bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Black consumers perceptions towards luxury brands in South Africa
Authors: Makhitha K Mercy
Published: June 2021

The paper determines the black consumers’ perceptions towards luxury brands in South Africa. The purchase of luxury brands has been on the rise locally and internationally. Global brands have been investing in SA by expanding to the region. The demand for luxury brands has also increased over the past decades. In SA, the middle-class group has also increased, particularly the black middle class which increased the market for luxury brands. To achieve the objectives of the study, a survey was conducted among black consumers in Thohoyandou, Venda, South Africa. Data were collected by two fieldworkers who intercepted shoppers visiting a regional mall in the area. Data were analyzed using SPSS 25. The descriptives, factor analysis, and ANOVA were analyzed to achieve the objectives of the study.  The findings of the study reveal that black consumers are more influenced by the rarity and uniqueness of the brands followed by the financial and functional values of the brands. Black consumers’ perceptions towards luxury brands were found to differ across age and income groups but did not differ across gender and education levels. Organizations targeting black consumers must design brands that are rare and unique and ensure that brands deliver the financial and functional values desired by black consumers
Characteristics of dispute resolution in wetland environment: Integration between environmental, cultural and community empowerment aspects
Authors: Zulaeha Mulyani , Suprapto Suprapto , Nurulita Linda , Falmelia Rizka Annisa
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this research is to study and analyze the characteristics of dispute resolution in a wetland environment through the integration of environmental aspects, culture and empowerment of rural communities. A life that is safe, orderly and peaceful, is the life of human society so that every dispute needs to be resolved. In fact, the principle of justice is simple, fast and low cost for most people. This research method uses a socio-juridical (socio-legal) approach using an interdisciplinary or "hybrid" approach between aspects of normative legal research with a sociological approach using qualitative analysis. The results show that through the settlement of disputes based on deliberation to reach consensus (badamai) based on local wisdom that grows and develops in communities in wetland areas, it is hoped that it will be able to expand access to justice in rural communities and reduce the burden of cases on formal channels. This requires a forum as an institution that facilitates the settlement of disputes outside the court at the village level.
Determinants of the uptake of green practices in lodges and tented camps within Masaai Mara game reserve in Narok County Kenya
Authors: Kirogo Lucy Wangare , Bichage Gesage , Irene Irungu
Published: June 2021

The general objective of the study was to establish the determinants of the uptake of green practices in lodges and tented camps within Maasai Mara Game Reserve in Narok County Kenya. The specific objectives were: to determine whether environmental awareness and organizational commitment influence the uptake of the green practices in lodges and tented camps. This study was anchored on the Institutional Theory of the Firm. The study adopted a descriptive design.The target population was 371 respondents whocomprised of Managers, Housekeepers, and Chefs. A stratified random sampling technique was used to draw the study sample of 196 respondents. The sample size of the study was calculated using Fishers Exact Test 1991 formula. The study used a questionnaire as the main research tool. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Correlation analysis was used to explain the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the determinants of the uptake of green practices in lodges and tented camps. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis and the subsequent drawing of conclusions. The study found that environmental awareness had a significant positive relationship with green practices in lodges and tented camps within Maasai Mara Game Reserve; organizational commitment had a significant positive relationship with green practices in lodges and tented camps within Maasai Mara Game Reserve. The study concludes that an increase in environmental awareness and organizational commitment will result in increased uptake of the green practices in lodges and tented camps
Effect of good corporate governance and corporate social responsibility on firm value moderate by profitability
Authors: Rahmawati Apriana , Roekhudin Roekhudin , Prastiwi Arum
Published: June 2021

This research aims to investigate the effect of the role of good corporate governance and corporate social responsibility on firm value with profitability as a moderator variable. The object of this research is manufacturing companies listed in index SRIKEHATI period 2017 until 2019, while the subject is 10 companies. All variables from the research data were gathered through secondary data exactly from Indonesia Stock Exchange and the company’s website. Statistical Analysis of the research data used moderate regression analysis with significance in accordance with the output of SPSS 20. Findings indicated that managerial ownership has a positive significant effect on firm value, institutional ownership has a positive significant effect on firm value, board commissioners have a positive significant effect on firm value, and corporate social responsibility has a negative insignificant effect on firm value. Variable profitability moderates managerial ownership, institutional ownership, and corporate social responsibility on firm value but can’t moderate the board of commissioners on firm value.
Examining the cash flow statement relevance for measuring the business performance in Nigeria
Authors: Idehen Amadin Victor , Akhator Karen
Published: June 2021

The study examined the relevance of the statement of cash flow in the measurement of Business performance. The methodology used is a review of relevant and extant literature, First Bank share prices from 2012 -2021 after which a conclusion was made. Statement of cash flow has been a subject of debate among scholars due to some limitations in the preparation of cash flow statements. It was revealed that First Bank share prices that rose from all-time low in 2015 and 2016 to a sudden upsurge in 2018 is a reflection that the share prices did not reflect the intrinsic value of the firm. The information in the financial statement was not adequate to guide the various stakeholders. Failure of First Bank to disclose Central Bank of Nigeria forbearances, amount to material misrepresentation and led to a bubble of the share prices. The quick pick-up of the share prices after the sacked of FBN management is evidence of some investors ' belief in the bubble share prices.
The influence of compensation and job stress on turnover intention through mediation of job satisfaction
Authors: Ramlah Sri , Sudiro Achmad , Juwita Himmiyatul Amanah Jiwa
Published: June 2021

This study aims to analyze the role of compensation and job stress on turnover intention through job satisfaction as a mediating variable. The population of this study was 106 employees who have worked for more than one year. It uses a saturation sampling method to collect the data. Hypothesis testing used in this research is path analysis. The expected result from this research is an analysis of the influence of compensation and job stress on turnover intention through job satisfaction as a mediating variable. The results of this study indicate that compensation has a negative and significant effect on turnover intention. Meanwhile, job stress is proven to have a positive and significant effect on turnover intention. This study also shows that job satisfaction is able to provide a significant mediating role.
Strategic resource allocation and performance of Kisumu Water and Sewerage Company, Kenya
Authors: Owako Emanuel , Nyangara Charles
Published: June 2021

Kisumu Water and Sewerage Company has consistently struggled to achieve its envisioned accepted performance range of 80-90% set by the Water Sector Regulatory Board standards, for instance, the company performance was estimated at 76% against business plan target of 80% despite having unlimited access to government subsidies, donor grants, commercial loans and enabling policy environment based on performance review of Kenya’s water services sector 2017/2018. This study sought to establish the influence of strategic resource allocation on performance of KIWASCO. The study adopted a correlation research design with a sample size of 68 respondents selected through Stratified random sampling and data collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistics of correlation and regression were used. The study established a significant influence of resource allocation (p<0.001) on organizational performance at 5% level of significance. It was concluded that for desired performance of KIWASCO to be realized, effective resource allocation should be done to increase investments in infrastructural expansion and rehabilitation, wastage reduction, improved service quality, maximized consumer services and improved cash flow. The study recommends that the WASH sector reforms should prioritize resource allocation for implementation of strategies. Future research should explore the moderating role of strategic leadership in similar companies and trends across business periods within similar regulatory context.
Auditors’ professional skepticism and fraud detection
Authors: Agustina Fauzia , Nurkholis Nurkholis , Rusydi Mohamad
Published: June 2021

This study aims to examine the effect of competence, independence, experience, and audit time pressure on fraud detection by using the mediation of professional skepticism in the context of internal auditors for the public sector. The research data were obtained through a survey questionnaire on 173 auditors of the Inspectorate General of the Ministry of Education and Culture. The analysis technique in this study used Partial Least Square (PLS). The results showed that competence, independence and audit time pressure had no effect on the ability to detect fraud. Meanwhile, the auditor's experience and professional skepticism had a positive effect on fraud detection. The application of professional skepticism was proven as a mediating variable in the effect of competence, independence, experience and audit time pressure on fraud detection. Auditors’ competence, independence, and experience had a positive effect on professional skepticism and audit time pressure had a negative effect on professional skepticism. The results of this study provide an input that the importance of applying professional skepticism could improve fraud detection.
Framework of the internal control under remote management: An empirical study
Authors: Mamand Omed , Alagoz Ali
Published: June 2021

As Covid-19 lockdown forced firms to organize work differently, for example, managing people remotely.  Despite the benefits may a firm obtain in adopting new business tools like remote management, but providing assurance that internal control function in an efficient manner is important for a firm; that is because there is a growing interest in internal control issues. It is very important to determine how the remote working model, which emerged during the Covid 19 pandemic process, has changed the accounting processes of businesses. The aim of this study is to propose an internal control model under factors such as remote management, risk assessment, control activities, information and communication, and observation. The data in the research were obtained from the experts in our sample by using the survey method. Our sample consists of managers, supervisors, and academics. The data obtained were evaluated with the Smart-PLS version 3.2.9 program. Findings highlight a positive relationship between control activities and remote management.
Accounting treatment analysis of agricultural activities in presenting financial statements based on PSAK 69 IN PT IJ
Authors: Muhamada Fathi Maurits , Harnawati Erna , Wijaya Satria Yudhia
Published: June 2021

Agricultural activity is a type of operational activity carried out by an entity to manage biological transformation and harvested biological assets to be sold or converted into agricultural products. In biological transformation, measurement is needed, which shows the value of a biological asset in fair value with the entity's economic benefits. PSAK 69 concerning agriculture has been approved by the Indonesian Financial Accounting Standards Board (DSAK IAI), and its implementation becomes effective as of 1 January 2018. PSAK 69 Agriculture regulates the accounting treatment and disclosures related to agricultural activities. This research was conducted to determine the accounting treatment of agricultural activities and the implementation of PSAK 69 to PT IJ, which is one of the entities whose business activities are engaged in the exploitation of industrial plantations. This study used qualitative research methods with interpretive paradigms and ethnomethodology approaches. Data analysis techniques were used at the time of data collection in observations, interviews with informants, and collecting documents in financial statements supporting data research. Based on the research conducted, the discussion results signify that the accounting treatment of agricultural activities at PT IJ in recognition, measurement, recording, presentation, and disclosure is in accordance with PSAK 69 concerning agriculture.
The strategy for combining online and offline business model for MSMEs
Authors: Kusmiyati Leni , Priyono Anjar
Published: June 2021

Digital transformation has created an information revolution, eliminated boundaries, created a knowledge-based global market, and in MSMEs finding new business models, conducting business transactions and collaborating in all fields to form economic strength. Activities that are completely digital, even transaction activities are carried out digitally because they are faster, more effective and efficient. Therefore, MSMEs can apply a business model strategy that can combine online and offline activities. To increase their capability, MSMEs start with developing strategies to become hybrid businesses and combined online and offline business models. In this case, the authors conducted research on MSMEs that use strategies to combine online and offline business, this study offers guidance for MSMEs on what strategies should be used in achieving a business hybrid so that online and offline business models can be combined. In the formation of a business hybrid, there are five capabilities, namely, assimilative capability, ambidextrous capability, environmental capability, autonomous capability and digital and non-digital competitiveness capability. The ability of assimilative can improve managerial ability in the company, absorb knowledge or resources not only from the external environment, but can come from different business units within a company.
Emission Characteristics of Hazardous Air Pollutants from Medium-Duty Diesel Trucks Based on Driving Cycles
Authors: Jung Sungwoon , Kim Sunmoon , Chung Taekho , Hong Heekyoung , Lee Seunghwan , Lim Jaehyun
Published: June 2021

Studies on the characteristics of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) in the emissions of medium-duty diesel trucks are significantly insufficient compared to that on heavy-duty trucks. This study investigates the characteristics of regulated pollutants and HAPs such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), aldehydes, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and estimates non-methane hydrocarbon (NMHC) speciation in the emissions of medium-duty diesel trucks. Ten medium-duty diesel trucks conforming to Euros 5 and 6 were tested for worldwide harmonized light duty driving test cycle (WLTC), new European driving cycle (NEDC), constant volume sampler (CVS)-75, and National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER)-9 using a chassis dynamometer. CO and NMHC emissions were the highest in the NEDC because of its longer low-speed driving time. NOx emissions were the highest in WLTC owing to the influence of thermal NOx in the high-speed phase. Alkanes dominated non-methane volatile compound (NMVOC) emissions owing to the low reaction of the diesel oxidation catalyst. After-treatment system, driving, and engine conditions influenced the individual components of NMVOC emissions. Formaldehyde emissions were the highest among aldehydes irrespective of driving cycles. By sampling the particle-phase of PAHs, we detected benzo(k)fluoranthene and benzo(a)pyrene and estimated the concentrations of the gas-phase PAHs with models to obtain the total PAH concentrations. The toxic equivalency quantities of benzo(k)fluoranthene and benzo(a)pyrene from NIER-9 (cold) for both Euro 5 and Euro 6 vehicles were more than five times higher than that of NIER (hot) and NEDC. In the case of NMHC speciation, formaldehyde emissions were the highest in all the driving cycles. Formaldehyde and benzene must be controlled in the emissions of medium-duty diesel trucks to reduce their health threats. The results of this study will aid in establishing a national emission inventory system for HAPs of mobile sources in Korea.
On one method of numerical modeling of a two-phase fluid system in a fractured-porous reservoir
Authors: Bobreneva Yulia Olegovna , Rahimly Parvin Ilgar gizi , Podryga Victoria Olegovna , Bazhitova Svetlana Sergeevna , Bakeer Ahmed Elsaid Ezeldin Bakeer Ali , Abu-Nab Ahmed Kamal Ibrahim
Published: June 2021

In this work, the authors propose an algorithm for solving the problem of the process of mass transfer of a two-phase fluid in a fractured-porous reservoir in a one-dimensional formulation. The presence of natural fractures in such reservoirs impedes various types of exploration during field development. Fractured porous reservoirs are characterized by intense exchange fluid flow between fractures and porous blocks. Each system under consideration has its own individual set of filtration-capacity parameters that complicates the problem. To study the mass transfer of a two-phase liquid in a medium with double porosity, a four-block mathematical model with splitting by physical processes is proposed. The model is described by a system of partial differential equations. The method of splitting by physical processes forms two functional blocks: by water saturation and piezoconductivity. For the numerical solution of this system, an absolutely stable implicit finite-difference scheme is made in the spatially one-dimensional case. On the basis of the proposed difference scheme, pressures and saturations in the matrix and fracture system are calculated.
Journal ratings in the RSCI as tools for analysis and influence
Authors: Polilova Tatyana Alekseevna
Published: June 2021

The article considers the ratings of journals in the analytical system Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI) based on eLibrary in the direction of "Mathematics" according to various bibliometric indicators. The analysis of ratings and statistical data of journals show that the introduction of the Herfindahl index into the formula of the integral rating of the RSCI (Science Index) in order to "demonopolize" the field of citing journals does not increase the adequacy of the rating and does not exclude ethical violations. In fact, in the ratings in the field of "Mathematics", the Herfindahl index introduces preferences for multidisciplinary journals and worsens the performance of classical mathematical journals. However, now, even without taking into account the Herfindahl index, the multidisciplinary focus of the journal provides an undeservedly high position in the rating due to citations from articles that do not belong to the category "Mathematics".
The Effects of Fluid Viscosity and Density on Proppant Transport in Complex Slot Systems
Authors: Bahri Ashtiwi , Miskimins Jennifer
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we discuss proppant transport behavior in a complex slot system. Specifically for this study, focus is placed on two different fluid systems, a water/glycerin solution and a water/sodium chloride solution, which represent varying fluid densities and viscosities. The effects of changing fluid viscosities, fluid densities, proppant densities, proppant sizes, proppant concentrations, and slurry injection rates on proppant transport were then experimentally investigated.

The slot system consists of a 4-ft long, 0.2-in. primary slot with three secondary slots and two tertiary slots, all at 90° angles to each other. The fluid systems represented brine fluids up to 9.24 ppg and viscous fluids up to 4.3 cp. Although glycerin was used for viscosification, the results can be compared to fluid systems with similar viscosities that are created using other additives such as friction reducers. The proppants used in the study consisted of two sands of 100 and 40/70 mesh (specific gravity of 2.65) and two 40/70 ceramic proppants with specific gravities of 2.08 and 2.71.

The study results show that a water/glycerin solution, with a viscosity of 4.3 cp, has significant proppant-carrying capacity with proppants delivered uniformly to greater distances. In addition, sieve analysis conducted on each of the various slots indicated that for all tested proppants that the water/glycerin systems were more capable of carrying larger particles to farther distances. Conversely, the results show that a water/sodium chloride solution of 9.24 ppg density has less capability to carry the proppant farther into the slots. From a comparison standpoint, in all tested cases, viscosity increases had a greater impact on the overall proppant transport than fluid density.

In addition, results of the study showed that both increasing proppant concentrations and injection rates have a positive impact on proppant transport, with more proppant being transported farther into the slot system in both cases. The higher the proppant concentration, the sooner the equilibrium dune height (EDH; height when transport starts to occur after dune building) was achieved, the more efficient transport became. Increasing the injection rate led to improving proppant transport by increasing the drag and lift forces on the proppant, which lead to decreased proppant settling velocities and transport farther into the slots.
A Gas Separation Model for a Downhole Gravitational Separator
Authors: Miranda-Lugo P. J. , Ortiz-Vidal L. Enrique , Rodriguez O. M. H.
Published: June 2021

Pumping systems reduce their efficiency and lifetime when working with free gas at the pump inlet. Downhole gas separators are usually installed upstream of the pump in oil production wells to avoid free gas, but they cannot handle high void fraction. Studies on the so-called inverted-shroud gravitational separator indicate that it is possible to achieve gas separation efficiencies (GSEs) higher than 97%, even in the presence of very high void fraction. Gas separation inside this kind of separator works in two stages. The most critical stage is related to gas entrainment caused by a plunging free-surface flow in an annular channel formed by the production tubing and the separator itself, where strong kinetic energy dissipation takes place. Studies regarding this phenomenon in inverted-shroud separators are scanty. In this study, we present a semianalytical model supported by an empirical turbulent energy-dissipation correlation. The proposed correlation is based on dimensional analysis. New experimental data of the statistical distributions of bubble diameters during the gas entrainment process are presented. We measured bubbles diameters using a high-speed video camera and an edge detection algorithm. Data of both bubble diameters and GSE were used to adjust and validate the proposed model. The model establishes a transition boundary that separates a region of total gas separation (TGS) from a region of partial gas separation (PGS). In other words, it provides the operating envelope of the separator. The results can be used as a starting point for the design of inverted-shroud separators for field applications.
Expanding catchment-scale hydrologic restoration in suburban watersheds via stream mitigation crediting—A Northern Kentucky (USA) case study
Authors: Hawley Robert J
Published: June 2021

The need for hydrologic restoration is well established in stream ecosystems across the world; however, available funding for catchment-scale restoration typically falls far short of what is required to produce in-stream results. Hydrologic restoration can be particularly important for improving stream integrity in urban watersheds, but implementation can be challenging due to high property values and limited space for retroactive stormwater control measures. This Northern Kentucky (USA) case study summarizes how stormwater mitigation interventions could be, and have already been, used to credit stream mitigation projects via conventional US Army Corps of Engineers crediting protocols. Hydrologic restoration can generate stream mitigation credits by directly improving the flow class and/or by indirectly improving the habitat quality. For example, a stormwater intervention could create a shift from an ephemeral to intermittent flow class, while at the same time facilitating greater substrate stability, lower embeddedness, and other geomorphic improvements, that subsequently improve the categorical habitat rating. The ecological lift of such hydrologic interventions could be further expanded via concurrent in-stream mitigation measures such as re-establishing a jurisdictional stream in place of a drainage ditch or installing habitat structures such as toe wood and log steps, among other activities. Such process-based hydrologic restoration is consistent with the goals of the Clean Water Act and has the potential to be more beneficial to greater portions of stream networks and greater numbers of stakeholders than conventional habitat restoration alone.
Transformation of Rural Landscape Patterns in Southwest China's Mountain: A Case Study Based on the Three Gorges Reservoir Area
Authors: Li Mingzhen , Yuxuan Xie , Li Yangbing
Published: June 2021

Since the 21st century, China's rural areas have experienced far-reaching social and economic transformation. Studying the evolution and transformation of rural land use landscape pattern under this background is of great significance to reveal the evolution of human-land relationship in China’s mountains and explore the rural revitalization path. Based on the study of land use change and transition, we put forward the theoretical framework of landscape pattern transition, and establish the rural landscape pattern transformation model of mountain area in southwest China by use of high resolution remote sensing images and field investigation. The results show that: (1) The focus of landscape pattern transformation in the case region is mainly embodied in the reduction of cultivated land, the expansion of orchard and the restoration of woodland. There are obvious differences in landscape pattern transition among different terrain areas in the case region. (2) From 2000 to 2018, the landscape types in the valleys of the study area were gradually diversified, there was a concentration of intensive land use types, and the landscape types in mountainous and hilly area were gradually simplified, and forest land was restored. (3) On the whole, the landscape pattern of the study area has changed from production-oriented landscape pattern to eco-economic landscape pattern and eco-regulatory landscape pattern. The results of case study show that the rural landscape pattern in the mountainous areas of Southwest China has undergone a transformation under the background of land use transformation, which has its own particularity, and verifies the theoretical hypothesis proposed in this paper, so it is necessary to conduct a systematic and in-depth study on this. The theories and methods of this paper are helpful to understand the process of landscape pattern transition in mountainous areas, and provide reference value for the rational use of land resources, ecological management and rural revitalization in similar mountainous areas.
Effect of Prophylactic Vitamin C Administration On The Efficiency of Florfenicol Or Sulfadiazine-Trimethoprim Antimicrobial Therapy In Chickens With Staphylococcal Arthritis
Authors: Nematollahi Fahimeh , Tahoora Shomali , Bahman Abdi-Hachesoo , Azizollah Khodakaram-Tafti
Published: June 2021

Septic arthritis (SA) shows improper response to antibacterial therapy. This study evaluates the effect of prophylactic vitamin C administration on the efficiency of sulfadiazine-trimethoprim (SDT) or florfenicol (FF) in broilers with experimental SA. Broilers (210) were randomly allocated into 7 equal groups: I. Negative control (NC) (normal birds). II. Positive control (PC) that rendered arthritic by injection of multi drug resistant S. aureus in tibiotarsal joint at the age of 35 days. III. Vehicle control (injected with sterile medium). IV. Arthritic FF-treated (20 mg/kg/day). V. Arthritic vitamin C+FF-treated (as above+vitamin C at 15g/100L of D.W. from day 25 of age). VI. Arthritic SDT-treated (35 mg/kg/day). VII. Arthritic vitamin C+SDT-treated. Antibacterials started at day 39 of age and lasted for 5 days. Samplings were performed at the age of 44 and 54 days. A long lasting SA with severe fibrinoheterophilic synovitis and reduced body weights developed in PC broilers as compared to NC group (p<0.05). Oxidative stress was present at sampling 1. Arthritis was not reflected in IL-6 levels in synovial fluid. None of the antibacterials resulted in completely successful treatment. Vitamin C did not appreciably improve lameness and arthritis scores, although it decreased lipid peroxidation and improved weights of FF treated-arthritic birds. For SDT-treated birds, vitamin C only ameliorated histopathological changes. In conclusion, except for improving body weight in FF-treated birds, prophylactic administration of vitamin C is not associated with improvements in clinical outcome of antimicrobial therapy of broilers with SA, although it ameliorates oxidative stress and some histopathological changes.
Contamination Of Perfluorinated Compounds In Sediment of The Cau River, Vietnam
Authors: Tran Hoai , Van Dieu-Anh , Vu Duc Thao , Huynh Trung Hai
Published: June 2021

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are recognized as emerging environmental pollutants because of their high persistence in various environmental matrices and toxic effects on humans and animals. In Vietnam, PFOA and PFOS have been detected in surface water and sediment in recent studies. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the occurrence of PFOS and PFOA in the sediment of the Cau river, Thai Nguyen city to determine the partition coefficient between water and sediment, and to elucidate the environmental factors affecting the sorption of PFOS and PFOA to sediment. The concentration of PFOS and PFOA in surface sediment ranged from 1.19 ng/g to 4.73 ng/g and 0.17 ng/g to 1.78 ng/g, respectively, with the highest concentrations, are recorded in the areas that receiving wastewater from domestic and industrial activities. Depending on the depth, the total concentrations of PFOS and PFOA ranged from 8.41 to 19.25 ng/g and tended to decrease with increasing sediment depth. The concentrations in the surface sediments are lower than the second layer, indicating a downward trend in the use and consumption of these compounds in recent years. The water-sediment distribution coefficient (Kd) is relatively different for PFOS and PFOA, with log Kd values ranged from 1.31–1.86 and 0.08–1.31 for PFOS and PFOA, respectively. This study also confirms that the total organic carbon content is the physiochemical property that significantly affected the adsorption to sediments of PFOS and PFOA. No apparent relation was found between PFOS, PFOA concentration in sediment and clay content nor sediment particle size.
Dosage Suppressor of NNF1(DSN1)Promotes Tumour Progression of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma(OSCC)Through Remaining High Level of Chromosome Instability
Authors: Wang Chenwei , Jiang Lin , Cui Meiling , Rao Jufang , wang wei
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Dosage suppressor of NNF1 (DSN1) is a component of the kinetochore protein complex which is critical for normal chromosome segregation. Researches showed that DSN1 was upregulated in colorectal carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the biofunction and potential mechanism was still unknown. Materials and methods: We searched The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and analyse DSN1 expression pattern in head and neck carcinoma. qRT-PCR and western blot were applied to measure the expression level of DSN1 in OSCC patients and OSCC cell lines. The biological influence of DSN1 was studied using CCK-8, colony formation assay, Transwell migration and invasion assays, the chromosome instability and DNA repair ability were also detected. Results: DSN1 was upregulated in OSCC tissues in both TCGA database and our in-house database. The proliferation, migration and invasion ability decreased in Cal-27 cell line after knocking down of DSN1. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition was activated in DSN1 overexpressed cells. DSN1 confers radio-resistance to OSCC and DSN1 remains high level of chromosome instability and low level of DNA repair. Conclusion: Taken above, our results indicate that the upregulated DSN1 is positively associated with prognosis in OSCC. Our findings indicate that DSN1 promotes OSCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion and radio resistance and remains OSCC with high level of chromosome instability.
Multiple Optical Features In Binary-Transition-Metal Borate Glasses
Authors: Hassan Moukhtar A. , Ashoush M. A. , Ebrahim F. M. , Hady M. M. EL , Ahmad F. , El-Fattah Zakaria M Abd
Published: June 2021

Glasses doped with transition metal (TM) ions exhibit rich optical transitions spanning the entire ultraviolet, visible, and infrared spectral regimes. Here we utilize the melt-quenching techniques to synthesis binary-TM-doped borate glasses of composition xCuO-(75-x)B2O3-24.7Li2O-0.3Cr2O3, with x = 0, 0.2, 1.0 and 2.0 mol %. We identify several optical transitions from Cr3+, Cr6+, and Cu2+ ions, the latter manifests at longer wavelengths and gains higher intensity with Cu additives. Despite Cr concentration being fixed, the Cr6+ peaks are quenched and Cr3+ signals are barely attenuated. This behavior rules out possible phase separation and suggests non-trivial interplay between the two TM ions and ligand, as supported by probing their oxidation states from electron spin resonance. The crystal field and Racah parameters followed an opposite behavior, while the optical band gap is reduced upon doping. These changes are correlated with structural modifications introduced by Cu additives, where we anticipate homogenous and preferential proximity of Cu-Cr ions within the network.
Overexpression of NLRPs as Independent Indicator for Prognosis of Patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Jiayuan , Bangliang Li , Wen Wang , Lucheng Fang , Lin S
Published: June 2021

Background: NOD-like receptor proteins (NLRPs) are an important part of gene regulation and play a vital role in many cancers. Recently, some studies have shown that members of the NLRP family are a crucial component in the progression of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and can be used as the main therapeutic targets. Methods : To explore this hypothesis, bioinformatics analyses using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Oncomine, UALCAN, the Human Protein Atlas, and the cBioPortal database were performed in this study to determine the intracellular roles and functions of NLRPs. String and Cytoscape were also employed to investigate and visualize the proteins in intracellular pathways related to the regulation of HNSCC carcinogenesis. We also explored the miRNAs downstream of NLRPs involved in nasopharyngeal carcinoma using GEO2R, TargetScan, and miRDB.Results: Further analysis revealed that the overexpression of NLRPs was significantly related to the HNSCC stage and the survival of patients. We eventually determined that the NLRPs are regulated by three miRNAs (miR-199a-3p, miR-125a-5p, miR-22).Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the NLRP family can be prognostic biomarkers for HNSCC patients. We also explored the miRNA targets downstream of NLRPs in patients with NPC, laying the foundation for further research
Ischemia-Modified Albumin As a Marker for Acute Aortic Dissection: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: zhou Yang , Chai Xiangping , He Huaping , Peng Wen , Yang Guifang , Ding Ning , Zhang Hongliang , Peng zhenyu , Wu Sijie , Tao Cheng
Published: June 2021

Background: Delayed or misdiagnosed aortic dissection can lead to death and morbidity. Ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) measures the cobalt binding capability and has been associated with mortality in patients with acute aortic dissection (AAD). However, it is unknown whether IMA levels can differentiate AAD in patients with chest pains.Methods: A total of 100 suspected AAD patients were enrolled in this study. A cobalt-binding assay was used to determine the plasma IMA levels. In addition, the IMA levels of patients in different groups were compared based on the final diagnosis. Results: IMA levels were significantly higher in the AAD group than in the AMI, PE, and other groups (63.98 ± 14.38, 52.57 ± 9.54, 49.26 ± 10.99, 37.99 ± 6.59, respectively) within 24 hours after the onset of symptoms. The area under the curve (AUC) based on the IMA level was 0.810 (95% CI, 0.708–0.897), and the best threshold of IMA was 59.35 u/ml (specificity, 85.7% and sensitivity, 66%). The decision and clinical impact curves indicated that the IMA had an excellent standardized net benefit and could be suitable for patient diagnosis.Conclusion: IMA is elevated in AAD patients. The IMA levels have better performance for AAD than D-dimer and could be a potential biomarker with rapid and cost-effective diagnostic tests for early diagnosis of AAD. However, large-sample studies are needed to verify the findings.
In Vivo Antioxidant And Kidney Protective Potential Of Atorvastatin In Rat Cadmium-Induced Toxicity
Authors: Karami Esmaeil , Goodarzi Zahra , Ghanbari Ali , Bandegi Ahmad Reza , Yosefi Sedighe , Dehdashti Alireza
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Environmental and occupational exposure to cadmium chloride is known to cause nephrotoxicity linked with oxidative stress in humans and animals. This study used Atorvastatin to examine its effect on cadmium chloride-induced nephrotoxicity in rat model using biochemical and histological methodologies.Methods: Experiments were performed on 56 adult male Wistar rats (200 ±20 g), randomly assigned to eight groups. Atorvastatin was administered by oral for 15 days at 20 mg/kg/day, started 7 days before cadmium chloride intraperitoneal administration (1, 2, and 3 mg/kg) for eight days. On day 16, blood samples were collected, and kidneys were excised to evaluate the biochemical and histopathological changes.Cadmium chloride significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA), serum creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels. Results: Administration of Atorvastatin (20 mg/kg) significantly improved lipid peroxidation, glutathione and activities of antioxidant enzymes and significantly decreased BUN and Creatinine. Atorvastatin clearly improved the histological changes, demonstrating its protective role against Cadmium chloride-induced kidney injury.Conclusion: Treatment with Atorvastatin significantly improves all biochemical parameters and suggests a protecting role against cadmium chloride-induced oxidative stress and histological changes in rat kidney.
Identification of Immune-Related lncRNA Biomarkers Associated With Prognosis In LUAD
Authors: Guo Zihu , Shao Lijuan , Han Liang , Ma Yaohua , He Fei , Liang Shengnan , Wu Liujing , Li Linzhi , Jiang Li , Li Yueping , Wang Haiqing , Li Furong , Wang Yonghua , Wang Jingbo
Published: June 2021

Background: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in regulation of immune response and could serve as biomarkers for tumors. Methods: WGCNA were used to construct an immune-related gene interaction network and elucidated possible functions of the lncRNAs by gene enrichment analyses. 6 lncRNAs were selected and used to construct an immune-related lncRNAs risk score (ILRS) classifier. Results: Patients with high and low ILRS showed significant differences in microenvironment and immune cell infiltration type. Furthermore, enrichment analyses showed that these lncRNAs regulated immune-related pathways. Finally, four clusters derived from LUAD patients showed a significant correlation with overall survival of patients. Conclusions: This work provide new insights for subsequent development of clinical strategies against the disease.
Comparison of the Effects of Two Different Hollow Nails in the Treatment of the Young Pauwels Type Ⅲ Femoral Neck Fractures
Authors: CHENG WENJING , DING GUOZHENG -
Published: June 2021

Background: At present, there is a higher complication rate after treatment of femoral neck fractures with three parallel hollow nails (PHN) in the young Pauwels type Ⅲ femoral neck fractures.For better effect,F-shape hollow nails(FHN) is used to treat femoral neck fractures.The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical efficacy of FHN and PHN and provide reference for clinical application.Methods: Thirty-eight consecutive patients admitted from January 2017 to January 2020 were selected for the study. According to random number table method, the patients were divided into two groups:group A (FHN) and group B (PHN). The gender, age, BMI, comorbidities, time from injury to operation and other general preoperative demographics were not statistically different (P>0.05). The data of the two groups can be comparable.The occurrence of avascular osteonecrosis of the femoral head (AVN), femoral neck shortening, hollow screw withdrawal was recorded in follow-up.Then, Harris hip score (HHS), pain visual analog score (VAS) of two group were obtained at the last follow-up. Results: The mean follow-up period after surgery was 21.4±10.1 (range, 14–29) months. There were 18 cases(mean age, 47.5±9.6) in group A, 20 cases (mean age, 48.6±10.1) in group B. There was no significant difference between the two groups in AVN, femoral neck shortening (P>0.05), the two groups had statistically significant differences in screw withdrawal (F=4.416, P<0.05). There was no significant difference in HHS and VAS between the two groups at the last follow-up (P>0.05).Conclusion: Three parallel hollow nails (PHN) and F-shape hollow nails (FHN) have similar short-term effects in the young Pauwels type Ⅲ femoral neck fractures, but the nail withdrawal rate of FNH is lower.
Systematic Analysis of HD-ZIP Transcription Factors in Sesame Genome and Gene Expression Profiling of SiHD-ZIP Class I Entailing Drought Stress Responses at Early Seedling Stage
Authors: Mehmood Maryam , Khan Muhammad Jadoon , Khan Muhammad Jawad , Akhtar Nadeem , Mughal Fizza , Shah Syed Tahir Abbas , Hyder Muhammad Zeeshan , Farrakh Sumaira , Sadiq Irfan
Published: June 2021

Sesame is a very ancient oilseed crop. Sesame sensitivity to drought stress at early seedling stage is one of the limiting factors affecting its growth and yield in the world. HD-ZIP transcription factors family is one of the most important families involved in drought stress responses in plants. In this study, total sixty one sesame HD-ZIP (SiHZ) proteins were identified in sesame, based on protein sequence homology with Arabidopsis and protein domain(s) architectures were predicted by Hidden Markov model (HMM). HD-ZIP proteins were then classified into four classes (HD-ZIP Class I-IV) according to the phylogenetic, conserved domain(s) motifs and gene structure analyses in sesame. Based on comparative phylogenetic analysis of sesame with Arabidopsis and maize HD-ZIP protein sequences, HD-ZIP Class I was subdivided into four subgroups α (SiHZ25, SiHZ43, SiHZ9 and SiHZ16), β1 (SiHZ10, SiHZ30, SiHZ32 and SiHZ26), β2 (SiHZ42 and SiHZ45) and (SiHZ17, SiHZ7 and SiHZ35). Twenty-one days old Sesame seedling were exposed to severe drought stress by withholding water for 7 days. Gene expression of 13 members of HD-ZIP Class I was performed in well- watered (control) and water stressed (treatment) seedlings. The results of gene expression analysis showed that, SiHZ7 (6.8 fold) and SiHZ35 (2.6 fold) from subgroup showed significantly high gene expression levels under drought stress in sesame seedlings. Thus, this study provides useful molecular information pinpointing the role SiHD-ZIP Class I in drought stress responses at early seedling stage and to develop sesame novel varieties with improved drought tolerance in sesame.
Health-related Quality of Life Using WHODAS 2.0 and Associated Factors 1 Year After Stroke in Korea: a Multi-center and Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Lee HeyJean , Song Jung-Kook , Moon Jiyoung , Kim Keonyeop , Park Hyeung-Keun , Kang Gil-Won , Shin Jun-Ho , Kang Jongsoo , Kim Byoung-Gwon , Lee Young-Hoon , Jeong Hye Seon , Lee Heeyoung , Lee Won Kyung , Kim Seongheon , Park Young-Kwon
Published: June 2021

Background: The self-perceived level of disability for stroke survivors in community is little known. We aimed to characterize HRQoL 1 year after stroke and to investigate how socio-demographic and stroke-related factors and medical adherence explain the self-perceived level of disability among a Korean stroke population.Methods: This study was a multi-center and cross-sectional study. A total of 426 ischemic stroke survivors at 1 year after onset recruited from 11 university hospitals underwent a one-session assessment including: socioeconomic variables, the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), various neurological sequelae, the modifed Morisky scale (MMS), and the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) 36-items. The relationship between disability and different variables was analyzed using ordinal logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of disability by global WHODAS 2.0 score was 62.6% (41.6% for mild; 16.0% for moderate; 5.0% for severe) in subjects. Prevalence of severe disability was higher in Participation in society (16.8%) and Getting around (11.8%) than in the other domains. Low MMS motivation was the only factor determining the significant association between all six domains of disability after adjustment. Different predictors for specific domains were age, mRS, dysarthria, trouble seeing, cognition problem and MMS-motivation for Understanding and communicating; age, recurrent stroke, mRS, hemiplegia, facial palsy, general weakness and MMS-motivation for Getting around; age, education, mRS, hemiplegia and MMS-motivation for Self-care; age, education, recurrent stroke, hemiplegia, dysarthria and MMS-motivation for Getting along with people; age, education, income, mRS, hemiplegia, dysarthria, MMS-knowledge and MMS-motivation for Life activities; living without spouse, recurrent stroke, mRS, hemiplegia, dysarthria, trouble seeing, cognition problem, general weakness and MMS-motivation for Participation in society.Conclusions: Self-perceived disability by the WHODAS 2.0 had almost double the prevalence compared to hemiplegia, one of the most common neurological sequelae 1 year after stroke. Each domain of disability increased with various associated factors. Interventions promoting medical adherence of motivation seem to help high HRQoL in all domains.