bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhetorical Functions of Lexical Collocations in the Inaugural Speech of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Authors: Olawe Opeyemi Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

In political communication, inaugural speeches are pivotal, signifying the start of a leader’s term and a new chapter in a nation’s history. These serve as a momentousoccasion where the leader outlines their vision, pledging to guide the country to prosperity and unity. This study delves into the inaugural speech delivered by PresidentBola Ahmed Tinubu upon assuming the highest office in Nigeria in May 2023. Through a meticulous analysis of lexical collocations, the study uncovers the underlying linguistic intricacies, thematic emphasis, and rhetorical strategies employed by President Tinubu in his address, to gain insights into the rhetorical techniques used to connect with the audience and convey his vision as well as the impact of his address on political discourse and public perception. Downloading the speech from the Punch Newspaper website, the analytical approach followed the principles of lexical collocation theory and systemic functional linguistics. The analysis reveals eight strategic rhetorical purposes in President Tinubu’s use of lexical collocations in his speech. These functions encompass appeals to religiosity, political sensibility, national pride, patriotism, unity, hope, calls to action, policy clarification, and exemplifying an inclusive government. His language choices resonate with the audience, eliciting emotions and nurturing a national sense of pride and identity. The analysis of President Tinubu’s inaugural speech contributes to a better understanding of his linguistic legacy and communication strategies during his tenure in office. It becomes a part of the historical record, revealing the president’s approach to governance and leadership.
Perceptions and Use of Library Resources Among Students in Selected Junior High Schools in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Adjei Silas
Published: August 2024

Library use in Ghana is found to be poor, especially among junior high students. The limited use of the library mostly stems from the fact that students’ decisions to utilize the library or not are largely influenced by their opinions of libraries, in addition to the availability of library resources. Perceptions people hold are very powerful because they affect how they relate to and use particular objects. However, research examining junior high school students’ perceptions about libraries in Ghana is limited. The current study explores perceptions and use of library resources among 150 students selected from 2 junior high schools in Accra. Findings showed that the students use the school library very frequently, with the majority indicating usage during break time. Additionally, visiting the school library to read remains the dominant purpose of using school libraries among the students. They also reported a high level of satisfaction and a positive perception of the staff in their school library.
NGHIÊN CỨU MỘT SỐ ĐẶC ĐIỂM VẬT HẬU VÀ KỸ THUẬT NHÂN GIỐNG HỮU TÍNH LOÀI THÍCH NÚI CAO (Acer campbellii Hook.f. & Thoms. ex Hiern) TẠI LÂM ĐỒNG
Authors: Phi Ngô Giang
Published: August 2024

Thích núi cao là loài cây có hình thái đẹp, lá chuyển màu theo các thời gian trong năm, có thể trồng làm cây cảnh quan. Nghiên cứu này theo dõi đặc điểm vật hậu, quả và hạt giống, xác định độ trương bão hòa hạt cũng như đánh giá ảnh hưởng của nhiệt độ nước xử lý ban đầu, thời gian bảo quản hạt, thành phần hỗn hợp ruột bầu đến sự nảy mầm của hạt và sinh trưởng cây con. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy, thời điểm thích hợp cho việc thu hái quả là từ tháng 9 đến tháng 11. Một kilogram quả có trung bình 6.695 quả, một kilogram hạt có trung bình 16.631 hạt, hàm lượng nước trong hạt là 10,32%. Kích thước quả có chiều dài và đường kính lần lượt là 4,47 cm (quả có cánh), 0,92 cm (quả không cánh) và 0,5 cm với tỷ lệ quả mang hạt là 90,67%. Kích thước hạt có chiều dài và đường kính lần lượt là 7,92 mm và 4,24 mm với tỷ lệ hạt chắc là 95,67%. Thời gian hạt đạt độ trương bão hòa là sau 44 giờ. Nhiệt độ nước ban đầu xử lý hạt tốt nhất ở 45oC với tỷ lệ nảy mầm, thế nảy mầm, tốc độ nảy mầm, thời gian bắt đầu nảy mầm, thời gian kết thúc nảy mầm và thời gian nảy mầm trung bình, tương ứng là 94,33%, 36%, 12,38 ngày, 7,33 ngày, 21 ngày và 13,33 ngày. Phương pháp bảo quản ở nhiệt độ lạnh (5 - 10oC) sẽ tốt hơn so với bảo quản ở nhiệt độ thường, thời gian bảo quản ở nhiệt độ lạnh trong khoảng 6 tháng với tỷ lệ nảy mầm còn 65,67%. Giai đoạn vườn ươm cây con sinh trưởng tốt khi phối trộn thành phần ruột bầu với tỷ lệ 70% đất và 30% xơ dừa, chiều cao cây đạt 45,54 cm và đường kính gốc đạt 5,68 mm sau 6 tháng. Kết quả nghiên cứu là cơ sở khoa học để xây dựng hướng dẫn kỹ thuật nhân giống và phát triển loài này tại một số khu vực vùng cao Việt Nam.
TEKNOLOGI REKLAMASI LAHAN BEKAS TAMBANG TIMAH MELALUI PEMBERIAN BAHAN AMELIORAN DAN PEMILIHAN JENIS TANAMAN: STUDI KASUS KEPULAUAN BANGKA BELITUNG
Authors: Suwardi  , Randrikasari Octaviana
Published: August 2024

Indonesia, besides being the country with the largest nickel reserves in the world, also holds the largest tin reserves globally in 2023. Meanwhile, in terms of production, Indonesia ranks second after China. Tin mining in Indonesia has led to serious environmental damage, illustrated by the numerous open pits and inadequately restored tin mining sites. The characteristics of soil in these post-mining lands generally include sandy texture, low pH, nutrient deficiencies, low organic carbon content, and low water holding capacity. This study aims to improve the soil chemical properties in post-mining lands by utilizing the KOMFABA technology, which consists of a mixture of compost and fly ash-bottom ash with appropriate dosages tailored to the type of crops to be planted, along with revegetation strategies involving suitable plant selections. The research methodology consists of field experiments to test the application of KOMFABA with various dosages and crop types, as well as a literature review to identify suitable revegetation strategies. The research result show that Indonesia holds tin reserves of 800,000 tons, making it the largest in the world, with a production of 74,000 tons, placing it second after China. Additionally, the results of KOMFABA testing demonstrate its effectiveness in improving soil chemical properties such as soil pH, organic carbon content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), nutrient content, and soil base saturation. The success of reclaiming post-mining lands also dependent on proper fertilization dosages and suitable plants selection.
PREDICTIVE ROLE OF KNOWLEDGE CULTURE AND INNOVATION CULTURE ON NON-FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Authors: Pavlović Katarina , Rašković-Depalov Vesna , Milovanović Mirjana
Published: August 2024

The aim of the research presented in this study was testing the correlation of knowledge and innovation culture and non-financial performance indicators (NFPIs), the predictive role of independent variables knowledge and innovation culture in NFPIs and differences between dependent and independent variables between micro, small and medium size companies. The study included 124 Serbian MSMEs, that voluntarily responded to 40 questions, presenting the research instrument. Statistical data analysis showed that a significant correlation exists between dependent and independent variables, that knowledge and innovation culture predict NFPIs with 33.4% and that there are differences in innovation culture and NFPIs, but not knowledge culture between companies grouped according to size. The conclusion of the study is that innovation and knowledge culture are of high importance for MSMEs, due to their predictive role in NFPIs, which are most often used, according to literature findings, for the assessment of their long-term success and sustainability. This study also revealed that the highest level of innovation culture and NFPIs is in micro companies in Serbia.
CONSUMER’S RESPONSE TO FEAR APPEALS AND THEIR EFFECTIVENESS IN ADVERTISING: CROSS-CULTURE COMPARISON OF FINNISH AND PAKISTANI CONSUMER’S ATTITUDE TOWARDS THREAT APPEALS
Authors: Zafran Muhammad , Masud Shahjahan
Published: August 2024

Fears appeals are widely used by marketers to change consumer attitudes and behavior across different categories. The effectiveness of fear appeals may vary across different cultures and product categories. This research undertakes how culture influences consumer response to fear appeals of high-involvement products such as an automobile between Pakistani and Finnish Consumers. Educating people on road safety and car manufacturers using fear-based messages to elicit efficacy and fear among individuals is important. This research paper examines the effects of fear-based messages on consumers’ product attitude, Ad attitude, and buying intentions in the automobile industry across Finland and Pakistan. Both countries vary significantly in cultural orientation-Feminism vs Masculinity. The study uses a 2x2-independent group’s factorial design showing two levels of fear- Low-High. A total of 120 participants were recruited from both countries, 60 from each country diving into four sub-groups. Two-way ANOVA findings reveal a significant difference between the two groups regarding their feelings/emotions towards the fear-based message. However, empirical results indicate a non-significant impact of fear-based appeals on the two groups’ brand attitude, Ad attitude, and information-seeking and purchase intentions. The study has important implications for marketing professionals using fear-based messages under different cultural orientations a significant difference between the two groups.
COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE BASIC FACTORS OF FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC RESTORATION OF GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS OF UKRAINE IN THE POST-WAR PERIOD
Authors: Yarish Olena , Prasolova Svitlana
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to define the essence and methodological approaches to the comparative assessment of the main financial and economic factors of Ukraine’s competitiveness that can shape its competitive advantages in the post-war period and to find ways for restoration and sustainable growth of the country’s competitiveness in the global dimension in the long term. The index method of forming the country’s global competitiveness is the main tool of this study. Such general scientific research methods as grouping, comparison, graphical, systematization and generalization were used to conduct a comparative study of the main indicators that form the global competitiveness rating of Ukraine according to IMD (state of the economy, efficiency of government and business, state of infrastructure). The results of the analysis of the basic trends in the country’s development according to these groups of indicators allowed to formulate the main external and internal factors of change in its competitive position to determine its basic strategic advantages. The defined methodological approaches to the comparative assessment of Ukraine’s rating position in relation to the EU neighboring countries and leading countries in terms of the state of their economy and infrastructure, the effectiveness of government and business, allowed to identify negative and positive factors of external and internal influence, primarily financial and economic, basic development trends and strategic competitive advantages of Ukraine, which allowed to formulate proposals for restoring Ukraine’s strategic efficiency in the post-war period. The article proves that the positive impact of endogenous factors should be considered as competitive advantages that should be focused on in the post-war period, since in an extremely dynamic and rapidly developing world, in order to achieve success, one should focus on the most promising strategic direction, avoiding dispersion on all existing trends, which can lead to the loss of valuable resources.
ECONOMICS OF THE INFORMATION SECTOR ON THE EXAMPLE OF POSTAL SERVICES
Authors: Poljak Josip , Ivanović Slobodan , Aržek Anja
Published: August 2024

The implications of the information sector resulted in the creation of many new companies, but also development of certain sectors within existing companies that needed a new strategy for growth and development in the market. Corporations, in order to achieve higher overall level of efficiency and profitability are reaching for additional ways of strengthening individual sectors, i.e. through networking, activating those sectors they consider to have potential for further development. Thus, the information sector became a core activity that offered the potential for companies to explore new directions or even support the strengthening of already existing activities. The sales sector, especially in those corporations with a significant retail component, discovers through the economy of the information sector new sales channels or even new market niches that were previously inaccessible without networking. The operation of the information sector is based on various forms of networking, creating network effects that enable companies to achieve above-average business results, by utilizing the potential of designed activities. This paper analyses the activities of Hrvatska pošta d.d. and how networking has successfully multiplied the potential of that company, creating a new market segment. The traffic variable of the Yellow Click was analyzed using descriptive statistics. In the analysis, the years 2018 to 2022 were taken, so the number of observed years was 5. The table lists the minimum, maximum value, arithmetic mean, median, and value of the first and third quartiles. The mode does not exist on the observed data set. The variation range is the year with the most Yellow Click sales and the year with the least sales. The coefficient of asymmetry α3 is -1.018, which indicates a negative asymmetry of the distribution, while the coefficient of roundness α4 is 1.958, which indicates that the distribution of variables is more elongated than normal, that is, it is less flattened than with a normal distribution. The relationship between the variables yellow click and retail sales was analyzed according to the data from table number 1.6. The data for the year 2022 were excluded from the analysis, so the data from 2018 - 2021 were taken into the analysis, because in 2022 the sales growth trend was interrupted by the yellow click due to the introduction of the covid certificate, so that year was excluded from the analysis of the observed series of data as a clearer insight into the data could be obtained. A regression and correlation analysis of the yellow click turnover and retail turnover variables was carried out.
APPLICATION OF MOTIVATION TECHNIQUES AND EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION MANAGEMENT IN THE FUNCTION OF IMPROVING EFFICIENCY IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION BODIES
Authors: Tanović Merima , Šašić Đevad , Vranješ Nevenko
Published: August 2024

Examining the application of motivational factors in public administration provides top management with an insight into the levels of satisfaction and insufficiencies in the application of the concept of leadership with the concrete direction of how to create a productive and favorable working environment in public administration bodies. The stability of the public service and an inadequate system of human resources management leads to “mechanical” or “sufficient” productivity, and the satisfaction of employees in public administration remains an enigma for the initiators of reform processes, innovative activities, but also stands as an obstacle to the improvement of organizational culture in public administration. The research problem is based on static nature of public administration, mainly caused by weaknesses in the application of motivational techniques, therefore the work is focused on the analysis of the effects of current satisfaction management and the possibility of introducing transformational leadership and its application through Public Administration Reform requests in the process of joining the European Union, but also in order to improve the efficiency of the organization and the quality of public service delivery. The goal of the research is to examine aspects of functionality related to the application of motivational techniques by top management regarding the perception of employees in public administration bodies with the aim of finding modalities for organizational growth and professional development. Due to representativeness and reliability, the research sample will include at least 10% of public administration bodies at each of the administrative levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
THE INFLUENCE OF RLAH ON THE BUSINESS OF TELECOM OPERATORS ON THE MARKET OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Authors: Bojanić Radmila , Babić Slađana , Đervida Ružica
Published: August 2024

In the era of general globalization and transition, the accession of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the European Union is considered as a strategic priority. The integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina (hereinafter BiH) into the European Union (hereinafter EU) is a very significant process that requires fundamental changes in society, and therefore the inclusion and full engagement of all social and especially economic subjects in BiH is necessary.Bosnia and Herzegovina has always belonged to the European political, cultural, and economic area. The process of European integration requires a comprehensive adjustment of policies, institutional framework and legal system with the aim of reaching European standards in all areas. The process of legal harmonization and acceptance of European standards implies extensive internal reforms, general consolidation of the system, stronger economic development and more intensive foreign policy activities in areas that affect the dynamics of relations between BiH and the EU. The prospect of membership in the EU is an extremely strong incentive for the continuation of already started reforms in BiH and the initiator of the process that should enable the creation of an economic, legal, organizational and social structure capable of operating in accordance with EU rules. Ensuring non-discriminatory access to telecommunications services and their high quality at affordable prices form one of the bases of the policy of developing BiH society and protecting the interests of BiH citizens. Global measures for the implementation of such a policy are: liberalization of the telecommunications market, encouragement of the development of the telecommunications sector and ensuring effective control measures with the aim of protecting users’ rights and reducing barriers to the entry of new operators.The subject of the research in this paper is the assessment of the impact of the current EU Roaming Regulation on the telecommunications market of BiH, that is, the business income of telecom operators from mobile telephony services, as well as the user experience related to the use of services in roaming. The basic question that arises is: How do companies operating in the field of telecommunications adapt their prices and business conditions to the EU requirements? What are the experiences of applying these provisions in EU countries? Can some measures be taken in the context of maintaining business and how to communicate with the users who are directly affected by the mentioned changes, in a positive context? The aim of the research is to assess the effect of the implementation of the Decision of the Regulatory Agency for Communications of BiH (hereinafter referred to as the Agency) on the prices of roaming services in public mobile communication networks, which stipulates the obligation to determine the maximum prices for roaming services and the termination of regulated roaming calls in public mobile communication networks.
Effects Of Acetaminophen On Carassius Auratus Feeding Rate And Movement
Authors: Lavan Totten Kayla , Elias Daniel , Doll Jason
Published: August 2024

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCP) are increasingly detected in freshwater ecosystems and may have adverse effects on aquatic biota. Acetaminophen is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic drug that might be discharged directly (e.g., wastewater) into rivers and lakes. Thus, organisms inhabiting streams or manmade impoundments receiving wastewater effluent might be affected by this drug. Fish species in these habitats are likely tolerant to low dissolved oxygen, high turbidity, high salinity and forage on benthic vegetation and detritus (e.g., Cyprinidea: carps, minnows). Carassius auratus (common goldfish) were exposed to nominal concentrations of 0 µg/L, 100 µg/L, or 200 µg/L (actual concentrations: 0 µg/L, 121 µg/L and 208 µg/L) of acetaminophen for 120 h and 216 h to assess the effects on their feeding rate and movement. After 120 h the feeding rate of fish exposed to 208 µg/L of acetaminophen was significantly higher than the other treatments, and after 216 h there was no difference across treatments. Acetaminophen had no effects on fish movement. The observed differences in feeding rate after 120 h may be attributed to the effects of acetaminophen on serotonergic pathways (i.e., serotonin activation duration), which influence fish aggression, movement, and feeding. Since increased feeding rates may alter ecosystem structure, function, and nutrient availability, future research is needed to determine the effects of chronic acetaminophen exposure on C. auratus and other aquatic organisms.
Effect of chronic alcohol consumption on oral microbiota in rats with periodontitis
Authors: Zhao Zirui , Zhang Xiao , Zhao Wanqing , Wang Jianing , Peng Yanhui , Liu Xuanning , Liu Na , Liu Qing
Published: August 2024

Background

The imbalance of oral microbiota can contribute to various oral disorders and potentially impact general health. Chronic alcohol consumption beyond a certain threshold has been implicated in influencing both the onset and progression of periodontitis. However, the mechanism by which chronic alcohol consumption affects periodontitis and its association with changes in the oral microbial community remains unclear.

Objective

This study used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to examine the dynamic changes in the oral microbial community of rats with periodontitis influenced by chronic alcohol consumption.

Methods

Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to either a periodontitis (P) or periodontitis + alcohol (PA) group. The PA group had unrestricted access to alcohol for 10 weeks, while the P group had access to water only. Four weeks later, both groups developed periodontitis. After 10 weeks, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in the rats’ serum were measured. The oral swabs were obtained from rats, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was conducted. Alveolar bone status was assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining and micro-computed tomography.

Results

Rats in the PA group exhibited more severe periodontal tissue damage compared to those in the periodontitis group. Although oral microbial diversity remained stable, the relative abundance of certain microbial communities differed significantly between the two groups. Actinobacteriota and Desulfobacterota were more prevalent at the phylum level in the PA group. At the genus level, Cutibacterium, Tissierella, Romboutsia, Actinomyces, Lawsonella, Anaerococcus, and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 were significantly more abundant in the PA group, while Haemophilus was significantly less abundant. Additionally, functional prediction using Tax4Fun revealed a significant enrichment of carbohydrate metabolism in the PA group.

Conclusion

Chronic alcohol consumption exacerbated periodontitis in rats and influenced the composition and functional characteristics of their oral microbiota, as indicated by 16S rRNA gene sequencing results. These microbial alterations may contribute to the exacerbation of periodontitis in rats due to chronic alcohol consumption.
Cuproptosis related ceRNA axis AC008083.2/miR-142-3p promotes the malignant progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma through STRN3
Authors: Feng Dandan , Wu Xiaoping , Li Genping , Yang Junhui , Jiang Jianguo , Liu Shunan , Chen Jichuan
Published: August 2024

Background

CeRNA axis is an important way to regulate the occurrence and development of Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Although the research on inducing cuproptosis of tumor cells is in the early stage of clinical practice, its mechanism of action is still of great significance for tumor treatment, including NPC. However, the regulation mechanism of cuproptosis in NPC by ceRNA network remains unclear.

Methods

The ceRNA network related to the survival of nasopharyngeal carcinoma related genes was constructed by bioinformatics. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and other experiments were used to prove the conclusion.

Results

Our findings indicate that the AC008083.2/miR-142-3p axis drives STRN3 to promote the malignant progression of NPC. By performing enrichment analysis and phenotypic assays, we demonstrated that the changes in the expressions of AC008083.2/miR-142-3p/NPC can affect the proliferation of NPC. Mechanistically, luciferase reporter gene assays suggested that AC008083.2 acts as a ceRNA of miR-142-3p to regulate the content of STRN3. Furthermore, the regulations of STRN3 and the malignant progression of NPC by AC008083.2 depends on miR-142-3p to some extent.

Conclusions

Our study reveals an innovative ceRNA regulatory network in NPC, which can be considered a new potential target for diagnosing and treating NPC.
Prevalence of Disease Incidence and Mycoflora of Rhizosphere at Distinct Phenological Stages in Different Treatments of Okra in Hamelmalo, Eritrea
Authors: Berhane Luwam , Abubaker Idris , Ghebrehiwet Yordanos , Rao Gangapuram Sethumadhava
Published: August 2024

Okra (Abelmoschus esculents L. Moench.) is a vegetable widely grown in Eritrea and cultivated in 514 ha of land with an average yield of 10t/ha. However, the production of this crop is highly affected by nematodes and other diseases. There is very less information on disease occurrence and soil mycoflora, hence, this research was carried out in the field of okra, in Hamelmalo Agricultural College, to identify the occurrence of diseases; percentage occurrence of disease incidence and identification of field mycoflora at various phenological stages of okra in various treatments such as control (T1), farm yard manure (T2), intercropping with a legume (T3) and chemical fertilizer (T4). This experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design. During the experiment, powdery mildew and blight were the main diseases that occurred, and diseases like damping off, wilt, and leaf spot were also observed. In addition to that various soil mycoflora were found including, two nematode predacious fungi Arthrobotris oligospora and Drechmeria sps. which were identified for the first time in the rhizosphere soils of okra, in Eritrea. The study revealed that the flowering stage was found significantly different at the incidence of powdery mildew but all growth stages of okra were non-significant at blights. Chemical fertilizer was found to be the best in cases of disease prevalence and intercropping was in cases of pests’ infestation. Based on the results of the current study it can be concluded that different phenological stages were found to be significantly influenced by all the treatments. But in T3 the cultivation which was with cowpea attracted the insect pests like African bollworms. However, the incidence of blight on all the treatments at different phonological stages was non-significant.
Preliminary Study on the Development of a Lip Learning Model Based on the Local Potential of Taba Vulkan Gamalama for Improving Students’ Chemical Literacy
Authors: Limatahu Nur Asbirayani , Arismunandar  , Manda Darman
Published: August 2024

This research is a preliminary study in the form of a needs analysis as a guide in developing a LIP (inquiry training-project) learning model based on the local potential of Taba (sand land and batu angus) Gamalama volcano to increase students' chemical literacy. This research was carried out through observation, distributing questionnaires and literature studies regarding the LIP learning model based on Taba's local potential to increase students' chemical literacy. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with data collection techniques, namely observation, questionnaires and Discussion. The subjects of this research were students in the Chemistry Education Study Program in the inorganic chemistry course. The sample used was a saturated sample with a total of 52 students. This research is the initial part of a series of Research and Development models. The research results show that the chemical literacy of Indonesian students is still low, which is based on the results of the 2022 PISA assessment by the OECD, namely that Indonesia is in 67th position out of 81 countries with a score of 383, and the observation results as needs analysis data obtained 100%, not yet using the LIP learning model (inquiry training-project) based on the local potential of Taba Vulcan Gamalama during chemistry learning. Based on the results of the preliminary study that has been carried out, it shows that it is necessary to develop a LIP learning model based on the local potential of Taba Vulcan Gamalama to increase the chemical literacy of prospective teacher students.
Assessment of Soil Carbon Stock Potential in Different Soil Layers of Grassland Ecosystems
Authors: Pragasan L. Arul , Prasad P. Vishnu
Published: August 2024

Mostly soil carbon stock research is done in areas with natural vegetation, ignoring university campuses. This study assesses soil carbon stocks in different soil layers of grassland ecosystems within the Bharathiar University campus in Tamil Nadu, India. Soil samples were collected from grasslands in four sections (namely, East section, West section, North section, and South section) of the campus and analyzed for carbon content across depths of 0-10cm, 10-20cm, and 20-30cm. Results indicate soil carbon stocks in grassland ecosystems ranging from 1.36% to 2.26%, with notable variations observed among campus sections and soil layers. One-way ANOVA revealed that there is a significant variation in soil carbon stock values among the four sections in the 20-30cm layer (F(3,16)=3.865, p<0.05), but not for the 0-10cm layer (F(3,16)=1.454, p>0.05) and the 10-20cm layer (F(3,16)=3.011, p>0.05). Pearson’s Correlation analysis revealed that the soil carbon stock had no significant relationships with soil pH, Conductivity, and total dissolved solids at all four sections of the university campus, except for a positive correlation between soil carbon stock and total dissolved solids at the East section (r=0.563, p<0.05), and between soil carbon stock and soil pH at the South section (r=0.550, p<0.05). These findings underscore the complexity of soil carbon dynamics in grassland ecosystems of university campuses and emphasize the potential for localized assessments to inform sustainable land management strategies. This study contributes valuable insights into enhancing carbon sequestration efforts at the university campus, useful for global climate change mitigation. Integrating such localized findings into broader environmental policies can optimize carbon management strategies across similar ecosystems globally.
A Comparative Study of Detrending Methods on Crop Yield Time Series for Drought Studies
Authors: Kumar Aekesh , Kumar Anil , Singh Rajesh Pratap , Kumar Pravendra , Singh Praveen Vikram
Published: August 2024

Detrending is a statistical technique that removes systematic variations or trends from time series data, allowing analysts to focus on the underlying patterns or fluctuations. While multiple detrending approaches have been applied but rarely discussed their consistency of outcomes and effectiveness in accurately capturing better yield trends. The validation of drought occurrences has proven to be a challenging task due to the non-stationary characteristics of time series data related to crop yield. This research utilizes time series of cotton yield data from the Marathwada region covering the period from 1998 to 2021. Three traditional trend models, including simple linear regression, second-order polynomial regression and central moving average were applied. Additionally, two machine learning models (random forest and support vector regression) were tested with a novel approach. Moreover, two decomposition models (additive and multiplicative) were used to remove non-linear trends in crop yield time series data. The performance of the chosen models was evaluated based on metrics such as root mean square error, mean absolute error, Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency, and index of agreement. The results suggest that the most effective detrending approach involves combining a random forest machine learning model with an additive decomposition model.
Multiclass Text Classification of Climate Change Reports: Insights into Natural Disasters, Impacts, Locations, and Time Periods
Authors: Katsadaki Eirini , Kokla Margarita
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the quantity of unstructured information sources, such as documents that include complex information about climate change has grown exponentially. Machine learning techniques may be used to extract semantic information from these unstructured sources to enable semantic organization and classification, as well as a deeper comprehension of the inherent knowledge. Multinomial logistic regression is an effective method for classifying texts into multiple categories simultaneously. Its ability to manage several dependent variables enables precise prediction and categorization, making it ideal for complex climate change data. The paper focuses on the implementation of multinomial logistic regression for text classification to predict the class of a document based on its semantic content. Four custom classifiers were implemented for climate change reports that are tailored to identify and categorize natural disasters and their impacts, locations, and time periods respectively. The ability of the custom classifiers to effectively classify climate change texts was evaluated using an extended report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The resulting predictions from the classifiers highlighted various aspects of the reports regarding these four dimensions and the potential to reveal immanent patterns and relations from unstructured text data.
Hydrogel in Drylands: A Review
Authors: K.T. Dimple , Paul Akash , Kakoti Mriganko , Shridhar Ankit Kumar , Shobnur Shahin , Robertson Ayekpam , Alam Sahidul
Published: August 2024

Significant amounts of water and nutrients are held in reserve by hydrogels due to their three-dimensional polymeric network. The capacity of hydrogels to absorb water lowers the frequency of irrigation, which is beneficial for agricultural application. When applied to soil, it functions well as a nutrient mobilizer and a reservoir for water. Applying hydrogel will be a profitable and advantageous way to boost agricultural crop yield and sustainability in settings where moisture is scarce. Because of their three-dimensional polymeric network, hydrogels can store large amounts of water and nutrients. Because hydrogels can absorb water, less irrigation is required, which is advantageous for agricultural use. It works well as a water reservoir and nutrient mobilizer when added to soil. In environments where moisture is limited, applying hydrogel will be a profitable and beneficial strategy to increase agricultural crop productivity and sustainability.
Comparative Assessment of Water Productivity and Crop Performance of Cluster Bean, Cowpea and Pearl Millet in Arid Zones
Authors: Saini Nirmala , Jat Radhe Shayam , Kumar Shailendra , Gurjar Jitendra
Published: August 2024

Arid and semi-arid regions face mounting challenges due to water scarcity exacerbated by climate change, necessitating sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security and economic stability. This study compares the water productivity and crop performance of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L), Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) and Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) under sprinkle irrigation in the Thar Desert, India. The experiment, conducted over two years (2022 and 2023) at ICAR – CSWRI – Arid Region Campus, Bikaner evaluated plant height, leaf number, branch development, fresh and dry biomass yields and water productivity. Pearl Millet exhibited the tallest plants (160.03 cm) and highest water productivity (1.57 kg/m³), emphasizing its drought resilience and efficient water use. Cowpea demonstrated substantial biomass production (average fresh weight of 16,348.75 kg/hac.) and moderate water productivity (1.16 kg/m³), suitable for forage and soil improvement. Cluster Bean, although less productive in biomass, showed adaptability with increased branching (from 4.65 to 7.35 branches/tiller/plant), indicative of its resilience in arid conditions. These findings underscore the importance of crop selection and management practices in maximizing agricultural productivity and resource use efficiency in water-limited environments.
Impact of NPK, Rhizobium and FYM on Physico-Chemical Properties of Soil for Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Cv. Radha SPL
Authors: Sen Paritosh , Bharose Ram , David Arun Alfred , Raja Md Ramiz , Kapat Tanubrata , Chowdhury Bidisha
Published: August 2024

An experiment was conducted to study the impact of NPK, Rhizobium and FYM on Soil properties, and Yield of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) Cv. Radha SPL at Research farm of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Naini Agricultural Institute, during kharif season of 2023-24. The experiment with 18 treatments, was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The pre and post-harvest soil samples taken for analysis revealed sandy loam in texture. and treatment T18 - [ N20P40K40+ FYM@ 5 t ha-1+Rhizobium@ 600 g ha-1] showed a slight decrease in soil pH (7.18), Db (1.21 Mg.m-1) and Dp (2.20 Mg.m-1) along with increase in EC, pore space, water holding capacity and organic carbon i.e.,0.29 dSm-1, 46.88%, 44.90%, 0.55% respectively. The maximum available nitrogen 292 kg ha-1, phosphorus 31.18kg ha-1 and potassium 264 kg ha-1 were recorded in T18. made it best treatment among soil health parameters.
Indications for Cervical Cerclage in Pregnant Women: Obstetric and Perinatal Outcomes in a Tertiary Public Hospital
Authors: Ueda Julia Mayumi , Kavalco Tatiana Frehner
Published: August 2024

Aims: This study aims to assess the impact of cervical cerclage on gestational and perinatal outcomes at a tertiary hospital, considering various surgical indications. Preterm labor (PTL) is a major cause of neonatal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, affecting about 15 million newborns globally each year. Cervical insufficiency (CI) contributes significantly to PTL, particularly in women with a history of spontaneous preterm births or second-trimester losses. This research examines how cervical cerclage, a standard treatment for CI, influences these outcomes.
Study Design: This is an observational, analytical, retrospective cohort study based on documentary research.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a tertiary public hospital in Cascavel, Paraná, Brazil, from January 1, 2020, to March 20, 2024.
Methodology: A database review was performed for pregnant women who received cervical cerclage using the McDonald technique. Participants were divided into three groups based on the indication for the procedure: obstetric history only, ultrasound only, and both. The study analyzed gestational and perinatal outcomes. Comparisons were made using ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and Chi-square tests, with P < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: Out of 41 women studied, 19 (46.3%) had cervical cerclage based solely on obstetric history, 16 (39.0%) based on a combination of obstetric history and ultrasound, and 6 (14.6%) based only on ultrasound. Significant differences were noted in maternal age, history of premature births and miscarriages, cervical length, and nulliparity. Despite these differences, no statistically significant variations were observed in obstetric and perinatal outcomes, including gestational age at cerclage removal and delivery, delivery type, neonatal weight, APGAR score, NICU admission, and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Notably, 76.3% of births occurred at term (> 37 weeks), and the average pregnancy length post-cerclage was 21 weeks (IQR: 5.00). Additionally, 90.3% of neonatal outcomes were favorable.
Conclusion: All three indications for cervical cerclage were associated with extended gestation, increased rates of full-term births, and favorable neonatal outcomes.
Association Analysis and Structured Equation Modelling in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Vishnuprabha R. Sangeetha , Viswanathan PL. , Manonmani S. , Rajendran L. , Selvakumar T.
Published: August 2024

India is one among the top countries producing groundnut in the world ranking. The breeding programmes of groundnut aim at developing early maturing and high yielding varieties. Correlation and Path analysis is a tool which provides information on magnitude and intensity of association among yield components and yield. The present study analyses effects of the yield components on yield in the segregating population of groundnut. The traits days to maturity, number of matured pods, kernel yield, hundred pod and kernel weight are positively correlated with pod yield while the vegetative traits height of main axis and number of branches are negatively correlated with pod yield. Path analysis revealed that days to accumulation of 25 flowers, days to maturity, number of matured pods, kernel yield, hundred pod and kernel weight exerted low to moderate direct effects on pod yield. Structural Equation Model (SEM) is a powerful statistical technique for Path analysis that allows for more complex models than multiple regressions with its single dependent variable. In groundnut segregating population, structural equation modelling splits the yield component into traits before harvest and after harvest. Though both the variables are correlated, the traits before harvest have higher influence on pod yield.
Livelihood Enhancement of Scheduled Caste Farmers through Integrated Farming System in Kolar District, India
Authors: Madhuprasad V. L. , S. Chandrashekar, , D. Harshitha,
Published: August 2024

The study was conducted in purposively selected Kolar district, a total sample of 353 respondents were purposively selected for the study. Data was collected by using pretested structured interview schedule and analyzed by using appropriate statistical tools. The results revealed that a majority of the respondents belonged to low category of  mass media exposure, medium category of  education, livestock possession, cosmopoliteness, extension participation, social participation, scientific orientation, risk orientation, training undergone followed by high category of  cropping pattern, innovativeness, management orientation, level of aspiration, participation in the developmental programmes, willingness towards IFS, access to extension personnel and access to resources. Livelihood Security of respondents in ‘highly satisfied category’ increased to 37.96 per cent from 28.33 per cent out of seven dimensions, maximum increase was noticed in economic efficiency (52.71%). The personal, socio-economic and psychological characteristics such as cropping pattern, livestock possession, risk orientation, training undergone, access to extension personnel and access to resources had positive and significant relationship with livelihood security. The multiple regression value indicated that all the 18 independent variables had contributed to the tune of 23.20 per cent of variation in livelihood security of the respondents.  The results pertaining to economic analysis indicated that BC ratio has been increased to 2.98 from 1.93 in crop component and with respect livestock component BC ratio was found to be enhanced to 3.18 from 1.93 after the implementation of the project. Hence, the concerned development departments should organize the demonstrations, trainings, field days, exposure visits etc., to educate the farmers about IFS. The positive and significantly related characteristics need to be considered while selecting the farmers for the extension educational programmes to enhance their livelihood security.
Study on the Application Status of 3D Point Cloud
Authors: Yuan Huimin , Luo Ziqi , Ding Chuan , Ma Jiajun
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to discuss the application and development trend of 3D point cloud technology in different fields. As an effective means of digitizing the real world, 3D point cloud has been widely used in many fields, including computer-aided design, building information modeling, geographic information systems, robot navigation, autonomous vehicles, and the digitalization of cultural relics. In this paper, the techniques of acquiring 3D point cloud data are summarized, including laser scanning, structured light scanning and time flight measurement. Then, the latest developments in point cloud data preprocessing were analyzed. Further, the challenges of 3D point cloud technology are discussed, such as large data volume, slow processing speed and high precision requirements. Finally, this paper looks forward to the future development direction of 3D point cloud technology, especially in the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technology application potential. Through this study, we expect to provide researchers and practitioners in related fields with a comprehensive understanding of 3D point cloud technology and promote its application in a wider range of fields.
Review on Pharmacological Action and Therapeutic Uses of Balchar (Nardostachys jatamansi DC): Unani Perspective
Authors: Khan Mehwish Ayoub , Ahmed Mohammed Sheeraz Mushtaque , Sumeena  , Farooq Syed Farhanda , Jan Uzma
Published: August 2024

Nardostachys jatamansi DC, commonly referred to as 'Balchar', is a perennial herb within the Valerianaceae family, locally known as "Jatamansi" or "Sumbul-ut-teeb". This species is indigenous to the Himalayan Mountain range, with its habitat extending across China, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar, thriving at elevations between 3,000 and 5,000 meters. The roots of Nardostachys jatamansi are utilized in traditional Unani medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including hepatitis, inflammation, and obstructions. The genus Nardostachys, particularly Nardostachys jatamansi, is rich in phytoconstituents such as actinidine, angelicin, jatamansin, jatamansone, and jatamansinol. Extensive pharmacological research has demonstrated the plant's antilithiatic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cognitive-enhancing, cardioprotective, hypolipidemic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, antiandrogenic, and antibacterial properties. This review aims to elucidate the therapeutic applications of Nardostachys jatamansi, drawing on traditional Unani medicine and contemporary scientific investigations.