bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stub Signature-Based Efficient Public Data Auditing System using Dynamic Procedures in Cloud Computing
Authors: Goswami Paromita , De Sumana , Debnath Somen , Neetu Neetu Faujdar , Tanupriya Tanupriya Choudhury
Published: April 2023

Online cloud data storage is a rapidly growing pillar of the IT industry that offers data owners an array of attractive developments in highly sought-after online scalable storage services. Cloud users can easily access these services and have the flexibility to manage their process data effectively without worrying about the deployment or maintenance of personal storage devices. As a result, the number of cloud users has increased to purchase these convenient and cost-effective services, while CSPs are also rising to meet this demand for appealing cloud solutions. However, there is one major security issue related to outsourced data on shared cloud storage: its privacy and accuracy cannot be guaranteed as it may be vulnerable to unauthorized access by malicious insiders or hackers from outside sources. To address this problem, we suggest implementing partial signature-based data auditing systems so that both privacy and accuracy can be fortified while reducing the computational cost associated with auditing processes significantly. This system would involve using cryptographic techniques such as homomorphic encryption and hash functions, which would enable secure sharing between multiple parties while ensuring integrity checks on stored files at regular intervals for any potential tampering attempts made by external attackers or malicious insiders who may try to gain unauthorized access into confidential user information stored within cloud sites.Another benefit of the plan is that it supports dynamic operation on outsourced data. Our research work may achieve the desired security qualities, according to the security analysis, and it is effective for real-world applications, as demonstrated by simulation outcomes of dynamic operations on various numbers of data blocks and sub-blocks
Prognostic value of tumor-associated regulatory T-cells as a biomarker in non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Khambholja Kapil , Gehani Manish , Kothari Rushabh , Marulkar Sachin
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite continuous improvement, tumor, nodes, and metastases (TNM) staging has been deficient in prognosticating in patients suffering from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). To supplement TNM staging, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the regulatory T cells (Treg).

Methods

A keyword search was conducted in the MEDLINE database through PubMed for full-text original human studies from any region published in English during the last 10 years. Eligible for inclusion were studies evaluating the prognostic value of the number of Treg cells and pre-specified biomarkers in NSCLC. Case studies, case series, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened the studies and assessed risk-of-bias using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. One reviewer used an automation tool for screening, which was also used to facilitate data extraction. Meta-analysis was done for studies reporting significant multivariate hazards ratio (HR).

Results

Out of 258 retrievals, 19 studies were included in the final review. The low number of Treg cells was found significantly associated with improved overall survival (pooled log OR: 1.626; 95% CI: 1.324, 1.928; p (2-tailed) < .001; SE: 0.1174), improved recurrence-free survival (HR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.15, 3.46; p = .01), and worse disease-free survival (pooled log OR: 0.992; 95% CI: 0.820, 1.163; p (2-tailed) .009; SE: 0.0135), especially when identified by forkhead box P3 (FOXP3), in any stage or non-metastatic NSCLC.

Conclusion

A low number of Treg cells indicated better survival, suggesting its potential use as a prognostic biomarker in NSCLC.

Systematic review registration

The protocol of this review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO on August 28, 2021, and was assigned the registration number CRD42021270598. The protocol can be accessed from PROSPERO website.
Subtypes of High-Grade Breast Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) - Incidence and potential clinical impact
Authors: Schandiz Hossein , Park Daehoon , Kaiser Yan Liu , Lyngra Marianne , Talleraas Inger Solvang , Geisler Jürgen , Sauer Torill
Published: April 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Comparative evaluation of the results of chemical analysis of the solid municipal waste filtrate at the Irkutsk landfill
Authors: Begunova L. A. , Petrova A. N.
Published: April 2023

Heavy metals are widespread chemical elements, many of which are toxic components polluting the biosphere. They include more than 40 are priority pollutants. Every year the danger of their getting them into the soil is increasing. A powerful source of release of harmful heavy metals into the environment are municipal solid waste (MSW) dumps. There are dozens of such these landfills in Irkutsk region, including the largest landfill in Irkutsk. In 2014 and 2019, on the territory of this landfill the landfill leachate was analyzed for the content of general chemical and toxic components. The comparative analysis showed that the landfill soil is extremely dangerous. The excess of MPC of heavy metals in the filtrate ranged from 2.4 to 67.6. The article presents the results of the analysis of landfill leachate taken in 2021 in the sanitary protection zones, and compared with the previously obtained data. It was established that the chemical and biochemical processes between various components of landfill leachates cause the formation of toxic compounds and become sources of infection. Precipitation forms a large amount of leachate which has significant concentrations of especially toxic substances, which inevitably enter the groundwater. In addition to harmful compounds and heavy metals, wastewater also contains pathogenic microorganisms.
Clinical Chemistry Education for Medical Students
Authors:   Department of Chemistry-Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Indonesia, Mahendra Cipta
Published: April 2023

Clinical chemistry plays an important role in medical practice. Approximately 60% to 70% of medical decisions rely on laboratory test results, justifying the need for physicians to have sufficient knowledge of clinical chemistry. However, recent studies have shown that medical students’ knowledge of clinical chemistry is inadequate, and many are unable to interpret the meaning of laboratory parameter results. This implies that the study of clinical chemistry in the curriculum is currently insufficient. There are several related problems, namely a lack of a formal or structured clinical chemistry curriculum, limited time allocated for these studies, a lack of teaching experts and the failure of stakeholders to acknowledge the importance of clinical chemistry. This review discusses problems in the current clinical chemistry education of medical students and provides solutions. A structured search strategy in PubMed and Google Scholar for publications in English was applied using the search terms “clinical chemistry”, “clinical pathology”, “laboratory” and “laboratory medicine” in combination with one of the following keywords: “education”, “medical student”, “curriculum”, “guideline”, “undergraduate”, “medical school” and “training”. The extracted literature focused on research studies, review articles and meta-analyses. Background information and details about the current status of clinical chemistry/ laboratory medicine education were extracted from review articles, while research articles were used to analyse and evaluate the current conditions in the medical schools regarding clinical chemistry/ laboratory medicine education.
Three Practical Steps to Facilitate Reflection Among Low-Performing Medical Students
Authors:   Medical Education and Research Development Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Foong Chan Choong , Bashir Ghouse Nur Liyana ,   Medical Education and Research Development Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Yusoff Muhamad Saiful Bahri ,   Department of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Khairul Anhar Holder Nurul Atira ,   Medical Education and Research Development Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Lye An Jie ,   Medical Education and Research Development Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Pallath Vinod ,   Medical Education and Research Development Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: April 2023

Reflection enables students to develop a deeper degree of learning and identify appropriate opportunities for improvement. As such, remediation coaches should support lowperforming students to reflect on their learning experiences and, then, make positive changes through a guided, structured, and facilitated reflection. This study was an attempt towards structuring facilitated reflection (i.e. a structured and guided reflection) among low-performing students. Gibbs’ model was adopted as the theoretical framework to develop the reflection approach. Herein, there are three main steps in the reflection process: (a) Engagement: a remediation coach identifies and engages with appropriate students; (b) Active reflection: students complete and submit reflective journals, the remediation coach reads and highlights responses that require clarifications, and then the coach guides the students through their reflection; and (c) Monitoring and follow-up by the remediation coach. In a pilot implementation, students’ journal excerpts and dialogues were the supporting evidence used to analyse if effective reflection had taken place, with the student expressing positive and encouraging experiences of the facilitated reflection. These positive experiences suggest that this kind of structured and guided reflection is useful in encouraging reflective practice among low-performing students.
Transition from College to Professional Workplace: Lived Experiences of Mid-Level Emergency Care Graduates Working in a Provincial Department of Health in South Africa
Authors:   North West Province Emergency Medical Rescue Services College, Orkney, North West, South Africa, Malgas Arthur Mbuyiselo , Adefuye Anthonio Oladele ,   Division Health Sciences Education, Office of the Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa,   Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Dental Medicine Kansas City University, Joplin, USA
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to obtain empirical data on the lived experiences of emergency care technicians (ECT) during their transition into the emergency medical service work environment. This qualitative (phenomenological) study used focus group discussions with 26 ECT graduates to obtain verbal statements describing their lived experiences when transiting from college to pre-hospital workplace environments. The three dominant emerging themes were workplace readiness and reception, professional confidence, and resistance in the workplace. The experiences reported regarding workplace readiness and reception were largely negative. The majority of the participants shared that the EMS station they were deployed to had not been ready to receive and optimally utilise their skills. In addition, participants stated that their integration into the workplace had been unpleasant, as they experienced a great deal of exclusion and resistance from colleagues. Furthermore, participants described how peer support, positive feedback from patients and co-workers, and the new skills and knowledge acquired during training enhanced their professional confidence. These findings suggest that more needs to be done by stakeholders in emergency care education and practice in South Africa to ensure that the transition of graduate paramedics to the workplace environment is a positive and less stressful experience. The recommendations made in this article could be beneficial in achieving this.
Place-bound memory and people-bound memory affecting destination loyalty in the food tourism industry
Authors: Li Xiangru , Yang Hongmei
Published: April 2023

It is significant to promote food tourism behavior. This paper aims to build a comprehensive behavior model of tourists suitable for food tourism to promote such tourism in Chongqing city, China. The paper deals with the place-bound and people-bound memories affecting tourist satisfaction, perceived holiday quality of life, and experience loyalty in the food tourism industry. The data were collected from 413 tourists who have experience traveling to Chongqing city through the online questionnaire. Multi-layer perceptron artificial neural network simulation provides a basis for factor ranking for structural equation modeling. The results show that place-bound and people-bound factors can predict experience memory, experience satisfaction, holiday quality of life, experience loyalty, and destination loyalty. In addition, it reveals the mediating role of experiential memory and contributes to the process of memory formation. Place-bound factors emphasize the vital role of marketing and social media information. They are consistent with the actual food experience of tourists at the destination. People-bound factors explained the different aspects of the food experience. The noteworthy aspects are intelligence, emotion, sense, behavior, and natural flow experience. The research results show that tourists, local governments, and tourism departments should focus on developing memory structures with local characteristics and improving quality and experienced food tourism destinations so that tourists can gain more sensory experiences or other experiences to attract more food tourists.
Hydrological modelling of largest braided river of India using MIKE Hydro River software with rainfall runoff, hydrodynamic and snowmelt modules
Authors: Pareta Kuldeep
Published: April 2023

The Brahmaputra River is one of the world's largest river systems, India's largest braided river, and its springtime runoff and downstream streamflow are mostly due to snowmelt processes. This study analysed and used Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM)/Global Forecast System (GFS) rainfall, PET, and snowmelt data as inputs to a Rainfall–Runoff (RR) model, which is based on the MIKE Hydro River NAM software package. The mathematical model was calibrated against the available observed discharge data for the sub-catchments. The model performed reasonably well and simulated discharge in good agreement with observed discharge in terms of timing, rate, volume, and shape of the hydrograph. During the calibration procedure, the optimum values of the nine RR-NAM parameters are obtained. The performance of each model has been checked against measured discharge using a coefficient of determination (R2). It is observed that the value of R2 varies from 0.6 to 0.86. This is deemed acceptable for the purposes of this study. In addition to R2, the overall Water Balance error is also checked. The WBL error is less than 6%. Despite the inherent uncertainties in hydrological modelling, it is determined that the calibrated RR-NAM model can be utilized for the Brahmaputra basin's Flood Forecasting and Early Warning System design, as well as water resource management and planning.
First Approval of Adagrasib for the Treatment of Non-Small Cell
Lung Cancer Harboring a KRASG12C Mutation
Authors: De Surya K.
Published: April 2023

Adagrasib is an orally bioavailable, highly selective, small-molecule, irreversible
covalent inhibitor of KRASG12C. It was approved by the US FDA on December 12,
2022, for patients with tumors harboring the KRASG12C mutation in locally advanced or
metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Herein, synthesis, dosage and administration,
mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and adverse events
of adagrasib are described.
Pomegranate and Cognitive Performance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Molani-Gol Roghayeh , Foroumandi Elaheh , Alizadeh Mohammad , Kheirouri Sorayya
Published: April 2023

Background:

Cognitive dysfunction, such as dementia, is the most common neurological disorder
that affects memory, perception, learning, and problem-solving. Emerging evidence suggests that nutritional
factors may prevent or accelerate the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases.

Objective:

This systematic review was designed to evaluate the association between pomegranate treatment and
cognitive function.

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases were searched to extract original animal
and human studies published until July 2021 without date restrictions. Firstly, 215 studies were retrieved via the
search strategy. Irrelevant and duplicated studies were screened out, and critical analysis was used to obtain data.
The articles' quality and bias risks were assessed by OHAT and Cochrane Collaboration’s quality assessment
tools.

Results:

Finally, 24 articles (20 animal and 4 randomized controlled trial studies) were included in this review.
All included animal and human studies indicated that pomegranate treatment was positively associated with
improving specific domains of cognitive function.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrated that pomegranate treatment could improve cognitive function. Therefore,
including pomegranate intake during daily life may lower the risk of cognitive impairment at the population
level.
A Comprehensive Review of Structures, Structure-activity Relationships,
Extractions, and Bioactivities of Flavonoids from Citrus medica
Authors: Chen Jie , He Nengxin , Wang Qinyuan , Wu Guang , Wu Wenxia , Xin Qiang , Cheng Guangyu , Sang Zhipei , Zhu Caiqing , Wu Yongzhong , Wei Rongrui , Ma Qinge
Published: April 2023

Background::

Citrus medica is a kind of medicinal and edible plant. It not only contains rich nutrients but also has a variety of therapeutic functions, including relieving pain, harmonizing the stomach, removing dampness, reducing phlegm, cleaning the liver, and relieving qi in traditional Chinese diagnosis.

Methods::

The references of C. medica were mainly collected from the online database, such as PubMed, SciFinder, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Elsevier, Willy, SpringLink, and CNKI. The other related references were sorted by consulting books and documents.

Results::

This review summarized and analyzed the different types of flavonoids of C. medica, including flavone-O-glycosides, flavone-C-glycosides, dihydroflavone-O-glycosides, flavonol aglycones, flavonoid aglycones, dihydroflavonoid aglycones, and bioflavonoids. The extraction methods of flavonoids were summarized in this review. Meanwhile, the multiple bioactivities of these flavonoids, including anti-atherosclerotic, hypolipidemic, anti-oxidant, hypoglycemic, and other activities. Their structure-activity relationships were reviewed and discussed in this paper.

Conclusions::

This review summarized the different extraction methods of diverse flavonoids with multiple bioactivities of C. medica, and their structure-activity relationships were discussed in this paper. This review may provide a valuable reference for researching and exploiting C. medica.
Metabolomics Study of the Hepatoprotective Effects and Mechanism of
Aqueous Extract of Dendrobium nobile Lindl. on Alcoholic Liver Injury in
Rats
Authors: Wang Qiyi , Shan Bingbing , Cheng Weina , He Tianmu , Chen Kuan , Zhang Jianyong , Duan Cancan
Published: April 2023

Background:

Dendrobium nobile Lindl. (DNL) is effective for the treatment of alcoholic
liver disease (ALD), but the underly mechanism is still unclear.

Objectives:

This research aimed to investigate the effects and mechanism of the aqueous extract of
Dendrobium nobile Lindl (AEDNL) in ALD rats based on a metabolomics approach.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 18 Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into
control, model, and AEDNL groups (n=six). Rats in the AEDNL group were given AEDNL (152
mg/kg) intragastric administration from the first day for 30 consecutive days. From day 15 to day
30, model and AEDNL groups were given 30% ethanol (10 ml/kg) after 4 h of daily administration.
Then, serum and liver samples were collected for biochemical analysis, histopathological examination,
and Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
(UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) determination for metabolomic analysis.

Results:

Compared with the model group, the liver/body weight index and serum levels of TC,
LDL-C, and TBIL in the AEDNL group were significantly decreased. Hepatocyte cord arrangement,
hepatocyte balloon, and fat vacuolization were significantly improved in the AEDNL group.
Metabolism profiles were changed in the model and AEDNL groups. Seven and two common differential
metabolites (Guanosine3',5'-cyclic monophosphate, and Glutaric acid) were found in serum
and liver, respectively. In addition, the hepatoprotective effect of AEDNL on ALD was related
to steroid hormone biosynthesis, riboflavin metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.

Conclusion:

The research could provide novel evidence of the protective effects of AEDNL on
ALD.
Post Covid Juvenile Dermatomyositis with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma in a
Child: A Case Report
Authors: Thakur Neha , Malhotra Kiran Preet , Singh Pradyumun
Published: April 2023

Introduction::

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), a rare multisystemic autoimmune dis-ease of unknown cause, leads to chronic inflammation of both striated and smooth muscles. SARS -Co V2 virus infection in children generally remain asymptomatic. However, in some children it leads to a detailed immunological response named as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in chil-dren (MIS-C). Post recovery, occasionally, children are susceptible to other autoimmune disorders.

Case Presentation::

Our case post MIS-C developed JDM. 8-year-old malnourished child developed proximal myopathy of both upper and lower limbs post recovery from COVID 19. His disease se-verity increased within a short span of time and he went on to develop contractures and deformity of both upper and lower limbs. He developed an uncommon complication of JDM in form of high-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Conclusion::

This case highlights the importance of long-term complications of COVID-19 in chil-dren which would gradually evolve in the next few years.
Recent Advancement in the Inhibition of Triple-negative Breast Cancer by N-heterocycles
Authors: Choudhury Badruzzaman , Chanda Kaushik
Published: April 2023

Despite the substantial progress that has been made in cancer therapy over the past few decades, there has
been a discernible rise in the number of reported instances of carcinoma over the past few decades. Breast cancer especially
triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), being the most common cancer found in females account for extensive
research. This type of cancer, which is responsible for more than 15% to 20% of all breast cancers, is particularly interesting
for research since it is difficult to treat due to its poor response to treatment and extremely aggressive nature. In
clinical practice, triple-negative breast cancer is characterized by a relatively high risk of disease recurrence and distant
metastasis, as well as a poor prognosis regarding overall survival. The goal of this review is to provide the recent advancement
of the therapeutic potential of N-heterocycles covering in vitro and in vivo activities for the treatment of
triple-negative breast cancer.
Some Wild Mushrooms with High Antioxidant Capacity Exhibit Potent Anticancer
Activity on Cancer Cells using the Apoptotic and Antimigration Cell Death Mechanisms
Authors: Şebin Murat , Yılmaz Necmettin , Aydın Ali
Published: April 2023

Aim:

This study aims to provide in vitro experimental evidence that wild mushrooms have the potential to
be used as a pharmaceutical that could be effective against various types of cancer.

Background:

Throughout human history, besides food, traditional medicine and natural poisons obtained from mushrooms have been used for the treatment of many diseases. Clearly, edible and medicinal mushroom preparations have
beneficial health effects without the known severe adverse side effects.

Objectives:

This study was designed to reveal the cell growth inhibitory potential of five different edible mushrooms
and the biological activity of Lactarius zonarius was shown here for the first time.

Methods:

The mushrooms fruiting bodies were dried and powdered then extracted with hexane, ethyl acetate, and
methanol. The mushroom extracts were screened for possible antioxidant activities by the free radical scavenging
activity (DPPH) method. Antiproliferative activity and cytotoxicity of the extracts were investigated in vitro on A549
(human lung carcinoma), HeLa (human cervix carcinoma), HT29 (human colon carcinoma), Hep3B (human hepatoma), MCF7 (human breast cancer), FL (human amnion cells), and Beas2B (normal human cells) cells lines by using
MTT cell proliferation assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, DNA degradation, TUNEL, and cell migration
assay.

Results:

Results: Using proliferation, cytotoxicity, DNA degradation, TUNEL, and migration assay, we displayed that hexane,
ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts of the Lactarius zonarius, Laetiporus sulphureus, Pholiota adiposa, Polyporus
squamosus, and Ramaria flava were effective on the cells even so at low doses (< 45.0 - 99.6 μg/mL) by acting in a
way that represses migration, as a negative inducer of apoptosis. It was also demonstrated that mushroom extracts with
high antioxidant effect have within the acceptable cytotoxic activity of 20%-30% on the cell membrane at concentrations
higher than 60 μg/mL.

Conclusion:

Overall, all of the mushroom extracts with high antioxidant effects had strong antiproliferative activity
and low toxicity for cells. These findings, at least, highlight that these mushroom extracts c
Clinical Benefits of Therapeutic Interventions Targeting Mitochondria in
Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Authors: Ciocca Matteo , Pizzamiglio Chiara
Published: April 2023

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. Mitochondrial
dysfunction has been associated with neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease, and several treatments
targeting mitochondria have been tested in these patients to delay disease progression and tackle disease
symptoms. Herein, we review available data from randomised, double-blind clinical studies that
have investigated the role of compounds targeting mitochondria in idiopathic Parkinson’s disease patients,
with a view of providing patients and clinicians with a comprehensive and practical paper that
can inform therapeutic interventions in this group of people. A total of 9 compounds have been tested
in randomized clinical trials, but only exenatide has shown some promising neuroprotective and symptomatic
effects. However, whether this evidence can be translated into daily clinical practice still needs to
be confirmed. In conclusion, targeting mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease is a promising
therapeutic approach, although only one compound has shown a positive effect on Parkinson’s disease
progression and symptoms. New compounds have been investigated in animal models, and their efficacy
needs to be confirmed in humans through robust, randomised, double-blind clinical trials.
Circulating MicroRNAs: Diagnostic Value as Biomarkers in the Detection
of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Rana Minakshi , Saini Manisha , Das Rina , Gupta Sumeet , Joshi Tanishq , Mehta Dinesh Kumar
Published: April 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a metabolic-related disorder, is the most common cause of chronic liver disease which, if left untreated, can progress from simple steatosis to advanced fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma, which is the leading cause of hepatic damage globally. Currently available diagnostic modalities for NAFLD and hepa-tocellular carcinoma are mostly invasive and of limited precision. A liver biopsy is the most wide-ly used diagnostic tool for hepatic disease. But due to its invasive procedure, it is not practicable for mass screening. Thus, noninvasive biomarkers are needed to diagnose NAFLD and HCC, monitor disease progression, and determine treatment response. Various studies indicated that se-rum miRNAs could serve as noninvasive biomarkers for both NAFLD and HCC diagnosis because of their association with different histological features of the disease. Although microRNAs are promising and clinically useful biomarkers for hepatic diseases, larger standardization procedures and studies are still required.
Analysis of contractor capacity level in following E-tender in Gianyar District
Authors: Suasira I Wayan , Santiana I Made Anom , Wibawa I Gede Sastra , Yasa I Made Tapa , Yuliadewi Ni Putu Ary
Published: April 2023

The implementation of government procurement of goods/services in the Gianyar Regency is carried out electronically by E-Tendering. In practice, the participation and bid value of bidders tends to decrease both during conventional auctions and electronic auctions. This study aims to determine the level of contractors' ability to participate in e-tenders, factors that affect participation or contracts not to participate in e-tenders, and what deficiencies exist in the implementation of e-tenders in Gianyar Regency. The sample used in this study were 73 contractor companies in this Regency in the analysis of the contractor's ability level, and 43 companies in the factor and deficiency analysis where this number used the sampling method using simple random sampling technique with purposive sampling and data collection using observation from GAPENSI Gianyar Regency and questionnaires. Data analysis was carried out by descriptive analysis. From the results of the analysis of contractors, the dominant qualification is K1. Therefore, the contractor's ability to participate in e-tenders is the most dominant in projects valued at Rp.0 - Rp. 1 Billion. And for the category e-tender highest in the B2 qualification with the contractor's ability level, they can participate in projects worth Rp.0 - Rp. 50 billion.
PREDIKSI POLA SEBARAN PLUME RISE PADA VARIASI KECEPATAN EMISI GAS BUANG CHIMNEY DENGAN SIMULASI KOMPUTER
Authors: Shobakh Muhammad Nur , Widodo Agung Sugeng
Published: April 2023

One of the most significant current issues that endangers environment is air pollution from industrial chimney emissions. In certain condition, the mathematical models to analyze this problem is the Gaussian Plume Model (GPM), which is a model of air pollutant distribution that takes place under constant conditions and is based on the Gaussian distribution. This model was developed based on the diffusion equation to determine the pollutant concentration from a single point source located at a certain altitude and terrain. The aim of this research was to investigate Simulating the dispersion pattern of pollutant gas plume rise from the chimney to the environment using Ansys Workbench software,  analyze the shape of the plume rise dispersion pattern and investigate factors influence the plume rise in the chimney. The results showed that the plume rise dispersion pattern that occurred in this study is lofting. The higher the velocity of exhaust emissions coming out of the chimney, the higher the plume rise that occurs into the atmosphere. The factors that can affect the plume rise dispersion pattern in the chimney are the wind speed factors, the atmospheric air temperature factors, and the air stability factors.
Checklist and distribution of Galliform Birds (Order: Galliformes) in Iraq
Authors: Muslim Hadi Afkar
Published: April 2023

A total of four genera and four species belong to one family, Phasianidae, Order Galliformes; about 72 specimens deposited in the bird's collection in the Iraq "Natural History Research Center and Museum INHM" were reviewed. In the current study, morphometrics of four species of taxidermy Galliform birds: Chukor Alectoris graeca (Meisner, 1804), Seesee Ammoperdix griseogularis (Brandt, 1843), Quail Coturnix coturnix (Linnaeus, 1758), and Black Partridge Francolinus francolinus (Linnaeus, 1766) were documented. In addition, the distribution ranges throughout Iraq and the Global Conservation Status of each mentioned species were reviewed and comprehensively discussed. The current study concluded that the collection of four species belongs to the Phasinidae Family of Galliformes Order, which deserved in INHM still abundance in the Iraqi environment; that Chukers Alectoris sp. more abundance in mountains and hills areas west and north of Iraq; While, Black partridge Francolinnus francolinus is more abundance in wetlands and Marshes south of Iraq. Global Conservation status listed them as Least Concern (LC).

Keywords: Black partridge, Chukar, Galliform birds, Phasianidae, Quail.
Effect of traditional and automated sorting on some tomato's properties
Authors: Aljuboury Mina M. , Abbas Jebur Hussein
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted in a laboratory experiment at the University of Baghdad, College of Science, computing Department, 5 km from the center of Baghdad city, in 2021 to evaluate the sorting method for the tomato crop. The experiments were conducted in a factorial experiment under a complete randomized design with three replications and using SAS analysis, artificial neural network, image processing, the study of external characteristics, and physical features; fruit surface area and fruit circumference were 1334.46 cm2,57.53 cm2 and free diseases. The error value was less than zero, while training with outputs recorded the highest value and which was 5. The neural network's performance between the input and the mean square of the regression, as recorded as the best value to validate the performance, was 58.11 in the second period. The importance of fruit circumference is attributed to the sorting and grading of fruits, especially in packing boxes and marketing.

Keywords: Automated grading and sorting, traditional grading and sorting, image processing, computer vision, Artificial neural networks
Effect of seed soaking with Brassinolide on the vitality and vigor of Sorghum seed cultivars
Authors: Mohammed Omar M. , Ch. Al Fahad Ahmed
Published: April 2023

A laboratory experiment was conducted at the Seed Technology Laboratory of the Department of Field Crops - College of Agriculture - the University of Anbar with the goal of To study the effect of seed soaking with the growth regulator brassinolide on the viability and vigor of seeds of cultivars sorghum, using a Complete Random Design (CRD). The first factor was soaking the seeds with the growth regulator brassinolide at concentrations of (200, 400, and 600) mg L-1 in addition to the control treatment (soaking with distilled water only) for the laboratory experiment with four repetitions. The second factor was three maize varieties White (Inqath, Rabah, and Lilo). The experiment results revealed that the stimulus treatment with brassinolide growth regulator at a concentration of 600 mg L-1 was significantly superior, with the highest averages for most of the studied traits, including germination speed (73.33 percent), standard laboratory germination rate (94.43 %), root length (16.08 cm), and feather length (15.36 cm). Besides, seedling strength (2968.2) and dry weight (0.0545 mg) in comparison to the control treatment (soaking in distilled water only), which had the lowest averages for the parameters evaluated. In terms of cultivars, the cultivar outperformed the rest of the cultivars in most of the measured attributes, with the highest standards. The cultivar was a Rabah in terms of germination speed (67.72 percent), germination percentage (87.67 %), stalk length (13.21 cm), gesture strength (2371.1), and dry weight (0.0513). Mg). The Inqath cultivar excelled in root length, recording the greatest average of (13.90 cm). The results revealed a significant effect of the interaction between the study parameters in most of the analyzed qualities. Based on the findings of this study. It can be concluded that stimulating the seeds with the growth regulator brassinolide generally resulted in an increase and improvement of all evaluated features, which reflected positively on seed viability and vigor.

Keywords: Sorghum bicolor, growth regulator, seedling viability.
The impact of a fermented diet including Iraqi probiotics on a few productive characteristics in Chinese ducks
Authors: Karim Al-Awadi Khaled Jamal , Fadhil Al-Zamili Ibrahim , Kassim Al-Gharawi Jassim
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted in a private field for duck breeding in Al-Muthanna Governorate from 12/14/2021 to 02/14/2022. A total of 125 one-day-old chicks were reared from Pekingese ducks, with an average weight of 42 g; ducklings were prepared from local markets in Al-Diwaniah Governorate, and chicks were reared at a semi-enclosed hall with dimensions of 25 × 10 m. Chicks were randomly distributed into five treatments; each treatment was three replicates (10 chicks/replicate), placed in 15 Pens, and the area of one pen was 1.5 × 1 m. The experiment treatments were as follows: the control treatment (T1) and other treatments used feed fermentation with Iraqi probiotics Vs. dry feed 25%+75%, 50%+50%, 75%+25% and 100%+0%, for treatments T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. The results indicated a significant improvement in the average live body weight, weight gain, feed consumption and feed conversion factor for ducks fed by fermentation with the Iraqi probiotics compared to the control treatment at 4 and 8 weeks of the bird's age.

Keywords: feed fermentation, Iraqi probiotics on, productive traits, Chinese ducks
Telehealth Challenges for California Rural Hospitals in Reaching Latino Populations During COVID-19
Authors: Mauricio Noemi , Newhart Glen , Herber Steven , Ahumada-Newhart Veronica
Published: April 2023

Background

Rural and remote communities were especially vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic due to the availability and capacity of rural health services. Research has found that key issues surrounded (1) the lack of staff, (2) the need for coordinated health services, and (3) operational and facility issues. Similarly, research also confirms that irrespective of hospital capacity issues existing during crisis, compared to urban communities, rural communities typically face poorer access to health services. Telehealth programs have long held promise for addressing health disparities perpetuated by inadequate health care access. In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, Adventist Health Saint Helena Hospital, a rural hospital in northern California, urgently worked to expand telehealth services. However, as Adventist Health Saint Helena Hospital is the longest-serving rural hospital in the state of California, administrators were also able to draw on experiences from the pandemic of 1918/1919. Understanding their historically rural and heavily Latino populations, their telehealth approach was coupled with cultural approaches for prioritizing socially responsive and equitable access to health services.

Objective

This study aimed to present one rural community’s holistic sociotechnical response to COVID-19 in redesigning their health care delivery approach. Redesign efforts included the expansion of digital health services coupled with county-wide collaborations for nondigital mobile health centers, testing, and vaccination clinics to meet the needs of those with limited digital access and language barriers.

Methods

We present data on telehealth services for maintaining critical care services and a framework on the feasibility of private-public partnerships to address COVID-19 challenges.

Results

In this paper, we provide a critical review of how a rural hospital adapted its health care approach to incorporate telehealth services and distance services to meet the needs of a diverse population.

Conclusions

This paper contributes empirical data on how rural communities can use telehealth technologies and community partnerships for a holistic community approach to meet health needs during a natural disaster.

Conflicts of Interest

None declared.
Clinical Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using Artificial Intelligence (Preprint)
Authors: Tachmazidis Ilias , Chen Tianhua , Batsakis Sotirios , Adamou Marios , Papadakis Emmanuel , Antoniou Grigoris
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that causes significant impairment across various domains. Delayed diagnosis and treatment for ADHD can be harmful to people, leading to broader mental health and social care difficulties. A diagnostic decision tool was developed using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist clinicians with the diagnosis of ADHD in adults. This tool is built by incorporating both expert clinician knowledge using a knowledge-based approach and historical clinical data using machine learning leading to an efficient hybrid approach.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of the AI tool in clinical practice in the diagnosis of adult ADHD.

METHODS

Routine clinical data were collected by a specialist adult ADHD Clinic from people undergoing an assessment. A hybrid diagnostic tool for adult ADHD is proposed that combines a knowledge representation (KR) and machine learning (ML) model. The former encodes expert medical knowledge about ADHD diagnosis into a rule-based expert system; the latter is the optimal model after training, fine-tuning, and testing an ensemble of classification models on the acquired clinical data using 285 patient records. Each model predicts the diagnostic outcome by suggesting a positive or negative ADHD case, whereas in the case of rule-based and hybrid models it is also possible to yield a “expert” result.

RESULTS

Accuracy was expressed using the ratio of true/false positive/negatives (f1 score) and is calculated as 90.18%, 83.67% and 94.39% for the KR, ML and hybrid model, respectively. The proposed model, outperforms our previous work, showing that additional clinical data improved the accuracy and reduced the number of “expert” type diagnostic outputs.

CONCLUSIONS

The tool using AI is safe and effective in identifying people who may have ADHD using routine clinical data hence speeding up the diagnostic process. Further research can focus on the acceptability of using this technology.
Development and Validation of HPLC–Photodiode Array Method for Detecting Steroids in Skin Whitening Products Simultaneously
Authors: Yustina Yustina , Sophian Alfi
Published: April 2023

Since steroids are prohibited to be present in cosmetic products, thus an identification of these outlawed compounds intentionally incorporated in skin whitening product is enough for market surveillance purpose. Simultaneous method for detecting prednisone (PRN), triamcinolone acetonide (TCA), hydrocortisone acetate (HCA), clobetasole propionate (CBP), and mometasone furoate (MTF) has not been developed until now. The goals of this study were to develop and to validate for screening these five steroid compounds in cosmetic product by using reverse phase (RP) high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipped with photo diode array (PDA) detector. Validation method was applied including the system suitability test, determination of specificity and selectivity, and determination of detection limit. . In optimization step, we succeeded distinguish and identify five steroid compounds with different retention time.The retention times of PRN, TCA, HCA, CBP and MTF were detected at 3.267, 4.260, 4.910, 15.360, and 16.707 min, respectively. The method performed good selectivity with resolution more than 1.5. While for determination of limit of detection (LOD) was carried out by calibration curve approach over the range 0.5-5 µg/ml and resulted in LOD value for PRN, TCA, HCA, CBP and MTF  were 7.20, 8.85, 8.17, 9.30, and 8.42 µg/g, respectively.  The developed method can be applied for routine analysis of PRN, TCA, HCA, CBP and MTF  in various type of cosmetic products.
Influence of Polymer Combınatıon Concentratıon on The Characterıstıcs, In Vıtro Release And In Vıvo Lung Deposıtıon of Algınate-Carrageenan Mıcrospheres Encapsulatıng Cıprofloxacın HCl
Authors: Hariyadi Dewi Melani , Erawati Tristiana , Rosita Noorma , Desanto Galang , Firman Akbar , Azizah Nurul , Hendradi Esti , Rahmadi Mahardian
Published: April 2023

Inhalation Ciprofloxacin HCl microspheres were formulated with combination of alginate and kappa carrageenan with a total of 1% (F1), 1.5% (F2), and 2% (F3). Aim of this research is to examine effect of polymer concentration on characteristics, release, and lung deposition of microspheres. Microspheres were characterized including loading, efficiency, yield, size, moisture content, mucoadhesivity, and release. Deposition was studied by fluorescence microscopy. Results showed spherical and smooth with size ofless than 2 µm. Loading showed about 18.55% to 29.65%. Entrapment efficiency was 52.86-76.29%. Yield was 49.83-70.72%. Swelling index was less than 10. For moisture content, all formulas demonstrated less than 6.5%. For mucoadhesivity, F1, F2, and F3 showed 0.0090 kg, 0.0217 kg, and 0.0329 kg respectively. It was found that increasing polymer concentration did not affect size, loading, efficiency, and yield of microspheres. Cumulative release at F1, F2, and F3 was 72.64%, 59.25%, and 47.66% respectively in 10 minutes at PBS pH 7.4 with burst release profile. In vivo showed that all formulas were able to deposit on rat lungs and it was found that the intensity were decreased at the 4th hour due to increase of polymer. Remaining intensity indicated that microspheres were able to maintain the drugs loaded.
Co-crystallization of sofosbuvir with sugars for enhanced dissolution rate
Authors: Mousa Taher Mohamed Yassen , Donia Ahmed Atef , El Maghraby Gamal Mohamed
Published: April 2023

Sofosbuvir is one of the direct acting antiviral agents which is approved in the treatment of chronic HCV in combination with other agents. The low aqueous solubility of sofosbuvir resulted in slow dissolution which is supposed to be responsible for its low and variable bioavailability after oral administration. Accordingly, the objective of this work was to investigate the effect of co-crystallization of sofosbuvir with hydrophilic sugars on its crystalline structure and dissolution rate. Mixtures of sofosbuvir with hydrophilic sugars at various molar ratios were prepared by ethanol assisted kneading followed by drying. The dry products were then characterized by attenuated total reflectance fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and in vitro dissolution studies. Combined instrumental analysis reflected development of new crystalline species of co-crystal type. This was evidenced by the existence of hydrogen bonding as shown from FTIR spectra, change in the thermal behaviour and appearance of new diffraction peaks in the diffractograms recorded by XRD. The co-crystallization was associated by weakening of intermolecular bonds which resulted in significant increase in the dissolution rate of sofosbuvir. The study introduced hydrophilic sugars as co-crystal co-formers for enhanced dissolution of sofosbuvir.