bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L-lysine as a Potential Agent for Controlling Biofilm Formation Using Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Ling Yufeng , Zhao Tian , Zhu Yaoyao , Duan Menglu , Wu Wenlei , Wu Juan
Published: February 2024

Background

Periodontitis, a globally-pervasive chronic inflammatory condition, is precipitated by forming microbial biofilms. A key player in this process is Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), an anaerobic bacterium exhibiting invasive and pro-inflammatory characteristics primarily associated with the onset of periodontitis. Consequently, developing novel biofilm control strategies specifically targeting F. nucleatum is essential.

The objective of this research is to examine the suppressive impact of L-lysine on biofilm formation using F. nucleatum.

Methods

Fusobacterium nucleatum(F. nucleatum) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) were cultured in a liquid medium containing L-lysine of different concentrations. The antimicrobial activity of L-lysine was evaluated using the broth microdilution method. The effect of L-lysine on the mono-species and dual-species F. nucleatum biofilms was assessed using techniques such as crystal violet staining. The synthesis of extracellular polysaccharide substances (EPSs) from biofilms was measured using phenol-sulfuric acid. The expression level of virulence factors (FN1420, FN0669, FN0634, FN1162) and the biofilm-formation-related gene radD were quantified using real-time PCR.

Results

L-lysine exhibited the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of F. nucleatum and F. nucleatum/ P. gingivalis double strains, which was concentration-dependent. The MIC and MBC values were 10 mg/ml and 20 mg/ml in F. nucleatum single strains, while those in F. nucleatum/ P. gingivalis double strains were 20 mg/ml and 40 mg/ml. L-lysine with a concentration ≥20 mg/ml could reduce the EPS production in F. nucleatum and F. nucleatum/ P. gingivalis dual-species biofilms. L-lysine also inhibited the expression of genes encoding the F. nucleatum virulence factor (FN1420, FN0669, FN0634, FN1162) and the adhesive factor radD.

Conclusion

These findings corroborate the potential of L-lysine as an agent impeding the development of both mono-species biofilms of F. nucleatum and dual-species biofilms of F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis.
Digital Health Interventions in Dengue Surveillance to Detect and Predict Outbreak: A Scoping Review
Authors: Salim Marko Ferdian , Satoto Tri Baskoro Tunggul , Danardono Danardono , Daniel D.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Dengue fever is a global concern, with half of the population at risk. Digital Health Interventions (DHIs) have been widely used in Dengue surveillance.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to identify DHIs that have been used in Dengue surveillance.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was performed on three primary databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 2637 studies, including duplicates, were found to be possibly pertinent to the study topic during the electronic search for the systematic literature review. After the screening of titles and abstracts, 51 studies remained eligible.

Results:

The study analyzed 13 main categories of DHIs in Dengue surveillance, with Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, China, and Indonesia being the top five countries. Geographic Information System was the most used DHIs, followed by Machine Learning, Social Media, Mobile Applications, Google Trends, and Web Applications. DHIs were integrated, as evidenced by the deployment of many DHIs simultaneously in a single Dengue surveillance program.

Conclusion:

Future research should concentrate on finding more efficient ways to combine all available data sources and approaches to improve data completeness and predictive model precision and identify Dengue outbreaks early.
Comparative and Microscopic Analysis of Vehicle Startup Behavior in Red Countdown Traffic Lights with Various Display Forms
Authors: Fujita Motohiro
Published: February 2024

Background:

Countdown-type traffic lights provide drivers with the time remaining before the signal turns green or red. Most countdown devices inform the drivers of the exact signal switching time numerically on a display form. This study focuses on two vehicle startup behaviors when a red signal phase countdown (RC) is displayed: a premature start (PS) and an early reaction (ER). The PS is a vehicle crossing the stop line before the green phase, and the ER is a vehicle starting to move before the green phase. While there are many studies on PS rates under RC, there are only a few studies on ER rates. There are also few studies that have analyzed the relationship between the PS and ER rates and the display forms of RC have also been analyzed in terms of micro-behavior.

Objective:

This study microscopically analyzes the ER and PS by including data within 1 second at signal switching while comparing 10 types of display forms in RC in order to obtain the ideas of safer and more efficient display forms in signal countdown.

Methods:

We conducted the experiments with RC traffic lights of different display forms, and the surveys of no countdown (NC).

Results:

From the very limited conditions of the experiment, we found that there is a threshold at which the ER rates in RC and NC differ significantly.

Conclusion:

We were also able to analyze the basic characteristics related to the display forms of RC, which is a quick start and which reduces PS and ER.
The development of Android-based learning media using Kodular in making suit patterns subject
Authors: Nurjanah Fitri , Suprihatin Sri Emy Yuli
Published: February 2024

This research aims to produce Android-based interactive learning media by utilizing the Kodular application for learning materials for making suit patterns for XII grade students of Fashion Management Vocational Schools. This research uses the research and development model of the Puslitjaknov Team, which consists of five development stages, namely: (1) Analysis of the product produced; (2) Making the initial product; (3) Expert validation and revision; (4) Small-scale trial; and (5) Large-scale trial. This study collected data through observation, questionnaires, and documentation. The test subjects in this development research were students of class XII of Fashion Management of SMK Negeri 2 Godean, with a total of 10 people for small-scale trials and 27 people for large-scale trials. In this study, quantitative descriptive analysis was used to analyze the data. Based on the assessment of material experts and media experts, small-scale trials, and large-scale trials, the findings of this study reveal that the learning media for making Android-based suit patterns are considered valid and practical for use in the classroom. This media is feasible to use to improve students' thinking skills and support students in learning independently, as well as flexible in its application. This media functions well and provides relevant information to students regarding suit pattern making, increasing students' interest in learning, creativity, and learning motivation. The Android-based suit pattern making learning media developed is more efficient than traditional learning media because it can improve learning outcomes by improving the quality of student learning and making it more fun.
The impact of Indonesia's decentralized education on vocational skills and economic improvement of students
Authors: Setiawan Ari , Andrian Dedek , Dardjito Hanandyo , Yuldashev Azim Abdurakhmanovich , Murlianti Sri , Khairas Eri Ester , Handoko Lukman , As’ad Ihwana
Published: February 2024

This research aims to evaluate the impact of education decentralization through the local curriculum in improving senior secondary school students' vocational and economic skills. This research uses a mixed methods approach with a sequential exploratory design. This design applied a qualitative approach followed by a quantitative approach. Data collection with the qualitative approach used in-depth interviews, while the quantitative approach used questionnaires and documentation of practical exam results. The participants in the qualitative approach were the vice principal and the traditional cookery subject teacher. The sample in the quantitative approach was students who took traditional cookery subjects. Qualitative data analysis used the Miles and Huberman formula, namely data display, data reduction, and conclusions, while quantitative data analysis used descriptive quantitative and MANOVA. The results showed that the impact of decentralization through the local content curriculum on improving students' vocational and economic skills was in the "good" category. The impact of decentralizing education through the local curriculum can reduce the dropout rate of poor students. MANOVA results showed no difference in the impact of the local curriculum on vocational skills across the six schools. However, there is a significant difference in the impact of the local curriculum on students' economic improvement in the six schools.
A corpus-based analysis of discourse marker 'like' functions in podcasts: A gender study
Authors: Surya Putri Zahrotul Nur Azizah , Nugroho Suray Agung
Published: February 2024

Focusing on the use of discourse markers (DM), this study investigated the use of DM like in dyadic communication in American Spotify podcasts. This research aimed to understand the linguistic behavior of podcasters in using DM like during their podcasts and to compare the spoken corpus of female and male speakers collected from the podcast. Corpus analysis assisted by AntConc 3.5.9. was applied to determine (1) which gender primarily used DM like within the corpus, (2) the significance between the usage of DM like and the speaker’s gender, and (3) the functions of using DM like by each gender based on Müller’s (2005) taxonomy of DM like functions. The analysis portrayed that male speakers prefer to use DM like more than female podcast speakers, which is in contrast to previous studies claiming that female speakers used more DM like than male speakers. The difference in results could be attributed to the 17-year gap in the study, which has potentially led to changes in the inclination of using DM like between genders. However, despite male speakers’ higher usage of DM like, there is still no correlation between the use of DM like and the speaker’s gender, aligning with previous research. Lastly, this study revealed that both genders used the same DM like functions, although the occurrences varied.
Importance of Patient History in Artificial Intelligence–Assisted Medical Diagnosis: Comparison Study
Authors: Fukuzawa Fumitoshi , Yanagita Yasutaka , Yokokawa Daiki , Uchida Shun , Yamashita Shiho , Li Yu , Shikino Kiyoshi , Tsukamoto Tomoko , Noda Kazutaka , Uehara Takanori , Ikusaka Masatomi
Published: February 2024

Background

Medical history contributes approximately 80% to a diagnosis, although physical examinations and laboratory investigations increase a physician’s confidence in the medical diagnosis. The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) was first proposed more than 70 years ago. Recently, its role in various fields of medicine has grown remarkably. However, no studies have evaluated the importance of patient history in AI-assisted medical diagnosis.

Objective

This study explored the contribution of patient history to AI-assisted medical diagnoses and assessed the accuracy of ChatGPT in reaching a clinical diagnosis based on the medical history provided.

Methods

Using clinical vignettes of 30 cases identified in The BMJ, we evaluated the accuracy of diagnoses generated by ChatGPT. We compared the diagnoses made by ChatGPT based solely on medical history with the correct diagnoses. We also compared the diagnoses made by ChatGPT after incorporating additional physical examination findings and laboratory data alongside history with the correct diagnoses.

Results

ChatGPT accurately diagnosed 76.6% (23/30) of the cases with only the medical history, consistent with previous research targeting physicians. We also found that this rate was 93.3% (28/30) when additional information was included.

Conclusions

Although adding additional information improves diagnostic accuracy, patient history remains a significant factor in AI-assisted medical diagnosis. Thus, when using AI in medical diagnosis, it is crucial to include pertinent and correct patient histories for an accurate diagnosis. Our findings emphasize the continued significance of patient history in clinical diagnoses in this age and highlight the need for its integration into AI-assisted medical diagnosis systems.
Mobile App–Based Lifestyle Coaching Intervention for Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Kwon Oh Young , Lee Mi Kyung , Lee Hye Won , Kim Hyerang , Lee Jae Seung , Jang Yeonsoo
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle modification in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is key to improving health outcomes. Mobile health technologies may offer potential effective and efficient health care support to facilitate self-management.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to develop a lifestyle coaching intervention using a mobile app for patients with NAFLD and evaluate physiological and psychological health outcomes for 6 months.

METHODS

This study was a randomized controlled trial. The personalized lifestyle coaching intervention using a mobile app was developed through established guidelines and literature reviews. This intervention consisted of information on NAFLD management, diet and physical activity self-monitoring, and coaching sessions based on patient records and SMS text messages. A total of 102 individuals were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned to the intervention group (n=48) or the control group (n=54). The outcomes were improvements in physiological (weight, liver fat score, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase) and clinical outcomes (self-management, NAFLD self-management knowledge, self-efficacy, fatigue, depression, and quality of life). Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and a linear mixed model to test the effects of the intervention.

RESULTS

All participants completed the study. The mean age of the participants was 48.9 (SD 13.74) years, 38.2% (39/102) were female participants, and 65.7% (67/102) were married. There were no differences in baseline demographic and clinical data between the intervention and control groups. Changes from baseline to 6 months were significant only within the intervention group for weight (P<.001), liver fat score (P=.01), aspartate aminotransferase (P=.03), alanine transferase (P=.002), gamma-glutamyl transferase (P=.04), self-management (P<.001), fatigue (P=.005), depression (P=.003), and quality of life (P<.001). The differences between the 2 groups for the changes over the 6 months were significant in self-management (P=.004), self-management knowledge (P=.04), fatigue (P=.004), depression (P=.04), and quality of life (P=.01). However, the intervention-by-time interaction was significantly effective only for self-management (P=.006) and fatigue (P=.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Nonpharmacological interventions using a mobile app may be effective in improving the physiological and psychological health outcomes of patients with NAFLD.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinical Research Information Service KCT0005549; http://tinyurl.com/y2zb6usy
Spotting Manic and Hypomanic Symptomatology in Spoken Language from Clinical Interview Recordings---Systematic Literature Review (Preprint)
Authors: Zagad Alex , Blachier Athena , Tahmazov Elkhan , Haralambous Yannis , Walter Michel , Navarro Laurent , Lenca Philippe , Lemey Christophe
Published: February 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Bipolar disorder is one of the ten most incapacitating disorders, according to the World Health Organization, and its early diagnosis is crucial to avoid disease-related complications. Language offers a rich data source for analyzing mental disorders, and the analysis of acoustic parameters, syntax, semantic content, and language structure, in general, is a constantly evolving field. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify markers in the oral language of mania and hypomania in bipolar disorder, using recordings of clinical interviews.
We conducted our study using the EMBASE, Pubmed, IEEE, ACL Anthology, Scopus and arXiv databases.
Results show several linguistic and acoustic variations in manic and hypomanic episodes, including verbal overproduction, decreased pauses, unstable speech, and communication disorders. The studies also reveal significant spectral and energetic variations.
The data point to the existence of changes in the speech characteristics of patients with bipolar disorder in the manic or hypomanic phase. Promising results have been obtained. However, several challenges remain, and further studies are still needed to provide significant advance in diagnostic for bipolar disorder.
Evaluating the Impact of a Bespoke Daylight-simulating Luminaire on Mood, Agitation, Sleep-wake Cycles, Rest-activity Patterns and Social Wellbeing Parameters in a Care Home for People with Dementia (Preprint)
Authors: Turley Kate , Rafferty Joseph , Bond Raymond , Mulvenna Maurice , Ryan Assumpta , Crawford Lloyd
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Living with a diagnosis of dementia can involve managing certain behavioural and psychological symptoms. As such, the evolution of technology has enabled many smart home or digital health solutions to monitor different aspects of one’s health on a daily basis. This paper focuses on the use of a dynamic lighting and sensing technology used to support the circadian rhythm, behavioural and psychological symptoms and wellbeing of people living with dementia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to understand how dynamic lighting as opposed to static lighting may impact the wellbeing of those who are living with dementia.

METHODS

An ethically approved trial is conducted within a care home for people with dementia. Data is collected in both quantitative and qualitative formats using environmentally-deployed radar sensing technology and the validated QUALIDEM wellbeing scale respectively. Metrics are collected for 11 participants on mood, social interactions, agitation, sense of feeling, sleep and rest-activity over a period of 16 weeks.

RESULTS

Results highlight that dynamic lighting shows statistically significant improvement with a moderate effect size in wellbeing parameters including positive affect (p = 0.030), social isolation (p = 0.048) and feeling at home (p = 0.047) after 5-10 weeks of dynamic lighting. Results also highlight statistically significant improvements in rest-activity related parameters of inter-daily stability (p < 0.001), intra-daily variation (p<0.001) and relative amplitude (p=0.033) from baseline to weeks 5-10, with the effect propagating for inter-daily stability at weeks 10-16 as well (p < 0.001). Non-significant improvements are also noted for sleep metrics with a small effect size, however the affect in agitation does not reflect this improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Dynamic lighting has the potential to support wellbeing in dementia, with seemingly stronger influence in earlier weeks where the dynamic lighting initially follows the static lighting contrast, before proceeding to aggregate as marginal gains over time.

CLINICALTRIAL

Pilot study registered under IRAS ID 311547
Insights From the Development of a Dynamic Consent Platform for the Australians Together Health Initiative (ATHENA) Program: Interview and Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Xiong Eddy , Bonner Carissa , King Amanda , Bourne Zoltan Maxwell , Morgan Mark , Tolosa Ximena , Stanton Tony , Greaves Kim
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Dynamic consent has the potential to address many of the issues facing traditional paper-based or electronic consent, including enrolling informed and engaged participants in the decision-making process. The Australians Together Health Initiative (ATHENA) program aims to connect participants across Queensland, Australia, with new research opportunities. At its core is dynamic consent, an interactive and participant-centric digital platform that enables users to view ongoing research activities, update consent preferences, and have ongoing engagement with researchers.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the development of the ATHENA dynamic consent platform within the framework of the ATHENA program, including how the platform was designed, its utilization by participants, and the insights gained.

METHODS

One-on-one interviews were undertaken with consumers, followed by a workshop with health care staff to gain insights into the dynamic consent concept. Five problem statements were developed, and solutions were posed, from which a dynamic consent platform was constructed, tested, and used for implementation in a clinical trial. Potential users were randomly recruited from a pre-existing pool of 615 participants in the ATHENA program. Feedback on user platform experience was gained from a survey hosted on the platform.

RESULTS

In the 13 consumer interviews undertaken, participants were positive about dynamic consent, valuing privacy, ease of use, and adequate communication. Motivators for registration were feedback on data usage and its broader community benefits. Problem statements were security, trust and governance, ease of use, communication, control, and need for a scalable platform. Using the newly constructed dynamic consent platform, 99 potential participants were selected, of whom 67 (68%) were successfully recontacted. Of these, 59 (88%) agreed to be sent the platform, 44 (74%) logged on (indicating use), and 22 (57%) registered for the clinical trial. Survey feedback was favorable, with an average positive rating of 78% across all questions, reflecting satisfaction with the clarity, brevity, and flexibility of the platform. Barriers to implementation included technological and health literacy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study describes the successful development and testing of a dynamic consent platform that was well-accepted, with users recognizing its advantages over traditional methods of consent regarding flexibility, ease of communication, and participant satisfaction. This information may be useful to other researchers who plan to use dynamic consent in health care research.
Exploring Perceptions, Opinions, and Needs of Adult and Pediatric Cancer Patients, Caregivers, and Healthcare Professionals Towards Low-Fidelity Versions of the MyPal Project's Applications: Findings from 12 Pre-Pilot Focus Groups in 4 European Countries of an ePRO Intervention for Palliative Cancer Care (Preprint)
Authors: Kyrou Dimitrios , Bonotis Panos , Kakalou Christine , Scarfò Lydia , Meyerheim Marcel , Sander Annette , Arpas Tomas , Kazantzaki Eleni , Maramis Christos , Karamanidou Christina
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Palliative care is crucial for patients with life-threatening and serious diseases like cancer, addressing their physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs. Haematological Malignancies (HMs) significantly contribute to global cancer cases, impacting both older adults and children. To meet the increasing demand for palliative care, electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) interventions have emerged, offering valuable insights into patient monitoring and treatment decision-making.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the perceptions, opinions, and needs of adult and pediatric cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals towards low-fidelity versions of the MyPal Project's applications, which are designed to improve palliative cancer care.

METHODS

Twelve pre-pilot focus groups were conducted across four European countries, involving a diverse sample of participants. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify and extract themes and subthemes from the focus group discussions.

RESULTS

Three main themes emerged from the focus group discussions. The first theme, "Improved Care," highlighted MyPal's potential to enhance healthcare through patient-reported measures, improving symptom monitoring, decision-making, and doctor-patient communication. The second theme, "Digital Communication Framework," addressed concerns about data privacy and the need for clearer guidelines regarding app-based reporting and phone calls. The third theme, "Applicability for Use in Healthcare," emphasized the importance of the system's ease of use, while concerns about intrusiveness and burden were raised.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides valuable insights into the perspectives of adult and pediatric cancer patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals towards the MyPal Project's low-fidelity applications. Understanding end-users' perceptions and needs is vital for developing patient-centered eHealth interventions that can enhance the quality of life and care for cancer patients of all ages. These findings have implications for optimizing app design and implementation, ultimately promoting the successful integration of eHealth technologies into routine palliative care practice.
Relativization in Ikwuano Dialect of Igbo
Authors: Uwasomba Ph.D Blessing Ugochi
Published: February 2024

This paper examines relativization in Ikwuano Igbo. The problem of word order and the selectional rule for grammaticality in the realization of semantic affinity that exist in sentence construction cannot be ignored. This study investigates the embedding features that make sentential structures to be embedded in other sentences. The relative pronouns found in Ikwuano Igbo include; “ónyé- who,whom”, “nkè- which”, “nà- that”, “mà- whether”, “kà- that”. The relative pronoun occurs as the subject of a relative clause making it to be grammatical. The theoretical framework adopted by this study is the embedding principle of “Principles and Parameters”. This theory is a brain child of Noam Chomsky. This study takes a descriptive approach of language analysis. The data for this paper is elicited utterances by adult native speakers and intuition from the researcher. The aim of this paper is to examine relativization in Ikwuano Igbo with a view to establishing the Ikwuano strategy. This paper explains the motivation for the relative pronoun strategy and its behavior in the language. This study reveals that relativization in Ikwuano Igbo remains the most productive strategy in Igbo and many other languages for grammaticality. The study shows that relativization performs an emphatic function in the grammatical structure of Ikwuano Igbo.
CT EVALUATION FOR THE EFFICACY OF A UNANI FORMULATION WITH INKEBAB IN THE TREATMENT OF ILTEHAB TAJAWEEFE ANAF MUZMIN
Authors: ZAIDI ZEHRA , JAIN ABHINAV , KHAN ASIM ALI
Published: February 2024

Objective: To establish the efficacy of the oral Unani formulations with inhalation of Kalonji in comparison with the standard control in Iltehab Tajaweefe Anaf Muzmin (Chronic Rhinosinusitis [CRS]) based on the computed tomography (CT) paranasal sinuses (PNS) findings. To provide safe, effective, and economical treatment for Iltehab Tajaweefe Anaf Muzmin.
Methods: In this randomized, single-blind, standard-controlled study of 45 patients with CRS, the patients were allocated to two groups. In Group A, patients received Unani oral formulation: Katan (Linum usitatissimum), Filfil siyah (Piper nigrum), and Asl-e-Khalis in a 6 g BD dose with steam inhalation of Kalonji (Nigella sativa) BD and Tab Alaspan 1OD with Karvol Plus inhalation BD in Group B. Statistical data was analyzed using a paired-t test by comparing the total sinus score (TSS) of CT PNS calculated based on the Lund Mackay staging system before and after treatment.
Results: The result is statistically significant in Group A in comparison to the non-significant effect in Group B (p<0.05). After treatment, there was a 30% complete resolution of the TSS in CT PNS imaging in group A, in comparison to the 0% complete resolution of the TSS in group B. No adverse effects were reported during the study.
Conclusion: The oral Unani formulation with inhalation of Kalonji is safe and has a statistically significant effect on TSS (CTPNS) in patients with CRS in Group A. A multicentric trial of the test drug on a larger sample size for a longer duration is required to establish the efficacy of the Inkebab of Kalonji with oral Unani formulation on patients with CRS.
A STUDY OF COST VARIATION ANALYSIS OF ORAL HYPOGLYCEMIC DRUGS AVAILABLE IN INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL MARKET
Authors: Joy Florance , JL Marko , Nand Stephen
Published: February 2024

Objectives: A large number of oral hypoglycemic drugs as single or fixed dose combinations are available for the treatment of diabetes mellitus which has a wide range of price variation and becomes a constraint in the treatment for both physician and patient. However, very few studies have been done to reveal such price variations. The objective of this study was to find out the cost variation among the different brands of various classes of oral hypoglycemic drugs in similar strength and dosage forms of single therapy and fixed-dose combinations.
Methods: Cost of a particular drug being manufactured by different companies in the same strength, number, and dosage form was compared from the Current Index of Medical Specialties (CIMS) (January 2022–April 2022) and Indian Drug review 2022. The difference in the maximum and minimum price of the same drug manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies and the percentage variation in price was calculated.
Results: Among single drug therapy, Glimepiride (1 mg) shows a maximum percentage variation in price of 3450%. Among Sulfonylureas-glimepiride (1 mg) shows a maximum price variation of 3450%, in Biguanides–metformin (500 mg), in Thiazolidinediones – Pioglitazone (15 mg) shows a maximum price variation of 900%, and 300%, respectively, and among the glucosidase inhibitors, Voglibose (0.3 mg) shows maximum price variation of 571.2%. Among combination formulation, glimepiride (1 mg) + metformin SR (500 mg) shows a maximum percentage of price variation of 262.1%.
Conclusion: It is observed from our results that there is a wide variation in prices of drugs manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies. Hence, it is very necessary for regulatory authorities to regulate the wide variation in drug prices to maximize the benefits of the treatment. It is recommended that the appraisal and management of marketing drugs should be well-regulated.
Juicios orales y derechos humanos
Authors: Witker Velásquez Jorge
Published: February 2024

Este libro forma parte de una nueva colección monográfica, que tiene como finalidad continuar explorando, desde las experiencias nacionales e internacionales, diversos temas que integran el universo de la reforma constitucional del 18 de junio de 2008, y que se integran a los trabajos desarrollados por la línea de investigación institucional denominada “Sistema Penal Acusatorio en México”. La nueva colección ha trazado como uno de sus objetivos estratégicos el desarrollo de investigaciones desde un punto de vista jurídico-normativo, en el que se analizan las disposiciones, la manera en que se han modificado alguna leyes reguladoras del sistema acusatorio, sus antecedentes y contexto; pero también sus relaciones con el marco constitucional y la democracia. Asimismo, incluye la realización de estudios empíricos sobre la manera en la que funciona en realiza la justicia penal mexicana a partir de las reformas constitucionales citadas.
El proceso constituyente chileno: de la esperanza al rechazo
Authors: Cárdenas Gracia Jaime Fernando
Published: February 2024

En Chile se realizó un proceso constituyente que no concluyó con una nueva Constitución. El 4 de septiembre de 2022, el casi 62% de los chilenos decidió rechazar en referéndum el texto propuesto por la Convención Constitucional de ese país. ¿Por qué no se aceptó el proyecto de nueva Constitución? Las razones se explican a lo largo de este libro y se relacionan con las características del proceso de transición a la democracia de ese país. El proceso de cambio político en Chile, de la dictadura a la democracia, ha sido lento y difícil. El sistema constitucional vigente obliga a la “concertación” entre las fuerzas políticas, lo que ha impedido que se produzcan cambios constitucionales significativos que impliquen una alteración del statu quo. El modelo chileno es tan peculiar, que durante 2023 se ha iniciado, después del fracaso previo, otro proceso constituyente, y tanto en Chile como en el mundo estamos en espera de sus desenlace.
Study of Mechanical Properties of Concrete using Recycled Aggregates
Authors: Modi Mahima , Maurya Dr. Madan Chandra
Published: February 2024

Abstract: The last few decades have seen a rapid increase in urbanisation, which has increased demand for building materials, particularly aggregates. The aggregate mining has put a burden on the environment and raised concerns about swift ecological harm. Lack of building aggregates is a severe issue that requires the use of alternative recycled aggregates in its stead. Old, abandoned building debris is used to create recycled aggregates (RA), which are then hauled to a landfill and disposed of there. In addition to pushing waste sites farther away, the decades-long urbanisation of the region has also increased the expense of moving these aggregates. Utilising them in place of natural aggregates in concrete mixtures is the solution. Here in this study some proportion of natural coarse aggregate is being replaced by the recycled aggregate and analysis of its effect on various mechanical properties of concrete is being done. The mechanical properties of concrete constitute Compressive Strength, Flexural Strength, Shrinkage, Creep and Modulus of Elasticity.
Self Compaction Concrete
Authors: Petwal Deepmala , Singh Gajendra
Published: February 2024

Abstract: In this paper, we present the main objective of this study is to gain an absolute knowledge on self-compacting concrete (SCC) and to sort out the research gap in field of self-compacting concrete containing admixtures. This research study is carried out in the three phases and the details are Phase – I to develop the mix design of M50 grade using Nan-Su method. To optimize the developed mix proportions by using statistical (DOE) design; ranging content of the key variables of self-compacting concrete cement. To study the fresh concrete properties (rheological) and mechanical properties (compressive strength) of selfcompacting concrete by varying different parameters such as fine aggregate, coarse aggregate, super plasticizer (SP) and water/binder ratio.
Flipped classroom strategy and Saudi secondary students' grammar proficiency
Authors: AlQout Abeer Mohammed , Alhamami Munassir
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the impact of FC on Saudi secondary school students' grammar proficiency. The participants in this study were 61 Saudi female students from the second level of secondary school. The participants were divided into two groups: the control group consisted of 30 students, and the experimental group consisted of 31 students. The control group was taught using the traditional method of instruction, while the experimental group was taught using FC. The data collection instrument was a pretest and posttest that were designed by the researchers. The pretest was administered at the beginning of the intervention, and the posttest was administered after a period of four weeks. The data from the pretest and posttest were analyzed quantitatively. The findings of the study revealed that FC did not have a significant impact on students' performance in grammar. There was no statistical difference between the scores of the students in both groups in the posttest. This study contributes to the existing literature on FC by providing evidence that FC does not have a significant impact on students' performance in grammar. One explanation is the potential mismatch between the self-directed nature of online education and the level of maturity and discipline typically expected from high school students. Also, other factors, such as the quality of the instructional materials and the teacher's pedagogical skills, may be more important than FC in improving students' grammar proficiency.
Analysis of the hidden meaning of “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” poem through figurative languages
Authors: Wiranota Hesti , Arifin Muhammad Nur
Published: February 2024

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening is a popular poem written by Robert Frost in the 20th century, which reflected the social aspects of human existence. The researchers used the library research to analyze the figurative languages, the hidden meaning, and their correlation in poetry. The authors considered the hidden meanings in the poetry studied, namely that people should not be lulled by the promise or beauty of the surrounding environment; instead, they must complete their tasks before their lives end. The hidden meaning could be seen in the following stanzas: the stanza 1 depicted somebody stopping in a snowy forest, the stanza 2 revealed the small horse questioning a stop in a forest far from the farmhouse, the stanza 3 described the small horse shaking its harness bell as a warning, and the stanza 4 showed the speaker's determination to continue his journey and fulfill his duties before the end of his life. The correlation between the hidden meaning of "the long journey of a human life" and the figurative language in the last two lines of the fourth stanza, an "allegory" that reads " and miles to go before I sleep " outlined the idea of ​​a lifelong journey to complete one's task before the rest eternal.
Exploring student perspectives in amplifying students' speaking skills on English for hospitality internship
Authors: Ananta Benny Dele Bintang , Sholahuddin Muhammad Firza Thoriq , Waloyo Alimin Adi
Published: February 2024

This research focuses on the experiences of hospitality internships in amplifying speaking skills. In particular, the objective of this research is to examine the students’ perspectives in the hospitality program on enhancing speaking skills as well as the challenges they face and their solutions to these challenges. Qualitative research methods, including questionnaires and observations, were used to gather data from students in the English Language Education Department at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Indonesia. There were 28 students enrolled in COE English for Hospitality Program, who participated in the study. The results showed that students' opinions about their experiences with speaking education during their hospitality internships varied. Additionally, challenges in hospitality internships encompass three main areas: delivery, language, and interaction. Some strategies were also provided to assist in overcoming the difficulties identified. It is accordingly advocated that teachers and students need to prepare better in terms of delivery, language, and interaction. hospitality internships can be implemented in the class and Internship programs.
The effectiveness of using Wattpad to teach narrative text writing
Authors: Gustiani Rayna Elisya , Bunau Eusabinus , Rahmani Eka Fajar
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of Wattpad as a medium to teach narrative text writing to the tenth-grade students of SMK Negeri 5 Pontianak.  This study was carried out using a pre-experimental study with one group pre and post-test design. The sample of this research was a cluster involving 30 students from Class X Tata Kecantikan I taken from a population of 334 students. The results indicated that the t-test was 12.489. The analysis of the pre-post-test scores indicated that the pre-test was lower than the post-test (71.5<88.3). The t-test analysis showed a greater value compared with the t-table (12.489>2.045) with the degree of freedom 29 and ???? = 0.05. The analysis revealed that the null hypothesis was rejected while the alternative hypothesis is accepted. In addition, the effect size was categorized as a strong effect with the value (2.28>1.00). Therefore, the research referred that the use of Wattpad as a medium to teach students narrative text writing was effective with a strong effect. Despite its initial purpose, Wattpad can be a recommended media to teach tenth-grade students.
Genrefication in Secondary School Libraries
Authors: Pulsipher Lindsay
Published: February 2024

Most school libraries organize fiction books alphabetically by an author’s last name. In order for a student to find and compare potential fiction reading material, the traditional school library model would have the student either search the library system for the topic and then go from stack to stack looking for books about the topic from any number of locations or seek advice from school library staff who would direct the student to potential titles as part of a reader’s advisory. In an effort to make fiction book selection easier for students, some school librarians have turned to genrefied fiction collections. However, there are many school librarians who feel that organizing fiction books by genre first rather than author’s last name creates more problems than it solves. This paper will explore the history behind genrefication, discuss the Paradox of Choice and patron browsing habits, and present the modern debate regarding genrefication of fiction books in school libraries.
Photonic entanglement during a zero-g flight
Authors: Bittermann Julius Arthur , Bulla Lukas , Ecker Sebastian , Neumann Sebastian Philipp , Fink Matthias , Bohmann Martin , Friis Nicolai , Huber Marcus , Ursin Rupert
Published: February 2024

Quantum technologies have matured to the point that we can test fundamental quantum phenomena under extreme conditions. Specifically, entanglement, a cornerstone of modern quantum information theory, can be robustly produced and verified in various adverse environments. We take these tests further and implement a high-quality Bell experiment during a parabolic flight, transitioning from microgravity to hypergravity of 1.8 g while continuously observing Bell violation, with Bell-CHSH parameters between S=−2.6202 and −2.7323, an average of S¯=−2.680, and average standard deviation of ΔS¯=0.014. This violation is unaffected both by uniform and non-uniform acceleration. This experiment demonstrates the stability of current quantum communication platforms for space-based applications and adds an important reference point for testing the interplay of non-inertial motion and quantum information.
POTENSI DAN CABARAN PERNIAGAAN E-DAGANG PASCA COVID-19: SUATU CADANGAN PENYELESAIAN
Authors: Baharun Muhammad Thoriq , Mohd Balwi Mohd Abd Wahab Fatoni
Published: February 2024

Wabak Covid-19 telah diisytiharkan sebagai pandemik berikutan penularannya yang semakin meningkat saban hari. Hal ini secara tidak langsung memberi kesan buruk terhadap pertumbuhan ekonomi Malaysia. Kesannya, kebanyakan daripada rakyat Malaysia, khususnya usahawan, kehilangan punca pendapatan dalam tempoh Covid-19 ini. Oleh yang demikian, makalah ini dihasilkan bagi mengetengahkan e-dagang sebagai alternatif yang terbaik dalam usaha mencari mata pencarian pasca Covid-19, khususnya kepada usahawan Muslim. Data-data yang diperoleh melalui kajian perpustakaan, akan digunakan untuk menganalisis potensi dan cabaran pelaksanaan perniagaan secara e-dagang kepada usahawan Muslim. Hasil daripada kajian mendapati bahawa, potensi perniagaan secara e-dagang adalah peluang dan pasarannya yang lebih luas, serta mampu memaksimumkan pencapaian matlamat keusahawanan dalam Islam. Manakala cabaran utama yang perlu diatasi untuk pelaksanaan perniagaan secara e-dagang pula ialah cabaran persaingan antara peniaga, ilmu pengetahuan, masalah disiplin, serta komitmen usahawan.
Modelo hidráulico unidimensional para determinar zonas de inundación en ríos de montaña
Authors: Sánchez-Tapiero Diego Iván , Bonilla-Granados Carlos Alexis , Ramón-Valencia Jarol Derley
Published: February 2024

Las inundaciones son fenómenos recurrentes que se producen por eventos fuertes de precipitación debido a diferentes causas: naturales y antrópicas, pueden llegar a ser potencialmente destructivas, motivo por el cual las entidades competentes en relación a la gestión del Riesgo de desastres deben facilitar la planificación del recurso hídrico mediante la implementación de estudios como la modelación hidráulica. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo dar a conocer la metodología empleada para determinar las zonas de inundación de un río de montaña mediante un modelo hidráulico unidimensional, tomando como caso de estudio el río Pamplonita en el tramo La Don Juana, Colombia. Para el estudio se recopiló información primaria relacionada con la función hídrica, estructura territorial e hidrológica contenida en el Plan de Ordenación y Manejo de la Cuenca Hidrográfica del río Pamplonita (POMCH); a partir de diferentes bases de datos nacionales. La simulación dinámica del flujo se realizó mediante el modelo matemático unidimensional HEC-RAS, incorporándose los datos necesarios al modelo y una vez calibrado se determinó la mancha de inundación para los periodos de retorno de 2 y 100 años, conociendo las profundidades y velocidades máximas del flujo en el caso de estudio. El modelo hidráulico permitió conocer el comportamiento del flujo de un río de montaña, evidenciando las áreas inundables de 0.75 y 1.20 hectáreas (Ha) respectivamente para cada periodo de retorno. Finalmente, los resultados de la investigación pueden ser utilizados por organismos competentes de la planificación para disminuir los riesgos por inundación y buscar alternativas de prevención y mitigación ante impactos futuros del clima.
Pre-Print: Compound Inundation Modeling of a 1-D Idealized Coastal Watershed Using a Reduce-Physics Approach
Authors: Santiago-Collazo Felix Luis , Bilskie Matthew V , Bacopoulos Peter , Hagen Scott C.
Published: February 2024

Low-gradient coastal watersheds are susceptible to flooding caused by
various flows such as rainfall-runoff, astronomical tides, storm surges,
and riverine flows. Compound flooding occurs when at least one coastal
flood driver occurs simultaneously or in close succession with a pluvial
and/or fluvial flood driver, such as during a tropical cyclone event.
This study presents a one-dimensional (1-D), reduced-order physics
compound inundation model tested over an idealized coastal watershed
transect under various forcing conditions (e.g., storm surge,
astronomical tides, and rainfall) that varied in magnitude, time, and
space. This study aims to evaluate each flooding mechanism and the
associated hydrodynamic responses to identify generalized coastal
transition zones and enhance the production of flood maps for varying
regions in a coastal watershed. Compound inundation levels are affected
by the magnitude and timing of each flooding mechanism. The desire is a
more holistic compound inundation model that can be a critical tool for
decision-makers, stakeholders, and authorities who provide evacuation
planning to save human lives and enhance resilience.
Pichiciego mayor, Calyptophractus retusus (Desmarest, 1863), nuevos datos de su distribucion en Argentina
Authors: Cirignoli Sebastian , Luna Niceforo , Abba Agustin M.
Published: February 2024

In this note we present two new localities in Argentina for one of the least known armadillos in the world, the greater fairy armadillo (Calyptophractus retusus). One locality is in Formosa province, Patino department, Campo Las Delicias, and the other in Salta, Oran department, Parque Provincial Los Palmares. In addition, we discuss the validity of the type locality of the subspecies C. r. clorindae "Tapia, in the governorate of Formosa (Argentina)", which was impossible to locate.