bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of proactive, interactive, two-way texting on 12-month retention in antiretroviral therapy: Findings from a quasi-experimental study in Lilongwe, Malawi
Authors: Feldacker Caryl , Klabbers Robin E. , Huwa Jacqueline , Kiruthu-Kamamia Christine , Thawani Agness , Tembo Petros , Chintedza Joseph , Chiwaya Geldert , Kudzala Aubrey , Bisani Pachawo , Ndhlovu Dumisani , Seyani Johnnie , Tweya Hannock
Published: August 2024

Background

Retaining clients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) is challenging, especially during the first year on ART. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions show promise to close retention gaps. We aimed to assess reach (who received the intervention?) and effectiveness (did it work?) of a hybrid two-way texting (2wT) intervention to improve ART retention at a large public clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Methods

Between August 2021—June 2023, in a quasi-experimental study, outcomes were compared between two cohorts of new ART clients: 1) those opting into 2wT who received automated, weekly motivation short messaging service (SMS) messages and response-requested appointment reminders; and 2) a matched historical cohort receiving standard of care (SoC). Reach was defined as “the proportion clients ≤6 months of ART initiation eligible for 2wT”. 2wT effectiveness was assessed in time-to-event analysis. Retention was presented in a Kaplan-Meier plot and compared between 2wT and SoC using a log-rank test. The effect of 2wT on ART dropout (lost to follow-up or stopped ART) was estimated using Fine-Gray competing risk regression models, adjusting for sex, age and WHO HIV stage at ART initiation.

Results

Of 1,146 clients screened, 501 were eligible for 2wT, a reach of 44%. Lack of phone (393/645; 61%) and illiteracy (149/645; 23%) were the most common ineligibility reasons. Among 468 participants exposed to 2wT, 12-month probability of ART retention was 91% (95% CI: 88% - 94%) compared to 76% (95% CI: 72% - 80%) among 468 SoC participants (p<0.001). Compared to SoC, 2wT participants had a 65% lower hazard of ART dropout at any timepoint (sub-distribution hazard ratio 0.35, 95% CI: 0.24–0.51; p<0.001).

Conclusions

2wT did not reach all clients. For those who opted-in, 2wT significantly increased 12-month ART retention. Expansion of 2wT as a complement to other retention interventions should be considered in other low-resource, routine ART settings.
Investigating the barriers and enablers to outbreak reporting in the Asia-Pacific region: A mixed-methods study protocol
Authors: Talwar Amish , Katz Rebecca , Kirk Martyn D. , Housen Tambri
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the global capacity for timely outbreak reporting. However, gaps remain in our understanding of barriers and enablers to outbreak reporting, particularly at the local level. Field epidemiology training program (FETP) fellows often participate in the outbreak reporting process as part of both their training and the public health roles they assume after graduating; they therefore represent a potentially valuable source of information for better understanding these barriers and enablers. This study will investigate the barriers and enablers to outbreak reporting through a mixed methods approach that will encompass a review of the existing literature as well as surveying and interviewing FETP trainees and graduates from the Asia-Pacific region.

Methods

This study will begin with a scoping review of the literature to identify existing evidence of barriers and enablers to outbreak reporting. Based on our findings from the scoping review, we will administer a survey to FETP trainees and graduates from the World Health Organization Western Pacific and South-East Asian Regions and conduct interviews with a subset of survey respondents to investigate the survey findings in more detail. We will summarise and compare the survey results according to various country-level economic and political indicators, and we will employ thematic analysis to evaluate the interview responses. Based on the findings from the scoping review, survey, and interviews, we will construct a model to comprehensively describe the various barriers and enablers to outbreak reporting.

Conclusion

This study will contribute to our understanding of the determinants of outbreak reporting across several geographic, political, and economic contexts by eliciting the viewpoints and experiences of persons involved with outbreak reporting, particularly at the local level. This information will help improve the outbreak reporting process, allowing for more timely reporting and helping prevent future outbreaks from becoming pandemics.
Missing value imputation on gene expression data using bee-based algorithm to improve classification performance
Authors: Chungnoy Kritanat , Tanantong Tanatorn , Songmuang Pokpong
Published: August 2024

Existing missing value imputation methods focused on imputing the data regarding actual values towards a completion of datasets as an input for machine learning tasks. This work proposes an imputation of missing values towards improvement of accuracy performance for classification. The proposed method was based on bee algorithm and the use of k-nearest neighborhood with linear regression to guide on finding the appropriate solution in prevention of randomness. Among the processes, GINI importance score was utilized in selecting values for imputation. The imputed values thus reflected on improving a discriminative power in classification tasks instead of replicating the actual values from the original dataset. In this study, we evaluated the proposed method against frequently used imputation methods such as k-nearest neighborhood, principal components analysis, nonlinear principal, and component analysis to compare root mean square error results and accuracy of using imputed datasets in a classification task. The experimental results indicated that our proposed method obtained the best accuracy results from all datasets comparing to other methods. In comparison to original dataset, the classification model from imputed datasets yielded 15-25% higher accuracy in class prediction. From analysis, the results showed that feature ranking used in a classification process was affected and lead to noticeably change in informativeness as the imputed data from the proposed method played the role to boost a discriminating power.
Use of kidney trajectory charts as an adjunct to chronic kidney disease guidelines- a qualitative study of general practitioners
Authors: Guppy Michelle , Bowles Esther Joy , Glasziou Paul , Doust Jenny
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects up to 11% of the population. General practice is at the forefront of the identification of patients with declining kidney function, and appropriate monitoring and management of patients with CKD. An individualized and patient-centred approach is currently recommended in guidelines, but would be enhanced by more detailed guidance on how this should be applied to different age groups, such as use of a kidney trajectory chart. We explored the opinion of general practitioners (GPs) about the potential utility of kidney trajectory charts.

Methods

Qualitative study interviewing 27 Australian GPs about their management of chronic kidney disease. GPs were presented with charts that plotted percentiles of kidney function (eGFR) with age and discussed how they would use the charts manage to patients with declining kidney function. GPs’ opinion was sought as to how useful these charts might be in clinical practice.

Results

Most GPs were positive about the use of kidney trajectory charts to assist them with recognition and management of declining kidney function in general practice: e.g, comments included a “valuable tool”, “a bit of an eye opener”,” will help me explain to the patients”, “I’ll stick it on my wall.”. GPs responded that the charts could help monitor patients, trigger early recognition of a younger patient at risk, and assist with older patients to determine when treatment may not be warranted. GPs also thought that charts could also be useful to motivate patients and help them monitor their own condition.

Conclusions

Use of percentile charts in conjunction with the current CKD guidelines help support a patient-centred model of care. Kidney trajectory charts can help patients to understand their risk of further kidney damage or decline. Research on the use of these charts in clinical practice should be undertaken to further develop their use.
Evaluation of a scheme to identify risks for tail biting in pigs
Authors: D’Alessio Roberta Maria , Mc Aloon Conor G. , Correia-Gomes Carla , Hanlon Alison , O’Driscoll Keelin
Published: August 2024

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a tail-biting risk assessment scheme. The scheme consisted of trained private veterinary practitioners (assessors) applying a risk assessment tool on commercial pig farms to six pens per farm. The assessment tool included animal and non-animal-based observations which were used to determine the perceived risk of tail biting for each pen. For this study 27 farms were assessed, and a subsequent batch of pigs from each farm underwent post-mortem tail lesion scoring at the abattoir. The assessments revealed that a high percentage of pens had fully slatted flooring (92%) and mixed-sex populations (84%), with a significant proportion of pens containing pigs which were all tail docked (92%). Most pens (86%) did not allow all pigs simultaneous access to feeders. Enrichment was present in 88% of the pens, but most (46%) were supplied with only one item, and only 15% offering multiple enrichment types. The study found no significant associations between the risk of tail biting and visible injuries, dirty flanks, or tucked tails, as assessed by the assessors (P > 0.05). Similarly, the risk of tail biting reported per pen was not associated with aggressive, damaging, or exploratory behaviours (P > 0.05). At the abattoir, 96% of pigs’ tails exhibited minor skin damage, with only 4% showing moderate to severe damage. Furthermore, no links were found between the scores obtained during slaughter and the risk of tail biting, as reported by the assessors (P < 0.05). Although the tool was useful in identifying several improvements that could be made at farm level in areas such as stocking density, enrichment provision and reducing tail docking, overall the results underscored the need for improved training of assessors, and the challenge of associating management practices and animal based measures with tail-biting risk.
Taenia solium TAF6 and TAF9 bind to a downstream promoter element present in the Tstbp1 gene core promoter
Authors: Rodríguez-Lima Oscar , García-Gutiérrez Ponciano , Jiménez Lucía , Velázquez-Villegas Laura A. , Zarain-Herzberg Angel , Lazzarini Roberto , Estrada Karel , Landa Abraham
Published: August 2024

Transcription regulation in cestodes has been little studied. Here, we characterize the Taenia solium TATA-binding protein (TBP) gene. We found binding sites for transcription factors such as NF1, YY1, and AP-1 in the proximal promoter. We also identified two TATA-like elements in the promoter; however, neither could bind TBP. Additionally, we mapped the transcription start site (A+1) within an initiator and identified a putative downstream promoter element (DPE) located at +27 bp relative to the transcription start site. These two elements are important and functional for gene expression. Moreover, we identified the genes encoding T. solium TBP-Associated Factor 6 (TsTAF6) and 9 (TsTAF9). A Western blot assay revealed that both factors are expressed in the parasite; electrophoretic mobility shift assays and super-shift assays revealed interactions between the DPE probe and TsTAF6-TsTAF9. Finally, we used molecular dynamics simulations to formulate an interaction model among TsTAF6, TsTAF9, and the DPE probe; we stabilized the model with interactions between the histone fold domain pair in TAFs and several pairs of nucleotides in the DPE probe. We discuss novel and interesting features of the TsTAF6-TsTAF9 complex for interaction with DPE on T. solium promoters.
Can the delayed effects of climatic oscillations have a greater influence on global fisheries compared to their immediate effects?
Authors: Mondal Sandipan , Ray Aratrika , Boas Malagat , Navus Sawai , Lee Ming-An , Dey Subhadip , Barman Koushik Kanti
Published: August 2024

Climatic oscillations affect fish population dynamics, ecological processes, and fishing operations in maritime habitats. This study examined how climatic oscillations affect catch rates for striped, blue, and silver marlins in the Atlantic Ocean. These oscillations are regarded as the primary factor influencing the abundance and accessibility of specific resources utilized by fishers. Logbook data were obtained from Taiwanese large-scale fishing vessels for climatic oscillations during the period 2005–2016. The results indicated that the effect of the Subtropical Indian Ocean Dipole on marlin catch rates did not have a lag, whereas those of the North Atlantic Oscillation, Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, Pacific Decadal Oscillation, and Indian Ocean Dipole had various lags. Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted to examine the correlations between atmospheric oscillation indices and marlin catch rates, and wavelet analysis was employed to describe the influences of the most relevant lags. The results indicated that annual atmospheric fluctuations and their lags affected the abundance and catchability of striped, blue, and silver marlins in the study region. This, in turn, may affect the presence of these species in the market and lead to fluctuations in their prices in accordance with supply and demand. Overall, understanding the effects of climatic oscillations on fish species are essential for policymakers and coastal communities seeking to manage marine resources, predict changes in marine ecosystems, and establish appropriate methods for controlling the effects of climate variability.
Accumulating evidence across studies: Consistent methods protect against false findings produced by p-hacking
Authors: Wegener Duane T. , Pek Jolynn , Fabrigar Leandre R.
Published: August 2024

Much empirical science involves evaluating alternative explanations for the obtained data. For example, given certain assumptions underlying a statistical test, a “significant” result generally refers to implausibility of a null (zero) effect in the population producing the obtained study data. However, methodological work on various versions of p-hacking (i.e., using different analysis strategies until a “significant” result is produced) questions whether significant p-values might often reflect false findings. Indeed, initial simulations of single studies showed that the potential for finding “significant” but false findings might be much higher than the nominal .05 value when various analysis flexibilities are undertaken. In many settings, however, research articles report multiple studies using consistent methods across the studies, where those consistent methods would constrain the flexibilities used to produce high false-finding rates for simulations of single studies. Thus, we conducted simulations of study sets. These simulations show that consistent methods across studies (i.e., consistent in terms of which measures are analyzed, which conditions are included, and whether and how covariates are included) dramatically reduce the potential for flexible research practices (p-hacking) to produce consistent sets of significant results across studies. For p-hacking to produce even modest probabilities of a consistent set of studies would require (a) a large amount of selectivity in study reporting and (b) severe (and quite intentional) versions of p-hacking. With no more than modest selective reporting and with consistent methods across studies, p-hacking does not provide a plausible explanation for consistent empirical results across studies, especially as the size of the reported study set increases. In addition, the simulations show that p-hacking can produce high rates of false findings for single studies with very large samples. In contrast, a series of methodologically-consistent studies (even with much smaller samples) is much less vulnerable to the forms of p-hacking examined in the simulations.
From data to decision: Machine learning determination of aerobic and anaerobic thresholds in athletes
Authors: Tomaszewski Michał , Lukanova-Jakubowska Anna , Majorczyk Edyta , Dzierżanowski Łukasz
Published: August 2024

Lactate analysis plays an important role in sports science and training decisions for optimising performance, endurance, and overall success in sports. Two parameters are widely used for these goals: aerobic (AeT) and anaerobic (AnT) thresholds. However, determining AeT proves more challenging than AnT threshold due to both physiological intricacies and practical considerations. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine AeT and AnT thresholds using machine learning modelling (ML) and to compare ML-obtained results with the parameters’ values determined using conventional methods. ML seems to be highly useful due to its ability to handle complex, personalised data, identify nonlinear relationships, and provide accurate predictions. The 183 results of CardioPulmonary Exercise Test (CPET) accompanied by lactate and heart ratio analyses from amateur athletes were enrolled to the study and ML models using the following algorithms: Random Forest, XGBoost (Extreme Gradient Boosting), and LightGBM (Light Gradient Boosting Machine) and metrics: R2, mean absolute error (MAE), mean squared error (MSE) and root mean square error (RMSE). The regressors used belong to the group of ensemble learning algorithms that combine the predictions of multiple base models to improve overall performance and counteract overfitting to training data. Based on evaluation metrics, the following models give the best predictions: for AeT: Random Forest has an R2value of 0.645, MAE of 4.630, MSE of 44.450, RMSE of 6.667; and for AnT: LightGBM has an R2of 0.803, the highest among the models, MAE of 3.439, the lowest among the models, MSE of 20.953, and RMSE of 4.577. Outlined research experiments, a comprehensive review of existing literature in the field, and obtained results suggest that ML models can be trained to make personalised predictions based on an individual athlete’s unique physiological response to exercise. Athletes exhibit significant variation in their AeT and AT, and ML can capture these individual differences, allowing for tailored training recommendations and performance optimization.
End-of-life experiences in individuals with dementia with Lewy bodies and their caregivers: A mixed-methods analysis
Authors: Wollney Easton , Sovich Kaitlin , LaBarre Brian , Maixner Susan M. , Paulson Henry L. , Manning Carol , Fields Julie A. , Lunde Angela , Boeve Bradley F. , Galvin James E. , Taylor Angela S. , Li Zhigang , Fechtel Hannah J. , Armstrong Melissa J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is one of the most common degenerative dementias, but research on end-of-life experiences for people with DLB and their caregivers is limited.

Method

Dyads of individuals with moderate-advanced DLB and their primary informal caregivers were recruited from specialty clinics, advocacy organizations, and research registries and followed prospectively every 6 months. The current study examines results of caregiver study visits 3 months after the death of the person with DLB. These visits included the Last Month of Life survey, study-specific questions, and a semi-structured interview querying end-of-life experiences.

Results

Individuals with DLB (n = 50) died 3.24 ± 1.81 years after diagnosis, typically of disease-related complications. Only 44% of caregivers reported a helpful conversation with clinicians regarding what to expect at the end of life in DLB. Symptoms commonly worsening prior to death included: cognition and motor function, ADL dependence, behavioral features, daytime sleepiness, communication, appetite, and weight loss. Almost 90% of participants received hospice care, but 20% used hospice for <1 week. Most caregivers reported overall positive experiences in the last month of life, but this was not universal. Having information about DLB and what to expect, access to support, and hospice care were healthcare factors associated with positive and negative end of life experiences. Hospice experiences were driven by communication, care coordination, quality care, and caregiver education.

Conclusion

Most caregivers of individuals who died with DLB reported positive end-of-life experiences. However, the study identified multiple opportunities for improvement relating to clinician counseling of patients/families, support/hospice referrals, and monitoring individuals with DLB to identify approaching end of life. Future research should quantitatively identify changes that herald end of life in DLB and develop tools that can assist clinicians in evaluating disease stage to better inform counseling and timely hospice referrals.

Trial registration

Trial registration information: NCT04829656.
Validation of new tablet-based problem-solving tasks in primary school students
Authors: Schäfer Jonas , Reuter Timo , Leuchter Miriam , Karbach Julia
Published: August 2024

Problem-solving is an important skill that is associated with reasoning abilities, action control and academic success. Nevertheless, empirical evidence on cognitive correlates of problem-solving performance in childhood is limited. Appropriate assessment tools are scarce and existing analog tasks require extensive coding. Thus, we developed and validated new tablet-based versions of existing analog tasks assessing technical problem-solving with gear construction tasks. To validate these tasks, 215 children (6–8 years) performed the problem-solving tasks in both modalities (analog, digital). To investigate whether performances in both modalities were correlated with other cognitive abilities, participants performed three additional tasks assessing language, reasoning and problem-solving. Structural equation modelling showed that performance was substantially correlated across modalities and also correlated with language, reasoning and another problem-solving task, showing the convergent validity of the digital tasks. We also found scalar measurement invariance across task modalities indicating that both task versions can be used interchangeably. We conclude that both versions (analog and digital) draw on similar cognitive resources and abilities. The analog tasks were thus successfully transferred to a digital platform. The new tasks offer the immense benefits of digital data collection, provide a valid measuring tool advancing problem-solving research in childhood and facilitate the application in the field, e.g., in the classroom.
Tissue resident cells differentiate S. aureus from S. epidermidis via IL-1β following barrier disruption in healthy human skin
Authors: Lang Julia C. , Brutscher Andreas , Ehrström Marcus , Melican Keira
Published: August 2024

The Staphylococcus sp. are a dominant part of the human skin microbiome and present across the body. Staphylococcus epidermidis is a ubiquitous skin commensal, while S. aureus is thought to colonize at least 30% of the population. S. aureus are not only colonizers but a leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections and a critical healthcare concern. To understand how healthy human skin may differentiate commensal bacteria, such as S. epidermidis, from the potential pathogen methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), we use ex vivo human skin models that allow us to study this host-bacterial interaction in the most clinically relevant environment. Our work highlights the role of the outer stratum corneum as a protective physical barrier against invasion by colonizing Staphylococci. We show how the structural cells of the skin can internalize and respond to different Staphylococci with increasing sensitivity. In intact human skin, a discriminatory IL-1β response was identified, while disruption of the protective stratum corneum triggered an increased and more diverse immune response. We identified and localized tissue resident Langerhans cells (LCs) as a potential source of IL-1β and go on to show a dose-dependent response of MUTZ-LCs to S. aureus but not S. epidermidis. This suggests an important role of LCs in sensing and discriminating between bacteria in healthy human skin, particularly in intact skin and provides a detailed snapshot of how human skin differentiates between friend and potential foe. With the rise in antibiotic resistance, understanding the innate immune response of healthy skin may help us find ways to enhance or manipulate these natural defenses to prevent invasive infection.
Hermeneutics, homiletics and horror TV: Reading Midnight Mass through a ‘wordy’ liturgical lens
Authors: Slyter Riana , Diffrient David Scott
Published: August 2024

Midnight Mass, Mike Flanagan’s horror miniseries, engages with profound spiritual and philosophical questions about existence, deploying an unconventional approach of extended personal testimonies and interpersonal dialogues. The show harkens back to television’s roots by featuring lengthy, sermon-like speeches that challenge hegemonic power structures and normative ideologies. Key characters like Erin, Hassan and Riley deliver rhetorical disruptions through extended monologues that vocally resist religious and societal oppression. By centring stories from marginalized communities often relegated to the periphery of popular culture, Midnight Mass taps into horror’s ability to re-conceptualize ‘monstrous’ identities. It positions audiences to empathize with the oppressed, encouraging them to defy dominant ideological norms. The series’ talky, homiletic style enables a deconstruction of Catholic dogma and socially ingrained prejudices.
Impacto da Pneumonia Aspirativa em Idosos com Isquemia Cerebral: Uma Revisão Integrativa da Literatura
Authors: Sousa Neto Manoel Clemente de , Bezerra Larissa de Carvalho , Brito Amanda Sobreira de , Bringel Bruna Ádria Carvalho , Nogueira Lorenzo Tavares , Silva Murilo Rodrigues da , Santos Adriano Siqueira dos
Published: August 2024

No ambiente hospitalar, a utilização de ferramentas para identificar o risco de aspiração é uma estratégia importante para rastrear indivíduos com maior probabilidade de desenvolver essa condição, prevenindo ou reduzindo seus efeitos. Esta revisão visa destacar os desafios diagnósticos, prevenção e manejo adequado dessas condições. Foi realizada uma busca sistemática na base de dados eletrônicas BVS com os termos “MESH” broncoaspiração OR pneumonia aspirativa AND isquemia cerebral OR idosos hospitalizados”. Foram incluídos estudos originais, primários, em português ou inglês, publicados entre 2013 e 2023. Foram selecionados 8 artigos na busca eletrônica e incluídos 28 estudos na revisão manual. Os resultados evidenciaram que o envelhecimento pode predispor à disfagia, aumentando o risco de aspiração e pneumonia. A isquemia cerebral pode agravar esse cenário, aumentando a disfagia. Estratégias de rastreamento de risco para broncoaspiração são fundamentais no contexto hospitalar para identificar indivíduos vulneráveis e mitigar esses efeitos adversos.
Federalismo Brasileiro em Tempos de Pandemia: Desafios e Medidas Emergenciais na Resposta à Covid-19
Authors: Cavalcanti Ilânia Fonseca , Vieira Mariana Filgueiras , Santos Marcelo Henrique Pereira dos
Published: August 2024

Este artigo analisa as medidas emergenciais aplicadas pelo Governo Brasileiro como resposta no combate ao vírus da COVID-19 que se alastrou de forma exponencial. Pesquisando o período das transferências financeiras ocorridas no início de 2020, por meio de dados extraídos de sites oficiais do Governo, como o Portal da Transparência da Controladoria-Geral da União. A contenção da doença dependia da parceria e boa coordenação dos entes federativos que enfrentaram conflitos, resolvidos na esfera judiciária. Esse período demonstrou a descoordenação do Poder Executivo Federal, ficando o Congresso Nacional como protagonista das ações políticas. O estudo mostra a destinação dos créditos extraordinários para fortalecer o sistema de saúde e o auxílio emergencial como uma política econômica e social que se mostrou como a medida mais relevante. Conclui-se que o Brasil precisa rediscutir seu pacto federativo e repensar suas políticas públicas em favor dos mais vulneráveis.
Appendiceal Elastofibroma Requiring Ileocecectomy
Authors: Luévano Jesús M. , Bowman Chip , Garcia-Carrasquillo Reuben
Published: August 2024

Elastrofibromas are rare lesions characterized by collagen and elastic fiber deposition. They are generally found in soft tissues and throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The pathogenesis of this lesion is still uncertain, but it is hypothesized to be a reactive process. We present a case of an appendiceal elastofibroma, a unique anatomic location that necessitated surgical removal, with pathologic findings suggestive of an inciting event from a sclerosed vascular abnormality.
Coexistent Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Dysplastic Barrett's Esophagus With Rapid Eosinophilic Infiltration of Neosquamous Mucosa After Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Ameyaw Prince A. , Parsons David , Mahmoud Ali , Marie Robert , Nagar Anil , Aslanian Harry R.
Published: August 2024

The coexistence of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and Barrett's esophagus (BE) is rare despite the known association of gastroesophageal reflux disease with both conditions. Radiofrequency ablation is an effective endoscopic eradication therapy in patients with dysplastic BE. However, the efficacy and outcomes of radiofrequency ablation in patients with concomitant EoE and BE are not well known. We report a case of rapid eosinophilic infiltration of the neosquamous mucosa after the complete eradication of long-segment dysplastic BE in a patient with coexisting BE and EoE.
A comprehensive review of etiology, pathophysiologyepidemiology, and management of hair loss and its correlation with COVID-19
Authors: Faraz Changizi  , Maryam Abdolmaleki  , Mina Farjam  , Laya Ohadi
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the connection between COVID-19 and hair loss, emphasizing its emotional impact. Beyond respiratory effects, the virus causes various skin symptoms, including hair loss (telogen effluvium) in up to one-fifth of patients. The study reviews disruptions in the hair growth cycle induced by COVID-19, suggesting a multifactorial mechanism involving proinflammatory cytokines, the ADE phenomenon, and coagulation cascade activation. Recognizing the psychological impact, the paper uses a comprehensive research methodology to explore the correlation between hair loss and COVID-19. Recommendations for managing COVID-19-induced hair loss include counseling, dietary adjustments, and treatment options like minoxidil and corticosteroids. The study highlights the proactive role of healthcare professionals in addressing COVID-19-related hair loss to enhance patient satisfaction and overall quality of life.
Menafsir al-Qur’an di Era Digital: Lokalitas, Vernakularisasi, dan Kelisanan pada Pengajian Gus Mus Channel
Authors: Cahyani Nadia Saphira
Published: August 2024

The Mustofa Bisri Channel's usage of YouTube to study tafsir al-Ibrīz represents a substantial shift from traditional teaching techniques. This phenomenon demonstrates a shift from traditional educational techniques to the use of modern technology, particularly social media, to convey religious knowledge. Mustofa Bisri, better known as Gus Mus, uses vernacularization to provide explanations for current situations. This study focuses on how social media promotes conversation between historical texts and present realities. This study examines vernacularization in tafsir al-Ibrīzsessions, including oral interpretation and its impact on comprehension. The Mustofa Bisri Channel's usage of YouTube to study tafsir al-Ibrīz represents a substantial shift from traditional teaching techniques. The authority of a traditional scholar, such as Gus Mus, provides a counter-narrative to less experienced ustaz, indicating pesantren's metamorphosis in the face of modern challenges. This qualitative study employs YouTube content analysis to investigate how local discourse is addressed in spoken interpretations, as well as how oral qualities influence the meaning and relevance of Quranic teachings. Tafsir al-Ibrīz sessions on YouTube demonstrate vernacularization by the use of local language and replies to modern challenges, increasing understanding of Quranic studies. The characteristics of oral interpretation, including the use of conservative language and situational meaning, as well as audience engagement, illustrate how Gus Mus adapts to modernity while preserving the diverse traditions of pesantren teaching.
Inovasi Tanda Jeda Baru pada Mushaf al-Qur’an: Studi Pergeseran dari Nilai Fungsional ke Nilai Komersial pada Mushaf Waqf-Ibtidā’
Authors: Al Insyirah Sofia Mawaddah
Published: August 2024

The growing demand for the printed copy of the Quran, addressed by publishers through various innovations such as the introduction of new pause marks, reflects a shift from use value to commercial value. This study aims to demonstrate this shift by examining how new pause marks are determined. Employing a qualitative method, the research utilizes the qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) model for data analysis. The study reveals differences in the purpose behind implementing new pause marks in waqf-ibtidā’, primarily due to deviations from the syntactical relationships upheld in standard waqf-ibtidā’ rules. A consistent pattern of separation between elements such as fi’il and fā’il, mubtadā’ and khabr, and al-ḥāl and ṣāḥib al-ḥāl is observed. This separation caters to aesthetic considerations, purportedly to accommodate new Qur'an readers who might have shortness of breath. Such a purpose points to the marketing-oriented image-building of waqf-ibtidā’, aiming to facilitate ease in finding stopping points. However, this emphasis on convenience often leads to the distortion of meaning, as it interrupts the linguistic coherence, making the text harder to understand. The focus on innovations that enhance marketability highlights a form of commodification that overlooks the traditional use value of the Qur'an. This shift from use value to commercial value underscores a trend among producers of the printed copy of Quran of waqf-ibtidā’ to place the Quran within an industrial context that promotes religion’s presence in the public sphere.
Konstruksi Literasi Keagamaan dalam Tafsir The Study Qur’an
Authors: Al-Ayyuubi Mohammad Salahuddin , Haris Abdul
Published: August 2024

This study investigates how The Study Quran, a commentary led by Seyyed Hossein Nasr, represents religious literacy within the framework of religious and cultural diversity. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research examines this commentary to delineate the concept of religious literacy and illustrates how this concept is manifested in the commentary's interpretation. The findings reveal that "The Study Quran" aims to foster an inclusive discourse by eschewing terminology that could incite sectarian conflict and emphasizing a universal understanding of submission to God. The commentary underscores the significance of interfaith dialogue and diversity while deliberately avoiding extremist interpretations, instead advocating for moderation and justice across various religions. By utilizing a thorough hermeneutical approach and offering a comprehensive understanding of the Quranic teachings, "The Study Quran" emerges as a crucial instrument in promoting peaceful coexistence and mitigating religiously motivated conflicts in multicultural contexts.
INTEGRATED COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP IN PROMOTING TOURISM VILLAGES IN PUJON KIDUL, INDONESIA
Authors: Adi Pradana Mahatva Yoga , Asrul  , Muhammad Mansur  , Hanan Asrowy
Published: August 2024

This qualitative research aims to learn about the political and institutional model of village heads in East Java in building networks in their villages. The theory developed in understanding political networks was carried out by McCaffrey and Salerno (2011), where the special interests of political entrepreneurs dominate a pattern of political entrepreneurship, incentives from the system built, and awareness about changing political institutions. In addition to the theory development carried out by Wawan Sobari (2019), political entrepreneurship requires leadership based on Javanese cultural values ​​and religious practices. This study found a middle ground regarding the existence of political partnerships by village youth to build village political institutions. In addition, this study also found a critical community culture that was formed within the village head network. Interconnection patterns of various stakeholders form a political network capable of creating a solid image for the local village leadership model. In this paper, the authors try to expand the study of entrepreneurial politics, where networks are needed to support leadership behaviour.
IDEALISM, PRAGMATISM, OPPORTUNISM: Explaining Islamist Movements in Contemporary Indonesia
Authors: Permata Ahmad Norma
Published: August 2024

Since democratization, Islamists in Indonesia have had a surprisingly significant influence. While scholars once believed that Islamist movements were marginal and losing influence, the mass mobilizations of December 2016 and Islamists’ centrality to the 2019 Presidential election has forced scholars to reconsider the power and place of Islamism in Indonesia. However, existing studies seemed constrained by the uncritical assumption of Islamism as an ideology directly influencing behaviors. This article suggests that one way to move the literature forward is to take Islamism as a mental model, which helps to distinguish it from Islam as a religion clinically and to understand the structure of Islamist behaviors better. This article finds three patterns of behavior among contemporary Islamist movements, i.e., vigilante idealism of FPI, multivocal pragmatism of PKS, and complacence opportunism of PBB, which are better explained by differences in their mental models rather than their religious interpretations or their commitments to Islamist agenda
Decolonizing Javanese-Islamic Identity in the Discourses of Contemporary Indonesian Islamic Studies
Authors: Mushthafa M. Mushthafa
Published: August 2024

This article discusses the phenomenon of decolonization of Islamic studies as a continuation of postcolonial critical projects that are widespread in various areas of study. In particular, this paper wants to answer two main questions: (1) the background and foundations of decolonization of Islamic studies and (2) its struggle in Indonesian Islamic discourse by focusing on the issue of Javanese-Islamic identity. By analyzing relevant data, this paper concludes that decolonization was motivated by scientists’ anxiety over the impact of colonialism in the academic-scientific area, which formed an oppressive cultural construction. Decolonization seeks to go beyond the postcolonial project, which, at a certain point, is still shadowed by the ideas of Western figures. The epistemological basis of decolonization is a critical approach in the study of religion in general, and it also involves political factors of knowledge in one of its dimensions. In Javanese-Islamic identity, decolonization emphasizes the close intertwining between Javaneseness and Islam, which tend to be separated in colonial studies.
KONSEP NAFS DALAM PERSPEKTIF IBNU SINA: PEMBUKTIAN LOGIS TERHADAP KEBERADAAN JIWA
Authors: Ihsan Nur Hadi , Silmi Nadaa Afifah , Indallah Sayyid Muhammad
Published: August 2024

The soul or nafs is a metaphysical study that is very important to study in knowing human nature. Because, from this concept, an understanding or worldview of the human concept will be formed. The West understands the soul as an entity that is united with the body, or even only views humans from one aspect, namely the body. So this understanding will lead to misunderstandings about human psychology and the main purpose of human creation, namely worshiping God. This manuscript aims to explain the concept of the soul in Ibn Sina's view. The author uses the descriptive analysis method to explain Ibn Sina's concept of the soul. The results of this study produce several important points. First, Ibn Sina's explanation of the soul is very comprehensive, in which he puts the soul as a substance that makes the body move or live. Second, the nafs is an independent substance, it is not accidental or 'ard and not the body itself. Hence, it does not have the form of a body. Third, the eternal nafs, when the body can change or perish, because it is an emanation or emanation from God's Essence.
Keyword: Ibn Sina; Human Nature; Soul; Body
Jiwa atau nafs merupakan kajian metafisis yang sangat penting untuk ditela’ah dalam mengetahui hakikat manusia. Karena, dari konsep inilah akan terbentuk pemahaman atau worldview terhadap konsep manusia. Barat memahami jiwa sebagai suatu entitas yang menyatu dengan jasad, atau bahkan hanya memandang manusia dari satu aspek yaitu jasad. Sehingga dari pemahaman tersebut, akan menimbulkan kesalahpahaman tentang psikologi manusia dan tujuan utama penciptaan manusia yaitu beribadah kepada Allah. Naskah ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan konsep jiwa dalam pandangan Ibnu Sina. Penulis menggunakan metode deskriptif analisis untuk menjelaskan konsep Ibnu Sina tentang jiwa. Hasil dari kajian ini, menghasilkan beberapa poin penting, Pertama, penjelasan Ibnu Sina tentang jiwa sangat komperhensif, di mana ia meletakkan jiwa sebagai suatu substansi yang menjadikan badan bisa bergerak atau hidup. Kedua, bahwa nafs adalah substansi yang berdiri sendiri, ia bukan aksiden atau ‘ard dan bukan jasad itu sendiri. Makanya, ia tidak memiliki bentuk sebagaimana jasad. Ketiga, nafs yang bersifat kekal, saat jasad dapat berubah ataupun musnah, karena ia sebagai pancaran atau emanasi dari Zat Tuhan.
Kata kunci: Ibnu Sina; Hakikat Manusia; Jiwa; Jasad
Application of Mobile Technology for Stock Management in Academic Libraries
Authors: Tripathi Sneha , Ansari Mohd Shoaib
Published: August 2024

This paper discusses the role of mobile applications in enhancing library-related tasks. Mobile technology emerges as a valuable resource for saving time and effort. The study demonstrates how mobile applications can simplify tasks like stock-taking and generating other collection-related statistics within a library. The paper takes a distinctive approach by recording book usage statistics and monitoring staff activities, specifically the re-shelving of books. This method carries significant implications for collection development and the efficient management of library staff. It underscores the potential of mobile technology to enhance library services’ economic and sustainable operation. Notably, the library’s stack area frequently experiences congestion, poor internet connectivity, and insufficient infrastructure for routine operations. Some setbacks, such as inadequate lighting in the stack area, were identified as factors affecting the app’s performance.
Comparative Study of Emotional Correlations Academic Information Seeking Behaviour and Library Services in Special Schools in Karnataka India
Authors: Kori Dayanandappa , Mulla K. R.
Published: August 2024

The study examines a comparative analysis of students’ emotional correlations, academic information-seeking behavior, and library services in special schools in Karnataka, India. The research data was gathered using qualitative and quantitative methods, including in-depth interviews, survey methods, and focus groups conducted among 2054 specially-abled students in Karnataka. The study is confined to visual and hearing-impaired students. Students from both groups demonstrated high emotional similarity (strong positive correlation, r= .928). However, hearing-impaired students exhibited stronger information-seeking behavior (significant t-value, 3.145). While libraries offered similar service types to both groups (t-value, 1.145), visually impaired students had better access to assistive technology (significant t-value, 5.678), highlighting a resource disparity and suggesting libraries require strategies tailored to student needs.
Pengaruh Asam dan High Energy Milling serta Karakterisasi Zeolit Alam Termodifikasi Mn
Authors: Anghistra Pradipta Ditya , Pardoyo Pardoyo , Subagio Agus
Published: August 2024

Telah dilakukan penelitian pengaruh zeolit alam dengan perlakuan asam dan high enrgy milling serta mengetahui karakter dari zeolit alam termodifikasi Mn. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memperoleh zeolit alam termodifikasi Mn dan mengetahui karakter akibat perlakuan asam dan high energy milling. Zeolit yang lolos ukuran 230 mesh dibagi menjadi dua bagian, pertama diberi perlakuan milling sedangkan yang kedua tanpa perlakuan milling. Kedua zeolit diaktivasi dengan HF 1% dan HCl 6M, selanjutnya ditambahkan MnCl2.4H2O 0,5M. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya Mn pada kedua kerangka zeolit. Karakterisasi dengan FT-IR mengindikasikan terjadi dealuminasi ditandai dengan pergeseran bilangan gelombang dari 1049,78 cm-1 menjadi 1095,57 cm-1 dan 1080,14 cm-1 pada masing-masing zeolit dengan perlakuan  milling dan  tanpa milling. Analisis SEM diperoleh morfologi permukaan zeolit berbentuk bulat tak beraturan. Data SAA diketahui luas permukaan, volume pori dan diameter pori zeolit dengan perlakuan milling adalah 80,043 m2/g, 0,165 cc/g, dan 2,882 nm sedangkan zeolit tanpa perlakuan milling berturut-turut 141,946 m2/g, 0,170 cc/g, dan 2,693 nm.
Adsorpsi Ion Cr (III) Menggunakan Zeolit Alam Termodifikasi Dietanolamin
Authors: Isharyanti Isharyanti , Sriatun Sriatun , Azmiyawati Choiril
Published: August 2024

Krom merupakan salah satu logam berat berbahaya yang bersifat polutan di lingkungan perairan sehingga keberadaannya harus ditangani dengan baik. Salah satu metode yang dapat digunakan untuk mengatasi polutan tersebut adalah adsorpsi menggunakan zeolit. Zeolit memiliki permukaan bermuatan negatif dalam struktur kristalnya membuat zeolit mampu mengikat kation. Untuk menambah kekuatan pengikatan ditambahkan Dietanolamin (DEA) sebagai agen pengompleks. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah memperoleh zeolit termodifikasi Dietanolamin (DEA) (5, 10 dan 15% v/v) dan menentukan kemampuan adsorpsi zeolit termodifikasi DEA terhadap ion Cr (III) pada variasi pH (2, 3, 4, 6, dan 6) dan konsentrasi ion Cr (III) (750, 1000, 1500, 2000, dan 2500). Hasil karakterisasi dengan FTIR menunjukkan serapan pada bilangan gelombang 1303,88 dan 1381,03 cm-1 yang merupakan vibrasi ulur –CN, serta 1543,05 cm-1 yang merupakan vibrasi tekuk –NH. Kemampuan adsorpsi terhadap ion krom (III) terbaik sebesar 50,73 mg/g oleh adsorben Zeolit DEA 10% pada pH = 5 dan konsentrasi ion Cr (III) 1000 ppm.