bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Influence Mechanism of Global Enterprises' Return Investment on Enterprise Performance
Authors: Zhang Gaohan
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on the mechanisms by which global firms' return investment affects performance, using resource dependence, opportunity cost and capital structure as the main theoretical perspectives. The resource dependence perspective suggests that return investment is a strategy for firms to acquire and protect resources, and to reduce their dependence on external markets by repatriating capital, technology, and brand resources. This process may be achieved through internal resource reallocation, organizational culture adjustment and strategic innovation, which profoundly affects firm performance. Opportunity cost theory emphasizes the choice and abandonment in the return investment decision, and firms need to weigh the substitutability and long-term competitiveness of different opportunities, revealing the mechanisms of strategic choices, cultural changes, and business model innovations that may be involved in return investment, thus affecting long-term performance. Capital structure theory provides a framework for understanding the internal and external impacts of return investment on firms. The choice of capital structure directly affects a firm's competitive position in the domestic market, financial flexibility, and long-term value creation. Repatriation investments may adjust the capital structure through debt and equity adjustments to fit the needs of the home market. The capital structure perspective provides insights into the mechanisms by which return investment affects firms' financing decisions, resource allocation efficiency, and financial flexibility. At the industry and market level, return investment may lead to intra-organizational changes and market-level effects. Capital repatriation may drive firms to engage in industry consolidation, reposition themselves competitively in the market, and restructure supply and value chains. Through these mechanisms, firms will reshape their competitive position in their home markets, generate market strategies and competitive advantages that differ from those in international markets, stimulate innovation and development in their home markets, and influence the evolution of the industry as a whole and changes in the market landscape.
Research on Blockchain in Supply Chain Finance Risk Management
Authors: Guo Shenglan
Published: January 2024

With the development of supply chain finance, the business process of supply chain finance is more complex, and the participants are more diversified, bringing new risks to supply chain finance. Based on studying the risk sources and types of supply chain finance, combined with the core technology of blockchain and taking the blockchain + supply chain finance accounts receivable financing mode as an example, this paper proposes that blockchain can solve the problem of information asymmetry by reshaping the information flow of supply chain finance, breaking down information barriers, improving the credibility and transparency of information and expanding the scope of credit through smart contracts and distributed ledger technologies. In addition, financial institutions can reduce moral hazards and review costs caused by human operations through the characteristic advantages of blockchain consensus mechanism and traceability and ensure the authenticity and security of transaction information through the asymmetric key method and sharing mechanism of blockchain.
বৈষ্ণব পদাবলী সাহিত্যে চণ্ডীদাস বিতর্ক
Authors: বণিক সুদেষ্ণা
Published: January 2024

বৈষ্ণব পদাবলী সাহিত্যে চন্ডীদাসের স্থান বিশেষভাবে উল্লেখযোগ্য। চৈতন্য-পূর্ববর্তী সময় থেকেই রাধাকৃষ্ণের লীলা সংক্রান্ত পদ রচনায় ও এই সমস্ত পদে প্রেম ও ভক্তির সংমিশ্রণে দিব্যভাবের প্রকাশ ঘটানোয় চন্ডীদাসের কৃতিত্ব অতুলনীয়। স্বকীয় কাব্য প্রতিভার বৈশিষ্ট্যে চন্ডীদাস বাংলা পদাবলী সাহিত্যে ও আপামর বাঙালি মানসে এক অনন্যসাধারণ উচ্চাসনে অধিষ্ঠিত। চন্ডীদাসের পদাবলী স্বয়ং মহাপ্রভু শ্রীচৈতন্যকেও অপার্থিব আনন্দে আপ্লুত করত। তাই পদাবলী সাহিত্যের এই মহান স্রষ্টা যুগের পর যুগ ব্যাপী বাঙালি সুধী সমাজের আলোচ্য ব্যক্তি ও জনমানসের হৃদয়ের কবি হিসেবে স্ব-মহিমায় প্রতিষ্ঠিত। তবে বৈষ্ণব সাহিত্যে এই ‘চন্ডীদাস’ নামের অন্তরালে একাধিক বা বহু ব্যক্তির অস্তিত্ব বর্তমান। প্রাক্ চৈতন্য ও চৈতন্যোত্তর যুগে ‘চন্ডীদাস’ নামের একাধিক কবি থাকায় পদাবলী সাহিত্যের সর্বাধিক জনপ্রিয় কবিকে স্বতন্ত্রভাবে চিহ্নিত করা দুষ্কর। যদিও চৈতন্যোত্তর কালের ‘চন্ডীদাস’ নামধারী কবিরা কেউ ‘দীন’, কেউ ‘সহজিয়া’ উপাধি ব্যবহার করেছেন বলে তাঁদের পৃথকভাবে চিহ্নিত করা তুলনামূলকভাবে সহজ । কিন্তু মূল সমস্যা হল প্রাক্ চৈতন্য যুগের চন্ডীদাস, যিনি তাঁর রচনাশৈলী দ্বারা মহাপ্রভুকেও ভাবাবেশে আচ্ছন্ন করতেন, তাঁর পরিচয় উদ্ধার করে তাঁকে চিহ্নিত করা। আলোচ্য গবেষণা পত্রের মূল উদ্দেশ্য হল বৈষ্ণব পদাবলীর সর্বাধিক সম্মানিত ও আদৃত পদকার চন্ডীদাস সম্পর্কে পূর্বাপর গবেষণা ও আলোচনার নিরিখে একটি সর্বজনস্বীকৃত সিদ্ধান্তে পৌঁছানো।
Biology of the peregrine and gyrfalcon in Greenland
Authors: Burnham William A. , Mattox William G.
Published: January 2024

A ten year study began in 1972 in West Greenland to investigate the breeding biology of the peregrine falcon. Data on nesting gyrfalcons were also collected. Thirty-four peregrine nesting sites were examined in the 6050 km2 inland study area near Søndre Strømfjord. Limited research also centered in Disko Bugt and Frederikshåb. Peregrines were found nesting predominantly on high, south-facing cliffs which overlooked large areas. The mean minimum distance between peregrine eyries was 7.7 km for the inland area (1972 and 1973) and 55 km for the coast (1974). Approximately 60 percent of the inland nesting sites were occupied each year. A ten-year average production of 1.90 young per occupied site and 2.78 young per successful site was determined. Lapland longspurs, snow buntings, wheatears, and redpolls comprised 90 percent of the peregrine's diet. Raven nests and prey availability may affect gyrfalcon nesting. Gyrfalcons and peregrines did not breed successfully on the same cliffs as they do in Alaska where prey species number and density is greater.

Competition for nest sites probably occurs, but prey availability may be the most significant factor affecting falcon density. Addled peregrine eggs, eggshell fragments, and peregrine prey species were collected. Whole eggs averaged 14.3 ppm wet weight (305 ppm lipid weight) DDE, while eggshell measurements showed a 16 percent thinning compared with pre-1940 eggs from Greenland. Prey species carried low levels of DDE. The peregrine population appears to be at a near critical con­tamination level, and a small increase in DDE level could contribute to a population decline. No indication of a decline has been observed during the study, and the population appears stable. The project banded 185 peregrines, from which 8 recoveries occurred. The recoveries suggest peregrines migrate south to winter in South America.
Editor's acknowledgements and foreword
Authors: Mogensen Gert S.
Published: January 2024

Net relevant
The Coleoptera of Greenland
Authors: Böcher Jens
Published: January 2024

Since the appearance of the latest published list of Greenlandic insects (Henriksen 1939), 27 species of Coleoptera have been added, including 7 indigenous, 15 introduced, and 5 exclusively known as subfossils. Totally 71 species are treated.

A special section presents information on each species: taxonomical position, variation and dynamics, general distribution, Greenlandic distribution, habitat, and life cycle (mainly indirectly deduced from the collections).

A general section treats and discusses the same subjects on a comparative basis: the taxonomical composition of the beetle fauna, the zoogeographical position of the fauna, the distribution types within Greenland, the disposition of the species in relation to biotopes, and the variation in life cycles. Major conclusions concerning the indigenous fauna include: 1) the zoogeographical situation is peculiar, with equal importance of circumpolar and palaearctic species, and only one purely nearctic species; 2) the fauna has a pronounced southern character, with only one species having a southern limit in Greenland and thus deserving the designation "arctic"; 3) the majority of species are associated with benign microclimates and fairly lush vegetation, but a number of widespread species are highly eurytopic; 4) most species appear to overwinter as adults, four species are undoubtedly biennial with both larval and adult hibernation, and four seem to possess indefinite, opportunistic life cycles with extended larval life. Exclusively larval hibernation is suspected in only one species.

A final chapter reviews and discusses the origin of the Greenlandic Coleoptera. It is concluded that 1) a survival from the Tertiary in Greenland of any beetle species is highly improbable; 2) at most a few, hardy species might have existed in refugia from the Eem Interglacial during the last glaciation; 3) only two species, one purely nearctic, one "western" holarctic, undoubtedly have come to Greenland from North

America during the Holocene, and the same may be true for two more Holarctic species, absent from Europe; 4) the remainder of the indigenous species most likely are Lateglacial invaders from Europe; 5) the Norsemen were responsible for a number of introductions, of which only very few, partly synanthropic species, have survived to the present day.
Ornithological observations in Northeast Greenland between 74°30' and 76°00' N. lat., 1976
Authors: Meltofte Hans , Elander Magnus , Hjort Christian
Published: January 2024

The results of one summer's work in central Northeast Greenland are presented. The avifauna in the country traversed on several extensive survey trips is described. More intensive studies were made in an 18.2 km2 census area on southernmost Hochstetter Forland. Here the populations were followed throughout the breeding season, and information on arrival, pre-laying period, population densities, habitat and nest site selection, breeding schedule, clutch size, hatching success, re-nesting, non-breeders, moult, post-breeding activities and departure is given. Special attention is given to Clangula hyemalis, Somateria spectabilis, Anser brachyrhyncus, Arenaria interpres, Calidris maritima, Calidris alpina, Calidris alba, Phalaropus fulicarius and Stercorarius longicaudus. An extremely high predation pressure was caused by Alopex lagopus, and this is discussed in relation to lemming abundance and environmental conditions.
Mycology in Greenland - an introduction
Authors: Knudsen Henning
Published: January 2024

Not relevant.
New findings of snow mold fungi from Greenland
Authors: Hoshino Tamotsu , SAITO Izumi , Tronsmo Anne Marte
Published: January 2024

Three species of snow mold fungi, Myriosclerotinia borealis (syn. Sclerotinia borealis), Typhula incarnata and T. ishikariensis (syn. T. borealis), were collected from Nuuk, Sisimiut, Ammassalik and Kulusuk in Greenland. Myriosclerotinia borealis and T. incarnata are new records from Greenland. Some isolates of T. ishikariensis were collected from Nuuk and Ammassalik and all isolates from Sisimiut showed irregular growth as hyphal extensions at 10°C in potato dextrose agar plates. These physiological characteristics of some isolates from Greenland are similar to those of psychrotrophisolates (group III strains) from Finnmark, northernmost Norway and Svalbard.
Relationship among Collybia s. str. in Greenland, North America and Eurasia
Authors: Hughes Karen W. , Petersen Ronald H.
Published: January 2024

Collections of Collybia s. str. from Greenland were analyzed morphologically and by DNA sequencing of the nuclear ribosomal ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region. Results confirmed that all three species of Collybia were present and sympatric in Greenland. Collybia tuberosa ITS sequences of collections from Greenland, Europe and North America were remarkably similar, with only one variable base and 3 apomorphies among ten geographically divergent collections. Two collections from Greenland differed with respect to the variable base. Nine collections of C. cookei were sequenced, including one from Greenland. Collections from North America and Greenland formed a well-supported clade, but two unique apomorphies were present in the Greenland collection.
Twelve collections of Collybia cirrata from Europe and North America were also nearly identical but Greenland collections showed a number of unique apomorphies. Discovery of divergent genotypes in Greenland not detected in either North America or Eurasia may be a consequence of founder effects in Greenland populations - mutation and genetic drift in small isolated populations followed by range expansion.
The genus Lycoperdon in Greenland and Svalbard
Authors: Jeppson Mikael
Published: January 2024

The collections of Lycoperdon from Greenland and Svalbard kept at the Botanical Museum of Copenhagen are reviewed. In the surveyed material ten species are on record from Greenland whereas only three species were represented in the collections from Svalbard. An arctic-alpine element with wide distributions in Greenland and Svalbard is represented by L. frigidum, L. niveum and some forms of L. molle s.l.
A subarctic - low arctic element consisting of species widespread in temperate regions of N America and Eurasia (L. lambimomii, L. nigrescens, L. norvegicum, L. perlatum, L. pyriforme and L. umbrinum) are confined to S and SW Greenland. One species, L. lividum, although rare, is widely distributed in Greenland but seems to be restricted to regions with low precipitation.
Hypogeous fungi at tree line in the Australian Alps
Authors: Trappe James M. , Claridge Andrew W.
Published: January 2024

The tree line of the continental Australian Alps yielded eighteen species of hypogeous fungi, all probably forming ectomycorrhizae with Eucalyptus niphophila, the tree species characteristic of that habitat. Six of the species were undescribed. These collections represented six families and twelve genera: Boletaceae (with Chamonixia), Gallaceaceae (Gallacea), Hysterangiaceae (Hysterangium), Cortinariaceae (Cortinarius, Dermocybe, Descomyces, Protoglossum, Setchelliogaster), Russulaceae (Cystangium, Gymnomyces, Zelleromyces) and Tricholomataceae (Hydnangium). A key to hypogeous fungi so far found at the Australian Alps tree line is presented.
Carbon cycling and climate change: Predictions for a High Arctic marine ecosystem (Young Sound, NE Greenland)
Authors: Rysgaard Søren , Glud Ronnie N.
Published: January 2024

This chapter reviews current predictions of future changes in the High Arctic marine ecosystem Young Sound, NE Greenland. A high-resolution regional atmosphere-ocean model predicts an increase in atmospheric temperature of 6–8°C and in precipitation of 20–30% by the end of this century (2071–2100), leading to increased freshwater runoff, thinning of sea ice, and an increase in open-water period from 2.5 months to 4.7–5.3 months. Evaluation of the consequences of enhanced freshwater runoff to the fjord revealed that the mixed layer thickness of the water column will change only marginally, whereas the transport of saltwater from the Greenland Sea to Young Sound below the halocline is predicted to increase considerably due to stimulated estuarine circulation.

The thinning of sea ice and the increase in the open-water period is expected to enhance primary productivity in the area due to a c. 50% increase in light availability. The phytoplankton bloom will continue to occur in a sub-surface layer, but as the exchange between the fjord and the Greenland Sea increases, production will benefit from increased import of nutrients. We estimate that primary productivity in the area will have tripled by the end of the century compared with present-day levels. The longer ice-free period will induce a shift in the pelagic food web structure, from a copepod-dominated grazer community to a situation with growing influence of protozooplankton.

The increased pelagic production will enhance sedimentation and thus intensify bacterial mineralization at the sea floor along with carbon burial. This will reduce oxygen availability in the sediment and the relative importance of anaerobic degradation will increase. The rise in sedimentation will also improve food availability for the benthic animals and thus stimulate growth and production until a certain threshold, where sulphide released from anaerobic sulphate reduction may become inhibitory. Finally, an increase in the ice-free period will prolong the period in which birds and marine mammals – e.g. walruses – have access to the food-rich coastal area, and thus improve their foraging conditions. All in all, conditions in Young Sound in 2071–2100 are predicted to resemble present-day conditions c. 450 km further south, e.g. Scoresby Sound.
¿Matar al mensajero? La responsabilidad de las redes sociales y los usuarios por difamación
Authors: Herrerías Castro Laura
Published: January 2024

La Ley Orgánica 1/1982, de 5 de mayo, de protección civil del derecho al honor, a la intimidad personal y familiar y a la propia imagen, dota de recursos jurídicos a las personas perjudicadas por, entre otros supuestos, difamaciones tanto en entornos analógicos como en línea. Una de las principales cuestiones que plantea el uso de internet en la protección del derecho al honor es la determinación de los sujetos responsables. Por lo general, cuando se comete una intromisión ilegítima en línea hay tres partes implicadas: el perjudicado, el autor y el intermediario en línea, típicamente plataformas de redes sociales. Hay que tener presente que las plataformas en línea pueden beneficiarse del régimen de exoneración condicionada de responsabilidad previsto en el artículo 6.1 del Reglamento de Servicios Digitales. También son relevantes las acciones de otros usuarios que contribuyen a aumentar el impacto de las intromisiones mediante el uso de herramientas técnicas como la función «me gusta», «compartir» o «comentar». El presente trabajo tiene por objeto determinar en qué supuestos los operadores de plataformas de redes sociales son responsables por alojar contenidos difamatorios y si los usuarios que interactúan con los mismos pueden, junto con el autor, ser considerados civilmente responsables.
Molecules structure and viscosity relationship of nematic liquid crystal and BPNN-QSAR model
Authors: Chen Hong-Mei , Li Shi-Wei , Li Kai-Jing , Zhang Zhi-Yong , Chen Hao , Wang Ting-Ting ,   School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
Published: January 2024

Nematic liquid crystal materials designed for optics, microwave communication tuning, etc. need high response speed, which is related to the rotational viscosity and the birefringent index of the liquid crystal. In order to achieve a wide tuning range of phase modulation, the nematic liquid crystals often employ large π-electron conjugated systems and large polar groups to enhance the birefringence and dielectric anisotropy of the liquid crystal molecule, which, however, increases the viscosity of the liquid crystal material, deteriorating the response speed of the microwave device. Herein, we explore the viscosity of the nematic liquid crystal from the perspective of liquid crystal compound structure by testing the viscosity of our designed and synthesized forty-two different nematic liquid crystals by using a rotating rheometer at 25 ℃. To the best of our knowledge, the BPNN-QSAR quantitative structure-activity model between nematic liquid crystal molecular structure and viscosity is established for the first time. The correlation coefficient between the predicted value and the experimental value is q2 = 0.607 > 0.5, indicating that the model can be used to predict the viscosity performances of liquid crystal compounds. Besides, the molecular structure descriptors affecting the viscosity properties are explored. Based on the practical application and this model, seven liquid crystal molecules of two series with large birefringent index are designed and tested. The viscosity predicted by the BPNN model is smaller than that of the molecules of the same type and matches with the measured viscosity.
Accessing populations of motor units
Authors: Kirk Eric A , Sauerbrei Britton A
Published: January 2024

A new device improves the way scientists can record the activity of motor units in a wide range of animals and settings.
An ensemble learning-based feature selection algorithm for identification of biomarkers of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Xin Zekun , Lv Ruhong , Liu Wei , Wang Shenghan , Gao Qiang , Zhang Bao , Sun Guangyu
Published: January 2024

Feature selection plays a crucial role in classification tasks as part of the data preprocessing process. Effective feature selection can improve the robustness and interpretability of learning algorithms, and accelerate model learning. However, traditional statistical methods for feature selection are no longer practical in the context of high-dimensional data due to the computationally complex. Ensemble learning, a prominent learning method in machine learning, has demonstrated exceptional performance, particularly in classification problems. To address the issue, we propose a three-stage feature selection algorithm framework for high-dimensional data based on ensemble learning (EFS-GINI). Firstly, highly linearly correlated features are eliminated using the Spearman coefficient. Then, a feature selector based on the F-test is employed for the first stage selection. For the second stage, four feature subsets are formed using mutual information (MI), ReliefF, SURF, and SURF* filters in parallel. The third stage involves feature selection using a combinator based on GINI coefficient. Finally, a soft voting approach is proposed to employ for classification, including decision tree, naive Bayes, support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbors (KNN) and random forest classifiers. To demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm, eight high-dimensional datasets are used and five feature selection methods are employed to compare with our proposed algorithm. Experimental results show that our method effectively enhances the accuracy and speed of feature selection. Moreover, to explore the biological significance of the proposed algorithm, we apply it on the renal cell carcinoma dataset GSE40435 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Two feature genes, NOP2 and NSUN5, are selected by our proposed algorithm. They are directly involved in regulating m5c RNA modification, which reveals the biological importance of EFS-GINI. Through bioinformatics analysis, we shows that m5C-related genes play an important role in the occurrence and progression of renal cell carcinoma, and are expected to become an important marker to predict the prognosis of patients.
The influence of management practices on plant diversity: a comparative study of three urban wetlands in an expanding city in eastern China
Authors: Lu Yijun , Yang Guofu , Zhang Youli , Wei Biao , He Qiaoyi , Yu Huifang , Wang Yue
Published: January 2024

Rapid urbanization has drawn some aquatic environments into the urban texture from the outskirts of cities, and the composition and distribution of plant species in urban wetlands along the urban gradient have changed. Understanding the drivers of these changes will help in the conservation and utilization of urban wetlands. This study investigated the differences in plant diversity and associated influencing factors in three wetlands, Xixi wetland, Tongjian Lake wetland, and Qingshan Lake wetland, which are located in a core area, fringe area, and suburban area of Hangzhou City, respectively. The results showed that a total of 104 families, 254 genera, and 336 species of plants were recorded in the Xixi wetland; 179 species, 150 genera, and 74 families were found in the Qingshan Lake wetland; and 112 species, 96 genera, and 57 families were collected in the Tongjian Lake wetland. The main plant species and flora distribution of the three urban wetlands showed similarities. Indigenous spontaneous vegetation was highest in the Xixi wetland, while cultivated plant species were most abundant in the Tongjian Lake wetland. The introduction of cultivated plants decreased the distance attenuation effect of plant communities, which led to a certain degree of plant diversity convergence among the three wetlands. Eight endangered plants were preserved in the Xixi wetland by planting them in suitable habitats. Ellenberg’s indicator values showed that the proportion of heliophilous plants was higher in the Qingshan Lake wetland, while the proportion of thermophilous plants and nitrogen-loving plants in the Tongjian Lake wetland was higher than in the other two wetlands. The importance of artificial interference factors affecting the differences in plant diversity was significantly higher than that of natural environmental factors in urban wetlands. The preservation of spontaneous plants and the introduction of cultivated plants had an importance of 25.73% and 25.38%, respectively. These were the main factors influencing the plant diversity of urban wetlands. The management mode that did not interfere with spontaneous vegetation and confined maintenance to cultivated plants in the Xixi wetland was beneficial for improving wetland plant diversity. Scientific plant reintroduction can also improve wetland plant diversity.
Volumetric comparison of mandibular condyles and mandibles in the different skeletal classes in the Saudi population
Authors: Marghalani Hussain Y. A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Assessing the relationship between the condyle and mandible volume and the various skeletal classes is essential in orthodontic diagnosis. The current study evaluated this relationship using volumetric cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), cephalometric methods, and the correlations between them.

Materials and Methods

The study examined 37 full-head CBCTs (74 condyles) from adults in the Saudi population. The condyle and mandible were separated from within the CBCT images. The volume of each segment was compared to measurements from multiple cephalometric analyses.

Results

The combined total condylar volume has a moderate correlation with the maxillomandibular differential in each of the genders and in the total sample. Mandibular volume has a significant correlation with the Wits appraisal (sagittal classification) in males. It was also significantly correlated with the vertical classification using gonial angles in females and in the total sample.

Conclusion

The relationship between mandible and condyle volume and cephalometric measurements is both dimensional and within the maxillomandibular complex rather than positional or related to the cranial base. Also, the correlation between the condylar and mandibular volumes and the sagittal and vertical dimensions in the orthodontic skeletal classes provides better insight into the mandibular complex.
Lineamientos para la práctica e instalación de la Ciencia Abierta en la UC
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Published: January 2024

Estos lineamientos corresponden a la visión de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, de sumarse progresivamente hacia una cultura que propicie el acceso abierto a través de la apertura de los resultados de investigación y una adecuada gestión de los datos de investigación, creando un entorno normativo propicio para la Ciencia Abierta.
Lineamientos para Política de Preservación Digital de la UC
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Published: January 2024

Este documento tiene el propósito de entregar una propuesta de lineamientos para llevar a cabo procesos de preservación, para asegurar la accesibilidad y usabilidad a largo plazo de los recursos digitales contenidos en los repositorios de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.
The Consequences of Relationship Breakups on Young Adults: Impulsivity, Aggression and Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Afzal Maira , Ali Faiza , Abbas D. R. Saleem
Published: January 2024

This research examined the connections between impulsive behavior, aggressive tendencies, and thoughts of self-harm among young adults who have consequences of relationship breakup. To hypothesize that gender was important since different features were seen depending on gender. It has been discovered that among young adults, the relationship breakup predicts levels of impulsivity, aggression, and suicidal thoughts. 200 individuals, ranging in age from 17 to 37, had their data gathered purposive sampling methods that fit study. IBM SPSS (23.0) used to analyze the data, and the results showed significant correlations between the variables. Assessments questions used AGQ for aggression, the SIDAS for suicidal behavior, and BIS-R for impulsivity. Employing a correlational survey approach, the findings revealed notable associations among impulsiveness, expressions of anger, and the occurrence of suicidal thoughts in young adults with relationship breakup. To improve generalizability, future research should take into account collecting data from other Punjab provinces.
Challenges and Opportunities of Implementing Artificial Intelligence in Auditing Practices: A Case Study of Nigerian Accounting Firms
Authors: Oluwagbade Oluyinka Isaiah , Boluwaji Olayinka Dominion , Azeez Oyebanji Abiola , Njengo Lakori Micah
Published: January 2024

The ever-evolving nature of the worldwide business arena is undergoing a significant change propelled by technological progress, where artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a central force redefining conventional methodologies. This research intends to identify and dissect the challenges encountered by Nigerian accounting firms in incorporating AI into their auditing processes, and to illuminate the opportunities that arise from leveraging AI capabilities in the auditing domain. This research utilized a survey research design. A well-structured questionnaire was employed to gather data from statutory auditors familiar with the use of artificial intelligence within their accounting firms situated in Lagos, the commercial hub of the Nigerian economy. The study encompassed all 35 registered accounting firms in Lagos State, Nigeria, employing a census sampling technique to determine the sample size, representing 100% of the population. Given the relative size of the population, five respondents were chosen from each accounting firm, totaling 175 respondents. The study received 153 responses, constituting 87% of the sample size. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied to analyze the collected data. The outcomes reveal that AI, encompassing machine learning, natural language processing, and expert systems, significantly contributes to identifying challenges and highlighting opportunities in this context. The results underscore the positive role of AI in addressing challenges and revealing potential advancements in auditing practices within Nigerian accounting firms. The study concludes that AI, particularly machine learning, holds promise for addressing challenges and fostering advancements in auditing practices for Nigerian accounting firms. Given the significant positive impact of machine learning, accounting firms in Nigeria should consider prioritizing the integration of machine learning technologies into their auditing practices.
Bio-Economic Assessment of Novel Fish Feed Formulation Software (FUTA AQUAFEEDAPP) for African Catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822) Raised in Recirculatory Aquaculture System
Authors: Fasakin, Emmanuel A.  , Gbadamosi, Oluyemi K.  , Adetunmbi, Adebayo O.
Published: January 2024

In the current study, data on nutritional composition and cost of conventional and non-conventional fish feed ingredients were gathered, a spreadsheet was created to bank the data. Four fish feeds were formulated and produced using three conventional fish feed formulation methods namely Pearson’s Square feed formulation method and two other conventional fish feed softwares, WINFEEDTM, ALLIXTM and a developed software (FUTA AQUAFEEDAPP); the software was developed using data analytical tools: simple harmonic equation, linear programming and stochastic programming techniques. The nutrient composition of the four diets were evaluated in the laboratory. The result of the proximate analyses indicated that the four diets met the crude protein requirements for African Catfish fingerlings, the values ranged from 40.68±0.62 (Pearson square) to 40.98±0.86 (ALLIX). There were no significant differences in the moisture content, crude protein, crude fibre, crude lipid and NFE across all treatments, however there was significant difference in the ash content across the four diets. The result of the cost assessment across the four treatments were significantly different, it revealed that AQUAFEED had the lowest investment cost ($1/Kg) when compared with the three other treatments, while Pearson Square had the highest investment cost ($1.5/kg) due to the high inclusion of fishmeal in the diet.
Implementation of Wireless Charging Unit for Pacemaker Based on Vital Data Analysis Using IOT
Authors: Sonoli Savita , Shabana S. S.
Published: January 2024

This research paper focuses on the implementation of a wireless charging unit for pacemakers based on vital data analysis using the Internet of Things (IoT). Pacemakers are essential medical devices that require regular charging to ensure their uninterrupted operation. However, conventional charging methods involve invasive procedures, which can be uncomfortable and pose risks to patients. By leveraging IoT and vital data analysis, this study aims to develop a non-invasive and efficient wireless charging system for pacemakers. Through an analysis of vital data and real-time monitoring, the system will intelligently charge the pacemaker based on the patient's needs. This paper discusses a proposed system that uses machine learning to improve the monitoring of patients with artificial pacemaker. The system collects data from implanted pacemakers, as well as other health metrics such as temperature, blood pressure, and glucose levels. This data would be stored in a database and analyzed using machine learning algorithm.
Assessing the Implication of Plea Bargain under ACJA, 2015 in Nigeria’s Anti-corruption Crusade: Lessons from Kenya
Authors: Kemi Omojola , Beatrice Omodanisi Kemi
Published: January 2024

The fight against corruption under the Nigerian Criminal Justice System has gradually witnessed the use of plea bargain in the prosecution of corruption cases; drawing criticism and approval from stakeholders. Plea Bargain is an agreement between the prosecutor and defendant whereby the defendant concedes to plead guilty to a particular charge in exchange for some concession from the prosecutor. This paper assesses the implication of plea bargain under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 in the fight against corruption in Nigeria; drawing lessons from Kenya. The paper is doctrinal, using primary and secondary sources of law such as case law, books, articles in journals, and internet materials. It examines plea bargain and innovations under Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 as well as complementary analysis of plea bargain under Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) of states and Kenya’s application of plea bargain in its anti-corruption fight. The paper finds that judicial decisions considered both in Nigeria and Kenya reveals that plea bargaining is a useful tool in fighting corruption. One of the key recommendations of this paper is having a Plea Bargain Guideline and Rule pursuant to ACJA 2015 as obtainable in Kenya. This will act as a guide for prosecutors, accused persons and other stakeholders in negotiating a plea bargain agreement.
Assessing the Effects of Biostimulant on Tomato Growth, Yield and Quality in Open Field Condition
Authors: Kundu Sourav , Karak Subhadeep , Hansda Narendra Nath , Thapa Umesh , Rahaman Abujafar Oliyar
Published: January 2024

Aim: This study, conducted at "C" Block Farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, during the period of 2022–23, explores the impact of biostimulants on the growth, yield, and quality of tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). The primary objectives include investigating the significant effects of biostimulants and determining the optimal stage for their application, given the current emphasis on sustainable farming practices.

Study Design: The experimental design employed Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and eight treatments. Results indicate that biostimulant application, particularly as a foliar spray, significantly enhances crop growth and stimulates reproductive growth in later stages compared to control plants. Notably, the application of Biostimulant (Kazuki Gold)topically at 500 ml/acre during pre-flowering stage and during fruit development stage (T5) significantly registered the highest yield of 751.89 q/ha.

Place and Duration of Study: The farm, situated near the Tropic of Cancer, exhibits coordinates of approximately 22.89°N latitude and 88.45°E longitude, with an altitude of around 9.75 m above sea level.

Results: The highest lycopene content of 5.08 mg/100gm, which was significantly superior over all the treatments was obtained with the application of Kazuki gold during the two stages of application (i.e. at pre- flowering stages and during fruit development stage). The study also observed substantial impacts on other quality parameters with the application of seaweed extracts, protein hydrolysates, and N-fixing growth promoters during various stages of plant growth.

Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be concluded that Applying KAZUKI GOLD/YOSHI GOLD through foliar spray at a rate of 500ml per acre during the pre-flowering and fruit development stages has demonstrated profitability and advantages, leading to increased yields of high-quality tomato fruits.
Phytonutrient Screening and In vitro Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties of Polar and Nonpolar Extracts of Albizia gummifera, Prunus africana, and Combretum molle from Mount Elgon Region, Kenya
Authors: Nguimbous Simone Pierrette , Maingi John Muthini , Wanyonyi Alphonse Wafula , Mutuiri Shem Peter Mutua
Published: January 2024

Background: Globally, and particularly in less-developed countries, one of the principal factors associated with morbidity and mortality is infectious diseases. Over the years, the abuse and misuse of pharmaceutical products have caused an increase in resistant microbes, and consequently, today, the rate of infectious disease cases continues to increase to dangerously high levels as most medications have lost their efficacy. This indicates that there’s a need for new effective medications and calls for active research in drug discovery to curb this dangerous trend.

Results: Obtained data demonstrated the presence of different bioactive compounds in the tested plant extracts such as glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, and phenols. Using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, P. africana methanol and ethyl acetate extracts showed significantly bigger inhibition zones compared to the rest against S. aureus (excluding controls). None of the tested extracts, however, were able to inhibit C. albicans and E. coli. The P. africana methanolic extract and the A. gummifera hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanolic extracts all inhibited the growth of S. aureus at the same minimum concentration of 31.25 mg/ml. The methanolic extract of C. molle exhibited the least activity against S. aureus, with an MIC of 250 mg/ml and mean zones of inhibition of 9.33±0.33 mm.

Conclusions: This study revealed the presence of various phytoconstituents in crude extracts of the selected medicinal plants, but also highlighted the resistance of E. coli and C. albicans to these phytochemicals. The P. africana methanolic extract showed strongest inhibitory effect against S. aureus compared to the other plant extracts. The highest susceptibility was demonstrated by S. aureus, while E. coli and C. albicans were resistant to all the extracts. These findings support the usage of A. gummifera, P. africana, and C. molle in folk medicine against infections caused by S. aureus and highlight them as potential sources of phytonutrients for the development of new drugs.
DcoD Ameliorate Diabetic Retinopathy through Aldose-Sorbitol Cleavage
Authors: Aruna V.  , Amruthavalli G. V.  , Gayathri R.
Published: January 2024

A new effect of D-Co-D tablets, polyherbal Siddha drug for the management of diabetes mellitus has been discovered in the present study relating to its effect in reducing the episode of sugar cataract a common ocular problem encountered among diabetic people. D-Co-D found to exert biphasic action on both aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase. Aldose reductase expression increase over 30% in diabetic condition to convert excess glucose to sorbitol which is further cleaved into fructose by another enzyme sorbitol dehydrogenase; D-co-D inhibited the activity of both enzymes comparable to the known positive control. The herbs in the formulation suh as Tinospora cordifolia was effective on aldose reductase while Momordica charantia and Zingiber officinale where effective on sorbitol dehydrogenase. Result of the findings and the treatment advancement of D-Co-D is discussed in the article.
Economic Analysis of Resource Use Efficiency of Turmeric in Erode District of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kiruthika N. , Karthick V. , Senthilnathan S. , Arivelarasan T.
Published: January 2024

Turmeric, a golden spice obtained from the rhizome of the plant Curcuma longa, has been used to give color and taste to food preparations since ancient times. to increase the productivity of turmeric it’s essential to know the resource use efficiency of turmeric. Hence, the present study has taken up with the objective of to analyze the factors affecting yield of turmeric and study the factor use efficiency in turmeric. The study is based on the primary data collected from Erode district of Tamil Nadu. The primary data required for the study were collected through personal interview with the help of a comprehensive interview schedule. Results showed that 96 per cent of the variation in the dependent variable was explained by the independent variables selected for the study. The variables labour and irrigation were significant at one per cent level of probability. The variables quantity of rhizome, quantity of organic manure and quantity of inorganic fertilizer were significant at five per cent level of probability.
The Wrong Fight—Prior Authorization
Authors: Shahriar Arman A.
Published: January 2024

This essay describes the author’s experience with denial of prior authorization for imaging to complete cancer staging.
Immunotherapy Initiation at the End of Life in Patients With Metastatic Cancer in the US
Authors: Kerekes Daniel M. , Frey Alexander E. , Prsic Elizabeth H. , Tran Thuy T. , Clune James E. , Sznol Mario , Kluger Harriet M. , Forman Howard P. , Becher Robert D. , Olino Kelly L. , Khan Sajid A.
Published: January 2024

Importance

While immunotherapy is being used in an expanding range of clinical scenarios, the incidence of immunotherapy initiation at the end of life (EOL) is unknown.

Objective

To describe patient characteristics, practice patterns, and risk factors concerning EOL-initiated (EOL-I) immunotherapy over time.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective cohort study using a US national clinical database of patients with metastatic melanoma, non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), or kidney cell carcinoma (KCC) diagnosed after US Food and Drug Administration approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of each disease through December 2019. Mean follow-up was 13.7 months. Data analysis was performed from December 2022 to May 2023.

Exposures

Age, sex, race and ethnicity, insurance, location, facility type, hospital volume, Charlson-Deyo Comorbidity Index, and location of metastases.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Main outcomes were EOL-I immunotherapy, defined as immunotherapy initiated within 1 month of death, and characteristics of the cohort receiving EOL-I immunotherapy and factors associated with its use.

Results

Overall, data for 242 371 patients were analyzed. The study included 20 415 patients with stage IV melanoma, 197 331 patients with stage IV NSCLC, and 24 625 patients with stage IV KCC. Mean (SD) age was 67.9 (11.4) years, 42.5% were older than 70 years, 56.0% were male, and 29.3% received immunotherapy. The percentage of patients who received EOL-I immunotherapy increased over time for all cancers. More than 1 in 14 immunotherapy treatments in 2019 were initiated within 1 month of death. Risk-adjusted patients with 3 or more organs involved in metastatic disease were 3.8-fold more likely (95% CI, 3.1-4.7; P < .001) to die within 1 month of immunotherapy initiation than those with lymph node involvement only. Treatment at an academic or high-volume center rather than a nonacademic or very low-volume center was associated with a 31% (odds ratio, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.65-0.74; P < .001) and 30% (odds ratio, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.65-0.76; P < .001) decrease in odds of death within a month of initiating immunotherapy, respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

Findings of this cohort study show that the initiation of immunotherapy at the EOL is increasing over time. Patients with higher metastatic burden and who were treated at nonacademic or low-volume facilities had higher odds of receiving EOL-I immunotherapy. Tracking EOL-I immunotherapy can offer insights into national prescribing patterns and serve as a harbinger for shifts in the clinical approach to patients with advanced cancer.
Lower limb muscle MRI fat fraction is a responsive outcome measure in CMT X1, 1B and 2A
Authors: Doherty Carolynne M. , Morrow Jasper M. , Zuccarino Riccardo , Howard Paige , Wastling Stephen , Pipis Menelaos , Zafeiropoulos Nick , Stephens Katherine J. , Grider Tiffany , Feely Shawna M. E. , Nopoulous Peggy , Skorupinska Mariola , Milev Evelin , Nicolaisen Emma , Dudzeic Magdalena , McDowell Amy , Dilek Nuran , Muntoni Francesco , Rossor Alexander M. , Shah Sachit , Laura Matilde , Yousry Tarek A. , Thedens Daniel , Thornton John , Shy Michael E. , Reilly Mary M.
Published: January 2024

Objective

With potential therapies for many forms of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease (CMT), responsive outcome measures are urgently needed for clinical trials. Quantitative lower limb MRI demonstrated progressive calf intramuscular fat accumulation in the commonest form, CMT1A with large responsiveness. In this study, we evaluated the responsiveness and validity in the three other common forms, due to variants in GJB1 (CMTX1), MPZ (CMT1B) and MFN2 (CMT2A).

Methods

22 CMTX1, 21 CMT1B and 21 CMT2A patients and matched controls were assessed at a 1‐year interval. Intramuscular fat fraction (FF) was evaluated using three‐point Dixon MRI at thigh and calf level along with clinical measures including CMT examination score, clinical strength assessment, CMT‐HI and plasma neurofilament light chain.

Results

All patient groups had elevated muscle fat fraction at thigh and calf levels, with highest thigh FF and atrophy in CMT2A. There was moderate correlation between calf muscle FF and clinical measures (CMTESv2 rho = 0.405; p = 0.001, ankle MRC strength rho = −0.481; p < 0.001). Significant annualised progression in calf muscle FF was seen in all patient groups (CMTX1 2.0 ± 2.0%, p < 0.001, CMT1B 1.6 ± 2.1% p = 0.004 and CMT2A 1.6 ± 2.1% p = 0.002). Greatest increase was seen in patients with 10–70% FF at baseline (calf 2.7 ± 2.3%, p < 0.0001 and thigh 1.7 ± 2.1%, p = 0.01).

Interpretation

Our results confirm that calf muscle FF is highly responsive over 12 months in three additional common forms of CMT which together with CMT1A account for 90% of genetically confirmed cases. Calf muscle MRI FF should be a valuable outcome measure in upcoming CMT clinical trials.