Research Institute Research Articles

Comprehensive bibliometric analysis of pharmacotherapy for bipolar disorders: Present trends and future directions

BACKGROUND Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe mental illness characterized by significant mood swings. Effective drug treatment modalities are crucial for managing BD. AIM To analyze the current status and future trends of global research on BD drug treatment over the last decade. METHODS The Web of Science Core Collection database spanning from 2015 to 2024 was utilized to retrieve literature related to BD drug treatment. A total of 2624 articles were extracted. Data visualization and analysis were conducted using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Pajek, Scimago Graphica, and R-studio bibliometrix to identify research hotspots, key contributors, and future trends. RESULTS The United States, China, and the United Kingdom have made the most significant contributions to research on BD drug treatment and formed notable research collaboration networks. The University of Pittsburgh, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the University of Michigan have been identified as the major research institutions in this field. The Journal of Affective Disorders is the most influential journal. A keyword analysis revealed research hotspots related to clinical symptoms, drug efficacy, and genetic mechanisms. A citation analysis identified the management guidelines published by Yatham et al in 2018 as the most cited paper. CONCLUSION This study provides a detailed overview of the field of BD drug treatment, highlighting key contributors, research hotspots, and future directions. The study findings can be employed as a reference for future research and policymaking, which may enable further development and optimization of BD pharmacotherapy.

Gender-based violence in academia: making the concept of zero tolerance matter to institutional change

ABSTRACT This paper aims to scrutinise the zero-tolerance approach in relation to gender-based violence in higher education and research in the EU. Employing conceptual analysis and the EmilyTest analytical tool, we assess the comprehensiveness and appropriateness of existing national-level zero-tolerance policies in tackling gender-based violence within the framework of the institutional change approach to advancing gender equality. We aim to contribute to the ongoing discourse on designing impactful strategies to combat gender-based violence in higher education and research institutions. This examination sheds light on the applicability and efficacy of the zero-tolerance approach, offering insights for policymakers and educational practitioners seeking to influence and enhance gender-sensitive practices in academia.

Life cycle assessment research and application in Nigeria

Abstract Purpose Life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology is becoming increasingly popular in developing countries, however, challenges such as lack of local data, spatial and temporal differentiation of impact categories, and uncertainty in the data and impact assessment methods remain. In this comprehensive review, we systematically conduct a literature review of LCA research in Nigeria, including a thorough assessment of the LCA studies according to ISO 14040 and 14044 standards. Methods A total of 30 peered reviewed and conference papers on LCA papers Nigeria as the study area of authors affiliated to institutions in the country were assessed. The assessment focused on functional unit, system boundary, data quality, allocation, impact assessment methods, database and LCA software used and interpretation methods. Results and discussion The results of the review showed that LCA is still in its infancy in Nigeria with 30 papers on the subject matter published between 2010–2023. These peer reviewed publications came from universities and research institutions, none from companies or government. In terms of the methodological choices, different functional units, system boundaries, impact assessment methods, allocation, data choices, databases and software were used. The Ecoinvent database is one of the most widely used for background data for potential environmental impacts while SimaPro and GaBi are the softwares of choice for most of the studies. Climate Change was the most assessed impact category at the midpoint level for life cycle impact assessment (LCIA). To ensure that uncertainties in LCA results are reduced, studies should ensure transparency in inventories, consider all the life cycle stages, use primary data and adapt local characterisation factors. Local impacts such as gas flaring, biodiversity, oil spills, soil erosion, and desertification should be the focus of LCA method developers in Nigeria as they are the prevailing environmental challenges affecting different parts of the country. Conclusions and recommendations Different methodological choices are used by researchers, they highlight a challenge that was noticeable in all the papers – a general lack of primary data. The studies are not equally distributed amongst the sectors of the economy. Most of them are concentrated in the agriculture, energy and transportation sectors. Based on our findings, the authors recommend the development of an LCI database for Nigeria and Nigeria-specific impact pathways, normalisation and weighting factors to enhance the reproducibility of the results. This study lays the foundation for the development of an integrated master plan for the development of LCA in Nigeria, with the potential to significantly contribute to improving environmental assessment and sustainable development.

Comparative Effects of Neem-coated Urea, Agrotain Urea and Nano Nitrogen on Nutrient Uptake of Paddy Crop

Aims: To evaluate the impact of innovative nitrogen management strategies, including neem-coated urea (NCU), nano fertilizers, and Agrotain urea, on nutrient use efficiency (NUE), NPK uptake, and rice productivity in the Southern Telangana Zone. Study Design: Randomized block design with 3 replications, including traditional and innovative nitrogen formulations combined with foliar-applied nano nitrogen sprays. Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, during the Kharif season of 2021&2022. Methodology: The experiment was conducted on the JGL 24423 rice variety. Treatments included varying nitrogen rates (100%, 50%, and 33% recommended dose of nitrogen [RDN]) applied as NCU (Neem Coated Urea), Agrotain UG (urea granules), or combinations with nano nitrogen sprays. Nitrogen was applied in three splits (transplanting, tillering, and panicle initiation). Nutrient uptake (NPK) was analyzed using standard laboratory methods, and statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA to assess treatment effects. Results: The 100% RDN-STCR (Soil Test Crop Response)-based NCU treatment demonstrated the highest mean nitrogen uptake (66.8 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 53.7 kg ha⁻¹ in straw), phosphorus uptake (18.7 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 9.5 kg ha⁻¹ in straw), and potassium uptake (37.7 kg ha⁻¹ in grain, 120.9 kg ha⁻¹ in straw). Reduced nitrogen treatments with nano nitrogen sprays showed moderate nutrient uptake.The control and nano nitrogen sprays alone had the lowest uptake levels. Conclusion: Nitrogen management strategies, particularly 100% RDN-STCR-based NCU, significantly enhanced NUE, nutrient uptake, and rice productivity, demonstrating their potential for sustainable rice cultivation.

Iron deficiency anemia: A global public health concern

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) remains a significant global public health concern, affecting populations across both developing and developed nations. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in 2019, approximately 1.62 billion people were affected by anemia, with iron deficiency being the most common cause. This condition disproportionately impacts vulnerable groups, including women, children, and populations in low- and middle-income countries. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a substantial prevalence of IDA, particularly among certain demographic groups, including pregnant women and young children (CDC, 2020). The impact of IDA is particularly evident in regions like India, where the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) highlights concerning trends and the need for targeted interventions to address iron deficiency, particularly among women and children. Studies suggest that improved iron status in populations is essential for reducing the prevalence of IDA and its associated complications, such as cognitive impairment, fatigue, and weakened immune function. Recent advances in diagnostics, including point-of-care testing, have improved the identification and management of anemia in primary healthcare settings. Addressing IDA involves comprehensive strategies such as iron supplementation, dietary improvements, and public health initiatives like the Weekly Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation Program in India. The global efforts to combat nutritional anemia underscore the importance of multifaceted approaches to prevention and control. Ultimately, tackling IDA in India will require a multi-sectoral approach, with collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, research institutions, and local communities to ensure the widespread success of interventions in reducing iron deficiency and improving overall health outcomes.

Methods to Determine the Similarity and Distance between Researchers from Classification Algorithms

In the current era, the scientific and technological production of universities and research institutions is a key factor in advancing knowledge and development. Therefore, having tools to efficiently manage, analyze, and visualize this production becomes essential. However, at the Technical University of Cotopaxi, despite having the Ecuciencia platform to compile this information, there was no efficient method to represent and visualize the similarities and distances between researchers based on their publications and research lines. The main objective of this research is to establish methods based on classification algorithms such as K-means, Spectral Clustering, and Agglomerative Clustering, to determine the similarity and distance between researchers at the university, based on the analysis of their scientific production registered in Ecuciencia, this will allow generating similarity matrices to identify communities of researchers with shared characteristics according to the number of shared publications. This graphical representation will facilitate the analysis of institutional scientific productivity, the detection of patterns, and strategic decision-making regarding research policies. The results obtained will thus strengthen the knowledge management capabilities at the Technical University of Cotopaxi.

Transcatheter Fenestration Closure after Fontan Surgery

Background: Although several studies have examined patients who have undergone transcatheter fenestration closure, comprehensive evaluations of its long-term outcomes remain scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical status of these patients after a long-term follow-up period. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study evaluated the records of all children with congenital heart diseases admitted for transcatheter fenestration closure at Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center, a tertiary care hospital specializing in congenital heart diseases in Tehran, Iran. We included patients with a history of fenestration following Fontan surgery who required fenestration closure between January 2012 and August 2020. Cardiac function data, such as ejection fraction (EF), pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), and O2 saturation, were extracted from electronic medical records. Results: We assessed 26 patients (11 female and 15 male) with a mean age of 13.88±3.73 years. Comparing EF before and after fenestration closure revealed a significant difference (P=0.011), with only 2 patients (7.7%) experiencing a slight reduction (5.0%) in EF. No significant difference was observed in PAP before and after closure (P=0.068), although most patients (n=16, 61.5%) had a postprocedural reduction. Our results demonstrated a significant difference before and after the procedure (P<0.001), with all patients exhibiting increased O2 saturation after closure. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated improvements in cardiovascular function and desirable organ function among patients. These findings suggest that transcatheter fenestration closure could serve as a beneficial complementary approach for patients with patent fenestration.

A true experimental study to assess the effectiveness of juice in relieving constipation among older adults in a selected hospital, Kolar

: Chronic constipation becomes more common as people age, in both genders, although it becomes most common beyond age 60. is commonly used as a potent laxative and as a substance to enhance gastrointestinal motility. can be used as a natural remedy for constipation at affordable prices among old age people.Study aimed to assess the effectiveness of aloeAloe vera juice to relieve constipation among older adults.For the present study, a randomized control trial pretest-posttest design was adopted. Subjects consist of 60 (30 Experimental and 30 Control) older adults from R.L. Jalappa Hospital and Research Centre. The pretest was conducted using the Constipation Assessment Scale (CAS) through the Block Randomization sampling technique in both groups. A freshly prepared juice of 100 milligrams per day was given for 20 days. Posttest was conducted in both experimental and control group after 10, and 20 day. The data gathered were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistical method using frequency, percentage, SD, Independent t test, paired t test and RMANOVA with Posthoc test. The dataset comprised 60 elderly patients. In total, the Majority of respondents 70% and 73.3% reported moderate level constipation in the experimental group & and control group during pretest. Constipation scores of no problem during posttest-I was 93.3% & 96% in experimental group during 10 and 20 day. Whereas in control group remains unchanged with moderate and severe constipation scores. Independent “t”test and RMANOVA found to be significant in experimental group. Constipation remains a clinical problem among elderly. There is a significant relationship between effectiveness of juice in relieving constipation among old age people.Furthermore study emphasize that, home remedy based laxatives which are affordable, available aloevera juice are effective to relive constipation among elderly. , Constipation, Old Age

FooDS: Ontology-based Knowledge Graphs for Forest Observatories

Wildlife research activities generate data on ecosystems and species interactions from varied independent projects. Forest Observatories are online platforms that curate, integrate, and analyze wildlife research data for forest monitoring. However, integrating data from disparate sources can be challenging due to data heterogeneity. This study, in collaboration with a research facility in the forest of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, proposes a novel approach to integrate heterogeneous wildlife data for Forest Observatories. We used the Forest Observatory Ontology (FOO) to standardize wildlife data entities generated by sensors. Four semantically modeled wildlife datasets populated FOO, resulting in an ontology-based knowledge graph named FooDS (Forest Observatory Ontology Data Store). We evaluated FOO and FooDS using specialized open-source ontology scanners, domain experts’ feedback, and applied use cases. This study contributes FooDS, the first ontology-based knowledge graph for Forest Observatories, which provides accurate query responses, reasoning about data, and granular data acquisition from diverse datasets. FOO in turtle format, FOO’s documentation and FooDS in turtle format and their resource website are published at https://w3id.org/def/foo , https://w3id.org/def/fooDocs , https://w3id.org/def/fooDS , and https://ontology.forest-observatory.org .

Meeting report ASOBIOTICS 2024: an interdisciplinary symposium on antisense-based programmable RNA antibiotics

The international symposium ASOBIOTICS 2024 brought together scientists across disciplines to discuss the challenges of advancing antibacterial antisense oligomers (ASOs) from basic research to clinical application. Hosted by the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI) in Wurzburg, Germany, on September 12-13th, 2024, the event featured presentations covering major milestones and current challenges of this antimicrobial technology and its applications against pathogens, commensals, and bacterial viruses. General design principles and modification of ASOs based on peptide nucleic acid (PNA) or phosphorodiamidate-morpholino-oligomer (PMO) chemistry, promising cellular RNA targets, new delivery technologies, as well as putative resistance mechanisms were discussed. A panel discussion noted the challenge of nomenclature: antibacterial ASOs lack a single, universally used name. To address this, the term “asobiotics” was proposed to unite a community of like-minded scientists that are committed to advancing ASOs as antimicrobials. A consistent name will simplify literature searches and help scientists and funders appreciate the potential of programmable RNA antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance and enable precise microbiome editing.

A prospective study on clinico-radiological factors predicting difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy in our institute

To assess clinical and radiological factors that predict difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a complex surgical procedure involving anatomical variations, adhesions, and gall bladder contracting. Preoperative assessment is crucial for identifying risks and improving post-operative outcomes. The study identifies clinico-radiological factors predicting difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy, improving preoperative planning, reducing conversion rates, and optimizing surgical preparedness and patient counseling for safer, more efficient practices. A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, Integral Institute of Medical Sciences and Research in Lucknow, involving 90 patients selected for Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and those with ultrasonographic ally proven cholelithiasis, excluding those with significant co-morbid illnesses or not fit for pneumoperitoneum creation. The study utilized IBM SPSS Stats 25.0 software for data analysis, presenting continuous data as mean±standard deviation and categorical/qualitative data as numbers and percentages. Total 90 patients aged 15-70, with a majority female (77.8%), and a mean BMI of 18.5-30.0 kg/m2, with 48 patients under 25 kg/m2. A pre-operative scoring system for difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy was developed using demographic, clinical, laboratory, and USG findings. The system ranged from 0-5 to 11-15 difficult surgeries, with a mean predictive score of 0-7. Most surgeries were predicted as easy, followed by difficult (18.9%) and very difficult (5.6%). Factors like age, BMI, hospitalization history, comorbidities, and abdominal scars were associated with ease of surgery. The study assessed 90 patients aged 15-70 for difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures using a difficulty predicting scoring system, identifying factors like age, sex, hospitalization history, and BMI.

Short-term impact of low air pressure on plants’ functional traits

Lower atmospheric pressure affects biologically relevant physical parameters such as gas partial pressure and concentration, leading to increased water vapor diffusivity and greater soil water content loss through evapotranspiration. This might impact plant photosynthetic activity, resource allocation, water relations, and growth. However, the direct impact of low air pressure on plant physiology is largely unknown. This study examined the effects of low air pressure, alone and combined with two water inputs, on different functional traits of three plant species transplanted from montane grasslands at 1,500 m a.s.l. during the first four weeks of their early phenological stage: Trifolium pratense, Hieracium pilosella, and Brachypodium rupestre. Using the terraXcube Ecotron facility which can simulate different climatic conditions, we isolated the effect of air pressure from those of other, related environmental factors (temperature, humidity, and solar radiation) by simulating three different elevations with corresponding air pressures: 1,500 m a.s.l. (85 kPa, control scenario), 2,500 m a.s.l. (75 kPa), and 4,000 m a.s.l. (62 kPa) and we used two different water regimes to observe the combined effect of low air pressure and the impact of varying water inputs on plants. In T. pratense and H. pilosella, we observed an increase in stomatal conductance but a reduction in aboveground biomass at the lowest pressure compared to the control scenario after four weeks of incubation. Contrastingly, B. rupestre showed an interactive effect of air pressure and water treatment on chlorophyll and biomass nitrogen content, which were reduced under higher soil water conditions at 85kPa. This study serves as an initial step in isolating the specific impact of air pressure on plant physiology, demonstrating the potential of the facility for future research. The mixed response patterns across species highlight that atmospheric pressure could be a driving factor to consider when assessing plant responses along elevational gradient.

The experience of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at Sultan Moulay Slimane University in the field of knowledge integration: An analysis of the knowledge integration projects of the Center for Knowledge and Civilization Studies and the Maqasid and Dialogue Research Laboratory.

Sultan Moulay Slimane University in Beni Mellal, Morocco, is one of the leading academic institutions in implementing new pedagogical guidelines and visions aimed at achieving epistemic integration between the sciences of revelation, natural sciences, and humanities. The Faculty of Arts and Humanities has worked to embed this methodology through its academic supervision and foundational training programs offered to students at various levels, whether basic, advanced, or in-depth. Additionally, the faculty supports this approach through the activities of its research laboratories and centers, which organize national and international seminars and conferences. At the forefront of these efforts are the Maqasid and Dialogue Studies and Research Laboratory and the Center for Knowledge and Civilization Studies, both of which have prioritized the integration of sciences and knowledge as an essential component of their academic research and activities. Their aim is to build bridges between different disciplines, achieving a comprehensive and inclusive perspective, grounded in the belief that humanity's crises are multidimensional and that solutions must adopt diverse and integrated scientific and methodological approaches, whether religious, humanistic, or natural. This research paper seeks to evaluate this pioneering experience through a descriptive and analytical methodology to highlight the methodological and scientific advantages of the university's laboratories and centers. It also aims to showcase their scientific potential and tireless efforts in achieving epistemic integration between Shari’ah sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. The paper further examines the key educational strategies adopted to transcend the traditional system and provide innovative alternatives in teaching methodologies, contributing to intellectual productivity, scientific advancement, and civilizational contribution. This is rooted in the belief that academic institutions and research laboratories are the driving forces for the desired reform. Keywords: epistemic integration, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Maqasid Laboratory, Center for Knowledge and Civilization Studies.

Influence of ecologically relevant urea fertilizer concentrations on nematodes: A microcosm experiment

Aim of study: Urea remains one of the most widely used chemical fertilisers in the world and is used extensively in the Philippines as a major source of nitrogen for crops. However, we have a very limited understanding of its impact on soil fauna such as nematodes. In this study, we demonstrated the suitability of the microcosm set-up to assess chemical effects on nematode communities under controlled conditions and determined the effects of urea on nematode communities. Area of study: The soil samples were obtained from a relatively “less disturbed” field in Bukidnon, Central Mindanao and were taken for experimentation in a greenhouse at Premier Research Institute of Science and Mathematics (PRISM), Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Iligan City, Philippines. Material and Methods: The soil was collected and analysed for its physiological properties. The soil was then exposed to urea concentrations (0 mg/kg, 19.67 mg/kg, 39.33 mg/kg and 78.66 mg/kg) in a microcosm for 45 days. Nematodes were then collected and processed using a modified dish method. Main results: Firstly, the natural microcosms (without urea) showed that nematode abundance and the number of genera decreased by 28% and 35%, respectively. The results suggest that the current microcosm setup may still be useful in testing the effects of certain chemicals of interest. Secondly, no significant effects on the number of genera and diversity indices were observed with urea, except on the day 15 when nematode abundance was significantly higher at 39.33 mg/kg than at 19.67 mg/kg. Research highlights: This study shows that the above ecologically relevant urea concentrations had no negative impact on nematode community structure during the 45-day exposure.

Development and Applications of Bambusa stenostachya Leaf Extract in Personal Care Products

Concerns about the safety of traditional preservatives in personal care products are driving interest toward self-preserving alternatives. This study explores the potential of B. stenostachya leaf extracts, a natural and biodegradable material, for use in cosmetics. B. stenostachya, a fast-growing bamboo species native to Taiwan, is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids with antimicrobial properties. Leaves were obtained from the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Tainan, Taiwan, and extracted using ultrasonic and Soxhlet methods with water, 50% ethanol, and 95% ethanol. The highest yield was achieved with 50% ethanol at 100 °C. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line, with no toxicity observed at dilutions between 1/3200 and 1/400, indicating the extract’s safety for cosmetic use. Antimicrobial activity was tested in accordance with ISO 11930:2019 standards. The extract effectively inhibited Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus pathogens, meeting preservative efficacy Standards A and B for long-term microbial control. Bamboo is a sustainable resource with lower environmental impacts, and its products show promising biodegradability and reduced environmental footprints. This research indicates that the B. stenostachya leaf extract offers a sustainable alternative to chemical preservatives, promoting both environmental sustainability and public health, with the potential for expanded use in natural personal care formulations.

SUBSIDIARY INSTITUTIONS OF AN ECONOMIC NATURE IN ALGERIA: FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY BECHAR UNIVERSITY IS A MODEL

Objectives: The study aims to explore the legal dimension of the concept of subsidiary institutions with an economic nature and the extent to which this is implemented within Algerian higher education and scientific research institutions. It also examines their ability to transform intellectual output into marketable products. Theoretical Framework: A study on how to establish subsidiary institutions with an economic nature in general and the extent of its impact on the University of Béchar in particular. Methods: The descriptive-analytical approach was utilized to study subsidiary institutions with an economic nature in general, and the case study method was employed to examine their affiliated subsidiaries in particular. Results and Discussion: The research results indicate that the concept of subsidiary institutions with an economic nature aligns with the economic reforms experienced by Algerian institutions, particularly higher education and scientific research institutions. The legal form of these subsidiaries has been identified as either a limited liability company, a joint-stock company, or a simple partnership. This classification aims to provide a new impetus for subsidiary institutions and encourage innovation among creators. Research Implication: - The need to enrich the concept of subsidiary institutions with an economic nature through a set of legislative and regulatory texts to provide greater clarity. - The necessity for the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to offer administrative and financial facilitation to generalize the concept of subsidiary institutions across all its affiliated institutions. - Encouraging most professors and researchers at the University of Béchar to contribute to the establishment of subsidiary institutions to enhance and advance their role both locally and nationally. Originality/Value: Despite the precedence of the legal framework for the concept of subsidiary institutions with an economic nature, their application is relatively recent, emerging only in the last few decades.

A System Control and Waveform Acquisition Framework for the Kicker System at SHINE

A lumped kicker magnet system is being developed as part of the electron beam switchyard of the Shanghai High Repetition Rate X-Ray Free-Electron Laser (XFEL) and Extreme Light (SHINE) facility at Shanghai Advanced Research Institute (SARI), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). SHINE is a linac-based facility with an energy of 8 GeV and a repetition rate of 1 MHz for multiple users. The kicker system is a critical element of the deflection system and determines the stability performance of the beamlines. To ensure autonomous and reliable operation in a harsh environment, a dedicated control system—consisting of a custom-designed programmable logic controller (PLC) and waveform acquisition system—has been developed based on the Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System (EPICS). The PLCsystem enables status acquisition, control implantations, and alarm handling, allowing for automated operation. The waveform acquisition system provides an intuitive demonstration and enables the real-time diagnosis of kicker waveforms. The results demonstrate a half quasi-sinuous waveform with a peak current of 11.5 A and a full width at half maximum of 218 ns at a repetition rate of 10 kHz. The detailed design, overall concept, achieved performance, and initial test results of two modular controls are provided for further demonstration.

Seed Dormancy and Germination Potential of Coastal Rice Landraces in Bangladesh: Implications for Climate-Resilient Cultivation

The coastal regions of Bangladesh host a rich diversity of Aman rice landraces, which are crucial for local agriculture but are highly vulnerable to natural disasters like cyclones and floods. Specifically, local landraces often experience flooding during grain filling and maturation stages, and sprouts in the field lead to a severe loss of yield. Seed dormancy, which delays germination, is a key trait for escaping sprouting in the field during harvesting. However, there is lack of information on genetic variability in the existing rice landraces grown in the coastal area of Bangladesh. This study evaluated the seed dormancy of 28 local Aman rice landraces, plus four varieties from the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture and Bangladesh Rice Research Institute. Germination tests were conducted under controlled conditions, and an electrical conductivity (EC) test was used to assess seed vigor. The results showed that Bari Mota, Tulsimala, Chinigura, Dishari, and Birindi exhibited the highest dormancy rates, i.e., 100%, 100%, 99%, 99%, and 99%, respectively, while BINA Dhan 10, Nona Bokra, and BINA Dhan 8 had the lowest dormancy rates, with values of 11%, 16%, and 24%, respectively. Priming treatments enhanced germination rates in some varieties; however, others, such as Bari Mota and Tulsimala, remained dormant, underscoring the variability in seed dormancy levels. Compared to non-priming, a significant improvement of germination was recorded in BRRI dhan 41 (85.3% vs. 9%), Motha mota (84% vs. 8%), Lal chikon (74.6% vs. 1%), Sadamota (74.6% vs. 5%), and Bashful (53.3% vs. 3%). Altogether, our results suggest that local landraces are diverse in seed dormancy, and genotypes with high dormancy, such as Bari Mota and Tulsimala, can potentially be grown in the disaster-prone coastal areas. In contrast, these genotypes can be used for future breeding programs. Therefore, this study carries significant implications for rice cultivation in the coastal areas of Bangladesh.

Current applications and research trends of ultrasound examination in acute kidney injury assessment: a bibliometric analysis.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant clinical condition, and ultrasound examination has emerged as a crucial non-invasive imaging method for assessing kidney status, especially in its diagnosis and management. This study aims to perform a bibliometric analysis to clarify current research trends in ultrasound assessment of AKI. We conducted a literature search in the Web of Science database using keywords related to ultrasound examinations of acute kidney injury, up to November 15, 2023. The results were analyzed using the bibliometric software package in R. Relevant literature information was analyzed. A total of 1109 articles were included in the study. Research papers published between 2019 and 2024 demonstrated a significant upward trend. The United States, China, and Italy ranked as the top three countries in terms of publication volume. Among the top 10 research institutions with the highest number of publications, 6 are in the United States, with Université de Montréal being the institution with the most publications. Keyword trends focused on: resistive index, risk factors, therapy, glomerular filtration rate, survival, etc. CONCLUSION: This bibliometric study highlights the advancements in ultrasound examination for AKI and underscores the importance of such analyses in determining research trends. Future research should emphasize the integration of various imaging techniques to improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical management of AKI.

OLFACTORY INTERVENTIONS FOR SLEEP ENHANCEMENT: A REVIEW

Sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional balance, and overall well-being. Disruptions like insomnia or poor sleep quality can have negative consequences. Various methods, including bedtime perfumes, have been studied to improve sleep. This review examines the scientific basis of scent-based sleep enhancement, focusing on the olfactory system and the effects of specific aromatic compounds on sleep. The olfactory system plays a crucial role in how scents influence sleep. Odor molecules bind to receptors in the nasal cavity, sending signals to the olfactory bulb, which processes these signals and relays them to the limbic system. This connection allows scents to evoke emotional responses and impact sleep. Historically, scent therapy has been used across cultures. The effectiveness of bedtime perfumes depends on their delivery methods. Diffusers, sprays and roll-on oils are common ways to disperse essential oils. Incorporating these perfumes into comprehensive sleep hygiene routine, including a consistent sleep schedule and a calming environment, maximizes their benefits. Future research should identify specific scent compounds that induce sleep, explore the interaction between olfactory stimuli and sleep stages and investigate the long-term safety and efficacy of bedtime perfumes. In conclusion, bedtime perfumes can improve sleep quality through the power of scent. Understanding olfactory pathways, calming scents and the historical context of scent therapy helps individuals make informed choices about using these fragrances. Peer Review History: Received 2 October 2024; Reviewed 11 November; Accepted 20 December; Available online 15 January 2025 Academic Editor: Dr. Gehan Fawzy Abdel Raoof Kandeel, Pharmacognosy Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, 12622, Giza, Egypt, gehankandeel9@yahoo.com Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.5/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10