structured questionnaires. Purposive sampling was used that targeted human resource managers and in their absence, their deputies were consulted.  Pearson bivariate correlation and regression analysis were used to test the relationship and significance of the variables. The findings indicated that systems and programs as a construct for structural capital had positive and significance relationship with business performance of pharmaceutical firms’. The study concludes that succession management programs, recruitment programs and reward systems are critical to the success of the business and recommends that, the pharmaceutical firms should create a supportive culture that helps employees to produce new ideas and build systems that work. The recruitment programs should be comprehensive and dedicated to hire the best candidates available who can work as a team and influence Business Performance.
Effects of Moringa Stenopetala Bac. Leaf Supplement on Growth Performance of Broiler Chicken
Authors: Udofia Nathaniel Ebenezer , Misonge Onyancha Jared , Mworia Mugambi , William Ncene , Apiri Moriasi Gervason
Published: February 2025

While broiler production is a source of income, it is a good source of protein and a profitable investment. In developing world, high feed to gain ratio and high feed costs are among the challenges in poultry keeping. Current attempts to mitigate these challenges involve the use of antibiotics in feed as growth promoters, prophylaxis and disease treatment. It is notable that the use of conventional antibiotics for promoting growth and performance has been effective. However, undesirable residual effects and antibiotic resistant pathogens due to antibiotics in conventional poultry feeds is of global health concern. Therefore, there is continuous need to evaluate natural alternatives to antibiotics to mitigate the problems encountered with conventional antibiotics. Many medicinal plants have been associated with growth performance enhancement, Moringa stenopetala Bac leaves are used as food for humans. Seeds, bark, roots, and flowers are widely used in traditional medicine. Leaf extracts are reported to have the greatest antioxidant activity. The extracts of Moringa stenopetala leaves have antioxidant potential, β-carotene, protein, vitamin C, calcium, potassium and natural antioxidants including flavonoids, phenolic, ascorbic acid and carotenoids and are thought to be responsible for their effectiveness  The current study evaluated the effect of broiler chicken feed supplemented with M. stenopetala on feed conversion ratio. Results indicated increases in the chicken weight gains in all the treatment groups at the end of treatment week five but with no significant difference except for the negative control group (p<0.05). Also, at the end of 5th week, the results obtained showed that all the chicken in all the experimental groups had a significantly lower feed conversion ratios except for the chicken on the negative control experimental group (p<0.05).
The Morality of War and its Impact on Sustainable Development in Nigeria: A Christian Ethical Analysis
Authors: Sibani Clifford Meesua , Haruna Ezekiel Excellence
Published: February 2025

War is a state of crisis and absence of peace which involves the use of ammunitions and the destruction of lives and properties. The morality of war is predicated on the justness and wrongness in war. Is war morally right? Why is God or the supernatural interested in war or seen as a man of war? However, war is seen as the last resort when peace cannot be reached. War has done more harm than good in Nigeria. This review focuses on the foundation of just war theory, biblical foundation of war, the Christian foundation of just war, alternatives to just war theory, and the impacts of war on sustainable development in Nigeria with a focus on the Nigerian civil war. This review went further to discuss the Christian ethical analysis of the morality of war. This research made used of historical and analytical methods of research as well as the utilisation of books, journals, and internet material. It therefore recommends, amongst others, that war is inimical to progress, development, peace, and tranquillity, hence humans must intentionally abrogate anything that calls for war no matter how just it may look.
Growth Performance of Broilers Fed on Processed Acacia Tortilis Seed Meal as a Replacement of Soya Bean Meal
Authors: Ikiamba Lawrence M. , Ncene William , Mugambi Mworia
Published: February 2025

This study sought to determine growth performance of broiler chicken fed on processed Acacia tortilis seed meal as a replacement of soya bean meal employing Completely Randomized Design. The study aimed at determining the growth performance of broilers fed on processed Acacia Tortilis seed meal as a substitute of Soya bean meal; their carcass characteristics; and their economic benefit. The study adopted an experimental methodology. Ninety-day old broiler chicks of mixed sex were randomly assigned to six treatments, with three (3) replication (five birds per cubicle). The replacement feed levels; T0-Control 0% acacia + 100% soybean, T1-20% acacia + 80% soybean, T2- 40% acacia + 60% soybean T3- 60% acacia+ 40% soybean, T4 - 80% acacia + 20% soybean and T5 - 100% acacia+0% soybean in a deep litter rearing system. The chicks were fed on broiler starter for 7 days and on experimental diet from day 8-35. The feed and water was provided ad libitum. Data collected was summarized and organized in excel. SPSS software was used to carry out Analysis of Variance. The initial body weight was not significant (p > 0.05). The Final weight gain, Daily weight gain, Body weight Change was significant and biomass harvested was significant (p < 0.05), where T1 was the highest, followed by T2, T0, T3, T4 and T5 in that order. Voluntary feed intake was not significant (p > 0.05), showing that this ration was palatable and acceptable by the birds. Feed conversion ratio (FCR), T1 was the lowest and was significant (p < 0.05) and T5 was the highest. The higher the FCR the lesser desirable the feed is. It is recommended that Acacia tortilis seed meal of up to 40% can be included in chicken diet as a substitute of Soybean meal but optimally at 20%.
Effect of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy among Children Living with HIV in Ola During Children’s Hospital-Freetown, Sierra Leone -2/10/20
Authors: Buoga Dolphine Anyango , Mapesa Job , Muchina Emily
Published: February 2025

IPT is a prophylactic treatment used to stop active tuberculosis (TB), which is one of the leading causes of mortality among HIV-positive people. However, less than 30% of children living with HIV (CLHIV) are enrolled in the Isoniazid Preventive Therapy program at Ola during Children Hospital (ODCH) in Sierra Leone, indicating that many of the children may be at risk of developing active TB. Therefore, we sort to determine the effect of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy inactive TB prevention. Using census sampling technique of 323 CHLIV, a cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were collected using self-administered structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square for computation of ordinal logistic regression. About 50% of the children living with HIV were in stage II of WHO HIV classification. HIV-positive children aged less than 12 weeks, children aged 1-4 years old, 5-8 years old, 9-13 years old, and more than 13 years old were more likely to experience high cases of TB prevalence (OR=2.777, p<0.05). The low tuberculosis incidence indicated that the majority of the children enrolled in ODCH did not contract TB (97%, x2=284.24, p<0.05), indicating that Isoniazid Preventive Therapy improves health outcomes. The study concludes that Isoniazid Preventive Therapy reduces the incidence of TB in children living with HIV.
Employees’ anxieties on contracting COVID-19: How employers can allay the fears
Authors: Hapazari Josphine
Published: February 2025

Generally, workplaces are known to heighten people’s vulnerabilities to contracting coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a lot of anxieties among employees globally, thereby making them less productive. This paper sought to assess employees’ anxieties regarding contracting coronavirus and their views on how employers could allay their fears. The study gleaned data from a purposively selected sample of 12 employees working in Gauteng province - one of COVID-19 hotspots in South Africa. Gathering of qualitative data was achieved through cellphone interviews. The study is aligned with the theory of workplace anxiety. Moreover, the study is located within phenomenology research design and thematic analysis was utilized to analyze data. The findings of the study indicated that employees were anxious about: contracting COVID-19 at work; not able to adhere to social distancing; being stigmatized once tested positive; and not being able to foot medical bills for COVID-19 related illnesses once diagnosed with COVID-19. Employees expected employers to provide them with PPEs, initiate working in shifts and furnish employees with information regarding the virus. It is envisaged that findings of this study will help combat COVID-19, and mitigate employees’ anxieties so as improve their productivity. It is also anticipated that the findings of this study will further contribute making workplaces safer and promote achievement of the first three Sustainable Development Goals, namely; no poverty; zero hunger and good health and well-being
Effects of Training and Compensation Practices on Employee Performance in Public Universities in Kenya
Authors: Kinyamu Sylvia Igoki , Nkaabu Clement , Moguche Abel
Published: February 2025

Effective human resource management practices are associated with increased performance of employees. This study aimed to determine the relationship between training and compensation practices on employee performance in public universities in Kenya. The objectives of the study were to determine the effect of training on employee performance in public universities in Kenya, and to establish the effect of compensation practices on employee performance in public universities in Kenya. A survey approach was used. The study targeted all 201 Office Administration Officers working in six public universities in Mt. Kenya Region. Mt. Kenya region comprises the counties of Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Tharaka Nithi, Embu and Meru. A questionnaire consisting of demographic questions and a 5-point Likert Scale was used to collect data. Qualtrics survey was utilized to administer the questionnaire. Out of 201 sets of questionnaires distributed, 176 responses were generated, representing a response rate of 88%.  Descriptive statistics in form of tables, frequencies and percentages were used to present the analysed data. Cronbachs alpha was used to assess the reliability of instruments, while content validity was assessed through reviews of items. Data was tested to ensure that it did not violate regression assumptions. The study revealed that workers’ performance was significantly influenced by training practice (p<0.05), while the effect of compensation practice on workers’ performance was not significant (p>0.05). The study, therefore, concluded that training and compensation practices were associated with increased performance of the workers in public universities in Kenya. The results imply that the management of public universities needs to focus on improvement of each of the aforementioned practices through the establishment of relevant policies. There is need for further research on other human resources practices, and preferably be undertaken in a different geographical and organisational setting
Determinants of functionality of community health committees: A case of Mombasa County, Kenya
Authors: Patta Shem Onyango , Oluoch Musa , Osuga Ben Onyango
Published: February 2025

The achievement of better health outcomes is generally believed to be possible to secure through the development and support accorded to health systems. Community Health Committees comprised of selected community membership focused on coordinating activities regarding the health of the community on behalf of their community, have been identified as a useful health governance structure and offer oversight and leadership in the execution of services related to the community’s health. It is heavily opined that increasing the space of decision making within lower health systems levels, and the involvement of the citizens in priority setting enhances health systems responsiveness. In spite of the likely effects, the participation of the community is surrounded with challenges as suggestion of studies point that committees of health within African countries are not optimally functioning. The main objective of this study was to assess the factors influencing the functionality of Community Health Committees. Specific Objectives were: to examine the role of communication, committee composition, training and support supervision. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research study design to interview 162 respondents in selected Community Health Units. Stratified random sampling was used to identify the respondents. The research instrument used in the study was a questionnaire, additionally Key Informant Interviews were administered to six health workers within the six sub-counties to understand their perception, understanding and knowledge of functionality of community health committees. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to summarize the data. The findings established that communication, composition, training and support supervision had positive and significant influence on functionality of Community Health Committee. The study concluded that community health committees where there was effective communication, proper composition, had undergone effective trainings and were properly supervised had better functionality and improved governance
The Project Lifecycle in the Political and Economic Cycles in the Developing World Case of Zimbabwe
Authors: NDEMO NYASHA , HICKONICKO BEATRICE , MPHALO RUMBIDZAI , CHIRISA HALLELUAH , MUNYAVHI ARCHEFORD
Published: February 2025

This article is built on a study that investigated a development projects' life cycle in the context of Zimbabwe's political and economic cycles. These projects bring about visible and tangible public goods that can be used as evidence that development is taking place. The study's main goal was to figure out the reasons for the failure of some megaprojects in Zimbabwe within the context of political and economic cycles and provide recommendations on improving that nexus. This study's approach included a desktop review and topic and content analysis for in[1]depth analysis. As argued in the study findings, numerous projects that have been set to fit in particular political and economic periods, have failed to meet the completion deadlines because of constraints within and beyond the project’s control. These include unsustainable use of resources, poor project planning, lack of stakeholder involvement, incompetent project managers, poor inadequate monitoring and evaluation and lack of funding and an unconducive political climate, resulting in the so-called white elephants.
Internet jako miejsce czynów nieuczciwej konkurencji – problematyka prawnej ochrony domeny internetowej przedsiębiorcy
Authors:   Katedra Prawa Gospodarczego Publicznego,Wydział Prawa, Uniwersytet w Białymstoku, Tworkowska-Baraniuk Anna
Published: February 2025

Internet jest obecnie nieodzowną częścią życia zarówno społecznego, jak i gospodarczego całego świata. Jako stosunkowo nowe miejsce aktywności przedsiębiorców stanowić może jednak miejsce różnego rodzaju nadużyć prawnych. Występuje w nim także coraz więcej nowych, specyficznych przejawów nieuczciwej konkurencji. Zasadniczym problemem, z którym spotyka się przeciwdziałanie owym praktykom jest fakt, że w stosunku do nieuczciwego obrotu w Internecie nie istnieją żadne odrębne regulacje prawne. Niniejszy artykuł ma na celu przedstawienie przykładowych, charakterystycznych dla środowiska Internetu praktyk, które zakwalifikować można jako czyny nieuczciwej konkurencji oraz sposobów ich prawnej interpretacji. Analizie poddana zostanie problematyka zetknięcia norm prawa zwalczania nieuczciwej konkurencji z nowymi metodami jej prowadzenia – głównym zaś celem jest ocena czy obowiązujące normy prawne stanowią wystarczające ramy prawne ochrony przed tego rodzaju nieuczciwymi zachowaniami.
Nowe rozporządzenie dotyczące wyłączeń grupowych dla porozumień transferu technologii – jakie porozumienia z niego skorzystają?
Authors:   Katedra Prawa Gospodarczego Publicznego, Wydział Prawa, Uniwersytet w Białymstoku, Knapp Magdalena
Published: February 2025

Przedmiotem artykułu jest przedstawienie najważniejszych zmian wprowadzonych przez rozporządzenie dotyczące wyłączeń grupowych dla porozumień transferu technologii z 17 kwietnia 2015 r. Omówienie rozporządzenia poprzedza analiza unijnego wyłączenia grupowego, które stanowi wzór dla polskiej regulacji oraz towarzyszących mu Wytycznych. Artykuł wskazuje zagadnienia, na które strony zawierające porozumienia transferu technologii powinny zwrócić szczególną uwagę ze względu na specyfikę rynku nowych technologii. Nowe rozporządzenie wymaga szczegółowej analizy, stąd opisane zagadnienia mogą pomóc uniknąć potencjalnych przeszkód czekających na nieostrożnych.
Zasada proporcjonalności przy wymierzaniu kar pieniężnych za naruszenie przepisów prawa konkurencji. Analiza metody obliczania wysokości kar pieniężnych nakładanych na przedsiębiorstwa na przykładzie Unii Europejskiej, Turcji oraz Polski
Authors: Kłoczko Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

Artykuł przedstawia problematykę związku zasady proporcjonalności i indywidualizacji kary z metodą obliczania wysokości nakładanych na przedsiębiorców kar pieniężnych za naruszenie przepisów prawa konkurencji, na podstawie artykułu 106 ustawy o ochronie konkurencji i konsumentów. Zgodnie z przyjętym ugruntowanym orzecznictwem TSUE, przy określaniu kwoty bazowej do obliczenia wysokości nałożonej kary, możliwe jest przyjęcie rozwiązania, które uwzględnia zarówno całkowity obrót osiągany przez przedsiębiorstwo wskazujący na jego siłę rynkową, jak i część danego obrotu, pochodzącą ze sprzedaży produktów objętych naruszeniem, która wskazuje na zakres naruszenia. Zgodnie z orzecznictwem TSUE, chociaż art. 23 ust. 2 rozporządzenia nr 1/2003 pozostawia Komisji szeroki zakres uznania, to jednak ogranicza on możliwość korzystania z niego, określając obiektywne kryteria, które Komisja jest zobowiązana stosować. Prezes Urzędu Ochrony Konkurencji i Konsumentów w swojej dotychczasowej praktyce decyzyjnej przy obliczaniu wartości nakładanej na przedsiębiorstwo kary brał pod uwagę cały obrót osiągnięty przez przedsiębiorcę w roku poprzedzającym rok nałożenia kary, niemniej jednak metoda ta wiązała się w wielu przypadkach z niezasadną wielkością nałożonej kary, która w postępowaniu odwoławczym przed sądem powszechnym była wielokrotnie zmniejszana. W tym zakresie Sądy niejednokrotnie wskazywały na potrzebę respektowania zasady proporcjonalności i indywidualizacji kary poprzez odniesienie kwoty bazowej nakładanej na przedsiębiorstwo kary do wielkości przychodu przedsiębiorcy uzyskanego ze sprzedaży dóbr lub usług z segmentu rynku objętego zakazaną praktyką.
Warunki podejmowania kontroli i przeszukań w postępowaniach z zakresu ochrony konkurencji prowadzonych na podstawie ustawy o ochronie konkurencji i konsumentów w aspekcie orzecznictwa na tle art. 8 ETPCz
Authors:   Zakład Prawa Konkurencji INP PAN, Materna Grzegorz
Published: February 2025

Artykuł przedstawia warunki podejmowania kontroli i przeszukań w postępowaniach z zakresu ochrony konkurencji prowadzonych na podstawie ustawy o ochronie konkurencji i konsumentów w świetle wymogów art. 8 Europejskiej Konwencji Praw Człowieka. Na podstawie najnowszego orzecznictwa Europejskiego Trybunału Praw Człowieka, w szczególności na podstawie orzeczenia w sprawie nr 97/11 Delta Pekárny przeciwko Republice Czeskiej autor przedstawia warunki zgodności kontroli i przeszukań służących uzyskiwaniu dowodów możliwych praktyk ograniczających konkurencję z prawem do poszanowania życia prywatnego i mieszkania. Na tej podstawie formułowane są wnioski co do potrzeby nowelizacji polskich przepisów o warunkach podejmowania kontroli i przeszukań.
Padronização da coleta do condensado do exalado respiratório utilizando coletor específico para equinos
Authors: Santi Thasla de Freitas , Barbosa Bianca , Rodak Ana Carolina , Vinholes Merhy Valente Maria Luiza , Nogara Maria Fernanda , Strelow Julia Leal , Pelle Giulia Cristina Ribas , Cuman Bianca Faria , Weber Saulo Henrique , Michelotto Júnior Pedro Vicente
Published: February 2025

A falta de padronização da técnica de coleta do condensado do exalado respiratório (CER) dificulta a comparação entre estudos devido às variações no resfria-mento, temperaturas de coleta e falta de informações sobre a limpeza nasal e o equipamento. Este estudo avaliou o efeito da temperatura no interior do coletor quanto ao volume de amostra e à técnica de limpeza das narinas e sua influência sobre a contaminação das amostras, utilizando dois coletores de CER específicos para equinos desenvolvidos pelos autores. Foram utilizadas 15 éguas sem raça definida, testando-se dois meios de resfriamento — soluções 1 (gelo) e 2 (gelo com sal) — e três formas de limpeza de narina — grupos AS (água e sabão), NaCl (soro fisiológico) e G (gaze seca) — para determinar a melhor técnica de coleta de CER. As amostras foram acondicionadas em meio Stuart e plaqueadas em ágar sangue e MacConkey. A temperatura média da coleta entre os meios não diferiu (p = 0,999), assim como não houve correlação com o volume de amostras sem sal (p = 0,276), com sal (p = 0,622) e no novo coletor (p = 0715). A temperatura ambiente e o volume de amostras com gelo apresentaram correlação negativa moderada (p = 0,005 e r = -0,680), enquanto no novo coletor houve correlação negativa forte (p= 0,013 e r = -0,860). Quanto às bactérias, observou-se maior número de colônias Gram positivas do que negativas em todos os grupos, sendo: grupo G: 4,013 ± 1,073 vs. 1,713 ± 1,349 bactérias (p = 0,001); grupo NaCl: 4,107 ± 1,216 vs. 2,217 ± 1,701 bactérias (p = 0,006); e grupo AS: 3,850 ± 1,454 vs. 2,168 ± 1,574 bactérias (p = 0,019). Não houve diferença na quantidade de bactérias entre os métodos de limpeza tanto para Gram negativas (p = 0,920) quanto para positivas (p = 0,990). Conclui-se que, diante à ausência de diferenças entre os métodos de resfriamento, limpe-za nasal e coletores, foram eleitos o resfriamento com gelo, limpeza com gaze seca e o novo coletor para utilização em estudos futuros.
HANDLING HETEROSCEDASTICITY IN LINEAR MODELS: HUBER-WHITE STANDARD ERRORS VS BOOTSTRAP CONFIDENCE INTERVALS
Authors: Rakhimov Zarrukh
Published: February 2025

Heteroscedasticity are one of the several violations of the assumptions of OLS. If no remedy applied, residuals with non-constant variance can lead to inaccurate and biased results. Academia has suggested a wide range of remedies to tackle with heteroscedastic residuals. In this study, we suggest another approach, bootstrapping of dataset to construct our confidence intervals. In order to compare the outcome, we look at Huber-White method and look at its performance against bootstrap intervals. Results indicate that bootstrap intervals perform equally well as Huber-White based confidence intervals. This indicates that bootstrap method, similar to Huber-White approach, can be a good remedy for heteroscedasticity.
STREAMLINING CONSTRUCTION: MAXIMIZING EFFICIENCY THROUGH EFFECTIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT: THEORETICAL REVIEW
Authors: Barbullushi Erjola , Domni Denisa
Published: February 2025

The construction boom in Albania after the '90s had a significant impact on the country's economy. It brought about rapid urbanization, job creation, and increased investment opportunities. The construction sector became a major contributor to GDP growth, attracting both domestic and foreign investments. It also stimulated demand for various industries, such as manufacturing and services, leading to overall economic development. With increased construction activities, there was a rise in construction waste generation. This highlighted the need for effective waste management practices to minimize environmental impact.Waste management is a crucial aspect of construction projects, yet it hasn't received as much emphasis as in other industries. This paper aims to highlight the importance of waste management in construction and the need for effective strategies to minimize waste.In the construction industry, waste refers to any material, energy, or time that is not utilized efficiently and adds no value to the project. Construction waste can include excess materials, unused resources, inefficient processes, and environmental damage. The presence of waste in construction not only leads to financial losses but also has negative environmental and social impacts. This paper presents a review on studies that have systematically investigated the occurrence of waste in the construction industry, including concepts adopted, metrics, and type of feedback provided relating to efficiency improvement.
Antifungal potential of Streptomyces sp. CNXK31.2 against strawberry leaf spot pathogen Mucor sp. MD7
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc An , Quach Be Bay Thi , Nguyen Hanh Thi Dieu , Pham Tan Viet
Published: February 2025

Control of fungal plant diseases using antagonistic microorganisms is a promising strategy. This study aimed to identify and characterize an antagonistic microorganism effective against Mucor sp. MD7, a newly confirmed causative agent of leaf spot disease in strawberry in Da Lat, Vietnam. Koch’s postulate was used to confirm Mucor sp. MD7 as the causative agent. Antifungal activity screening was conducted through co-culture of 30 actinomycete strains with Mucor sp. MD7. The most potent strain was identified using macroscopic and microscopic characteristics, and 16S rRNA sequencing. Enzyme production, antifungal activity under various conditions, and in situ tests on strawberry leaves were performed to evaluate the antagonistic potential. Eighteen out of 30 tested actinomycete strains showed antagonistic activity, with Actinomycete CNXK31.2 being the most potent. This strain was identified as Streptomyces sp. CNXK31.2, showing 100% identity to Streptomyces fungicidicus. It produced chitinase, protease, and cellulase, causing swelling and degradation of Mucor sp. MD7 mycelia. The culture supernatant maintained antifungal activity at up to 80°C and pH 3.0–10.0. In situ tests demonstrated effective control of leaf spot disease. The findings of this study not only highlight the potential of Streptomyces sp. CNXK31.2 as an effective biocontrol agent but also contribute to achieving sustainable development objectives by promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices, safeguarding biodiversity, and enhancing food security.
Expression of late blight resistance gene markers in potato varieties and wild Solanum species
Authors: Sokolova Ekaterina , Beketova Mariya , Kazakov Oleg , Martynov Viktor
Published: February 2025

DNA markers are increasingly used in potato breeding for resistance to late blight. Such markers are generally based on polymerase chain reaction amplification of sequences of resistance genes introduced into cultivated potato varieties from wild tuber-bearing Solanum species. However, if nonfunctional homologues of resistance genes are being revealed with DNA markers, there will be no association between plant resistance and the occurrence/ absence of these markers. In order to increase the reliability of such DNA markers, it would be desirable to test the functionality of the genetic targets used to develop these markers. It makes sense to begin testing functionality by assessing the expression of these genetic targets, because the absence of expression will clearly indicate the absence of function, and this, in turn, will make it possible to immediately reject markers of inactive homologues of resistance (R) genes. The present study is dedicated to the examination of expression of 10 R genes: R1, R2, Rpi-blb3, R3a, R3b, Rpi-blb1, Rpi-sto1, Rpi-blb2, Rpi-vnt1.3, and Rpi-chc1, detected using 11 sequence-characterized amplified region markers of these genes in wild Solanum species and potato cultivars. As a result of this study, most markers were shown to be associated with expressed R genes, and these markers can be recommended for further use in marker-assisted selection for resistance to late blight. On the other hand, the revealed homologues of the R3a and Rpi-blb2 genes seem to be inactive outside the species in which these genes were originally discovered, and the Rpi-sto1 gene has both expressed and non-expressed variants.
KAMPUNG AKUARIUM COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN RESOLVING CONFLICT BETWEEN ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCE PRESERVATION AND APARTMENT BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
Authors:   Universitas Indonesia, Hasnawati Shella Dwiastu , Rahardjo Supratikno ,   Universitas Indonesia
Published: February 2025

Vertical housing is often considered a viable solution to address the high population density in DKI Jakarta. However, it poses a challenge when such housing is situated within Cultural Heritage zones that require preservation. This scenario gives rise to potential conflicts of interest between the preservation of archaeological resources and the development of housing for the public's benefit, as exemplified in Kampung Akuarium. This study aims to elucidate the extent of community involvement in resolving the issues arising from apartment development within cultural heritage zones. It emphasizes the need for balanced community participation to achieve a win-win solution. The research methodology employed in this explanatory qualitative study entailed conducting in-depth interviews and direct field observations. The data collected revealed the Kampung Akuarium community's participatory approach in addressing the conflict of interest. The local community actively participated in both the development of the apartment complex and the preservation of archaeological resources. Their involvement was evident during the planning stage, policy implementation, and the actual development of the apartment complex situated in the cultural heritage zone. This collaborative participation has fostered harmonious preservation of archaeological resources while meeting the housing needs of the Kampung Akuarium community.
Framing Palestine Celebgrams on Instagram Social Media Post The Events Of October 7 2023
Authors:   UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Yafuz Labiq , Subaidi Subaidi ,   UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Yogyakarta
Published: February 2025

This research examines the framing conducted by Palestinian influencers on the social media platform Instagram following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The study analyzes how these influencers use the platform to convey information about the conditions in Gaza after the attack. The methodology used is content analysis of several Palestinian influencers' accounts to observe differences in their content presentation. The findings indicate that the content uploaded by these influencers focuses on daily life, social impacts, and geographical conditions post-attack. This content aims to provide information and education to viewers about the current situation in Gaza. The framing by these influencers has successfully garnered international attention and prompted various forms of support, including donations
Um naturalista no Antropoceno: Um biólogo em busca do selvagem
Authors: Galetti Mauro
Published: February 2025

Mauro Galetti faz sua estreia com um livro que é um misto de autobiografia com reflexão sobre o futuro da vida na Era dos Humanos, o Antropoceno. Reunindo experiências de viagens a lugares inóspitos, como as ilhas de Galápagos, Bahamas e Bornéu, e a formação como cientista, Um naturalista no Antropoceno é um livro inspirador que irá transformar nossa visão da natureza. Com o olhar crítico e humorado, o autor nos leva a refletir sobre o papel do ser humano no planeta Terra e discute maneiras de como podemos sobreviver ao Antropoceno.
Animal Rights
Authors: Rowlands Mark
Published: February 2025

A fresh view of animals and what we owe them.

Do animals have moral standing? Do they count, morally speaking? In Animal Rights, Mark Rowlands argues that they do and explores the implications of this idea. He identifies three different waves in animal rights writing. The first wave was defined by a traditional dispute between utilitarianism (represented by Peter Singer) and rights-based approaches (represented by Tom Regan) to ethics. The second wave was defined by an expansion in a conception of ethics, which saw utilitarian and rights-based approaches supplemented by other ethical traditions, including contractualism, virtue ethics, and care ethics. The third wave was defined by an expansion in our conception of animals, driven by exciting new developments in the field of comparative psychology.

Each of these waves had ramifications for how we understand the moral status of animals, but, this book argues, and reinforces, the core idea that animals deserve moral respect. In earlier waves, discussions of animal ethics had been focused on the issue of animal suffering. But the third wave is defined by the idea that animals are far more than merely sufferers or enjoyers of experiences but are instead authors of their own lives: creatures capable of choosing how to live, shaped by a conception of their life and how they would like it to go. Rowlands writes that, no matter what moral theory you choose, the most plausible version of that theory entails that animals have moral standing and that our obligations to them are far more substantial than many of us care to acknowledge.
Bye Bye I Love You
Authors: Erard Michael
Published: February 2025

A beautiful and intimate exploration of first and last words—and the many facets of how language begins and ends—from a pioneering language writer.

With our earliest utterances, we announce ourselves—and are recognized—as persons ready for social life. With our final ones, we mark where others must release us to death's embrace. In Bye Bye I Love You, linguist and author Michael Erard explores these phenomena, commonly called “first words” and “last words,” uncovering their cultural, historical, and biological entanglements and honoring their deep private significance. Erard draws from personal, historical, and anthropological sources to provide a sense of the breadth of beliefs and practices about these phenomena across eras, religions, and cultures around the world.

What do babies' first words have in common? How do people really communicate at the end of life? In the first half of the book, Erard tells the story of first words in human development and evolution, and how the attention to children's early language—a modern phenomenon—arose. In the second half, he provides a groundbreaking overview of language at the end of life and the cultural conventions that surround it. Throughout he reveals the many parallels and asymmetries between first and last words and asks whether we might be able to use a linguistic understanding of end of life to discover what we truly want.
A single cysteine residue in vimentin regulates long non-coding RNA XIST to suppress epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness in breast cancer
Authors: Usman Saima , Yeudall W Andrew , Teh Muy-Teck , Ghloum Fatemah , Tummala Hemanth , Waseem Ahmad
Published: February 2025

Vimentin is a type III intermediate filament (IF) protein, that is induced in a large number of solid tumours. A single cysteine at position 328 in vimentin plays a crucial role in assembly, organisation and stability of IFs. However, its exact function during epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer progression has not been investigated. To investigate this, we have transduced wildtype (WT) and C328S vimentin separately in MCF-7 cells that lack endogenous vimentin. The expression of C328-VIM impacted vimentin-actin interactions and induced EMT-like features that include enhanced cell proliferation, migration, invasion accompanied by reduced cell adhesion when compared to the wildtype cells. Functional transcriptomic studies confirmed the upregulation of EMT and mesenchymal markers, downregulation of epithelial markers as well as acquisition of signatures associated with cancer stemness (
CD56, Oct4, PROCR and CD49f
) thus transforming MCF-7 cells from oestrogen positive to triple reduced (
ESR1, PGR, and HER2
) status. We also observed a stark increase in the expression of long non-coding RNA,
XIST
in MCF-7 cells expressing C328-VIM. Targeting the mutant vimentin or
XIST
by RNA interference partially reversed the phenotypes in C328-VIM expressing MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, introduction of C328-VIM cells into nude mice promoted tumour growth by increasing cancer stemness in an oestrogen independent manner. Altogether, our studies provide insight into how cysteine 328 in vimentin dictates mechano-transduction signals to remodel actin cytoskeleton and protect against EMT and cancer growth via modulating lncRNA
XIST
. Therefore, targeting vimentin and/or
XIST
via RNA interference should be a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancer treatment.
Association between toxic heavy metals and noncancerous thyroid disease: a scoping review
Authors: Rafi’i Muhammad Ridzwan , Ja’afar Mohd Hasni , Mohammed Nawi Azmawati , Md Hanif Shahrul Azhar , Md Asari Siti Najiha
Published: February 2025

Background

Toxic heavy metals such as chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) are known to be priority pollutants due to their high degrees of toxicity and widespread presence in the environment. This review aimed to explore the association between heavy metals and noncancerous thyroid diseases by synthesizing findings from observational and experimental studies. This review addressed a critical intersection of environmental health, endocrinology, and public health. The findings would be of interest to a wide range of disciplines given the ubiquitous presence of toxic heavy metals in the environment and their potential to disrupt endocrine systems. The evidence-based information from diverse fields generated from this review will provide insights into the health implications of heavy metal exposure on thyroid function and guide the necessary interdisciplinary research and collaborative interventions.

Method

Three databases were searched, namely PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. The Arksey and O’Malley (2005) framework was used as a guide in conducting this scoping review. The reporting was carried out based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and the Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA). The literature search retrieved 552 articles and 29 articles were included in the final review.

Results

As high as 83% of the 29 included studies followed an observational study design while the rest were experimental animal studies. Among the observational studies, two-thirds (66%) were cross-sectional studies while the rest were case-control studies (31%) and cohort studies (n = 1, 3%). Few number of studies in this review reported a significant association between Cr, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb with noncancerous thyroid diseases (2, 3, 16, 8, and 12) while another few (5, 8, 9, 5, and 11) did not show any significant association.

Conclusion

A heterogeneous and diverse sample population in the included studies could have potentially led to mixed findings about the association between toxic heavy metals and thyroid diseases in this review. Therefore, future research should prioritize longitudinal studies and controlled clinical trials to better elucidate the causative mechanisms and long-term impact of heavy metal exposure on thyroid health.
Recursos de uso común en el Turismo de Naturalez
Authors: Calderón-Ramírez Daniel Ricardo , Orozco Luis Pardo , Sanchez Heidy Lizeth Agudelo
Published: February 2025

Por medio del siguiente artículo de investigación se pretende comprender cómo la aplicación del marco teórico conceptual de los Recursos de Uso Común (RUC), puede ayudar a entender los conflictos sociales por el uso de atractivos del Turismo de Naturaleza y a partir de esto, cómo generar propuestas de gestión de los RUC. Esto se realiza por medio del caso de estudio de los Farallones Rocas de Suesca en el cual, se describen las tensiones y dificultades que presentan los usuarios, escaladores, visitantes y turistas por el uso recreativo del farallón. Al final del artículo se realiza una reflexión sobre las posibilidades de gestión de los atractivos turísticos de naturaleza, a partir de la propuesta de criterios para el diseño de instituciones de larga duración y la importancia de generar una acción colectiva alrededor de una gobernanza del turismo de naturaleza aplicada al caso de estudio.
A categorização dos municípios turísticos como promotora de redes urbanas do turismo
Authors: Sousa Diogo Diniz de , Silva Rodrigo Cardoso da
Published: February 2025

O Programa de Regionalização do Turismo, instituído em 2004, busca gerenciar o turismo de forma regionalizada, contrastando com programas anteriores. No rastro desse programa, foi lançado, em 2013, a Categorização dos Municípios das Regiões Turísticas, que tem como objetivo observar e classificar, por meio de parâmetros específicos, os destinos turísticos brasileiros. Considerados frágeis, esses destinos foram classificados em uma escala que vai de A até E. Assim, este artigo analisa se essa política pública efetivamente criou redes urbanas do turismo, adotando uma abordagem geográfica crítica que leva em consideração a interdependência entre fixos (infraestruturas turísticas) e fluxos (movimentação de turistas), a partir dos elementos de circulação, consumo e distribuição. Os resultados indicam que, nas cidades definidas como A, considerando destinos turísticos consolidados, observa-se a formação de uma rede urbana de turismo que promove uma influência regional. No entanto, a categorização também reproduz desigualdades, concentrando recursos nas cidades onde o turismo já está programado e negligenciando, desde a categorização, as necessidades reais de muitas localidades. Espera-se que este artigo contribua para uma melhor compreensão da estruturação do turismo no território brasileiro e sugira a necessidade de políticas públicas mais alinhadas com as demandas reais do turismo, e não fundamentadas exclusivamente como um desdobramento das ações de reprodução capitalista.
Integrating Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education in TCSOL: Insights from Tangshan University
Authors: Wei Yanling , Wang Junying , Tian Zhengling
Published: February 2025

Aims: This article primarily investigates the status of innovation and entrepreneurship education in TCSOL at local application-oriented undergraduate institutions in China. It also explores pathways for integrating innovation and entrepreneurship into the major.
Methodology: The study surveyed 238 undergraduate students majoring in TCSOL at Tangshan University, Hebei Province, China. The research methods such as questionnaires and interviews are used to collect the data.
Results: The findings reveal that 52.74% of students have limited understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship concepts. 59.07% of students have participated in very few or limited forms of the innovation and entrepreneurship education, while only 48.1% of students have engaged in more than two types of innovation and entrepreneurship activities. Additionally, 45.6% of students believe that the proportion of integration by specialized teachers is average or low, 53.2% of students think that the TCSOL major is not suitable for entrepreneurship, and 40.51% of students indicate that they are unwilling to try entrepreneurship if they are unemployed after graduation.
Conclusion: The integration of innovation and entrepreneurship education in TCSOL can be achieved through optimizing the training program and establishing a mechanism for training innovation and entrepreneurship talents; creating demonstration courses integrated professional and entrepreneurial elements, and deeply exploring the innovation and entrepreneurship education components embedded in each course; strengthening the construction of the faculty team for innovation and entrepreneurship education; valuing and actively organizing students to participate in academic competitions of the innovation and entrepreneurship projects; establishing a scientific and reasonable evaluation mechanism for innovation and entrepreneurship talents. The proposed pathways not only offer valuable insights for innovation and entrepreneurship education in TCSOL at local application-oriented undergraduate institutions, but also extend relevance to broader educational contexts, including other majors and comprehensive universities.