bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid Droplets as Regulators of Metabolism and Immunity
Authors: Boucher Dominique M. , Vijithakumar Viyashini , Ouimet Mireille
Published: May 2021

A hallmark of sterile and nonsterile inflammation is the increased accumulation of cytoplasmic lipid droplets (LDs) in non-adipose cells. LDs are ubiquitous organelles specialized in neutral lipid storage and hydrolysis. Originating in the ER, LDs are comprised of a core of neutral lipids (cholesterol esters, triglycerides) surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer and several LD-associated proteins. The perilipin (PLIN1-5) family are the most abundant structural proteins present on the surface of LDs. While PLIN1 is primarily expressed in adipocytes, PLIN2 and PLIN3 are ubiquitously expressed. LDs also acquire a host of enzymes and proteins that regulate LD metabolism. Amongst these are neutral lipases and selective lipophagy factors that promote hydrolysis of LD-associated neutral lipid. In addition, LDs physically associate with other organelles such as mitochondria through inter-organelle membrane contact sites that facilitate lipid transport. Beyond serving as a source of energy storage, LDs participate in inflammatory and infectious diseases, regulating both innate and adaptive host immune responses. Here, we review recent studies on the role of LDs in the regulation of immunometabolism.
Birds of Edgbaston Reserve, central-western Queensland, including notes on significant and threatened species
Authors:   Bush Heritage Australia, P.O. Box 329, Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 8009, Australia, Kern P.L. ,   School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia QLD 4067, Australia, Kutt A.S. ,   Bush Heritage Australia, P.O. Box 329, Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 8009, Australia,   Tasmanian Land Conservancy, P.O. Box 2112, Lower Sandy Bay TAS 7005, Australia,   School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville VIC 3010, Australia,   School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart TAS 7005, Australia
Published: May 2021

Localities at the intersection of bioclimatic zones can produce interesting bird-community assemblages. Edgbaston Reserve, in central-western Queensland, known for the high biodiversity of its artesian springs complex, sits within the intersection of the Torresian, Bassian and Eyrean bioclimatic zones and straddles the intersection of two bioregions on the western edge of the Great Dividing Range. Here we present bird records accumulated through standardised surveys and opportunistic observations. A total of 143 species of birds was detected on Edgbaston Reserve. From these data we report on notable species recorded and the significance of the avifauna community found on this Reserve. In addition to Edgbaston conserving artesian-spring habitat and threatened aquatic species, we highlight the importance of this Reserve for the preservation of woodland and arid birds.
Feasibility of Using the Hexoskin Smart Garment for Natural Environment Observation of Respiration Topography
Authors: Jayasekera Shehan , Hensel Edward , Robinson Risa
Published: May 2021

Background: Limited research has been done to measure ambulatory respiratory behavior, in particular those associated with tobacco use, in the natural environment due to a lack of monitoring techniques. Respiratory topography parameters provide useful information for modelling particle deposition in the lung and assessing exposure risk and health effects associated with tobacco use. Commercially available Wearable Respiratory Monitors (WRM), such as the Hexoskin Smart Garment, have embedded sensors which measure chest motion and may be adapted for measuring ambulatory lung volume. Methods: Self-reported ‘everyday’ and ‘some days’ Hookah and Cigarette smokers were recruited for a 3-day natural environment observation study. Participants wore the Hexoskin shirt while using their preferred tobacco product. The shirt was calibrated on them prior to, during, and after the observation period. A novel method for calculating the calibration parameters is presented. Results: N=5 Hookah and N=3 Cigarette participants were enrolled. Calibration parameters were obtained and applied to the observed chest motion waveform from each participant to obtain their lung volume waveform. Respiratory topography parameters were derived from the lung volume waveform. Conclusion: The feasibility of using the Hexoskin for measuring ambulatory respiratory topography parameters in the natural environment is demonstrated..
Unexpected Role of Sterol Synthesis in RNA Stability and Translation in Leishmania
Authors: Karamysheva Zemfira N. , Moitra Samrat , Perez Andrea , Mukherjee Sumit , Tikhonova Elena B. , Karamyshev Andrey L. , Zhang Kai
Published: May 2021

Leishmania species are parasitic protozoans which cause leishmaniasis affecting millions of people worldwide. Sterols are important components of plasma and organellar membranes and serve as precursors for the synthesis of signaling molecules. In contrast to animals, Leishmania do not produce cholesterol but instead synthesize ergostane-based sterols. C14-demethylase is a key enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of sterols in Leishmania parasites and an important drug target. Its inactivation leads to multiple defects including increased plasma membrane fluidity, mitochondrion dysfunction, hypersensitivity to stress and reduced virulence. In this study, we revealed a novel role for sterol synthesis in the maintenance of RNA stability and translation. Sterol alteration in C14-demethylase knockout mutant leads to increased RNA degradation, reduced translation and impaired heat shock response. Thus, sterol biosynthesis plays an unexpected role in global gene regulation in Leishmania parasites.
Green Innovation Enterprises and Environmental Entrepreneurship for Poverty Alleviation in Kenya
Authors: Ngare Innocent
Published: May 2021

World Economy today depends on business investments that are propelled by Green technology, innovations and entrepreneurial activities. In recent years, developing economies in Asia, Africa and Latin America have embarked on easy capital access to Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to facilitate their economic growth. Kenya is among the Middle Level Income Countries that have gained global recognition through entrepreneurial innovations. In this study we assess the role of entrepreneurship towards poverty alleviation in Kenya. The objectives of the study were: to evaluate the role of entrepreneurship in poverty alleviation in Kenya; to identify entrepreneurship innovations and their economic contribution in Kenya and to determine the significance of entrepreneurship to Kenyan economy. Methodology of study took a parametric approach through pure desktop studies on entrepreneurship cases in Kenya. Success case studies of entrepreneurial innovations like M-pesa, M-soko and Uwezo Fund initiatives were assessed. The paper notes that activities undertaken in each of these case studies have made great contributions to poverty alleviation and economic development in both urban and rural areas of Kenya.
The KRAS G12C mutation in NSCLC: from target to resistance
Authors: Addeo Alfredo , Banna Giuseppe Luigi , Friedlaender Alex
Published: May 2021

Lung cancer represents the most common form of cancer accounting for 1.8 million deaths globally in 2020.The 5-year relative survival rate for lung cancer is lower than many other leading cancer types.
Over the last decade the treatment for advanced and metastatic non small cell lung cancer have dramatically improved due to the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the identification of targetable driver mutations. Recently, potentially effective inhibitors of a hitherto untargetable oncogenic driver mutation in NSCLC, Kirsten Rat Sarcoma (KRAS) have been developed. KRAS mutations are found in 20-25% of NSCLC and represent the most frequent mutation. The mutation is almost exclusively detected in adenocarcinoma and is found among smokers 90% of the time. Along with the development of new drugs that have been showing promising activity, resistance mechanisms have begun to be clarified.
The aim of this review is to unwrap the biology of KRAS in NSCLC with a specific focus on primary and secondary resistance mechanisms and their possible clinical implications.
Temporal Dynamics of Event-Related Potentials During Inhibitory Control Characterize Age-Related Neural Compensation
Authors: Paitel Elizabeth R , Nielson Kristy A
Published: May 2021

Aging is accompanied by frontal lobe and non-dominant hemisphere recruitment that supports executive functioning, such as inhibitory control, which is crucial to all cognitive functions. Yet, the spatio-temporal sequence of processing underlying successful inhibition and how it changes with age is understudied. Thus, we assessed N200 (conflict monitoring) and P300 (response inhibition, performance evaluation) event-related potentials (ERPs) in young and healthy older adults during comparably performed successful stop-signal inhibition. We additionally interrogated the continuous spatio-temporal dynamics of N200- and P300-related activation within each group. Young adults had left hemisphere dominant N200, while older adults had overall larger amplitudes and right hemisphere dominance. N200 activation was biphasic in both groups but differed in scalp topography. P300 also differed, with larger right amplitudes in young, but bilateral amplitudes in old, with old larger than young in the left hemisphere. P300 was characterized by an early parieto-occipital peak in both groups, followed by a parietal slow wave only in older adults. A temporally similar but topographically different final wave followed in both groups that showed anterior recruitment in older adults. These findings illuminate differential age-related spatio-temporal recruitment patterns for conflict monitoring and response inhibition that are critically important for understanding age-related compensatory activation.
Role of Histone Methylation in Maintenance of Genome Integrity
Authors: Mushtaq Arjamand , Mir Ulfat Syed , Hunt Clayton R , Pandita Shruti , Tantray Wajahat W , Bhat Audesh , Altaf Mohammad , Pandita Tej K
Published: May 2021

Packaging of the eukaryotic DNA genome with histone and other proteins forms a chromatin structure that regulates the outcome of all DNA mediated processes. The cellular pathways that ensure genomic stability detect and repair DNA damage through mechanisms which are critically dependent upon chromatin structures established by histones and, particularly, transient histone post-translational modifications . Though subject to a range of modifications, histone methylation is especially crucial for DNA damage repair as the methylated histones often form platforms for subsequent repair protein binding at damaged sites. In this review, we highlight and discuss how histone methylation impacts the maintenance of genome integrity through effects related to DNA repair and repair pathway choice.
The Solar System
Authors: Ljubičić Mario
Published: May 2021

The origin, mechanics and properties of the Solar System are described in the framework of Complete Relativity (CR) theory by M. Ljubičić (Amenoum).
Flipped Classroom Among Minorities in the Context of Mathematics Learning: The Israeli Case
Authors: Sharkia Halima , Kohen Zehavit
Published: May 2021

This study presents a designated Flipped Classroom (FC) mathematics environment that utilizes a unique online platform designed for Arab minority students in Israel. It investigates how studying in an FC affects conceptual understanding and motivation to study mathematics among Arab high school students. The study also explores the factors that contribute to effective learning in the FC environment. Participants were 75 Arab high school students in 10th and 11th grade who studied advanced mathematics. Each grade group was randomly divided into two subgroups: an FC group and a traditional classroom group (comparison group). Quantitative questionnaires given before and after the learning program served to measure students’ motivation and conceptual understanding of the derivative and integral topics. Additionally, a random sample of students who studied in the FC group and the teacher who taught all the groups were interviewed. The study describes the positive effect an FC environment has on students' conceptual understanding, particularly for 11th graders. The participants mostly appreciated how the FC resulted in less lecturing in class. The study contributes to the literature about FC among minorities and contributes to national and international efforts being made to reduce the gap in mathematics achievements between minorities and other sectors.
Metal(loids) Bioaccessibility in Road Dusts from the Surrounding Villages of an Active Mine
Authors: Candeias Carla , Ávila Paula F. , Ferreira da Silva Eduardo , Rocha Fernando
Published: May 2021

Aiming the characterization of road dusts on the surrounding villages of an active mine and to assess metal(loids) bioaccessible fractions, a dust samples survey was undertaken. To achieve these objectives, pseudototal element concentration, mineralogical composition, Enrichment factor and in vitro extraction UBM assay for both gastric (G) and gastrointestinal (GI) phases, were determined. Results obtained revealed that arsenic represents the higher risk to humans, with mean pseudototal values higher than the maximum reference value range. Enrichment factor points to As significant to very high enrichment in all villages. Particles enriched in As, Ca, Fe, Cu, Al, Ti were identified by SEM-EDS in weathered agglomerates, linked to mine wastes and long-distance transport, both by wind and/or traffic. Arsenic bioaccessibility fraction (%BAF) presents low values in the studied samples, possibly due to low Fe complexes solubility with adsorbed As, limiting arsenic release and reducing its bioaccessibility. Concentrations of Cd bioaccessible G and GI phases are within the reference values range, while for Cu are above and for Pb are lower, than reference value range. Results show that the pseudototal fraction risk is overestimated when comparing to BAF (bioaccessible fraction), nevertheless, total G and GI risk are above the carcinogenic target risk (1.00E-06) in most samples. Carcinogenic risk of the bioaccessible contaminants shows that As is the element that represents higher risk for developing cancer over a lifetime, being ingestion the main risk route.
Adaptation and Mitigation for Meeting the Climate Change through Urban Plans: Assessing Urban Development Plans of Tehran, Iran
Authors: Feizi Farhad
Published: May 2021

Climate change has emerged as one of the defining issues of the early 21st century. It is now more certain than ever and poses a serious threat to sustainable urban development. Climate change has many destructive effects on cities. Land subsidence, rising air pollutants, severe storms, dust and water scarcity are just some effects of this phenomenon in the urban area of ​​Tehran. Urban management must be prepared to deal with these effects and adopt policies to mitigate and adapt to climate change. One of these tools in urban planning is urban development plans. The plans can have a great impact on controlling and counteracting with the effects of climate change. In this research, using content analysis method, 6 dimensions and 31 indicators have been used to evaluate 8 city and region development plans of Tehran from the view of reflecting the effects of climate change. Indicators were scored after studying the content of the plans. Findings indicate that among the reviewed plans, the second and third five-year development plans of Tehran with 61.9% and 61.3% as the highest rate and plan to reduce air pollution in Tehran and the transportation master plan with 20.6% and 23.2%, respectively have the least attention to the effects of climate change. Also, among the indicators, the urban transportation sector with 54.3% as the highest and the energy sector with 20.5% have the least attention to mitigation and adaptation policies.
Prácticas políticas estudiantiles en la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Un análisis a través de la figura de los centros de estudiantes
Authors: Hernández Falcón Marco Antonio
Published: May 2021

El contenido del artículo inicia con la identificación de una crisis inédita globalizada, signada por aspectos como la desigualdad, la exclusión y la injusticia social; desde donde se despliega un cuestionamiento de lo institucional, en el que el aspecto político cobra centralidad. Partiendo de la institución educativa, y particularmente del aporte de la universidad latinoamericana, la investigación se propuso un análisis de las prácticas políticas estudiantiles a través de la figura de los centros de estudiantes en las áreas de humanidades y ciencias sociales de la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. El proceder metodológico, de enfoque cualitativo, con un alcance interpretativo-comprensivo, y empleando un método compuesto básicamente por entrevistas semiestructuradas, resalta en los resultados la tensión y la configuración entre espacios de organización y participación estudiantil, ante un dispositivo de neutralización del aspecto político de la formación universitaria pública.
THE FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICE OF MOSQUE: STUDY CASE IN MALAYSIA
Authors:   International Islamic University Malaysia, Nining Islamiyah Nining
Published: May 2021

This study aims to explain the financial management practices of the mosque. Specifically, the focus of this study is to explore and investigate how financial management practices in the mosque. A case study of one Malaysian mosque is undertaken. To achieve the objective of this study, the researcher used vari­ous techniques of data collection, including interviews, observations, and reviews of the documents. The findings reveal that the SHAS mosque has four mechanisms to manage financial management practices. The tools are performance assessment and evaluation, participation, regulation, and social auditing. This study concludes that financial management practices are a necessary process to support the accounta­bility of the mosque. Especially, secondary accountability relates to the responsibility of mosque managers toward capital providers of the mosque. The results of this study give some implications for the improvement of financial management practices, particularly in the mosque.
CORPORATE POLITICAL CONNECTION AND AUDIT QUALITY
Authors:   Universitas Airlangga, Armadiyanti Putri , Iswati Sri ,   Universitas Airlangga
Published: May 2021

Abstract Indonesia offers attractive conditions to explore research on political connections, be­cause Indonesia is a developing market country with a history of strong political connec­tions in business. This study aims to investigate how the effect of the political connections held by board of commissioners and directors in the company on auditor quality and how earnings management moderate political connections and audit quality. This study used a sample of all companies from all sectors listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) in 2015-2017 except financial and insurance industry companies, thus a sample of 1213 firm-years was obtained. The analysis technique used is logistic regression analysis. The results revealed that companies with board of commissioners and directors who are politically connected have a positive and significant effect on auditor quality, it means that compa­nies with political connections tend to choose industry specialist auditors as the company's external auditors. The results also revealed that earnings management does not moderate the effect of corporate political connections on audit quality. This research provides new insights about the use of political connections in the business environment especially in audit quality decisions in Indonesia.
EARNINGS MANAGEMENT AND FUTURE EARNINGS
Authors:   Universitas Terbuka, Yogyakarta, Johanes Simamora Alex
Published: May 2021

Abstract This research is aimed to examine the moderating effect of the cost of earnings management on the relationship between earnings management and future earnings. Research samples are manufacture companies listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange 2013-2015. The cost of accruals earnings management is auditor quality, while the costs of real earnings management are the market share and financial health. Based on the fixed effect regression test, auditor quality strengthens the positive effect of accruals earnings management on future performance, while market share and financial health weaken the negative effect of real earnings management on future earnings. It indicates that in the context of efficient contracting, high quality auditor provide better signal for earnings prediction compared to the low quality auditor. In addition, higher market share and higher financial health limit opportunistic real earnings management to reduce future earnings.
ETHICAL LEADERSHIP FOR INTERNAL AUDITOR: AN EXAMINATION OF SOCIAL COGNITIVE THEORY
Authors:   Sanata Dharma University, Retno Anggraini Francisca Reni , Joko Siswanto Fransiscus Asisi ,   Sanata Dharma University
Published: May 2021

Abstract This study aims to empirically examine the influence of subjective norms, behavioral control, and intention on the attitude of internal auditors to report fraud with ethical leadership as a moderating variable. This study used a scenario-based survey of internal auditors working in state-owned and mid-level private companies. The sample was chosen by the non-random method because the sample was taken from the participants of the SNIA (National Internal Auditor Symposium) and in total, 117 respondents were gathered as valid samples. Data were analyzed using Warp PLS 4.0. This study proves that subjective norms and behavioral control have a positive effect on the attitude of internal auditors to report fraud, while intention has a negative influence on the attitude. Ethical leadership strengthens the positive influence of subjective norms and behavioral control on the attitude of the internal auditors. It also reinforces the negative influence of intention on the internal auditors’ attitude. This research supports a model of integration between Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Cognitive Theory, which states that the environment, in this case ethical leadership, influences the internal auditor's cognition in making ethical decisions. However, this study cannot prove that ethical leadership can reduce the negative influence of intention on the attitude of internal auditors to report fraud.
QUALITY OF SUSTAINABILITY DISCLOSURE AMONG THE ASEAN-5 COUNTRIES AND THE ROLE OF STAKEHOLDERS
Authors:   Universitas Indonesia, R. Trianaputri, Anisa , D. Djakman Chaerul ,   Universitas Indonesia
Published: May 2021

Abstract This study was carried out to reveal the actual quality of sustainability disclosure, actuated by some recent studies that pointed out the lack of disclosure quality amid the growing trend of CSR and the tendency that CSR disclosure was dominantly constructed to manage the corporate image. This study also seeks to investigate the role of stakeholder groups (primary, secondary and regulatory stakeholders), by analyzing the sustainability disclosures of 224 primary sector companies among the five emerging markets in Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Philippines in the year of 2016. The extensive disclosure index was also employed to assess each disclosure item under the GRI G4 Guidelines. The results revealed that the quality of sustainability disclosure is still low. In this regard, Thailand turns into the country with the highest score, followed by Malaysia and Indonesia. Labor practice aspect becomes the most expressed aspect by the companies, followed by environmental and social aspect. Based on results obtained, it is therefore argued that employees, auditors, mass media, and regulators have roles in encouraging companies to enhance the quality of sustainability disclosure. However, this study does not find a significant influence from the shareholders and international consumers. The contradictory result was found from creditors, conveying that they possess a negative influence on the quality of sustainability disclosure.
THE EFFECT OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE AND FINANCIAL STRUCTURE ON FIRM PERFORMANCE (An Empirical Study of The Financial Crisis 2008 and 2009 in Indonesia)
Authors:   Prasetiya Mulya University, C. Ansca Cressya Cesia Ansca , A. Suyapto Kevin ,   Prasetiya Mulya University, Pranoto Titin ,   Prasetiya Mulya University, P. Gunawan Vania ,   Prasetiya Mulya University
Published: May 2021

Abstract This research aims to identify the impact of capital structure on Indonesian firms’ performance, particularly on the magnitude of impact at the period prior to crisis, crisis, and the period following the crisis that happened in 2008. The Global Financial Crisis grants a chance to scrutinize the impact of crisis between capital structure and firm performance. Proxies used for capital structure are total debt to total assets, short-term debt to total assets, and long-term debt to total assets ratio. Moreover, firm performance is measured by accounting performance (Return on Asset and Return on Equity) and market performance (Price to Equity Ratio and Tobin’s Q). Samples used include all firms listed in Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from the period 2004 up to 2017, excluding financial sector firms. This research posits that capital structure generally impacts firm performance negatively. The Global Financial Crisis (GFC) that happened in 2008 serves a greater negative impact of capital structure to firm performance than it is before and after crisis. This research is intended for use by firms as a perusal in managing its capital structure, for creditors in managing its lending, and for investors in investing, prominently in times of financial crisis.
EGO DEPLETION AND ITS EFFECT ON AUDITORS’ JUDGMENT AND DECISION-MAKING QUALITY
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Perbanas Surabaya, Y. Mursita Lufi , Mustafida Nurul ,   Universitas Gadjah Mada, Rachmadia Rizki ,   Universitas Airlangga
Published: May 2021

Abstract This study aimed to examine the determinants of ego depletion and its effect on judgment and decision-making (JDM) quality. Auditing is one of the professions vulnerable to ego depletion, which is a temporary state of lack of cognitive resources to self-control caused by physical or psychological fatigue. Data were collected via online survey on 121 auditors in Indonesia who were selected by convenience sampling. The results showed that interpersonal conflict positively affected ego depletion. In line with ego depletion theory, the results supported previous research that ego depletion negatively affected JDM quality. Interestingly, this research also found that the level of industry-specific experience reduced the effect of ego depletion on JDM quality. In conclusion, psychological problems had a more significant influence on auditor cognitive resources than physical problems, which could then have an impact on his/her performance in generating judgments and decisions.
Transition to Independent Research Funding Among National Institutes of Health K Grant Awardees at Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Silvestre Jason , Hines Shawn M. , Chang Benjamin , Ahn Jaimo
Published: May 2021

Background:

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) supports mentored research career development awards (K awards) to increase the pipeline of independently funded scientists. This study analyzed the portfolio of K grants that were awarded to orthopaedic surgery departments and characterized the factors that were associated with successful transition to independent NIH research funding, including R01 grants.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of K-award recipients in orthopaedic surgery departments in the United States from 1996 to 2018. A query was performed on the NIH Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools (RePORT) database for NIH grants that were awarded to departments of orthopaedic surgery, general surgery, otolaryngology, obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology, and urology. Rates of transition to independent research funding were compared by specialty for K grants that were awarded from 1996 to 2011. The percentage of faculty with mentored research career development awards and the return on investment (ROI) were calculated. An internet and Scopus (Elsevier) database search determined the investigator characteristics. The factors that were associated with successful transition to independent funding were determined via chi-square and unpaired t tests.

Results:

Sixty K-award recipients were identified in orthopaedic surgery departments. Most were men (77%) and research scientists (53%). Fifty percent of the K-award recipients transitioned to independent research funding. Research scientists had the highest rate of transition to independent research funding (71%, p = 0.016) relative to clinicians (0%) and orthopaedic surgeons (40%). Higher levels of publication productivity were associated with successful transition to independent research funding. Similar rates of transition to independent research funding existed among surgical specialties (p = 0.107). Orthopaedic surgery had the lowest percentage of faculty with a K award (1.4%) but had the highest ROI (198%) of these awards.

Conclusions:

Orthopaedic surgery had similar rates of transition to independent research funding when compared with other surgical specialties but had a lower prevalence of K awards among faculty. Orthopaedic surgeon-scientists have lower rates of transition to independent research funding when compared with their research-scientist colleagues. These findings highlight a need for greater support to foster the pipeline of future NIH-funded orthopaedic investigators.

Clinical Relevance:

As the largest support of biomedical research in the U.S., the NIH is an important stakeholder in orthopaedic innovations and discoveries. This study highlights barriers in the procurement of NIH funding across surgical specialties and affirms the need for greater resources toward supporting NIH funding in orthopaedic surgery.
Lower 1-Year Postoperative Mortality After Acetabular Versus Proximal Femoral Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Stetzelberger Vera M. , Brouze Iris F. , Steppacher Simon D. , Bastian Johannes D. , Schwab Joseph M. , Tannast Moritz
Published: May 2021

Background:

Geriatric acetabular fractures are becoming more common due to demographic changes. Compared with proximal femoral fractures, surgical treatment is more complex and often does not allow full-weight-bearing. The aims of this study were to compare operatively treated acetabular and proximal femoral fractures with regard to (1) cumulative 1-year mortality, (2) perioperative complications, and (3) predictive factors associated with a higher 1-year mortality.

Methods:

This institutional review board-approved comparative study included 486 consecutive surgically treated elderly patients (136 acetabular and 350 proximal femoral fractures). After matching, 2 comparable groups of 129 acetabular and 129 proximal femoral fractures were analyzed. Cumulative 1-year mortality was evaluated through Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis, and perioperative complications were documented and graded. After confirming that the proportionality assumption was met, Cox proportional hazard modeling was conducted to identify factors associated with increased 1-year mortality.

Results:

The acetabular fracture group had a significantly lower cumulative 1-year mortality before matching (18% compared with 33% for proximal femoral fractures, log-rank p = 0.001) and after matching (18% compared with 36%, log-rank p = 0.005). Nevertheless, it had a significantly higher overall perioperative complication rate (68% compared with 48%, p < 0.001). In our multivariable Cox regression analysis, older age, perioperative blood loss of >1 L, and wheelchair mobilization were associated with lower survival rates after acetabular fracture surgery. Older age and a higher 5-item modified frailty index were associated with a higher 1-year mortality rate after proximal femoral fractures, whereas postoperative full weight-bearing was protective.

Conclusions:

Despite the complexity of operative treatment and a higher complication rate after acetabular fractures in the elderly, the 1-year mortality rate is lower than that after operative treatment of proximal femoral fractures, even after adjustment for comorbidities.

Level of Evidence:

TherapeuticLevel III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
HALAL AWARENESS AND HALAL TRACEABILITY: MUSLIM CONSUMERS’ AND ENTREPRENEURS’ PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Jannah Syayyidah M. , Al-Banna Hasan
Published: May 2021

The objective of this paper is to analyse the role of halal awareness, employing variables that can be both influential (determinant) and influenced (output). The study examines two perspectives, namely those from consumers and business actors. From a consumer perspective, this relates to the influence of halal awareness on the intention to purchase a halal product. Meanwhile, from the perspective of business actors, it considers how halal awareness affects the halal traceability of products. Halal traceability is also analysed from the consumers’ perspective as a moderating variable in the relationship between halal awareness and consumer purchase intentions. Questionnaires were distributed online and data were collected from 176 consumers and 95 entrepreneurs. SEM-PLS was then applied to analyse the data. The results show that halal awareness influences the consumers’ purchase intention and the halal traceability of the business actors. While the consumers’ halal awareness was determined by knowledge and halal certification. In contrast, religiosity has an insignificant influence on the consumers’ halal awareness. Meanwhile, the halal awareness of the business actors was influenced by knowledge, halal certification and religiosity. Halal traceability failed to moderate the relationship between halal awareness and consumer purchase intentions.
SOCIAL-COMMERCIAL INTERCONNECTION: LESSONS FROM BANK MUAMALAT INDONESIA & BAITULMAAL MUAMALAT AFFILIATION
Authors: Bayinah Ai Nur , Said Muhammad , Suparta Munzier
Published: May 2021

This research aims to explore the model of interconnection between the Islamic Bank and Zakat Management Organisation, as the two represent the implementation of Islamic economics in Indonesia. Using the Group Method of Data Handling (GMHD) tool to discern the strength of the relationship between the two representative entities, Bank Muamalat Indonesia and Baitulmaal Muamalat, it also followed the hyper postphenomenology approach to sharpen the result by obtaining essential confirmation from key informants with respect to determining the ideal model. The result showed a robust and reciprocal correlation between the account variables and its influence was statistically significant. Furthermore, it was interpreted as an effort to improve the image of the banking system while providing added value, forms of corporate responsibility and a spirit of service to customers. The results led to convergence on the formulation of the ideal model, which depends on the moral intentions of the owners of capital, government alignment and the literacy of directors, control needs and public awareness. Thus, it bridges the findings of previous studies and recommends a model that inseparable moral economic instruments.
Dropstone deposition: Results of numerical process modeling of deformation structures, and implications for the reconstruction of the water depth in shallow lacustrine and marine successions
Authors: Bronikowska Małgorzata , Pisarska-Jamroży Małgorzata , van Loon A.J. (Tom)
Published: May 2021

Dropstones in lacustrine and marine sediments show a wide range of sizes: from less than a millimeter to many meters. Their size and shape determine the velocity and the acceleration when they settle through the water column, and this, in turn, determines in principle the imprint that they make in the bottom sediment. Although these parameters are crucial for dropstone deposition, the unknown material (sediment) properties (like strength, porosity, pore-water content, viscosity, etc.) of the bottom sediment play a just as important role in this process as the water depth, which can physically be understood as the length of the pathway traveled vertically through a dense medium before the impact. Reconstruction of the principal environmental conditions at the time of dropstone fall and deposition consequently requires considering the variety of factors affecting the final imprint depth of a dropstone, the combination of several numerical methods.

Here, we show the results of numerical modeling of dropstones with different sizes that settle through water columns with different depths. Our results show how environmental factors control the deformation structures formed at the sedimentary surface during the impact of a dropstone, and how deep the imprint caused by the settling dropstone will be.
LDLR Promotes Growth and Invasion in Renal Cell Carcinoma and Activates The EGFR Pathway
Authors: Zhang Guiming , Chen Wei , Yao Yu , Luo Lei , Sun Lijiang
Published: May 2021

Background: Previous studies identified an association of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and LDL receptor (LDLR) with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) development. This study investigated the expression and roles of LDLR in RCC. Methods: LDLR expression was examined in clear cell RCC (ccRCC) and adjacent normal kidney tissues, and its clinicopathological significance was analyzed. The role of LDLR in RCC cell proliferation, cell cycle and invasion were assessed in RCC cells with LDLR stable knockdown. Results: LDLR expression was higher in ccRCC tissues than in normal kidney tissues and increased with RCC progression. LDLR knockdown in RCC cells inhibited cell growth, migration and invasion and induced G1/S cell cycle arrest. We identified an interaction between LDLR and EGFR, and EGFR signaling protein expression was reduced after LDLR knockdown. Conclusions: Our findings reveal that LDLR plays an important role in RCC carcinogenesis, suggesting that LDL and LDLR might be potential targets for therapeutic intervention in RCC.
Origin, Phenotypes, and Plumage Coloration of Golden Pelung Chicken Progenies (G. gallus, Linn.1758)
Authors: Mahardhika I Wayan Swarautama , Habibah Imroatul , Perdamaian Ayudha Bahana Ilham , Trijoko  , Daryono Budi Setiadi
Published: May 2021

Background

Pelung chicken has extensively been studied through selective breeding and used by the local poultry sector for ornamental purposes and occasionally as meat-type chicken. However, a well-documented and detailed description of its origins, genealogical backgrounds, unique traits, and diagnostic genotyping of its unique plumage colouration has never been compiled. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a detailed description of Pelung chicken and conduct a diagnostic genotyping of the TYR gene associated with golden plumage colouration accompanied with direct visual observations in Pelung chicken.
Results

Direct visual observations of GK resulted in dominant white shank governs by two autosomal loci and one sex-linked locus. Plumage colours were divided into four variants: black-brown barred, brown-golden barred, brown, and white. Each plumage colour group governs either by both the autosomal loci and recessive sex-linked locus or only autosomal locus. The diagnostic genotyping detected the presence of intron 4 retroviral sequence insertional mutation of tyrosinase (TYR) gene in both F1 Kamper and GK. Full-length retroviral insertional mutation of the G. gallus TYR gene is associated with the appearance of recessive white (C*C/C*C) chickens, with pigmented eyes.
Conclusions

The golden Pelung chicken was originated from inbreeding crossings between F1 Kamper, the progenies of crossbreeding between Layer Lohmann Brown-Classic and Pelung chicken. Historical accounts suggested the first documentation about the possible origin of Pelung chicken located in several villages surrounding Warungkondang, Cianjur, West Java. Genealogical background of Pelung chicken referred to Thailand RJF (G. g. gallus) and the possible contribution of Javanese fowl (G. g. bankiva) to the formation of domesticated chicken breeds. The genealogical background resulted in two different taxonomical terms, G. gallus and G. gallus domesticus as a subspecies of RJF. The unique and distinctive characteristics of Pelung chicken are crowing duration and plumage colour composition. Our findings provide essential information to assist the development of MAS and conservation initiative of the Pelung chicken germplasm. Our findings provide essential information for modern chicken breeders to assist the development of MAS and conservation initiative of the Pelung chicken germplasm.
Investigating a Newly Developed Educational Orthopedic Application for Medical Interns
Authors: Daliri Mahla. , Majd Hassan M. , Moradi Ali.
Published: May 2021

BackgroundIn COVID 19 era, the literature on e-learning, or particularly m-learning, has considerably increased focusing on the subject of medical knowledge transfer. Considering the importance of orthopedic knowledge for general practitioners and the inadequacy of the orthopedics internship duration in Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS), we have developed and investigated a smartphone orthopedic educational application named “Orthobox”.MethodsIn a quasi-clinical before-after trial study, we investigated the benefits of Orthobox application for medical interns attending MUMS orthopedic departments. A total of 120 students (64 and 56 students in control and case groups respectively) were recruited. The application consists of five main parts of medication, common order samples, common prescriptions, cast and splint types, and educational movies. Students who passed the course without getting access to the application (control group) and students who were also using application during the course (case group) were defined, and comparison was done between them objectively through final exam score comparison and subjectively through Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) questionnaire score comparison. Besides, using case group students’ activity report provided by the application panel, correlational analysis was done on their amount of activity on each of the main parts of the application and the corresponding question exam and VAS score separately.ResultsThe case group of the study generally achieved higher final exam scores, mainly on Order question score (P value<0.001). Total VAS scores were also greater in case group (P value =0.001). It has also been identified that there is a notable positive trend between student’s amount of usage of the application and their final exam scores through correlational analysis. This correlation was not significant about students’ application visit numbers and VAS scores. ConclusionThese results suggest that m-learning has got the potential to improve students’ medical knowledge and skills by organizing must-to-learn content specified for intern students of orthopedics on one hand, and cause more satisfaction in students about their education on the other hand.Trial registration: This study was not registered because it is a quasi-clinical trial study. Level of evidence: Level III (Evidence obtained from well-designed controlled trials without randomization (i.e. quasi-experimental)
Deep Learning for Computer-aided Diagnosis of Pneumoconiosis
Authors: Wang Zheng , Qian Qingjun , Zhang Jianfang , Duo Caihong , He Wen , Zhao Liqin
Published: May 2021

Background: The diagnosis of pneumoconiosis relies primarily on chest radiographs and exhibits significant variability between physicians. Computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) can improve the accuracy and consistency of these diagnoses. However, CAD based on machine learning requires extensive human intervention and time-consuming training. As such, deep learning has become a popular tool for the development of CAD models. In this study, the clinical applicability of CAD based on deep learning was verified for pneumoconiosis patients.Methods: Chest radiographs were collected from 5424 occupational health examiners who met the inclusion criteria. The data were divided into training, validation, and test sets. The CAD algorithm was then trained and applied to processing of the validation set, while the test set was used to evaluate diagnostic efficacy. Three junior and three senior physicians provided independent diagnoses using images from the test set and a comprehensive diagnosis for comparison with the CAD results. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of the proposed CAD system. A McNemar test was used to evaluate diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for pneumoconiosis, both before and after the use of CAD. A kappa consistency test was used to evaluate the diagnostic consistency for both the algorithm and the clinicians.Results: ROC results suggested the proposed CAD model achieved high accuracy in the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis, with a kappa value of 0.90. The sensitivity, specificity, and kappa values for the junior doctors increased from 0.86 to 0.98, 0.68 to 0.86, and 0.54 to 0.84, respectively (p<0.05), when CAD was applied. However, metrics for the senior doctors were not significantly different.Conclusion: DL-based CAD can improve the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and consistency of pneumoconiosis diagnoses, particularly for junior physicians.
Some Advances on Antagonist Effects of Grain Boundaries between the Trapping Process and the Fast Diffusion Path Investigated on Nickel Bicrystals
Authors: FEAUGAS xavier , Li jiaqi , Hallil Malek , Metsue Arnaud , Oudriss Abdelali , Bouhattate Jamaa
Published: May 2021

Hydrogen-grain-boundaries interactions and their role in intergranular fracture are well accepted as one of the key features in understanding hydrogen embrittlement in a large variety of common engineer situations. These interactions implicate some fundamental processes classified as segregation, trapping and diffusion of the solute which can be studied as a function of grain boundary configuration. In the present study, we carried out an extensive analysis of four grain-boundaries based on the complementary of atomistic calculations and experimental data. We demonstrate that elastic deformation has an important contribution on the segregation energy which cannot be simply reduced to a volume change and need to consider the deviatoric part of strain. Additionally, some significant configurations of the segregation energy depend on the long-range elastic distortion and allows to rationalize the elastic contribution in three terms. By investigating the different energy barriers involved to reach all the segregation sites, the antagonist impact of grain boundaries on hydrogen diffusion and trapping process was elucidated. The segregation energy and migration energy are two fundamental parameters in order to classify the grain-boundaries as a trapping location or short circuit for diffusion.
A Novel Cell-Based Multiplex Immunoassay Platform
Authors: Kelsoe Garnett , Song Shengli , Manook Miriam , Kwun Jean , Jackson Annette , Knechtle Stuart
Published: May 2021

We describe generation of stable, fluorescence-barcoded cell lines suitable for multiplex screening of antibody to membrane proteins. The utility of this cell-based system, capable of a 256-plex cell panel, is demonstrated by flow cytometry deconvolution of barcoded cell panels expressing influenza A hemagglutinin trimers, or native human CCR2 or CCR5 multi-spanning proteins and their epitope-defining mutants. This platform may prove useful for characterizing immunity and discovering antibodies to membrane-associated proteins.