bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a model for solving the functional task «Formation of surgical operations schedule» in a medical institution
Authors: Tsvirkun Oleksandr A.
Published: November 2024

The object of the research is the process of forming the schedule of surgical operations of the Sytenko Institute of Spine and Joint Pathology National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine. Modern research in the field of modeling work on the formation of the work schedule of medical institutions and surgical departments is focused on the development of models for the formation of schedules for the requirements of specific institutions. The use of these models to automate the formation of the schedule in other medical institutions is impossible without theoretical and applied modification of existing solutions taking into account the requirements and features of a particular institution. Therefore, conducting research to solve this problem is relevant from a theoretical and applied point of view.
It was proposed to use a complex of mathematical models of target programming as the basis of the schedule formation model, which made it possible to form a schedule under conditions of limited resources. The main features of the Sytenko Institute of Spine and Joint Pathology National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine as an object of automation. Based on these features, a modification of the proposed models was developed, which allows automating the process of forming a schedule that would have minimal deviations from the submitted applications for operations. Based on the results of the modification of the schedule formation model, the choice of the method of solving the problem was justified and it was proposed to adapt the modification of the method of branches and boundaries to solve the problem of forming the schedule of surgical operations, it is proposed to adapt this modification to the specifics of the specified problem.
The peculiarities of implementation of algorithmic, informational and software tools of the developed functional task are considered. Experimental verification of the obtained scientific results was carried out. For such verification, real data of applications for operations at the Sytenko Institute of Spine and Joint Pathology National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine The obtained results of the experimental test allow to make a decision about the possibility of applying the results of solving the functional problem in the industrial operation of the medical institution.
Продуктивность агроценозов на основе козлятника восточного в метеорологических условиях Верхневолжья
Authors: Вагунин Д. , Иванова Н.
Published: November 2024

В 2015-2022 гг. изучена продуктивность бобово-злаковых луговых агроценозов с включением новых сортов козлятника восточного на мелиорированных землях различной степени оглеенности на агрополигоне Тверской области. Объектом исследований являлись 3 сорта козлятника восточного (Galéga orientális Lam.) – Гале, Юбиляр и Кривич в одновидовых и смешанных посевах со злаковыми травами (кострец безостый сорта Вегур, двукисточник тростниковый сорта Урал, тимофеевка луговая сорта ВИК 9). Продуктивность травостоев находилась в пределах 3,3-11,7 т/га сухой массы. Наиболее урожайными отмечены избыточно влажные и теплые 2016 г. и 2017 г. и слабозасушливый 2018 г. --- средний выход сухой массы составил 7,7-8,0 т/га. Наименьшая средняя продуктивность наблюдалась в 2019 г. – 4,9 т/га сухой массы. Большую урожайность имел козлятник восточный сорта Юбиляр одновидового посева: выход сухой массы – 4-12 т/га, меньшую --- трехкомпонентная злаковая травосмесь: 4-9 т/га. По сравнению с 2015 г. наибольшая прибавка урожайности наблюдалась в 2017 г. – до 172% (7,4 т/га) сухой массы. Уровень грунтовых вод был наибольшим в начале вегетационного периода, в среднем 0,5-1,0 м, постепенно снижаясь к концу вегетации до 1,0-1,3 м. Показатель влагообеспеченности посевов находился на оптимальном уровне для роста и развития трав и составлял в среднем за годы исследований 56,6-71,0% от ППВ.
Формирование высокопродуктивных посадок топинамбура за счет применения некорневых подкормок в технологии возделывания
Authors: Усанова З. , Смирнова И. , Павлов М.
Published: November 2024

Представлены результаты двухфакторного полевого опыта по формированию высокопродуктивных посадок топинамбура, проведенного в 2021-2023 гг. на дерново-среднеподзолистой легкосуглинистой почве на опытном поле Тверской области. Фактор А – комплексное удобрение для некорневой подкормки: А1 --- контроль, вода 300 л/га; А2 – Акварин 3, 0,8 кг/га; А3 – Акварин 5, 1,3 кг/га; А4 --- Фолирус Премиум, 5 л/га; А5 --- Гумат +7, 2 кг/га. Расход рабочей жидкости – 300 л/га. Фактор В – способ применения: В1 – 1 некорневая подкормка при высоте растений 10-15 см; В2 – 2 некорневые подкормки при высоте 10-15 и 40-50 см. Все некорневые подкормки улучшают фотосинтетическую деятельность растений и повышают урожайность. Более высокие прибавки урожая от опрыскивания вегетирующих растений при 1 подкормке обеспечила обработка Акварином 5 и Фолирус Премиум соответственно: по ботве --- 41,4 и 35,0 %, по клубням --- 41,6 и 47,1 %, по общему сбору биомассы --- 41,5 и 41,9 %. При двукратной подкормке преимущество имел вариант с Гуматом +7: прибавки урожая по ботве – 40,8 %, по клубням – 56,8 %, по сумме урожаев – 50 %. В этом варианте получен максимальный урожай в опыте: 51,4 т/га ботвы, 77,0 т/га клубней и 128,4 т/га сырой биомассы.
Изменчивость содержания соединений кремния у овсяницы тростниковой по фазам вегетации
Authors: Малюженец Е. , Малюженец Н.
Published: November 2024

Важной особенностью овсяницы тростниковой, ограничивающей ее широкое внедрение в кормопроизводство, является грубость и жесткость растений из-за чрезмерного накопления соединений кремния. Анализ изменчивости 23 селекционных образцов и межвидовых гибридов овсяницы тростниковой с овсяницей луговой по содержанию соединений кремния (1987-2015 гг.) показал пути их использования в селекции на мягколистность. Овсяница тростниковая способна аккумулировать в золе значительное количество диоксида кремния (более 20,0 %). Доля кремния в листьях составляет 73,2%, в стеблях – 18,9 %, в соцветиях – 7,9 % от его содержания в сухом веществе (СВ). Показано, что содержание соединений кремния в СВ снижается по фазам вегетации с 1,6% в фазу кущения до 1,3% в фазу выметывания и до 1,2% в фазу цветения, далее отмечен значительный рост в отаве до 2,6%. Обратная картина наблюдается по содержанию диоксида кремния в золе. По мере накопления СВ в растительной массе идет падение содержания золы с 10 % в фазу кущения до 7,4 % в фазу выметывания и 5,7 % в фазу цветения, а содержание соединений кремния растет с 15,0 % в фазе кущения до 17,1 % в фазе выметывания и до 20,1 % в фазе цветения, особенно в отаве – 25,5%. Рассмотрена роль кремнистых трихом в поддержании терморегуляции гомеостаза хлоропластов, а также их влияние на животных при пастбищном стравливании.
Влияние культурального фильтрата штаммов возбудителя антракноза льна (Colletotrichum lini Manns et Bolley) на длину первичных корешков проростков семян льна
Authors: Зотова В. , Пролётова Н.
Published: November 2024

Лён-долгунец – однолетнее сельскохозяйственное растение из семейства льняных, продукцию которого (волокно, семена) человек широко использует для своих целей. Создание сортов льна, устойчивых к антракнозу, является перспективным направлением исследований. Использование биотехнологических приёмов в помощь классической селекции позволяет создавать новые генотипы с изменёнными признаками, в том числе устойчивые к болезням. Исследования проводили в 2021-2024 гг. в условиях in vitro. Изучали влияние культурального фильтрата (КФ) штаммов возбудителя антракноза льна (Colletotrichum lini Manns et Bolley) на длину первичных корешков проростков семян льна. Определяли концентрацию КФ штаммов гриба-возбудителя антракноза и устанавливали его влияние на развитие корешков проростков льна. Выявлено, что понижение температуры воздуха до +14º C при высокой его влажности способствовало нивелированию токсического действия КФ на прорастание семян. При оптимальных для роста гриба-возбудителя антракноза условиях (t воздуха + 24º C, влажность – более 80 %) токсичность КФ возрастала, и при используемых концентрациях снижалось прорастание семян и значительно уменьшалась длина первичных корешков у пророщенных семян. На 8-е сутки проращивания токсическое действие КФ проявлялось во всех селективных вариантах при всех использованных концентрациях (40, 44, 48 и 52 мл/л). В большей степени чувствительными ко всем используемым в эксперименте концентрациям КФ при оптимальных для роста гриба-возбудителя антракноза условиях оказались селекционные линии 0-12901-6-3-2 и 0-12901-1-2-1.
Pendampingan Radiografer dalam Quality Control Pengujian Kolimator di Instalasi Radiologi RS Bhayangkara Semarang
Authors: Rosidah Siti , Jamil Masfufatun , Suraningsih Nanik
Published: November 2024

One of the quality assurance programs is collimator testing on X-ray aircraft. According to KMK no. 1250 of 2009 Collimator testing on Sinr-X aircraft is carried out once a month. The Bhayangkara Hospital Radiology Installation already has a quality assurance program for radiography equipment, however collimator testing on aircraft is not carried out routinely, most recently in August 2020 when the X-ray aircraft was installed and when licensing was to be carried out. The service team wants to provide conformity testing services related to collimator testing and provide motivation to partners to routinely carry out equipment quality control programs through socialization and assistance in conformity testing of X-ray aircraft collimators in accordance with KMK No. 1250 concerning quality control. The research results show that a quality control program for X-ray aircraft already exists but has not been carried out routinely, the results of collimator field area testing experienced deviations that were still within the normal limit below the standard, namely less than 2%. To ensure that the X-ray aircraft is in good condition and to ensure that the radiation dose to the patient does not occur again, a quality control program should be carried out periodically.
Pemetaan Potensi Desa Tugu Utara sebagai Desa Wisata
Authors: Surtaryo Surtaryo , Artiani Gita Puspa , Rodji Achmad Pahrul , Wahyono Herry
Published: November 2024

The mapping of Tugu Utara Village’s potential as a tourism destination aims to identify and optimize the village’s assets for sustainable tourism development. Tugu Utara was chosen due to its abundant natural resources, including Telaga Saat and its water springs, and the need to address challenges in waste and sanitation management. The methodology includes field surveys, interviews with local leaders, and data analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The mapping results reveal significant tourism potential with supporting facilities such as glamping and food courts. However, improvements in waste and sanitation management are essential to ensure environmental sustainability. This mapping provides a crucial foundation for further development, indicating that Tugu Utara Village can become a prime tourism destination with proper planning and effective environmental management.
Pendampingan Pembuatan Bisnis Model Canvas sebagai Upaya Perintisan Agrobisnis dan Agroeduwisata Anggrek
Authors: Juartini Tini , Butar Florida Butar , Assidiq Muhammad Nurhasan , Hadiwijaya Syarif , Adlani Maulud , Hakim Muhammad Lukman , Wibisono Mohammad Rico , Kurniawan Muhammad Danu , Refta Laddy Nafissa
Published: November 2024

Pasar Rebo District, East Jakarta City has an area of 12.98 , which is 6.90% of the area of East Jakarta City area of 188.03 , with 5 sub-districts, 53 RW and 525 RT and 221,158 people. The Million Orchid Village Program is the main icon of Pasar Rebo to promote its potential to the public. Program still faces several challenges in developing agribusiness and agro-tourism in realizing this program. For example, the orchid cultivation program is still in the pilot stage and funding has not yet been prepared properly, there is no proper business plan and there is limited land to build agribusiness and agro-tourism locations. The aim of this community service activity is to assist sub-district employees in creating business strategies using the canvas business model and SWOT method. The goal is to establish a village of a million orchids that relies on agribusiness and agro-tourism. The activity ended with a Focus Group Discussion, with recommendations for business strategy concepts.
Mitigating Omitted Variable Bias in Exploratory Differential Item Functioning Assessment: A Propensity Score Adjustment Approach
Authors: Chao Hsiu-Yi , Chen Jyun-Hong , Chen Chi-Chen
Published: November 2024

Omitted variable bias (OVB) in differential item functioning (DIF) assessment can lead to biased estimates of DIF effects, increasing type I error rates and reducing statistical power. Methodologies for addressing OVB, particularly under exploratory conditions where DIF is assessed without prior information, remain underdeveloped. This study addresses these challenges by applying the propensity score (PS) method to enhance the parsimony of the DIF model. Furthermore, this study incorporated the DIF-free-then-DIF (DFTD) strategy into the PS method, establishing the PS.DFTD method for exploratory DIF assessment. The simulation results reveal that the PS.DFTD method appears promising for mitigating OVB in DIF assessment, demonstrating its potential for practical applications.
Exploring Shape Variance in Waterbirds' Pad Feet: A Geometric Morphometric Analysis
Authors: Özkan Ermiş , Mücaviroğlu Ecenur , Nicoleta Manuta , Günay Ebuderda
Published: November 2024

Waterbirds usually have webbed feet, which help them move easily through water. These pad feet fall into four main categories: palmate, semipalmate, totipalmate, and lobate. In this study, morphological diversity among the pad feet of different waterbird breeds such as the West Indian whistling duck (Anas bahamensis), mandarin duck (Aix galericulata), red-breasted goose (Branta ruficollis), wood duck (Aix sponsa), mute swan (Cygnus olor), greylag goose (Anser anser), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Pekin duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus), redhead duck (Aythya americana), Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca), and pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) was examined by the geometric morphometric method. 2D images of 12 waterbirds' pad feet from different parts of Türkiye were analyzed from a dorsal view. In total thirteen landmarks were used. The analysis focused on principal component 1 and principal component 2 values. Principal component 1 shows slightly greater changes occurring on the lateral toes II and IV, as well as in the interdigital webbing below the average. Principal component 2 also reveals greater shape changes on the toes II and IV, which are more lateral. Geometric morphometric analysis proves valuable in identifying variations in the shape of the pad feet among various breeds of waterbirds, making it an effective tool for taxonomic purposes.
Equitable Collaboration between LMIC and HIC Researchers, Part I: A Preliminary Framework for Capacity Building in Psychiatric Genetics Research
Authors: Cabrera-Mendoza Brenda , Burmeister Margit , Rietschel Marcella , Crepaz-Keay David , Balhara Yatan Pal Singh , Seedat Soraya , Marshe Victoria , Hemmings Sian , Peterson Roseann Elizabeth , Kaushik Ruchika , Viswanath Biju , Sud Reeteka , Haldar Partha , Johnstone Mandy , Cherian Anish V. , Lencz Todd , Zinkstok Janneke , Polimanti Renato , Mueller Daniel J. , Lázaro-Muñoz Gabriel , Liu Chunyu , Nurnberger John I , Nicolini Humberto , Walss-Bass Consuelo , Santoro Marcos , the Ethics Position , the Inclusion Diversity , Satapathy Sujata , Behera Chittaranjan , Docherty Anna
Published: November 2024

International collaborations between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have become increasingly essential in advancing global health, particularly within psychiatric research. These partnerships not only accelerate scientific discovery and enhance public health, but they also bring to light significant challenges in equity and fairness. Specifically, research partnerships often suffer from imbalances, such as "helicopter" research approaches or the exploitation and marginalization of LMIC researchers. Here, we present a consensus report by members of the International Society for Psychiatric Genetics, outlining key considerations and strategies for planning, implementing, and disseminating equitable collaborative research. Throughout the collaboration process, we identified both challenges and opportunities and provided recommendations to maximize the benefits of these partnerships. Among our considerations, we emphasize that Equitable Collaboration must begin with comprehensive stakeholder engagement, fostering a participatory environment that includes local communities, governments, and institutions from both HICs and LMICs. Inclusive planning and research design are essential, with a focus on cultural sensitivity and contextual relevance. Training initiatives are recommended to empower local stakeholders to actively engage in the research process. As research progresses, sustained collaboration between HIC and LMIC researchers can facilitate knowledge exchange and equitable benefit distribution. Ideally, these outcomes translate into local health policy improvements, promoting sustainable development and empowerment in LMICs. Among the potential challenges we identify are differences in ethical research and data-sharing frameworks across countries, inequalities in research resources and infrastructure, and reduced visibility of research conducted in LMICs. These factors can significantly impact research outcomes and their applicability. In conclusion, while global collaboration in psychiatric genetics presents complex challenges, it also offers substantial opportunities for impactful research and improved global mental health. We can foster more equitable health outcomes worldwide by committing to thoughtful planning, effective communication, ethical practices, and supportive policies.
Resource availability and experiences of partner violence shape facial masculinity preferences in Colombian women
Authors: Vásquez-Amézquita Milena , Chacón Andres Castellanos , Medina-Sarmiento Wendy , Cepeda Valentina , Martínez-González Marina Begoña , Leongómez Juan David
Published: November 2024

Women’s preferences for facial masculinity in men are influenced by individual and socio-contextual factors that allow them to balance costs-benefits in pursuit of their well-being. This study examined how Colombian women's preferences for masculinized male faces are influenced by relationship context and resource availability, as well as their individual experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV). Using a forced-choice paradigm with eye-tracking, we assessed visual attention and face-choice in 293 cisgender heterosexual Colombian women recruited through social media adverts. Participants were assigned to either a high or low resource availability condition and selected preferred partners for short- and long-term relationships. We also collected self-reported experiences of IPV. Results revealed a strong preference for masculine faces in both relationship contexts, with higher preference in long-term scenarios and under low resource availability. However, higher frequencies of physical IPV predicted a lower preference for masculinity, particularly in long-term and high-resource contexts. These findings suggest that while Colombian women generally favor masculine traits, socio-contextual factors, such as resource availability and experiences of IPV, significantly modulate these preferences. The study highlights the complex interplay between individual, evolutionary, and socio-ecological factors in shaping mate preferences, suggesting that masculinity is valued depending on relationship goals, resource conditions, and individual experiences like IPV
Unintended Code Errors and Computational Reproducibility
Authors: Ottone Nicholas , Peer Limor
Published: November 2024

Transparent and reproducible science requires that data and code underlying published results be made available to allow regeneration and verification of the results. But how easy is it to reproduce computational analyses using these materials? This technical report describes efforts to computationally reproduce results at one established repository as part of a routine internal pre-publication review. We conduct a structured content analysis of twenty-six “author reports'' generated through a standard review process and categorize identified issues. We find that four in five studies include code errors that prevent execution or produce inconsistent results. Although these errors are generally minor, we interpret our findings to indicate that review and correction can help resolve many of the errors and facilitate computational reproducibility.
Micro-CT Characterization of the Chang’e 5 Lunar Regolith Samples
Authors: Wu Huanyu , Zou Yuan , Zhang Chi , Yang Wei , Wu Bo , Yung Kai-Leung , Zhao Qi
Published: November 2024

Chang’e-5 (CE-5) lunar regolith samples were scanned using X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and over 0.7 million particles were extracted from the images through machine learning-based segmentation. This is the largest three-dimensional (3D) image dataset on lunar regolith particles to date, offering a unique opportunity to study the key characteristics of lunar regolith. The image intensity was correlated with mineral density, allowing for the assessment of the bulk density (1.58 g/cm3), true density (3.17 g/cm3), and mineralogy of the lunar regolith. Glass and plagioclase contributed 45.6 wt.% of the samples, while pyroxene and olivine made up 49.7 wt.%, and ilmenite accounted for 4.7 wt.%. The median grain size of CE-5 was 57.5 μm, smaller than the Apollo 11, 16 and Luna 16, 20 and 24 samples. Spherical harmonic (SH) analysis and axial ratio (AR) measurement revealed that the CE-5 lunar regolith particles have more complex shapes than two common terrestrial soils and exhibit less spherical shapes than Apollo 11, 16 and Luna 16, 20 and 24 samples. We recommend using size and shape characteristics cautiously when inferring lunar regolith maturity because the intrinsic crystal size of the protolith and complex lunar surface weathering can cause significant size and shape variations. Additionally, characterizing particle shapes requires a large sample size (>1000) to avoid skewed results from outliers. Our non-destructive examination method offers a novel and appealing approach for analyzing critical physical, mineralogical, and morphological properties of million-scale extraterrestrial soil particles, paving the way for future deep space explorations.
Unwarranted Trust and Unwarranted Punishment: Scientistic Beliefs Predict Support for Penalizing Science Skeptics
Authors: Lukić Petar
Published: November 2024

Contemporary society demands laypeople to articulate their attitudes towards science. Whilst distrust in science undeniably has detrimental outcomes, we argue that its opposite, uncritical trust in science and scientists (i.e. scientism) also leads to potential unwarranted societal polarization. In Study 1 we observed that people who endorsed scientistic beliefs supported discriminatory policies against people who ignore scientific knowledge or promote anti-scientific views, ranging from restrictions on their media appearance to imprisonment and denial of healthcare. Study 2 replicated the effect and tested its potential mechanism: the tendency to moralize rationality mediated the relationship between scientism and support for penalizing measures. Our findings demonstrate that unwarranted beliefs, even if positive in their moderate version, are associated with increased support for unwarranted measures against dissenters.
A Logical Case for Omitting Oxford Comma in English
Authors: Krishna Gopal
Published: November 2024

This paper presents novel arguments for omitting the Oxford comma (serial comma) in English writing. Through analysis of mathematical symmetry, logical distinction between noun and adjective lists, and a systematic solution for ambiguous cases, we demonstrate that omitting the Oxford comma leads to both enhanced visual aesthetics and maintained clarity. We propose a comprehensive system that resolves traditional ambiguity concerns while preserving visual elegance in written English.
Human vs. Machine: Comparing AI-generated and Human-written Psychological Reports
Authors: Lockwood Adam
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the ability of ChatGPT-4, an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, to generate psychological reports using mock data. Two hundred forty-nine licensed psychologists in the United States, rated the quality of AI-generated and human-generated psychological reports across six dimensions: overall quality, readability, writing style, organizational structure, summary quality, and recommendation quality. The study used a counterbalanced design with eight conditions, presenting human or AI-generated reports for ADHD, intellectual disability, depression, and anxiety. Participants then provided ratings of quality through an online survey. Human-generated reports were preferred for their writing style (p = 0.026), organization (p = 0.042), and overall quality (p = 0.036), while the recommendations in AI-generated reports were favored (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found in readability. Participants were more likely to prefer and approve human-generated reports for clinical use (p = 0.042), though the majority expressed discomfort with both types. While AI shows promise in augmenting psychological report writing, particularly in generating recommendations, human expertise remains crucial, especially in summarizing information. These findings highlight the need for professional guidelines on AI use in psychological practice and updated educational curricula to prepare future psychologists for an evolving technological landscape in mental health care.
mlmpower: An R Package for Conducting Power Analysis and Data Simulation with Multilevel Models
Authors: Keller Brian T
Published: November 2024

Power analysis is a critical step in designing studies involving multilevel models, yet existing approaches can be complex and limited in flexibility. This paper introduces mlmpower, an R package designed to simplify Monte Carlo power analysis for multilevel models. The package accommodates various model specifications, including cross-level interactions, random slopes, and within-cluster and between-cluster predictors. Unlike other methods, which often require a pilot study or extensive prior data, mlmpower uses intuitive effect size metrics to simulate data and estimate power with confidence intervals. Inspired by ggplot2, the package's syntax allows for modular model building, making it accessible even to researchers with minimal simulation experience. Additionally, mlmpower supports including missing data mechanisms, offering more realistic power estimates for longitudinal and cross-sectional studies.
External and Internalised Heterosexism, Meaning in Life, and Psychological Distress: A Conceptual Replication Study in a Sample of UK Lesbians
Authors: Frost Ellen , Pownall Madeleine , O'Connor Daryl Brian
Published: November 2024

Minority stress theory poses that distal and proximal stressors cause sexual minority groups to experience excess stress, which can lead to poor mental health outcomes. Szymanski and Mikorski (2016) found that proximal internalised heterosexism mediated the relationship between distal heterosexist discrimination and psychological distress in a sample of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people. Meaning in life also moderated some of these pathways. Whilst this mediating relationship is established, research in this area typically examines all sexual minority people together. It is important, however, to explore the unique experiences of lesbian women independent of other sexual minority groups. Therefore, the present study aimed to conceptually replicate Szymanski and Mikorski’s (2016) findings in a sample of lesbian women. We examined the mediating role of internalised heterosexism in the heterosexist discrimination and psychological distress relationship in 363 UK lesbians. The moderating role of meaning in life, both search for and presence of, were also investigated. This was a cross-sectional self-report study with data collected from May 2024 to August 2024. In line with the original research, a moderated mediation analysis showed that internalised heterosexism significantly mediated the heterosexist discrimination and psychological distress link. However, no moderating role of search for meaning, nor presence of meaning was found, which did not replicate the results of the original study. This difference could be due to specific sample characteristics. Therefore, these results highlight the need for sexual minority women to be centralised in research in order to produce interventions tailored to specific sexual minority groups.
A Truly Decentralized Consensus Protocol that Eliminates Tendency towards Centralization
Authors: Wimal Kesara
Published: November 2024

The consensus protocol is a crucial element of blockchain technology that guarantees all participants agree on the same data values and follow the same direction, even in the presence of defective components. This research project has identified a problem that affects both users of blockchain technologies and investors in cryptocurrencies. The question of whether current blockchain platforms are truly decentralized has been raised by the blockchain community over the years. The most popular blockchains use Proof of Work (PoW), Proof of Stake (PoS), or a combination of both, but both systems have limitations in terms of decentralization. Several alternative consensus protocols have emerged recently, but none have achieved total decentralization or welcomed any level user to be the next miner or forger.Therefore, true decentralization of a blockchain system is more challenging as most of the popular consensus protocols were invented to accommodate decentralization but eventually, driven by the centralization of power. This research study proposes a truly decentralized consensus protocol that is capable to avoid the centralization of power even in the future regardless of the number of network participants. The protocol also makes sure it avoids the use of specialized hardware resources, decreases the level of energy consumption, and encourages network activities. Additionally, the new consensus protocol offers a more democratic and fair approach to blockchain consensus.Furthermore, the implemented solution underwent comprehensive testing to ascertain its level of decentralization. Considering the lack of a suitable metric for evaluating the practical extent of decentralization achieved by a blockchain system, this study adopted a set of requirements delineated in a prior investigation. Based on this assessment, it was determined that the solution has successfully attained genuine decentralization. Moreover, the test results demonstrate that the solution has achieved enhancement in terms of security and performance, thereby ensuring its effectiveness in circumventing the need for specialized hardware and reducing energy consumption.
A Sociological Analysis of Nepalese Banking: Historical Perspective
Authors: Gartaula Milan Raj
Published: November 2024

In the context of Nepal, banking is basically understood to provide loan and accept deposit centering on interest. So, banking and interest are two inseparable parts. This article aims to view banking and interest from a sociological perspective. There are many sociological explanations about banking practices but they have not been adequately documented and analyzed, especially in the context of Nepal. This is the statement of the problem. Even those documents that do exist provide only provide indirect explanations on the matter. Is interest system solely economic or do there exist other non-economic factors as well? This is the research question here. This article aims to find out how sociological aspects like gender, religion, caste and special age group influence banking and interest. And finally this article finds out that interest system is uniquely tied to the aforementioned sociological aspects.
Analysis of Biosorption of Zn (II) ions onto Chemically Modified Saw Dust By using Various Parameters
Authors: Shrestha Bindra , Rijal Sangita , Poudel Sumita , Dawadi Sonika , Humagain Surendra
Published: November 2024

This study explored biosorption study of Zn (II) onto raw saw dust (RSD) and modified saw dust (MSD) prepared by using saw dust. The adsorption capacity was determined at equilibrium with the help of batch adsorption technique using different parameters like pH of solution, contact time of adsorbent, initial concentration of metal ions and biosorbent dose. Spectrophotometric analysis of resultant sample shows that the loading capacity of adsorbent increases as the pH value increases attaining maximum adsorption at pH 6. The zinc adsorption on both raw and modified adsorbent was found to follow pseudo second order kinetics. The contact time at equilibrium for the adsorption was found to be at 60 and 120 mins respectively. Maximum percentage removal of Zn (II) was found to be 54.23% for RSD which increases up to 66.6 % for MSD maximum at 0.15g of adsorbent in 20 ml metal solution. The results indicate that the chemically modified saw dust can be a low cost alternative to commercial adsorbents for the Zn (II) removal from its aqueous solution.
Socio-cultural Aspects of Federal Structure in Nepal
Authors: Yadav Shiva Kumar
Published: November 2024

The decade long maoist insurgency and the joint effort of the existing seven political parties' alliance like Nepali Congress, CPN UML and others overthrew the monarchy transforming the country into republic state deciding to adopt federal system of governance. The sole motto of federal notion as said is the equitable justice, accommodation of diversities and wholesome development regarding the economic, socio-cultural, political and international prospects. Before unification of Nepal, It was divided into a numerous principalities and kingdoms, with its own system of governance following the social and cultural autonomy, the own mode of production. The political front formed then after slowly and consistently came under centralized form of administration, annihilation of the local systems slowly. The local systems, usages, local identity, local aspirations, social and cultural diversity were encroached and suppressed in systematic manner. The state unites physically but the rational cultural, social unification left behind by the contemporary ruler and governance that invites for the socio-cultural federalization.
नेपालका मातृभाषाहरूको प्रयोगावस्था
Authors: Neupane Mahendra
Published: November 2024

प्रस्तुत लेख नेपालमा बोलिने मातृभाषाको वितरण, परिवर्तन र लोपोन्मुखताको स्थितिसँग सम्बन्धित छ । नेपालमा भएका पछिल्ला तीन दशकका राष्ट्रिय जनगणनाले प्रस्तुत गरेका तथ्यमा आधारित रही नेपालका मातृभाषाहरूको वितरणको अवस्था, परिवर्तनको प्रवृत्ति र लोपोन्मुखताको अवस्था पत्ता लगाउनु यस लेखको मुख्य उद्देश्य हो । भाषाका लोपोन्मुखताको कारण र जीवन्तताका लागि अपनाउनुपर्ने नीति पनि यस लेखमा सङ्केत गरिएको छ । गुणात्मक ढाँचामा आधारित वर्णनात्मक र विश्लेषणात्मक विधिमा आरित भई यो लेख तयार पारिएको छ । लेख तयार पार्ने व्रmममा नेपालका राष्ट्रिय जनगणनाबाट प्रस्तुत तथ्य, मातृभाषा तथा भाषाका बारेमा लेखिएका विभिन्न पुस्तक, जर्नल आर्टिकल लगायतलाई उपयोग गरिएको छ । जनगणनाबाट प्रस्तुत तथ्यलाई विश्लेषणका व्रmममा चित्रात्मक, तुलनात्मक र विश्लेषणात्मक पद्धतिलाई उपयोगमा ल्याइएको छ । बहुभाषिक राष्ट्र नेपालका प्रदेश, जिल्ला र अधिकांश स्थानीय निकायहरू बहुभाषिक रहेका, केही सीमित भाषाबाहेक धेरै भाषाका प्रयोक्ताका सङ्ख्या र कुल जनसङ्ख्याको प्रतिशत घट्दै गई पुस्तान्तरण हुन नसक्दा लोपोन्मुखतातर्फ उन्मुख अवस्था पहिचान गरिएको छ । शिक्षाको अवसर, रोजगारी लगायतका कारणबाट विविध मातृभाषी वक्ताहरू आफ्नो भाषाको प्रयोगलाई छाडेर अन्य प्रभावशाली भाषातर्फ अग्रसर भएका कारण नेपालका धेरै भाषाहरू पुस्तान्तरण हुन नसकी लोपोन्मुखतातर्फ अगाडि बढेका छन् । बहुभाषिक राज्य नेपालका भाषाको संरक्षणका माध्यमबाट सम्बद्ध भाषिक प्रयोक्ताका संस्कृति, सभ्यता र पहिचान संरक्षण गर्न राज्यको बहुभाषिकता र भाषाको वितरणलाई समस्याका रूपमा नलिई प्रभावकारी भाषानीति र योजनाका माध्यमबाट लोपोन्मुख बनेका भाषालाई संरक्षण गर्नु आवश्यक देखिन्छ ।
Socio-Demographic Determinants of Junk Food Consumption among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study in Central Department of Education, TU
Authors: Pokhrel Mahesh , Upreti Yadu R. , Aryal Bhagwan
Published: November 2024

College life is a critical period during which students are particularly vulnerable to developing unhealthy dietary behaviors. This study assessed the socio-demographic determinants of junk food consumption (JFC) among higher education students. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered survey questionnaire among 272 university students studying at the Central Department of Education, TU. The findings revealed that although only six percent of students preferred to consume junk food, a surprisingly high proportion (83.5%) reported consuming it. Peer pressure was mentioned by nearly half of them (47.8%) as the main cause of JFC. Bivariate analysis showed a significant relationship between JFC and selected socio-demographic variables, including sex (p<0.05), subject specialization (p<0.001), and caste/ethnicity (p<0.05). The results indicate a high prevalence of JFC among university students, with socio-demographic factors such as sex, subject specialization, and caste/ethnicity being significantly associated with JFC. To lower the frequency of JFC among university students, the study emphasizes the urgent need for university-based health promotion and education initiatives.
An Observational Study on Implication of Postoperative Visceral Edema, Assessed by CT Scan, on Complications Following Bowel Resection and Anastomosis, in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Goel Richa , Gaidole Rachana , Bandgar Amol , Saha Arup , Banerjee J K
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Surgeries involving bowel resection and anastomosis are quite common. Fluid overload, leading to tissue edema and impaired tissue perfusion, may contribute to anastomotic leak, which is one of the most dreaded complication.
Methods:  In our current study, CT scan, done on postoperative day-4, was used to assess visceral edema, and its effect on development of complications post bowel anastomosis and increase in value of cross section of body trunk area ≥20% was taken as an independent risk factor of severe complication.
Results: Twenty three patients were enrolled in the study, 7 of them developed complications. The most common complication observed was wound infection (Clavein Dindo grade II). Only 2 patients (28.57%) had an increase in CT area >20%. Among patients who developed complications, 33.3% had an increase in CT area and 28.6% did not. Various other factors – preoperative albumin level, timing of surgery, duration of surgery – also lead to development of complications. Statistically, no significant association could be derived between the increase in CT area and development of complications.
Conclusion: As per the findings of the current study, higher fluid balance was not reflected by an increase in body surface area on CT Scan. Hence, use of CT scan as a tool to assess visceral edema needs further evaluation.
Presentation and outcome of Gastric Cancer at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Rawal Sushil Bahadur , Katila Shreesuna , Adhikari Samyog , Laudari Uttam , Khadka Shrekshya , Rayamajhi Jyoti , Malla Srijan
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer globally and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Early-stage disease can be managed with endoscopic therapy or surgery, while advanced gastric cancer requires a multimodal treatment approach, including extensive lymphadenectomy. This study aims to evaluate the clinicodemographic profile and treatment outcomes of gastric cancer patients and to establish an effective therapeutic strategy.
Methods: This retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Surgery at Shree Birendra Hospital. It included patients with gastric malignancies who had complete medical records. Data on patient history, AJCC staging, operative details, and postoperative findings were analyzed. Surgical choices were based on the clinical indication in each case. Clinicopathological characteristics and surgical outcomes were compared across tumor stages. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.
Results: The study included 90 patients (62 males, 28 females) aged between 23 and 82 years. The most common clinical presentations were abdominal pain (58%), gastric outlet obstruction (18%), lump (5%), anemia (5%), and peritonitis (4%). Adenocarcinoma was the predominant histological type (87.78%). Curative surgery was performed on 73 patients (81.11%), while 17 patients (18.89%) underwent palliative procedures. Morbidity occurred in 16 patients (17.7%), primarily due to chest complications and sepsis, and mortality was recorded in 5 patients (5.5%).
Conclusion: This study highlights the predominance of locally advanced gastric cancer in males, with distal gastric cancer and well-differentiated adenocarcinoma being the most common. Chest complications and sepsis were the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. No patients received perioperative chemotherapy, underscoring the need for updated treatment protocols to improve outcomes.
A Rare Case of Anomalous Insertion of Common Bile Duct and Pancreatic Duct Leading to Acute Pancreatitis in a Child
Authors: Nair Smita , Batra Sonakshi , Nair Bindu T
Published: November 2024

The incidence of Acute Pancreatitis is rising among the pediatric population. The most common causes in children are cholelithiasis and choledochal cyst. Anomalies of biliary tract and pancreatic duct are other rare causes of the same. However these anomalies are suspected and detected after repeated episodes of pancreatitis and later in life. We report a case of a 4 year old female child who presented with acute Pancreatitis due to cholelithiasis resulting from a rare anomalous insertion of Common Bile Duct and Pancreatic Duct.
Research Proposal Development in ELT: Tools for Planning, Structuring and Writings
Authors: Pandey Gopal Prasad
Published: November 2024

The primary objective of this study is to explore the tools and processes involved in developing a research proposal for English Language Teaching (ELT), focusing on effective planning, structuring, and writing practices. A theoretical framework underpinned by constructivist learning theory and sociocultural theory guides the design of the study. The research employs a qualitative approach, synthesizing existing literature and expert guidelines to develop a comprehensive framework for research proposal development. Key stages such as selecting a topic, conducting a literature review, formulating research questions, and outlining methodological strategies are critically analyzed. The study suggests that clear research objectives, grounded in theoretical principles, significantly enhance the coherence and impact of research proposals. Furthermore, the alignment of personal interests with current trends in ELT increases the likelihood of sustained researcher engagement. In addition, the paper presents that a systematic approach to proposal development, incorporating clear objectives and methodological rigor, improves the overall quality and relevance of ELT research. The paper suggest that the incorporation of mentorship and peer feedback in the proposal development process and the necessity for researchers to remain flexible in their methodological choices, adapting them to the research context. This study contributes to the field by providing a structured guideline that can be utilized by novice researchers in ELT.
Lived Experiences of Parents of Children Having Type-I Diabetes Aged 6 to 12 Years
Authors: Sapkota Sabitra
Published: November 2024

Type I diabetes is chronic illness which change the life styles of parents, children as well as the entire family. Parents faced many challenges such as care, management (insulin administration, diabetic diet, blood glucose monitoring) and treatment cost. Objective of the study is to explore lived experience of parents of children having type I diabetes. A qualitative phenomenological study design was adopted, and total eleven parents (8 mothers and 3 fathers) were selected as participants by using non probability purposive sampling procedure. Data was gathered by using in-depth interview. The huge information was reduced to smaller statements by grouping similar responses to get actual meaning which were coded, categorized and organized to sub themes and   themes. Findings revealed that parents had experienced so many ups and downs emotional feelings during the journey of treatment. They experienced nature of type I diabetes like treatment need for the whole of life, hardship during diagnosis process, facing the diabetes complications, financial crisis and need for treatment in emergency situation. The study also revealed that parents felt permanent impact from their  child’s previous health condition and disruption of family unit but they were hopeful about their children’s future consequences. They struggled for supporting and caring their children’s lives at all times in the best possible ways. They learnt to live with children having Type-I diabetes. Parents suggested to launch awareness programs to educate school teachers, staffs and health worker for early diagnosis.