bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Lung Disease Detection and Classification Using Ge-U-Net-ODLwith Gabor Filters and Entropy-Based Feature Selection
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of CSE, Osmania University, Hyderabad,500007, India, Saturi Swapna , Banda Sandhya ,   CSED, Maturi Venkata Subba Rao (MVSR) Engineering College, Hyderabad, 501510, India
Published: September 2024

Lung X-ray images play a crucial role in the detection and diagnosis of various lung diseases,including pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung cancer. These images provide a non-invasive method for visualizing lung structures, allowing radiologists and machine learning models to identify abnormalities such as nodules, masses, or fluid accumulation. With the advancement of deep learning techniques, lung X-ray images are now used in automated systems that can detect and classify diseases with high accuracy. By applying sophisticated algorithms like GE-U-Net-ODL, Gabor filters, and entropy-based feature extraction, these images are analyzed pixel by pixel to enhance feature representation and improve diagnostic precision. This paper presents a novel approach for lung disease detection and classification using the GE-U-Net-ODL model, which integrates advanced preprocessing techniques and deep learning architectures. The study leverages the NIH Chest X-ray dataset and employs a variety of feature extraction and selection methods, including Gabor filters, entropy-based techniques, and multi-scale inputs. A detailed comparative analysis of different model configurations demonstrates that the GE-U-Net-ODL model with Transfer Learning achieves the highest classification accuracy of 95.0%, alongside superior precision (93.5%), recall (94.0%), and F1-score (93.7%). Other configurations, such as those utilizing data augmentation and hybrid filters, also showed notable performance improvements. The research underscores the model's effectiveness in enhancing diagnostic accuracy for lung diseases while balancing training and inference times.
“(Not)Belongingness” and “(Not)Betweenness” as being “Other” in Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake
Authors: Morve Roshan K.  , Nazila Heidarzadegan  , Abdulrazzaq Dulfqar Mhaibes , Muhammad Imran
Published: September 2024

This paper focuses on diaspora-related issues in Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake (2003). Furthermore, the paper analyses the characters’ understating of identity and how it reflects through the characters’ ‘(not)belonging’ and a conflict of ‘(not)betweenness.’ This research seeks an answer to the questions: 1. What is the role of culture and memory in Indian American life? And 2. How do Indian Americans struggle for cultural, diasporic, and personal names as an identity? In The Namesake, the characters’ struggles are examined through the works of Bhabha (1994), Chambers and Herbert (2015), and Gowricharn (2022). A textual analysis of this novel is significant to understand diasporic relations with the ‘culture,’ ‘memory,’ ‘dual identity’ and the idea of ‘home’ from the context of twenty-first-century. To conclude, two generations’ stories from India to America bring a sense of ‘(non)belongings’ and ‘(non)betweenness’ as being “other.”
Protein and sugar contents, total antioxidant capacity, analgesic and antiulcer activities of quince fruit extract
Authors: Djidel Saliha , Bouaziz Amel , Bentahar Assia , Barghout Nihed , Dahamna Saliha , khennouf Seddik
Published: September 2024

Cydonia oblonga belongs to the Rosaceae family, known in Algeria as sfarjel. It is a good source of secondary
metabolites with antidiabetic, antihemolytic, and antiallergic effects. The present study was undertaken to
estimate total proteins and sugar contents and in vitro antioxidant, analgesic, and gastroprotective activities
of quince fruit ethanolic extract (QFEE). Proteins and sugar contents of QFEE were determined to be 0.06 ±
0.002 mg BSA E/ g of dry extract and 111.95±0.02 mg GE/g of dry extract, respectively. Using total
antioxidant capacity (TAC), QFEE demonstrated a critical antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of
0.39±0.008 mg/ml. Oral administration of QFEE at 200 and 600 mg/kg doses to rats gave a dose-dependent
gastroprotective effect in an ethanol model-induced ulcer, with protection percentages of 77.75 and 91.81 %,
respectively. The same doses of extract had analgesic activities against acetic acidinduced abdominal contraction. According to these findings, quince extract is an essential source of
antioxidant compounds that may have analgesic properties and shield the stomach from developing ulcers.
Keywords: Cydonia oblonga Mill, Sugar content, protein content, Antioxidant activity, Analgesic, Ulcer.
Initial analysis of profiles from Pseudovibrio denitrificans and Vibrio parahaemolyticus antagonism by LC-MS-based metabolomics
Authors: Palma Ricardo , Chalén Bolivar , G.S. Mogollón Noroska , Rodríguez Jenny , Quiroz-Moreno Cristian
Published: September 2024

Research on bioprospecting bioactive secondary metabolites from marine bacteria has rapidly expanded in the
past few decades. The complexity of the environment in which bacterial communities live involves complex
interactions with other communities competing for resources for survival. Previously, the ability of Pseudovibrio denitrificans has been demonstrated to inhibit the growth and virulence of different pathogens such as
Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The antagonism of these bacteria has been studied, considering the latter's importance in producing farmed shrimp. The molecules produced by P. denitrificans may be fundamental for its
antibacterial effect. In the present work, we examine LC/MS profiles of the interaction under two different
circumstances: direct and delayed antagonism. The results show marked differences in the chemical composition between both interactions and the tentative identification of antibacterial and antibiofilm compounds.
The observed profile could be part of P. denitrificans chemical arsenal to halt V. parahaemolyticus growing.
The presented data is relevant to designing future studies on bacterial antagonism with relevant implications
for the aquaculture industry.
Keywords: vibriosis, probiotics, chemometrics, white shrimp.
Potencial efecto pleiotrópico de la Atorvastatina: inhibidor del crecimiento bacteriano, estudio in vitro
Authors: Yareta Yareta José , Aycachi-Centeno Lucely , Hurtado-Pérez Vasti , Laureano-Condori Stefani , Salazar-Granara Alberto , Carbajal Pool Marcos
Published: September 2024

El objetivo del estudio es determinar el efecto inhibitorio de Atorvastatina cálcica sobre el crecimiento bacteriano in vitro, el cual serviría para evidenciar un efecto pleiotrópico de este compuesto. Se realizó mediante
la técnica de difusión en papel, en las que se enfrentaron a 3 cepas ATCC: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli y Staphylococcus aureus, con 6 repeticiones para cada una. El sistema de ensayo estuvo formado
por concentraciones de Atorvastatina cálcica de 250 μg y 500 μg; también se utilizó control positivo: Aztreonam 30 μg, Trimetoprima/sulfametoxazol 25 μg y Cefoxitina 30 μg y control negativo etanol. Los datos
fueron procesados en Stata v17. Los resultados mostraron halos de inhibición de 6 mm en las concentraciones
de 250 μg y de 500 μg de Atorvastatina para todas las muestras experimentales. In vitro Atorvastatina a concentraciones de 250 μg y 500 μg, no presentó efecto inhibidor frente a las cepas bacterianas estudiadas.
Palabras clave: Antibacterianos, Atorvastatina, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, pleiotrópico
The Effect of Environmental Pollution on Blood Components of Individuals in Different
Environmental Areas (Rural and Urban)
Authors: AL-Shuraifi Raneen Mohammed , Yonis Dallalbashi Zahra Izideen
Published: September 2024

Many chemicals and their harmful effects and diseases have been linked as causative agents of diseases. The
research included knowledge of the effect of continuous exposure to environmental pollutants on the blood
components of individuals living in Mosul (an urban area) and Al-Sheikhan district (a rural area). Eighty blood
samples were collected from males only, non-smokers, alcohol abusers and those free of chronic diseases.
Their ages ranged Between (21-55) years old; the samples were divided into two groups. The first group
included (40) blood samples from Mosul, while the second group included (40) samples from individuals from
the Al-Sheikhan district in the same age groups. The results showed a significant increase in Red Blood cell
count (RBCS), Hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and Packed Blood Cell Volume (PCV) in the group of males
living in the city of Mosul compared with the group of males living in the Al-Sheikhan district. In contrast,
the results showed a significant increase in White Blood cell count (WBCS), Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
(ESR) and Platelet Count (PLT) in a group of males living in Al-Sheikhan district compared with a group of
males living in Mosul city.
Keywords: Environmental Areas, Environmental Pollution, Blood Components, Rural, Urban.
Incremento proteico del raquis de la Palma Africana (Elaeis guineensis) utilizando Aspergillus niger
Authors: Cristina Dumas Lisbeth , Fernández Danae
Published: September 2024

El raquis de la palma africana (Elaeis guineensis) es considerado uno de los subproductos obtenidos en las
plantas extractoras de aceite, el mismo provoca contaminación ambiental, sin embargo, con los avances biotecnológicos se puede aprovechar este residuo, al utilizarlo como sustrato para el crecimiento de microorganismos y a su vez aumentar la concentración de proteínas en el mismo. Fueron formulados cuatro medios a
partir del raquis previamente secado y triturado e inoculado Aspergillus niger a una concentración de 5000 y
50000 conidios/g de medio por un tiempo de 8 y 12 días. Mediante un diseño factorial 22
, se determinó que la
concentración del inóculo y el tiempo de fermentación influyeron significativamente sobre el enriquecimiento
proteico del raquis, resultando que en el cultivo donde se inoculó una concentración de 50000 conidios/g con
una duración de 8 días se alcanzaron valores de 15,5 mg/ml de proteínas.
Palabras claves: hongo filamentoso, fermentación microbiana, fermentación en estado sólido
Antagonistic activity of biocontrol agent Trichoderma spp. against Fusarium sp., the causal agent of Ananas comosus fruitlet rot
Authors: Martín Madrassi Lucas , Elizabet Alvarenga Adriana , Celina Vedoya María
Published: September 2024

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a significant crop, with an annual production exceeding 25 million tons. However, fusariosis can severely impact its cultivation, a fungal disease that causes fruitlet rot and results in substantial yield losses. To decrease dependency on chemical control methods, biocontrol agents (BCAs) present
a promising alternative. Among these, Trichoderma species are noteworthy due to their diverse antagonistic
mechanisms. The efficacy of each mechanism can be assessed through fungal confrontation assays. This study
aimed to isolate, identify, and evaluate in-vitro nine Trichoderma spp. strains as potential BCAs against
Fusarium sp. associated with pineapple fruitlet rot. The antagonistic fungi were isolated from rhizosphere
soils in both open-field and greenhouse pineapple farms in Misiones province, Argentina. Identification of the
fungi required both morphologic and genetic data. In the in-vitro assays, the capabilities for direct competition
for substratum, production of metabolites, and mycoparasitism were evaluated. The results indicated that isolates T. harzianum TC7, T. harzianum TC9, T. asperellum TU3, and T. asperellum TU4 had statistically superior inhibitory effects against Fusarium sp. These isolates can be potentially used in formulating natural
fungicides to reduce pineapple fruitlet rot caused by Fusarium, promoting sustainable production practices.
Keywords: pineapple, confrontation, mycoparasitism, metabolites, ITS region
Evaluation of DNA damage through cytogenetic approach in smokers and vapers with and without nicotine compared with control group
Authors: Paz-y-Miño César , Ocampo Ligia , Sánchez María Eugenia , Leone Paola E.
Published: September 2024

The use of tobacco and electronic cigarettes is harmful to health and can cause genetic damage, increasing the
risk of cancer and other serious diseases. Although e-cigarettes contain fewer toxic chemicals than
conventional tobacco, recent studies have shown that the vapor caused by burning produced by e-cigarettes
can also be toxic and carcinogenic. Various studies have found that those exposed to tobacco and vaping have
significantly higher levels of damage to their DNA in different types of cells and tissues. Evidence has
accumulated that e-cigarette vaping can alter cellular functions and DNA itself, increasing the risk of cancer
and aging. The present work evaluatesthe cytogenetic damage in individuals exposed to conventional cigarette
vapors by burning with nicotine and vapors without nicotine, compared with a non-smoking population. The
study included participants with an average age of 30 years (+/-10), with a majority of men representing 70%
of the sample. The Chi-square test found no significant statistical differences between the men and women
exposed (p<0.05). The results of chromosomal fragility found in the four groups studied (control group,
conventional smokers, vapers with nicotine and vapers without nicotine) showed breaks and gaps in one or
both of the chromatids in all exposed individuals, with highly significant statistical differences (p<0.001)
compared to the unexposed control group. No statistically significant differences were found between the
group of conventional smokers and the vapers with and without nicotine, nor between the two types of vapers
(p>0.05). In conclusion, cytogenetic evidence of DNA damage produced by vaping is shown in the same
proportions as a normal cigarette. This will significantly impact public health, which must be considered in
preventive actions.
Keywords: cigarettes, vaping, chromosome breakage, DNA damage
Association of HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQB1 Alleles, and TNF-α Promoter Polymorphisms with Multiple Sclerosis in the Cuban Population
Authors: Cintado A , Fernández-de-Cossío ME , Nazabal M , Díaz T , Ale M , Grass D , Cervantes-Llanos M , Pavon-Fuentes N , Cabrera-Gomez JA , Diaz de la Fe A , Pentón-Rol G
Published: September 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, demyelinating, autoimmune disease of the central nervous system.
It is known that the Major Histocompatibility Complex class II region produces the most potent effect on MS
genetic susceptibility. In addition, the genetic polymorphism within the TNF locus has been involved
in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases. This study has the purpose of evaluating HLA-DRB1,
HLA-DQB1 alleles and TNF promotor alpha gene polymorphism (SNP TNF- α -238 G/A; - 243G/A; -308
G/A; -375 G/A, -856 C/T; -862 C/A) in a sample of Cuban MS patients. Disease-associated HLA susceptibility
alleles were genotyped by the SSP-PCR method. The TNF- α genotypes were identified by sequencing. The
association was found between HLA and MS, DRB1*15:01, DRB1* 14:01, DQA*01:02 and DQB1*06:02
being susceptibility alleles. TNF-α-308 G (OR=1,6, P<0,01) and TNF- α -238 G (OR=2,0, P<0,01) alleles
had higher frequency among MS patients than control subjects. The odds ratio was increased among HLADRB1*1501 positive individuals. Our results have shown that the combination of TNF-α-238 G, -308 G with
HLA-DRB1*15:01 and HLA-DQA1*01:02 increased susceptibility to MS (p<0.05 OR=4.2) in the Cuban
population.
Keywords: HLA, TNF-Alpha, polymorphism, SNP, Multiple Sclerosis, Cuban population
Edible mushroom production in Ecuador: opportunities for biotechnological use of agricultural byproducts
Authors: Scalvenzi Laura , Chiriboga Ruilova Mayra Vanessa , Guardado Yordi Estela , Radice Matteo , Abreu Naranjo Renier , Pérez Maertínez Amaury
Published: September 2024

Recent studies estimate that there are between 1.5 and 5.1 million fungi species on Earth, and 150.000 of them
have been taxonomically classified. Approximately 2.000 are suitable for food and medicinal applications,
but only 35 are cultivated commercially. In Ecuador, 100.000 species are available, although only 5.000 have
been taxonomically characterized. Mycoculture is the production of fungi under controlled conditions. Edible
mushrooms are saprophytes, and they grow on decomposing organic substrates, mainly on lignocellulosic
agricultural by-products such as sawdust, straw, bran and bagasse. Mushroom cultivation turns waste into
resource, reducing pollution. Ecuador is an agriculture-based economy, and many lignocellulosic wastes are
produced from permanent crops such as cocoa, African palm, sugar cane and coconut. Ecuador's inhabitants
are looking for healthy and environmentally friendly products, leading to an increase in demand for locally
produced mushrooms, which show high nutritional values and medicinal properties. At the global level,
current studies show that edible mushroom production moves around 42 billion dollars annually, projected to
62 billion by 2023. China is the leading producer, with more than 7 million tons per year reported in 2016,
followed by the United States, Italy, France and Spain. The increasing rate of edible mushroom global
production stands at about 11%.
Keywords: fungi; waste; transformation; biotechnology; mycoprotei
Microbiological Risk Assessment of High-Demand Food from Three Major Cities in Ecuador
Authors: Salazar Llorente Enrique , Cobos Mora Fernando , Caicedo Hinojoza Luis , Vera Suarez Maribel
Published: September 2024

The current study was carried out to estimate the risk of disease probability from the consumption of foods
such as meats, poultry, unpasteurized cheeses, fruit-based drinks, ready-to-eat fruits, and typical
preparations such as Encebollado, ceviche, and Bolón de Verde contaminated with Salmonella, Escherichia
coli and Listeria monocytogenes in Ecuador using a quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA).
A first-order Monte Carlo simulation probabilistic distribution approach was adopted to assess the
occurrence of pathogens in the tested foods. 27
The scenario was simulated using the concentration levels concerning the contaminant and food
consumption obtained through an online survey with a sample size of 202 people.
A model (100,000 iterations) was run and created in an Excel spreadsheet using @Risk software. The
results obtained are the risk of infection (possibilities of becoming infected by eating the food evaluated)
and the contaminant dose per portion consumed.
Additionally, an exponential model with a single dose was used for risk characterization to determine the
probability of becoming ill from contaminated food.
The QMRA model performed a prediction for the mean risk of Salmonella infection from ground beef
consumption of 1.33 E - 04 log 10 cfu / serving, while the exponential model estimated a value of 1.0 log
cfu - serving. In the case of Listeria monocytogenes, the QMRA estimated an average probability of
infection in unpasteurized fresh cheese of 5.9E-05 compared to the average disease risk estimated in the
risk characterization for L. monocytogenes of 9.50E-13.
The QMRA estimated an average risk of infection by E. coli for Encebollado and ceviches of 5.6E
-03 compared to the average risk of disease estimated in the risk characterization for Escherichia coli of
0.387 log cfu -ration. These results suggest the need to adopt effective mitigation strategies. Control
parameters such as temperature during the supply chain and good hygiene practices during manufacturing
can effectively control food-associated pathogens. More data is necessary toimprove the evaluation of the
risk developed.
Keywords: Microbiological risk análisis, Infectious biological agents (Salmonella, Listeria
monocytogenes, Escherichia coli), QMRA (Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment), Typical foods in
Ecuador, Population food consumption in three main cities of Ecuador.
Bluetongue virus in Culicoides spp. in Manabí province, Ecuador
Authors: Centeno Mariella , Chliliquinga Denisse , Velázquez José , De La Torre Euclides , Jarrín David , Maldonado Alex , Alava Jimmy , Barrera Maritza
Published: September 2024

Bluetongue is a viral disease that affects sheep, cattle and other domestic or wild ruminants. Different species
of Culicoides transmit the virus (BTV). High BTV seroprevalence was found in farms of Manabí and other
two provinces of Ecuador, but the presence of the virus in the Culicoides spp. vector has not been reported. In
the current study, the main goal was to demonstrate the presence of BTV in Culicoides in Ecuador for the first
time and characterize the species of Culicoides collected in farms located in the central-east area of Manabí
province. Six farms were selected to be monitored by BTV c-ELISA. All the 100 tested animals were
positive. Using a CDC trap with ultraviolet light placed in three BTV-positive farms for three nights, 2240
specimens of Culicoides were collected. Six different Culicoides species have been identi-fied, which were
presented in different abundance percent: 62% C.insignis; 7% C. batesi; 1.8% C.foxi; 1.8% C.diabolicus;
15.48% C.crepuscularis; 12% C.antunesis. These last two species have been identified for the first time in
Ecuador. Q-PCR detected BTV RNA in the homogenates of female midges collected in each farm, so it was
demonstrated that the epidemiological cycle of the virus is completed; since female midges infected with
BTV were found, it is too a novel result for Ecuador.
Keywords: Bluetongue, BTV, Culicoides, cattle, real-time PCR, competitive ELISA, Ecuador, Manabi
Ciúme Patológico como Apresentação Clínica do Transtorno Obsessivo-Compulsivo.
Authors: Sampaio Lopes Marcelo , Lara Eduardo Viera de , Acataussú Betsy Lee Morelli , Costa Marcos Pereira , Matuda Eriani Ferreira Navarro , Rocha Júlia Sousa Pantoja da , Machado Miquéias da Silva Freire , Alves Thaynara Castelo de Lima , Wolff Paola Andressa Barbosa , Vargas Natalia Brejo , Silva Vitória Cunha , Rabelo Yasmim da Rocha
Published: September 2024

O ciúme patológico, uma manifestação clínica do transtorno obsessivo-compulsivo (TOC), é caracterizado por obsessões relacionadas à infidelidade do parceiro e comportamentos compulsivos que buscam aliviar a ansiedade associada a esses pensamentos intrusivos. Este artigo revisa de forma narrativa essa condição, abordando sua apresentação clínica, neurobiologia e intervenções terapêuticas. A pesquisa foi realizada nas bases de dados PubMed e SciELO, e selecionaram-se quatro estudos relevantes, publicados entre 1999 e 2013, que analisam aspectos diagnósticos, neurobiológicos e terapêuticos do ciúme patológico no contexto do TOC.
Os resultados indicam que os sintomas típicos incluem comportamentos repetitivos, como vigilância obsessiva e questionamentos constantes sobre a fidelidade do parceiro. Disfunções nos sistemas serotoninérgico e noradrenérgico, além de alterações em regiões cerebrais como os gânglios da base, estão associadas à fisiopatologia dessa condição. O tratamento de escolha envolve o uso de inibidores seletivos da recaptação de serotonina (ISRS), como fluoxetina, com doses ajustadas à gravidade dos sintomas. Antipsicóticos atípicos, como risperidona, podem ser usados em casos mais graves.
Conclui-se que o reconhecimento precoce do ciúme patológico é crucial para um tratamento eficaz, reduzindo o impacto negativo nas relações interpessoais. Estudos futuros devem explorar novas abordagens terapêuticas e aprofundar o entendimento sobre os mecanismos neurobiológicos subjacentes.
Leading Cultural Transformation: Your Key to Sustainable Competitive Advantage
Authors: Westover Jonathan
Published: September 2024

This article discusses how organizational leaders can strategically transform their company culture to gain a sustainable competitive advantage. The article argues that culture is a key determinant of change success and financial performance, but is also difficult to recognize and influence. The article outlines several foundational principles for cultural transformation, including developing a clear vision and values, building urgency through strategy, fostering open communication, modeling desired behaviors, and aligning structures and systems. It then provides a multi-phase framework for evolving culture specifically towards high performance and innovation. The framework involves assessing culture, aligning around priorities, piloting changes, and institutionalizing shifts through HR, recruiting, and operations. The article also stresses the importance of leading the emotional transition with empathy to drive individual-level buy-in for transformation efforts.
País y Nación: El Pabellón Criollo
Authors: Cartay Rafael
Published: September 2024

Este artículo trata sobre el origen y la evolución del pabellón criollo, un plato considerado emblemático de la cocina festiva tradicional venezolana, que se popularizó a partir de la primera década del siglo XX. La investigación se desarrolló sobre la base de un largo examen de la prensa de Caracas durante el período comprendido entre la segunda mitad del siglo XIX e inicios del siglo XX. Se abordó el objeto de investigación empleando la premisa de que la cocina regional es la verdadera base para la estructuración de la llamada “cocina nacional”. Se discute asimismo sobre las razones por las cuales se convirtió el pabellón criollo en uno de los platos icónicos de la cocina venezolana, y un alimento cargado de diversos contenidos simbólicos.
Implementasi Firewall untuk Mencegah Ancaman Keamanan pada Akses Remote Dekstop Protocol di Sistem Operasi Windows
Authors: Syafitri Nur , Lamada Mustari S. , Suhardi Iwan
Published: September 2024

Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD) adalah protocol yang digunakan untuk mengakses komputer dari jarak jauh melalui peramban web Google Chrome. Meskipun memiliki fleksibilitas yang tinggi, CRD juga membawa resiko keamanan yang signifikan. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan mengimplementasikan Firewall pada Windows untuk memonitor jaringan dan mengetahui ancaman keamanan data. Pengujian dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Windows Defender Firewall dan tanpa menggunakan metode tersebut di sistem operasi windows. Fokus utama pengujian adalah sistem keamanan jaringan dan pemblokiran koneksi tidak sah pada CRD. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan metode Windows Defender Firewall pada CRD dapat meningkatkan keamanan sistem dan memonitor lalu lintas data yang masuk dan keluar dari perangkat. Sedangkan pengujian tanpa metode Windows Defender Firewall dapat menimbulkan ancaman keamanan seperti akses yang tidak sah. Pengimplementasian Firewall dapat membantu mengurangi serangan dan membatasi akses hanya dari Alamat IP yang terpercaya serta membatasi port yang terbuka ke port yang digunakan CRD.
Estudio retrospectivo del uso de bevacizumab intravítreo en un hospital público de la Argentina
Authors: Martínez Peterlin Alejo , Pin Hidalgo Gustavo , Sansinanea Magalí , Méndez Gonzalo Ariel , Berlatto Beatriz , Paglieri Patricia , Settecase Florencia , Anzorena Diana , Poffer Luisa , Crocco Felipe , Valeiras Andrea
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: Describir los resultados obtenidos con la utilización de inyecciones intravítreas de bevacizumab para patologías vitreorretinales.
Materiales y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo unicéntrico donde se examinó la evolución de pacientes que recibieron al menos una inyección intravítrea de bevacizumab entre febrero de 2021 y marzo de 2024. Se recopiló información sobre edad, sexo, diagnóstico, agudeza visual mejor corregida inicial y final, cambio en al menos 1 décima, cumplimiento del esquema de tratamiento, motivo de suspensión del tratamiento, espesor macular inicial y final, y eventos adversos serios.
Resultados: El estudio incluyó 84 ojos de 77 pacientes con edad media de 56,3 años (rango: 23-89). Se administraron 218 inyecciones con un promedio de 2,56 inyecciones por ojo y 2,8 por paciente. Las principales patologías tratadas fueron edema macular diabético (34,52%) y edema macular secundario a oclusiones vasculares (33,3%). El esquema primario de 3 dosis se cumplió en el 72,62% de los casos. Se observó una mejora en la agudeza visual en el 72,1% de los pacientes con una reducción del espesor macular promedio de 110,74 µm. Los efectos adversos serios fueron poco frecuentes, con un caso de hipertensión arterial (0,4%) y un caso de desprendimiento de retina regmatógeno (0,4%).
Conclusión: El tratamiento con inyecciones intravítreas de bevacizumab resultó seguro y efectivo para mejorar la agudeza visual en patologías vitreorretinales y constituyó además una estrategia beneficiosa en cuanto a su costo en el contexto de la salud pública.
Trabeculectomía asistida con polipropileno
Authors: García Marote Fernando A. , Lucena María del Pilar , Di Marco Liliana
Published: September 2024

Objetivos: Evaluar la seguridad y eficacia de una técnica de trabeculectomía modificada con la asistencia de polipropileno.
Materiales y métodos: Estudio clínico multicéntrico prospectivo de una serie de casos de pacientes con glaucoma crónico de ángulo abierto en quienes se utilizó una técnica de trabeculectomía que utiliza una sutura de polipropileno en forma de letra omega para generar un efecto “espaciador” en la ampolla. La eficacia se evaluó analizando el descenso de la presión intraocular y de las drogas hipotensoras utilizadas, antes y a los tres meses de la cirugía. Se consideró éxito cuando la PIO se redujo en más de un 20% del preoperatorio con disminución de uno o más fármacos antihipertensivos.
Resultados: Se incluyeron 56 ojos, en los cuales la PIO media fue de 30,2 ± 10,1 mmHg (18-54) en el preoperatorio y de 13,4 ± 3, mmHg (7-22) en el postoperatorio, alcanzando una disminución media de 16,8 ± 9,4 mmHg (7-44) tres meses después de la cirugía (p<0,001). El valor medio del porcentaje de descenso de la PIO fue de 55,6 ± 13,1% (29,1-86,3). En todos los casos fue alcanzado el criterio de éxito. Respecto de la seguridad se encontró la extrusión de la sutura de polipropileno en 1 caso (un mes tras la cirugía) y en 2 ojos se determinó la presencia de Seidel (resuelto mediante sutura de nylon 9.0, 10 días después de la cirugía).
Conclusiones: La técnica de trabeculectomía modificada, asistida con sutura de polipropileno disminuye eficazmente la PIO en ojos con glaucoma de ángulo abierto.
Digital Influencer Marketing: How Message Credibility and Media Credibility Affect Trust and Urge to Buy among Customers in Kathmandu Valley?
Authors: Rai Sonika ,   Research Scholar, South Asian Institute of Management (SAIM) College, Kathmandu, Timalsina Prajit Kumar ,   Visiting Faculty of Shanker Dev Campus, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediating role of trust in influencer posts (TR) in relation to the urge to buy (UTB) and its antecedents: perceived transparency (PT), perceived interactivity (PI), and informational value (IV) among customers in Kathmandu Valley. Design/Methodology/Approach: This paper employed a cross-sectional survey research design to gather data from 234 social media users in the Kathmandu Valley. Further, a purposive sampling method was applied to select the respondents. Furthermore, the proposed model was tested by applying Hayes Process Macro Model 4. Findings: The result reveals a significant positive influence of TR and IV on UTB. Moreover, TR partially mediates the relationship between PT and UTB, PI and UTB, and IV and UTB among customers in Kathmandu Valley. Practical Implication: By understanding the role of media and message credibility in developing trust in digital influencers’ posts, this paper could help pave the way for crafting strategies and developing marketing policies for digital marketing-based entrepreneurs. Furthermore, marketers can use this information to enhance SM users’ buying behavior through various influencer marketing campaigns. Originality: This paper is among the earliest works to underscore digital influencer marketing by understanding the mediating role of TR using social learning theory (SLT) and signaling theory as its theoretical foundations among Nepali social media (SM) users. Keywords: digital influencer, influencer marketing, online celebrity, social media influencer, urge to buy
Flexible Working Arrangements and Employee Turnover Intention: Mediating Role of Employee Engagement
Authors: Shilpakar Nisha , Giri Bishnu , Pokhrel Shree Krishna
Published: September 2024

Background: Flexible working environment is an essential element of work-life balance. Employees consider it as a driving factor for better performance. Organizations are adopting flexible workplace environments to attract, involve, and retain talent. Purpose: This study examines the mediating role of employee engagement (EE) on the relationship between flexible work arrangements (FWAs) and turnover intention (TI) among employees of service-oriented organizations. Design/Methodology/Approach: A cross-sectional survey research design was carried out to collect data from 242 respondents using a convenience sampling technique. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression with a mediated hypothesis was performed to test the proposed relationship. Findings: The result reveals that significant relationship between FWAs, EE, and TI. FWAs (job and family) have a significant positive relationship with EE. FWAs and EE have negative relationship with TI. Moreover, EE fully mediated the relationship between FWAs-Job and TI. However, EE has competitive (partial) mediation between FWAs Family and TI. Originality/Value: It addresses the necessity of FWAs for both employees and employers in Nepali organizations. It was among the earliest works to examine the mediation of EE between FWAs and TI in the Nepali context. Keywords: employee engagement, flexible work arrangements, social exchange theory, turnover intention, work-life balance
Attitude towards Green Brands and Green Purchase Intention: Moderating Role of Willingness to Pay Premium among Consumers in Kathmandu Valley
Authors:   South Asian Institute of Management (SAIM) College, Kathmandu, Bishowkarma Rajak , Lohala Rumi ,   South Asian Institute of Management (SAIM) College, Kathmandu
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the moderating role of willingness to pay premium (WPPP) to attitude towards green brands (ATGB) and green purchase intention (GPI). Research Methods: This study applied a quantitative research method, employing a cross-sectional survey with purposive sampling to gather data from 254 environmentally conscious consumers in Kathmandu Valley. Data analysis was performed by employing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Finding: The findings indicate that ATGB and WTPP significantly and positively impact GPI. However, the result found that WTPP does not significantly moderate the relation between ATGB and GPI. Practical implications: This study could help managers to better understand consumer intention towards green brands and to develop effective marketing strategies that target consumers. Originality: This paper is one of the first studies to explain moderating role of willingness of pay premium in relationship between attitude towards green brands and purchase intention by applying the ST and TPB in the Nepali context. Keywords: Attitude towards green brands, green purchase intention, structural equation modelling, willingness to pay premium
'Selling the Third Sector' - Critical Processes to Create Successful Marketing Initiatives for Charities and Other Nonprofit Organisations
Authors:   Research Fellow, INPD, Blackthorn House, Appley Bridge, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, Blair Garry , Turnbull Lynne ,   Researcher, INPD, Blackthorn House, Appley Bridge, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, Umair Humza ,   Lecturer, Marketing, International Business and Tourism, Business School, All Saints Campus, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom, Grime Ian ,   Research Leader, INPD, Blackthorn House, Appley Bridge, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, Pagano Rosane ,   Principal Lecturer, Operations, Technology, Events and Hospitality Management, Business School, All Saints Campus, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to explore the marketing strategies and practices employed by charity and community organisations to engage with stakeholders, attract and retain funding, and raise their organisational profile. The study aims to provide an holistic view of marketing activities, identify unique selling points, define products or services, and target populations, compile customer profiles, and develop marketing initiatives tailored to individual requirements. Methods: The research employed a mixed-methods approach, involving interviews with practitioners and a review of key articles from principal journals. Data was extracted using inductive methods, and recommendations were formulated using a systems approach to assist practitioners in creating successful marketing initiatives. Findings: The study identified key themes and practices in marketing strategies for charity and community organisations. These included the importance of identifying unique selling points, defining products or services and target populations, compiling customer profiles, and developing tailored marketing initiatives. The findings also highlighted the need for diversification of funding sources, evaluation of potential activities using organisational principles, and the use of key performance indicators to define standards of delivery. Originality: This research contributes to the existing literature by providing a comprehensive framework for marketing strategies in charity and community organisations. Unlike previous studies that have focused on specific aspects of marketing, this study offers a holistic view of marketing activities, including the identification of unique selling points, customer profiling, and tailored marketing initiatives. The use of a systems approach in formulating recommendations adds to the originality of the study. Keywords: charity marketing, community marketing, unique selling point, customer profiles, key performance indicators, funding diversification
Greenwashing and Green Purchase Behavior in Kathmandu Valley: A Moderation Analysis
Authors:   BBA Scholar, South Asian Institute of Management (SAIM) College, Kathmandu, Tamang Akash , Parajuli Resham Thapa ,   Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This paper examines how greenwashing understandinG (GWU) moderates the relationships between green purchase behaviour (GPB) and its drivers: receptivity to green advertising (RGC), environmental consciousness (EC), and personal norms (PNS) among consumers in Kathmandu Valley. Design/Methodology/Approach: We administered a set of structured questionnaires and interviewed purposively selected 224 respondents with a preexisting understanding of the green concept. We then estimated partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) coefficients to test the hypotheses. Findings: This paper highlights that RGC, EC, and PNS influence GPB. However, GWU does not moderate the relationship between GPB and its antecedents. Research Limitations/Implications: This study's findings offer valuable insights for firms, managers, and consumers. They provide significant information regarding consumer awareness, perceptions of green products, and the factors influencing green consumption behaviour. Marketing managers can leverage these insights to enhance their strategies for effectively promoting green and sustainable products. Originality/Value: To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this article represents the first empirical study to explore the concept of greenwashing understanding and its moderating impact on the relationship between GPB and its antecedents in Nepal, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley. While greenwashing has been extensively researched in various countries, no prior studies have examined this phenomenon within the Nepalese context, utilizing the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) model, and Attitude-BehaviorContext (ABC) theory as foundational frameworks. Keywords: green purchase, greenwashing, moderating role, receptivity, green advertising
Green Human Resource Management Practices in Nepalese Commercial Banks: A Qualitative Inquiry among Human Resource Managers
Authors:   Central Department of Management, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Chapagain Bal Ram , Dangol Sweety ,   LCCI Global Qualifications, Nepal
Published: September 2024

Purpose: Considering the growing concerns about green management practices, this study aims to uncover the various facets of green human resource management (GHRM) practices in Nepalese commercial banks. Research Methodology: This study employs an exploratory qualitative research design. Snowball sampling method was adopted to identify the study participants and the data were collected through semistructured interviews with eight human resource managers of Nepalese commercial banks. Braun and Clarke's six-step process of reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Findings: The study identified four key thematic areas of GHRM practices: sustainable recruitment practices, promoting environmental awareness through training, enhancing environmental accountability in performance management, and recognition and reward for environmental contributions. While the need for comprehensive GHRM practices were frequently highlighted, sustainable recruitment practices and green training and development practices were found to be more practiced than green performance management and green reward practices. Implications: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into comprehensive understanding of GHRM practices and indicates the rooms for improvement for the Nepalese banking sector managers. Also, the government and regulators can develop informational, fiscaleconomic, and legal instruments based on the study's findings to secure needed support from Nepalese commercial banks. Originality/Value: This study makes a significant contribution to the literature by exploring GHRM practices from the lens of institutional theory and by discussing how GHRM practices help in responding to institutional pressures, gain legitimacy among stakeholders, and reap strategic benefits. Keywords: green human resource management, GHRM practices, Institutional theory, Commercial banks, Nepal
Work-life Balance and Job Satisfaction: Evidence from Female Employees in Nepalese Commercial Banks
Authors:   Lecturer, Shanker Dev Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal, Subedi Dhruba Prasad , Bhandari Dilli Ram ,   Lecturer, Shanker Dev Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepal
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The primary purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between work-life balance and job satisfaction of female employees in Nepalese commercial banks. Design/Methodology/Approach: To test the relationship between work-life balance and employee satisfaction, the descriptive and casual comparative research designs were used. The data were collected from 233 female employees of Nepalese commercial banks through structured questionnaires. Findings: This study found that high work pressure impairs people's ability to balance their work and personal life. Having flexible work policies and leave provisions helps to maintain the balance between work and personal life. The insignificant relationship between job design and job satisfaction implies that the components of job design such as job autonomy, task identity, and quality feedback may not be the predictors of job satisfaction in general. Practical Implications: It emphasizes the critical need for employers to understand and foster work-life balance in Nepalese commercial banks. The findings indicate that creating a supportive work environment is essential for female employees to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. Originality/Value: To the authors' knowledge, it is the first conceptual model developed and tested specifically for female employees in this context. Keywords: Job design, job satisfaction, organizational efficiency, work-life balance, work pressure
Factors Affecting Intention to Adopt Digital Currency among Digital Payment Users in Kathmandu Valley
Authors:   1 Citizen Bank International Limited, Kathmandu, Dhami Dipesh , Thakur Ritesh Kumar ,   Head of Department of Research at Kathmandu College of Management, Kathmandu, Tamang Akash ,   BBA Scholar South Asian Institute of Management (SAIM) College, Kathmandu
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors affecting behavioral intention (INT) for adopting digital currency among digital payment users in Kathmandu Valley. Design/Methodology/Approach: This paper applied a cross-sectional survey design and collected 291 data from digital payment users in Kathmandu Valley analyzed by partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM). Findings: This paper highlights that attitude (ATT) and perceived behavioral control (PBC) for adopting digital currency are the major factors that influence INT for adopting digital currency. Likewise, peer influence (PI) and superior influence (SI) have a significant positive influence on subjective norms (SN). Further, perceived ease of use (PEOU), perceived usefulness (PU), and perceived trust (PT) have a significant positive influence on ATT for adopting digital currency. Furthermore, self-efficacy (SE) and facilitating conditions (FC) have a significant positive influence on PBC. Originality/Value: The policymakers can utilize this information to develop infrastructure and regulations that encourage the use of digital currencies. Keywords: attitude for adopting digital currency, decompose theory of planned behavior, intention for adopting digital currency, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms
Nudging the Mindset of Youth Out Migration from Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors:   BBA Scholar, Kathmandu College of Management, Kathmandu, Nepal, Munankami Mahima , Agarwal Riya ,   BBA Scholar, Kathmandu College of Management, Kathmandu, Nepal, Rajbhandari Samrat ,   BBA Scholar, Kathmandu College of Management, Kathmandu, Nepal, Darna Manisha ,   BBA Scholar, Kathmandu College of Management, Kathmandu, Nepal, Pote Sibika ,   BBA Scholar, Kathmandu College of Management, Kathmandu, Nepal
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study explores the phenomenon of youth outmigration in Kathmandu, Nepal, focusing on the factors influencing their decisions within a globalized context. It addresses the challenges faced by Kathmandu's youth and the driving forces behind their migration. Design/Methodology/Approach: Utilizing a multiple regression model, the research examines variables such as employment opportunities, financial intentions, education, personal ambition, and government policies, with youth migration as the dependent variable. A comprehensive analysis employing a deductive approach and mixedmethods strategy was conducted, collecting data from a sample size of 77 respondents using convenience sampling techniques. Findings: The analysis reveals significant correlations between outmigration and factors such as employment opportunities, financial reasons, and education. Hypothesis testing confirmed the significant impact of these factors while rejecting the influence of personal ambition and government policy. Originality/Value: These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and institutional leaders seeking to address youth migration in Kathmandu. They highlight the importance of informed decision-making in crafting effective interventions. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on migration dynamics in urban centers and underscores the need for tailored strategies to retain talent and promote sustainable development. Despite limitations like sample size and potential data inaccuracies, the study provides valuable insights for policymakers to formulate targeted talent retention strategies, promoting sustainable growth in Kathmandu. Keywords: brain drain, Kathmandu, employment opportunities, financial Intentions, education, personal ambition, government policy