bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La importancia de la Antártida para Colombia : Medio Ambiente, Seguridad Internacional y Contribución Militar
Authors: Tovar-Zambrano Martha Beatriz
Published: May 2023

La presente obra de investigación consta de dos volúmenes: “La importancia de la Antártida para Colombia. Geopolítica, Ciencia y Global Common” (Volumen 1) y “La importancia de la Antártida para Colombia. Medio Ambiente, Seguridad Internacional y Contribución Militar” (Volumen 2), respectivamente, y la cual reúne algunos temas que aportan a la estrategia de convertir a Colombia en miembro consultivo del Tratado Antártico. Se aborda la gobernanza antártica de Colombia en el Tratado Antártico, su dimensión geopolítica y la proyección colombiana desde que inició las expediciones en el 2014, de lo cual, se desprenden nuevos retos y oportunidades de los dominios aéreo, espacial y ciberespacial de la conexión de Colombia con la Antártida, además, la importancia de la dimensión científica e investigación que se viene adelantando. También es abordado el tema del bioma antártico de la hidroestrategia estatal y con ello, la dimensión de la seguridad multidimensional y su impacto en Colombia, frente a la perspectiva que de los intereses y objetivos nacionales dentro del Sistema del Tratado Antártico. Finalmente, se describe la contribución de han hecho tanto la Fuerza Aérea Colombiana como la Armada Nacional de Colombia, al interés estratégico que se tiene en el marco de Tratado Antártico.
Construction of Sn3O4/g-C3N4 Composite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activities Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Hoang Huong Vu
Published: May 2023

The Sn3O4/g-C3N4 composites were produced by an annealing mixture of g-C3N4 and Sn3O4, which were prepared by calcining urea and hydrothermally treating of SnCl2 solution, respectively. Chacterization of the samples was investigated by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Photoluminescence (PL) and UV-Vis spectra. Studying the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) in the presence of visible light showed that the combination of Sn3O4 and g-C3N4 has an enhanced ability in the photocatalysis in comparison with the individual components. From kinetic investigations of RhB degradation, it is found that the SCN25 catalyst has the highest rate constant of 18.14 (min-1 x 103), which was about 11.4 times larger than that of pure g-C3N4. It is possible to explain the improved photocatalytic activity of Sn3O4/g-C3N4 composites by using the Z-scheme pathway.
Pregnancy outcomes in infertile patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection and two interval programs of hCG-to-oocyte aspiration
Authors: Haje Milat Ismail ,   Assisted Reproductive Technology, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Milat Ismail Haje, Assisted Reproductive Technology, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq. E-mail: Milat.ismail@hmu.edu.krd, Jamil Avin Sadiq ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq, Shabila Nazar Polis ,   Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq, Jawad Danar Darsim ,   Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to determine the outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) if oocyte retrieval was done 32–34 hours or 34:05–36 hours after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection. A randomized sample involving 186 patients with tubal failure was divided into groups A (96 patients) and B (90 patients). Intracytoplasmic sperm injection was performed on all patients according to described protocols. The number of oocytes retrieved, oocyte cumulus complex quality, number of fertilized eggs, and pregnancy rates were compared between groups. The total of oocytes retrieved in group B was significantly higher than in group A but not significant (P=0.068). The oocyte maturation rate was also significantly higher in the long interval group B than in the short interval group A (P=0.039). There was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of fertilization rate (0.040), and the pregnancy rate in group B was higher than that in group A, but it was not significant (P=0.055). The prolonged interval could also increase the pregnancy rate, but it was not significant. It seems that if the interval between hCG priming and oocyte retrieval is prolonged, the percentage of the number of oocytes retrieved, mature oocytes (MII), and fertilized oocytes increases.
Protein C and S levels in patients with Thalassemia intermedia
Authors:   Pathology Department, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Nawsherwan Sadiq Mohammed, Pathology Department, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan, Iraq. E-mail: nawsherwan.sadiq@hmu.edu.krd, Mohammed Nawsherwan Sadiq
Published: May 2023

This study was conducted to assess the level of proteins C and S in patients with thalassemia intermedia from the Thalassemia Center in Erbil, Iraq. This study aimed to evaluate protein C and S levels in patients with β-thalassemia intermedia and correlate them to different clinical and laboratory parameters. This comprehensive descriptive case-control study was conducted in 2021. Twenty-three thalassemia intermedia patients were recruited. After the participants' demographic data were recorded, plasma levels of both proteins were measured. The acquired files were examined for the 23 patients studied, 48% of whom were female. The mean age of the patients was 16.32 years. The findings show that the proportion of protein C in males was greater than in females, while this percentage contrasts when compared with protein S (ranging between 89–99% and 85–96%, respectively). Concerning age, these two types of protein in children have more value compared to older ages. Only seven people had less than 1,000 ferritins, while the others had higher values. A decrease in proteins C and S was observed in the thalassemia intermediate compared to the control group. There was a significant relationship between the decreased protein C and S levels with splenectomy. Given the significant reduction in protein C and S levels among patients with thalassemia intermediate compared to the control group, there is an increased risk of thromboembolic events in patients with thalassemia intermediate.
The biofabrication of ZnO nanoparticles using the green soft technique reduction of Zincum Gluconicum (ZNG) by extracellular mycofiltrate of Penicillium italicum Pit-L6
Authors: Issa Mohammed Abdul-Sahib ,   Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Thi-Qar, Nassiryhia, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Mohammed Abdul-Sahib Issa, Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Thi-Qar, Nassiryhia, Iraq. E-mail: mohammed1971issa@sci.utq.edu.iq, Hanan Zaman Kareem ,   College of Dentistry, University of Thi-Qar, Nassiryhia, Iraq,   Zaman Kareem Hanan, College of Dentistry, University of Thi-Qar, Nassiryhia, Iraq E-mail: zaman.k_bio@utq.edu.iq
Published: May 2023

Recently, biological techniques for manufacturing nanoparticles, such as employing filamentous fungi to synthesize ZnO nanoparticles, have become environmentally friendly, bio congruous, and safe. This study aimed to look for Penicillium italicum [Filamentous Blue Mold (FiBM)] in rotting citrus fruits and exploit this in the biofabrication of ZnO nanoparticles. The study isolated 39 different filamentous mold samples and used conventional and molecular diagnosis. Only 11 (28%) of the isolates obtained contained Penicillium italicum, for which we investigated the capability of ZnO nanoparticles biosynthesis by fungal extracellular free-cells filtrate solution. The results showed that Penicillium italicum Pit-L6 was given the peak of ZnONps 378 nm detected by UV-visible spectrophotometry, and it considered significantly optimum strain in the highest quantity (mean±S.D) 0.015±0.002 gm/100 ml with small enough average nanoparticles size. The ZnONps were characterized by UV-visible scanning spectrophotometry, atomic force microscopy (AFM), X|-RD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The final average ZnONps through 0f in all measuring devices ranged between 53.13–69.67 nm (with different shapes and dimensions). This study concluded that these fungi (FiBMs) are highly capable as eco-friendly and cheap bio-nano factories to manufacture ZnONps as alternative novel biological technology, in fine particles within average size at nano-level, as continuous renewable sources for producing nanoparticles, for different usage.
Combined central and peripheral demyelination: a case report
Authors:   Neurology Department No. 1, Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova,   * Corresponding Author: Elena Costru-Tasnic, Neurology Department No. 1, Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova. E-mail: elena.costru@usmf.md, Costru-Tasnic Elena , Manole Elena ,   Neurology Department No. 1, Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova, Lisnic Vitalie ,   Neurology Department No. 1, Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
Published: May 2023

Overlapping central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) demyelination is a rare clinical entity, more frequently seen in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and multiple sclerosis (MS). This case report showcases a patient with atypical CIDP and CNS demyelination lesions. Demographic data, disease course, treatment responsiveness, neurological examination, laboratory tests, nerve conduction studies (NCS), and brain and spinal cord MRI were registered. The case highlights the difficulty of diagnosis establishment and treatment selection, given the atypical course of the disease and limited answers to the indicated therapies. The data from our report suggest that specific and widely available immunological targets are necessary for diagnosing combined central and peripheral demyelination cases appropriately. The association of different immunotherapeutic agents may be necessary to induce and maintain disease remission.
The role of serum gastric peptide ghrelin hormone level in irritable bowel syndrome at Zagazig University Hospitals
Authors: Monem Sameh Mahmoud Abdel ,   Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt, Elbadrawy Elsaid Galal ,   Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt, Shalaby Sally Mahmoud ,   Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt, Hendawy Doaa Mahmoud ,   Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt, Hassan Sherif Mahmoud ,   Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt,   * Corresponding Author: Sherif Mahmoud Hassan, Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt. E-mail: Sherifswilam@gmail.com, Almonem Nagla Abd ,   Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
Published: May 2023

Generalized dysmotility of the gastrointestinal tract develops in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The ghrelin hormone appears to be critical in controlling gastrointestinal motility. We aimed to evaluate serum ghrelin levels in people with IBS and to demonstrate its role in IBS pathophysiology. This study included 32 individuals with IBS (16 with constipation and 16 with diarrhea) and 16 healthy individuals as controls. Blood specimens were collected from patients and controls following an overnight fast. Total ghrelin level was detected in plasma by commercially available ELISA Kit. There were significant differences in the serum levels of ghrelin between the control group and both types of IBS. The mean±SD of ghrelin level in the control group was 2.608±0.714 pg/ml, and that of both types of IBS was 5.782±2.450 pg/ml (P-value<0.001). There was a significant variation between the control and IBS-D groups (mean±SD: 7.838±1.687 pg/ml, p-value<0.001). Also, we indicated a considerable difference between the control and IBS-C groups (mean±SD: 3.726±0.740 pg/ml, P-value<0.001). In comparing the IBS-D group and IBS-C group, we found a highly considerable variation between the two groups (p-value<0.001). This means that serum ghrelin levels were significantly greater in IBS-D than in IBS-C and the control group. Our findings concluded that serum ghrelin level was higher among the IBS-D group than in the IBS-C and control groups. The ghrelin hormone may play a vital role in IBS pathophysiology.
Diagnostic accuracy of screening algorithms to identify persons with active pulmonary tuberculosis at prison entry: protocol of a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Pape Stephanie ,   Department of Global Health, Euclid University, Bangui, Central African Republic,   * Corresponding Author: Stephanie Pape, Department of Global Health, Euclid University, Bangui, Central African Republic E-mail: spape684@gmail.com, Gulma Kabiru ,   Department of Global Health, Euclid University, Bangui, Central African Republic, Shivalli Siddharudha ,   Department of Global Health, Euclid University, Bangui, Central African Republic,   Center for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom, Kiev Laurent Cleenewerck de ,   Department of Global Health, Euclid University, Bangui, Central African Republic
Published: May 2023

Prison inmates are a high-risk group for tuberculosis (TB) infection and disease due to the increasing number of vulnerable fringe groups, risk factors (e.g., alcohol and drug addictions), contagious diseases (HIV, hepatitis), and their high-risk behavior. Compared to the general population, TB incidence and prevalence rates are significantly higher among prison inmates. Early identification of potentially infectious pulmonary TB (PTB) and targeted care of sick inmates are essential to effectively control TB within the prison system. The WHO recommends combining active and passive case-finding in prisons. No study has been published comparing the broad spectrum of screening tools using a diagnostic accuracy network meta-analysis (NMA). We aim to identify the most accurate TB case-finding algorithm at prison entry that is feasible in resource-limited prisons of high-burden TB countries and ensures continuous comprehensive TB detection services in such settings. Evidence generated by this NMA can provide important decision support in selecting the most (cost-) effective algorithms for screening methods for resource-limited settings in the short, medium, and long terms.
Occurrence of comorbid diseases in patients after COVID-19
Authors: Kamilova Umida ,   Department of Therapy, Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan,   * Corresponding Author: Umida Kamilova, Department of Therapy, Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan. E-mail: umida_kamilova@mail.ru, Ermekbaeva Akbal ,   Department of Therapy, Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Nuritdinov Nuriddin ,   Department of Cardiology, Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center of Therapy and Medical Rehabilitation, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Khamraev Abror ,   Department of Therapy, Tashkent Medical Academy, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Zakirova Gulnoza
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the potential impact of this disease on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Patients with established cardiovascular (CV) disease are at increased risk of severe infection and hospital-acquired adverse outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of comorbidities in COVID-19 patients. We analyzed data from 220 patients who previously contracted COVID-19. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. The average age of the patients was 54.6 ± 11.4 years, and arterial hypertension (AH) was the most common comorbidity, affecting 55% of patients. Obesity was observed in one-third of patients, while coronary heart disease (CHD) and coronary heart failure (CHF) were reported in 17.7% and 11.8% of patients, respectively. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), atrial fibrillation (AF), and obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were less common. Cardiovascular diseases, particularly AH, were the most frequent comorbidities in COVID-19 patients. Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of comorbidities in COVID-19 patients is crucial for developing appropriate management strategies and improving clinical outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of identifying and managing comorbidities in COVID-19 patients to reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 and improve clinical outcomes.
The concept of the comorbidity model in predicting laparoscopic cholecystectomy results in patients with acute cholecystitis
Authors: Dzyubanovsky Ihor Yakovych ,   Department of Surgery, Institute of Postgraduate Education, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine, Zaporozhets YuliaViktorivna ,   Department of Surgery, Institute of Postgraduate Education, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine, Melnyk Nataliia Anatoliivna ,   Department of General Hygiene and Ecology, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine,   * Corresponding Author: Nataliia Anatoliivna Melnyk, Department of General Hygiene and Ecology, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine. E-mail: melnyknan@tdmu.edu.ua, Pidruchna Svitlana Romanivna ,   Department of Medical Biochemistry, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine, Dzyubanovsky Oleg Ihorovych ,   Department of L.Ya. Kovalchuk Department of Surgery No.1, Urology, Minimally Invasive Surgery and Neurosurgery, Ternopil, Ukraine, Sheremet Michael Ivanovich ,   Department of Surgery No.1, Bukovinian State Medical University, Chernivtsi, Ukraine
Published: May 2023

In recent years, there has been an unceasing increase in the number of patients with acute cholecystitis, including those with a complicated course of the disease against the background of concomitant pathology. The aim of the study was to establish the level of comorbidity and its influence on the level of postoperative complications in patients with acute cholecystitis who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We included 457 patients with acute cholecystitis with accompanying pathology, averaging 64.5±9.74 years. Operative intervention was carried out laparoscopically. Patients who scored 4–3 points were considered favorable, and those who scored 0–2 were considered unfavorable. The assessment of comorbidity was carried out using a special index – the Charlson comorbidity index. The majority of patients had a comorbidity index at 2 points (28.0% of all examined patients), indicating the presence of concomitant pathology in the vast majority of patients. We found that the Charleston comorbidity index increased with age, which indicates a higher frequency of concomitant diseases in older patients. A reliable correlation of medium strength was established (R=0.68; p<0.05) between the age and comorbidity indexes. When predicting the mortality of an experimental cohort of patients with acute cholecystitis who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy, it can be predicted that the level of the Charlson comorbidity index correlates with the age of patients while the level of postoperative complications increases.
Plasma tau and neurofilament light chain as biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease and their relation to cognitive functions
Authors: Abed Sadiruldeen Sami ,   Department of Pharmacy, Osol Aldeen University College, Baghdad, Iraq,   * Corresponding Author: Sadiruldeen Sami Abed, Department of Pharmacy, Osol Aldeen University College, Baghdad, Iraq. E-mail: sadiruldeensami@gmail.com, Hamdan Farqad Bader ,   Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Hussein Mahir Mohammed ,   Ibn-Rushed Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, Al-Mayah Qasim Sharhan ,   Medical Research Unit, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: May 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia is the most frequent cause of neurodegenerative dementia. The cognitive and behavioral symptoms associated with this disorder often have overlapping characteristics, potentially resulting in delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis. This study aimed to assess the level of peripheral blood neurofilament light chain (NfL) and total tau (t-tau) protein in AD patients and investigate their relationship with cognitive impairment. The study included 80 participants of both sexes between the ages of 60 to 85 years. The participants were divided into two groups, consisting of 40 individuals in the control group (mean age 75±6.6 years) who had no cognitive or functional impairments and 40 AD patients (mean age 74.98±5.03 years). This study utilized the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for major or mild neurocognitive disorder attributed to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The clinical and biochemical features of all participants were documented, and the Alzheimer's disease Assessment Scale cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) scores were evaluated. Sandwich ELISA was employed to determine serum NfL and t-tau protein levels. The median serum NfL and t-tau protein levels in AD patients were significantly higher than those of the controls (47.84 pg/ml versus 17.66 pg/ml and 12.05 pg/ml versus 11.13 pg/ml, respectively). Age was positively correlated with NfL, t-tau levels, and ADAS-cog. Although elevated NfL and t-tau protein levels may play a role in disease progression, their diagnostic value for AD was limited.
The effects of a self-learning package on mothers' knowledge and practices towards caring for their children with phenylketonuria
Authors: Khalil Amira ,   Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt,   * Corresponding Author: Amira Khalil, Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. E-mail: dr.amira.khalil@nursing.asu.edu.eg, Amin Eman ,   Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, Alrafay Safy Salah Eldin ,   Pediatric Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt, Khalifa Ola Ali ,   Medical Genetics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
Published: May 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a self-learning package on mothers' knowledge and practices towards caring for their children with phenylketonuria. A pre/post quasi-experimental study was conducted, including 128 mothers of children diagnosed with phenylketonuria. A specifically designed and validated questionnaire was used to evaluate mothers' knowledge and reported practices toward their children before and after participating in the educational program. There was a highly positive association between knowledge and reported practice (.674 and .398). The self-learning package had a positive impact on mothers' knowledge and practices. Consequently, educational programs should be provided to all mothers of newly diagnosed cases to improve their children's adherence to the therapeutic regimen.
Incidence of complications among in vitro fertilization pregnancies
Authors: Tocariu Raluca ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania,   * Corresponding Author: Daniela Stan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania. E-mail: daniela_stan07@yahoo.com, Stan Daniela ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania,   * Corresponding Author: Daniela Stan, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania. E-mail: daniela_stan07@yahoo.com, Mitroi Raluca Florina ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania, Căldăraru Daniela Elena ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania, Dinulescu Alexandru ,   Department of Pediatrics, Grigore Alexandrescu Emergency Hospital for Children, Bucharest, Romania, Dobre Claudia Elena ,   Department of General Nursing, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Brătilă Elvira ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Prof. Dr. Panait Sîrbu, Bucharest, Romania
Published: May 2023

The use of assisted reproductive technology has increased in Romania in the past several years. Although most of these pregnancies are uncomplicated, in vitro fertilization is associated with an increased risk for adverse perinatal outcomes primarily caused by the increased risks of prematurity, gestational diabetes mellitus, and hypertensive disorders. Infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, including both male and female factors, and in some cases, the cause remains unknown. In our clinic, the etiology of infertility was known in most cases and was equally distributed between male and female factors. Women with gestational hypertension were significantly older. Patients with twin pregnancies were significantly younger than those with a single pregnancy. The prevalence of preterm newborns was 2.5 times higher than the global prevalence for prematurity.
A five-year (2017–2021) time series evaluation of patient-reported informal healthcare payments in Romania
Authors: Mosca Ilaria ,   Tagliente, Odijk, The Netherlands, Radu Constantin ,   RoNeuro Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania,   * Corresponding Author: Constantin Radu, RoNeuro Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. E-mail: constantradu@gmail.com, Strilciuc Ștefan ,   RoNeuro Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Cluj-Napoca, Romania,   Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania,   Department of Public Health, Faculty of Political, Administrative, and Communication Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Ungureanu Marius-Ionuț ,   Department of Public Health, Faculty of Political, Administrative, and Communication Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania,   Center for Health Workforce Research and Policy, Faculty of Political, Administrative, and Communication Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Published: May 2023

Low wages of health professionals are widely recognized as one of the drivers of informal payments in Romania’s healthcare system. In January 2018, the government increased wages by an average of 70% to 172% in the public healthcare sector. This study examined the trends in patient-reported informal healthcare payments, discussing the effect of a one-time wage increase in 2018 and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. It draws on monthly survey data of patient-reported informal payments collected between January 2017 and December 2021. We analyzed three periods: before the wage rise (“low pay”), between the wage rise and the COVID-19 pandemic (“high pay”), and during the COVID-19 pandemic. We found that patient-reported informal payments decreased between the “low pay” and “high pay” period but with a sharper decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. The share of respondents willing to report informal payments increased during the “high pay” period, indicating a stronger willingness to voice dissatisfaction with health services and informal payments, but slowed down during the first lockdown in 2020. Informal payments were more frequently reported in larger hospitals and the poorest geographical areas. While the 2018 wage increase may have contributed to less prevalent informal payments, survey coverage and design must be improved to draw robust, system-level conclusions to inform tailored policy actions.
IoT-Based Banknotes Saving Automation System
Authors: Prasasti Anggunmeka Luhur , Septiawan Reza Rendian , Alfarisi Muhammad Haekal
Published: May 2023

Many problems occur with traditional savings, such as users not knowing the nominal amount that has been saved later, and the authenticity of the money saved. To overcome this problem, the "Savings Storage Automation System with IoT-Based Banknotes" tool was created, this tool aims to help users save money easily and safely. The system design is based on Arduino Mega. The inputs on the Arduino Mega consist of a GY-33 TCS34725 as a color sensor and a keypad to perform functions. The output produced is in the form of nominal data of banknotes that can be seen by the user through an LCD and sent to a database, checking the authenticity of the money is done manually by using ultraviolet. The method used to identify the nominal banknotes is based on the reading of each RGB value and color temperature on each nominal banknote. The average accuracy of reading currency values on real banknotes reaches 88%, while in testing counterfeit banknotes it is 14%. Testing execution time when entering money into savings is 3.57 seconds and data to the database is 6.57 seconds.
Design an Enemy Non-Player Character in Maze Game Using Finite State Machine Algorithm
Authors: Refnaldi Irfan Ainul Afif
Published: May 2023

Educational games are very suitable for learning for children because the gameplay is not so heavy and is based on the same conditions as everyday life, which certainly does not contain bad elements that are inappropriate for children. The output of educational games that will be used for learning must really be considered because the age of kindergarten children is the age at which children's character and manners are formed. In this research, the writer will develop a game with a labyrinth concept which carries the theme "Caring for the Environment". The author adds the Non-Player Character (NPC) feature in the game which requires behavior design using the Finite State Machine algorithm with three working principles State, Event (happening), Action. The result of this research is that all the features in the developed game design have been implemented and function properly, especially the finite state machine method which is applied to NPC behavior. The Maze Game Educational Game that was developed succeeded in attracting the interest of the children who played it and the "Care for the Environment" content in this game was easy for children to understand.
Wall Object Design in Maze Game Using Cellular Automata Algorithm
Authors: Malem Furqan
Published: May 2023

Games can be an excellent learning tool for kindergarten students considering that children are happy to play at that age. For this reason, this research tries to create a maze-type educational game with the theme "Environmental Cleanliness," which teaches children to clean up garbage and trains them in awareness of the importance of environmental cleanliness.

The maze game uses the Cellular Automata Algorithm for designing wall objects so that the difficulty level of the maze can be increased at each level. The maze will change if it meets certain conditions, creating a more exciting and fun educational game for children. This implemented algorithm aims to provide challenges, improve strategy skills, and train directional and spatial awareness by knowing the spaces and paths that must be passed, pointing their location in the maze game.

The result of this research is that all features in the game design developed have been successfully implemented and functioned properly. Especially ensuring the algorithm used to generate the maze wall can work according to the design.
PREDIKSI PASIEN DENGAN PENYAKIT KARDIOVASKULAR MENGGUNAKAN RANDOM FOREST
Authors: Anshori Mochammad , Rikatsih Nindynar , Haris M. Syauqi
Published: May 2023

Cardiovascular disease is one of the deadliest diseases in the world. This is evidenced by data released by WHO which shows around 18 million deaths. This disease causes the cessation of the heartbeat which is the main source of life for the human body.This disease is caused by various things including an unhealthy lifestyle. Examples are consuming cigarettes and alcohol. In addition, it is also caused by other factors, namely health problems such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, depression, or anxiety. The cardiovascular disease tends to be difficult to cure, therefore a precise and accurate prediction is needed in diagnosing patients. One method of making predictions is using machine learning techniques. In machine learning, there are various methods that can be used, one of which is the decision tree-based method, namely random forest. Before the random forest is implemented to create a model, the data is pre-processed by normalizing and applying cross-validation with k-fold = 10. The prediction results with the random forest in this study provide an accuracy of 98%. This accuracy is higher when compared to previous studies with the same dataset, namely 96.75% using the ensemble method and 91.61% with logistic regression. On this basis, it proves that the random forest can be used to predict cardiovascular disease.

Key Words: cardiovascular disease, tree model, random forest, machine learning.
ANALISIS PERFORMANSI ALAT OTOMASI PENYARINGAN AIR SISA PENCUCIAN SURIMI: STUDI KASUS
Authors: Kusuma Hollanda Arief , Sunardi Unai , Nugraha Sapta , Setyono Dwi Eny Djoko
Published: May 2023

The aim of this research is to develop an automated instrument for filtering surimi washing wastewater. The tool consists of a water suction system, a filtration system using a plankton net, and temperature sensors DS18B20 and distance sensors JSN-SRT04. The results show that the automated surimi washing wastewater filtering instrument has been successfully developed and can produce 343 grams and 199 grams of filtered meat from 1 kg of meat in two trials. The water turbidity data before and after the filtration process also shows that the instrument can reduce turbidity by 88% allowing the surimi washing wastewater to be reused. This demonstrates that waste reduction can be applied to this instrument. Data from DS18B20 temperature sensor and JSN-SRT04 distance sensor also show accurate and precise data patterns. DS18B20 calibration shows average error by 2.51%, RMSE by 1.47 ?C, and standard deviation by 0,7 ?C. JSN-SRT04 calibration shows average error by 3.07%, RMSE by 1.99 cm, and standard deviation by 0.45 cm. Therefore, the automated surimi washing wastewater filtering instrument is an effective solution for utilizing surimi washing wastewater and reducing liquid waste. The implementation of this tool would be very beneficial to the surimi processing industry in reducing waste and preserving the environment. This instrument can also be used as a reference for developing other automated instruments in the field of wastewater treatment. Key Words: Surimi, zero waste, acoustic sensor, temperature sensor
Simulations of Heat and Drag Reduction of Opposing Jet in Hypersonic Flow
Authors: Wu Qian , Huang Haiming , Zhao Yipu , Yao Jun , Bai Jiajing , Zheng Jinglai
Published: May 2023

To reduce aerodynamic heat and drag, and thus improve the speed of hypersonic vehicles, opposing jet technology has become a research focus because of its excellent heat and drag reduction effect. In this paper, Navier–Stokes equations, the shear stress transport turbulent models, the Gupta chemical kinetics model, and the five-species air model are considered; and a numerical simulation program of hypersonic aerodynamic heat and drag with an opposing jet is developed and verified by existing experimental data. On this basis, the flight conditions of [Formula: see text], 14, and 15 at a 30 km flight altitude are simulated numerically; and the complex flowfield structure of the leading edge of a blunt body with or without the opposing jet is analyzed. It is found that the jet can push away the shock wave, playing a good role in reducing heat and drag. The influence of the pressure ratio, Mach number, and jet temperature on reducing heat and drag is investigated. The results indicate that, under the same conditions, increasing the pressure ratio, increasing the jet Mach number, and decreasing the inlet Mach number will be more helpful for reducing heat and drag; whereas increasing the jet temperature is not conducive to heat reduction and has little impact on aerodynamic drag.
Trajectory Planning in Windy Urban Environment Using Gappy Proper Orthogonal Decomposition for Wind Estimates
Authors: Ebert Carola , Weiss Julien , Uijt de Haag Maarten , Ruwisch Christopher , Silvestre Flavio J.
Published: May 2023

A trajectory planning algorithm based on the traditional A* formulation is designed to determine the minimum-energy path from a start to a final location taking into account the prevailing wind conditions. To obtain average wind conditions in an urban environment, full-scale Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations are first performed using OpenFoam® for various inlet wind directions on a computational model representing complex buildings on the campus of the Technical University of Berlin. The proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) modes of the full database are then calculated in an offline stage with the wind direction as a parameter. Next, the online reconstruction of the complete urban wind field is performed by Gappy POD using simulated pointwise measurements obtained by sparse sensors. Finally, the trajectory planning algorithm is applied to the reconstructed wind field and validated by comparison with the trajectory computed on the full-order computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. The main conclusion is that the error made by calculating the energy requirements for a specific trajectory based on an inexpensive reduced-order model of the wind field instead of an expensive full-order CFD database is only a few percent in all investigated cases. Therefore, a reliable and trustworthy trajectory can be calculated from the inexpensive reduced-order model obtained with only a few velocity sensors. Furthermore, it is shown that the energy consumption along a trajectory could be reduced by up to 20% by taking the prevailing wind field into consideration instead of considering the shortest path.
Aetiology, pathogenesis and management of neuropathic itch: A narrative review with recent updates
Authors: Poddar Shreya , Mondal Himel , Podder Indrashis
Published: May 2023

Neuropathic itch is a relatively common yet under-reported cause of systemic pruritus. It is a debilitating condition often associated with pain, which impairs the patient’s quality of life. Although much literature exists about renal and hepatic pruritus, there is a dearth of information and awareness about neuropathic itch. The pathogenesis of neuropathic itch is complex and can result from an insult at any point along the itch pathway, ranging from the peripheral receptors and nerves until the brain. There are several causes of neuropathic itch, many of which do not produce any skin lesions and are thus, often missed. A detailed history and clinical examination are necessary for the diagnosis, while laboratory and radiologic investigations may be needed in select cases. Several therapeutic strategies currently exist involving both non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures, the latter including topical, systemic, and invasive options. Further research is ongoing to clarify its pathogenesis and to design newer targeted therapies with minimal adverse effects. This narrative review highlights the current understanding of this condition, focusing on its causes, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management, along with newer investigational drugs.
Successful Use of Amoxicillin-clavulanate Acid in a Patient with Severe Wound Infection with Wound Communication Secondary to Actinomyces
Authors: Khalil Basmah , Hollingshead Caitlyn , Simman Richard
Published: May 2023

Introduction. Actinomyces is a common genus of bacteria that is typically found in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and genitourinary tract, as well as on the skin. Gleimia europaea (formerly A europaeus) is a facultative anaerobic gram-positive rod that has been well associated with abscesses of the groin, axilla, and breast, as well as with decubitus ulcer. Infection with this species usually involves multiple abscesses communicating through sinus tracts. Treatment typically requires a prolonged course of penicillin or amoxicillin (up to 12 months). Case Report. A 62-year-old male presented with a PI with fistulous tract and tunneling infected with Actinomyces, which was successfully treated with amoxicillin–clavulanic acid. Conclusions. The outcomes in this case support the use of surgical debridement, meticulous wound care, and appropriate antibiotic coverage to achieve accelerated wound healing of sacral PI with actinomycotic involvement.
Early Experience and Recommendations for the Use of an Automated Estimator of Solution Volume for Negative Pressure Wound Therapy With Instillation
Authors: Kim Paul , Fernandez Luis , Matthews Marc
Published: May 2023

Introduction. NPWTi is a device that combines the benefits of traditional NPWT with periodic irrigation. This automated device allows for preprogrammed cycles of dwelling of a solution and negative pressure onto the wound surface. Its adoption has been hampered by the perceived difficulty of estimating the volume of solution needed per dwell cycle. A new software update includes an AESV that makes this determination for the clinician. Objective. This case series of 23 patients presents the observations of 3 experienced users at 3 institutions who employed NPWTi with the AESV. Materials and Methods. The authors subjectively assessed the wounds to determine whether the expected clinical result was achieved utilizing AESV on a variety of anatomical locations and wound types. Results. The AESV demonstrated the ability to reliably estimate adequate solution amount in 65% (15/23) of cases. In wounds greater than 120 cm3, the AESV underestimated the amount of solution needed. Conclusion. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first publication describing the use of AESV for NPWTi. The benefits and limitations of this software upgrade are reported and recommendations for optimal use are provided.
Use of Collagen-glycosaminoglycan Silicone Bilayer Matrix for Closure of Post-Mohs Micrographic Surgery Defects on the Nose: A 5-case Series
Authors: Faibisoff Burt , Taupin Philippe
Published: May 2023

Introduction. The use of dermal matrices has shown to be reliable and less invasive than skin grafts or skin flaps for wound management. This case series reports the clinical outcomes of 5 patients with defects on the nose post-MMS managed using collagen-glycosaminoglycan silicone bilayer matrix. Materials and Methods. Patient 1 had a BCC of the left nasal lateral sidewall, patient 2 had a BCC of the right nasal ala, patient 3 had a BCC of the nasal dorsum, patient 4 had a BCC of the left medial canthus, and patient 5 had a BCC of the left alar lobule of the nose. Layers of dermal matrix were stacked to augment soft tissue coverage in patient 5. Results. All patients had spontaneous epithelialization of the nose defects following dermal matrix placement. Time to healing ranged from 4 to 11 weeks after dermal matrix placement for defects ranging from 1.44 cm2 to 6.16 cm2. The covering was stable and resulted in satisfactory cosmesis at time of complete epithelialization. Conclusions. Closure of post-MMS nasal defects using bilayer matrix represents a viable option and an advantage over alternative forms of surgical repair when considering cosmesis and patient satisfaction.
Productivity of bastard alfalfa (Medicago varia Mart.) as monoculture and mixture on the background of “Borofoska”
Authors: Дронов А.В. , Дьяченко В.В. , Бельченко С.А. , Милехина Н.В. , Козловская Н.И. , Седова С.С.
Published: May 2023

Исследования проведены в Брянской области на серых лесных почвах в 2017–2020 годах. Целью исследований было совершенствование технологии возделывания люцерны изменчивой в одновидовых и гетерогенных посевах за счёт использования различных доз комплексного гранулированного фосфорно-калийно-борного удобрения «Борофоска» в качестве основного удобрения пролонгированного действия совместно с ежегодной азотной подкормкой. Методы исследований: полевые, лабораторные и статистические. В 2017 году был заложен полевой двухфакторный опыт: фактор А — фон минеральных удобрений, фактор В — травосмесь. За трёхлетний срок пользования сформированы высокоурожайные одновидовые травостои люцерны изменчивой с урожайностью зелёной массы 35–40 т/га и сухого вещества 9–10 т/га при применении «Борофоски» в дозах от 750 кг/га и более совместно с ежегодной подкормкой аммиачной селитрой в дозе 90 кг/га. Урожайность гетерогенных травостоев на основе люцерны изменчивой с фестулолиумом, тимофеевкой луговой и ежой сборной составила 30–38 т/га зелёной массы и 7,5–9,5 т/га сухого вещества. Показано, что однократное внесение «Борофоски» в дозах от 750 кг/га и более и ежегодная подкормка аммиачной селитрой обеспечили продуктивное долголетие люцерны в течение 3 лет использования. Разовое внесение «Борофоски» как основного удобрения и мелиоранта в дозах 750 кг/га и более в сочетании с ежегодной азотной подкормкой N30 следует рекомендовать в качестве эффективного агроприёма при создании многолетних агроценозов люцерны изменчивой для среднесрочного пользования на серых лесных почвах Брянской области.

This investigation took place in the Bryansk region on grey forest soil in 2017–2020. The aim was to optimize the cultivation technique of bastard alfalfa as monoculture and mixed with other grasses on various backgrounds of a complex granulated phosphorus-potassium-boron fertilizer (“Borofoska”) in combination with annual nitrogen application. Methods used: the field, lab and statistical ones. In 2017 two-factorial experiment started: factor A — various backgrounds of mineral fertilizers, factor B — grass mixture. For three years alfalfa monoculture provided 35–40 t ha-1 of green mass and 9–10 t ha-1 of dry matter (DM) under the prolonged effect of 750 kg ha-1 or more of “Borofoska” and 90 kg ha-1 of ammonium nitrate. The productivity of alfalfa mixed with festulolium, common timothy and cocksfoot amounted to 30–38 t ha-1 of green mass and 7.5–9.5 t DM ha-1. One-time application of 750 kg ha-1 or more of “Borofoska” together with annual fertilization with ammonium nitrate resulted in good performance of alfalfa for 3 years. One-time application of 750 kg ha-1 or more of “Borofoska” in combination with N30 was shown to be an effective technique for the cultivation of perennial stands of bastard alfalfa in the Bryansk region.