bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of heart failure to prevalence of haematologic- and solid malignancies in southern Sweden: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Scholten Mia , Halling Anders
Published: October 2023

Background

Heart failure (HF) and cancer are common diseases among the elderly population. Many chronic diseases, including diabetes mellitus (DM), share risk factors and increase the incidence of HF and cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate if there was an association between HF and the prevalence of haematologic- and solid malignancies.

Methods

The study population was comprised of almost one million adults living in southern Sweden in 2015. All participants were divided into seven age groups from 20 and onwards, and 10 percentiles according to their socioeconomic status (SES). All data concerning diagnoses from each consultation in both primary- and secondary health care were collected during 18 months. The prevalence of haematologic and solid malignancies was measured separately for men and women, age groups, SES and multimorbidity levels. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the associations between HF and the probability of having haematologic- and solid malignancies in more complex models including stratifying variables.

Results

People with HF had a higher prevalence of haematologic- and solid malignancies than the general population, but a lower prevalence of solid malignancies than the multimorbid population. The people with HF had an increased OR for haematologic malignancies, 1.69 (95% CI 1.51–1.90), and solid malignancies, OR 1.21 (95% CI 1.16–1.26), when adjusted for gender and age. In more complex multivariate models, multimorbidity explained the increased OR for haematologic- and solid malignancies in people with HF. Increasing socioeconomic deprivation was associated with a decreased risk for solid malignancies, with the lowest risk in the most socioeconomically deprived CNI-percentile.

Conclusions

HF was shown to be associated with malignancies, especially haematologic malignancies. Multimorbidity, however, was an even more important factor for both haematologic- and solid malignancies than HF in our study, but not socioeconomic deprivation. Further research on the interactions between the chronic conditions in people with HF is warranted to examine the strength of association between HF and malignancies.
Effects of exogenous melatonin on sugar and organic acid metabolism in early-ripening peach fruits
Authors: Zhou Kexuan , Cheng Qi , Dai Jingtong , Liu Yuan , Liu Qin , Li Rui , Wang Jiangyue , Hu Rongping , Lin Lijin
Published: October 2023

To evaluated the effects melatonin (MT) on the sugar and acid metabolism of early-ripening peach fruits, the concentration of 150 μmol/L MT was sprayed on the leaves of peach trees. MT increased the contents of total soluble sugar and sucrose in peach fruits during the whole ripening period, and increased the contents of glucose and sorbitol at the mature stage. During the whole ripening period, MT also increased the activities of sucrose synthase, sucrose phosphate synthase, neutral invertase, and acidic invertase and the relative expression levels of sucrose synthase, sucrose phosphate synthase, neutral invertase, and acidic invertase genes, while decreased the activity of sorbitol oxidase and the relative expression level of sorbitol dehydrogenase to some extent. Moreover, MT decreased the contents of total organic acid, malic acid, and citric acid at mature stage. At mature stage, MT decreased the activities of citrate synthetase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase and the relative expression levels of citrate synthetase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase genes, while increased the relative expression levels of Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+)-malic enzyme, malate dehydrogenase, and aconitase genes. Therefore, MT promotes the sugar accumulation and organic acid degradation in early-ripening peach fruits.
Bacterial DNA and osteoarthritis in dogs with patellar luxation and cranial cruciate ligament rupture
Authors: Tuek-Um Sirun , Yangtara Sarawut , Surachetpong Win , Kaewmongkol Sarawan , Kaewmongkol Gunn , Thengchaisri Naris
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim: The association between bacterial DNA in stifle joints, including those with cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) and medial patellar luxation (MPL), and osteoarthritis in dogs remains elusive. This study investigated the potential association between the detection of bacterial DNA and osteoarthritis in dogs using a broad-range polymerase chain reaction technique targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene.

Materials and Methods: Synovial fluid (35 samples) and knee tissue samples (32 samples) were obtained from 35 dogs diagnosed with CCLR (n = 20; 11 males and nine females) or MPL (n = 15; five males and 10 females) who underwent a surgical operation between October 2014 and April 2015.

Results: Dogs with CCLR had a higher average osteoarthritis score than those with MPL (2.0 ± 0.9 vs. 0.5 ± 0.9; p = 0.005). Bacterial DNA was detected in the stifle joints of 60.71% of dogs with MPL. Pelomonas spp. (25.00%), Halomonas spp. (17.86%), and 5 other species (17.86%) were the most frequently identified bacteria. Bacterial DNA was detected in 41.03% of dogs with CCLR. Pelomonas spp. (15.38%), Sphingomonas spp. (10.26%), Halomonas spp. (5.13%), and 4 other species (10.26%) were the most frequently identified bacteria. No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of bacterial DNA obtained from tissue samples (46.88%) or joint fluid samples (51.43%). The presence of bacterial DNA was not associated with the type of knee injury (MPL or CCLR; p = 1.000). There was a higher prevalence of bacterial DNA in samples from dogs with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis (94.44%) than in those with minimal osteoarthritis (41.18%), and a significant association between the presence of bacterial DNA and moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis was identified (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Dogs with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis were more likely to have bacterial DNA in their stifle joints than those with no or minimal osteoarthritis. These findings provide valuable insight into the potential role of bacterial DNA in joint tissue or joint fluid and the development of osteoarthritis in dogs.

Keywords: bacterial DNA, cranial cruciate ligament, osteoarthritis, stifle.
Feasibility of crude F4 fimbriae extract as a vaccine candidate for preventing Escherichia coli-induced diarrhea in piglets
Authors: Nguyet Luong Thi Yen , Ounjai Puey , Kaeoket Kampon , Ngamwongsatit Natharin
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim: Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) poses a substantial risk of neonatal diarrhea and post-weaning diarrhea among piglets, with F4+ ETEC strains emerging as a particularly challenging issue within the pig farming industry. This study aimed to introduce a straightforward approach for generating a crude extract of F4 fimbriae that shows promise as an antigenic determinant for potential vaccination strategies.

Materials and Methods: A crude F4 fimbriae extract was obtained from F4+ ETEC using a combination of heat shock and homogenization techniques. Subsequently, three 4-week-old piglets were immunized with a primary dose of 150 μg and a booster dose 2 weeks later. Blood samples were collected to evaluate the level of serum F4-specific antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: Analysis using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry techniques unveiled crucial insights into the composition of the crude F4 fimbriae extract. Notably, a distinct prominent band (~24 kDa) was identified, corresponding to the size of FaeG, the major subunit of F4 fimbriae. Regarding antibody response, there was a remarkable disparity between the levels of serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgA antibodies targeting F4 compared with other E. coli strains (F18+ ETEC, F41+ ETEC, and F4−F18−F41− EC), as well as with the unvaccinated control group (p < 0.01). Specifically, the levels of IgG antibodies against other E. coli strains were also significantly higher than those observed in the unvaccinated control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the crude F4 fimbriae extracts obtained using our simple extraction method induce specific immune responses against F4+ E. coli and stimulate cross-immunity against other E. coli strains. Therefore, our method shows potential for use in future vaccine development against diarrhea in pigs caused by E. coli.

Keywords: diarrhea, Escherichia coli, F4 fimbriae, piglets, vaccine.
Racial Disparities in Liver Disease Mortality Trends Among Black and White Populations in the United States, 1999–2020: An Analysis of CDC WONDER Database
Authors: Wang Yichen , Huang Yuting , Antwi Samuel O. , Taner C. Burcin , Yang Liu
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Liver disease is a significant public health problem in the United States, with notable racial disparities in mortality. This study examines liver disease mortality trends among Black and White populations during 1999–2020.

METHODS:

We used CDC WONDER database to ascertain liver disease age-standardized mortality rates in Black and White Americans. Annual percent change was calculated. Age-standardized absolute rate difference and rate ratios were computed by subtracting and dividing the White population's rate from that of the Black population.

RESULTS:

Liver diseases accounted for 171,627 Black and 1,314,903 White deaths during 1999–2020. Age-standardized mortality rates for Blacks decreased from 22.5 to 20.1 per 100,000 person-years (annual percentage change −0.4%, −0.6% to −0.2%), whereas an increase was observed for Whites, from 17.9 to 25.3 per 100,000 person-years (annual percentage change 1.4%, 1.4% to 1.7%). The rate ratio decreased from 1.26 (1.22–1.29) in 1999 to 0.79 (0.78–0.81) in 2020. This pattern was evident in all census regions, more pronounced among the younger (age 25–64 years) than older (age 65+ years) population and observed across different urbanization levels. The pattern may be attributable to increasing alcohol-related liver disease and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease–related deaths in Whites and tapering in viral hepatitis and primary liver cancer–related deaths in Blacks. Despite notable improvement, racial disparities persist in primary liver cancer and viral hepatitis among the Black population.

DISCUSSION:

The rise in alcohol-related liver disease and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease–related deaths among Whites, and enduring liver cancer and viral hepatitis disparities in the Black population, underscores the urgent need for tailored public health interventions.
Oborově didakticky orientované profesní vidění studentů učitelství anglického jazyka
Authors: Uličná Klára
Published: October 2023

Studie je věnována problematice rozvíjení oborově didaktických aspektů profesního vidění prostřednictvím různě koncipovaných videoklubů v rámci přípravného vzdělávání učitelů anglického jazyka. Videokluby se odlišují především typem využívaných videozáznamů, které jsou v průběhu videoklubů reflektovány, a to buď videozáznamů cizí, nebo vlastní výuky.
Cíle: Šetření si kladlo za cíl odhalit vliv jednotlivých videoklubů na schopnost student všímat si důležitých oborově didaktických jevů a uvažovat o nich. V obsahové i procesuální dimenzi profesního vidění byl zkoumán rovněž soulad studentů učitelství s pohledem expertů.
Metody: Nestrukturované písemné reflexe studentů vypracované před a po realizaci videoklubů byly nejprve podrobeny deduktivní obsahové analýze podle navrženého kategoriálního systému za účelem identifikace částí reflexí věnovaných důležitým oborově didaktickým jevům. Následně byly vybrané části, tj. myšlenkové jednotky, analyzovány perspektivou charakteristik jednotlivých expertních jevů, a následně i jejich (ne)souladu s pohledem expertů. Druhou perspektivou nazírání identifikovaných expertních jevů bylo jejich kódování kategoriemi procesuální složky profesního vidění – kategoriemi popis, hodnocení, vysvětlení, teoretizace, alterace a predikce. V případě kategorií alterace a predikce byla zkoumána opět i kvalita výroků ve vztahu k jejich (ne)souladu s uvažováním expertů.
Výsledky a závěry: Ukázalo se, že různé typy videointervencí mají na rozvíjení oborově didaktického myšlení studentů odlišný vliv. Například systematický výběr a následné pozorování a reflektování videozáznamů cizí výuky učitelů z praxe rozvíjí schopnost identifikovat vice oborově didaktických jevů a teoretizovat o nich, naopak sdílení, pozorování a reflektování vlastní samostatně plánované a realizované výuky rozvíjí tzv. hloubku všímaní si různých charakteristik definovaných expertních jevů v souladu s experty. V případě všímání si charakteristik expertních jevů a schopnosti studentů navrhovat alternativní postupy se rovněž ukázal významný faktor času.
Visits in forests during the COVID-19 pandemic in the cross-border area of Poland, the Czech Republic and Germany
Authors: Ciesielski Mariusz , Tkaczyk Miłosz
Published: October 2023

Mobile phone data were used to examine the differences in the number and structure of visitors to the Forest Promotion Complex Sudety Zachodnie in 2019 (pre-pandemic year) and 2020 (pandemic year). The studies not only compared the total number of visitors in each year, but also distinguished four pandemic and restriction periods. This allowed us to capture the dynamics of the impact of the pandemic on visits to forest areas. The results show that although the total number of visitors increased in 2020 compared to 2019, different trends were observed in each pandemic period. In general, the number of visitors to forest areas decreased during the first lockdown, as well as during the ban on entering green areas and forests. However, during the easing of restrictions and the second lockdown in the fall of 2020, there was an increase in visitor numbers. The article also shows the evolution of visitor numbers at a very detailed level of a grid of 750 × 750 m. During the pandemic, the structure of visitors also changed taking into account the place of residence. Local tourism was more important than national tourism. A significant decrease in the number of visitors from abroad was also observed, which is a consequence of the introduced restrictions on travel between countries.

The methodology presented in this article can be used not only to study the impact of the pandemic on visits in forest, but also to manage forest areas with a view to adapting forest management to the needs of society.
The attraction of paraoxonase-1 associated with the MAPK pathway on colon carcinoma cells
Authors: Örnek Muhammet , Güler Özen Özensoy
Published: October 2023

Objectives

A comprehensive understanding of the role of PON enzymatic activities may play an important role in the etiology and prevention of many cancers. PON1 is known as a potent antioxidant that scavenges free radicals in the human body. The enzymatic activities of paraoxonase (PON1) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathways in colorectal cancer are being investigated to determine whether they hold promise for novel diagnostic or therapeutic applications in colorectal cancer.

Methods

HT-29 colon cancer cell lines and CCD-18Co colon cell lines were used. B-Raf, p-B-Raf, ERK, and p-ERK proteins involved in MAPK signalling pathways and serum levels of PON1 were detected and analyzed by the Western blotting method.

Results

The levels and activity of PON1 enzyme were significantly decreased in HT-29 cells compared to CCD-18Co cells (p=0.0173 and p=0.0281, respectively). The levels of p-B-Raf and p-ERK, which activates the MAPK signalling pathway, were significantly increased in HT-29 cells (p=0.0037 and p=0.0074, respectively).

Conclusions

A positive correlation was found between PON1 level and PON1 enzyme activity (p=0.008). A negative correlation was found between PON1 level and p-B-Raf/p-ERK protein levels, which play a role in the MAPK signalling pathway (p=0.016 and p=0.036, respectively). A negative correlation was also found between PON1 enzyme activity and p-B-Raf/p-ERK protein levels (p=0.060 and p=0.037, respectively).

It is suggested that the increase of proteins involved in the MAPK signaling pathway in cancer cells is caused by the decreasing serum levels of PON1 and enzymatic activity of PON1.
TÜRKİYE’DE VE DÜNYA’DA ENERJİ KAYNAKLARININ GENEL GÖRÜNÜMÜ VE ALTERNATİF ENERJİ KAYNAKLARININ ÖNEMİ
Authors: ARI Ferhat , YILMAZ Vedat
Published: October 2023

Sanayi Devrimi’nden bu yana gerek gündelik hayatta gerekse de üretim aşamaları için enerjiye olan ihtiyaç ve talep artmıştır. Bu ihtiyaç ve talepleri karşılamak adına ülkeler ilkin fosil yakıt kullanımına başlamıştır. Fosil yakıtların tükenmekte olan rezervleri, enerji talebini karşılamakta yetersiz kalması ve iklim değişikliği açısından olumsuz etkilerinden ötürü birçok ülkede yenilenebilir enerji kaynaklarına yönelim söz konusudur. Ancak gelinen noktada ve özellikle de Rusya - Ukrayna savaşından sonra ortaya çıkan enerji krizi, ülkeleri alternatif enerji kaynaklarına yönelmeye mecbur kılmıştır. Alternatif enerji kaynaklarının öneminin irdelendiği bu çalışmada enerji kaynaklarının Türkiye’deki ve Dünya’daki genel görünümü tartışılmıştır. İkinci olarak fosil yakıtlar ve yenilenebilir enerji kaynaklarının kullanım oranları ve rezerv durumları analiz edilmiştir. Bu çalışmanın sonuçları göstermektedir ki dünyada fosil yakıtlar temel enerji kaynağı olmasına rağmen iklim değişikliğinin etkileri ve enerji fiyatlarının artması gibi nedenlerle yenilenebilir enerji kaynakların payı artma eğilimi içerisindedir.
A Flexible Magnetic Soft Continuum Robot for Manipulation and Measurement at Microscale
Authors: Liu Dan , Liu Xiaoming , Du Jialong , Zuo Zhaofeng , Tang Xiaoqing , Huang Qiang , Arai Tatsuo , Hu Yiran , Jin Han
Published: October 2023

Magnetic soft continuum robots have received interest in diverse fields, because of their active steering and remote control capabilities. However, a more challenging task is the development of magnetic soft continuum robots for analyzing the mechanical properties of biological tissue during intravascular treatments. Here, we present a force-controlled soft continuum robot with a magnetic end-effector for measurement of biological mechanical properties. The magnetically driven system contains a set of Helmholtz coils and a permanent magnet. The Helmholtz coils produce an oscillating magnetic field for overcoming friction. The permanent magnet is responsible for steering and providing traction for forward motion. The force on the magnetic tip was calibrated with a soft rod with a known elasticity coefficient. Experimental results indicated that the magnetic soft continuum robot successfully achieved manipulation and stiffness measurement of biological embryos. This strategy for mechanical property analysis of biological tissue expands the opportunities for use of soft continuum robots and broadens the field of functionalization for continuum microrobots.
An Overview of the Trauma of The Oro-Maxillo- Facial Region
Authors: Vangjeli Dr. Aldo , Elbasani Dr. Enkelejda
Published: October 2023

The management of the traumatic and post traumatic effects on the hospitalized patients, is one the challenging part of the oro-maxillo-facial surgery and nursing staff. Absolutely, these perception goes along with gravity of the problem, effecting not only the patient, but also the family and relatives of the traumatized patient, especially for the pediatric age. The careful accession of the situation, helps through making the diagnosis and assuring the collaboration and understanding of the adequate treatment protocol, functional and aesthetic for them. Purpose Emphasizing the importance of the properly understanding and addressing by the medical staff of the post traumatic effects on the life of patients and relatives, according to their importance, to assure the highest possible success rate of the interevent and continuous treatment. Clinical diagnosis of etiology and treatment in hospital and ambulatory clinics of posttraumatic pathologies in the facial region, the influence of the auxiliary staff, are important to evaluate the progress of these pathologies. (1.2, 3) Evolution, change and their adaptation to today’s performance, the growing trend of the consequences in young or very young patients are more indicative for a more cautious study. Short term and long-term effects in these patients, but also the possible complications in some clinical cases are the focus of this thoroughly study based on the most varied clinical cases, treated and followed in close cooperation with the nursing staff. .(1.2, 3) Therefore, the importance of dealing with these cases ranging from the causative factors, is of particular interest to the specificity it carries, and this, not only for a professional surgeon auditor, but also for a wide range of helpers, An overview of the trauma of the Oro-Maxillo-Facial region influence and affect the social impact of the result. Method Cases referred in this article, are documented in the patients charts of the Oro- An overview of the trauma of the Oro-Maxillo-Facial region Facial Surgery Department of the Vlore’s Hospital, Our focus of interests are the pediatric cases, and the youth ones. Results The difficulties at our job, were related to the physiological aspect, especially when we had missed teeth due to different traumas, not possible to be re implanted as arrived late at the hospital. (1.2, 3) .All the wounds were closed per primum, with no further complications or secondary inflammations. Key words: Trauma, Nursing staff, Facial region, Job accidents.
Improvementof Periodontal Healthby Free Gingival Graft Around Teethand Dental Implants: Is It Still Relevant?
Authors: Sara Saloui , Bouchra Elhouari , Jamila Kissa
Published: October 2023

Periodontal health around natural teeth and dental implants requires sufficient width and thickness of keratinized tissue. There is a large debate about the need of keratinized gingiva around natural teeth and dental implants, which leads to a controversy. Periodontal health around natural teeth and dental implants requires sufficient width and thickness of keratinized tissue. Furthermore, deficit in attached gingiva is more prone to attachment loss. However, among several surgical techniques, the free gingival graft finds its place to obtain gingival augmentation at sites without or with a minimal amount of keratinized tissue. Also, the goal of this surgical procedure would be to augment the thickness of gingival tissue, the vestibulum depth, to have root coverage or to stop the progression of gingival recession. After the advent of several mucogingival surgical techniques, the aim of this review is to respond to the principal question “Is free gingival graft still relevant around teeth and implants?”. Through a set of clinical cases and literature review, we intend to demonstrate first the need and the contribution of gingival augmentation in periodontal health, then to outline the potency of FGG in different clinical situation. Keyword: Periodontal Health; Gingival Thickness;Keratinized tissue; Gingival Recession; Free Gingival graft;Peri-implant gingival tissue.
TENEKE TULUM PEYNİRLERİNİN BAZI FİZİKOKİMYASAL VE DUYUSAL ÖZELLİKLERİNİN BELİRLENMESİ
Authors: ŞEN Cengiz , DOĞAN Muhammed Ali , YUCEER Yonca
Published: October 2023

Çalışmada, İzmir ve Çanakkale’de bulunan üreticilerden sağlanan İzmir Teneke Tulum peynirlerinin bazı karakteristik özelliklerinin belirlenmesi hedeflenmiştir. Peynirlerin kurumaddesinin ve yağ içeriğinin sırasıyla %48.59-61.18 ve %20.72-30.46 arasında değiştiği belirlenmiştir. Peynirlerde olgunlaşma süresi uzadıkça kurumadde, yağ, titrasyon asitliği ve hidrolitik ransidite değerlerinin arttığı ortaya konmuştur. Peynirlerin L* değerleri 78.41-88.80, sertlik değerleri ise 430-5213.75 arasında değişmektedir. Tanımlayıcı duyusal analizler sonucunda ‘pişmiş’, ‘peyniraltı suyu’, ‘kremamsı’, ‘sülfür’, ‘ransit’, ‘tuzlu’, ‘ekşi’, ‘umami’ ve ‘keskin’ terimleri panelistlerce geliştirilmiş bazı terimlerdir. En yoğun hissedilen aroma ve tat terimleri; pişmiş, peyniraltı suyu, kremamsı ve tuzludur. Duyusal analiz sonuçlarına göre seçilen altı peynirde uçucu bileşen analizi gerçekleştirilmiş olup asit ve ester grubu bileşenlerin yüksek konsantrasyonlarda olduğu saptanmıştır.
The Supervision Role of Independent Commissioner in Decreasing Risk From Earnings Management and Debt Policy
Authors: Ramadhan Muhammad Aulia , Firmansyah Amrie
Published: October 2023

Purpose : This study examines the effect of earnings management and debt policy on financial distress. In addition, this study examines the role of the independent commissioner as a moderating variable in the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. Financial distress in this study employs the Altman model (1968) modified by Graham et al. (1998) which has a high prediction rate, above 60 percent, and its size has been used in various countries. Earnings management in is study employs the model of Kothari et al. (2005), known as the Performance-Matched Discretionary Accruals model. The advantage of the model is that it can measure earnings management more accurately. Using independent commissioners as a moderating variable in the association between earnings management and debt policies on financial distress is rarely used in previous studies.

Method : This study uses a quantitative method approach. The research data is sourced from consumer goods sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) financial statements. Research data sourced from www.idx.co.id and www.idnfinancials.com. Based on purposive sampling, the research sample consisted of 138 observations from 46 companies from 2018 to 2020. Hypothesis testing was carried out using multiple linear regression for panel data.

Findings : The results of this study indicate that earnings management has a negative effect on financial distress, while debt policy has a positive effect on financial distress. This study also finds that independent commissioners can attenuate the negative effect of earnings management on financial distress. Still, independent commissioners cannot have a moderating effect on the relationship between debt policy and financial distress.

Novelty : This study places independent commissioners, which have greatly influenced a company’s management performance, as a moderating variable in testing earnings management and debt policies on financial distress, which are rarely used in previous studies.

Keywords: Financial Difficulties; Earnings Quality; Capital Structure; Corporate Governance
The Link Between Authentic Leadership, Work Meaningfulness, and Work Engagement in Auditors
Authors: Vitasari Annisa , Yustina Andi Ina
Published: October 2023

Purpose : This study examines whether authentic leadership of external auditors’ leader affect work engagement and if so, whether the effect is mediated by work meaningfulness.

Method : Data were collected using a web-based questionnaire from 159 external auditors in Jakarta, Indonesia and used SEM-PLS approach to test the hypotheses.

Findings : The findings indicated that authentic leadership had significant effect on work meaningfulness and work engagement, and all dimensions of authentic leadership and work engagement had significant correlation. Moreover, work meaningfulness was found to be partially mediate the relationship between authentic leadership of external auditors’ leader and work engagement among external auditors and their leader

Novelty : This is one of the first studies to look at the conduct of auditors from the Big Four and non-Big Four firms in a public accounting firm across all dimensions of authentic leadership, work meaningfulness, and work engagement.

Keywords : Authentic Leadership; Work Meaningfulness; Work Engagement
Do Chief Audit Executives Able to Influence Real Earnings Management Practices? Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Taufiq Taufiq
Published: October 2023

Purpose : This study aims to investigate the relationship between financial expertise and tenure of the Chief Audit Executive [CAE] on real earnings management [REM] practices

Method : This study uses a sample of 797 observations from companies in the manufacturing sector in Indonesia during the period 2012 – 2019. For data analysis, regression of feasible generalized least squares was used. Data related to financial expertise and tenure of CAE were manually collected from the annual report and financial data was obtained from Thomson-Reuters Database.

Findings : The results of this study indicate that CAE with better financial expertise is associated with lower REM. Conversely, this study also indicates that CAE tenure has an association with higher REM. This result is robust by using an alternative REM measurement. By breaking down the indicators of CAE’s financial expertise, namely CAE’s certification, experience in financial positions within/inside the company or outside the company, the results show that CAE certification has the largest effect on REM.

Novelty : This study contributes to the real earnings management and internal audit literature by demonstrating the importance of attributes possessed by CAEs as leaders of the internal audit function in mitigating REM practices.

Keywords : Chief Audit Executive, Financial Expertise, Tenure, Real Earnings Management
Development and characterisation of a novel inhibitory anti-GH monoclonal antibody
Authors: Lu Man , Buckley Chantal , Wang Yue , Langley Ries J , Perry Jo K
Published: October 2023

Excess growth hormone (GH) has been implicated in multiple cancer types and there is increasing interest in the development of therapeutic inhibitors targeting GH–GH receptor (GHR) signalling. Here we describe a panel of anti-GH monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) generated using a hybridoma approach and identify two novel inhibitory mAbs (1-8-2 and 1-46-3) that neutralised GH signalling. mAbs 1-8-2 and 1-46-3 exhibited strong inhibitory activity against GH-dependent cell growth in a Ba/F3-GHR cell viability assay, with EC50 values of 1.00 ± 0.27 and 0.5 ± 0.1 µg/mL, respectively. Cross-reactivity with the human placental hormones, placental lactogen (PL) and placental GH, was observed by ELISA, but neither antibody cross-reacted with mouse GH or human prolactin (PRL). mAb 1-8-2 had a binding affinity for GH of KD 0.62 ± 0.5 nM, while mAb 1-46-3 had a KD of 2.68 ± 0.53 nM, as determined by bio-layer interferometry. mAb 1-46-3 inhibited GH-dependent signal transduction in T-47D and LNCaP cancer cell lines and reduced GH-dependent cell growth and migration in the breast cancer cell line T-47D. mAb 1-46-3 inhibited T-47D cell viability more effectively than the GHR antagonist B2036. In conclusion, we describe two novel inhibitory anti-GH mAbs and provide in vitro evidence supporting development of these entities as anti-cancer therapeutics.
Changes in strontium levels in bark and over the past 40 years in the wood of trees exposed to high levels of air pollution
Authors: Erdem Ramazan
Published: October 2023

The present study aims to identify the most suitable tree species for monitoring and reducing strontium (Sr) pollution. Strontium is a heavy metal that is extremely harmful to human and environmental health even at low concentrations and is listed as a priority pollutant by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry due to its potential harm. Samples were taken from Pinus pinaster, Cupressus arizonica, Picea orientalis, Cedrus atlantica, and Pseudotsuga menziesii species grown in Düzce, a location reported as one of the top 5 cities having the most polluted air in Europe by the World Air Pollution Report. The changes in Sr concentration over the last 40 years were evaluated by species, organ, direction, and age range. The results indicate that Sr pollution significantly increased due to traffic sources. This study also showed that the transfer of Sr within the wood is limited in all the species under consideration; hence, all these species can be used in monitoring the changes in Sr pollution. The most suitable species for reducing Sr pollution were Cupressus arizonica and Picea orientalis, which have the highest capacity to accumulate the most Sr in their wood.
Unleashing Customer Insights through K-Means Clustering for Enhanced Retail Decision-Making
Authors: Asuah Georgina , Prikutse Lemdi Frank
Published: October 2023

The modern retail industry now has access to vast volumes of data thanks to rising standards, automation, and technology, but the commercial decision-making process has become complicated. The utilization of Data Mining technologies for retail businesses has become indispensable for making decisions concerning sales, profit, customer satisfaction, and reduced cost. This study's foundation is segmentation principles using K-Means Algorithm in RapidMiner. This research adds to the development of useful insights into the future of Data Mining and its applications in the retail business. The results obtained from the survey indicate how retail businesses can make more informed decisions on how to keep their already customers satisfied and happy as well as how to alter factors to be more attractive to other customers.
Scavenging Efficiency of Activated Charcoal of Sweet Corn Cop and Areca Nut Shell for Carcinogenic Salicylic Acid and Methylene Blue
Authors: C Dakshayini , B Sadashivamurthy , K Ravishankar D. , Tallur Preeti N , M Aruna H , M Bhavana , S Arpitha H , A Pragasam
Published: October 2023

Activated plant charcoal plays major role in adsorption chemistry and finds a huge application in industry, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and water treatment. Present work planned to utilize waste sweet corn cop and areca nut husk to prepare charcoal by chemical method. The charcoal was carbonized at 8000C using muffle furnace. The adsorption efficiency of the experimental activated carbon adsorbents towards the model organic compounds methylene blue and salicylic acid were assessed by UV-Vis spectrophotometric method. Experimental results clearly indicates that sweet corn cop charcoal recorded maximum absorption for salicylic acid 640ppm/g in compare to areca nut shell husk charcoal 480ppm/g. Sweet corn cop charcoal recorded optimum absorption for methylene blue 240 ppm/g in compare to areca nut shell husk charcoal 240ppm/g. The experimental charcoal projects noticeable results in scavenging salicylic acid and methylene blue from polluted samples. This experimental results and affordable cost the raw material made the sweet corn cop and areca nut husk activated carbon a powerful alternative for the adsorption of carcinogenic organic compounds salicylic acid and methylene blue.
A Study of Cultural Acculturation in Architecture: Semarang Chinatown, Indonesia
Authors: Sudarwani Margareta Maria , Pasaribu Ramos P. , Eni Sri Pare
Published: October 2023

The Semarang Chinatown is one of the Chinatowns that shows the strength of the cultural economy, diversity and multiculturalism. Economic and socio-cultural activities that form the background of spatial formations influence the development of the area both physically and non-physically, especially the exploitation of the area for recreation and tourism purposes. The result is a decrease in the physical condition of the area, both buildings and the environment. This is of course not in line with the local government's policy of establishing the Semarang Chinatown as a Historical District based on Mayor Decree No. 645/50/1992. The character of the Semarang Chinatown is the result of a cross-cultural mix of immigrants at the beginning of the formation of ethnic villages in Semarang and developed over time. The existence of cultural diversity and multiculturalism of the immigrants resulted in an architectural blend that colored the architectural formations.The focus of this research is to discuss an architectural formation in the Semarang Chinatown which has a correlation with the acculturation process. The aim of the research is to explore in depth an architectural formation of the Semarang Chinatown which is influenced by a process of acculturation of culture and reveal the background of the cultural system in the form of ideas, ideas, values, norms, regulations, and so on that influence the architectural formation of the Semarang Chinatown. This study uses a naturalistic qualitative research paradigm with a grounded theory approach and inductive qualitative methods. In this research data is grouped into four: interviews, observations, documents, audio-visual materials. The result is giving directions for Preservation of the Environment and Historic Buildings in Semarang Chinatown.
Measuring AI Governance, AI Adoption and AI Strategy of Japanese Companies
Authors: Miyamoto Michiko
Published: October 2023

Purpose: This study aims to measure the level of AI governance and AI adoption among Japanese companies. Theoretical Framework: The research investigates the extent to which Japanese companies have implemented AI governance frameworks and the degree of AI adoption in their operations. The study also explores the relationship between AI governance, AI adoption, and AI strategy, providing insights into the factors that influence successful AI implementation. Design / Methodology / Approach: a survey questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of Japanese companies across various industries. The questionnaire included items that assessed the presence and effectiveness of AI governance practices within the organizations. Findings: a positive correlation was observed between AI governance and AI adoption. Companies with well-established AI governance frameworks tended to have higher levels of AI adoption, suggesting that effective governance practices play a crucial role in facilitating successful AI implementation. These findings provide valuable insights into the current state of AI governance and AI adoption among Japanese companies. Conclusion: The results can assist organizations in benchmarking their AI initiatives against industry standards and identifying areas for improvement. Policymakers and regulators can also utilize these findings to develop guidelines and frameworks that promote responsible and effective AI implementation.
2D Node-Based Finite Element Method on Linear Accelerator Cavity for Radiation Therapy
Authors: Pusuluri Vinod Babu , Prasad A M , Darimireddy Naresh K
Published: October 2023

This paper deals with the Electromagnetic (EM) field characterization of an S-band Linear Accelerator (LA) Cavity, which is extensively used in cancer treatment. The analysis of the proposed cavity is carried out using an Eigen-mode full-wave EM solver. Mathematical formulation of cavity parameters using the Finite Element Method up to the system of equations is presented. The EM formulization uses a simple 2D square box as segmentation element and also node-based basis functions are used inside the cavity than the edge-based functions. The proposed numerical analysis of a single cavity of LA system is also applicable for a system with multiple numbers of cavities. The cavity has a resonance of 3.0474 GHz and a Q-factor of 17181.6 with finite conducting boundaries at the ends of the drift tube. The nose cone structure in the cavity is essential to have a stronger E-field at the center where the beam passes. Further, the particle acceleration is not constant along the axis of the cavity, which may have severe consequences for beam dynamics. Proper beam dynamics in LA plays a key role in reducing the mortality rate in cancer therapy applications.
Air Pollution in The Industrial Areas of Temple City, Bhubaneswar, And Various Measures for It
Authors: Pathi Subrat Ranjan , Dalai Biswajit , Dash Sarat Kumar , Agarwal P.C.
Published: October 2023

The presence of pollutants that are hazardous to the environment, human health, and the health of other living things is referred to as air pollution. Air pollution is also brought on by natural disasters like wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and sand/dust storms. All greenhouse gases emitted from various sources contribute to pollution. The majority of cities are polluted by PM2.5 and PM10. Many cities have SO2 and NO2 levels that are below the legal limit. There are a variety of poisons in the air, but PM2.5 is the most dangerous of them all. Monitoring pollutant gas levels on a regular basis can help with air pollution control. According to regional coefficients of variation, PM10 has greater variability than PM2.5, and this variability is stronger in traffic-affected inner city environments than in suburban places.  The manufacturing, construction, energy, and mining industries of Bhubaneswar are particularly prone to releasing air pollutants. These may include particulate matter (PM), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other hazardous chemicals.  The federal government and municipalities have implemented a number of initiatives to combat air pollution. These include putting into effect car emission rules, encouraging the use of cleaner fuels, and creating programmes to cut industrial emissions. The government is also focusing on expanding green space, enhancing public transit, and raising public awareness of the significance of lowering air pollution.
A Social-Welfare based OPF for Integrated Power System with Unified Power Flow Controller
Authors: Yaseen Md. , Bali Sravana Kumar
Published: October 2023

In the present transmission systems, it has become mandatory to utilize the available resources and also to substitute it with the renewable energy sources at the earliest. The optimal utilization of the resources provides an added advantage of reduction of its cost to the end consumers of electrical energy. In this paper, a multi- objective optimal power flow (OPF) in the existence of FACTS devices has been proposed for an integrated transmission system. The uniqueness of this paper is the choice of the multi-objective function. The objective function includes minimization of voltage deviation, power loss and negative social welfare (NSW). The reduction of loss and NSW ensures the reduction of per-unit charge of electricity at the customer-end leading to a greater customer satisfaction. The FACTS device used for the problem is Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC). The hypothesis has been applied on an IEEE 30 bus system. The Mouth Flame Optimization Algorithm has been used for the optimization of objective function. The results obtained have been presented, compared and analysed in detail.
Developing Motion Detection Approach through Image Processing using Kalman Filtering and Gaussian Mixture Model
Authors: Barnuevo Patricia Arianne L. , Orani Paul Andrew S. , Valiente Flordeliza L.
Published: October 2023

Motion tracking through image processing requires validating the subject's presence which can use for automated systems. However, detecting a moving subject in a real-time video is a complex approach in terms of visual scenes. The Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) is a flexible tool for image processing modeling. The concept of Kalman Filtering can be applied for noise filtering of a real-time video and tracking the motion in the image. The algorithms used in this study are to develop a motion-tracking system that uses a bounding box to assign tracks to the detected motion. The algorithm developed in MATLAB software includes the parameters for the Kalman Filtering and GMM. The testing involved an IP camera, Arduino Uno as the indicator if motion is detected, and different values of the parameters for the training frame. The confusion matrix is used for the statistical analysis of the five trials to detect the True Positive and measure the system's accuracy. The study showed promising results as it obtained a true positive rate of 0.6000 from trial 4, having the applied parameters of 3 for the gaussian number, 110 for the training frame, and 0.4 for the minimum background ratio.
Prevalence of factor causing infertility and psychological wellbeing among infertile women attending infertility clinics of selected hospital of Bagalakot
Authors: Zalki Aishwarya , Angadi Savita , Natekar Deelip S , . Ramanna , . Rekha , . Tejaswini , . Kamala , T Manna , . Sanjeev
Published: October 2023

Background infertility is a medical condition that can cause psychological, physical, mental, spiritual, and medical detriments to the patient. The unique quality of this medical condition involves affecting both the patient and the patient's partner as a couple. Objective: find the prevalence, of factor causing infertility and psychological well being among infertile women. Methods: A Descriptive cross sectional design with a sample of 100 infertile women, selected infertility clinics of Bagalkot. and the data were collected by using Hospital records. Tolls used for data collection were; socio demographic questionnaire, RYFF scale was used to assess the data regarding prevalence of factor causing infertility and psychological well being. The data was entered in MS excel sheet and transferred to SPSS 18 for analysis. Results: Finding revels thata significant association found between age ,(p=1.0000) Education(0.0181). of psychological well being and with their demographic variables and there is no association found between occupation, Family monthly income, type of family, type of diet, age at menarche, age at marriage, of psychological well being with their selected socio demographic variables.Conclusion: Interventions aimed at treating the prevalence of factors causing infertile women would result in enhancement their psychological well being.
Dry eye and corneal sensation following cataract surgery
Authors: Pavithra V , Divya N , G Taarika
Published: October 2023

Aim:To evaluate dry eye and corneal sensation changes after small incision cataract surgery and phacoemulsification. Materials and method :A crossectional study with 60 uncomplicated cataract patients between age 40 and 75yrs who had undergone surgery have been taken for the study. Dry eye and corneal sensation changes have been analysed after phacoemulsification and SICS by schirmer’s test and Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer. The study was conducted over a period of 3 months in the ophthalmology department of saveetha medical college hospital ,Thandalam. Results :The study was conducted over a period of 90 days postoperatively the corneal sensation was found out to be decreased 35% in GroupA(SICS) and 30% in Group B(phaco emulsification) when compared to the cataract eye before cataract surgery. Out of the patients 8% showed dry eye symptoms with reduced value in Schirmer’s test and of which 10% belongs to Group B
Comparative Study on the Postoperative Outcomes of Pterygium Excision Using Autologous Serum and Sutures
Authors: G Taarika , Divya N , Ramakrishnan Abinaya
Published: October 2023

Objective: To analyse the postoperative outcomes of pterygium excision using autologous serum and sutures to determine the effectiveness and patient compliance of each method. Design: This is a retrospective study of postoperative outcomes. Method: The study population included 50 patients with pterygium who had undergone surgery at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital. The postoperative development data was collected and analysed. Result: The results of conguncival autograft using suture was superior to that of autologous graft in terms of duration of surgery and graft retraction.There was not much difference in terms of recurrence rate and graft displacement. Conclusion: After undergoing surgery the outcome suggests that suture technique is a better approach compared to the autologous serum technique but further confirmation is still needed. Keywords: Pterygium, autologous serum, suture, conjunctival autograft.