bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nazam Aceh in Translating the Qur'an: A Review of the Vernacularization of the Qur'an in Tafsir Pasé
Authors: Binti Yunus Zulia Rahmi
Published: July 2023

This article aims to uncover the vernacularization activities of the Qur'an in the Aceh region. One of the efforts made by Indonesian scholars, including Acehnese scholars, in spreading Islamic teachings is the vernacularization (localization) of the meaning of the Qur'an so that its usefulness can be felt by all circles, as done by T. H. Thalhas et al. in the book of Tafsir Pasé. Through the descriptive-analytical method, it was found that Tafsir Pasé was the first interpretation to use the medium of nazam to interpret the meaning of the Qur'an in the Acehnese language. All the surahs on Juz 'Ammah and the letter Al-Fatihah are presented with the original text, Arabic, then accompanied by translations into Indonesian and Nazam Aceh. The vernacularization of verses of the Qur'an through Nazam Aceh on Tafsir Pasé focuses more on tarjamah tafsiriyyah, i.e., free translation, which is not too tied to the meaning of the original Arabic language. However, it refers to explaining the intention of words in Acehnese without limiting the original wording or consideration of language structure. 

 

Nazam Aceh dalam Menerjemahkan Al-Qur'an: Tinjauan Vernakularisasi Al-Qur'an dalam Tafsir Pasé. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengungkap aktivitas vernakularisasi al-Qur’an di wilayah Aceh. Salah satu usaha yang dilakukan oleh ulama-ulama Nusantara termasuk ulama Aceh dalam menyebarkan ajaran Islam yaitu melalui vernakularisasi (pem-bahasa-an lokal) makna al-Qur’an sehingga dapat dirasakan kemanfaatannya oleh semua kalangan, seperti yang dilakukan oleh Drs. T. H Thalhas dkk pada kitab Tafsir Pasé . Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif-analitik ditemukan bahwa, Tafsir Pasé merupakan tafsir pertama yang menggunakan media nazam untuk menafsirkan makna al-Qur’an ke dalam bahasa Aceh. Semua surah - surah pada Juz ‘Ammah beserta surat Al-Fatihah dipaparkan teks asli yaitu bahasa Arab, kemudian disertai penerjemahan Bahasa Indonesia dan juga nadzham Aceh.Vernakularisasi ayat-ayat al-Qur’an melalui nazam Aceh pada Tafsir Pasé lebih fokus kepada tarjamah tafsiriyyah yaitu terjemah bebas tidak terlalu terikat dengan makna bahasa aslinya bahasa Arab. Akan tetapi mengacu kepada penjelasan arti kata dalam Bahasa Aceh tanpa membatasi susunan kata-kata asli atau pertimbangan struktur bahasa.
Promoting Collaboration in InFleX Modality: A Case on Teaching History of Mathematics
Authors: Medina Joneil Bariñan
Published: July 2023

The goal of mathematics education in the Philippines is the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills of the students. The pandemic, however, posed a serious challenge in implementing strategies that would promote 21st-century skills among unprepared students. This paper aimed to present the mathematics instructor’s experience in promoting collaboration in the time of the pandemic among pre-service teachers, utilizing the innovative and flexible (InFleX) modality. As action research, this paper describes the implementation of modular collaboration projects and study groups to promote collaboration. Utilizing local research outputs on interdisciplinary contextualized project-based units, collaborative problem solving, and communication patterns, these mechanisms of implementing collaborative activities in online and distance learning modality was devised. Purposive sampling is employed in the collection of student data. Preliminary survey results of the student experiences yielded some types of students’ mechanisms of decision-making and collaboration that are termed additive; goal-oriented and consultative. Students also expressed the role of the teacher in the collaboration activity and the challenges encountered. The implementation of the modular collab projects amidst the challenge of connectivity and the pandemic through the establishment of study groups and multiple communication channels encouraged students to achieve the module outcomes.

 

Tujuan pendidikan matematika di Filipina adalah pengembangan kemampuan berpikir kritis dan pemecahan masalah para mahasiswa. Namun, pandemi menimbulkan tantangan serius dalam menerapkan strategi yang akan mempromosikan keterampilan abad ke-21 di kalangan mahasiswa yang tidak siap. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menyajikan pengalaman instruktur matematika dalam mempromosikan kolaborasi di masa pandemi di antara calon guru, dengan memanfaatkan modalitas inovatif dan fleksibel (InFleX). Sebagai penelitian tindakan, artikel ini menjelaskan implementasi proyek kolaborasi modular dan kelompok belajar untuk mempromosikan kolaborasi. Memanfaatkan hasil penelitian lokal pada unit berbasis proyek kontekstual interdisipliner, pemecahan masalah kolaboratif, dan pola komunikasi, mekanisme pelaksanaan kegiatan kolaboratif dalam modalitas pembelajaran online dan jarak jauh ini dirancang. Purposive sampling digunakan dalam pengumpulan data mahasiswa. Hasil survei awal dari pengalaman mahasiswa menghasilkan beberapa jenis mekanisme pengambilan keputusan dan kolaborasi mahasiswa yang disebut aditif; berorientasi pada tujuan dan konsultatif. Mahasiswa juga mengungkapkan peran guru dalam kegiatan kolaborasi dan tantangan yang dihadapi. Implementasi proyek kolaborasi modular di tengah tantangan konektivitas dan pandemi melalui pembentukan kelompok belajar dan berbagai saluran komunikasi mendorong mahasiswa untuk mencapai hasil modul.
The Urgency of Critical Thinking Character for Elementry Student
Authors: Mubarok Husni , Anggraini Dian Mustika , Charis Abdul
Published: July 2023

Critical thinking competence for students is crucial throughout the learning process in the classroom so that students are accustomed to using reasoning systems to solve problems faced by students. This study aims to explain how to improve the ability to think critically in elementary school students. This research uses library research. The method used in research is literature study. Several stages in literature study research are data collection, reduction, presentation, and conclusion. There are many ways to improve critical abilities in elementary schools, including fostering and growing critical thinking in every lesson. Critical thinking skills can be started by conditioning the learning atmosphere by asking each other questions, discussing an object, and analyzing the material to be discussed. So, student’s critical thinking skills are also influenced by learning styles at school, starting from the teacher's teaching methods and style, facilities, and student feedback on the lessons being taught.

 

Urgensi Karakter Berpikir Kritis Bagi Siswa Sekolah Dasar. Kompetensi berpikir kritis bagi siswa sangat penting dilakukan melalui proses pembelajaran di kelas sehingga siswa terbiasa menggunakan sistem bernalar untuk memecahkan masalah yang dihadapi siswa. Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu menjelaskan cara meningkatkan kemampun berpikir kritis pada siswa sekolah dasar. Penelitian yang ini menggunakan penelitian kepustakaan. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah studi pustaka. Beberapa tahapan dalam penelitian studi pustaka yaitu pengumpulan data, reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Upaya cara untuk meningkatkan kemampuan kritis sekolah dasar, salah satunya dengan memupuk dan menumbuhkan pemikiran kritis pada setiap pembelajaran. Kemampuan berpikir kritis dapat dimulai dengan mengkondisikan suasana pembelajaran dengan memberikan pertanyaan atau saling bertanya jawab, mendiskusikan sebuah objek, dan menganalisis tentang materi yang akan dibahas. Jadi, kemampuan berfikir kritis siswa juga dipengaruhi oleh gaya belajar di sekolah, mulai dari metode dan gaya mengajar guru, fasilitas, dan umpan balik siswa terhadap pelajaran yang diajarkan.
Arterial hypertension among children and adolescents as a prognostic risk factor. Problems of diagnosis
Authors:   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health, Valeev V. V. , Bezymyanny A. S. ,   Directorate for the coordination of the activities of medical organizations of the Moscow Department of Health, Traskovetskaya I. G. ,   The City Polyclinic No. 219 of the Moscow City Health Department, Mingazova E. N. ,   N. A. Semashko National Research Institute of Public Health
Published: July 2023

An analysis of modern studies has shown that arterial hypertension, detected in childhood, is one of the main risk factors for both cardiovascular diseases and the progression of renal failure in subsequent age periods, which indicates the importance of early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this condition among children and children. teenagers. The increase in the prevalence of hypertension among children and the associated health risks actualize the issues of the level, methods, techniques and frequency of blood pressure screening, differentiation of primary and secondary hypertension for successful treatment and control of the disease, as well as the development of methods for analyzing multiple factors for accurate diagnosis and prediction of spread. arterial hypertension. Of greatest research interest are the issues of accurate measurement of blood pressure during routine medical examinations of children, including invasive or noninvasive methods for measuring blood pressure in newborns, the availability of proven equipment and specialists in pediatric hypertension, and the interpretation of blood pressure measurements.
Cold Welding of the Synthes Femoral Neck System Encountered at Conversion to Arthroplasty
Authors: Peterson Danielle F. , Schabel Kathryn
Published: July 2023

Case:

The Synthes Femoral Neck System (FNS) is a relatively new device available to the market in 2019 designed to reduce complication and revision rates after femoral neck fracture stabilization. We present a 77-year-old man with Parkinson disease and avascular necrosis after femoral neck fracture initially managed with the FNS. Subsequent challenges in device removal occurred because of its propensity for bony integration, plate and locking screw welding, and screw head recess destruction.

Conclusion:

Surgeons must recognize the need for additional available equipment (e.g., burr or broken screw removal set) for successful extraction when FNS removal is required.
Use of Distal Clavicle Autograft in the Treatment of Os Acromiale Open Reduction Internal Fixation
Authors: Belyea Christopher M. , Lanham Nathan S.
Published: July 2023

Case:

We present a case of a 21-year-old male patient with a symptomatic os acromiale treated with open reduction internal fixation with distal clavicle autograft. The patient presented with right shoulder pain after a motor vehicle accident with tenderness over the acromion. Radiographs demonstrated an os meso-acromion with corresponding edema on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The patient recovered uneventfully with radiographic fusion at 8 months of the os acromiale site.

Conclusion:

This case used the excised distal clavicle as autograft. This technique has the added advantage of harvesting autograft from the same surgical approach and potential mechanical advantage of offloading the os acromiale site to promote healing.
Lateral Meniscal Root Displacement into the Popliteal Hiatus in a Multiligamentous Knee Injury
Authors: Crandall Cody , Richards Zeke , Seely Kevin D. , Mortensen Shad , Quinn Zachary , Gibbs Daniel
Published: July 2023

Case:

A 45-year-old female patient presented with left knee pain after a ski accident. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, proximal Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL), and medial patellofemoral ligament. The lateral meniscal root was torn with the posterior horn incarcerated superiorly into the popliteal hiatus, rendering high risk of plastic deformation. An unconventional 2-staged surgical approach was performed.

Conclusion:

Where risk of meniscal plastic deformation is high in the setting of multiligamentous knee injury (MLKI), diagnosis and careful surgical planning are central to a successful outcome. Treatment of intra-articular structures in operative stage 1 in MLKI is possible and was necessary in this case.
Failure of a Femoral Revision Knee Component with Chemical Corrosion and Elevated Metal Ions
Authors: Holland Christopher T. , Shenoy Aarti , Lachiewicz Paul F.
Published: July 2023

Case:

Failure of the modular junction in revision total knee arthroplasty is a rare complication. We report a patient with late, atraumatic failure of a modern, modular revision femoral component, with preoperative elevation of serum cobalt and chromium levels. Retrieval analysis showed extensive chemical corrosion.

Conclusion:

Failure of a modern, modular femoral component may cause metal synovitis and elevated serum metal levels. Subtle radiographic changes and preoperative serum metal levels may identify this complication.
Legal Ambiguity and Its Impact on Community Criminalization in Mining Obstruction Cases: An Inclusive Legal Perspective
Authors: Sirjon Lade
Published: July 2023

This normative legal research scrutinizes the implications of criminal provisions concerning parties who hinder mining, and critically investigates an inclusive legal perspective on the penalization of such parties. The research, underpinned by a conceptual and statutory approach, identifies that the ambiguous penal provisions can potentially result in criminalizing local communities engaging in activities perceived as obstacles to mining operations. It highlights a critical contradiction between these punitive measures and the principle of affirmative action within prophetic law. The study also exposes a legal obscurity pertaining to the lack of parameters to define acts that hinder or obstruct mining operations, which contributes to the risk of community criminalization around mining sites. The research culminates in suggesting legal and political strategies to address this issue: a judicial review at the Constitutional Court, and hearings and aspirations at the People's Representative Council (DPR) to revise mining criminal law regulations. This study reveals that such interventions are crucial to ensure lex certa, a component of the principle of legality, which can provide legal certainty to affected communities, thus reducing unwarranted community criminalization.Highlights:

Legal ambiguity may criminalize local communities.

Current punitive measures contradict affirmative action.

Judicial review and legislative amendments are necessary for legal certainty.

Keywords: Legal Ambiguity, Mining Obstruction, Community Criminalization, Inclusive Legal Perspective, Affirmative Action.
The Effect of Response Biases on the Variation in Life Satisfaction
Authors: Klement Johannes
Published: July 2023

Although life satisfaction is an empirically well-studied happiness concept, there are still open questions regarding the variation in life satisfaction. Using life satisfaction data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), I examine the extent to which the variation in life satisfaction is influenced by biases arising from the design and implementation of the life satisfaction survey using a variety of methodological approaches, including dis- tributional analysis, descriptive statistics, Markov transition probabilities, and logistic regression. As a result, I show that the presence of an interviewer during the survey can lead to significant positive and non-adapting changes in life satisfaction. The eleven-point integer scale on which life satisfaction is measured has an even more decisive influence. I show that people use the midpoints of the scale to evaluate their lives, balancing the quality of their lives between good and bad. This has implications for the variation in general. It seems implausible that, on a scale of 0 to 10, average life satisfaction scores of more than 8 can be achieved in the long term. Ultimately thus the scale also effects adaptive processes. I furthermore show that the variation in dissatisfaction and satisfaction follow different patterns. In order to gain a more nuanced understanding of the causes, it may be useful for future research to analyse periods of satisfaction and dissatisfaction with life separately.
Outcomes Up to Age 36 Months after Congenital Zika Virus Infection – U.S. States
Authors: Neelam Varsha , Woodworth Kate R. , Chang Daniel J. , Roth Nicole M. , Reynolds Megan R. , Akosa Amanda , Carr Christopher P. , Anderson Kayla N. , Mulkey Sarah B. , DeBiasi Roberta L. , Biddle Cara , Lee Ellen H. , Elmore Amanda L. , Scotland Sarah J. , Sowunmi Similoluwa , Longcore Nicole D. , Ahmed Muhammad , Langlois Peter H. , Khuwaja Salma , Browne Shea Elizabeth , Lind Leah , Shim Kyoo , Gosciminski Michael , Blumenfeld Rachel , Khuntia Shreya , Halai Umme-Aiman , Locklear Autumn , Chan Mary , Willabus Teri' , Tonzel Julius , Marzec Natalie S. , Barreto Nianest Alers , Sanchez Connie , Fornoff Jane , Hale Shelby , Nance Amy , Adibhatla Sowmya N. , Potts Emily , Schiffman Elizabeth , Raman Devin , McDonald Morgan F. , Stricklin Brandi , Ludwig Elizabeth , Denson Lindsay , Contreras Dianna , Romitti Paul A. , Ferrell Emily , Marx Meghan , Signs Kimberly , Cook Amie , Beauregard Suzann , Orantes Lucia C. , Cronquist Laura , Roush Lesley , Godfred-Cato Shana , Gilboa Suzanne M. , Meaney-Delman Dana , Honein Margaret A. , Moore Cynthia A. , Tong Van T.
Published: July 2023

Background:
To characterize neurodevelopmental abnormalities in children up to 36 months of age with congenital Zika virus exposure.
Methods:
From the U.S. Zika Pregnancy and Infant Registry, a national surveillance system to monitor pregnancies with laboratory evidence of Zika virus infection, pregnancy outcomes and presence of Zika associated birth defects (ZBD) were reported among infants with available information. Neurologic sequelae and developmental delay were reported among children with ≥ 1 follow-up exam after 14 days of age or with ≥ 1 visit with development reported, respectively.
Results:
Among 2,248 infants, 10.1% were born preterm, and 10.5% were small-for-gestational age. Overall, 122 (5.4%) had any ZBD; 91.8% of infants had brain abnormalities or microcephaly, 23.0% had eye abnormalities, and 14.8% had both. Of 1,881 children ≥ 1 follow-up exam reported, neurologic sequelae were more common among children with ZBD (44.6%) vs. without ZBD (1.5%). Of children with ≥ 1 visit with development reported, 46.8% (51/109) of children with ZBD and 7.4% (129/1739) of children without ZBD had confirmed or possible developmental delay.
Conclusion:
Understanding the prevalence of developmental delays and healthcare needs of children with congenital Zika virus exposure can inform health systems and planning to ensure services are available for affected families.
Machine learning of the patient characteristics and of vascular features observed on pre-procedural computed tomography angiographs helps to predict endovascular leaks after thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair
Authors: Masuda Takanori , Baba Yasutaka , Nakaura Takeshi , Funama Yoshinori , Sato Tomoyasu , Masuda Shouko , Gotanda Rumi , Arao Keiko , Imaizumi Hiromasa , Arao Shinichi , Ono Atsushi , Hiratsuka Junichi , Awai Kazuo
Published: July 2023

Purpose:
To predict endoleaks after thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) we submitted patient characteristics and vessel features observed on pre- operative computed tomography angiography (CTA) to machine-learning.
Methods:
We evaluated 1-year follow-up CT scans (arterial and delayed phases) in
patients who underwent TEVAR for the presence or absence of an endoleak. We evaluated the effect of machine learning of the patient age, sex, weight, and height, plus 22 vascular features on the ability to predict post-TEVAR endoleaks. The extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) for ML system was trained on 14 patients with- and 131 without endoleaks. We calculated their importance by applying XGBoost to machine learning and compared our findings between with those of conventional vessel measurement-based methods such as the 22 vascular features by using the Pearson correlation coefficients.
Results:
Pearson correlation coefficient and 95% confidence interval (CI) were r = 0.86 and 0.75 to 0.92 for the machine learning, r = -0.44 and – 0.56 to -0.29 for the vascular angle, and r = -0.19 and -0.34 to -0.02 for the diameter between the subclavian artery and the aneurysm (Fig. 3a-3c, all: p < 0.05). With machine-learning, the univariate analysis was significant higher compared with the vascular angle and in the diameter between the subclavian artery and the aneurysm such as the conventional methods (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
To predict the risk for post-TEVAR endoleaks, machine learning was superior to the conventional vessel measurement method when factors such as patient characteristics, and vascular features (vessel length, diameter, and angle) were evaluated on pre-TEVAR thoracic CTA images.
Comparative Cohort Study of Post-Acute Covid-19 Infection with a Nested, Randomized Controlled Trial of Ivabradine for Those With Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (The COVIVA Study)
Authors: Saunders David , Arnold Thomas B. , Lavender Jason M. , Bi Daoqin , Alcover Karl , Hellwig Lydia D. , Leazer Sahar T , Mohammed Roshila , Markos Bethelhem , Perera Kanchana , Shaw Dutchabong , Kobi Priscilla , Evans Martin , Mains Autumn , Tanofsky-Kraff Marian , Goguet Emilie , Mitre Edward , Pratt Kathleen P , Dalgard Clifton L , Haigney Mark C
Published: July 2023

Background: Significant clinical similarities have been observed between the recently described ‘Long-Haul’ COVID-19 (LHC) syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST). Shared symptoms include light-headedness, palpitations, tremulousness, generalized weakness, blurred vision, chest pain, dyspnea, “brain-fog”, and fatigue. Ivabradine is a selective sinoatrial node blocker FDA-approved for management of tachycardia associated with stable angina and heart failure not fully managed by beta blockers. In our study we aim to identify risk factors underlying LHC, as well as the effectiveness of ivabradine in controlling heart rate dysregulations and POTS/IST related symptoms.
Methods/Design: A detailed prospective phenotypic evaluation combined with multi-omic analysis of 200 LHC volunteers will be conducted to identify risk factors for autonomic dysfunction. A comparator group of 50 volunteers with documented COVID-19 but without LHC will be enrolled to better understand the risk factors for LHC and autonomic dysfunction. Those in the cohort who meet diagnostic criteria for POTS or IST will be included in a nested prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to assess the impact of ivabradine on symptoms and heart rate, assessed non-invasively based on physiologic response and ambulatory electrocardiogram. Additionally, studies on catecholamine production, mast cell and basophil degranulation, inflammatory biomarkers, and indicators of metabolic dysfunction will be measured to potentially provide molecular classification and mechanistic insights.
Discussion: Optimal therapies for dysautonomia, particularly associated with LHC, have yet to be defined. In the present study, ivabradine, one of numerous proposed interventions, will be systematically evaluated for therapeutic potential in LHC-associated POTS and IST. Additionally, this study will further refine the characteristics of the LHC-associated POTS/IST phenotype, genotype and transcriptional profile, including immunologic and multi-omic analysis of persistent immune activation and dysregulation. The study will also explore and identify potential endotheliopathy and abnormalities of the clotting cascade.
Trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, ID:NCT05481177 Registered on 29 July 2022.
The Impact and Prediction of Industrial Structure on the Reduction of Pollution and Carbon Emissions: A Case Study of the Yellow River Basin in China
Authors: Liu Jianhua , Shi Tianle , huang liangchao , Wang Huiyang
Published: July 2023

By analyzing the mechanism by which industrial structure adjustment influences the reduction in pollution and carbon emissions (RPCE) in the Yellow River Basin, in this study, we calculated data for the RPCE in 57 prefecture-level cities from 2011 to 2020. Based on the Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT) model, we empirically examined factors affecting the RPCE in the Yellow River Basin. Additionally, different scenarios were established in order to simulate and predict the future trend of the RPCE in the Yellow River Basin. In the study, we found the following: (1) The RPCE in the Yellow River Basin shows a positive trend, with lower levels in upstream Gansu and Ningxia and particularly severe conditions in Zhongwei, Shizuishan, and Wuhai, making these key areas for RPCE. (2) Moreover, the RPCE effect of the advanced industrial structure in the Yellow River Basin is superior to that of the rationalized industrial structure, economic growth and population increases are conducive to RPCE, foreign investors in the Yellow River Basin tend to invest more in high-energy-consuming industries, and there is a “pollution haven” effect. (3) In terms of regional heterogeneity, the impact of industrial structure adjustment on the RPCE in the lower and middle reaches is greater than that in the upstream regions. (4) The acceleration of the transformation and upgrading of industry, stabilization of the population growth rate, and promotion of high-quality economic development are the optimal development paths for RPCE in the Yellow River Basin.
Determinants of Iron Deficiency Anaemia among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Malawi: A cross sectional study
Authors: Chiwaya Andrew , Stones William , Singano Chisomo
Published: July 2023

In Malawi, the prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA) among women of reproductive age is 8%. There is lack of up-to-date information on factors associated with IDA among women of reproductive age in Malawi. This cross sectional study aimed at identifying factors that are associated with IDA among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Malawi using secondary data from the Malawi Micronutrient Survey, a sub study of the Malawi Demographic and Health Survey, 2015-16. A total of 751 non-pregnant women aged 15–49 years were included in the final analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were carried to analyse the data. The study found IDA prevalence of 7.19% and was statistically associated with age of the woman, type of residence (rural/urban), contraceptive use, BMI, and region. In the multivariate analysis, age (40–49) years (OR = 4.37, CI = 1.72–11.09) was significantly associated with increased odds of IDA while rural residence (OR = 0.29, CI = 0.14–0.57), using injectable contraceptives (OR = 0.18, CI = 0.05–0.64), and overweight (OR = 0.48, CI = 0.16–1.40) showed a protective effect against IDA. There is need to scale up family planning services especially use of injectables. Women living in urban areas should be encouraged to consume food rich in iron. Health education on nutrition and dietary modification should be fostered.
Unveiling Liquid-Crystalline Lipids in the Urothelial Membrane through Cryo-EM
Authors: Oda Toshiyuki , Yanagisawa Haruaki , Kikkawa Masahide , KITA YOSHIHIRO
Published: July 2023

The urothelium, a distinct epithelial tissue lining the urinary tract, serves as an essential component in preserving urinary tract integrity and thwarting infections. The asymmetric unit membrane (AUM), primarily composed of the uroplakin complex, constitutes a critical permeability barrier in fulfilling this role. However, the molecular architectures of both the AUM and the uroplakin complex have remained enigmatic due to the paucity of high-resolution structural data. In this investigation, we employed cryo-electron microscopy to elucidate the three-dimensional structure of the uroplakin complex embedded within the porcine AUM at a resolution of 3.5 Å. Our findings unveiled that the uroplakin complexes are situated within hexagonally arranged crystalline lipid membrane domains, rich in hexosylceramides. Moreover, our research rectifies a misconception in a previous model by confirming the existence of a domain initially believed to be absent, and pinpointing the accurate location of a crucial Escherichia coli binding site implicated in urinary tract infections. These discoveries offer valuable insights into the molecular underpinnings governing the permeability barrier function of the urothelium and the orchestrated lipid phase formation within the plasma membrane.
Low-cost augmented reality goggles enable precision fluorescence-guided cancer surgery
Authors: Shmuylovich Leonid , O'Brien Christine , Nwosu Karen , Achilefu Samuel
Published: July 2023

Disparities in surgical outcomes often result from subjective than objective decisions dictated by surgical training, experience, and available resources. To improve outcomes, surgeons have adopted advancements in robotics, endoscopy, and intra-operative imaging including fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS), which highlight tumors in real-time without using ionizing radiation. However, like many medical innovations, technical, economic, and logistic challenges have hindered widespread adoption of FGS beyond high-resource centers. To overcome these impediments, we developed the fully-wearable and battery-powered fluorescence imaging augmented reality Raspberry Pi-based goggle system (FAR-Pi). Novel device design ensures distance-independent coalignment between real and augmented FAR-Pi views and offers higher spatial resolution, depth of focus, and fluorescence detection sensitivity than existing bulkier, pricier, and wall-powered technologies. When paired with pan-tumor targeting fluorescent agents such as LS301, FAR-Pi objectively identifies tumors in vivo. As an open-source, affordable, and adaptable system, FAR-Pi is poised to democratize access to FGS and improve health outcomes worldwide.
Novel Waterborne polymeric Crosslinkers Containing Blocked Isocyanate Moieties and Active Epoxy Groups for Electrophoretic Coatings
Authors: Zhou Ben , Cao Yuting , Lu Shuaiwei , Wei Jun
Published: July 2023

The epoxy intermediates with three hydroxyl groups were synthesized from 2-aminoethanol (ETA) with ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDE) or resorcinol diglycidyl ether (RDGE), followed by the neutralization of the inherent tertiary amine groups. The intermediate was then reacted with isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to produce polyurethane prepolymer, which was further chain-extended and modified by polyethylene glycol (PEG-1000) and polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (MPEG-1200), respectively. Finally, methyl ethyl ketone oxime (MEKO) was used to block the residual isocyanate (NCO) group, leading to the achievement of the waterborne polymeric crosslinkers containing blocked NCO moieties and active epoxy groups. The structure of the crosslinkers was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy (1H-NMR). The thermal properties of the crosslinkers were studied by TG and DTG. The mechanical properties of the cured films obtained by applying crosslinkers to electrophoretic coatings were also studied. The results indicate that the introduction of epoxy groups has a significant effect on the mechanical properties of the cured films, and the RGDE crosslinker system is the optimal selection.
Is breastfeeding during the Covid-19 pandemic too close for comfort?
Authors: Hackenbruch Sophie Noelle , Cutajar Daniel , Farrugia Ryan Dominic
Published: July 2023

Purpose
This study aims to assess whether Covid-19 has affected breastfeeding rates negatively in the Maltese neonatal population and how breastfeeding services have been impacted by the pandemic. Data was also compared to a nationwide study carried out in 2008 to assess whether any improvements in breastfeeding rates and service have been made.
Methods
It is a retrospective cohort study which used a questionnaire to obtain its data.
The study was carried out in Mater Dei Hospital, the only local government hospital that serves as the main hospital of the island. Data of every birth in Mater Dei Hospital during the period August and September 2019 as well as August and September 2020 was collected and compared. This allowed the comparison of newborns up to 6 months of age prior to the first reported case of COVID-19 on the Maltese (7th March 2020) islands to newborns born during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data of each birth was collected from the Malta Birth Registry. Legal guardians of the child werecontacted via phone and asked to give verbal consent. Only authorised researchers contacted the caregivers.
Results
A total of 1481 mothers gave birth during August and September 2019 and 2020, of which 734 (50%) were in 2019 and 747 (50%) in 2020. Out of these 235 (32%) caregivers were reached in the pre-covid cohort and 228 (30%) in the covid cohort. During the Covid 19 pandemic mothers-to-be were significantly less likely to be informed of the services offered by Mater Dei Hospital, with 13% being informed of the services compared to 83% of mothers in the pre covid cohort (P<0.000). During the covid-19 pandemic 36% (n=83) of mothers continued breastfeeding until 6 months of age compared to 3% (n=6) pre covid pandemic.
Conclusions
Despite breastfeeding protocols, ambitions to become a baby friendly hospital and increased staff awareness to breastfeeding the general population is evidently not convinced. Covid-19 did not have a negative impact on the attrition rates in the Maltese population despite poorer health care services, however it did increased breastfeeding rates at 6 months of age. Community services and hospital services need to be improved to improve the poor breastfeeding rate on the Maltese islands. Increased awareness of breastfeeding in the workplace and in public areas would beneficial. Pre and postnatal education in the hospital environment should be enhanced.
Glucocorticoid stress hormones stimulate vesicle-free Tau secretion and spreading in the brain
Authors: Waites Clarissa , Yu Qing , Du Fang , Belli Irla , Gomes Patrícia , Sotiropoulos Ioannis
Published: July 2023

Chronic stress and elevated levels of glucocorticoids (GCs), the main stress hormones, accelerate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) onset and progression. A major driver of AD progression is the spreading of pathogenic Tau protein between brain regions, precipitated by neuronal Tau secretion. While stress and high GC levels are known to induce intraneuronal Tau pathology (i.e. hyperphosphorylation, oligomerization) in animal models, their role in trans-neuronal Tau spreading is unexplored. Here, we find that GCs promote secretion of full-length, vesicle-free, phosphorylated Tau from murine hippocampal neurons and ex vivo brain slices. This process occurs via type 1 unconventional protein secretion (UPS) and requires neuronal activity and the kinase GSK3b. GCs also dramatically enhance trans-neuronal Tau spreading in vivo, and this effect is blocked by an inhibitor of Tau oligomerization and type 1 UPS. These findings uncover a potential mechanism by which stress/GCs stimulate Tau propagation in AD.
Attacking cryptosystems by means of Virus Machines
Authors: Ramírez-de-Arellano Antonio , Orellana-Martín David , Pérez-Jiménez Mario J.
Published: July 2023

The security that resides in the public-key cryptosystems relies on the presumed computational hardness of mathematical problems behind the systems themselves (e.g. the semiprime factorization problem in the RSA cryptosystem), that is because there is not known any polynomial time (classical) algorithm to solve them. The paper focuses on the computing paradigm of virus machines within the area of Unconventional Computing and Natural Computing. Virus machines, which incorporate concepts of virology and computer science, are considered as number computing devices with the environment. The paper designs a virus machine that solves a generalization of the semiprime factorization problem and verifies it formally.
Investigation of the association between polymorphisms in DNA repair enzymes and STEMI
Authors: Guven Mehmet , Citak Elif , Malikova Narmina , Koca Damla , Durmaz Eser
Published: July 2023

Background: STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) is one of the most severe forms of coronary artery disease, known to significantly contribute to DNA damage. There are very few publications in this field in the literature. In our study, we examined the association between four polymorphisms in repair enzymes (LIG4 Thr9Ile, XRCC6 promoter C-57G, XPA -4A/G, OGG1 Ser326Cys) involved in three distinct DNA repair mechanisms (NHEJ (non-homologous end joining), NER (nucleotide excision repair), and BER (base excision repair), and their impact on the risk of STEMI.
Methods & Results: This study involved 185 patients diagnosed with STEMI and included 100 healthy controls. The genotyping of SNPs was conducted through the PCR-RFLP (Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism) method for the following variants: XRCC6 (rs2267437), XPA (rs1800975), LIG4 ( rs1805388), and OGG1 (rs1052133). No significant differences were observed in the genotype distributions of the XRCC6 and OGG1 variations between the control and patient groups. On the other hand, our findings indicate that individuals carrying the mutant G allele for XPA polymorphism and the mutant Tallele for LIG4 polymorphism are susceptible to STEMI.
Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate the significance of NHEJ and NER DNA repair processes in the pathogenesis of STEMI, as evidenced by the observed relationship between LIG4 and XPA polymorphisms.
Hypersensitive C-reactive Protein as a Potential Indicator for Predicting Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Elderly Community-Dwelling Patients with Hypertension
Authors: song wei , Zhang Chunsheng , Tang Jiamei , Li Yan , Jiao Tiantian , Lin Xueqi , Wang Yuanqi , Fang Jialiang , Sha Jingjing , Ding Tongjiu , Cheng Jiayue , Li Jiming
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between Hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in elderly patients with hypertension in the community.
METHODS
A prospective study was conducted, involving the recruitment of 365 elderly hypertensive residents from five communities. The participants were divided into two groups: an LVH group (n=134) and a non-LVH group (n=231), based on the left ventricular mass index (LVMI) determined by echocardiography. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between hs-CRP and LVH. Univariate and Multivariate analysis was performed to detect variables associated with LVH. The diagnostic value of hs-CRP for LVH was expressed as the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
RESULTS
The incidence of LVH in elderly hypertension patients in the community was 36.7%. The hs-CRP levels were significantly higher in subjects with LVH compared to those without LVH (1.9 [0.8, 2.9] vs. 0.7 [0.4, 1.4], P=0.002). Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between hs-CRP and LVMI (r=0.246, P<0.001), as well as with IVST (r=0.246, P<0.001) and LVPWT (r=0.172, P=0.001). Among elderly hypertensive residents in the community, the cut-off value of hs-CRP for diagnosing LVH was 1.25 mg/L (sensitivity: 57.5%; specificity: 78.4%), and the area under the ROC curve for hs-CRP to predict LVH was 0.710 (95%CI: 0.654-0.766; P<0.001). After adjusting for various confounding factors, the multivariate logistic regression model revealed that hs-CRP levels ≥1.25 mg/L were independent risk factors for the development of LVH (OR=3.490; 95%CI, 2.097-5.809; P<0.001).
CONCLUSIONS
This community-based cohort of elderly hypertensive individuals demonstrates a strong association between hs-CRP levels and the presence of LVH. The hs-CRP ≥1.25 mg/L may serve as an independent predictor for LVH in hypertensive subjects and exhibit good diagnostic efficacy for LVH.
Evaluation of a Decision Support System Developed with Deep Learning Approach for Detecting Dental Caries with Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Imaging
Authors: Amasya Hakan , Alkhader Mustafa , Serindere Gözde , Futyma-Gąbka Karolina , Belgin Ceren Aktuna , Gusarev Maxim , Ezhov Matvey , Różyło-Kalinowska Ingrid , Önder Merve , Orhan Kaan
Published: July 2023

This study aims to investigate the effect of using an artificial intelligence (AI) system (Diagnocat, Inc., San Francisco, USA) for caries detection, by comparing cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) evaluation results with and without the software. 500 CBCT volumes are scored by three dentomaxillofacial radiologists for the presence of caries separately on a five-point confidence scale without and with the aid of the AI system. After visual evaluation, the deep convolutional neural network model generated a radiological report and observers scored again using AI interface. The ground truth was determined by a hybrid approach. Intra- and inter-observer agreements are evaluated with sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and kappa statistics. 6008 surfaces are determined as ‘presence of caries’ and 13928 surfaces are determined as ‘absence of caries’ for ground truth. The area under the ROC curve of Observer 1, 2, and 3 are found to be 0.855/0.920, 0.863/0.917, and 0.747/0.903, respectively (unaided/aided). Fleiss Kappa coefficients are changed from 0.325 to 0.468 and the best accuracy (0.939) is achieved in the aided results. The radiographic evaluations performed with aid of the AI system are found to be more compatible and accurate than unaided evaluations in the detecting of dental caries with CBCT images.
Hemiarthroplasty with a fracture stem is non-inferior to reverse shoulder arthroplasty for proximal humeral fractures in Japanese patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Kato Soki , Funasaki Hiroki , Tanaka Kota , Yoshida Mamoru , Tonotsuka Hisahiro , Saito Mitsuru
Published: July 2023

Background
Hemiarthroplasty (HA) is performed for treating proximal humeral fractures (PHFs) in which avascular necrosis of the humeral head is a concern. However, as the outcomes of HA depend on tuberosity healing, most studies did not report excellent results, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) showed better and more predictable functional outcomes than HA. Since the Aequalis fracture stem yields better tuberosity healing and postoperative outcomes than conventional stems, we aimed to examine the postoperative outcomes of HA with Aequalis fracture stems in comparison with those of RSA.
Methods
Between 2017 and 2022, 26 patients with PHFs were treated with HA or RSA. Among these 26 patients, 15 (5 men, 10 women; mean age, 78 ± 6 years) who were followed up for at least 1 year were included in the study. Two patients were excluded because they were aged < 65 years.
Results
Active elevation, external rotation, and internal rotation in the RSA and HA groups were, respectively, 103°±15°, 14°±18°, and 3 ± 1 and 104°±37°, 30°±14°, and 5 ± 1. The pain scores in the RSA and HA groups were 26 ± 4 and 29 ± 4, respectively, while the final Japanese Orthopedic Association scores were 77 ± 8 and 84 ± 11, respectively. The clinical outcomes, except for internal rotation, did not differ significantly between the two groups. Two patients in the HA group showed intraoperative local complications (axillary nerve palsy and axillary artery injury), while one patient in the RSA group showed a local postoperative complication (late infection). The complications observed on radiographs differed between the two groups: the RSA group showed an acromial fracture, a periprosthetic fracture, and two cases of aseptic stem loosening in the nonunion of tuberosities, while the HA group showed two cases of bone resorption of the tuberosities.
Conclusion
Postoperative outcomes of HA with Aequalis fracture stems were comparable to those of RSA, and postoperative complications with HA were fewer than those with RSA. HA using this stem was relatively safe and can be expected to have good postoperative results. Therefore, it may be a treatment option for PHFs in the elderly.
Effect of grass species root for enhanced slope protection in amended coalmine overburden dump soil
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Das SARAT KUMAR , Nainegali Lohitkumar , Reddy Krishna R.
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims
Surface protection of coalmine overburden (OB) dumps against shallow slope failures can be achieved through a cost-effective and sustainable solution, i.e., vegetative cover. Hence, small scale study is needed to study the survival, growth performance, and root distribution of plants prior to conducting pilot scale study.
Methods
In the present study, three plant species Dendrocalamus strictus (Bamboo grass), Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon grass), and Chrysopogon zizanioides (Vetiver grass), an endemic grass species are studied for the slope stabilization potential of OB dumps in Jharkhand, India. Growth characteristics and root architecture of grasses grown for five months under six varying proportions (treatments) of overburden, cow dung, and garden soil were studied.
Results
It was found that Vetiver grass had the highest root area ratio, followed by Bamboo grass and Lemon grass. The maximum root cohesion was found to be 1 kPa for Bamboo grass, 7.33 kPa for Lemon grass, and 9.24 kPa for Vetiver grass among different treatments.
Conclusions
Treatment condition with 80% overburden and 20% cow dung was suggested to be the best soil mix for optimum growth of the chosen grasses which have the potential to mitigating surficial movement of soil mass on the overburden dumps through root reinforcement.
Castleman disease-associated neuropathy presenting with bilateral facial weakness: a case report
Authors: Llansó Laura , Cabrera-Maqueda Jose María , Fonseca Elianet , Balagué Olga , Mozas Pablo , Alejaldre Aída , Martínez-Hernández Eugenia
Published: July 2023

Introduction
Castleman disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder. Two main variants have been described: unicentric or multicentric (UCD/MCD). MCD can be idiopathic or related to human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) infection in the setting of immune deficiency. MCD is more severe than UCD and is usually accompanied by other systemic symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy can be associated with MCD in isolation or as part of a wider spectrum of symptoms, the POEMS syndrome (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes). Compared with POEMS-neuropathy, CD-neuropathy is often milder, sensory, and not painful. There are few reports of CD-neuropathy with cranial nerve involvement, only affecting the optic and trigeminal nerves.
Case presentation
We present a 50-year-old patient who developed bilateral facial weakness, numbness of hands and feet, sensory ataxia, and progressive walking difficulties over 3 weeks. Electrodiagnostic studies showed sensory-motor axonal symmetric neuropathy with signs of demyelination in cranial segments. He had history of human immunodeficiency virus infection, well controlled under antiretroviral treatment. Upon admission, he developed fever and pancytopenia, and diffuse lymphadenopathies were detected. A lymph node biopsy was performed showing HHV8-positive CD and associated Kaposi sarcoma. He was treated with chemoimmunotherapy regimen, and the neuropathy progressively resolved, both clinically and electrophysiologically, within 6 months.
Conclusions
CD-associated neuropathy may present as bifacial weakness and limb paraesthesia, mimicking the variant of Guillain-Barré syndrome. The neurological symptoms may have a subacute progression leading to important disability. The outcome is good with chemoimmunotherapy, with parallel recovery of the neuropathy and the CD.