bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of CD166 in Egyptian adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and its relation to clinical outcome
Authors: Fekry Gehad H , Atia Mona A M , Hassan Essam A , Mostafa Nevine N , EzzElarab Soha , Mohamed Eid Inas A M
Published: February 2024

Background

ALCAM (CD166) is a transmembrane; it has a role in the adhesion and binding of hematopoietic cells. It increases in different solid malignancies and hematological malignancies as multiple myeloma and acute leukemia. CD166 is considered one of the cancer stem cell markers responsible for most cancer recurrences following chemotherapy.

Aim

The study aimed to assess the expression of CD166 level in adult Egyptian acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients, its correlation with disease-free survival, overall survival and relapse rate, as well as correlation with disease prognosis and response to treatment.

Patients and methods

This was a prospective cohort study conducted on 40 newly diagnosed ALL patients who will be recruited from the Clinical Hematology Department at Ain Shams University Hospital before initiation of chemotherapy in comparison to 15 patients in the control group.

Results

In comparison between newly diagnosed ALL patient initiation of chemotherapy and control groups, CD166 is elevated in ALL and has high sensitivity and specificity as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for ALL (P=0.000) and ALL patients with a high CD166 score have a higher overall survival rate.

Conclusion

ALL patients with a high CD166 score have a higher overall.
The catch in complete blood count when vitamin B12 deficiency is hiding behind microcytic anemia
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Siddiqui Saima , Dildar Shabnam , Ahmed Rehana , Shamsi Tahir
Published: February 2024

Background

Insufficient stores of vitamin B12 in human body are thought to result in macrocytic anemia. However, anemia in most of the patients is multifactorial. This is commonly owing to mixed nutritional deficiencies or bowel disorders affecting absorption of more than one element. Resultantly, a single causative agent of anemia like vitamin B12 deficiency may take macrocytic, normocytic, or microcytic forms. Patients presenting with microcytic anemia may have underlying insufficiency of this vitamin in some instances. Assessment of complete blood count (CBC) parameters may be helpful to identify such cases.

Methods

This study was conducted on 155 patients of microcytic anemia. Assessment of complete blood count (CBC) parameters and vitamin B12 was done using state of the art analyzers. The overall data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.

Results

Subnormal vitamin B12 levels were found in 17.4% of the studied cases. CBC parameters showed distinct changes in this group. Mean hemoglobin and red blood cell values were lower compared to the subjects having normal B12 values, and mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration had an upward trend in cases of severe deficiency. Features of leucopenia and pancytopenia were more frequent also. Macrocytic red blood cells on peripheral smear were useful to detect the hidden deficiency even when the predominant picture consisted of microcytic cells.

Conclusions

Vitamin B12 deficiency maybe underlying in microcytic anemia patients. Important clues in CBC include very low hemoglobin but mildly decreased MCV values in the presence of leucopenia and macrocytic RBCs on peripheral smear.
Keratoconus characteristics and associations: A cross-sectional keratoconus study in western India (CKSWI)
Authors: Shah Zalak , Purohit Dipali , Danayak Parul
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To study the clinical and tomographic characteristics and associations of keratoconus (KC) patients visiting a tertiary eye care hospital.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, observational study that included 242 newly diagnosed clinical KC patients. Detailed ocular and systemic history, visual complaints, habit of eye rubbing, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), retinoscopy reflex, detailed slit-lamp examination and tomographic findings, and presence of any ocular and systemic associations were documented for the included patients. Severity of KC was further graded into stages 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 according to the ABCD grading system.

Results:

The most common visual complaint was blurred vision (82.64%), followed by itching (48.76%), tearing (43.80%), and photophobia (41.32%). A total of 44.62% of patients had the habit of eye rubbing and 4.54% had a family history of KC. Most common clinical signs were scissor reflex (94.21%), Rizutti’s sign (77.27%), corneal protrusion (69.83%), and Fleischer ring (67.35%). A total of 14.05% of patients had stage 0, 42.15% had stage 1, 19.83% had stage 2, 18.60% had stage 3, and 5.37% had stage 4 KC. Of these patients, 70.25% had a BSCVA visual acuity of ≥6/12 or better; 26.45% had a BSCVA of ≥6/60 to <6/12; and 3.30% had a BSCVA of <6/60. Ocular allergies, atopy, and asthma were found in 32.32%, 4.96%, and 2.48% cases, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study gives an overview of the clinical findings of KC cases in western India. Our results suggest that use of retinoscopy should be promoted in early KC detection in primary eyecare screening programs.
Slow swirl phaco
Authors: Mohan Hridya , Narendran Kalpana
Published: February 2024

This article reports a novel surgical technique in the management of soft posterior polar cataracts. This technique avoids hydro procedures, trenching, and chopping. Viscodissection is avoided or minimal, and polar opacity is removed last. These modifications minimize the risk of intraoperative complications.
Clinical profile and management of ocular superglue injuries: Case series and review of literature
Authors: Malepati Nikhila , Sharma Supriya , Kate Anahita , Basu Sayan , Shanbhag Swapna S
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To describe the clinical profile and management of patients with ocular superglue injury (OSI).

Methods:

This retrospective study included all patients with OSI who presented at a tertiary eye care institute between 2016 and 2020. Data regarding demographics, clinical profile, and management were collected.

Results:

A total of 66 eyes of 58 patients (24 children, 34 adults) with a median age of 22.5 years [interquartile range (IQR): 11.3–31] were included. All cases sustained accidental injuries, with domestic injury at home being the most common location of injury among children (79%) and adults (53%) (P = 0.39). The median visual acuity at presentation was worse in children [0.3 logMAR (IQR: 0.2–0.4)] as compared to adults [0.1 logMAR (IQR: 0.1–0.3)] (P = 0.03)]. The most common clinical sign at presentation was conjunctival congestion in 77% of eyes (51/66) followed by polymerized glue stuck to the eyelashes and eyelids in 52% of eyes (34/66). The median duration from the time of injury to presentation was 2 hours in both groups. All eyes resolved with medical management. Examination under anesthesia was required in three children (13%) to evaluate the extent of OSI. None of the patients had long-term ocular complications.

Conclusion:

Improper and careless handling of superglue in the domestic setting may cause accidental ocular injuries that require immediate medical attention. OSI represents less severe ocular injuries that respond to medical therapy alone and is not associated with long-term visual morbidity. Modifications in the packaging of superglue containers and awareness about their deleterious effects could prevent these injuries.
A Mixed Method Assessment of the Fertility Preferences of Clients Using Antiretroviral Therapy in Ilorin, Nigeria – A Descriptive Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Aderibigbe Adedayo Ayodele , Aderibigbe Sunday Adedeji , Akande Tanimola Makanjuola , Belabo Dooshima , Abiodun Joy , Alabi Seleem Babajide , Ahmed Abdullahi
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

The burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in Nigeria remains one of the highest in the world, with the country having the highest number of people living with the infection in the West African subregion. Recent estimates put the HIV prevalence rate in Nigeria at 1.9%. In the early years of the HIV epidemic, attention on the reproductive preferences of people living with HIV was not really considered because of the high risk of mortality and few options to reduce mother-to-child transmission.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in November 2018 using quantitative and qualitative methods. A total of 400 participants were recruited for the quantitative part of the study and 10 respondents for each of the focus group discussion (FGD) sessions. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and a FGD guide. Frequencies and percentages were determined using descriptive analysis. Univariate analysis was used to explore the association between the outcome variables and the independent variables. The independent variables which showed a significant association in the univariate analysis were further subjected to multivariate analysis.

Results:

The desire to have children since their HIV diagnosis had been mooted by 255 (63.8%) respondents in the past and 64.5% of the respondents admitted to wanting to have children at some point in the future. More than half of the respondents (61%) currently wanted more children while a significant proportion of the respondents who wanted children (68.4%) wanted more than one child.

Conclusion:

The study observed that the desire to have children had largely not been affected by the HIV infection as respondents still had a fairly strong desire to continue to have more children in spite of the risks of transmission involved. The study recommended that government and HIV policymakers need to ensure that HIV prevention messages and programmes adopt cultural and socio-economic considerations when designing and planning HIV prevention programmes.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination amongst Students in a Tertiary Institution in North Central Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study on Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Its Awareness, Uptake and Willingness to Pay
Authors: Akande Oluwatosin Wuraola , Akande Tanimola Makanjuola
Published: February 2024

Background:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is effective in averting 70%–90% of all HPV-related diseases. The assessment of its awareness, uptake and willingness to pay (WTP) is important in Nigeria which is one of the developing countries where more than three-quarter of the global burden of HPV-related diseases occur. This study aimed to determine the sociodemographic factors associated with the awareness, uptake and WTP for HPV vaccine amongst undergraduates in a tertiary institution in North Central Nigeria.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from randomly sampled respondents through a validated self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were applied to data collected to determine the awareness, uptake and WTP for HPV vaccine and their association with sociodemographic factors. The results of inferential statistics were considered significant when P < 0.05.

Results:

A total of 240 respondents were recruited, 15.4% of the respondents had heard about HPV vaccine, 2.1% of them had received at least a dose of the vaccine, 0.4% of them had completed three doses and 35.0% of them were willing to pay for it. Marital status (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 10.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.840–36.635) and parity (AOR: 5.8; 95% CI: 2.314–14.565) were predictors of WTP for the HPV vaccine.

Conclusion:

The evidence generated from this study suggests that there is a need to increase the awareness and uptake of the vaccine at the individual and population levels. The recent introduction of the HPV vaccine is a laudable step towards improving vaccine uptake. Public health authorities at the local, state and national levels should be empowered to develop tailored vaccine demand creation and advocacy strategies for HPV vaccine. Males should also be involved in the advocacy strategies and research on HPV vaccine.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccination Coverage and Seropositivity amongst Nigerians 18 Years Old and Above
Authors: Shuaib Faisal , Odusolu Yetunde , Okposen Bassey Bassey , Osibogun Opeyemi , Akanmu Sulaimon , Mohammed Abdullahi , Yahya Shuaib , Akande Tanimola , Aliyu Alhaji , Ifeadike Chigozie , Akande Aderonke , Aigbokhaode Adesuwa , Adebiyi Akin , Tobin-West Charles , Olatunya Oladele Simeon , Aguwa Emmanuel , Danjuma Garba , Dika Joseph , Nwosu Augustina , Olubodun Tope , Oladunjoye Adebimpe , Giwa Opeyemi , Osibogun Akin
Published: February 2024

Background:

This was a cross-sectional community-based survey to study the prevalence of serum antibodies against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1 (SARS-COV-1) and determine possible source of antibodies as to whether from vaccination or from natural infection as well as attempt to compare antibody levels in response to the different four types of vaccines administered in Nigeria.

Methods:

A cross-sectional community-based study of the prevalence of serum antibodies against all four vaccine types used in Nigeria amongst a representative sample of people aged 18 years and above in the six geopolitical zones of the country using a multistage sampling technique covering 12 states of the country with two states being randomly selected from each geopolitical zone. High-throughput Roche electrochemiluminescence immunoassay system (Elecsys Anti-SARS-COV-1 Cobas) was used for qualitative and quantitative detection of antibodies to SARS-COV-1 in human plasma.

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference between the proportions with seropositivity for both the vaccinated and the unvaccinated (P = 0.95). The nucleocapsid antibody (anti-Nc) titres were similar in both the vaccinated and the unvaccinated, whereas the Spike protein antibody (anti-S) titres were significantly higher amongst the vaccinated than amongst the unvaccinated. Antibody levels in subjects who received different vaccines were compared to provide information for policy.

Conclusion:

While only 45.9% of the subjects were reported to have been vaccinated, 98.7% of the subjects had had contact with the SARS-COV-1 as evidenced by the presence of nucleocapsid (NC) antibodies in their plasma. The 1.3% who had not been exposed to the virus, had spike protein antibodies which most likely resulted from vaccination in the absence of NC antibodies. Successive vaccination and booster doses either through heterogeneous or homologous vaccines increased antibody titres, and this stimulation of immune memory may offer greater protection against coronavirus disease 2019.
Japanese poems as magical formulas: Unveiling the connection to female physiology
Authors: Sobczyk Małgorzata
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the reinterpreted use of early Japanese short poems tanka (henceforth referred to as waka) as magical formulas, particularly examining Moto yori chiri ni majiwaru…, a pseudo-classical waka attributed to Izumi Shikibu (976–1031) (also to Ono no Komachi, a ninth-century court poetess) and Naniwazu ni saku ya…, a poem recorded in Kokin wakashū [Collection of Ancient and Modern Japanese Poems]. These examples, which are wellfounded in literature, illustrate how waka were repurposed for supernatural applications. The focus is on their practical role in female physiology, particularly as magical formulas to regulate menstrual cycles and ward off impurity caused by menstrual blood. The paper argues that these waka endured through their incorporation into talismans (gofu), and the study includes examples of talismans from the author’s private collection. Through this exploration, it sheds light on the dynamic interplay between waka, Buddhism, and ritualistic purity
A comparative analysis of the legal term “age of majority” in Japan and in France
Authors: Horie Yuki
Published: February 2024

The age of majority in Japan was lowered from 20 to 18 on 1 April 2022 when a newly revised Civil Code came into effect. Japanese young people 18 years of age and older will now be able to make their own life choices and decisions in various social situations. At the same time, they will also have the responsibilities of adults. Various opinion polls, however, show a widespread lack of concrete understanding of people’s rights and responsibilities in Japan. This paper explores the meaning of the term 成年 seinen (age of majority) by comparing the case of France on the basis of the French Civil Code in order to shed light on the legal and common meaning of “attaining adulthood.”
Law in Imperial China in the research of Father Professor Antoni Kość SVD
Authors: Buczek Lech
Published: February 2024

The article concerns Chinese law in the imperial period as presented in the research of Father Professor Antoni Kość SVD. The philosophical foundations of Chinese law are analysed mainly from the point of view of Confucianism and Legalism. In order to show the particular character of Chinese law, an outline of the assumptions of other philosophical and religious schools is also presented. The subject of the article is the preserved legal codes, the system of state authorities and taxes, the structure of the social hierarchy, and individual branches of law. The aim of the article is to show the changing nature of the Chinese legal system over the course of successive Chinese dynasties.

The article attempts to answer the question as to which of the foundations of Chinese philosophy have influenced Chinese law to the greatest extent. The main research methods used are historical and legal analysis.
Miękka siła Chin. Wpływ soft power na wizerunek Chińskiej Republiki Ludowej w Polsce
Authors: Bieliński Tomasz , Janiak Julia
Published: February 2024

The soft power of China and its impact on the image of The People’s Republic of China in Poland

This article discusses the soft power of China and its impact on public opinion in Poland. It examines various aspects of Chinese culture, politics, and economy, as well as the tools used by China to promote its soft power in Poland. The article presents the results of the survey, which show that the overall opinion of China in Poland is neutral, despite China’s efforts to promote its soft power in the country. However, the survey also reveals that Polish respondents have a positive view of Chinese culture and economy, while their perception of Chinese politics is negative. The article concludes that China’s soft power in Poland is still limited, but it has the potential to grow in the future, particularly through the promotion of Chinese culture and the Chinese economy
Strategie innowacji produktowych chińskich producentów na rynku samochodów elektrycznych
Authors: Konewka Tomasz , Czuba Tomasz
Published: February 2024

Product innovation strategies of Chinese EV manufacturers

Climate change and the effects of global warming are one of the most important problems in the modern world. The effects of these phenomena affect the everyday life of societies and the functioning of enterprises, industries, and entire sectors of the world economy. Therefore, appropriate legal and economic regulations have been and are being introduced at state level. Reducing exhaust emissions is the primary goal of electrification of the automotive industry, because the internal combustion engine is inefficient in terms of energy (it burns a lot of fuel and emits large amounts of harmful exhaust gases). The result of this transformation of the automotive industry is the creation of a new product, the electric car (EV), which makes possible the decarbonization of transport.

In 2022, global EV sales totaled 10.5 million units, an increase of 55% compared to the previous year. The largest increase in EV sales in the world was once again recorded in China: by 82% year-on-year. China is by far the largest EV market, accounting for 59% of global EV sales in 2022.

Currently, the dynamic nature of the market environment for electric car companies influences the development of product innovations. The basis for shaping product strategies is the company’s designated goal, the size and structure of its resources, and its innovative potential. The size and structure of the resources at its disposal and its skills (especially in the field of research and development, technology and financial resources) determine the possibilities of taking creative actions in the field of products. This potential directly affects the range of products offered, their technical level and quality.

Activities located within the company’s long-term strategy should take into account changes in buyer preferences, technological progress, activities of competitors, as well as innovative activities of enterprises from supporting industries.

Vehicle manufacturers are introducing more and more EV models, contributing to the electrification of road transport. They see the direction of development in the coming years and know that the expansion of the BEV market is inevitable. However, many automakers have different strategies for transitioning to EVs. Tesla has been producing EVs from the beginning and has become a market leader, meeting consumer expectations by introducing various product innovations in terms of energy consumption, charging speed, and range on a single charge. Chinese manufacturers, like BYD or Geely, have started to play a significant role in this race.

The aim of the article is to discuss the basic forms of product innovation used by Chinese EV manufacturers. Additionally, the authors of the article try to answer the question as to whether Chinese EV manufacturers are able to achieve a significant share in other world markets by using product innovations in their EV vehicles, compared to their competitors’ meeting customer needs.
Możliwości utrzymywania stosunków dyplomatycznych z Tajwanem z uwzględnieniem kontekstu prawnego, gospodarczego i politycznego
Authors: Hązła Marceli
Published: February 2024

Possibilities of maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan considering the legal, economic and political context

Taiwan’s current status has been shaped by a multitude of historical, legal, economic, and political circumstances. However, as outlined in this article, its status does not conform to the ‘one China’ principle promoted by the People’s Republic of China, according to which it should be treated as a Chinese province. The possibility of maintaining diplomatic relations with Taiwan is, therefore, largely dependent on current political arrangements, and a decision in this regard should be tailored to the agenda and objectives of each country that is considering establishing such relations. Over the last few years, for example, one can observe a slow change of stance in this regard on the part of the United States, Japan, and EU member states, which, in the face of the war in Ukraine and growing tensions between Western countries and China, have begun to express support for Taiwan’s democratic society with greater boldness. This article makes exemplary recommendations touching on three main spheres of activity – diplomatic, economic, and military – that can be used by democratic states wishing to demonstrate support for Taiwan in its long struggle for international subject status.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF FUNGI ASSOCIATED WITH BODY AND EGG FROM DISEASED AFRICAN CATFISH, Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Iberahim Nurul Aqilah , Mohd Roslan Mohd Naqib Azfar , Ahmad Arabi Noorfarina Aini , Mat Alwi Muhamad Hijaz Khairi , Musa Najiah
Published: February 2024

African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) are in high demand in the Malaysian market. However, these species are known to be easily infected with diseases such as fungi, which can cause mortality and economic losses. In addition, fungal infection in fish eggs can reduce their production. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify fungi from infected African catfish and their eggs. Symptoms include a swollen lesion, irregular swimming, darker discoloration, and screening of pathogenic fungi. Isolations, identifications, and extracellular enzymatic assays were performed for the isolated fungi. Potato dextrose agar was used as isolation medium for isolating fungi on African catfish and their eggs. Fungi were identified by macroscopic observation of growth morphology and their structure, followed by microscopic observation after staining with lactophenol cotton blue to observe hyphae. From the result, three fungi were isolated and identified as Mucor sp. (2n) and Trichoderma sp. (1n). All isolated fungi were also analyzed for extracellular enzymes such as proteases, amylases, and lipases to test their ability to produce them as pathogenic fungi. Trichoderma sp. showed positive results in all tests. However, one strain of Mucor sp. reacted positively to the amylase and lipase test, while the other strain of the same species showed no reaction, indicating a negative result. In conclusion, the isolated fungi have virulent properties and can cause mortality if the body and eggs are infected. Therefore, fish farms need comprehensive health management to prevent the spread of fungal diseases
PADDY HUSK BIOCHAR IS BENEFICIAL TO IMPROVE GROWTH QUALITY OF ENGLISH LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia) IN LOWLAND OF TERENGGANU, MALAYSIA
Authors: Wahab Fatin Nur Najiha Abd , Sembok Wan Zaliha Wan , Rafdi Husni Hayati Mohd
Published: February 2024

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is common to the Mediterranean region and belong to the Lamiaceae family. In Malaysia, lavender successfully cultivated at Cameron Highland. L. angustifolia has valuable application such as essential oil, cut flowers, and dried flower. Lavender is also cultivated at lowland area in Malaysia but limited to its ornamental value due to temperature factor. Recently, the use of biochar as an agricultural amendment has attracted much attention owing to its potential to improve soil condition and plant growth. However, effectiveness of biochar towards lavender cultivation has not been studied. Hence, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of different biochar substrates on the growth quality of English lavender at low land in Terengganu, Malaysia. The lavender was propagated by stem cuttings. The three different types of treatment involved were top soil: sand as control media, while soil:sand: paddy husk biochar and soil:sand: coconut shell biochar as the treatments. The parameters observed were plant height, stem diameter, number of branches, the fresh and dry weight of upper plants and the roots. The results are promising as the paddy husk biochar was able to promote root production and hence produced taller and more vigorous plants as compared to other treatments. Thus, a growing media combination of soil:sand: paddy husk biochar could be suggested as effective growing media for English lavender cultivated at low land of Malaysia.
METODOLOGIJA ZA PROVERU KVALITETA OBJEDINJENIH MREŽNIH MODELA
Authors:   Security Coordination Centre SCC Ltd. Belgrade, Đalović Andrijana , Sinanović Ismar ,   Security Coordination Centre SCC Ltd. Belgrade, Prešić Dušan ,   Security Coordination Centre SCC Ltd. Belgrade, Babnik Tadeja ,   ELPROS Electronic and Programming Systems Ltd. Ljubljana, Mahkovec Bojan ,   ELPROS Electronic and Programming Systems Ltd. Ljubljana
Published: February 2024

One of the main services delivered by Regional Security Coordinators – RSCs is validation of individual grid models, as well as delivery of common grid models of Continental Europe. Common grid models present starting point for all rest RSC services, given that they are the basis for power flow calculation, security analises etc. In the frame of Horizon 2020 project CROSSBOW methodology for quality check of common grid models is developed, basing on the compariosn of forecasted values of volatges, active and reactive power flow with corresponding measured values for the most relevant network elements in the region of South east Europe. For the purpose of this methodology, the dedicated module within CROSSBOW WAMAS product is created. The aim of this paper is to describe algorithm and architecture of the system that is used for realization of the methodology for quality check of common grid models, to describe quality indicators of common grid models and to show results of the given methodology obtained through developed software tool
Canine leptospirosis in Brazil – a review
Authors: Hagiwara Mitika Kuribayashi , Mioto Bruno Alonso , Furlan Tozzi Barbara
Published: February 2024

Data from the Brazilian literature published between 2003 and 2013 was surveyed in order to identify the Leptospira sp serovars most frequently involved in canine leptospirosis in Brazil. The serovars Canicola and Copenhageni from Leptospira interrogans were the most frequently isolated ones from both sick and apparently healthy dogs. Serovars Icterohaemorrhagiae and Pomona, as well as Leptospira noguchi were isolated on a single occasion. Serologic surveys performed throughout the country revealed antibody titers to Canicola, Copenhageni, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pyrogenes, Autumnalis, Ballum, Bratislava, Tarassovi, Butembo, Grippotyphosa, Andamana, Hardjobovis, among others. Although the seroprevalence of 7.15% to 48.2% suggests exposure of surveyed animals to pathogenic leptospirae, the cross-reactivity among serovars and paradoxical reactions render the identification of the infecting serovar in each case difficult. Therefore, the isolation of leptospirae and their serological and molecular characterization are mandatory to determine the infecting serovar and its role as a pathogen for dogs.
Dongkrek Art in Co-Curricular Activities as a Manifestation of Differentiated Learning
Authors:   Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia, Sugiyanto Annisa Imsawati , Marmoah Sri ,   Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia, Kurniawan Sandra Bayu ,   Universitas Sebelas Maret, Surakarta, Indonesia & Pusat Studi Difabelitas (PSD)-Universitas Sebelas Maret
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this research is to describe cocurricular learning by utilizing Dongkrek art as differentiated learning. The type of research is descriptive qualitative. The source of data is co-curricular activities with Dongkrek art. Data were collected through: observation, interview, and documentation study. The result of the research is that co-curricular learning by utilizing Dongkrek art is differentiated learning because it fulfills its components, namely: flexibility, grouping process based on needs, active involvement of students, appropriate challenges, and continuous formative assessment. The conclusion of the research is that Dongkrek art in co-curricular is a manifestation of differentiated learning.
Analysis of Business Restructuring Strategies Based on a Strategic Due Diligence Approach at PT. Industri Telekomunikasi Indonesia (PERSERO)
Authors:   School of Economics and Business, Telkom University, Indonesia, Dwiningtyas Aulia Rachmadany , Tricahyono Ir. Dodie ,   School of Economics and Business, Telkom University, Indonesia
Published: February 2024

In the ever-evolving market conditions and increasingly fierce competition, PT. INTI is faced with the challenge of carrying out an effective business restructuring in order to improve the company’s performance. The strategic due diligence approach is used in this study as a framework for analyzing business restructuring strategies. The research method used includes literature studies, secondary data analysis, and interviews with related parties at PT. INTI. The collected data were analyzed using qualitative approaches to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the company’s business situation. The results of this study reveal that PT. INTI requires a business restructuring which includes changes in business strategy, company organization, and operations. This study identified several suggested restructuring strategies, such as product and service diversification, developing new markets, increasing operational efficiency, and increasing collaboration with strategic partners.
Place of the Ketogenic Diet in Refractory Infantile Spasms
Authors:   Department of Pediatrics, university hospital Benbadis faculty of medecine Universitu Constantine3 Algeria Université bordj badji mokhtar Annaba, Benhacine Z. , Bouhdjila A. ,   Department of Pediatrics, university hospital Benbadis faculty of medecine Universitu Constantine3 Algeria Université bordj badji mokhtar Annaba, Bouchair N. ,   Department of Pediatrics, university hospital Benbadis faculty of medecine Universitu Constantine3 Algeria Université bordj badji mokhtar Annaba, Gharbi M. ,   Department of Pediatrics, university hospital Benbadis faculty of medecine Universitu Constantine3 Algeria Université bordj badji mokhtar Annaba
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The ketogenic diet is an alternative nutritional regimen for refractory epilepsies, including infantile spasms. The objective of our study is the primary and secondary evaluation at 12 months of the effectiveness and tolerance of the ketogenic diet on seizure frequency, EEG (electroencephalogram) patterns, and side effects. Patients and Methods: We evaluated the ketogenic diet as a second- or third-line treatment, following corticosteroid therapy and/or Vigabatrin. We assessed the effectiveness and tolerance of the ketogenic diet based on patients being seizure-free, experiencing a reduction in seizures of more than 50%, improvement in EEG background pattern (suppression of hypsarrhythmia), psychomotor development, side effects, and reduction in antiepileptic drugs during clinical, electrical, and neurocognitive follow-ups at 1, 3, and 12 months. Results: Thirty-eight children, twentytwo boys, and sixteen girls, with a gender ratio of 1.37, presenting with infantile spasms visualized directly clinically or through videos and electric evaluation, with or without hypsarrhythmia on EEG, all symptomatic: genetic etiologies (14, 36.9%), structural in 18 patients (47.3%), and metabolic in six patients (15.8%). At 3 months, the number of patients who were seizure-free with a normal EEG was 22 patients (57.9%), and those with a reduction in seizures of more than 50%, 15 patients (39.5%). At 12 months on the ketogenic diet, the number of patients who were seizure-free was 24 (63.2%), and those with a reduction in seizures of more than 50% 14 patients(36.8%). Good tolerance and efficiency of the diet were confirmed by treatment compliance, maintained high response rate, and a reduction in the number of antiepileptic drugs to 1.97. The children became more vigilant, attentive, and responsive to their parents. Conclusion: Implementing the ketogenic diet within a short period of time, less than a year, would yield even better results in terms of seizure frequency and behavior in a developing infant brain.
The Challenges Facing I.T. Organizations from Romania in Implementing Effective Talent Management
Authors:   Doctoral School of Economics and Business Administration, West University of  Timisoara, Romania, Tamas Ioan
Published: February 2024

History shows that every crisis brings with it numerous challenges in several fields, of which the economic, financial or business is no exception. In the context of the post-Covid crisis and the crisis generated by the conflict in Ukraine, the challenge in the field of talent management in Romania is being significantly reconfigured in many areas. Technology and the I.T. field are the key factors in organizations efforts to become more flexible and efficient in their operations. The IT industry in Romania represents one of the most prosperous economic sectors. In this context, identifying, attracting and retaining talent are practices of the research field of talent management that can maintain a certain competitive advantage of organizations. In this research, we were concerned qualitatively and quantitatively with the identification of some challenges faced by organizations in the implementation talent management strategies Awareness of these major challenges can be a real advantage in the successful implementation of talent management strategies in I.T. organizations in Romania.
Decoding Organizational Dynamics: Navigating the Ambiguity Between Flexibility and Agility in Digital Entrepreneurship through a Systematic Literature Review
Authors:   Universitas Padjadjaran Business Administration Study Program, West Java, Indonesia, Shalihah Afifah , Jaja Raharja Sam’un ,   Universitas Padjadjaran Business Administration Study Program, West Java, Indonesia, Purnomo Margo ,   Universitas Padjadjaran Business Administration Study Program, West Java, Indonesia
Published: February 2024

Flexibility and agility are two organizational behavior traits that help businesses gain a competitive edge, deal with changing expectations, and satisfy current market demands. Academically, however, there still needs to be greater distinction and understanding between these two notions among scholars and practitioners. Because of the ambiguous borders in the definitions of flexibility and agility, uncertainty developed into a theoretical interest. This essay tries to offer the notion of Flexibility based on publishing patterns in digital entrepreneurship studies considering the limitations. Introduce the idea of agility based on current research trends in digital entrepreneurship. Present a study of agility and flexibility based on digital characteristics. This article chooses articles and presents them based on the main issue using the Systematic Literature Review technique. Based on the outcomes of conversations with other writers, the author provides 85 pertinent pieces and 44 that are thoroughly addressed. According to the year, the nation, and the consequences of digital elements, the author proposes the idea of order flexibility and adaptability. Other dominant ideas from the primary theme are discovered in this article, like the idea of sector-based discussion and the inclusion of administrative functions.
The Development of Financial Statement Fraud Research: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors:   Economics and Business Faculty, Sebelas Maret University, Indonesia, Rosari Widya Pangestika Angela , Honggowati Setianingtyas ,   Economics and Business Faculty, Sebelas Maret University, Indonesia
Published: February 2024

This research aims to present and explain the development of research related to financial statement fraud by reviewing bibliometric analysis taken from the Scopus database for the period 1979 – 2023. The method used is a bibliometric analysis approach using VOSviewer and Microsoft Excel to analyze data frequency. The results of this research show that the research topic of financial statement fraud will be most researched in 2023 with 60 articles, the journal that publishes the most topics related to financial statement fraud is the Journal of Financial Crime. The country that publishes the most on the topic of financial statement fraud is the United States. Variables that often appear related to the topic of financial statement fraud are corporate governance, earnings management, crime, and the fraud triangle. Brazel, Hermanson, and Jones are the authors who write most frequently or extensively about financial statement fraud.
The Impact of Instagram Promotion on Purchase Intention at The Langham Jakarta
Authors:   Universitas Pelita Harapan, Hubner Ira B. , Susanto Meira Natania ,   Universitas Pelita Harapan, Tan Joceline ,   Universitas Pelita Harapan, Kusumo Elang ,   Universitas Pelita Harapan
Published: February 2024

This research studies the impact of Instagram Promotion on Purchase Intention at The Langham Jakarta, the inaugural Southeast Asian business hotel branch in SCBD. Strategically positioned in Jakarta's bustling business district, it faces competition from established hotels like Ritz-Carlton Pacific Place, Raffles, Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, and St. Regis. This research aims to identify how the local market perceives The Langham Jakarta as a viable hotel option by examining the impact of their Instagram Promotion activities on consumers’ purchase intention. This study uses an extensive approach to examine how consumers responded to The Langham Jakarta's Instagram promotion efforts to determine whether these efforts affected consumers' intentions to make a purchase. This study aims to offer important insights into the efficacy of Instagram promotion as a marketing technique for hotels entering established areas through data analysis and interpretation. The research’s purpose is to further our knowledge of consumer behaviour and marketing tactics in the hospitality sector, providing hotels looking to improve their competitive position with practical advice. The results from the hypothesis testing phase show that Instagram Promotion has a positive and significant impact on Purchase Intention. The next researcher should examine and add a broader range of variables to discover how they impact consumers' purchasing decisions.
Effects of the MIND&GAIT physical exercise programme on depressive symptoms in institutionalised frail older adult: A Pilot Study
Authors: Couto Nuno , Silva Adriana , Duarte Francisca , Cid Luís , Bento Teresa , Santos Rocha Rita , Brito João , Vitorino Anabela
Published: February 2024

The main purpose of this study was to analyse the effects of MIND&GAIT, a physical exercise programme, on depressive symptoms in frail institutionalised older people.  Through a pilot study, thirty-five Portuguese frail older people (19 female, 16 male), with a mean age of 83.45 ± 9.73 years, participated in this study. The participants were randomly assigned into an experimental group (n = 19) and a control group (n = 16). Intervention was based on MIND&GAIT, physical exercise programme for frail older people. Depressive symptomatology was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) before and after 12 weeks of intervention. Results showed significant differences in depressive symptoms between the experimental group and the control group after the intervention. Depressive symptomatology decreased in the experimental group, while the participants in the control group had a significant increase in this indicator at the post-intervention moment. In general, the older people who were involved in the intervention group, improved their depressive symptoms, and the older who did not participate in the MIND&GAIT physical exercise programme, worsen this indicator. Considering the present results, we can conclude that this pilot study has presented initial findings that MIND&GAIT can contribute to improving depressive symptomatology in this population. This study has yielded essential data to construct subsequent randomized-controlled trials that can be effectively and feasibly executed within the community.
Keywords: physical exercise, depressive symptoms; frail older people
Medición de la Responsabilidad Social Corporativa en organizaciones deportivas: desarrollo y valida-ción de escala, estudio piloto (Measuring Corporate Social Responsibility in sport organizations: scale development and validation, pilot study)
Authors: Fonseca Ingrid , Bernate Jayson , Cabanzo Carlos
Published: February 2024

La responsabilidad social corporativa busca dar respuesta a las necesidades de los grupos de interés a través de directrices y normas. Así como dar solución a los impactos ambientales, sociales y económicos de las empresas. Por ello, el propósito de esta investigación fue diseñar y validar una escala de medición de la responsabilidad social corporativa en las organizaciones deportivas. La muestra estuvo conformada por 140 dirigentes de ligas deportivas colombianas. Los resultados de la técnica de análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio a través del Software R validaron cuatro dimensiones: 1) gobierno corporativo, 2) talento humano, 3) stakeholders externos e 4) Impacto de la RSE. La fiabilidad del cuestionario se obtuvo mediante el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (α =.901). Se destaca que el estudio contribuye al conocimiento científico sobre las propiedades psicométricas de los instrumentos y es una referencia para estudios posteriores sobre cuestionarios de responsabilidad social corporativa en el sector del deporte. Finalmente, se proporciona una escala que puede ser utilizada por investigadores y la comunidad académica. Además, tiene implicaciones prácticas y teóricas para las partes interesadas. En conclusión, el cuestionario es válido, fiable y robusto, con adecuadas propiedades psicométricas.
Palabras clave: Responsabilidad Social Corporativa, Clubes deportivos, Desarrollo y validación de escalas, Modelo de medición.
Abstract. Corporate social responsibility seeks to respond to the needs of interest groups through guidelines and standards and provide a solution to the environmental, social, and economic impacts of companies to the environmental, social, and economic impacts of companies. Therefore, this research aimed to design and validate a measurement scale of Corporate Social Responsibility in sports organizations. The sample consisted of 140 leaders of Colombian sports leagues and clubs. The results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis technique through Software R validated four dimensions: 1) corporate governance, 2) human capital, 3) external stakeholders, and 4) the Impact of CSR.The reliability of the questionnaire was obtained by Cronbach alpha coefficient (α =.901). The study contributes to the scientific knowledge on the psychometric properties of instruments and this is a reference for instruments and for further studies on corporate social responsibility in the sports sector. Finally, we provide a scale that researchers and the academic community can use. Also, has practical and theoretical implications for stakeholders. In conclusion, the questionnaire is valid, reliable, and robust, with adequate psychometric properties.
Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Sports clubs, Development and validation of scales, Measurement model.
Exploring The Fundamental Aspect of Grassroot Football Academy: A Case Study in Indonesia
Authors: Akbar Amin , Karim Zulakbal Abd , Zakaria Jaffry
Published: February 2024

This research explores the fundamental aspects coaches teach in several grassroots football academies in Indonesia. Qualitative methods through case study design were employed in the current research, and the data were collected through interviews. Ten coaches from various grassroots football academies in Indonesia were interviewed. They were asked about the fundamental aspects of football taught in their grassroots football academy. In this case, the purposeful sampling method was used to determine the participants. The participants were chosen based on having a coaching license and having a minimum of 5 years of coaching experience. The data collected was analyzed with qualitative research software, namely N-Vivo 14. In this case, three packages of N-Vivo were used, namely word cloud, tree map, and frequency query. The results revealed several words or topics that the participants mainly discussed. Based on the findings, several fundamental aspects of the Indonesian grassroots football academy were mental, discipline, practice, goal, concentration, confidence, motivation, and physical. These are the fundamental aspects taught mainly by the coaches in the grassroots football academy in Indonesia.
Keywords: youth athlete; football; essential factor in grassroots football.