bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FOOD AS A CRITICAL METAPHOR FOR GLOBALIZATION: SPAZIALIZATION OF TERRITORIAL IMBALANCES. EVIDENCE FROM THE GLOBAL SOUTH
Authors:   Department of Economic Studies, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Viale Pindaro, Pescara, Italy, IACUONE Silvia , FERRARI Fabrizio ,   Department of Languages, Literature and Modern Cultures, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Viale Pindaro, Pescara, Italy, FUSCHI Marina ,   Department of Economic Studies, “G. d’Annunzio” University, Viale Pindaro, Pescara, Italy
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this paper is to represent the spatialisation of
the geography of hunger at the national level, taking as its starting point
the most alarming situations denoted by the Global Hunger Index (GHI).
After identifying the countries that persist in the most severe conditions
of food insecurity, the causes that most influence these situations are
highlighted, also through the use of specific indicators. Globalisation not
only brings the benefit of a global approach to issues of universal
solidarity (albeit still feeble in its concrete effects), but also many issues
that aggravate the already difficult local situations.
Obra de Circe Maia: poesía y vivencia radical del tiempo
Authors: Benítez Pezzolano Hebert
Published: December 2024

El presente artículo propone un estudio de la obra de la poeta uruguaya Circe Maia (Montevideo, 1932), constituyendo como eje central la vivencia poética de la temporalidad. Se concibe a la misma no solo como construcción temática –rasgo diferencial y continuo de su creación–, sino como parte encarnada de una experiencia desde la que construye y enuncia una subjetividad. Surgida a fines de los años 50, su producción desarrolla distintos acentos líricos y de la conciencia de las décadas de 1960 y 1970. Atravesados por el dramatismo del tiempo, la mundanidad, lo doméstico, la impronta coloquial y el compromiso social, la inquietud filosófica bergsoniana y la fenomenología de Husserl y Merleau-Ponty fueron un hecho sustantivo. Maia, autora de una obra mayor de las letras latinoamericanas, rehuyó al léxico filosófico para ocupar con un lenguaje de poesía el espacio de esas categorías y la compleja búsqueda del pasado y la memoria.
Desafíos lingüísticos en un contexto de superdiversidad: el caso de una primaria en Tijuana
Authors: Licon Zavala Jorge Luis , Páez Cárdenas Juan
Published: December 2024

Este estudio de caso etnográfico examina las dinámicas lingüísticas en una escuela primaria de Tijuana, México, localidad caracterizada por su superdiversidad. La investigación explora las tensiones relacionadas con la diversidad de lenguas en un contexto fronterizo donde convergen estudiantes hablantes de español, inglés, creole haitiano y chino. A través de la observación participante y entrevistas, el estudio revela cómo las prácticas educativas navegan entre el monolingüismo y los esfuerzos hacia la inclusión lingüística. Se identifican manifestaciones de racismo lingüístico, como la exclusión de estudiantes no hispanohablantes y la estigmatización de variedades lingüísticas. También se observan iniciativas aisladas que promueven la justicia sociolingüística. La investigación subraya la necesidad de implementar prácticas que aprovechen la diversidad lingüística como recurso pedagógico. Los hallazgos revelan los desafíos y oportunidades que presenta la superdiversidad en contextos educativos fronterizos, contribuyendo al debate sobre políticas educativas inclusivas en México.
Finding ways to correct nonspecific vaginitis in menopausal women with obesity
Authors: Reznichenko N.Yu. , Reznichenko G.I. , Smiyan S.A. , Treshchak I.I. , Ryazanova O.D. , Petrashina O.M. , Ponedilok N.V.
Published: December 2024

Objective — to increase the effectiveness of treatment of nonspecific vaginitis in menopausal women with excess body weight and obesity through long-term lifestyle modification.
Materials and methods. 1178 patients aged 45—55 years were examined, including 317 with nonspecific vaginitis, who were divided into 3 study groups: with a healthy body weight, overweight and obesity. Each group was divided into three subgroups of comparison with standard therapy and three study groups that applied long-term lifestyle modification (actively and systematically used behavioral therapy, physical activity and a low-calorie diet) for 6 months. The control group consisted of 72 volunteers.
Results and discussion. In the study subgroups of women who used long-term lifestyle modification, recurrences of nonspecific vaginitis were less frequent than in the corresponding comparison subgroups. Thus, after 6 months, in subgroups of women with a healthy body weight, the difference in the frequency of relapses after treatment was 40 % greater (34.2 vs 20.5 %), with excess body weight — 31.1 % (41.2 vs 28.4 %), with obesity — 29.8 % (55.1 vs 38.7 %). A significant deterioration in the state of the microbiota in menopausal patients with increased body weight and the effectiveness of the use of long-term lifestyle modification on its condition were established. It was proven that excess body weight and obesity in women negatively affected the frequency of nonspecific vaginitis, clinical picture, decreased quality of life, and frequency of relapses. Active and systematic use of behavioral therapy, physical activity, and a low-calorie diet in patients with nonspecific vaginitis in menopause had significant advantages in preventing relapses, compared to standard therapy, and in preserving and improving the quality of life of obese patients.
Conclusions. Overweight and obese women are more likely than healthy women to suffer from nonspecific vaginitis, which is more severe and recurrent, accompanied by a decrease in quality of life and a disruption of the vaginal and skin biotope. After 6 months in obese postmenopausal women, the use of long-term lifestyle modification contributes to the restoration of the vaginal and skin microbiome, a decrease in the frequency of recurrences of nonspecific vaginitis and an improvement in quality of life compared with subgroups. with standard therapy. The best effect of treatment was observed in women with a healthy body weight, and the worst in the presence of obesity.
Skin manifestations of infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus during its pandemic (review)
Authors: Korolenko V.V. , Korolenko V.V.
Published: December 2024

In 2019—2023, the world experienced a Public Health Emergency of International Concern related to the pandemic of the novel coronavirus disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, declared by the World Health Organization (WHO), during which the virus mutated and spread, changing its transmissibility, infectivity, and ability to cause severe forms of the disease. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the number of reports of skin manifestations accompanying infection caused by the ­SARS-CoV-2 virus has increased.
Objective — to summarize data on the specific features of skin manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection during the COVID-19 pandemic and to improve further research in this direction.
Materials and methods. The bibliosemantic research method was used. The research materials are publications in foreign and Ukrainian scientific journals related to the meta-analysis of studies of skin manifestations in COVID-19, as well as individual clinical observations.
Results and discussion. A summary of a number of studies in the meta-analysis format conducted on materials from patient contingents in European, Asian and American countries showed the early appearance of skin manifestations in about 10 % of patients with COVID-19 before the onset of the respiratory process. Skin manifestations can occur in both asymptomatic/paucisymptomatic patients and patients with severe disease. No clear correlation was found between the severity of typical clinical manifestations of COVID-19, viral load and the nature of skin manifestations. The most common cutaneous manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection are urticaria, acral pernio-like lesions, maculopapular lesions, vesicular «pox-like» and «morbilliform» erythematous lesions, and skin lesions resembling erythema multiforme, livedo reticularis, and livedo racemosa.
Conclusions. Dermatologists can play an important role in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic by early recognition of skin lesions, especially in paucisymptomatic infections, where this recognition can guide early diagnosis of the infection, which certainly leads to a better prognosis. Skin manifestations can be a prominent feature of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and these lesions may be poorly recognized due to the lack of routine dermatological consultations during the pandemic.
A Review of Fungal-Derived Natural Dyes: Chemical Diversity and Multifaceted Health Benefits
Authors: Budipramana Krisyanti , Setiawan Vendra , Ratih Ratih , Budi Pramana Yanatra
Published: December 2024

Various industrial sectors, from food and drug production to textiles, have widely used pigments or dyes as coloring agents. Generally, we can distinguish between two types of coloring agents: synthetic and natural. Currently, the use of synthetic colorings is a topic of debate due to their potential health risks, toxicity, and environmental pollution. This prompts a deeper exploration of natural resources as a more secure substitute for coloring agents. Plants, animals, microbes, and fungi can all provide natural coloring agents. Besides animals and microbes, some challenges in developing plants as major sources of natural coloring agents include variations in production or harvest times, strongly influenced by season, weather, and the intensity of sunlight. These factors influence not only the stability of the produced color but also its physicochemical properties, such as solubility and pH.  Moreover, overexploitation of plants has an impact on ecosystem imbalances and leads to extinction. Among natural resources, pigments or dyes from fungi have shown their potential to address these challenges. This review focuses on the potential of various microfungi that produce natural dyes, especially from Monascaceae, Trichocomaceae, and Nectriaceae, as well as the classification based on their chemical structure. Furthermore, we describe their diverse biological impacts as antioxidants, antibiotics, antidiabetics, anticancer agents, and anti-cholesterol agents, along with their health advantages.
THE INFLUENCE OF PROFITABILITY ON STOCK PRICES
Authors: Wulandari Aprilia , Nurlaela Siti , Wijayanti Anita
Published: December 2024

This study aims to test and examine how stock prices are affected by return on equity, net profit margin, earnings per share, and return on assets. For the period between 2020 and 2023, 55 food and beverage firms that were listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) were examined in this study. Purposive sampling methods based on predetermined criteria were utilized in the study. There are 21 firms with 84 data observations made up the study's sample. The analysis used in this study is multiple linear regression. The study's findings show that even though earnings per share and return on assets positively impact stock prices, return on equity has a negative effect on stock prices. However, stock prices are unaffected by the net profit margin.
Semi-Uniform Metal Foam Distribution in Parabolic Trough Collector: An Experimental Approach for Enhancing Thermal Performance Under Iraqi Weather Conditions
Authors: Hasan Mustafa F. , Nima Mohammed A.
Published: December 2024

In the present work, the impact of metal foam (MF) on the thermal efficiency of a parabolic trough collector (PTC) was experimentally investigated using two types of receivers: one with metal foam insertion (MFI) and one without. Tests were conducted with a 30% filling ratio (FR) of copper foam blocks, consisting of 10 discs, each 45 mm thick, semi-uniformly spaced along the receiver pipe. The copper foam had pore densities of 10–40 PPI and porosities of 0.903 and 0.8983. The experiments carried out under ASHRAE 93 standards involved varying volume flow rates from 0.1 to 0.3 LPM, using water as the heat transfer fluid. The experiments took place in Iraq in May 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., under solar radiation conditions. To ensure data reliability, uncertainty analyses were performed on temperature, solar irradiation, flow rate, and pressure drop. The results indicated that the use of metal foam in the receiver improved collector efficiency, with a notable 16.74% increase at 40 PPI and 0.3 LPM. The highest thermal efficiency was achieved with 40 PPI, which raised the PTC outlet temperature to 58 °C at 0.1 LPM, compared to 53 °C for a without MFI pipe. According to performance evaluation criteria, 10 PPI foam outperforms 40 PPI foam. Compared to the denser 40 PPI, the larger 10 PPI pores improve water flow, reduce resistance, and require less energy to pump the heat transfer fluid (HTF). However, the findings found that while metal foam improves heat transfer efficiency, it increases pressure drop, highlighting the importance of balancing these factors in system design.
Effect of Filler Types on Moisture Damage of Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Adwar Noor N. , Albayati Amjad H.
Published: December 2024

The filler in the asphalt mixture is essential since it plays a significant role in toughening and stiffening the asphalt. Changes in filler type can lead the asphalt mixtures to perform satisfactorily during their design life or degrade rapidly when traffic and environmental effects are considered. This study aims to assess the impact of filler types such as limestone dust (LS) and hydrated lime (HL) on Marshall characteristics and moisture damage in asphalt mixtures. Three different percentages of HL were employed in this study to partially replace the LS mineral filler: 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5% by aggregate weight. Furthermore, a control mixture was created with 7% LS by overall aggregate weight for the wearing course layer. The Marshall method was used to obtain the optimal asphalt content and the asphalt mixes' volumetric properties. The optimum asphalt content was used to prepare the asphalt concrete mixes, which were then tested for moisture damage resistance using the indirect tensile strength (ITS) and the index of retained strength (IRS). The findings demonstrate that resistance to moisture damage can be significantly enhanced by partially substituting HL for the LS  filler. This was verified by the fact that the optimum increase in the tensile strength ratio (TSR) was 7.29% at 2.5% of HL, and at the same HL percent, the greatest rise in the IRS was 9.81% compared with the control mix.
Public Spaces in Healthy Urban Living Environments According to The Dimensions of Health Places and The Spatial Characteristics of Vital Environments
Authors: Mohammed Sabreen , Abaas Zaynab Radi
Published: December 2024

The physical and social structure of urban residential areas is affected by public open spaces in positive and negative ways. Public spaces serve as the basis for the growth of urban life that promotes physical activities and social relations. The research addressed the problem of lack of knowledge about the mechanisms that contribute to achieving healthy and lively public places according to spatial characteristics. It aimed to develop and improve public places through a more comprehensive knowledge of the effective spatial characteristics that contribute to enhancing the value of public places. The research assumed the existence of a correlation between vital spatial characteristics and healthy environments. For the purpose of testing the hypothesis, the theoretical framework extracted was applied to models of public places in international countries, Such as Canada, Japan, Algeria. The research adopted a qualitative descriptive approach to verify the hypothesis. The results showed that there is a relationship between health and vital environments that helped provide dynamism to the functioning of urban space and can be used as a criterion for measuring the effectiveness of public places.
Geobotany and Geobotanists at the International Steppe Forum “Steppes of Northern Eurasia” in Orenburg (May 27 – June 2, 2024)
Authors: Gannibal B. K. , Pankratova L. A.
Published: December 2024

The 10th International Symposium “Steppes of Northern Eurasia” was held in Orenburg at the end of May 2024 and was dedicated to the 300th anniversary of the Russian Academy of Sciences. It also marked the 30th anniversary of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. Almost 200 reports were heard, and even more articles were published in an electronic collection (posted on the website of the Steppe Institute of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences). An important place in the materials of the symposium is devoted to the problems of desertification, land degradation and droughts in Russia and the countries of the Eurasian region, as well as the development and implementation of nature-like technologies, but in this work the authors analyze exclusively articles and speeches related to the scientific field of geobotany and emphasize the important place of geobotanists at the conference. Special attention was paid, among others, to the study of successional in general and regenerative dynamics of vegetation.
Sentiment Classification of IT Service Feedback via TF-IDF
Authors: Samidi Samidi , Fatmawati Devy
Published: December 2024

Handling user complaints and feedback is a key strategy of Pusintek, the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia, to enhance user satisfaction. The challenge faced is the difficulty in accurately analyzing feedback due to differences in comments and categories chosen by users, which requires manual category correction. This study aims to automate feedback comment categorization using classification algorithms. Specifically, Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN) algorithms were applied to 11,108 user feedback records. The CRISP-DM framework was used, with dataset preparation involving sentiment analysis techniques (cleansing, case folding, normalization, filtering, and tokenization) and Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) weighting. Accuracy values for each algorithm were evaluated. Results show that the SVM algorithm performed the best, achieving an accuracy of 94.10% and consistently delivering the highest precision, recall, and f1-score across all sentiment categories. This research contributes to the development of an automatic feedback classification system that improves categorization accuracy, minimizes manual intervention, and optimizes user feedback analysis. It is expected to enrich the understanding of text classification and natural language processing techniques and open up opportunities for further research.
RIOT.ID: Revolutionizing Running Community Management with Next.js and Gamification
Authors: Shaan Peter , Sihotang Jay Idoan
Published: December 2024

The RIOT Indonesia running community has been actively engaged since 2018, continuing to expand its reach. However, despite this significant growth, the community still relies on manual systems for managing membership and recording activities. Information technology, recognized as a catalyst for transformation across various sectors, including sports, presents an opportunity to enhance the efficiency of community management. This research focuses on the design of the Web RIOT.ID application, a web-based solution that integrates QR Code technology and gamification principles through an Experience Points (XP) system to motivate member participation. The user interface design of the application employs the Design Thinking methodology, ensuring that the solutions developed are tailored to meet user needs. Developed using a Rapid Application Development (RAD) approach, the application leverages Next.js and MongoDB. Evaluation is conducted through black box testing to confirm the application's functionality and its alignment with the established objectives. The RIOT.ID application is expected to serve as a model for other communities aiming to harness information technology to enhance organizational management and member engagement.
Analysis Waste Level of Column Reinforcement Work Planning with Software Cutting Optimization
Authors: Putra I Nyoman Dita Pahang , Jagad Sulthanul Auliya
Published: December 2024

In the era of globalization, construction development in Indonesia has experienced significant acceleration, accompanied by innovation in its implementation methods. One of the main problems in construction projects is material waste, especially in column work. This study aims to analyze the level of waste in column reinforcement work by applying the cutting optimization method using Cutting Optimization Pro software and analyzing the diameter of the reinforcement that produces the greatest waste. The research method used is quantitative by analyzing secondary data through shop drawings and detailed standards from construction projects. The study was conducted on column work from Ground to Floor 5 by calculating material requirements using the Bar Bending Schedule and optimizing cutting patterns through Cutting Optimization Pro Software. The results show that the lowest percentage of waste D16 is 0%, the highest at Ø8 is 2.653%, and the overall average waste is 0.916%. This study provides new insights into the importance of innovation in material planning and management in the construction industry. By utilizing optimization software, contractors can improve efficiency and reduce the impact of material waste. This study is expected to be a reference for contractors in adopting new technologies in the management of material waste.
Análise de Narrativas como Método para Investigar Tensões na Identidade Profissional de Professor
Authors: Johnnata Cavalcante  , Márcia Zabdiele Moreira
Published: December 2024

Este estudo objetiva propor um caminho metodológico, fundamentado na análise de narrativas, que explique como ocorrem as tensões na identidade profissional de professores. O referencial teórico introduz um desenho conceitual que relaciona diferentes correntes teóricas para conferir maior lucidez às discussões sobre o tema investigado. Trata-se de pesquisa qualitativa, pautada na aplicação de elementos fundamentais da narratologia à pesquisa em Administração. O grupo de dados consistiu em uma narrativa coletada com a aplicação on-line de um diário reflexivo a uma professora brasileira vinculada a um programa de pós-graduação stricto-sensu, utilizando-se do Microsoft Sway e do Microsoft Forms. Ao final da pesquisa, conclui-se que a investigação com narrativas possibilita a expansão do horizonte metodológico de estudos acerca do trabalho de professores, estimulando a reflexividade e a criticidade sobre práticas e papéis docentes. Por fim, os resultados lançam luz sobre a importância de realizar novos estudos com categorias de profissionais que enfrentam condições de insalubridade e desvalorização.
Satisfação no Trabalho e Comprometimento Organizacional
Authors: Avelino Ágata Martins , Sousa Evangelina da Silva , Paiva Luis Eduardo Brandão
Published: December 2024

Este estudo investigou os níveis de satisfação no trabalho e comprometimento organizacional, bem como analisou a relação entre esses constructos em uma amostra de 281 servidores técnico-administrativos em educação de uma universidade federal do nordeste brasileiro. Utilizando uma abordagem quantitativa, foram aplicadas as Escalas de Satisfação no Trabalho (Siqueira, 2008) e de Comprometimento Organizacional (Meyer, Allen, Smith, 1993). Primeiramente, avaliou-se a confiabilidade das escalas por meio do coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach. Em seguida, aplicou-se a ANOVA com teste de Friedman para comparar as médias entre os grupos. Foram realizadas ainda a análise fatorial exploratória e regressão linear simples, utilizando o comprometimento organizacional como variável dependente e a satisfação no trabalho como variável explicativa. Os resultados indicaram um nível de satisfação no trabalho que sugere indiferença entre os participantes, enquanto o comprometimento organizacional foi classificado como moderado. A satisfação no trabalho influenciou positivamente o comprometimento organizacional, particularmente na sua dimensão instrumental. De modo geral, esta pesquisa oferece contribuições significativas para instituições públicas federais ao aprimorar o entendimento das relações entre satisfação no trabalho e comprometimento organizacional dos Técnicos Administrativos em Educação. Isso pode resultar na identificação de áreas de melhoria no ambiente de trabalho, fomentando um clima organizacional mais positivo e produtivo.
Chromium Isotopes: A Window into Atmospheric Oxygenation
Authors: Zhang Yunqian
Published: December 2024

Chromium (Cr) isotopes are pivotal proxies for understanding Earth’s atmospheric oxygenation history. This review highlights δ53Cr signatures as tools for reconstructing redox dynamics during events like the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) and the Neoproterozoic Oxygenation Event (NOE). Advances in analytical techniques, particularly multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS), have enhanced δ53Cr measurement precision, revealing critical insights into oxidative weathering and atmospheric oxygenation. Challenges such as local environmental variability and uncertainties in oxygen thresholds remain, but integrating δ53Cr with complementary proxies promises a more comprehensive view of Earth’s redox evolution. This synthesis underscores the transformative role of Cr isotopes in tracing oxygenation processes and their implications for the evolution of the biosphere.
In Search of Better Options: An Ethnographic Inquiry of Migrants from Bharse, Gulmi, Nepal
Authors: Pun Lal Bahadur
Published: December 2024

This is an extended abstract of my doctoral research, which explored the experiences of migrants seeking better opportunities both within their community of origin and beyond. It examined how migrants sought better opportunities in their community of origin and established their social positionality in new cultural contexts while navigating opportunities, challenges, and future aspirations that have received little academic attention. The purpose was to uncover how migrants faced challenges and developed strategies for the future as they pursued better prospects across multiple locations. To understand this phenomenon, four research questions: a) how do migrants experience detachment while maintaining social networks with their community of origin? b) how do they establish their positionality in new communities? c) how do they perceive both opportunities and constraints? and d) how do they develop strategies for the future? were formulated. Drawing on relevant literature, I used structuration and social capital theories to interpret the stories of migrants from Bharse who have settled in Butwal, Kathmandu, Hong Kong, and London. I employed an ethnographic approach within the interpretative paradigm. The findings indicated that, whether in their community of origin or destination, migrants consistently seek better options for an improved life. My research results will be useful to researchers, policymakers, think tanks, students, and academics who are focused on migration issues.
Profile of Patients Attending Psychiatry OPD During First Pre and Post Lock Down Period at A Tertiary Care Center of Western Nepal
Authors: Sharma Bhaskkar , Acharya Bishnu
Published: December 2024

Background The Government of Nepal issued a nationwide lockdown from 24th March to 21st July 2020. The study has presented the sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients during pre and post lockdown period of patients attending the psychiatry OPD of Lumbini Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Palpa, Nepal.
MethodsIt is a retrospective study. Comparison of sociodemographic and clinical profile of the patients during the pre and post lockdown was made by applying Pearson chi-square test and analysis was done by SPSS 27.0.
ResultsThe number of patients in pre lockdown period outweighed the post lock down period. The females’ outnumbered males. Unemployment was more in post lockdown period. There were no statistically differences between the psychiatric disorders between pre and post lock down period.
Conclusions The study has shown the impact of lockdown on the profile of patients.
Prevalence of Common Driver Mutations in Advanced Adenocarcinoma of Lung in a Tertiary Hospital of Nepal
Authors: Shilpakar Ramila , Gurung Jasmine , Paudel Saugat , Chapagain Sandhya , Thapa Pradip , Pandey Shama , Acharya Bibek
Published: December 2024

Background Molecular testing of lung adenocarcinoma has become standard in clinical practice because the studies have shown that the use of targeted therapies increases the overall survival and quality of life in these patients. The primary aim of this study is to see the prevalence of common driver gene mutations (DGM) in advanced adenocarcinoma of lung in Nepalese population.MethodsRetrospective collection of information regarding age, gender, and DGM in advanced lung adenocarcinoma was gathered covering the period from January 2022 to July 2023. Data was analyzed by using SPSS-20 using descriptive statistical tools in terms of frequency and percentage.ResultsAmong 112 patients, 25% had Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) mutation, with exon 19 deletion being more prevalent (17 patients) compared to exon 21 L858R point mutation (nine patients). The occurrence of EGFR mutation was higher in males (14.29%) than in females (10.71%). Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK)translocation was identified in six patients, while only one patient exhibited ROS1 rearrangement. Approximately 3% of patients did not undergo successful DGM tests due to insufficient tissue in the biopsy sample.Conclusions A quarter of patients diagnosed with advanced lung adenocarcinoma carry EGFR mutations. Sufficient tissue sampling is necessary to conduct driver mutation tests effectively.
Measurement of Diameters of Maxillary Sinuses by Computed Tomography among Patients Attending a Teaching Hospital at Pokhara
Authors: Singh Sushma , Baniya Ganga , Thapa Madan , Sharma Bhoj Raj , Sunar Elisha
Published: December 2024

Background Paranasal sinuses are air-filled spaces present within some bones around the nasal cavities. These sinuses are rudimentary, or even absent at birth. They enlarge rapidly during 6 to 7 years of age. The aim of this study was to assess the diameters of maxillary sinuses and correlate the diameters with the patient’s age and sex.MethodsRetrospective study was performed in the Department of Radiology and Imaging, Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara, Nepal during the period of December 2023 to March 2024. Data of 100 patients were collected who underwent CT PNS in which 56 were males and 44 were females. AP diameters, height, width and volume of both right and left maxillary sinuses were measured.ResultsThe mean values of anteroposterior diameter, width, height and volume of right maxillary sinuses in males were 33.35 ± 3.45 mm, 20.41 ± 4.52 mm, 35.59 ± 5.73 mm and 12.57 ± 3.28 cc respectively and in left maxillary sinuses were 34.39 ± 3.53 mm, 21.89 ± 4.17mm, 36.02 ± 5.67mm, 13.76 ± 3.54 cc. Similarly, the mean values of anteroposterior diameter, width, height and volume of right maxillary sinuses in females were 31.46 ± 3.27mm, 18.10 ± 2.25mm, 35.57 ± 4.52mm ,10.74 ± 3.08 cc respectively and in left maxillary sinuses were 31.68 ± 3.29mm, 19.02 ± 3.16 mm, 35.73 ± 5.12 mm and 11.42 ± 3.64 cc.Conclusions There was statistically significant correlation with patient's gender, AP diameter, width and volume in male and female in both right and left maxillary sinuses except the right AP diameter of the maxillary sinuses. There was no statistical significant difference in male and female in height of both maxillary sinuses.
Influence of Soil Properties on Phosphorus Dynamics and Phosphatase Enzyme Activity in Agricultural Soils of Central Nepal
Authors: Khadka Dinesh , Pande Keshab Raj , Tripathi Bhaba Prasad , Bajracharya Roshan Man
Published: December 2024

A soil system consists of physical, chemical, and biological components that interact to regulate nutrient availability, water retention, and ecosystem stability. Soil phosphorus (P) fractions, phosphatase enzyme activity, and P adsorption-desorption characteristics are crucial for sustainable P management and are influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors. However, the characteristics of these parameters in Nepalese soils remain largely unexplored. This study assessed the influence of soil properties on these parameters by analyzing 225 soil samples collected from various locations in central Nepal. Key soil properties, including pH, EC, OM, CaCO3, CEC, exchangeable Al, sand, silt, clay, total N, and available nutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn), were measured, alongside response variables such as P fractions, phosphatase enzyme activity, and P adsorption-desorption characteristics, using standard analytical methods. Statistical analyses, including Pearson’s correlation and redundancy analysis (RDA), were applied. The results showed that soil properties accounted for 58.63%, 53.65%, 56.62%, and 38.37% of the total variation in P fractions, phosphatase enzyme activity, P adsorption, and P desorption characteristics, respectively. Fifteen soil properties significantly influenced P fractions, ranked in decreasing order of impact: OM, Olsen P, pH, CEC, Fe, CaCO3, Cu, clay content, sand content, EC, K, Ca, Zn, Mg, and total N. Twelve properties significantly affected phosphatase enzyme activity, listed in decreasing order as OM, pH, available Ca, CaCO3, B, EC, P, CEC, Zn, K, sand content, and clay content. For P adsorption, twelve properties had significant effects, ranked as follows: Olsen P, sand content, pH, B, CaCO3, Cu, Ca, EC, OM, K, CEC, and clay content. Thirteen properties significantly impacted P desorption, listed in decreasing order as OM, sand content, Olsen P, EC, pH, Cu, Zn, CaCO3, K, B, CEC, Fe, and Ca. These findings highlight the critical role of specific soil properties in regulating P dynamics, providing valuable insights for enhancing P management strategies in diverse agricultural systems.
Evaluation of Soybean [Glycine Max (L.) Merrill] Germplasm at Multi-Environments of Nepal and Their Stability Assessment using AMMI and GGE Biplot Analysis
Authors: Ghimire Netra Hari , Dhakal Krishna Hari , Pandey Madhav Prasad , Joshi Bal Krishna
Published: December 2024

A total of 150 soybean germplasms received from various sources were evaluated in a field study at DoAR, Dasharathpur; Surkhet, GLRP, Rampur, Chitwan, and NARC, Khumaltar, Lalitpur during the consecutive years of 2019 and 2020. The study employed an alfa lattice design with three replications to assess diversity, agronomic performance, and the selection of stable, early maturing, and high yielding genotypes from the inner terai to mid hills of Nepal released variety Puja and Tarkari Bhatmas-1 served as standard check. Major quantitative traits like days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of nodes per plant, number of pods per plants, grain yield, biomass, harvest index and seed weight were recorded. A pooled mean analysis of variance revealed that all recorded traits were found significant difference for genotypic, environmental and genotypic by environmental effect at (p<0.00). The results revealed that the following genotypes: 200525(Rampur) (2074.9 kg/ha), NGRC06833 (2074.3 kg/ha), NGRC06835 (2041 kg/ha) and (TGX1987-62F (1988.3 kg/ha) were the highest yielders and ideal genotypes in GGE biplot analysis genotypes 2003KS-KBxTB1-2.1-3 (103 days), NGRC06826 (105 days), 2003KS-TB1xKB-5.34 (105 days) were noted for their early maturity. GGE biplot revealed sufficient diversity among the genotypes. Genotype NGRC06811 lies near the equality line for Surkhet, indicating superior performance in that environment. Conversely 200525 Rampur and NGRC06835 performed better at Rampur, while Seti, Sathiya excelled at Khumaltar. Notably NGRC08243 and Baglung black were poor performers across all three locations concerning the trait grain yield. Among the genotypes Soy Agd-005, NGRC02679, Tarkari Bhatmas 1, Bringi, Pyuthan Bazar-2016, AGS 371 were identified as the most stable whereas NGRC06811, NGRC02716, NGRC06821, Seti, NGRC06832 exhibited significant instability and were the largest contributor to genotype by environment interaction. This study provides valuable insights that can be utilized for future crop improvement efforts in Nepal by leveraging these germplasms.
Evaluation of chemical insecticides against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) in maize
Authors: Bajracharya Ajaya Shree Ratna , Bhat Binu
Published: December 2024

Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda is an invasive insect pest of maize in plains and hills of Nepal causing serious damage in summer as well as winter maize production. Field experiments were conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) to evaluate five chemical insecticides against S. frugiperda at National Entomology Research Center, Khumaltar, Lalitpur during 2021 and 2022. On the basis of percent plant with live larvae infestation, damage symptoms and damage score, Spinosad 45% SC, Spinetoram 11.7% SC and Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC were found consistently superior among the treatments. Average percent plant infestation with live larvae was recorded 0 to 3.81 percent whereas, percent plant with FAW damage symptoms was recorded 0 to 5.72 percent on Spinosad, Spinetoram and Chlorantraniliprole treated plots. Statistically, cocktail insecticide Chlorpyrifos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC was also found effective in comparison to control and average percent plant with live larvae and damage symptoms were recorded 14.82 to 31.48 percent and 4.74 to 46.29 percent, respectively. Statistically, Azadirachtin 0.15% was also found effective as compared to control, however, percent plant infestation was recorded as high as 91.57 percent. Spinosad, Spinetoram and Chlorantraniliprole can be judiciously utilized for chemical management of fall armyworm in Nepal.
Structural Stability and Electronic Structure of (Ti,Ta)2C MXenes
Authors: Lyles Saniya L. , Vattikuti Sadhana , Kinney Gabriel , Smith Andrew , Gautam Bhoj R. , Adhikari Chandra M.
Published: December 2024

Graphene-like two-dimensional early transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides with a metal-to-nonmetal atomic ratio of (n+1)/n called MXenes have many excellent electronic, optical, and electrochemical properties, such as metallicity, high electrical conductivity, larger charge density, high capacitance, efficient lithium, sodium, and potassium ions intercalability, etc. First-principles Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations are performed to study the structural relationship of (Ti, Ta)2C MXenes to their electronic structure, magnetism, and optical properties. Calculations show carbide MXenes with a single transition metal, namely, titanium carbide (Ti2C) and tantalum carbide (Ta2C), and an ordered carbide MXene with double transition metals, namely, titanium tantalum carbide (TiTaC) are non-magnetic and metallic. The density of states at the Fermi level for each of (Ti, Ta)2C MXenes is dominated by the outermost d-orbitals of transition metal and the 2p orbital of carbon. The dielectric response function is a photon energy-dependent anisotropic quantity. In the static limit, the imaginary parts of the dielectric functions vanish for each of the (Ti, Ta)2C MXenes. However, the real part of the static dielectric constant is as high as two orders of magnitude for tantalum-containing MXenes and almost half of that for titanium-containing single transition metal carbide MXene.
Preparation of Activated Carbon Based on Buddleja Paniculata as a Low-Cost Electrode Material for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Koju Sunil , Lawaju Umesh , Khadka Omkar , Rai Ram Chandra , Nakarmi Mim Lal , Joshi Prakash
Published: December 2024

In this study, carbon was prepared by carbonization of ZnCl2 activated wood of Buddleja Paniculata at 700 °C and the activated carbon was used in the preparation of the electrodes of supercapacitors. Physical properties of the activated carbon were analyzed by using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). These analyses revealed a high carbon concentration (96.7 %) and a dominant amorphous carbon in the sample. The calculated Brunaeur-Emmet-Teller (BET) surface area of activated carbon was 1326 m2 g−1 with a high volume of microporous structures. The electrochemical properties of the prepared supercapacitor electrodes using activated carbon were analyzed by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) tests in a three-electrode system. They exhibited excellent electrochemical double layer capacitance (EDLC) behavior and a specific capacitance of 117.58 Fg−1 at 1 Ag−1 . The above investigation indicates that the activated carbon of Buddleja Paniculata can be a low-cost supercapacitor electrode material.
Seasonal Tropopause Dynamics Over Nepal from 2022 to 2023: Insights from GNSS-RO Observations
Authors: Paudel Madhu Sudan , Ghimire Basu Dev , Chapagain Narayan Prasad
Published: December 2024

Global Navigation and Satellite System-Radio Occultation (GNSS-RO) is the robust method for monitoring the Earth’s atmosphere utilizing the refracted GNSS radio signal. Constellation Observation System for Meteorology, Ionosphere and Climate-2 (COSMIC-2) is one of the GNSS-RO satellite missions providing the bunch of information, which enables us to explore the characteristics of Earth’s atmosphere. It can provide the vertical profile of the atmospheric thermodynamic variable globally with better resolution. The GNSS-RO data features the long-term stability, continuous in all types of weather condition along with very high precision and accuracy. In this pilot project, we are going to study the tropopause dynamics within the periphery of the Nepal, from longitude: 79◦ E to 89◦ E and latitude: 26◦ N to 31◦ N, using the data from COSMIC-2 mission from April 01, 2022 to March 30, 2023, by dividing into four seasons; March-April-May (MAM), June-July-August (JJA), September-October-November (SON) and December-January-February (DJF). For data extraction, we use the netCDF4and Pandas and for the visualization and statistical analysis, we use the Matplotlib, Basemap, Scipy, Scikit-learn, libraries of the Python. The tropopuse height (TRH) and tropopause temperature (TRT) is studied from vertical profile of the temperature using World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and Cold Point (CP) method. The TRH is found maximum in JJA and minimum in MAM in WMO method. In CP method, TRH is obtained maximum in MAM and minimum in SON. The WMO method is best to explain the variation of the TRH along the latitude. However, the CP method is more accurate to the reference data from COSMIC2 compare to the WMO method.
Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture in Nepal and Strategies for Farmer Adaptation and Economic Resilience
Authors: Shrestha Prabin , KC Anup , Karki Dil Kumari , Shrestha Nishesh , Bharati Aakriti , Giri Suja
Published: December 2024

This document investigates the impacts of climate change on agriculture in Nepal, a country identified as highly vulnerable to climate-related losses. The study used desktop review to gather relevant literature and thematically present the obtained data. It highlights the crucial challenges farmers face, including decreasing crop yields, declining livestock health, and threats to food security due to rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events such as floods and droughts. The study utilizes data from climate risk assessments, including the "Global Climate Risk Index 2021" and recent findings on glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), to underscore the urgency of adaptation strategies for agricultural resilience. The document emphasizes that even marginal changes in temperature and precipitation can significantly affect agricultural productivity, supported by analyses of historical data and regional studies on temperature trends. It shows the need for adaptation strategies that consider unique regional vulnerabilities and the socio-economic conditions of farmers in Nepal.
Impact Evaluation of Ayurveda Outreach Clinic for the Management of Non- Communicable Diseases Program in Nepal
Authors: Bhusal Nirmal , Sapkota Suprich , Upadhyay Vasudev , Thakur Siddhartha , Panthi Sarad
Published: December 2024

Department of Ayurveda and Alternative Medicine (DOAA), one of the departments of the Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP), manages Ayurveda and alternative medicine services and promotes health through Ayurveda health institutions across the country. The department also carries out planning, programming, coordination, supervision, monitoring of Ayurveda service programs. Ayurveda Outreach clinic for the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is a major program which focuses on the preventive aspect of health care and aims to develop and promotes a healthy lifestyle in people and tries to prevent and manage NCDs. This program is being delivered from Ayurveda hospitals, Ayurveda health centres and outreach clinics (ORC). The key activities are to provide the Ayurveda health services to the unreached population. General health check-up and medicine distribution were the main activities of the ORC. The ORC mainly served elderly women and poor people. High blood pressure, gastritis, asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis and constipation were the chief health complaints of the people. The activities of the program are relevant to bring notable changes in the community as people who visit the ORC site are being informed about the health and Ayurveda and are also receiving the quality services. Provision of Snehana and Swedena in some places has increased the utilization of the health services and the activities of the program have been performed effectively to bring the desired result to prevent and manage the NCDs.
Unlearning Love: Defying Colonial Knowledge in Bell Hooks's All About Love: New Visions
Authors: Giri Pradip Raj
Published: December 2024

This paper is a critical reading of bell hooks's All About Love: New Visions. It explores the concept of Love, which she defines in various aspects of people’s life, going beyond the established idea or definition of love. She also challenges conventional ideas of Love and the ways people practice it, giving or taking it. The traditional understanding of Love reinforces norms that restrict how people feel, express, or define Love. This research investigates the colonial roots that influence contemporary definitions of Love and specifically examines how colonial ideologies have shaped relationships, gender roles, and social expectations. Employing a qualitative approach, this study draws on theoretical frameworks, including Maldonado-Torres' concept of ‘On the Coloniality of Being,’ Tuck and Yang's notion of “Decolonization is Not a Metaphor,” and Aurora Levins Morales' concept of "the Historian as Curandera" to analyze colonial knowledge embedded within modern interpretations of Love. Hence, the research shows that redefining the concept of Love actively confronts colonial ideologies by promoting a decolonized and restorative view of Love, which encourages more inclusive and genuine relationships. In conclusion, this study suggests that unlearning colonial interpretations of Love pave the way for more inclusive and holistic approaches to Love and societal norms.