bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sağlık Kuruluşlarında Hasta Güvenliğinin Sağlanması ve Sürdürülmesi
Authors: Yılmaz Ayşegül
Published: October 2023

Sağlık bakım hizmetlerinin sunumu esnasında istenmeyen olayların önlenmesi, raporlanması, analiz edilmesi ve hataların hastalarda yarattığı sorunların ortadan kaldırılması veya azaltılmasına yönelik alınan önlemlerin tamamı hasta güvenliğini kapsamaktadır. Sağlık kuruluşlarında hasta güvenliğinin sağlanması ve sürdürülmesi zor ve uzun bir süreçtir. Uluslararası kuruluş olan Dünya Sağlık Örgütü hasta güvenliğinin sağlanması ve sürdürülmesinde sağlık kuruluşlarına yol gösteren rehberleri düzenli olarak yayınlamaktadır. Aynı zamanda Uluslararası Akretitasyon Kurumu (The Joint Commision) her yıl hasta güvenliği hedeflerini yayınlayarak hasta güvenliğinin sağlanmasında ve sürdürülmesinde sağlık kuruluşlarına rehberlik etmektedir. Türkiye'de Sağlık Bakanlığı hasta güvenliğinin sağlanması ve sürdürülmesi için hasta güvenliği ile ilgili çalışmalar yapmaktadır. Bu kapsamda hasta güvenliği hedeflerini sağlıkta kalite standartları içinde yayınlanmaktadır. Hasta güvenliğinin sağlanmasında ve sürdürülmesinde hastane yöneticileri çok önemli rol ve sorumluluklara sahiptir. Hastane yöneticileri kurumlarında hasta güvenliğinin sağlanması ve sürdürülmesi için bu rehberler ışığında uygulama ve düzenlemeleri yapmalıdırlar. Bu bölümde yer alan bilgilerin, hastanelerde kaliteli, güvenli ve maliyet etkin bir bakım hizmeti sunabilmek için; tıbbi hataların önlenmesi, olumlu bir hasta güvenliği kültürünün oluşturulması dolayısıyla hasta güvenliğinin sağlanmasında hastane ve yönetici hemşirelere yararlı olması amacıyla yazılmıştır.
Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP) As a Candidate Biomarker in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Baygutalp Fatih , Duysak Lale
Published: October 2023

Biomarker research aims to provide better diagnostic and prognostic tools, potentially leading to improved treatments for the condition. Biomarker research in osteoarthritis is a field of study focused on identifying and understanding specific molecules, genes, or other measurable indicators that can help diagnose, predict, and monitor the progression of osteoarthritis. These biomarkers can be found in blood, synovial fluid or urine. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited movement due to the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. There are a significant number of studies investigating possible biomarkers which may be useful in the diagnosis and prognosis of osteoarthritis. These biomarkers are included in the groups of synthesis and degradation of bone/cargilage/synovium, inflammation, metabolic parameters and microRNAs. In this book chapter, we aim to focus the current status of studies about cartilage oligomeric matrix protein, which is an indicator of cartilage degradation. When we evaluate the current literature findings, we can say that cartilage oligomeric matrix protein may be a promosing biomarker for the diagnosis of osteoarthritis, but there is not sufficient data for the role of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein in the prognosis of osteoarthritis.
The Impact of Genetic Mutational Typing of Endometrial Carcinoma for Adjuvant Oncologic Treatment and Treatment Outcome
Authors: Depboylu Bengü
Published: October 2023

The adjuvant treatment of endometrial carcinomas took a different turn when ESGO/ESTRO/ESP announced its prognostic risk group guide in 2020. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network Classification and the Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer (ProMisE) algorithm were integrated into clinical practice. Therefore, by combining genomic traits with molecular subtypes, doctors have enhanced patient care and risk stratification for endometrial cancer. Surgery (hysterectomy and bilateral salphingooopherectomy with or without lymph node dissection) is the primary treatment for early-stage, low-grade, low-risk tumors. Vaginal brachytherapy in an adjuvant setting has secured the treatment success for local control. Intermediate-high-risk cancer patients are scheduled for adjuvant chemoradiation and/or vaginal brachytherapy.
Robotics in Healthcare: A Brief Introduction
Authors: Büyükşirin Bilge
Published: October 2023

In recent years, robotics has emerged as a transformative force in the field of healthcare. As technology continues to advance, robots are playing an increasingly vital role in patient care, diagnosis, surgery, and rehabilitation. This study explores the various applications of robotics in healthcare, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the way we approach medical treatment and improve patient outcomes.
Circumcision Complications
Authors: Mehmetoğlu Feride
Published: October 2023

Circumcision, a common surgical procedure characterized by the excision of the penile foreskin, traditionally integrates cultural, religious, and occasionally, medical contexts, continues to spark extensive discussion and research due to its spectrum of potential complications. Although generally considered safe, the complication rate varies between 2% and 10%. This study explores and categorizes the complications into common issues such as bleeding and infection; less common, yet notably impactful issues like injuries to the glans and urethra; and potential long-term psychological effects. A notable focus is directed toward procedural and post-operative aspects, examining different techniques like the Plastibell, Gomco clamp, and Alisclamp, each presenting varied complications and success rates. Furthermore, the exploration delves into specific cases, exemplifying potential catastrophic results like necrotizing fasciitis and significant urethral damage. Through a lens that balances clinical outcomes with ethical considerations, the discourse further ventures into the psychological and quality-of-life implications for affected individuals and their caregivers. This comprehensive analysis aims not only to highlight the physical and psychological risks associated with circumcision but also to catalyze a continual, multifaceted discussion among healthcare professionals to refine practice protocols, elevate patient safety standards, and examine the ethical contours enveloping non-medical circumcisions in pediatric populations.
Advanced Treatment Techniques in Radiotherapy
Authors: Kavak Ayşe Gülbin
Published: October 2023

Radiotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells or control their growth. The main purpose of radiotherapy is to protect healthy organs while destroying the tumor. Ionization radiations such as x-rays, gamma rays and proton particles are used in radiation therapy. Nowadays, advanced treatment techniques are used when applying radiotherapy to cancer patients. Advanced treatment techniques have been developed to target cancer cells and protect healthy tissues, increase the effectiveness of radiotherapy and minimize side effects. Treatment techniques applied in radiotherapy largely depend on the development of technology. With the developments in computer technology, imaging methods have improved, and parallel to these, there have been developments in radiotherapy techniques. There are many advanced treatment techniques used in radiation therapy. The main ones are intensity-modulated radiation therapy, image-guided radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy, adaptive radiotherapy, brachytherapy, hypofractionation and proton therapy. Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is a treatment technique that uses different beams of light to the targeted volume, destroying cancer cells while sparing surrounding tissues. Image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) uses real-time image guidance during treatment. Patient position and tumor movements are observed so that the target can be treated more accurately. Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy are basically based on treating small lesions by focusing on them with very high doses of radiation. Adaptive radiotherapy is a radiotherapy technique that takes into account the patient's anatomical and physiological changes during cancer treatment. This technique makes it possible to update the radiotherapy plan in response to changes in the patient's body and to provide a treatment that targets the radiation dose more precisely. Brachytherapy is a treatment technique that involves placing radioactive sources directly or very closely into or near cancer cells. Hypofractionation involves giving higher doses to the patient in a shorter period of time compared to conventional radiotherapy fractionation. Proton therapy is a treatment that targets cancer cells using proton-charged particles instead of x-rays or gamma rays. Advanced treatment techniques in radiotherapy offer more options and higher success rates in cancer treatment. However, the type of cancer for each disease differs from each other, so it is very important to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for the patient.
Evaluation of Eating Disorder Within the Scope of Addiction Concept
Authors: Gördağ Merve , Uysal İ. İlknur
Published: October 2023

Nutrition is the consumption of adequate amounts of food necessary for the body to sustain life. Nutrition is an emotional as well as a physical need and this has led to the creation  of the concept of emotional eating. This form of eating, which emerged out of physical need, gave birth to eating disorders and the related concept of addiction. Eating disorders were not a topic that was emphasized much until the 20th century and were categorized and collected in the publication of DSM-5. Although eating addiction is not included in the DSM as a diagnostic criterion, it is widely used as a concept. Current research supports the concept of eating addiction and research  is still ongoing.
Biopolymer Bacterial Cellulose Produced by Bacteria and Its Use in Health
Authors: Bayraktar Aytül
Published: October 2023

Bacterial cellulose is frequently used because it is economical and suitable for various production areas. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a pure, crystalline material with superior properties, synthesized by aerobic bacteria. BC is produced by some bacteria, such as Gluconacetobacter xylinum, which stores abundant amounts of fibrils in 3D networks. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a very comprehensive biomaterial. It is used in many areas such as the food industry, pharmaceutical industry, industrial and agricultural sectors. By producing bacterial cellulose from waste materials, it reduces costs and allows the use of environmentally friendly materials. BC can be used practically in different scientific researches and studies, especially in medical devices. Due to its excellent nanostructure and properties, bacterial cellulose is used in many medical treatments and textural applications. The search for new and active BC-producing microbial strains provides an impressive boost to BC production processes. Membrane types prepared with BC accelerate the wound healing process and prevent complications. Bacterial cellulose composites containing various materials have been designed to increase their applicability to living tissue. BC allows biocomposites to regulate cell adhesion for scaffolds and grafts. Bacterial cellulose, which is used to replace or support drug treatment, is increasingly being investigated. This study includes biocompatible and biodegradable bacterial celluloses, current biomedical applications, exploratory studies, and low cost BC production methods.
Comercio electrónico y riesgos de seguridad de la información durante la pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Pozo Hernández Clara Guadalupe , Reascos Pinchao Raúl Saed , Minaya Macías Renelmo Wladimir
Published: October 2023

El Covid 19 fue una pandemia que obligó a personas, instituciones y empresas, cambiar su forma de trabajar y debido a las restricciones que se impusieron, internet se convirtió en la herramienta fundamental, para que todos continuaran realizando sus actividades de forma virtual. Las aplicaciones y servicios que se ofrecen en internet fueron de gran beneficio, especialmente para las pequeñas empresas quienes vieron en el comercio una oportunidad de llegar con sus productos a sus clientes y estos por su parte una forma segura de abastecerse; pero es importante considerar al utilizar estas tecnologías, que existen amenazas y riesgos de seguridad informática que podrían afectar en caso de no estar protegidos. La presente investigación tuvo por objetivo analizar los principales riesgos de seguridad informática a los que se exponen los habitantes del cantón El Carmen al realizar actividades de comercio electrónico en tiempos de pandemia; se aplicó una investigación cuantitativa para estudiar los posibles riesgos y su nivel de gravedad, se utilizó una metodología de análisis de Riesgos MAGERIT, considerando como activo a proteger la información personal, se realizó una investigación bibliográfica para seleccionar los riesgos de seguridad online más comunes y se diseñaron instrumentos con base a la norma ISO 27001 enfocados en evaluar los controles para evitar los riesgos seleccionados; para el  estudio se  aplicó una encuesta utilizando un formulario en línea a una muestra de 384 personas, quienes han realizado compras a través de internet. De los resultados obtenidos se destaca que las plataformas más utilizadas para realizar comercio electrónico son WhatsApp, Facebook y tiendas en línea encontrando mayor nivel de riesgo en las transacciones con tiendas en línea, los riesgos de seguridad con mayor probabilidad de riesgos encontrados fueron: adware, phishing y baiting.
YABANCILARA TÜRKÇE ÖĞRETİMİNDE YANLIŞ ÇÖZÜMLEMESİ YÖNTEMİYLE YAZMA BECERİSİNİN GELİŞİMİNİN BOYLAMSAL İNCELENMESİ
Authors: TÜRKMEN Yeşim
Published: October 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı, Türkiye’de Türkçe öğrenen yabancıların yazma becerilerinin A1, A2, B1, B2 seviyelerinde boylamsal olarak nasıl geliştiğini tespit etmek ve yazılı anlatımlarında yaptıkları yanlışlardan hareketle Türkçe dil görünümlerini betimlemektir. Araştırma, öğrencilerin metinlerinde metindilbilim küçük ölçekli yapı düzlemini oluşturan dil ögelerinin boylamsal olarak tespit edilmesi ve bu ögelerde yapılan yanlışların yanlış çözümlemesi yaklaşımı ile dilsel, bilişsel işlemleme ve iletişimsel özelliklerine göre boylamsal olarak değerlendirmesi açısından önemlidir. Araştırma nitel yaklaşımla oluşturulan genel tarama modelinde, betimsel bir alan araştırmasıdır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu 2017-2018 Eğitim Öğretim Yılı içerisinde Niğde Ömer Halisdemir Üniversitesi TÖMER’de eğitim alan ana dili Türk lehçelerinden olan 9, ana dili Arapça olan 11, ana dili Farsça ve Farsçanın lehçelerinden olan 14, toplam 34 öğrenci oluşturmuştur. Veriler öğrencilere A1, A2, B1, B2 seviyelerinin sonunda 250-300 sözcükten oluşan metinler yazdırılarak elde edilmiştir. Metinlerde bağlaşıklık unsurları bulunmuş ve her seviye için kullanım tespit edilmiştir. Bu unsurlar yanlış çözümlemesi ile incelenmiş ve tablolaştırılmıştır. Daha sonra, araştırmacının ulaştığı yanlış çözümleme ile ilgili bulgular üç uzmanın görüşüyle de incelenmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda incelenen 13 bağlaşıklık unsurunun %84,61’inde doğru kullanım doğrultusunda gelişim görülmüştür. Gönderim unsurların %75’inde A1 seviyesinden itibaren yanlış yüzdesinin düzenli olarak düştüğü sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Dört seviyedeki toplam dilsel, bilişsel ve iletişimsel yanlışların A1 seviyesinden B2 seviyesine düştüğü görülmüştür. Öğrencilerin dört seviyede en fazla biçimbilimsel yanlış yaptığı tespit edilmiştir. Bilişsel işleme yanlışı olarak en fazla değiştirim yapılmıştır. Dört seviyede toplam yanlış içerisinde bölümsel yanlış yüzdesi bütünsel yanlış yüzdesinden yüksektir. Araştırmada yanlış çözümlemesi ile yanlışın tanımlanması ve bağlaşıklık unsurunun kullanımı ile ilgili gelişim sonuçlarına ayrıca yer verilmiştir. Araştırmada ulaşılan sonuçlar doğrultusunda araştırmacılara öneriler verilmiştir. Araştırmanın yazma becerisinin boylamsal olarak nasıl geliştiğine yönelik eğitimcilere yol göstereceği düşünülmektedir.
Distributed Acoustic Sensing in Australia's Downward Looking Telescope
Authors: Lai Voon Hui , Miller Meghan S. ,   Geo ★ Down Under Contributors
Published: October 2023

This article was originally published by AuScope, Australia’s provider of research infrastructure to the Earth and Geospatial Science community. AuScope is an Australian Government (NCRIS) organisation that has enabled the research, or research infrastructure, described here.
Australia’s geoscience paradox threatens its prosperity and sustainability
Authors: Boone Samuel C , Quigley Mark , Betts Peter , Miller Meghan S. , Rawling Tim , Sandiford Mike
Published: October 2023

Unprecedented climatic, environmental, energy, and resource crises threaten our world due to a growing, unsustainable human footprint on our planet. But while Australia awaits national strategies to address climate change amidst the COVID-induced recession, deep staffing cuts and closures of tertiary geoscience programmes across the country compromise our collective ability to respond to these challenges.
Flooding And Landsliding In Timor-Leste: Linked Hazards In A Young Mountain Belt
Authors: Duffy Brendan , Quigley Mark , Contributors Geo Down Under
Published: October 2023

  Contributing Authors:   Brendan Duffy  1  , Oktoviano Vegas Tilman De Jesus  2  , Mark Quigley  1  , Lisa Palmer  1  , Demetrio Amaral Carvalho  3  , Josh Trindade  4  , Ian Rutherfurd  1   The School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Melbourne   Vice president - Instituto do Petroleo e Geologia, Dili, Timor-Leste   Secretary of 
Motivations 3: Earth system services
Authors: Sandiford Mike
Published: October 2023

Rising demand for resources, declining discovery rates, concerns about resource security, carbon pollution and global equity issues, challenge us to deliver a new level of understanding of these crucial earth-system services both now and into the future. In particular, the provision of cheap and secure, reliable and sustainable energy without compromising the climate system will be predicated on our success in meeting this grand, new challenge.
Geodynamic models link enigmatic intraplate volcanism in Eastern Asia to subduction history and upper mantle upwellings
Authors: Muller Dietmar , Flament Nicolas , Cao Xianzhi
Published: October 2023

Most massive volcanic eruptions on Earth are caused either by mantle plumes, deep-seated cylindrical upwellings originating deep in Earth’s mantle, or are part of the volcanic “ring of fire” above subduction zones where oceanic plates are recycled back into the mantle.
From Antarctica to Australia: Mighty River’s Story Revealed
Authors: Morón Sara , Byrne Rohan
Published: October 2023

Western Australia is often thought as barren land. But in an age before even the rise of the dinosaurs, when the continents were still joined in a great ‘supercontinent’ called Gondwana, a massive river ran the breadth of WA, shaping the land and laying sediments that now host some of Australia’s richest energy reserves.
Unusual geochemical signature in Arctic ocean floor basalts
Authors: Mather Ben , Richter Marianne
Published: October 2023

The Arctic Ocean is roughly 14,000 km away from Melbourne (Monash University, Australia), where most of the action for our recent publication ‘An Early Cretaceous subduction-modified mantle underneath the ultraslow spreading Gakkel Ridge, Arctic Ocean’ in  Science Advances  took place.
Imaging the full lithosphere with earthquake sources
Authors: Kennett Brian
Published: October 2023

Significant changes in physical properties produce conversions between compressional (P) and shear (S) waves. The Earth’s surface also returns energy to depth that can be reflected back to the surface. Analysis of this chain of conversions and reverberations yields information about the structure beneath the station. The most common approach is the use of receiver functions that exploit the conversions and so can map out major interfaces.
Patchy Weather at the Core-Mantle Boundary
Authors: Tkalčić Hrvoje
Published: October 2023

I decided to simplify the title of our new paper (Muir & Tkalčić), significantly, for the purposes of presenting it to a general audience.
On the destructive tendencies of cratons
Authors: Moresi Louis
Published: October 2023

Cratons are regions of the Earth's crust that have been relatively stable for more than a couple of billion years. This stability is remarkable — the strong tectonic plates in the ocean are, after all, recycled into the deep mantle in less than a tenth of this time. In Figure 1, the cratons are marked as blue patches of thick lithosphere.
Alaska Moho Model (Reproducible research with containers)
Authors: Moresi Louis , Miller Meghan S.
Published: October 2023

Making your research reproducible means that you provide the entire workflow from data, through software and post-processing freely available. Not only can somebody repeat your experiments and verify them, they can build upon them. In lab-based disciplines, there are many further challenges, but in research that is predominantly based on data processing, this ought to be an achievable goal.
A response to Gillian Foulger's argument against mantle plumes on Oliver Strimpel's podcast
Authors: Jones Tim
Published: October 2023

 Note: this article is a repost from the author's personal website with minor edits and additions  Earth's mantle contains plumes, or columns of buoyant rock, that rise from deep within to produce volcanism at its surface. That is not a controversial statement among most Earth scientists. But, in keeping with scientific tradition, the idea has always had its skeptics.
Enigmatic C’ shear bands: their evolution and demise
Authors: Finch Melanie
Published: October 2023

C' shear bands are a common feature of ductile shear zones and are widely used as kinematic indicators. They are also enigmatic: research on naturally- and experimentally- deformed rocks has suggested several theories as to why they form, but there is little consensus.
Underworld is on Zenodo
Authors: Moresi Louis
Published: October 2023

Zenodo is a repository for immutable versions of software that are provided with a persistent DOI for the purposes of citation and reproducibility. Underworld can be cited via a zenodo DOI.
How is 'social distancing' maintained between strike-slip faults?
Authors: Yang Haibin , Moresi Louis , Quigley Mark
Published: October 2023

We have all become highly sensitive to 'social distancing' since the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the Earth. The act of  social distancing (more correctly called 'physical distancing') is to keep a safe space between yourself and other people who are not from your household.
High mantle seismic P-wave-speeds as a signature for pancake-like flow in the upper mantle
Authors: Stern Tim , Contributors Geo Down Under
Published: October 2023

 Tim Stern and Simon Lamb Victoria University of Wellington  Mapping the variation of mantle seismic wave speeds with direction – giving rise to seismic anisotropy - is a powerful method to determine patterns of mantle flow. This work can also explain regions where seismic wave speeds are unusually high.
Modelling global precipitation since 250 million years ago
Authors: Muller Dietmar
Published: October 2023

We have developed a novel data-driven approach to reconstruct precipitation patterns through geological time, since the supercontinent Pangea was in existence. Our approach involves linking climate-sensitive sedimentary deposits such as coal, evaporites and glacial deposits to a global plate model, reconstructed paleo-elevation maps and high-resolution General Circulation Models via Bayesian machine learning.
Australian cities are quiet during lockdown. Earthquake scientists are making the most of it
Authors: Miller Meghan S. , Moresi Louis
Published: October 2023

Meghan S. Miller,  Australian National University  and Louis Moresi,  Australian National University  Our responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have dramatically changed human activity all over the world. People are working from home, schools are closed in many places, travel is restricted, and in some cases only essential shops and businesses are open. Scientists see signs of these changes wherever they look.
Alaska Moho Model (Reproducible research with containers)
Authors: Moresi Louis
Published: October 2023

Making your research reproducible means that you provide the entire workflow from data, through software and post-processing freely available. Not only can somebody repeat your experiments and verify them, they can build upon them.
An automated (zotero) bibliography in a webpage
Authors: Moresi Louis
Published: October 2023

How we added an auto-updating set of citations to underworld in our publications [https://www.underworldcode.org/publications-using-uw/] webpage.
The Earth's troubled childhood
Authors: capitanio fabio
Published: October 2023

Our understanding of the formation of an atmosphere, ocean deeps and mountain highs and the life that thrives on it, mostly relies on our understanding of tectonics on Earth.
Metals for an Electrifying Future
Authors: Moresi Louis
Published: October 2023

There is a rapidly growing demand for the "critical metals" that are needed electronics and ultra-strong magnets but there is also a huge demand for the bronze-age staple, copper, which we need for all the transmission wires, motor windings and transformers of our electrified, low-carbon economy.
Seismological Models, mineral physics and spin transitions in the lower mantle
Authors: Kennett Brian
Published: October 2023

Seismological models that are just a function of depth have been developed as representations of  major seismic datasets and to provide a reference for more refined studies. The  PREM  model (Dzeiwonski & Anderson, 1981) utilised a large dataset of the frequencies of the normal modes of the Earth, with the addition of some body-wave constraints.
The Human Genetics of Malaria
Authors: Falade I.J. , Simeon O.N.
Published: October 2023

Human genetic resistance to malaria is the inherited changes in the human DNA that increase resistance to malaria and lead to increased survival of people with these genetic changes. The evolutionary pressure exerted by the malaria parasite is likely what led to the existence of these genotypes. The impact of host genetics on susceptibility to Plasmodium falciparum malaria has been widely studied over the past twenty years. It is now clear that the malaria Plasmodium parasites have imposed strong selective forces on the human genome in endemic regions. Different genes associated with different malaria-related phenotypes have been identified. Recent developments in human genome research technologies, like genome-wide association studies and genotyping tools, have enabled the discovery of several genetic polymorphisms and biomarkers. This review describes and analyses the human gene polymorphisms that have been revealed to be associated with resistance to P. falciparum malaria. Although some polymorphisms play important roles in susceptibility to malaria, several discoveries are inconclusive and conflicting and should be carefully examined. The discovery of genetic polymorphisms associated with resistance to malaria will enable the development of interventions or cures for the malaria disease.
Occurrence and Role of Bacterial Biofilms in Different Systems
Authors: Bello O.O. , Martins F.T. , Bello T.K. , Anuoluwa I.A. , Anyakudo M.M. , Amolegbe O.A. , Ilemobayo A.M.
Published: October 2023

Bacterial biofilms are complex communities of bacteria that adhere to surfaces, including living tissues, and form a protective matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Biofilms are widespread and play crucial roles in various processes, such as nutrient cycling, bioremediation, and biofouling. They have significant implications for public health. Biofilms provide an ideal environment for bacteria to exchange genetic material, including resistance genes, via horizontal gene transfer mechanisms such as conjugation, transformation, and transduction. Moreover, biofilms can protect bacteria from antibiotics and host immune responses, enabling them to persist and cause chronic infections. The EPS matrix, which can act as a physical barrier, limits the penetration of antibiotics into the biofilm, and the slow-growing or dormant cells within the biofilm are less susceptible to antibiotics than their planktonic counterparts. The significance of bacterial biofilms in the development of antibiotic resistance has prompted research efforts to understand their formation and mechanisms of resistance. Novel strategies to prevent or disrupt biofilm formation are also being explored, including the development of antibiofilm agents and biofilm-disrupting enzymes. Understanding the role of biofilms in the spread of antibiotic resistance is crucial for the development of effective treatment and prevention strategies to combat the chronic infections associated with biofilm-producing bacteria.
The Prevalence of Proteus mirabilis isolated from different clinical specimens in Zakho City, Iraq
Authors: Abdullah P.B. , Mero W.M.S. , Khalid H.M.
Published: October 2023

Proteus mirabilis is the most common species among the genus Proteus that has been associated with various infections in humans. In this study, the prevalence of P. mirabilis among outpatients with UTIs, ear, burns, wounds, respiratory tract infections, and vaginitis who attended the major hospitals and clinics in Zakho city has been investigated. Four hundred specimens were collected from both genders at different ages (≤1 year to over 50 years), from July 2021 to January 2022. All specimens were analyzed according to conventional bacteriological methods for detecting the presence of P. mirabilis. Also, a molecular method was used using species-specific ureR primer to confirm the presence of P. mirabilis among the isolates. From all collected specimens, 23.75% (95/400) were identified as P. mirabilis with a higher rate in males than females (52.63% vs 47.37). Among both genders, the age group ≤ 1-10 years showed the highest rate of infection (61.90%). Married patients had a higher rate (27%) than unmarried ones (16.92%). In terms of residency, rural inhabitants had the highest rate (31.25%) among other inhabitants. Furthermore, infections during the months of the year were at their maximum rate during August (52.27%), while reduced to 11.67% in October. ureR primer gives a precise and specific detection of P. mirabilis. This study highlights that; P. mirabilis is one of the remarkable bacteria that cause various infections in humans through various risk factors like anatomical abnormalities, gender, age, and chronic diseases that facilitate its spreading in the community.
Distribution of Macrolide, Lincosamide, and Streptogramin B and Detection of erm Genes in Staphylococcus aureus from Wounds in Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Umo A.N. , Ibeakamma N.C. , Akinjogunla O.J. , Etang U.E. , Akpan N.G. , Adie S.A.
Published: October 2023

The increasing resistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B (MLSB) among methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a challenge. The study determined the constitutive and inducible MLSB resistance and erm genes in S. aureus from wounds using the erythromycin-clindamycin D-zone test and a multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay, respectively. Of the 260 patients recruited in the study, S. aureus was isolated from the wounds of 102 patients, giving a prevalence rate of 39.2%. Of the 102 S. aureus isolates, 32.4% were methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA), and 67.6% were MRSA. The prevalence of S. aureus in wounds was higher in females (39.8%) than in males (38.4%). The highest prevalence of S. aureus was found in divorce patients (59.1%) and those residing in urban areas (39.7%). There was no statistical difference between the occurrence of MRSA and MSSA in wounds based on the sex (p = 0.97), age (p = 0.08), and marital status (p = 0.41) of the patients. All (100%) MRSA were resistant to Cefoxitin, and chloramphenicol, while ˂ 50% of MRSA were resistant to Tetracycline, Ciprofloxacin, and Gentamycin. Of the 69 MRSA isolates from the wounds, 21.7% and 26.1% were iMLSB and cMLSB phenotypes, respectively. Nine (9) MSSA were iMLSB phenotypes, and eight MSSA were cMLSB phenotypes. Among the 12 representative isolates, three (3) MRSA and one (1) MSSA isolate possessed the ermC gene. This study has revealed that screening tests for iMLSB-resistant S. aureus strains are critical for the therapeutic management of wound infections caused by S. aureus.
Antimicrobial Resistance of the Genus Enterococcus in Cantonal Hospital of Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Rebić V. , Vinčević-Smajlović S. , Šestić S. , Čaluk D. , Aljičević M. , Šestić I. , Rebić D.
Published: October 2023

Among Enterococcus spp, only the virulence gene harboring strains of Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium are associated with human infections, including urinary tract infections (UTI), pelvic, blood, intraabdominal, and skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI). Over the past decades, enterococcal antimicrobial resistance has escalated in many regions of the world, leading to ominous outcomes. The rising incidence of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HCAIs) secondary to Vancomycin-resistant strain (VRE) resulted in high morbidity and mortality, as well as substantial challenges in control, prevention, and management). The aim of this study is to examine the antimicrobial resistance of E. faecalis and E. faecium species in different human samples. The study included 184 clinical samples over a period of 6 months. E. faecalis was identified in 95.65% and E. faecium in 4.35% of cases. E. faecalis isolates showed resistance to gentamicin in 40.9% of cases and to ampicillin in 1.7% of cases. Resistance to nitrofurantoin and ciprofloxacin was observed in 6.1% and 35.7% of E. faecalis isolates. VRE was isolated in 1.1% of E. faecalis isolates tested for this antibiotic. Resistance of E. faecium isolates to ampicillin and gentamicin was observed in 87.5% of cases in both antibiotics. All urinary isolates of E. faecium were resistant to ciprofloxacin. All E. faecium isolates were sensitive to vancomycin. Based on the results of our study, the growing importance of Enterococcus spp. as a causative agent of hospital infections and infections in the general population, and its antimicrobial resistance to various drugs were observed.
Competition Status of Salmonella sp., Shigella sp., and Escherichia coli in Tris Egg Yolk Semen Preservation Medium at Different Experimental Conditions
Authors: Abboudi M. , Alomar M.
Published: October 2023

Competition is a very important fact of microorganisms’ life, with the major goal to gain an advantage in terms of scarce nutrients and limited space. In this study, bacterial competition of Salmonella sp., Shigella sp., and Escherichia coli were assessed in Tris- egg-yolk (TEY) semen preservation medium at two temperature degrees and three periods of incubation (3 h at 37°C, 1 and 7 days at 4°C). The three pathogen species were incubated with an initial bacterial load of 103 CFU/mL. After three hours of incubation at 37°C, there were significant differences (P < 0.05) between the three species; however, Salmonella sp. had the highest CFU/ml compared to the two other pathogen species in bilateral and triple competition. Also after one day of storage at 4°C, a clear dominance of Salmonella sp. was noted, while in contrast, no significant difference (P > 0.05) between E.coli and Shigella sp., was observed in the bilateral and triple competition cases. However, the maximum dominance of Salmonella sp. was observed after 7 days at 4°C, where the bacterial load percentages between all species for the triple competition were 74±5.6/12±5.9/14±6.9 for Salmonella sp., E. coli, and Shigella sp., respectively. In conclusion, regardless of the temperature degrees and the time point of incubation, Salmonella was always able to dominate and compete very effectively compared with the two other bacterial pathogens in the TEY medium. Moreover, 4°C gave clear preference to the survival of salmonella with its clear vitality percentage in this media compared to both E. coli and Shigella sp.
In Vitro Evaluation of Selected Essential Oils as Possible Antifungal and Antibiofilm Agents
Authors: Mahmutović-Dizdarević I. , Bektaš N. , Gazić S. , Jerković-Mujkić A. , Hukić M. , Avdić M.
Published: October 2023

Microbial biofilms are organized consortiums of microorganisms in the self-produced matrix, characterized by increased resistance to antimicrobial agents. Candida albicans belongs to the regular human microbiota, but it could be highly pathogenic. Essential oils (EOs) are widely distributed secondary metabolites, proven for various biological activities. The main goal of this investigation was to evaluate the antifungal and antibiofilm properties of EOs from Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck, C. reticulata Blanco, Nigella sativa L., and Foeniculum vulgare Mill. against C. albicans. Antifungal activity was evaluated through the disk diffusion method, followed by the determination of the minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). Antibiofilm assays were implemented through the tissue culture plate method and determination of the biofilm inhibition. Zones of inhibition were detectable for all tested EOs, with the greatest activity of N. sativa (28.30±1.50 mm to 39.30±1.10 mm). MIC values ranged from 62.50 μg/ml (N. sativa) to 125 μg/ml (C. limon), and 250 μg/ml (C. reticulata and F. vulgare). All tested EOs performed an impact on the biofilm-forming capacity of tested yeast. The antibiofilm activity was species-specific and concentration-dependent. The highest antibiofilm activity was recorded for F. vulgare. Obtained results suggest that investigated EOs possess antifungal and antibiofilm potential.
Effect of Different Concentrations of NaCl on Growth and Biochemical Characteristics of Red Microalga Porphyridium cruentum
Authors: Ivanova J. , Toshkova-Yotova T. , Kabaivanova L.
Published: October 2023

The red microalga Porphyridium cruentum is a potential source of valuable biologically active compounds. This microalga is easily cultivated and could change its growth and biochemical composition in response to environmental variations. The effect of growth medium content, especially salinity (15, 20, and 27 gL -1 NaCl) on P. cruentum cell growth, biomass composition, and extracellular polysaccharides production was investigated in this study. The results showed that the highest biomass yield and phycoerythrin content was achieved when NaCl in a concentration of 20 gL -1 was introduced into the culture medium. The measured biomass was equal to 4.3±0.1 gL -1 compared to 3.3±0.1 gL -1 for the control sample at the end of the cultivation process. The amount of chlorophyll „a“ was also 1.33 times greater in the sample with 20 gL -1 NaCl compared to the control sample with 27 gL -1 , where the carotenoid content was higher. The highest amount of extracellular polysaccharide was accumulated by the microalga at 27 gL -1 NaCl. The measured viscosity was 3.35 mPa.sec - 1.4 times more than the sample with 20 gL -1 NaCl. The investigations conveyed lead to the conclusion that with only slight changes in the salt concentration, a targeted biosynthesis could be achieved, nevertheless, all other conditions remained the same. The study provides an opportunity to optimize growth and metabolite production using optimization in the cultivation process of the microalgae.
Parents' Roles in Children's Games and Toys
Authors: DAĞAŞAN Emre
Published: October 2023

Games and toys are important elements that facilitate children's adaptation to the world. Games are an effective learning method that supports children's social, physical, and cognitive development. Children's games and the toys they use are greatly influenced by the people around them. Especially in the preschool period, parents’ game the most crucial role for children. Children often explore their first games and toys with their parents, and these initial toys are usually provided by parents. The level of knowledge that parents have about games and toys determines the games children will Game and the toys they will use. The aim of this study is to identify the roles of parents in the game’s children play and the toys they use. A qualitative approach was adopted using semi-structured interviews in the research. Twenty families with children participated in the study. The collected data were analysed using descriptive analysis. When the research results are examined, it is observed that parents pay attention to children's preferences, toy quality, and children's developmental level when choosing toys. It is believed that these toys contribute to children's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. In addition, computer games, ball games, chess, hide-and-seek, and other games are among the preferred games parents Game with their children. According to parents, these games not only increase children's happiness but also strengthen family bonds, boost self-confidence, and contribute to their socialization.
When Discrimination is Not Enough
Authors: Agarwal Akshat
Published: October 2023

The Supreme Court, India’s apex constitutional court, recently delivered its disappointing decision in Supriyo Chakraborty v Union India (Supriyo), rejecting marriage equality in Indian law. The much-awaited decision was heard by a constitution bench (five judges) of the Supreme Court and dealt with far-reaching questions of both Indian constitutional law and family law. The decision is characteristic of the Indian Supreme Court’s ongoing phase of great deference to the executive and legislative branches but also marks a sharp and worrying break from the court’s otherwise progressive jurisprudence on issues of gender and sexuality.
Müslümanların Kur'ân'a Ta'zimi ve Mushaf Üzerinden Tezâhürü
Authors: Türcan Saliha
Published: October 2023

Çalışmada nüzûl ve mushaflaşma süreçlerinde Kur’ân etrafında oluşan ta‘zim örnekleri konu edilmektedir. Bu çerçevede sözü edilen süreçlerdeki ta‘zim uygulamalarının ilişkisi ve ortaya çıkan değişim irdelenmektedir. Kur’ân Müslümanlar için Allah’tan gelen bir vahiy olması bakımından temel bir konuma sahiptir. Onun vahiy olduğu inancı itikadî ve amelî konuların temel kaynağı olmasını gerekli kılmakla birlikte daha geniş çerçevede bir ta‘zim anlayışını da üretmiştir. Bu ta‘zim anlayışı Kur’ân’ın nazil olduğu ilk günden itibaren tarih boyunca Kur’ân merkezli bir kültür inşa etmiştir. Söz konusu ta‘zim kültürü, Kur’ân’ın nüzûlü ve Mushaf haline gelme süreçlerinde birtakım farklılaşmalara da uğramıştır. Bu farklılaşmalar ta‘zimin özüne ilişkin olmayıp kısmen şekilsel örneklere evrilmiş kısmen de yeni ta‘zim örneklerinin ilavesiyle kendini göstermiştir. Bahsedilen değişim, nüzûl döneminde okunan dinlenen ve parça parça sahifelere yazılan Kur’ân’ın iki kapak arasında toplanmış bir kitap halini alması şeklindeki gelişmenin doğasına da uygun hatta bunun zorunlu bir sonucudur. Müslümanlar nüzûl döneminde dinleme, okuma, öğrenme ve öğretme, sahifelere yazma ve sahifeleri koruma şeklinde Kur’ân’la kurdukları ilişkiyi Mushaflaşmayla birlikte Mushaf üzerinden sürdürmüşlerdir. Zira artık Kur’ân içerdiği hükümlerin yanı sıra Mushaf şeklindeki varlığıyla bireyin ve toplumun hayatında somut bir şekilde bulunan ve merkezî konumuyla bilinç oluşturan ve hayatı şekillendiren bir hale gelmişti. Bu çerçevede nüzul dönemindeki Kur’ân sahifelerine ta‘zimin bizzat Kur’ân’ın/vahyin kendisine ta‘zim olduğu yönündeki anlayış Mushaf’a atfedilmiştir. Kur’an’ın neliğine ilişkin açıklamalar etrafında gelişen halku’l-Kur’ân tartışmaları Mushafa ta‘zimin itikâdî/kelâmî bir zeminden beslendiğini de göstermektedir. Kur’ân’ı kazanç kapısı haline getirmeye yönelik uyarılar Kur‘ân’a ta‘zim temelinde nüzûl döneminden itibaren yapılmıştır. Bu dönemde Kur’ân okuma ve öğretme karşılığında ücret alınmasına yönelik uyarıların genel anlamına uygun düşecek şekilde sahabîler Kur’ân taliminden ücret alınmasına sıcak bakmamışlardır. Bu hassasiyet mushaflaşma sonrası, Mushaf’ın alım-satımı, takası, miras bırakılması gibi dünyevî menfaatlere Kur’ân’ı alet etmek anlamına gelebilecek hususlarla ilgili de gösterilmiştir. Mushaf’ın öpülmesi, duvara asılması, yüksek yere konulması, altın ve gümüşle süslenmesi gibi uygulamalar ise Kur’ân’a ta‘zim örnekleri olarak değerlendirilmiştir. Dışardan bakıldığında bir kırılma gibi görünse de esasen Mushaf sonrası ortaya çıkan ve şeklî görünen ta‘zim örnekleri kaynağını büyük ölçüde Hz. Peygamber’in nüzûl dönemindeki emir, yasak, teşvik ve uygulamalarından almıştır. Mushaf’a olan ta‘zimin “şekilsel” dindarlık olarak nitelendirilebilecek örnekleri olsa da genelinin özü itibarıyla şekilsel bir dindarlık olarak değerlendirilmesi isabetli değildir. Zira mushaflaşmayla birlikte Mushaf üzerinden gelişen yeni bir Kur’ân tasavvuru oluşmuş ve Mushaf’ın zatının/formunun gerektirdiği/şekillendirdiği bir ta‘zim anlayışı gelişmiştir.
Mediating the Drive: How Brand Image Shapes the Adoption of Technology and Innovation in Bangkok's Electric Vehicle Market
Authors: Pruksarungruang Supitchaya
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim: The electric vehicle (EV) market in Bangkok has evolved driven by environmental concerns, urban congestion, government incentives, charging infrastructure development, and consumer preferences, making it a promising contributor to a cleaner and sustainable urban mobility landscape. This research explores the dynamics of technological acceptance, innovation, brand image, and decision-making in the context of electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Therefore, this research can be used as a guideline for policymakers, marketers, and industry stakeholders aiming to promote sustainable and technologically advanced transportation solutions.
Materials and Methods: The study employs a quantitative approach, utilizing a questionnaire-based survey method, and targets a sample of 200 participants residing in Bangkok with prior knowledge of electric vehicles. Following the principles outlined by Gorsuch (1983), simple random sampling was applied. The index of item-objective congruence (IOC) was between 0.67-1.00. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was between 0.835 - 0.919. Statistical analysis techniques encompassing percentages, averages, standard deviations, and structural equation modeling (SEM) were employed.
Results: The findings of this research reveal that individuals possessing knowledge about electric cars exhibit a significantly high level of acceptance regarding technology, innovation, brand image, and decision-making. Also, they all have high scores in every aspect with a mean of 3.97, 3.81, 3.87, and 3.98, as well as standard deviations of 0.792, 0.764, 0.690, and 0.652, respectively. Furthermore, the study elucidates the factors influencing decision-making (DM) regarding electric vehicle purchases, with technology acceptance (TA) and innovation (IN) emerging as critical determinants. Both TA and IN exert direct effects on DM with values equal to 0.122 and 0.241. Additionally, these factors indirectly impact DM with values equal to 0.159 and 0.495, respectively, which underscore their multifaceted roles in shaping consumer choices. Importantly, TA and IN also have a direct effect of 0.270 and 0.840 on brand image. Notably, brand image has a direct effect on DM with values of 0.589.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the significance of informed consumer knowledge and positive brand image in fostering the adoption of electric vehicles, aligning with the broader societal goal of sustainable and environmentally conscious mobility solutions.
History Of The Development Of Islamic Dakwah In Spreading Islamic Teachings
Authors: Moh. Alam Sugandi  , Abdul Aziz Romdhoni
Published: October 2023

Islamic Da'wah is an Islamic communication activity, Da'wah is a communication tool in disseminating Islamic teachings. Allah SWT has prepared devices that make it possible to communicate. The de vice is the tongue and all its supports such as hearing, sight and heart. The development of Islamic Da'wah cannot be separated from the role of the Prophet Muhammad SAW in spreading Islamic teachings during difficult times, such as when the Prophet Muhammad was just spreading Islamic teachings in secret because at that time humans were in the period of ignorance and it was still difficult to believe in new teachings. brought by the Prophet. However, when there were already many followers, the Prophet Muhammad spread the teachings of Islam openly. So this is an important event in communication in Islam.