bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Walking bout Detection for People Living in Long Residential Care: A Computationally Efficient Algorithm for a 3-Axis Accelerometer on the Lower Back
Authors: MacLean Mhairi K , Zia Ur Rahman Rana , Kerse Ngaire , Taylor Lynne , Rochester Lynn , Del Din Silvia
Published: August 2023

Accurate and reliable measurement of real-world walking activity is clinically relevant, particularly for people with mobility difficulties. Insights on walking can help understand mobility function, disease progression, and fall risks. People living in long-term residential care environments have heterogeneous and often pathological walking patterns, making it difficult for conventional algorithms paired with wearable sensors to detect their walking activity. We designed two walking bout detection algorithms for people living in long-term residential care. Both algorithms used thresholds on the magnitude of acceleration from a 3-axis accelerometer on the lower back to classify data as “walking” or “non-walking”. One algorithm had generic thresholds, while the other used personalized thresholds. To validate and evaluate the algorithms, we compared the classifications of walking/non-walking from our algorithms to the real-time research assistant annotated labels and the classification from an algorithm validated on a healthy population. Both the generic and personalized algorithms had acceptable accuracy (0.83 and 0.82 respectively). The personalized algorithm showed the highest specificity (0.84) of all tested algorithms, meaning it was the best suited to determine input data for gait characteristic extraction. The developed algorithms were almost 60% quicker than the previously developed algorithms, suggesting they are adaptable for real-time processing.
Research on Shear Buckling Capacity of Steel Octagon-Web Beam
Authors: Chang Shan , Yuan Ling , Sun Bi , Ma Lu , Wu Weidong
Published: August 2023

Based on the principle of lightweight and easy construction of prefabricated structures, steel octagon-web beam (SOWB) was proposed. SOWB with opening web combines the advantages of both honeycomb beam and steel structure bridge. In order to calculate the pure shear buckling capacity of the web, the finite element (FE) method was used to verify the pure shear buckling coefficients under three boundary conditions, so as to obtain reasonable boundary conditions of the FE model. Based on the data fitting method, the pure shear buckling coefficients of octagonal thin plate with rounding opening under three boundary conditions were obtained. In order to evaluate the buckling capacity of SOWB, a calculation method was proposed through the strut model. In order to verify the reliability of the proposed method, a buckling analysis model of SOWB was established by using the FE software ABAQUS. The influence of two parameters, such as expansion ratio and the ratio of flange plate thickness to web thickness, on the buckling capacity of the web was analyzed. Furthermore, the proposed method which can be used to calculate the buckling capacity of the web was improved by introducing the constraint effect coefficient of the flange.
Sonographic Phrenic Nerve Changes in Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Laucius Ovidijus , Drūteika Justinas , Vaitkus Antanas , Balnytė Renata , Petrikonis Kęstutis , Ališauskienė Miglė
Published: August 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects both the upper and lower motor neurons in the nervous system, causing muscle weakness and severe disability.
The progressive course of the disease reduces the functional capacity in the affected patients, limits daily activities and leads to complete dependence on caregivers, ultimately resulting in a fatal outcome.
Respiratory dysfunction mostly occurs later in the disease and is associated with a worse prognosis.
46 participans were included in our study, with 23 patients in ALS group and 23 individuals in the control group.
The ultrasound examination of the phrenic nerve (PN) was performed by two authors using a high-resolution "Philips EPIQ 7" ultrasound machine with a linear 4-18 MHz transducer.
Our study revealed that the phrenic nerve is significantly smaller on both sides in ALS patients compared to the control group arba controls (p < 0.001). Only one significant study on PN ultrasound in ALS, conducted in Japan, also showed significant results (p < 0.00001).
These small studies are particularly promising, as they suggest that ultrasound findings could serve as a additinioal diagnostic tool for ALS
Assessing Chest Pain Management and Outcomes in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Patients: A Retrospective Analysis in Saudi Arabian Emergency Departments
Authors: Alrougi Tahani , Al Thobaity Abdulellah
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and outcomes of patients who underwent per-cutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and visited an emergency department (ED) with chest pain in Saudi Arabia. A retrospective analysis of patient data was conducted, focusing on demographics, risk factors, pain assessment, triage, diagnostic testing, and management. The results revealed a young adult population (40-59 years old) at risk for coronary heart disease (CHD), highlighting the need for increased awareness and education. Gender differences in cardiovascular disease (CVD) presentation and underdiagnoses in women also require attention for effective prevention and treatment. Accurate pain assessment during triage was found to be essential to prevent mistriage and negative patient outcomes. Chest pain and shortness of breath were common symptoms, emphasizing the importance of recognizing acute myocardial infarction (AMI) symptoms for proper triage, diagnostic testing, and prompt treatment. The study identified modifiable CVD risk factors, including diabetes (51.1%), hypertension (43.8%), and smoking (25.9%), stressing the importance of lifestyle modifications to reduce CVD risk. Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges in addressing cardiovascular disorders, but efforts to improve healthcare access and establish specialized centers are promising. In conclusion, this study underscores the need for increased awareness of CHD among young adults, accurate pain assessment during triage, and lifestyle modifications to address modifiable CVD risk factors. Furthermore, healthcare teams must stay updated on new chest pain guidelines in the ED and prioritize early detection of implicated arteries and prompt reperfusion. Further research investigating chest pain patient triage and assessments across Saudi Arabia is recommended to identify areas of improvement and implement necessary changes in clinical practice.
Techno-economic Assessment of the Viability of Commercial Solar PV System in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ijeoma Muzan Williams , Chen Hao , Carbajales-Dale Michael , Yakubu Rahimat Oyiza
Published: August 2023

Supermarkets in Port Harcourt (PH) city, Nigeria, predominantly rely on diesel electricity generation due to grid instability, leading to high cost of electricity prices. Although solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have been proposed as an alternative, these supermarkets have yet to adopt them, mainly due to high investment costs and a lack of awareness of the long-term financial and environmental benefits. This paper examines the technical and economic practicality of a PV system for these supermarkets using the PVsyst software and a spreadsheet model. Solar resources showed that PH has a daily average solar radiation and temperature of 4.21 kWh/m2/day and 25.73℃, respectively. Market Square, the supermarket with the highest peak power demand of 59.8 kW, and a 561 kWh/day load profile, was chosen as a case study. A proposed PV system with a power capacity of 232 kW, battery storage capacity of 34,021 Ah, a charge controller size of 100 A/560V, and an inverter with a power rating of 60V/75 kW has been designed to meet the load demand. The economic analysis showed a $266,936 life cycle cost, $0.12 per kWh levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), 4-year simple payback time, and a 20.5% internal rate of return (IRR). The PV system is feasible due to its positive net present value (NPV) of $165,322 and carbon savings of 582 tCO2/year.
Various Biomimetics as Antifungals
Authors: Efremenko Elena , Aslanli Aysel , Stepanov Nikolay , Senko Olga , Maslova Olga
Published: August 2023

Biomimetics, which are similar to natural compounds that play an important role in the metabolism, manifestation of functional activity and reproduction of various fungi, have a pronounced attrac-tion in the current search for new effective antifungals. Actual trends in the development of this area of research indicate that unnatural amino acids can be used as such biomimetics, including those containing halogen atoms; compounds similar to nitrogenous bases embedded in the nucleic acids synthesized by fungi; peptides imitating fungal analogues; molecules similar to natural sub-strates of numerous fungal enzymes and Quorum Sensing signaling molecules of fungi and yeast; etc. Most part of the review is devoted to the analysis of semi-synthetic and synthetic antifungal peptides and their targets of action. This review is aimed at combining and systematizing the cur-rent scientific information accumulating in this area of research, developing various antifungals with an assessment of the effectiveness of the created biomimetics and the possibility of combining them with other antimicrobial substances to reduce cell resistance and improve antifungal effects.
Hypobiosis and Development of Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis Infection in Lambs under Different Levels of Nutrition
Authors: Carvalho Nadino , Neves José Henrique das , Pennacchi Caio Santos , Amarante Alessandro Francisco Talamini do
Published: August 2023

The influence of four levels of dietary supplementation on the development of the immune response and on the biology of Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus colubriformis was evaluated in Dorper lambs under serial artificial mixed-infections with 1000 infective larvae (L3) of each species, given every three days for 12 weeks. For each of the four diets formulated, one infected group (n=7) and one control group (n=4) were set up. Diets 1, 2, 3 and 4 contained 0%, 25%, 50% and 75% of concentrate, respectively. There was an evident immune response to infection in all groups, manifested through eosinophilia and production of anti-L3 immunoglobulins. There was a significant inverse relationship between the levels of nutrients in the diets and the numbers of late fourth-stage larvae, early fifth-stage larvae and adults of H. contortus. Most of the H. contortus parasite population was in hypobiosis at the early-fourth stage, representing 59.5%, 75.8%, 83.3% and 86.3% of the total Haemonchus worm burden, respectively, in the Diets 1, 2, 3 and 4. In the case of T. colubriformis, hypobiosis was not observed and the diet had no influence on establishment of the parasite.
Study on the Influence of Aggregate Roundness of Reclaimed Asphalt Mixture on Its Road Performance
Authors: Yi Qigui , Ru Nan , Liu Zhaoting
Published: August 2023

Recycled asphalt mixture is a material remixed with old asphalt recycled material (RAP) and new aggregate, and its application is of great significance in environmental protection.Due to the wear and tear of the old asphalt mixture, the road performance of the recycled asphalt mixture will decrease. This paper uses IPP software to obtain the shape characteristics of the old and new aggregates, and found that the roundness of the old aggregate of 9.5mm-16mm is the most serious wear. Therefore, the 30% RAP, and the influence of the roundness of the recycled asphalt mixture on the road performance is studied.
A Study on the Simulation and Experiment of Evaporative Condensers in an R744 Air Conditioning System
Authors: Dang Thanhtrung , Nguyen Hoangtuan
Published: August 2023

Numerical simulations and experiments on evaporative condensers in air conditioning systems using R744 were performed. Two configurations were given to study the feasibility of operating the subcritical R744 cycle. It indicated the capable of evaporative cooling condensing R744 to liquify by analyzing the outlet temperature at the end of the condenser reached from 28.7oC to 30.3oC with the operating pressure from 72.6 bar to 68.5 bar. The mass flow rate in the study increases from 14.34 kg/h to 46.08 kg/h, the pressure drop also increases from 0.23 bar to 0.47 bar for the simulation and 0.4 bar to 0.5 bar for the experiment, respectively. This study indicates that a 5-layers of copper tubes configuration causes a higher pressure drop and lower COP when compared to an 8-layers of copper tubes that split into 2 sets for smaller pressure drop. In this study, the evaporative condensers using mini tubes that are flooded in the cooling water tank are suitable for the subcritical R744 air conditioning system. The results obtained from the experimental data are in good agreement with those obtained from the numerical results, with the deviation less than 5%.
Restless Sleep Disorder and Periodic Limb Movements During Sleep in Children with a History of Prematurity
Authors: DelRosso Lourdes M. , Artinian Hovig , Mogavero Maria P. , Bruni Oliviero , Ferri Raffaele
Published: August 2023

Children with history of prematurity are at higher risk of complications, comorbidities and iron deficiency. In this study we assess the prevalence of restless sleep disorder, as well as that of periodic leg movements during sleep (PLMS) in these children. Retrospective chart review of sleep studies in children aged 1-18 years, with history of prematurity. Only diagnostic studies in children without diagnosis of a genetic syndrome or airway surgery or tracheostomy were included. Three groups were compared, children with PLMS index>5, children with restless sleep disorder (RSD), and children with neither elevated PLMS index nor RSD. During the study, 2,577 sleep studies were conducted. Ninety-two studies fit our criteria and were included in analysis. Median birth age was 31 weeks, interquartile range (IQR) 27-34 weeks. Thirty-two (34.8%) children were referred for restless sleep and 55 (59.8%) for snoring; after polysomnography 18% were found to have PLMS index >5/hour, 14% fit the criteria for RSD. There were no statistically significant differences in polysomnographic parameters between the children with RSD, PLMS and the remaining group, except for lower obstructive apnea/hypopnea index (Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA 8.621, p=0.0135) in the RSD group (median 0.7, IQR 0.3-0.9) than in the PLMS (median 1.7, IQR 0.7-3.5), or than in the nonRSD/nonPLMS group (median 2.0, IQR 0.8-4.5). There was elevated frequency of RSD and elevated PLMS in children with history of prematurity that might be linked to the increased risk of iron deficiency in premature infants. These new results add new knowledge on the prevalence of RSD in these children.
Validation and Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of an Obstetric Violence Scale
Authors: González-de la Torre Héctor , González-Artero Paula Nikola , Múñoz de León-Ortega Daniel , Lancha-de la Cruz María Reyes , Verdú-Soriano José
Published: August 2023

Obstetric Violence refers to dehumanized or derogative treatment of women in their pregnancy, childbirth or postpartum periods and may be manifested through the attitudes of health professionals or the performance of unjustified or outdated practices without maternal consent. Currently, there is no tool validated in Spain to measure women’s perception of obstetric violence. The objective of this study was to carry out the cultural adaption and validation of an existing 14-item Obstetric Violence Scale to the Spanish context, and to evaluate its psychometric properties. The research was conducted in two phases: first, a methodological study designed to evaluate content validity, through assessments by 8 experts (calculating the Aiken V coefficient) and face validity in a sample of 20 women; second, a cross-sectional study to evaluate construct validity (through confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis), divergent validity against a scale of birth satisfaction, known groups validity and reliability. In Phase 1, Aiken V values higher than 0.71 were obtained for all items. Phase 2 was conducted on a sample of 256 women and the fit values for the unidimensional model were RMSEA: 0.070 [95%CI: 0.059-0.105] and GFI: 0.982 [95%CI: 0.823-0.990]. The Rasch analysis indicated poor performance of item 2, which was removed. The Omega and Cronbach's Alpha coefficients were 0.863 and 0.860, respectively. A final 13-item version of the Obstetric Violence scale was produced, with total score ranging from 0 (no obstetric violence perception) to 52 (maximum obstetric violence perception). The Obstetric Violence Scale is a reliable and useful tool to measure women's perception of obstetric violence.
Innovative Strategies for Fostering Student Engagement and Collaborative Learning among ECP Students
Authors: Zitha Innocent , Mokganya Georgina , Sinthumule Orifha
Published: August 2023

Massification in higher education has made the satisfaction of students’ needs a difficult conundrum among university lecturers. In contrast, the use of innovative design for collaborative learning enhances student engagement in the populous student’s context. Moreover, this paper aims to extensively explore innovative designs for fostering student engagement and collaborative learning among first-year students at the University of Venda. The study employed a qualitative research method with the purposive sampling technique. Subsequently, a group of 200 students was the population of this study. Participant Observation and narrative inquiry were used as data collection instruments. The students in their respective groups were assigned topics from the module content to use their talents to demonstrate their understanding of certain content in the module. The non-surprising findings of this paper elucidated that collaborative learning expedites students’ mastery of key concepts and subject content. The module lecturers introduced students to these innovative designs to ensure collaborative learning and effective student engagement. The key findings elucidated these aspects namely, role-playing exercises, group projects, peer-to-peer learning, use of talents, and peer feedback. The implication of this study is that students learn to work together, delegate responsibilities and communicate effectively to attain a common goal. Using these strategies, the lecturers promote collaboration among students and foster a more engaging and interactive learning experience. This paper further recommends efficient and effective techniques and strategies to foster student engagement and collaboration to track and monitor at-risk students timeously.
Polish Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the PREM-C9 Questionnaire Dedicated for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Damps-Konstańska Iwona , Ciećko Weronika , Jassem Ewa , Bandurski Tomasz , Bosek Dominika , Olszewska-Karaban Marzena , Bandurska Ewa
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common, preventable and treatable disease. The first PREM (Patient Reported Outcome Measure) type questionnaire that has been dedicated to asses experience of care in COPD is the PREM-C9. Aim: To create a Polish version of the PREM-C9 and determine its the psychometric characteristics. Methods: The validation procedure involved forward and back translation and included 42 COPD patients. The psychometric properties were assessed using Cronbach's alpha, Bartlett's test, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin and Spearman correlation coefficient. The validity of the questionnaire was assessed using Principal Component Analysis for the extracted principal components. The validity of the factor analysis was demonstrated by the Bartlett's sphericity test and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO). Factor analysis was performed using the Oblimin and Varimax rotation. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using the Cronbach's alpha. Results: The Polish version of the PREM-C9 questionnaire met all validation criteria: face, translation, psychometric, functional and reconstruction equivalence. The Spearman correlation results between Polish PREM-C9&CAT: rho= 0,44, p=0,003539; HADS-Anxiety: rho= 0.370864, p=0,015612, HADS-Depression: rho= 0,387405, p=0,011253. Conclusion: The developed Polish PREM-C9 questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool that assesses Polish COPD patients' experiences of their disease and the care they receive.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Affects the Structure of Chromatosomes, Nucleosomes and Their Complexes with PARP1
Authors: Andreeva Tatiana V. , Maluchenko Natalya V. , Efremenko Anastasiya V. , Lyubitelev Alexander V. , Korovina Ann N. , Afonin Dmitry A. , Kirpichnikov Mikhail P. , Studitsky Vasily M. , Feofanov Alexey V.
Published: August 2023

The natural flavonoid epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has a wide range of biological activities including binding to nucleic acids; however, mechanisms of interaction of EGCG with DNA organized in chromatin have not been systematically studied. In this work, interaction of EGCG with chromatin in cells, and with nucleosomes and chromatosomes in vitro was studied using fluorescent microscopy and single particle Förster resonance energy transfer approaches, respectively. EGCG effectively penetrates into the nuclei of living cells and binds to DNA there. Interaction of EGCG with nucleosomes in vitro induces large-scale, reversible uncoiling of nucleosomal DNA that occurs without dissociation of DNA or core histones at sub- and low-micromolar concentrations of EGCG. EGCG does not reduce the catalytic activity of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), but causes modulation of the structure of the PARP1-nucleosome complex. EGCG significantly changes the structure of chromatosomes, but does not cause dissociation of the linker histone. Reorganization of nucleosomes and chromatosomes by EGCG might facilitate access of protein factors involved in DNA repair, replication and transcription to DNA and thus might contribute to the modulation of gene expression by EGCG that was reported earlier.
Shielding Effectiveness of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Electronics with Graphene Based Absorber
Authors: Kubacki Roman , Przesmycki Rafał , Laskowski Dariusz
Published: August 2023

In the work the enhanced security of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) electronics in RF environment was investigated. UAVs are commonly used in many areas and the cellular networks as the parallel helping networks for systems: LTE, 5G or especially for future 6G are very perspective and needed. For effective communications in channels: “air-to-ground” as well as “drone-to-drone” the important task is undisturbed work of transportation platforms, ie. UAV. However, high level of outside electromagnetic radiation can affect the correct electronics work. The problem is due to non-conformity of RF environment regulations. The electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards guarantee correct electronics work when the radiation level is not higher than established EMC levels. In case of commercially available devices, like UAVs, this level is 3 V/m. On the other hand, permissive exposure level, treated as RF environment emitted by cellular base stations, can reach the level of 61 V/m. Such level of electromagnetic wave pollution, can damage unprotected electronics with fatal consequences. This can cause the unchecked drone flight or unchecked fall down. As a result, due to unchecked flight, the UAV can cause the sudden communication interruption with operator or other drones. To reduce the level of damaging RF field we propose to cover the UAV housing with microwave absorber. In this case absorber must ensure good electromagnetic protection as well as lightweight and resistant on weather conditions. The shielding property of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) as an absorber was investigated. For proposed material the shielding effectiveness (SE) was investigated in the frequency range from 100 MHz to 10 GHz. It has been proved that such material can be a good candidate as an absorber for UAV having low reflection coefficient and high absorption ability. In this work the shielding effectiveness of RGO was analyzed for two layers of 3 and 5 mm at typical frequencies as RF environment, ie. 3.6 GHz (5G system) and 5.8 GHz (LTE). Investigated absorber guarantees the value of SE of 25 dB and 30 dB for 3 mm layer at 3.6 GHz and 5.8 GHz respectively and of 29 dB and 39.5 dB for 5 mm layer at these frequencies respectively.
A Comprehensive Comparative Analysis of Deep Learning based Feature Representations for Molecular Taste Prediction
Authors: Song Yu , Chang Sihao , Tian Jing , Pan Weihua , Feng Lu , Ji Hongchao
Published: August 2023

Taste determination in small molecules is critical in food chemistry, but traditional experimental methods can be time-consuming. Consequently, computational techniques have emerged as val-uable tools for this task. In this study, we explore taste prediction using various molecular feature representations and assess the performance of different machine learning algorithms on a dataset comprising 2,601 molecules. The results reveal that GNN-based models outperform other ap-proaches in taste prediction. Moreover, consensus models that combine diverse molecular repre-sentations demonstrate improved performance. Among these, molecular fingerprints + GNN con-sensus model emerges as the top performer, highlighting the complementary strengths of GNNs and molecular fingerprints. These findings have significant implications for food chemistry research and related fields. By leveraging these computational approaches, taste prediction can be expedited, leading to advancements in understanding the relationship between molecular structure and taste perception in various food components and related compounds.
Multicriteria Model for Measuring the Potential of Cultural Identity in the Tourism Development of Sincelejo, Colombia
Authors: León-Santiesteban Martín , Mendez-Prada Martha Cecilia , Cardona-Arce Yolanda Patricia , Guerrero-Mosquera Nelly
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this article is to present a multi-criteria model designed to evaluate the potential of Sincelejo's cultural identity for tourism development. A descriptive quantitative methodology was used, which included a survey of 211 participants. A decision support method was applied, using the Weighted Additive Sum approach, following the multi-attribute method. Based on the information gathered, the elements of cultural identity shared by most of the criteria were identi-fied, highlighting the gastronomic, social, and cultural traditions and customs of the region, the results of which made it possible to design a composite indicator to evaluate the tourism potential of cultural identity in the area.
Multi-Year Retrospective Analysis of Mortality and Readmissions Correlated with STOPP/START and Beers American Geriatric Society Criteria Applied to Calgary Hospital Admissions
Authors: Thomas Roger Edmund , Azzopardi Robert , Imam Asad Mohammad , Tran Dactin
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The goals of this retrospective cohort study of 129,443 persons admitted to Calgary acute care hospitals 2013-2021 were to ascertain correlations of “potentially inappropriate medi-cations” (PIMs), “potential prescribing omissions” (PPOs) and other risk factors with readmissions and mortality. Methods: Processing and analysis codes were built in Oracle Database 19c (PL/SQL), R and Excel. Results: The percentage dying during their hospital stay rose from 3.03% during the first to 7.2% during the 6th admission. The percentage dying within 6 months of discharge rose from 9.4% after the first to 24.9 after the sixth admission. Odds ratios (adjusted for age, gender and comorbidities) for readmission were the post-admission number of medications (1.16; 1.12-1.12), STOPP PIMs (1.16; 1.15-1.16); AGS Beers PIMs (1.11; 1.11-1.11) and START omissions not corrected with a prescription (1.39 (1.35-1.42). Odds ratios for mortality were post-admission number of medications (1.04; 1.04-1.05), STOPP PIMs (0.99; 0.96-1.00); AGS Beers PIMs (1.08; 1.07-1.08) and START omissions not corrected with a prescription (1.56 (1.50-1.63). START omissions corrected with a prescription correlated with a dramatic reduction in mortality (0.51; 0.49-0.53). Odds ratios for readmissions for the second through 39th admission were consistently higher if START PPOs were not corrected for the second admission (1.41; 1.36-1.46), third (1.41;1.35-1.48); fourth 1.35;1.28-1.44); fifth 1.38; 1.28-1.49); sixth (1.47;1.34-1.62) and 7th through 39th admission (1.23; 1.14-1.34). For all admissions when a pre-scription was given to correct START PPOs ORs for mortality within six months of discharge were dramatically improved (0.51; 0.49-0.53). This was also true for the second (0.52; 0.50-0.55; fourth (0.56; 0.52-0.61; fifth (0.63; 0.57-0.68); sixth (0.68; 0.61-0.76); and 7th through 39th admissions (0.71; 0.65-0.78). Conclusions: PPOs should be corrected by prescriptions and teams of family physicians, pharmacists and nurses should focus on patients’ understanding of their illnesses, medications and ability for self-care.
Multi Drug Resistant and Heteroresistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates Variants from Patients in Rural Areas in Eastern Cape
Authors: Faye Lindiwe M. , Hosu Mojisola C. , Mbiza Yanga , Lubuzo Nomzi , Sineke Ncomeka , Gumede Thulani Knowledge , Bokop Carine , Ifaedi Bonnie , Dlatu Ntandazo , Vasaikar Sandeep , Apalata Teke
Published: August 2023

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis emerged as a serious challenge to tuberculosis management and control. In the Eastern Cape, the Beijing variants are prevalent and a driving force of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis; hence, we investigated the distribution of gene mutations in Beijing strains compared to non-Beijing strains. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and heteroresistant isolates were identified in 412 sputum cultures by drug susceptibility testing. The isolates were analyzed for mutations in three genes associated with resistance to antituberculosis first-line drugs: katG and inhA promoters for isoniazid and rpoB for rifampicin. All isolates were genotyped by spoligotyping. There were more males than females and a more economically active age group in the study. The most prevalent mutations in rpoB resistance were in S531L, katG in S315Tb, and inhA in c-15tb. Heteroresistance was found in 18 isolates. Beijing variants were predominant. Most of the heteroresistant isolates were INH, with heteroresistance occurring more in the inhA gene mutation region c-15tb. Beijing and LAM variants were found more frequently in INH heteroresistant isolates. Mutations in katG S315Tb and rpoB S531L were higher in Beijing variants. The Beijing family is a major contributor to the epidemiological picture and accounts for most of the multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in the study area.
Polymers in 3D Printing of External Maxillofacial Prostheses and Their Retention Systems
Authors: Apresyan Samvel V. , Stepanov Alexandr G. , Vikhrov Alexander A. , Myasoedov Maxim S. , Prostyakova Anna I. , Generalova Alla N.
Published: August 2023

Maxillofacial defects, arising from trauma, oncological disease or congenital differences, detrimentally affect everyday life. Prosthetic repair offers the aesthetic and functional reconstruction with the help of materials mimicking natural tissues, among which polymers take unprecedented role. The three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques based on the computer-aided design, where polymers are essential, provide a rapid and cost-effective workflow protocol to perfectly restore patient-specific anatomy for prosthetics. This review discusses the main 3D printing approaches to maxillofacial prostheses fabrication: extrusion and lithography, which are radically preferable to the traditional methods. The main assessment criteria, affording the polymer implementation in 3D printing of prostheses, as well as the characteristics of the key advanced polymers, are considered. The success of the prosthesis is shown to be largely dependent on the retention system, predominantly using polymers in the form of adhesives and osseointegrated implants as a support for the prosthesis. The approaches and technological prospects are also discussed in the context of specific aesthetic restoration on the example of the nasal, auricle and ocular prostheses. 3D printing techniques determine the development of personalized approaches to improve aesthetic and functional effect of prosthetics in patients with maxillofacial defects.
Fifteen-, Ten-, or Five Minutes City? Walkability to Services Assessment: Case of Dubai, UAE
Authors: Ali Maram , Ali Tarig , Gawai Rahul , Elaksher Ahmed
Published: August 2023

The rapid urbanization growth of Dubai has resulted in connectivity issues, considered tre-mendous development pressure. That leads the local authorities to set a vision for Dubai as a 15-20 minute city by 2040. The 15-minute city, where all services can be reached with minimum travel time using sustainable mobility means (walking, cycling, or electric bik-ing). This paper aims to assess the current walkability situation within 15 minutes in the most significant parts of Dubai. This study considered 13 communities; Bur-Dubai and Business Bay were selected to represent the ungated communities, and eleven major gated communities were considered to indicate the gated ones. Those neighborhoods are selected based on the developments' socio-economic status and population density. The assessment considered 14 essential services, categorized into five categories: educational, health, social, entertainment, and religious. The research methodology conducted desktop research, site visits, interviewing random residents to collect data, and then using ArcGIS to assess walk-ability. The results show (64.5%) of the ungated neighborhoods population which access essential services within 15 minutes, while most of the gated communities residents must use cars to access many services. Furthermore, services distribution patterns and walkability infrastructures outside these developments should be developed to obtain higher walkability indicators.
Therapeutic Strategies for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Are Centered on Natural Product
Authors: Park Moon Nyeo
Published: August 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) a highly malignant neoplasm, is classified as one of the most severe and devastating types of cancer. PDAC is a notable malignancy that exhibits a discouraging prognosis and a rising occurrence. The interplay between diabetes and pancreatic cancer exhibits a reciprocal causation. The identified metabolic disorder has been observed to possess noteworthy consequences on health outcomes, resulting in elevated rates of morbidity. The principal mechanisms involve the suppression of the immune system, the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and the onset of systemic metabolic disease caused by dysfunction of the islets. From this point forward, it is important to recognize that pancreatic cancer-related diabetes (PCRD) has the ability to increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. This highlights the complex relationship that exists between these two physiological states. Therefore, we investigate into the complex domain of PSCs, elucidating their intricate signaling pathways and the profound influence of chemokines on their behavior and final outcome. In order to surmount the obstacle of drug resistance and eliminate PDAC, researchers have undertaken extensive efforts to explore and cultivate novel natural compounds of the next generation. Additional investigation is necessary in order to comprehensively comprehend the effect of PCRD-mediated apoptosis on the progression and onset of PDAC through the utilization of natural compound. This study aims to examine the potential anticancer properties of natural compound in individuals with diabetes who are undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. It is anticipated that these compounds will exhibit increased potency and possess enhanced pharmacological benefits. According to our research findings, it is indicated that naturally derived chemical compounds hold potential in the development of PDAC therapies that are both safe and efficacious.
Analisis Wacana Kritis Berita Pemberian Gelar Guru Besar Kehormatan Kepada Megawati Soekarnoputri
Authors: Harun Arpani
Published: August 2023

The media, both print and online, not only function as a conveyer of information, but also become a forum for framing certain intentions or ideologies. This framing can be seen through critical reading by identifying the diction, the structure of news content, and the context of news discourse. The aim of this paper was to examine the news related to the issue of awarding an honorary professor title to the former President of the Republic of Indonesia, Megawati Soekarnoputri, in four online media, namely kompas.com, republica.co.id, tribunnews.com and newspapertempo.id. Data collection technique used document. The data was analysed by using the concept of Teun A. Van Dijk’s discourse analysis concept. The results of the analysis show that the four news texts contain of three dimensions text: superstructure, macro structure and micro structure.
Turnbackhoax.id: Upaya Pemutusan Disinformasi Berita-berita Pemilu 2024
Authors: Haqqo Arinal , Ansoriyah Siti
Published: August 2023

The rise of disinformation in the midst of the development of new media is the impact of the lack of digital literacy of the community, especially active users of users. Ahead of the biggest political contestation in Indonesia, namely the 2024 election (Pemilu 2024), the government and society are again faced with the threat of hoaxes related to social, political and governance issues. The number of novice voters that will dominate is in fact related to the potential for more massive spread of hoaxes in cyberspace. The lack of digital literacy insights from first-time voters familiar with the internet and new media complicates efforts to disinfect and prevent disinformation. To anticipate the recurrence of the hoax phenomenon from the 2019 election, this study examines the mitigation of the spread of disinformation by identifying the types of content circulating and presenting evidence on the turnbackhoax.id portal initiated by the Indonesian anti-hoax movement. This descriptive qualitative research uses data from the turnbackhoax.id portal published during June 2023. The results explain how to make people more careful in reading information, verifying the truth of news and actively participating in providing accurate news sources and providing it in the portal in order for more internet users can verify the truth of the news.
Perkembangan Pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia dan Upaya Penguatannya dalam Sistem Pendidikan Nasional
Authors: Azmah Siti Fatimah Nur
Published: August 2023

This study aims to determine the development of Indonesian language learning and efforts to strengthen it in the national education system. This research is a type of qualitative descriptive research using the library research method (literature study), looking for sources of relevant literature according to the topics discussed, with the aim of finding scientific and theoretical studies. This study uses data analysis techniques which consist of three stages, namely (1) Organize, at this stage grouping the literature studied. Literature must first be reviewed before being used, so that it is in accordance with the subject matter. (2) Synthesize, at this stage, combines the results of grouping literature in a concise and cohesive manner. (3) Identify, at this stage identify issues that are relevant and important to study and analyze, in order to produce scientific paragraphs. From the description of the results of the data analysis, it can be concluded that the development of Indonesian language learning in Indonesia continues to change according to the curriculum used. Starting from the 1947 curriculum to the independent curriculum currently used in schools. Strengthening the Indonesian language in the national education system includes language that educates the life of the nation and the position and function of the Indonesian language.
Pembelajaran Menyimak Bahasa Arab dengan Memanfaatkan Teknologi Informasi dan Komunikasi
Authors: Prakasa Fahreza
Published: August 2023

Listening skills are an essential foundation for students in language learning, particularly in Arabic. These listening skills encompass the ability to comprehend spoken texts as a whole and the ability to focus on specific details, such as understanding information from speakers related to the details of what is conveyed, who is conveying it, when something happened, why something can occur, and how something can happen. Information and communication technology (ICT) is how technology is used to access, manage, and communicate information. This research employs qualitative descriptive methods with a literature review. Additionally, engaged observation has been conducted. In this era, the utilization of ICT is highly crucial, especially in the field of education. Many platforms can be used for online learning, such as zoom meetings, google meet, and learning management systems (LMS). In Arabic language listening instruction, the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is highly effective. This is because students will experience the same level of comfort as they would when learning in a language lab or computer lab. This Arabic language listening instruction greatly aids students in enhancing one of the language skills they need to improve, which is listening skill.
The Role of Multi National Cooperation (MNC) in Developing Countries Case Study : “Ferrero Group's Influence on Enhancement Cocoa Farms in Côte d'Ivoire”
Authors: Hidayat Regga Fajar , Rozi Feni Fitriani Putri , Chaniago Siti Aminah , Wijaya Bagaskara Sagita
Published: August 2023

This article will discuss Ferrero Group's influence on the enhancement of agricultural cocoa in Côte d'Ivoire. Using the objective qualitative method to know how far that influence has been awarded the Ferrero Group to the Côte d'Ivoire country in agriculture cocoa. Côte d'Ivoire is a developing country that can say it still lacks knowledge in agriculture even though 40% of world cocoa comes from Côte d'Ivoire. Respond matter this is the Ferrero Group initiative to empower farmers' existing chocolate with three main pillars, namely: 1). Increase the level of life for farmers and communities 2). Protect the right of children 3). Protect natural capital. Through the Cocoa Horizons program, Ferrero Farming Values return the right child, agroforestry, and against deforestation. Through its programs, the Ferrero Group is capable of pushing agriculture Côte d'Ivoire cocoa by providing knowledge transfer and technology transfer to optimize agriculture cocoa. Ferrero also delivers education for the public will haka children for learning and play through the Ferrero Hazelnut Company Child Labor Monitoring & Remediation System. As well as building sustainable agriculture without damage natural through agroforestry and against deforestation.

Keywords: Cocoa Agroforestry, Cocoa Horizons, Deforestation, Ferrero Farming Values.
Programmed evolution: Using asexual gene drives to sculpt tumor populations and combat genetic diversity
Authors: Pritchard Justin , Leighow Scott , Reynolds Joshua , Sokirniy Ivan , Yao Shun , Yang Zeyu , Inam Haider , Wodarz Dominik , Archetti Marco
Published: August 2023

Resistance evolution is responsible for the failure of most targeted anticancer therapies. Tumor heterogeneity is so profound that pre-existing resistance is thought to be guaranteed at the time that advanced disease is detected. The practice of waiting for treatment failure and then responding to the refractory tumor with next-generation targeted therapies locks clinicians in an evolutionary arms race until no further treatment options are available. Here, we posit that disease evolution can be reproducibly reprogrammed to design more readily treated tumors, regardless of the exact ensemble of pre-existing genetic heterogeneity. To this end, we conceive of a modular genetic platform that couples an inducible fitness advantage with a shared fitness cost. Using stochastic models of evolutionary dynamics, we identify the design criteria of these “selection gene drives.” We then build prototypes that leverage the selective pressure of various approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors and employ therapeutic mechanisms as diverse as prodrug catalysis and immune activity induction. By using saturating mutagenesis across a drug target and genome-scale loss-of-function libraries, we show that our selection gene drives can eradicate extremely diverse forms of genetic resistance. Finally, using theory to guide treatment scheduling, we demonstrate that model-informed switch engagement can create dramatic in vivo efficacy. These results establish selection gene drives as a powerful new paradigm for evolution-guided anticancer therapy.
Theoretical boundaries of annual flood risk for single-family homes within the 100-year floodplain
Authors: Assi Ayat Al , Mostafiz Rubayet Bin , Friedland Carol J. , Rohli Robert V.
Published: August 2023

Special flood hazard areas (SFHAs), defined as having an annual probability of occurrence of 0.1 or above, are used by U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to demarcate areas within which flood insurance purchase is required to secure a mortgage. However, quantifying flood risk within SFHAs can be challenging due to the lack of modeled flood depth data for all return periods. To address this issue, this research quantifies flood risk indicated by average annual loss (AAL) within the A Zone – the subset of the SFHA where wave heights can potentially range from 0 to 3 feet. The methodology resolves the Gumbel quantile function for four distinct flooding cases (i.e., location flooded at return periods exceeding 1.58-, 10-, 25-, and 50-year return period events) and generates synthetic flood hazard parameters for these cases within the 100-year floodplain, as well as with additional elevation above the base blood elevation (BFE), known as freeboard, for single-family homes with different attributes. The results indicate that for single-family homes in the A Zone, with the lowest floor elevated to the BFE, the AAL ranges from 0.3 to 1 percent of the building replacement cost value. Adding one foot of freeboard reduces flood risk by over 90% if the annual flood risk is between the minimum and 25th percentiles, and the 100-year flood depth is less than two feet. The demonstrated approach helps to enhance flood resilience in the A Zone, demonstrating the feasibility of proactive measures to protect communities.