bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Product Information on Processed Maize Flour Marketing by Small and Medium Millers in Dodoma City, Tanzania
Authors: Mpandiko Godlove A.
Published: February 2023

The study aimed at assessing the influence of product information on processed maize flour marketing by small and medium millers in Dodoma City.  According to The City Council of Dodoma (2020), Dodoma has 28 maize flour millers out of 856 in Tanzania. About 17 of the maize flour small and  medium millers in Dodoma package their products but 11 do not do so. Also, 70% of customers of maize flour in Dodoma buy the packaged maize flour  in bags (viroba) and 30% of the rest of customers go to the millers with their maize for processing; others buy in small portions measured in small tins.  However, with little or no formal studies carried out in Dodoma city on product information and its effect on processed maize flour marketing by small  and medium millers in Dodoma city’s perspective, this study, therefore, assessed the influence of product information on the marketing of processed  maize flour by small and medium millers in Dodoma city. A crosssectional research design was adopted for this study. A simple random sampling  strategy was used in choosing 96 respondents from small and medium millers in Dodoma city. Data was collected through a questionnaire for clients  (customers) and in-depth interviews with owners of Small and medium mills for processing maize into flour. Inferential statistics were used to analyse  data. The study findings indicated that product information was statistically and significantly related to marketing of processed maize flour by small and  medium millers in Dodoma city at a p-value less than 5% (p < 0.000). The study concluded that small and medium millers in Dodoma city, product  information, and finally packaging material had a significant effect on the marketing of processed maize flour. This implies that product information had  a great contribution to the marketing of processed maize flour by small and medium millers in Dodoma city. The study recommends that Small and  medium millers in Dodoma city should always ensure that their packaging is coloured so as to market the processed maize flour.
Stakeholders’ Perception of the Impacts of Supply Chain Management on Tanzania Construction Projects’ Performance
Authors: Tekka Ramadhani Said
Published: February 2023

The current era that is characterised by growth in science and technology, free market beyond borders and globalization effects has compelled every  construction industry globally to struggle to resolve the increasing and overwhelming challenges raised by increase in clients' demands and needs. The  rise in demands and needs has led to a serious worldwide competition of which the construction industry and firms in particular from emerging economy  countries can no longer escape from. In the domestic competitive atmosphere, construction competitors have attempted to identify the  strategic competitive environment and potential adaptable market features targeting to lower unnecessary construction costs and time overrun,  improving quality, safety, and environmental sustainability while attaining value for money. Thus, to tolerate within a global competition environment,  supply chain management has been pointed to ease the construction projects’ performance. This study aimed at examining the impacts of supply chain  management on construction projects’ performance. One hundred thirty-eight (138) respondents were randomly sampled from three cities in Tanzania.  Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and the data were analysed descriptively. An exploratory factor analysis was performed to  validate the questionnaire. Afterwards, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted, and structural equation modelling (SEM) technique was used to  determine the validity of the study. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used to analyse the data. The findings provided pragmatic  factors necessary for improving construction projects’ performance. Also, it was found that fourteen supply chain impacts had a positive significant  contribution to improving the construction projects’ performance. Moreover, the findings showed direct and statistically significant influence of supply  chain management on collaboration, integration, risk sharing and management as well as configuration. Thus, the findings suggested that supply chain  management cannot be isolated from other potential factors when one needs to attain an adequate construction project’s improved performance. Both  social and practical implications of the study are recommended to construction industry practitioners and policymakers in Tanzania to understand the  impact of supply chain management on construction projects’ performance to enhance performance improvement. Therefore, increased use of  information technology (IT) in supply chain management is recommended to improve construction projects’ performance.
Does Internal Audit Functions Effectiveness influence External Auditors’ Reliance on Internal Audit Work?
Authors: Mapuli John Sosthenes
Published: February 2023

This study examines the influence of internal audit function effectiveness on the extent to which external auditors rely on internal audit function work. A  sample of 100 senior external auditors of Tanzanian-listed companies was purposively selected to provide the data. A questionnaire was employed to  collect the data which were then analysed using a Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling. The result shows that internal audit function  effectiveness has a significant positive effect on the extent of external auditors’ reliance on internal audit function work. This suggests that external  auditors adjust their audit efforts in response to the effectiveness of the internal audit function, consistent with the audit risk model. The result  contributes a new dimension, the internal audit function effectiveness and reliance, to the audit risk model. The result has practical implications for  clients and external auditors looking to obtain a cost-effective audit of financial statements, by recognising the impact of internal audit functions on   external audits.
Determinants of Social Media Marketing Adoption among Small and Medium Enterprises in Dar es Salaam - Tanzania
Authors: Augustine Justine , Newa Makawa
Published: February 2023

The general objective of the study was to examine the determinants of social media marketing adoption among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in  Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam. The study provides the effects of technological, organizational and environmental factors on adoption of social media  marketing in the SMEs sector. This study used descriptive research design; thus primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire, whereas  multiple regression analysis was used to analyse the collected data from 122 SMEs owners who were selected through simple random sampling. The  SPSS software was used for data analysis. The results from multiple regression analysis showed that technological factors had positive and significant  relationship with the adoption of social media marketing in SMEs (p = 0.001). Moreover, the findings showed that organisational factors and adoption of  social media marketing were positively related (p = 0.000). Furthermore, the findings indicated that there was positive and significant relationship  between environmental factors and adoption of social media marketing in SMEs (p = 0.002). The study concludes that technological, organizational and  environmental factors determine social media marketing adoption for SMEs. However, organizational factors are the major determinants of social media  marketing adoption in SMEs. The study recommends that the management of SMEs should improve organizational environment such as employee skills  by providing training in order to increase the use of social media marketing in SMEs. Government should provide support and comprehensive policy to  foster growth of SMEs in Tanzania through adoption of social media marketing, and the SMEs management should accommodate technology innovation  to support easy adoption of Social media marketing.
Physicochemical and Bacteriological Characterization of Surface and Stored Groundwaters in Natitingou, Benin Republic
Authors: Tometin L. A. S. , Ahouassa W. , Deguenon H. E. J. , Nonfodji M. O. , Dannon M. , Mama D. , Fatombi K. J.
Published: February 2023

Surface and groundwater collected in the municipality of Natitingou constitute a potential infectious risk for human health and the environment due to the pathogenic bacteria and Chlorella vulgaris they contain after conservation in tanks. In this study, surface and groundwater samples were collected and analyzed according. The results of the physicochemical and bacteriological characterization of these water samples revealed average values of pH (4.35 to 6.98), of turbidity (0.65 to 169.97 NTU), nitrites (0.15 to 5.40 mg/L), nitrates (0.55 to 114.34 mg/L), ammonium (0.05 to 0.60 mg/L) and significant faecal contamination by total coliforms, coliforms faecal and enterococci. The analysis results also reveal the presence of Chlorella vulgaris in both surface water and groundwater conserved. Chlorella vulgaris shows a positive correlation with nitrates, nitrites and ammonium and a negative correlation with phosphates, total coliforms, faecal coliforms, enterococci and the proliferation of Chlorella vulgaris in surface water and groundwater. The consumption of this water without any treatment could expose populations to waterborne diseases.
Role of Prebiotic, Probiotic and Symbiotic Diets on Bacterial proliferation in Feed and Intestine of African (Clarias gariepinus) Catfish
Authors: Abdul-Malik A. , Aliyu-Paiko M. , Adamu K. M. , Aliyu-A A. , Mohammed J. N.
Published: February 2023

The influence of prebiotic, probiotic and symbiotic diet on microbial proliferation was studied using an in vitro method. In the present trial, formulated diets were supplemented with prebiotic (Sargassum muticum), probiotic (Parkia biglobosa) and combination of Parkia biglobosa and Sargassum muticum (symbiotic diet). Bacteria proliferation in supplemented feeds, small and large intestine of the African catfish, Clarias gariepinus fed the formulated diets were evaluated. The feeding trial that lasted 12 weeks was conducted in plastic aquaria, with each treatment replicated three times. A control diet containing only the feed ingredients was also formulated and fed for the same period. The result showed bacteria proliferation was lowest in the control diet and highest in feed supplemented with prebiotic. Low bacteria proliferation was observed in the small intestine of fish fed symbiotic diet while highest proliferation was recorded in the fish fed prebiotic diet. The result also revealed the lowest bacteria proliferation in the large intestine of fish fed symbiotic diet and highest in fish fed probiotic diet. Using the cell morphology and biochemical characteristics of bacteria isolates in supplemented feed, Clarias gariepinus small and large intestine, the result indicated the presence of some Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) known to produce a variety of antimicrobial substances which are able to stop the development of foodborne diseases by inhibiting the growth of food spoilage and pathogenic organisms.
Prevalence of Candida albicans Among Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women attending a Medical Facility in Oredo, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Agbedo E. S. , Osumah O. R. , Woghiren E. P. , Omusi I. P.
Published: February 2023

Candida albicans is the most prevalent cause of fungal infections worldwide as a consequence of various triggering environments. Hence, this paper evaluates the prevalence of Candida albican in the cultures of pregnant and non-pregnant women who attended prenatal classes at a medical facility in Oredo, Edo State, Nigeria by collecting200 vaginal swab samples for microbiological examination using standard methods. The pour plate method was used to carry out microbial isolation. Based on their cultural, morphological, and biochemical characteristics, isolated microorganisms were recognised. The agar dilution technique was used to test antifungal sensitivity. The results showed that the lowest fungal count was 0.6±0.48×103 cfu/g and the highest fungal count was 5.6±0.32×103 cfu/g. Both Candida albicans and non-albicans were among the fungal isolates. In comparison to non-pregnant women (18 %), pregnant women had a percentage frequency of Candida albican of 30.5 %. Age groups 31 to 35 and 41 to 46 showed the highest and lowest frequencies of Candida albicans, respectively, among the pregnant women. Additionally, the age range of 20 to 25 had the highest frequency of Candida albicans among the non-pregnant women, while the age range of 36 to 40 had the lowest frequency. No antifungal resistance was found in any of the Candida albicans isolates to the analytical grades of itraconazole or clotrimazole, respectively. Additionally, isolate proliferation was inhibited by Ocimum gratissimum extracts. This study revealed that pregnant women had a higher prevalence of Candida albicans than non-pregnant women. It is recommended that, the general public given orientation of the major health effects of vulvovaginal candidiasis during pregnancy, especially during antenatal.
Mathematical Modelling of Compressive Strength of Recycled Ceramic Tile Aggregate Concrete Using Modified Regression Theory
Authors: Onyia M. E. , Ambrose E. E. , Okafor F. O. , Udo J. J.
Published: February 2023

At present, the large quantity of wastes generated by the ceramic industry is not reused in any significant quantity. Research has shown the feasibility of incorporating these wastes into concrete production. This will benefit both the ceramic and concrete industries. However, not much research data is available on the use of ceramic wastes as fine aggregate material compared to their use as coarse aggregate material. Moreover, there are presently no models for predicting the properties of ceramic waste aggregate concretes. In this study, a modified regression theory based on Taylor’s series was adopted to formulate mathematical model for predicting compressive strength of concrete into which Recycled Ceramic Tile (RCT) is incorporated as fine aggregate.  Preliminary tests on RCT indicate that it is a suitable fine aggregate material for concrete production. It has also been established that addition of RCT improves compressive strength of concrete and reduces concrete’s workability. The formulated model is a function of the mix proportions of its constituents and its predicted responses are in good agreement with experimentally observed data. The model has been tested using student’s t-test and analysis of variance and has been confirmed to be adequate and hence is validated.
Isolation And Identification of Common Fungal Pathogens Invading Sweet Potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) Sold in Choba Market, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Ikechi-Nwogu C. G. , Nworuka N.
Published: February 2023

This research was aimed at isolating and identifying common fungal pathogens invading sweet potato tubers. Tubers were collected from Choba Market, Port Harcourt in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. Fungal isolates were collected and morphologically identified. The Deoxyribonucleic acid of the most common fungal isolates, SP-1 and SP-2 were molecularly characterized using Internal Transcribed Spacer 4 and 5 molecular markers. The isolates Deoxyribonucleic acid sequence was aligned using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool for Nucleotide 2.8.0 version of National Centre for Biotechnology Information database. The molecular weight of the Deoxyribonucleic acid of the isolates were 573 base pairs for Lasiodiplodia theobromae and 521 base pairs for Pichia kudriavzevii. Based on sequence similarity, it was observed that the sweet potato tubers isolate SP-1 was 99.25% identical to Lasiodiplodia theobromae and SP-2 was 99.70% identical to Pichia kudriavzevii. These findings showed that Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Pichia kudriavzevii are some of the causal fungal pathogens invading sweet potato tubers. It is projected that this result will provide information for disease control approach for improving the post-harvest losses of sweet potato. This study will improve available information and aid in reducing the deteriorating activities of fungi invading Sweet Potato tubers.
Rhubarb alleviates hyperoxia induced lung injury in neonatal rats with bronchopulmonary dysplasia by inhibiting inflammation
Authors: Hu Xiaocheng , Xu Jian , Liu Ning
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effect of rhubarb on hyperoxia-induced lung injury in neonatal rats with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and the underlying mechanism.Methods: Sixty 4-day-old neonatal rats were assigned to air control, BPD, and rhubarb intervention groups, with 20 rats in each group. Immunoblotting was employed to assay NF-κB expression. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and SOD were determined spectrophotometrically, while ELISA was used to measure serum levels of IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α.Results: The peripheral blood levels of TNF-α, IL-8 and IL-1β were markedly higher in BPD-exposed rats than in the air control rats, while peripheral blood levels of TNF-α, IL-8 and IL-1β were reduced in rhubarb intervention rats, relative to BPD-exposed rats. The activity of SOD was markedly lower in lung tissue of BPD rats than in lung tissue of air control rats, while MDA level was markedly elevated in BPD rats (p < 0.05). There was marked up-regulation of NF-κB p65 expression in BPD-exposed rats, relative to air control rats, but it was markedly lower in rhubarb intervention rats than in hyperoxia model rats (p< 0.05).Conclusion: Rhubarb mitigated hyperoxia-induced inflammation, oxidative stress and lung injury in BPD neonatal rat model by inhibiting oxidative stress and reducing the levels of inflammatory factors.
Vitexin attenuates smoke inhalation induced acute lung injury in rats by inhibiting oxidative stress via PKC β/p66Shc signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Xuxin , Li Huming , Cheng Hao , Liu Meng , Wang Fan , Meng Jiguang , Han Zhihai
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect of vitexin on smoke inhalation-induced acute lung injury (SI-ALI), and the underlying mechanism of action.Methods: The ALI rat model was established by inhalation of smoke in a closed smoke chamber. Survival rate, arterial blood gas analysis, wet-to-dry weight ratio of lung tissues, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid protein concentration, lung tissue histology, and oxidative stress and inflammation level were evaluated. Expressions of protein kinase C β (PKC β), p66Shc, and phosphorylated p66Shc were determined by western blot or quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.Results: Compared with smoke inhalation group, vitexin alleviated the decline in arterial partial pressure of oxygen (p < 0.05), reduced lung tissue exudation and pathological lung tissue damage, inhibited the expression of PKC β/p66Shc signaling pathway proteins, downregulated the level of oxidative stress and inflammation, and ultimately improved the survival rate in SI-ALI rats (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Vitexin attenuates SI-ALI in rats by alleviating oxidative stress via inhibition of PKC β/p66Shc signaling pathway. Thus, this compound is a potential agent for the treatment of SI-ALI.
A bioinformatics approach to the identification of hub genes of Huo Xin Pill (HXP) for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Yang Qiang , Ding Juncan , Luo Ziyue , Hu Pengfei
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To apply bioinformatics for the identification of potential genes associated with Huo Xin Pill (HXP), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction AMI).Methods: Mouse AMI expression profile dataset GSE153485 and HXP-treated mouse AMI expression profile dataset GSE147365 were downloaded from GEO database. Then, R software was used to screen differentially-expressed genes in AMI and differentially-expressed genes in HXP-treated AMI. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses, Venn diagrams, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis were carried out on the hub genes linked to the effect of HXP on AMI.Results: Six hub genes were identified. Based on the differential analysis of the sham and AMI groups, GSE153485 and GSE147365 had 840 and 2116 differentially-expressed genes, respectively (p < 0.05). The GO and KEGG analyses revealed enrichments in actin filament organization, membrane repolarization, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Differential analysis of the use of HXP on AMI showed that GSE147365 had 380 differentially-expressed genes, comprising 96 up-regulated genes and 284 down-regulated genes (p < 0.05). Thirteen potential acting target genes were obtained using a enn diagram, while 6 key acting genes were obtained via final screening.Conclusion: Six (6) hub genes linked to HXP and AMI have been identified using bioinformatics: Egr2, Tubb2a, Col4a2, Cnn2, Lmna, and Col4a1. This study provides a partial experimental basis for the use of HXP in the treatment of AMI. In addition, it provides new potential targets for the treatment of AMI.
Applying the Framingham Risk Score for cardiovascular diseases in Jordan: A cross sectional study
Authors: Arabiyat Shereen , Tadros Odate , Al-Daghastani Tamara , Jaber Deema
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To assess the protective measures taken by Jordanians to decrease the risk of first cardiovascular event using the Framingham Risk Score classification.Methods: A survey was created using Google forms and disseminated through social media platforms (WhatsApp and Facebook) in order to facilitate contact with multiple sections of the Jordanian population. The questions were designed to measure the objectives of this study and a scale was used to measure the level of application. Demographic parameters were documented. Framingham’s risk Score was observed among patients with a diploma and those with high school or less education (p = 0.043). There was a significant difference in Framingham Risk Score between non-smokers and sometimes smokers.Conclusion: The Framingham Risk Scores reveals that 90 % of individuals have a low risk of getting cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the Jordanian population, 5 % have an intermediate risk, and 5 % have a high risk. This is normal as the age range of participants in the survey was within the 20 to 30 years.
5 Fluorouracil as firs t line treatment for low risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia
Authors: Chen Dan , Yang Yanfeng , Li Yitong , Zhao Yining , Zhang Xin
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy and prognostic factors in response to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in lowrisk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN).Methods: This single-center retrospective study analyzed the hospital records of 204 LRGTN patients admitted to Department of Gynecology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute of China from 2002 to 2016 for retrieval of their clinical data, chemotherapy regimens, related side-effects, and evaluation of treatment efficacy and prognostic factors.Results: The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 55 months (3 - 190 months). The overall cure rate was 100 %, with no tumor-related deaths. When a single-agent regimen i.e. 5-FU, was selected for initiation of treatment for 132 patients while only 49 of them were treated with chemotherapy, the effective cure rate was 62.88 % (83/132); while the overall drug resistance r was 27.27 % (36/132). For patients with FIGO scores ≥ 4 points, the incidence of drug resistance was 71.43 % (5/7), while the incidence of III/IV myelosuppression was 10.61 % (14/132). A total of 38 patients (18.63 %) received surgical treatment in addition to chemotherapy. A comparison was made between two groups of patients with non-drug resistance, i.e., patients with unexpected GTN diagnosed postoperatively and those who received chemotherapy preoperatively. It was found that the number of courses of GTN chemotherapy for those who were unexpectedly diagnosed postoperatively was more than that for those who received chemotherapy preoperatively (p = 0.004).Conclusion: The single drug (5-FU) was effective in the management of low-risk (LR)-GTN. Treatment failure was related to drug resistance, high tumor score, and severe toxicity. Multi-agent regiments in combination with surgery, were an effective treatment method for GTN. For patients without metastasis and fertility requirements, surgery after chemotherapy significantly shortened the treatment cycle without increasing complications.
Co-administration of indacaterol and tiotropium bromide for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis, and effect on IL-8 and CRP levels
Authors: Wang Xuerong , Wu Xiaodong , Han Huating
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of indacaterol plus tiotropium bromide in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) complicated by bronchiectasis and the impact on IL-8 and C reactive protein (CRP) levels.Methods: Sixty enrolled patients with COPD and bronchiectasis who received treatment in Yantai Qishan Hospital, Yuyan, China from June 2017 to December 2019 were randomly allocated to group A (n = 30) and group B (n = 30). Group A received inhalation of indacaterol plus tiotropium bromide. Group B received only tiotropium bromide inhalation therapy. Therapeutic effects and appropriate serum indicators were compared.Results: Maximal mid-expiratory flow (MMF), maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV), and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1.0) levels of the patients were significantly elevated, and group A showed a significantly higher values than group B (p < 0.05). The serum levels of IL-8, CRP, and serum calcitonin (PCT) in both groups were lower than before treatment, but the decrease in group A was significantly greater than that in group B (p < 0.05). The SaO2, PaO2, and PaO2/FiO2 levels in both groups increased, but the increase in group A was higher than that in group B (p < 0.05). Group A showed a significantly lower total incidence of complications than group B (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Indacaterol plus tiotropium bromide produced significant effects in the treatment of COPD with bronchiectasis, which ameliorate lung function and inflammation status in the body and therefore have the potential of being utilized in clinical practice.
Clinical benefit of dexmedetomidine in combination with dezocine as epidural anesthesia during cesarean delivery for pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wei Luxin , Li Xiaojing , He Kun
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the clinical benefit of dexmedetomidine (DEX) when used in combination with dezocine as epidural anesthesia during cesarean delivery for puerperae with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Methods: A total of 120 puerperae with GDM admitted to The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang (Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital Affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, China) who underwent cesarean delivery from January 2019 to January 2020 were randomly assigned to groups A and B, with 60 patients per group. Epidural anesthesia with dezocine was used on patients in both groups, while DEX was added for patients in group A. Comparison was made between the 2 groups with regard to pregnancy outcomes, pain scores, maternal and infant blood glucose levels, hemodynamic indices, hormonal levels and adverse reaction rates (ARR).Results: Patients in group A had significantly better maternal and infant outcomes (p < 0.05), lower maternal postoperative pain scores (p < 0.05), lower maternal postoperative blood glucose levels (p < 0.001), higher infant postoperative blood glucose levels (p < 0.001). Furthermore, maternal incidence of adverse reactions in group A was lower than in group B (p <0.05). At the time point of 0.5 h after anesthesia and operation, the hemodynamic indices of puerperae in group A were significantly more stable, and levels of estradiol and prolactin were higher, relative to those in group B (p < 0.05). However, group A had a lower chemotaxin levels at immediate postoperative period and 1 day after operation than group B (p < 0.05).Conclusion: The combination of DEX and dezocine for epidural anesthesia stabilizes hemodynamics, improves hormone levels and lowers the incidence of adverse reactions in puerperae with GDM, thereby potentially ensuring better pregnancy outcomes and well-controlled blood glucose levels. Therefore, this strategy for epidural anesthesia has potentials for use in clinical practice.
Reticulocalbin 2 promotes the prolifer ation and migration of oral squamous cell carcinoma by regulating the EGFR ERK pathway
Authors: Gao Wending , Cai Feng , Jiang Xiaoli , Fan Chengchao
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the expression of reticulocalbin-2 (RCN2) in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues and cell lines and its effects on the proliferation and migration of OSCC cells.Methods: Immunohistochemical (IHC) assays were performed to evaluate the expression of RCN2 in 30 histologically-confirmed OSCC patient tissues and adjacent tissues. Immunoblot assays were performed to examine the expression of RCN2 in an oral mucosal keratinocyte cell line and OSCC cell lines, while the effects of RCN2 on OSCC cell proliferation were assessed by CCK-8 and colony formation assays. The effects of RCN2 on OSCC cell motility were determined using wound closure and Transwell assays. Furthermore, the effect of RCN2 on EGFR/ERK pathway in OSCC cells was evaluated by immunoblot assay.Results: Overexpression of RCN2 occurred in OSCC tissues and cells (p < 0.01). RCN2 also increased the proliferation of OSCC cells and stimulated the motility of OSCC cells in vitro (p < 0.01). These effects occurred as a result of the regulation of EGFR/ERK signaling pathway by RCN2.Conclusion: RCN2 is a potential therapeutic target for OSCC treatment. However, further in vivo studies are required to validate these findings.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Local Finance and Development Strategies. Case of Urban and Rural Areas in the Mazovia Region
Authors: Mackiewicz Marta , Radło Mariusz-Jan , Szczech-Pietkiewicz Ewelina
Published: February 2023

The paper aims to investigate the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic through the prism of local finances in the Mazovia region. The rationale for this research comes from the observation that lockdown and a reduced economic activity affect revenues of local budgets. Thus, a question arises about the effect of decreased local budgets on local expenditure and the implementation of development strategies. The method applied was a survey carried out on a sample consisting of all the local administrative units (LAU) in the region. The results show that the "scissors effect" of rising expenditure and falling revenues applies to all the LAU. The analysis provides evidence that the characteristics of urban and rural LAU have consequences not only for their resilience against the COVID-19 pandemic but influence their strategies and actions adopted in response to the crisis.
Decision-making of Top Management and Internal Audit on the Issue of Archiving Documentation in Companies Founded by Local Government Units in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Tomas-Miskin Sonja , Vitomir Jelena , Popović Slobodan , Vitomir Goran
Published: February 2023

This study emphasizes the importance of document archiving. The aim of the study is to point out the importance of secure archiving of documentation. The authors conducted a representative survey in 147 companies, which represents about 20% of public utility companies whose founders are local self-government units in the Republic of Serbia. They found that there are significant differences in terms of security of archiving between the so-called electronic archiving and classic form of archiving of documentation in companies. The main conclusion reached by the authors of the study would be that there are far fewer errors in the electronic archiving of documentation compared to the classic way of archiving documentation in companies. After the T-test, the authors found that there are significant differences in terms of security ratings that come from the ratings of top management and employees in internal audit (p = .000) in terms of secure archiving of documentation. The authors also point out that greater security of archiving documentation is achieved in companies that have introduced electronic archiving of documentation.
UKRAINE IS MODERN. SCIENTIFIC STUDIES OF THE PAST AND PRESENT
Authors: Boiko Yurii , Bogatchuk Svitlana , Levchuk Konstantin , Belkin Igor , Mangora Volodymir , Mangora Tamila , Durach Olga , Makarov Zorislav
Published: February 2023

All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, or stored in a data base or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the publisher. The content and reliability of the articles are the responsibility of the authors. When using and borrowing materials reference to the publication is required.
ESCRITA DE SI, [R]EXISTÊNCIA E SUBJETIVIDADE
Authors: Petronilio Correia Paulo
Published: February 2023

Propõe-se pensar a complexa relação existente entre escrita de si, subjetividade e resistência. Falarei a partir da minha corporeidade negra, gay e de candomblé, ou seja, falo a partir da subalternidade, da minha sensibilidade e percepção enquanto sujeito preto que experimenta a diáspora e o racismo cotidiano. A escrita de si, como um rito de passagem, transforma na emancipação do povo preto na medida em que convoca a ancestralidade a uma experimentação e a uma busca da liberdade de si mesmo através da escrita de si no mundo, pois encaro a escrita de si como prática e resistência a uma sociedade patriarcal e de supremacia branca que nos desautoriza e nos desumaniza enquanto subjetividade e enquanto humanidade. Desse modo, a escrita de si é uma máquina de guerra política que invoca uma nova ética e uma nova estética da [r]existência preta.
MEMÓRIA E RASTRO EM DORA BRUDER DE PATRICK MODIANO
Authors: Carvalho Canarinos Ana Karla , Ávila Arcanjo Fabio
Published: February 2023

Este trabalho tem por objetivo a análise do romance Dora Bruder (1997), de Patrick Modiano, tendo em vista as questões em torno de rastro e da memória. Considerando que se trata de uma narrativa inserida na tradição literária testemunhal, ao longo deste artigo pretendemos discutir de que maneira o rastro e os vestígios deixados pela protagonista do romance funcionam como uma forma – ainda que lacunar – de resgatar a memória de pessoas anônimas e esquecidas pela História. Sob este aspecto, este artigo apresenta a seguinte hipótese: o rastro em Dora Bruder se configura a partir de três instâncias narrativas principais: 1) na representação de Paris; 2) no hibridismo de gênero e 3) na temática do Holocausto.
O JOGO AUTOFICCIONAL EM DE MIM JÁ NEM SE LEMBRA, DE LUIZ RUFFATO
Authors: Gonçalves Adriane dos Santos , Sales Paulo Alberto
Published: February 2023

Partindo do pressuposto de que a autoficção se constitui como uma escrita ambígua que mescla elementos autobiográficos e ficcionais por meio de uma voz autodiegética, tornando-a especular, apresentamos uma leitura do romance De mim já nem se lembra (2007), de Luiz Ruffato, no intuito de ressaltar o hibridismo entre fato e ficção na concatenação de subjetividades.
UM SUJEITO GUENZO:
Authors: Nascimento de Amorim Bernardo , Pereira de Araújo dos Santos Monick
Published: February 2023

Recuperando discussões teóricas sobre o gênero autobiográfico e sobre a figura do sujeito lírico, e procurando explorar o lugar singular de A escola das facas no todo da obra de João Cabral de Melo Neto, apresentamos uma imagem do eu poético do livro, constituída a partir da análise de três dos seus poemas, todos eles relacionados a forma de rememoração da infância.
CCCII Kullanarak Akım Modlu Kesirli Dereceli Basamak Süzgeç Tasarımı
Authors: ÖNCEL Betül , KIRÇAY Ali
Published: February 2023

Bu çalışmada, iki adet ikinci nesil akım kontrollü akım taşıyıcı (CCCII) kullanılarak kesirli dereceli akım modlu alçak geçiren ve yüksek geçiren basamak süzgeç tasarımı yapıldı. Bu tasarım için iki adet CCCII, dört adet direnç, bir adet topraklanmış kapasitör kullanıldı. Sunulan basamak süzgeç devresinin kesir derecesi için 𝛼 = 0.7, 0.8 ve 0.9 olarak belirlendi. Tasarlanan kesirli-dereceli basamak süzgeç devresi için kesirli dereceli kapasitör elemanı kullanıldı. Kesirli kapasitörü Foster-I 𝑅C devresi ile elde edildi. Akım kontrollü akım taşıyıcısının (CCCII) iç yapısı için Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJT) kullanıldı. Tasarlanan süzgeç devreleri PSpice programı kullanılarak, kesim frekansı 10kHz olarak benzetimleri yapıldı. Tasarlanan devrelerin teorik sonuçları benzetim sonuçları ile doğrulandı. Bu benzetim sonuçlarından, gerçekleştirilen süzgeçlerin akustik bant uygulamaları için uygun olduğu görüldü.
ПОТРЕБНОСТ ОТ УНИКАЛНОСТ В МЛАДЕЖКА ВЪЗРАСТ
Authors:   138.SUZIE „Pfof. Vasil Zlatarski“ City of Sofia, Bulgaria, Недялкова Христина
Published: February 2023

This report examines the characteristics of the need for uniqueness in youth. In a number of conducted studies, it has been established that the aspiration of adolescents to belong to certain groups in society is simultaneously accompanied by their need to have their distinctiveness from others, and this in turn helps to build their unique personality. In the process of searching for ways to express their own uniqueness, young people also use various material possessions in order to develop and express their identity.
EFFECT OF MOISTURE CONTENTS AND COMPRESSION AXES ON SOME PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF DIOCLEA REFLEXA SEED
Authors: OLUKAYODE Olakunle , ALADE Eyitope Israel , OYELAMI Seun
Published: February 2023

Interest in unconventional seeds such as Dioclea reflexa is growing in the tropical regions, with the potential for utilisation as food or industrial materials. Researchers confirmed that Dioclea reflexa seed has the potential for clinical use, use as a food source, and as industrial raw material. This research studies the effect of moisture content on the physical properties of Dioclea reflexa seed and the effect of moisture content and compression axes its mechanical properties. Standards methods were used to determine the physical properties, while the mechanical properties were derived from force-deformation curves for the moisture content range 4.8 to 12.1% (wet basis). The mean values of the seed’s length increased by 3.55% (from 31.01 mm), the width increased by 4.13% (from 26.64 mm), and the thickness decreased by 2.48% (from 21.75 mm). The geometric mean diameter increased by 1.68%, surface area increased by 3.68%, sphericity decreased by 1.54% and individual seed mass increased by 10.46%. The physical properties exhibit linear relationships with moisture content. Rupture force increased by 75% (from 0.80 kN) for loading along the major axis; by 84% (from 0.72 kN) for the intermediate axis; and by 41% (from 0.78 kN) for the minor axis. Rupture energy increased from 0.18 J to 1.25 J for compression along the major axis, from 0.087 J to 0.43 J for the intermediate axis, and from 0.080 J to 0.18 J for the minor axis. The mechanical properties were found to be moisture content and loading orientation-dependent. Reducing moisture content reduced both the force and the energy required to rupture the seeds. The data generated will be useful in the design of processing machinery and storage facilities for the seeds.
Promotion Strategy of Local Artisan-Made Product
Authors:   School of Business Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Rahmadanti Adisya Resti , Herliana Sri ,   School of Business Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung
Published: February 2023

Fashion has merged and become one of the main interests for each individual and has a personal meaning according to the personality and taste preferences of each. This holds true for fashionable shoes as well, especially for ladies. Considering how it has evolved, footwear is one of the elements of fashion that reveals the social standing of its wearers. Shoes are no longer merely a basic necessity for human existence, but they are also now inextricably linked to the demands of fashion for the ideal image. Women’s shoes are created in a variety of styles that are characterized by model, color, and shape, whose purpose varies depending on the style they wish to exhibit, along with the evolution of fashion trends. Many women are on the lookout for new shoe improvements that are feminine but also straightforward and comfortable to wear. Privet is thus active as a company involved in fashion, specifically women’s shoes, to meet the demands of the market. The company, which has been operating legally under the name CV. Privet Dwi Sentosa since October 23 2020, are produce the product made by local artisans with a variety of feminine models, however they still seem stylish and comfortable. Each Privet product is embellished with handmade features to give it a special, one-of-a-kind touch. Considering the large opportunity in the market potential and the ability of local craftsmen to produce high-quality products, Privet wants to try to expand sales distribution by offering products directly to consumers by exploring direct-to-consumer promotion strategies based on the customer preferences like many other big brands do to attract the maximum market potential.
Development of Bali's Traditional Villages with Participation of the Local Community
Authors:   Faculty of Economic and Business, Udayana University, Indonesia, Dharmayasa I Putu Arya , Utama Made Suyana ,   Faculty of Economic and Business, Udayana University, Indonesia, Marhaeni A.A. Istri Ngurah ,   Faculty of Economic and Business, Udayana University, Indonesia, Dewi Made Heny Urmila ,   Faculty of Economic and Business, Udayana University, Indonesia
Published: February 2023

A region's culture will change as a result of the introduction of a foreign culture. In order to preserve the culture, which is currently being used as a marketing tool to draw tourists to Bali, the community is essential. This study intends to depict community involvement during the construction of a traditional village in the Bali province amid the influx of foreign culture. This study's methodology draws on literary analyses from a variety of sources, including books and the findings of other investigations. The study's findings indicate that the community is development's primary concern and ultimate goal, making community participation a logical outgrowth of this claim. Community participation also fosters a sense of self-worth and the personal capacity to take part in strategic decisions affecting the community's interests. Because development is carried out based on the outcomes of agreements and cooperative performance between customary village officials and indigenous village communities in the region, it will produce a favourable atmosphere for community growth in the area itself.
A Case of Metastatic Melanoma in a Female Patient with Vitiligo
Authors:   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico, la Cruz Alfredo Bautista de , Antonio Calixto Estanislao ,   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico, Chang Cruz Charit Nayelly ,   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico, González Hamayraky Hernández ,   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico, Ortega Garcia Dora Patricia ,   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico, Trinidad Ana Lilia Antonio ,   Image Department. IMSS UMAE Specialty Hospital No.14, Veracruz Mexico, Sanchez David Sandoval ,   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico, Navarrete Jessica Ariatna Carreto ,   Department of Internal Medicine. High Specialty Hospital of Veracruz SESVER, Veracruz, Mexico
Published: February 2023

Patients with metastatic melanoma occasionally develop de novo hypopigmentation, pathologically indistinguishable from Sutton's nevus and common vitiligo, respectively. The case of a 68-year-old female with vitiligo of 2 years of evolution is documented, presenting a left inguinal mass and a para-aortic lymph node conglomerate. In the left inguinal region, a ganglion with thickened cortex and liquid content was identified. The laboratory results report hemoglobin of 8.30 g/dL, leukocytes 19.12 u/L, albumin 2.2 mg/dl, DHL 1222 Ul/L, alpha-fetoprotein 2 ng/ml, Ca-125 14.30 U/ml, Ca-19.9 8.60 U/ml and carcinoembryonic antigen of 2.14 ng/ml. Upon inspection, hypochromic, bilateral, and symmetrical lesions can be seen on the back of the hands, wrists, scalp, facial region, and neck. Biopsy showing malignant metastatic melanoma is performed. Starting management with Pembrolizumab 1 mg/kg every 21 days. Currently in follow-up and adjuvant treatment. Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. The association of malignant melanoma with de novo hypopigmentation has been found, synchronously or following the diagnosis of the tumor. In recent years, it has led to the development of monoclonal antibodies. However, its diagnosis has implications for life prognosis due to high mortality.
Corporate Social Responsibility in the Economic, Agriculture, and Environment Development; An Evidence of Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua
Authors:   Postgraduate of Environmental Department. Papua University. Manokwari, Dudung Daniel , Abbas Barahima ,   Department of Agriculture. Agriculture Faculty. Papua University. Manokwari, Tjoli Ihwan ,   Department of Agriculture. Agriculture Faculty. Papua University. Manokwari, Martanto Eko ,   Department of Agriculture. Agriculture Faculty. Papua University. Manokwari, Widayati Trisiwi Wahyu ,   Department of Animal Science, Animal Science Faculty. Papua University. Manokwari, Supriyantono Andoyo ,   Postgraduate of Environmental Department. Papua University. Manokwari, Iyai Deny Anjelus ,   Department of Animal Science, Animal Science Faculty. Papua University. Manokwari, Bawole Roni ,   Department of Marine Science. Faculty of Fishery &Marine Science. Papua University. Manokwari
Published: February 2023

This study aims to obtain an overview of the performance of Corporate Social Responsibility in Teluk Bintuni Regency in the social, economic, agricultural and environmental fields. Measurement of CSR performance is carried out by examining the gap between the level of importance and the performance of CSR implementation, as well as the priorities needed for program sustainability. There were 40 beneficiaries as respondents, located in the villages of Onar Baru, Onar Lama, Saengga, Tanah Merah, Tofoi, Babo and Bintuni. Data were analyzed using Importance Performance Analysis (IPA). The findings show that the level of conformity between interests and performance is 67%, and from the 14 attributes of the assessment, there are 7 attributes of program management that must be prioritized, namely planning and implementing programs that are as expected, accompanied by clear monitoring and evaluation. The program must be in accordance with the objectives, provide opportunities for the community for community involvement to provide input and have an orientation to the satisfaction of the target community.