bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CREATION OF AN ELECTRONIC REGISTER IN THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM: IMPROVING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GLAUCOMA MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT
Authors: Yermukhanova L.S. , Taushanova M.K. , Baisugurova V.Y. , Balmagambetova S.K. , Tazhbenova S.T. , Aitmagambet P.Zh. , Turdalina K.B. , Kurganbekova M.B. , Bekbauova А.U. , Kuspangaliyeva G.S.
Published: September 2024

Glaucoma represents one of the major global health issues, being the second leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Insufficient early diagnosis and lack of long-term monitoring lead to the progression of the disease, thereby exacerbating the public health issue. In Kazakhstan, the incidence of glaucoma and related disabilities have significantly increased, especially among the working-age population, underscoring the need for improved ophthalmological care. The article highlights the importance of creating electronic patient registries as a universal tool for improving the quality of medical care and disease management. Electronic registries allow for the assessment of the real course of the disease, therapy effectiveness, treatment safety, and impact on patients' life expectancy. In Kazakhstan, registries for other diseases are already operational, but there is no specialized registry for patients with glaucoma.
Simple, Enantiocontrolled Azetidine Library Synthesis via Strain Release Functionalization of 1-Azabicyclobutanes
Authors: Bielecki Michael , Nassir Molhm , Sharma Hayden A. , Truax Nathanyal J. , Raheja Nicholas , Thompson Ty M. , El-Hayek Ewing Tamara , Melillo Bruno , Cravatt Benjamin F. , Baran Phil S.
Published: September 2024

A simple, modular, programmable approach to access complex stereopure azetidines through strain-release functionalization is disclosed. The synthetic methods developed enable parallel synthesis of stereodefined azetidines that would be otherwise laborious to produce. Given the privileged nature of these structures, a set of ste-reoprobes for use in activity-based protein profiling was prepared and evaluated, revealing proteins in human can-cer cells with were liganded with clear stereo- and chemo-selectivity
Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis for Assessments of Chemical Alternatives (MCDA-ACA)
Authors: London Rachel L. , Glüge Juliane , Scheringer Martin
Published: September 2024

A comprehensive assessment of chemical alternatives is necessary to avoid regrettable substitution. In a preceding study, an analysis of six hazard assessment methods found that none of them is fully aligned with the hazard assessment criteria of Article 57 of the European REACH regulation, indicating a need for a method better reflecting hazard assessment schemes in European chemical regulations. This paper presents a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) method for the assessment of chemical alternatives (ACA) that takes the criteria of Article 57 of REACH into account. Investigated and presented are objective hierarchies, aggregation of objectives, curvature of the value functions, weights, and the introduction of a classification threshold. The MCDA-ACA method allows for the aggregation of hazards in such a way that poor performance in one hazard cannot be compensated for by good performance in another hazard. The method parameters were developed and tested using two datasets with the aim to classify chemical alternatives into acceptable (non-regrettable) and unacceptable (regrettable) alternatives according to the regulations set in Europe. The flexibility of the general method was explored by adapting the method to align with two hazard assessment schemes, Article 57 of REACH and GreenScreen®. The results show that MCDA-ACA is so flexible and transparent that it can easily be adapted to various hazard assessment schemes.
Trogocytosis targeting chimeras (TrogoTACs) for targeted protein transfer
Authors: Till Nicholas , Ramanathan Muthukumar , Yong Loh Kang , Bertozzi Carolyn
Published: September 2024

Cell surface proteins contribute to cellular identity and mediate a myriad of pathological and normal physiological processes. Multiple induced proximity strategies have emerged to manipulate the cell surface proteome, wherein a protein of interest can be depleted in a targeted manner. These strategies can be applied to diseases marked by the presence of a pathogenic protein. However, many pathologies result from the absence of critical cell surface proteins.1–4 Restoring deficient cell-surface proteins without genetic intervention remains a formidable challenge. We sought to address this problem by exploiting a natural process for cell-to-cell transfer of membrane proteins known as trogocytosis. Here we report the development of Trogocytosis-TArgeting Chimeras (TrogoTACs), bispecific molecules capable of inducing protein transfer between distinct cells. We designed TrogoTACs that bind the B cell receptor CD22 through a synthetic small molecule ligand chemically linked to an antibody that recognizes a cell surface molecule expressed on a target cell. These CD22-targeted TrogoTACs induce cell surface protein transfer from the target cell to B cells by redirecting trogocytosis in a targeted fashion. We show that the process depends on cell-cell contact, expression of CD22, and requires high-affinity CD22 binding. We demonstrate the utility of TrogoTACs across several cell models, achieving efficient transfer of therapeutically relevant proteins such as PD-1, CD25, EGFR, and HER2. Finally, we show that trogocytosed MHC class I can elicit T cell activation and cell killing. This technology offers a new avenue for non-genetic cell surface modification, therapeutic interventions, and a platform for targeted modulation of the cell surface proteome.
A Catalytic, Enantioselective Sulfamate Tethered Aza-Michael Cyclization
Authors: Sathyamoorthi Shyam , Joshi Harshit , Manna Abhijit , Nagamalla Someshwar , Thomas Annu
Published: September 2024

We show the first examples of enantioselective cyclization reactions of tethered sulfamates onto pendant α,β-unsaturated esters, ketones, and thioesters. This reaction is promoted by a new chiral bifunctional guanidine catalyst and is operationally very simple. Product is formed by simply stirring substrate and catalyst in methylene chloride at room temperature without any special precautions to exclude air or ambient moisture. A variety of primary sulfamates and sulfamides were examined, and, in many cases, products were delivered in excellent yields and enantiomeric ratios. With secondary sulfamates, kinetic resolutions were possible. With these kinetic resolutions, rationally varying reaction conditions allowed for either high enantioenrichment of the racemic sulfamate substrates or for cyclizations with good yields, enantiomeric ratios, and diastereoselectivities. The product oxathiazinanes were very useful chiral intermediates and could be transformed into an array of enantioenriched small molecules.
Comprehensive Insights into Global Mineral Commodities: Analysis, Visualization and Intelligent Assistance
Authors: Mohanty Trupti , Sayeed Hasan M. , Mohanty Chitrasen , Sparks Taylor D.
Published: September 2024

With the growing emphasis on sustainability, criticality, and availability in materials research, our study introduces a comprehensive data analytics platform to provide country-specific insights into global elemental production and reserves. Utilizing data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), our web application incorporates the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) to assess market concentration, identifying potential risks and opportunities related to resource availability. The platform features an AI assistant powered by a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system, leveraging the past ten years of USGS mineral commodities summaries. This system employs an open-source large language model (LLM) to enable users to query various aspects of raw materials, including reserves, production, market share, usage, price, substitutes, recycling, and more. By retrieving relevant documents and generating accurate, comprehensive responses, our tool addresses a crucial gap in publicly available resources, offering a unified application for detailed material analysis. This platform provides valuable support for material scientists in assessing sustainability, criticality, and market risks, thereby aiding in the development of new materials. Website: https://mineral-ai.net
SCIENTIFIC AND PHILOSOPHICAL RATIONALITY INTHE CONTEXT OF PARADIGMS OF WESTERN AND EASTERN PHILOSOPHY
Authors: Biletsky Igor , Tahlina Yuliia
Published: September 2024

The article examines the stages of development of ideas about rational thinking, rational scientific knowledge and science as such within the context of the so-called paradigms of philosophy. These paradigms are as follows: Ancient (it is based on the idea of ​​avoiding suffering and achieving happiness in a world alien and indifferent to human aspirations), Abrahamic (the paradigm of Abrahamic religions - Judaism, Christianity and Islam with their monotheism, creationism, fideism), Modern scientific (based on the priority of scientific, beforehand natural knowledge and the picture of the world it offers), the traditional Indian (based on the idea of ​​reincarnation, the wheel of samsara and liberation from it) and the traditional Chinese (with its worldview organismism or a worldview that considers the universe as a single organism, the organs of which are individual people and other living beings). The first three paradigms represent the stages of development of the Western tradition, starting from ancient times to the present, while the Indian and Chinese paradigms are separate and independent that can in modern conditions represent certain worldview alternatives to Western ideas. The path of development of the Western tradition is analyzed in detail, it is shown that the key role in the formation of the Modern paradigm was played by the change in the perception of Western people from audio-tactile to visual caused by the invention of printing and the wide spread of reading (as it was demonstrated by the Canadian philosopher M. McLuhan). It is also shown that the development of each of these paradigms begins with existential questions about the place and role of the individual in society, which further leads to the raising of the corresponding physical and metaphysical questions with all the ensuing consequences. Rational thinking, scientific ideas and knowledge develop according to this scheme within the framework of each of these paradigms.

Finally, at the end, the hypothesis is proposed that the current postmodern situation is caused on the one hand by the process of emancipation of the humanities, and on the other by the processes of cultural decolonization and the resulting worldview pluralism.
INSTALLATION ART IN THEUKRAINIAN VISUAL CULTUREOF THE BEGINNING OF THE ХХІ CENTURY
Authors: Petrenko Dmitry
Published: September 2024

The article considers Ukrainian installation art. Artistic practices of installation represent one of the most interesting trends in world visual culture, which actively developed during the second half of the ХХ century and at the beginning of the ХХІ century. Installation is a relevant form of modern art, as it is focused on space and thus corresponds to an important guideline of modern culture — the spatial turn. It is proposed to consider the theory of installation by C. Bishop, according to which four types of installation can be distinguished: a phenomenological installation, de-subjectivizing installation, political installation, as well as a semiotic dream installation. According to Bishop's classification, the majority of Ukrainian art projects created in the installation technique are close to the semiotic dream installation. Ukrainian installation artists bring work with cultural meanings to the fore, rather than perceptual experience or anthropological experiments.

There are several central figures in the Ukrainian art scene who create installations and present various artistic strategies in their projects. Through installation art, artist M. Kadan addresses the understanding of the Soviet past and its presence in the current experience of Ukrainian culture. Art meets research here. The artist refers to the cultural layers of the past to make sense of them outside the ideologemes of Soviet propaganda and reveal the “paresis of things” to the audience.

The works by artist S. Petliuk develop the trend of media installation. Media technologies are actively used in the works of this trend. In his media installations, Petliuk deconstructs social and political ideologues, conducts “archaeological” explorations of modern urban space, addresses the question of comprehending war traumas, etc. Special attention is paid to the influence of the video installation on modern Ukrainian cinematography. The work of artist and film director I. Podolchak, who integrates the artistic principles of installation into his cinematographic works, is considered. An important trend of Ukrainian installation art is represented by the work of artist P. Makov. Makov's projects balance on the border between the culture of meaning and the culture of presence by filling his installation projects with deep cultural and political senses.

It is determined that Ukrainian installation art combines the traditions of Ukrainian visual culture and innovative artistic practices and is an important component of the world artistic culture of the beginning of the ХХІ century.
Augmented reality in healthcare: Principle components, domain modeling, and design-development-validation process
Authors: Rashika Murugan , Atheena Milagi Pandian S. , Mohammed Sahil S. , Sri Manoj Kumar N.
Published: September 2024

The Augmented Reality (AR) techniques for the buyer's industry are established and suitable for multiple uses. As seen in the wellness sector, with more publications on the use of augmented reality in surgery, medicine, and rehabilitation, there is a high demand for solutions that can enhance clinical practice. This paper aims to offer technicians, computer scientists, and users an overview of AR technologies' possibility of developing beneficial applications shortly. This paper explores the foundational components and development methodologies crucial to effective Medical Augmented Reality Systems (MARS). It also aims to guide academic research toward overcoming technological and human-factor issues in current devices and popular modalities for enriching visual sensations with computer-generated elements. Six submissions have been accepted after being assessed by authorities in their academic fields. This paper presents examples of uses for medical treatment, spanning interactions between physicians and patients, surgery, rehabilitation, and fear treatments. This paper illustrates the framework's application and its potential to revolutionize medical practices, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between technology and healthcare domains.
To be of use – designing software with progressive food growers in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors:   , Aldridge Bertram
Published: September 2024

Conventional agricultural systems – how we grow, process, and supply food – contribute to local and global environmental problems. These contributions include damaging soil health, loss of productive soil, waterway pollution, greenhouse gas production, and the distortion of tolerable weather patterns due to climate change. The changing climate in turn makes it more difficult to maintain agricultural systems. The last twenty years has seen the growth of agricultural practices in opposition to the conventional, where the farmers’ intent is to work as part of the ecological system in which they reside, so that both the agriculture and its ecological host may benefit. Alongside progressive developments in agriculture, alternative systems for getting the food to customers have sprouted, including shorter and more local food chains. At the same time there has been growth in digital products and services for agriculture. Most of them are designed and developed to support conventional and often larger agriculture practices, in part because the scale of the addressable market makes it commercially viable for software development companies to do so. However, small progressive farmers share similar complexities as larger operations, and could benefit from digital tools to help them plan, grow, and manage their farming systems, make records to demonstrate their compliance across various standards, as well as analyse their performance to improve their practices. This project explores the systems of small progressive vegetable growers in Aotearoa New Zealand. Based on a rudimentary understanding of their growing and selling processes, and working directly with three progressive growers, I have designed some early concepts for tablet and phone-based software. This project is also an opportunity to explore how UX design processes might operate in a non-commercial context, with an emphasis on a non-extractive process that is ultimately useful for the people working alongside designers.
Test deposit please ignore
Authors:   , Atkins Ori
Published: September 2024

Test deposit
Test Deposit; Please Ignore (last one I hope)
Authors:   , Atkins Ori
Published: September 2024

Test DEposit
Advancing Cancer Stem Cell-Targeted Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Abubakar Muhammad , Ayyoub Rooma , Rehman Baqaur , Zubair Muhammad , Ahmed Usama
Published: September 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), first identified in blood cancers, are increasingly recognized as significant biomarkers and targets in tumor therapy due to their metastatic potential and role in cancer recurrence. Recent research has demonstrated the dedication of scientists in targeting CSCs to explore novel therapeutic strategies. Many types of cancer exhibit metastasis, heterogeneity, and resistance to treatment, all of which are influenced by CSCs. These cells utilize various transcription factors and signaling pathways to carry out these functions. By identifying and understanding these pathways, new therapeutic breakthroughs can be achieved. Thus, targeting cancer stem cells holds great potential and importance in cancer treatment. Moreover, CSCs offer promising avenues for treating otherwise incurable diseases. However, targeting CSCs presents challenges such as immunological rejection and disease recurrence. Advancing research into CSCs may reveal new insights in the fight against cancer and ultimately improve human health. This review explores the roles of CSCs in cancer development and treatment, aiming to uncover new therapeutic approaches.
A Pan-Cancer Analysis of GAPDH as a Common Biomarker for Various Cancers
Authors: Hameed Yasir
Published: September 2024

Objective: To investigate the expression levels of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and explore its prognostic value across 24 different human cancers. This investigation was conducted using comprehensive bioinformatics and in vitro approaches, incorporating multiple layers of analysis. Methods: GAPDH expression and methylation levels were assessed using bioinformatics tools and validated in cell lines through RNA-seq and targeted bisulfite-seq analyses. The potential prognostic significance of GAPDH was evaluated using the KM plotter. Additionally, cBioPortal was employed to investigate genetic alterations associated with this gene. Pathway analysis was conducted using DAVID. Furthermore, a correlation analysis between GAPDH expression and CD8+ T immune cells was performed using TIMER and CDT. Finally, a gene-drug interaction network analysis was conducted using Cytoscape to examine the relationship between GAPDH and various drugs. Results: GAPDH was found to be commonly upregulated in 24 types of human cancers, with its upregulation significantly correlated with poor relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in BLCA, CESC, HNSC, KIRP, LIHC, and LUAD. This suggests that GAPDH plays a significant role in the development of these cancers. GAPDH upregulation was also associated with various clinicopathological features in patients with BLCA, CESC, HNSC, KIRP, LIHC, and LUAD. Pathway analysis revealed GAPDH’s involvement in diverse pathways. Additionally, notable correlations were observed between GAPDH expression and its promoter methylation level, genetic alterations, and CD8+ T immune cell levels. Moreover, several regulatory drugs targeting GAPDH were identified, with the potential to modulate its expression and potentially prevent conditions such as BLCA, CESC, HNSC, KIRP, LIHC, and LUAD. Conclusion: Based on our findings, GAPDH emerges as a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for BLCA, CESC, HNSC, KIRP, LIHC, and LUAD.
Roles of Mutant TP53 Gene in Cancer Development and Progression
Authors: Abubakar Muhammad , Rehman Baqaur
Published: September 2024

TP53 is a tumor suppressor gene that is mutated in most cancer types and has been extensively studied in cancer research. p53 plays a critical role in regulating the expression of target genes and is involved in key processes such as apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, and genomic stability, earning it the title “guardian of the genome.” Numerous studies have demonstrated p53’s influence on and regulation of autophagy, ferroptosis, the tumor microenvironment, and cell metabolism, all of which contribute to tumor suppression. Alterations in p53, specifically mutant p53 (mutp53), not only impair its tumor-suppressing functions but also enhance oncogenic characteristics. Recent data indicate that mutp53 is strongly associated with poor prognosis and advanced cancers, making it an ideal target for the development of novel cancer therapies. This review summarizes the post-translational modifications of p53, the mechanisms of mutp53 accumulation, and its gain-of-function, based on previous findings. Additionally, this review discusses its impact on metabolic homeostasis, ferroptosis, genomic instability, the tumor microenvironment, and cancer stem cells, and highlights recent advancements in mutp53 research.
Beyond Winning: Examining Sociodemographic and Sport Factors Associated with Doping Attitudes in High-Performance Sport Coaches Involved in Olympic Team Sports
Authors:   Football Federation of Kosovo, Prishtina, Kosovo, Tahiraj Enver , Zenic Natasa ,   Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split, Split, Croatia, Musa Martina ,   Faculty of Science and Education, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zeljko Ivan ,   Faculty of Science and Education, University of Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Rodek Jelena ,   Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Published: September 2024

Coaches have a significant impact on the lives and development of athletes, so understanding the factors that influence their doping attitudes (DA) are particularly important. The aim of this study was to investigate sport-specific and sociodemographic correlates of DA among high-level sport coaches involved in Olympic team sports (soccer, basketball, handball, and volleyball). The participants were high-level coaches from Kosovo (n = 113, age: 42.99±10.9 years). Previously validated questionnaires were used for testing all participants, asking them about sociodemographic-, sport- factors, doping-related-factors (all predictors), and DA (criterion). Logistic regression for binarized criterion (negative DA vs. neutral/positive DA) was applied to define the associations between the studied predictors and the DA as an outcome. The results revealed a greater likelihood of neutral/positive DA among male coaches (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.11–2.33) and among those coaches who believe that doping is prevalent in their sport (OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.25–1.87). No further associations between the studied predictors and DA were found. Additional studies analyzing other samples, sports and variables are warranted.
Agreement in Knee Flexion and Hip Extension Range of Motion Assessment between Digital Goniometer and Video-based Motion Tracking Technology
Authors:   Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia, Nedović Nenad , Jovanović Stevan ,   Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia, Kozinc Žiga ,   University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izola, Slovenia, Vujičić Danilo ,   Academy of Applied Studies Belgrade, College of Health Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
Published: September 2024

Precise range of motion (ROM) measurements are critical for diagnosing musculoskeletal impairments, planning treatment strategies and monitoring rehabilitation progress. This study compares the reliability and accuracy of ROM measurements using the EasyAngle electronic goniometer device and the Kemtai pose estimation video-based motion tracking software. Participants performed hip extension and knee flexion movements, with measurements taken by two examiners using both tools. The results show that both EasyAngle and Kemtai provide high inter-repetition reliability for knee flexion (ICC 0.93 and. 0.91) and hip extension (ICC 0.96 and 0.93). Kemtai generally overestimated ROM compared to EasyAngle, with relative agreement ranging from poor to good (ICC = 0.71 for knee flexion, ICC = 0.66 for hip extension). Future development and research should focus on refining digital tools like Kemtai to enhance their accuracy and reliability. Given its low cost and ease of use, Kemtai could be a useful tool for clinical practice.
Factors affecting the adoption of farm mechanization in Rupandehi, Nepal
Authors: Dhakal Saroj , Pandey Sisam , Chapagain Sandesh , Devkota Yuvraj , Sunar Mina , Khanal Sushank
Published: September 2024

Agricultural mechanization is pivotal in farmer’s fields as it functions more efficiently and helps increase farm productivity. Despite the massive involvement of people in agriculture, farm productivity is relatively low. One main reason for this is the staggered implementation of farm mechanization. This paper aims to explore the factors affecting the adoption of farm mechanization using the Chi-square test and identify the major problems using relative frequency values.  A total of 112 respondents, 28 each from 4 municipalities of Rupandehi district were interviewed based on stratified random sampling technique. The results showed that the adoption rates of various farm machinery were notably high, with tractors, cultivators, mills, and sprayers being universally employed by 93.75 % of the surveyed individuals. The government subsidies to only 7% of farmers facilitate machinery procurement. The size of the total cultivated land was found to be significant over the use of harvester, grass cutter, and power tiller, and owing of milling machine. The availability of subsidies and owning of mills were found inter dependent. The annual expenditures of farmers and their access to theCusto m Hiring Centre were found to be significant. Lastly, with index values of 0.402 and 0.393, the high costs of farm machinery and small land holdings were major problems in the adoption of farm mechanization. Therefore, addressing the high initial costs of modern farm equipment, providing targeted subsidies, innovative institution formation to provide better services to marginalized farmers, and expanding extension services are essential steps to promote the adoption of farm mechanization.
Citrus growers' knowledge, attitudes, and implementation towards Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) in Palpa, Nepal
Authors: Ojha Bidya , Regmi Bamdev , Bhattarai Dipak
Published: September 2024

There is a high demand of citrus fruits in mid-hills region of Nepal. To increase its productivity, it is important to incorporate sustainable practices into orchard management. Therefore, the study was conducted in summer 2022 to understand commercial citrus farmers' knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and correspond production methods of GAP aware farmers with GAP standards in the Palpa, Nepal. Altogether, 64 commercial citrus growers were interviewed with pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires for the data collection. The farmers were categorized into GAP aware and unaware based on the criteria made by the group discussion with the leading farmers and GAP standards. The result revealed that out of ten selected standards, adoption of GAP standards by GAP aware farmers are positive in relation to orchard management practices (99%), plantation (90%), harvest and storage (90%), soil management and fertilization (63%), and hygiene and environment management (61%)— with human welfare (100%) adopted by all of the aware respondents and GAP related to documentation and records (25%) were found to be least adopted. The entire aware respondents agreed to the fact that GAP produced fruit have a better appearance and improved quality, satisfies national and international standards and enhances the export potential of fruits but 97% of respondents didn’t agree that adopting GAP helps in providing incentives or support from governmental organizations. The understanding of GAP among the citrus growers is limited and hence, it is crucial to organize awareness programs and provide supplementary training sessions to enhance their understanding and adoption of GAP practices.
Purification of biodiesel-derived crude glycerol and its application in plasticizing cassava starch bioplastics
Authors: Michael Ahimbisibwe , Evans Atwijukire , Enock Wembabazi , Betty Nabuuma , Ephraim Nuwamanya
Published: September 2024

This study focused on purifying crude glycerol, a by-product of biodiesel production, using acid-precipitation, methanol extraction, and adsorption with acid-activated charcoal. Among the acids tested—sulfuric, phosphoric, and hydrochloric—phosphoric acid proved most effective, producing the clearest glycerol with minimal salt deposition. The purified glycerol was then used to produce bioplastics, which were tested for mechanical properties. The results indicated that Phosphoric acid yielded the clearest glycerol with minimal salt deposition. The resultant salt, potassium phosphate (K2PO4), has potential as a fertilizer. The purified glycerol showed increased density and viscosity, indicating higher purity compared to crude glycerol. The density of the purified glycerol was closer to that of analytical-grade glycerol. Bioplastic 1 (using analytical-grade glycerol) exhibited the highest tensile strength, withstanding up to 4.3N and extending about 104mm before breaking. Bioplastic 2 (using glycerol purified with hydrochloric acid) withstood up to 4.1N, while Bioplastic 3 (using glycerol purified with acetic acid) endured the least stress, withstanding up to 3.8N and extending up to 87mm before breaking. The study demonstrates that phosphoric acid is an effective agent for purifying crude glycerol, significantly enhancing its quality. The purified glycerol, in turn, improves the mechanical properties of bioplastics, making them more durable and suitable for a range of applications. This process not only adds value to the biodiesel production by-product but also contributes to the development of stronger, more versatile bioplastics.
Impact of construction activities on the air quality of Agra city, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Ruhela Mukesh , Bhardwaj Sweta , Vishwas Pradeep , Ahamad Faheem
Published: September 2024

The current research work was carried out to comprehensively assessed the impact of construction activities on the air quality. Seven sites were chosen along the metro line construction in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, to meet the study's goals. The monitoring was performed for 24 hours at each site using the respirable dust sampler (RDS) with a gaseous sampling attachment. The raw data was processed to calculate the Air Quality Index (AQI). The data obtained indicate that all the examined sites had PM10 (particulate matter having the diameter less than or equal to 10 micron) values above the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQ) values of 100 µg/m3, while SS-05 and SS-06 had PM2.5 (particulate matter having the diameter less than or equal to 2.5 micron) values above the NAAQ values of 60 µg/m3. Values of CO, SO2, and NO2 were discovered to be lower than the NAAQ standard limits. Because PM10's sub index (Si) was found to be the greatest across all locations, it was determined to be the criterion pollutant among all the metrics. Based on the AQI value, the research area's overall air quality was determined to be moderately polluted. At every location, a variety of management techniques, including mist guns, water spraying, and planting, are regularly used to reduce air pollution. Effective implementation of applied air pollution control measures is required to make the air clean and safe for breathing.
Status of farm mechanization and factor affecting its adoption among the rice (Oryzae sativa) farmers in Sarlahi district, Nepal
Authors: Khadka Dibash , Dhakal Keshav , Teli Mohammad Salim , Pokhrel Harihar , Sharma Pratiksha , Lamichhane Manish
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate the degree of agricultural mechanization adoption and the factors influencing its acceptance in the Haripurwa municipality and Parsa rural municipality of Sarlahi district, specifically concerning rice agriculture using a multistage random sampling method. A total of 98 respondents were selected for the study, 52 were from Haripurwa municipality and 46 were from Parsa rural municipality. Primary data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, focal group discussion, and key informant interviews whereas secondary data were obtained through review of relevant literature. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, scaling and indexing, chi-square tests, T-tests, and the logit model. By analyzing the adoption index, 62.245% and 37.755% of respondents were under the adopter and non-adopter categories respectively. In contrast to 100% physical labor for transplanting, fertilizer application, and other intercultural tasks like weeding and harvesting, the study found that land preparation was done mechanically (100%). The two biggest obstacles to the use of agricultural machinery were small farms scattered terrain and poor infrastructure with index values of 0.845 and 0.843, respectively. Major factors influencing agricultural mechanization were respondents' educational status, gender, farmers' experience, participation in organizations, loan availability, and primary source of family income. Thus, it can be said that socio-economic determinants which had a significant association with adoption status and most needed farm implements for farmers can be considered by the concerned authority to increase the farm mechanization and enhance profitability from rice farming.
Determination of fertilizer requirement of Indonesian black rice in winter season under different plant spacing at Agro-ecological Zone-9 of Bangladesh
Authors: Shimu Jannatul Ferdos , Rahman Md. Rashedur , Yeasmin Sabina
Published: September 2024

Indonesian black rice is quite popular for its highly nutritive value and profitable production. The distinct knowledge about optimum fertilizer doses and plant spacing contributes to its promising yield. The experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, from December 2022 to May 2023 to find out the effect of fertilizer management and plant spacing on the growth and yield of Indonesian black rice in the winter season. The experiment was conducted with 5 treatments of fertilizer management viz., F1(70% of recommended doses); F2(80% of recommended doses); F3(90% of recommended doses); F4(100% of recommended doses) and F5(110% of recommended doses) with 4 plants spacing viz., S1(20 cm × 15 cm); S2(20 cm × 20 cm); S3(25 cm × 15 cm) and S4(25 cm × 20 cm). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design where the fertilizer management was allocated in main plots and the plant spacing was distributed in sub-plots with three replications. The result revealed that the fertilizer doses and plant spacings along with the interaction effects significantly influenced the growth and yield parameters of Indonesian black rice. Regarding vegetative growth, plant height (79.3cm), total tiller plant-1(21.27cm), and total leaf number plant-1 (58.47) were maximal at 100% recommended dose of fertilizer(F4) at DAT 65. Similarly, S2(20 cm × 20 cm) had better result in crop growth and yield attributes. The interaction effects of the treatments showed significant impact on plant height, total tiller and leaf number where F4S2 gave satisfied results. The highest values for the yield parameters including the maximum number of grains panicle-1 (100.70), 1000-grain weight (28.33g), and grain yield (5.69g) were found from the combination treatment of F4S2. On the other hand, the lowest grain (3.68g) yield was found from F1S4.  Therefore, observing the results of the experiment, the best consideration was F4S2 at Agro-ecological Zone-9 in the winter season for the desirable growth and yield of Indonesian black rice.
Socioeconomic impact of livestock production in Gokuleshowor, Baitadi, Nepal
Authors: Bist Dipak Raj , Joshi Ganesh Raj , Chapagaee Pawan , Mandal Ashmita , RC Puspa , Awasthi Renu , Rawal Ramila , Bist Gita , Bohara Rukmani
Published: September 2024

The study was carried out at the Baitadi district's Dilashaini rural municipality. The study area was primarily based on agriculture. Farmers in the studied area adopted a complex type of farming system that includes livestock, crops, fruits, forestry, and vegetable farming. This study was mainly conducted to identify key problems faced by farmers and the socioeconomic importance of livestock farming. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to randomly choose respondents for a key informant interview. 61 households were randomly selected without the replacement method. The results showed that most of the households were headed by men (52 households). The primary occupation was agriculture (72%), followed by business (22%). A benefit-to-cost ratio of 1.65 was discovered. Milk was priced at 48.08 rupees per liter. We found feeding management to be the main problem. Farmers invest a huge amount of their income in managing feed for livestock. Natural breeding was largely prevalent in the study area (96%); artificial insemination was still rare. In the studied area, the dairy sector was profitable, so it emphasized improved breeding programs, improved feeding management, and the establishment of well-managed dairy cooperatives, which helped in the development of the rural economy and the lifestyle of farmers.
Comparative study of mash vs pellet feed on growth performance and feed utilization by goat
Authors: Malla Sagun , Adhikari Devi Prasad , Hamal Pratik , Adhikari Ayush
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted in Bharatpur-11, Chitwan, Nepal, to evaluate the effects of two feed forms (mash and pellet) on the growth performance and feed utilization in goats. Twenty Boer cross female goats, averaging five months in age, were assigned to either mash or pellet feed treatments, with 10 goats in each group, for a 90-day period, with two weeks of adaptation. The experimental animals were given concentrate feed at 1% of their body weight daily, along with ad libitum access to Napier grass and clean drinking water. Both feed types had a dry matter content of 90% and a crude protein level of 17%. Key parameters assessed included feed and forage intake, body weight changes, and feed wastage. Goats on pelleted feed showed a significantly higher average daily weight gain of 62.00 g/day compared to 26.11 g/day for those on mash feed. Final body weights were also greater in the pellet-fed group (28.88 kg) compared to the mash-fed group (25.04 kg). Additionally, pelleted feed led to higher intake of concentrate and forages and significantly reduced feed wastage, with pellet feed waste being 1.22 g/day versus 27.65 g/day for mash feed. These findings indicate that pelleted feed enhances growth performance, feed intake, and feed efficiency in goats. Therefore, this study indicated that pelleted feed is a more effective option for enhancing goat productivity and reducing feed wastage.
Biophysical and temporal factors influenced population dynamics of woolly aphid, codling moth and mealybug in apple (Malus domestica B.) production of southern Ethiopia
Authors: Fentahun Zemenu , Mengesha Getachew Gudero , Arato Asnake Abera
Published: September 2024

Apple is one of the most popular fruit crops globally, including Ethiopia. However, its productivity is adversely influenced by many constraints. Insect pests, such as woolly apple aphids, codling moths, and mealybugs, are major damaging biotic constraints globally, including Ethiopia, and their population dynamics are significantly influenced by biophysical and temporal changes. Field surveys were conducted in the Chencha highlands of southern Ethiopia during the 2021 and 2022 main rainy and off seasons to determine the prevalence and incidence of these insect pests and the associations of biophysical and temporal factors with these pests’ population changes. Multistage random sampling approaches were followed for data collection, and consequently, 164 apple fields were inspected for insects’ occurrence. Logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the association of independent variables with the incidence of each insect pest. Results showed that the prevalence (90.18, 75.61, and 50.45% in 2021 and 70.26, 54.15 and 36.48% in 2022, respectively), incidence, and number of individual insects per tree varied across years, seasons, and other biophysical factors. These parameters were higher in the off-season in 2021 than in the main rainy season in 2022. Accordingly, incidences of aphids, codling moths, and mealybugs were recorded at about 57.56, 54.93, and 33.29% in 2021, and 37.01, 40.78%, and 21.23% in 2022, respectively. Association analyses revealed that independent variables such as years, seasons, altitude, age of tree, growth stages, cropping systems, weed infestation, and tree management were significantly (P<0.001) associated with the incidences of all studied insects in the reduced multiple regression model. Apple cultivation at an altitude of ≤2500 m and main rainy season with recently planted trees (≤5 years), flowering to fruit development growth stages, high weed infestation, and tree management through composting and pruning had significant associations with low wooly aphids (≤15%), codling moths (≤40%), and mealybug (≤20%) incidence and can be considered as management options to reduce the aforementioned insects and associated yield losses to ensure apple production.
Effects of feeding regime on growth, production, and economics of Oreochromine cichlids (Oreochromis mossambicus) in earthen ponds of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Shadiqur , Islam Md. Fakhrul , Rahman Md. Mokhlasur , Ali Muhammad Forhad , Hasan Md. Sabit
Published: September 2024

The experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of feeding frequency on the growth, production, and economic aspects of Oreochromine cichlids (Oreochromis mossambicus) in nine earthen ponds for 120 days. Three different feeding regimes (T1, T2, and T3) with three replications each were used. The stocking density was uniform across all treatments at 25,000 fish per hectare. The fish were fed a commercially available pelleted feed with the same feeding rate in all treatments, but the feeding frequency varied. The feeding rate was 10%, 8%, 7%, 6 %, 5%, and 4% which was consecutively adjusted after each fortnightly sampling and 3% for the last 4 weeks of the study period. Feeding frequencies were once a day for T1, twice a day for T2, and three times a day for T3. The average weight gain of Oreochromine cichlids in T3 (295±5 gm) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than those of T2 (240.67±6.66 gm) and T1 (217.17±7.64 gm). The survival rates were 95.20%, 96.99%, and 97.33% for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The net production of fish in T3 (2882.00±62.00 kg/ha) was significantly higher (P<0.05) than in T2 (2413.00± kg/ha) and T1 (2223±30.55). Furthermore, the highest net return (USD 1163/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.42) was achieved from T3, followed by T2 (USD 527/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.19) and T1 (USD 270/ha with a cost-benefit ratio of 1.09).  The results demonstrated that increasing the feeding frequency has positive effects on the growth and production of Oreochromine cichlids.
A review on tillage system and no-till agriculture and its impact on soil health
Authors: Thapa Bronika , Dura Roji
Published: September 2024

Soil tillage is a fundamental agriculture practice aimed at preparing the soil for planting, managing crop residues, controlling weeds, preparing the ground for the next crop, integrating leftover crops and nutrients into the soil, and enhancing soil structure. However, tillage practice significantly influences activities like soil moisture, temperature, aeration, and mixing the crop residues within the soil. This article explores the impacts of traditional tillage methods and alternative approaches to reduce production costs, environmental consequences, and safeguard soil for sustainable crop production through the secondary source of results as published research papers, documents, government official and institution reports.  Traditional tillage method involves the mechanical disruption of soil, which affects critical factors such as moisture retention, temperature regulation, and aeration. While use of such heavy machines can improve short-term productivity, its long-term impacts include soil compaction, erosion, and loss of organic matter, leading to environmental degradation and declining soil health. In contrast, No-till and reduced tillage practices offers a promising solution to contemporary challenges such as global climate change, water conservation, rapid soil degradation, and desertification. Under this system, wide range of crops can be grown effectively in low production cost by reducing fuel and labor requirements. No-tillage and minimal tillage is being adopted across a wide range of farm sizes, from small plots of land to vast expanses, in various countries around the world with promising sustainability.
A review on genetic parameters estimation, trait association, and multivariate analysis for crop improvement
Authors: Roka Punam , Shrestha Suraj , Adhikari Shiva Prasad , Neupane Ayushma , Shreepaili Briksha , Bista Mohan Kumar
Published: September 2024

This review paper aims to elucidate the critical genetic parameters essential for practical crop breeding, focusing on the nature and extent of variability, its inheritance, and the complexity of traits. By evaluating genetic parameters such as Genetic Coefficient of Variation (G.C.V.), Heritability, Genetic Advance as a percentage of the Mean (G.A.M.), correlation coefficients, path coefficient analysis, cluster analysis, and principal component analysis, the review provides a comprehensive framework for optimizing breeding strategies. Emphasizing higher G.C.V. values minimizes environmental effects while highlighting Heritability and G.A.M. aids in predicting trait transmission and potential genetic improvement. The review also underscores the importance of traits with high G.C.V., Heritability, and G.A.M. for effective selection and improvement. Additionally, cluster and principal component analyses are powerful tools for identifying genetically diverse parents and reducing trait dimensionality. The findings suggest that thoroughly understanding and applying these genetic parameters can significantly enhance decision-making in plant breeding programs, ultimately leading to more efficient and targeted genetic improvements.