bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence Of Digital Marketing Implementation On Improving Management Accounting Performance In Retail Companies In Surakarta
Authors: Rama Ramadhian Agus Triono Sudalyo , Nurita Elfani Prasetyaningrum
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze the influence of digital marketing implementation on improving management accounting performance in retail companies in Surakarta. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 98 retail companies in Surakarta. The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that the implementation of digital marketing had a significant positive effect on management accounting performance. These findings confirm that by implementing effective digital marketing strategies, retail companies can improve management accounting performance through the utilization of valuable analytical data on customer preferences, purchasing patterns, and the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. This study encourages retail companies to adopt digital marketing integrated with sound management accounting practices
The impact of corruption in the development of Latin America
Authors: Flores Nubia
Published: August 2024

One of the most perverse effects of corruption is its impact in developing countries, specifically in Latin America, where corruption drags the region into poverty, social exclusion, political instability, inefficient governance, scarcity of public services, violation of human rights, and lack of justice for the most vulnerable people. Not to mention the impact of this phenomenon on economic growth. Every year US$1 trillion is paid in bribes, while an estimated US$2.6 trillion are stolen annually through corruption – a sum equivalent to more than 5 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In developing countries, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), many funds are lost due to corruption; it is estimated at 10 times the amount of official development assistance (ODA). The present article presents the consequences of corruption in developing countries, particularly in Latin America, where corruption not only affects the economic growth of the region, but also the income per capita and the social and human development of Latin American people. The article is divided into three areas with different sections. The first one shows the possibilities and resources of Latin America and the role of corruption to break the advance of the Latin American countries. The second one presents the effects of corruption in the public services mainly education and health. The third one exposes the consequences of corruption in the increase of inequality in the region. Finally, recommendations are presented, offering some key areas to be improved.
Nurturing Innovation, Transforming Education: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wong Woei Ling Faith
Published: August 2024

In an era of rapid technological advancement and evolving societal needs, fostering innovation in education has become paramount. This study examines the six-year trajectory of the Guru Inovatif Program (GIP), a unique initiative designed to cultivate a culture of innovation among educators in Malaysia. Through a mixed-methods longitudinal approach, we analyzed the program's evolution from 2019 to 2024, focusing on participation trends, structural changes, and qualitative shifts in innovation quality. The results reveal a significant growth in participation, with numbers more than doubling from 34 to 71 over the study period. Statistical analysis showed a strong positive trend (R² = 0.893), indicating consistent program appeal. The GIP's structure evolved from a generalized approach to specialized categories, reflecting a nuanced understanding of diverse educational innovation needs. Qualitative analysis revealed a marked improvement in the sophistication of innovations, transitioning from basic idea generation to evidence-based, impactful projects. The implementation of a design thinking framework proved crucial in enhancing the quality and applicability of innovations. The program's success was underpinned by its adaptive structure, collaborative partnerships, and emphasis on real-world impact. This study provides valuable insights into sustaining long-term educational innovation initiatives, offering a model that balances structure with flexibility, and theory with practical application. The findings have significant implications for educational policymakers and administrators seeking to foster a culture of continuous innovation in education.
Integrating Problem-Based Learning And Design Thinking: Innovative Approaches To Enhancing Student Engagement
Authors: Nordin Nurul Syaheeda , Junaidi Juhazren , Abdul Hanid Mohd Fadzil
Published: August 2024

Design thinking is a suitable strategy for educators to implement in secondary education. However, 45% of teachers never applied in teaching and learning (T&L). One effective approach to integrating design thinking skills in learning is through problem-based learning (PBL). PBL allows secondary students to develop self-directed learning, teamwork, communication and critical thinking skills. This study aims to explore how design thinking skills can be use in PBL. In this study, Form 4 secondary students from Batu Pahat, Johore were chosen using purposive sampling using a quantitative approach with an adaption a set of questionnaires. Through the descriptive statistics analysis the results indicate majority of the samples strongly agreed PBL have helped them to work in group (5.00), PBL should be kept as part of T&L process (4.25). For design thinking samples felt in; Empathize, comfortable to deal the unsolved problems with their group (4.88), Identify, important to discuss in a group how to reframe the initial problem in order to achieve a good result (4.63), Ideate, comfortable to accept the group’s decision (4.88), Build, comfortable to create something new (4.50), Test, failure is part of learning process and learnt from the mistakes made (4.63). Overall, PBL in lessons proved to be effective, fostering students' critical thinking and teamwork skills as students adapted cognitive and social constructivism and design thinking enhancing critical thinking and teamwork of students.
Kesan Penggunaan Teknologi Realiti Terimbuh Terhadap Pencapaian Akademik Pelajar : Sebuah Kajian Literatur Sistematik
Authors: Bakim Nur Nadia , Abdul Hanid Mohd Fadzil
Published: August 2024

The use of technological elements in education has become one of the elements of learning in the 21st century (21st Century Learning) Incorporated Augmented Reality is one of the branches of technology that is increasingly being applied in education. Augmented Reality is a technology that applies virtual information to the physical world in a three-dimensional form, which produces an interactive and comprehensive experience for the user. The highlighting objective of this systematic study is to identify the use of Augmented Reality applications in education and its impact on student academic achievement. The methodology of this study is based on online research highlighting from databases such as Scopus and Web of Science (WOS). The keywords used in the search are Augmented Reality in education, impact, learning, and academic achievement. This systematic study highlighted the use of augmented reality in a range of primary education level up to tertiary education level in learning fields, such as language studies, science, mathematics, and higher education. The study also found that the application of augmented reality can help improve student visualization skills, student problem-solving skills and help improve students' academic achievement. This aided researchers and educators to use the augmented reality application in education, while also providing future study related to the implementation of augmented reality and appropriate learning strategies for effective use of augmented reality technologies. The study also found that both teachers and also students have positive perception towards the use of augmented reality applications in learning process.
A design thinking approach to developing an online curriculum in interprofessional education in health in South Africa
Authors: Filies G C , Titus-Dawson S
Published: August 2024

Background. The design of contemporary curricula in health professions education in South Africa (SA) is constantly evolving, as there is a need to ensure that students are adequately prepared to work in complex healthcare environments. The World Health Organization proposes that a way to accomplish this is through interprofessional education (IPE), where students from two or more professions learn from one another to improve health outcomes.
Objectives. To reflect on the design of an introductory module of a postgraduate diploma in IPE in health at a historically disadvantaged institution in SA, where a student-centred approach to learning and teaching was adopted.
Methods. Through an auto-ethnographic methodology, a design thinking approach was used to carefully construct and align an introductory module in IPE in the postgraduate programme. Considering the remote learning environment, this article also examines the importance of educational technologies in the design process of this online curriculum.
Results. The results of this study demonstrated the process used in the design of an IPE module supported by the five stages of design thinking to critically appraise the student-centred approach to learning and teaching. The instructional design tools used for this module included the university’s learning management system, Google Suite, Flip, Google Jamboard, webinars, presentations, elevator speeches, quizzes and guest speakers. The end product was an interactive online module that was intentionally designed to be interactive and provide students with a core understanding of IPE.
Conclusion. This article demonstrates how an IPE module with a focus on theories, models and concepts can provide the foundation for students to understand the importance of IPE to transform the future of healthcare in SA.
Factors influencing knowledge translation into critical care practice: The reality facing intensive care nurses in Limpopo Province
Authors: Kgadima M R , Coetzee I M , Heyns T
Published: August 2024

Background. Nurses working in intensive care units (ICUs) must incorporate new knowledge and evidence-based practice (EBP) into their daily routines to enhance patient outcomes. However, this integration often falls short in ICU settings. Weekly clinical audits reveal incidents where ICU nurses neglect evidence-based interventions, impacting patient outcomes and ICU stays.
Objective. To explore the factors influencing the translation of knowledge into ICU practice.
Methods. We conducted exploratory, qualitative research to investigate ICU nurses’ perspectives on knowledge translation into ICU practices. The study employed purposive sampling to select ICU nurses. We used paired interviews and group discussions to gather insights from ICU nurses regarding the factors influencing the translation of knowledge into ICU practices. Data analysis was performed using Boomer and McCormack’s nine steps of creative hermeneutic data analysis.
Results. One main theme, ‘We are just surviving’ emerged, encompassing two sub-themes: management and workplace culture. Under management, participants described barriers, such as resource scarcity, behaviour, outdated evidence-informed protocols and workload. Under workplace culture, participants mentioned negative attitudes and a lack of teamwork, contributing to poor-quality care.
Conclusion. In ICUs, nurses are expected to integrate new knowledge and scientific evidence into their daily practice, yet they face challenges in doing so. Interventions should be implemented to address management and workplace culture.
Physical function measures in ICU survivors, where to now? A scoping review
Authors: Du Plessis I , Lupton-Smith A , Hanekom S
Published: August 2024

Background. Growing evidence is describing the long-term morbidity experienced by critical illness survivors, a major contributing factor being impaired physical function. Consensus is yet to be reached on which physical function measures should be included in this population. This review aimed to describe physical functioning measurement instruments used in longitudinal studies of critical illness survivors, based on the International Classification of Function (ICF).
Methods. An electronic database search of EbscoHost, Web of Science and Scopus was conducted from inception to November 2023. Two reviewers independently applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria to titles, abstracts and full text-studies. Extracted data included year of publication; country; participant age; follow-up timeframes and physical measurement instruments used. Instruments were classified according to ICF domains.
Results. Eighty studies published between 1995 and November 2023 were included. Forty-four different outcome measures were identified. Most studies (68) included multiple followed-up points and were completed within a year, and few studies (12) follow-up beyond a year. Based on the ICF, 11 (25%) instruments measured impairments and 33 (75%) activity limitations. Muscle power functions were the most frequently measured impairment (65%), utilising manual muscle testing (37.3%). The six-minute walk test (6MWT) was the most frequently used instrument in the activity/participation domain (31.6%). Only one instrument addressed all five the physical activity/participation domains, while the majority focused on mobility domain.
Conclusions. Multiple tools are used to report on physical deficits experienced by ICU survivors, either measuring impairments or activity/ participation limitations. Most studies report on physical function within the first year of survival. The heterogeneity and inconsistency over time of instruments used prevents synthesis of data to determine intervention efficacy. The validity, predictive value and sensitivity of the reported measures within ICU survivors needs to be established, only then can intervention studies be designed to measure effectiveness.
Critical care nurses’ orientations to caring for patients and their families at a selected hospital in KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Emmamally W , Jugroop M
Published: August 2024

Background. Caring in a critical care environment may be conceptualised differently compared with other nursing disciplines because of the patient’s critical condition and the specialised staffing categories and skills. However, critical care nurses who prioritise caring can meaningfully connect with critically ill patient and their families, resulting in positive healthcare outcomes.
Objective. To assess critical care nurses’ orientations to caring for critically ill patient and their families.
Methods. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 139 purposively sampled critical care nurses working in a tertiary referral hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data were collected using the Caring Assessment for Caregivers questionnaire, and analysis included descriptive and comparative statistics.
Results. The overall mean score of critical care nurses’ orientations to caring was 116.01 (range of 25 - 125). Of the five subscales (dimensions), the dimension of ‘Maintaining belief ’ had the highest mean score of 24.25 and the dimension of ‘Being with’ had the lowest mean score of 22.70 (range 5 - 25).
Conclusion. While critical care nurses reported high overall orientations to caring, lower mean scores on the subscale ‘Being with’ suggest that there are areas for critical care nurses to grow in their role as carers. Further research using qualitative approaches may shed valuable insights into how the critical care environment impacts the caring orientations of critical care nurses.
Sins of the Father: Exploring Shame as an Ethical Pedagogy to Advance British Columbia’s K–12 Settler Students Towards Reconciliation
Authors: Brar Victor
Published: August 2024

This paper reflects my journey, as a racialized settler and K–12 practitioner in British Columbia, Canada, towards developing a pedagogical understanding of how to transform the experience of inherited colonial shame among settler children in my classroom. Canada has a shameful history of colonialism, the progressive revelations of which provoke an iterative cycle of shame among many of the children in our schools. This cycle prevents these children from emerging as responsible agents of reconciliation. I examine the hidden pedagogical potential of shame to function as an ethical catalyst for reconciliatory change. I posit that Aristotle’s conception of shame (aidos), when paired with Freire’s (1970) critical pedagogy, can provide the means to energize my pedagogical efforts to address the shame of settler students and enable them to pursue respectful mutual relationships with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. By fusing the philosophical horizons of Aristotelian shame with Freire’s critical pedagogy, I argue that the future for settler children need not appear as a fait accompli, in which the “sins of father” will be visited upon the children of another generation.
Study on the relationship between net primary productivity and site quality in Japanese larch plantations in mountainous areas of eastern Liaoning
Authors: Chang Wenlong , Li JingHao , Wu Jinwei , Zhang Jian , Yu Yang , Sun Huiwen , Wen Yibo
Published: August 2024

Plantation forests enhance carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems in China. Larix kaempferi (Lamb.) Carrière (Lamb.) (Larix olgensis Henry) is the main species for afforestation in the eastern Liaoning Province. Therefore, it is important to understand the correlation between the site class and carbon sink potential of Larix kaempferi plantations in Liaoning Province for afforestation and carbon sink in this area. The model was fitted using three classical theoretical growth equations: the Richards model, the Korf model, and the Hossfeld model. This study used the forest resource inventory data for management in Liaoning Province in 2011 to build six dynamic height-age models for a Larix kaempferi plantation in Dandong City regardless of base-age. The optimal model derived by the generalized algebraic difference approach (GADA) method was compared with the model derived by the algebraic difference approach (ADA) method. The superiority of GADA was demonstrated by comparison. The Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm was used to fit the model. The statistical and biological characteristics were considered synthetically when comparing the models. The best model was screened out by statistical analysis and graphic analysis. The results show that the differential height-age model derived from Richards equation can well explain the growth process of Larix kaempferi in Dandong City, Liaoning Province under different conditions. The site index model based on Richards equation and derived by GADA was used to calculate the site class of a Larix kaempferi plantation in Dandong City. The net primary productivity (NPP) value from the past ten years was extracted from the MOD17A3HGF data set. Spearman correlation analysis and Kendall correlation analysis were used to show that there is a significant positive correlation between NPP value and site class of Larix kaempferi plantation in Dandong City. Among them, the highest growth occurred in 2016; NPP increased by about 3.914 gC/m2/year for every two increases in height-age grade; the lowest increase in NPP was in 2014; NPP increased by about 2.113 gC/m2/year for every two increases in height-age grade; and for every two increases in height-age grade in the recent ten years, the average NPP value increased by about 2.731 gC/m2/year.
Reporte compromisos y cumplimiento de promesas en materia ambiental 2023-2024
Authors: Reyes Mendy Francisca
Published: August 2024

El Reporte Anual 2024 presenta el compendio de los Proyectos de Ley de Relevancia Ambiental (PLRA) que fueron ingresados al Congreso Nacional de Chile, ya sea como mensajes del Ejecutivo o mociones parlamentarias, así como de aquellos proyectos que fueron sometidos a votación en la Cámara de Diputados o el Senado entre el 11 de marzo de 2023 y el 10 de marzo de 2024. Además, el informe presenta un análisis de los compromisos presidenciales abordados con la tramitación de estos proyectos, así como una revisión de las votaciones nominales de cada parlamentario en los proyectos de Ley analizados.
Evolución, Obsolescencia y Rehabilitación de un edificio residencial aristocrático excepcional: El Caso de la Casona Puyó (1910 – 2023).
Authors:   , Irarrázaval Bustamante Isidora
Published: August 2024

Esta tesis investiga el surgimiento, evolución y obsolescencia funcional de las grandes residencias aristocráticas del trapecio fundacional de Santiago, construidas desde mediados del siglo XIX hasta principios del siglo XX. Estas estructuras han caído en desuso debido a cambios sociales, económicos y tecnológicos, lo que ha provocado que muchas de estas residencias estén en ruinas o abandonadas, sin ser reutilizadas o rehabilitadas.La investigación toma el caso de la Casona Puyó, un edificio excepcional, al ser el primer departamento de renta para la clase alta en la ciudad. Se propone una intervención topológica del inmueble por medio de una nueva circulación que reconoce la Casona como un solo proyecto, pero otorgándole a los departamentos la capacidad de operar de forma independiente. Esta estrategia permite la adaptación de la Casona Puyó a diversas funciones y usos contemporáneos, donde además de revitalizar el inmueble, contribuye a resaltar su valor patrimonial y arquitectónico.La investigación sostiene la importancia de la preservación de los valores y atributos del inmueble, manteniendo así́su vinculación con el arte, tal como lo ha hecho históricamente bajo el legado de Inés Puyó, pero al mismo tiempo teniendo el potencial de adaptarse a nuevos usos según las necesidades cambiantes de la sociedad.La implementación de esta estrategia facilitaría la preservación económica sostenible a largo plazo, gracias a la multifuncionalidad de los distintos departamentos, siendo un proyecto patrimonialmente sustentable.
“Cuéntame una historia sobre los narcos del Perú”: masculinidad, violencia y escritura en dos narconovelas peruanas recientes
Authors:   , Ríos Alexis
Published: August 2024

¿Cómo se presentan los personajes masculinos en las historias de narcotraficantes peruanos? La presente tesis desarrolla un análisis literario de las masculinidades del relato narcoperuano en dos novelas recientes, Bioy de Diego Trelles Paz y y El Cerco Blanco de Iván Slocovich, desde los estudios de narcoliteratura, estudios de género y la crisis de los estudios literarios desde el espacio latinoamericano
Review of Cost Control Research in Prefabricated Construction under EPC Mode
Authors: Weihao Huang
Published: August 2024

Aims: Amidst the accelerating global urbanization and growing demand for sustainable development, prefabricated construction emerges as a pivotal transformational force in the construction industry due to its efficiency and environmental friendliness. This paper comprehensively reviews cost control research in prefabricated construction under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) model.
Study Design:  The study adopts a literature-based approach, incorporating findings from domestic and international scholars, to uncover the critical issues and challenges in cost control within the EPC framework. Additionally, it analyzes the application of technological innovations such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) and DEMATEL (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) in cost control, offering a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for prefabricated construction under EPC.
Place and Duration of Study: The research spans various regions globally, examining recent practices and theoretical advancements in cost control for prefabricated construction projects under EPC over the past decade to ensure timeliness and comprehensiveness.
Methodology: The methodology encompasses a systematic literature review to construct a theoretical framework, coupled with an analysis of case studies showcasing effective cost control measures. Furthermore, the study explores the utilization of BIM and DEMATEL to enhance cost prediction accuracy, process monitoring, and decision-making support.
Results: The findings reveal that the EPC model facilitates more systematic and efficient cost control in prefabricated construction. The application of BIM significantly improves cost forecasting precision and process transparency, enabling timely cost deviation identification and correction. DEMATEL effectively identifies key cost drivers and their interrelationships, informing targeted cost control strategies.
Conclusion: This paper underscores the significance of cost control in prefabricated construction under the EPC model and highlights the pivotal role of BIM and DEMATEL in enhancing cost control effectiveness. It concludes by advocating for deeper integration of prefabricated construction with the EPC model to propel the green, intelligent transformation and sustainable development of the construction industry.
Positive Effects of Green HR Practices on Corporate Social Responsibility: Empirical Evidence from Tunisian Business
Authors: Amin Bardaa Mohamed
Published: August 2024

When appropriately designed and implemented, the methods of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) stand to be significant avenues towards Reaching Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study delves into examining the GHRM practices’ effectiveness over the sustainable performance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). In an evolving economic landscape marked by trends such as globalization, escalating demands from investors and consumers and heightened product competition, governmental entities continuously strive to advance their performance by minimizing costs, renewing products and procedures, and enhancing quality to remain competitive. GHRM represents an initiative that contributes to fostering an eco-friendly workforce capable of understanding and implementing green culture within businesses and institutions. Hence, it is essential to underscore that human resources as well as their systems serve as the bedrock of any enterprise. It is a recognized fact that the role of human resources inside an organization is pivotal to plan and to execute these ecological policies in order to foster a green ecology. For our research, a sample size of 100 Enterprises (SMEs) in Tunisia has been chosen. We will conduct factorial analyses and Cronbach's alpha tests using SPSS 20 software to facilitate the aggregation and refinement of items related to the measurement scales of the questionnaire. Subsequently, all research hypotheses were upheld with results indicating that the practical implementation of GHRM such as training (GT), recruitment (GR) and remuneration (GRe) exerts a positive influence on the sustainable performance (SP) of CSR.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalitis of the Immunocompromised Subject: A Case Report from Zinder National Hospital
Authors: Mahamadou Doutchi , Fils Souleymane Adoum , Moustapha Lamine Mahaman , Abdoul-Aziz Adamou Bara , Hamsatou Bagnou , Aziz Garba Abdoul , Eric Adehossi
Published: August 2024

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalitis (PML) is a rare opportunistic infection of HIV-infected individuals. It is a viral infection caused by the John Cunningham (JC) virus, which occurs during the AIDS stage.  An elderly patient immunosuppressed by HIV for more than 5 years presented to the HNZ SMIT with headache, vomiting, visual disturbances, speech disorders and numbness of the limbs, all of which had been evolving in a febrile context for more than seven months. Neurological examination revealed left hemiparesis, frontal syndrome, temporal syndrome and homolateral hemianopia. Cerebral computed tomography revealed multiple lesions of leukoencephalitis. PCR revealed JC virus. The patient was put on corticosteroids, rehydration and nursing care. The course was marked by a progressive deterioration in the patient's neurological condition, culminating in death. We report the clinical, biological and CT features of this progressive multifocal leukoencephalitis.
Impact of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield and Fruit Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) Cultivar Winter Dawn under Polyhouse (Natural Ventilated Polyhouse)
Authors: Shekhar Shubhangi , Singh Devi
Published: August 2024

The present experiment was laid out in randomized block design, and the study consists of ten treatments with three replications including control. From the present investigation, it was concluded that the treatment T10 (NAA-125ppm) was found to be best in the term of vegetative parameter, flowering, fruiting, yield and quality of strawberry. The present experiment concluded that, for better vegetative growth, yield and quality of strawberry fruits. It is concluded that the treatment T10 (NAA-125ppm) was found best in terms of vegetative growth and yield characters of strawberry. The economics of the treatment T10 was found best in terms of B:C ratio 3.25 of strawberry.
Epidemiological Modelling of Yellow Fever Dynamics
Authors: Otoo Henry , Brew Lewis , Dadzie-Mensah Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Aims: Yellow fever is a severe and often fatal viral illness caused by the yellow fever virus Despite being largely overlooked, yellow fever continues to silently claim lives in many parts of the world. The study focuses on the epidemiological modelling of yellow fever dynamics between a host (human) and vector (mosquito) populations The human population was divided into five main compartments: Susceptible, Exposed, Infected, Isolated, and Recovered. The vector population was also divided into two compartments: Susceptible and Infected. Nonlinear differential equations describing these compartments were formulated. Stability analysis and numerical simulations were then performed based on the formulated equations.
From the stability analysis, it was observed that the disease-free equilibrium is both locally and globally asymptotically stable. Similarly, the endemic equilibrium was found to be locally and globally asymptotically stable. The simulation also revealed a direct correlation between the transmission rate and disease spread.
Stability Analysis of Yield and Its Components in Snap Melon (Cucumis melo var momordica)
Authors: K A Shrilatha , Parmar V. K. , Patel R. K. , Patel A. I. , Srivastava Alok , Bhanderi D. R. , Patel S. Y. , Parekh Vipulkumar
Published: August 2024

Snap melon, scientifically known as Cucumis melo L. var. momordica (Roxb.), is a crop native to India and belonging to Cucurbitaceae family. This study was carried out to assess the nature and magnitude of genotype-environment interaction and stability among some parameters in snap melon genotypes. Twenty five local cultivars along with three standard checks were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications at three environments during summer 2023 at Navsari. The Eberhart and Russell model of stability analysis was employed which has been proved to be a reliable model. The study revealed that the mean sum of squares due to genotypes when tested against pooled deviation were highly significant for all the traits studied. Environment ´ Genotype (linear) showed significant differences for all characteristics except fruit weight and yield per vine, indicating that prediction could be possible by considering individual genotypes for these traits. A significant non-linear component (pooled deviation) was observed for fruit weight and fruit yield per vine, suggesting that genotypes varied considerably in terms of stable performance for these traits. The G ´ E interaction was only significant for flesh thickness and yield per vine, with all other traits being non-significant. The genotypes T 14 (HUB 18) and T 17 (HUB 21) were relatively stable and can be further used as parents to develop a more robust stable genotype. We identified genotypes which could pave way introducing high performing snap melon varieties.
Complete Mechanization of Oil Seed Crop Cultivation to Augment the Potentiality of Yellow Revolution in India: A Review
Authors: Rithiga R. , Natarajan S.K. , Venkatachalam S.R. , Rathika S. , Sivakumar R.
Published: August 2024

This study explores how mechanization could support oil seed production in India in line with the self-sufficiency objectives of the yellow revolution. The text highlights the limitations, such as low yields and reliance on imports, and highlights how mechanization can increase productivity, profitability, and resource usage. Particular mechanized techniques for different stages such as field preparation, sowing, weed management, and harvesting are explored with an emphasis on groundnut, Castor, Sunflower, Rapeseed, Soybean and sesame cultivation. This review paper promotes broader adoption of mechanization as a crucial tactic to accomplish sustainable growth in oil seed production and reduce dependence on imports.
Plant Circadian Clocks: Unravelling the Molecular Rhythms of Nature
Authors: Margay Adil Rahim , Ashraf Suhail , Fatimah Nusrat , Jabeen Saliah Gul , Showkat Mansoor , R U Krishna Nayana , Dilip Sampatirao , Basu Sudhakar Reddy , Aswathy K. A.
Published: August 2024

The circadian clock is a fundamental biological mechanism that allows organisms to synchronize their internal processes with the external environment, thereby optimizing growth, development, and physiology. In plants, circadian rhythms govern various aspects of their life cycle, including germination, leaf movement, flowering, and responses to environmental cues such as light and temperature. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying plant circadian clocks is essential not only for elucidating fundamental principles of plant biology but also for applications in agriculture and biotechnology. This review delves into the intricate molecular networks that comprise plant circadian clocks, focusing on key components and their interactions. At the core of these clocks are transcription-translation feedback loops (TTFLs) involving a set of clock genes. The central oscillator, composed of genes such as CIRCADIAN CLOCK ASSOCIATED 1 (CCA1), LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL (LHY), TIMING OF CAB EXPRESSION 1 (TOC1), and PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATOR (PRR) genes, drives rhythmic expression of downstream clock-controlled genes (CCGs). The interplay between positive and negative regulators within the TTFLs generates robust oscillations with a period of approximately 24 hours. Additionally, post-translational modifications, protein-protein interactions, and chromatin remodeling contribute to fine-tuning the circadian system, allowing plants to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Light perception through photoreceptors such as phytochromes and cryptochromes plays a crucial role in entraining the circadian clock to external cues, ensuring synchronization with the day-night cycle. Furthermore, recent advancements in omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, have provided unprecedented insights into the complexity and plasticity of plant circadian clocks. Integration of multi-omics data has facilitated the construction of comprehensive regulatory networks and computational models, enabling predictive understanding of clock function and behavior under diverse conditions. Overall, unraveling the molecular rhythms of plant circadian clocks not only enhances our knowledge of fundamental biological processes but also holds promise for improving crop productivity, stress resilience, and sustainability in agriculture through targeted manipulation of clock components and their associated pathways. Future research endeavors will undoubtedly continue to unveil the intricacies of these fascinating timekeeping mechanisms, further enriching our understanding of the molecular rhythms of nature.
Adolescent Substance Abuse in the Post-COVID Era: A Review of Emerging Trends and Prevention Strategies
Authors: Owolabi Anuoluwapo , Rabiat Oyeneyin E.
Published: August 2024

Aim: This study aims to review the emerging trends in adolescent substance abuse in the post-COVID era and evaluate effective prevention strategies tailored to these evolving challenges.
Study Design: A comprehensive review of recent data and research on adolescent substance abuse trends and prevention strategies during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Place and Duration of Study: The study encompasses global data from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 to the present, focusing on adolescents' mental health and substance use patterns.
Methodology: The study involved an extensive literature review of peer-reviewed journals, reports from health organizations, and data from national surveys. It analyzed the impact of pandemic-related factors such as lockdowns, social distancing, remote learning, and increased screen time on adolescent mental health and substance use. Additionally, the effectiveness of school-based, community, and family-based prevention programs was evaluated.
Results: The review identified increased use of marijuana, prescription drugs, synthetic substances, and alcohol among adolescents. Mental health issues, exacerbated by prolonged isolation and disrupted routines, significantly contributed to substance use. Digital platforms emerged as new channels for substance access and exposure. Effective prevention strategies included school-based programs like Life Skills Training and Project ALERT, community initiatives such as Communities That Care, and family-based approaches like the Strengthening Families Program.
Conclusion: The post-COVID era has introduced unique challenges to adolescent substance abuse prevention. Effective strategies must integrate mental health support, digital literacy education, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups. By adapting to evolving trends and leveraging comprehensive, multi-faceted approaches, we can enhance adolescent well-being and mitigate the impact of substance abuse.
Advancements in Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Techniques for Pre and Post Formulation Analysis
Authors: Mustafa Muhammad Abid , Rasheed Namra , Islam Muskan , Irshad Irsa , Noor-ul-Ain  , Batool Sheza , Naveed Muneeba , Bibi Gulzaib , Nazeer Jawaria , Wajid Fatima , Atif Ayesha , Syeda Dua -E- Zahara
Published: August 2024

Novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) are revolutionizing treatment by leveraging progressive technologies to deliver drugs precisely to their targets within the body. This targeted approach enhances therapeutic efficacy while minimizing unwanted side effects. This review delves into the various techniques employed for developing and characterizing NDDS. We focus on the critical role of characterization, encompassing both pre- and post-formulation stages. Pre-formulation techniques explored include physicochemical properties (melting point, solubility, etc.) spectroscopic analysis (UV, FTIR), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), and powder characterization (XRD, polarized microscopy). In addition, post-formulation methods such as NMR spectrometry, atomic force microscopy, and in vitro drug release investigations are covered. By comprehensively characterizing these systems, researchers can optimize their design and formulation, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and encouraging improvements in the study and development of pharmaceuticals.
Intelligent Health Care Data Analysis System Using Swarm based Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Sivaramakrishnan A. , Kokila G.
Published: August 2024

Large amounts of clinical data present both opportunities and challenges in modern healthcare. Effective data analysis improves patient care, early disease detection, and personalised treatment. This paper proposes an Intelligent Health Care Data Analysis System employing PSO and neural networks to improve disease detection. Missing values, normalisation, and feature selection ensure high-quality analysis inputs. Disease classification and prediction from clinical data are improved by PSO optimising neural network weights and biases. This method works on Hepatitis, Wisconsin Breast Cancer, and Cleveland Heart Disease datasets with and without missing values. PSO-optimized neural networks outperform regular neural networks in accuracy and robustness. Scalable and adaptable for real-time diagnostic applications, this intelligent system may improve healthcare delivery by enabling more precise and timely interventions. Using neural networks and advanced swarm-based optimisation, medical data analytics has improved patient outcomes and healthcare system efficiency. Particle Swarm Optimization-based Neural Network (IPSONN) diagnoses clinical illnesses better. IPSONN was created using K-means clustering and IPSO-trained Neural Networks. K-means clusterings optimal cluster number determines the hidden layers neurones. Cluster approximation error determines best clusters. Mean square error calculates hidden and output layer weights in QPSO. The classifier was tested with four clinical datasets from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) machine learning repository: Pima Indian Diabetes, Hepatitis, Wisconsin Breast Cancer, and Cleveland Heart Disease.
Synthesis of Branched DNA Using Oxidatively Cleavable Tritylsulfenyl as a Hydroxy Protecting Group
Authors: Seio Kohji , Kanamori Takashi , Sekine Mitsuo
Published: September 2014

The application of oxidatively cleavable tritylsulfenyl (TrS) group to the synthesis of branched DNA is described. The TrS protecting group can be removed by treatment with 1 M aqueous iodine, while it is stable toward an oxaziridine‐type oxidant. At the same time, the sulfur‐oxygen linkage showed sufficient stability under the acidic and basic conditions used in oligonucleotide synthesis. These properties of the TrS group enabled the synthesis of branched DNA using a branched phosphoramidite in which the two hydroxy groups are protected by a 4,4′‐dimethoxytrityl (DMTr) group or a TrS group. In this unit, we describe an example of the synthesis of a three‐way branched DNA using a branched phosphoramidite. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 58:2.18.1‐2.18.19. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Using Triple‐Helix‐Forming Peptide Nucleic Acids for Sequence‐Selective Recognition of Double‐Stranded RNA
Authors: Hnedzko Dziyana , Cheruiyot Samwel K. , Rozners Eriks
Published: September 2014

Non‐coding RNAs play important roles in regulation of gene expression. Specific recognition and inhibition of these biologically important RNAs that form complex double‐helical structures will be highly useful for fundamental studies in biology and practical applications in medicine. This protocol describes a strategy developed in our laboratory for sequence‐selective recognition of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) using triple‐helix‐forming peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that bind in the major grove of the RNA helix. The strategy developed uses chemically modified nucleobases, such as 2‐aminopyridine (M), which enables strong triple‐helical binding under physiologically relevant conditions, and 2‐pyrimidinone (P) and 3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydropyridazine (E), which enable recognition of isolated pyrimidines in the purine‐rich strand of the RNA duplex. Detailed protocols for preparation of modified PNA monomers, solid‐phase synthesis, HPLC purification of PNA oligomers, and measuring dsRNA binding affinity using isothermal titration calorimetry are included. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 58:4.60.1‐4.60.23. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
MalaCards: A Comprehensive Automatically‐Mined Database of Human Diseases
Authors: Rappaport Noa , Twik Michal , Nativ Noam , Stelzer Gil , Bahir Iris , Stein Tsippi Iny , Safran Marilyn , Lancet Doron
Published: September 2014

Systems medicine provides insights into mechanisms of human diseases, and expedites the development of better diagnostics and drugs. To facilitate such strategies, we initiated MalaCards, a compendium of human diseases and their annotations, integrating and often remodeling information from 64 data sources. MalaCards employs, among others, the proven automatic data‐mining strategies established in the construction of GeneCards, our widely used compendium of human genes. The development of MalaCards poses many algorithmic challenges, such as disease name unification, integrated classification, gene‐disease association, and disease‐targeted expression analysis. MalaCards displays a Web card for each of >19,000 human diseases, with 17 sections, including textual summaries, related diseases, related genes, genetic variations and tests, and relevant publications. Also included are a powerful search engine and a variety of categorized disease lists. This unit describes two basic protocols to search and browse MalaCards effectively. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 47:1.24.1‐1.24.19. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Using Weeder, Pscan, and PscanChIP for the Discovery of Enriched Transcription Factor Binding Site Motifs in Nucleotide Sequences
Authors: Zambelli Federico , Pesole Graziano , Pavesi Giulio
Published: September 2014

One of the greatest challenges facing modern molecular biology is understanding the complex mechanisms regulating gene expression. A fundamental step in this process requires the characterization of sequence motifs involved in the regulation of gene expression at transcriptional and post‐transcriptional levels. In particular, transcription is modulated by the interaction of transcription factors (TFs) with their corresponding binding sites. Weeder, Pscan, and PscanChIP are software tools freely available for noncommercial users as a stand‐alone or Web‐based applications for the automatic discovery of conserved motifs in a set of DNA sequences likely to be bound by the same TFs. Input for the tools can be promoter sequences from co‐expressed or co‐regulated genes (for which Weeder and Pscan are suitable), or regions identified through genome wide ChIP‐seq or similar experiments (Weeder and PscanChIP). The motifs are either found by a de novo approach (Weeder) or by using descriptors of the binding specificity of TFs (Pscan and PscanChIP). Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 47:2.11.1‐2.11.31. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Biological Network Exploration with Cytoscape 3
Authors: Su Gang , Morris John H. , Demchak Barry , Bader Gary D.
Published: September 2014

Cytoscape is one of the most popular open‐source software tools for the visual exploration of biomedical networks composed of protein, gene, and other types of interactions. It offers researchers a versatile and interactive visualization interface for exploring complex biological interconnections supported by diverse annotation and experimental data, thereby facilitating research tasks such as predicting gene function and constructing pathways. Cytoscape provides core functionality to load, visualize, search, filter, and save networks, and hundreds of Apps extend this functionality to address specific research needs. The latest generation of Cytoscape (version 3.0 and later) has substantial improvements in function, user interface, and performance relative to previous versions. This protocol aims to jump‐start new users with specific protocols for basic Cytoscape functions, such as installing Cytoscape and Cytoscape Apps, loading data, visualizing and navigating the networks, visualizing network associated data (attributes), and identifying clusters. It also highlights new features that benefit experienced users. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 47:8.13.1‐8.13.24. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.