bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency of pregnancy induced hypertension and its association with elevated serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels during mid trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Habib Saman , Haq Aqsa Ikram ul , Bashir Shama , Sadiq Nadia , Majeed Noreen , Waheed Nabeela
Published: July 2023

Objective: To determine the frequency of PIH amongst elevated beta-hCG levels and non-elevated beta-hCG in the mid-trimester of pregnancy.
Materials and Methods: It was Descriptive case series conducted for six months (02-12-2019 to 02-06-2020) in OPD of Gynae Unit-II, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi. A total of one hundred and twenty-two (n=122) normotensive pregnant females at 13-20 weeks gestational age and 18-35 years of maternal age were selected in this study after informed consent from every patient. The frequency of PIH in patients with elevated serum beta-hCG was measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Effect modifiers were controlled by stratification. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Mean beta-hCG levels in the total study population were found to be 7305.09±3900.64 IU/mL. Median b-hCG levels in our study population were noted as 6936.15 IU/mL. Pregnancy-induced hypertension was found positive in 16 (13.1%) patients. Raised beta-hCG levels were present in 10 (8.2%) patients. The frequency of PIH in raised beta-HCG levels was found in 7/10 (70%) of patients. We found a statistically significant (p-value ≤ 0.05) difference in the frequency of PIH among patients with elevated and not-elevated beta-hCG levels.
Conclusion: It is evident from my study that patients with raised levels of serum β-hCG during mid-trimester pregnancy are at increased risk to develop hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. We further elaborated that there is a statistically significant difference in various effect modifiers such as maternal age, gestational age, residential status, and BMI  for developing  PIH among patients with elevated and non-elevated beta-hCG levels.
Impact of Comorbidities on the Severity of Disease & Outcome in Children with COVID 19 at a Tertiary Care Pediatric Hospital, Rawalpindi.
Authors: Asghar Rai Muhammad , Sharif Muddassar , Saheel Khalid , Khan Isfandyar , Hussain Abid , Ashraf Rai Rijjal
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was initially identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The virus affects almost all countries of the world. It has infected humans in all age groups, of all ethnicities, both males and females. It is considered that COVID-19, in those with underlying health conditions or co-morbidities, has an increasingly rapid and severe progression, often leading to death. This study is designed to evaluate the impact of co-morbidities on the severity and outcome of COVID-19 infection in children.
Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at the pediatric department, Benazir Bhutto Hospital Rawalpindi from March 2020 to September 2021. Every confirmed COVID-19 admitted case according to inclusion criteria was enrolled for the study. Data were retrieved from hospital records; data was recorded on a predesigned study questionnaire, entered and analyzed in SPSS version 24 for descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis.
Results: 109 children were enrolled with confirmed COVID-19, of these 64(58.7%) were males and 45(41.2%) were females. The age of the patients ranged from infants to 12 years with a mean age of 27.25 months. Comorbidities were present in 70 patients     (64.2%).CHD was the most common co-morbid condition (n=18, 16.5%). Most of the patients experienced mild to moderate symptoms (n=64.2%) while severe symptoms were found in (n=35.8%) patients. 27 patients (24.8%) required Ventilatory support, and of these 20 patients (18.3%) had underlying co-morbidity. The total number of patients who expired was 27(24.7%), and 30.3% of patients who expired had co-morbid conditions. the patients with co-morbid conditions had a longer stay in the hospital. 35 patients (32.1%)with underlying co-morbidity remained admitted for more than a week and 13 patients(9%)for more than two weeks.
Conclusion: Pediatric patients with co-morbidities have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 and associated mortality than children without underlying disease. Children with underlying conditions need to be carefully assessed and closely monitored. Further data are required to define these associations and adequate guidelines to manage high-risk children with COVID-19.
Keywords: Coronavirus, COVID-19, Pediatrics, Co-morbidity, Severity, Outcome
25 0H Vitamin D Levels in Pregnant Females: The Hidden Time Bomb
Authors: Zuhra Fatima Tuz , Mehnaz  , Atzaz Noreen , Shabana  , Iqbal Asma , Saeed Sami
Published: July 2023

Objective: To assess and correlate changes in vitamin D levels in three trimesters of pregnancy.

Material and methods: This longitudinal study was conducted in collaboration with the Gynecology & Obstetric and Pathology department of Fauji foundation hospital, Rawalpindi. Eighty pregnant females were included in the study and tested for vitamin D at three points of time i.e. first trimester gestational age: (7-13 weeks), second trimester (20-26weeks), and third trimester (33 weeks till term). Pregnant females at their first visit and healthy nonpregnant females (controls) were analyzed for vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, ferritin, and Hemoglobin (Hb) levels and compared using the Mann- Whitney U test for vitamin D and independent sample t-test for other parameters. Vitamin D and Hemoglobin (Hb) testing was done during the first, second, and third trimesters among pregnant females and compared between three groups using the Kruskal Wallis test and paired t-test respectively.

Results: Mean age of the pregnant females was 35 years. Mean vitamin D levels showed a significant decline from 30.7 ng/ml vs 19.5 ng/ml vs 18.6 ng/ml for the first, second, and third trimesters respectively (p-value<0.05). The frequency of vitamin D deficiency was 15.1% for pregnant females at their first visit which progressed to 20% and 25% in the second and third trimesters respectively.

Conclusion: Increased vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency rates exist in pregnant females, which progresses to further decline in the ensuing trimesters.
Incidence Of Hypoparathyroidism After Total Thyroidectomy for Benign Goitres. A Systematic Review
Authors: Ghani Muhammad Tahir , Haq Hafiz Muhammad Ijaz ul , Rehman Ibad Ur , Malik Huma Azam
Published: July 2023

Objective:  systematic review assessed the overall incidence of hypoparathyroidism after Total thyroidectomy (TT) for benign goitres.

Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, google scholar, Cochrane, and Pakmedinet under PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines was performed. All studies during the last 50 years where TT was performed for benign goitres and post-operative hypoparathyroidism was assessed were included.  The total incidence of both transient and permanent hypoparathyroidism was calculated after TT for benign goitres. The risk of bias was also assessed.

Results: Twelve studies were included in total including eight retrospective, three prospective observational studies, and one randomized trial. Three studies were from Turkey, 2 from Pakistan, 2 from Greece, and one each from Saudi Arabia, India, Denmark, Egypt, and the USA. 2809 TT were performed for benign goitres. Overall Transient hypoparathyroidism (THP) was noted in 290 (10%) patients while permanent hypoparathyroidism (PHP) was noted in 33(1.17%) patients. The highest incidence of permanent hypoparathyroidism was 17% in one study while the lowest was 0% in three studies. The highest incidence of transient hypoparathyroidism was 28.5% in one study while the lowest incidence was 2.5%. The risk of bias was high.

Conclusion: TT for benign goitres is associated with 1.17 % overall risk (range 0%-17%) of PHP and 10% (range 2.5%-28.5%) of THP.
Perceptions of Medical Teachers Regarding Certification and Master’s in Health Profession Education
Authors: Mudassir Ghazala , Mansoor Sumreena , Habib Maryam
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Objective: To find out the perceptions of medical teachers regarding certification and master’s in health profession education.

Methods: It’s a mixed method study design. It was done in the department of pathology, Shifa College of Medicine which is a constituent college of Shifa Tameer-e- Millat University, from May 2021 to September 2021. In this study data was collected by means of a survey questionnaire and a Focus group discussion. A total of 41 members participated in this study.

Results and Conclusions: The study concluded a high satisfaction of participants with Faculty development programs (FDP). It was suggested that the content of FDP in view of the different roles of medical teachers should include teaching and non-teaching aspects like research, management and leadership which should be equally stressed upon. Although long duration faculty development programs imparted greater depth of knowledge, skills and attitude in health professionals and medical teachers, but if a format of FDP was to be made mandatory for all the medical teaching faculty than a shorter course, highlighting the basics of medical education and having a duration of six-month can be enforced.

Key words: Roles of teacher, faculty development program, medical education
Residents’ Perception Of Surgical Theatre Educational Environment At Public Hospitals Of Rawalpindi - A Steem Survey
Authors: Ijaz Osama , Khan Aurangzeb , Farooqui Marryam Riaz , Bhatti Hamza Waqar , Rauf Fatima , Malik Naveed Akhtar
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION: The experience in the operation theatres is pivotal for surgical education. A measure of the educational environment in the operating room as perceived by residents would assist educators and trainees in gauging the quality of the learning occurring within their institute.     METHODS:  A cross-sectional survey using the surgical theatre educational environment measure (STEEM) 40-item inventory to measure theatre learning environment perception of surgery and allied residents in public sector hospitals of Rawalpindi. Internal reliability of the inventory was assessed using the Cronbach α coefficient. P≤ 0.05 was considered significant.   RESULTS:  107 respondents were included in the study. Mean score of the survey was 133.7± 20.2. No significant differences in perception were found among residents at different stages and gender, except in learning subscale of the inventory for both gender and residents and the teaching and training subscale among residents at different levels. The inventory showed a high internal consistency with a Cronbach α of 0.851.   CONCLUSION: Surgical training and education have still a long way to go in the public sector. Much needed collaborations with education specialist and senior surgeons is required. Interval collection of feedback and perceptions of the educational environment is also necessary.
Stringent Internal Quality Control Procedures in Chemical Pathology Lead to Better Performance in External Proficiency Testing
Authors: Atzaz Noreen , Mehnaz  , Zuhra Fatima Tuz , Muneer Siraj , Ali Haider , Saeed Sami
Published: July 2023

Objective: To assess impact of stringent Internal Quality Control (IQC) checks on performance of proficiency testing

Material and methods: This was a Prospective study conducted between September 2020 and April 2021 at Chemical pathology lab of Fauji Foundation Hospital Rawalpindi. External quality control data (EQC) from the month of September was evaluated. As part of corrective action plan IQC checks were enforced, internal quality control (IQC) data of the month of September 2020 and April 2022 were assessed. Performance characteristics of routine chemistry analytes coefficient of variance (CV), standard deviations (SD)and Bias were calculated and compared using paired –T- test.

Results:  Proficiency testing report (NEQAPP) of cycle 10 round 1 showed 11% External Quality Control (EQC) failure among 18 biochemical parameters. Serum Creatinine and Total Protein failed acceptability criteria with Z-score of greater than 2. As part of corrective action IQC checks were done, which led to improvement in CV (SD) of these parameters. The next EQC lab report for routine chemistry analytes met the acceptability criteria with z-scores of all anaytes being less than 2.

Conclusion: Precise & accurate IQC results lead to better performance in EQC results
PENGEMBANGAN STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI PEMASARAN OLAHAN IKAN MELALUI MEDIA SOSIAL (INSTAGRAM) DI DESA PATIMBAN KECAMATAN PUSAKANAGARA KABUPATEN SUBANG
Authors: Yusuf Chaerul , Muhammad Aziz , Ernawan Deny
Published: July 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui strategi komunikasi pemasaran Desa Patimban melalui media sosial instagram. Dengan adanya instagram Keripik Olahan Ikan Patimban dapat melakukan pemasaran dan promosi diantaranya memposting foto produk makanan olahan ikan melalui media sosial instagram. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini terdiri dari data primer dan data sekunder. Teori yang digunakan adalah Teori Integrated Marketing Communication. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan yaitu observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian bahwa strategi komunikasi pemasaran yang dilakukan oleh Desa Patimban dinilai tepat. Strategi komunikasi pemasaran yang dilakukan Desa Patimban adalah melalui media sosial instagram dengan cara memposting foto produk makanan olahan ikan dengan sebuah caption yang menarik dan lucu, dengan melakukan pemasaran melalui media sosial instagram semua orang dapat mengakses dan mengetahui keberadaan lokasi Desa Patimban dengan cepat oleh karena itu Desa Patimban memanfaatkan media sosial instagram sebagai alat promosi agar terciptanya target yang diinginkan dan terjadinya minat beli yang tinggi. Saran yang dapat peneliti berikan adalah harus lebih diperbanyak postingan pada akun instagram Desa Patimban dan akun instagram @keripik_ikan_patimban harus lebih menjaga hubungan baik kepada setiap konsumennya.
POTENSI PENGGUNAAN MEDIA SOSIAL DALAM MEMPERKENALKAN DESA PATIMBAN
Authors: Sanjaya Oscar Nurianna , Aulia Silvi , Natika Luki , Nawawi Ade
Published: July 2023

Pada era digital saat ini, penggunaan internet sudah menjadi hal biasa bagi semua kalangan. Akses secara massif dilakukan oleh banyak orang, secara mayoritas digunakan untuk melakukan transaksi online dalam media sosial. Desa Patimban merupakan Desa yang berlokasi di Kecamatan Pusakanagara dengan memiliki potensi wisata alam dan ekonomi kreatif berupa Pantai Patimban dan Pengrajin ikan memerlukan adanya suatu sistem untuk mempromosikan desa. Sumber daya manusia belum dapat memanfaatkan teknologi internet dengan baik. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan ini diawali dengan observasi langsung ke lokasi didampingi dengan pelaksaan program KKNM.  Selain itu, kegiatan pembuatan pengenalan desa yang di dukung oleh media social. Isi Media, untuk melihat informasi yang disampaikan dan menariknya unggahan, dalam setiap postingan yang diunggah hanya memberi informasi yang singkat dan masih belum lengkap begitu juga dengan tampilan unggahan masih banyak yang belum menarik. Keterlibatan, untuk melihat interaksi yang terjadi antar pengguna dengan pengunjung dan juga melihat sejauh mana ketertarikan khalayak pada setiap unggahan. Interaksi pengunjung masih sedikit, sehingga penggunaan tersebut belum banyak yang mengetahui dan mengunjungi.
Engineering properties of sorghum bioguma-variety for designing appropriate thresher and chopper machine
Authors: Nurhasanah Ana , Hermawan Wawan , Mandang Tineke , Unadi Astu , Budiharti Uning , Suparlan  , Susanto Herry , Amalia Anugerah Fitri , Widodo Teguh Wikan , Budiastuti Maria Josefine Tjaturetna , Nitamiwati Ni Putu Dian , Sagita Diang , Hidayat Muhammad , Samudiantono Arif
Published: July 2023

Sorghum is a versatile plant with various parts that can be utilized. However, information on the physical and mechanical properties of the sorghum plant is crucial for designing agricultural machinery for primary handling processes such as threshing and chopping. This study aimed to determine the technical characteristics of sorghum plants (Bioguma variety) including the physical and mechanical properties of the stems, leaves, panicles and seeds to design a configuration system concept for threshing and chopping machines capable of processing sorghum plants with high moisture content immediately after harvesting. The study used a descriptive method and included samples of sorghum plants randomly taken from fields in Majalengka and Bogor, Indonesia. The physical and mechanical properties were measured using several replications, ranging from 3 to 30 depending on the parameter. The sorghum plants were harvested at at ages 80, 90 and 108 days after transplanting (DAT). It was found that the moisture content of sorghum stem and seeds decreased with the increase of plant ages where stem ranged between 84.18–79.81 %wb and seeds ranged between 51.7–29.4 %wb. The result revealed that planting ages influenced its properties including stem properties and seed properties. Longer DAT increased the stem hardness from 290.64 ± 29.41 to 350.00 ± 0.81 N and seed hardness from 8.2 ± 1.7 to 44.9 ± 5.4 N but decreased the tensile force of seed form panicles from 16.7 + 3.2 to 6.0 ± 0.8 N. The data on stem strength and seed hardness provide important considerations for the development of several equipment for sorghum processing. The findings of this study can serve as a basis for designing effective and efficient threshing and chopping machines for sorghum plants at high moisture content.
Two-grid methods of finite element approximation for parabolic integro-differential optimal control problems
Authors: Xu Changling , Li Huilai
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we present a two-grid scheme of fully discrete finite element approximation for optimal control problems governed by parabolic integro-differential equations. The state and co-state variables are approximated by a piecewise linear function and the control variable is discretized by a piecewise constant function. First, we derive the optimal a priori error estimates for all variables. Second, we prove the global superconvergence by using the recovery techniques. Third, we construct a two-grid algorithm and discuss its convergence. In the proposed two-grid scheme, the solution of the parabolic optimal control problem on a fine grid is reduced to the solution of the parabolic optimal control problem on a much coarser grid; additionally, the solution of a linear algebraic system on the fine grid and the resulting solution maintain an asymptotically optimal accuracy. Finally, we present a numerical example to verify the theoretical results.
Model averaging based on weighted generalized method of moments with missing responses
Authors: Liang Zhongqi , Zhou Yanqiu
Published: July 2023

Model averaging based on the least squares estimator or the maximum likelihood estimator has been widely followed, while model averaging based on the generalized method of moments is almost rarely addressed. This paper is concerned with a model averaging method based on the weighted generalized method of moments for missing responses problem. The weight vector for model averaging is obtained via minimizing the leave-one-out cross validation criterion. With some mild conditions, the asymptotic optimality of the proposed method in the sense that it can achieve the lowest squared error asymptotically is proved. Some numerical experiments are conducted to evaluate the proposed method with the existing related ones, and the results suggest that the proposed method performs relatively well.
Sample size planning and the statistical significance of official controls by sampling
Authors: Ciccarelli Cesare , Semeraro Angela Marisa , Leinoudi Melina , Di Trani Vittoria , Ciampana Anita , Ciccarelli Elena
Published: July 2023

Acceptance sampling is important for food safety and is a relevant tool at production and official control levels, as it helps decision-making processes and verifies quality and food safety management. Generally, sampling plans are hypothesis tests of products that have been submitted for official appraisal and subsequent acceptance or rejection. The sample size is related to the set level of risk, the acceptable precision, and the tolerable misstatement size; therefore, sample size determination has a crucial role in setting up the accepted level of non-compliance and level of error. Using a simple predictive model based on combinatorics, this study showcases how sample size management can change the probability of rejecting good lots and/or accepting bad lots when the acceptance number is 0 (c=0). We showed that when c=0, a very high level of significance of the test corresponds to the high probability of rejecting a lot with an acceptable prevalence of defective items (type II error). We produced tables about the minimum sample size at different significance levels, which can be useful in the field. A paradigmatic example of the role of sample size in the acceptance-sampling plan is represented by the visual inspection for detection of Anisakid larvae in fishery products: this study investigated this aspect and mainly referred to studies on the prevalence of larvae in farmed fish. We showed that, for lots ≥1000 items, the sample size is not strictly related to the lot size, but to draw a consistent control plan and reduce the variability in the clinical judgment, control authorities require a standardized approach. Because of this, the results on the prevalence of Anisakid larvae in farmed fish, if only based on sampling control plans, do not support a negligible risk statement, despite the claims reported in the EFSA opinion and other several studies.
The effect of SMEs’ dynamic capability on operational capabilities and organisational agility
Authors: Yi Ho-Taek , Oh Donghun , Amenuvor Fortune Edem
Published: July 2023

Purpose: This study sets out to empirically investigate the effect of small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs) dynamic capability on operational capabilities, organisational agility and performance while assessing the moderating role of environmental uncertainty.Design/methodology/approach: Data were gathered from 288 company representatives from the South Korean provinces of Daegu and Gyeongbuk. Companies in Daegu and Gyeongbuk are purposively sampled as research subjects and classified as manufacturing and/or distribution, and other industries, with a questionnaire administered to firm representatives and employees. The proposed hypotheses are tested using structural equations modelling.Findings/results: The study finds that dynamic capability has a significant positive effect on marketing capability, managerial capability, and technical capability, respectively. The study also discovers that marketing capability positively affects organisational agility. Furthermore, the findings show that technical capability influences organisational agility, which in turn affects innovation capability positively. The study also reveals that technological uncertainty moderates the relationship between dynamic capability and technical capability.Practical implications: The outcome of this study implies that rather than reducing the scale or scope of support projects, the technical and management levels should be prepared in the institutional system so that disabled companies can acquire and strengthen more diverse capabilities and resources.Originality/value: The research emphasises the significance of an organisation’s response to the external environment being agile, as customer needs and competitors’ products and services change frequently. It also reveals that marketing capability is a vital variable that influences organisational agility, regardless of business classification.
Energy efficiency management according to ISO 50001: A case study in the brick industry
Authors: Bernabé-Custodio Miguel , Marín-Rodriguez William , Andrade-Giron Daniel , Neri-Ayala Abrahán , Ausejo-Sanchez Jose , Muñoz-Vilela Algemiro , Ramos–y Yovera Santiago , Campos-Diaz Angel , Diaz-Ronceros Ernesto
Published: July 2023

This research presents the methodology and results of implementing energy efficiency management in the brick industry, given the problem of high electricity consumption in the production processes. Based on the ISO 50001 standard, energy efficiency management has as its structure the PHVA methodology of the Deming cycle and indicators that meet the standard's requirements. Energy consumption in tons of bricks produced is established as an indicator, allowing proposals for improving performance and efficient energy use, as well as implementing a management system, minimizing energy waste, and implementing engineering tools in the processes. Energy consumption data were collected before and after implementation, these data were analyzed, and the decrease in monthly electricity consumption was verified through a pre-test conducted at the beginning of the research, recording parameters of 543,800 kWh. After implementation, a post-test was conducted, recording parameters of 500,296 kWh, resulting in a saving of 43,504 kWh; in monetary units, the saving is S/18,067.21 for each month of production. Obtaining an annual decrease of 522,048 kWh, represented in monetary units S/216,806.53 (US$ 59,891.30 exchange rate S/3.62). Therefore, it is proven that implementing the methodology is feasible through the management of energy efficiency based on ISO 50001 and contributes strategically to the brick industry by increasing the efficiency associated with the reduction of 8% monthly electricity consumption.
Direct indicators of social distancing effectiveness in COVID-19 outbreak stages: a correlational analysis of case contacts and population mobility in Korea
Authors: Choi Sojin , Kim Chanhee , Park Kun-Hee , Kim Jong-Hun
Published: July 2023

OBJECTIVES: The effectiveness of social distancing during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been evaluated using the magnitude of changes in population mobility. This study aimed to investigate a direct indicator—namely, the number of close contacts per patient with confirmed COVID-19.METHODS: From week 7, 2020 to week 43, 2021, population movement changes were calculated from the data of two Korean telecommunication companies and Google in accordance with social distancing stringency levels. Data on confirmed cases and their close contacts among residents of Gyeonggi Province, Korea were combined at each stage. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to compare the movement data with the change in the number of contacts for each confirmed case calculated by stratification according to age group. The reference value of the population movement data was set using the value before mid-February 2020, considering each data’s characteristics.RESULTS: In the age group of 18 or younger, the number of close contacts per confirmed case decreased or increased when the stringency level was strengthened or relaxed, respectively. In adults, the correlation was relatively low, with no correlation between the change in the number of close contacts per confirmed case and the change in population movement after the commencement of vaccination for adults.CONCLUSIONS: The effectiveness of governmental social distancing policies against COVID-19 can be evaluated using the number of close contacts per confirmed case as a direct indicator, especially for each age group. Such an analysis can facilitate policy changes for specific groups.
ENTPD1-AS1–miR-144-3p-mediated high expression of COL5A2 correlates with poor prognosis and macrophage infiltration in gastric cancer
Authors: Yuan Han-Mei , Pu Xiao-Feng , Wu Hui , Wu Chao
Published: July 2023

Esophageal cancer (EC) is one of the most common digestive system malignancies in the world. The combined modality treatment of EC is usually surgery and radiation therapy, however, its clinical efficacy for advanced patients is relatively limited. Ferroptosis, a new type of iron-dependent programmed cell death, is different from apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy. In recent years, many studies have further enlightened that ferroptosis plays an essential role in the occurrence, development and metastasis of tumors. Targeting ferroptosis stimulates a new direction for further exploration of oncologic treatment regimens. Furthermore, ferroptosis has a critical role in the immune microenvironment of tumors. This paper reviews the mechanism of ferroptosis and the ferroptosis research progress in the treatment of EC. We further elaborate the interaction between ferroptosis and immunotherapy, and the related mechanisms of ferroptosis participation in the immunotherapy of EC, so as to provide new directions and ideas for the treatment of EC.
Berziarah dalam Dunia yang Kompleks dan Plural
Authors: Laksana Albertus Bagus , Hariandja William Christopher , Taruna Rezerius Bintang
Published: July 2023

Melalui penelitian studi kasus terhadap beberapa situs ziarah Katolik di Jawa dan Bali, artikel ini menunjukkan  peran situs ziarah Katolik beserta praktik ziarahnya. Pendekatan yang dipakai adalah fenomenologis-antropologis yang digabungkan dengan teologi sakramental dan teologi evangelisasi gereja perspektif Katolik di zaman yang semakin terpecah, kompleks, dan pluralistik. Situs dan tradisi ziarah memiliki peran yang unik dalam proses evangelisasi yang dipahami sebagai bertambahnya daya jangkauan kehadiran gereja yang mengubah banyak orang dan masyarakat lokal. Penelitian menunjukkan bahwa situs dan praktik ziarah memberdayakan para peziarah secara personal dan spiritual dengan membantu mereka menjalin hubungan dengan Tuhan, diri sendiri, sesama, dan alam semesta. Para pengurus tempat ziarah juga mengusahakan solidaritas dengan masyarakat di sekitar tempat ziarah. Tradisi ziarah Katolik membantu masyarakat menghayati agama secara personal, interpersonal, kosmik, dan inklusif dalam hubungannya dengan agama lain. Dengan demikian tradisi ziarah membantu gereja dan masyarakat menghadapi bahaya privatisasi agama, politisasi agama, dan berkembangnya ideologi religius yang radikal dan ikonoklastik. Inilah tugas evangelisasi yang kontekstual di dalam masyarakat yang plural dan kompleks seperti Indonesia.
Komunitas yang Mengampuni
Authors: Weldemina Yudit Tiwery , Wenno Vincent Kalvin
Published: July 2023

Pengampunan publik memiliki peran penting dalam upaya mengurangi konflik. Dalam praktiknya, pengampunan yang dilakukan oleh kelompok atau komunitas sering kali menjadi objek diskursus yang beragam. Teks 2 Korintus 2:5-11 menyampaikan pesan tentang perlunya pengampunan dalam konteks publik. Teks tersebut berkaitan erat dengan hubungan dinamis antara Paulus, komunitas, dan individu yang dianggap bersalah. Paulus mengajukan tuntutan agar komunitas mengampuni orang yang telah melakukan kesalahan, mengikuti contoh pengampunan yang telah ia tunjukkan terhadap pelaku. Melalui metode interkontekstual, penelitian ini membahas konteks pengampunan publik dalam 2 Korintus 2:5-11 serta proses pengampunan yang terjadi dalam situasi pascakonflik di Maluku. Kedua konteks ini diperlakukan sebagai subjek yang secara bersama-sama memberikan sumbangan kreatif dalam menentukan makna dalam penelitian ini. Mempertimbangkan kedua konteks tersebut, studi ini mengelaborasi pengalaman pengampunan dua konteks secara bersamaan. Pada akhirnya, dari dua konteks tersebut, studi ini menyimpulkan bahwa pengampunan publik juga penting diperhatikan dalam upaya rekonsiliasi. Pengampunan tidak hanya terbatas pada dimensi kesalehan pribadi atau moral pribadi, melainkan juga menjadi sebuah nilai moral yang harus diimplementasikan oleh seluruh komunitas.
COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF DEEP LEARNING BASED TELUGU OCR
Authors: Dr. M.V. Vijaya Saradhi  , K. Rakesh  , D. Ravi Prasanna  , K. Swetha  , B. Praveen
Published: July 2023

The aim of the project is to understand offline One of the most popular and difficult pattern recognition subjects is the use of optical character recognition (OCR) to read handwritten Telugu letters. This study suggests a three-stage OCR solution for Telugu documents that includes pre-processing, feature extraction, and classification. For the extraction of boundary edge pixel points during preprocessing, we used median filtering on the input characters as well as normalisation and skeletonization techniques. Each character is initially divided into three 3x3 grids during the feature extraction stage, and the associated centroid for each of the nine zones is assessed. This allows us to recognise characters in various styles. Following that, we drew the projection angel's horizontal and vertical symmetry to the character's closest pixel.
Automatic railway gate control using Arduino
Authors: Arpitha H.K.  , Gangamani B.V.  , Chetan H.A.  , Dr. Pavithra G.,  , Dr. T.C.Manjunath
Published: July 2023

The mini-project work undertaken by us involves the design & development of an automatic railway gate control and alarm system using Arduino. It has been noticed that a lot of fatalities of lives occur everyday due to manually operated rail gates. These happen mainly at places where the rail road passes through a city, locality or unmanned gates of the crossing zones. Currently, gatemen mainly operate on the assumption of a train departure schedule from the station to reach a crossing zone Accidents are more likely to happen in such cases, causing severe damage to human lives and properties near the rail crossings. The Programmed Railroad Entryway Control Framework utilizing IR Sensor and Arduino centres around orderly traffic signal of railroad entryways that are both monitored and automated system.
An Overview: Image Processing Techniques and Its Applications
Authors: K Ganapathi Babu  , Sunil Kumar Dasari  , C Yosepu
Published: July 2023

The use of digital image processing techniques has been widely flourished and they are now used for all kinds of tasks in various areas. Image processing helps in the identification of objects that are invisible, and different techniques makes it faster and cost effective. This paper gives you an overview on various digital image processing techniques and its applications like remote sensing, medical imaging, forensic studies etc.
MINERALOGY, GEOCHEMISTRY AND ORIGIN OF CRETACEOUS CHERT FROM WADI AL-WALA, CENTRAL JORDAN
Authors: Al-Fugha Hassan , Al-Malabeh Ahmad
Published: July 2023

This research is aimed at detailed investigation of the origin chert rocks in Wadi Al-Wala area in central Jordan. The chert in the area is of Upper Cretaceous in age and belongs to the widely distributed chert on the western margin of the Arabian Plate. Field characteristic structures of these cherts indicate that they occur in three forms: bedded, concretion and brecciated structure. Nine representative samples were selected for the present study. The mineralogical study shows that the chert is mainly consisted of microcrystalline quartz, calcite microcrystalline quartz, fossils and phosphatic microcrystalline quartz. The bedded chert are composed almost entirely of microcrystalline quartz and secreting organism. Geochemical investigation of Wadi Al-Wala chert shows that the content of trace elements is considerably variable, and most trace elements are low. This may indicate that the chert in the study area is resulted from the leaching of country rocks by hydrothermal solution and the evidence from submarine hydrothermal origin of silica forming this chert. This is further supported by the low MnO/Fe2O3t ratio, Cr/Zn and Ni/Zn ratios.
MINERALOGY AND GEOCHEMISTRY OF RECENT SEDIMENTS IN BASRAH, SOUTHERN IRAQ
Authors: Al-Khalf Noor A. , Al-Saad Harith A.
Published: July 2023

The study of mineralogical and geochemical properties of recent sediments included collecting and analyzing thirty one surface samples from fifteen sites in Basrah city. The results of grain size analysis showed that the sand increases towards the west and southern part of Basrah, whilst clay fractions increase towards the north and eastern parts. Quartz, calcite, gypsum, feldspar, dolomite, and halite represent the light minerals in the study area sediments, while the clay minerals are represented by kaolinite, palygorskite, illite, chlorite, montmorillonite, and montmorillonite- chlorite. Calcium oxide and silica are the most abundant oxides in all analyzed sediments in the study area followed by Fe2O3, Al2O3, TiO2, MgO, Na2O, and K2O with high percentage of loss of ignition.
INFLUENCE OF ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEM ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF TEA MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN KENYA - CASE OF MUDETE TEA FACTORY
Authors: Lidovolo Patrick Malongo , Atieno Margaret
Published: July 2023

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the accounting information system on the financial performance of tea manufacturing firms in Kenya, a case study of Mudete Tea Factory. The specific objectives were; to examine the influence of accounting information recording on financial performance, and to determine the influence of financial reporting on the financial performance of tea manufacturing firms in Kenya. The study was carried out in Mudete Tea Factory. The study was guided by a technology acceptance model. The study used a case study research design. The study employed a census sampling technique where all the target population was used in the study. Primary data was collected by the use of questionnaires, while secondary data from the firm’s audited financial statements for previous financial years. The reliability of the research instruments was tested through Cronbach’s Alpha. Validity was tested through expert analysis of the questionnaires. The data was analyzed through inferential statistics. Inferential statistics were represented through regression analysis and correlation analysis to determine the quality of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The findings of the study were presented using tables. The study showed that there exists a positive and significant relationship between the components of AIS and firm’s financial performance with an average R2 of 0.508. The study results also indicated that accounting information recording and financial reporting have a positive and significant effect on the financial performance of tea factories in Kenya. The research recommended that tea manufacturing firms should ensure they use accounting information systems in their daily activities which results in improved financial performance.

JEL: M10; M41; O14

 

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EFFECTS OF COLLECTIVE ACTION ON PERFORMANCE OF WOMEN-ONED MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES IN SELECTED COUNTIES IN KENYA
Authors: Tsuma Faith Achungo , Wawire Nelson
Published: July 2023

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are imperative in boosting manufacturing in Kenya. Stakeholders including the government have advanced initiatives to promote MSMEs by providing affordable loans and developing policies to help them thrive. Despite these efforts, there is sluggishness in the way manufacturing enterprises owned by women perform. Collective action could be employed to reverse this situation considering that most women are good at networking. This study’s objective is to determine the effect of collective action on the performance of women-owned manufacturing enterprises. The study uses the primary data collected by interviewing 55 women who owned enterprises. The women were selected through a simple random sampling technique and a structured questionnaire administered. This data was complemented by published data from government policy documents. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were done to establish the degree to which collective action influenced how women-owned manufacturing enterprises performed in Kenya. Spearman’s Rank correlation analysis established that collective action was strongly and positively correlated with the performance of women-owned manufacturing enterprises. This was further investigated through regression analysis and it was found that collective action positively affected those enterprises' performance. The study recommends that women who own enterprises in the manufacturing sector should embrace networking through belonging to a group(s) or business organization(s) in order to improve the performance of their enterprises.

JEL: L25; J16; D70

 

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PARENTAL SUPPORT AND ENGLISH ACHIEVEMENT: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF ACADEMIC SELF-CONCEPT
Authors: Wu Yajun , Yi Qiang
Published: July 2023

The contribution of parental support to academic achievement has been adequately explored. However, the mediating mechanisms between parental support and academic achievement should be more studied, especially in teaching English as a foreign language (EFL). Consequently, this study was designed to examine whether academic self-concept a mediating between parental support and academic achievement among Chinese EFL learners. Participants were 499 Chinese secondary EFL learners selected through convenience sampling. The relationship between parental support, academic self-concept, and English achievement was explored by structural equation modelling analysis (SEM) and mediation analysis while controlling for gender and age. Results showed that parental support could affect English achievement directly and indirectly through academic self-concept. Additionally, academic self-concept fully mediated the relationship between parental support and English achievement. Theoretical and practical implications, limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
 

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IMPLEMENTATION, UTILIZATION, AND EFFECTS OF RADIO-BASED INSTRUCTION TOWARDS THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF GRADE 7 STUDENTS: BASIS FOR A PROPOSED RADIO-BASED EDUCATION ON THE GO PROGRAM
Authors: Maraya Franco Rey L.
Published: July 2023

This study sought to determine the implementation, utilization, and effects of Radio-based Instruction on learners' learning performance in Maitum, Sarangani Province, for School Year 2021-2022. A quantitative, cross-sectional research methodology was utilized in this study. The respondents of this study were 30 teachers and 243 learners from 3 schools namely: Malalag National High School, Maguling National High School, and Perrett Central Integrated School. The study's findings revealed that the level of implementation of Radio-Based Instruction in the Maitum District was very high in Planning and Agreement, high in Information Dissemination and Feedback, Organization and Analysis, and Monitoring and Evaluation, while moderate in Budgeting and Materials. The level of Utilization of Radio-Based Instruction in Maitum, Sarangani Province, was moderate in the Background of RBI and Ratio between Learners and Materials and high in RBI Production Utilization. While the academic performance of Grade 7 learners was in School A, they had fair academic performance, which is 6 out of 13 or 46% were fair. In-School B, 32 out of 68, or 42%, were good in their academic performance. School C was also good at 85 out of 162 or 53%.
 

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LEVEL OF EFFECTIVENESS, SUSTAINABILITY OF SCHOOL-BASED FEEDING PROGRAM, NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF PUPILS AMIDST COVID-19 PANDEMIC: BASIS FOR A PROPOSED PROJECT BUSOG TALINO PROGRAM
Authors: Corpuz Shiegfrid G. , Bantulo Johnny S.
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to find out the effectiveness and sustainability of the School-Based Feeding Program and the nutritional status of learners amidst the COVID-19 pandemic as the basis for a proposed intervention program. The respondents of this study were the four school heads and the 40 School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) coordinators from four different schools in East Maitum District namely: Angko Elementary School, Batian Elementary School, Maitum Elementary School, and Virginia Tañedo Garcia Elementary School. This research employed a cross-sectional research design. The result of this study revealed that the level of effectiveness of the School-Based Feeding Program was very and average in attainment of desired outcomes. The level of sustainability of the School-Based Feeding Program was very high in delivery of nutritious food packs, inventory of resources, monitoring and evaluation and average in nutritional components. The nutritional status of recipient pupils of the 4 schools was normal, and the level of their academic performance was satisfactory.
 

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TITLE EMPHASIZING THE SENSE OF NUMBER IN CARTOONS: THE EXAMPLE OF THE CARTOON NAMED "YADE YADE"
Authors: Kapucu Munise Seçkin , Parlak Ayşen
Published: July 2023

In this research, the cartoon "Yade Yade" broadcasted on TRT Çocuk, Turkey's national channel where programs for children's education are broadcast, was examined in terms of number sense components. In this context, 52 episodes of the cartoon "Yade Yade", which has been broadcast on TRT Çocuk since 2020, were used as data sources. Document analysis method was used in data analysis. The 52 episodes of the cartoon "Yade Yade" were examined in terms of number sense components (counting aloud, measuring concepts, nonverbal calculation, number identification, and quantity discrimination) used by Lago and DiPerna (2010). When the number components were analyzed for each section, it was seen that the measuring concepts component was mostly emphasized. This number sense component was followed by number determination, recognizing quantity, counting aloud and nonverbal calculation components. Various suggestions were developed in line with the results of the study. "Yade Yade" cartoon can be used for educational purposes in mathematics lessons in schools to emphasize the number sense, especially the component of measuring concepts. This and similar cartoons can be analyzed in terms of content and concept teaching can be realized in lessons.
 

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TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP OF POLICE COMMISSIONED OFFICERS AND SERVICE ENGAGEMENT OF NON-COMMISSIONED PERSONNEL: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF PERSONAL ETHICS
Authors: Gempesao Mechelle C. , Nabe Nestor C. , Chavez Carmelita B. , Magbojos Roberto R.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research study is to determine the service engagement of police personnel as a function of the transformation leadership of commissioned officers and mediated by their personal ethics. The researcher surveyed 348 Police Officers, selected using a stratified technique. Data were gathered using standardized, adapted instruments. Data were analyzed and interpreted using Mean, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, Medgraph using Sobel z-test, and Path-analysis. The study findings revealed as follow: the personal ethics of police personnel, transformational leadership of commissioned officers and service engagement of police personnel obtained a very high level. A significant correlation between the transformational leadership of commissioned officers and the service engagement of police personnel was observed. There is also a significant correlation between the transformational leadership of commissioned officers and the personal ethics of police officers; and, as well as the personal ethics and service engagement of police personnel. The test of mediation revealed that personal ethics partial mediates the relationship between transformational leadership of police commissioned officers and service engagement of personnel: the mediating role of personal ethics.
 

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HOW “INTERCULTURAL” IS CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION IN GREECE? A CONTENT ANALYSIS
Authors: Vavitsas Theodoros
Published: July 2023

The present article illustrates an attempt made to investigate interculturalism in the School Textbooks of Social and Political Education course of the Greek Primary School. The subject of Social and Political Education features the quality of citizenship of students attending the Greek educational system. The research methodology used is content analysis and, specifically, quantitative content analysis. According to the results of the research, the Social and Political Education textbooks of the Greek Primary School are inspired by the principles of intercultural education, while the presence of cultural diversity, in general, is strong in both the 5th grade and 6th grade textbooks.
 

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