bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microwave-assisted Synthesis of Heterocycles and their Anti-cancer Activities
Authors: Majhi Sasadhar , Mondal Pankaj Kumar
Published: October 2023

One of the most efficient non-conventional heating methods is microwave irradiation. In organic synthesis, microwave irradiation has become a popular heating technique as it enhances product yields and purities, reduces reaction time from hours to minutes, and decreases unwanted side reactions. Microwave-assisted organic synthesis utilizes dielectric volumetric heating as an alternative activation method, which results in rapid and more selective transformations because of the uniform heat distribution. Heterocyclic compounds have a profound role in the drug discovery and development process along with their applications as agrochemicals, fungicides, herbicides, etc., making them the most prevalent form of biologically relevant molecules. Hence, enormous efforts have been made to flourish green routes for their high-yielding synthesis under microwave irradiation as a sustainable tool. Among the different clinical applications, heterocyclic compounds have received considerable attention as anti-cancer agents. Heterocyclic moieties have always been core parts of the development of anti-cancer drugs, including market-selling drugs, i.e., 5-fluoroura-cil, doxorubicin, methotrexate, daunorubicin, etc., and natural alkaloids, such as vinblastine and vincristine. In this review, we focus on the developments in the microwave-assisted synthesis of heterocycles and the anti-cancer activities of particular heterocycles.
Lightweight Privacy Preserving Scheme for IoT based Smart Home
Authors: Sharma Neha , Dhiman Pankaj
Published: October 2023

Background:

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the interconnection of physical devices,
controllers, sensors and actuators that monitor and share data to another end. In a smart home
network, users can remotely access and control home appliances/devices via wireless channels.
Due to the increasing demand for smart IoT devices, secure communication also becomes the biggest
challenge. Hence, a lightweight authentication scheme is required to secure these devices and
maintain user privacy. The protocol proposed is secure against different kinds of attacks and as
well as is efficient.

Methods:

The proposed protocol offers mutual authentication using shared session key establishment.
The shared session key is established between the smart device and the home gateway, ensuring
that the communication between the smart devices, home gateway, and the user is secure
and no third party can access the information shared.

Results:

Informal and formal analysis of the proposed scheme is done using the AVISPA tool.
Finally, the results of the proposed scheme also compare with existing security schemes in terms
of computation and communication performance cost. The results show that the proposed scheme
is more efficient and robust against different types of attacks than the existing protocols.

Conclusion:

In the upcoming years, there will be a dedicated network system built inside the
home so that the user can have access to the home from anywhere. The proposed scheme offers
secure communication between the user, the smart home, and different smart devices. The proposed
protocol makes sure that security and privacy are maintained since the smart devices lack
computation power which makes them vulnerable to different attacks.
Molecular Bases of Protein Antigenicity and Determinants of
Immunogenicity, Anergy, and Mitogenicity
Authors: Pedroza-Escobar David , Castillo-Maldonado Irais , González-Cortés Tania , Delgadillo-Guzmán Dealmy , Ruíz-Flores Pablo , Cruz Jorge Haro Santa , Espino-Silva Perla-Karina , Flores-Loyola Erika , Ramirez-Moreno Agustina , Avalos-Soto Joaquín , Téllez-López Miguel-Ángel , Velázquez-Gauna Sergio-Everardo , García-Garza Rubén , Vertti Rubén Daniel Arellano Pérez , Torres-León Cristian
Published: October 2023

Background:

The immune system is able to recognize substances that originate from inside
or outside the body and are potentially harmful. Foreign substances that bind to immune system
components exhibit antigenicity and are defined as antigens. The antigens exhibiting immunogenicity
can induce innate or adaptive immune responses and give rise to humoral or cell-mediated
immunity. The antigens exhibiting mitogenicity can cross-link cell membrane receptors on B and T
lymphocytes leading to cell proliferation. All antigens vary greatly in physicochemical features
such as biochemical nature, structural complexity, molecular size, foreignness, solubility, and so
on.

Objective::

Thus, this review aims to describe the molecular bases of protein-antigenicity and those
molecular bases that lead to an immune response, lymphocyte proliferation, or unresponsiveness.

Conclusion:

The epitopes of an antigen are located in surface areas; they are about 880-3,300 Da
in size. They are protein, carbohydrate, or lipid in nature. Soluble antigens are smaller than 1 nm
and are endocytosed less efficiently than particulate antigens. The more the structural complexity
of an antigen increases, the more the antigenicity increases due to the number and variety of epitopes.
The smallest immunogens are about 4,000-10,000 Da in size. The more phylogenetically distant
immunogens are from the immunogen-recipient, the more immunogenicity increases. Antigens
that are immunogens can trigger an innate or adaptive immune response. The innate response is induced
by antigens that are pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Exogenous antigens, T Dependent
or T Independent, induce humoral immunogenicity. TD protein-antigens require two epitopes,
one sequential and one conformational to induce antibodies, whereas, TI non-protein-antigens require
only one conformational epitope to induce low-affinity antibodies. Endogenous protein antigens
require only one sequential epitope to induce cell-mediated immunogenicity.
Role of Alpha-7-Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Singh Sushma , Agrawal Neetu , Goyal Ahsas
Published: October 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions worldwide.
One of the leading hypotheses for the underlying cause of AD is a reduction in nicotinic receptor
levels in the brain. Among the nicotinic receptors, the alpha-7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
(α7nAChR) has received particular attention due to its involvement in cognitive function.α7nAChR is
a ligand-gated ion channel that is primarily found in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, areas of
the brain responsible for learning, memory, and attention. Studies have shown that α7nAChR dysfunction
is a key contributor to the pathogenesis of AD. The receptor is involved in regulating amyloidbeta
(Aβ) production, a hallmark of AD pathology. Many drugs have been investigated as α7nAChR
agonists or allosteric modulators to improve cognitive deficits in AD. Clinical studies have shown
promising results with α7nAChR agonists, including improved memory and cognitive function. Although
several studies have shown the significance of the α7 nAChR in AD, little is known about its
function in AD pathogenesis. As a result, in this review, we have outlined the basic information of the
α7 nAChR's structure, functions, cellular responses to its activation, and its role in AD's pathogenesis.
The Prevalence of Video Games Addiction among Iraqi People in
2022
Authors: Hashim Hashim Talib , Hashim Ali Talib , Shah Asghar , Shah Jaffer , Tharwani Zoaib Habib , Islam Zarmina , Riaz Mehr Muhammad Adeel , Ahmad Shoaib , Abd al Khudair Mustafa Abd al Latif
Published: October 2023

Background:

Video game Addiction Disorder, in addition to other dependency disorders,
seem to affect the pleasure center of the brain. The addictive behavior triggers a release
of dopamine to promote the pleasurable experience activating the release of this chemical.
Over time, more and more of the activity is needed to induce the same pleasurable response,
creating a dependency.

Methods:

It is a cross-sectional study conducted among 2500 participants (more than 18 years)
distributed in all the Iraqi provinces including both males and females. The questionnaire contains
demographic questions and an internet addiction special validated questionnaire in the
Arabic language.

Results:

The present study, comprising a predominantly male population (82%) showed a
mild-moderate level of internet addiction among 93% of its participants (62% mild and 31%
moderate), and an average internet usage score of 45. Race, particularly Kurdish, and the need
to socialize were statistically significant predictors of video gaming. Twenty percent of participants
in our study spent more than 3 hours a day playing video games using more than one
device. The majority of these participants played racing (16%), platform (12%), and stealth
(9.5%) video games.

Conclusion:

Everything is Internet-based. Adding an additional layer of confusion and distinction
is that another digital technology is taking over the world as well – making access to computers
even easier. But these benefits have a lot of consequences on humanity as well and it can
cause an addiction especially to video games that are spreading among adolescents and early
adults all over the world.
Ša‛baḏa: prestidigitazione e illusionismo tra storia della scienza, filosofia e teologia
Authors: Carusi Paola
Published: October 2023

Cited in the classifications of sciences as operational science (ṣinā‛a), in the Islamic world of the Middle Ages, the ša‛baḏa, in its various forms and extensions — it can also be shadow play — ba-lances along a delicate border. While the public is enjoying its ‘wonders’, scholars of different back-grounds give their opinions on its real contents; the philosophers, beyond the ‘wonders’, meditate on the hand of man and on the degree of its perfection which makes it the most sensitive of instruments; the theologians tend to consider it the sister of magic, and as such to be condemned, yet they can also mention it in laudatory terms; the mystics come to compare the muša‛biḏ to God. Against this lively, colorful background, the muša‛biḏ, regardless of anything other than his art, continues to play his game
Perubahan Berat Badan Tikus Sprague Dawley Setelah Pemberian Ekstrak Kurma Ajwa
Authors: Karim Marzelina , Taslim Nurpudji Astuti , Bukhari Agussalim , Hamid Firdaus , Idris Irfan , Sanusi Himawan Dharmayani
Published: October 2023

Kelebihan lemak yang menyebabkan terjadinya obesitas dapat berpengaruh dalam proses penuaan dan menurunkan angka harapan hidup. Hal ini disebabkan oleh karena adanya peningkatan Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) yang memicu terjadinya stres oksidatif dan proses inflamasi dari organisme yang memengaruhi telomer, yang berperan sebagai penanda usia biologis. Kandungan serat makanan dan antioksidan yang tinggi pada kurma Ajwa menjadikannya pilihan untuk pengobatan berbagai penyakit seperti diabetes, obesitas, kanker, dan penyakit jantung. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perubahan berat badan tikus Sprague dawley setelah pemberian ekstrak kurma Ajwa (Phoenix dactylifera L.). Rancangan penelitian yaitu pre-post test with control group design. 15 ekor tikus jantan Sprague dawley dibagi dalam 5 tikus kelompok kontrol, 5 tikus kelompok perlakuan I yang diinduksi diet tinggi lemak dan 5 tikus kelompok perlakuan II yang diintervensi ekstrak kurma Ajwa. Induksi PTL diberikan selama 30 hari dan pemberian ekstrak kurma Ajwa selama 7 hari. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan kelompok tikus yang diberi PTL mengalami perubahan berat badan yang signifikan, diperoleh nilai p<0,011. Kesimpulannya, terjadi penurunan berat badan pada tikus Sprague dawley yang diberikan ekstrak kurma Ajwa.
The influence of internal and external visual imagery on self-confidence in learning gymnastics
Authors: Prastyawan Rifky Riyandi , Suherman Wawan Sundawan , Nasrulloh Ahmad
Published: October 2023

Students must have high self-confidence in learning physical education, because self-confidence affects individual success in performing motor skills. The purpose of this study was to reveal differences in the influence of internal and external visual imagery on students' self-confidence in learning gymnastics with cartwheels material. This research is a multiple linear regression experimental research. The number of samples in this study were 68 students. Actions are carried out by integrating internal and external visual imagery exercises in gymnastic learning. The data collection technique uses a self-confidence scale as an instrument. Data were analyzed using an independent sample t-test with a significance level of 0.05. The results showed that internal and external visual imagery had a significant effect on students' self-confidence (tcount ttable, sig. 0.05), but there was a significant difference between internal and external visual imagery training (tcount ttable, sig. 0.27 0.05) so that the internal visual imagery training method is better than the external imagery method (mean 71.2941 67.8824). The results of this study indicate that students' self-confidence in performing wheel motion skills can be increased through internal and external visual imagery exercises that are integrated into the learning process, but internal visual imagery training methods are preferred.
Improving integrated thematic learning outcomes using the numbered head together (NHT) cooperative mode
Authors: Aulia Fadhila , Lena Mai Sri
Published: October 2023

This study used a classroom action research method by applying qualitative and quantitative approaches carried out in 2 cycles through the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. This study aimed to observe the improvement of student learning outcomes in class VB SDN 13 Kuranji by applying the Numbered Head Together (NHT) Model. The research data obtained were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques with the instruments of the Teaching Implementation Plan (RPP) assessment sheet, teacher and learner activity observation sheets, evaluation question sheets, attitude journals, and skill rubrics. Teachers and students became the subjects of this study. According to the results of the study, there was an increase in each cycle. In the lesson plan assessment in Cycle I, the score was 85%, and 95% in Cycle II. Regarding teacher activity, the value reached 84.3% in Cycle I and 93.7% in Cycle II, while the learner aspect in Cycle I was 82.8% to 93.7% in Cycle II. In addition, students' learning outcomes increased from 78.4 in Cycle I to 87 in Cycle II. The results showed improved student learning outcomes after applying the Numbered Head Together model. The improvement is also seen in the lesson plan and the implementation of learning regarding teachers and students.
Exploring Genius Hour: A literature study on concepts, benefits, and their application at every level of education in various countries
Authors: Ramadhan Dhifa Putra , Kuswandi Dedi , Soepriyanto Yerry
Published: October 2023

Genius Hour in this article will be studied in the literature, focusing on the concept and benefits of Genius Hour in the context of Education, as well as how Genius Hour is implemented in various countries at different levels of Education. It is hoped that the results of this study can provide further knowledge about Genius Hour and an overview for students who wish to apply to Genius Hour. Genius Hour is an approach to learning by setting aside time in class so students can learn about topics that match their interests or passions, developing essential questions, researching their topics, and creating a final project to be shared at the end of learning. The literature review in this study uses prism flow diagrams to assist in the process of determining the literature to be studied.
Patient Perceptions of In Vivo Versus Virtual Reality Exposures for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders: Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Levy Amanda N , Nittas Vasileios , Wray Tyler B
Published: October 2023

Background

Psychotherapy, and particularly exposure therapy, has been proven to be an effective treatment for many anxiety disorders, including social and specific phobias, as well as posttraumatic stress disorders. Currently, exposures are underused and mostly delivered in vivo. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) offers a more flexible delivery mechanism that has the potential to address some of the implementation barriers of in vivo exposures while retaining effectiveness. Yet, there is little evidence on how patients perceive different exposure therapy methods.

Objective

This study aims to explore the perceptions of individuals with anxiety disorders toward in vivo and VRET. Our findings can inform therapists about the degree of patient interest in both methods while exploring the demand for VRET as an alternative and novel treatment approach.

Methods

Web-based survey assessing the (1) interest in, (2) willingness to use, (3) comfort with, (4) enthusiasm toward, and (5) perceived effectiveness of exposure therapy when delivered in vivo and through VR. Participants included individuals with specific phobia, social phobia, posttraumatic stress disorder, or acute stress disorder or reaction. Participants were presented with educational videos about in vivo and VRET and asked to provide their perceptions quantitatively and qualitatively through a rated scale and free-text responses.

Results

In total, 184 surveys were completed and analyzed, in which 82% (n=151) of participants reported being willing to receive in vivo exposures and 90.2% (n=166) reported willingness to receive VRET. Participants reported higher interest in, comfort with, enthusiasm toward, and perceived effectiveness of VRET compared to in vivo. Most reported in vivo concerns were linked to (1) increased anxiety, (2) feelings of embarrassment or shame, and (3) exacerbation of current condition. Most reported VRET concerns were linked to (1) risk of side effects including increased anxiety, (2) efficacy uncertainty, and (3) health insurance coverage. The most frequently mentioned VRET benefits include (1) privacy, (2) safety, (3) the ability to control exposures, (4) comfort, (5) the absence of real-life consequences, (6) effectiveness, and (7) customizability to a wider variety of exposures.

Conclusions

On average, our participants expressed positive perceptions toward exposure therapy, with slightly more positive perceptions of VRET over in vivo exposures. Despite valid personal concerns and some misconceptions, our findings emphasize that VRET provides an opportunity to get much-needed therapy to patients in ways that are more acceptable and less concerning.
Resistance Training in Patients After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Elks Whitney , Rooks Adam , Schulte Spencer , Batra Kavita , Burke Jocelyn , Jain Varun
Published: October 2023

Background

Resistance training has been consistently shown to have multiple health benefits, especially for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery. Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery are recommended to participate in resistance exercise; however, protocols and guidelines for resistance training remain poorly implemented.

Objective

This is a protocol for a systematic review and possibly a meta-analysis that will synthesize evidence of the effects of resistance exercise on changes in body composition, muscular strength, overall weight loss or maintenance of weight loss, and quality of life in patients after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). The findings of this study may provide practice recommendations for resistance training among patients who have undergone MBS.

Methods

We registered this systematic review on PROSPERO (CRD42023464928) on September 18, 2023. A systematic search of electronic databases (Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL) was conducted on studies published from January 1, 1991, to May 15, 2023, to identify English-language human studies on adult patients who have undergone MBS that include a resistance training intervention and describe outcome measurements of body composition or strength. Screening will be performed using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, and relevant data elements will be extracted.

Results

Searches and screenings commenced in May 2023. Data extraction and analyses will be completed by the end of December 2023, after which findings will be synthesized and reported by the end of March 2024.

Conclusions

This systematic review will summarize the evidence regarding resistance training in patients after MBS. The findings from this systematic review and possible meta-analysis may provide practice recommendations for resistance training protocols in this patient population and identify characteristics of protocols with the best adherence and outcomes. With these results, we anticipate that we will gain a deeper understanding of the role of resistance training after MBS.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42023464928; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=464928

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/49513
The Impact of Heat Waves on Health Care Services in Low- or Middle-Income Countries: Protocol for a Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Sapari Hadita , Selamat Mohamad Ikhsan , Isa Mohamad Rodi , Ismail Rohaida , Wan Mahiyuddin Wan Rozita
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Heat waves significantly impact ecosystems and human health, especially that of vulnerable populations, and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Besides being directly related to climate-sensitive health outcomes, heat waves have indirectly increased the burden on our health care systems. Although the existing literature examines the impact of heat waves and morbidity, past research has mostly been conducted in high-income countries (HICs), and studies on the impact of heat waves on morbidity in low- or middle-income countries (LMICs) are still scarce.

OBJECTIVE

This paper presents the protocol for a systematic review that aims to provide evidence of the impact of heat waves on health care services in LMICs.

METHODS

We will identify peer-reviewed studies from 3 online databases, including the Web of Science, PubMed, and SCOPUS, published from January 2002 to April 2023, using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Quality assessment will be conducted using the Navigation Guide checklist. Key search terms include heatwaves, extreme heat, hospitalization, outpatient visit, burden, health services, and morbidity.

RESULTS

This systematic review will provide insight into the impact of heat waves on health care services in LMICs, especially on emergency department visits, ambulance call-outs, hospital admissions, outpatient department visits, in-hospital mortality, and health care operational costs.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this review are anticipated to help policymakers and key stakeholders obtain a better understanding of the impact of heat waves on health care services and prioritize investments to mitigate the effects of heat waves in LMICs. This entails creating a comprehensive heat wave plan and ensuring that adequate infrastructure, capacity, and human resources are allocated in the health care sector. These measures will undoubtedly contribute to the development of resilience in health care systems and hence protect the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO CRD42022365471; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=365471

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/44702
Patient Perceptions of In Vivo Versus Virtual Reality Exposures for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders: Cross-Sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Levy Amanda N , Nittas Vasileios , Wray Tyler B
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Psychotherapy, and particularly exposure therapy, has been proven to be an effective treatment for many anxiety disorders, including social and specific phobias, as well as posttraumatic stress disorders. Currently, exposures are underused and mostly delivered in vivo. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) offers a more flexible delivery mechanism that has the potential to address some of the implementation barriers of in vivo exposures while retaining effectiveness. Yet, there is little evidence on how patients perceive different exposure therapy methods.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the perceptions of individuals with anxiety disorders toward in vivo and VRET. Our findings can inform therapists about the degree of patient interest in both methods while exploring the demand for VRET as an alternative and novel treatment approach.

METHODS

Web-based survey assessing the (1) interest in, (2) willingness to use, (3) comfort with, (4) enthusiasm toward, and (5) perceived effectiveness of exposure therapy when delivered in vivo and through VR. Participants included individuals with specific phobia, social phobia, posttraumatic stress disorder, or acute stress disorder or reaction. Participants were presented with educational videos about in vivo and VRET and asked to provide their perceptions quantitatively and qualitatively through a rated scale and free-text responses.

RESULTS

In total, 184 surveys were completed and analyzed, in which 82% (n=151) of participants reported being willing to receive in vivo exposures and 90.2% (n=166) reported willingness to receive VRET. Participants reported higher interest in, comfort with, enthusiasm toward, and perceived effectiveness of VRET compared to in vivo. Most reported in vivo concerns were linked to (1) increased anxiety, (2) feelings of embarrassment or shame, and (3) exacerbation of current condition. Most reported VRET concerns were linked to (1) risk of side effects including increased anxiety, (2) efficacy uncertainty, and (3) health insurance coverage. The most frequently mentioned VRET benefits include (1) privacy, (2) safety, (3) the ability to control exposures, (4) comfort, (5) the absence of real-life consequences, (6) effectiveness, and (7) customizability to a wider variety of exposures.

CONCLUSIONS

On average, our participants expressed positive perceptions toward exposure therapy, with slightly more positive perceptions of VRET over in vivo exposures. Despite valid personal concerns and some misconceptions, our findings emphasize that VRET provides an opportunity to get much-needed therapy to patients in ways that are more acceptable and less concerning.

CLINICALTRIAL
A New Model of Pain Interventional Learning with the M-eDU PAIN Model (Preprint)
Authors: Mahmud Mahmud , Sari Dwi Cahyani Ratna , Sari Djayanti , Arfian Nur , Widyastuti Yunita , Zucha Muhammad , Hidayah Rachmadya Nur
Published: October 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Clinical learning for health students is a must. However, the learning method or strategy provided must be able to ensure patient safety, follow the latest technological developments, and achieve the planned learning achievement targets. However, there are not many clinical learning models that have quality standards and ensure patient safety. Although clinical learning has been widely used today it is considered as learning according to needs. Most of them have not been integrated with the use of visual technology. Here we discuss the framework of the learning quality standard model that further ensures patient safety during the clinical learning process and is integrated with the latest visual technology. The M-eDU PAIN learning model has the goal of understanding clinical knowledge and skills, so it is safe for patients. It consists of eight steps namely Learning by Mobile Applications, Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Electric needle, Augmented Needle, Prototype C-Arm, Phantom M-eDU, and Bedside teaching directly to patients. Evaluation of the process of learning knowledge and skills will be carried out by providing pre-tests, post-tests and an Objective structured clinical evaluation (OSCE). Students at the end of learning are given a student satisfaction questionnaire. This model should be used as a reference for clinical learning in health education institutions.
A COVID-19 Prediction Model based on Symptomatology Google Trends Big Data and its Optimization (Preprint)
Authors: CHEN JINGGUO , Ma Yuanchi , Lyu Kunpeng , Xu Haitao , Jiao Chuanyu , Ren Letian , Lyu Hui , Zhu Kang , Ren Xiaoyong
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The accurate prediction of the development trend of COVID-19 pandemic can provide important guidance for the prevention and control of the pandemic. The Google Trends data of typical symptoms of COVID-19 infection such as loss of smell and taste have a significant correlation with the occurrence and development trend of COVID-19 epidemic.

OBJECTIVE

This study is based on Google Trends data of symptomatology, aiming to build and optimize the prediction models of the COVID-19 epidemic.

METHODS

Correlation analysis is carried out on the data of number of confirmed cases from Johns Hopkins University’s COVID-19 database and the symptomatology Google Trends data from the Google Trends platform. SEIR model, ARIMAX model and LSTNet model are established respectively based on the Google Trends data, and their predictive performance are compared.

RESULTS

There was a strong correlation between different symptomatology Google Trends data such as smell loss, taste loss, cough, fever, sore throat, and shortness of breath (all correlation coefficients > 0.5, P<0.001). During the Delta variants predominated period, there is 2336 new cases every day for each Google Trends data of taste loss increased (P<0.05), during that of Omicron variants predominated, the number is 3361 (P<0.05). It is suggested that the correlation is always strong in the epidemic periods of different SARS-COV-2 variants. Furthermore, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is conducted, results showed that the cumulative contribution rate reached 93.04%. The Google Trends data after PCA (PCAGT) is introduced into different prediction models to improve the performance, and the results showed the SEIR model could predict the number of daily newly confirmed cases in the next 7 days with an MAE of 5.30×103 and an RMSE of 6.60×103. Comparing the error of the predicted value and the actual value within 5 weeks, after incorporating PCAGT, the error of the ARIMAX model drops from 16.5% to 0.2%, and the error of the LSTNet model drops from 11.3% to 10.1%, and the improvement effect of ARIMAX is better when PCAGT was included. The ARIMAX model incorporating PCAGT has the best prediction performance with a prediction error of only 0.2% within 5 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Incorporating symptomology-related Internet big data can generally improve the performance of the COVID-19 prediction models, and the prediction accuracy of the ARIMAX prediction model was the highest, which can be used to predict the trend of a COVID-19 epidemic.
Data-Driven Fundraising: A Strategic Plan for Medical Education (Preprint)
Authors: Jalali Alireza , Nyman Jacline , Loeffelholtz Ouida , Courtney Chantelle
Published: October 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Higher education institutions, including medical schools, increasingly rely on fundraising to bridge funding gaps and support their missions. This article outlines a four-step approach to creating an effective, end-to-end, data-driven fundraising plan, emphasizing the crucial stages of data collection, data analysis, goal establishment, and targeted strategy formulation. By leveraging internal and external data, schools can create tailored outreach initiatives that resonate with potential donors. However, the fundraising process must be grounded in ethical considerations. Ethical challenges, particularly in grateful patient fundraising, necessitate transparent and honest practices prioritizing donors’ and beneficiaries’ rights and safeguarding public trust. By integrating data analytics with fundraising best practices and ensuring ethical practice, medical institutions can ensure financial support and foster enduring, trust-based relationships with their donor communities.
Evi-BERT: Adopting BERT and Bidirectional LSTM-CRF for TCM RCT evidence extraction (Preprint)
Authors: Li Yizhen , Liu Yixing , Liu Heyuan , Qi Jiaxing , Han Dongran , Luan Zhongzhi
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

In the field of evidence-based medicine, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are of critical importance for writing clinical guidelines and providing guidance to practicing physicians. Currently, RCTs rely heavily on manual extraction, but this method has data breadth limitations and is less efficient.

OBJECTIVE

To expand the breadth of data and improve the efficiency of obtaining clinical evidence, here, we introduce an automated information extraction model for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) RCT evidence extraction.

METHODS

We adopt the Evidence-Bidirectional Encoder Representation from Transformers (Evi-BERT) for automated information extraction, which is combined with rule extraction. Eleven disease types and 48523 research articles from the CNKI database were selected as the data source for extraction. We then constructed a manually annotated dataset of TCM clinical literature to train the model, including ten evidence elements and 24244 datapoints. We chose two models, BERT-CRF and BiLSTM-CRF, as the baseline, and compared the training effects with Evi-BERT.

RESULTS

We found that Evi-BERT achieved the best F1 score (0.62) and had the best robustness. We also added a rule expression to Evi-BERT to extract information, which helped the model achieve even higher precision.

CONCLUSIONS

Our model dramatically expands the amount of data that can be searched and greatly improves efficiency without losing accuracy. This work is expected to provide an intelligent tool to extract clinical evidence for TCM RCT data collection.
What Is the Performance of ChatGPT in Determining the Gender of Individuals Based on Their First and Last Names? (Preprint)
Authors: Sebo Paul
Published: October 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

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Determination of Cadmium Levels in Agricultural Soils of Some Regions in Syria
Authors: Ibrahim Ranim , Barguil Sophie , Hesenow Sondos
Published: October 2023

Soil pollution with heavy metals has become a serious global threat, largely due to anthropogenic activities, and cadmium (Cd) is one of the most toxic known heavy metals. This study aimed to assess cadmium levels in several agricultural soils in several Syrian regions. Soil samples were taken from six agricultural lands, prepared, and processed to determine the total content of cadmium using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The results showed that the values of cadmium concentration ranged between 0.60 and 1.48 ppm in the studied soil samples, exceeding the permissible limit in some areas. Cadmium values were higher in farmland soils near industrial facilities than those far from them. This study indicates the spread of Cd contamination throughout the study area, significantly near the industrial activities; thus, it may impact local agricultural production safety and human health.
Does Spiritual Health Correlate With Breastfeeding Mother’s Self-Efficacy In The Sub-District Area?
Authors: Arya Insi Farisa Desy , Aisyah Siti , Setiawati Elsa Pudji , Sekarwana Nanan , Gurnida Dida Akhmad
Published: October 2023

Spiritual health is an aspect that can provide motivation and purpose for someone to achieve their goals even in a difficult situation. One of the factors supporting the success of breastfeeding is the mother’s self-efficacy. Self-efficacy gives mothers confidence and strong motivation even in a difficult situation. This study aimed to determine the correlation between spiritual health and breastfeeding self-efficacy. This analytical correlational study used a cross-sectional approach. The study was conducted in October 2019 in Soreang Sub-district, Bandung Regency, one of the rural areas in Bandung Regency. The subjects of the study were chosen by cluster random sampling method and selected 52 subjects from 13 Posyandu in Soreang sub-districts. The primary data were obtained using instruments in the form of questionnaires. The level of the spiritual health of the subjects was obtained using Spiritual Health Inventory questionnaire. The level of breastfeeding self-efficacy of the subjects was obtained using the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Spearman rank correlation analysis indicated there is a correlation between spiritual health with breastfeeding self-efficacy, (p=0.029 r=0.303). According to the studied data, breastfeeding self-efficacy and spiritual health are correlated among breastfeeding mothers in Soreang Sub-district.
АНАЛИЗ МЕТОДОВ СИНТЕЗА АМОРФНЫХ ФУНКЦИОНАЛЬНЫХ СЛОЕВ НА ОСНОВЕ ZnO ДЛЯ УСТРОЙСТВ ПРОЗРАЧНОЙ ЭЛЕКТРОНИКИ
Authors: Абдуев А.Х. , Асваров А.Ш. , Ахмедов А.К. , Мурлиев Э.К.
Published: October 2023

Проанализированы процессы магнетронного синтеза нанокристаллических и аморфных
слоев на основе оксида цинка. Изучено влияние легирующих компонентов и уровня легирования на степень аморфизации слоев. Рассмотрено влияние водорода в составе атмосферы на структурное совершенство синтезируемых слоев. Показана зависимость структуры слоев ZnO–SnO2 от соотношения компонентов в распыляемых мишенях. Обсуждены механизмы формирования аморфных слоев на основе ZnO при магнетронных методах синтеза.
La política de internacionalización en los estudios de posgrado brasileños: efectividad de la movilidad académica para internacionalizar la producción científica y la colaboración internacional
Authors: Valero-Ribeiro-Saes Klarissa , Invernizzi Noela
Published: October 2023

La internacionalización de la educación superior ha ganado protagonismo en las políticas científicas y educativas con la intensificación de la globalización. Este artículo examina la política de internacionalización de los estudios de posgrado en Brasil actualmente, inicialmente de manera difusa, y desde 2005 de manera sistemática, en los planes nacionales de Estudios de Posgrado y otros documentos de la Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES). Una vez identificadas las estrategias de intervención de la política, el trabajo analiza sus efectos a través de un estudio de caso del Programa de Posgrado en Ciencias (Bioquímica) de la Universidade Federal do Paraná. Se examinaron tres dimensiones de la internacionalización en el cuatrienio 2013-2016: formación y movilidad docente, producción científica y formación de redes internacionales de investigación, esta última estimada a través de publicaciones en coautoría con investigadores extranjeros. La metodología combinó el análisis cualitativo de documentos y el análisis de los datos contenidos en la Plataforma Sucupira y la Plataforma Lattes.
Trayectorias escolares en educación terciaria: un análisis de sus factores
Authors: Sánchez-Olavarría César , Martínez-Sánchez Alejandra-Cedallín
Published: October 2023

El estudio de los factores que influyen en la construcción de las trayectorias escolares de los estudiantes es una fuente valiosa de información para la toma de decisiones en educación. Se condujo un estudio cuantitativo descriptivo-transversal, en el que se trabajó con 102 estudiantes universitarios de octavo semestre. El propósito del artículo es analizar la trayectoria escolar de los estudiantes del Complejo Regional Mixteca a partir de su licenciatura de ingreso, el promedio obtenido y el desarrollo de competencias genéricas. La combinación de estos factores permitió identificar ocho tipos de trayectoria escolar: ideal-alta-avanzada, ideal-alta-básica, ideal-regular-avanzada, ideal-regular-básica; real-alta-avanzada; real-alta-básica, real-regular-avanzada y real-regular-básica. Se concluye que la orientación profesiográfica en los niveles educativos precedentes sería determinante en la construcción de trayectorias exitosas en educación superior.
Causes of Delays in Construction Projects in Peshawar Region and It’s Preventive Measures
Authors: Afzaal Muhammad , Ullah Shahid
Published: October 2023

Abstract: Construction delays means that tasks are finished later than expected time or required by contract. Finding the source of construction delays is crucial to reducing them. This study tries to identify the major causes for project delays and typical remedies in Peshawar region, Pakistan's construction industry. Additionally, by correlating the criteria found in the literature review with perceptions from construction specialists working in Peshawar region, Pakistan. This research confirms the validity of the factors found there. This study was carried out utilizing a combination of evaluating previous research and conducting a questionnaire-based survey. To collect opinions from a range of construction professionals, including clients, contractors, and consultants, the survey questions were purposefully designed to include both open-ended and close-ended forms. These questionnaires were distributed to a number of people working in the construction business. The primary factors contributing to delays were mostly associated with financial challenges, including the slowness in receiving progress payments from project owners and difficulties contractors encountered in obtaining project financing. In addition to these difficulties, the study determined that cost overruns were the main effects of these delays. Notably, the study also identified effective communication as the most important aspect of controlling project delays. This study will help to improve business procedures and lessen the negative effects of construction delays in addition to offering helpful information to legislators, the individuals who hold decision-making authority, as well as other relevant parties involved in the construction sector.
Development of Pervious Paver Block by Using Rap and Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Shekhar Shashank , Shukla Dr. Abhilash
Published: October 2023

Abstract: This specific kind of concrete is characterized by its interconnected pore structure and substantial void content or porosity, often ranging from 15 to 35% in terms of volume. Pervious concrete has the potential to mitigate the risk of floods, decrease storm-water runoff, attenuate noise generated by vehicle tires, and prevent glare and skidding in wet conditions by facilitating the infiltration of water via its porous structure, therefore replenishing the groundwater table. In light of the current state of the adjacent road networks, a conscientious endeavour is undertaken to develop a concrete paver with minimal permeability. Compression strength, void ratio, and infiltration experiments were conducted to evaluate the desired Mix proportions. In the current study, pervious paver blocks with a thickness of 60mm were manufactured using different percentages of RAP aggregate and rice husk ash. These blocks were specifically designed for medium traffic conditions. Consequently, the compressive strength is enhanced. Recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) aggregates provide a viable alternative to natural and synthetic aggregates for use into construction endeavours. The thesis provides an analysis of the potential use of rice husk ash residue. The compressive strength, density test, porosity, permeability, and durability of the paver block were assessed by several research investigations
Mean field study of 2D quasiparticle condensate formation in presence of strong decay
Authors: Asriyan N.A. , Elistratov A.A. , Lozovik Yu. E.
Published: October 2023

Bose-condensation in a system of 2D quasiparticles is considered in the scope of a microscopic model. Mean-field dynamical equations are derived with the help of the Schwinger-Keldysh formalism and a simple model is proposed which allows to describe key features of condensate formation in systems with various quasiparticle decay rates. By analysing stationary solutions of this equation, we obtain the phase diagram of quasiparticle gas, finding a bistability region in the parameter space of the system. Finally, as an application of our theory, we study the phase diagram of a 2D exciton-polariton system in CdTe microcavity.
The Multi-Stage Adoption of the 1992 Lithuanian Constitution in Comparative Perspective and Some Constitutional Paradoxes
Authors: Vaičaitis Vaidotas A.
Published: October 2023

This article is the first attempt to analyse the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania of 1992 from the perspective of the comparative concept of multi-stage constitution-making. The article consists of three parts: the first two explain, why the 1992 Lithuanian Constitution is not only a result of the 1989–1992 political and legal events in the country, but also bears some conceptual similarities in the latter legal steps with those of 1918–1922. From a comparative perspective, we can see that the multi-stage constitution-making in Lithuania (as well as other Baltic states) in the late 1980s and beginning of 1990s differs from some countries in the region of Central Eastern Europe (e.g., Poland and Hungary), because it includes the concept of continuity with the inter-war republics and does not include the phenomenon of “round tables” between the Communist party and so-called new People’s Front movements. The third difference is that the new constitutions were adopted in Lithuania and Estonia (and re-adopted in Latvia) at the beginning of 1990s, i.e., during the so-called “constitutional moment”, while in Poland and Hungary this happened a bit later. The last chapter of the article shows some constitutional paradoxes of constitution-making, namely: the paradox concerning the legitimacy of the authority having the power to adopt a constituent act; the paradox of mutual inter-dependence between the constituent authority and the constituent act, adopted by this authority; the so-called paradox of “illegality of law” of the constituent act (including the constitution adoption process) and the paradox of retrospectivity of the constituent act.
25 Years of Fundamental Rights in the Constitution of the Republic of Latvia: Development, Significance and Content
Authors: Rodiņa Anita , Kārkliņa Annija
Published: October 2023

Only in 1998, the Constitution of the Republic of Latvia – Satversme, which was adopted more than a hundred years ago and is one of the oldest constitutions in Europe, was supplemented with new Chapter 8 – regulation on fundamental rights. Until the adoption of Chapter 8 of the Satversme, only a few fundamental rights could be found in the Constitution.The current article discusses the development of the regulation of fundamental rights in the Satversme, the importance of fundamental rights in a democratic state, as well as reflects the catalogue of fundamental rights. The authors, looking at the catalogue of fundamental rights included in the Satversme, analyse the fundamental rights by dividing them in groups, i.e., civil, political, social, economic, cultural and solidarity rights. The publication outlines the most characteristic features of each group of rights, reveals the content of those rights and also provides the recent case law of the Constitutional Court.
Victim of Crime and the State’s Liability for the Result of Criminal Proceedings
Authors: Strada-Rozenberga Kristīne , Gurevičs Dāvids
Published: October 2023

This paper examines the issues related to the state’s liability for such a result of criminal proceedings that impairs the victim’s right to a fair trial. The views presented in this paper follow the notion of the victim’s constitutional rights in Latvia and the principles established in the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights, particularly with respect to the victim’s right to an effective and thorough investigation of a crime. Consequently, this paper provides an analysis of Latvia’s regulative framework on reparation of harm caused by state’s unlawful actions in criminal proceedings and the implementation thereof in the case law.