bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Induction of MASH in three-dimensional bioprinted human liver tissue
Authors: Joshi Vaidehi , Carter Dwayne , Chen Alice E. , Murphy Keith , Higgins J. William , Gurel Mediha , Chilin Fuentes Daisy , Rosenthal Sara Brin , Fisch Kathleen M. , Kisseleva Tatiana , Brenner David A.
Published: December 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (MASH), is a major risk factor for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and a leading cause of liver transplantation. MASH is caused by an accumulation of toxic fat molecules in the hepatocyte which leads to inflammation and fibrosis. Inadequate human “MASH in a dish” models have limited our advances in understanding MASH pathogenesis and in drug discovery. This study uses complex multicellular 3D bioprinting, combining hepatocytes with nonparenchymal cells in physiologically relevant cell ratios using biocompatible hydrogels to generate bioinks Bioprinted human liver tissues consisting of the four major cell types, (hepatocytes, liver endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells) are generated from cells purified from normal human livers, using this complex bioprinting platform. These liver tissues are incubated in a cocktail consisting of fatty acids, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and fructose to produce a MASH phenotype in comparison to liver tissues incubated in control media. Furthermore, these bioprinted liver tissues are of sufficient size to undergo histological processing and immunohistchemistry comparable to classic clinical pathological analysis. The MASH liver tissues develop hepatocyte steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis, in response to the MASH induction media. Additionally, the transcriptome of the MASH tissues differed significantly from the healthy tissues and more closely resembled the transcriptome of biopsies of MASH livers from patients Thus, this study has developed a MASH bioprinted liver tissue suitable for studies on pathophysiology and drug discovery.
Evaluating retinal thickness classification in children: A comparison between pediatric and adult optical coherence tomography databases
Authors: Pua Tian Siew , Hairol Mohd Izzuddin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the agreement of children’s retinal thickness classification by color category between Topcon 3D OCT-1’s built-in adult reference data and our new pediatric database and assesses the correlation of retinal thickness with age and spherical equivalent (SE).

Methods

160 eyes of 160 healthy children (74 boys, 86 girls) aged 6–18 years (mean: 11.60 ± 3.28 years) were evaluated in this cross-sectional study. The peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (pRNFL) and macular thickness were determined for the 1st, 5th, 95th, and 99th percentile points. Cohen’s κ value and specific agreement between pediatric data and adult reference database were estimated. The correlation between retinal thickness with age and SE was also determined.

Results

The mean thickness for the total RNFL, average macular, and central macula were 112.05±8.65 μm, 280.24±12.46 μm, and 220.55±17.53 μm, respectively. The overall agreement between the classification of the adult database and pediatric data for pRNFL was ≥90%, with discrepancies in 46 out of 150 eyes (30.67%); for macula, it was above 72%, with discrepancies in 93 out of 153 eyes (60.78%); and for ganglion cell complex and ganglion cell + inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) the agreement was above 84% and 85%, respectively. A significant level of agreement between pediatric data and adult reference data was achieved for temporal RNFL (κ = 0.65), macular perifoveal superior (κ = 0.67), and inferior (κ = 0.63) and inferior GCIPL (κ = 0.67). The correlations between age and retinal thickness were not significant (all p>0.05). Most retinal thickness parameters were positively associated with SE (Pearson’s coefficient, r = 0.26 to 0.49, all p<0.05).

Conclusions

The overall agreement for pRNFL and macular thickness measurements in children with the adult reference database was between 72% and 90%. Children’s retinal thickness was not significantly correlated with age but was positively associated with spherical equivalent.
Usability and psychometric properties of a battery of tools to assess intelligence, executive functioning, and sustained attention in Tanzanian children
Authors: Loss Georg , Cummins Hannah , Gutapaka Nicolaus , Nyandele Jane , Jebiwott Sylvia , Sumari Deborah , Athuman Thabit , Juma Omary , Martin-Herz Susanne P. , Olotu Ally , Hsiang Michelle S. , Fink Günther
Published: December 2024

Background

Measuring neurocognitive functioning in children requires validated, age-appropriate instruments that are adapted to the local cultural and linguistic context. We sought to evaluate the usability and psychometric properties of five tools that assess general intelligence, executive functioning, and sustained attention among Tanzanian children.

Methods

We adapted five age-appropriate neurocognitive assessment batteries from previously published assessment materials to the Tanzanian context. We enrolled children 6 months to 12 years of age residing in the rural ward of Yombo, Pwani Region. Feasibility and acceptability of all instruments was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively, including measurement of refusal rates, ceiling or floor effects, and time requirements. We assessed internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha and convergent validity using standard correlation analysis. Score gradients across age were explored using polynomial regression analysis.

Findings

All five instruments required minimal adaptations to the Tanzanian context. Two-hundred sixty one children aged 6 months to 12 years completed the assessment. Refusal rates were consistently low (5.9% at the highest) and no ceiling or floor effects of measurements were observed. Feedback from assessors and caregivers indicated adequate test durations and generally high acceptability of instruments. All instruments showed good internal consistency with Cronbach alphas at least 0.84 for all tests. We found satisfactory convergent validity; all test scores strongly correlated with age.

Conclusion

The five instruments identified to assess general intelligence, executive functioning, and sustained attention constructs in Tanzanian children seem to work well in this setting.
Unveiling multiscale spatiotemporal dynamics of volatility in high-frequency financial markets
Authors: Ouyang Fangyan , Peng Wenyan , Chen Tingting
Published: December 2024

This study explores the intricate dynamics of volatility within high-frequency financial markets, focusing on 225 of Chinese listed companies from 2016 to 2023. Utilizing 5-minute high-frequency data, we analyze the realized volatility of individual stocks across six distinct time scales: 5-minute, 10-minute, 30-minute, 1-hour, 2-hour, and 4-hour intervals. Our investigation reveals a consistent power law decay in the auto-correlation function of realized volatility across all time scales. After constructing cross-correlation matrices for each time scale, we analyze the eigenvalues, eigenvectors, and probability distribution of Cij based on Random Matrix Theory. Notably, we find stronger correlations between stocks at higher frequencies, with distinct eigenvector patterns associated with large eigenvalues across different time scales. Employing Planar Maximally Filtered Graphs method, we uncover evolving community structures across the six time scales. Finally, we explore reaction speed across multiple time scales following big events and compare industry-specific reactions. Our findings underscore the faster reaction speed at higher frequency scales, shedding light on the multifaceted dynamics of high-frequency financial markets.
Generation of deep learning based virtual non-contrast CT using dual-layer dual-energy CT and its application to planning CT for radiotherapy
Authors: Kim Jungye , Lee Jimin , Kim Bitbyeol , Kim Sangwook , Jin Hyeongmin , Jung Seongmoon
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a novel approach for generating virtual non-contrast planning computed tomography (VNC-pCT) images from contrast-enhanced planning CT (CE-pCT) scans using a deep learning model. Unlike previous studies, which often lacked sufficient data pairs of contrast-enhanced and non-contrast CT images, we trained our model on dual-energy CT (DECT) images, using virtual non-contrast CT (VNC CT) images as outputs instead of true non-contrast CT images. We used a deterministic method to convert CE-pCT images into pseudo DECT images for model application. Model training and evaluation were conducted on 45 patients. The performance of our model, ’VNC-Net’, was evaluated using various metrics, demonstrating high scores for quantitative performance. Moreover, our model accurately replicated target VNC CT images, showing close correspondence in CT numbers. The versatility of our model was further demonstrated by applying it to pseudo VNC DECT generation, followed by conversion to VNC-pCT. CE-pCT images of ten liver cancer patients and ten left-sided breast cancer patients were used. A quantitative comparison with true non-contrast planning CT (TNC-pCT) images validated the accuracy of the generated VNC-pCT images. Furthermore, dose calculations on CE-pCT and VNC-pCT images from patients undergoing volumetric modulated arc therapy for liver and breast cancer treatment showed the clinical relevance of our approach. Despite the model’s overall good performance, limitations remained, particularly in maintaining CT numbers of bone and soft tissue less influenced by contrast agent. Future research should address these challenges to further improve the model’s accuracy and applicability in radiotherapy planning. Overall, our study highlights the potential of deep learning models to improve imaging protocols and accuracy in radiotherapy planning.
Testing the significance of pricing factors of oil and gas companies
Authors: Garcia-Amate Antonio , Molero-González Laura , Sánchez-Granero Miguel Angel , Trinidad-Segovia Juan Evangelista , García-Medina Andres
Published: December 2024

For decades, fossil fuels have accounted for 70% to 80% of global primary energy demand. Far from ending this trend, O&G companies continue to be the main fore-runners in providing secure, versatile and widespread energy to the entire world. The relevance of this sector in the economic-financial landscape and the concern for its stability, makes that the high interest of the scientific community to explore the factors that explain the O&G cross-sectional expected returns remains intact. Through a new approach from the Random Matrix Theory, the aim is to know how many are the factors that explain the market performance of the O&G subsectors (upstream, midstream & downstream), and also if the Brent price can be considered an explanatory factor. We will show that for certain periods, Brent becomes the only factor explaining the movements in the upstream and midstream subsectors, while for most of the time the only factor is the market. Other interesting finding is that no significant factors are found for the downstream subsector, except in certain periods. With a purely statistical approach, we show the factors that explain the cross-sectional expected return of the O&G companies, providing information of special relevance for the decision making of investors, executives and politicians.
Evaluation of the effect of cell freshness on pyrogen detection using a serum-free monocyte-activation test
Authors: Hayashi Katsuhiko , Sano Mizuki , Kanayasu-Toyoda Toshie , Morita Yuji , Yamaguchi Teruhide , Ohya Kenji , Kikuchi Yutaka , Izutsu Ken-ichi , Hara-Kudo Yukiko
Published: December 2024

Pyrogens cause shock symptoms when released into the bloodstream. They are classified into two main categories: endotoxins (lipopolysaccharides [LPS]) and non-endotoxin pyrogens. The monocyte activation test (MAT) is an in vitro assay to detect pyrogens in human monocytes. Cells were incubated in the culture medium, and the cellular response, specifically the production of the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 in the culture supernatant, was analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Technical improvements, such as cell acquisition and culture media selection, will be beneficial for the popularization of MAT. The cell freshness was strictly controlled to achieve high MAT sensitivity. However, it is necessary to investigate the usability of older and stored blood samples in the MAT. This study evaluated the effect of cell freshness on MAT using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from 2- and 5-d-old donated whole blood samples. To mitigate the influence of serum in the culture medium, a serum-free MAT was developed using the LPS-binding protein (LBP) as an enhancer for LPS detection. PBMCs were incubated with a two-fold dilution series of LPS at 0.001–4.096 endotoxin units/mL (EU/mL). Interleukin-6 levels in the culture supernatant were quantified by ELISA in the presence and absence of LBP. In the presence of LBP, the limit of detection (LOD) for LPS was 0.001–0.008 EU/mL. However, in the absence of LBP, the LOD was 0.512 EU/mL. Peripheral PBMCs were 38.6 times more sensitive in the presence of LBP than in its absence. When utilizing the developed serum-free MAT with LBP, 5-d-old PBMCs showed LODs of 0.016–0.064 EU/mL, indicating a 3.1-fold increase in sensitivity compared with 5- to 2-d-old PBMCs. These results suggest that the sensitivity of PBMCs decreased gradually rather than sharply. The study concluded that 2-d-old PBMCs were sufficiently fresh and could be used as serum-free MAT.
Exploring the clinicopathological parameters of HER2 low breast cancers: insights from a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ahuja Sana , Khan Adil Aziz , G Kiruthikasri , Zaheer Sufian
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Breast cancer subtypes are delineated by human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression, pivotal in treatment selection. HER2-positive tumors typically respond to targeted therapies, whereas HER2-negative tumors lack HER2 overexpression. However, a subset exhibits low HER2 expression without amplification, termed HER2 low breast cancer. Despite being distinct, its clinicopathological characteristics and therapeutic implications remain less understood.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on histologically confirmed breast cancer cases from January 2022 to December 2023. Clinicopathological data including age, tumor size, nodal involvement, and hormone receptor status were collected. Immunohistochemistry categorized tumors into luminal, triple-negative, and HER2-enriched subtypes. HER2 expression was re-evaluated, classifying tumors into HER2 low and HER2-negative based on staining intensity and amplification status. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.Results: Seventy female patients with breast cancer were included, exhibiting diverse clinicopathological features. HER2 low tumors (40%) were significantly associated with higher tumor stage (P=0.03), nodal involvement (P=0.01), and positive androgen receptor expression (P=0.01). Subgroup analysis revealed HER2 low hormone receptor-positive cases (78.6%) were associated with higher tumor stage (P=0.01) and nodal involvement (P=0.01), while HER2 low triple-negative cases (21.4%) demonstrated distinct characteristics such as higher histological grade (P=0.02).Conclusion: This study underscores the complexity of HER2 low breast cancer and its implications for clinical management, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment strategies. It provides insights into the clinicopathological parameters of HER2 low breast cancers, highlighting their diverse characteristics and clinical implications.
Loncastuximab Tesirine Shows Encouraging Results for the Treatment High-risk Follicular Lymphoma and Marginal Zone Lymphoma
Authors:   Sunvalley Communication, LLC / ADC Review, Garcia Danielle
Published: December 2024

Updated results from the two studies with loncastuximab tesirine ((Zynlonta® ADC Therapeutics), a CD19-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). were presented during the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition, held December 7 – 10, 2024, in San Diego, CA, and online. Both studies showed encouraging results in the treatment of patients diagnosed with high-risk forms of two blood cancers – follicular lymphoma (FL) and marginal zone lymphoma (MZL).
Exo-Linker: Positional Reconfiguration Driving Significant Advances in ADC Stability and Efficacy
Authors:   Ajinomoto Bio-Pharma Services, San Diego, CA 92121, Watanabe Tomohiro , Fujii Tomohiro ,   Ajinomoto Co., Inc., 1-1, Suzuki-Cho, Kawasaki-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kanagawa 210-8681, Japan., Matsuda Yutaka ,   Ajinomoto Bio-Pharma Services, San Diego, CA 92121
Published: December 2024

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have transformed targeted cancer therapy by combining the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the cytotoxic potency of small-molecule drugs. However, payload instability, hydrophobicity, and premature cleavage limit their efficacy and safety. This study presents Exo-Linker technology as a novel solution to these issues. By repositioning cleavable peptide linkers like Glu-Val-Cit and Glu-Glu-Val-Cit at the exo-position of the p-aminobenzyl carbamate moiety, Exo-Linkers improve stability, hydrophilicity, and resistance to enzymatic degradation.

Key findings highlight the superior pharmacokinetics, tumor-suppressive efficacy, and enzymatic stability of Exo-Linker ADCs in preclinical models, significantly outperforming traditional Val-Cit-based linkers. Integration with the second-generation AJICAP platform broadens therapeutic windows, ensures precise drug-to-antibody ratio control, and minimizes aggregation. Exo-Linkers establish a new standard for ADC development, overcoming critical limitations of traditional linkers while enabling safer and more effective cancer treatments. This innovative approach redefines the therapeutic landscape, enhances patient outcomes, and broadens the scope of ADC applications.
Desigualdades raciais na Pandemia de Covid-19: uma perspectiva comparada entre o Brasil e o Distrito Federal
Authors: Souza Flávio , Farranha Ana Claudia
Published: December 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo identificar a existência de desigualdades raciais no contexto da Pandemia de Covid-19 em uma perspectiva comparada entre o Brasil e o Distrito Federal; para isso, o texto se desdobra em dois capítulos centrais que investigam disparidades raciais em contaminações, mortes, e no processo distribuição de vacinas contra a doença. A partir do tratamento de dados obtidos em plataformas governamentais como DATASUS, SIH-SUS e Info DF, o texto conclui que a população negra foi mais prejudicada no âmbito da pandemia, tanto no Brasil, quanto no Distrito Federal, em fatores-chave como o acesso a meios de prevenção ao vírus, impactos econômicos, acesso à vacinação, índice de infecções e índice de mortalidade.
Parque Industrial: um manifesto feminista
Authors: Moraes Letícia Nunes de
Published: December 2024

Este artigo foi escrito com o objetivo de recolocar Parque Industrial, de Patrícia Galvão, na estante das obras da literatura brasileira produzidos nos anos 1930 como um exemplo de romance proletário, pois foi deixado de lado na época do seu lançamento, em 1933. Entendendo que a história de uma obra não se encerra no seu contexto de produção, observo sua potência como fonte inspiradora para novas criações e linguagens, como no teatro, por exemplo, em que a plataforma de pesquisa Cunhantã, criada pelas atrizes Daiana de Moura e Mariana Rossi, da cidade de Sorocaba (SP), fabulam mundos mais igualitários, a partir da trajetória dramática de Corina, uma das personagens negras do romance.
JS/DH: Books and Computing
Authors: Margolis Michelle
Published: December 2024

This column studies digital projects dealing with the study of the Jewish Book.
Serial Procalcitonin Measurements for Determining Bacterial Infection and Mortality in Cirrhotic Patients With Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai , Apisophonsiri Pisit , Sukonrut Kamonthip , Kuljiratitikal Kraisingh , Kongsakon Ronnakorn , Chainuvati Siwaporn
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION:

The utility of serial procalcitonin (PCT) measurements in cirrhotic patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is not well understood. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of serial PCT measurements for diagnosing bacterial infections and predicting 30-day mortality in this population.

METHODS:

We prospectively studied 120 cirrhotic patients with SIRS, 64.2% of whom had bacterial infections. Serial PCT levels were measured within the first 72 hours of admission.

RESULTS:

Patients with bacterial infections had significantly higher PCT levels at admission, 24 hours, and 72 hours compared with those without infections. PCT values >0.5 ng/mL within 72 hours demonstrated high sensitivity (81.8–87.5%) but moderate specificity (27.9–44.2%) for diagnosing bacterial infections. Serial PCT monitoring, including the 72-hr/baseline ratio and changes in PCT over 72 hours, provided insights into the evolution of bacterial infections and short-term mortality. Patients with a PCT 72-hour/baseline ratio >0.8 had higher 30-day mortality than those with a ratio <0.5 (50.0% vs 25.6%; odds ratio 3.91, 95% CI 1.40–10.97). Patients whose PCT levels decreased by >50% had lower 30-day mortality than those with increasing levels (23.3% vs 46.7%; odds ratio 0.25, 95% CI 0.08–0.74). Patients with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores >15 and bacterial infections who experienced a PCT decrease of <50% had higher 30-day mortality than those with greater reductions (57.7% vs 25.0%, P = 0.021).

DISCUSSION:

Serial PCT measurements within 72 hours of admission are useful for determining bacterial infections and mortality in cirrhotic patients with SIRS. PCT monitoring may optimize antibiotic use and enhance early risk stratification, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Exploring the Landscape of Patient Safety Incident Research in South Korean Healthcare Services: A Scoping Review
Authors: Choe Jeongin , Lee Hana , Woo Kyungmi
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to enhance understanding of patient safety incidents in South Korean medical services through a scoping review. Its objectives were to explore research trends and determine these incidents' types, frequencies, severities, and related factors.Methods: A scoping review was conducted per the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. A literature search was performed across seven databases, including peer-reviewed quantitative research articles in English or Korean, with no date restrictions. We extracted data encompassing study design, objectives, settings, participants, data collection methods, theoretical frameworks, and patient safety incident characteristics such as type, frequency, severity, and related factors. The Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model was applied to categorize factors associated with patient safety incidents.Results: Of 4,530 articles identified, we included 45 studies. The majority (82.2%) were published after 2016, aligning with enforcing the Patient Safety Act. Most studies employed retrospective designs (95.6%), predominantly cross-sectional and case-control approaches. The most frequently examined were falls (66.7%) and medication-related incidents (35.5%). The severity of incidents varied significantly, with near misses ranging from 22.8% to 88.3% and adverse events from 26.1% to 60.2%. Factors associated with incidents were primarily patient-related and care process-related.Conclusion: Research on patient safety incidents in South Korea has increased significantly since the implementation of the Patient Safety Act. Future studies should adopt diverse methodologies to explore a broader range of patient safety incidents and contributing factors, employing standardized approaches to improve comparability across studies. Such efforts will support enhancing patient safety strategies and outcomes.
Establishment of a Standardized Supply System Based on the Usage of Medical Materials
Authors: Kim Seonghwa , Park Eunkyung , Yun Eunbi , Choi Mirim , Oh Saenggeul , Woo Minji , Lee Jun-Haeng , Sim Hyunsoo , Kim Duk-Kyung
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Supply and storage of medical materials are critical components of hospitals. A standardized supply system using time-series forecasting was implemented to provide wards with timely supplies based on actual needs. This approach helped reduce storage issues and minimized related nursing tasks.Methods: The project was conducted in two stages to address different supply cycles and the challenge of forecasting the quantity required for the ward’s needs. In the first stage, supply cycles were standardized to five times per week, and the location and size of the storage cabinets were standardized across all wards. In the second stage, ward storage cabinets were automatically replenished with new cabinets stocked with standardized items based on past usage.Results: The mean weekly transported supply quantity decreased from 6,278 to 5,481 (12.7%). The mean inventory across all wards reduced from 3,471 ± 1609 to 1,741 ± 354 (p<.001), resulting in a 30% reduction in storage space. A retrospective analysis revealed minimal emergency requests (0.1% of total supply) despite not keeping any items in stock.Conclusion: We confirmed the timely supply of the quantity required for ward needs through a ward logistics standardization project. Storage-related issues and inventory management tasks are reduced by the daily exchange of supply or storage cabinets and the accurate estimation of future demand based on past usage.
Comparison of Patient Safety Ethics of Health Professionals: A Qualitative Content Analysis of the Ethical Principles by the Type of Profession
Authors: Kim Min Ji
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the similarities and differences in patient safety ethical principles according to the type of healthcare professional defined by South Korea’s legislation.Methods: This comparative study used a qualitative content analysis of the patient safety ethical principles established by the central associations of each profession. In July 2024, we collected ethical principles, including codes of ethics, guidelines, charters, oaths, and declarations. 17 out of 20 types of healthcare professionals’ ethical principles were analyzed by unitizing, sampling, recording, coding, reducing, abductively inferring, and narrating.Results: Among the 20 types of health professionals, including medical personnel and health and medical services personnel, oriental medicine pharmacists and sanitarians did not have ethical principles. Physicians, nurses, and dentists do not threaten patient safety in common with their own conditions or practices. The ethical principles of healthcare professionals in the same clinical setting are not unified in either form or content.Conclusion: Healthcare professionals require a unified ethical basis to share core ethical values and patient safety cultures. Furthermore, a cross-sectional survey or focus group discussion evaluating knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patient safety ethics may provide more scientific evidence for amending ethical principles.
Global comparative analysis of livestock infectious disease policies in Korea for African swine fever and the need for digital precision livestock farming systems
Authors: Park Jun-Young , Tai Joo Ho
Published: December 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly lethal viral disease affecting domestic pigs and wild boars, with devastating global economic and ecological impacts. Since its initial outbreak in Korea in September 2019, extensive measures, including preventive culling and biosecurity protocols, have been implemented. However, these measures have caused significant socio-economic challenges, including environmental issues and compensation disputes. This study examines the evolution of Act on the Prevention of Contagious Animal Diseases post-ASF outbreak, focusing on changes in culling policies, compensation frameworks, and their alignment with global practices. By analyzing policy modifications and international case studies, the research highlights the effectiveness and limitations of Korea’s ASF management strategies. It also proposes the adoption of digital precision livestock farming systems to enhance early disease detection and reduce culling through advanced technologies like Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and big data. These innovative approaches aim to mitigate ASF’s impacts and provide sustainable solutions for disease prevention and livestock management and production.
Beyond Profit: How to Create Value in Business by Integrating ESG and Sustainability Accounting
Authors: Musviyanti Musviyanti , Syakura Muhammad Abadan , Ramadhani Muhammad Harits Zidni Khatib
Published: December 2024

This study aims to explore the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investment with sustainable accounting practices to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in order to instill important values ​​in sustainable business. This study is a qualitative study using a case study method at PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur (PKT) and its subsidiary, PT Kaltim Industrial Estate (KIE). Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews. The findings of this study reveal that a proactive approach to ESG adoption is a strategic corporate initiative that emphasizes corporate governance compliance with government regulations, ethical business practices, and fraud prevention. In addition, this study explores insights into the decision-making process related to ESG projects through budget considerations for ESG implementation. The results of this study also indicate that there is an important role for management in adopting ESG practices as a company's commitment to long-term environmental management. The implications of this study are for sustainable development, especially in the fertilizer industry, through the role of an integrated ESG strategy that will ultimately increase corporate profitability, preserve the environment and support the improvement of community welfare. This research contributes to the practical development of sustainability accounting on how industries can integrate sustainable business with environmental responsibility through ESG initiatives to achieve the SDGs.
FAİZ DIŞINDAKİ GELİR KAYNAKLARININ BANKA PERFORMANSINA ETKİSİ: TÜRK BANKACILIK ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: Aba Şenbayram Emel
Published: December 2024

Faiz ve faiz dışı gelirler, bankaların aracılık fonksiyonunun temel unsurunu oluşturmaktadır. Ancak teknolojik gelişmeler, rekabet koşulları, ürün ve hizmet çeşitliliği, maliyetler vb. gibi faktörler bankaları farklı gelir kaynaklarına yönlendirmektedir. Bu çalışma ile bankalarının faiz dışı gelirinin performansları üzerindeki etkisinin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında Türkiye’de faaliyet göstermekte olan ve Türk bankacılık sektörünün aktif toplamının % 87,8’ini oluşturan en büyük ilk on mevduat bankası örneklem olarak belirlenmiştir. Bankalara ait 2013-2023 dönem verilerinin ele alındığı araştırmada panel veri analizinden yararlanmıştır. Analizler kapsamında bağımlı değişkenler için bankaların öz kaynak karlılığı ile aktif kârlılığı tercih edilirken, bağımsız değişken olarak da bankaların net faiz dışı gelirler/toplam faaliyet gelirleri kullanılmıştır. Analizlerin etkinliğini arttırmak amacıyla toplam krediler / toplam aktifler, toplam öz sermaye / toplam aktifler, personel giderleri / toplam aktifler, toplam mevduatın logaritması ve kredilere uygulanan faiz oranı gibi bazı değişkenler de çalışmaya kontrol değişkeni olarak eklenmiştir. Analizler sonucunda bankaların faiz dışı gelirlerinin performanslarını olumlu yönde etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Değişkenler arasında pozitif yönde bir ilişkinin olduğu tespit edilen bulgularda kontrol değişkenlerinden personel giderleri/toplam varlıklar değişkeninin bankaların aktif kârlılığı üzerinde bir etkisi bulunmadığı sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
SOĞUK SAVAŞ SONRASINDA ROMANYA’NIN KARADENİZ POLİTİKASI
Authors: Canar Burçin
Published: December 2024

Soğuk Savaş sonrasında Romanya, Avrupa-Atlantik sisteminin Karadeniz’e uzanan genişleme politikasının etkin bir savunucusu ve katılımcısı olmuştur. Dış politika önceliklerini ABD’yle stratejik ortaklık, NATO ve AB üyeliği olarak belirleyen Romanya, 1990’lardan bu yana Washington’un bölgesel çıkarlarıyla örtüşen Karadeniz politikası izleyen tek kıyıdaş ülkedir. 2008 Rusya-Gürcistan Savaşı, 2014’te başlayan Ukrayna Krizi ve 2022’den bu yana devam eden Ukrayna Savaşı öncesinde de Romanya, ABD’nin çıkarlarıyla uyumlu bir şekilde, Rus etkisini önlemeyi, ‘Rusya’yı caydırmayı’ hedeflemiştir. Dolayısıyla 1990’lardan bu yana Bükreş’in Karadeniz politikasına yön veren, ‘Rusya’nın eylemlerinin yol açtığı risk ve tehditler’ değil; Karadeniz’de varlık göstermeyi hedefleyen ABD’nin bölgesel çıkarlarıdır. Romanya’nın, Montrö Boğazlar Sözleşmesi’ni sona erdirebilecek taraf devletlerden biri olduğu dikkate alındığında, Bükreş’in ABD’nin hedefleriyle uyumlu bölge politikası, Karadeniz’in güvenliğine yönelik giderek daha büyük bir risk oluşturmaktadır.
ULUSLARARASI HUKUK METİNLERİNDE GÖÇ OLGUSU VE SIĞINMACILIK ÜZERİNE BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: Güçlüten Çağrı
Published: December 2024

Bu çalışma, uluslararası hukuk metinlerinde göç olgusunun ve sığınmacıların korunmasının nasıl ele alındığını incelemektedir. Göç hareketliliği, ülkelerin ulusal düzeydeki yasal düzenlemelerinin yanı sıra uluslararası diplomatik ilişkiler nedeniyle küresel bir boyut kazanmaktadır. Bu bağlamda, İnsan Hakları Evrensel Beyannamesi, Avrupa İnsan Hakları Sözleşmesi (AİHS), Arap İnsan Hakları Sözleşmesi, Afrika Birliği Antlaşması ve 1951 Cenevre Sözleşmesi gibi çeşitli uluslararası ve bölgesel düzenlemeler, göçmenlerin ve sığınmacıların haklarının korunmasında kritik bir rol oynamaktadır. Çalışmada, bu düzenlemelerin etkinliği ve yetersizlikleri analiz edilmiş ve gelecekteki olası gelişmeler değerlendirilmiştir. Bu çalışmada, ilgili literatür taraması ve uluslararası hukuk metinlerinin analizine dayalı olarak kapsamlı bir değerlendirme yapılmıştır. Bu araştırmada, bölgesel düzenlemelerin etkinliğinin artırılması ve ulusal düzeydeki yasal düzenlemelerin uluslararası standartlarla uyumlu hale getirilmesi ile göç ve sığınmacılığın sağlam bir hukuksal zeminde gerçekleşmesinin mümkün olabileceği vurgulanmıştır.
AMERİKAN SOSYOLOJİSİNİN GELİŞİMİ VE GENEL HATLARIYLA SEMBOLİK ETKİLEŞİMCİLİK
Authors: Solmaz Mustafa
Published: December 2024

Çalışmanın amacı, Avrupa Sosyolojisini ve Amerikan Sosyolojisini gelişim süreçleri bakımından ele almak ve Sembolik Etkileşim kuramını genel hatlarıyla ortaya koymaktır. Bunun için öncelikle Avrupa Sosyolojisine ve onun önde gelen temsilcilerinin görüşlerine değinilmiştir. Sonra Amerikan Sosyolojinin nasıl ortaya çıktığına yer verilmiştir. Daha sonra ise Meadci ve Blumerci Sembolik etkileşim kuramları temel nitelikleri bakımından incelenmiştir. Yöntem olarak literatür taramasına müracaat edilmiştir ve konuyla ilişkili kitaplara, makalelere vb.’lerine yer verilmiştir. Sonuç olarak sembolik etkileşimin kaynağının Mead olsa da tam teşekküllü bir biçimde ortaya konulmasının Blumer ile birlikte olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Sembolik etkileşimde bireye ve onun eylemlerine, diğer bireylerin davranışlarıyla etkileşime ağırlık verildiği ancak toplum, grup gibi kolektif olguların ihmal edildiği anlaşılmıştır. Toplum, grup gibi kolektif olguların soyut bir biçimde açıklanmasından ziyade somut olarak izah edildiği ve bireylerin eylemlerine bağlı olarak temellendirildiği görülmüştür.
Beyond the plate: How socio-culture and economics drive sustainable diets globally
Authors: Baliwati Yayuk Farida , Rusyda Akifa Laila
Published: December 2024

Background: Sustainable diets play a powerful catalyst in unlocking and scaling health and climate solutions. Many studies on the diets focus only on health and environmental concerns, but barely consider related socio-cultural and economic determinants.Objective: The present systematic review provides an overview of socio-cultural and economic determinants on sustainable diets across income countries.Methods: Electronic databases, including MDPI, PubMed, Science Direct, and The Lancet Planetary, were performed. The systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA principles. Human studies among all population groups in income countries were included, and require at least one socio-cultural and economic determinant on sustainable diet. The search focused on studies that were peer-reviewed and published in English between 2010 and 2024. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale and its modified version were used to assess the methodological quality (risk of bias).Results: Forty-two of the 2,443 articles identified attained the inclusion criteria. Almost all included studies were cross-sectional (n=39; 92.8%) and 3 cohort studies. The publications covered 56 country-based study settings, five of which were conducted as multi-site studies. Most studies focused on high-income countries, mostly in Europe, Central Asia, and North America. All included studies found 15 socio-cultural and economic determinants; 10 studies of socio-cultural determinants and 5 studies of economic determinants on sustainable diets. The systematic review found that socio-cultural and economic determinants on sustainable diets were divided into external drivers (ethnicity, gender, cultural belief, spiritual belief, geographical settings, political ideology, and food price) and personal drivers (educational level, nutritional knowledge, marital status, household size, income level, occupation, food expenditure, and household food security status).Conclusion: Addressing the social, cultural, and economic determinants is prerequisite for transforming more-sustainable diets. Food sustainability and food and nutrition security are aligned at the individual and household level. Comprehensive strategies targeting multiple levels, and multiple settings are required to enhance dietary changes on sustainable diets.Keywords: Determinant; economic; food choice; socio-culture; sustainable diets
The Surveillance of Emergent Threats to Maternal and Newborn Health in Indonesia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Johnston Caroline , Nashihah Prenati , Purnami Cahya Tri , Martini Martini
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Indonesian Ministry of Health has emphasized the need to effectively identify and respond to emergent threats (ET) to maternal and newborn health (MNH), including non-communicable and infectious diseases. Improved ET screening, surveillance, and data management will reduce poor MNH outcomes including mortality, stillbirth, prematurity, and low birthweight. This scoping review examines practices of surveillance of ET to MNH, both globally and in Indonesia.Methods: Fifty-nine articles published between 2011 to 2024, sourced from PubMed and Google Scholar were reviewed. Thirteen articles were included in the final scoping review. The key search terms included “emergent threat surveillance”, “maternal and newborn health”, “MNH surveillance”, “PWS-KIA”, and “SatuSehat”.Results: The review identified numerous gaps in MNH surveillance, including a need for comprehensive data sharing between health facility, district, provincial, and national levels. Additionally, midwives reported that the current MNH monitoring system, PWS-KIA (Local Area Monitoring Health of Mother and Child), is time-consuming and confusing, leading to poor data reporting. Finally, due to limited training of health workers, there is a lack of data analyzation at each level, leading to poor response.Conclusion: An integrated, standardized, and user-friendly system is needed to detect and mitigate emergent threat to maternal and neonatal health. Data analysis and response to adequately identify and reduce emergent threat at each level is critical.  Routine training is needed to improve health provider knowledge on data interpretation and use.
Factors Associated with Wash Behavior Using Theory Of Planned Behaviour Among Adolescents in Islamic Boarding School
Authors: Muthmainnah Muthmainnah , Azzahra Shoffiyah Hanin , Pratiwi Damai Arum , Nurmala Ira , Lin Chung-Ying , Devi Yuli Puspita , Nadia Asma , Restuti Dini Yulia
Published: December 2024

Background: The behavior of Handwashing with Soap (HWWS) is a method of hand hygiene maintenance that protects oneself and those around from diseases. However, the habit of washing hands with soap might not be a routine practice among adolescent students in maintaining daily personal hygiene. The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors related to HWWS behavior among the students of Islamic boarding school based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Method: This research was an observational study with a cross-sectional design. The sample consists of 104 students, aged 10 to 21 years old (53 male and 51 female) selected purposively. The data analysis conducted to assess the strength of relationships between four elements in the TPB and HWWS behavior as well using the contingency coefficient and Spearman correlation. Result: The results of the study show that behavioral intention was strongly associated with HWWS behavior (C = 0.609, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the four TPB elements had moderate level of associations (C = 0.484 – 0.594, p < 0.001). To conclude, efforts are needed to improve HWWS facilities and strengthen HWWS behavior through programs tailored to the students' characteristics and needs.
Pemanfaatan Abu Sekam Padi dan Abu Boiler Kelapa Sawit Sebagai Pengganti Parsial Semen pada Pencampuran Paving Block
Authors: Jaladri Dhiyazra Iklasul , Hartono Hartono , Fauziyah Shifa
Published: December 2024

Plantations in Indonesia are vast and numerous. Various types of plantation products are produced every year; examples of plantations are oil palm and rice husk. These two plantations have their waste during the process of becoming finished materials. Examples of these two wastes are oil palm boiler ash and rice husks. These two wastes can be used as a partial substitute for cement because they have several compounds similar to cement. This study used the two wastes as a partial replacement for the cement used to manufacture environmentally friendly paving blocks. This study used substitution variations of 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% with a FAS value 0.4. The tests that are used are compressive strength tests and water absorption tests. The optimum compressive strength results in each variation is 0%=25,17 Mpa, 2%=25,88 Mpa, 4%=25,93 Mpa, 6%=26,35 Mpa, and 8%=25,35%. For the optimum results of absorption in each variation is 0% = 3.52%, 2% = 2.41%, 4%= 3.50%, 6% = 4.70%, and 8% = 4.27%. According to SNI 03-0691-1996, it can be categorized as a quality B paving block for parking use. The conclusion is that adding the two wastes can increase the compressive strength until it reaches the optimum point of 6%; meanwhile, for the water absorption capacity, the variation increase can be increased because of the water absorption on the paving block.
Effect of coconut consortia on coconut basal stem rot disease
Authors: Kavitha K , Selvarani A , Nazreen H S , Suresh S , Preetha G , Suganya K S
Published: December 2024

Coconut is an important plantation crop in India. Many diseases severely impact coconut trees in the current climate change scenario, declining the vigor and yield of palms and deteriorating the quality of nuts on the trees. Basal stem rot caused by Ganoderma spp. is one of the most destructive diseases of coconut. Ganoderma can endure an extended period in the soil as a soil-borne pathogen. Chlamydospores are formed under unfavourable conditions, helping the pathogen's survival and spread of the disease. Rain and irrigation water also contribute to the spread from one field to another. This study assessed coconut consortia's efficiency in combating the basal stem rot disease at the field level. The experimental trial was conducted at Tittuvillai village of Thovalai panchayat, Kanyakumari district, from 2021–2022 to 2023–2024 for three consecutive years with four treatments and seven replications. The palms exhibiting the typical symptom were selected, and the experiment was started in 2021. A total of 28 palms displaying basal stem rot symptoms were randomly selected for the experiment. Four treatments were imposed, and the details of treatments include T1: Drenching of Coconut consortia (TNAU Cococon) @ 2 liters/palm along with application of mycorrhizae @ 100 g/palm at quarterly interval, T2: Drenching of Coconut consortia (TNAU Cococon) @ 2 litres/palm and root feeding with hexaconazole (0.2%) at quarterly interval, T3: Drenching of Bordeaux mixture 1% and T4: Control (Untreated). Among the four treatments, soil drenching of coconut consortia (TNAU Cococon) @ 2 liters/palm followed by root feeding with hexaconazole (0.2%) at quarterly intervals effectively reduced the disease index from 21.74 to 15.96 and enhanced nut yield from 67.14 to 90.00 nuts per palm per year in three years under field conditions.
Histopathological and biochemical variations in resistant and susceptible black pepper cultivars infected with Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Sherin Beula R J , Nisha M S , Narayana R , Ayisha R , Ragesh G
Published: December 2024

Plant-parasitic nematodes cause yield losses ranging from 30 to 65% in black pepper. Root-knot nematodes are a bottleneck in production of black pepper in Kerala, India. Identifying resistant cultivars have gained attention, as they provide an eco-friendly alternative to chemical nematicides. This study aimed to identify a root-knot nematode-resistant black pepper cultivar and determine the biochemical and histopathological changes caused by the nematode. Twenty-six black pepper cultivars (10 KAU released, 2 wild and 14 local) were screened for nematode resistance under pot culture conditions. The local cultivar Koshinadan exhibited resistance to Meloidogyne incognita (gall index 2), while the hybrid variety Panniyur 1 showed high susceptibility (gall index 5). Analysis of the biochemical basis of resistance revealed enhanced level of phenol content and activity of peroxidase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, and polyphenol oxidase in leaves and roots of Koshinadan compared to susceptible cultivar, Panniyur 1. Histopathological studies of the most resistant (Koshinadan) and susceptible (Panniyur 1) cultivars revealed that giant cells formed near the vascular region at different inoculum levels (0, 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000 J2 pot-1). The number and size of giant cells were lower in Koshinadan compared to Panniyur 1 and complete disorganization of xylem and phloem vessels was observed in the susceptible Panniyur 1. The resistant cultivar identified can serve as rootstock for grafting high-yielding varieties, resulting in nematode free seedlings.