bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paranasal sinus dysbarism: an unrecognized entity
Authors: Vadivu Senthil , Madhav Koka , K. Sreenivas Kamath , Krishnan P. Vijaya , K. Karthikeyan , Kameswaran Mohan
Published: July 2024

Sinonasal barotrauma is due to sudden change of surrounding pressure. Divers and aviators are the two main groups that get affected. Many otorhinolaryngologists are not familiar with this entity. We present a case series of five patients, in which three patients had sinus barotrauma due to flight journey and one after scuba diving and other one working in hyperbaric oxygen chamber. All five patients presented with dragging frontal headache, nasal discharge with altered blood, nasal block and were managed conservatively.
Horse collar: a rare case report of Madelung disorder with review of literature
Authors: Metgudmath Rajendra B. , Kallur Pallavi , V. Hattiholi Virupaxi
Published: July 2024

Multiple symmetric lipomatosis is a rare disorder of fat metabolism which is characterized with bilateral symmetric and usually painless masses at various anatomical sites. Generally, the patient with this disease presents with cosmetic deformities. Extensive masses are known to have compressive symptoms like breathing difficulty and dysphagia. Imaging plays a pivotal role diagnosing this condition. Treatment options include both surgical and non-surgical modalities along with management of other metabolic disorders like diabetes and abstaining from alcohol intake. Recurrence is common. Given the uncommon nature of this illness and the debates surrounding its management, we report a case of multiple symmetric lipomatosis.
Right nonrecurrent laryngeal nerve: a surgical trap
Authors: Patil Vasanthi , D. S. Akshay , Borewad Ganesh
Published: July 2024

Head and neck surgeons must be aware of Non recurrent laryngeal nerve, a rare entity, to avoid postoperative morbidity. In this case report, a 38-year-old female who underwent thyroid surgery and a right non-recurrent laryngeal nerve was identified intra-operatively were reported.
Hemangioendothelioma of the lower lip masquerading as traumatic lesion: a rare case report and review of literature
Authors: Chouksey Apurva , Pawar Pratiksha , Tekade Satyajit , Dubey Shishir , Bihani Ameya , Kangloo Shubhanshi , Prakasam Michael
Published: July 2024

Hemangioendothelioma (HE) is an uncommon vascular tumor originating from endothelial cells lining blood vessels that can manifest in various anatomical locations, including the oral cavity. The spectrum varies from Intermediate between entirely benign hemangiomas to highly malignant angiosarcomas. Generally epithelioid HE (EHE), variants have a low degree of malignancy, with a tendency to local relapse but a less metastatic potential. Here we describe a rare case of epitheloid hemangiendothelioma, asymptomatic soft pinkish growth in the lower lip of a 65 years old Female, an excisional biopsy was performed and confirmed by histopathological diagnosis. This report adds valuable insight to the uncertainty in selecting the most suitable treatment with dilemma in management. A wide excision is the treatment of choice with regular follow-up is advised as potential for high recurrence.
Surgical facelift a new horizon in science and technology: An overview and new supervene ensuing better outcomes in esthetics
Authors: Sachdeva Shivani , Saluja Harish , Shah Seemit , Dadhich Anuj , Patil Ajinke
Published: July 2024

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that improves visible signs of aging in the face and neck, such as sagging caused by relaxation of the skin, deepening of the fold lines between the nose and corner of the mouth, fat that has disappeared or fallen, the development of jowls in the cheeks and jaw, loose skin, and excess fat of the neck that can appear as a double chin or "turkey neck." A number of factors can cause the face to lose its youthful contours, including thinning skin, fat loss, gravity, sun damage, smoking, heredity, and stress.

Brow lifts and eyelid surgeries are additional operations that can be used in conjunction with a facelift to revitalize aging eyes. It may be suggested to use fillers or fat transfer to replace the lost fatty volume. Skincare procedures including lasers, dermabrasions, and peels could be recommended to enhance the skin's texture and quality. In the century since it was first introduced, the facelift procedure has seen a significant change. Numerous safe, reliable, and efficient surgical techniques have been developed because to the information gathered by earlier surgeons. There is currently disagreement in the literature regarding the most effective strategy. This indicates that, in the hands of an experienced surgeon, several available surgical options are comparable.

Many proponents of the various popular approaches have developed strong cases to back up their positions. The lack of consensus emphasizes how crucial it is to constantly innovating in order to meet patient expectations, enhance longevity, and achieve good surgical outcomes. Similarly, further examination of current methods via carefully planned research is essential for the final creation of a "gold standard." One can observe a similar level of progress in facelift development over the next century, with a focus on the use of new technology and a tendency in that direction. This review article focuses on face lift technique and associated problems experienced medical professional.
What factors affect the adoption of cloud-based ERP in companies' operations in Malaysia?
Authors: Miraz Mahadi Hasan , Jin Hwang Ha , Salleh Narishah Mohamed , Hossain Mohammad Amzad , Hasan Mohammad Tariq
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study is to ascertain the determinants that prompt organizations to embrace the cloud-based enterprise research planning (ERP) system with the intention of diminishing closing time and enhancing user performance. In addition, it is necessary to construct a comprehensive model that encompasses the various elements that influence firms' decisions to use cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. These considerations include the impact of the pandemic, performance expectations, facilitating conditions, effort expectations, behavioral intentions, and the adoption of software specifically designed for cloud-based ERP functionality. The present study employed a questionnaire survey as a means of data collection, specifically targeting employees of ERP organizations to obtain primary data. The present study employed the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Technology Use 2 (UTAUT2) as the theoretical framework to establish the variable, utilizing Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The authors have indicated that various aspects, including the pandemic effect, performance expectance, enabling situation, effort expectation, behavior intention, and software (specifically, cloud-based ERP), have been found to have a beneficial influence on cloud-based ERP. This research study provides novel management insights that enhance the existing body of knowledge on cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Specifically, it examines the moderation model in the context of manufacturing enterprises located in Malaysia. There is ample opportunity to employ several theoretical frameworks, including the theory of consumer satisfaction. Still, the scope of this study did not encompass small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or industries in general.
The impact of tourism on sustainable development in GCC countries
Authors: Zmami Mourad , Ben-Salha Ousama
Published: July 2024

GCC nations are putting a premium on the tourism sector to diversify their economies. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the effects of tourism on sustainable development in these countries. This research aims to fill this gap by analyzing the short-run and long-run effects of international tourist arrivals on the three sustainable development pillars, i.e., economic, social, and environmental. GCC nations are putting a premium on the tourism sector to diversify their economies. However, in these countries, there is a lack of knowledge on the effects of tourism on sustainable development. The empirical investigation suggests the existence of significant long-run linkages between tourism and all sustainable development pillars. Moreover, the PMG-ARDL model shows mixed results regarding the impacts of tourism on sustainable development. First, tourism accelerates economic sustainability only in the short-run, while it promotes social sustainability, as represented by job creation, in the long-run. Furthermore, tourism deteriorates the ecological footprint in the short-run. However, it contributes to environmental sustainability in the long-run. Finally, the short-run country-specific analysis corroborates the previous results, suggesting that tourism improves economic sustainability but harms environmental sustainability in all countries. However, the effects of tourism on social sustainability reveal some short-term heterogeneity, as it boosts job creation in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait and reduces it in Oman and the United Arab Emirates. The findings of the present study have significant policy implications for achieving sustainable development goals in GCC. countries.
Digital competencies of secretarial students in Thailand
Authors: Hoaihongthong Suwannee , Laorach Chanchira , Laonayor Padevaradda
Published: July 2024

This quantitative research endeavors to assess the digital competencies of secretarial students across Thailand. The study population comprised secretarial students from vocational colleges under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission. A sample size of 400 participants was identified using Taro Yamane's principle of sample size determination. The evaluation was conducted through a comprehensive survey questionnaire, exploring key domains such as digital literacy, digital utilization, problem-solving with digital tools, and adaptive digital transformation. Mean and standard deviation were measured from the structured survey data, encompassing various aspects of digital competencies. The analysis revealed that secretarial students exhibited a high level of digital literacy, demonstrating competence in multifaceted tasks. This proficiency extended to the effective utilization of diverse digital tools, showcasing mastery in problem-solving within the digital realm. Furthermore, the study delved into adaptive digital transformation competencies, revealing students' adaptability to the digital ecosystem, and its various dimensions, including personalized learning approaches, idea generation, engagement with new media trends, transdisciplinary understanding, design thinking, negotiation skills, and multitasking abilities. These findings underscore the readiness of secretarial students to navigate the complex digital landscape in their future professional roles. These results provide valuable insights for educational institutions and policymakers to tailor digital literacy programs and curricula aligned with the specific needs of secretarial professionals in the dynamic context of the digital era.
Mathematics education for students with intellectual disabilities: A study on thematic books utilization in special schools
Authors: Ratnengsih Een , Nurihsan Juntika , Rochyadi Endang , Sunardi Sunardi , Ediyanto Ediyanto
Published: July 2024

Books are a significant source of mathematics learning for children with intellectual disabilities. A book's design and content must describe the learning requirements. This study seeks to discover how thematic books, specifically, are used in the learning of mathematics for students with intellectual disabilities. This study uses quantitative and qualitative methodologies with an explanatory sequential design. The content study of ten textbooks for high school students with intellectual impairments provides an overview of the applicability of the competencies contained in the curriculum. The number of pages in the textbooks ranges from four to 23, with practice questions dominating the majority of learning material about natural numbers with mixed computational kinds, and the majority of problems are short entries. The findings of this study show that teachers only use books occasionally, which is valuable data that opens up opportunities to design specific textbooks for mathematics learning. Their use is through adaptation and modification processes, but teachers use other sources for learning (e.g., designing their own and searching the internet), and computing material and the use of money are mostly taught to students through short answer questions. The conclusions of this study provide significant information for designers of future mathematics learning books.
A mixed methods investigation of international students’ perceptions of their experiences of marginalization in Korean higher education
Authors: Jung Christina Dahee
Published: July 2024

As Korea expands its global outreach and more international students attend its universities, how to acculturate and accommodate these students needs to be investigated. The purpose of this study is to examine the acculturation process of international students at one private tertiary institution in Korea to determine their perceptions of their institution and host country with the aim of improving Korea's multicultural policies. The methodology utilized for this study was an explanatory mixed methods approach to examine international students’ experiences. A quantitative measurement using multiple regression analysis to identify the variables affecting student acculturation and a qualitative investigation to contextualize the regression results were implemented. The multiple regression findings demonstrate that the year of study correlates with cultural and linguistic disinterest. In addition, senior students reported lower support rates. The qualitative results indicate that acculturative stress factors stemmed mainly from perceived institutional marginalization and implicit discrimination from the host country institution. The significance of the findings based on the synthesis of the qualitative and quantitative results suggest that culturally and linguistically competent students were unsatisfied with the services of their host institution. A practical implication of this study is that more encompassing and supportive communities for international students are needed to increase student satisfaction and feelings of inclusion.
Higher education students’ online class experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Jaca Cristie Ann , Gador Sunliegh , Mangompit Rowanne Marie
Published: July 2024

This study explored the online class experiences of higher education students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the study determined the online learning platforms, experiences, and strategies used to cope with the online learning challenges and proposed interventions to address the students’ challenging experiences. The students’ experiences were collected using a quantitative research design, employing questionnaires and Google Forms. For the open-ended questions, discourse analysis was used to analyze the students’ shared experiences. Purposive sampling was used to select the respondents from one state university in Cebu City, Philippines. The results revealed that the students preferred an asynchronous mode of learning using cellular phones, Google tools such as Google Classroom, Zoom and Facebook messenger during their online classes. While learning, they encountered challenges such as poor connectivity, distraction from attending classes due to errands at home, and lack of study areas. To cope with these challenges, the students managed their time, took rests in between study hours, and making a checklist of the tasks to be accomplished. Hence, this study contributes to the developmental goals on education for sustainability through providing interventions based on the students’ experiences, challenges and coping strategies shared during their online classes during the pandemic.
Health financing using insurance and child undernutrition: Evidence from the Nigeria demographic and health survey 2018
Authors: Oyedele Ovikuomagbe , Oluwalaiye Olusola Babatunde
Published: July 2024

The study examines the effect of health financing using insurance on child undernutrition, employing data from the 2018 Nigerian demographic and health survey. Undernutrition still contributes to child deaths in Nigeria, and health financing with regards to having health insurance, is yet to become a reality for many households. Despite several studies on the determinants of undernutrition, there remains the need for an examination of the effect of health financing, with a focus on health insurance. Using the NDHS, this study examined the effect of health insurance on the probability of child stunting and wasting. A limited dependent variable model was estimated using the maximum likelihood estimator; capturing urban and rural differentials, and an interaction model. The findings demonstrated a significant reduction in the likelihood of stunting in children both at national level and among rural households with health insurance. However, it significantly reduced the likelihood of wasting in children only among rural households. Not having a health insurance coverage, which was the case for a greater proportion of women, was found to significantly increase stunting, even among educated women; reduce wasting only if a woman is from a rich household; and increase wasting among rural households. Therefore, developing and implementing policies geared towards promoting wider and more inclusive health insurance coverage is important for improving child nutritional status and, consequently, the health status of children.
Serum Resistin Levels in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in an Iranian Population
Authors: Davoudi Elahe , Nezhadali Masoumeh , Taheri Saba
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major global health problem, in which liver fat exceeds 5% of the liver weight, without secondary causes of fat accumulation or excessive alcohol consumption. Resistin plays a key role in energy homeostasis, insulin resistance, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between resistin (RETN) level and NAFLD.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 80 patients with NAFLD and 80 healthy individuals as controls were evaluated. Biochemical variables, liver enzymes, insulin, and resistin were measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16 software.
Results: The variables of cholesterol, insulin, triglyceride, HDL, body mass index, age, and liver enzymes were significantly different between the two groups of patients with NAFLD and healthy individuals (p<0.05). In patients, resistin was associated with triglyceride (r=0.243, p=0.045). No association was found between resistin level and NAFLD grades (p≥0.05).
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that there is a relationship between resistin and NAFLD. There is no association between resistin level and the degree of NAFLD.
Evaluation of the Personality Characteristics of Cardiovascular Patients and People with a History of Drug abuse with the Control Group
Authors: Farezi Meysam , Eshaghi Morteza , Panbezan Nasrin , Mansouri Vahideh , Rostami Nafiseh , Darabian Samad
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Personality traits are the basis of stable patterns and emotional and behavioral functioning that affect the risk of contracting chronic diseases and people's ways of understanding health. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the personality traits between cardiovascular patients and the individuals with a history of drug abuse.
Methods: The present study was an analytical cross-sectional study on 301 individuals (115 control group, 86 cardiovascular patients and 100 individuals with a history of drug addiction) in the form of convenience and available sampling in Karaj City in 2023. The data were collected using the ZKA personality questionnaire. After collecting the data, they were entered into SPSS version16 software. Independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance were used for data analysis.
Results: In the present study, the mean and standard deviation of the total age of the participants was 41.37±14.76. The participation consisted of 179 (59.4%) men and 122 (39.6%) women. In SS1, EX2, AC4, AG2, NE4, SS4, and EX3 aspects, statistically significant differences were observed between the groups of cardiovascular and the control. In the aspects of AC4, AG2, NE4, EX2, NE2, SS4 and NE and SS factors, a significant difference was observed between the individuals with a history of addiction and the control group.
Conclusion: Considering the relationship between personality traits and heart diseases and substance abuse, it is recommended that the results of this study be considered for prevention and appropriate intervention by doctors and health professionals, and these results can also be used to develop treatment programs.
Considerations for the regulation of a flexible type of co-operative society: co-operative values and principles as limits to the autonomous will of the members
Authors: Gadea Soler Enrique
Published: July 2024

The aim of this paper is to argue that, as there is only one type of enterprise for conducting economic and social business under the co-operative model (unlike the various types of corporations available), there is a need for the different legal systems to regulate a co-operative type of company which overcomes the existing models of co-operativism (the classic model, also known as social, and the economic model, also known as functional). An organisational structure needs to be designed that is suitable for developing a co-operative project more in line with either the economic model or with the social model or based on an SME or on a large cooperative, according to the members’ needs and objectives. This involves articulating a flexible model of legal regulation of the co-operative type of society, in which co-operatives themselves can regulate themselves through the provisions approved by their members and included in their articles of association. They must only be constrained by co-operative values and principles. These are sufficiently broad to allow the formation of a cooperative society as a genuinely participatory democratic structure, free from restrictions from the past, open, attractive (from the point of view of its usefulness) and in line with the times, in which its members can see their needs met and their views represented, on the basis of mutual help. In my view, opposition to this approach has no legal or logical basis, but can only serve the interests of those who seek to avoid unwanted competition. Unless this approach is adopted, the co-operative model could be marginalised, to the benefit of truly capitalist options.
Received: 28 October 2023Accepted: 10 June 2024
Las cooperativas indígenas y el codiseño: oportunidades de competitividad para revitalizar el conocimiento tradicional del pueblo Wayuú
Authors: Vargas-Chaves Iván , Piracoca-Chaves Diego , Fuentes-Mancipe Mónica
Published: July 2024

El objetivo del artículo es estudiar el cooperativismo y el codiseño como oportunidades de competitividad para revitalizar el conocimiento tradicional, contemplado en la tejeduría wayúu, y como modelos de intervención y empoderamiento de los pueblos indígenas. A partir de una metodología de análisis documental, que recoge la experiencia de intervención en el pueblo wayuu, se presentan dos casos relacionados con mujeres indígenas de los Municipios de Uribia y Manaure en el Departamento de La Guajira, Colombia. Se encontró que estas estrategias han supuesto un cambio positivo para estas comunidades, y una experiencia significativa que podría implementarse en el ámbito de las políticas públicas.
Recibido: 03 agosto 2023 Aceptado: 26 junio 2024
Reformation of Agriculture of the USSR under the Supervision of N.S. Khruschev in the Conditions of Liberalization of Social Relations
Authors: Babenko Dmitry O. ,   Postgraduate Student of the Department of Theory and History of State and Law
Published: July 2024

The article describes the significant changes in the agricultural sector during the period of Khrushchev's rule in the USSR. A detailed analysis of N.S. Khrushchev's reform is given. The features of the reform under study and its impact on the transformation of public relations in the field of agriculture, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the reform are reflected. The normative legal acts regulating the studied legal relations of that time are investigated. The conclusion is made about the viability and relevance of agrarian reform in the context of liberalization of public relations in 1953–1964.
Potential contribution of Kenyan-grown quinoa in improving macronutrient and micronutrient intake in children aged 2-6 years in Kenya
Authors: Thuku LN ,   University of Nairobi, Ngala S , Kaindi DWM , Kogi- Makau W ,   University of Nairobi,   University of Nairobi,   University of Nairobi
Published: July 2024

The triple burden of malnutrition is a problem that is being fought against at global, continental, regional and national levels. When consumed in adequate quantities, healthy diets are important in reversing the menace of malnutrition. In Kenya, grains are an important source of energy and micronutrients. Even though they contribute most energy and micronutrients, a huge Recommended Daily Allowance deficit still exists. Incorporating ancient grains such as quinoa which are nutrient-rich and can survive in harsh climatic zones into the diets, can boost the efforts made towards the fight against malnutrition. Though quinoa adaptation trials have been conducted in Kenya, expanded data on the nutrient content are yet to be compiled. Between May 2022 and August 2022, four varieties of quinoa; Cherry Vanilla, Titicaca, Brilliant Bright Red and Biobio were grown at the University of Nairobi, Upper Kabete campus field station. The harvests of the four varieties were separately analyzed to determine and compare the content levels of macronutrients (carbohydrates, crude protein, fats) and micro-nutrients (manganese, magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, copper and zinc). The four varieties were significantly different in all the analyzed elements except moisture content. Cherry vanilla had the highest level of crude protein (25.1±0.3g/100g) and fat (11.46±0.184g/100g) but the lowest level of carbohydrates (42.5±0.4%). Titicaca had the highest amounts of; manganese (21.9±0.06g/100g), potassium (511.9±0.03mg/100g), iron (11.5± 0.07mg/100g) and zinc (14.1±0.0mg/100g). Biobio variety exhibited the highest amount of magnesium (73.9±0.1mg/100g). In conclusion, the different varieties of quinoa significantly differ in their levels of macro and micronutrients. The Kenyan-grown quinoa has the potential to contribute to increased dietary intake of both macronutrients and micronutrients of children aged 2-6 years old. The Kenyan-grown quinoa contains levels of micronutrients in higher amounts compared to maize, rice and wheat - the commonly consumed cereals in Kenya. On this basis, the study recommends that the growing and consumption of quinoa should be promoted in Kenya and introduced into the diets of children aged 2-6 years of age in Kenya. Quinoa-based products for children aged 2-6 years should be developed. Climate zone-oriented agronomic trials on quinoa farming should be conducted. Key words: Quinoa, varieties, Cherry Vanilla, BBR, Titicaca, Biobio, micronutrients, macronutrients
Sustainability of the agricultural sector in Mexico – compliance or not - with key United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals: Aguascalientes as a case study
Authors: Domínguez-Soberanes J ,   Universidad Panamericana, Mendoza-Moreno MA , De Feis GL , Peralta-Contreras M ,   Universidad Panamericana,   Stockton University,   Universidad Panamericana
Published: July 2024

Mexico is considered one of the most critical countries contributing to food production worldwide. However, Mexico needs help in agricultural practices and the pressure to optimize water usage. Considering that food production worldwide, directly and indirectly, relates to Goals 2, 4, 6, 7, 11, 12, and 15 of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015, it is essential to address the challenges and pressure Mexico faces in its agricultural practices to optimize technical irrigation, access to land extension, and crop rotation usage. Some productive zones within central Mexico are called the Bajío Region, where Aguascalientes is located and the main focus of the current case study. This study aims to collect information to understand the main factors and challenges in the primary sector in this region. This study used a survey instrument to assess the actions of 54 farmers during the pandemic, to detect farmers’ technical needs, level of preparedness, water conservation knowledge, technology adaptability, and knowledge of the current public policy in Aguascalientes State. The data analyzed included; socioeconomic aspects, water and energy conservation, food processing awareness, and public policy perception. The results showed that participants could adjust public policies and use more technical training to build sustainable agricultural growth to the SDGs, and look for increased productivity within the representative crops in the region. The significant challenges Aguascalientes face are, limited water resources, the incentive production mindset, and a more technology-intensive approach, as is needed in Northern Mexico as a region. The primary goal is to develop a more resilient agricultural system, and to find characteristics for small and medium-sized producers. The first step is to increase knowledge among the main actors in the primary sector regarding the potential technical barriers to increasing productivity. The study concluded that the socioeconomic background of agricultural entrepreneurs and their education level is essential to adopting technology for production to increase and strengthen food security for Aguascalientes. Key words: Aguascalientes, Agricultural Sector, Agricultural Entrepreneurs, Public Policy, Water
Possibility for Exploitation and Identification of Rice Yield and Seed Quality Orthologs in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Bhimireddy Sukrutha , Kumar A.R. Nirmal , Vemireddy L.N. , Reddy C. Kiran Kumar , Akkareddy Srividhya
Published: July 2024

Background: The advancement in gene tagging and mapping in model crops such as Arabidopsis, rice andmaize has outpaced progress in major legume crops like groundnut, chickpea, redgram, greengram andsoybean, even in the post-genome release period of legume databases. To address this gap, a study investigated the transferability of gene tagged markers (GTMs) associated with rice yield, grain size andmicronutrient content (Fe and Zn) to groundnut. Methods: This study utilized 17 diverse groundnut genotypes for molecular analysis, targeting 45 GTMs spanning 24 known functional genes. Result: Remarkably, 31 out of the 45 markers (76%) demonstrated high transferability to groundnut, indicating significant conservation in functional regions across species. The amplification efficiency of rice GTMs varied among groundnut genotypes, ranging from 79.17% to 91.67%. Notably, 17 markers targeting 14 rice genes showed amplification across all 17 groundnut genotypes (100%) studied. These findings underscore the potential of leveraging knowledge from functionally characterized genes in molecular model crops and annotated orthologous genes in ‘Omics’ databases to enhance gene tagging efforts in crops like groundnut. By harnessing this approach, there is an opportunity to expand the molecular-level tagging of genes and improve crops like groundnut, which have seen limited progress in gene tagging. This strategy opens avenues for pyramiding desirable genes with precision, thereby enhancing crop traits with greater accuracy.
“HÁ MUITA TERRA AÍ…” – CORREDORES DE CRESCIMENTO AGRÁRIO E A (RE) PRODUÇÃO DE VAZIOS: uma reflexão a partir do Corredor de Nacala
Authors: MAÚNGUE HÉLIO BENTO
Published: July 2024

Esta pesquisa adota uma perspetiva teórica que articula os processos de transformação social, desenvolvimento rural e agrícola com a ideia dos Corredores de Crescimento Agrícola (CCA) para compreender os processos sociais no Corredor de Nacala. É qualitativa e ligada à abordagem de orientação participativa. No país, a ideia dos corredores, como corredores de transporte, é antiga, evoluíram para Corredores de Desenvolvimento e vêm se transformando em CCA. Objetivamos compreender as dinâmicas sociais e produtivas de associações de pequenos produtores e como elas se articulam com esta estratégia de desenvolvimento. A estratégia destaca a existência de vastas terras agricultáveis, mas subexploradas e/ou “vazias”. Apontam-nas como aptas para implementação de investimentos sem uma reflexão sobre as diversas formas de uso e dos modos de vida que possibilitam para quem habita no entorno, com suas formas tradicionais de uso e da importância para as dinâmicas produtivas presentes e futuras.
CORONAVÍRUS NO CONTINENTE AFRICANO: um panorama sobre os seis primeiros meses da pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: BRAGA NETO EDGAR
Published: July 2024

Para a análise dos efeitos da pandemia de Covid-19 nos países africanos, discuto a invisibilidade da África na imprensa brasileira, assim como as crises (econômica, política, ética) provocadas por esse vírus, as relações entre as particularidades do continente africano e o combate ao coronavírus. Esses tópicos resultam da minha investigação sobre os efeitos da pandemia mundial de Covid-19 no continente africano. Os resultados desta análise demonstram que a invisibilidade na imprensa brasileira da pandemia de Covid-19 no continente africano ocorre devido ao racismo estrutural que marca a sociedade brasileira. Além disso, as crises geradas pelo coronavírus no continente africano são as mesmas que atingiram outros continentes. E, apesar das mesmas crises e de haver protocolos mundiais para o combate à Covid-19, há espaço para as particularidades africanas, que ora ajudam, ora atrapalham, a efetivar tal combate.
Conocimiento de la percepción de la ciberseguridad en los estudiantes de la escuela de Economía de la Universidad de Costa Rica en su vida cotidiana, con enfoque a redes sociales
Authors: Castro-López María Paz
Published: July 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo realizar un análisis exploratorio con relación al conocimiento que poseen los estudiantes del curso de Economía de la Universidad de Costa Rica con respecto a su uso de la Ciberseguridad en redes sociales en sus cuentas personales y cómo se accede a ellas de forma adecuada. Luego se plantea una guía rápida que contiene una serie de pasos que se recomiendan para incrementar el conocimiento del tema y lograr establecer mejoras sobre el uso de las redes sociales, accesos seguros y técnicas de Suplantación de identidad que se pueden dar en esas redes.
Performance Optimization of a Simple Drip Irrigation System with Used Plastic Water Bottles
Authors: Issaka Zakaria , Alhassan Abdul-Latif Husein
Published: July 2024

Effects of perforation sizes and heights of used plastic water bottles on growth and yield components of amaranthus spinosus L. crop were analyzed in this study. The experiment was conducted on a 38 m2 experimental field of Tamale Technical University using a Randomized Complete Block Design with four treatments and replications. Perforation sizes at different heights of bottles from the ground level combinations were: 3.2 mm, 5 cm (A); 3.2 mm, 10 cm (B); 3.2 mm, 15 cm (C); 3.2 mm, 20 cm (D), respectively. Data on growth and yield components of amaranthus crop were measured and analysed using ANOVA. Results showed a decreasing trend for both irrigation time and perforation size and height of the plastic bottle from the ground level. Significant differences were observed between the treatments A and D, B and C, B and D, and C and D for leaf area, number of leaves, plant height, stem girth, root length, and weight of amaranthus crop head. However, perforation size of 3.2 mm with the plastic water bottle raised at a height of 5 cm from the ground resulted in significant growth and yield of amaranthus crop, followed by B, C and D treatments. Small holder farmers can adopt used water plastic bottles with perforation size of 3.2 mm raised 5 cm from the ground level in order to boost the production of amaranthus crop.
Teachers’ perceptions, attitudes and knowledge of online learning for students with disabilities in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aldousari Ahmed , Yuan Weili
Published: July 2024

This study investigates how Saudi Arabian special education teachers believe about online learning for students with disabilities evaluating their familiarity with the subject and identifying factors affecting their preparedness to adopt this mode of instruction. Researchers aim to understand educators’ perceptions of delivering special education through online platforms in Saudi Arabia through a cross-sectional analysis of quantitative data complemented by responses to three open-ended questions. The study involves 130 in-service special education teachers currently employing online methods to teach students with disabilities. The research findings reveal key insights: Firstly, most participants (79%) viewed online learning as beneficial for their students, echoing prior research highlighting its feasibility for students with disabilities. Secondly, many teachers indicated gaps in their knowledge (34%) and confidence (31%) related to online instruction emphasizing the need for tailored professional development. Lastly, challenges related to internet access (36%) and software availability (35%) underline infrastructure barriers requiring attention to facilitate effective online education for individuals with disabilities in Saudi Arabia. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing professional development and infrastructure enhancements to optimize the online learning experience in Saudi Arabia. This paper concludes by outlining practical implications and suggesting avenues for future research.
Unlocking the synergy between intellectual capital and cost efficiency in Islamic bank
Authors: Hadi T. Saipul , Laila Nisful , Yatoo Nissar Ahmad
Published: July 2024

Purpose – This study examines the contribution of intellectual capital (IC) to Islamic banks’ cost efficiency.Methodology – The data envelopment analysis (DEA) method uses an intermediation approach to measure the cost efficiency of Islamic banks and modified value-added intellectual capital (MVAIC) as a measurement of IC. The sample of this research comprises 11 Islamic commercial banks registered with the financial services authority (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan, OJK) and operating from to 2014-2023. This research method uses the system generalized method of moments (SGMM) regression to analyze the impact of IC on the cost efficiency of Islamic banks. Findings – The results showed that IC positively affects the cost efficiency of Islamic banks in Indonesia. Another finding is that human capital (HC) contributes significantly to improving the cost efficiency of Islamic banks. structural capital (SC), capital employed (CE), and relational capital (RC) do not affect the cost efficiency of Islamic banks.Implications – This research implies that Islamic banks can determine which IC components require additional investment to improve efficiency and provide future Islamic banking performance-oriented towards new technology.Originality – This study seeks to fill the gap in previous research by analyzing the impact of IC and its components on the cost efficiency of Islamic banks.
Suppression of an invasive pine by a native shrub following a megafire
Authors: Escobedo Víctor Manuel , Gómez Persy , Molina-Montenegro Marco A.
Published: July 2024

Seedling density of the Chilean wineberry Aristotelia chilensis negatively correlates with the seedlings’ abundance of an invasive pine Pinus radiata, particularly in post-fire areas. This pattern emerged following a megafire in Chile’s Coastal Maulino Forest, a biodiversity hotspot facing increasing fire threats. This pattern, coupled with a high proportion of plots lacking pine seedlings, suggests that A. chilensis may play a role in limiting P. radiata invasion. The negative relationship was strongest in areas with moderate fire severity, likely reflecting differences in shade tolerance. A. chilensis, a light-demanding species with some degree of shade tolerance, can persist in partially shaded environments. In contrast, P. radiata, a more strictly light-demanding species, struggles to establish under significant shade. In high-severity fires, however, we found no significant relationship between these species, likely due to detrimental effects on both species, including potential microbiome dependence for A. chilensis. As A. chilensis shows successful establishment at low fire severity, enhancing its post-fire recruitment, particularly in moderately burned areas, could be a valuable strategy for mitigating P. radiata invasion and restoring fire-affected Mediterranean ecosystems.
Assessing the relationship between river water pollution and the LULC composition of a basin in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Tapia-Silva Felipe-Omar , García-Hernández José
Published: July 2024

Water pollution originating from land use and land cover (LULC) can disrupt river ecosystems, posing a threat to public health, safety, and socioeconomic sustainability. Although the interactions between terrestrial and aquatic systems have been investigated for decades, the scale at which land use practices, whether in the entire basin or separately in parts, significantly impact water quality still needs to be determined. In this research, we used multitemporal data (field measurements, Sentinel 2 images, and elevation data) to investigate how the LULC composition in the catchment area (CA) of each water pollution measurement station located in the river course of the Los Perros Basin affects water pollution indicators (WPIs). We examined whether the CAs form a sequential runoff aggregation system for certain pollutants from the highest to the lowest part of the basin. Our research applied statistical (correlation, time series analysis, and canonical correspondence analysis) and geo-visual analyses to identify relationships at the CA level between satellite-based LULC composition and WPI concentrations. We observed that pollutants such as nitrogen, phosphorus, total coliforms, and water temperature form a sequential runoff aggregation system from the highest to the lowest part of the basin. We concluded that the observed decrease in natural cover and increase in built-up and agricultural cover in the upper CAs of the study basin between the study period (2016 to 2020) are related to elevated WPI values for TSS and FC, which exceeded the allowed limits on all AC and measured dates.
Micro- propagation and Mass production of Raktan (Lophopetalum wightianum Arn.), A Globally Threatened Evergreen Tree Species in Bangladesh.
Authors: Islam Jahirul , Parvin Waheeda , Bashar Kazi Khayrul , T Saiful Alam Md. , Hossain Md. Jakir , Rahman Md. Mahbubur
Published: July 2024

Lophopetalum wightianum is a tropical or subtropical forests tree that has an aesthetic value as an ornamental plant, used for timber production and source of essential oils. Because of rapid agricultural and urban development, deforestation, climate change and indiscriminate collection, this important tree species have been included into red list of threatened species. The current study corroborates the earliest and first report on in-vitro micropropagation of L. wightianum aimed to develop a robust and reproducible protocol for mass propagation and conservation of this endangered plant species. Throughout the experiment, about 80% survivality of nodal segments, emergence and proliferation of microshoots and their subsequent multiplication was confirmed on MS medium fortified with BAP 2.0 mg/L and Kinetin 1.0 mg/L. In vitro rooting of L. wightianum shows recalcitrance and 40% rooting proficiency was achieved on 1/4 strength MS medium supplemented with low conc. of auxins (3.0 mg/L IBA and 0.5 mg/L IAA) for a prolong period of culture (03 months) where reduced concentration (2%) of sucrose showed a remarkable impact on root initiation. On the contrary, ex-vitro rooting trial yielded 55% of rooting competency with 72 hours of transient dipping of shoots on MS media supplemented with 50 mg/L IBA. Remarkably, 93% of in-vitro rooted plants survived during the acclimatization phase at open field condition. Plants survived from ex-vitro trial showed vivid growth and development after six months at field condition. The current findings provide greater insights for future research and conservation strategy of L. wightianum.
The burden of infertility in North-Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a High-Fertility Region: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alongo Mike-Antoine Maindo , Otuli Noël Labama , Sihalikiyolo Jean Jeannot Juakali , Agasa Salomon Batina , Mayindu Sarah Missimbu , Ilongosi Bienvenu Antony , Bahaisi Louise Bamawa , Bosunga Katenga
Published: July 2024

Background
Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide and regions with high fertility rates are the most affected. This study aims to determine the prevalence of infertility in couples in Kisangani, identify the aetiological factors involved, and assess the responsibility of partners.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven health facilities in the city of Kisangani following a two-month campaign of free gynaecological consultations. The ratios were subjected to a Pearson's chi-square test or Exact Fisher with a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results
Of the 1,434 patients who consulted us for a gynaecological problem, 697 (48.61%) were infertile. Factors associated to infertility were polygamous relationship (p-value = 0.0000), first sexual intercourse before the age of 18 (p-value = 0.0000), having unprotected sex with a non-regular partner in the previous six months (p-value = 0.0047), history of treated genital tract infections in the previous six months (p-value = 0.0106) and history of abdominal-pelvic surgery (p-value = 0.0000). Among female causes of infertility, ovarian factors associated with primary infertility (p-value = 0.0172) represented 43.21% of cases, with PCOS as the major factor (31.74%). Uterine factors represented 19.69% of cases, with fibroid as the major factor (18.75%). Tubal factors represented 64.63% of cases, with bilateral obstruction (p-value = 0.0115) and bilateral hydrosalpinx (Exact Fisher = 0.0385) associated with secondary infertility. 53.54% of patients had bacterial vaginosis and 43.4% of them had antisperm antibody. Chlamydia Trachomatis was associated to secondary infertility (p-value = 0.0419). Among male, 44.55% of them had a sperm abdomality wich was in association to primary infertility (p-value = 0.0129). Oligospermia was the most prevalent (21.03%) and associated to primary infertility (p-value = 0.0113). Regarding partner responsibility, women was solely responsible in 25.23% of cases and men in 18.16%. Both partners were responsible in 29.06% of cases and in 27.53% of cases, the cause of infertility remained unexplained.
Conclusion
Infertility represents a significant public health concern in Kisangani, with approximately one-quarter of cases remaining unexplained. Given the high prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and anti-sperm antibodies, it is imperative to conduct studies to ascertain whether there is a correlation between these factors and unexplained infertility.