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The significance of accurately predicting the creep index coefficient for assessing the long-term settlement of soil is critical in geotechnical engineering. However, current empirical methods for determining the creep coefficient often lack precision, highlighting the need for a more accurate predictive model. This study employs the Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS) model to predict the creep index in clay, a critical parameter in geotechnical engineering. The dataset was divided into training and testing subsets. Grid search hyperparameter tuning was applied to optimize the MARS model, as well as a black-box model (Support Vector Machine, SVM) and a white-box model (Lasso), with five-fold cross-validation used to assess their performance. MARS demonstrated superior predictive accuracy, as evidenced by the mean and median R2 and RMSE values obtained from the five-fold cross-validation results. The optimized MARS model was then applied to the test set, achieving excellent predictive accuracy. Finally, the model's performance was compared to previously developed machine learning models and empirical equations across the entire dataset. The MARS model outperformed all others based on RMSE, R2, MAE, and KGE metrics, highlighting its robustness and reliability in predicting the clay creep index.

Sepsis is a complex inflammatory response that is strongly associated with multiple organ dysfunctions and considered as a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The early recognition of the causative agents of sepsis events is crucial and must be include accuracy when planning about standard and rapid laboratory procedures. To reduce the risk of death, prior studies relied on a variety of strategies, including cultural, immunological, and molecular methods for the early and precise management of sepsis. However, the mortality rate of sepsis is still high and there are not any predictive biomarkers for sepsis that may be used in clinical settings. The current study was interested in explaining the major role of some common parameters that were followed in clinical settings to improve the diagnosis of infectious agents before the cases of illnesses become complicated. The gold standard blood culture along with complete blood count (CBC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), presepsin (PSN), pentraxin3 (PTX3), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1(MCP-1) could detect the microbial bloodstream infection.

IntroductionThe Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) region accounts for almost 8% of all global Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) cases, with TB incidence rates ranging from 1 per 100,000 per year in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to 204 per 100,000 in Djibouti. The national surveillance data from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region on the epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance trends of TB, including MDR-TB remains scarce.MethodsA retrospective 12-year analysis of N = 8,086 non-duplicate diagnostic Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTB complex) isolates from the UAE was conducted. Data were generated through routine patient care during the 2010–2021 years, collected by trained personnel and reported by participating surveillance sites to the UAE National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Surveillance program. Data analysis was conducted with WHONET, a windows-based microbiology laboratory database management software developed by the World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance, Boston, United States (https://whonet.org/).ResultsA total of 8,086 MTB-complex isolates were analyzed. MTB-complex was primarily isolated from respiratory samples (sputum 80.1%, broncho-alveolar lavage 4.6%, pleural fluid 4.1%). Inpatients accounted for 63.2%, including 1.3% from ICU. Nationality was known for 84.3% of patients, including 3.8% Emiratis. Of UAE non-nationals, 80.5% were from 110 countries, most of which were Asian countries. India accounted for 20.8%, Pakistan 13.6%, Philippines 12.7%, and Bangladesh 7.8%. Rifampicin-resistant MTB-complex isolates (RR-TB) were found in 2.8% of the isolates, resistance to isoniazid, streptomycin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, was 8.9, 6.9, 3.4 and 0.4%, respectively. A slightly increasing trend of resistance among MTB-complex was observed for rifampicin from 2.5% (2010) to 2.8% (2021).ConclusionInfections due to MTB-complex are relatively uncommon in the United Arab Emirates compared to other countries in the MENA region. Most TB patients in the UAE are of Asian origin, mainly from countries with a high prevalence of TB. Resistance to first line anti-tuberculous drugs is generally low, however increasing trends for MDR-TB mainly rifampicin linked resistance is a major concern. MDR-TB was not associated with a higher mortality, admission to ICU, or increased length of hospitalization as compared to non-MDR-TB.

This research examines the pragmatic approach of Hasan al-Turabi, a key figure in the Sudanese Islamic movement, in fighting for an Islamic state. Using qualitative analysis that combines the concepts of pragmatism and social movement theory, this study reveals al Turabi's strategy in translating Islamic ideals into political action, including building alliances with various religious factions and exploiting revolutionary momentum. Findings demonstrate al-Turabi's success in advancing Islamization and shaping Sudan's socio-political landscape but also faced challenges in the consistent implementation of Sharia and protection of the rights of marginalized groups. Comparisons with Islamist figures such as Rached Ghannouchi and Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlight the particularities of the Sudanese context and variations in the strategies and outcomes of political Islamist movements. This study deepens our understanding of the complex dynamics between political pragmatism and religious idealism in Muslim countries, with important implications for inclusive governance. Through a critical exploration of al-Turabi's legacy, this research contributes to discussions about the future of Islamic politics that accommodates diversity and protects the rights of marginalized groups.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 50% of the world’s population and leading to gastric ulcers, gastritis, and gastric cancer. The increase in antibiotic resistance has compromised the efficacy of existing therapeutic regimens, necessitating novel approaches for effective eradication. This study aimed to develop a targeted liposomal drug delivery system incorporating furazolidone and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to enhance mucopenetration and improve Helicobacter pylori eradication. Liposomes were formulated with furazolidone, NAC, and Pluronic F-127 using a modified reverse-phase evaporation technique. The formulations were categorized based on charge as neutral, negative, and positive and tested for mucopenetration using a modified silicon tube method with coumarin-6 as a fluorescent marker. The encapsulation efficiency and particle size were analyzed using HPLC and an Izon q-nano particle size analyzer. The results indicated that charged liposomes showed a higher encapsulation efficiency than neutral liposomes with Pluronic F-127. Notably, combining furazolidone with 1% NAC achieved complete eradication of H. pylori in 2.5 h, compared to six hours without NAC. The findings of this study suggest that incorporating NAC and Pluronic F-127 into liposomal formulations significantly enhances mucopenetration and antimicrobial efficacy.

This review highlights the effect of carcinomas on the results of the examination of autosomal genetic traits for identification and paternity tests when carcinoid tissue is the only source and no other samples are available. In DNA typing or genetic fingerprinting, variable elements are isolated and identified within the base pair sequences that form the DNA. The person’s probable identity can be determined by analysing nucleotide sequences in particular regions of DNA unique to everyone. Genetics plays an increasingly important role in the risk stratification and management of carcinoma patients. The available information from previous studies has indicated that in some incidents, including mass disasters and crimes such as terrorist incidents, biological evidence may not be available at the scene of the accident, except for some unknown human remains found in the form of undefined human tissues. If these tissues have cancerous tumours, it may affect the examination of the genetic traits derived from these samples, thereby resulting in a failure to identify the person. Pathology units, more often, verify the identity of the patients who were diagnosed with cancer in reference to their deceased tumorous relatives. Genetic fingerprinting (GF) is also used in paternity testing when the alleged parent disappeared or died and earlier was diagnosed and treated for cancer.

Peracetic acid (PAA) shows potential for use in drinking water treatment as an alternative to prechlorination, such as for mussel control and disinfection by-product precursor destruction, though its impact as a preoxidant during cyanobacterial blooms remains underexplored. Here, Microcystis aeruginosa inactivation and microcystin-LR and -RR release and degradation using PAA were explored. The toxin degradation rates were found to be higher in alkaline conditions than in neutral and acidic conditions. However, all rates were significantly smaller than comparable rates when using free chlorine. The inactivation of M. aeruginosa cells using PAA was faster at acidic pH, showing immediate cell damage and subsequent cell death after 15–60 min of exposure to 10 mg/L PAA. In neutral and alkaline conditions, cell death occurred after a longer lag phase (3–6 h). During cell inactivation, microcystin-LR was released slowly, with M. aeruginosa cell inactivation or microcystin-LR and -RR destruction in drinking water treatment, but this slow reactivity may also allow it to continue to be applied as a preoxidant for other purposes during cyanobacterial blooms without the risk of toxin release.

IntroductionAcinetobacter spp., in particular A. baumannii, are opportunistic pathogens linked to nosocomial pneumonia (particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia), central-line catheter-associated blood stream infections, meningitis, urinary tract infections, surgical-site infections, and other types of wound infections. A. baumannii is able to acquire or upregulate various resistance determinants, making it frequently multidrug-resistant, and contributing to increased mortality and morbidity. Data on the epidemiology, levels, and trends of antimicrobial resistance of Acinetobacter spp. in clinical settings is scarce in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions.MethodsA retrospective 12-year analysis of 17,564 non-duplicate diagnostic Acinetobacter spp. isolates from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was conducted. Data was generated at 317 surveillance sites by routine patient care during 2010–2021, collected by trained personnel and reported by participating surveillance sites to the UAE National AMR Surveillance program. Data analysis was conducted with WHONET.1ResultsSpecies belonging to the A. calcoaceticus-baumannii complex were mostly reported (86.7%). They were most commonly isolated from urine (32.9%), sputum (29.0%), and soft tissue (25.1%). Resistance trends to antibiotics from different classes during the surveillance period showed a decreasing trend. Specifically, there was a significant decrease in resistance to imipenem, meropenem, and amikacin. Resistance was lowest among Acinetobacter species to both colistin and tigecycline. The percentages of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and possibly extensively drug-resistant (XDR) isolates was reduced by almost half between the beginning of the study in 2010 and its culmination in 2021. Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp. (CRAB) was associated with a higher mortality (RR: 5.7), a higher admission to ICU (RR 3.3), and an increased length of stay (LOS; 13 excess inpatient days per CRAB case), as compared to Carbapenem-susceptible Acinetobacter spp.ConclusionCarbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp. are associated with poorer clinical outcomes, and higher associated costs, as compared to carbapenem-susceptible Acinetobacter spp. A decreasing trend of MDR Acinetobacter spp., as well as resistance to all antibiotic classes under surveillance was observed during 2010 to 2021. Further studies are needed to explore the reasons and underlying factors leading to this remarkable decrease of resistance over time.

The debate about democracy and Islam has consistently been juxtaposed as if it never reaches a final resolution, leading to disharmony between pro and con camps in relation to democracy, especially in the contemporary era. This study elucidates that there is no need for a dichotomy between democracy and the discourse of the Quran, as the Quranic vision is not contradictory to the spirit of democracy. This research is conducted based on direct observation, taking into account empirical evidence from literature and phenomena occurring within society. The study concludes that such debate is not of paramount importance; rather, what is more urgent is fostering public participation capable of implementing democracy that aligns with the vision of the Quran and Islam at large, to prevent all forms of injustice, authoritarianism, intolerance, and oppression.

Introduction Obesity and smoking are the two leading causes of preventable death in the USA. Unfortunately, most smokers gain weight after quitting. Postcessation weight gain (PCWG) is frequently cited as one of the primary barriers to a quit attempt and a common cause of relapse. Further, excessive PCWG may contribute to the onset or progression of metabolic conditions, such as hyperglycaemia and obesity. The efficacy of the current treatments for smoking cessation is modest, and these treatments have no clinically meaningful impact on mitigating PCWG. Here, we outline a novel approach using glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), which have demonstrated efficacy in reducing both food and nicotine intake. This report describes the design of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial that evaluates the effects of the GLP-1RA exenatide as an adjunct to nicotine patches on smoking abstinence and PCWG.Methods and analysis The study will be conducted at two university-affiliated research sites in Houston, Texas, the UTHealth Center for Neurobehavioral Research on Addiction and Baylor College of Medicine Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Centre. The sample will consist of 216 treatment-seeking smokers with pre-diabetes (haemoglobin A1c of 5.7%–6.4%) and/or overweight (body mass index of 25 kg/m2 or above). Participants will be randomised (1:1) to receive subcutaneous injections of placebo or 2 mg exenatide, once weekly for 14 weeks. All participants will receive transdermal nicotine replacement therapy and brief smoking cessation counselling for 14 weeks. The primary outcomes are 4-week continuous abstinence and changes in body weight at the end of treatment. The secondary outcomes are (1) abstinence and changes in body weight at 12 weeks post end of treatment and (2) changes in neuroaffective responses to cigarette-related and food-related cues as measured by electroencephalogram.Ethics and dissemination The study has been approved by the UTHealth Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects (HSC-MS-21-0639) and Baylor College of Medicine Institutional Review Board (H-50543). All participants will sign informed consent. The study results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.Trial registration number NCT05610800.

Biofilms that colonize on the surface of microplastics (MPs) in freshwaters may pose a potential health risk. This study examined factors that influence MP-associated biofilm growth, including polymer type, degree of weathering, and source water quality. Weathered MPs produced in-lab were employed in biofilm trials conducted on site using a passive flow-through system with raw water at drinking water treatment facility intakes. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was used to quantify biofilm abundance; biofilm composition was assessed via metagenomic sequencing. Biofilm growth was observed on all polymer types examined and most prevalent on polyvinyl chloride (PVC), where ATP levels were 6 to 12 times higher when compared to other polymers. Pathogen-containing species including Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli were present on all polymers with relative abundance up to 13.7%. S. enterica was selectively enriched on weathered MPs in specific water matrices. These findings support the need to research the potential accumulation of pathogenic organisms on microplastic surfaces.

The UK government has legal binding objectives under the “climate change act 2008” to accomplish net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2050. The government has implemented a variety of measures across many different sectors of the UK economy that are accountable for the emissions. The aim of this research was to evaluate and compare some existing renewable energy technologies. It discusses the advantages and disadvantages of installing these technologies into homes across the UK and the impact it has on the “net-zero housing” scheme. A series of results were produced using the SAP rating, deploying an existing dwelling located in Bradford, UK, fitted with a gas boiler and comparing the results to those obtained for an air source heat pump (ASHP) and a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system (MVHR). The three systems were analysed in terms of cost-effectiveness, carbon footprint and energy savings. The study found that the installation of a gas boiler costs less than that of the other systems, whilst ASHPs involve high upfront costs. However, the latter showed higher energy savings, with an efficiency of 4.0 compared to 0.75 and 0.95 for the gas boiler and MVHR, respectively. The SAP rating showed that the ASHP had a carbon footprint of 2396.3 kg/year for the studied flat of 65.72 m2, whilst carbon footprints of 3406.92 CO2 kg/year and 7143.45 kg/year were determined for the gas boiler and the MVHR system, respectively. The study concluded that ASHPs work better than the other systems for most of the existing UK housing, unless a whole building fabric improvement is considered, in which case, some other renewable options could be a choice.

استهدفت الدراسة التعرف على دور برامج التوطين التدريبية في توظيف المنتفعين من الضمان الاجتماعي , من وجهة نظر المتلحقين بالبرامج التدريبية من المنتفعين من الضمان الاجتماعي في مجتمع الإمارات , إذ تكونت عينة الدراسة من 766 منتفع و منتفعه من الضمان الاجتماعي على مستوى دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة , و لتحقيق أهداف الدراسة قامت الباحثة باستخدام المنهج الوصفي لتحليل بيانات أفراد عينة الدراسة , تم تحليل و تفسير البيانات و معالجتها إحصائيا باستخدام برنامج spss , و ذلك بالمسح الاجتماعي بالاستعانة بأداة الدراسة الاستبيان للحصول على البيانات الكمية , أما البيانات النوعية فقد تم باستخدام المقابلة الشخصية مع مجموعة من مسؤولي وزراة تنمية المجتمع و وزارة الموارد البشرية و التوطين لجمع البيانات. وقد أظهرت نتائج الدراسة بوجود دلالة إحصائية بين متغيرات الدراسة الديمغرافية (العمر، المستوى التعليمي، الدخل، الإمارة) من جهة وبين المتغير التابع للدراسة وهي توظيف المنتفعين من الضمان الاجتماعي.

BackgroundThis study aimed to observe the role of urinary kidney injury molecule (KIM-1), interleukin (IL-18), and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 (IGFBP-7) levels in predicting acute kidney injury (AKI) in children with sepsis.Material and MethodsThis prospective cohort observational study was conducted at Dr. RSUP. Wahidin Sudirohusodo, Makassar, South Sulawesi, from January to December 2021. Inclusion criteria were septic patients treated in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) aged 1 month to 18 years with normal serum creatinine or normal urine output (>5 ml/kg/body weight (BW)/h in 6–12 h). Patients with a history of kidney disease, prior urinary tract infection, or history of using nephrotoxic drugs were excluded.ResultsThere was a significant difference in urinary KIM-1, IL-18, and IGFBP-7 levels between septic patients with and without AKI. The cut-off point for urinary KIM-1 level in sepsis with and without AKI was 1.666 ng/ml, with sensitivity of 82.5%, specificity of 82.2%, and a relative risk (RR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] of 6.866 (95% CI, 3.329–14.165). The cut-off point for urinary IL-18 levels was 3.868 ng/ml, with sensitivity of 92.50%, specificity of 91.78%, and RR of 20.078 (95%CI, 6.593–61.142). The cut-off point for urinary IGFBP-7 levels was ≥0.906 ng/ml with a sensitivity of 75.00%, specificity of 75.34%, and RR of 4.063 (95% CI, 2.206–7.483).ConclusionUrinary KIM-1, IL-8, and IGFBP-7 levels could be used to predict AKI in septic patients. Urinary IL-8 has a higher sensitivity and specificity as a predictor of AKI in patients with sepsis.

In stereo vision, an omnidirectional camera has high distortion compared to a standard camera, so the camera calibration is very decisive in its stereo matching. In this study, we will perform stereo matching for an omnidirectional camera with vertical and horizontal configuration so that the result of the image's depth has a 360-degree field of view by transforming the image using a calibration-based method. The result is that by using a vertical camera configuration, the image can be stereo matched directly, but by configuring a horizontal image, it is necessary to carry out a different stereo-matching process in each direction. Stereo matching with the semi-global matching method has better image results than block matching with more image objects detectable by the semi-global block matching method with a maximum disparity value of 32 pixels and with a window size of 21 pixels.

Color has a crucial impact on students’ perception. It encourages the learning atmosphere to be affiliated with the anticipated learning outcomes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impacts of contextual colors on student’s perception of interior spaces and to validate previous related studies that emphasize on colors as a media to convey meanings that affect behaviors and students’ perception as well. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to determine and validate previous related studies regarding the impact of background color on student’s perception. Meanwhile the study evaluates the previous relevant models in order to validate or reject previous assumptions. The study concentrates on quantitative survey method using in depth questionnaire to determine student’s perception at UHDUniversity of Human Development, Sulaimani. Seven Colors from Munsell color system (yellow, green, blue, purple, white, and black, grey) are applied in the test in order to indicate the students’ perceptual status. The results show that cool colors like white, green and blue are mostly recommended for educational spaces. These colors affected positively the perception of respondents and add feeling of hope, curiosity and satisfaction to the group. In contrast dark colors (black and grey) are indicated as colors of worry and fear. The findings demonstrate that environments colors play an important effect on student’s perception. The study concluded that colors affect the behavior, performance and mood of the space users.

This paper tries to investigate the influence of parametric design tools on increasing creativity of furniture designers, hence the most difficult issue for a designer is the creative thinking and bringing new ideas into life. The methodology of this paper is to make a protocol analysis to find criteria of creativity based on the reviewed literature, then create a measurement scale based on these criteria to evaluate the creative aspects of parametric design furniture’s, and a comparison study has been made between parametric design furniture designed with geometrical model-based design. A survey prepared and distributed among 30 architects who had experience in furniture design to assess the creativity level of each furniture which contained three categories (chairs, shelves, and built-in furniture). The participants were 22 males and 8 females. From analyzing results, we can find that 65.38 % of the participants said they have used parametric design tools in the average of (3 years’ experience) while the other 34.62 % said they didn’t use it before. 92.31 % from the respondents think that parametric design increases creativity, and the rest disagrees. The results of the first part show that participants rated the selected parametric furniture based on criteria of creativity as following: For Originality 4/5, aesthetic 4/5, Function 3.5/5, elegancy 4/5, and Innovation 4/5. While the second part of the survey which a comparison; the median for parametric furniture’s creativity level was 4 while the median for geometric based modelled was 3. From the results, we can conclude that parametric design tools indeed help designers to do creative designs more than geometric based design tools. For future studies, we suggest investigating the role of parametric design in the interior design process in total, hence we only studied its influence on the furniture design process.

Building adaptation comprises a variety of construction actions that enhance current condition and extend the life span of buildings. Architectural adaptation involves refurbishing, retrofitting, restoration, renovation, rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, material reuse, conservation, and preservation, as well as other activities to improve building conditions. In this study, the most relevant definitions, implementations, and ranges of the specified terminologies are examined; on the basis of this classification, a conceptual model is constructed to facilitate accurate categorization of building adaptations and its application in various case studies. The current state of heritage buildings in Erbil (the Erbil Citadel as a World Heritage Site and the buffer zone as cultural heritage) is evaluated. We aimed to investigate their current conservation status and determine whether the Erbil Citadel’s heritage building adaptation has addressed the issue of energy retrofitting to realize green and passive construction. The results indicate that the framework model is an effective assessment tool in the field of conserving heritage buildings. The majority of Erbil’s heritage buildings have been restored and rehabilitated for public interaction; nevertheless, additional interventions are required to improve the buildings’ energy efficiency and conservation for this to be recognized as sustainable heritage development. In the future, academics and practitioners may use the suggested framework to clearly and consistently describe the scope of the work in their building adaptation, thereby eliminating the high costs of correcting code and specification requirements that were not met.

استهدفت الدراسة التعرف على أثر التدريب المهني على المنتفعات من الضمان الاجتماعي , من وجهة نظر المتلحقات بالبرامج التدريب المهني من المنتفعات من الضمان الاجتماعي في مجتمع الإمارات , إذ تكونت عينة الدراسة من 240 منتفعه من الضمان الاجتماعي على مستوى دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة , و لتحقيق أهداف الدراسة قامت الباحثة باستخدام المنهج الوصفي لتحليل بيانات أفراد عينة الدراسة , تم تحليل و تفسير البيانات و معالجتها إحصائيا باستخدام برنامج spss , و ذلك بالمسح الاجتماعي بالاستعانة بأداة الدراسة الاستبيان للحصول على البيانات الكمية , أما البيانات النوعية فقد تم باستخدام المقابلة الشخصية مع مجموعة من مسؤولي وزراة تنمية المجتمع لجمع البيانات. وقد أظهرت نتائج الدراسة بوجود دلالة إحصائية بين متغيرات الدراسة الديمغرافية (المستوى التعليمي، الدخل، الحالة الاجتماعية) من جهة وبين المتغير التابع للدراسة وهي الالتحاق بالبرامج التدريب المهني وأثره على المنتفعات من الضمان الاجتماعي. وأشارت نتائج التحليل بفاعلية برامج التدريب المهني وتأثيرها على المنتفعات من الضمان الاجتماعي حسب المحاور وهي (محور الرضا عن البرامج التدريبية، محور التعلم، محور السلوك، ومحور نتائج التدريب) من وجهة نظر المنتفعات من الضمان الاجتماعي. كانت أهم التوصيات التي توصلت إليها الباحثة وهي: متابعة الجهات المعنية بإطلاق المعارض والمهرجانات من قبل فريق عمل مكلف من وزارة تنمية المجتمع، لضمان حصول الملتحقات بالبرامج التدريب المهني بالركن (البوث) المناسب لكسب الزبائن وبيع جميع المنتجات. دمج أصحاب الدخل المتواضع من الضمان الاجتماعي في برامج ومشاريع اقتصادية بهدف ضمان وجود دخل شهري منتظم ضمن بيئة استثمارية ومهنية عالية. سن قوانين وتشريعات خاصة بمنتفعي الضمان الاجتماعي والتدريب، بحيث يحصل المنتسب للبرامج التدريبية على امتيازات تؤهله في الدخول في سوق العمل. تصميم منصة التاجر الصغير الابتكارية، بوجود شراكات مجتمعية بين مؤسسات القطاع الحكومي والخاص والمحلي بهدف دعم المشاريع الابتكارية والتي من خلالها تؤهل الوقوف أمام السوق المحلي. الاطلاع على أفضل الممارسات العربية والعالمية في مجال تقنيات الحديثة في عالم التدريب المهني. التركيز على قسم وإدارة البحوث والدراسات وحثهم على إجراء البحوث والدراسات في مجال التدريب المهني والتي لها دور في خدمة ورفعة المجتمع.

Buni site is one of the prehistoric relics in Bekasi Regency which has an important role for the development of history in the northern part of Java Island.There are several potential archeological remains at the Buni Site in the form of metal artifacts, stone axes, gold jewelery, beads, earthenware and conch shells. The existence of modern development around the Buni Site makes the Buni Site threatened its preservation. There are two modern developments flanking the Buni Site, which is a ship factory managed by PT. Tesco Indomaritim and PLTU (Steam Power Plant) managed by PT. Cikarang Listrikindo. This study aims to address the formulation of the problem the impact of modern development on the existence of the Buni Site and conservation efforts at the Buni Site. This study use the Archeology Resource Management theory. Data collection methods used were observation, literature study, and interviews. Data analysis techniques used ware qualitative and SWOT. There are two impacts given by modern development on the Buni Site. First, the damage and lost of the Buni site, the lost of the site area has made the Buni site narrow and lost the findings that have the potential to be left behind in the area of ??the ship factory and the power plant. Secondly, Muara Bakti Village, where Buni Site is located, is no longer known by the wider community as the Archaeological Site. Buni site is currently not used as a cultural heritage site, which can affect its preservation. Development of the Buni Site area as a tourist attraction, in the form of the Buni Cultural Museum can help preserve the Buni Site from damage.

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is a glucosinolate produced in cruciferous plant species. AITC is known to act as a pesticide on microorganisms, insects, and weeds. Synthetic AITC is registered as a biopesticide for agricultural soil treatment use in the United States and elsewhere in the world. Although a potent pesticide, reports on the weed and pathogen control efficacy of synthetic AITC applied as soil disinfectant are highly variable. Due to the low vapor pressure of AITC, questions remain as to whether pest and weed control efficacy can be improved by combining it with other chemicals. The objective of this study was to assess the control efficacy of AITC stand-alone applications vs. applications, in which AITC was combined with the standard-fumigants chloropicrin, 1,3-dichloropicrin, and methyl isothiocyanate. Two shank-applied on-farm field trials were conducted in cut flower [delphinium (Delphinium elatum), ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus)] fields, and two drip tape applied field trials in strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) fields in California. Weed pressure, weed seed viability, nematode survival, and pathogen survival of Pythium ultimum, fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum), and verticillium wilt (Verticillium dahliae) were assessed. Cumulative yearly yield of marketable fruit was assessed in the strawberry field trials. The results of this study show that the use of AITC as a stand-alone treatment provided no consistent weed or pathogen control efficacy. However, our results also indicate that shank and drip applied multitactic fumigation approaches with AITC can efficiently control soil-borne diseases and weeds. These findings have potential implications, especially in those areas where certain fumigants are restricted due to regulations and/or availability.

Stone columns have been extensively advocated as a traditional approach to increase the undrained bearing capacity and reduce the settlement of footings sitting on cohesive ground. However, due to the complex interaction between the soil and the stone columns, there currently needs to be a commonly acknowledged approach that can be used to precisely predict the undrained bearing capacity of the system. For this reason, the bearing capacity of a sandy bed reinforced with geogrid and sitting above a collection of geogrid-encased stone columns floating in soft clay was studied in this research. Using a white-box machine learning (ML) technique called Multivariate Polynomial Regression (MPR), this work aims to develop a model for predicting the bearing capacity of the referred foundation system. For this purpose, two hundred and forty-five experimental results were collected from the literature. In addition, the model was compared to two other ML models, namely, a black-box model known as Random Forest (RF) and a white-box ML model called Linear Regression (LR). In terms of R2 (coefficient of determination) and RMSE (Root Mean Absolute Error) values, the newly proposed model outperforms the two other referred models and demonstrates robust estimation capabilities. In addition, a parametric analysis was carried out to determine the contribution of each input variable and its relative significance on the output.

The purpose of this research is to explore the perceptions of English Foreign Language University students towards online freshman composition courses at the university. The study aims to explore students' perspectives on the course and evaluate the reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity of the construct among Omani EFL university students. Data were collected from 276 Omani EFL university students who were enrolled in freshman composition courses using a quantitative survey methodology. Participants rated their experiences using a five-point scale. The study used both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) conducted with Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) 26 to achieve its research objectives. The results of this research provide substantial support for the validity and reliability of the multidimensional construct representing students' perceptions. Additionally, the results of the study demonstrate that the measurement is consistent across various academic levels indicating programme invariance. A five-factor model that accurately represents students' opinions on online freshman composition courses has been developed in this study. The outcomes contribute to the theoretical understanding of evaluating students' perceptions of the course and hold practical implications for enhancing the teaching and design of similar courses.

Daylight represents one of the crucial factors that affect directly on the building performance and its occupants. This study assesses the daylight performance in the multi-storey residential buildings (apartments) in Erbil city. It aims to find out the impact of building typology on daylighting quality and quantity. The endeavour of this research is to determine the optimal plan typology in providing sufficient daylight levels. A simulation method has been used with an academic licensed Revit Architecture 2019 with plugged insight daylight analysis as one of Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools for achieving this goal. Five multi-storey residential buildings were selected as cases of study. Three types of simulation were run on each project: Illuminance, LEED, and Daylight Autonomy to achieve results. The results were analyzed and compared with daylight standards levels. The results demonstrated that the point typology is the best type of plans among all cases in terms of providing optimal daylight performance, while the double-loaded plan typology was the worst. The study concluded that the plan typology has an obvious impact on achieving daylight performance in the multi-storey residential buildings. The current research can contribute to identifying the shortcomings of daylight levels in buildings seeking to overcome it in the early phases of design.

The potential for cyanobacterial blooms to impact recreational and drinking water source quality is a growing concern. Numerous monitoring tools have been developed that can alert stakeholders to the onset of cyanobacterial blooms to initiate mitigation efforts for waters used for recreation or drinking water supply. Early warning monitoring systems need to consider multiple aspects of a cyanobacterial bloom: whether a bloom is occurring in the source water, whether it might be transported to drinking water intakes, whether toxin or taste and odor compound producers are present and what proportion of the cells in a bloom they comprise, and whether cells are entering a utility at concentrations above threshold levels. No single monitoring tool can provide all this information, so multi-barrier approaches are needed. Reviews of monitoring tools and their variations are available, but they are generally limited to one type of tool. Instead, a review and comparison of all the available tools is needed to inform stakeholders of them and their relative advantages and limitations. Therefore, this review covers conventional tools including microscopic enumeration, pigment extraction, qPCR, probes, and remote sensing as well as emerging techniques including next-generation sequencing, photonic systems, biosensors, drones, and applications of machine learning and discusses them primarily from a practical and operational standpoint. Moreover, a three-tier framework is proposed for designing comprehensive early warning systems that groups monitoring tools by their analytical targets: biological activity or algal biomass, cyanobacteria or cyanobacteria-related genes, and cyanobacterial metabolites. First tier tools are generally simple and inexpensive to use, including turbidity, optical density, visual inspection, drones, chlorophyll a, and adenosine triphosphate. Changes in water quality conditions detected using a first tier tool triggers the use of a second tier tools for identification and quantification of cyanobacteria by microscopy, phycocyanin, biosensors, hyperspectral remote sensing, or next-generation sequencing. If potentially harmful concentrations of cyanobacteria are confirmed, third tier tools are deployed for quantifying concentrations of cyanotoxins and taste and odor compounds or the genes that encode for them using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, mass spectrometry, qPCR, or other analytical methods. This framework is designed to minimize the time and cost associated with cyanobacteria monitoring without compromising the ability of stakeholders to detect the onset of a bloom.

On 31 December 2019, the cases of pneumonia caused by unknown etiology had emerged. These cases were reported in Wuhan city, Hubei Province of China. Chinese authorities identified the causative agent and announced to be a novel coronavirus. The tentative name of disease is COVID-19, abbreviating of coronavirus disease-19. The incubation period of the disease ranges from 2 to 14 days, however, 80% of the patients have mild or asymptomatic illness while 15 % and 5% of the patients had exhibited sever and critical cases respectively. The etiology of COVID-19 was known as SARS-CoV-2 and belongs to betacoranviruse as reported by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) especially Coronaviridae Study Group (CSG). In addition, this virus is currently believed to be within bat-coronaviruses besides it possesses a close relationship with SARS-CoV more than MERS-CoV. Although, the majority of the diagnosed patients had symptoms, there were asymptomatic persons who can spread the SARS-CoV-2. Upon the emergence of worldwide distribution of this virus, the WHO had declared it as a global outbreak and pandemic. Unfortunately, at present time, there are neither vaccine and nor an approved COVID-19 specific drug against SARS-CoV-2. One of the remarkable pathogenesis mechanistic step of this virus is taking possession of the affinity to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This mini-review summarizes the origin and molecular identification of the virus as well as the host immune responses. SARS-CoV-2 , COVID-19, ACE2, origin

A retrospective study was carried out on children with tetralogy of Fallot at the Department of Paediatrics, Medical Faculty, Hasanuddin University/Ujung Pandang General Hospital from January 1, 1982 to December 31, 1985 inclusive. The diagnosis of tetralogy of Fallot was based on the history, clinical and laboratory findings, chest radiograms and electrocardiograms. There were 10 children included consisting of 7 in- and 3 out- patients, ranging in age from 17 days to 10 years. All in-patients had protein energy malnutrition and or respiratory tract infection. Boy to girl ratio was 1 : 1,5. Cyanosis developed before the age of six months, clubbing of the fingers and toes manifested after one year of age while squatting became obvious after the age of two and a half years.

Blood pressure measurement was done on 4983 school children of 6 - 18 years schoolchildren was at random so that the sample population represented the children in Jakarta. The incidence of hypertension in this study is about 3.11 %, of which most are found at the age of 15 years.

Latar belakang. Proteinuria masif pada sindrom nefrotik (SN) akan menginduksi suatu rentetan reaksi biologis di tubular proksimal. Reaksi ini mengaktivasi peptida vasoaktif dan produksi sitokin, seperti TGF-β1. Di dalam urin, TGF-β1 urin merupakan sitokin fibrogenik yang pluripoten, yang melalui beberapa patomekanisme menyebabkan fibrosis interstisial dan glomerulosklerosis yang pada akhirnya menimbulkan gagal ginjal. Tujuan. Mengetahui kadar TGF-β1 urin pada berbagai keadaan proteinuria, yakni pada anak dengan sindrom nefrotik sensitif steroid (SNSS), dalam keadaan remisi maupun relaps, dan pada anak dengan sindrom nefrotik resisten steroid (SNRS). Metode. Penelitian dengan desain potong lintang ini dilakukan di 8 pusat ginjal anak di Indonesia. Subyek penelitian ini terdiri atas 34 anak dengan SNSS steroid remisi, 31 anak dengan relaps, 55 anak dengan SNRS, dan 35 anak tanpa penyakit ginjal sebagai kontrol. Kadar proteinuria dan TGF-β1 urin diperiksa pada sampel urin sewaktu yang diambil pagi hari. Kadar TGF-β1 urin diperiksa dengan metode enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Quantikine kit for human TGF-β1 immuno assay; R&D Systems, Mineapolis, MN). Kadar proteinuria kuantitatif diperiksa dengan cara kolorimetri (Randox kit; Randox Laboratories, United Kingdom) Hasil. Kadar proteinuria tertinggi didapatkan pada SN relaps, yang secara bermakna lebih tinggi daripada kadar SNRS. Namun, kadar TGF-β1 urin pada SN relaps sama tinggi dengan kadarnya pada SNRS yang secara bermakna lebih tinggi daripada kadarnya pada SN remisi. Kadar TGF-β1 urin pada SN remisi tidak berbeda dengan kadarnya pada anak tanpa penyakit ginjal. Terdapat korelasi positif antara kadar TGF-β1 dan protein urin (r=0,649 ;p

Background Although vaccination programs have succeeded in reducing the incidence of diphtheria, it remains a health problem in Asia, including Indonesia. Objective To investigate the clinical spectrum and outcomes of pediatric diphtheria in Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital. Methods This study was a retrospective review of childhood diphtheria medical records from January 2011 to December 2017 in Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital, Makassar, South Sulawesi. Recorded data consisted of age, gender, nutritional and immunization statuses, signs and symptoms, throat swab culture results, complications, and outcomes. Results Of 28 subjects aged 9 months to 17.10 years, the majority were >5 years (57.1%) and male (60.7%). Subjects’ mean age was 6.15 years and 82.1% of cases were well nourished. Overall, 85.7% had received complete immunizations, while 14.3% were not immunized, having received neither basic nor booster vaccines. The presenting manifestations were fever, pseudomembranes, and sore throat in all subjects, enlarged tonsils (78.57%), dysphagia (67.86%), cough (57.14%), headache (57.14%), hoarseness (67.86%), bull neck (25%), and myocarditis (14.3%). Most subjects had hospital stays of >10 days (67.9%). Mortality was 14.3%, usually in those admitted with a late, deteriorating condition and dying before getting optimal treatment. Poor outcome was significantly associated with the lack of basic or booster immunizations, poor nourishment, bull neck, myocarditis, and hospital stays < 5 days (P

High energy consumption is one of the most serious problems globally faced today. The building sector is known to be the largest energy consumer. Energy performance in school buildings is very significant, for ascertaining the health and productivity of students and teachers. Analysis of previous studies shows that school buildings present a poor indoor air quality due to the high occupant density of school buildings, especially in classrooms, with approximately four times the occupant density of office buildings, if compared. School buildings also consume a large amount of energy due to the lack of energy saving measures applied to the buildings in Kurdistan. The purpose of this study is to improve the indoor environment and energy performance of school buildings, through analysing, evaluating and improving the indoor environment and energy efficiency of a secondary school typology in Sulaimani city in northern Iraq. Based on the measurements in the school building and the simulation model (using Indoor Climate and Energy (IDA ICE) software 4.7.1) several improvement options were investigated, including window to wall ratio, thermal insulation, and infiltration. As a result an optimal solution model in terms of thermal comfort and energy efficiency was proposed. The optimum model was also simulated and the results were compared with the reference model. The results revealed that the optimum model performed better in both indoor environment and energy consumption than the existing school model.

Background: Prediabetes has been considered to be a reversible condition; a modification of lifestyle and other intervention can be successfully applied during the prediabetes period to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. The purpose of the present study was to assess knowledge of prediabetes and its risk factors for the community in the Al-Ahsa region. Design and method: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted in the Al-Ahsa region from mid-to-late December 2018. A sample size of 812 was determined using a single-proportion formula. Results: Of the 812 respondents who gave consent to participate in the interview; the male to female ratio was 1.1:1. 13.2% of the respondents reported that they had diabetes. Among the respondents, 87.1% had a high level of knowledge of prediabetes, while 12.9% had low-to-moderate knowledge. 84% of males 40 years of age or older, 88.7% (384) of people with university or higher education, and 95.1% (78) of people who worked as health practitioners had high knowledge of prediabetes.Overall, there was a statistically significant association between age and prediabetes knowledge (𝑥2 =5.006, p=0.025). Occupation also showed a significant statistical association with prediabetes knowledge (𝑥2 =9.85, p=0.02). Conclusion: Knowledge is considered an important factor in the prevention of prediabetes and diabetes. People in Al-Ahsa demonstrated a high level of knowledge regarding some risk factors for prediabetes. However, there were a number of deficiencies in the knowledge of prediabetes risk factors and preventive measures as well as in general knowledge of prediabetes, which may lead to a high prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes.

JengkoL intoxication is well-known in Indonesia. We report a series of 39 parents with jengkol intoxication admitted to the Department of Child Health Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, during the period of 1984 through 1993. Patients ranged in age from 3 to 14 years. The male to female ratio of all cases was 1.8 to 1 but the ratio of patients suffering from acute renal failure was 5.7 to 1. Oliguria or anuria presented in all cases with acute renal failure. Three patients underwent peritoneal dialysis which gave rapid improvement; 2 patients had died due to acute renal failure before dialysis could be performed. When compared with previous reports, it seems that the admission for jengkol intoxication has been declining. Change in the way of consuming the bean and increasing number of hospitals in Jakarta may be responsible for the decline of cases admitted.

Fifteen patients with steroid nonresponsive nephrotic syndrome (NS) aged 4-16 years received oral cyclosporin-A (CyA) for 12 weeks. Nine of the patients were boys. Out of the 15 patients, 7 were frequent relapsers, 3 were steroid dependents, 4 were steroid resistants and one with toxic steroid. After 12 weeks of CyA treatment;, 6 patients showed complete remission, 7 showed partial remission, and 2 patients did not respond at all. Side effects observed were slight renal function impairment, gingival hyperplasia, and a hump on the breast; all disappeared gradually after stopping CyA. Patients with total remission experienced relapse 2 to 12 months after discontinuation of CyA, while patients with partial remission experienced relapse 2 weeks to 3 months after CyA was discontinued A tentative conclusion can be drawn that CyA is a good alternative in the treatment of idiopathic NS, especially in steroid dependent patients who are at risk of developing steroid toxicity. CyA represent a major advance in the treatment selected SN patients who have failed with the conventional modes of therapy.

Background Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is the most common kidney disease in children and is characterized by edema, massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperlipidemia. High relapse rate remains a major problem in the management of this syndrome. Objective To identify risk factors for relapse in pediatric nephrotic syndrome. Methods This study was carried out in the Wahidin Sudirohusodo Teaching Hospital in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, from January to August 2017 using complete medical records of children diagnosed with NS. Subjects were divided into 2 groups: 1) relapsed NS or 2) non-relapsed NS. The following potential risk factors for relapse were analyzed using Chi-square test: age, sex, nutritional status, hypertension, serum creatinine level, and infection at the time of established diagnosis of NS. Results A total of 142 children with NS who fulfilled the inclusion criteria aged 1.4 to 17.5 years were included in the study. Subjects were mostly boys (66.2%), with a male: female ratio of 1.95:1. The relapsed NS group had 80 cases (56.3%) and the non-relapsed NS group had 62 cases (43.7%). Statistical analysis revealed that nutritional status was a significant risk factor for relapse in pediatric nephrotic syndrome (P

The advantage of a chest X-ray in the RLD position in 15 children with DHF hospitalized at the paediatric ward of the Ternate General Hospital within the period of May-June-July 1990 and June-July 1991 were evaluated. Besides clinical and laboratory assessment to establish the diagnosis of DHF according to the WHO guidelines (1975), child and a haemaglutination-inhibition test was also done to confirm the diagnosis. Chest X-rays in the RLD position found a pleural effusion in 11 out of 15 patients with DHF especially in those with dengue shock syndrome. A positive serological test was always associated with the presence of PE (100%), while this could be shown in only 2 patients with negative test results. It may be concluded that the WHO criteria for the clinical diagnosis of DHF may be confirmed not only by the serological test but also by the presence of PE on chest film in the RLD position and therefore this examination may play an important role in establishing a diagnosis of DHF in a regency hospital.

This study investigates the impact of interior design on employee's job satisfaction, and it is an exploratory study about employee's opinion to their office interior design at the presidency offices of both Koya and Ishik universities. As well as interior design is as an independent variable and job satisfaction is as dependent variable. A questionnaire is used and its involving of thirty one phrases. Also, the scope of the population exists the employees of Koya and Ishik university, which are selected randomly and have been returned and analyzed, the following appropriate. Furthermore, statistical methods are used to analyze data and to test research hypotheses such as, regression, model summary statistics, one-sample ttest, mean and standard deviation, in addition (ANOVA) using statistical software program (SPSS.v.20).The main result of the study is summarize the result that interior design has an effect on job satisfaction of employees specify the result in both universities.

Socio-cultural and economic a society will be able to help provide information related to the condition of the community. Mangroves are plants that are the result of cultivation activities or taken from nature. This research aims to find out the social, cultural, economic and also mangrove conditions that remain in Gampong Lapeng. In addition, to get to know the preservation of culture and customs in Gampong Lapeng. The benefit of this activity is to provide information and science. This research uses descriptive qualitative methods with a study subject of 5 people. The plot used in this investigation is as much as 1 plot covering an area of 50x50 meters. The results showed that the social conditions of lapeng community are open and friendly in accepting guests who come to visit. A very thick culture in the village of Lapeng is the advice not to go to sea on Fridays. The economic conditions of the villagers depend on the weather and the sea season. In the east wind season the income generated at sea will decrease nominally because fishermen can find fish easily. The types of mangroves in Gampong Lapeng are Rhizophora and Avicennia.

Introduction: Aspergillus niger represents one of the fungi that can produce the secondary metabolites, including antimicrobial agents, industrial and biotechnological products. Methodology: A. niger was tested against Candida albicans on the same petri dish of potato dextrose agar at room temperature. A. niger was cultured in potato dextrose broth at 27

Plants are a rich source of giving benefit natural products, including antimicrobial agents. The current study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Populus sp. leaves that the aqueous methanolic extract (200 mg.ml-1) of the leaves revealed antimicrobial effects against some microbial pathogens in which the highest inhibition zone was recorded against Candida albicans followed by Staphylococcus aureus but no effects on the growth of both Streptococcus mutans and Klebsiella sp. The chemical tests appeared that the extract contains sterols, terpenoids, carbohydrates, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, amino acids, and saponins glycosides while alkaloids were not detected. GC-MS analysis detected the aqueous methanolic extract has four compounds are {2-Pyridineacetaldehyde,[2-(2-pyridinyl) ethylidene]hydrazone}, {n-Propylamine, N-acetyl-3-[2-acetyl-3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl]-},{1-(Methyl propyl)-4-(1’,1’,2’-trichloro-3’-ethyl allyl)benzene} and {1H-Indole, 5- methyl-2-phenyl-}.

A case of a 12-year-old boy with renal artery stenosis as a cause of hypertension is presented. The diagnosis of renal artery stenosis was established based on the bruit heard over costovertebral angle and the increased plasma rennin secretion, and further confirmed by angiogram finding. The detection of bruit, either on the abdomen or costovertebral angle, in association Indones with hypertension should initially lead to the consideration of the presence of renal artery stenosis.