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A semi-analytical method is presented for the assessment of induced electromagnetic field inside a multilayer head model exposed to radiated field of an arbitrary source antenna. First the source antenna is simulated by a full-wave software in the absence of the head model to evaluate its radiating characteristics. Then, by sampling of the source radiated fields, its spherical vector wave function (SVWF) amplitudes are evaluated. The well-known translation addition theorem for spherical vector wave functions (SVWFs) is implemented to translate radiating field SVWFs to the local coordinates system of head model. Neglecting the reaction of model on source fields, using boundary conditions on the interfaces of adjacent layers, the unknown SVWF amplitudes of the fields inside each layer as well as those of the scattered field outside the head model are evaluated. Some numerical examples are presented for the verification of the proposed method. The acceptable consistency between the results obtained by the proposed method and full-wave simulations of the problem verifies the authenticity of the proposed method. In comparison to a full-wave numerical method, the proposed method provides an efficient repeatable simulation approach due to the independency of the source and head model analyses.

Short-channel Gallium Nitride (GaN) high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) often utilize T-shape gates due to their large gate-line cross-sectional area and subsequent fMAX increase. In this paper, we report the linearity trade-offs associated with varying the T-gate geometries of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs on Si, specifically the gate extensions which serve as field plates and their impact on the large-signal performance. Small-signal characterization and modeling, in addition to TCAD, provide initial guidelines for the optimal dimensions for the gate field plates using the ratio of fT and the product of the gate resistance and the gate-to-drain capacitance. We utilize various characterization methods, including 6 GHz non-linear vector network analyzer characterization in addition to load-pull, to quantify the amplitude and phase distortion and their subsequent impact on the large-signal metrics of the devices under differing matching conditions and bias points. We deduce that the influence of the gate field plates on the amplitude and phase distortion is non-negligible, particularly under matched conditions.

Technology can be employed as a means of boosting FEL student interaction. Due to the universal use of computers and the internet in academic institutions, EFL teachers are motivated to implement this technology in their classes to facilitate language teaching and the learning English language process. This study purports to identify EFL students' perceptions of the utilization of technology tools in learning English at King Khalid University. This research adopts the descriptive analysis technique. Moreover, the theoretical framework of the study was an opinion poll prepared by the two researchers to get information and was applied to fifty-six selected EFL students to get their perceptions of the utilization of technology tools in learning English at King Khalid University. The results demonstrate that most King Khalid University EFL male and female students had positive responses to employing technology tools in learning English. The study findings have pedagogical implications and some recommendations for strategies and instructions for further investigations and facilitating the utilization of technology in teaching and learning at primary and secondary levels.

Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is an X-linked gene encoding an oocyte secreted factor, which plays varied functions in the female fertility between mono-ovulatory and poly-ovulatory mammalian species. We previously found that knockout of BMP15 completely blocked porcine follicular development at preantral stages. However, the specific function of BMP15 on porcine oocytes in vitro maturation remains largely unknown. Here, we injected the pre-assembled crRNA + tracrRNA + Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (ctRNP) complex into the cytoplasm of germinal vesicle stage porcine oocytes to disrupt BMP15. The ctRNP composed of Cas9 nuclease and crRNA-tracrRNA complex at 1.2/1 content ratio. The tested crRNA-tracrRNA complex concentration ranging from 50 to 200 ng/μL, all presented effective editing of BMP15 in porcine oocytes, and the 125 ng/μL crRNA-tracrRNA complex presented the highest editing efficiency (39.23 ± 3.33%). Surprisingly, we found approximately 95% edited oocytes presented monoallelic mutations, and only 5% edited oocytes harbored biallelic mutations. Interestingly, the coinjected two crRNAs guided the ctRNP complex to concurrently cut within a 10 bp window of the PAM (protospacer adjacent motif), resulting in a precise deletion within BMP15 in 85.9% edited oocytes, and additional deletion happened in 14.1% edited oocytes, which resulted in large fragment deletions in BMP15. Most deletions caused frameshift and introduced premature stop codon in BMP15, resulting in the disruption of BMP15 protein expression, which was confirmed by the Western blot analysis showing the reduced BMP15 protein expression in ctRNP injected oocytes. The disruption of BMP15 attenuated the activation of SMAD1/5/8 signaling, and impaired cumulus expansion of porcine cumulus cell-oocyte complexes (COCs). Our study proved that delivering CRISPR ctRNP into porcine oocytes by microinjection was able to edit BMP15 efficiently, providing a new strategy to investigate the functions of oocyte-specific secreted factors in oocyte in vitro maturation.

The Endowment Development Strategy paradigm is one of the keys to success in carrying out development in our country. In the principles of the Endowment Development Strategy, one way to market the regional economic power is by opening up investment opportunities. However, the reality that has occurred regarding the development of investment in various regions (especially in Garut Regency) is still very far from expectations, where investment interest with investment realization is still far from the targeted figure. As for the purpose of this research is to find objective facts in the hope that the results of the research can be accepted as the truth. The research method used is a qualitative approach method with the object of institutional research, as well as the unit of analysis in this research is the DPMPT and other related Technical Services. The data analysis technique uses the triangulation method by synchronizing the data obtained among one informant and other informants. The results of the study show that existing SOPs at other Technical Services have not been integrated into the DPMPT so that they are still implemented partially. Based on field results there are still problems related to delays in issuing permits, this shows that the principle of excellent service, service that is fast, precise, certain, efficient and effective in accordance with the principles of good governance have not been maximized. The characteristics of implementing organizations in Garut Regency are still relatively weak, this is indicated by the unpreparedness of the human resources of the policy implementer, this is proved by the lack of understanding of the main tasks and functions (TUPOKSI) as well as Standards and the objectives of the policy itself. Based on this research, it is suggested that the implementing apparatus in the field should be involved in technical meetings in the context of integrated licensing services in order to understand the real purpose of the integrated licensing services policy. Building good and effective communication so that policy implementers have the courage to ask superiors about things they do not understand, especially about the objectives of the policies being implemented, the leaders must display a more responsive attitude, not arrogant and not authoritarian.

Kegiatan Pengabdian Pada Masyarakat (PPM) ini berangkat dari analisis situasi yang mengidentifikasi mayoritas guru masih memiliki pemahaman yang rendah mengenai bagaimana merancang pembelajaran yang berorientasi Higher Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) . Berdasarkan analisis situasi tersebut, kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keterampilan guru dalam mendesain Pembelajaran berorientasi Higher Order Thinking Skill (HOTS). Metode dan bentuk kegiatan pengabdian berupa pendampingan dengan 3 langkah kegiatan yaitu pertama ; pelatihan terbimbing peningkatan pengetahuan dan pemahaman guru tentang desain pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS (konsep, prinsip, karakteristik pembelajaran) , kedua ; simulasi pembuatan desain pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS, ketiga observasi dan evaluasi produk desain pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS. Setelah dilaksanakan kegiatan pendampingan pembuatan rancangan pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS dan hasil observasi terhadap produk kegiatan disimpulkan terjadi peningkatan pengetahuan dan pemahaman guru tentang desain pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS yang ditandai hal sebagai berikut: pertama, guru-guru MGMP IPS peserta pelatihan sudah mememilki pengetahuan yang baik tentang rancangan pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS. Perbandingan hasil pre test an post test menunjukkan peningkatan yang signifikan, kedua guru-guru MGMP IPS peserta pelatihan sudah mampu membuat desain pembelajaran berorientasi HOTS yang diawali dengan analisis KD, menentukan target pengetahuan dan keterampilan, merumuskan indikator dan tujuan pembelajaran yang berorientasi HOTS, dan menuliskan langkah- langkah pembelajaran yang didalamnya tergambar aktivitas yang memfasilitasi peserta didik untuk mengembangkan keterampilan berfikir tingkat tinggi (HOTS) ketiga guru-guru MGMP IPS peserta pelatihan sudah mampu membuat soal berorientasi HOTS.

The significance and advantages of utilizing innovative educational technology gadgets in the classroom have become a source of research interest in current years. This study pursues to explore King Khalid University's staff members' perspectives on the significance and benefits of incorporating innovative educational technology in teaching the English language to Saudi learners at the tertiary level. This research arrogates the descriptive-analytical approach. Moreover, the theoretical framework of the study was a questionnaire prepared by the two researchers to get information and was applied to fifty-two selected King Khalid University staff members in the Asir region to get their perspectives on the significance and benefits of incorporating innovative educational technology in teaching the English language to Saudi learners at the tertiary level, their groundwork to integrate technology, the types of technology employed and the challenges they encountered in incorporating technology. The results indicate that most of King Khalid University's staff members had positive perspectives on the significance and benefits of incorporating innovative educational technology in teaching the English language. The study results have pedagogical implications and some recommendations for strategies and instructions for further investigations and facilitating the utilization of technology in teaching and learning.

The emergence of social media platforms, which contributed in activating the patterns of connection between individuals, leads to the availability of a huge amount of content such as text, images, and videos. Twitter is one of the most popular platforms of social media that encourage researchers to investigate people’s feelings and opinions among through sentiment analysis studies that elicited the interest of researchers in natural language processing field. Many techniques related to machine learning and deep learning models could be used to improve the efficiency and performance of sentiment analysis, especially in complex classification problems. In this paper, different models of long short-term memory recurrent neural network are used for the sentiment classification task. The input text was represented as vectors using Arabic pre-trained word embedding (Aravec). Experiments were conducted using different dimensions of Aravec on 15779 tweets about COVID-19 collected and labeled as positive and negative. The experimental results show an accuracy value of 98%.

The past four decades have seen an increase in the incidence of early-onset gastrointestinal cancer. Because early-stage cancer detection is vital to reduce mortality rate, mass screening colonoscopy provides the most effective prevention strategy. However, conventional endoscopy is a painful and technically challenging procedure that requires sedation and experienced endoscopists to be performed. To overcome the current limitations, technological innovation is needed in colonoscopy. In recent years, researchers worldwide have worked to enhance the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities of endoscopes. The new frontier of endoscopic interventions is represented by robotic flexible endoscopy. Among all options, self-propelling soft endoscopes are particularly promising thanks to their dexterity and adaptability to the curvilinear gastrointestinal anatomy. For these devices to replace the standard endoscopes, integration with embedded sensors and advanced surgical navigation technologies must be investigated. In this review, the progress in robotic endoscopy was divided into the fundamental areas of design, sensing, and imaging. The article offers an overview of the most promising advancements on these three topics since 2018. Continuum endoscopes, capsule endoscopes, and add-on endoscopic devices were included, with a focus on fluid-driven, tendon-driven, and magnetic actuation. Sensing methods employed for the shape and force estimation of flexible endoscopes were classified into model- and sensor-based approaches. Finally, some key contributions in molecular imaging technologies, artificial neural networks, and software algorithms are described. Open challenges are discussed to outline a path toward clinical practice for the next generation of endoscopic devices.

El Sistema Global de Comunicaciones Móviles (GSM) ha tenido una gran aceptación alrededor del mundo. Para implementar estos sistemas era necesario utilizar equipos de costo elevado, sin embargo, gracias al desarrollo de sistemas de radios definidos por software, es posible desarrollar este tipo de redes con un costo reducido. El acceso a servicios de telecomunicaciones en comunidades rurales de Cuba es hoy en día un gran reto, propiciado principalmente, por la ubicación geográfica y el reducido número de habitantes que hacen que el despliegue de infraestructura no sea económicamente factible. Las contribuciones principales del presente trabajo son un sistema celular alternativo y software de administración de red GSM. Quedó demostrado que es posible la construcción de una red telefónica móvil usando componentes de software libre y hardware de bajo costo, que pueden ser empleados en comunidades rurales de poca población, así como en situaciones de emergencia.

A probe-based quantitative PCR (qPCR) protocol was developed for detection and evaluation of the wheat bacterial leaf streak pathogen Xanthomonas translucens pathovar (pv.) undulosa. The protocol can also detect X. translucens pv. translucens and X. translucens pv. secalis but can’t differentiate the three pathovars. When tested on nontarget DNA (i.e., from plant; bacteria other than X. translucens pv. undulosa, X. translucens pv. translucens, and X. translucens pv. secalis; and culture of microorganisms from wheat grains), the qPCR showed a high specificity. On purified X. translucens pv. undulosa DNA, the qPCR was more sensitive than a loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay. When DNA samples from a set of serial dilutions of X. translucens pv. undulosa cells were tested, the qPCR method could repeatedly generate quantification cycle (Cq) values from the dilutions containing ≥1,000 cells. Since 2 µl of the total 50 µl of DNA was used in one reaction, one qPCR reaction could detect the presence of the bacteria in samples containing as few as 40 bacterial cells. The qPCR could detect the bacteria from both infected grain and leaf tissues. For seed testing, a protocol for template preparation was standardized, which allowed one qPCR reaction to test DNA from the surface of one wheat grain. Thus, the qPCR system could detect X. translucens pv. undulosa, X. translucens pv. translucens, and/or X. translucens pv. secalis in samples where the bacteria had an average concentration of ≥40 cells per grain.

Traditionally, graduates from colleges of pharmacy in Saudi Arabia work mainly in hospital settings, and only a few graduates work in other practice settings. However, several initiatives and national plans have recently been introduced to facilitate employment in community pharmacies and the pharmaceutical industry/companies. Consequently, the objectives of this study were to explore the current state of career placement, type of employment sectors, and practice settings that Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) graduates join based on recent developments in the profession.This study is a cross-sectional, descriptive study. The target population was PharmD graduates from Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. Consequently, all 162 graduates from three recent cohorts (2018-2020) were contacted to participate in this survey.A total of 157 graduates participated in this study, yielding a response rate of 96.91 %. Of the participants, 92 (58.6 %) were female graduates. The overall rate of employment was 84.7 %. Moreover, a higher proportion of male graduates than female graduates (97.1 % versus 73.7 %, P = 0.006) were employed. In this study, the three main sectors that the graduates joined were the pharmaceutical industry and companies (41.2 %), community pharmacies (29.4 %), and medical cities, hospitals and clinics (23.5 %). In addition, almost the same proportions of male and female graduates joined the pharmaceutical industry and companies (40.3 % versus 42.1 %). However, a higher proportion of male graduates than female graduates joined community pharmacies (32.3 % versus 26.3 %). Conversely, a higher proportion of female graduates joined medical cities, hospitals and clinics compared to male graduates (28.1 % versus 19.4 %).The current employment of PharmD graduates in the job market is generally high, but further improvement could be made, especially for female graduates. Moreover, the study findings showed that jobs are shifting toward community pharmacies and the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, we believe that decision-makers in pharmacy education and curriculum developers must consider these trends and ensure that there is adequate preparation for careers in community pharmacy practice and other sectors of the profession in the curriculum.

Beach forests play a vital role in disaster mitigation and climate change mitigation. These forests protect coastal communities against natural calamities. It has been observed that areas with less or absence of beach forests and mangrove systems were highly devastated compared to those with. However, these ecosystems were neglected due to lesser studies and baseline information about the species diversity and community structure and its role in the overall ecology of the area. The study assessed the species diversity and community structure of beach forests in San Fernando, San Jose, Antique, Philippines. The study used the transect line plots method in an area that was purposively selected. The general floristic composition was based on an ocular survey of the selected site. Characterization of community structure was done using accepted parameters. Results showed a total of sixteen (16) beach forest species that belong to twelve (12) families. Tabernaemontana pandacaqui and Jatropha gossypifolia were found to be the most frequently occurring species. The plant diversity of the area is low (mean H’ = 0.968) which is attributed to anthropogenic disturbances. The species with the highest Importance Value was Capparis micracantha (IV =61.02). Overall, beach forest in San Fernando, San Jose has a high species evenness (J’ = 0.929) which proves that conservation and preservation efforts must be increased. It is recommended that local government units must develop plans to promote awareness and strengthen values for conservation and protection of the beach forests among its people. Keywords: Beach Forest, Forest Conservation, Biodiversity, Importance Value.

Accurately estimating the capacity of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) is critical for making correct management decisions. However, the randomness of the charging voltage range of EVs can lead to missing observations or reduced accuracy of capacity estimation methods. This paper proposes an adaptive battery capacity estimation method suitable for arbitrary charging voltage range based on incremental capacity (IC) analysis and data-driven techniques. All charging conditions of EVs are divided into three categories according to the charging voltage range. Three data-driven estimation sub-methods with sequential application priority are designed for the three charging conditions separately, including back-propagation neural network with IC peak coordinates as input, ensemble learning with local high IC curve as input, and linear regression with ampere-hour coordinate transformation. The method is based on a priori knowledge to select a suitable estimation sub-method under different charging conditions, so as to improve the adaptability. Experimental data is collected from eight commercial lithium-ion battery modules for model establishment and verification. Over 250,000 experimental samples at different states of health and random charging ranges show that the method can accurately estimate battery capacity under arbitrary charging conditions, with a maximum error of 2%.

The microgrid (MG) which effectively utilizes distributed energy resources (DERs) is crucial to the modern power system. However, since the islanded MG with high penetration of DERs inherently lacks sufficient inertial support, the frequency regulation is challenging for the voltage source converter (VSC)-based MG. This paper presents a cascaded model predictive control (MPC) scheme for both the outer and inner loops of primary control, which improves frequency regulation capability with the advantage of satisfactory dynamic response and high tracking accuracy. In the outer loop, to enhance dynamic frequency characteristics, the MPC-based virtual synchronous generator (VSG) method with two control objectives is proposed. According to the movement direction of frequency under different load switching cases, the corresponding frequency response process speeded up or slowed down properly. In the inner loop, an improved finite-set double vector MPC (DV-MPV) is proposed to follow the output reference from the outer loop, which contributes to accurate frequency control by reducing tracking error, and faster dynamic response as well. The simulation and experimental results further demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of heating natural antioxidants on their antioxidant activity and on micro shear bond strength of composite resin to bleached enamel. Materials and methods. A hundred-eighty flowable composite cylindrical specimens of 0.8 mm diameter and 1 mm length were bonded to enamel substrate for microshear bond strength evaluation. Six study groups were created (n=30). Group 1: No bleaching, Group 2: Bleaching only, Group 3: Bleaching+ Pine Bark Extract at Room temperature, Group 4: Bleaching + Pine Bark Extract preheated to 60° C. Group 5: Bleaching+ Grape Seed Extract at Room temperature, Group 6: Bleaching+ Grape Seed Extract preheated to 60° C. All groups were tested immediately (subgroup a), after one week (subgroup b) and two weeks (subgroup c). Both extracts were tested for their antioxidant activity using DPPH assay at room temperature, 40° and 60°. Two- and one- way ANOVA were used to explore the effect of different surface treatments and bonding time on microshear bond strength. Results. DPPH results showed the heated antioxidant extracts to have significantly higher antioxidant activity than their non-heated counterparts.

Hospitals as one of the health care facilities in general have a very important role in efforts to improve the health status of the Indonesian people. Increasing public awareness about health results in greater demands for improving health services. This study aims at answering the question of how the service is perceived by BPJS health participants at a private hospital in Bandung and what aspects were complained by the BPJS participants. This is a qualitative research with a case study approach. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews with 20 BPJS health users. The results of this study indicate that of the 14 elements of service principles, the principle of justice in obtaining services is the element that receives the most complaints. Complaints are addressed not only to service officers but also to medical personnel. Therefore, it is important for hospitals to improve the quality of service by paying attention to the elements of justice for each patient.

Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) Delta has been described in several postpartum hemorrhage algorithms, but this device requires pipetting and careful mixing of reagents to initiate the clotting reaction. In contrast, thromboelastography (TEG 6s) and the Quantra devices operate utilizing an automated pre-mixed cartridge that only requires a blood sample to start the clot strength analysis. We compared the correlation between 3 point of care viscoelastic testing (POCVT) devices to laboratory Clauss fibrinogen and platelets, their inter-device correlation, and the total running time difference between Quantra and ROTEM. A high correlation was noted between the Clauss fibrinogen and the fibrinogen parameters from ROTEM (r = 0.76-0.84, P 0.0001), TEG6s (r = 0.71, P 0.0001) and Quantra (r = 0.72, P = 0.0001). A moderate correlation between laboratory platelets and the ROTEM (r = 0.54;0.45, P 0.0001; P = 0.0013) and Quantra (r = 0.66, P = 0.0001) parameters was noted. The inter-device correlation showed to be high when comparing the fibrinogen parameters of TEG6s and Quantra to that of ROTEM (r = 0.88 and 0.74, P 0.0001, respectively). In contrast, a moderate correlation was noted between the platelet parameters of Quantra and ROTEM (r = 0.51, p = 0.0036). The Quantra device resulted 20.9 min (95% CI -0.2 to 4.7, P = 0.07) faster than the ROTEM if the warming and pipetting of reagents of the latter were considered. All the POCVT devices demonstrated a high correlation to laboratory Clauss fibrinogen, making each beneficial for the early recognition and management of hypofibrinogenemia.

The photoplethysmographic (PPG) waveform contains hemodynamic information in its oscillations. We provide a new method for quantitative study of the waveform morphology and its relationship to the hemodynamics. A data adaptive modeling of the waveform shape is used to describe the PPG waveforms recorded from ear and finger. Several indices, based on the phase and amplitude information of different harmonics, are proposed to describe the PPG morphology. The proposed approach is illustrated by analyzing PPG waveforms recorded during a lower body negative pressure (LBNP) experiment. Different phase and amplitude dynamics are observed during the LBNP experiment. Specifically, we observe that the phase difference between the high order harmonics and fundamental components change more significantly when the PPG signal is recorded from the ear than the finger at the beginning of the study. In contrast, the finger PPG amplitude changes more when compared to the ear PPG during the recovery period. A more complete harmonic analysis of the PPG appears to provide new hemodynamic information when used during a LBNP experiment. We encourage other investigators who possess modulated clinical waveform data (e.g. PPG, arterial pressure, respiratory, and autonomic) to re-examine their data, using phase information and higher harmonics as a potential source of new insights into underlying physiologic mechanisms.

The aims of this study were 1) To characterize the mycobiota in four niches [indoor air from repositories (IA), outdoor air (OA), collected dust of indoor environments (CD) and documents surface (DS)] of the Provincial Historical Archive of Villa Clara, 2) To evaluate the settleable dust loadings, 3) To determine the similarity of the isolated taxa in the analyzed niches and 4) To predict the potential risk the isolated fungal species. Form indoor air of three repositories and the outdoor air were sampled in June, 2017 and March, 2018 using a SAS sampler and the indoor/outdoor (I/O) ratio was determined. The settled dust was collected passively during two years and the surface documents were sampled too. Sørensen's coefficient of similarity (QS) was calculated to compare the isolated taxa among the four studied niches. The extreme airborne fungal concentration in indoor environments was 515.5 CFU/m3 and the I/O ratios fluctuated from 1.0 to 1.5, evidencing a good environmental quality. The maximum settled dust load was 130.8 mg/m2/day with a top fungal concentration of 3x105 CFU/gdust, while the documents surface the highest concentration was 20 CFU/cm2. The obtained QSs were diverse: QS(IA-OA)=0.8-0.9, indicated a high species similarity; QS(IA-CD)=0.5-0.6, typical of moderate similarity; QS(IA-DS)=0.4, own of low similarity. This QS behavior showed that the repositories environment was strongly influenced by the outdoor environment. Aspergillus and Cladosporium were the predominant genera in indoor air, collected dust and documents surface. In these niches species predominance corresponding to the Aspergillus genus, in particular of the Flavi section was obtained. Some of the isolated species are opportunistic pathogens and toxigenic, and their concentrations were higher than the recommended, demonstrating the potential risk to which the archive personnel is exposed in a circumstantial way.

Parbati Thapa,1 Bhuvan KC,1,2 Shaun Wen Huey Lee,1 Juman Abdulelah Dujaili,1 Sudesh Gyawali,3 Mohamed Izham Mohamed Ibrahim,4 Alian A Alrasheedy5 1School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; 2College of Public Health, Medical, and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia; 3Department of Pharmacology, Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara, Nepal; 4Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; 5Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraidah, Qassim, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Bhuvan KC, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Subang Jaya, Selangor, 47500, Malaysia, Email kcbhuvan@gmail.com Alian A Alrasheedy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraidah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia, Email aarshiedy@qu.edu.saBackground: Pain is a public health problem and affects millions of people globally. Effective pain management is possible through comprehensive pain management guidelines, adequate facilities, and trained healthcare professionals. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding pain management in Western Nepal.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in hospitals of Pokhara, Nepal. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, and nurses, were enrolled. Tools for the study were “The Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain (KASRP)” and a validated practice-based questionnaire. Frequencies and descriptive statistics were used to describe the outcomes. Kruskal–Wallis H-test and Mann-Whitney U-test were used to analyze the association between the mean rank of KASRP score and sample characteristics. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant for all statistical tests.Results: A total of 336 healthcare professionals were enrolled in this study (108 medical doctors, 150 nurses, and 78 pharmacists). The mean KASRP scores (% ± SD) obtained by doctors, pharmacists, and nurses were 58.48± 8.98, 53.01± 7.80, and 52.26± 6.39, respectively. A significant difference was found between the KASRP score and sample characteristics (p< 0.001). The pain assessment tool is used by 96 (29%) healthcare professionals every time they meet the patients. Doctors and nurses used it more frequently as compared to pharmacists. Many of the pharmacists, 40 (51%), reported that they counsel the patients on the prescribed medicine (analgesics, NSAIDs, and opioids) every time. As only few participants had already attended a training on pain management, most healthcare professionals, 110 (33%), agreed and 198 (59%) strongly agreed that training related to pain management is needed in NepalConclusion: Adequate training and support are required to enhance the knowledge, attitude and ultimately better practice for healthcare professionals regarding pain management in Nepal.Keywords: pain management, knowledge, attitude, practice, healthcare professionals, Nepal

PurposeThis study aims to identify the role of the voluntary simplicity lifestyle on the environmental activism behavioural trait, as well as the relationship of these two constructs on the sustainable fashion purchase intention.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative approach was taken with data collected through an online survey in Brazil, obtaining a valid sample of 364 respondents. The collected data were analysed through the structural equation modelling technique using SmartPLS-3.3.2.FindingsThe main findings of this study indicate that voluntary simplifiers exert a direct and positive influence on environmental activism. Also, consumers who embrace the values of voluntary simplicity and environmental activism are positively inclined to purchase sustainable fashion. In addition to sharing values converging to sustainability, consumers who have this profile can adopt sustainable fashion consumption as the mainstream of their purchasing decisions.Practical implicationsSimplifiers and activists represent a potential target audience to be observed by fashion companies that have focused on sustainability. Also, they can benefit from the findings in order to delineate the type of product to be offered as well as assist in the development of communication strategies.Originality/valueThis study is innovative by bringing constructs that are emerging in the field of consumption behaviour and sustainability. In addition, it contributes, at the same time, to advance research on the behavioural profile of individuals in favour of sustainability, by pointing out to voluntary simplicity and environmental activism as important antecedents of sustainable fashion consumption behaviour.

This research on art, culture, and tourism tries to provide the latest information about the cultural treasures in Palembang. It uses ADDIE Model to research and develop the prototypes. The product has gone through an expert revision stage carried out by 3 experts with attached comments giving the result that this encyclopedia product is deemed feasible. In the next stage, one-to-one learner test stage, it receives comments and suggestions from three students as a reference for the revisions so that product shortages are greatly reduced. In the small group test stage, very constructive comments and suggestions were received to make the product even better before it is then moved to the test stage in which it gets a result of tabulation score of 4.10, which means the prototype is suitable for finalization as a finished product. The results of this study conclude that the encyclopedia produced is suitable to be used as a handbook either for the government, academics (universities, schools, and related educational institutions), tourists (at home and abroad), as well as the people of Palembang themselves.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common serious health problem. Medication adherence is a crucial determinant of therapeutic success in patients with diabetes mellitus. This study aims to examine the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) psychometric properties among diabetic patients. METHODS: This study was carried out at the Internal Medicine clinic of Firooz Abadi Hospital in Tehran, Iran, from 2018 to 2020. The English version of the MMAS-8 was translated into Persian and administered to patients with diabetes mellitus. A total of 150 patients who had diabetes were included. Cronbach’s alpha was calculated to assess the reliability. RESULTS: According to the recommended scoring method, the Mean ± SD of MMAS-8 scores was 4.97 ± 1.92. Good internal consistency was found in our study (Cronbach’s α = 0.70). Not any significant relationship between MMAS-8 categories and occurrence of complications was found. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this validation study indicate that the Persian version of the MMAS-8 is a reliable measure of medication adherence, but it has not acceptable validity. Further studies are needed to reach a good validity.

Three-level inverter has been widely used in electric drives and renewable power generation system. However, the common mode voltage (CMV) and output current ripple reduction of three-level inverter should be carefully regulated for the appropriate operation. As these two targets are mutually interrelated, the conventional space vector modulation (SVM) scheme cannot cope with them decently. To overcome this drawback, this paper proposes a novel modified SVM scheme to realize CMV and current ripple reduction simultaneously. The generating mechanism of output current ripple is analyzed, and the relationship between current ripple and utilized vectors is quantitatively described. Based on the analyses, the proposed optimal current ripple and CMV reduction pulse width modulation (OCR-CMVRPWM) method adopts four voltage vectors (large, medium, small and zero vectors) to reduce root mean square (RMS) value of current ripple by allocating the sequence and dwell times of utilized vectors. Compared to the existing PWM methods, the proposed OCR-CMVRPWM scheme can reduce the peak of CMV to half of value using the conventional SVM, and obtain a significant reduction of output current total harmonic distortion (THD). The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by both simulation and experimental results.

Objectives: Not all labor and delivery floors are equipped with ultrasound machines which can serve the needs of both obstetricians and anesthesiologists. This cross-sectional, blinded, randomized observational study compares the image resolution (RES), detail (DET), and quality (IQ) acquired by a handheld ultrasound, the Butterfly iQ, and a mid-range mobile device, the Sonosite M-turbo US (SU), to evaluate their use as a shared resource. Methods: Seventy-four pairs of ultrasound images were obtained for different imaging purposes: 29 for spine (Sp), 15 for transversus abdominis plane (TAP) and 30 for diagnostic obstetrics (OB) purposes. Each location was scanned by both the handheld and mid-range machine, resulting in 148 images. The images were graded by three blinded experienced sonographers on a 10-point Likert scale. Results: The mean difference for Sp imaging favored the handheld device (RES: -0.6 [(95% CI -1.1, -0.1), p = 0.017], DET: -0.8 [(95% CI -1.2, -0.3), p = 0.001] and IQ: -0.9 [95% CI-1.3, -0.4, p = 0.001]). For the TAP images, there was no statistical difference in RES or IQ, but DET was favored in the handheld device (-0.8 [(95% CI-1.2, -0.5), p < 0.001]). For OB images, the SU was favored over the handheld device with RES, DET and IQ with mean differences of 1.7 [(95% CI 1.2, 2.1), p < 0.001], 1.6 [(95% CI 1.2, 2.0], p < 0.001] and 1.1 [(95% CI 0.7, 1.5]), p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusions: Where resources are limited, a handheld ultrasound may be considered as a potential low-cost alternative to a more expensive ultrasound machine for point of care ultrasonography, better suited to anesthetic vs. diagnostic obstetrical indications.

PEEK composite was tested mechanically as a maxillary removable partial denture (RPD) framework material instead of cast cobalt chromium alloy. Methods: Partial edentulous upper jaw cast was scanned using structured-light 3D scanner, palatal strap (PS) designs for RPD were designed by a designing dental laboratory software. CAD/CAM machine fabricated PSs patterns using their designs’ STL software files. PSs were made from poly-ether-ether ketone (PEEK) reinforced by ceramic fillers using thermal injection press technique and Co-Cr alloy using centrifugal casting, each material group was subdivided into two subgroups according to storage conditions (stored and non-stored subgroups), storage took place in deionized water for about 180 days at 37.5 ± 2 o C. All specimens were subjected to fracture resistance test using universal testing machine then maximum compression load (MCL) result values were subjected to statistical analysis. PEEK composite specimens were scanned by field emission microscope (FEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Storage water of PEEK composite was analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Results: In either stored or non-stored subgroups of PEEK composite straps they showed significant lower mean MCL values than corresponding alloy subgroups (p=0.0001). FEM scanning showed fillers agglomerations in non-stored PEEK composite and their nearly absence from stored PEEK composite specimens. AAS detected Al element in PEEK composite storage water. Conclusion: Mechanically thermally injected ceramic reinforced PEEK composite could not replace cast Co-Cr alloy as PSs material for maxillary RPD. Biocompatibility concerns raised in this study due to suspected Al leaching and ceramic fillers dissolution from PEEK composite matrix.

Water scarcity and water contamination are among the most challenging global issues today. Wastewater discharged into water bodies that are not appropriately managed causes a decrease in water quality, one of which is laundry wastewater which contains many hazardous materials resulting from the use of detergents and clothes deodorizers. This wastewater pollution management control uses a repeated filtration system with activated carbon as the main ingredient. This aims to determine the effectiveness of reducing the concentration of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), water turbidity, and odor level. Activated carbon effectively reduced the COD number from 964 Mg/L to 14 Mg/L. The turbidity level of water decreased from 302 to 2.29 on the NTU scale. This shows that a simple filtration system with activated carbon as the main ingredient for laundry wastewater treatment is very efficient in reducing COD levels, water turbidity levels, and odors from wastewater.

Objective: To study the photoplethysmographic (PPG) waveforms of different locations (ear and finger) during lower body negative pressure (LBNP) induced hypovolemia. Then, to determine whether the PPG waveform can be used to detect hypovolemia during the early stage of LBNP. Approach: 36 healthy volunteers were recruited for progressive LBNP induced hypovolemia, with an endpoint of -60 mmHg or development of hypoperfusion symptoms, whichever comes first. Subjects tolerating the entire protocol without symptoms were designated as high tolerance (HT), while symptomatic subjects were designated as low tolerance (LT). Subjects were monitored with an electrocardiogram, continuous noninvasive blood pressure monitor (CNAP), and two pulse oximetry probes, one on the ear (Xhale) and one the finger (Nellcor). Stroke volume (SV) was measured non-invasively utilizing NICOM (Cheetah Medical). The waveform morphology was analyzed using novel PPG waveforms indices, including phase hemodynamic index (PHI) and amplitude hemodyamaic index (AHI) and were evaluated from the ear PPG and finger PPG at different LBNP stages. Main Results: The PHI, particularly the phase relationship between the second harmonic and the fundamental component of the ear PPG denoted as 〖∇φ〗_2, during the early stage of LBNP (-15 mmHg) in the HT and LT groups is statistically significantly different (p value=0.0033) with the area under curve 0.81 (CI: 0.616-0.926). The other indices are not significantly different. The 5 fold cross validation shows that 〖∇φ〗_2 during the early stage of LBNP (-15 mmHg) as the single index could predict the tolerance of the subject with the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and F1 as 0.771±0.192, 0.71±0.107, 0.7±0.1 and 0.771±0.192 respectively. Significance: The ear’s PPG PHI which compares the phases of the fundamental and second harmonic has the potential to be used as an early predictor of central hypovolemia.

Planetary spectroscopy uses physical methods to study the chemical properties of the geological materials on the planetary bodies in our solar system. This article will present twelve types of spectroscopy frequently used in planetary explorations. Their energy (or wavelength) varies from γ-ray (keV) to far-infrared (μm), which involves the transitions of nuclei, atoms, ions, and molecules in planetary materials. The article will cover the basic concept of the transition for each of the twelve types of spectroscopy, along with their legendary science discoveries made during the past planetary exploration missions by the international planetary science and engineering community. The broad application of spectroscopy in planetary exploration is built upon the fact that only limited extraterrestrial materials were collected (meteorites, cosmic dust, and the returned samples by missions) that enabled the detailed investigations of their properties in laboratories, while spectroscopic measurements can be made on the objects of our solar system remotely and robotically, such as during the flyby, orbiting, lander, and rover missions. In this sense, the knowledge obtained by planetary spectroscopy has contributed to a major portion of planetary sciences. In the coming era of space explorations, more powerful spacecraft will be sent out by mankind, go to deep space, and explore exotic places. Generations of new planetary science payloads, including planetary spectrometers, will be created and will fly. New sciences will be revealed.

ObjectivesContinuous hemodynamic monitoring offers the opportunity to individualize management in severe preeclampsia (PEC). We compared cardiac output (CO) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) measured by bioreactance (NICOM), Clearsite™ Fingercuff [CS), and 3D-echocardiography (3DE).Study DesignThis prospective observational study included 12 pregnant patients with early PEC. CO and SVR were measured simultaneously by NICOM, CS, and 3DE antepartum and 1-2 days postpartum. Using 3DE as the standard, CS and NICOM interchangeability, precision, accuracy, and correlation were assessed.ResultsCompared to 3DE-CO, CS-CO was highly correlated (R2=0.70, p=2=0.81, p=5; LOA -580-18.4) these differences were unlikely to be clinically significant. Thus CS could be interchangeable with 3DE for CO and SVR. NICOM-CO had only moderate correlation with 3DE-CO (R2=0.29, p=0.01) with high PE (52%) above threshold for interchangeability. NICOM-CO had low mean bias (−1.2 +/-1.68 L/min) but wide 95% LOA (−4.41 - 2.14) suggesting adequate accuracy but low precision in relation to 3DE-CO. NICOM-SVR had poor correlation with 3DE-SVR (R2=0.32, p=0.001) with high PE (67%), relatively low mean bias (238 +/-256), and wide 95% LOA (– 655–1131). NICOM did not meet the criteria for interchangeable with 3DE for CO and SVR.ConclusionsClearsite Fingercuff, but not NICOM, has potential to be clinically useful for CO and SVR monitoring in severe preeclampsia.

Background: This study aimed to assess the impact of theobromine and casein phospho-peptides/amorphous calcium phosphate with Fluoride (CPP/ACPF) on the resin-dentine bond strength, microhardness, and dentine morphology. Methods: Based on the pre-treatment used, 18 sound human third molars were split into six groups.; sound dentine, demineralized dentine, and demineralized dentine treated with theobromine and MI paste plus for two-time intervals; 5 minutes and 1 month. The bonded teeth were sectioned to produce 1 mm2 resin-dentine sticks which were evaluated for micro-tensile bond strength (µTBS) using a universal testing device. The dentine microhardness was tested by using the Vickers microhardness tester. The pre-treated dentine surface was examined using Scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). µTBS results were analysed with two-way ANOVA. Microhardness and EDX results were analysed with two-way mixed model ANOVA. Results: While both remineralizing materials at the two-time intervals demonstrated µTBS comparable to sound dentine, the demineralized group demonstrated statistically the lowest µTBS. Whether used for 5 minutes or 1 month, theobromine significantly increased the microhardness, whereas MI paste only increased the hardness after 1 month. Conclusions: The pre-treatment of demineralized dentine with theobromine and MI paste plus could enhance its bond strength and microhardness.