bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of variance reduction techniques applied to the pricing of investment certificates
Authors:   University of Genoa, Italy, Bottasso Anna , Fusaro Michelangelo ,   Quantitative Financial Analyst and AIAF AIFIRM member, Giribone Pier Giuseppe ,   University of Genoa, Italy,   BPER, Tissone Alessio ,   Quantitative Financial Analyst and AIAF AIFIRM member
Published: April 2023

Certificates are structured financial instruments that aim to provide investors with investment solutions tailored to their needs. Certificates can be modeled using a bond component and a derivative component, typically an options strategy. The pricing of certificates is typically performed using the Monte Carlo numerical methodology. Such method allows for projections of the underlying using series of random numbers. The results obtained display an error (standard deviation) that depends on the number of simulations used and on the specific characteristics of the structured product. This work has the objective of minimizing the experimental error, and, consequently, of accelerating the speed of convergence using statistical techniques known in the literature as variance reduction methods. The most popular stochastic dynamics have been analyzed, like the classical Black and Scholes model, the Local Volatility model and the Heston model. Three certificates are analyzed in the paper and they are characterized by different payoffs. The variance reduction techniques, implemented in different programming languages (Python, Matlab and R), are: Latin Hypercube, Stratified Sampling, Antithetic Variables, Importance Sampling, Moment Matching and Control Variates
Philosophy of probability
Authors:   , Saracino Alberto
Published: April 2023

Years ago a colleague of mine, external to the Risk Management Department, asked me, as a risk manager, to explain in plane words the concept of probability. I do not remember exactly what I answered, a sort of standard definition like “the level of possibility of something happening or being true” or “a number that represents how likely it is that a particular thing will happen1 . That colleague of mine accepted my answer but was not, of course, particularly pleased with it. I have a background in statistics and economics. As a student I thought that the then few courses in history and philosophy of probability, statistics and economics were courses useful to "lighten" the heaviness of those studies, and not worthy of real interest. Now, after a professional career in risk management, a subject heavily based upon applications of the theory of probability, I would give a completely different answer, recalling the words spoken by Bertrand Russel (1872-1970), during a lecture in 1929: “… probability is the most important concept in modern science, especially as nobody has the slightest notion what it means”. Indeed, I changed my opinion on the usefulness of those courses. I now believe that in the areas indicated, as well as in other graduate and undergraduate programs, the study of how some paradigms prevailed over others, of how and why competing approaches and methods were abandoned, would be highly desirable.
Predicting abiotic factors to develop a smart office system
Authors:   RSE Institute of Information and Computational Technologies MSHE RK CS, Ziyatbekova G. Z. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Kopbosyn L. S. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Sambetbayeva A. K. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Duisenbekkyzy Zh. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Muratov E. B. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Burgegulov A. D. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Published: April 2023

The article deals with the prediction of abiotic factors for the Smart Office system. Scientific research in the field of forecasting is given. This article discusses the technology for installing an energy-saving system and its operating principles. Methods of building and managing smart systems are used. Also describes the increase in comfort, thanks to the Smart Office technology. User-friendly interface is used. Affects functions such as: optimization of lighting, heating, protection and control of the house remotely, using mobile devices and special key fobs. Mainly considered the system of automation of business structures depending on the scale. All currently available methods were suggested, which are key factors in the optimization of all business processes. And also considered options for modeling and system development, taking into account all the current problems of automation of smart systems. The importance of the scientific topic affects the high potential for the development of smart home systems and the lack of uniform standards for devices included in these systems. The hardware-software complex under development can be used both in ordinary homes, offices and production facilities. The system is scalable, allowing it to be used for almost any purpose. The article deals with the creation of an autonomous microprocessor-based climate data transmission system. In this paper, we developed a microprocessor-based climate measurement system designed to measure relative humidity and air temperature. The measuring system of climatic parameters is designed to collect measuring information, its further processing, storage and display in a form convenient for the operator’s perception.
Development of the application for determination of the optimal partitioning form of large-dimensional matrix’s elements for multiplication on three heterogeneous processors
Authors:   Karaganda Technical University, Klyuyeva Ye. G.
Published: April 2023

The article presents the results of the development of a web application for finding the optimal form of splitting matrix elements between three abstract heterogeneous processors when performing the operation of their multiplication. The paper considers five classes of parallel matrix multiplication algorithms: serial communication with a barrier, parallel communication with a barrier, serial communication with overlapping, parallel communication with overlapping, parallel overlapping with alternation. The Hockney model is used to estimate the communication complexity of the algorithms. The work uses six non-rectangular candidate partitioning shapes identified by Ashley DeFlumere in her work [1] as a result of applying the «push» technology of redistribution of matrix elements between the processors: Square Corner, Rectangle Corner, Square Rectangle, Block Rectangle, L-Rectangle, Traditional 1D Rectangular. Determination of the optimality of the form is made on the basis of mathematical models presented in the works [2,3]. The programming languages Python and JavaScript, the Django framework, the pip package manager, and Ajax technology were used to develop a web application. Solving the problem of determining the optimal matrix shape will allow for efficient planning of computing power resources for various scientific fields using parallel matrix multiplication.
The classification system of vehicles on road structures using artificial intelligence
Authors:   Berlin University of Applied Science, Resnik B. E. , Mansurova M. E. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Baigarayeva Zh. E. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Amirkhanova G. A. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Ixanov S. Sh. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Published: April 2023

This study proposes a method based on an artificial neural network for classifying truck systems for monitoring road structures. As a rule, in order to guarantee structural and operational safety and provide early warning of damage or wear before expensive repairs or even catastrophic collapse of road structures, it is necessary to provide a high-quality monitoring system based on innovative methods. Starting from the selection of suitable sensors and ending with the design of a structural condition assessment system, the development of an intelligent monitoring system for a large bridge that is really capable of providing information for assessing the integrity of the structure. This article explores the latest innovative achievements in the field of vehicle registration on road structures. Recognition and classification of each individual type of cargo vehicle is very difficult, because there are different types of them, there are different numbers of axles and their location, which cause ambiguity in the recognition and classification process. To cope with these classification ambiguities, the authors propose a method of recognition and classification based on an artificial neural network. Cargo vehicles are classified by applying an artificial neural network to the signals of truck systems received in the frequency domain. Once the neural network is trained on the received signals, it is used to determine the type of cargo vehicles using the received signals. The effectiveness of the classification was evaluated by experiments on the Freybrücke Bridge in Berlin, Germany. Model training was applied using the CNN method for vehicle classification, which resulted in an overall classification accuracy of about 95%.
Zeros of an entire function connected by a loaded first-order differential operator on a segment
Authors:   South Kazakhstan State Pedagogical University, Imanbaev N. S. ,   Institute of Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling
Published: April 2023

In the paper, we consider the problem on eigenvalues of a loaded differential operator of the first order with a periodic boundary condition on the interval [–1; 1], that is, equation contains a load at the point (–1) and the function of bounded variation (t), with the condition Φ(−1) = Φ(1) = 1 . A characteristic determinant of spectral problem is constructed for the considered loaded differentiation operator, which is an entire analytical function on the spectral parameter. On the basis of the characteristic determinant formula, conclusions are proved about the asymptotic behavior of the spectrum and eigenfunctions of the loaded spectral problem for the differentiation operator, the characteristic determinant of which is an entire analytic function of the spectral parameter l. A theorem on the location of eigenvalues on the complex plane l is formulated, where the regular growth of an entire analytic function is indicated. A theorem is proved on the asymptotics of the zeros of an entire function, that is, the eigenvalues of the original considered spectral problem for a loaded differential operator of differentiation, and the asymptotic properties of an entire function with distribution of roots are studied.
Comparative analysis of the launch of satellites for the radiation monitoring using low and high thrust engines
Authors:   Azerbaijan National Aviation Academy, Mammadzada T. H.
Published: April 2023

This article considers the comparative analysis of the launch of satellites for the Earth radiation monitoring using low-thrust engines – electric propulsion system (EPS), and high thrust – chemical rocket engines (CRE). The launch scheme assumes successive delivery of satellites to the predetermined orbits with the help of a space tug, previously launched into a base circular orbit and equipped with CRE or EPS. The parameters of the trajectories are calculated – considering both the form of ridershare launch of a satellite and the clustered launch of two satellites into specified elliptical orbits. The flight of the spacecraft with the CRE is approximated by impulsive maneuvers, and the flight with the EPS is calculated under the condition of minimizing the flight time using the maximum principle of Pontryagin. The results obtained demonstrate the technical feasibility and advantages of satellite delivery into specified orbits using low and high thrust engines – chemical rocket engines and electric propulsion system.
PENINGKATAN KESEJAHTERAAN MASYARAKAT MELALUI GERAKAN MANDIRI PANGAN DI RT 5 RW I DESA PRAMBATAN LOR KABUPATEN KUDUS
Authors: Indriasih Aini , Haryati Yuli , Hasanah Dian Ayu Uswatun , Nuryandani Einstivina , Prayitno Edi
Published: April 2023

The independent food movement has become a global issue. Fulfillment of food for every household is a goal as well as a target for food security in the region and nationally. This can be done from strengthening food security at the family level by realizing family food independence. Family food independence is carried out by utilizing the yard of the house. The problem occurs when the yard area is decreasing. The narrowness of the land resulted in the interest and attention of residents to continue the culture of utilizing the yard is decreasing and even being forgotten. To overcome this, a systemic and systematic strategy is needed to revive the culture. Re-actualization efforts are needed to revive the culture of planting in the yard. PkM activities aim to improve the socio-economic conditions of the residents by setting aside a little time and energy to cultivate the yard into a source of family food security. The activity was carried out in Prambatan Lor Village, Rt 05 Rw I, Kaliwungu sub-district, Kudus district. Stages of activity: 1) site survey/licensing, 2) theoretical training 3) practical training and 4) monitoring and evaluation. The results of the monitoring carried out showed that the vegetables were starting to grow, while the catfish were in the growth stage. The results of the interview partners felt happy to get new knowledge and were helped in using the yard as a sustainable food house.
Pengaruh E-Trust on Re-use Intention Terhadap Platform Flip
Authors: Fajar Fadillah Alan , Putri Ramayanti Tiara , Yusuf Abdul
Published: April 2023

Perkembangan inovasi mengenai teknologi informasi tidak hanya sekedar untuk mencari data namun menjadikan penghubung disegala kegiatan, salah satu dari kegiatan tersebut adalah sektor keuangan.  Dengan banyaknya inovasi baru yang muncul dengan kemudahaan yang didapat, tidak memungkinkan masalah tidak muncul.  Dalam kasus mobile banking salah satu dari masalah baru yang muncul adalah transfer rekening dengan biaya admin.  Dalam penelitian ini terdapat 2 metode pengumpulan data selama proses penelitian, yaitu: 1.  Studi Kepustakaan (Library Research) Teknik ini dilakukan dengan cara Mencari sumber-sumber yang memiliki keterkaitan dengan penelitian.  Acuan nya pada jurnal ilmiah, literatur, dan juga publikasi lainnya yang dapat menjadi rujukan untuk penelitian ini.  2.  Studi Lapangan (Field Research) Teknik ini dilakukan dengan cara Mengumpulkan data-data yang dibutuhkan untuk penelitian seperti memperoleh data dari responden yang berkaitan dengan penelitian.  Di dalam penelitian ini pengimplementasian dari metode ini adalah Dengan menyebarkan kuesioner yang telah disusun sedemikian rupa secara online melalui Google Form.  Hasil penelitian ini menjelaskan bahwa E-Trust (X) berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap Reuse Intention.  Berdasarkan hasil analisis yang telah dilakukan, maka dapat diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa ETrust secara positif memengaruhi reuse intention.
Inkubasi Bisnis untuk Mahasiswa melalui Program Mahasiswa Wirausaha (PMW) di Universitas Brawijaya: Perspektif Mahasiswa
Authors: Aziz Aulia Luqman , Muslim Abd. Qadir , Fajri Detha Alfrian
Published: April 2023

Berbagai perguruan tinggi di Indonesia beramai-ramai menggelar program-program yang berkaitan dengan peningkatan wirausahawan baru di antara mahasiswa. Hal ini salah satunya berdasar pada masih rendahnya peringkat Indonesia di Global Entrepreneurship Index bila dibandingkan dengan negara-negara tetangga. Universitas Brawijaya (UB), sebagai salah satu PTN terkemuka di Indonesia, dengan visi menjadi world-class entrepreneurial university, telah secara konsisten menggelar Program Mahasiswa Wirausaha (PMW). Hanya saja, jumlah mahasiswa lulusan PMW yang masih menjalankan kegiatan usahanya tidak sebanding jumlahnya dengan jumlah keseluruhan peserta PMW dari tahun ke tahun. Dalam kajian ilmu Administrasi Bisnis, PMW berkaitan dengan kajian tentang inkubasi bisnis yang bertujuan untuk melatih dan mendampingi wirausahawan baru dalam mendirikan usahanya. Oleh karena itu, pengusul ingin mengetahui pelaksanaan PMW di UB dengan mengambil data dari perspektif mahasiswa yang mengikuti PMW. Responden dalam penelitian ini akan disuguhkan pada beberapa item pertanyaan dalam sebuah kuesioner yang menanyakan pendapat mereka tentang keberadaan fasilitas yang seharusnya ada di dalam sebuah inkubator bisnis. Temuan pada penelitian ini memiliki implikasi untuk mengelola pengaruh dari program pendidikan kewirausahaan yang diadakan oleh universitas dapat mendorong siswa memiliki orientasi menjadi berwirausaha. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa mahasiswa lebih cenderung memilih untuk berwirausaha atau pada saat kuliah dapat menjalankan bisnisnya sendiri. Program pendidikan kewirausahaan dapat mengindikasikan setiap komponen sikap (Afektif, Perilaku, dan kognitif) memiliki pengaruh yang cukup besar terhadap niat berwirausaha siswa. Ditemukan juga bahwa pendidikan kewirausahaan memainkan peran penting dalam membina dan mempromosikan kegiatan kewirausahaan pada siswa di ruang lingkup universitas. Sehingga penelitian ini berimplikasi berdasarkan temuan tersebut sangat relevan dengan proses penetapan kebijakan perguruan tinggi, pembuat kebijakan, praktisi, dan instansi terkait dalam konteks pengembangan kewirausahaan. Pengetahuan ini berpotensi memandu lembaga pendidikan dan pembuat kebijakan untuk mengembangkan strategi yang dapat dipahami untuk memajukan kewirausahaan
Pengaruh Harga dan Kualitas Produk serta Review Produk terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Produk Scarlett Whitening
Authors: Mardiayanti Mardiayanti , Andriana Ana Noor
Published: April 2023

Memiliki kulit sehat dan glowing merupakan impian setiap orang agar dapat tampil percaya diri. Telah banyak perusahaan yang memproduksi produk beauty care baik itu produk lokal maupun produk internasional. Di Indonesia sendiri telah banyak produk skincare lokal maupun dari luar dengan kualitas yang baik dan bersaing untuk memperoleh banyak konsumen. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui besar pengaruh variabel harga, kualitas produk, dan review produk terhadap keputusan pembelian produk scarlett whitening. pada enelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kuantitatif yang mana data dikumpulkan menggunakan kuesioner yang disebarkan kepada 100 responden yang merupakan mahasiswa administrasi bisnis  dengan metode accidental sampling. Sampel ditentukan tengan rumus rao purba. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini diantaranya uji instrumen, uji asumsi klasik, regresi linear berganda, dan uji hipotesis. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa variabel harga, kualitas produk, dan review produk memiliki pengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian. Sedangkan variabel yang memiliki pengaruh paling signifikan adalah variabel harga dengan nilai koefisien sebesar 0,604.
Pengaruh Digital Marketing dan Kepercayaan Konsumen terhadap Customer Retention melalui Kepuasan Konsumen pada Aplikasi Aggregator Pilih Kredit
Authors: Dewi Dewi , Jatmiko Jatmiko
Published: April 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui seberapa besar pengaruh digital marketing dan kepercayaan konsumen terhadap customer retention melalui kepuasan konsumen pada aplikasi aggregator Pilih Kredit. Variabel tersebut dipilih karena sesuai dengan permasalahan yang dihadapi perusahaan penyedia aplikasi Pilih Kredit yaitu masih rendahnya penggunaan berulang oleh konsumen yang pernah menggunakannya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kuantitatif dengan pengumpulan data melalui observasi, angket melalui Google form, dan dokumentasi. Sampel dalam penelitian merupakan konsumen pengguna aplikasi Pilih Kredit sebanyak 155 orang responden dengan teknik pengambilan sampel yaitu purposive sampling. Metode analisis yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Analisis Jalur (Path Analysis). Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa digital marketing dan kepercayaan konsumen berpengaruh terhadap kepuasan konsumen, akan tetapi tidak berpengaruh terhadap customer retention. Dalam penelitian ini ditemukan bahwa kepuasan konsumen tidak terbukti sebagai variabel intervening antara variabel digital marketing dan kepercayaan konsumen dengan customer retention.
Dampak Pandemi Covid-19 terhadap UMKM
Authors: Wahyuni Wiwin , Mardiana Lilik
Published: April 2023

Covid-19 ini telah berdampak buruk terhadap bisnis dan ekonomi, bahkan ketidakpastian bisnis dan ekonomi menjadi momok yang sangat menakutkan bagi para pelaku UMKM. Guna menjaga keberlangsungan bisnis yang sekaligus menyelamatkan ekonomi nasional, pemerintah telah melakukan berbagai program kebijakan sosial ekonomi, termasuk kebijakan insentif maupun fasilitas pajak yang dapat dimanfaatkan oleh Wajib Pajak. UMKM diharapkan mendongkrak pertumbuhan ekonomi dan pemulihan ekonomi Melalui pemberdayaan usaha mikro dapat membantu masyarakat yang mengalami PHK serta hilangnya penghasilan karena usahanya terdampak pandemi Covid 19. Pemerintah bisa memberikan hibah bagi usaha pemula. Di antaranya melalui kredit usaha rakyat serta memberikan keringanan pembayaran pinjaman bagi UMKM. Kebijakan Pemulihan Ekonomi Nasional (PEN), itu akan mendorong tumbuhnya kembali usaha mikro, kecil, dan menengah. Pemerintah bisa memberikan hibah bagi usaha pemula. Di antaranya melalui kredit usaha rakyat serta memberikan keringanan pembayaran pinjaman bagi UMKM. Kendati demikian, lanjut dia, diperlukan peningkatan kerja sama antara kementerian, lembaga, pemerintah daerah, institusi perbankan, fintech, marketplace, dan seluruh pelaku usaha agar dapat bersaing di pasar pada masa pandemi ini, mendukung UMKM agar naik kelas dengan cara membantu menerapkan digitalisasi terhadap setiap langkah operasional bisnis sehari-hari.
DIGITAL MARKETING ESSENTIALS
Authors:   CMR University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India, Kumari T. Lavanya
Published: April 2023

This book, "Digital Marketing Essentials," provides a comprehensive guide to the world of digital marketing. In today's world, digital marketing has become an essential part of any business strategy, and this book aims to provide readers with a clear understanding of the fundamentals of digital marketing. The book begins by introducing readers to the world of digital marketing, including its history and evolution. It then goes on to cover various topics such as search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, email marketing, content marketing, and mobile marketing. Each chapter provides detailed information on the topic, including best practices, tools, and techniques, and includes real-world case studies and examples to illustrate how digital marketing strategies can be applied in practice. The book also covers the importance of analytics and measurement in digital marketing and how to use data to improve marketing strategies. It also provides an overview of the legal and ethical considerations related to digital marketing, such as privacy and data protection regulations. Overall, this book is designed to be a comprehensive guide for both beginners and experienced marketers who are looking to expand their knowledge of digital marketing. It provides a detailed overview of the latest digital marketing strategies and techniques, including the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in marketing, and helps readers develop the skills and knowledge needed to create effective digital marketing campaigns. Keywords: Digital marketing, Search engine optimization, Pay-per-click advertising, Social media marketing, Email marketing, Content marketing, Mobile marketing, Analytics, Measurement, Legal and ethical considerations, Privacy and data protection regulations, Artificial intelligence, Machine learning, Marketing, campaigns
Computer Architecture
Authors:   CMR University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India, Ravi Chitra , S Mohan Kumar ,   CMR University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Published: April 2023

"Computer Architecture" provides an in-depth understanding of computer organization and design principles. It covers topics such as instruction set architecture, processor architecture, memory hierarchy, input/output systems, and parallel processing. The book explains how these components work together to form a complete computer system, and how computer architects make design decisions to optimize system performance. The first section of the book introduces fundamental concepts such as binary representation, digital logic gates, and Boolean algebra. The second section covers processor architecture, including instruction set design, datapath and control unit, pipelining, and hazards. The third section discusses memory hierarchy and cache design, including virtual memory, TLB, and page replacement algorithms. The fourth section covers input/output systems, including device controllers, DMA, and interrupts. The fifth section introduces parallel processing concepts, including SIMD and MIMD architectures. The book is intended for undergraduate and graduate students in computer science and computer engineering, as well as professionals working in the field of computer architecture. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of computer organization and design principles, and includes numerous examples and exercises to reinforce key concepts. Keywords: Computer Architecture, Instruction Set Architecture, Processor Architecture, Memory Hierarchy, Input/Output Systems, Parallel Processing, Datapath, Control Unit, Pipelining, Hazards, Cache Design, Virtual Memory, TLB, Page Replacement Algorithms, Device Controllers, DMA, Interrupts, SIMD Architecture, MIMD Architecture.
In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oil Derived from Callistemon viminalis Aerial Part
Authors: Yasir Asaad Anes
Published: April 2023

Background: Essential oils extracted from plants have been widely used in antimicrobial activity, particularly the Callistemon viminalis, with a high number of essential oils extracted.
Objectives: To identify the chemical composition of essential oil derived from Callistemon viminalis and evaluates its antimicrobial activity against selected bacterial and fungal strains.
Subjects and methods: During the study, the antimicrobial activity of different selected essential oils on some bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumonia) and fungus (Candida albicans) was evaluated. The MicroScan WalkAway automated device was used to confirm the identification of the bacteria microorganisms and the germ tube and microscopy detection confirmed the fungus identity of specific morphological features after growth on corn meal agar, used in this study.
Results: the GC-MS analysis reveal that the chemical composition of the essential oil was contained Eucalyptol (41.17%) area, Viridiflorol (8.43%) area, Alpha-Pinene (4.53%) area, Alpha-Terpineol (4.53%) area and others. The essential oil shows activity against Staphylococcus aureus with inhibition zone diameter of 10 mm, and for Streptococcus pneumoniae, with ihibition zone of 22 mm.
Conclusion: The highest antimicrobial activity was against S. aureus and S. pneumonia of Gram-positive bacteria. The study result show that resistance from Gram-negative bacteria and resistance from fungus C. albicans to the oil. These varying results of bacterial suseptabilty may be based on the construction of the bacterial cell wall between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The essential oil components detected with higher percent area in GC-MS from C. viminalis are Eucalyptol, alpha-Pinene, Viridiflorol, beta-Eudesmol, and alpha-Tocopherol.
Interleukin 6 Levels and their Correlation with Various Hematological and Biochemical Parameters in Covid-19 Patients
Authors: Rasheed Ruaa Salim , Salim Subh
Published: April 2023

Background: coronavirus 19 is a beta-coronavirus, enveloped and roughly spherical with approximately 60 to 140 nm in diameter with positive-sense single-stranded RNA genome.
Objectives: Measurement of interleukin 6 (IL6) level in a group of patients with confirmed Covid19 infection and its correlation with many hematological and  biochemical parameters , mainly lymphocyte , neutrophil  count and their ratio , platelet count , serum ferritin , C reactive protein as well as D-dimer level
Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted on 60 PCR positive patients variably affected by COVID-19 , cases collected sequentially from June till November 2021 from Medical City hospital (Private Nursing hospital/ Intensive Care Unit (ICU)) with outpatient mild cases collection.
Results: IL-6  levels  showed a significant difference between the mild-moderate groups (p 0.001) and the mild- severe groups (p 0.009) ; additionally, there was significant  statistical correlation between IL-6 and the other parameters included  in the study.
Conclusions: IL6 level was highly elevated in most of  moderately and severely affected COVID 19 patients ,It's level correlates well with the most important hematological  and inflammatory parameters that enable it to be used as a marker to assess the severity of the infection and for following up patients.
Persistent Intraocular Pressure Elevation after Silicon Oil Removal in Patients with Post-Pars Plana Vitrectomy
Authors: Muhannad Ghazi AnNasseh  , Rattan Suzan Amana , Didar Sddeq Anwar
Published: April 2023

Background: It is well-known that silicon oil (SO) injection into the vitreous cavity after pars plana vitrectomy is usually associated with high intraocular pressure.
Objectives: To determine the influence of silicon oil (SO) removal on IOP level after pars plana vitrectomy for spontaneous rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD)
Subjects and Methods: A prospective study was conducted at Ibn Al-Haitham eye teaching hospital, Baghdad- Iraq. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured pre and post SO removal in patients who have underwent retinal detachment surgery with SO injection of 1000 centistokes (cSt) viscosity. Baseline IOP was measured for all the patient before the SO removal. Follow-up was performed at 1, 4, and 8 weeks after SO removal. IOP was measured by Goldman applanation tonometer. Patients with IOP > 21 mm Hg at 8 weeks post-operatively with or without anti-glaucoma mediations were considered as persistent IOP elevation after SO removal.
Result: Sixty eyes of 60 patients were included. Twenty eyes had persistent IOP elevation after SO removal on first week postoperative. It decreased to 14 eyes on 4th week after SO removal and further decreased to 12 eyes on 8th week af-ter SO removal. The percentage of persistent IOP elevation following SO remov-al was about 20%  on 8th week of SO removal. 
Conclusion: Persistent IOP elevation sometimes happens after SO removal. Therefore, removing SO does not simply treat the elevated IOP happened during SO injection. Patients after SO removal should be followed up for IOP for several weeks and should be treated medically or surgically as required.
Oral Health Status in relation to Salivary Antimicrobial Peptide in Pregnant Women
Authors: Hussein Saja Ali , Alwaheb Athraa
Published: April 2023

Background: Oral health is a mirror of general health. During pregnancy, oral health is affected by changes in saliva and oral hygiene measures which may lead to more dental caries.
Objective: Assess oral health status in relation to salivary antimicrobial peptides in pregnant women.
Subjects and Method: This cross sectional study was carried out in different primary health care centers in Rusafa sectors/ Baghdad city. The total sample included was 80 women (their  age range from 21-30). The study group consisted of 40 pregnant women: half of them were in the first trimester and  others were in third trimester, while the control group included 40 non-pregnant married females. Dental Plaque was recorded according to simplified oral hygiene index. Dental caries were diagnosed by using WHO (2013) criteria. Unstimulated salivary samples were collected. Chemical analysis of salivary samples was performed for the detection of human β-Defensin 2.
Results: The current study revealed that dental caries experiences (decayed surfaces(DS), missed surfaces (MS) and decayed, missing, filled surfaces(DMFS)) were higher among pregnant than non-pregnant females especially in the third trimester, add percentage with no significant differences, while filled surfaces (FS) were higher in the control group with also no significant difference. Regarding plaque index, results revealed that pregnant women had higher plaque index than non-pregnant women, with significant higher per-centage (53.3%) in the third trimester, P value = 0.027. The salivary human β-Defensin 2 was higher among the pregnant group in the third trimester with statistically no significant difference.
Conclusion: More plaque accumulation during pregnancy may explain the higher preva-lence of dental caries as the dental plaque considered to be the chief contributing factor in dental caries.
Influence of Vitamin D Deficiency on the Level of Salivary cathelicidin LL-37 in relation to Dental Caries Experience: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Alhelfi Narjes M. , Hobi Nibal M.
Published: April 2023

Background: Vitamin D improves innate immunity by enhancing the expression of antimicrobial peptides. The antimicrobial action of cathelicidin is widespread and effective against cariogenic bacteria. This research aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin D deficiency on the level of salivary cathelicidin concerning dental caries experience.
Subjects and Methods: A case-control study was carried out, and the sample was composed of 80 females; the study group involved 40 females with a serum vitamin D concentration of less than 10 ng/ml. In addition to the control group involving 40 females who matched the case in number and age but serum vitamin D concentration of 30 ng/mol or more, their age range was 20-30 years. WHO 2013 index was used for the assessment of dental caries experience, and collection of unstimulated saliva was done to measure salivary cathelicidin.
Results: Data from the current study showed that the mean values of the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index and its components (Decayed Teeth, Missing Teeth) were higher in the study group than those in the control one, with a significant difference for Decayed Teeth. Salivary cathelicidin was higher in the control group with a statistically significant difference.
Conclusion: It was confirmed that serum vitamin D status and salivary cathelicidin levels are related. Vitamin D deficient patients who had higher Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index values expressed a lower level of salivary cathelicidin than the control group.
Comparison between Reference Infliximab (Remicade) and its Biosimilar (Remsima) in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Field-based Pharmacoeconomic Study
Authors: Fadhil Hasan Raid , Al-Jumaili Ali Azeez , Al Ani Nizar
Published: April 2023

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that mostly involves the spine and sacroiliac joints. It is associated with a decreased quality of life. Biological medicines such as infliximab and its biosimilar are the mainstay treatments for active ankylosing spondylitis.
Objective: The study objective was to conduct a pharmacoeconomic study comparing the cost-effectiveness of the reference infliximab with its biosimilar in ankylosing spondylitis patients visiting public hospitals.
Subjects and Method: This is a two-center pharmacoeconomic study performed at two large teaching governmental hospitals in Baghdad, Iraq, which supplied infliximab to outpatients with ankylosing spondylitis. The outcome data were obtained from patient’s medical records and face-to-face interviews with the patients from December 2021 through April 2022. The Independent T-Test was used to measure the differences in areas of utility, and quality of life, between the two infliximab groups.
Results: The study recruited 62 patients with ankylosing spondylitis who received infliximab (31 received Remicade, and 31 received Remsima) for at least 12 weeks at two public teaching hospitals. The mean age of the patients was 37.85 years and 83.9% were men. In general, both reference infliximab and its biosimilar were successful in increasing the quality of life. Their importation costs were different from 2019 to 2021. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of reference infliximab versus biosimilar was $ 40,909/quality-adjusted life year (QALY) according to 2019 pricing. In contrast, in 2021 reference infliximab (Remicade) was less expensive and yielded slightly better quality of life improvement than biosimilar (Remsima) making Remicade more cost-effective (dominant).
Conclusion: Remicade was slightly superior to Remsima in quality of life improvement. However, it was difficult to determine whether the reference or its biosimilar was more cost-effective in 2019 because the health officials did not specify a willingness to pay per quality-adjusted life year. Compared to Remsima, Remicade was more cost-effective in 2021 because it was less expensive and more effective in terms of quality of life improvement.
Estimation of Salivary IL-6 Level in relation of Periodontal Status in Patients with Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Kadhom Eman Habib , Radhi Nada Jafer MH.
Published: April 2023

Background: The overproduction of thyroid hormones is known as hyperthyroidism. Increased susceptibility to caries and periodontal disease are two potential oral symptoms. The interleukin-6 (IL-6) was observed to significantly increased in the hyperthyroid group. According to multiple research, IL-6 dysregulation has been linked to a number of oral disorders, including periodontal diseases. The study aimed to evaluate periodontal health status in relation to IL6 among hyperthyroidism patients.
Subjects and Methods: The sample was composed of 90 female patients aged 25-45 years attending endocrine disorder center in al-Najaf Governorate/Iraq which include hyperthyroid group and healthy group, the hyperthyroid patients were diagnosed by specialist and under treatment with carbimazole. The clinical examination of periodontal health status assessment was performed according to WHO (2013) in addition to evaluation the Plaque and gingival condition. The Saliva was collected to evaluate IL-6 concentrations.
Results: The plaque index (PLI) in the study group was more than the control with a significant difference (P<0.05). The gingival index (GI) in the study was more than the control but with no significant difference (P>0.05). Both periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were higher in the study group than in the control group, with a significant difference. IL-6 was higher in the study group than in control with a significant difference. There was a positive non-significant correlation between PPD and CAL with IL-6 in hyperthyroid patients.
Ameliorating Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) Extract on Hippocampus and Growth Plate Changes Associated With Propylthiouracil Induced Hypothyroidism in Juvenile Rats
Authors: Ibrahim Noha , Diab Marwa , Hassan Aliaa , Anwar Hend , Ragab Waleed , Morsi Enas , Diab Marwa , Boushra Amy , Sadek Nehad
Published: April 2023

Background: Hypothyroidism is a decrease in the production of the thyroid hormones and leads to gland dysfunction. Ashwagandha extract was used as an ayurvedic treatment and supposed to be as antihypothyroidism agent.
Objectives: to investigate the impact of ashwagandha (Ash) extract on propylthiouracil (PTU)-induced hypothyroidism in rats.
Subjects and Methods: The rats were divided into three groups, control group, PTU (hypothyroid) group (6mg/kg/day by oral route), PTU (6mg/kg/day by oral route) +Ash (50mg/kg/day by oral route) treated group. All treatment continued for 30 days. At the end of experiment, measurement of serum T3, T4 and TSH was performed. Thyroid gland, right sided tibia and dentate gyrus region of hippocampus were examined using histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical studies. All measurements were statistically analyzed.
Results: Decrease in serum T3 and T4 and congestion of the blood capillaries, follicular distortion, and vacuolar degeneration of some follicular cells were exhibited in thyroid gland of hypothyroid group. Histological changes in growth plate cartilage in the form of decrease of matrix deposition and plate thickness were detected. Dentate gyrus showed distorted granule cell layer. Immunohistochemically, low expression of the GFAP was expressed in astrocytes. PTU+Ash treated group showed improvement of the previous changes.
Conclusion: Administration of ashwagandha with PTU displayed protective effect on the thyroid gland and its associated histological changes in growth plate cartilage and dentate gyrus. Higher doses of ashwagandha should be used for extrapolation if it may give better results than the used dose.
Importance of S-point in the Management of Severe Epistaxis
Authors: M. Al-Ani Raid
Published: April 2023

Although severe epistaxis is uncommon, it is serious. The systematic endoscopic nasal examination is an essential step in identifying the bleeding point and aiding electrocauterization. Currently, the S-point, which is located in the superior part of the nasal septum behind the septal body and corresponding to the axilla of the middle concha, is identified in about 30% of cases with severe epistaxis. Cauterization of this point has an excellent rate of controlling the bleeding and preventing its recurrence. We aimed to highlight the significance of the S-point in the management of severe cases of epistaxis.
Circulating Interleukin-23 Levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis and its Relationship to Disease Activity: a Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Azzam Ahmed , Abdul Basset Abdul Basset Shaza , Khaled Heba , Refaey Neveen , Atta Ahmed Ali Ahmed , Abdelrahim saad shoulah Saad , Saleh Al Saifi Mohammed , s.Meleha Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic and systemic autoimmune disease that is characterized by severe synovial inflammation, cartilage erosion, bone loss, and generalized vasculopathy. Although the immunologic mechanism of RA is still unclear, it is now thought to be a primarily Th17-driven disease. Along with other factors, IL-23 stimulates the expansion of Th17 cells from naive CD4+ T cells.
Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the circulating levels of interleukin (IL)-23 in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and determine the correlation between plasma/serum IL-23 levels and disease activity. So, we performed a systematic review with meta-analysis comparing plasma/serum IL-23 levels between patients with RA and controls and examined correlation coefficients between circulating IL-23 levels and disease activity
Subjects and Methods: Using the following keywords: lenterleukin-23, IL-23, and rheumatoid arthritis, a comprehensive literature search was carried out in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses standards were followed, and the review was registered in the PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews with registration number CRD42022345901. Results were reported as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with a 95% confidence interval. All statistical analysis was performed using StatsDirect statistical software version 3.0.0 (StatsDirect Ltd., Cheshire, UK). A sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out approach to test the robustness of the results.
Results: The total sample size for the RA group included in our review was 408 cases, while the control group sample size was 244 cases. The serum IL-23 level in the RA group was significantly higher than the control group (pooled SMD = 3.5, 95% CI; 2.1: 4.8, P < 0.0001) as compared to the control group. There were 8 studies with a total sample size of 402 that reported the correlation between IL-23 and DAS28-based RA activity. According to our findings, a significantly positive correlation between IL-23 and DAS28-based RA activity was found, with a weighted mean correlation of 0.57 (95% CI; 0.4: 0.75, P < 0.0001).
Conclusion: Our meta-analysis has shown that IL-23 circulatory levels are higher in RA patients and that there is a significant positive correlation between IL-23 and disease activity. Our findings emphasize the role that IL-23 may have in RA. More studies may be required to fully comprehend the involvement of IL-23 in RA.
The Scientific Contribution of the Al-Kindy College Medical Journal to the World Literature on the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Al-Mendalawi Mahmood D.
Published: April 2023

The beginning of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China in late December 2019 and its worldwide transmission has led the World Health Organization to formally address the pandemic. The pandemic has imposed influential impacts on different environmental, economic, social, health, and living aspects. Publishing in scholastic journals was not immune from these impacts.
Empirical Evaluation of Financial Performance Differentials between Quoted and Unquoted Firms in Nigeria: Asset Base and Revenue as critical Determinants
Authors: Osirim Monday , Wadike Chile George
Published: April 2023

There has been a long debate on what constitutes the financial performance of a firm. The thrust of this paper therefore was to determine the financial performance of quoted and unquoted firms in Nigeria using asset base and revenue as critical determinants. The study is hinged on the philosophy and perception that quoted firms performs better than unquoted firms.  A sample of Eighteen (18) firms was selected, nine apiece for quoted and unquoted companies. The analysis of the firms covered a period of nine years from 2008 to 2017. Vital information from the selected firms’ audited financial reports for various years were collected and analyzed. A Panel data fixed effect was used to determine the financial performance of quoted and unquoted firms while a paired sample statistics test was used in comparing the mean difference of both firms. Empirical results indicate that asset base and revenue have positive impact on the financial performance of quoted firms while only revenue has a positive relationship with financial performance of unquoted firms. The study concludes that there is a difference in the financial performance of quoted and unquoted firms in Nigeria. This difference may have emanated from the fact that unquoted companies lack the financial muscle that could be garnered by quoted firms; thus necessitating the recommendations that the Nigerian Stock Exchange should review its listing requirements to accommodate unquoted companies intending to be quoted.