bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Can One Create an Effective Management of Quality Culture in Public Institutions
Authors: Popescu M. , Mandru L.
Published: January 2024

The paper addresses the quality approach in public administration from a cultural perspective and presents: theoretical considerations on the “quality culture (QC)”; a review of the publications on cultural aspects in administrative institutions; the management process of QC in public institutions and the conclusion. As the publications’ review shows, the management of the QC must be a task of the top management in any administrative institution, to identify the factors that impede the effective functioning of the quality system and to make improvements. The paper aims to support decision-makers in this regard, by presenting solutions for a systematic and effective management of QC.
Environmental Protection in Europe
Authors: Constantin Sanda
Published: January 2024

The paper presents the analysis of some indicators that capture important aspects regarding the protection of the environment. The indicators chosen were: environmental protection investment of the total economy, area of wooded land, protected areas, and protected forests, as well as air emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases from production activities and households. The results showed that the reduction of pollution both from productive activity and from the households of the population can lead to the mitigation of polluting emissions as well as to the preservation of biodiversity. Environmental protection investment is also an important help against pollution if they are applied effectively.
Investigating Romania’s Export Performance Over Two Decades
Authors: Marinescu Nicolae
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the evolution of Romania’s international trade over two decades (2000-2019). Export performance is analyzed along with rising imports, using statistical data and measurement of the specialization index and the revealed comparative advantage (RCA) in selected categories of products. The results of the research indicate a major transformation of the structure of Romanian exports under the influence of the integration into the European Union, the world economic crisis, but also the participation in production networks. The country has lowered the trade deficit for some years and has moved towards more technology-intensive products, but efforts are still needed in trade-related infrastructure, branding and promotional support measures.
Economic Welfare in Central and Southeast European Union Countries – An Econometric Approach
Authors: Duguleana Constantin
Published: January 2024

The importance of economic aggregates per capita: final consumption expenditure and Gross Domestic Product, for the well-being of the entire population of a country determined the analysis of the economic convergence in the countries of the Central and South-Eastern European Union (CSE). The econometric approach of convergence as a steady state of these variables was performed on panel data models with an error correction term. Establishing the long-run and short-run equations describes the convergence of welfare in the CSE region and the choice of the best model.
Convergence of Export-Import Flows and Economic Development in the Central and Southeast European Union
Authors: Duguleana L. , Deszke K.D.
Published: January 2024

The study presents the long- and short-term relationship between international trade flows (exports/imports) and economic development (GDP) as the main driver of international economic trade. Panel data econometric models emphasize the fixed effects of the eight Central and Southeast European Union countries. The cointegration condition is met to identify the existence of long-run equilibrium. The error correction model is the iterative short-run adjustment solution to the long-run relationship for both exports and imports. Regional trade convergence is achieved by observing the cointegration of the analyzed variables; it is described by their average levels for all countries.
Consumer Motivation in Self Online Learning
Authors: Bulboaca S. , Tulbure A.
Published: January 2024

This paper evaluates the consumption motivation regarding online learning. The research aims to gather information regarding learning engagement, motivation, satisfaction, and barriers to accessing and completing online courses. Grasping the patterns of digital course participants is vital for academic bodies and decision-makers to create and advocate for engaging online educational journeys. Collecting data concerning various factors aids in pinpointing consumer categories according to their necessities.
Market Segmentation Based on Materialistic, Conspicuous, and Traditionalist Goals in Support of an Effective Industrial Design
Authors: Dumitrescu Andrei
Published: January 2024

One important line of action in the marketing field is the conception of products attractive to consumers. Industrial design plays a significant role in this action. However, the traditional market segmentation is not very useful from the industrial design point of view. Also, because the traditional criteria for market segmentation are becoming less efficient in general, the experts from the field are looking for new criteria. The research presented here is focused on the relationship between industrial design, consumer profile, and product contribution to materialistic, conspicuous, and traditionalist goals.
Exploring Marketing Strategies Used in the Development of Education Systems: Literature Review and Research Directions
Authors: Turcanu Cristina
Published: January 2024

This paper provides a systematic review of the literature on strategies adopted in different educational systems from a marketing perspective. The study focuses on identifying the main directions addressed by researchers on educational marketing. The results contribute to determining existing gaps in the field of education and outlining future research directions that could eliminate some of the limitations of the research carried out and identify proposals for marketing strategies and specific actions to align educational services with the principles of social sustainability.
Quality Strategies Implemented in The Romanian Wine Market
Authors: Neacsu Nicoleta Andreea
Published: January 2024

In a highly competitive market such as wine, implementing quality strategies is necessary to succeed. Consumers are increasingly knowledgeable and demanding. The paper aims to identify the primary quality strategies used in the wine market in Romania and to determine the opinions, attitudes, and perceptions of consumers regarding it. For this purpose, an exploratory analysis combined with quantitative market research was carried out.
Determinan Risiko Pembiayaan pada Bank Pembiayaan Rakyat Syariah (BPRS) di Indonesia Periode 2019-2021
Authors: Rhamadhani Devi Nur , Wafaretta Vega
Published: January 2024

The financing risk of Islamic People's Financing Banks (BPRS) in Indonesia needs special attention, because the high ratio of non-performing loans exceeds the maximum limit set by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) of 7%. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effect of financial ratios on the risk of BPRS financing in Indonesia for the quarterly period 2019-2021. These financial ratios (minimum capital ratios, profitability ratios, liquidity ratios, operational efficiency ratios and profit-sharing financing ratios) can then become a concern for BPRS so that they are managed properly as a basis for managing financing risk. The number of samples in this study was 1344 which were analyzed using panel data regression. This analysis shows that the previous period's capital adequacy acted as a reserve for BPRS, thereby encouraging banks to minimize financing risks. Meanwhile, increasing BPRS efficiency can reduce financing risk. Profit sharing financing with strict selection also has a negative effect on financing risk. Profitability and liquidity do not affect financing risk because the ability of BPRS to maintain profit performance varies and there are variations in risk exposure to customers that have no impact on financing risk. The implication of this research is that the BPRS needs to maintain financial ratios to comply with OJK regulations. In addition, the BPRS needs to maintain capital adequacy, efficiency, and the amount of financing disbursed so that financing risks are under control. In addition, good management of profit-sharing financing can be applied to other financing. Future research can develop research with other variables that affect the risk of BPRS financing in Indonesia.
Pengaruh Harga Dan Promosi Terhadap Keputusan Penggunaan Jasa Aplikasi Maxim
Authors: Robin Robin , Sofyan Silvia , Kevin Kevin
Published: January 2024

The objective of this research is to examine the impact of pricing and promotion on service use choices within the context of Maxim, serving as a case study for students majoring in STMB Multismart Management. The used research methodology is characterized by a quantitative approach. The research methodology used in this study is descriptive quantitative research, which aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the subject matter. Additionally, the nature of this research is explanatory, as it seeks to elucidate the underlying factors and relationships associated with the observed phenomena. The population consists of students enrolled in the management major at STMB MULTISMART. The investigation used a basic random sampling approach. The sample size in this research consisted of 54 students. In order to assess the validity and reliability of the test, a sample of 54 consumers was selected from the whole population under consideration. The findings indicate that the impact of price on service utilization decisions is not statistically significant, while promotion has a partial effect on service utilization for Maxim. The coefficient of determination, which is 0.284 or 28.4%, suggests that the combined influence of price and promotion in explaining customer satisfaction is 28.4%. The remaining 71.6% of the variance may be attributed to factors outside the variables under investigation, such as user convenience, safety, and other relevant variables.
Peran Motivasi Kerja Dalam Memoderasi Hubungan Antara Kepemimpinan Terhadap Semangat Kerja Karyawan
Authors: Permadi I Komang Oka , Rasminingsih Ni Kadek Nonik
Published: January 2024

Introducing leadership into any organization involves the careful structuring of its mechanisms and functions. It is widely acknowledged that when a leader possesses a strategic position and a set of crucial skills, they have the potential to enhance or even transform the company. The objective of this research is to confirm and reevaluate the role of work motivation in moderating the relationship between leadership and employee morale. This study employs nonprobability sampling with a saturation sampling technique to determine the sample size, encompassing a total of 42 individuals from the entire population. Path analysis is utilized to test the hypotheses using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method through SmartPLS software version 3.2.9. The research findings conclusively establish that leadership has a significant impact on employee morale, while the role of motivation does not appear to strengthen or weaken the relationship between leadership and employee morale.
Penerapan SEO Dalam Strategi Pemasaran Perusahaan
Authors: Dewanto Fiky Budi , Febrian Muhammad Habib Purnama , Amir Muhammad Raihan , Prawira Ida Farida Adi
Published: January 2024

This article aims to determine the influence of implementing SEO (Search Engine Optimization) in marketing company. In this article, data were collected using the SLR (Systematic Literature Review) method and analyzed qualitatively. Findings suggest that as time goes by, trading companies are starting to adapt by changing their conventional trading systems to modern systems, including their marketing strategies to reach wider and more target markets. A modern marketing strategy that combines digital media with marketing skills has become a new marketing technique called digital marketing. Digital marketing can be maximized by utilizing the internet as a marketing medium, one of which is by creating a website that markets the company's products or services. In order to compete with other websites, the website created must also be optimized for use, one of which is by implementing SEO. SEO optimizes a company's website so that it remains at the top of the first page of searches on search engines. In addition, implementing SEM (Search Engine Marketing) in the form of advertising on search engines, will have an impact on traffic from potential consumers and be able to increase sales of the products or services offered.
Keywords: SEO; digital marketing; marketing strategy.
Analisis Tingkat Kesehatan Koperasi Dilihat Dari Aspek Rentabilitas Pada Koperasi Kredit Solidaritas Santa Maria Assumpta Kota Kupang
Authors: Dangga Lende , Liem Jhon , Naisanu Joritha
Published: January 2024

Cooperatives are the prima donna of the people of East Nusa Tenggara, because of the high level of community participation as members of cooperatives. And on the other hand, cooperatives act as a pillar for the community, especially Kupang City, for the development of cooperatives and there is high public interest in becoming members of the Santa Maria Assumpta Solidarity Credit Cooperative, Kupang City. This research was conducted at the Santa Maria Assumpta Solidarity Credit Cooperative, Kupang City from February 2020 to October 2022. The data collection method used was quantitative descriptive, namely using the Profitability ratio, with the financial report data collection technique of the Santa Maria Assumpta Solidarity Credit Cooperative Kupang City from 2020 to 2022. The results of the research show that the health analysis of the Santa Maria Assumpta Solidarity Credit Cooperative in Kupang City, in 2010 was 90.38%, in 2021 it was 92.18% and in 2022 it was 92.15% . This shows that the ratio achieved by the Solidarity Credit Cooperative from the profitability aspect has decreased.
Pengaruh Corporate Environmental Performance dan Intellectual Capital terhadap Sustainability Reporting dengan Good Corporate Governance Sebagai Moderasi
Authors: Jawak Anastasia Yolanda Putri br , Lubis Irsad
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to be able to react to that given by the company's environmental performance as well as intellectual capital to sustainability reporting with good corporate governance as moderation. The data used in this study comes from secondary data. Where the companies used in this study are companies that are categorized into the mining sector, other industries, consumer goods, infrastructure, utilities and transportation industries by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during the 2017-2019 period. Sampling in this study using purposive sampling technique so that the number of companies used in this study were 42 companies. The data that has been collected is then tested using panel data regression analysis. The results obtained are based on data processing obtained by the company's environmental performance which has a significant positive effect on sustainability reporting, while intellectual capital does not have a significant positive effect on sustainability reporting. The research variables of good corporate governance do not moderate the influence of corporate environmental performance and intellectual capital on sustainability reporting.
Determinan Nilai Perusahaan LQ45 Di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Purba Pebisitona Mesajaya , Evinta Lenny Leorina , Sumiok Cristofer
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of profitability, liquidity, audit quality and firm size on firm value. The population in this study used LQ45 companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2019-2022 period. Determination of samples using the purposive sampling method, so that as many as 27 companies were obtained with a total of 93 research samples. Data analysis using multiple linear regression testing. The results showed that liquidity positively affects firm value, audit quality positively affects firm value, while firm size negatively affects firm value and profitability does not affect firm value.
Analisis Gaya Kepemimpinan Manajer Internasional (Jepang) Dan Manajer Nasional (Indonesia) Pada Departemen Steel PT. Hanwa Indonesia
Authors: Priyanka Ellissa , Raharja Sam’un Jaja , Muftiadi Anang
Published: January 2024

Every leader in an organization has a different leadership style based on background and cultural beliefs which will determine the effectiveness of an organization. Therefore, this research aims to analyze the leadership styles of international managers (Japan) and national managers (Indonesia) in the Steel Department of PT. Hanwa Indonesia along with related factors, obstacles and opportunities encountered by each leader as well as how each leader faces obstacles and opportunities and makes adjustments to achieve company goals.
This research uses a qualitative research method with data collection techniques through related literature and interviews with the resource person, one senior manager of the PT Steel Department. Hanwa Indonesia who comes from Japan and one manager who comes from Indonesia as well as several local employees who have worked for more than three years. The data analysis technique uses data validity and reliability methods which are tested through a triangulation process.
The results of this research show that the leadership styles of international managers (Japan) and national managers (Indonesia) in the Steel Department of PT. Hanwa Indonesia is a democratic leadership style that is supported by the ability to learn from the experience and interpersonal skills of each leader and the cultural values and traditions of Japan and Indonesia. Obstacles in leading lie in differences in cultural backgrounds involving language and habits. Therefore, each leader seeks to develop cultural sensitivity by learning and understanding their respective language and culture and using their interpersonal skills to guide and facilitate change efforts.
Analisis Akuntansi Utang Transfer Ke Daerah Dan Dana Desa Pada UAPBUN Ba-999.05
Authors: Herdiyana Deni
Published: January 2024

The study was conducted to analyze the implementation of payable accounting for transfer to the regions and village funds, and also comparing the accounting standards regarding transfers to the regions and village funds with the implementation carried out by UAPBUN BA-999.05. The research method used is a qualitative approach, namely literature study and descriptive analysis.The conclusion of the study is that in general the recognition, measurement, recording, presentation and assessment of TKDD have referred to the applicable regulations. However, there are differences in the recording of accounts for TKDD payables transactions.
Keywords: UAPBUN BA-999.05; transfers to regions; village funds; TKDD payables
Analisis Investasi Dan Kelayakan Usaha Pada PT. Warmare Jaya Mandiri (WJM) Manokwari Selatan
Authors: Rosita Rosita , Saptomo Yulius Heri
Published: January 2024

A business feasibility study is an assessment of whether or not the business being implemented is feasible. It is feasible because it provides benefits for the company that runs it, for investors, creditors, the government and society. The purpose of this research is to analyze the feasibility of the company's business in carrying out stone and sand mining carried out by PT. Warmare Jaya Mandiri. In this research, the data used is financial data on capital, production, selling prices, salary costs for managers, administration, equipment operators, drivers and daily labor. The analysis techniques used to process this data are Net Present Value, Net Benefit Cost Ratio, Internal Rate of Return and Pay Back Period. From the results of the Net Present Value analysis, a value of IDR 2,289,154,040 was obtained. The results were positive and declared feasible. Furthermore, for the Benefit Cost Ratio, the B/C calculation result is 2.43 > 1, so the investment is declared suitable to continue. The next method is the IRR method to obtain a value of 26.80%, this value is above the required minimum interest value. From the pay back period analysis, the pay back period analysis is estimated to be able to return all investment costs after 4 years and 2 months.
Pengaruh Korean Wave Dan Brand Ambassador Pada Keputusan Pembelian Handphone Samsung Dan Gaya Hidup Konsumen Di Makassar
Authors: Tibayan Widya , Mawar Fransiska , Paridi Andryanus , Londong Jerliyen Pramita
Published: January 2024

This research aims to see the influence of the Korean Wave and Brand Ambassador on consumer purchasing decisions for Samsung cellphones and consumer lifestyles in Makassar City. This research is qualitative research carried out in the city of Makassar from September to November 2023. The sample in this research was taken from as many as 50 people using a purposive sampling technique. Data was collected through a questionnaire, and then processed with a statistical application using SmartPLS version 4.0. From the research results it was found that: Korean Wave has no influence on the purchasing decisions of Samsung mobile phone consumers in the city of Makassar, Korean wave has a positive and significant effect on the lifestyle of consumers in the city of Makassar, Brand ambassador has a positive and significant effect on the purchasing decisions of Samsung mobile phone consumers in the city of Makassar, and brand ambassadors have a positive and significant influence on consumer lifestyles in the city of Makassar.
Tartaric acid new derivatives as prospective and safe alternative to antimicrobials for food products packing
Authors: Mikaelyan Aram R. , Babayan Bella G. , Grigoryan Armen L. , Grigoryan Anna M. , Asatryan Nona L. , Melkumyan Marina A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Multi-drug resistance of pathogens and food spoilage bacteria is one of the most prevalent problems in contemporary science because the microbial adaptation potential is permanently being stimulated by the excessive antibiotic usage by mankind. In this research, seven new derivatives of tartaric acid (TA) were studied. Their high activity against the multi-drug resistant bacteria and the biodegradation potential by soil microflora was demonstrated.Objective: Based on multiple literature data about aldaric acids antimicrobial properties, for combating pan-drug and especially multi-drug resistant pathogenic microbes,  natural L-tartaric acid was target-derivatized by cyclohexyl-, phenyl-, benzyl- and ethanolamine- functional groups into complex amino salts and cyclic imides, which have demonstrated the significant bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity against the spoilage agent bacteria, as well as phytopathogenic and human opportunistic pathogens.Results: In vitro analyses of TA ethanolamine- benzyl-, cyclohexyl- and phenyl- imides and complex amino salts have shown that the mentioned substances are highly active agents for combating multi-drug resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens and food spoilage microbes, such as: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, etc. These compounds are biodegradable by P. chlororaphis group non-pathogenic bacteria and their resistance is ensured by genes of nucleoid as well as are not transmitted by plasmids. In silico analyses have demonstrated their alternative mechanism of action. Conclusions: The results suggest that TA new derivatives can be potentially recommended as safe alternative antimicrobials for food packaging.Keywords: tartaric acid imides, tartaric acid complex aminosalts, spoilage microorganisms, antimicrobial activity, multi-drug resistance.
Beauty Worth Sharing: An Introduction to Koinon VI, with Recourse to Marlaina
Authors: Molinari Dr. Nicholas J.
Published: January 2024

Numismatics, especially Classical Numismatics, is chock-full of beautiful surprises worth sharing. Every day I learn something new, and as a community we all relish in what seems to be a daily revelation of novel discoveries. But I’ve come to the conclusion recently that numismatists themselves are just as interesting, in fact even moreso than the coins we all cherish. Fairly recently I met one such numismatist: Her name is Marlaina and it would be a rare occasion to find her without a bag of coins—yes, she keeps them all in a small bag resembling a pencil case, where they are constantly rubbing against each other! Marlaina has been a collector as long as I have (nearly twenty years), and although she mostly collects United States and Canadian coinage, she certainly has a fair share of World coins and even a few ancients. Her favorite numismatic objects, however, are tokens—turnpike tokens, tokens from restaurants, Alcoholics Anonymous tokens, etc. Among these one stands out: a token from McDonalds, which sits in her bag alongside various silver dollars, large cents, and the rest of her treasure. But it isn’t Marlaina’s eclectic collection that makes Marlaina so special, or the fact that she may be the only numismatist that carries the majority of her coins in a bag. The most suprising thing about Marlaina is that she has never seen a coin—Marlaina is completely blind
Minting Anomalies in Greek Sicily: Stepped Flans, Edge Ridges, and Edge Splits
Authors: Daehn William E.
Published: January 2024

Numismatists have long sought to gain a better understanding of ancient Greek minting techniques, a subject for which no ancient written sources have survived. Although the topic has been the subject of numerous papers, some of these have been based more on speculation than on evidence. Fortunately, several researchers have conducted useful experiments in re-creating ancient minting techniques, and some of these have been quite informative.
Potential Utility of Plasma Biomarker Panels in Differential Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Krishna Geethu , Thangaraju Sivakumar Palanimuthu , Dahale Ajit B. , Subramanian Sarada
Published: January 2024

Blood tests are in need, in the clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) as minimally invasive and less expensive alternatives to cerebrospinal fluid and neuroimaging methods. On these lines, single molecule array (Simoa) analysis of amyloid-β (Aβ42), total tau (t-tau), phospho-tau (p-tau 181), and neurofilament L (NfL) in the plasma samples of AD subjects, healthy controls (HC), and non-AD subjects was conducted. Findings from this study suggest that a panel of multiple plasma biomarkers (NfL, Aβ42, t-tau, and p-tau 181) combined with the clinical assessments could support differential diagnosis of AD and other dementias from healthy controls.
The Association of Body Mass Index with Cognition and Alzheimer’s Disease Biomarkers in the Elderly with Different Cognitive Status: A Study from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative Database
Authors: Li Qin , Zhan Jiehong , Feng Yuxue , Liao Zixuan , Li Xiaofeng ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2024

Background:

The association of body mass index (BMI) with cognition and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers of the elderly remains inconclusive.

Objective:

To investigate the relationship between BMI and cognition as well as AD biomarkers in the elderly with different cognitive status.

Methods:

Participants with cognitively normal (CN) were included as the CN group. Participants with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia were included as the cognitive impairment (CI) group. The relationship between BMI and AD biomarkers (cerebrospinal fluid Aβ42 and p-tau181, hippocampal volume [HV]), global cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE]), memory, and executive function were explored.

Results:

In the CI group, BMI was associated with MMSE (β= 0.03, p = 0.009), Aβ42 (β= 0.006, p = 0.029), p-tau181/Aβ42 ratio (β= -0.001, p = 0.011), and HV (β= 0.05, p < 0.001). However in the CN group, BMI exhibited associations with p-tau181 (β= 0.012, p = 0.014) and memory composite score (β= -0.04, p = 0.038), but not with p-tau181/Aβ42 ratio and HV. Moreover, mediation analysis showed that in the CI group, the positive effect of BMI on HV and MMSE score was partially mediated by diastolic blood pressure.

Conclusion:

The association of BMI with cognition and AD biomarkers varies across different cognitive status. In particular, a lower BMI was associated with worse cognition, higher Aβ burden, and lower HV in individuals with CI. Clinical practice should strengthen the monitoring and management of BMI in patients with AD.
Potential of an mRNA-Based Urine Assay (Xpert® Bladder Cancer Detection1) in Hematuria Patients - Results from a Cohort Study
Authors: Schmitz-Dräger Claudia , Goebell Peter J. , Paxinos Ellen , Bismarck Ekkehardt , Chen Jack , Balakrishnan Priya , Bates Michael , Ebert Thomas , Schmitz-Dräger Bernd J. , Benderska-Söder Natalya
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Assessment of patients with hematuria (aH) remains a challenge in urological practice, balancing the benefits of diagnosing a potentially underlying bladder cancer (UCa) against the risks of possibly unnecessary diagnostic interventions. This study analyzes the potential of an mRNA-based urine assay, the Xpert® Bladder Cancer Detection- CE-IVD (Xpert BC-D), in patients with hematuria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Overall, 368 patients with newly observed painless hematuria and no history of UCa were included in this observational study. Patients received urological workup, including urethrocystoscopy (WLC), upper tract imaging, urine cytology and Xpert BC-D. Patients with positive WLC were recommended to undergo tumor resection (TUR-B).

RESULTS:

After excluding non-assessable cases, 324 patients were considered for analysis (188 males, 136 females; median age: 61 years). Eight of twenty-eight patients with a positive TUR-B had Ta low grade (LG) tumors; the others were diagnosed with high grade (HG) lesions (Ta: 4, CIS: 2, T1:11, > T1:3). The Xpert BC-D was more sensitive than urine cytology (96% vs. 61%) ( p = 0.002). Increased risk ratios (RR) were observed for gross hematuria, gender, urine cytology, and positive Xpert BC-D (all p < 0.05). Age and positive Xpert BC-D remained independent predictors of UCa in multivariate analysis. Simulating a triage with WLC restricted to patients with positive Xpert BC-D could have saved 240 (74.1%) assessments at the cost of missing one pTa LG tumor.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results suggest a potential role for Xpert BC-D in preselecting patients with hematuria for either further invasive diagnosis or an alternate diagnostic procedure.
Serum Placental Growth Factor as a Marker of Cerebrovascular Disease Burden in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wu Liu-Yun , Chong Joyce R. , Chong Jenny P.C. , Hilal Saima , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Tan Boon Yeow , Richards Arthur Mark , Chen Christopher P. , Lai Mitchell K.P.
Published: January 2024

Background: Concomitant cerebrovascular diseases (CeVD) have been identified as an important determinant of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression. Development of robust blood-based biomarkers will provide critical tools to evaluate prognosis and potential interventional strategies for AD with CeVD. Objective: This study investigated circulating placental growth factor (PlGF), a potent pro-angiogenic factor related to endothelial dysfunction and vascular inflammation, in an Asian memory clinic cohort of non-demented individuals as well as AD, including its associations with neuroimaging markers of CeVD. Methods: 109 patients with AD, 76 cognitively impaired with no dementia (CIND), and 56 non-cognitively impaired (NCI) were included in this cross-sectional study. All subjects underwent 3T brain magnetic resonance imaging to assess white matter hyperintensities (WMH), lacunes, cortical infarcts, and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs). Serum PlGF concentrations were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassays. Results: Serum PlGF was elevated in AD, but not CIND, compared to the NCI controls. Adjusted concentrations of PlGF were associated with AD only in the presence of significant CeVD. Elevated PlGF was significantly associated with higher burden of WMH and with CMBs in AD patients. Conclusions: Serum PlGF has potential utility as a biomarker for the presence of CeVD, specifically WMH and CMBs, in AD. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms linking PlGF to CeVD, as well as to further assess PlGF’s clinical utility.
FACEmemory®, an Innovative Online Platform for Episodic Memory Pre-Screening: Findings from the First 3,000 Participants
Authors: Alegret Montserrat , García-Gutiérrez Fernando , Muñoz Nathalia , Espinosa Ana , Ortega Gemma , Lleonart Núria , Rodríguez Isabel , Rosende-Roca Maitee , Pytel Vanesa , Cantero-Fortiz Yahveth , Rentz Dorene M. , Marquié Marta , Valero Sergi , Ruiz Agustín , Butler Christopher , Boada Mercè
Published: January 2024

Background: The FACEmemory® online platform comprises a complex memory test and sociodemographic, medical, and family questions. This is the first study of a completely self-administered memory test with voice recognition, pre-tested in a memory clinic, sensitive to Alzheimer’s disease, using information and communication technologies, and offered freely worldwide. Objective: To investigate the demographic and clinical variables associated with the total FACEmemory score, and to identify distinct patterns of memory performance on FACEmemory. Methods: Data from the first 3,000 subjects who completed the FACEmemory test were analyzed. Descriptive analyses were applied to demographic, FACEmemory, and medical and family variables; t-test and chi-square analyses were used to compare participants with preserved versus impaired performance on FACEmemory (cut-off = 32); multiple linear regression was used to identify variables that modulate FACEmemory performance; and machine learning techniques were applied to identify different memory patterns. Results: Participants had a mean age of 50.57 years and 13.65 years of schooling; 64.07% were women, and 82.10% reported memory complaints with worries. The group with impaired FACEmemory performance (20.40%) was older, had less schooling, and had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and family history of neurodegenerative disease than the group with preserved performance. Age, schooling, sex, country, and completion of the medical and family history questionnaire were associated with the FACEmemory score. Finally, machine learning techniques identified four patterns of FACEmemory performance: normal, dysexecutive, storage, and completely impaired. Conclusions: FACEmemory is a promising tool for assessing memory in people with subjective memory complaints and for raising awareness about cognitive decline in the community.
Auricularia polytricha extract exerts SKN-1 and DAF-16 mediated longevity and stress resistance against UV-B exposure in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Sharika Rajasekharan , Verma Kanika , Tencomnao Tewin , Chuchawankul Siriporn
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Auricularia polytricha (AP) is traditionally known for its medicinal properties, and linoleic acid (LA) is the prominent component in AP.

OBJECTIVE:

To understand the anti-aging and stress resistance mechanism induced by AP in Caenorhabditis elegans.

METHODS:

C. elegans (wild-type (N2), transgenic, and mutant strains) were treated with AP and LA and monitored for lifespan and stress resistance through physiological assays, fluorescence microscopy, and qPCR analysis. Molecular docking studies were employed to identify the interaction mode of LA with DAF-16 and SKN-1.

RESULTS:

Ethanol extract of AP (APE) was non-toxic and could induce an anti-aging mechanism, as it could extend the lifespan of nematode worms. This was dependent on PMK-1 and DAF-16 as APE could not extend the lifespan of these gene-specific mutants apart from extending the expression of these genes in wild-type nematodes, which was evident from qPCR analysis. LA, too, had a similar effect on the lifespan of wild-type and mutant worms, which further supported the findings. Molecular docking studies pointed to the role of DAF-16 and SKN-1 in regulating the effect of APE. APE also exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms as it significantly extended the lifespan in worms exposed to UV-B-induced oxidative stress, thereby showing a protective effect. APE could regulate SKN-1, which was evident from qPCR analysis and the fluorescence of skn-1:GFP transgenic strain. Further qPCR analysis of candidate regulatory genes exhibited antioxidant mechanisms induced by APE.

CONCLUSION:

APE was observed to induce anti-aging efficacy via SKN-1 and DAF-16.
Shock waves modulate corticospinal excitability: A proof of concept for further rehabilitation purposes?
Authors: Guidetti Matteo , Naci Anisa , Cerri Andrea , Pagani Rossella , Previtera Antonino Michele , Priori Alberto , Bocci Tommaso
Published: January 2024

Background:

Focal extracorporeal shock wave therapy (fESWT) is a physical therapy vastly studied and used for various musculoskeletal disorders. However, the effect of fESWT on central nervous system is still to be determined.

Objective:

To elucidate spinal and supra-spinal mechanisms of fESWT in healthy subjects, in order to widen the spectrum of its clinical applications.

Methods:

In this quasi-experimental, unblinded, proof-of-concept clinical study, 10 voluntary healthy subjects underwent fESWT and were assessed immediately before (T0), immediately after (T1) and seven days after (T2) the intervention. As neurophysiological outcomes, motor evoked potentials (resting motor threshold, maximal motor evoked potential and maximal compound muscle action potential ratio, cortical silent period, total conduction motor time, direct and indirect central motor conduction time), F-waves (minimal and mean latency, persistence and temporal dispersion) and H-reflex (threshold, amplitude, maximal H reflex and maximal compound muscle action potential ratio, latency) were considered.

Results:

Resting motor threshold and F-waves temporal dispersion significantly decreased, respectively, from T1 and T2 and from T0 and T2 (for both, p <  0.05). H-reflex threshold increase between T0 and T1. Analysis disclosed a strong negative correlation between Δ3 cortical silent period (i.e., T2 –T1 recordings) and Δ1 Hr threshold (i.e., T1 –T0 recordings) ( r = –0.66, p <  0.05), and a positive strong relationship between Δ3 cortical silent period and Δ3 Hr threshold ( r = 0.63, p <  0.05).

Conclusions:

fESWT modulates corticospinal tract excitability in healthy volunteers, possibly inducing an early inhibition followed by a later facilitation after one week.
Retinal ganglion cell and microvascular density loss in hereditary spastic paraplegia
Authors: Turski Gabrielle N. , Turski Christopher A. , Grobe-Einsler Marcus , Kobeleva Xenia , Turski Jennifer S. , Holz Frank G. , Finger Robert P. , Klockgether Thomas
Published: January 2024

Background:

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is characterized by progressive degeneration of distal axons in the long corticospinal tracts. Loss of retinal cells and microvascular networks has neither been suspected nor investigated. We concurrently examined the retinal microvasculature and retinal layer morphology in patients with HSP to assess whether retinal features may portray disease and its progression.

Methods:

Fifteen patients with HSP and 30 healthy controls were included in this cross-sectional case-control study. Disease severity was assessed with the Spastic Paraplegia Rating Scale (SPRS). Severity of ataxia was determined by the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). Retinal microvasculature was measured by means of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) and morphology of retinal layers using structural OCT. Mixed-effects models were applied for data analysis.

Results:

HSP patients showed significantly reduced vessel density of the superficial vascular plexus (SVP), reduced ganglion cell layer (GCL) volume, reduced inner plexiform layer (IPL) volume and reduced temporal-inferior peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness versus healthy controls. GCL volume reduction correlated significantly with the worsening of visual acuity and higher SARA scores.

Conclusions:

These findings demonstrate that, in HSP both cells and vascular networks of the retina are compromised. Assessment of the retinal GCL, IPL and SVP may aid in diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression as well as provide novel structural outcome measures for clinical trials.
Development of A Trilingual E-Dictionary for Early Childhood; Indonesia-English-Lampung
Authors: Septiyana Linda , Aneka Aneka , Mandasari Berlinda , Ramadhan Fezka Shella Syafari
Published: January 2024

The development of this trilingual e-dictionary (Indonesian-English-Lampung) is expected to help children learn multi-languages and make it easier for children to learn Indonesian, English, and Lampung language. This study aimed to develop a trilingual e-dictionary (Indonesia-English-Lampung) for early childhood students’ at TK Pertiwi Metro. The study used a Research and Development approach, where the data were collected through questionnaire and interview. Qualitative data were analyzed using interactive analysis and quantitative data analysis used percentages. The research participants consisted of 25 Kindergarten teachers at TK Pertiwi Metro and TK PKK 1 Yosodadi Metro. The results showed that learning media in the form of e-dictionary is very needed to introduce languages to early childhood.  The contents of trilingual e-dictionary consists of three volumes. Volume one consists of five themes: numbers, colors, fruits, vegetables, and animals. Volume two consists of four themes: family, human body, transportation, and profession. Volume three consists of four themes: classroom, bedroom, nature, and time. The total vocabulary of the entire volume is 158 vocabularies. Furthermore, the teachers’ responses toward the trilingual e-dictionary (Indonesia-English-Lampung) showed that 0% expressed disagreed, 10% less agreed, 41% agreed, and 49% strongly agreed. The average score is 3,38 and, if converted on a table with a scale of 4, includes into a very good category. Therefore, a trilingual e-dictionary (Indonesia-English-Lampung) is declared suitable to be used as an interactive media in learning languages for early childhood.
Informe especial de estabilidad financiera: riesgo de crédito - Segundo semestre de 2023
Authors:   Departamento de estabilidad financiera
Published: January 2024

Monitorear el riesgo de crédito es fundamental para preservar la estabilidad del sistema financiero. Este informe presenta, para cada modalidad de cartera, un análisis de las condiciones de crédito y de los principales indicadores de riesgo.
Lesson-game "In search of lost bytes"
Authors: Sklyarova E. A.
Published: January 2024

The article describes the experience of developing and conducting a lesson-game in informatics, in which, in the form of a team competition, students' initial knowledge about the computer, types of information, actions with information is repeated and consolidated, and logical thinking is also activated. All stages of team game are presented with the formation of universal educational actions in students and the achieved subject learning results. The content of the lesson is structured in such a way that, after passing all competitions, students will be able to consolidate subject competencies and continue to develop meta-subject competencies. The course of the lesson is based on the fact that students take turns performing tasks and working in a team. Each stage of the lesson is accompanied by a demonstration of tasks and questions on an interactive board with musical accompaniment, which ensures a positive mood for the game. The jury assigns points to teams using score sheets. At the end of the lesson-game, the jury announces the results, and the teams are awarded places in the competition. The teacher prepares award materials in the form of certificates and medals in advance.
Modeling objects movement when collising with obstacles in PascalABC.NET language in schoolchildren's project activities
Authors: Korenyugina L. M.
Published: January 2024

To solve the methodological problem of expanding the content of school informatics textbooks in terms of practical tasks, assignments for project work can be used, which are completed by students individually or in groups. Carrying out project work that involves the application of knowledge from other subject areas contributes to the development of meta-subject skills in students. The use of group work as the main form of performing practical tasks is aimed at achieving personal learning results. The project-activity approach helps to achieve the planned learning outcomes in the section of the informatics course under consideration. The article discusses assignments in the "Beginnings of programming" section of the VIII grade informatics course, which can be offered for students' project activities to create graphical and information models and when conducting a computer experiment. Based on the implementation of gradually more complex examples, students are introduced to project-type tasks — modeling the movement of objects when collising with obstacles. The software implementation of the models is carried out in the PascalABC.NET language.
Analyzing the behaviour of a system of algebraic equations with a parameter using dynamic geometry methods
Authors: Korchazhkina O. M.
Published: January 2024

The article proposes analytical and graphic techniques for investigating the behaviour of a system of two algebraic equations with a parameter through the search for singular (i. e. boundary) points in the range of acceptable parameter values. The singular points are the boundaries of the ranges, and within each range, the system has similar properties, as well as its behaviour obeys the same rules. Thus, the method establishes a complete picture of the solution of the problem, which then can be confirmed by visual ways of dynamic geometry reproduced in the interactive creative environment 1C:MathKit. The algorithm of singular points proposed in the paper can be used when performing training exercises to prepare for the Olympiads and the profile USE in mathematics as a key to analyzing all possible situations that arise in a particular task with a parameter.
Implementasi Data Mining Untuk Memprediksi Keterlambatan Jam Masuk Kerja Menggunakan Algoritma Klasifikasi
Authors: Bahri Saeful Saeful
Published: January 2024

Karyawan menjadi salah satu faktor penting yang dapat menentukan keberhasilan tujuan perusahaan. Hal ini terjadi karena karyawan adalah penggerak utama roda kegiatan sebuah perusahaan. Dengan kata lain, karyawan menjadi penguat fungsi-fungsi organisasi dalam sebuah perusahaan. Key performance indicator yang baik untuk karyawan akan mempengaruhi kinerja perusahaan, keterlambatan jam masuk kerja menjadi salah satu faktor penting yang mempengaruhi kinerja perusahan, keterlambatan dengan datang lewat waktu dari waktu yang sudah tentukan menjadi faktor yang mempengaruhi kinerja perusahaan dan karyawan menjadi tidak baik. Untuk itu diperlukan model untuk mengaklasifikaskan permasalahan tersebut. Pada penelitian ini digunakan tiga algortima klasifikasi: decision tree, naïve bayes, dan k-nearest neighbor dengan tehnik data mining untuk menemukan pola dari model yang digunakan, prihal ini akan membantu perusahaan meningkatkan kinerja perusahaan dan kedisiplinan karyawan. Dari hasil pengujian penelitian ini, faktor yang paling mempengaruhi keterlambatan jam masuk kerja adalah "jam berangkat", dan dari tiga algoritma yang digunakan, algoritma decision tree menjadi algoritma yang paling baik dengan tingkat akurasi 73.64%.