bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time to Reconsidering the Potential Role of Leech Salivary Proteins in Medicine: Type-II Kounis Syndrome Triggered by Leech Bite
Authors: Taş Sedat , Yıldız Bekir Serhat , Ersin Alihan , Taş Ümmü
Published: December 2024

Kounis syndrome also known as allergic myocardial infarction, represents the simultaneous occurrence of acute coronary syndromes with allergic or hypersensitivity reactions. We present a case of a 58-years-old male who developed anaphylaxis following a leech bite, leading to myocardial infarction despite the absence of prior allergic history. He was entubated and cardiopulmonary resusciation had been performed for 10 minutes. The patient was successfully resuscitated and Intravenous antihistamine, prednisolone and adrenaline were given. The patient was stabilized and transferred to the intensive care unit and coronary angiography was performed, which revealed a 90% stenosis in the circumflex coronary artery. A stent was successfully implanted in the affected artery. This report emphasizes the complexity of diagnosing and managing Type-II Kounis syndrome and highlights the need for increased clinical awareness.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10565
How to cite this: Tas S, Yildiz BS, Ersin A, Tas U. Time to Reconsidering the Potential Role of Leech Salivary Proteins in Medicine: Type-II Kounis Syndrome Triggered by Leech Bite. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):341-343. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10565
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Survival after venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute high-risk Pulmonary Embolism: A meta-analysis of comparative studies
Authors: Yang Xiaoying , Xiang Min , Wu Lifang , He Meng , Zhu Hongyan
Published: December 2024

Objective: The survival benefit of venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for the management of acute high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) remains unclear. This meta-analysis combines data from comparative studies to assess the risk of mortality after ECMO vs standard care in the management of acute high-risk PE.
Methods: Databases of PubMed, CENTRAL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase were searched from 01st January 2000 to 24th March 2023 for comparative studies with at least 10 patients/group comparing ECMO vs standard treatment. PRISMA guidelines were followed for this review. We extracted mortality data and combined it to obtain the outcome as risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) in a random-effects model.
Results: Ten studies were included. Meta-analysis showed that the risk of early mortality was not significantly different between ECMO and non-ECMO groups (RR: 0.97 95% CI: 0.78, 1.19 I2=73%). No change in significance was noted on subgroup analysis based on study location, sample size, cardiac arrest, systemic thrombolysis, and surgical embolectomy.
Conclusion: Limited evidence derived from mostly retrospective studies riddled with selection bias suggests that ECMO may not offer additional survival benefits in high-risk PE.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10568
How to cite this: Yang X, Xiang M, Wu L, He M, Zhu H. Survival after Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute high-risk Pulmonary Embolism: A meta-analysis of comparative studies. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):312-317. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10568
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Galopem przez wieki
Authors: Sarkowicz Dominika , Sieklucka Marzena , Banach-Kielanowska Gabriela , Zwinczak Joanna , Kędziora Justyna , Klisińska-Kopacz Anna , Kopyciak Aldona , Krupska-Wolas Paulina , Skóra Karolina , Ryguła Anna , Obarzanowski Michał , Wilkosz Tomasz , Tańcula Stanisław , Feluś Beata , Gąsecka Gaja , Matosz Marta
Published: December 2024

Obraz "Czwórka" Józefa Chełmońskiego (1881, olej, płótno, wym. 286 × 680 cm), prezentowany na stałe w Galerii Sztuki Polskiej XIX wieku w Sukiennicach, oddziale Muzeum Narodowego w Krakowie, należy do najbardziej rozpoznawalnych, wręcz ikonicznych dzieł polskiego dziedzictwa kulturowego. W związku z wystawą monograficzną artysty, planowaną na lata 2024–2025 w trzech muzeach narodowych, w 2020 roku podjęto jego konserwację. Pracom towarzyszyły analizy techniki wykonania obiektu będące częścią projektu wystawienniczo-badawczego finansowanego przez Ministerstwo Kultury i Dziedzictwa Narodowego. Obraz, pomimo dobrego stanu technicznego, wymagał przede wszystkim zabiegu oczyszczania lica. Było to konieczne dla przywrócenia walorów artystycznych dalece zaburzonych przez nawarstwione na nim pożółkłe i pociemniałe werniksy, zabrudzenia oraz przebarwione retusze. Dzięki długotrwałym pracom, monumentalna i niezwykle dynamiczna kompozycja odzyskała swe wartości plastyczne. Przeprowadzone gruntowne badania pozwoliły na rozpoznanie budowy technicznej i technologii wykonania, zastosowanej palety, sposobu opracowania malarskiego i materiałów użytych przez artystę. Obrazowanie w różnych zakresach promieniowania połączone z analizą wizualną oraz mikroskopową próbek ujawniło kolejne etapy procesu twórczego, w tym zmian kompozycyjnych, a także ewolucję koncepcji kolorystyki dzieła. W artykule opisano proces konserwacji i stan obiektu przed jej rozpoczęciem. Istotną jego częścią jest historia obrazu począwszy od powstania, zakupu do muzeum, poprzez losy wojenne, aż po czas obecny, z uwzględnieniem udokumentowanych wcześniejszych konserwacji. Publikowane są niezwykle ciekawe wyniki badań ukazujące sztandarowe dzieło Józefa Chełmońskiego w nowym świetle.
Naukowiec z pasją i nauczyciel z powołania – jezuita Józef Sas (1868–1931)
Authors: Topij-Stempińska Beata
Published: December 2024

Ukończone szkoły, odbyte studia często mają wpływ na dalsze wybory życiowe. Niejednokrotnie wpływały one na status materialny oraz pozycję społeczną człowieka. Na przełomie XIX i XX wieku edukacja oraz zdobyte w trakcie jej trwania kwalifikacje dawały szansę na poprawę sytuacji życiowej. Biografie osób pozwalają poznać nie tylko życie danej jednostki, ale także epokę, w której ona żyła, oraz zrozumieć losy ówczesnych ludzi.
Celem artykułu jest poznanie biografii jezuity Józefa Sasa, który był naukowcem i nauczycielem. Dzieje jego życia mogą być przykładem życia jemu podobnych; mogą jednocześnie stanowić podstawę do stworzenia biografii zbiorowej, np. grupy zawodowej danego okresu historycznego. W kreśleniu postaci Sasa oraz jego drogi życiowej i zawodowej wykorzystane zostały badania biograficzne oraz metoda analizy dokumentów, m.in. tzw. egodokumentów. Podstawowym materiałem źródłowym były: dokumenty przechowywane w Archiwum Towarzystwa Jezusowego w Krakowie, opracowania oraz powstałe wcześniej biogramy ze specjalistycznych słowników. Przybliżenie drogi życiowej i wyborów edukacyjnych Józefa Sasa pozwala na zrozumienie jego osobistej historii. Poprzez pryzmat tej postaci możliwe jest także poznanie jednostkowych losów osób jemu podobnych.
Uw Determinants of Trips to Art Galleries and Museums Organized by Early School Education Teachers
Authors: Piwowarska Ewa , Warzocha Anna , Ordon-Mizera Urszula
Published: December 2024

Questions about the quality of education for pupils who live in a world dominated by digital media in the post-pandemic era inevitably trigger the urgent need for organized reactivation of aesthetic education. In the most general sense, aesthetic education covers all activities and experiences related not only to the interpretation of cultural texts that stimulate harmonious experiences, but also to nurturing children’s active engagement with art.
Given the role of pupils’ direct interaction with works of art, alongside their own expressive and creative activities in developing their sense of aesthetics, this article underscores the importance of trips to art galleries and museums organized by early school education teachers during non-pandemic periods, as well as the difficulties faced in this area during the pandemic (e.g., sanitary restrictions).
The research sought to identify the factors influencing the planning and organization of trips to museums and art galleries by early school education teachers. The article presents findings on the frequency, necessity, and conditions of pupils’ encounters with art in cultural institutions, as organized by early school educators.
Znaczenie nauczycielskich słów w rozwijaniu poczucia własnej wartości uczniów. Oceny opisowe zachowania uczniów w edukacji wczesnoszkolnej
Authors: Karapuda Julia
Published: December 2024

Słowa są szczególnym narzędziem w pracy nauczyciela, a ocena opisowa zachowania, która jest zamieszczana na świadectwie szkolnym ucznia, to ważny element oddziaływań wspierających rozwój poczucia własnej wartości dzieci. Celem artykułu jest zaprezentowanie wyników badania jakościowego dotyczącego nauczycielskich praktyk zmierzających do rozwijania poczucia własnej wartości u uczniów, stosowanych przy formułowaniu ocen opisowych zachowania na świadectwach szkolnych ze szczególnym zwróceniem uwagi na te, które mogą utrudniać rozwijanie poczucia własnej wartości u dzieci. Badanie przeprowadzono metodą analizy dokumentów. Autorka poddała analizie 300 arkuszy świadectw szkolnych uczniów pierwszego etapu edukacyjnego z roku szkolnego 2022/2023 w zakresie zawartych w nich opisowych ocen zachowania. W niniejszym artykule zostały omówione nie tylko wyniki przeprowadzonych badań, ale również przedstawiono wnioski wynikające z analizy materiału badawczego oraz rekomendacje, które mogą stanowić inspirację do refleksji zarówno dla nauczycieli, jak i dla badaczy interesujących się ocenianiem zachowania uczniów.
Poziom kompetencji fonologicznej u dzieci z przedszkoli tradycyjnych oraz przedszkoli Montessori
Authors: Utrata Magda
Published: December 2024

Wrażliwość fonetyczna jest istotnym elementem kompetencji ogólnych, które warunkują efektywne nabywanie różnorodnych umiejętności oraz stanowi podstawę dla kształtowania kompetencji fonologicznej danego języka. U dzieci wraz z wiekem obserwuje się wzrost umiejętności prawidłowego spostrzegania cząstek fonologicznych. Dzięki dobrze rozwiniętemu słuchowi fonemowemu dziecko jest w stanie rozumieć wyrazy, wyróżniać sylaby i głoski z ciągu fonicznego, co stanowi bazę do nabywania umiejętności czytania oraz pisania. Dlatego ważne jest zbadanie rozwoju kompetencji fonologicznych u dzieci uczęszczających do przedszkoli Montessori oraz przedszkoli tradycyjnych, aby sprawdzić, czy występują istotne różnice w rozwoju analizy i syntezy wyrazowej w obu grupach.
Celem badań było porównanie kompetencji fonologicznych, szczególnie analizy i syntezy głoskowej oraz sylabowej, u dzieci uczęszczających do przedszkoli tradycyjnych oraz przedszkoli Montessori. W badaniach wykorzystano test analizy i syntezy słuchowej wyrazów Ireny Styczek.
Badania przeprowadzone wśród dzieci z przedszkoli tradycyjnych oraz przedszkoli Montessori w trzech grupach wiekowych wykazały statystycznie istotne różnice w pięciu badanych zakresach: wyróżnianie spółgłoski w wygłosie, identyfikowanie samogłoski w nagłosie, wyróżnianie samogłoski w wygłosie, analizie głoskowej oraz syntezie głoskowej. Wyniki badań wykazały osiąganie lepszych rezultatów w każdej grupie wiekowej przez dzieci z przedszkoli Montessori. Wskazuje to na istotną rolę w budowaniu kompetencji fonologicznej, w szczególności dotyczącej analizy i syntezy słuchowej, materiałów rozwojowych Montessori oraz określonych ćwiczeń.
La protección del medioambiente como fin propio del Derecho del Trabajo.
Authors: Vigo Serralvo Francisco
Published: December 2024

Tratamos la posibilidad de que la protección del ecosistema natural sea
asumida como una finalidad propia por el Derecho del Trabajo. Para
afrontar esta inquisición introducimos un amplio apartado preliminar sobre
el significado dogmático de las disciplinas jurídicas, de su objeto y de sus
fines. Ahí concluimos que los fines de una disciplina jurídica, aunque son
materia de apreciación y discusión doctrinal, dependen enteramente de la
voluntad legislativa. Desde esta premisa, nada se opone a que el Derecho
del Trabajo acoja como objetivo la salvaguarda del medio ambiente. Esta
posibilidad, sin embargo, nos arroja ante un paradigma muy sugerente:
Un Derecho del Trabajo orientado a la satisfacción de intereses cívicos
y generales que trascienden los intereses corporativos implicados –y
normalmente enfrentados– en las relaciones laborales. Si bien los fines
de una disciplina jurídica son libres para el legislador, la configuración de
dicha disciplina sí queda subordinada a la consecución de tales fines: De ese
modo, para terminar, concluimos que la asunción del ecologismo como un
fin propio del Derecho del Trabajo requeriría la remodelación de algunas de
sus instituciones, especialmente las que articulan el conflicto obrero, para
acompañarlas de cauces que habiliten la coparticipación de empresarios y
trabajadores en la orientación del proceso productivo.
La discriminación salarial indirecta y el concepto de retribución: reflexiones sobre la STJUE C-314/23.
Authors: Pascual Guzmán Mayra Alejandra
Published: December 2024

La reciente sentencia del TJUE en el caso C-314/23 de Air Nostrum aborda
temas fundamentales sobre discriminación salarial indirecta y el concepto
de retribución según la Directiva 2006/54/CE. En esta decisión el Tribunal
amplía la noción de retribución, incluyendo dietas y reforzando la protección
contra la discriminación salarial. No obstante, al limitar la prohibición
de discriminación a trabajos de igual valor, surgen retos en sectores con
segregación de género. El fallo revela la compleja relación entre negociación
colectiva e igualdad de género, evidenciando la necesidad de mejorar los
métodos de evaluación laboral. Aunque esclarece ciertos puntos, cuestiona
la efectividad del marco jurídico actual frente a la discriminación salarial
estructural. Esta decisión destaca la urgencia en trazar estrategias para
enfrentar la desigualdad de género en el trabajo, con el propósito de
alcanzar una igualdad real que trascienda la mera prohibición formal de
discriminación. Finalmente, el caso invita a reflexionar sobre el papel del
derecho en la promoción de un mercado laboral equitativo.
Contrasting views over funding for new National Youth Strategy
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: December 2024

Leaders from two major youth organisations have different interpretations on whether funding for the proposed National Youth Strategy will be sufficient to offset losses from the YIF and NCS schemes ending
Rejuvenating ‘childcare deserts’
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: December 2024

Three experts outline ways to boost supply of early years places in areas with poor access to childcare
Young offender institutions
Authors: Stephenson Jo
Published: December 2024

Young offender institutions are failing vulnerable young people in custody according to two recent reports. Jo Stephenson looks at the findings and recommendations for improvement
Solving our costly care commissioning mistake
Authors: Selwyn Richard
Published: December 2024

Reforms to the care commissioning and procurement system have failed and now need a major overhaul, says Richard Selwyn, service director children's commissioning at Somerset Council
What Does AI Mean for Engineers?
Authors: Excell Jon
Published: December 2024

Powerful enabling technology or existential threat to jobs? The Engineer asked a panel of experts what the ongoing and rapid rise of AI might mean for engineering and engineers.
EDUCAÇÃO DA POPULAÇÃO NEGRA NO BRASIL: INTERDIÇÕES, RESISTÊNCIAS E AÇÕES AFIRMATIVAS
Authors: Pereira de Oliveira Jaqueline
Published: December 2024

O artigo em questão tem por objetivo refletir sobre as condições de acesso da população negra à escola pública no Brasil a partir da constituição de 1824. Por meio da pesquisa bibliográfica e da análise de conteúdo da legislação educacional, serão abordadas as interdições formais e as condições que impossibilitaram ou dificultaram que o referido grupo pudesse ter acesso ao ensino formal público. Os resultados apontam que as desigualdades educacionais com recorte racial no Brasil podem ser explicadas por questões estruturais que passam por interdições e ingerências promovidas pelo Estado Brasileiro, ressaltam as mobilizações da população negra para ter acesso ao letramento e destacam a importância da implementação das ações afirmativas no Brasil.
“SE A COISA TÁ PRETA, A COISA TÁ BOA”: DESAFIOS E POSSIBILIDADES DO ENSINO DE HISTÓRIA NO PROCESSO DE CONSTRUÇÃO E RECONHECIMENTO DAS IDENTIDADES DOS ESTUDANTES NEGROS
Authors: Lúcia Luiz Miriã , Terra Marcelino Brunna
Published: December 2024

A pesquisa analisa a relevância do ensino de História no processo de construção e reconhecimento das identidades dos estudantes negros. Privilegia como aporte teórico as contribuições de Marc Bloch, Maria Auxiliadora Moreira dos Santos Schmidt e Marlene Cainelli, bem como, de Circe Bittencourt no que tange à História e ao ensino de História. Para discutir a história dos africanos e afro-brasileiros ensinadas nas escolas, baseia-se em Kabengele Munanga, Frantz Fanon, Anderson Ribeiro Oliva e Rosângela Janja Costa Araújo. Metodologicamente, ancora-se em teorizações de Bloch e incluiu a aplicação de um questionário semiestruturado a 39 estudantes do Ensino Médio de uma escola estadual em Vitória (ES). As respostas revelaram que a história dos africanos e afro-brasileiros foi, em grande parte, ensinada de maneira negativa. Como estratégia pedagógica para apresentar outras perspectivas sobre essas histórias, sugere-se a utilização do Patrimônio Cultural, visando ao reconhecimento positivo das populações negras no Brasil.
Threat of extinction of Macrobrachium esculentum in the Serayu River (Central Java, Indonesia) confirmed by DNA barcoding
Authors: KUSUMA BARUNA , PRAYITNO SLAMET BUDI , SABDANINGSIH ANINDITIA , SOEDIBYA PETRUS HARY TJAHJA , SAPUTRA SURADI W.
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Kusuma B, Prayitno SB, Sabdaningsih A, Soedibya PHT, Saputra SW. 2024. Threat of extinction of Macrobrachium esculentum in the Serayu River (Central Java, Indonesia) confirmed by DNA barcoding. Biodiversitas 25: 3531-3539. Sweet river prawn (Macrobrachium esculentum Thallwitz 1891 is one of the amphidromous shrimp. Serayu River is one of the habitats of this shrimp. Information about the M. esculentum in the Serayu River, is still minimal, so this research is essential. The Serayu Weir affects the population of Macrobrachium esculentum, which impacts the balance of the Serayu River ecosystem. This study aims to determine the condition of the M. esculentum population in the lower reaches of the Serayu River in order to maintain its sustainability and avoid the threat of extinction. This research was conducted for one year (January-December 2023). The method used was the descriptive method. We collected M. esculentum catches both upstream and downstream of the weir for one year to determine the presence of shrimp as a result of the Serayu Weir. The catch data was compared with the catch data from previous research. M. esculentum has morphological characteristics with a blackish-gray pattern with stripes along its abdomen and has an upper rostrum of 11-14 teeth and 2-4 on the lower rostrum. M. esculentum in the Serayu River has an mtDNA fragment of 686 bp and shows the same species as M. esculentum in GenBank. A total of 65 M. esculentum were collected. This shrimp was not found above the weir (Station 1) but only at station 2 (below the weir) due to the presence of weir. The results showed the importance of constructing migration routes for aquatic biota in the Serayu Weir. Further research is also needed, especially related to the reproductive system of M. esculentum.
Mediating effect of periodontal health on the relationship between mental health and oral health-related quality of life in adults aged 40 years or older
Authors: Kim So-Hee , Bae Sung-Suk , Kang Min-Kyung , Jeong Na-Rae , Lee Mi-Ra
Published: December 2024

Objectives: In this study, we investigated the mediating effect of periodontal health on the relationship between mental health and oral health-related quality of life in adults aged 40 years or older. Methods: This study was conducted from June 3 to July 24, 2024. We analyzed the data of 339 adults aged 40 years or older statistically. Multiple regression analysis was conducted according to a three-step procedure to determine the mediating effect of periodontal health on the influence of mental health on oral health-related quality of life. Results: In Model I, depression had a statistically significant effect on periodontal health. In Model II, depression and cognitive function were statistically significant factors in the OHIP-14 scores. In Model III, periodontal health was a statistically significant factor in the OHIP-14 scores. In addition, periodontal health had a complete mediating effect on the relationship between depression and OHIP-14 scores. Conclusions: Depression and periodontal health are directly or indirectly related to the quality of life of adults aged 40 years and older. Therefore, ways to improve the mental and oral health of adults should be identified, in order to improve their quality of life after middle age.
The necessity for infection control dental hygienist system in Korea: focus group interviews
Authors: Kim Eun-Sol , Han Gyeong-Soon
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the need for dedicated staff to improve the level of dental infection control in blind spots and to propose an appropriate dental infection control specialists system. Methods: This qualitative study used focus group interviews to explore and explain the need for dental infection control specialists based on the dental hygienists’ experiences with dental infection control. The participants were clinical dental hygienists with ≥ 7 years of experience in medical institution accreditation evaluation as infection control managers in dental clinics at universities and university dental hospitals. Results: This results were divided into five themes; ‘weaknesses in the level of dental infection control’, ‘characteristics of dental treatments with high risk of infection’, ‘dental clinics are blind spot in infection control’, ‘need for a dental infection control specialists’, and ‘the appropriateness of infection control dental hygienists system’. Conclusions: To improve dental infection control, it is necessary to establish a system appropriate for the size and conditions of the institution, provide guidelines, and operate an infection control dental hygienists system.
The impact of dental hygienists’ ethical awareness on job values and job satisfaction
Authors: Yoon Hyo-Ju , Lee Yu-Hee
Published: December 2024

Objectives: To determine the impact of ethical perceptions on work values ​​and job satisfaction in dental hygienists working in dental clinics. Methods: This study collected 201 self-administered questionnaires from dental hygienists engaged in clinical practice from March 6, 2024, to May 31, 2024. Analysis was performed using the SPSS statistical analysis program. Results: Our analysis revealed a positive correlation between the ethical perceptions of dental hygienists, job satisfaction, and work value (r=0.530, r=0.457, p<0.001). Intrinsic value, a sub-area of ​​job satisfaction and work value, significantly affected the ethical perceptions of dental hygienists (adj. R2=0.389, p<0.001). Conclusions: Ethical perceptions are a major variable that affect work value ​​and job satisfaction. Therefore, ethical perceptions should be established through systematic education.
Nostalgia, homesickness, and migration: A qualitative study into Polish migrant experience
Authors: Garro Valentina
Published: December 2024

This study seeks to examine the relationship between nostalgia, homesickness, and the transnational interests of Polish migrants in the UK. This study observes several relationships between these experiences in Polish migrants, most notably how feelings of homesickness and nostalgia are linked to transnational interests. Qualitative research in the form of in-depth interviews with 10 Polish migrants living in London and Stoke-on-Trent, acquired mostly through snowball sampling, were conducted to capture the nuances of migrant experiences. This study also suggests areas for further research in migration studies, in particular the effect of migration circumstances on homesickness and nostalgia.
Challenges to building social cohesion in conflict-laden areas: The A’zaz case in the northwest of Syria (2016–2022)
Authors: Garebo Omar
Published: December 2024

The primary focus of this article is to critically evaluate the feasibility of fostering social cohesion in northwest Syria. This exploration hinges on the nuanced perspectives of local authorities, residents, and civil society organizations (CSOs) actively operating within the region. To comprehensively understand this dynamic, a structured approach was employed, including conducting 25 Key Informant Interviews (KII), organizing three focus group discussions with a total of 30 participants representing the broader community base, and launching a public survey that garnered insights from 516 respondents across diverse community sectors following up with the post-data collection, the research utilized advanced Excel methodologies to rigorously analyze the findings, thereby probing the stated hypotheses. The analytical journey unearthed a myriad of challenges and roadblocks impeding the attainment of social cohesion. The survey underscored an imperative: the need for capacity-building across all regional actors. It also highlighted certain critical areas requiring immediate intervention and overhaul, notably the economic and security sectors.
Total variational noise reduction method for EBAPS image based on weighted nuclear norm minimization
Authors: Liu Xuan , Li Ruiqiang , Jin Weiqi , Li Li , Yan Lei , Lei Shiwei
Published: December 2024

The electron-bombarded active pixel sensor (EBAPS) is a highly sensitive vacuum-solid hybrid low-light imaging device capable of functioning in ultra-low illumination environments as low as 10-4 lx. However, this high sensitivity also causes problems, such as a low signal-to-noise ratio and complex noise. To enhance the quality of low-light night vision images captured by EBAPS and achieve effective imaging in ultra-low illumination, this study proposes a noise reduction algorithm based on the noise characteristics of EBAPS images. By utilizing the weighted nuclear norm minimization (WNNM) as the fundamental framework, several enhanced methods to address the multi-source noise of the EBAPS under ultra-low illumination have been proposed. These methods include outlier removal and variance-stabilizing transformation. To address the lack of edge preservation, a four-directional total variational regularization term has been incorporated into the WNNM model to maintain the image edge. Experimental results demonstrated that the improved method effectively eliminates various types of EBAPS noise while considerably returning the edges, ultimately enhancing the quality of low-light images. This study greatly facilitates subsequent applications of the low-light night vision technology.
Optimizing laser-induced deep etching technique for micromachining of NXT glass
Authors: Bang Seunghyun , Asghar Ghulam , Hwang Juil , Lee Ki Sang , Jung Woohyun , Mishchik Konstantin , Kim Hyungsik , Lee Kwang-Geol
Published: December 2024

Recent advancements in display technology have led to the development and diversification of complex glass materials. Among them, Corning's Lotus NXT glass offers excellent optical properties, high thermal stability, and dimensional accuracy, which are crucial for display applications. However, these characteristics make it difficult to apply pre-existing machining techniques developed for conventional glass materials directly to NXT glass. In this study, we used the laser-induced deep etching (LIDE) technique to fabricate micro holes in NXT glass. Various laser, chemical, and mechanical parameters were subjected to experimental analysis and optimization to achieve higher etching speed and aspect ratio. In this study, successful etching of Corning's Lotus NXT glass was achieved by optimizing laser parameters, including a wavelength of 1030 nm, a pulse energy of 45 µJ, a pulse count of 2 × 104, and a repetition rate of 40 kHz, combined with a chemical composition consisting of a 1:5 molar ratio of HF to HCl. This resulted in a high aspect ratio of ∼23:1 and an impressive etching speed of 1200 µm/h.
Environmental effects on classical and quantum free space optical communication
Authors: Teuma Mbezi Michel , Eke Samuel , Som Idelette Hermine Judith , Mouangue Ruben Martin
Published: December 2024

Quantum internet required the transmission of both quantum key distribution (QKD) through Quantum free space optic (QFSO) channel and an encrypted message through the classical free space optic (CFSO) channel. However, those channels are subjected to environmental parameters. The aim of this work is to study the joint effects of those parameters on CFSO and QFSO through the evaluation of bit error rate (BER) and QKD rate. It comes out that for a given environment roughness under LSO (line of sight) and transmitters distance, the increasing of temperature and wind velocity will not necessary increase the average BER if they are not associate with appropriate fluctuations. The increasing environment roughness and transmitters distance leads to increasing the average BER. Moreover, for a given environment roughness and transmitters distance, there is a range of temperature within which quantum mutual information between Eve and Bob is reduced; which leads to improve QKD Rate.
Widespread inconsistency in logger deployment methods in coral reef studies may bias perceptions of thermal regimes
Authors: Rich Walter A. , Glanz Jess S. , Mele Gage , Burt Nicole J. , Carvalho Susana , Doo Steve S. , Goergen Elizabeth A. , Krieger Erik C. , Li Lena , Osman Eslam O. , Suggett David J. , Johnson Maggie D. , Fox Michael. D.
Published: December 2024

Ocean warming is the greatest threat to coral reefs, prompting a need to accurately monitor in situ temperatures. Advancements in sensing technologies have led to a proliferation of temperature loggers being deployed globally. However, appropriate deployment of loggers–essential for measurement accuracy in an ecosystem where changes of 1ºC can cause widespread mortality–is often overlooked. For example, loggers deployed in direct sunlight are known to overestimate temperature, but the prevalence of shading loggers is unknown. Here, we survey recent literature to assess the current state of temperature logger use on coral reefs. We then performed lab and field trials on 10 models that span a range of prices and accuracies to evaluate logger performance and assess efficacies of shading techniques. Of the 329 studies we reviewed, >40% of studies deployed loggers shallower than 5 m, yet <5% reported shading loggers, revealing the potential for bias in existing datasets. In field tests, solar bias varied significantly across loggers; the most popular model suffered the largest bias of >2.5ºC, while other models were less affected by irradiance. Wrapping loggers in tape reduced temperature bias, but under high irradiance measurement error still exceeded 0.8ºC. Shading loggers under an opaque object completely eliminated solar bias. We demonstrated a strong linear relationship between in situ irradiance and temperature error and quantified irradiance thresholds for which error >0.5°C can be expected. We then modeled the temperature bias expected for the most popular logger model using in situ irradiance data, showing that errors >2ºC can exist across multiple depths. Our findings reveal pervasive underreporting of logger deployment methods in coral reef studies, highlighting the need to consider the possibility of bias when comparing studies or integrating different in situ temperature records. Future studies should strive to transparently describe deployment methods and appropriately shade loggers.
A novel strain of Leishmania braziliensis harbors not a toti- but a bunyavirus
Authors: Kostygov Alexei Yu. , Grybchuk Danyil , Heeren Senne , Gerasimov Evgeny S. , Klocek Donnamae , Reddy Aditya , Sádlová Jovana , Pacáková Lenka , Kohl Alain , Stejskal František , Volf Petr , Dujardin Jean-Claude , Yurchenko Vyacheslav
Published: December 2024

Leishmania is a genus of the family Trypanosomatidae that unites obligatory parasitic flagellates causing a variety of vector-borne diseases collectively called leishmaniasis. The symptoms range from relatively innocuous skin lesions to complete failures of visceral organs. The disease is exacerbated if a parasite harbors Leishmania RNA viruses (LRVs) of the family Pseudototiviridae. Screening a novel isolate of L. braziliensis, we revealed that it possesses not a toti-, but a bunyavirus of the family Leishbuviridae. To the best of our knowledge, this is a very first discovery of a bunyavirus infecting a representative of the Leishmania subgenus Viannia. We suggest that these viruses may serve as potential factors of virulence in American leishmaniasis and encourage researchers to test leishmanial strains for the presence of not only LRVs, but also other RNA viruses.
Anticoagulation-related complications and their outcomes in hemodialysis patients with acute kidney injury at selected hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: Kedir Hanan Muzeyin , Yabeyu Abdella Birhan , Ejigu Addisu Melkie , Tadesse Tamrat Assefa , Sisay Eskinder Ayalew
Published: December 2024

Introduction

During hemodialysis (HD), the presence of clots in the dialyzer can diminish the effective surface area of the device. In severe cases, clot formation in the circuit can halt treatment and lead to blood loss in the system. Thus, ensuring proper anticoagulation during HD is crucial to prevent clotting in the circuit while safeguarding the patient from bleeding risks. This study aimed to evaluate anticoagulation outcomes and related factors in HD patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) at selected hospitals in Ethiopia.

Method

A prospective, multicenter observational study was carried out between October 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022. The study encompassed all AKI patients undergoing HD at least once during the study period. Descriptive statistics were utilized to summarize the data, and multinomial logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated to clotting and bleeding.

Results

Data were gathered from 1010 HD procedures conducted on 175 patients. Extracorporeal circuit clotting was detected in 34 patients during 39 (3.9%) dialysis sessions while bleeding incidents occurred in 27 patients across 29 (2.9%) sessions. A statistically significant association was found between both the total number of HD treatments and blood flow rate with incidents of clotting. Factors such as length of hospitalization, serum creatinine levels at admission, signs and symptoms associated with uremia, along utilization of anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications demonstrated an association with bleeding events.

Conclusion

Clotting affected 19.4% of participants, while bleeding occurred in 15.4%, underscoring the importance of close monitoring. The frequency of HD sessions and blood flow rate are correlated with clotting, while hospitalization duration, serum creatinine levels, uremic symptoms, and anticoagulant use are associated with bleeding events.
Investigating the factors that influence Chinese undergraduate students’ sustained use of open source communities
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Abdul Razak Rafiza , Hajar Halili Siti
Published: December 2024

The progress of open source technology is inseparable from cultivating open source talents in universities. The combination of open source communities and university education can cultivate students’ practical innovation abilities. Currently, we are facing problems such as the shortage of open source talents and the sustained use of open source technologies by open source talents. In addition, there are relatively few studies that explore the influencing factors of open source talents’ sustained use of open source communities, and research in this area plays a key role. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the sustained use of open source communities among Chinese university students. The study used random stratified sampling to survey 803 undergraduate students in Yunnan Province. The influencing factors in innovation diffusion theory and the technology acceptance model were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation model. Positive and significant effects among the seven factors of relative advantage, compatibility, trialability, observability, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and perceived attitude, as well as the two model interrelationships, were demonstrated. In addition, perceived attitude and perceived usefulness have a significant positive impact on students’ sustained intention, and their mediating role is confirmed. In addition, the model is not affected by different students (gender, major, university, grade). This study provides valuable insights into the development of open source talent and the application of open source communities in education.
Morphometric evaluation of the anterior cranial fossa during the prenatal stage in humans and its clinical implications
Authors: Derkowski Wojciech , Kędzia Alicja , Dudek Krzysztof , Glonek Michał
Published: December 2024

The study examines the morphometric development of the anterior cranial fossa in human fetuses and its clinical implications. The anterior cranial fossa, crucial for protecting the frontal lobes, was analyzed during prenatal development using innovative computer image processing techniques. We hypothesized that the growth of the anterior cranial fossa is not uniform throughout fetal development and that changing geometric relationships are important for possible therapeutic interventions in cases of congenital defects. A metrological assessment was conducted on 77 fetuses, aged 10 to 27 weeks of gestation, to investigate developmental patterns, including symmetry, sexual dimorphism, and structural changes relative to other cranial fossae. Key findings revealed a decrease in the anterior cranial fossa angle, compensated by an increase in the middle cranial fossa angle. Symmetry in cranial base development was observed, and sexual dimorphism was evident, with male fetuses showing larger angles and females displaying greater height of the crista galli. These results were discussed in the context of existing anatomical and imaging studies. Clinically, the findings provide insights into the pathomechanism of congenital skull and brain defects, supporting the potential for early diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Our study leads to the conclusion that the growth of the anterior cranial fossa is not uniform; in the first trimester, allometric growth occurs, while at the same time the angle of the anterior cranial fossa decreases and its depth increases towards the middle cranial fossa. In the second trimester, growth continues but becomes more uniform, with only minor changes in the angle of the anterior cranial fossa. There is a gradual decrease in the angle between the smaller wings of the sphenoid bone as the depth of the anterior cranial fossa increases in the frontal plane. Sexual dimorphism is visible in the area of ​​the anterior cranial fossa already in the prenatal period.
Allogenic faecal microbiota transplantation for antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in critically ill patients (FEBATRICE)–Study protocol for a multi-centre randomised controlled trial (phase II)
Authors: Cibulkova Ivana , Rehorova Veronika , Soukupova Hana , Waldauf Petr , Cahova Monika , Manak Jan , Matejovic Martin , Duska Frantisek
Published: December 2024

Background

Exposure of critically ill patients to antibiotics lead to intestinal dysbiosis, which often manifests as antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. Faecal microbiota transplantation restores gut microbiota and may lead to faster resolution of diarrhoea.

Methods

Into this prospective, multi-centre, randomized controlled trial we will enrol 36 critically ill patients with antibiotic-associated diarrhoea. We will exclude patients with ongoing sepsis, need of systemic antibiotics, or those after recent bowel surgery or any other reason that prevents the FMT. Randomisation will be in 1:1 ratio. Patients in the control group will receive standard treatment based on oral diosmectite. In the intervention group, patients will receive, in addition to the standard of care, faecal microbiota transplantation via rectal tube, in the form of a preparation mixed from 7 thawed aliquots (50 mL) made from fresh stool of 7 healthy unrelated donors and quarantined deep frozen for 3 to 12 months. Primary outcome is treatment failure defined as intervention not delivered or diarrhoea persisting at day 7 after randomisation. Secondary outcomes include safety measures such as systemic inflammatory response, adverse events, and also diarrhoea recurrence within 28 days. Exploratory outcomes focus on gut barrier function and composition of intestinal microbiota.

Discussion

Faecal microbiota transplantation has been effective for dysbiosis in non-critically ill patients with recurrent C. difficile infections and it is plausible to hypothesize that it will be equally effective for symptoms of dysbiosis in the critically ill patients. In addition, animal experiments and observational data suggest other benefits such as reduced colonization with multi-drug resistant bacteria and improved gut barrier and immune function. The frozen faeces from unrelated donors are immediately available when needed, unlike those from the relatives, who require lengthy investigation. Using multiple donors maximises graft microbiota diversity. Nonetheless, in vulnerable critically ill patients, Faecal microbiota transplantation might lead to bacterial translocation and unforeseen complications. From growing number of case series it is clear that its off label use in the critically ill patients is increasing and that there is a burning need to objectively assess its efficacy and safety, which this trial aims.

Trial registration

www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05430269).
Modern contraceptive utilization and associated factors among street working reproductive age women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kassa Bekalu Getnet , Demilew Basazinew Chekol , Beyene Fentahun Yenealem , Belay Habtamu Gebrehana
Published: December 2024

Background

Street women are women, who make their living on the streets by begging, sleeping in the streets, or on the sides of roads. They are the most marginalized and neglected segment of society, with little access to health care, including modern contraception, and a lack of knowledge about health services, particularly in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to examine modern contraceptive utilization and associated factors among street women.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on observational community-based studies published from January 2010 up to February 1, 2023. PubMed, Google Scholar, HINAR, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and grey literature were used to search primary studies. We used Microsoft Excel for data entry and extracting data. STATA-17 statistical software was used to analyze the data as well and I2 tests evaluated study heterogeneity. The pooled utilization of the modern contraceptive method was predicted using a random-effect model.

Results

A total of eight studies were included. The pooled prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization was 51.89% (95% CI: 40.89–62.9). Being married (OR = 4.22, 95%CI, 2.75–6.49); facing a history of sexual assault/rape at a street life (OR = 3.59, 95%CI, 2.46–5.23); age between 25–35 years (OR = 3.27, 95%CI, 1.73–6.18), getting advise from the health professionals (OR = 6.23, 95%CI, 1.44–27.07), having a history of pregnancy in street life (OR = 1.90, 95%CI, 1.28–2.81) and no more children wanted (OR = 2.47, 95%CI, 1.52–5.00) were significantly associated with modern contraceptive utilization.

Conclusions

The pooled modern contraceptive utilization was suboptimal. Every concerned body or stakeholder should give more consideration to their lifestyles and living conditions by raising awareness and providing access to contraception.
Socioeconomic and behavioral factors of hypertension among Indian tribal population: Evidence from national family health survey 5
Authors: Vennam Bodhi Sri Vidya , Kuppli Sai Sushma , Kumar Bora Jayanta , Sahoo Soumya Swaroop , Gujjarlapudi Chaitanya , Bhimarasetty Devi Madhavi , Nerusu Ganga Nagamani , Goel Sonu
Published: December 2024

Background

All Indian ethnic groups are experiencing an upsurge in the prevalence of hypertension. The objective of the present study was to explore the association between socioeconomic and behavioral factors of hypertension among the tribal population of India.

Methods

We used the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) round 5 data conducted in 2019–2021. The final sample size was 67263 tribal women and 8441 tribal men aged 15 to 49 years. Chi-square test and the Cochran-Armitage trend test were employed to evaluate the association. Complex samples logistic regression analysis was conducted using clusters and sampling weights. Interstate variation of the prevalence of hypertension by gender was depicted with spatial maps.

Results

The prevalence of hypertension among tribal women and men was 12% and 16·2%, respectively. All the independent variables were included in the multivariate model as all were significant at p<0.25 in bivariate analysis. Among both tribal women and men increasing age and at-risk waist hip ratio had higher likelihood ratios for hypertension. Among women, urban residence, lower education status, wealth status and consumption of alcohol were found to be significant predictors of hypertension. Among men, usage of smokeless tobacco was strongly associated with hypertension.

Conclusion

Our study highlights a higher prevalence of hypertension found in older age, smokeless tobacco users, and abdominal obesity risk among the tribal population. There are interstate variations in the prevalence of hypertension among both men and women. These findings help in identifying the risk factors and geographical locations to be prioritized for hypertension prevention and control and in formulating health action plans focused on the tribal population in India. Appropriate intervention approaches need to be adopted to increase hypertension awareness and control practices, specifically focusing on tribals.