bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sobre el efecto reparador de las sentencias civiles en casos de violaciones graves a los derechos humanos en Chile
Authors: Rojas Corral Hugo , Pino Emhart Alberto
Published: May 2024

Este artículo explica el efecto reparador que pueden tener las sentencias condenatorias de demandas civiles en casos de violaciones a los derechos humanos en las víctimas y sus familiares. A pesar de haber transcurrido medio siglo desde la comi-sión de crímenes de lesa humanidad a partir del golpe de estado del 11 de septiembre de 1973, la búsqueda de justicia sigue siendo un anhelo en un total de 2.040 causas pendientes (civiles o penales) ante los tribunales de justicia en Chile. Se argumenta que los mecanismos de reparación tradicionales de la responsabilidad civil deben comple-mentarse con otras reparaciones de carácter simbólico o expresivo, desarrolladas por la jurisprudencia de los tribunales internacionales de derechos humanos. Si bien el daño no podrá ser totalmente reparado, la situación de las víctimas y familiares puede ser mejorada mediante el uso de esos mecanismos, acercándose en la mayor medida posible a la reparación íntegra del daño. También se aborda la importancia de acelerar la tramitación de las causas judiciales pues víctimas, perpetradores y testigos están envejeciendo, y no es deseable que su resolución signifi que impunidad biológica.
Knowledge Constraint on Consumer Boycott Against Global Businesses' Social Sustainability Violations
Authors: Karataş Ayşegül , Abdullah Ali Erkan
Published: May 2024

Sustainability concerns of both businesses and consumers are increasing. For a more sustainable world, businesses should prioritize sustainability in their operations, and consumers should support these practises by their purchasing power. However, it is still seen that even global businesses commit sustainability violations, and some consumers fail to boycott them even though they have motivation and intent. There are many constraints that limit the intent to turn into action. Knowledge about the violation stands out as a prerequisite among these constraints.
In this quantitative research, consumers' boycott motivation and intent are examined in the context of social sustainability violations of Apple and Amazon, without giving the names of the companies. Then, the knowledge of the sample is questioned related to the commiters of the violations. Results show that more than two third of the sample has high motivation to boycott these companies and the relationship between boycott motivation and intention is statiscally significant. However, nearly half of the motivated consumers do not know the committer of the violation in each case. Consumers who are motivated and identify the committer in the cases are about one-third of the sample. The most remarkable result of this research is that consumers have severe knowledge limitations on the enforcement power of businesses in penalizing their violations.
This exploratory study gives insights into the knowledge constraints on consumer boycotts against social sustainability violations of global businesses. However, the results can not be generalizable. More similar research focused on different cases is required. For practitioners, the foundation of an organization that can handle communication regarding sustainability violations is recommended to increase consumers' knowledge.
Vital infrastructures
Authors: Metsola Lalli
Published: May 2024

Sustaining lives in urban environments depends on infrastructures – buildings, water pipes, sewers, energy distribution, or roads, among others. Their availability is particularly acute in Africa due to rapid urbanization, entrenched inequalities and persistent resource constraints. At the site of my ongoing research, Namibia’s capital Windhoek, the legacy of colonial segregation coupled with low incomes and lack of affordable housing have led to the mushrooming of ‘informal’ settlements with insufficient formal infrastructures. In these conditions, the necessity to satisfy basic needs, as well as aspirations of improvement, lead the residents to rely on improvisational skills, co-presence, and social relationships to innovate do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions as well as to appropriate, bypass and complement formal infrastructures. These arrangements are ‘vital infrastructures’ in two senses: both as facilitating and regenerating lives in the city, and as relying on the energies of the residents for their operation (which blurs the categories of provider and user). I argue that such vital infrastructures are a major force in the making of cities and urban lives, in Africa and beyond. While their immediate purpose is to solve practical problems, the social, transactional and political patterns that they entail lead to profoundly relational, co-constructed infrastructures and everyday governance.
Turning Attention to the Afterlives of Knowledge Infrastructures
Authors: Karhunmaa Kamilla , Käkönen Mira
Published: May 2024

Once a large-scale infrastructure such as a railroad, sewage system or power plant is put into place, it not only tends to enjoy a long life, but often also a forceful afterlife. Abandoned railroads may find new uses, while ruined sewage systems or power plants tend to have toxic legacies that continue to make people sick. When infrastructures cease or fail to provide the functions for which they were originally intended, they do not cease to interact with and alter their environments. Rather, they remain as lively remnants that continue to order relations and exert influence (Appel et al. 2018; Barry 2020; Sizek 2021).
The Disposition of Oil Palm Infrastructure
Authors: Tammisto Tuomas
Published: May 2024

The Tzen oil palm plantation in the northwestern corner of Wide Bay in Pomio District, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea is a highly infrastructured space. Roads surround and order the oil palm plantings into a grid-like space and connect the main estate to the extensions of the plantation in the surrounding area. Not only is the plantation an area characterized by these ‘hard infrastructures’, but the plantation was established in 2008 as a part of a large combined logging and agriculture project aimed to bring income, employment and road infrastructure to the rural and remote Pomio District.
In this essay, I examine these two infrastructural features of the Tzen oil palm plantation. I begin by examining the specific components of the wider infrastructural system of the plantation, such as the road network, the palm oil mill and the palm oil pipeline that connects to the mill. After this, I examine the logging and agriculture projects as a part of the plan which the plantation was established. I argure that while the provision of infrastructure is built into the plan of the logging and plantation project, so the extractive logic of this project is built into the infrastructural system being developed.
HOW MUCH EUROPEAN YOU ARE? CULTURAL CHANGES OF EUROPEAN COUNTRIES IN THE LAST 20 YEARS WITH SURVEY DATA
Authors: Toker Aslan Seca , Satman Mehmet Hakan
Published: May 2024

This study deviates from traditional approaches by focusing on data analysis instead of historical information to comprehend the dynamics shaping societal culture. Analyzing the cultural changes in European countries over the past two decades, the study utilizes the largest dataset to date, the Integrated Values Survey. Data from four distinct time periods spanning from 2000 to 2022 have been scrutinized. Expectation Maximization method is employed to address missing data in the dataset, and factor analysis-CLARA clustering algorithm is applied for each time period. The primary objective of this academic endeavor is to understand the dynamics of cultural evolution from a data-centric perspective. This analytical approach provides a robust foundation for comprehending cultural changes and predicting potential future developments.
TOPLUMSAL CİNSİYET KALIP YARGILARI ÖLÇEĞİ GELİŞTİRME ÇALIŞMASI
Authors: Tarhan Sinem , Ünal Fatma , Çürükvelioğlu Köksal Eda
Published: May 2024

Kadınlık ve erkeklik rollerini ifade eden toplumsal cinsiyet, bağlama göre şekil değiştirse de varlığını devam ettirmektedir. Toplumsal cinsiyet rolleri, erken yaşlardan itibaren model alma ve pekiştirme ile öğrenilmekte, bu rollere ilişkin kalıp yargılar bilişsel süreçleri, duyguları, davranışları etkilemektedir. Araştırmanın amacı; toplumsal cinsiyet kalıp yargılarını ortaya koyabilecek bir ölçek geliştirmektir. Alanyazın taranarak madde havuzu oluşturulmuş, uzman görüşü doğrultusunda ölçeğe son şekli verilmiştir. Önce üniversite öğrencilerinden sonra Türkiye genelindeki yetişkinlerden veri toplanmıştır. Tarama modelindeki araştırmada; Toplumsal Cinsiyet Kalıp Yargıları Ölçeği’nin doğrulayıcı faktör analizi sonucunda modelin anlamlı, iyi ve kabul edilebilir değerler gösterdiği (χ2 = 172.341; sd = 75; p = .000; χ2/sd = 2.298; SRMR = .0476; RMSEA = 0.068; CFI = .933; IFI= .934; TLI = .919; GFI = .918; AGFI = .885), geçerli ve güvenilir bir ölçek olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Ölçeğin güvenirliği 0.887, açıkladığı toplam varyans oranı %41.655’tir. Bu sonuçlar dikkate alınarak ölçeğin toplumsal cinsiyet kalıp yargılarını belirlemede kullanılabileceği düşünülmektedir.
Model Konseptual Pengaruh Keterlibatan Karyawan terhadap Peningkatan Kinerja Karyawan Generasi Y dan Generasi Z pada Perusahaan Swasta
Authors: Foci Nia Arfina , Amrina Elita , Hasan Alizar
Published: May 2024

Private companies are an industrial sector that greatly contributes to economic development in Indonesia, especially in terms of employment. The lack of employee engagement that dominates the world of work today with different generations is a problem for company leaders in managing their employees. Private companies must have high-performing employees by involving employees to fully contribute to achieving company goals. Evaluation of employee performance needs to be improved by considering aspects of employee involvement. This research aims to design a conceptual model of the influence of employee involvement on private-sector employee performance. Indicators of employee engagement and employee performance were identified from literature studies. Then, indicators were determined that were relevant to private companies in West Sumatra, then sorted the indicators were based on similarity in terminology. The results of the initial identification stage were 52 indicators of employee engagement consisting of indicators in the dimensions of basic need, management support, teamwork, and growth. Employee performance indicators 39 consist of indicators in the dimensions of effort, job knowledge, quantity, quality, compliance with rules, and interpersonal competence. The next step is validation of the indicators by experts from practitioners, academics, and professionals in the field. The validation results state that all indicators are important and relevant for private companies in West Sumatra. This conceptual model is expected to help private companies improve employee performance.
Pengaruh Persepsi Kualitas, Persepsi Nilai, Persepsi Kepuasan dan Persepsi Diferensiasi terhadap Kesetiaan Merek yang Dimediasi oleh Kepercayaan Merek pada Merek Polki
Authors: Pramana Vina , Wardhana Ali
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The development of household cleaning products continues to expand from year to year creating a potential for companies to increase the number of consumers through quality perception, value perceptions, satisfaction perceptions and differentiation perceptions. The study aims to examine the influence of quality perceptions, value perceptions and satisfaction perceptions on brand loyalty mediated by brand trust in the POLKI brand. The sample in this study had 181 respondents who met the criteria. In this study, data is being processed using Smart PLS 3.0. The results of this study show that brand trust has a significant influence on brand loyalty. There is a significant impact between quality perception, value perception and satisfaction perception on brand trust. There are insignificant influences between the perception of quality, appreciation of value, satisfaction and differentiation perceptions of brand loyality. And there is a minor influence between differential perceptions and brand confidence. In addition, there are significant influences among quality perceptions, appreciations of value and satisfactions perceptions on brand faith mediated by brand trusts. 
Peran Sertifikasi Organik bagi Petani Berskala Kecil dengan Jangkauan Pasar Lokal (Studi Empiris pada Petani Berskala Kecil Organik di Bogor, Jawa Barat)
Authors: Novita Novita
Published: May 2024

Indonesia memiliki peluang untuk menjadi pelaku pertanian organik yang penting karena memiliki beragam keunggulan komparatif. Tetapi kelemahan dari produk pertanian organik Indonesia adalah kurang terstandarisasi. Standarisasi produk organik dapat dicapai dengan adanya sertifikasi produk organik. Tetapi pentingnya sertifikasi organik tidak disertai dengan adanya peningkatan jumlah produsen organik yang tersertifikasi. Pada tahun 2013, total jumlah pelaku organik tersertifikasi sebanyak 10.285 produsen, menurun dibandingkan tahun 2012 sebanyak 10.510 produsen dan tahun 2011 sebanyak 12.512 produsen. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode studi kasus. Informan penelitian ini adalah petani berskala kecil di daerah Bogor, dengan kriteria memiliki lahan kurang dari 1 hektar dan pernah mensertifikasi lahannya (tetapi sekarang tidak). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa semakin kecil cakupan pasar produk organik (lokal), maka sertifikasi organik semakin tidak dibutuhkan. Alasannya, sistem pemasaran mereka mengandalkan trust dan word of mouth sehingga penjualan produk organik tidak dipengaruhi oleh adanya label tersertifikasi.
Kata kunci
Organik, sertifikasi, trust, word-of mouth
“ANALISIS PENGARUH KUALITAS JASA UNIVERSITAS BUNDA MULIA TERHADAP LOYALITAS MAHASISWA (STUDI KASUS PADA JURUSAN BIDANG EKONOMI DAN KOMPUTER)”
Authors: Widyaningrum Destriana
Published: May 2024

Loyalty is a form of consumer satisfaction for goods / services received. Satisfaction is formed on the quality of a product that is applied in service. This study aims to analyze the factors that affect student loyalty to quality services Bunda Mulia University, the quality of these services affect the survival of a university to be competitive in the long run. This study is the use of causal effect study, data was taken using a Stratified Random Sampling (STRS) with a sample of 350 students. Data analysis tool used is a structural equation modeling (SEM) in AMOS program 16.
SEM analysis results meet the criteria Goodness of Fit Index, which is as follows: the Chi-square = 522.423; Significance probability = 0.000; GFI = 0.867; AGFI = 0.833; CFI = 0.870; TLI = 0.851 dan RMSEA = 0.072. Based on the results of data analysis show that this research model is acceptable and support the research hypothesis, five of the six hypotheses give significant effect and one of hypotheses can’t give effect on loytalty.
Key word :
Loyalty, Service Quality, Satisfaction, SEM
EFEK MEDIASI CUSTOMMER TRUST ATAS PENGARUH WORD OF MOUTH , PERCEIVED QUALITY, BRAND IMAGE TERHADAP PURCHASE INTENTION (Study empiris atas permintaan Personal Computer di wilayah Jakarta, tahun 2015)
Authors: Sitorus Tigor , Hartono Roni
Published: May 2024

Penelitian ini penting dilakukan, ditengah kemajuan teknologi yang pesat, secara terotis dan empiris akan berdampak positif bagi mobilitas dan aksesibilitas produk personal computer sehingga dapat mendongkrak penjualan, namun pada kenyataannya adalah berbeda, dimana konsumen beralih kepada produk lain yang mampu memberikan manfaat “lebih” bagi konsumen seperti Smartphone dan Tablet.
Penelitian Ini Bertujuan Melihat Efek Mediasi Custommer Trust Atas Pengaruh Word Of Mouth , Perceived Quality, Brand Image Terhadap Purchase Intention atas permintaan personal computer di wilayah Jakarta pada tahun 2015.
Metode penelitian yang dilakukan adalah dengan survey pada konsumen, dengan teknik analisis menggunakan Model persamaan struktural (SEM) yang menggunakan software AMOS versi -22.
Hasil penelitian membuktikan bahwa pertama ; Word of Mouth berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Customer Trust, kedua ; Perceived Quality berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Customer Trust, ketiga ; Brand Image berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Customer Trust, keempat; Word of Mouth berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Purchase Intention, kelima ; Perceived Quality berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Purchase Intention, keenam ; Brand Image berpengaruh positif tetapi tidak signifikan terhadap
Jurnal Magister Manajemen Vol.8, No.2 59
Purchase Intention, ketujuh ; Customer Trust berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Purchase Intention. Secara langsung, variabel Brand Image hanya berpengaruh positif namun tidak signifikan terhadap Purchase Intention. Namun Apabila variabel Brand Image dimediasi oleh variabel Customer Trust, maka pengaruhnya terhadap Purchase Intention akan lebih signifikan.
Kata Kunci
Custommer Trust, Word Of Mouth , Brand Image , Perceived Quality, Purchase Intention
Pengaruh Etnosentrisme-konsumen Terhadap Sikap Konsumen Indonesia Pada Produk Organik Lokal
Authors: Novita Novita
Published: May 2024

Seiring dengan semakin meningkatnya permintaan dunia akan produk-produk organik, minat masyarakat Indonesia terhadap produk organik juga semakin meningkat. Namun sayangnya masih banyak masyarakat Indonesia yang belum menyadari bahwa petani dan pengrajin organik lokal juga memiliki kemampuan untuk menghasilkan produk organik berkualitas, baik produk segar maupun produk olahan. Masyarakat Indonesia cenderung memandang sebelah mata terhadap produk organik lokal, padahal produk organik lokal juga tidak kalah kualitasnya dan dapat bersaing di dunia internasional. Dengan mengetahui seberapa besar etnosentrisme-konsumen dari masyarakat Indonesia, dapat dijadikan masukan bagi Pemerintah dan pihak-pihak terkait untuk dapat mengetahui sikap konsumen Indonesia terhadap produk organik lokal. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah konsumen organik yang merupakan warga negara Indonesia dan berdomisili di Indonesia. Penelitian merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan menggunakan teknik analisis regresi. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian terhadap 59 responden, etnosentrisme-konsumen berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap sikap konsumen terhadap produk organik lokal. Berdasarkan hasil tersebut menunjukkan bahwa program-program penguatan rasa nasionalisme perlu dilakukan untuk menumbuhkan etnosentrisme-konsumen di era perdagangan bebas.
Kata kunci : produk organik, etnosentrisme-konsumen, sikap konsumen
Pengaruh Produk Domestik Bruto (PDB) Sektoral, Suku Bunga Bank Indonesia, dan Suku Bunga Internasional (LIBOR) Terhadap Indeks Harga Saham Sektoral
Authors: Riza Fahrul
Published: May 2024

The influence between the GDP growth number and stock price moves is tenuous. But drilling down to the growth rate in various sectors of GDP can provide some useful insights to investors. This study analyzes the relationship between Gross Domestic Product (GDP), domestic and foreign interest rate and stock prices in Indonesia in the context of Pooled Least Square model. Data were collected quarterly from I/2013 to II/2015 from agricultural, mining, manufacturing, financial-insurance and property-construction sector. The study finds that all variables have negative impact on stock price index. The limitation of this study are lack of other variables such as macro economic indicators which influence the fluctuation of stock price index due to the period of observation was too short.
Keywords: GDP, stock price index, interest rate, pooled least square
Migración intratorácica de clavo Kirschner desde clavícula distal: Presentación de caso y manejo
Authors: Méndez-Daza Carlos Hernán , Obando-Guerrero Humberto , Zuluaga-Álvarez Manuela , Ángel-Escobar Isabel Cristina
Published: May 2024

Introducción. Los clavos Kirschner son dispositivos muy utilizados desde su creación para osteosíntesis, especialmente en miembro superior. Entre las complicaciones de su uso, se conoce la migración de estos a diferentes estructuras anatómicas.
Caso clínico. Se presenta un paciente de 76 años con fractura de clavícula distal derecha, que fue llevado a cirugía para osteosíntesis con placa, tornillos y 2 clavos Kirschner. Un mes después inició con dolor intenso en hombro y presentó síntomas respiratorios. En la radiografía se encontró migración de uno de los clavos de Kirschner al pulmón ipsilateral.
Resultado. Esta complicación fue resuelta mediante toracoscopia, sin complicaciones.
Conclusión. La migración de los clavos de Kirschner desde la región del hombro hacia cavidad torácica es una complicación descrita, que debe ser diagnosticada a tiempo. Existe la opción del manejo quirúrgico endoscópico, como en este caso, sin mayor riesgo de complicación.
ABORDAGENS TERAPÊUTICAS PARA O FIBRO EDEMA GILÓIDE: COMPARAÇÃO DE PROCEDIMENTOS EXITOSOS
Authors: Oliveira Machado Camila Izabela de
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A celulite é uma das condições inestéticas que mais incomoda as mulheres, sendo um dos principais motivos para a procura de clínicas e centros estéticos para tratamentos. Os dispositivos baseados em energia não invasiva, juntamente com intervenções minimamente invasivas, podem fornecer resultados mais promissores no tratamento para Fibro Edema Gilóide. Objetivo: Descrever os tratamentos disponíveis com eficácia mensurada por critérios validados e comparar os procedimentos que apresentam resultados satisfatórios em menos tempo de tratamento e menor quantidade de sessões. Método: Revisão narrativa baseada em pesquisas que analisaram tratamentos exitosos com rigor em seus métodos avaliativos. Foram analisados artigos científicos produzidos entre 2016 e 2019 na base Medline via PubMed. Os desenhos de estudos analisados foram ensaios clínicos randomizados e ensaios clínicos de braço único que abordaram até 2 procedimentos invasivos e/ou não invasivos para o tratamento de FEG, com resultados satisfatórios e demonstráveis. Resultados: Evidenciaram majoritariamente redução da gravidade da celulite, redução da espessura dérmica, redução da circunferência regional, melhora do quadro segundo pesquisa de satisfação dos sujeitos e segundo avaliadores cegos. Com base nos dados apresentados pode-se comparar as eficácias apresentadas pelos estudos mediante o número de sessões e tempo de tratamento. Conclusão: Os estudos que utilizaram radiofrequência com agulhas e Subcision associados ao uso de PLLA apresentaram alta eficácia. As pesquisas que empregaram as técnicas de mesoterapia e carboxiterapia versus mesolipólise apresentaram eficácia moderada. E, por fim, apresentaram baixa eficácia os procedimentos que utilizaram ondas acústicas e dispositivo de vibração corporal.
A Novel Surgical Approach (Freya Technique) in Vulvar Labiaplasty: Inspired by the Fibonacci Sequence
Authors: Okuyan Erhan , Kandemir Hülya , Kandemir Selim , Yalcin Necim , Peker Nurullah
Published: May 2024

Background: In this study, we aimed to introduce a new technique of labiaplasty and to evaluate the effect of this novel technique on female genital self-images, and sexual outcomes and to assess the feasibility of this novel technique. Methods: We conducted a single-center, retrospective study in 59 women who underwent labiaplasty and vaginoplasty (29 Freya approach technique, 30 classic technique) from 2020 to 2022. Both groups evaluated before (within 7 days) and after (1 month after) surgery with Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS) questionnaires and all the patients received postoperative care and follow-up assessments for complications 7 days and 1 month after surgery. Results: The Freya approach technique was associated with a shorter operation time (p < 0.05) and significantly lower postoperative Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores (p < 0.001). Both techniques increased FSFI scores (p < 0.001) and total FGSIS scores (p < 0.001). With the exception of a few cases of wound dehiscence that necessitated surgical correction (n = 1), wound healing occurred without complications. The outcomes were deemed highly satisfactory both aesthetically and functionally (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Freya approach technique is a simple and safe technique. It is effective in improving genital appearance and sexual satisfaction. Although this novel approach has similar satisfaction rates with other surgical techniques, it could be useful to reduce surgery time and postoperative pain.
Gene Expression Profiles Infer — The Landscape of Tumor-Infiltrating Immune Cells in Ovarian Cancer and their Clinical Significance
Authors: Ding Caiyun , Wang Li , Ma Qiang , Shen Can , Xi Lu , Ni Guantai , Ding Jin
Published: May 2024

Background: Infiltration of immune cells associated with tumor clinical results affects different cancers. However, the composition and the clinical significance of tumor-infiltrated immune cells in epithelial ovarian cancer has not been completely investigated. Methods: The metagene deconvolution algorithm (Cell type Identification by Estimating Relative Subsets of known RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT)) was used to analyze gene expression profiles in public databases (GEO and TCGA) to infer the composition of 22 immune cell subgroups in ovarian tumors. The proportions obtained in this study were used to investigate the association between each cell type and the clinical outcomes for ovarian cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used for detecting the expression levels of related genes. Results: The profiles of immune cells infiltration were altered in malignant ovarian neoplastic tissue. Ovarian cancer tissues contained higher proportion of T follicular helper cells (Tfh) and macrophages (M0 and M1) rather than the normal ovarian tissue. Meanwhile, lower proportion of monocytes and neutrophils was also observed in ovarian cancer tissues compared with normal tissues. The qRT-PCR test confirmed the conclusion that the contents of CD80 (M1 cells) and CD4+ (Tfh cells) were high in the interstitium of ovarian cancer tissue, while the contents of CD21 (B cells) and CD66b (neutrophil) were low. Interestingly, immune cell infiltration was observed to be correlated with the change in clinical outcome. The activated mast cell subpopulation was associated with poor prognosis, while the subpopulation of resting dendritic cells was correlated with pathological grade of the ovarian cancer. Conclusions: Our bioanalysis revealed that the composition of tumor-infiltrating immune cells was closely related to the clinical outcome of ovarian cancer, which was also validated in clinical samples. These results provide a new strategic basis for the prognosis and treatment of ovarian cancer.
Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals Prognostic Significance of the Macrophage Marker Gene Signature in Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Zhipeng , Chen Hui , Chen Zhongqing , Xie Lihe , Pan Dun
Published: May 2024

Background: Gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) is a malignant tumor with the highest incidence in the digestive system. Macrophages have been proven to play important roles in tumor microenvironment. Methods: Herein, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and bulk RNA-seq data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were utilized to construct a macrophage marker gene signature (MMGS) to predict the prognosis of GAC patients. Subsequently, a risk score model based on the MMGS was built to predict the prognosis of GAC patients; further, this was validated in the GEO cohort. The risk score categorized patients into the high- and low-risk groups. A nomogram model based on the risk score and clinic-pathological characteristics was developed. Results: Seven genes, ABCA1, CTHRC1, GADD45B, NPC2, PLTP, PRSS23, and RNASE1, were included in the risk score model. Patients with a low-risk score showed a better prognosis. The MMGS had good sensitivity and specificity for predicting the prognosis inGAC patients. The risk score was an independent prognostic factor. The constructed nomogram exhibited favorable predictability and reliability for predicting GAC prognosis. Conclusion: In conclusion, the risk score model based on the seven MMGSs performed well in the predicting prognosis of GAC patients. Our study may provide new insights into clinical decision-making for the personalized treatment of patients with gastric cancer (GC).
TRPV1 in Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Gou Qingqing , Song Zhi , Gong Yu , Li Jiawen
Published: May 2024

Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ophthalmic ailment with intricate pathogenesis and that occurs primarily due to various factors which affect the ocular surface. DED is characterized by the disruption of tear film homeostasis, inflammatory reaction, and neuroparesthesia. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a versatile receptor that can be stimulated by heat, acid, capsaicin (CAP), hyperosmolarity, and numerous inflammatory agents. There is accumulating evidence that implicates TRPV1 in the initiation and progression of DED through its detection of hypertonic conditions and modulation of inflammatory pathways. In this article, we present a comprehensive review of the expression and function of the TRPV1 channel in tissues and cells associated with DED. In addition, we outline the potential mechanisms that implicate TRPV1 in the pathophysiology of DED. The aim of this review is to establish a theoretical basis for TRPV1 as a possible therapeutic target in DED, thereby encouraging further investigations into its role in DED.
Demographical and Clinical Factors Predictive for Aortic Dilatation. When should we be Concerned about the Size?
Authors: Urbanowicz Tomasz , Rajewska-Tabor Justyna , Olasińska-Wiśniewska Anna , Filipiak Krzysztof J. , Michalak Michał , Rzesoś Patrycja , Szot Mateusz , Krasińska-Płachta Aleksandra , Krasińska Beata , Pyda Małgorzata , Tykarski Andrzej , Jemielity Marek , Krasiński Zbigniew
Published: May 2024

Background: Thoracic aortic aneurysms are often an accidental finding and result from a degenerative process. Medical therapy includes pharmacological control of arterial hypertension and smoking cessation, that slows the growth of aneurysms. An association between the dilatation of the ascending and abdominal aorta has been already reported. The aim of the study was to identify possible demographic and clinical factors that may implicate further imaging diagnostics in patients with ascending aorta dilatation. Methods: There were 181 (93 (53%) males and 88 (47%) females) patients with a median age of 54 (41–62) years who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance due to non-vascular diseases, were enrolled into retrospective analysis. Results: Multivariable analysis revealed ascending aorta dilatation (odds ratios (OR) = 7.45, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.98–28.0, p = 0.003) and co-existence of coronary artery disease (OR = 8.68, 95% CI: 2.15–35.1, p = 0.002) as significant predictors for thoracic descending aorta dilatation. In patients with abdominal aorta dilatation, the multivariable analysis showed a predictive value of ascending aortic dilatation (OR = 14.8, 95% CI: 2.36–92.8, p = 0.004) and age (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.00–1.08, p = 0.027). In addition, cut-off values were established for age groups determining the risk of thoracic aorta dilatation over 49 years and abdominal aorta dilatation over 54 years. Conclusions: The results of our analysis showed predictive factors, including ascending aorta dilatation and co-existence of coronary artery disease, particularly over 49 years of age for thoracic, while ascending aorta dilatation and age, particularly over 54 years, for abdominal aorta dilatation. These features may be considered to increase clinical vigilance in patients with aortic diameter abnormalities.
Dynamic LVEF Decline and Serum NT-proBNP and Uric Acid Levels before Heart Transplantation are Independent Predictors of Adverse Outcomes in Young Adult Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Li Jian , Mi Shouling , Wang Meng , Li Mengwan , Guo Qilong , Yang Fan , Ge Junhua
Published: May 2024

Background: The present study investigated the predictors of adverse outcomes in young adult patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) who underwent heart transplantation (HTx). Methods: Twenty-four young adult patients (aged 18–45 years) with DCM who underwent HTx in our hospital from January 2012 to December 2022 were included in this retrospective analysis. Pre- and post-HTx data were collected for echocardiography, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and uric acid (UA). Data collected at the time of DCM diagnosis were designated as baseline data. Post-HTx assessments were conducted at 1 week and 3, 6, 12, and 36 months post-HTx. The primary endpoint was defined as any adverse event, including left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50% (n = 3), 50% increase in right or left ventricular diameter (n = 12), or death (n = 2). Patients were categorized into a non-adverse-event group (n = 12) or an adverse-event group (n = 12). Results: Baseline NT-proBNP (p = 0.014) and UA (p = 0.012) were significantly higher in the adverse-event group than in the non-adverse-event group. Baseline NT-proBNP >7390 pg/mL (relative risk (RR) = 7.412, p = 0.046), UA >542 µmol/L (RR = 8.838, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.541–50.694, p = 0.014), and sustained reduction in LVEF (≥3%) over a 2-year pharmacological treatment prior to HTx (RR = 3.252, p = 0.046) were significantly associated with an increased risk of adverse events post-HTx. Conclusions: In young adult DCM patients post-HTx, heightened baseline levels of NT-proBNP and UA levels and a sustained reduction in LVEF over time prior to undergoing an HTx are significantly associated with an increased risk of adverse events post-HTx. Future studies are needed to observe whether individualized monitoring strategies could reduce the incidence of adverse events following HTx in these patients.
Central (Aortic) Cannulation versus Peripheral (Axillary or Femoral) Cannulation in Acute Type A Aortic Dissections: A Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies
Authors: Ma Jiawang , Wang Hong , Wang Xiaomeng , Hou Xiaotong
Published: May 2024

Background: There has been an increased interest in using antegrade cannulation techniques during surgery for type A aortic dissection. While the utilization of central artery cannulation has been on the rise in recent times, its effectiveness and safety still require thorough examination. This study aimed to explore both the efficiency and safety of central arterial cannulation. Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted on studies that evaluated surgical outcomes when using central artery cannulation (CAC) in comparison to axillary artery cannulation (AXC) or femoral artery cannulation (FAC). Results: 10 retrospective observational studies were included, enrolling 3022 patients (CAC = 1208 vs. FAC = 606; CAC = 1051 vs. AXC = 1119). Among these, 4 articles involved axillary artery cannulation, femoral artery cannulation, and central artery cannulation. Central cannulation was linked to decreased short-term mortality [odds ratio, 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.48, 0.89), χ2 = 3.27, p = 0.007; I2 = 0; p = 0.86] compared to femoral cannulation. Additionally, central cannulation was associated with a lower occurrence of temporary neurological dysfunction (TND) [odds ratio, 0.57, 95% CI (0.38, 0.85), χ2 = 0.88, p = 0.006; I2 = 0%, p = 0.83] when compared with femoral cannulation. However, there was no statistical significance in mortality and TND between the central cannulation and axillary cannulation groups. Conclusions: This meta-analysis reveals that central cannulation surpasses femoral cannulation in lowering short-term mortality and the occurrence of TND among patients undergoing surgery for type A acute aortic dissection. However, central cannulation does not exhibit a higher mortality and TND compared to axillary cannulation.
The Jordanian Role of Consumer Protection Association in Defending Consumer Rights in Business: A Comparative Study
Authors: Alsharu Ahmad Ibrahim , Talafheh Enad Ahmed
Published: May 2024

The National Society for Consumer Protection in Jordan is a non-governmental organization seeking to educate the public on consumer problems. The objective of this paper was to elucidate the role of this association and the challenges it faces in the absence of courts for consumers and the failure to activate the role of the Consumer Protection Association in defending consumers. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of this association and the challenges it faces in the absence of defending the rights of consumers and pleading before the courts on their behalf. This research has been achieved by adopting numerous study techniques and methodologies. In this study, numerous methods are employed; the online questionnaire method (survey online), and doctrinal method. the researcher has also conducted online questionnaire. The purpose was to get responses from laymen in Jordan about the consumers’ awareness of consumers pertaining to Consumers Association in Jordan. The aim of this method was to support and achieve the objectives of this study and to get feedback from consumer in Jordan particularly on the issues regarding to the role of Consumers Association in Jordan. The main objective of this paper is to given the Consumer Protection Association in Jordan the legal stand in defending the rights of consumers, as it was found through the result that the Jordanian legislator did not give the association the legal authority to defend consumers. Thus, this study also gives suggestions to the private agency such as legal committee of Consumers Association to strengthen its power legally and formally in Jordan.
Reasoning AI (RAI), Large Language Models (LLMs) and Cognition
Authors: Senkevich Victor V.
Published: May 2024

Do Large Language Models have cognitive abilities? Do Large Language Models have understanding? Is the correct recognition of verbal contexts or visual objects, based on pre-learning on a large training dataset, a manifestation of the ability to solve cognitive tasks? Or is any LLM just a statistical approximator that compiles averaged texts from its huge dataset close to the specified prompts?The answers to these questions require rigorous formal definitions of the cognitive concepts of ”knowledge”, ”understanding” and related terms.
An Analysis of English for Young Learner Teachers’ Classroom Management
Authors: Roslina Roslina
Published: May 2024

This current study was a case study that aimed to analyze EYL teachers' classroom management performance at Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. Likewise, this study also explored the root problem behind its' limitation. As part of the methodology, five teachers were involved in the observation. All the instrument components were validated throughout the SPSS Program analysis. After the instrument was validated, the classroom interaction process was observed and recorded three times. In addition, the interview session was also gained to ensure the observation result. All the data were analyzed descriptively. The data analysis showed that the EYL teachers in Kolaka Regency had attempted effective planning, teaching technique, and student/teacher relationship simultaneously but not comprehensively. The study also found that the EYL teachers at Kolaka Regency knew the meaning of pedagogic competence as the upstream of classroom management and the effort to implement it. However, they may not be optimal due to their teaching qualities ability. Therefore, the study recommended that there must be much appreciation for EYL teachers. The study also suggested accomplishing a similar study in a larger context to support the EYL teacher's welfare policy.
Using Large Language Models in Real Estate Transactions: A Few-shot Learning Approach
Authors: Yang Shiqi , Zhao Yu , Gao Haoxiang
Published: May 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have demonstrated significant potential in transforming real estate transactions through advanced natural language processing capabilities. This paper proposes a method leveraging LLMs to extract information from real estate contracts and facilitate interactive querying by users. By emphasizing the use of few-shot learning, LLMs can effectively analyze contract documents and respond to specific questions from users regarding contract details. This paper explores the development of this method, its implementation in real estate workflows, and evaluates its effectiveness in improving efficiency and accuracy within the industry.
A FEASIBILITY OF SAGORI ISLAND AS AN ENGLISH CAMP
Authors: Roslina Roslina
Published: May 2024

This research aims to avoid a stagnant situation in terms of developing Sagori Island as an English Camp-based tourism village which is stand as a grand plan of the corporation between Universities Sembilanbelas November Kolaka and Kabupaten Bombana. To achieve the research objectives, this research was done under mix research method by using three different analysis techniques. First, Guidelines Analysis of Operational Area of Natural Tourism Object and Attraction of Directorate General of Forest Preservation and Natural Conservation 2003 was using for analyzing the potency of the Sagori Island. Second, SWOT analysis technique was using for determining the external and internal factors of Sagori Island. Third, participatory rural appraisal technique was using for analyzing the readiness of the Sugar’s resident. The result of the research showed that Sagori Island is feasible developed into the tourism village based English Camp by applied aggressive strategy and prioritize the participation of residents.
A computational model of general suicide ideation
Authors: Li Lingyu , Li Chunbo
Published: May 2024

Suicidal ideation represents one of the most complex mental phenomena and poorly understood. This paper explores the psychic mechanisms of suicide ideation through a novel approach that combines computational methods with Lacanian psychoanalysis, specifically utilizing free energy principle (FEP). We begin by outlining foundational concepts of FEP and computational Lacanian psychoanalysis. Subsequently, we review contemporary theories of suicide thought including Interpersonal theory, Escape theory, and Lacanian and other psychoanalytic perspectives. We identify four components of suicidal ideation: symbolic suicide, imaginary suicide, desire for death, and passage of the act. A recurrent generative model is proposed that simulates suicidal impulses based on internal states and external events. We discuss enhancing the practical applicability and validating this theoretical model using real-world data like Social Readjustment Rating Scale and Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5). The predictive capability of our model is evaluating using an open-source dataset of PID-5 and Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale, achieving an AUC of 0.76, despite the absence of life event data. The model demonstrates the potential of generative psychometrics as a paradigm for integrating psychometric measurement with generative modeling of psychological phenomena. Further work should validate the model by incorporating external factors to refine its explanatory and predictive power. With continued development, this generative psychometric approach could provide new tools for better assessing, understanding, and treating suicidal ideation.
The developmental origins of coalitional motives: Gendered preferences for group formidability manifest among preschoolers and undergird political ideology among adults
Authors: Fonn Erik Kjos , Zahl Joakim Haugane , Kristensen Bjørn Dahl , Thomsen Lotte
Published: May 2024

Empirical research confirms that, across cultures, adult males hold greater motives for group dominance than females, and that these motives are in turn associated with intergroup hostility and willingness to participate in violent intergroup conflict. However, it remains unknown how and when these gendered coalitional motives emerge during development. Here we test whether infants (N = 180) and young children (N = 317) themselves prefer being part of a larger, more formidable coalition, and if any such coalitional motives are greater among male children, as is the case among adults. We show that beginning in early childhood, preschool boys, but not girls, prefer an agent belonging to a larger over a smaller group of novel agents. Employing similar minimal group depictions, majority-group adults (N = 1991) who preferred more formidable groups, were more likely to endorse pro-hierarchy attitudes and ideology. This suggests that gendered individual differences in basic group formidability motives undergird adult political ideology and have roots in early childhood when children start navigating peer relationships.
No evidence that selection is resource-demanding in conflict and bilingual language production tasks: Implications for theories of adaptive control and language-control associations.
Authors: Spinelli Giacomo , Sulpizio Simone
Published: May 2024

Theories of adaptive (and cognitive) control assume that selecting target information in the context of highly salient distractors depends on limited-capacity resources. Building on this assumption, theories of language-control associations propose that the opportunities afforded by bilingualism to engage such effortful selection, such as when speaking in a nondominant language, might improve domain-general adaptive control. The assumption that domain-general or language-specific selection is resource-demanding, however, has surprisingly little empirical support. Here, we tested that assumption by having unbalanced Italian-English bilinguals perform both an L1 Stroop task and an L2 picture-naming task simultaneously with an n-back task. Both tasks showed costs due to the load produced by the n-back task and distractor interference, with slower responses to incongruent (the word GREEN in the color red) and congruent stimuli (RED in red) than neutral ones (XXX in red) in the L1 Stroop task and to noncognate than cognate pictures (pictures with different/similar L1 and L2 names) in the L2 picture-naming task. However, neither task showed larger distractor interference with greater load, with Bayesian analyses favoring the absence of such interactions. These results suggest that domain-general and language-specific selection may occur reactively, i.e., only when the need arises, with no strong reliance on limited-capacity resources. Further, they invite a rethinking of both adaptive-control theories assuming resource-demanding selection and theories of language-control associations assuming that regularly engaging such selection would be conducive to domain-general benefits.