bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selinexor Improves the Anti-Cancer Effect of Tucidinostat on TP53 Wild-type Breast Cancer
Authors: Xu Shengxi , Shi Yingfang , Li Sen
Published: July 2021

Background: Histone deacetylase (HDAC) is closely related to the occurrence and development of breast cancer (BC). Its inhibitor (HDACi) has been used to treat BC, while the efficacy of clinical trials was not reached expectations. HDACi combined with other drugs may be an effective strategy. This study explored the effect of HDACitucidinostat combined with selinexor, anexportin 1 (XPO1) inhibitor, on BC cellsin vitro. Methods: BC cell lines of MCF-7 (wt-TP53), MDA-MB-175 (wt-TP53), MDA-MB-134 (mut-TP53), T47D (mut-TP53) were cultured. The IC50 values of tucidinostat and selinexor on BC cells were calculated. The effects of tucidinostat and selinexor on proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of BC cells were observed accordingly. Western blotting was used to detect the protein expressions of p53, p21, Cyclin D1, Bcl-2 and Bax.Results:Compared with mut-TP53 BC, both tucidinostat and selinexor showed better inhibitory activitiesonwt-TP53 BC including MCF-7 and MDA-MB-175. Tucidinostat combined with selinexor significantly improved the effects of tucidinostat alone on the proliferation and invasion inhibitions and apoptosis promotionsof MCF-7 and MDA-MB-175 cells in vitro. It also significantly enhanced the effects of tucidinostat on up-regulating the expression levels of acetyl-p53, nuclear p53, total p53, p21 and Bax, and down-regulating the expression levels of Cyclin D1 and Bcl-2 in MCF-7 or MDA-MB-175 cells. Conclusion: Taken together, we believe that tucidinostat and selinexor are potentially effective drug combinations for the treatment of wt-TP53 BC, and the molecular mechanism may be throughenhancing the activity of p53 in the nucleus of BC cells to suppress proliferation and invasion and promote apoptosis of BC cells.
Use of cell doublets for studying cytokinesis regulation reveals a new form of cytokinesis regression
Authors:   Nofar Levi-Dadon1, Panet Einat , Shalom Shira Huri Ohev , Kraus Ohad , Shoval Irit , Lahmi Roxane , Shapiro Howard , Tzur Amit
Published: July 2021

Cytokinesis mediates separation of daughter cells at the end of cell division. We have developed a high-throughput approach for monitoring cell-autonomous cytokinesis in non-adherent cells. Focusing on cytokinesis termination, we show that chemical inhibition of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) and PP2A specifically in late cytokinesis activates cytokinesis regression, which is distinct from any known cytokinesis failure, and is not a by-product of abnormal furrow ingression or chromatin bridges. This process is characterized by the formation of cortical blebs primarily at the intercellular bridge, reopening of the cleavage furrow and reassembly of an interphase-like microtubule network, but not by chromatin recondensation and mitotic spindle formation. Finally, cytokinesis regression is suppressed by chemical inhibition of aurora kinases but not Cdk1 or PLK1. Altogether, our results highlight a hitherto uncharacterized facet of the counter-activity of PP1/PP2A and aurora kinases in the final step of cell division, which ultimately secure the conclusion of cytokinesis, thereby preventing polyploidy and genomic instability.
Energy-based Design Method for Passive Energy Dissipative Bracing Systems
Authors: Rabi Raihan Rahmat , Bianco Vincenzo , Monti Giorgio
Published: July 2021

In this study an energy-based method for the design of passive Energy Dissipative Bracing (EDB) systems is presented, as a retrofit technique for existing reinforced concrete (RC) buildings. A comprehensive literature overview concerning the design of hysteretic bracing systems based on various design philosophies, such as force-, displacement- or energy-based, is provided. The efficiency of the proposed method is validated by comparing the proposed methodology with two design procedures selected in the literature, applied to three RC frames. The results showed that the proposed method is more effective in avoiding the damage concentration at a single story and in distributing the additional strength provided by the EDBs proportionally to the hysteretic energy demand along the structure height. The validity of each procedure is compared based on non-linear static and non-linear dynamic analyses.
Modulation of Immunological Responses by Aqueous Extract of Datura Stramonium L. Seeds on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Immunosuppression in Wistar Rats
Authors: Joshua Parker Elijah , Junaidu Yahaya , Ekpo Daniel Emmanuel , Ogidigo Joyce Oloaigbe , Odiba Arome Solomon , Asomadu Rita Onyekachukwu , Oka Samson Ayodeji , Adeniyi Olasupo Stephen
Published: July 2021

Background: Datura stramonium L. (Solanaceae) is used traditionally in West Africa to treat asthma, epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis, filariasis microbial infections and conjunctivitis. This study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of aqueous seed extract of D. stramonium L. (ASEDS) on Wistar rats.Methods: Following phytochemical analysis of ASEDS and acute toxicity study, thirty Wistar rats of both sexes (180-200 g) were randomized into 6 groups (n = 5). Rats in groups 1, 2 and 3 served as normal, negative and standard controls respectively. Immunosuppression was induced using Cyclophosphamide, 10 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) orally for 27 days. Group 2 rats were untreated while Groups 3-6 rats received 5 mg/kg b.w. Levamisole, 60, 90 and 120 mg/kg b.w. ASEDS orally for 28 days respectively. The effects of ASEDS on immune cells, immunoglobulins A, G and M levels, lipoproteins, and antioxidant status of immunosuppressed rats were evaluated.Results: ASEDS indicated LD50 above 5000 mg/kg b.w. with moderate contents of carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, and high contents of alkaloids, flavonoids and phenols. Cyclophosphamide triggered significant (p < 0.05) reduction in total leucocyte count and differentials, IgA, IgG, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, vitamins A, C and E levels of the negative control rats. Treatment with ASEDS led to significant (p < 0.05) increases in immune cell counts, immunoglobulin synthesis, HDL levels, and antioxidant status of the test groups.Conclusions: The findings demonstrate the immunomodulatory benefits of ASEDS and its potential in the development of potent immunomodulatory drugs.
Attitudes of Afghan Civil Servants Towards Learning English: A Case Study of Afghanistan
Authors: Akramy Sayeed Asif , Javed Rohina Rahimzai
Published: July 2021

The present study attempts to investigate the attitudes of Afghan civil servants towards learning English in their work environment. It also studies the effects of English for the quality of their work and the tasks they do in their offices. Moreover, the study aims to determine the respondents’ attitudes towards learning English by their gender, age, level of education, and the experience of using English at their work places. The data were collected from 508 Afghan civil servants who were working in different ministries through a questionnaire containing 20 items. For the data analysis, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 was used. Descriptive statistics, sample T-test, and a one-way ANOVA test were conducted to answer the questions. The findings of the study yielded that Afghan civil servants have positive attitudes towards learning English. The study also revealed that the attitudes of Afghan civil servants towards learning English are positive by their gender, age, level of education, and their experience of using English at their work places. Furthermore, the study reports that there is no any statistically significant difference in the attitudes of Afghan civil servants by their gender, age, level of education, and experience of using English at their work places.
A Wale Optimization Algorithm for Distributed Flow Shop with Batch Delivery
Authors: Li Qinghua , Li Junqing , Zhang Xinjie , Zhang Biao
Published: July 2021

In this study, a distributed flow shop scheduling problem with batch delivery constraints is investigated. The objective is to minimize the makespan and energy consumptions simultaneously. To this end, a hybrid algorithm combining the wale optimization algorithm (WOA) with local search heuristics is developed. In the proposed algorithm, each solution is represented by three vectors, namely a job scheduling sequence vector, batch assignment vector, and a factory assignment vector. Then, an efficient neighborhood structure is applied in the proposed algorithm to enhance search abilities. Furthermore, the simulated annealing algorithm and clustering method are embedded to improve the global search abilities of the algorithm. Finally, 30 instances are generated based on realistic application to test the performance of the algorithm. After detailed comparisons with three efficient algorithms, i.e., ABC-Y, ICA-K, and IWOA NS , the superiority of the proposed algorithm is verified.
Sustainable Control Strategy for Detecting Activated Toxins in Sewage Management and Waste Water
Authors: Xu Jin , Duan Guang , Lu Xiujun , Zhou Yan , Sivaparthipan C.B , Muthu BalaAnand
Published: July 2021

The causes of diverse, high realization percentages are the Hospital Sewage, and no appropriate therapy for contaminant elimination has been examined. These pollutants and their complicated properties are immune to the laboratory's wastewater treatment plant (WWTPs). In other sentences, certain dynamic chemicals cannot be eliminated by traditional therapy. Environmental chemical contaminants can pose significant threats to global water supplies. In recent times, the wastewater created from medical services, healthcare facilities and laboratories has become more involved with the atmosphere researchers. A Sustainable Control Strategy for Detecting Activated Toxins (SCS-DAT) model is proposed in this research. For three things - traditional drainage features, major priority drug products, and microbiota studies - this analysis picked several multi-speciality facilities with non-identical pre-treatments. The research review assesses innovative processes' effectiveness for disposing of these three components from treated wastewater before being released into a hazardous water Sewage treatment plant (STP). Regarding the test findings, these two procedures effectively lowered the standard and medication variable of direct and indirect approaches in two out of three treatment methods, MBR and CW, excluding microbe restoration, by following stages. These two substances were found. The results showed 100% ibuprofen, carbamazepine, and frusemide reduction, while CW suggested that ofloxacin was 100% eliminated. The medicines' degradation demonstrated two accelerated oxidation variations, ozonation (O3) and peroxisome (O3-H2O2). pH, O3 availability, time of touch and H2O2 quantities are the main operating variables in AOP. Centred on medicinal products efficacy, traditional O3 treatment is more effective than integrating O3- H2O2 therapy. Therefore, the study proved that MBR combined with ozone proven an ideal technology for the chemical treatment of treated wastewater among several innovations.
Characteristics of Individuals with Self-Harm: A Retrospective Descriptive Study from Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Tharani Ambreen , Farooq Salima , Ali Maryam , Talib Uroosa , Khan Murad Moosa
Published: July 2021

Background: Self-Harm (SH) is a major global public health problem which is under-researched in Pakistan. A prior act of self-harm is one of the strongest predictors of future suicide.Method: This retrospective descriptive study describes the characteristics of SH cases (n=350) that presented to a tertiary care teaching hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, from January 2013 to December 2017. Details related to demography, history, associated factors, access to methods used, and intent to die were collected on a structured proforma and analysed using STATA version 14. Results: It was found that self-harm acts were twice as more common in females than in males. More than half of the reported cases were in the age group 20-39 years. Drug overdose and use of insecticides were the two most common methods used in both genders. Depression was identified in nearly half of the reported SH cases. Intention to die was found to be 3 times greater among patients with psychiatric illness as compared to those with no history of psychiatric illness. Conclusion: This study suggests that limiting access to lethal means, regulating over-the-counter sale of medications, and safe storage of pesticides can possibly serve as effective measures to minimize self-harm incidences. Moreover, integration of suicide assessment and prevention programmes for the general population is also suggested.
Challenges in implementation of Competency Based Medical Education – A Cross Sectional survey among medical faculty in India
Authors: Catherine A.Precilla , Gopalakrishnan Shivkumar
Published: July 2021

Background. In India, Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) is gaining foothold to transform the medical student into a doctor fulfilling community and societal needs. With that end in view the teaching faculty are getting sensitized and trained by the National Faculty Development Program (FDP). Objectives. To assess the awareness about FDP among teaching faculty in medical colleges. To study the attitude & perceived barriers to implementation of CBME. Methods. This questionnaire based multicentric cross sectional study was conducted among teaching faculties in Indian medical institutes. Electronic media [Google forms] was used to disseminate the questionaire. Attitudinal and perceptional differences were internally compared among the faculties.Results. Among 251 participants 90.2% faculties from private institutes had undergone FDP significantly more than those from Government sector (p=0.008). We observed that 92.4% were aware, 80.2 % had undergone Curriculum Implementation Support Program (CISP) and 95.2% did agree that CBME will improve the medical education system. Major challenges perceived were high student to faculty ratio (67.7%), ill developed infrastructure (41.4%) and difficulties in assessment (41.1%). The popular solutions suggested were to increase faculty strength (73.7%), improve infrastructure (69.3%), extra remuneration (35.9 %) and increase administrative support (30.7%). There were significant difference of opinions between teaching faculty of government and private sector (p=0.017).Conclusion. Most of the medical faculty are aware of the need and have acquired a positive attitude to enforcement of CBME. However significant barriers do exist in the form of manpower and resources which need to be addressed.
Analysis of reliability of the drill pipe in the clamping mechanism
Authors: Afandiyev Emin Musa , Nuriyev Mahammadali Nuraddin
Published: July 2021

In oilfield equipment, a significant place is occupied by clamping mechanisms used to grip pipes during tripping operations. They are mainly divided into 2 groups. The first includes mechanisms with a forced clamping of the part. The second group includes self-clamping devices with a wedge mechanism. Here, the clamping force increases in proportion to the axial shear force. In these clamping devices, clamping jaws serve as a common element. In addition to smooth jaws, there may be jaws with notches on the inner cylindrical surface. Such notches contribute to an increase in the coefficient of adhesion when clamping cylindrical parts, in particular pipes. During the operation of clamping devices with corrugated jaws, the teeth of the notch are introduced into the pipe walls under the action of the clamping force. The shearing force can then displace the pipe relative to the jaws. The adhesion coefficient µ is the ratio of the shear force P to the clamping force Q, i.e. P/Q. Exceeding the shear force P of the limit value causes the pipe to be clamped to move. The correct choice of the place of load application is also of great importance.

Optimum clamping performance can be achieved by clamping workpieces without slipping from shear forces. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure reliability, efficiency, productivity. Therefore, all factors that determine the holding capacity of clamping mechanisms should be considered. These factors include the coefficient of adhesion, the design of the working surfaces of the clamping elements, the type of notch of the corrugated jaws and the place of application of the clamping force
Creating an attractive workplace for current and potential hospital employees
Authors: Maczuga Nadia
Published: July 2021

The health service of EU member states facing numerous challenges. Hospitals have a catastrophic shortage of medical personnel; meanwhile, the demand for medical services caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus is increasing. Hospitals’ pursuit of recruiting staff with a high level of professional education is more likely to be successful with potential candidates in a competitive talent market in institutions where a cultural organization, innovative treatment as a patient-centered approach is included in top priorities. The survey was conducted in the pre-COVID time with the use of the proprietary questionnaire in a traditional way. 204 employees of the Prof. dr Stanisław Popowski Regional Specialized Children’s Hospital in Olsztyn were the respondents. The paper uses the r-Pearson correlation analysis. IBM®SPSS®Statistics, version 25.0.0.1, was used to develop the correlation results. After verification of the research hypotheses, it was shown that there is a statistically significant relationship between inappropriate activities of employer branding and reduced employee retention. It has been demonstrated that there is a discrepancy in the offered and actual working conditions. The discrepancies concerned the atmosphere at work (31.4%) and the inability to develop a career path (8.3%). 19.1% are willing to change jobs due to inadequate remuneration. For the respondents, factors important in choosing a workplace included remuneration, organizational culture, and the availability of the benefits package. One hypothesis was confirmed, another was partially confirmed.The proposals presented in the paper could significantly contribute to shaping a good image of hospital employers and increasing employee satisfaction.
AcknowledgmentThe study was conducted at the Prof. dr Stanisław Popowski Regional Specialized Children’s Hospital in Olsztyn.
Analysis of kinetics of local hydraulic losses on the laterals of radial wells at Belgrade groundwater source
Authors: Mitrinović David , Pušić Milenko , Popović Miodrag , Kovačević Srđan , Dimkić Milan
Published: July 2021

An analysis of the dynamics of the process of biochemical colmation of laterals of radial wells at the Belgrade groundwater source is presented. A very good correlation between the rate of forming of the colmations and the concentration of bivalent iron was obtained, on the basis of which the maximum recommended flows and velocities were defined, which are in good agreement with the values from previous articles and studies. The effects of regenerations on yield and the total volume of extracted water (up to 2 times higher than in the case of no regeneration) were investigated using a mathematical and software model. A correlation was developed linking the ratio of the amounts of water extracted with and without regeneration, to the aquifer hydraulic resistance, the coefficient of local hydraulic losses reduction due to regeneration, and the number of regenerations. The factor equal to the square root of the number of regenerations increased by one was added to the expressions for the maximum recommended values of inlet velocities and flows per lateral. The differences in flows and extracted volumes between operating modes with constant flow between regenerations and a constant, minimal water level were also examined using the model. The ratio between the total extracted volumes when the drawdown is kept equal to maximum and when the flow between the regenerations is kept constant reaches up to 1.25.
Comparison of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Clinical Features in Patients Depending on Involvement or Absence of Kidney Involvement
Authors: Puchala Mateusz , Rydzewski Andrzej , Kowalik Ilona , Wisłowska Małgorzata
Published: July 2021

Background:

GPA is necrotizing inflammation of the small vessels with granulomas.
Kidney involvement deteriorated its prognosis.

Objective:

Comparison of GPA patients with Kidney (KI) and without Kidney Involvement (nKI).

Material and methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 50 consecutive adult GPA patients,
25 KI from Nephrology and 25 nKI from the Rheumatology Department of Central Clinical
Hospital Ministry of Interior in Warsaw. We analyzed clinical features, organ involvement, laboratory,
serological, imaging, histopathological data, BVAS and treatment.

Results:

The mean age of KI patients was statistically older than nKI (67.3±9.5 vs. 55.1±15.9,
p=0.002). Generalized, severe, disease resistance was observed respectively in 92% vs. 44%,
p<0.001. The number of red blood cells (3.47 vs. 4.41T/l, p<0.001), hemoglobin (10.0 vs. 12.9
g/dl, p<0.001) was lower in KI, higher mean serum creatinine (3.95 vs. 0.89 mg/dl, p<0.001), lower
GFR (20.1 vs. 79.3, p<0.001), higher CRP (median: 43.4 vs. 2.0 mg/l, p<0.001), BVAS
(16.6±4.4 vs. 10.1±6.2, p<0.001), c-ANCA (median: 119.0 vs. 15.2CU, p=0.017).
Nodules in 28% KI, in 4% nKI (p=0.048) in chest X-ray, infiltration in 43.5% KI, in 15% nKI
(p=0.042) in HRCT were observed. Skin granulomas were found in 61.5% nKI vs. 18.2% KI,
(p=0.047). Renal biopsy revealed in KI patients focal segmental glomerulonephritis in 11.8%, crescentic
glomerulonephritis in 17.6%, and pauci-immune crescentic glomerulonephritis in 70.6%.

Conclusions:

In patients with KI we found generalized, severe, resistant GPA, higher BVAS more
frequently than inpatients without KI. The results of laboratory parameters were worse in patients
with KI. Aggressive immunosuppressive treatment is often used in the KI group.
Current Treatments and Therapeutic Options for COVID-19 Patients: A
Systematic Review
Authors: Mehraeen Esmaeil , Najafi Zeinab , Hayati Bagher , Javaherian Mohammad , Rahimi Sajad , Dadras Omid , SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , Ghadimi Maryam , Sabatier Jean-Marc
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

COVID-19 is the third rising epidemic in the 21st century that quickly turned
into a worldwide pandemic. Many clinical studies have been achieved to investigate treatments to confront
COVID-19. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to describe the recent treatment strategies
to treat COVID-19 patients.

Methods:

A systematic search was performed in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Science
direct, Up to date, and Web of Science using the keywords of Coronavirus, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2,
Novel Coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, Treatment, Medicine, Therapy, Intervention, Drug, Medications, and
Cure. All the relevant articles were collected from December 2019 to July 2020.

Results:

We included 58 studies including 38 articles (eleven reviews, ten editorial documents, three
case reports, one mix method, one cohort study), and 19 published clinical trials. Review of
studies showed that Lopinavir/Ritonavir (n=16), Remdesivir (n=13), Convalescent plasma
(n=11), Chloroquine (n=11), Ribavirin (n=9), Hydroxychloroquine sulfate (n=8), Traditional Chinese
Medicine (TCM) (n=8), and Arbidol (n=7), were the most frequently therapies used to treat COVID-19
patients.

Conclusion:

In the absence of definitive treatment protocols, recently proposed approaches have appeared
to be an effective therapy for accelerating the recovery of COVID-19 patients. Some of these
treatments may have been in the early stages of testing. However, future preclinical and clinical trials
are warranted to validate findings.
Concrete damage due to oxidation of pyrrhotite-bearing aggregate: a review
Authors: Duchesne Josée , Rodrigues Andrea , Fournier Benoit
Published: July 2021

Oxidation of pyrrhotite-bearing aggregates is one of the major causes of concrete damage in numerous buildings in Trois-Rivières in Canada and Connecticut in the USA. In the presence of moisture and oxygen, pyrrhotite oxidizes to generate iron-and sulfate-rich secondary minerals that cause internal sulfate attack. Iron sulfides are accessory minerals of different rock types. The distribution of sulfides is often very heterogeneous in terms of aggregate particles, even at the level of the quarries in which some areas may contain copious amounts than others, which complicates the sampling method. Pyrrhotite is a complex mineral with varying chemical composition, crystallographic structure, and specific surface area. These factors influence the reactivity of pyrrhotite. Therefore, it is challenging to control the quality of the aggregate sources.

In this study, recent advances in the identification and quantification of pyrrhotite to diagnose complicated cases are presented, and a performance-based approach for the quality control of new sources of aggregates is introduced. The performance-based approach is preferred because it eliminates the influence of the oxidation of pyrrhotite.
Das regelmäßige schwache Verb im Mooringer Friesisch: Zwei Konjugationsklassen oder phonologisch bedingte Allomorphie?
Authors: Hansen N. , Hoekstra J. , Kakuchi N. , Lilienthal K. , Reifferscheidt B.
Published: July 2021

In this article we investigate the historical development of the regular weak verb in Mooring, the most vital Mainland North Frisian dialect. We show that until the first half of the 20th century Mooring still distinguished between the two weak conjugation classes inherited from Old Frisian and typical for most Frisian dialects: Class I without and class II with a theme vowel -e- in the endings of the 2nd and 3rd Person Singular Present, the Past and the Past Participle. From the end of the 19th century onward, a process of deletion of schwa after sonorants gradually caused the fusion of class II weak verbs with a stem-final vowel or sonorant with class I weak verbs. After World War II this process came to its (near) completion and the former morphological division of the weak verbs in two conjugation classes was given up in favour of a phonological distribution of the endings on the basis of the stem-final segment: Endings with e appear after obstruents, endings without e after vowels and sonorants. Although modern grammars in principle recognized this new phonological conditioning of the weak conjugation, they failed to see that there remained a number of exceptions,viz. former class I weak verbs with a stem-final obstruent still taking an eless ending. That one is dealing with exceptions here is clearly shown, however, by the fact that these verbs gradually adapt to the phonological conditioning and assume endings with e in modern Mooring.
ANALYZING THE CRITERIA OF PLANTING DESIGN FOR VISUAL LANDSCAPE QUALITY IN CAMPUS
Authors: Mt Akhir Norizan , Md Sakip Siti Rasidah , Abbas Mohamed Yusoff , Othman Noriah
Published: July 2021

Planting design is the art of composing plants to create a campus landscape design. The composition may influence the students’ preferences owned by the criteria of planting. This study aims to identify the planting design criteria towards enhancing visual landscape quality in campus environment. The photograph-based method used to collect the landscape planting images and compose it into a questionnaire. This photo-questionnaire design is mostly practiced by academicians in this research field. The question uses five Likertscale format to analyse the preference rating. The descriptive and correlation analysis are used to quantify the mean results and the relationship between the criteria. The finding represents the most influencing factor in landscape planting preference is arrangement with a score 4.34 while texture is less considered with 3.71 rating score. Most of the attributes were significant except for attributes planting with variety of forms, texture intensity and different species arrangement. As a result, this research finding is able to guide designers to sensibly setting the planting design, particularly in the campus environment.
STRATEGIES, CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS TOWARDS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF GREEN CAMPUS IN UiTM PERAK
Authors: Mohd Isa Haryati , Sedhu Daljeet Singh , Lop Nor Suzila , Rashid Kushairi , Mohd Nor Othman , Iffahd Mohd
Published: July 2021

Green initiatives have become a phenomenon globally now. This has taken seriously all parties regarding the process of environmental sustainability. Sustainable Development Goals had been used as a guideline towards this agenda. The Malaysian government issued the Green Technology Policy in July 2009 to accelerate the national economy and promote sustainable development. Meanwhile, green technology has been applied to universities in Malaysia to achieve green campus status under the UI Green Metric. Numerous universities in Malaysia have begun to take this issue seriously, including UiTM Perak. Three research objectives had been developed; (1) to determine strategies in promoting green campus in UiTM Perak, (2) to identify challenges in implementing green campus in UiTM Perak and (3) to recommend solutions to overcome the challenges in implementing green campus in UiTM Perak. A qualitative method approach by using a semi-structured interview with the Green Campus Committee had been adopted. The data is analysed using content analysis. The research revealed that despite several green initiatives implemented by UiTM Perak, there are also challenges occurring. Among them are financial, awareness and knowledge. To overcome these challenges, the management of UiTM Perak had outlined several actions to be taken. In conclusion, the green campus initiative can give many benefits towards a sustainable environment in UiTM Perak. Indeed, this agenda needs support by all parties.
THE SHIFT IN TEACHING PEDAGOGY FOR INDEPENDENT LANDSCAPE DESIGN DURING THE PANDEMIC: AN ANALYSIS OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE IN ODL
Authors: Ahmad Suriati , Mohd Hussain Nur Huzeima , Md Sakip Siti Rasidah , Mansor Azran , Bahaluddin Azrul , Ilias Nur Hanim
Published: July 2021

The teaching and learning environment have subsequently expanded. For the Independent Landscape Design course offered at UiTM Perak Branch, the online distance learning (ODL) has demonstrated the changes of delivery approach in teaching landscape design process. This design-based syllabus is more acquainted with face to face or physical teaching learning environment. Aligned with the Educational 5.0 @ Universiti Teknologi MARA that embraces values and future progressive thinking, this course has adopted MOOCLAA350 to engage and equip these design students with significant understanding, graphic presentation skills as well as technical aspects related to design developments and constructions. This paper analyses student performance throughout the ODL implementation, adopting MOOC and other relevant online platforms during this Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. An online survey supported with a comparative analysis between semesters was conducted to evaluate the students’ readiness, challenges and performance throughout the semester. Some tools and techniques to ensure the continuity of learning during the current pandemic are described. The findings revealed factors contributing to student performance and the reality behind the success of this new teaching strategy which is practical for landscape architecture programs and may also be relevant to other design-based programs or courses.
Web-Based Return of Individual Patient-Reported Outcome Results Among Patients With Lymphoma: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Oerlemans Simone , Arts Lindy Paulina Johanna , Kieffer Jacobien M , Prins Judith , Hoogendoorn Mels , van der Poel Marjolein , Koster Ad , Lensen Chantal , Stevens Wendy Bernadina Catharina , Issa Djamila , Pruijt Johannes F M , Oosterveld Margriet , van der Griend René , Nijziel Marten , Tick Lidwine , Posthuma Eduardus F M , van de Poll-Franse Lonneke V
Published: July 2021

Background

There has been a cultural shift toward patient engagement in health, with a growing demand from patients to access their results.

Objective

The Lymphoma Intervention (LIVE) trial is conducted to examine the impact of return of individual patient-reported outcome (PRO) results and a web-based self-management intervention on psychological distress, self-management, satisfaction with information, and health care use in a population-based setting.

Methods

Return of PRO results included comparison with age- and sex-matched peers and was built into the Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Initial Treatment and Long-Term Evaluation of Survivorship registry. The self-management intervention is an adaptation of a fully automated evidence-based intervention for breast cancer survivors. Patients with lymphoma who completed the web-based questionnaire were equally randomized to care as usual, return of PRO results, and return of PRO results plus self-management intervention. Patients completed questionnaires 9 to 18 months after diagnosis (T0; n=227), 4 months (T1; n=190), 12 months (T2; n=170), and 24 months (T3; n=98).

Results

Of all invited patients, 51.1% (456/892) responded and web-based participants (n=227) were randomly assigned to care as usual (n=76), return of PRO results (n=74), or return of PRO results and access to Living with lymphoma (n=77). Return of PRO results was viewed by 76.7% (115/150) of those with access. No statistically significant differences were observed for psychological distress, self-management, satisfaction with information provision, and health care use between patients who received PRO results and those who did not (P>.05). Use of the self-management intervention was low (2/76, 3%), and an effect could therefore not be determined.

Conclusions

Return of individual PRO results seems to meet patients’ wishes but had no beneficial effects on patient outcome. No negative effects were found when individual PRO results were disclosed, and the return of individual PRO results can therefore be safely implemented in daily clinical practice.

Trial Registration

Netherlands Trial Register NTR5953; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/5790

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-10.1186/s13063-017-1943-2
It Is Not Just the FEV1 That Matters, but the Personal Goals We Reach Along the Way: Qualitative, Multicenter, Prospective, Observational Study
Authors: Oppelaar Martinus C , van den Wijngaart Lara S , Merkus Peter J F M , Croonen Ellen A , Hugen Cindy A C , Brouwer Marianne L , Boehmer Annemie L M , Roukema Jolt
Published: July 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted the use of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) telemonitoring in pediatric asthma, but a consensus on its most efficient and effective implementation is still lacking. To find answers, it is important to study how such an intervention is perceived, experienced, and used by both patients and health care professionals (HCPs).

Objective

The aim of this study was to provide perspectives on how FEV1 home monitoring should be used in pediatric asthma.

Methods

This is a qualitative, multicenter, prospective, observational study which included patients with asthma aged 6-16 and HCPs. Primary outcomes were results of 2 surveys that were sent to all participants at study start and after 3-4 months. Secondary outcomes consisted of FEV1 device usage during 4 months after receiving the FEV1 device.

Results

A total of 39 participants (26 patients and 13 HCPs) were included in this study. Survey response rates were 97% (38/39) at the start and 87% (34/39) at the end of the study. Both patients and HCPs were receptive toward online FEV1 home monitoring and found it contributive to asthma control, self-management, and disease perception. The main concerns were about reliability of the FEV1 device and validity of home-performed lung function maneuvers. FEV1 devices were used with a median frequency of 7.5 (IQR 3.3-25.5) during the 4-month study period.

Conclusions

Patients and HCPs are receptive toward online FEV1 home monitoring. Frequency of measurements varied largely among individuals, yet perceived benefits remained similar. This emphasizes that online FEV1 home monitoring strategies should be used as a means to reach individual goals, rather than being a goal on their own.
Adverse Drug Reactions in the Treatment of COVID-19: A Data Mining Study on FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) (Preprint)
Authors: Guo Qiang , Duan Shaojun , Liu Yaxi , Yuan Yinxia
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

In the emergency situation of COVID-19, off-label therapies in the treatment of this disease may bring the patients more adverse drug reaction (ADR) risks. Data mining based on spontaneous reporting systems (SRS) is a promising and efficient way to detect potential ADRs so as to help health professionals and patients get rid of some possible ADRs.

OBJECTIVE

This pharmacovigilance study aimed to investigate the ADRs of drugs used in COVID-19 treatment based on the data of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adverse event reporting system (FAERS) with the help of Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA).

METHODS

A combination of proportional reporting ratio (PRR) and Chi-square (2) test was applied to detect significant “drug → ADR” signals both on “Preferred Terms” (PTs) and “System Organ Classes” (SOCs) level from the data between 2020Q2 and 2021Q1 of the FAERS by Python programming language.

RESULTS

Among the total 1023232 reports, 9504 COVID-19 cases were retrieved with 20 frequent drugs and 218 frequent ADRs among these cases. The data mining algorithm finally produced 1298 significant “drug → ADR” signals. Heatmaps were drawn to show these signals more conveniently.

CONCLUSIONS

Data mining is a promising and efficient way to assist pharmacovigilance work and the result of this paper could help timely recognize ADRs in the treatment of COVID-19.
Ebola Virus Disease in sub-Saharan Africa: Addressing Gaps to Handle Future Outbreaks
Authors: Armstrong-Mensah Elizabeth , Tenney Bianca , Hawley Victoria
Published: July 2021

Between 2014 and 2016, the three West African countries of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone experienced the deadliest Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in sub-Saharan Africa. Two years later, a tenth epidemic recurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), specifically in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces, which lasted until June 2020. Though they occurred in different countries, a review of how the EVD outbreaks in Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the DRC were handled by the respective country governments, reveal gaps in disease detection, response and action due to lack of surveillance, an EVD preparedness plan, and weak health systems. This perspective discusses the EVD outbreaks in Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the DRC, their effects, and draws attention to gaps that need to be addressed by these countries in order to be better prepared to handle future outbreaks. Acting on the proposed recommendations will not only benefit Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the DRC in the future, but will be of benefit to EVD susceptible countries in sub-Saharan Africa, as we live in a global community where diseases are no respecters of boundaries.
Quiste de colédoco Todani Iva. Reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Lara-Ruiz Rodolfo Iván , de la Concha Tiznado Mauricio , Mendoza-Valencia Oscar , Pérez-González Adrián Fernando , Arias-Gómez Edmundo
Published: July 2021

Biliary tree dilations are unusual congenital malformations that may involve the entire bile circulation and, they are common during the first life decade. Most cases initiate with jaundice and chronic abdominal pain which localizes in right upper quadrant. High clinical suspicion accompanied by imaging studies are essential for diagnosisHigh suggestive clinic associated with imaging studies are essential for diagnosis. Treatment has evolved until today complete cyst resection has become the treatment of choice, since it presents a good response, although without being free from long-term complicationsTreatment has been evolving being at the present time cyst complete resection the gold standard in treatment although without being exempt from long-term complications. We present the case of a 27-year-old male patient with a history of 3 months onset epigastric abdominal pain diagnosed as Todani IVa common bile duct choledochal cyst by magnetic resonance imaging. It is performed Open surgical management was performed with total resection of the cyst and biliodigestive Roux-en-Y diversiona total cyst resection with Roux-en-Y biliodigestive bypass by open surgical approach without any complications. He was discharged 7 days post-op. A review of the literatura focused on the surgical approach and management of similar cases was carried out. We carry out bibliography review focused on surgical approach and management of similar cases. Keywords: Bile duct dilation; choledochal cyst; Todani IVa; jaundice.
Effect of Circular, Square and Rectangular Column in Building
Authors: Dalal Samir
Published: July 2021

While designing any structural building, the only distress of the designer is the stability of the building and its performance under internal and external forces & Loads. These forces & loads mostly comprise of dead load of the structure, superimposed load, snow load, or some other loads due earthquake, wind etc. Increase in height more force will be generated in taller building. So, for repelling developed forces, high strength members of the structure are required. Column, being the vertical member, is the most important member in a structure as it transfers the whole loads & forces from all the other structural members to the foundations. Its shape, cross-section and the area of reinforcement will change with the total load acting on the structure. Shape & Size of column can change for any structure according to its purpose. In the present study various models were analyzed considering individual and combinations of various geometric and from results various conclusions were draft.
Quadratic Boost Converter
Authors: Reddy Mamidala Hemanth
Published: July 2021

The output voltage from the sustainable energy like photovoltaic (PV) arrays and fuel cells will be at less amount of level. This must be boost considerably for practical utilization or grid connection. A conventional boost converter will provides low voltage gain while Quadratic boost converter (QBC) provides high voltage gain. QBC is able to regulate the output voltage and the choice of second inductor can give its current as positive and whereas for boost increases in the voltage will not able to regulate the output voltage. It has low semiconductor device voltage stress and switch usage factor is high. Analysis and design modeling of Quadratic boost converter is proposed in this paper. A power with 50 W is developed with 18 V input voltage and yield 70 V output voltage and the outcomes are approved through recreation utilizing MATLAB/SIMULINK MODEL.
Cold Chain Supply in Dairy Industry in India
Authors: Shukla Ishita
Published: July 2021

The study provides an overall idea about the development of cold chain in the dairy industry as well as the necessity of having cold chain management in the dairy sector. Cold Chain involvement has been a huge contribution to the dairy sector as it has helped the sector to flourish more as well as to unfold to its maximum potential. Cold chain statistics provides the information to know about the present status of cold chain in the nation. Cold chain in the country is still under development and hasn’t been used to its utmost advantages and uses which will be explored in the forthcoming years. The reason or challenges encountered by the cold chain while its practice are the major drawback for the lack of cold chain application in the country which also have been tapped upon in the study. The present scenario of the dairy sector with the application of cold chain helped to minimise the losses of the dairy sector by a huge margin. The application of cold chain in dairy sector is practised in the storage and transportation of milk and its value based products hence government also provides schemes and initiatives for the usage of cold chain supply s it ensures zero wastage, affordable product, accessible product, healthy and nutritious products. The cold chain supply has essential steps of storage and transportation which have been explained in the study through the considerations of the appropriate design of cold storage based upon the product to be stored. There are various types of cold storage which must be taken into consideration while designing of cold storage. The cold chain supply of milk and its value added products varies from product to product and it must be ensured for preservation of quality and its shelf life throughout the cold chain supply by inhibiting the product from microbial attack hence the maintenance of the ambient temperature is absolutely necessary throughout the cold chain which is done by various practices in the dairy sector as mentioned in the study. The study in brief provides with the overview of the cold chain supply in dairy industry along with its challenges, applications, present scenario, statistics and assessment of the dairy sector for milk and its value added products from farm to consumers ensuring that there is no breakage of the cold chain until the product reaches the consumers.
A Study of Educational Problem and Need of Guidance in Graduate Students
Authors: Usadadia Kinjal P.
Published: July 2021

Aims of this paper to find out the Education Problems and Need of Guidance in graduate students. Here 2 x 3 factorial designs were used. In this study total 120 (60 boys and 60 girls) were randomly selected from Surat city (Gujarat, India). Out of 60 (20 first birth order, 20 second birth order and 20 third birth order) graduate students selected. Education Problems scale created by Prof. Beena Shah and Dr. S. K. Lakhera and Need of Guidance scale created by Dr. J. S. Grewal was used to collect the required data, F- test and correlation method was used for analysis of data. The Result of the study evaluated that there is no significance difference in gender variable on Education Problems and Need of Guidance in graduate students. Also there is no significance difference in birth order variable on Education Problems and Need of Guidance in graduate students. Education problems and need of guidance found 0.09 positive correlation.
Vlogsters - A Tourism Vlogging App
Authors: Renushe Prof. Archana H.
Published: July 2021

In this world of internet and with the launches of latest gadgets like smartphones the world and the lifestyle of people is drastically changing. The technology is evolving rapidly and almost more than half of population is connected to the internet every second. Since, everyone is getting connected to the internet anyone can access any information they want quickly by searching on internet. One such information is about tourism and tourist places. As we know there are a lot of different places in this world which are yet to be explored. With the help of social media even if we watch a video of a place sometimes it is difficult to get all the details about that place if we want to visit it. Vlogsters is going to solve this issue by giving all the details of the place which is uploaded on the app in a single click. This helps the users engage in the app looking at different places in the world and even get all details of the place if user wants to visit that place in a single click