bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sub-micron pixel polarization-sensitive photodetector based on silicon nanowire
Authors: Liu Lingzhi , Liang Haifeng , Huang Yuting , Cai Changlong , Liu Weiguo , Yu Xiaoning , Zhang Jin
Published: March 2024

Silicon nanowire is a potential candidate to be used as polarization-sensitive material, but the relative mechanism of polarization response must be carried out. Herein, a sub-micron metal-single silicon nanowire-metal photodetector exhibits polarization-sensitive characteristics with an anisotropic photocurrent ratio of 1.59 at 780 nm, an excellent responsivity of 24.58 mA/W, and a high detectivity of 8.88 × 109 Jones at 980 nm. The underlying principle of optical anisotropy in silicon nanowire is attributed to resonance enhancement verified by polarizing light microscopy and simulation. Furthermore, Stokes parameter measurements and imaging are all demonstrated by detecting the characteristics of linearly polarized light and imaging the polarizer array, respectively. Given the maturity of silicon processing, the sub-micron linearly polarized light detection proposed in this study lays the groundwork for achieving highly integrated, simplified processes, and cost-effective on-chip polarization-sensitive optical chips in the future.
Stochastic ray tracing for Fresnel diffraction
Authors: Seto Keita
Published: March 2024

We propose stochastic ray tracing for laser beam propagation in Fresnel diffraction to find the duality between wave and ray representations. We transform from the Maxwell equations to the Schrödinger equation for a monochromatic laser beam in the slowly varying envelope approximation. The stochastic ray tracing method interprets this Schrödinger equation as a stochastic process, of an analogy of Nelson’s stochastic mechanics. It can illustrate the stochastic paths and the wavefront of an optical beam. This ray tracing method includes Fresnel diffraction effects naturally. We show its general theoretical construction and numerical tests for a Gaussian laser beam with diffraction, that stochasticity realizes the beam waist around the Rayleigh range.
Switchable hybrid-order optical vortex lattice
Authors: Qin Xueyun , Zhang Hao , Tang Miaomiao , Zhou Yujie , Tai Yuping , Li Xinzhong
Published: March 2024

Optical vortex (OV) modulation is a powerful technique for enhancing the intrinsic degrees-of-freedom in structured light applications. Particularly, the lattices involving multiple OVs have garnered significant academic interest owing to their wide applicability in optical tweezers and condensed matter physics. However, all OVs in a lattice possess the same order, which cannot be modulated individually, limiting its versatile application. Herein, we propose, to our knowledge, a novel concept, called the hot-swap method, to design a switchable hybrid-order OV lattice, in which each OV is easily replaced by arbitrary orders. We experimentally generated the switchable hybrid-order OV lattice and studied its characteristics, including interferograms, retrieved phase, energy flow, and orbital angular momentum. Furthermore, the significant advantages of the switchable hybrid-order OV lattice are demonstrated through the independent manipulation of multiple yeast cells. This study provides a novel scheme for accurate control and modulation of OV lattices, which greatly facilitates the diverse applications of optical manipulation and particle trapping and control.
Decoding of compressive data pages for optical data storage utilizing FFDNet
Authors: He Zehao , Zhang Yan , Chu Daping , Cao Liangcai
Published: March 2024

Coded aperture-based compression has proven to be an effective approach for high-density cold data storage. Nevertheless, its limited decoding speed represents a significant challenge for its broader application. We introduce a novel, to the best of our knowledge, decoding method leveraging the fast and flexible denoising network (FFDNet), capable of decoding a coded aperture-based compressive data page within 30.64 s. The practicality of the method has been confirmed in the decoding of monochromatic photo arrays, full-color photos, and dynamic videos. In experimental trials, the variance between decoded results obtained via the FFDNet-based method and the FFDNet-absent method in terms of average PSNR is less than 1 dB, while realizing a decoding speed enhancement of over 100-fold when employing the FFDNet-based method.
Intense emission at 605 nm from Pr3+-doped fluorotellurite glass fibers
Authors: Yan Jinming , Jia Zhixu , Wang Junjie , Zhang Chuanze , Wang Fangning , Meng Fanchao , Ohishi Yasutake , Zhang Daming , Qin Weiping , Wang Fei , Qin Guanshi
Published: March 2024

Pr3+-doped fluorotellurite glass fibers (PDFTFs) were fabricated by using a rod-in-tube method. By using a 976/1400 nm dual-wavelength upconversion pump technique, an intense emission at 605 nm was obtained from a 6 cm long PDFTF, which was attributed to the transition 1D2 → 3H4 of Pr3+ ions. With an increase in power of the 1400 nm laser from ∼34 to ∼136 mW, the spectral bandwidth of the 605 nm emission decreased and the intensity of the 605 nm emission increased monotonically, indicating the generation of 605 nm amplified spontaneous emission (ASE). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of 605 nm ASE in PDFTFs. Our results showed that PDFTFs had the potential for constructing red fiber lasers and amplifiers.
Impact of COVID-19 on people living with HIV and HIV care: A qualitative study in the Volta Region of Ghana
Authors: Asakitogum David Ayangba , Nutor Jerry John , Thompson Rachel G. A. , Alhassan Robert K. , Gyamerah Akua O.
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant social changes and challenges globally, including economic slowdown and limitation of essential services. Our study explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the HIV treatment experiences and lives of people living with HIV in Ghana. Between October 2021 and January 2022, we conducted four focus group discussions with 24 people living with HIV and six in-depth interviews with healthcare providers to understand the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on their lives and HIV treatment and care. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic most impacted people living with HIV economically and psychosocially. Economic challenges included loss of income/economic support, financial hardship, and material insecurities. The psychosocial impact included fear of the health impact of COVID-19 on people living with HIV and social isolation. The pandemic also impacted participants’ HIV treatment and care services including change in their site of care and non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Clinics in particular modified HIV care services to maintain treatment and care during the pandemic. Healthcare providers also implemented direct antiretroviral therapy service delivery to clients, which reduced patient overcrowding but increased providers’ workload and expenses. The COVID-19 pandemic caused economic hardship, social isolation, and changes in HIV treatment and care services for people living with HIV. It also imposed a work and financial burden on healthcare providers. However, service changes made by providers helped sustain HIV care and treatment for clients and should inform future pandemic responses in HIV services.
The effects of protein supplementation, fumagillin treatment, and colony management on the productivity and long-term survival of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies
Authors: Peirson Michael , Ibrahim Abdullah , Ovinge Lynae P. , Hoover Shelley E. , Guarna M. Marta , Melathopoulos Andony , Pernal Stephen F.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we intensively measured the longitudinal productivity and survival of 362 commercially managed honey bee colonies in Canada, over a two-year period. A full factorial experimental design was used, whereby two treatments were repeated across apiaries situated in three distinct geographic regions: Northern Alberta, Southern Alberta and Prince Edward Island, each having unique bee management strategies. In the protein supplemented treatment, colonies were continuously provided a commercial protein supplement containing 25% w/w pollen, in addition to any feed normally provided by beekeepers in that region. In the fumagillin treatment, colonies were treated with the label dose of Fumagilin-B® each year during the fall. Neither treatment provided consistent benefits across all sites and dates. Fumagillin was associated with a large increase in honey production only at the Northern Alberta site, while protein supplementation produced an early season increase in brood production only at the Southern Alberta site. The protein supplement provided no long-lasting benefit at any site and was also associated with an increased risk of death and decreased colony size later in the study. Differences in colony survival and productivity among regions, and among colonies within beekeeping operations, were far larger than the effects of either treatment, suggesting that returns from extra feed supplements and fumagillin were highly contextually dependent. We conclude that use of fumagillin is safe and sometimes beneficial, but that beekeepers should only consider excess protein supplementation when natural forage is limiting.
Where are the vulnerable children? Identification and comparison of clusters of young children with health and developmental vulnerabilities across Queensland
Authors: Draidi Areed Wala , Price Aiden , Arnett Kathryn , Mengersen Kerrie , Thompson Helen
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to better understand the vulnerability of children in their first year of school, aged between 5 years 5 months and 6 years 6 months, based on five health and development domains. Identification of subgroups of children within these domains can lead to more targeted policies to reduce these vulnerabilities. The focus of this study was to determine clusters of geographical regions with high and low proportions of vulnerable children in Queensland, Australia. This was achieved by carrying out aK-means analysis on data from the Australian Early Development Census and the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The clusters were then compared with respect to their geographic locations and risk factor profiles. The results are made publicly available via an interactive dashboard application developed in R Shiny.
Predictors of loss to follow up among adults on antiretroviral therapy before and after the start of treat-all strategy in public health facilities of Hawassa city, Ethiopia: A Competing risk regression
Authors: Ganta Abera Gezume , Wabeto Ermias , Minuta Worku Mimani , Wegi Chala , Berheto Tezera , Samuel Serawit , Assele Desalegn Dawit
Published: March 2024

Background

Treat-all strategies improved patient outcomes, despite higher rates of loss to follow-up compared to the pre-treat era. Patients in Ethiopia experienced a higher rate of LTFU during the treat-all strategy period; however, studies did not identify contributing factors in comparison with previous strategies. This study aimed to assess the incidence and predictors of loss to follow-up before and after the start of the treat-all strategy among adults on anti-retroviral therapy in public health facilities in Hawassa City, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 1190 randomly selected adults on antiretroviral therapy in public health facilities in Hawassa City. Using the Open Data Kit (ODK), data were collected from medical records and exported to Stata version 16 and R 4.2.1 for analysis. A Grays test and cumulative incidence curve were used to compare the cumulative incidence function of loss to follow-up. Bivariable and multivariable competing risk regression were fitted to identify predictors of LTFU and variables with a p-value <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The cumulative incidence of lost-to-follow-up was 4.92(3.84,6.3) and 8.67(7.26,10.3) per 100 person-years (PY) in pre-treat all and treat all cohorts, respectively. The cumulative incidence of mortality was 5.86(4.67,7.35) and 3(2.26,4.12) per 100 PY in pre-treat and treat all cohorts, respectively. Fair/poor adherence (aSHR:5.17; (95% CI 1.97, 13.51), underweight (aSHR:2.13; 95% CI: 1.15–3.93) and WHO stage III/IV (aSHR:2.69; 95% CI: 1.27, 5.71) were predictors of loss up in pre—treat all, whereas fair/poor adherence (aSHR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.18, 3.68), underweight (aSHR:1.71; 95% CI: 1.13, 2.56), and CD4 cell >350 cell/m3 (aSHR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.05, 2.65) predicts of loss up in treat all cohorts.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the incidence of loss to follow-up was considerably higher in the treat-all period as compared to the pre-treat-all era. Poor medication compliance, underweight, and a CD4 level >350 cells/m3 contributed to the higher rate of LTFU in the treat-all strategy. Targeted interventions, such as nutritional support and strengthening medication adherence counseling, should be implemented to maintain treatment retention and reduce antiretroviral therapy dropout rates.
Data retrieval from archival renal biopsies using nonlinear microscopy
Authors: Cahill Lucas C. , Yoshitake Tadayuki , Rosen Milan , Weber Timothy D. , Fujimoto James G. , Rosen Seymour
Published: March 2024

Thorough examination of renal biopsies may improve understanding of renal disease. Imaging of renal biopsies with fluorescence nonlinear microscopy (NLM) and optical clearing enables three-dimensional (3D) visualization of pathology without microtome sectioning. Archival renal paraffin blocks from 12 patients were deparaffinized and stained with Hoechst and Eosin for fluorescent nuclear and cytoplasmic/stromal contrast, then optically cleared using benzyl alcohol benzyl benzoate (BABB). NLM images of entire biopsy fragments (thickness range 88–660 μm) were acquired using NLM with fluorescent signals mapped to an H&E color scale. Cysts, glomeruli, exudative lesions, and Kimmelstiel-Wilson nodules were segmented in 3D and their volumes, diameters, and percent composition could be obtained. The glomerular count on 3D NLM volumes was high indicating that archival blocks could be a vast tissue resource to enable larger-scale retrospective studies. Rapid optical clearing and NLM imaging enables more thorough biopsy examination and is a promising technique for analysis of archival paraffin blocks.
Has sentiment returned to the pre-pandemic level? A sentiment analysis using U.S. college subreddit data from 2019 to 2022
Authors: Yan Tian , Liu Fang
Published: March 2024

Background

As the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic winds down, both individuals and society are gradually returning to life and activities before the pandemic. This study aims to explore how people’s emotions have changed from the pre-pandemic period during the pandemic to this post-emergency period and whether the sentiment level nowadays has returned to the pre-pandemic level.

Method

We collected Reddit social media data in 2019 (pre-pandemic), 2020 (peak period of the pandemic), 2021, and 2022 (late stages of the pandemic, transitioning period to the post-emergency period) from the subreddits communities in 128 universities/colleges in the U.S., and a set of school-level baseline characteristics such as location, enrollment, graduation rate, selectivity, etc. We predicted two sets of sentiments from a pre-trained Robustly Optimized BERT pre-training approach (RoBERTa) and a graph attention network (GAT) that leverages both the rich semantic information and the relational information among posted messages and then applied model stacking to obtain the final sentiment classification. After obtaining the sentiment label for each message, we employed a generalized linear mixed-effects model to estimate the temporal trend in sentiment from 2019 to 2022 and how the school-level factors may affect the sentiment.

Results

Compared to the year 2019, the odds of negative sentiment in years 2020, 2021, and 2022 are 25%. 7.3%, and 6.3% higher, respectively, which are all statistically significant at the 5% significance level based on the multiplicity-adjusted p-values.

Conclusions

Our study findings suggest a partial recovery in the sentiment composition (negative vs. non-negative) in the post-pandemic-emergency era. The results align with common expectations and provide a detailed quantification of how sentiments have evolved from 2019 to 2022 in the sub-population represented by the sample examined in this study.
Digital image processing: A new tool for morphological measurements of freshwater turtles under rehabilitation
Authors: Panda Ashish Kumar , Verma Vikas , Srivastav Anupam , Badola Ruchi , Hussain Syed Ainul
Published: March 2024

Freshwater fauna is facing an uphill task for survival in the Ganga Basin, India, due to a range of factors causing habitat degradation and fragmentation, necessitating conservation interventions. As part of the ongoing efforts to conserve the freshwater fauna of the Basin, we are working on rehabilitating rescued freshwater chelonians. We carry out various interventions to restore rescued individuals to an apparent state of fitness for their release in suitable natural habitats. Morphometric measurements are crucial to managing captive wild animals for assessing their growth and well-being. Measurements are made using manual methods like vernier caliper that are prone to observer error experience and require handling the specimens for extended periods. Digital imaging technology is rapidly progressing at a fast pace and with the advancement of technology. We acquired images of turtles using smartphones along with manual morphometric measurements using vernier calipers of the straight carapace length and straight carapace width. The images were subsequently processed using ImageJ, a freeware and compared with manual morphometric measurements. A significant decrease in the time spent in carrying out morphometric measurements was observed in our study. The difference in error in measurements was, however, not significant. A probable cause for this may have been the extensive experience of the personnel carrying out the measurements using vernier caliper. Digital image processing technology can cause a significant reduction in the stress of the animals exposed to handling during measurements, thereby improving their welfare. Additionally, this can be used in the field to carry out morphometric measurements of free-ranging individuals, where it is often difficult to capture individuals, and challenges are faced in obtaining permission to capture specimens.
Pathological changes in oral epithelium and the expression of SARS-CoV-2 entry receptors, ACE2 and furin
Authors: Grinstein-Koren Osnat , Lusthaus Michal , Tabibian-Keissar Hilla , Kaplan Ilana , Buchner Amos , Ilatov Ron , Vered Marilena , Zlotogorski-Hurvitz Ayelet
Published: March 2024

Background

Expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 and co-factors like furin, play key-roles in entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells. Furin is also involved in oral carcinogenesis. We investigated their expression in oral pre-malignant/malignant epithelial pathologies to evaluate whether ACE2 and furin expression might increase susceptibility of patients with these lesions for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

Study included normal oral mucosa (N = 14), epithelial hyperplasia-mild dysplasia (N = 27), moderate-to-severe dysplasia (N = 24), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, N = 34) and oral lichen planus (N = 51). Evaluation of ACE2/furin membranous/membranous-cytoplasmic immunohistochemical expression was divided by epithelial thirds (basal/middle/upper), on a 5-tier scale (0, 1—weak, 1.5 –weak-to-moderate, 2—moderate, 3—strong). Total score per case was the sum of all epithelial thirds, and the mean staining score per group was calculated. Real time-polymerase chain reaction was performed for ACE2-RNA. Statistical differences were analyzed by One-way ANOVA, significance at p<0.05.

Results

All oral mucosa samples were negative for ACE2 immuno-expression and its transcripts. Overall, furin expression was weakly present with total mean expression being higher in moderate-to-severe dysplasia and hyperplasia-mild dysplasia than in normal epithelium (p = 0.01, each) and SCC (p = 0.008, p = 0.009, respectively).

Conclusions

Oral mucosa, normal or with epithelial pathologies lacked ACE2 expression. Furin was weak and mainly expressed in dysplastic lesions. Thus, patients with epithelial pathologies do not seem to be at higher risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Overall, results show that oral mucosae do not seem to be a major site of SARS-CoV-2 entry and these were discussed vis-à-vis a comprehensive analysis of the literature.
Impact of uncertain demand and channel power on dual channel supply chain decisions
Authors: Zhao Liu-wei , Zhao Yin
Published: March 2024

The paper aims to conduct an analysis of pricing strategies in a dual channel supply chain under external uncertainty, utilizing Interval numbers theory and Game theory as the theoretical basis. The focus is on maximizing the expected profits of manufacturers and retailers. Four models are considered: centralized decision-making, manufacturer’s Stackelberg, retailer’s Stackelberg strategy, and vertical Nash model, with the decision variable being the product price. By solving the game model, the paper compares the optimal decisions under the four models and conducts sensitivity analysis to reflect the influence of key parameters and analyze their relationships. The ultimate goal is to optimize profits under various circumstances by adjusting market potential and price parameters to determine the best price level. The findings suggest that decision-maker’s risk indicators have a greater impact on decision results when market demand is less sensitive to price, and that the size of the market has a negative correlation with the impact of decision-maker’s risk indicators on decision results.
Structural insights into the octamerization of glycerol dehydrogenase
Authors: Park Taein , Kang Jung Youn , Jin Minwoo , Yang Jihyeong , Kim Hyunwoo , Noh Chaemin , Jung Che-Hun , Eom Soo Hyun
Published: March 2024

Glycerol dehydrogenase (GDH) catalyzes glycerol oxidation to dihydroxyacetone in a NAD+-dependent manner. As an initiator of the oxidative pathway of glycerol metabolism, a variety of functional and structural studies of GDH have been conducted previously. Structural studies revealed intriguing features of GDH, like the flexible β-hairpin and its significance. Another commonly reported structural feature is the enzyme’s octameric oligomerization, though its structural details and functional significance remained unclear. Here, with a newly reported GDH structure, complexed with both NAD+ and glycerol, we analyzed the octamerization of GDH. Structural analyses revealed that octamerization reduces the structural dynamics of the N-domain, which contributes to more consistently maintaining a distance required for catalysis between the cofactor and substrate. This suggests that octamerization may play a key role in increasing the likelihood of the enzyme reaction by maintaining the ligands in an appropriate configuration for catalysis. These findings expand our understanding of the structure of GDH and its relation to the enzyme’s activity.
A second of structured chaos: Kosmos/chaos dialectic in Meshuggah’s Catch 33
Authors: Merlini Mattia
Published: March 2024

Among the most frequent features of the Swedish extreme metal band Meshuggah’s music, there is an omni-presence of minor-second intervals and distorted eight-string guitars, a remarkable amount of odd time signatures, aggressive vocals and an endless attempt to thwart the listener’s expectations. In this case study I analyse the many contradictions present in Meshuggah’s album Catch 33 (2005), which I interpret as a concept album about paradox or a long single song (constituted by thirteen individual tracks not separated by breaks) that seeks to balance the variety, complexity, ‘imperfection’ of its starting material – the chaos side of the album’s style – with elements that promote order, intelligibility and ‘perfection’ – its kosmos side. By which musical means does the band represent contradiction and paradox in this album, and their style in general? I argue that there are specific musical (but also conceptual, lyrical, structural and contextual) reasons that make the album representative of the band’s discography and style, to the point of being possibly considered their quintessential work (despite often being labelled as an experimental entry in the band’s output), and one of the most coherent incarnations of (proto-)djent stylistic features. The kosmos/chaos dialectic is the idea I choose to describe the ongoing struggle for stability at work in this music, capable of magnifying the beauty of imperfection and the paradoxical truth behind the sentiment, expressed in the lyrics, that we are ‘sentenced to a lifetime | a second of structured chaos’.
Electronic Coding for Abnormal Fecal Immunochemical Test Is Associated With Increased Colonoscopy Completion
Authors: Burns Shohei , Griffith Madeline , Patel Shreya , Sarkar Urmimala , Somsouk Ma
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION:

We examined the utility of the International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code, R19.5, for a positive or abnormal fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and its association with colonoscopy completion.

METHODS:

We identified all patients in a safety-net health system who underwent FITs from January 1, 2020, to August 31, 2021, and extracted the FIT date, FIT result, and ICD-10 code (R19.5) and colonoscopy procedures for each patient.

RESULTS:

FIT-positive patients who had an R19.5 designation within 90 days (n = 383) were significantly more likely than all other FIT-positive patients (n = 273) to complete a colonoscopy within 6 months (40.9% vs 16.8%, P <0.001).

DISCUSSION:

We found that less than two-thirds of patients had an ICD-10 code designated in their chart within 30 days of an abnormal FIT. When coding occurred in a timely manner, patients were more likely to complete their colonoscopy within 6 months.
Digital model of automated unmanned aerial vehicle with edge computing application for railway reconnaissance
Authors: Tulembayeva Aigul , Ashirov Shayakhmet , Makarov Evgenij , Seitbattalov Zhexen
Published: March 2024

In the last decade, unmanned aerial vehicles have been widely used in various civil and military field operations. Most modern drones are manually controlled by an operator and require decision making, which requires experience gained through training, which is time consuming and expensive, and even with experienced operators, the human factor can never be excluded. In this paper, an algorithm for an automatic flight mode of unmanned aerial vehicles without an operator’s participation has been developed. The proposed algorithm has been considered in the military reconnaissance of railways using edge computing and computer vision approaches to recognise railroads and moving trains for simulated and real cases as well as send report data to the web platform. As a result, the head of the operation received information about the number of carriages and Global Positioning System coordinates of the recognised train to make the necessary decisions.
Post Pandemic Business Sustainability Performance on Indonesian Stock Exchange Listed Companies
Authors: Mulyono M
Published: March 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of the pandemic on the performance of business sustainability implementation related to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Government) in companies listed on ESG-based stock indices on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. ESG-based stock indices are the SRI-KEHATI index, ESG Leaders index, ESG Sector Leader index, ESG Quality 45 index, and IDX LQ45 Low Carbon Leaders Index. ESG score data is obtained from the S&P Global website. There are 31 companies that are listed on the ESG-based index with available ESG score data. The data analysis used in this study is the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test and Mann-Whitney Test. The study concludes that the Covid-19 pandemic has positively and significantly affected the company's ESG performance. In the Environmental component, the conclusion is that there is no difference between the performance of the company and its industry. In the Social component, there is a difference between the performance of the company and its industry. In the Governance component, the conclusion is that there is a difference between the performance of the company and its industry. Furthermore, the Social component has a significantly higher average when compared to the assessment of the Social component of the industry. During the pandemic, the company carried out social actions to reduce the impact of the pandemic on the community; the pandemic made the company more sensitive to the condition of the surrounding community. This research provides a view of businesses that are trying to survive during the pandemic by focusing on business sustainability and the community.
The Effects of Management Control Systems and Leadership Style on Company Performance
Authors: Fitri Fauziah Aida , Syukur Muhammad , Faradiba Dian
Published: March 2024

A management control system (MCS) is one of the tools used to evaluate performance at different organisational levels. This study employs the Levers of Control (LoC) dimension introduced by Simons in 1995, consisting of the belief system, boundary system, diagnostic control system, and interactive control system. Besides, leadership styles (transformational style and transactional style) are also believed to influence company performance. This study aims to investigate the role of MCS and leadership styles on company performance. The result finds that MCS and leadership styles have a significant positive impact on company performance. The findings also suggest that the transactional leadership style and the diagnostic control system could improve company performance.
Obstacles Facing the Development of Forensic Accounting Curricula within Australian Universities: Exploring Perspectives of Practitioners and Educators
Authors: Al-Shurafat Hashem , Sands John , Jones Gregory , Beattie Claire
Published: March 2024

Forensic accounting education has become an increasingly significant issue in recent years. In Australia, universities have acknowledged the industry’s growing relevance, and there have been attempts to address gaps in the provision of forensic accounting education. Despite these efforts, forensic accounting education is frequently omitted in university programs. This paper seeks to identify the obstacles that influence the transformation of forensic accounting knowledge into university programs. To do so, this study explores the perspectives of two groups: forensic accounting practitioners and university academics. Simi-structured interviews were conducted with the two groups to gather their perception. The findings show that the interdisciplinary nature of forensic accounting, the educator's relevant experience, and some other factors (e.g. university timetabling, calendar, venue arrangements, lack of forensic accounting instructional material, and professional and educational accreditations) are all obstacles facing the development process of forensic accounting. It is recommended for schools that do not have the required resources or are facing many obstacles in integrating forensic accounting education to offer an introductory elective course in the curriculum or utilize appropriately qualified guest speakers. The findings in this qualitative study could help educators in the development process of forensic accounting curricula.
Indonesia Government Sets Back: The Rule Of Law, Collaborative Governance And Human Right Challenges During Covid-19
Authors: Warsono Hardi , Amaliyah Anita , Putranti Ika Riswanti , Iannone Aniello
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken mankind by surprise and has caused many governments to impose various rules and strategies to contain it. This article discusses the social impact of government policies during COVID-19, the role of agencies other than the government, and the importance of human rights. Collaborative Governance regime and theory are used to complement qualitative methods and for quantitative method, data collection techniques based on literature research, institutional reports, survey results from journals, online media, and print media, as well as the input of experts in focus group discussions. We found that 1) inconsistencies in policy; 2) lack of coordination and leadership; 3) trust issues; and (4) inequalities and injustice performances increased the pressure on social compliance. Our results indicate that the government needs to be more agile to accommodate, nurture and integrate social actors as governance partners in order to ensure its efficacy, resilience and compliance during this pandemic. The government  needs to ensure that an inclusive approach is adopted in multi-dimensional channels so none is left behind and the collaborative governance framework in this pandemic war needs to be improved and implemented. In addition,the government should ensure equal treatment of human rights as specially in human safety in health and safety measures.
Preventive and Evaluative Mechanism Analysis on Regulatory and Legislation Reform in Indonesia
Authors: Astariyani Ni Luh Gede , Hermanto Bagus , Da Cruz Rosino , Wisnaeni Fifiana
Published: March 2024

The quality of regulatory and legislative measures, both within and outside the hierarchy in Indonesia, can be assessed using certain indicators. These indicators demonstrate a stagnation and a slight shift towards other legal issues. To improve the quality of regulatory and legislative measures, it is necessary to amend preventive and evaluative mechanisms. This condition provides a foundation for further analysis of all problems, with a focus on creating a positive system that prioritizes urgency and required improvements. This paper aims to analyze the preventive and evaluative mechanisms of legislation in Indonesia objectively. This article uses the doctrinal legal method, utilizing legal concepts, statutory laws, legal facts, and legal case approaches. It suggests amending the current mechanism and recommends reforms towards both preventive and evaluative mechanisms to improve regulatory and legislative quality in Indonesia. This study was concerned with formulating grounded principles and concepts, and providing proof of concept for preventive and evaluative mechanisms towards statutory laws, which would ensure the sustainability of Indonesia's legislative and regulatory reform.
Vznik a zánik narativu na příkladu putování jedné svatojánské sochy
Authors: Gausová Zörnerová Markéta
Published: March 2024

Using the example of the statue of St John of Nepomuk outside Saint John the Baptist Church (Na Prádle) in Prague’s Lesser Town, the author presents a reflection on the wide range of ideas upon which the narrative of a historical monument located in the city’s landscape depends on. This sculpture is especially admired as an example of Baroque art. The location of this statue in front of Saint John the Baptist Church is one of the factors that creates the impression of a picturesque and visually attractive spot. At the same time, however, this statue is known to have been originally located on the opposite shore of the Vltava River. Until the beginning of the 20th century, it was part of a religious cult, and its presence in the Cattle Market (now Charles Square) was seen as part of a greater pilgrimage site in which St John of Nepomuk was revered. By studying sources and literature, the author gradually uncovers layers of meanings intertwined with this particular work. At the same time, the author reflects on the possible consequences of transferring (not only) religious monuments from their original locations, especially with regard to the city’s memory.
Predicting consumers’ garment fit satisfactions by using machine learning
Authors: Oosterom Evrim Buyukaslan , Baytar Fatma , Akdemir Deniz , Kalaoglu Fatma
Published: March 2024

The objectives of this study were to apply alternative machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict consumers’ garment fit satisfactions (real fit satisfaction [RFS]) and compare the efficiencies of these algorithms to predict RFS. Skirts made from different fabrics were used as test garments. Mechanical properties of the skirts’ fabrics were assigned as predictor variables to estimate RFS. Study participants’ virtual body models were created by using 3D body scanner and used for virtual fitting. Each participant physically tried on the skirts and evaluated the fit. Participants also viewed the skirt simulations on their avatars and evaluated the virtual fit, which represented participants’ virtual fit satisfactions (VFS). Random Forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and conditional tree (CT) algorithms were used to learn from the data to predict participants’ RFSs. The mean correlations between the predicted and observed RFS values in the validation sets were 0.74 (RF), 0.70 (SVM-linear kernel), 0.72 (SVM-radial kernel), and 0.55 (CT). According to the variable importance analysis, VFS had the highest importance among 35 predictor variables. ML is used mostly for sales forecasting and manufacturing purposes in the fashion industry. However, garment fit, which restrains consumers from shopping online, did not get enough attention in ML studies. Besides, the ML algorithms used in fashion and apparel studies are often genetic algorithms and neural networks; therefore, there is a need to test other algorithm types. In this study, we offered alternative ML algorithms (i.e., RF, SVM, and CT) to predict consumers’ garment fit satisfactions.
Die Phänomenologie der Rheumatologie: Behinderung, Merleau-Ponty und der Irrtum des maximalen Griffs
Authors: Salamon Gayle
Published: March 2024

This paper charts the concepts of grip and the bodily auxiliary in Maurice Merleau-Ponty to consider how they find expression in disability narratives. Arguing against the notion of “maximal grip” that some commentators have used to explicate intentionality in Merleau-Ponty, I argue that grip in his texts functions instead as a compensatory effort to stave off uncertainty, lack of mastery, and ambiguity. Nearly without exception in Merleau-Ponty’s Phenomenology of Perception, the mobilisation of “grip” is a signal of impending loss and is offered as a strategy for managing failure rather than as an example of sure-footed mastery. I read Merleau-Ponty alongside Mary Felstiner’s Out of Joint: A Public and Private Story of Arthritis to explore these other, attenuated dimensions of grip as an example of a way of thinking disabled embodiment otherwise.
Using ANN for well type identifying and increasing production from Sa’di formation of Halfaya oil field – Iraq
Authors: Jreou Ghazwan Noori Saad , Farman Ghanim M.
Published: March 2024

The current study focuses on utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to identify the optimal locations of production wells and types for achieving the production company’s primary objective, which is to increase oil production from the Sa’di carbonate reservoir of the Halfaya oil field in southeast Iraq, with the determination of the optimal scenario of various designs for production wells, which include vertical, horizontal, multi-horizontal, and fishbone lateral wells, for all reservoir production layers. Artificial neural network tool was used to identify the optimal locations for obtaining the highest production from the reservoir layers and the optimal well type. For layer SB1, the average daily production is 291.544 STB/D with the horizontal well, 441.82 STB/D with the multilateral well, and 1298.461 STB/D with the fishbone well type. Also, for the SB2 layer: 197.966, 336.9834, and 924.554 STB/D, and for the SB3 layer: 333.641, 546.6364, and 1187.159 STB/D for the same well type sequence. The cumulative production for each formation layer is 22.440 MMSTB from the horizontal well, 59.05 MMSTB from the multilateral well, and 84.895 MMSTB from the fishbone well types for the SB1 layer; 48.06, 70.1094, and 160.254 MMSTB for SB2; and 75.2764, 111.7325, and 213.1291 MMSTB for SB3 for the same well types.
Identify the effect of Fe2O3 nanoparticles on mechanical and microstructural characteristics of aluminum matrix composite produced by powder metallurgy technique
Authors: Radhi Nabaa S. , Nattah Ayad Mohammed , Al-Khafaji Zainab S.
Published: March 2024

Aluminum is a highly valuable structural metal utilized in various industrial sectors; particularly, it is utilized in considerable quantities in the nautical, aeronautical, and automotive industries. Aluminum is additionally utilized in small amounts in several other industrial sectors. The composite materials are now extensively utilized in various applications after their introduction. In this research, they prepared composite samples of aluminum with adding hematite nanoparticles with different ratio (2, 4, 6, and 8) wt% by powder metallurgy technology, and the sample preparation conditions was (mixing time reach to 2 h for every sample; the compaction loads is 6 tons and sintering temperature equal to 600°C). The tests conducted were XRD, SEM, EDS, green density, green porosity, microhardness, compression, and wear. The results illustrate that the hardness and wear values increase when increasing the hematite percentage.
Apolipoprotein E-containing lipoproteins and their extracellular interactions with LRP1 affect LPS-induced inflammation
Authors: Akahane Shogo , Matsuura Hiroto , Kaido Takahiro , Usami Yoko , Ishimine Nau , Uehara Takeshi , Yamauchi Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2024

The linkage between low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP)1-mediated metabolism of apolipoprotein (apo) E-containing lipoproteins (apoE-LP) and the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response contributes to the pathogenesis of sepsis; however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Therefore, in this study, the effects of apoE-LP and their constituents on the mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and LRP1 were evaluated using a culture system of human fibroblasts supplemented with LPS and apoE-containing emulsion particles (apoE-EP). The affinity of apoE-LP for LPS was examined using the interaction between fluorescence-labeled LPS and serum lipoprotein fractions. LPS-induced inflammation significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of IL-6 and LRP1. This upregulation was markedly suppressed by pre-incubation of LPS with apoE-EP or its constituents (apoE or EP). The suppressive effect of apoE-EP on IL-6 upregulation was attenuated in the presence of lactoferrin, an inhibitor of LRP1. The prepared apoE-EP and serum triglyceride-rich lipoproteins showed significant affinity for LPS. However, these affinities appeared to be lower than expected based on the extent to which IL-6 upregulation was suppressed by pre-incubation of LPS with apoE-EP. Overall, these results indicate that LPS-induced inflammation may be regulated by 1) the LPS-neutralizing effect of apoE-LP, 2) anti-inflammatory effect of apoE, and 3) LRP1-mediated metabolic pathways.
Parental refusal of prenatal screening for aneuploidies
Authors: Bitar Lynn , Chaccour Christian , Bitar Elio R. , Halabi Rami , Kesrouani Assaad
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To analyze the reasons for refusal of aneuploidy screening in a multicultural Middle Eastern population.

Methods

The study included patients delivering in a university hospital, who had refused aneuploidy screening during their pregnancy. We evaluated through a questionnaire submitted during the postpartum period the sociodemographic characteristics, beliefs, attitudes, and the main reason underpinning their choice. Religious, ethical, and financial factors, personal beliefs, medical information, perceived media information, and familial input were assessed through a Likert scale.

Results

Our pilot study included 70 patients. The main reason (33 %) was the refusal to terminate pregnancy if the screening tests ultimately led to a diagnosis of aneuploidy. Lack of adequate information on the availability and benefits of this screening method (28 %), religious beliefs (17 %), in addition to other minor reasons such as financial considerations, familial recommendations, late pregnancy follow-ups, and media influence were also identified as contributing factors.

Conclusions

Aneuploidy screening is routinely offered to couples, with varying uptake rates observed worldwide. Sufficient information on prenatal screening and diagnosis should be provided to all pregnant women, presenting all available options, thus enabling them to make a free and informed choice during their pregnancy.
How Democratic Police Reforms Fail: A Law and Development Perspective on Institutional Processes of Change and Resistance
Authors: Goldani Julia Maia
Published: March 2024

Democratic police reform (DPR) is a type of institutional reform that aims to make polices compatible with democratic political regimes. Though distinct approaches have been attempted in distinct contextual circumstances, promoting DPR has proven remarkably difficult. Successful cases are hard to find; across the globe, DPR efforts have had unsatisfactory outcomes, amounting to little or no sustainable change in dysfunctional police forces. What explains this systematic failure of DPR? Existing research has focused on determining the sociopolitical circumstances and/or reform methods that correlate with positive or negative DPR outcomes. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding how DPR fails – that is, the processes through which the above-mentioned variables interact with the police’s organizational environments, rules, and resistance mechanisms to produce unsatisfactory outcomes/failed reform. This paper proposes that an analytical framework based on law and development scholarship can help police reform scholars address these gaps. To develop this argument, I review and discuss existing theorizations on DPR failure, demonstrating the potential contributions of a law and development perspective. I suggest that a framework based on this perspective nuances existing approaches by emphasizing the contentious processes surrounding reform enactment and implementation. Unpacking these processes can represent a new research agenda for police reform scholarship.
Unpacking Fragile Access to Justice in a Small Island State Amidst Global Pandemic: Narratives from Experiences of Niue, the Rock of Polynesia
Authors: Takahashi Mana
Published: March 2024

This study considers the challenges and features of law and development faced by small island developing states (SIDS) during the COVID-19 global pandemic. This research analyzes the pre- and post-pandemic situation of access to justice in SIDS to clarify the transformation of society and the critical impact of the pandemic and to consider potential negative effects and revealed features of fragile justice in small island states. In this context, this research focuses on the case study of Niue, which is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand since 1974 and is recognized as a small island developing state by the United Nations. Niue, known as “the Rock of Polynesia,” is home to approximately 1900 people and consists of a single isolated island of only 261 square kilometers. The principal research question to be addressed is as follows: What did the COVID-19 pandemic reveal in Niue as a challenge in the context of law and development? By exploring the current situation of access to justice among people in Niue and based on interview responses with local people, government officers, and legal practitioners, this research aims to provide policy suggestions for initiatives and assistance to guarantee the right of access to justice in Niue.