bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Species diversity, mosquito behavior, and microfilariae detection in vectors and reservoirs in filariasis-endemic areas of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Authors: KERMELITA DERI , HADI UPIK KESUMAWATI , SOVIANA SUSI , TIURIA RISA , NOVIANTO DIMAS
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Kermelita D, Hadi UK, Soviana S, Tiuria R, Novianto D. 2024. Species diversity, mosquito behavior, and microfilariae detection in vectors and reservoirs in filariasis-endemic areas of Bengkulu, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3125-3131. Filariasis, recognized by the WHO as a neglected tropical disease, remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in Southeast Asia. In Bengkulu Province, Indonesia, 66 cases of filariasis were reported between 2010 and 2020, with the highest prevalence found in Mukomuko and Seluma Districts. This study analyzed the vector behavior and detection of filariasis reservoirs in endemic areas of Bengkulu Province. Human landing and resting collections were employed for mosquito collection for 12 h (18:00-06:00), and blood sampling was performed on reservoir animals (Canis familiaris, Felis catus Linnaeus, 1758, and Macaca fascicularis (Raffles, 1821)). Mosquito diversity was analyzed using several diversity indices. Filaria larvae in mosquitoes were detected using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) methods, and filaria in reservoir animals were detected using blood smears with Giemsa staining. The result showed that 17 mosquito species were captured in the filariasis-endemic regions of Bengkulu Province: Culex quinquefasciatus Say, 1823; Culex hutchinsoni Barraud, 1924; Culex gelidus Theobald, 1901; Culex pseudovishnui Colless, 1957; Culex vishnui Theobald, 1901; Armigeres subalbatus (Coquillett, 1898); Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762); Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894); Anopheles tessellatus Theobald, 1901; Anopheles vagus Döntiz, 1902; Anopheles minimus Theobald, 1901; Anopheles indefinitus (Ludlow, 1904); Anopheles sundaicus (Rodenwaldt, 1948); Anopheles barbirostris Wulp, 1884; Anopheles maculatus Theobald, 1901; Anopheles sp., and Mansonia annulata Leicester, 1908. Culex pseudovishnui exhibited the highest indoor density among the mosquito species, whereas C. quinquefasciatus exhibited the highest outdoor density. Filaria larvae were not detected in all mosquito sample pools based on the PCR results, whereas microfilariae of Dirofilaria immitis (Leidy, 1856) Railliet & Henry, 1911 were identified in the reservoir (Canine) blood samples. Thus, the presence of microfilariae in reservoir animals must be monitored because they can transmit filariasis to the community. Control strategies should be developed for endemic regions in Bengkulu Province.
Bio-inventory of terrestrial gastropod species in Northern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: TAÑAN VERONICA B. , SUMAYA NANETTE HOPE N.
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Tañan VB, Sumaya NHN. 2024. Bio-inventory of terrestrial gastropod species in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. Biodiversitas 25: 3391-3402. Gastropods are the largest class in the phylum Mollusca, with an estimated 70,000 to 76,000 species. The prevalence of gastropods is undeniable evidence of their successful adaptation to various habitats, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments. Slugs and snails are extremely effective in the terrestrial environment, where they are involved with several ecological activities such as nutrient recycling, decomposing waste material, and calcium enrichment in calcium-deficient habitats. However, many species (notably the non-indigenous ones) are well-known pests that damage crops, increase pesticide demand, harm natural ecosystems, reduce native biodiversity, and even carry pathogens and parasites. Northern Mindanao is one of the regions in Mindanao, Philippines, with abundant agricultural resources. In comparison to other taxa in Mindanao, gastropod species have received less attention from researchers. Thus, we collected, characterized, and delineated species of gastropods from the different agricultural areas in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. During sampling, environmental parameters were recorded, and it was established which gastropod species are associated with crops and, at their worst, can become pests to banana (Musa acuminata Colla), corn (Zea mays L.), cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.), carrots (Daucus carota L.), rice (Oryza sativa L.), eggplant (Solanum melongena L.), chayote (Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw.), radish (Raphanus sativus L.), and many more. Morphology and morphometrics following published protocols on the collected organisms successfully characterized the gastropod species. Slug species, namely, Laevicaulis alte (Férussac, 1822), Sarasinula plebeia (P.Fischer, 1868), and Deroceras (Deroceras) laeve (O.F.Müller, 1774) and snail species, Lissachatina fulica (Férussac, 1821), Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck, 1822), Subulina octona (Bruguière, 1789), Oxychilus (Ortizius) alliarius (J.S.Miller, 1822), and Bradybaena similaris (A.Férussac, 1822), were identified. The study reveals that exotic terrestrial gastropods are prevalent in the agricultural areas across Northern Mindanao. Consequently, additional surveys are necessary to determine the extent of their dispersal, crop preferences, pest status, and to its associated parasites within the Philippines.
Diversity of bacterial isolates as biocontrol agents against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici
Authors: IRWANDHI IRWANDHI , PRIHATININGSIH NUR , ABRAHAM SILVA , ISRONI MUHSON , GITAMI SATIVA RIZKA , NURANIYA KAMALUDDIN NADIA , KHUMAIRAH FIQRIAH HANUM , MAULANA HARIS , TRINURANI SOFYAN EMMA , SIMARMATA TUALAR
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Irwandhi, Prihatiningsih N, Abraham S, Isroni M, Sativa RG, Kamaluddin NN, Khumairah FH, Maulana H, Sofyan ET, Simarmata T. 2024. Diversity of bacterial isolates as biocontrol agents against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. Biodiversitas 25: 3403-3410. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL) is a soil-borne pathogen causing fusarium wilt in tomato plants, leading to significant crop losses worldwide. The severity of this disease is likely to increase with climate change, as rising temperatures and soil salinization create more favorable conditions for the pathogen. This study focused on characterizing bacterial isolates that could become biocontrol agents resilient to climate stress and identifying them through molecular techniques. Biochemical assays assessed the bacteria's ability to fix nitrogen and produce protease enzymes, siderophores, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN), which are essential for antagonizing FOL. The biological efficacy of these isolates was determined through antagonism assays, followed by molecular identification of the most effective isolates. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used, involving six bacterial isolates and a control group with four replications for each treatment. All six isolates demonstrated the ability to fix nitrogen and produce protease enzymes, siderophores, and HCN, successfully inhibiting the growth of FOL. Among these, isolate R18 exhibited the strongest inhibition zone (55.55%), significantly reducing the mycelium weight to 0.0417 g, and showed tolerance to both temperature and salinity stress. Through 16S rRNA sequencing molecular identification, R11 was identified as Bacillus megaterium, and R18 was identified as Bacillus albus. These results highlight the potential of these bacterial isolates, especially R18, as effective biocontrol agents for managing fusarium wilt in tomato plants under changing climate conditions.
Discovering potential forage species under Acacia decurrens-based silvopastoral system in different elevations of post-eruption recovery in Mount Merapi, Indonesia
Authors: MURSYID HARSANTO , FARIDAH ENY , MAULANA HAMDANI , SILMIA BETHA , SURYANTO PRIYONO
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Mursyid H, Faridah E, Maulana H, Silmia B, Suryanto P. 2024. Discovering potential forage species under Acacia decurrens-based silvopastoral system in different elevations of post-eruption recovery in Mount Merapi, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3412-3422. The devastating eruption of Mount Merapi, Indonesia, in 2010 resulted in the alteration of vegetation composition and structure across the exposed area, and it has been invaded by Acacia decurrens Willd. ever since. Nevertheless, A. decurrens provides a suitable agroecosystem for silvopasture, which has been considered the essential source of income for the society around Merapi. This research aims to observe the diversity and potential forage species under silvopastoral systems in different elevations. The study was conducted in three villages located at different elevations viz. Kalikuning (820 masl), Kaligendol (890 masl), and Balerante (1,100 masl). There were 15 research plots for vegetation survey built in each location based on purposive sampling. A nested design (20 m × 20 m), comprised of 5 subplots, was employed to observe the distribution of A. decurrens and understory species. The study observed that A. decurrens was the only shade tree in all locations. The average of A. decurrens in all growth stages for each location ranges from individuals ha-1. There were 33 understory species of 13 families observed in all locations. The highest number of understory species was observed in Kaligendol (20 species), followed by Kalikuning (16 species) and Balerante (10 species). Similarly, Kaligendol showed the highest species richness (Dmg = 3.16). However, the highest heterogeneity (H' = 1.98) and evenness (J' = 0.71) was recorded in Kalikuning. There were 61% and 9% of understory species classified as palatable and unpalatable, respectively. Stand management, such as enrichment planting and regular pruning, is required to maintain the sustainability and productivity of silvopasture in the post-eruption areas.
Amplicon metagenome comparison of Tandag River, Surigao del Sur, Philippines, based on high-throughput parallel DNA sequencing analysis of bacterial communities
Authors: EUPEÑA-CARAY ROXAN G. , RAMOS GISELLE B. , PANDUYOS JOCELYN B. , BACQUIAL LUZMINDA S. , TABUGO SHARON ROSE M.
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Eupeña-Caray RG, Ramos GB, Panduyos JB, Bacquial LS, Tabugo SRM. 2024. Amplicon metagenome comparison of Tandag River, Surigao del Sur, Philippines, based on high-throughput parallel DNA sequencing analysis of bacterial communities. Biodiversitas 25: 3464-3472. Rivers serve as a vital freshwater reservoir for the environment and human consumption. Biomonitoring based on eDNA is essential for aquatic ecosystems. The present study investigates the bacterial taxonomic diversity of this ecosystem using the V1-V3 16S rRNA regions obtained from paired-end Illumina MiSeq reads. A total of nine amplicon libraries (U1, U2, U3, M1, M2, M3, D1, D2, D3) were constructed corresponding to the sites (U-upstream, M-midstream, D-downstream) of the Tandag River. After post-quality control and processing, there were 608,099 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs), representing 1194 families and 2090 genera. Results showed that the most abundant ASVs were affiliated with genera Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Ralstonia, Alcaligenes, and Pseudarcicella, along with unclassified bacteria derived from Gammaproteobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia subdivision, Flavobacteria, and Pseudomonadaceae. The bacterial alpha diversity was ranked upstream>midstream>downstream. An increase in the abundance of Bacillus (Firmicutes) and Gammaproteobacteria in an urbanized zone indicated a high level of human activity and an important threat to public health. Noteworthy is that the alkaline environment characterized by increased pH levels favors the occurrence of alkaliphilic bacteria. Microbial community structure was influenced by anthropogenic interference and selective pressure from loads of urban discharge in the area. The functional prediction of bacterial communities by Parallel-Meta Suite (PMS) using the PICRUSt algorithm suggests functions related to metabolism and environment information processing. The presence of xenobiotic biodegradation bacteria highlights future possible applications. Findings contribute to understanding microbial communities in response to rapid urbanization. This is the first account of high-throughput sequencing analysis of bacterial communities in an urban river under anthropogenic stress in the Philippines.
Correlation of instantaneous fading in bidirectional channels of atmospheric laser communication
Authors: Ding Xiaoying , Zhao Xin , Shu Chenyan , Wang Xinyao
Published: December 2024

The instantaneous fading correlation of the bidirectional channel is an important characteristic of the atmospheric random channel. The instantaneous channel state of the transmitting end can be directly obtained through the instantaneous channel state of the receiving end, reducing the overhead of the additional feedback branch. In this paper, an autoregressive (AR) model and an inverse transformation method are used to generate time-dependent optical signals obeying an APD exponential Weibull distribution. Based on the channel reciprocity function, a channel cross-correlation model on the laser communication transmission path is established, and the influence of factors such as transmitting and receiving apertures, zenith angle, transmission distance, altitude, wavelength, and detector responsivity on the cross-correlation coefficient is studied. Based on theoretical research, an experimental system was built to verify the heterogeneous reciprocity model, and the experimental results were basically consistent with the simulation results. A channel state information prediction and evaluation are achieved through a relevant reciprocity theory, providing a basis for the development of adaptive technology in atmospheric laser communications.
Performance enhancement approach for a snapshot interferometer sensor of surface inspection
Authors: Hassan Mothana A.
Published: December 2024

Due to the high level of interest recently accorded to online surface measurement methods by academia and industry, engineers can now measure engineered surfaces rapidly and accurately. The present work involved illumination and individually examining a snapshot dispersive optical interferometer sensor with two different types of high-powered super-luminescent diodes (SLDs). Fringe pattern visibility is crucial to the effectiveness of this kind of interferometer. Two scenarios were introduced to examine the interference pattern visibility for the first-order (scanning range). Compared to the zero-order (reference beam), the first-order (diffraction/measurement beam) is less intense. Undesirable outcomes are generated by the dispersive line beam, like increased noise at a reduced intensity at the scanning range margin. Noise is among the parameters adversely impacting effective signal in all classes of optical measurement sensors; subsequently, sensor resolution measurement is influenced by any elevation in first-order intensity. The measurement noise peak to peak of the analyzed sample was developed from 28 to 20 nm. Consequently, it is possible to apply the snapshot sensor to a next-generation snapshot fiber link interferometry sensor for surface inspection.
Enhancement of structural and functional photoacoustic imaging based on a reference-inputted convolutional neural network
Authors: Zou Zilong , Li Dongfang , Guo Haocheng , Yao Yue , Yin Jie , Tao Chao , Liu Xiaojun
Published: December 2024

Photoacoustic microscopy has demonstrated outstanding performance in high-resolution functional imaging. However, in the process of photoacoustic imaging, the photoacoustic signals will be polluted by inevitable background noise. Besides, the image quality is compromised due to the biosafety limitation of the laser. The conventional approach to improving image quality, such as increasing laser pulse energy or multiple-times averaging, could result in more health risks and motion artifacts for high exposures to the laser. To overcome this challenge of biosafety and compromised image quality, we propose a reference-inputted convolutional neural network (Ri-Net). The network is trained using the photoacoustic signal and noise datasets from phantom experiments. Evaluation of the trained neural network demonstrates significant signal improvement. Human cuticle microvasculature imaging experiments are also conducted to further assess the performance and practicality of our network. The quantitative results show that we achieved a 2.6-fold improvement in image contrast and a 9.6 dB increase in signal-to-noise ratio. Finally, we apply our network, trained on single-wavelength data, to multi-wavelength functional imaging. The functional imaging of the mouse ear demonstrates the robustness of our method and the potential to capture the oxygen saturation of microvasculature. The Ri-Net enhances photoacoustic microscopy imaging, allowing for more efficient microcirculation assessments in a clinical setting.
Compact and broadband polarization splitter-rotator on thin-film lithium niobate minimized with the fast quasi-adiabatic algorithm
Authors: Chen Geng , Li Chijun , Pan An , Wei Junjie , Huang Yuankang , Lu Siyu , Dai Yiqi , Meng Xiangyu , Zeng Cheng , Xia Jinsong
Published: December 2024

Polarization splitter-rotators (PSRs) are crucial for on-chip polarization-division multiplexing (PDM) systems. Here, we design and experimentally demonstrate a compact and broadband PSR based on adiabatic mode evolution on a thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. A novel, to the best of our knowledge, quasi-adiabatic algorithm is proposed to minimize the device size. The fabricated PSR, with an adiabatic waveguide length of only 0.4 mm, exhibits an insertion loss of <0.64 dB and a polarization extinction ratio of >20 dB over a 122-nm bandwidth.
Corona electric field triggered N2
+ lasing from a femtosecond laser filament in air
Authors: Xu Ying , Sun Zheng , Liu Yaoxiang , Wang Tie-Jun , Wei Yingxia , Leng Yuxin
Published: December 2024

The emission of N2+ lasing at 391 nm from 800 nm femtosecond laser filament in air at 1 atm presents significant challenges due to the quenching effect induced by oxygen molecules. We introduce a simple technique for the 391 nm N2+ lasing emission induced by a corona electric field-assisted femtosecond filament in air. This technique greatly addresses the challenge of exciting a 391 nm lasing from 800 nm femtosecond laser filament in air at 1 atm. The laser filament assisted with corona electric filed breaks the symmetry of air and generates the effective second harmonic as a seeding pulse of 391 nm lasing, leading to stimulated amplification forward lasing action. The forward 391 nm lasing radiation is found to be significantly enhanced. This work is of great significance not only in solving the quenching problem of 391 nm lasing in air but also in understanding the generation mechanism of air lasing.
The Design and Fabrication of an Off-axis Four-mirror Freeform for Visible Light Imaging Telescope
Authors: gao rong , li jinpeng , Yu Jiadong , yuan ying , xianglong mao
Published: December 2024

With the advancement of freeform optical design, fabrication, measurement, and assembly technology, the application of freeform optical systems is becoming increasingly widespread. The number of optical components in freeform optical systems has increased from two mirrors to three mirrors and four mirrors, and their application bands have also expanded from long wave infrared (LWIR) to visible light. This article designs and develops an off-axis four-mirror freeform telescope for visible light imaging. Firstly, the optical and structural design are carried out according to the specified optical indicators. Then, an opto-mechanical-thermal coupling analysis is performed to verify the athermalization characteristics of the all aluminum structure. Finally, through optical and mechanical alignment, the RMS of the center field of view of telescope reaches 0.097λ(λ= 632.8nm) .Concurrently ,thermal imaging experiments were conducted to obtain its resolution plate imaging at 65℃, 40℃, 16℃, and 0℃, with no significant changes observed in the images. Subsequently, the RMS of the telescope center field of view was retested after the thermal imaging experiment ,showing a difference of 0.102λ, which demonstrates that the off-axis four-mirror freeform visible light telescope possesses excellent athermalization characteristics and imaging quality.
Mourning lost parts: An art-based response to experiences in/of a neurorehabilitation day service
Authors: Michaels Debbie
Published: December 2024

This visual essay honours the importance of creative practice as a way of staying in touch with the affective dimensions of human situations and experience. Drawing on observations, field notes and documentation of artistic practice from her doctoral research, the author engages in a reflexive conversation with an emergent ‘body’ of artwork made in response to observations and experiences in and of a neurorehabilitation day service. Broadening the scope of response art to the performative nature of ‘making’, the work of art amplifies the resonance of emotional and sensory affect. This brings an ethics of care to the fore, giving voice to aspects of organizational culture (internal and external) that might easily be lost, and emphasizing the need for time and space to mourn.
Assessing the risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients in India
Authors: Kovila Rajiv , Reddy Lakshmi Vinuthna , Marfatia Ansh
Published: December 2024

Background/Aim
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder characterized by recurrent respiratory disturbances during sleep. Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and obesity exhibit a substantial susceptibility to OSA (23%–86%). People with OSA have a high risk of several comorbidities like insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, depressed mood and hypertension. Thus, the objective was to comprehensively evaluate the risk of OSA among T2DM patients in India.

Materials and Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted across four cities in India involving 2,000 T2DM patients. The survey gathered data on patient demographics, clinical endpoints, and estimated the risk of OSA using an app which included the STOP BANG questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between OSA risk and key variables such as age, gender, BMI, and HbA1c.

Result
Overall, 63.9% of T2DM patients were identified as high risk and 27.3% were at intermediate risk for OSA development. Results of the multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that patients with high BMI ≥35 had significantly greater odds (OR: 5.70; p<0.00) of developing OSA; males had 2.75 times higher odds (p<0.00) and patients with HbA1c value >8% had higher odds (OR: 1.22; p<0.00) of developing OSA.

Conclusion
OSA risk and prevalence are significantly higher in T2DM patients than in the general population with a notable escalation in patients who are overweight/obese, older, and have prolonged diabetes duration. Early screening using digitalization with a highly sensitive, cost-efficient, and valid tool like STOP-BANG followed by appropriate intervention for OSA can not only reduce the eventual economic burden but can improve patient outcomes.
Organizational culture, power distance and corruption: The mediating role of religiosity
Authors: Maulidi Ach , Wisnu Girindratama Muhammad , Soeherman Bonnie , Arastyo Andono Fidelis
Published: December 2024

We examine how organizational culture and power distance influence religiosity and, in turn, how these variables affect corruption. We gathered data from Indonesian public servants and analyzed the relationships using PLS-SEM. The findings suggest a significant inverse relationship between religiosity and corruption, reinforcing ethical paradigms that position religious adherence as a key deterrent to corrupt behavior. Notably, religiosity acts as a critical mediator, negatively channeling the effects of organizational culture on corruption. However, this mediating effect does not extend to the power distance-corruption nexus, suggesting that the hierarchical structure may not inherently bear upon moral conduct. Interestingly, while organizational culture positively shapes religiosity, power distance does not exhibit a similar influence, highlighting the complex roles these organizational variables play in shaping ethical behavior. Theoretically, the findings challenge assumptions about the direct ethical impact of hierarchical structures, adding depth to existing frameworks onpower distance and moral conduct. For policymakers and organizational leaders, the findings underline the importance of fostering a culture that promotes religiosity as a deterrent to corruption.
Treatment Approach for Rare Histologic Subtypes of Breast Cancer: A Review
Authors: Jung Sung Ui
Published: December 2024

Rare histological subtypes of breast cancer introduce unique challenges to treatment and require a more personalized approach. Subtypes with favorable prognoses, such as mucinous, tubular, and cribriform carcinomas, generally respond well to less aggressive treatments such as endocrine therapy. However, certain triple-negative breast cancer subtypes that are typically considered aggressive also demonstrate unexpectedly better outcomes in specific cases. Conversely, more aggressive subtypes, including invasive micropapillary carcinoma and high-grade metaplastic breast cancer, often present greater treatment challenges due to their resistance to conventional therapies. Recent advancements in targeted treatments, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, have shown promise in improving outcomes in some of these difficult cases. This review emphasizes the need for ongoing research and a tailored approach that considers both molecular and histological characteristics to improve the management and survival outcomes of patients with these rare and complex breast cancer subtypes.
Submergence tolerance in rice: A comprehensive screening of 250 Indian landraces for resilience under water stress
Authors: Shrirashmi  , Rajeswari S , Joel AJ , Suresh R , Vellaikumar S , Devi SM
Published: December 2024

As erratic rainfall and flooding pose serious threats to rice yields, submergence tolerance is critical for sustainable cultivation. This study screened 250 Indian rice landraces at the seedling stage to identify genotypes capable of surviving submergence stress. Advanced statistical analyses, including trait association, variability, principal component analysis and cluster analysis, revealed the genetic and phenotypic factors influencing submergence stress tolerance. Significant variability was observed among the genotypes for key traits, such as shoot elongation, leaf regeneration and survival percentage. Diversity analysis through cluster analysis indicated that cluster III, particularly IRGC93, IRGC535 and IRGC706, exhibited survival rates exceeding 85%, highlighting their potential as donor lines for submergence tolerance. Further biochemical analysis of selected lines with survival percentages greater than 50% revealed that tolerance is associated with greater chlorophyll and non-structural carbohydrate retention percentages. The findings emphasize the importance of genetic variability and heritability in breeding resilient rice varieties for flash flooding conditions. This research contributes to advancing rice breeding strategies to produce submergence-tolerant varieties, thereby promoting the sustainability and productivity of paddy production systems.
The Interrelation between Corporate Governance Practises and the Financial Performance of Microfinance Institutions in CEMAC
Authors: Bin Anyekezeh Kum-Ngong
Published: December 2024

This study aims to examine the relationship between corporate governance tools—specifically board size, board gender diversity, capital structure, ownership structure, and audit—and financial performance of microfinance institutions as measured by Return on Assets (ROA) and Operational Self-Sufficiency (OSS). Quantitative data is employed to identify the relationship between the variables. A dataset comprising forty-four microfinance institutes extracted from the Mix Market database for the period 2000 to 2021 is utilised. The research identified correlations between Microfinance Institutions’ financial performance and their board characteristics, capital structure, ownership structure and audit. The exploratory variables all produced significant results. The study identified significant relationships between the examined Corporate Governance practices and the financial performance of microfinance institutions in CEMAC. Capital structure positively influences the ROA and the constructed financial performance index but negatively influences the OSS of microfinance institutions in CEMAC when ownership structure is accounted for and audit is not accounted for. Ownership structure (those which have NGO and NBFI forms) positively influences the ROA and the constructed financial performance but negatively influences the OSS of microfinance institutions to a significant extent. Constructed board characteristics index (board size and board gender diversity) positively influences the ROA and the constructed financial performance index but negatively influences the OSS of microfinance institutions in CEMAC when ownership structure is accounted for and audit is not accounted for. Microfinance size has a positive effect on ROA and OSS but a negative one on the computed finance performance index. When audit is accounted for excluding ownership structure, we conclude that capital structure positively influences the OSS and the constructed financial performance index but negatively influences the ROA of microfinance institutions in CEMAC. The constructed board characteristics index (board size and board gender diversity) positively influences the OSS and the constructed financial performance index but negatively influences the ROA of microfinance institutions in CEMAC when audit is accounted for and ownership structure not. Being audited by large firms leads to a decrease in OSS, an increase in ROA and a general decrease in the constructed financial performance index in microfinance institutions in CEMAC when ownership structure is not considered. This study highlights the significance of corporate governance tools and their effectiveness in the success of organizations.
Supervisory Practices and the Profile of the Ideal Supervisor from the PhD Student’s Perspective
Authors: Ribau Isabel
Published: December 2024

Implementing qualification frameworks in response to the Bologna process during the latter part of the 20th century prompted considerable change regarding Higher Education. Such alterations brought up apprehensions concerning the acquisition of competencies following each cycle of studies, as well as the means employed to oversee and assess teaching and learning procedures. The NOVA University of Lisbon (UNL) has recently researched Doctoral Education, focusing on supervisory practices. Since 2018, surveys regarding doctoral supervision have been conducted across multiple schools at UNL. This research report presents an overview of the national numbers regarding doctoral education enrollment, and the results of a study conducted at four schools within the UNL: the National School of Public Health (ENSP), Technological Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry (ITQB), NOVA Medical School | FCM NOVA, and NOVA School of Science and Technology | FCT NOVA. The study presents data regarding part-time PhD students' and full-time PhD students' views of the supervisor rule and focuses on examining the characteristics of an ideal supervisor and the supervision practices experienced by doctoral students throughout their PhD programs. The findings suggested that supervision practices were slightly different considering the type of attendance, the enrolment year (during all doctoral research projects), and the schools' culture and field (Health or Science and Technology). Furthermore, the supervisor's role (mentor or coach) was similar within the school field, but the “ideal” supervisor varied depending on the school attendance type.
The Role of Corporate Governance Practices on Saudi Stock Exchange Voluntary Disclosure
Authors: Barnawi Maher Hamzah M , Abdullah Dewi Fariha , Fuzi Nursyazwani Mohd
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of corporate governance practices on voluntary disclosure among non-financial firms listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) from 2011 to 2022. The research focuses on key governance variables, including board size, board independence, CEO duality, audit committee effectiveness, ownership structure, and board diversity, to understand their influence on transparency and information sharing. Employing panel data analysis, the study utilizes fixed effects, random effects, and pooled OLS models, with the fixed effects model emerging as the most robust. The findings reveal that board size, board independence, audit committee effectiveness, ownership structure, and board diversity significantly enhance voluntary disclosure, whereas CEO duality and firm-specific factors such as firm age and leverage show limited influence. The results highlight the importance of strong corporate governance frameworks in fostering transparency and aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to attract foreign investment and boost market confidence. This study contributes to the literature on corporate governance and disclosure in emerging markets, offering practical insights for policymakers and corporate leaders to improve governance structures and reporting practices.
Classification models for identifying Pterocarpus santalinus L.f. using NIR spectroscopy data
Authors: Qi Yuanda , Li Yaoxiang , Zhang Zheyu , Zhou Jiaqi , Qin Zijian , Li Yiwei , Chen Chengwu
Published: December 2024

Pterocarpus santalinus L.f. (P. santalinus), protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), is a high-priced, slow-growing, and scarce wood primarily used in crafting high-end furniture. The international timber trade currently faces issues of counterfeit P. santalinus, with commonly used substitutes including Dalbergia louvelii R.Viguier, Pterocarpus tinctorius Welw., Gluta renghas L. and Baphia nitida Lodd. This study aims to develop a P. santalinus authenticity identification model based on near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology. The NIR spectral pretreatment involved the use of four methods, either individually or in combination: multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), moving average smoothing (MAS), Savitzky-Golay (S-G), autoscaling (AUTO) and standard normal variate (SNV). An authenticity identification model for P. santalinus based on long short-term memory (LSTM) was established and compared with commonly used support vector machines (SVM) and random forest (RF) models. The results indicate that the accuracy of the MSC-LSTM model is 97.1 %, with precision, recall, and F1 score all exceeding 0.85. In identifying P. santalinus in the test set, the MSC-LSTM model has an error rate of only 4.8 %. LSTM performs outstandingly across multiple indicators, demonstrating its ability to identify P. santalinus authenticity. The developed MSC-LSTM P. santalinus authenticity identification model shows enhanced accuracy compared to SVM and RF, significantly reducing misidentification of P. santalinus.
Investigation of the interface and physical properties of a Kovar alloy/Cu composite wire processed by multi-pass drawing
Authors: Peng Jin-Hua , Pan Feng-Ze , Wang Ze-Xin , Chen Liang-Yu , Pan Cheng-Yu , Oleksandr Dubovyy , Lu Sheng
Published: December 2024

A Kovar alloy composite wire inlaid with copper core was developed through hot isostatic pressing sintering and subsequent multi-pass drawing. The interface between the Kovar alloy and copper was revealed, and the physical properties of the composite wire were investigated. The results show that the Kovar alloy and copper diffuse mutually during the forming process, producing a stable metallurgical bond. When the diameter of the wire is 2.8 mm, a diffusion layer of about 16.5 μm was found at the interface. The concentration of the diffused element had a gradient distribution from the interface to both sides. Combining the excellent properties of Kovar alloy and copper, the composite wire has comprehensive physical properties. The electrical and thermal conductivities are 9.38 × 106 S·m−1 and 72.2 W·m−1·K−1, respectively. The composite wire has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and the average coefficient of thermal expansion is lower than 6.36 × 10−6 ℃−1 in the temperature range of 25–450°C.
A Bayesian two-stage framework for lineup-independent assessment of individual rebounding ability in the NBA
Authors: Kiriazis Nicholas , Genest Christian , Leblanc Alexandre
Published: December 2024

In basketball, traditional methods of assessing individual rebounding ability are problematic because they depend on all players present on the court rather than just on the player of interest. Although there exist modeling approaches to correct for this dependence, they are generally unsuitable for events with binary outcomes. In this paper, a Bayesian two-stage model is proposed to predict both individual and team rebound allocation. This approach makes it possible to identify players who help their team win the fight for rebounds, regardless of their individual rebounding totals. Although similar in flavor to the popular Adjusted Plus-Minus (APM) framework, the proposed strategy is different in that it does not assume that individual contributions are linearly additive on the response scale. Furthermore, the regularization approach is improved through rebounding-specific heuristics. A simulation study is performed to show the effectiveness of the proposed model, and the parameters are estimated using data from the 2020–21 NBA season. Predictions are then made for rebounding in the 2021–22 season. This study confirms that relying exclusively on individual rebounding rates could lead to the mis-evaluation of players’ rebounding abilities.
Design of intelligent sprayer control for an autonomous farming drone using a multiclass support vector machine
Authors: Turnip Arjon , Taufik Mohammad
Published: December 2024

The increasing need for agricultural commodities poses a serious threat to the cultivating ability of agricultural supplies. The use of autonomous farming drones to support the cultivation process is a rapidly growing trend. In an effort to improve efficiency and accuracy in watering using drones, this research strived to propose a control design for the drones using the multiclass support vector machine (MSVM) method. The proposed system was an improvement compared to the common approach of using constant watering strength in all drone conditions. By obtaining suitable watering strength based on the drone’s altitude, wind speed, and speed sensor data as the input, the optimal solution between water usage and water efficiency was expected to be achieved. An experimental trial that consisted of 12 flights was conducted to acquire a data set with 3,750 data. The results of classification with MSVM obtained an accuracy of 90.82%. The efficiency of using the water resource and the accuracy of delivering the correct amount of water based on the drone condition were achieved. These results show that the proposed technology has great potential for using drones as an automatic watering system in agriculture.
Eye of the Storm: The Impact of Climate Shocks on Inflation and Growth
Authors: Cevik Serhan , Jalles Joao
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the impact of climate-induced natural disasters on inflation and economic growth using a large panel of countries from 1970 to 2020. Employing the local projection method, we analyze how various disasters affect these economic indicators, acknowledging that climate shocks can simultaneously stimulate and suppress demand and supply, leading to complex outcomes. Our findings indicate significant yet varied responses in inflation and GDP growth across different types of disasters and regions. Notably, the economic impact differs starkly between advanced economies and developing countries, influenced by each group’s fiscal capacity and institutional strength to manage recovery. This contrast underscores the role of economic structure and fiscal health in shaping the resilience of nations to climate shocks, highlighting substantial disparities in the effects across income levels and economic conditions.
Creative Accounting and Fiscal Rules in EU Member States: An Analysis Based on Stock Flow Adjustments
Authors: Maltritz Dominik , Wüste Sebastian
Published: December 2024

We study whether creative accounting for fiscal balances is a significant issue in EU countries and how it relates to fiscal rules. We especially consider internal fiscal rules and contrast them with external rules resulting from membership in the EMU or in the Eurozone. We regress stock-flow adjustments, which serve as an indicator for false reporting of public debt and deficit numbers, on several measures of fiscal rules in a panel framework comprising 27 EU countries. We complement the literature on creative accounting in the run-up to Eurozone membership by showing that joining leads to creative accounting not only in the initial period but also in later periods. We expand the literature by demonstrating that internal rules also induce creative accounting, regardless of whether the rules target public debt or budget deficits. Our findings hold for years before the Eurozone existed as well as for the Eurozone period.
The psychosocial impact of pediatric vitiligo, psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia: A systematic review
Authors: Siddiqui Zoya , Felder Elliana , Hernandez Kevin , Loike-Weinstein Devora , Waseem Muhammad
Published: December 2024

This review focuses on chronic pediatric skin conditions—vitiligo, psoriasis, alopecia, and eczema—and their profound psychosocial impact on children and adolescents. Currently, a comprehensive comparative analysis across these conditions is absent, and comparisons between diverse psychosocial measures are lacking. This review aims to bridge that gap through a systematic review analyzing studies from PubMed and Embase up to April 2023 according to PRISMA. The findings emphasize that psoriasis and vitiligo significantly diminish the quality of life (QoL) of young individuals, heightening their risk for concurrent mental health issues. Eczema also reduces QoL, while alopecia increases vulnerability to anxiety and depression. Severity of psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema correlates with worsened QoL, but longer disease duration leads to better physical functioning. Effective interventions identified include UVB light treatment and virtual support groups, notably improving vitiligo patients’ QoL, while psychologist consultations enhance self-image and psychological well-being in those with psoriasis and eczema.
Intergroup Contact Is Consistently Associated With Lower Prejudice Across Group Properties
Authors: Lim Travis , Neel Rebecca , Hehman Eric
Published: December 2024

Intergroup contact is robustly associated with lower prejudice. However, nearly all contact research to date has examined a narrow range of groups, raising the possibility that its effects are restricted to only some types of groups. Across two studies (total N = 2163), we tested whether the contact-prejudice relationship was identical for a broad sample of groups (k = 80), whether group properties moderated this relationship, and whether the relationship depended on the type of intergroup contact. Results indicate that contact was consistently associated with lower prejudice across all groups, group properties, and measures of contact. Together, our results broadly support intergroup contact theory: contact is negatively associated with prejudice across groups with a wide array of distinct group properties.
Magnetic resonance imaging does not distinguish Kallmann syndrome from normosmic isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Authors: Kałużna Małgorzata , Katulska Katarzyna , Ziemnicka Katarzyna , Kompf Pola , Budny Bartłomiej , Komarnicki Paweł , Rabijewski Michał , Moczko Jerzy , Kałużny Jarosław , Ruchała Marek
Published: December 2024

Introduction and objectives

Isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) may be associated with pituitary gland and olfactory system disorders. We aimed to correlate findings of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary gland and olfactory system in IHH patients with the patients’ olfactory phenotype.

Patients and methods

The present research was a single-center retrospective case–control study. MRI patterns of the pituitary gland and olfactory system were studied in 46 patients, of whom 29 (63%) were classified on the basis of olfactometry as having Kallmann syndrome (KS) (16 patients with anosmia and 13 patients with hyposmia) and 17 (37%) as having normosmic IHH (nIHH). Results were compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Genetic diagnosis was conducted in all IHH patients based on next-generation sequencing.

Results

Almost 70% prevalence of pituitary hypoplasia was observed in IHH subjects. Olfactory bulb (OB) abnormalities were identified in 80.4% of all patients, both the KS (82.8%) and the nIHH (76.5%) subjects. Incidence of unilaterally abnormal, hypoplastic olfactory sulcus (OS) was equally frequent in nIHH and KS. Statistically, piriform cortical thickness was significantly lower in all patient groups than in controls.

Conclusions

MRI cannot exclusively differentiate between KS and nIHH, as both conditions may present with OB and OS abnormalities. A surprisingly high frequency of olfactory system abnormalities was observed in nIHH patients, while anterior pituitary hypoplasia was prevalent across all IHH patients. Notably, OB abnormalities were more predominant in KS patients than in those with nIHH.
Impact of Life Kinetic Training on Hand-Eye Coordination in Taekwondo Athletes
Authors: Boyanmış Ayşe Hazal , Akın Manolya
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study explored the impact of Life Kinetic training on hand-eye coordination in taekwondo players aged 11 to 14 years (x̄=12.67± 1.01) who had achieved a red belt rank or higher. Materials and Methods: To investigate the effects of Life Kinetic training on hand-eye coordination, an experimental group of athletes (n=15) engaged in 45 minutes of these exercises twice a week for 8 weeks in addition to their regular taekwondo training. A control group (n=15) continued with only their taekwondo training. Hand-eye coordination was assessed using the Purdue Pegboard hand dexterity test before the intervention. Data analysis involved a two-factor mixed ANOVA with repeated measures. The Shapiro-Wilk test and skewness assessment were employed to verify the normality of the dependent variables. A p-value less than 0.05 indicated a statistically significant difference between the variables. Results: Based on the results of hand-eye coordination measurements, group-measurement interaction significantly impacted the outcomes (p<.05) of right-hand placement, left-hand placement, pair-hand placement, and the combination test. Conclusion: Based on these results, it was found that the results of hand-eye coordination measurements of the experimental group, in which LK exercises were applied, showed more improvement than the control group that practiced traditional taekwondo training, and it was concluded that Life Kinetic training had a significant and positive effect on hand-eye coordination.