Revisiting the APUPA Pattern: Analysing the Publication Fall Index in DNA Fingerprints Research

Abstract

This research revisits the APUPA pattern, focusing on the DNA Fingerprints domain, and introduces the "Publication Fall Index" (PFI) as a quantitative indicator to identify subjects on the boundary between core and allied domains. Analysing publications from 1985 to 2014, core subjects such as Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology, and Medicine consistently emerge. The study utilises Ranganathan's concepts and methodologies, including the APUPA arrangement, to define the hierarchical relationship between subjects. Through analytical formalism, the research introduces the concept of Relative Facet Strength (RFS) and its modification into PFI to address the impact of different article numbers. Findings reveal shifts in core subjects and the emergence of allied subjects over time. Notably, Agricultural and Biological Sciences, Immunology, Microbiology, and Environmental Science demonstrate significant PFI values, indicating their roles as core subjects. The study contributes to understanding knowledge organisation within DNA Fingerprints research, highlighting the dynamic relationship between core and allied subjects. This research underscores the utility of the APUPA pattern and PFI in delineating subject boundaries, aiding researchers in identifying core areas of study within interdisciplinary fields like DNA Fingerprints.