bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sol-gel Approach in Molecular Imprinting for Crystal Violet Selective Recognition
Authors: Asman Saliza , Mohamad Sharifah , Mustafa Mohd Kamarulzaki
Published: August 2021

A limitation of conventional MIP in thermal and mechanical stabilities condition, improper porosity and low adsorption capacity, give a reason to introduce a sol-gel method in molecular imprinting process recently. In this study, a synthesis of new sol-gel molecularly imprinted polymer (SG-MIP) was studied for crystal violet (CV) selective recognition. The control non-molecularly imprinted polymer (SG-NIP) was also synthesized as reference. The preparation of SG-MIP was introduced by a combination of the organic and inorganic mixture. The organic solution included the methacrylic acid, trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, and benzoyl peroxide which are monomer, crosslinker, and initiator, respectively. The inorganic solution involved the ratio of tetraethyl orthosilicate: ethanol (1:1 v/v). The functional group analysis proved the successful synthesized SG-MIP and SG-NIP. The thermal analysis indicated high thermal stability for SG-MIP and SG-NIP, respectively. The morphology and surface analyses showed the respective different structures, surface, and porosity values between SG-MIP and SG-NIP, which influence the selectivity study and adsorption behaviour of SG-MIP toward CV adsorption. The result verified that the SG-MIP (4.900 mgg-1) has higher adsorption and higher selectivity characteristics compared to SG-NIP (4.432 mgg-1). The equilibrium data of kinetic and isotherm studies for SG-MIP and SG-NIP were well-fitted to the pseudo-second order model (R2 = 0.9997 and R2 = 0.9996) and Freundlich isotherm model (R2 = 0.9500 and R2 = 0.9764), respectively. The Freundlich isotherm was supported by the Scatchard plot instead of the Langmuir isotherm model.
A Preliminary Study on the Impact of UCK2 Knockdown in DLD-1 Colorectal Cells Treated with DHODH Inhibitor
Authors: Abdul Kadir Mohamad Fairus , Abdul-Rahman Puteri Shafinaz , Nellore Kavitha , Othman Shatrah
Published: August 2021

Brequinar sodium (BQR) is a well-studied inhibitor of the dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) enzyme. Both the DHODH and uridine-cytidine kinase 2 (UCK2) enzymes have been reported to be over-expressed in cancer cells to maintain the cells high demand for DNA and RNA for their proliferation. In this study, we aim to further sensitize cells to the effects of BQR by knocking down the UCK2 activity. In DLD-1 UCK2 knockdown cells, no change in the sensitivity of cells to BQR was observed. Uridine is known to reverse the anti-proliferative effect of DHODH inhibitors via the salvage pathway. We observed abrogation of approximately 30% of the uridine reversal effect in UCK2 knockdown cells compared to the wild type cells. Our finding indicates that the loss of UCK2 activity in the salvage pathway did not enhance the BQR-mediated cell proliferation inhibition but it abrogates the uridine reversal in the cells.
Tualang Honey Supplementation Improves Inflammatory and Bone Markers among Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Zakaria Zaida , Wan Ab Hamid Wan Zuraida , Mohamed Mahaneem
Published: August 2021

Honey is traditionally used among breast cancer patients in Malaysia with the belief that it can improve the overall health. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effects of Tualang honey supplementation on levels of inflammatory markers, bone markers and oestradiol among postmenopausal breast cancer patients. Seventy-two patients on anastrozole were recruited and randomly divided into two groups (n = 36/group, with or without 20 g/day of Tualang honey for 12 weeks). Levels of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and carboxy-terminal crosslinked telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX) at post-intervention with anastrozole, increased significantly compared to their corresponding levels at pre-intervention. Meanwhile, at post-intervention with anastrozole+honey, procollagen type 1 amino-terminal propeptide level increased significantly, CTX level decreased significantly, with no change in inflammatory markers compared to their pre-intervention levels. In conclusion, Tualang honey supplementation prevented the increased inflammation, reduced bone resorption and increased bone formation without changes in oestradiol level.
The Combination of bFGF and Hydrocortisone is a Better Alternative Compared to 5-Azacytidine for Cardiomyogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow and Adipose Stem Cells
Authors: Sulaiman Nadiah , Sainik Nur Qisya Afifah Veronica , Sulaiman Shamsul Bin , Hafez Pezhman , Ng Min Hwei , Hj Idrus Ruszymah Bt
Published: August 2021

Stem cells can be differentiated into cardiomyocytes by induction with 5-azacytidine (5-aza) but its carcinogenicity is of concern for future translational application. Alternatively, growth factors and hormones such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and hydrocortisone have been reported to act as a therapeutic inducer for cardiomyocytes differentiation. In this study, we aim to investigate the ability of bFGF and hydrocortisone in combination to stimulate the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) into cardiomyocytes lineage. Sheep adipose tissue stem cell (ATSC) and bone marrow stem cell (BMSC) were isolated, cultured and induced with the three groups of induction factors; 5-aza alone, the combination of hydrocortisone and bFGF and all three factors in combination for cardiomyogenic differentiation. Morphological, protein and functional ability of both ATSC and BMSC were observed and analysed to confirm cardiomyocyte differentiation. Viability of BMSC and ATSC in each treated group was significantly higher (P < 0.05) on both cells after treated with 10 nM of bFGF and 50 μM of hydrocortisone. Cardiomyocyte proteins; α-Sarcomeric actin (αSA) and Phospolamban (Plb) was detected in both ATSC and BMSC exposed to induction factors but not in the control negative group. Both ATSC and BMSC without induction factors showed only minute cell number possesses αSA and Plb. Calcium ion (Ca2+) spark was observed in primary heart cells. Similarly, Ca2+ spark was also detected in induced ATSC and BMSC, proving some functionality of induced cells. In conclusion, bFGF and hydrocortisone are safer induction factor compared to the currently used 5-aza as both showed higher viability after induction, therefore more cells are available for future use in cardiac tissue engineering.
Digital Economy Tax Compliance Model in Malaysia using Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Raja Wahab Raja Azhan Syah , Abu Bakar Azuraliza
Published: August 2021

The field of digital economy income tax compliance is still in its infancy. The limited collection of government income taxes has forced the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) to develop a solution to improve the tax compliance of the digital economy sector so that its taxpayers may report voluntary income or take firm action. The ability to diagnose the taxpayer's compliance will ensure the IRBM effectively collects the income tax and gives revenues to the country. However, it gives challenges in extracting necessary knowledge from a large amount of data, leading to the need for a predictive model to detect the taxpayers' compliance level. This paper proposes the descriptive and predictive analytics models for predicting the digital economic income tax compliance in Malaysia. We conduct descriptive analytics to explore and extract a summary of data for initial understanding. Through a brief description of the descriptive model, the data distribution in a histogram shows that the information extracted can give a clear picture in influencing the results to classify digital economic tax compliance. In predictive modeling, single and ensemble approaches are employed to find the best model and important factors contributing to the incompliance of tax payment among the digital economic retailers. Based on the validation of training data with the presence of seven single classifier algorithms, three performance improvements have been established through ensemble classification, namely wrapper, boosting, and voting methods, and two techniques involving grid search and evolution parameters. The experimental results show that the ensemble method can improve the single classification model's accuracy with the highest classification accuracy of 87.94% compared to the best single classification model. The knowledge analysis phase learns meaningful features and hidden knowledge that could classify the contexts of taxpayers that could potentially influence the degree of tax compliance in the digital economy are categorized. Overall, this collection of information has the potential to help stakeholders make future decisions on the tax compliance of the digital economy.
Effect of neuropeptide Y antagonist BMS193885 on overeating and emotional responses induced by social isolation in rats
Authors: Lebedev Andrei A. , Moskalev Aleksandr R. , Abrosimov Maksim E. , Vetlugin Eduard A. , Pshenichnaya Anna G. , Lebedev Vikto A. , Evdokimova Natalia R. , Bychkov Eugeny R. , Shabanov Petr D.
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Chronic stress of social isolation is associated with an increased risk of mental illness, such as atypical depression, and is usually accompanied by hyperphagia and weight gain. We have previously shown that the NPY antagonist Y1R BMS193885 reduces the conditioned place preference of ethanol. The involvement of NPY receptors in non-chemical forms of addiction is assumed.
AIM: Was to analyze the effects of NPY Y1R BMS193885 on emotional responses and elements of bindge eating in rats caused by rearing in social isolation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used the tests open field, elevated plus maze, Porsolts forced swimming test, resident intruder test and method of conditioned eating test in well-fed rats.
RESULTS: The level of depression, negative emotionality and locomotor activity increased in rats reared in isolation. After intranasal administration of BMS193885 high locomotor activity was maintained, but investigating activity increased in isolated rats. Isolated animals showed an increase in body weight at the 6th week of life. By to the 9th week, the body weight of the isolated rats was significantly higher than in animals reared in the community (р 0.05). Intranasal administration of 20 g BMS193885 for 1 week caused a decrease in feed intake in both groups of animals (р 0.05). Isolated rats began to consume the same amount of food as animals reared in the community after administration of 0.9% NaCl solution. At the same time, elements of bindge eating were observed in the study of the conditioned food test in satiated isolated rats, which did not appear after 1 week of intranasal administration of 20 g of BMS193885.
CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained prove that rats reared in isolation can be considered as a potential model for binge eating, the basis for metabolic imbalance caused by individual housing in rodents. These considerations are of particular relevance when evaluating the effectiveness of drugs, diet, or other interventions for metabolic health and depressive disorders.
Assessment of retinal photosensitivity as an objective indicator of expression psychodense effect
Authors: Ovanesov Karen B. , Shabanov Petr D.
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: The retina of the eye, with its wide range of neurotransmitter systems, can be the point of application in the action of the psychotropic drugs, given their synaptotropic properties.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this regard, a complex of studies was carried out with the participation of volunteers to assess the effect of psychotropic substances with a depressing (melatonin, grandaxin, motherwort tincture) type of action on the functional state of the retina, registered by the campimetric method. In the course of the research, the photosensitivity of the retina and its ability to distinguish colors were evaluated. Moreover, the capabilities of the technique made it possible to assess retinal activity in the field of view from 0 to 21. Such an approach can not only demonstrate the interest of retinal cellular elements in the action of substances, but also raise the question of the participation of the visual system in the psychopharmacological effect more broadly.
RESULTS: The work of the visual apparatus was studied both in healthy volunteers of different ages and in persons with emotional disorders, which were identified using special questionnaire tests. It was found that violations of the emotional status are often accompanied by a limitation of the photosensitivity of the retina of varying severity. These facts can be interpreted in different ways. On the one hand, violations of visual functions can lead to psychoemotional disorders and be a pathogenetic link in their development, and on the other hand, primary disorders of retinal light and color sensitivity can provoke the development of psychopathology. However, regardless of the pharmacological characteristics of the studied drugs with psychodeprimating activity, the connection between their anti-anxiety effect and changes in visual function seems to be obvious, which allows us to raise the question of the advisability of taking into account the photosensitivity of the retina for a comprehensive assessment of both the mental state of emotionally labile subjects and the pharmacodynamics of psychodemitting drugs.
CONCLUSIONS: Thus, it is legitimate to conclude that taking into account the light and color sensitivity of the retina can be one of the quantitative criteria for the severity and effectiveness of psychopharmacotherapy.
Perendaman dalam air 85 oC meningkatkan aktivitas antioksidan, antidiabetes, dan tingkat penerimaan konsumen teh Sargassum crassifolium
Authors: Larasati Pris , Husni Amir
Published: August 2021

Rumput laut Sargassum crassifolium mempunyai bioaktivitas yang tinggi sehingga berpotensi sebagai sumber pangan fungsional, salah satunya dibuat menjadi teh rumput laut. Salah satu kelemahan teh rumput laut yaitu kurang disukai konsumen karena adanya bau amis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh lama perendaman dalam air 85 oC terhadap karakteristik dan tingkat penerimaan konsumen teh rumput laut S. crassifolium. Rancangan acak lengkap digunakan dalam penelitian ini, dengan perlakuan berupa variasi lama waktu perendaman. Teh rumput laut dibuat dengan cara merendam dalam air ±85 oC selama 0, 4, 8, 12, dan 16 menit kemudian dipotong-potong lalu disangrai. Teh rumput laut S. crassifolium dianalisis meliputi: kadar air, total fenol, aktivitas antioksidan dengan metode 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) dan Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), aktivitas penghambatan α-glukosidase dan uji hedonik. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa lama perendaman berpengaruh nyata (p<0,05) terhadap kadar air, total fenol, aktivitas antioksidan, penghambatan α-glukosidase, dan tingkat penerimaan konsumen. Perlakuan terbaik yaitu lama perendaman 16 menit dengan kadar air 3,35±0,41%, total fenol 68,63±0,67 mg GAE/g, aktivitas penghambatan DPPH 55,99±1,01%, nilai FRAP 116,97±1,89 μM/g, penghambatan α-glukosidase 55,67±0,36%, dan nilai hedonik parameter aroma, rasa, warna, kenampakan, dan keseluruhan secara berturut-turut yaitu 4,29±1,18; 4,59±0,85; 4,18±0,98; 4,43±0,91; 4,37±0,98.
Ethical Issues on Utilization of AI, Robotics and Automation Technologies
Authors: Khan Wahiduzzaman , Fadziso Takudzwa
Published: August 2021

The fast technological advancements in machine intelligence and automation may also arrive with risks and some negative effects on employees, firms, and society at large. Currently, both end-users, scientists, and practitioners have acknowledged the need for machine assistance and also welcome consideration for a robust ethical strategy that will allow a safe application and usage of improved technologies. Artificial Intelligence related ethics has been presented and considered from various standpoints and views. This paper furthers on the subject. Potential ethical issues are envisaged in the area of machine end-user perceptions, privacy, accountability, and the robot/ human rights, design of ethical machines, and technological singularity. It, therefore, possesses the question. What are the current ethical issues with the use of machines? The study adopted a quantitative and qualitative approach to drawing conclusions from the thematic and descriptive analysis. The result shows that majority of the respondents were males 46 (65.7%) while 24(34.3%) were females. They are mainly literates/ Majority 49(70%) are from the private firm and come majorly from the Asian continent. The majority of the respondents view that ethical consideration is necessary for machine and automation design, the machine-human relationship should be improved. Their privacy should be instituted while they consider technology singularity as a severe issue and desire the creation of ethical machines. Following this result, the study documents policy recommendations.
Problems of the Medical Staff and Supporting Them in Fighting Against COVID‐19 Epidemic
Authors: Hooshmand Imanloo Aysooda , Sharafi Hossein , Rezaei Fatima , Hooshmand Imanloo Ayda , Barkhordari Farzaneh
Published: August 2021

Background: COVID‐19 has a significant impact on public health and poses a challenge to medical staff, especially to front‐line medical staff who are exposed to and in direct contact with patients. Medical staff were under enormous physical and psychological pressure due to overwork, high risk of infection, and isolation during COVID-19.
Methods: The aim of this study was to review the literature on health problems of medical staff and supporting program for them during COVID-19 pandemic disease. Literature searches were performed on the following databases: Pubmed, Sciencedirect, Scopus, Google Scholar, ProQuest, SID, Iranmedax and Magiran. The types of articles published during the outbreak that were relevant to the subject were searched.
Results: A review of the literature showed that current research focuses on assessing several aspects of COVID-19-induced mental health in medical staff. Stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, depression, burnout, fatigue and physical problems are among the serious issues of the medical staff in the front line of the Corona fight. Various demographic variables such as gender, occupation, long working hours, history of mental illness and psychological variables such as poor social support, self-efficacy were important risk factors.
Conclusion: Regular screening of medical staff involved in the treatment and diagnosis of patients with COVID-19 should be performed to assess physical and psychological problems using multidisciplinary psychiatric teams.
Intrathecal Pethidine as a Sole Anesthetic Agent in Cesarian Section: Case Report for Clinical Education
Authors: Hassannasab Sina , Mirkatouli Avasadat , Jabbari Ali
Published: August 2021

Pethidine was the first synthetic opioid to be used to provide analgesia in humans and was shown also to have local anesthetic activity comparable with that of cocaine. The neonatal Apgar score after birth is an important factors of mortality of the newborn. In this regard, the type of drug used for the cesarean section is very important in the Apgar score of the cesarean section. Pethidine is an intermediate lipid-soluble opioid with both a postoperative analgesic mechanism and a sensory block which is known as the only opioid which can be used alone in the cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. We used pethidine as an alternative to bupivacaine in patients going under cesarean section.
Changes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Symptoms and Quality of Life One Year After Pessary Fitting
Authors: Eftekhar Tahereh , Ghanbari Zinat , Pourali Leila , Deldar Pesikhani Maryam , Darvish Soodabeh , Ayati Elnaz , Haj Hashemi Maryam , Lotfi Zahra
Published: August 2021

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is the descend of pelvic organs, including the uterus, bladder, and rectum, to the vaginal wall. Patients with POP may present with symptoms such as vaginal bulging with other symptoms like urinary, defecatory, or sexual dysfunction. This study was conducted to evaluate the changes of POP symptoms one year after pessary fitting. Patients with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse who presented to the pelvic floor clinic of an academic hospital between August 2016 and April 2019 were considered. Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, including urinary, defecatory, sexual, and bulging symptoms, were recorded before and one year after pessary fitting. Pelvic floor distress inventory (PFDI)-20 and pelvic floor impact questionnaire-7 (PFIQ-7) were evaluated before and after treatment for all subjects. We analyzed the characteristics of 110 patients who used the pessary for 12 months. At the baseline, the most common prolapse symptoms were vaginal bulging and pelvic pressure. All urinary, defecatory, and sexual symptoms significantly improved one year after regular pessary use (P<0.001). Changes in PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 before and after pessary use showed a significant improvement in both frequency and satisfaction of sexual function (P<0.001). The study showed significant improvement in bulging, urinary, and defecatory symptoms. Although the majority of patients were not sexually active, a significant proportion of sexually active patients reported an increase in sexual satisfaction.
International Sleep Research Training Program: An Opportunity for Advanced Career Development in Sleep Medicine
Authors: Najafi Arezu , Emami Leila , Pack Allan , Sadeghniiat Haghighi Khosro , Mutschelknaus Mike
Published: August 2021

The article's abstract is not available.
Nonlinear Electroencephalogram (EEG) Analysis in Sleep Medicine
Authors: Zangeneh Soroush Morteza
Published: August 2021

The article's abstract is not available.
Astrodaucus persicus (Boiss.) Drude: A Mini-Review on Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Effects
Authors: Bodaghabadi Faezeh , Ebrahimzadeh Mohammad Ali , Hosseinzadeh Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2021

Astrodaucus persicus (Boiss) Drude is an annual flowering plant of the Apiaceae family. A. persicus is mainly native to Asia and grows mostly in Iran, Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. In Iran, it grows mainly in Mazandaran, Golestan, Semnan, Tehran, Qazvin, and Kurdistan provinces. In Iran and Turkey, the plant's aerial parts and young roots are traditionally used as food additives. Various studies have been performed on essential oils and plant extracts. Essential oil compounds and some plant extract compounds have been identified. Different pharmacological effects of plant extracts and essential oils have also been reported. Monoterpenes are the main constituents in the essential oils of various parts of A. persicus. Plant extract (especially plant roots extract) effectively treats breast and colorectal cancers, which seems to be due to the presence of benzodioxole compounds or the antioxidant effects in the roots. The ripe fruits of the plant have potent larvicidal effects. Also, the fruits and roots of the plant significantly inhibit Plasmodium berghei, which can be effective in treating malaria.
Assessment of Thyroid Function in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Mohammed Ali Hasan , Yousif Araz Muhammed , Jabbar Samir Anwar , Ismail Parween Abdulsamad
Published: August 2021

Since the egression of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) disease, more than 200 countries and areas around the world were affected. To the present, it is not clear whether COVID-19 has effects on thyroid function or not. The aim of the current study was to assess thyroid function in COVID-19 patients with history of thyroid disease and those without such a history and to find out the thyroid disturbance in both groups. The present study involved 86 COVID-19 affected patients admitted BioLab and the Balsam Hospital, Erbil/ Iraq between January and April 2021. Confirmation of COVID-19 infection all patients by Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) of nasopharyngeal swabs. Thyroid hormones, and thyrotropin (TSH) level was analyzed and assessed. Most of the participants (88.4%) had normal T3 level, and there was no significant difference (p = 0.069) between those with normal T3, TPO and with no history of thyroid disease and those with such a history and/or high TPO. T4 levels of the participants with no history of thyroid disease and normal TPO did not differ significantly (p =0.725) from those with a history of thyroid disease and/or high TPO. Regarding the level of TSH, there was significant difference (p<0.001) between the two fore mentioned groups. There is high prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in the COVID-19 patients with family history of thyroid disease and high TPO antibody level.
Effect of Malting on the Nutritional Composition, Anti-nutrition Factors and Mineral Composition on Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: Davana T.V. , Revanna M.L. , Begum S. Shamshad
Published: August 2021

Background: Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is commonly named as Jowar, belongs to family Framineae. The presence of anti-nutrients affect the nutritional values by limiting protein and starch digestibility, hinder mineral bioavailability. This can be reduced by malting procedures. Hence, the study was undertaken to study the effect of malting on nutritional composition, anti nutritional factors and mineral composition. Methods: Processing methods include soaking for 24 hr and germination for different time periods and drying in hot air oven for 2-3 hr. at 50oC. The yield of malted sorghum flour is 95g/100g. Result: Nutrient composition include moisture, protein, fat, ash, crude fibre, carbohydrate and energy showed that the sorghum germinated for 3 days has the higher value of 6.7%, 11.37g, 3.27g, 1g 2.4g 73.57g 375 /100g respectively. The micronutrients i.e. calcium and iron content of malted flour was significantly increased (p less than 0.05) to 28mg/100g, 5.83mg/100g. Anti-nutrients like Tannin and Phytate decreased subsequently in three day germinated sorghum to 61.2mg/100g, 50.625mg/100g respectively. The result showed that processing increases the nutritional, mineral composition and decreases theanti-nutritional factors in sorghum. Hence, Sorghum has potential in fortification of food productsand its suitability of utilization in formulation of value added food products.
​​In vitro Evaluation and Methane Production Potential of Rice Gluten Meal based Concentrate Feeds in Buffalo Inoculum
Authors: . Manpreet , Kaur Jasmine , Lamba J.S. , Grewal R.S.
Published: August 2021

Background: There is shortage of conventional feedstuffs to feed livestock in the country. Thus, this study was intended to evaluate the chemical composition and in vitro nutrient utilization of concentrate feeds containing graded levels of rice gluten meal (RGM). Methods: Five concentrate feeds containing graded levels of RGM at 0, 6.25, 12.50, 18.75 and 25% replacing soybean meal @ 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% on w/w basis were prepared and designated as conc-1, conc-2, conc-3,conc-4 and conc-5. In vitro evaluation of feeds was carried out by in vitro gas production technique. Data were analysed by one way ANOVA using SPSS (2012) version 21. Result: The total ash, acid detergent fibre (ADF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) content decreased while organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), hemicellulose, acid detergent insoluble crude protein (ADICP), neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP) and total carbohydrate (TCHO) content increased with increase in the inclusion of RGM in the concentrate feeds. The OM digestibility was lower (P less than 0.05) in concentrate feeds 3, 4 and 5 than concentrate feed 1 and 2. Microbial mass production (MMP), efficiency of MMP and ME availability were not affected by including RGM in feeds. NH3-N showed a declining trend with increasing level of RGM in concentrate feeds. The relative proportion of acetate decreased (P less than 0.05) while that of propionate increased (P less than 0.05) with increasing level of RGM in the concentrate feeds. Methane production varied non-significantly among the concentrate feeds. The fermentation efficiency was higher (P less than 0.05) in concentrate 4 and 5 than other concentrates.
​Evaluation of Estrona Powder as Estrus Inducer in Anestrus Buffaloes under Field Conditions
Authors: Suthar Vishal S. , Brahmbhatt Ankita , Patel Jinal , Patil Deepak B.
Published: August 2021

Background: Anestrus is a multifactorial problem in buffaloes. Herbal preparations yielded favorable results with estrus induction. Hence, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Estrona powder (Rakesh Pharmaceutical) on induction of estrus in anestrus buffaloes under field conditions. Methods: In total, 29 buffaloes were selected during Ambulatory clinics at village Sanoda and randomly allotted to two groups. The treatment group was fed 125g Estrona powder (n=18;101±10 Days in milk) for four days, while same amount of concentrate was fed to buffaloes of placebo group (n=11; 99±08 Days in milk). Blood from jugular vein was collected before initiation of treatment, day 0 (D0), day of estrus (DE) and on day 60 after AI/Service (D60) for estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) estimation. Result: A significant number of buffaloes in Estrona treatment group induced estrus 80%(13/18) within shorter time interval (11.3±4.9 days) as compared to Placebo group 27% (3/11). No effect of treatment was observed on E2 and P4 concentrations during D0, DE and D60. However, within group, there was significant effect on D0, DE and D60 on concentrations of P4 and E2 hormones. These results indicate that Estrona powder successfully induced estrus, hence can be used for estrus induction in buffaloes.
Interventions to Address Discrimination against LGBTQi Persons
Authors: Ismail Zenobia , Lesinko Topua
Published: August 2021

This annotated bibliography synthesises evidence on interventions to limit discrimination and abuse against people who are LGBTQi. In general, development agencies have strong commitments to LGBTQi rights in their strategy and policy documents. However, they avoid addressing LGBTQi rights directly through programming. Historically, international donor support for LGBTQi rights has been channelled through health programmes (especially those related to sexual health or HIV/AIDS) and democracy and governance support programmes. Recently, there is a trend towards integrating LGBTQi rights across a broader set of development programmes under the auspices of “leave no one behind”. The literature notes some barriers that undermine the extent to which international development interventions or programmes can address discrimination against LGBTQi persons. One of the barriers includes LGBTQi rights are still not viewed as a development priority but as a controversy in some settings, leading embassies to be hesitant to engage with them. Limited data and understanding of the various issues that are categorised as LGBTQi curtail the extent to which these issues can be integrated with other development programmes. The literature also observes that prejudice among staff at all levels in development agencies undermines their willingness to engage with LGBTQi rights and issues.
Farklı Soğutma Kanallarına Bir Kokil Kalıp Çekirdeğinin Termal Davranışlarının Nümerik Olarak İncelenmesi
Authors: İpek Osman , Kan Mehmet
Published: August 2021

Bu çalışmada, farklı soğutma kanallarına sahip bir kokil kalıp çekirdeği nümerik olarak incelenmiştir. Klasik soğutma kanallı kalıp çekirdeği, kanatlı soğutma kanallı kalıp çekirdeği ve dalgalı soğutma kanallı kalıp çekirdeğinin 3D-CAD çizimleri yapılmıştır. Elde edilen tasarımların termal davranışları Fluent yazılımı kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Soğutma performanslarının karşılaştırılması amacıyla, klasik, kanatlı ve dalgalı soğutma kanallı kalıp çekirdeklerinin termal davranışları nümerik olarak incelenmiştir. Erimiş metalin (Al6061 alüminyum alaşımı) kalıba dökülmesinden itibaren kalıp iç yüzeyinden 0-5. s zaman aralığında ve 0.5 s zaman adımlarıyla alınan verilerle kalıp çekirdeklerinden elde edilen ürünün (supap) sıcaklık dağılımı, katılaşma oranları karşılaştırmalı olarak irdelenmiştir. Soğutma performans sonuçlarının karşılaştırılmasından, supap sap kısmında kanatlı soğutma kanallı kalıp çekirdeğinin, supap baş kısmında dalgalı soğutma kanallı kalıp çekirdeğinin soğutma performansının daha iyi olduğu gözlemlenmiştir.
Rare records of the false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) in the Adriatic Sea
Authors:   Croatian Natural History Museum, Demetrova 1, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Holcer Draško , Miočić-Stošić Jure ,   Croatian Natural History Museum, Demetrova 1, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, Vučur Blazinić Tihana ,   Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation, Kaštel 24, 51551 Veli Lošinj, Croatia
Published: August 2021

In spring 2021, four unusual encounters with a group of false killer whales were recorded in Kvarner Bay, Northern Adriatic Sea. A minimum of five individuals, including a calf, were observed and two photos were taken corroborating species identification. These are the first reported sightings of the species in the Adriatic Sea since the mid-twentieth century. In addition, another encounter was revealed that occurred at the end of the 2000s in the same location and should be added to the list of historic observations. These reports were obtained by chance and show the importance of citizen science in obtaining data on rare marine species. The information gathered goes towards a better understanding of the distribution of the species in the Mediterranean Sea.
KEJADIAN KAWIN BERULANG PADA SAPI POTONG BETINA PERANAKAN LIMOSIN DAN SIMENTAL DI KECAMATAN WONOSALAM KABUPATEN JOMBANG PERIODE 2015 - 2018
Authors: Subagio Muharam , Triana Indah Norma , Poernomo Bambang , Wurlina Wurlina , Srianto Pudji , Utomo Budi
Published: August 2021

Repeat Breeding is an adult cattle which have normal estrous cycle and clear signs of estrous but did not get pregnant when it got breed by natural mating or artificial insemination. The main purposes of this study is to know the number of repeat breeding cases in beef cattle in regency Jombang period of 2015-2018. The metode of the study is survey which collected by recording and survey. Were analyzed though Normality Test (Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test) and Homogenity Test and followed by T Test. Questionnaire test result processed using Kendall’s Tau-b Correlation Test. Study result showed that repeat breeding cases fluctuate significantly per year and the factors affecting fertilization failure and early embrionic death, hormonal, infection, and management factors.
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN EKSTRAK KULIT PISANG KEPOK (Musa acuminata) TERHADAP PENURUNAN KADAR MALONDIALDEHID (MDA) PARU MENCIT JANTAN (Mus musculus) YANG DIPAPAR ASAP ROKOK
Authors: Dewi Sapna Kurnia , Lokapirnasari Widya Paramitha , Meles Dewa Ketut , Mustofa Imam , Mafruchati Maslichah , Hamid Iwan Sahrial
Published: August 2021

This research aimed to determine the effect of kepok banana peel extract (Musa acuminata) given by per oral in decreasing levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in lung of male mice (Mus musculus) which was exposed to cigarette smoke. The 24 experimental male mice were divided into 6 groups. The therapy was given for 14 days, all mice were sacrificed and lung MDA level were examined with thiobarbituricacid (TBA) methods. The result of the data analysis test using one-way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) showed that there were significant differences between the group of animals that exposed to cigarette smoke ( = 840.50± 186.47 nmol / g) and the group of animals that were given with extract of kepok banana peel 56 mg / kg bw  ( = 6471.25 ± 69.25 nmol/g). Besides that, there was an significant difference between the groups of animals that were exposed cigarette smoke ( = 840.50± 186.47 nmol / g) with the group of animals that were given with vitamin C 260 mg/kg bw ( = 555.25± 61.16 nmol / g). It could be concluded that extract of kepok banana peel and vitamin C could decrease MDA levels in lung of male mice which was exposed cigarette smoke. The increased therapy dose gave affect in lowering levels of malondialdehyde in lung.
Quantum Holography from Fermion Fields
Authors: Zizzi Paola
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate, in the context of Loop Quantum Gravity, the Quantum Holographic Principle, according to which the area of the boundary surface enclosing a region of space encodes a qubit per Planck unit. To this aim, we introduce fermion fields in the bulk, whose boundary surface is the two-dimensional sphere. The doubling of the fermionic degrees of freedom and the use of the Bogoliubov transformations lead to pairs of spin network’s edges piercing the boundary surface with double punctures, giving rise to pixels of area encoding a qubit. The proof is also valid in the case of a fuzzy sphere.
On the Vacuum Energy of the Universe at the Galaxy Level, the Cosmological Level and the Quantum Level
Authors: Roza Engel
Published: August 2021

It is shown that the Lambda component in the cosmological Lambda-CDM model can be conceived as vacuum energy, consisting of gravitational particles subject to Heisenberg’s energy-time uncertainty. These particles can be modelled as elementary polarisable Dirac-type dipoles (“darks”) in a fluidal space at thermodynamic equilibrium, with spins that are subject to the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy. Around the baryonic kernels, uniformly distributed in the universe, the spins are polarized, thereby invoking an increase of the effective gravitational strength of the kernels. It explains the dark matter effect of galaxies to the extent that a numerical value of Milgrom’s acceleration constant can be assigned by theory. Non-polarized vacuum particles beyond the baryonic kernels compose the dark energy at the cosmological level. The result is an interpretation of gravity at the quantum level in terms of quantitatively established shares in baryonic matter, dark matter and dark energy, which correspond with the values of the Lambda-CDM model.
Cybonto: Towards Human Cognitive Digital Twins for Cybersecurity
Authors: Nguyen Tam
Published: August 2021

Cyber defense is reactive and slow. On average, the time-to-remedy is hundreds of times larger than the time-to-compromise. In response to the expanding ever-more-complex threat landscape, Digital Twins (DTs) and particularly Human Digital Twins (HDTs) offer the capability of running massive simulations across multiple knowledge domains. Simulated results may offer insights into adversaries' behaviors and tactics, resulting in better proactive cyber-defense strategies. For the first time, this paper solidifies the vision of DTs and HDTs for cybersecurity via the Cybonto conceptual framework proposal. The paper also contributes the Cybonto ontology, formally documenting 108 constructs and thousands of cognitive-related paths based on 20 time-tested psychology theories. Finally, the paper applied 20 network centrality algorithms in analyzing the 108 constructs. The identified top 10 constructs call for extensions of current digital cognitive architectures in preparation for the DT future.
Individual and Contextual Factors Associated with Malaria among Children 6-59 Months in Nigeria: A Multilevel Mixed Effect Logistic Model Approach
Authors: Obasohan Phillips Edomwonyi , Walters Stephen J , Jacques Richard , Khatab Khaled
Published: August 2021

Background/Purpose: Over the last two decades, malaria has remained a major worldwide public health concern, especially in the developing countries leading to high morbidity and mortality among children. Nigeria is the world most burdened malaria endemic nation, contributing more than a quarter of global malaria cases. This study determined the prevalence of malaria among children 6-59 months in Nigeria, and the effects of individual and contextual factors. Methods: The study utilized data from 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) involving a weighted sample size of 10,185 children who were tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic test (RDT). Given the hierarchical structure of the data set, such that children at level-1 are nested in community at level-2, and nested in states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at level-3, multilevel mixed effect logistic regression models were used for the analysis. Results: The proportion of children 6-59 months of age in Nigeria that had malaria fever positive as assessed by RDTs was 35.5% (3,418/10185), (CI: 33.9-37.1). Kebbi State had the highest proportion of children 6-59 months who were malaria positive, 77.6%, (CI: 70.2-83.5), followed by Katsina State, 55.5%, (CI: 47.7-63.1). The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja had the proportion of 29.6%, (CI: 21.6-39.0), malaria positive children of 6-59 months of age. Children between the age of 48 and 59 months were 2.68 times more likely to have malaria fever than children 6-11 months of age (AOR=2.68, 95% CI: 2.03-3.54). Also, children from the rural area (AOR= 2.12, 95% CI: 1.75-2.57), were more likely to suffer from malaria infection compare with children from urban area. Conclusion: The study identified some individual and contextual predictors of malaria among children in Nigeria. These factors are areas that need to be considered for policy designs and implementations toward control and total elimination of malaria-related morbidity and mortality among children in Nigeria.
Scapular Retraction Under Adduction Load: an Alternative to Overhead Exercises to Activate Infraspinatus, Upper and Lower Trapezius in Subjects With and Without Shoulder Pain
Authors: dos Santos Jefferson James , Nagy Rebeca Orozco , Souza Matheus Almeida , Intelangelo Leonardo , Barbosa Michelle Almeida , Silveira-Nunes Gabriela , Barbosa Alexandre Carvalho
Published: August 2021

Exercises for lower trapezius (LT) often use overhead positions, causing compressive forces to the subacromial space. Scapular retraction would be an alternative to activate LT muscle. Electromyography of infraspinatus (IS), upper (UT) and LT was recorded during scapular retraction under progressive adduction loads of 42 participants, divided in 2 groups: with (SP, n=26) and without shoulder pain (nSP, n=16). The adduction loads of 20, 30, 40 and 50% of the maximal voluntary contraction were applied using a load cell. Normalized electromyography and the ratio between UT and LT (UT:LT) were used for statistical analysis. No differences were observed between groups, but a condition effect occurred for all muscles: UT showed higher values at 50% vs. 20% (p=0.004); LT showed higher values on 40% and 50% (p=0.001; 0.006). Higher values for IS were noted at 40% (vs 20%; p=0.04), and at 50% (vs. 20%; p=0.001, vs. 30%, p=0.001; vs. 40%; p=0.001). UT:LT showed lower values at 50% (vs. 20%; p=0.001, and vs. 30%; p=0.016). Scapular retraction with adduction loads at 40-50% is an alternative to overhead exercises aiming to activate the LT and the IS muscles. The exercise ensures higher levels of LT and IS excitation, without increasing UT excitation.
Remote Sensing of Aerosols at Night with the CoSQM Sky Brightness Data
Authors: Marseille Charles , Aubé Martin , Barreto Velasco Africa , Simoneau Alexandre
Published: August 2021

The aerosol optical depth is an important indicator of aerosol particle properties and associated radiative impacts. AOD determination is therefore very important to achieve relevant climate modeling. Most remote sensing techniques to retrieve aerosol optical depth are applicable to daytime given the high level of light available. The night represents half of the time but in such conditions only a few remote sensing techniques are available. Among these techniques, the most reliable are moon photometers and star photometers. In this paper, we attempt to fill gaps in the aerosol detection performed with the aforementioned techniques using night sky brightness measurements during moonless nights with the novel CoSQM: a portable, low cost and open-source multispectral photometer. In this paper, we present an innovative method for estimating the aerosol optical depth by using an empirical relationship between the zenith night sky brightness measured at night with the CoSQM and the aerosol optical depth retrieved at daytime from the AErosol Robotic NETwork. Such a method is especially suited to light-polluted regions with light pollution sources located within a few kilometers of the observation site. A coherent day-to-night aerosol optical depth and Ångström Exponent evolution in a set of 354 days and nights from August 2019 to February 2021 was verified at the location of Santa Cruz de Tenerife on the island of Tenerife, Spain. The preliminary uncertainty of this technique was evaluated using the variance under stable day-to-night conditions, set at 0.02 for aerosol optical depth and 0.75 for Ångström Exponent. These results indicate the set of CoSQM and the proposed methodology appear to be a promising tool to add new information on the aerosol optical properties at night, which could be of key importance to improve climate predictions.
Securing Audio Using AES-based Authenticated Encryption with Python
Authors: Ayala Jessy
Published: August 2021

The focus of this research is to analyze the results of encrypting audio using various authenticated encryption algorithms implemented in the Python cryptography library for ensuring authenticity and confidentiality of the original contents. The Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is used as the underlying cryptographic primitive in conjunction with various modes including Galois Counter Mode (GCM), Counter with Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code (CCM), and Cipher Block Chaining (CBC) with Keyed-Hashing for encrypting a relatively small audio file. The resulting encrypted audio shows similarity in the variance when encrypting using AES-GCM and AES-CCM. There is a noticeable reduction in variance of the performed encodings and an increase in the amount of time it takes to encrypt and decrypt the same audio file using AES-CBC with Keyed-Hashing. In addition, the corresponding encrypted using this mode audio spans a longer duration. As a result, AES should either have GCM or CCM for an efficient and reliable authenticated encryption integration within a workflow.
Determining Antecedent Pasture State for Climate Resilient Grazing in the Pastures of Queensland: An Integrated Remotely Piloted Aircraft System and Satellite Based Deep-Learning Method for Estimating Time-Integrated Measures of Pasture Yield
Authors: Barnetson Jason , Phinn Stuart , Scarth Peter
Published: August 2021

The aim of this research is to expand recent developments in the mapping of pasture yield with remotely piloted aircraft systems to that of satellite-borne imagery. Up to date, spatially explicit and accurate information of the pasture resource base is needed for improved climate-adapted livestock rangeland grazing. This study developed deep learning predictive models of pasture yield, as total standing dry matter in tonnes per hectare (TSDM(tha−1)), from field measurements and both remotely piloted aircraft systems and satellite imagery. Repeated remotely piloted aircraft system structure measurements derived from structure from motion photogrammetry, provided measures of pasture biomass from many overlapping high-resolution images. Repeated remotely piloted aircraft system measures throughout a growing season, were modelled with persistent photosynthetic pasture responses from various Planet Dove high spatial resolution satellite image-derived vegetation indices. Pasture height modelling as an input to the modelling of yield was assessed against terrestrial laser scanning and reported correlation coefficients (R2) from 0.3 to 0.8 for both a coastal grassland and inland woodland pasture. Accuracy of the predictive modelling from both the remotely piloted aircraft system and the Planet Dove satellite image estimates of pasture yield ranged from 0.8 to 1.8 TSDM(tha−1). These results indicated that the practical application of repeated remotely piloted aircraft system derived measures of pasture yield can, with some limitations, be scaled-up to satellite-borne imagery to provide more temporally and spatially explicit measures of the pasture resource base.