bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
University Teacher Credibility as a Strategy to Motivate Students
Authors: García Alfonso Javier , Froment Facundo A. , Bohórquez María Rocío
Published: July 2023

University students’ motivation can be affected by several factors, one being their perceptions of teacher behaviour in the classroom. This study aimed to predict university students’ state motivation from their perceptions of teacher credibility. The participants were 344 students from the University of Seville. A structural equation model was used with the partial least squares method (PLS-SEM), a technique based on variance, employed to test, and validate the proposed hypotheses. The results reveal, on the one hand, a positive effect of teacher credibility on state motivation and, on the other hand, that teacher credibility has predictive power and predictive relevance for state motivation. Likewise, there is evidence of predictive validity in that teacher credibility can predict values for new cases of state motivation. Strategies are provided for a university faculty to manage their behaviour in the classroom to increase their students’ state motivation, highlighting the use of PLS-SEM as a data analysis tool suitable for application in higher education.
Suicidal Ideation in Undergraduate Students of Social Work: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Gómez Pilar Munuera , Lázaro-Pérez Cristina , Martínez-López José Ángel , Gómez-Galán José
Published: July 2023

There is a social and cultural problem related to suicide in advanced societies. From a professional point of view, social workers intervene to achieve social welfare and health for the people with whom they work without being exempt from suffering suicidal ideation themselves. The present research aims to analyze suicidal ideation in undergraduate students of Social Work. Through a quantitative methodology, this phenomenon is analyzed in a large sample of students belonging to Spanish universities (n=1005). In the statistical study, a frequency analysis, a cross-table analysis, and a binary logistic regression are developed, taking as reference the dependent variable: the risk of suicidal ideation. The predictor variables of suicidal risk are: sex, type of social relationships, bullying in previous stages, consumption of antidepressant medication, increased anxiety after COVID-19, and economic difficulties in continuing studies. Universities should not be oblivious to the problems of their students but should incorporate specific programs for the treatment and prevention of suicidal risk, promoting quality education about the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.
The ‘Birth of Doubt‘ and ‘The Existence of Other Possibilities’: Exploring How the ACAD Toolkit Supports Design for Learning
Authors: Carvalho Lucila , Castañeda Linda , Yeoman Pippa
Published: July 2023

The circumstances in which humans live and learn are subject to constant change. Given these cycles of change, educational designers (teachers, instructional designers, and others) often search for new models and frameworks to support their work, to ensure their designs are in alignment with valued forms of learning activity. Our research foregrounds the entanglement of people (the relational), tasks (the conceptual) and tools (the digital and material) in formal and informal learning settings. In this paper, we explore the use of the ACAD toolkit with the aim of understanding how this analytical tool supports design for learning. A thematic analysis of five workshops attended by 40 educators from diverse professional and academic backgrounds in Spain and Argentina, reveals how ACAD supports educational designers in four distinctive ways: encouraging dynamic engagement with key elements and concepts; supporting the visualization of (dis)connections and (in)coherence in designs; prompting critical reflection on past practices and contexts; and stimulating discussion about future teaching practices. A key contribution of this article is the discussion about how the ACAD toolkit helps educators see the ways in which all learning is situated, subject to constraints and affordances at multiple scale levels, and oriented towards certain pedagogical purposes or values.
Oral Rehabilitation of Segmental Mandibulectomy with Extensive Fibrosis- A Daunting Obstacle for the Maxillofacial Prosthodontist
Authors: Chodankar Raisa Natasha , Acharya Aditya , Patil Raghunath
Published: July 2023

The fifth most frequent malignancy worldwide is head and neck cancer. Following surgical removal of lesions of the oral cavity, mandibular resection can result in undesirable effects, such as altered mandibular movements, disfigurement, dysphagia, impaired speech, and deviation of the mandible in the direction of the resected site. After a marginal or segmental mandibulectomy, prompt rehabilitation is preferred since aesthetic and functional deficiencies impair a patient’s quality of life. The contribution of maxillofacial prosthodontists safeguards the prosthetic viability, driven by a prosthetic proposed plan. Maxillofacial prosthodontists should be included from the start, and they play a crucial and directing role in this procedure. This article specifies the treatment of a 52-yearold male patient with extensive fibrosis who had a reduced mouth opening as a result of right side segmental mandibulectomy. The mandible was difficult to manipulate into occlusion due to considerable fibrosis that had formed over time, thus a guiding flange prosthesis was not employed in this case. To address the patient’s inability to chew food, a double occlusion table was designed using the remaining maxillary teeth. A 3-month follow-up was performed, as well as the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) was done prior to and following the treatment.
Incidentally Detected Anaemia in Elderly: A Cross-sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Pandhare Ajinkyaraj Jayaji , Sule Shilpa , Khatal Sujata
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA) is most prevalent nutritional deficiency observed worldwide. The elderly population is particularly susceptible. It is a significant risk factor for increased mortality and morbidity, reducing mobility and quality of life. Currently less Indian data is available for incidentally detected anaemia in elderly. The known causes of anaemia in elderly are nutritional, anaemia of chronic disease and malignancy. Aim: To evaluate the haematological profile and to identify potential aetiologies of anaemia in elderly who had an incidental diagnosis of anaemia. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional observational study, which included 90 incidentally diagnosed patients with anaemia above 60 years of age, admitted in Bharati Hospital and Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India during March 2021 to September 2022. Complete Blood Counts (CBCs) with peripheral blood smear, Haematocrit (Hct), reticulocyte counts, Red Blood Cells (RBC) indices like Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH) and cell morphology were all examined for each patient. The statistical programme Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) (version 26.0) was used to analyse the data. The Chi-square test was used to evaluate the qualitative parameters. Results: The mean age was 66.44±5.87 years; 52 (57.8%) were men, and 38 (42.2%) were women. The most prevalent co-morbid conditions were diabetes and hypertension. The common clinical signs observed were pallor, oedema, knuckle pigmentation. In this study, IDA was the most frequent aetiology 53 (58.9%), second being megaloblastic anaemia 24 (26.7%), followed by dimorphic anaemia 13 (14.4%). Gastritis was commonest finding on gastroscopy. Conclusion: Anaemia is a common finding amongst elderly population which remains undiagnosed and is ignored. The main cause is nutritional deficiency leading to IDA, megaloblastic anaemia or dimorphic anaemia. Hence, geriatric population should undergo regular screening for early recognition of anaemia. Further large population studies are required for detailed evaluation to determine the causes of anaemia in elderly.
A Novel Approach for Treatment of Two Adjacent Gingival Recession Defects using Modified Bilateral Pedicle Flap and Tunnel Technique combined with TitaniumPrepared Platelet Rich Fibrin
Authors: Ansari Nasreen , Datta Archita , Lamba Arundeep Kaur , Faraz Farrukh , Tandon Shruti
Published: July 2023

Gingival recession being the most common mucogingival problem among adult patients is often associated with root hypersensitivity, erosion, root caries, and compromised aesthetics. The primary goal of treating gingival recession include complete root coverage along with improving gingival biotype to facilitate proper plaque control, improve patient aesthetics, and to prevent further periodontal breakdown. Although numerous root coverage techniques and regenerative materials are available, a novel technique involving the bilateral pedicle flap with subperiosteal tunnel in interdental papilla along with use of Titanium Prepared Platelet-Rich Fibrin (T-PRF) has been described in this case report. A 20-year-old male patient reported with the chief complaint of teeth sensitivity in lower front teeth. Intraoral examination revealed Recession Type 1 (RT-1) defects in mandibular central incisors which were treated using modified bilateral pedicle flap and tunnel technique combined with T-PRF. This technique allowed excellent blood supply at recipient site along with complete coverage of T-PRF membrane and root surfaces. The subperiosteal tunnel created in between the two affected teeth, allowed better stabilisation of membrane and inhibited apical retraction of flap during healing phase. Using this novel technique, complete root coverage was achieved along with gain in gingival thickness hence, it can be considered as a predictable approach for the treatment of RT-1 defects involving two adjacent teeth.
Size Distribution and Growth Pattern of Mackerel Scad (Decapterus Sp.) Caught by Boat Lift Nets in Doreri Bay Waters, Manokwari Regency, West Papua, Indonesia and Its Management Implications
Authors: Patty Richard Steven , Bawole Roni , Sala Ridwan , Tjolli Ihwan , Lahumeten Frengky , Mudjirahayu  , Pangulimang Joice
Published: July 2023

Aims: The present study aims to explore some of biological characteristics of mackerel scad, such as size structures and length and weight relationship in which that information is important for the management of the fish resources.

Place and Duration of Study: The data collection was conducted from April to June 2019 in the waters of Doreri Bay, Manokwari Regency.

Methodology: The data were collected from 6 boat lift nets during their fishing operation, 7 days every month for 3 months of research. The data collected was the catch of mackerel scad fish and the size of total length and weight the individual fish samples. The data were then descriptively analyzed to explore the fish size structures. Simple regression analyses was used to estimate the length weight relationship (LWR) of fish.

Results: The production of mackerel scad caught in the waters of Doreri Bay from April to June was around 68.5 tonnes which was dominated by the species Decapterus macerellus. The individual size structure of each species varies. D. macerellus has a size range of 17.8 cm to 25.7 cm, Decapterus macrosoma measures 10.5 cm to 12.7 cm, Decapterus akaadsi measures 7.9 cm to 19.0 cm, Decapterus kuroides measures 9.4 cm to 14.9 cm, and Decapterus scrombinus measures 10.3 cm to 18.0 cm. On average, the size of the individuals caught is smaller than the size at first smaturity (Lm). The growth pattern of mackerel scad fish varies between species. Fore example species D. macrosoma tend to follow a positive allometric growth pattern, while D akaadsi and D. macerellus tend to follow a negative allometric growth pattern.

Conclusion: Mackerel scad caught on average were dominated by individuals with a size less than the size of the first maturity (Lm); Growth pattern of Mackerel scad varied among different species and among different months; and Mackerel scad fish caught using boat lift nets in Doreri Bay, Manokwari Regency need to be managed properly by considering the minimum legal sizes and the aspect of carrying capacity.
A Structural Relationship Model of Communicative Competence
Authors: Morales Ryan O. , Limpot Marilou
Published: July 2023

Aim: To investigate the most appropriate model of students' competence to communicate using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) as the basis for the instrument's design in analyzing the relationship of readiness to direct learning, strategy in language learning, learning environment, and communicative competence.

Study Design: Quantitative Causal Analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Region XI, Philippines, during the second semester of 2022.

Methodology: The stratified Random sampling technique was utilized using Raosoft Application to select the 1184 high school students. The instrument underwent pilot testing and obtained an average Cronbach alpha of .954. Consent forms were obtained from the respondents' parents. All respondents were oriented on the purpose of the study.

Results: The findings showed that the level of readiness in direct learning, language learning strategies in the learning environment, and communicative ability were high. It was also found that there was a significant relationship between direct learning readiness, language learning strategies, and students' learning environment with communicative ability. Moreover, model 5 is the best fit. The findings support Reynolds and Walberg's Theory of Academic Achievement which states that the psychological characteristics and way of dealing with a student influence what he achieves when it comes to behavior, attitude, and cognitive matters, and Canale and Swain's Theory of Communicative Competence which states that communicative language in teaching requires an environment of trust and confidence where students interact without fear or threat of failure and the importance of the classroom environment in developing communicative competence.

Conclusion: The results highlighted the influence of psychological characteristics on educational outcomes and underscored the importance of a trusting classroom environment for developing communicative abilities.
Design of (3,2) and (4,2) CNTFET Ternary Counters for Multipliers
Authors: Etiemble Daniel , Jaber Ramzi A.
Published: July 2023

The reduction trees of combinational multipliers are widely applying counters. To be able to compare the ternary and the binary approaches, Nanotube Field-Effect Transistor (CNTFET) ternary (3,2) and ternary (4,2) counters have been designed. The ternary (4,2) counter is compared with the binary (7,3) counter as both compute approximately the same amount of information. The binary counter is more efficient. However, comparing counters is not enough: in the Wallace reduction tree of the ternary multiplier, there are two times more lines to reduce compared to the binary one, as a 1-trit multiplier generates both product and carry terms. Comparing the Wallace tree of an 8*8-trit multiplier and a 12*12-bit binary one also shows that the binary implementation is the most efficient.
Dengue Fever: Etiology, Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Nyenke Clement Ugochukwu , Nnokam Brenda Anyakwe , Esiere RoseMary Kaiso , Nwalozie Rhoda
Published: July 2023

Dengue fever (break-bone fever) is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It is caused by the Dengue virus, which is a single positive-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family. Dengue fever is prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas and is a significant public health concern in many countries, including`g Nigeria. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash. In severe cases, dengue fever can lead to complications such as bleeding, organ impairment, and dengue shock syndrome. Diagnosing dengue fever can be challenging, especially in areas where it is endemic. In endemic locations, diagnosis is often made clinically based on the patient's reported symptoms and a physical examination. Tourniquet testing, which involves applying a blood pressure cuff and counting any petechial hemorrhages, can help in the diagnosis. Laboratory methods, including full blood count, cell culture, nucleic acid identification (PCR), and serology, can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Preventing dengue fever involves controlling the mosquito vector and protecting oneself from mosquito bites. Measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and using bed nets can help prevent mosquito bites. Vaccination against dengue is also available, with the Dengvaxia vaccine being used in some countries. There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on supportive care, maintaining a healthy fluid balance, and relieving symptoms such as fever and pain. Severe cases may require hospitalization and intensive medical care. In Nigeria, dengue fever is often misdiagnosed or overlooked due to similarities with other febrile illnesses like malaria. This can lead to underreporting and inadequate management of dengue cases. Increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population is crucial for early detection and appropriate management of dengue fever in Nigeria. In conclusion dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily Aedes species. It is a significant global health concern, including in Nigeria. Early diagnosis, prevention measures, and supportive care are essential in managing dengue fever and reducing its impact on public health. This review is aimed at discussing the current issues of Dengue fever with focus on Nigeria.
Advances in Precision Medicine Approaches for Type 2 Diabetes Management: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Milla-Amekor Emily , Ewusie Ebenezer Ato
Published: July 2023

Projections indicate that, approximately 700 million people will be living with diabetes by 2050, a figure that has doubled in the previous twenty years. The rising cost of type 2 diabetes care might be reduced and existing treatment gaps could be closed with the help of precision medicine. Taking into consideration each individual unique genetic, environmental, and behavioral characteristic, precision medicine is a new approach to treatment. The primary goal of precision medication is to accurately foresee how a patient will respond to treatment. It may be used as a prophylactic strategy for the whole population because of how broadly it applies. Medication, weight reduction, regular exercise, and a nutritious diet all work together to prevent type 2 diabetes. Optimizing metabolic control is one way in which this kind of diabetes therapy has a probability to reduce death rates and improve standard of life. Inadequate funding for translational health research, incompatible data formats, a lack of system interoperability, a lack of decision-making support systems, and a lack of IT infrastructure support are just some of the obstacles to the widespread utilization of precision medicine technologies in clinical practice. Forecast translation of scientific results into practical applications may be aided by the creation of a worldwide clinical studies group dedicated to raising public understanding and appreciation of the great advantages of precision medicine in treating diabetes.
Bio-efficacy of Chemical Insecticides against Major Insect Pests of Mustard Applied through Seed Treatment
Authors: Arvind  , Choudhary Shivani , Jat B. L. , Chand Amar , Kadawla Kanchan , Kumawat Sheetal , Redhu Mandeep
Published: July 2023

Seed treatment application of chemical insecticides is getting popularity in the management of insect-pest population. The present investigation was conducted to study the bio-efficacy of different chemical insecticides, widely used against major insect-pest of mustard crop. A mustard variety Bio-902 was sown in twenty-seven plots of 2× 2 m2 at the agronomy farm of Sri Karan Narendra College of Agriculture, Jobner, India during the Rabi season of 2020-21. A total of nine treatments including an untreated control group with three replications were investigated in a randomized block design (RBD). The data was recorded for aphid population and seed yield in each treatment. The treatments including Imidacloprid 40% + Fipronil 40% (10 g/kg seed) was found significantly effective followed by Imidacloprid (10 g/kg seed), Clothianidin (10 g/kg seed), Thiamethoxam (10 g/kg seed), Imidacloprid 40% + Fipronil 40% (5 g/kg seed), Imidacloprid (5 g/kg seed), Clothianidin (5 g/kg seed) and Thiamethoxam (5 g/kg seed). The ranking of treatments based on seed yield in mustard was found to be similar to the trend observed in the aphid population for different treatments. Seed treatment helps protect the seed and emerging plant from insects until they become more resilient. Method of seed treatment and doses of pesticides to be used in seed treatment are deciding factor for bio efficacy of pesticides.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Different Bioinoculants and Bioenhancers on the Vegetative Growth and Yield of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) cv. Winter Dawn
Authors: Singh Avantika , Topno Samir E. , Prasad V. M.
Published: July 2023

The strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) cv. Winter dawn is a significant fruit within the Fragaria genus and is classified under the Rosaceae family. There is a growing trend in adopting strawberry cultivation even in subtropical conditions. However, there is still a need to promote the standardization of agricultural techniques for strawberry cultivation in subtropical regions to increase production while maintaining quality. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of different bioinoculants and bioenhancers on the vegetative growth and yield of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) cv. Winter dawn transplanted during the winter season of 2022-23 at the Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Prayagraj. The experiment comprised of nine treatments viz. T0- CONTROL (RDF), T1- Azotobacter @400g/100m², T2- PSB @400g/100m², T3- Jeevamrit (3 times diluted with non- chlorinated water) @250ml/l, T4- Amritpani (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l, T5- Azotobacter @400g/100m² + Jeevamrit (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l, T6- PSB @400g/100m² + Amritpani (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l, T7- Jeevamrit (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l+ Amritpani (3 times diluted with non- chlorinated water) @250ml/l + Azotobacter @ 400g/100m², T8- Jeevamrit (3 times diluted with non- chlorinated water) @250ml/l + Amritpani (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l + PSB @400g/100m². The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design. The results revealed that the treatment T7 (Jeevamrit (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l + Amritpani (3 times diluted with non-chlorinated water) @250ml/l + Azotobacter @ 400g/100m²) was found to be best in terms of Vegetative growth viz., Plant height (25.67cm), Plant spread (27.00cm (E-W), 27.00cm (N-S)), Petiole length (12.00cm), No. of leaves per plant (22.00), Chlorophyll content (60.69), Days to first flowering (40.67), No. of fruits (16.00), No. of flowers (19.00), Fruit set (84.18%), and Fruit yield (2.13Kg) of strawberries.
Trend Analysis of Groundwater Levels in Kalpathypuzha Sub-Basin of Bharathapuzha, Kerala in India
Authors: Assainar K. K. Rabeea , Joseph Asha , Sajeena S.
Published: July 2023

Groundwater is one of the most precious and significant sources of water in the world. The understanding of groundwater level variability and trend is crucial for water resources planning in a region. The present study was conducted in the Kalpathypuzha sub-basin of Bharathapuzha. The variability of ground water levels was analyzed using various descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, skewness and kurtosis. The groundwater level trend was estimated using the Mann-Kendall test and Sen’s slope estimator. Twelve observation wells evenly distributed in the blocks of Kuzhalmannam, Palakkad, Malampuzha and Chittur blocks of Palakkad districts in Kerala were selected for the study. The results of variability analysis showed that, the highest mean monthly groundwater level of 139.1 m was found for the well 139 of Chittur block in September and the lowest mean monthly groundwater level of 61.5 m was found for the well 129 of Palakkad block in September. The highest mean annual groundwater level was 138.9 m in the year 2007 for the well 139 of Chittur block and the lowest was 62.1 m in the year 2016 for the well 129 of Palakkad block. The results of trend analysis showed a decreasing pre-monsoon groundwater level trend in three wells viz. well 129 of Palakkad block and wells 133 and 142 of Malampuzha block while decreasing post-monsoon groundwater level trend was observed in well 139 of Chittur block. There was no significant trend in the rest of the wells for both the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods.
Evaluation of Seed Yield and Quality under Different Planting Systems in Rice (Oryza sativa. L)
Authors: Srilaasya Singarapu Snigda , Swarnalatha V. , Pallavi M. , Prabhavathi K.
Published: July 2023

Out of different planting systems available in rice, various factors such as local conditions, water resources and labour availability decides the choice of planting. To study whether the large scale seed production can be taken under different popular planting systems without any compromise on seed quality is the need of the hour. The present experiment was conducted to understand the influence of different planting methods on seed yield and quality in rice. The experiment was carried out Kharif, 2022 with two rice varieties namely RNR 15048 and KNM 118. Each variety was sown separately in five different planting systems i.e., T1-Transplanting (Control), T2-Dry direct seeded rice, T3-Direct wet seeded rice, T4-Aerobic rice, T5-Drum seeded rice with three replications in the factorial randomised block design. The maximum seed yield of 7.6 t/ha was in aerobic planting system and the influence of seed quality parameters in different planting methods like germination, seedling vigour index-I and II, physical purity, field emergence, accelerated ageing test showed that aerobic system of planting has shown good quality with germination value of 97%, seedling vigour index-I of 2357.04, seedling vigour index-II of 1339.51, physical purity of 99.04%, seed reserve utilization with efficiency of 15.15, field emergence of 93.5% and when subjected to accelerated ageing under required conditions till 5th day the aerobic rice has shown 96% of germination. Among all the planting systems, aerobic rice has shown superior performance representing it’s role in the development of quality seed parameters.
Factors Militating against Adoption of Solar Water Pump Sets in the Selected Area of Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Chandrakala  , Pathak Hulas , Chandrakar M. R. , Choudhary V. K. , Singh Shubhi , Thakur Shubham Kumar , Bhagat Rohit Kumar
Published: July 2023

In the agricultural sector, the highest electricity use goes to irrigation pump sets. Solar pump sets are a renewable source of energy that can replace existing diesel- and electricity-based pump sets. The Sour Sujala Yojna was launched by the Prime Minister to provide solar-powered irrigation pumps to farmers at a subsidized price. 56362 solar water pump sets were installed from 2016 to 2019 in Chhattisgarh state. In the study area, sample farmers were facing two major problems: the solar pump was not working during cloudy days, and second "low farm income". Rank 3 was "small land holdings," and through the solar pump irrigation, less area was covered, ranking 4. There is a maintenance problem that is minor or negligible. To solve the problem, a battery charge system with a solar pump should be added. and the water tank was fixed and stored above 20 meters. A solar pump is a renewable source of energy. So it does not affect nature. It is the best source of irrigation for future energy savings.
Effect of Different Chemicals and Manual Thinning on Crop Regulation in Guava (Psidium guajava)
Authors: Lal Madan , Bahadur Vijay
Published: July 2023

The present experiment was conducted at Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during the session March 2022 – December 2022. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications, and the study consists of ten treatment combinations including control by using different chemicals and manual thinning on Crop Regulation in Guava (Psidium guajava)”. The best treatment was T9 (Manual Deblossoming) & T6 (Ethrel@2500 ppm) which shows highest values in all the parameters viz., Number of flower plant-1 (120.55 & 130.55) Number of fruit plant-1 (101.22 & 120.15), Fruit set (%) (83.97 & 92.03), Fruit weight (g) (110.1 & 204.22), Fruit diameter (cm) (6.33& 6.78), Fruit yield plant-1 (kg) (11.14 & 24.54), Total soluble solids (0Brix) (10.15 & 12.55), Acidity (%) (0.2 & 0.14), Ascorbic acid (mg/100 g) (160.25& 165.25) and Pectin (%) (0.94 & 0.98) during rainy and winter season. All the treatments were significantly superior in their flowering, fruit yield and quality of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda over control (T0) and (T9). Increase flowering, fruit yield and quality was might be due to the increased duration of fruit quality during winter season as compared to summer.
Magnesium Supplementation Concerning Soil Chemical Properties and Cowpea Yield in Ultisol of Kerala, India
Authors: Soniya V. P. , Bhindhu P. S.
Published: July 2023

Ultisol of Kerala faces high magnesium deficiency due to poor retention of magnesium to soil exchange surfaces under high rainfall conditions. Hence magnesium nutrition management is an important aspect of fertility improvement in these soils. We conducted a pot culture study to determine the influence of varying magnesium levels on soil chemical properties and yield of cowpea in Ultisols of Kerala. We used a completely randomized design. The study was carried out in the Radiotracer Laboratory, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural University, in January-April 2019. Magnesium carbonate at levels 5 to 80 mg.kg-1 was provided along with recommended doses of fertilizers for cowpea maintained in pots. Rhizosphere samples were analyzed during flowering and at harvest of the crop following standard procedures. Yield and yield attributes are recorded at the time of harvest. Graded doses of magnesium introduced significant (P< 0.05) variations in the soil available nutrients and yield of cowpea. Soil pH and available magnesium in rhizosphere soil during flowering and post-harvest increased with the increasing levels of magnesium carbonate, and using 80 mg kg-1 of magnesium recorded the highest pH, available phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. In contrast, the gradation of magnesium could not produce significant variation in yield. The highest yield was recorded in treatment supplied with 10 mg kg-1 of magnesium and was on par with those of higher levels of magnesium supplement. Graded doses of magnesium introduced variation in available nutrients but a better yield response in cowpea was obtained from magnesium at 10 mg.kg-1.
Utilization of Tomato Powder as a Technological Functional Ingredient in Bakery Products: A Review
Authors: Ramya H. N. , Kandkur Shivabasappa , Ashwini A. , Bai R. S. Roopa
Published: July 2023

The present review aimed to investigate and analyze the use of Tomato powder as a fortification ingredient in different types of bakery foods. Tomatoes are known to be a rich source of vitamins, minerals and carotenoids, especially vitamin C, phosphorus, potassium, and lycopene ,citric acid and malic acid it may become an ideal addition to different types of processed foods.drying as a preservation process is considered one of the best methods, because it ensures ease of use, transportation and storage. Tomato powder has a wide range of applications in the food and beverage industry due to its rich flavoring quality. The nutritional quality of bakery products keeps on degrading from the process of baking, packaging, transportation and storage. Tomato powder lowered the pH values of batters, but had no impact on pH or cooking losses of the products. It is a good source of various macro and micro mineral elements. One hundred grams of tomato powder provides between 5.81-74.82% and 6.39-87.00% of the daily recommended intake for different macro and micro mineral elements for Indian male and female, respectively. Main purpose of value added products is to minimize the qualitative and quantitative deterioration of the produce after harvest. Moreover, some of these dehydrated powder products are gaining popularity in the foreign market and are good foreign exchange earners. In India only 2.2% of the total produce is processed as compared to 40 to 83% in developed countries.
Effect of Rate and Frequency of Micronutrient Application on Soil Chemical Properties for Production of Banana under Drip Irrigation
Authors: Singh Narendra , Sonal Tripathi , Patel V. A. , Naik Jaimin R. , Vaishali Surve
Published: July 2023

The two year field experiment "effect of rate and frequency of micronutrient application on production of banana under drip irrigation" was carried out using banana as a test crop and as ratoon crop at Soil and Water Management Research Unit, NAU, Navsari. Present experiment was conducted at fixed site, for plant crop a set of 8 treatments were tried and subsequently the same set of treatments were super imposed on ratoon crop. The different rate of multi-micronutrients mixture, grade-V(M1= 25 gm/plant, M2= 50 gm/plant, M3= 75 gm/plant) and the frequency of application (S1= Basal and S2= 50 per cent each as basal and 50 per cent two month after planting) was used in different treatments in present investigation. Total eight treatments like 60% RD of N & K and 100% RD of P (PFDC) (T1), PFDC+M1S1(T2), PFDC+M1S2(T3),PFDC+M2S1(T4), PFDC+M2S2(T5),PFDC+M3S1(T6), PFDC+M3S2(T7) and 100% RDF only (T8) for plant as well as ratoon banana crops were tested using randomized block design with four replications. The application of micronutrient under treatment T7 {micronutrient application @ 75 g/plant applied as 50% basal + 50 % after 2 month planting (M3S2) along with PFDC practices} gave significantly highest DTPA-Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu content in soil during different periodical soil analysis at 3, 6 and 9 (MAP) and at harvest of banana crop in both the years 2012-13 (plant) and 2013-14 (ratoon) compared to control and it was at par with T6.  The application of micronutrient gave the non-significant effect on soil pH. The treatment T7 showed significant effect on soil EC (dS m-1). Whereas, highest available N, P2O5 and K2O content significantly increased in 100% RDF treatments compared to other treatments at 3, 6, 9 MAP of the plant banana as well as at 3, 6 and 9 MAR (month after ratooning). The treatment T6, T7 and T8 were found more remunerative than the remaining treatments as these treatments recorded higher BCR values of 1:2.20, 1:2.34 and 1:2.19, respectively.
Additions to the Orchid Flora of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Senthil K. , Kunhikannan C. , Hariharan S.
Published: July 2023

A study was conducted in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), in the Southern Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, to document the wide range of wild orchids in the area and evaluate their conservation status. The ATR, known for its high species diversity, is a protected region spanning a core area of 958.59 km2 and a buffer area of 521.28 km2. The main objective of the study was to investigate and assess the diversity of orchids within the reserve, providing essential information for their conservation. The present study revealed the presence of 137 orchid species belonging to 56 genera in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. Among them, 37 species forms an addition to the orchid flora of the reserve. The dominant genus in ATR is Dendrobium followed by Habenaria, and Oberonia.
Impact of Different Packaging Materials on the Quality and Shelf Life of Kinnow Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
Authors: Kumar Gaurav , Bahadur Vijay , Topno Samir E. , Mishra Saket , Joseph Annjoe V.
Published: July 2023

The experiment carried out on the “Impact of Different Packaging Materials on The Quality and Shelf Life of Kinnow Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)".Under the study the packaging treatments  include T1 (Control or no packaging), T2 (Fruits packed in Newspaper), T3 (Fruits wrapped in Brown paper bags), T4 (Fruits packed in Aluminium Foil), T5 (Fruits wrapped in LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene), T6 (Fruits packed in Rice stubble), T7 (fruits packed in Perforated boxes), T8 (Fruits packed in Gunny bags), T9 (Fruits packed in Nylon net bags). The main objective of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of various packaging materials on physico-chemical characteristics of Kinnow fruit during storage. The physico-chemical evaluation of the fruits of each treatment was done upto 24 days and all the observations were recorded at every 6 days interval. The Fruit Weight, Polar Diameter, Radial Diameter, Peel weight having the decreasing trend, the highest mean was found in T5 during storage which were (151.70), (57.58), (59.11), (36.08) respectively. The TSS(0Brix) and pH were recorded lowest in the fruits packed in T5 during storage which were (10.45) and (4.02) respectively. Specific gravity of fruits had decreasing trend during storage period and found highest (0.86) in T5 at 24 days while ascorbic acid and titrable acidity had decreasing trend and mean values was   found highest (17.89) and (0.89) in T5 respectively during storage. On basis of study results shown by physico-chemical characteristics of kinnow, it was concluded that kinnow fruits packed in T5 LDPE packing has highest overall acceptability at 24 days of storage. These practices may be passed on for obtaining higher returns with B:C ratio of 2.39.
Constitutional and Institutional Governance of Electricity Sector in Nigeria
Authors: Aguda Olukayode Olalekan
Published: July 2023

The extensive reform of Nigeria's power industry is focused on deregulation, restructuring, and privatisation. The government started a comprehensive economic reform programme in 1999, which includes this reform. The National Electric Power Policy (NEPP) of 2001 and the Electric Power Sector Reform (EPSR) Act of 2005 both first stated the need for privatising the electricity sector. The privatisation of the entire energy sector made considerable strides in 2013 with the transfer of ownership of six electricity production businesses and eleven electricity distribution companies. The reform has led to the repeal of the EPSR Act 2005 by the enactment of the Electricity Act 2023. This paper therefore seeks to ensure that a reform process is not only set up but prioritized within the Electricity sector.

With the passage of the Privatisation and Commercialization Act in 1988 and the subsequent creation of the Technical Committee for Privatisation and Commercialization (TCPC) in 1993, the reform process got underway. When civilian authority was restored in 1999, the government passed the Public Enterprises (Privatisation and Commercialization) Act, which established the National Council on Privatisation (NCP) as the top policy-making body on privatization-related matters. The Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE) was created under the Act to serve as the government's technical operator and task manager for its public enterprise reform initiative.

The reform legislation calls for licencing, liberalisation, the unbundling of the public monopoly utility, corporatization, and the commercialization of successor enterprises. The Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) was established as a holding company. To ensure a competitive electricity market, the law suggests selling generating and distributing enterprises to core investors.

Despite privatisation attempts, Nigeria's electrical supply reliability remains a serious difficulty, and regulation remains an urgent issue. Due to the inconsistent availability of energy, manufacturers continue to rely primarily on diesel generators. Power plant failures have resulted in significant electrical shortages, with daily power outages lasting several hours.

Conclusively, while the Nigerian power sector has undergone significant reforms, there is still a need for further improvements in regulation and electricity supply reliability to address the country's persistent energy challenges and support economic diversification beyond oil production and manufacturing sector collapse.
Clinical Effectiveness of Hawthorn, Lemon Balm and Magnesium on Patients with Distress Disorders: Preliminary Data by a Survey of Italian Gastroenterologists
Authors: Usai-Satta Paolo , Monica Fabio
Published: July 2023

Aims: distress disorders (DD) include psychological symptoms such as sleep disorders, fatigue and psychophysical exhaustion that are common to many mental diseases. DD is often associated with somatic symptoms such as abdominal pain or bowel dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate in patients with DD the effectiveness of a nutraceutical containing Hawthorn, Lemon Balm, and Magnesium (Vagostabil®) on psychological and abdominal symptoms. For this purpose, a clinical survey was conducted by 7 Italian gastroenterologists.

Methodology: 85 patients with DD (60 F, mean age 51,6 yrs), identified by a score > 18 based on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), were included in the study. All patients assumed Vagostabil®, three tablets a day for two months. The same HAM-A score and a VAS score for abdominal pain were used to measure clinical results.

Results: the mean score of the HAM-A scale decreased from 28.61 to 18.22 after 1 month and to 11.46 after 2 months of treatment respectively (P = .001 for all comparisons). An overall reduction of HAM-A score by 59.94 % was observed at the end of the treatment (P = .001). Similarly, VAS score for abdominal pain decreased from 7.59 to 4.86 after 1 month, and to 2.41 at the end of the treatment (P = .001 for both comparisons). A global reduction of 68.25% in the VAS score was observed at the end of the survey (P = .001).

Conclusion: this clinical survey showed that Vagostabil® can ameliorate psychological symptoms and associated abdominal pain in patients with DD. These preliminary data suggest that Vagostabil® could be utilized by gastroenterologists in functional gastrointestinal disorders. However, further studies are needed to confirm these data.
In-vitro and In-silico Inhibitory Action of Methanol Extract of Rhynchosia beddomei Whole Plant on α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase
Authors: Reddy N. V. L Suvarchala , Raju M. Ganga , Mamatha M. , Madhuri M. L.
Published: July 2023

The goal of the current study was to identify potential bioactive components that may be responsible for Rhynchosia beddomei's antidiabetic activity through in silico docking study and to investigate potential mechanisms by which Rhynchosia beddomei may be helpful in managing diabetes and its associated complications.  In vitro anti-diabetic assays showed that this plant's high efficiency to inhibit α-amylase (62.13%) and α-glucosidase (59.9%) enzymatic activity, which are well-established targets for the management of diabetes, is responsible for its anti-hyperglycaemic activity. Soxhlet extraction produced an extractive yield of 35.43%.  Additionally, we hypothesised that flavonoids including rutin, lucenin, orientin, rhynchosin, and isooreintin contained in this plant may be accountable for the antidiabetic characteristics through docking experiments. The traditional usage of this herb as an antidiabetic is supported scientifically by these findings.  By reducing dietary glucose intake, it may help slow the course of diabetic complications and control diabetes. The therapy of hyperglycaemia requires further screening of predicted antidiabetic compounds.
A Qualitative Study on Sustainability of Tea Industry: Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities Using PESTEL Review
Authors: Sumi Razia Sultana
Published: July 2023

The fundamental value of this study is to examine the sustainability issues of the tea industry in Bangladesh using PESTLE (Political, Economic, Technological, Social, Environmental, and Legal factors) analysis. PESTEL analysis perceived that the macro-environmental factors in the sustainable tea industry of Bangladesh are rather unpromising as a consequence, making it a profitable industry through evaluating its challenges and opportunities. A qualitative research method has been applied to measure the importance of the macro-environmental factors and their level of influence on the tea industry. For the data collection purpose, this study used an interviewing method and the thematic analysis was applied for data analysis purposes. 3o industry experts and stakeholders were interviewed and some major insights are discovered. Lack of governance of public authority, limited awareness of sustainability issues, below-standard labor wages, achieving economies of scale, outdated machineries and technologies and liberal import law are some significant challenges facing the sustainable tea industry of Bangladesh. The findings may provide useful suggestions for the policy-makers, researchers, developers and tea garden owners for decision-making purposes.
Preface, BCREC Vol. 10 No. 1 Year 2015
Authors: Istadi Istadi
Published: July 2023

Preface, BCREC Vol. 10 No. 1 Year 2015
Targeting tumor O‐glycosylation modulates cancer–immune‐cell crosstalk and enhances anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy in head and neck cancer
Authors: Lin Mei‐Chun , Chuang Ya‐Ting , Wu Hsin‐Yi , Hsu Chia‐Lang , Lin Neng‐Yu , Huang Min‐Chuan , Lou Pei‐Jen
Published: July 2023

Cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) communicate via membrane‐bound and secreted proteins, which are mostly glycosylated. Altered glycomes of malignant tumors influence behaviors of stromal cells. In this study, we showed that the loss of core‐1 β1,3‐galactosyltransferase (C1GALT1)‐mediated O‐glycosylation suppressed tumor growth in syngeneic head and neck cancer mouse models. O‐glycan truncation in tumor cells promoted the M1 polarization of macrophages, enhanced T‐cell‐mediated cytotoxicity, and reduced interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels in the secretome. Proteasomal degradation of IL‐6 was controlled by the O‐glycan at threonine 166. Both IL‐6/IL‐6R blockade and O‐glycan truncation in tumor cells induced similar pro‐inflammatory phenotypes in macrophages and cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). The combination of the O‐glycosylation inhibitor itraconazole and anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 (anti‐PD‐1) antibody effectively suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that O‐glycosylation in tumor cells governs their crosstalk with macrophages and CTLs. Thus, targeting O‐glycosylation successfully reshapes the TME and consequently enhances the efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 therapy.