bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wave propagation in non-uniform waveguides
Authors: Κάρλος Αγγελής
Published: January 2024

Μη ομογενείς κυματοδηγοί στους οποίους τα κύματα επιβραδύνονται καθώς διαδίδονται έχουν ποικίλες χρήσεις. Πρώτον, η εξασθένηση εντός του κυματοδηγού ενισχύεται καθώς τα κύματα επιβραδύνονται, γεγονός που μπορεί να χρησιμοποιηθεί για την απορρόφηση καμπτικών ή ακουστικών κυμάτων χωρίς υπερβολική χρήση υλικού απόσβεσης στις λεγόμενες 'ακουστικές μαύρες τρύπες'. Δεύτερον, η θέση της μέγιστης απόκρισης κατά μήκος του κυματοδηγού μπορεί να μεταβάλλεται με τη συχνότητα, επιτρέποντας τη χωρική ανάλυση συχνότητας, όπως συμβαίνει στον κοχλία καθώς και επίσης στους πρόσφατους αισθητήρες 'ουράνιου τόξου'. Στην παρούσα διατριβή, μελετώνται τέσσερα διαφορετικά παραδείγματα τέτοιων μη ομογενών κυματοδηγών χρησιμοποιώντας τόσο αναλυτικές όσο και αριθμητικές μεθόδους. Η ανάκλαση από ελαστικές σφήνες διαφορετικών παχών αναλύεται αρχικά με τη μέθοδο WKB και τα αποτελέσματα συγκρίνονται με αποτελέσματα που υπολογίστηκαν με τη μέθοδο των πεπερασμένων στοιχείων. Αποδεικνύεται ότι απαιτούνται υψηλότερες τάξεις της WKB προσέγγισης για να αποτυπωθούν οι λεπτομέρειες της μεταβολής της συχνότητας του συντελεστή ανάκλασης, και ότι μια εκθετική σφήνα παρουσιάζει τη μικρότερη ανάκλαση μεταξύ των μελετώμενων κατατομών. Για έναν ακουστικό κυματοδηγό με προσαρμοσμένους δακτυλίους κωνικής εσωτερικής ακτίνας, η ανάκλαση υπολογίζεται στη συνέχεια με τη μέθοδο της συνάρτησης μεταφοράς και συγκρίνεται με πειραματικά αποτελέσματα της βιβλιογραφίας. Αναλύεται επίσης ένα μονοδιάστατο 'μοντέλο κουτιού' του κοχλία με παθητική μικρομηχανική, χρησιμοποιώντας τόσο τη μέθοδο WKB όσο και τη μέθοδο πεπερασμένων διαφορών. Η εξάρτηση της συζευγμένης κοχλιακής απόκρισης από ορισμένες αδιάστατες παραμέτρους μελετάται και διαπιστώνεται ότι μια τέτοια παράμετρος, η οποία χρησιμοποιήθηκε προηγουμένως για τον καθορισμό της συνολικής μετατόπισης φάσης, επίσης καθορίζει τη συμμετρία της απόκρισης συχνότητας του συστήματος. Ο σχεδιασμός ενός ακουστικού αισθητήρα 'ουράνιου τόξου' συζητείται και αποδεικνύεται ότι περιλαμβάνει έναν συμβιβασμό μεταξύ της επιλεκτικότητας της απόκρισης και του αριθμού των στοιχείων. Στη συνέχεια περιγράφεται ο νέος σχεδιασμός, ο οποίος αποτελείται από έναν κύριο αγωγό με πλευρικούς κλάδους αντηχείων Χέλμχολτς διαφόρων διαστάσεων, στους οποίους η απόσβεση έχει βελτιστοποιηθεί έτσι ώστε τα κύρια χαρακτηριστικά του να είναι παρόμοια με εκείνα του κοχλία, προσδίδοντάς του τονοτοπική απεικόνιση και ομαλή απόκριση συχνότητας.
Η μετάλλαξη της αντισυστημικής πολιτικής βίας από εσωτερική απειλή σε ζήτημα διεθνούς ασφάλειας
Authors: Χαραλαμπόπουλος Νικόλαος
Published: January 2024

Η άσκηση αντισυστημικής πολιτικής βίας προέρχεται από εκείνους τους πολίτεςπου τελικά δεν ένιωσαν την πρόοδο και την ευημερία που διακήρυττε η Γαλλική Επανάσταση, που δεν ευεργετήθηκαν από τη νεωτερικότητα, που έχασαν την εμπιστοσύνη και την πίστη στο κράτος και τους θεσμούς του, που θεωρούν ως λύση τον επαναπροσδιορισμό της ταυτότητάς τους και την προσφυγή στη βία προκειμένου να αποκτήσουν δύναμη έναντι της κρατικής ισχύος, διεκδικώντας άμεσες αλλαγές στην καθημερινότητά τους. Ομάδες ανθρώπων συστήνουν τις δικές τους οργανώσεις, έξω από τις υφιστάμενες πολιτικές επιλογές που το εκάστοτε κράτος προσφέρει, ενώνοντας τα πολιτιστικά, πνευματικά και αισθητικά τους πιστεύω και δημιουργώντας ένα πλέγμα δράσεων και περιοχών ασφαλείας, άλλοτε μεγαλύτερων και άλλοτε μικρότερων, για την εξάσκηση και υλοποίηση των στόχων τους. Τα δρώντα υποκείμενα πρέπει να είναι αρκετά μεγάλα, ώστε να μπορούν να χαράξουν νέες γωνίες δύναμης και καταφυγής. Σε αυτό το σημείο είναι που θα εξετάσουμε τρεις μεγάλες μορφές αντισυστημικής πολιτικής βίας: την ακροδεξιά βία, την αντιεξουσιαστική βία και τον ισλαμικό εξτρεμισμό, οι οποίες, παρά τις ιδεολογικές τους ασυμφωνίες και τις διαφορετικές τους ιστορικές καταβολές, διαμορφώνουν ένα σύνολο όμοιων πρακτικών και κοινών στόχων σε διεθνές επίπεδο, μια μορφή επαναστατισμού βασισμένη στα χαρακτηριστικά εκείνα των πρεσβευτών του εν λόγω ρεύματος, ως θεωρίας των διεθνών σχέσεων. Απέναντί τους στέκεται και αντιπαρατίθεται μια άλλη διεθνής μορφή πολιτικής βίας, αυτή των θεσμοθετημένων κρατικών εξουσιών η οποία, αναπτύσσοντας με τη σειρά της κοινές μεθόδους αντιμετώπισης, συμβάλλει στην εδραίωση της σύγκρουσης. Από εδώ συνεπάγεται ότι θα μπορούσαν να αναδυθούν δύο μεγάλες συγκρουσιακές δυναμικές, χωρίς αυτές να ορίζονται με βάση τον πολιτισμό, το έθνος, ή ακόμη και τους σύγχρονους προσδιορισμούς της ταξικής θέσης. Από τη μία, δηλαδή, η δυναμική των κρατών και από την άλλη των αντισυστημικών ομάδων άσκησης πολιτικής βίας. Η σύγκρουση αυτή μετουσιώνεται και θεωρητικά γύρω από τη σύγκρουση δύο θεωριών των διεθνών σχέσεων, του ρεαλισμού και του επαναστατισμού, του οικουμενισμού και της ιδιαιτεροκρατίας, της προσπάθειας επιβολής παγκόσμιων ανθρωπιστικών αξιών και λογικών ανάπτυξης και της αντίστασης από ομάδες που δεν ωφελούνται από τη διάδοση των αξιών αυτών. Αν δύναται να θεωρηθεί πως ιστορικά εμφανίζονται τρία παραδείγματα διεθνών επαναστατικών: οι θρησκευτικοί επαναστατικοί του 16ου και του 17ου αιώνα, οι γάλλοι επαναστατικοί του 18ου αιώνα και οι επαναστατικοί του ολοκληρωτισμού του 20ού αιώνα, τότε φαίνεται πως στις πρώτες δεκαετίες του21ου αιώνα εμφανίζεται ένα τέταρτο παράδειγμα, αυτό των αντισυστημικών επαναστατικών.
Effectiveness of dynamic equivalent models in predicting power system stability
Authors: Μπαργιώτας Δημήτριος
Published: January 2024

Στη διδακτορική διατριβή, αναπτύσσεται και εφαρμόζεται μεθοδολογία για τη διερεύνηση της μεταβατικής ευστάθειας συστημάτων παραγωγής ηλεκτρικής ισχύος μέσω ισοδύναμων γραμμικοποιημένων (linear) αλλά και μη γραμμικοποιημένων (non linear) συστημάτων. Ένα μέρος της διατριβής ασχολείται με την ανάπτυξη της κατάλληλης μαθηματικής υποδομής η οποία προσαρμόζεται στις ιδιότητες των εν λόγω συστημάτων. Δύο μέθοδοι καθορισμού ομάδων γεννητριών με παρόμοια απόκριση (coherent groups), σε εμφανιζόμενα στο δίκτυο σφάλματα, και δύο τεχνικές ομαδοποίησης (aggregate methods) αναλύονται με σκοπό τη δημιουργία δυναμικών ισοδύναμων μοντέλων για τη σύγκριση των αποτελεσμάτων των παραπάνω μεθόδων. Αποδεικνύεται ότι οι μέθοδοι οδηγούν σε ισοδύναμα συστήματα που δεν αναπαράγουν πάντοτε την πραγματική συμπεριφορά του αρχικού συστήματος. Εν τούτοις, τέτοια ισοδύναμα συστήματα μπορούν να οδηγήσουν στην εύρεση ενός πρώτου κριτηρίου συμπεριφοράς (ως προς την ευστάθεια) του αρχικού συστήματος μια και ο χρόνος που απαιτείται να βρεθεί το κριτήριο είναι πολύ λιγότερος απ’ ότι αν η διαδικασία ανευρέσεως του κριτηρίου γινόταν επί του αρχικού συστήματος.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away? - a review of health benefits of apples
Authors: Bator Piotr , Razik Michał , Rozwadowska Patrycja , Ramian Jan , Rybak Jakub , Magiera Barbara , Magiera Karol , Grabowska-Szczurek Martyna , Grabarczyk Alicja , Razik Wiktor
Published: January 2024

Introduction and purpose: Apples are a widely consumed fruit globally and are known to be a great source of nutrition. Studies have shown that apples contain high levels of antioxidants, dietary fiber, and vitamins that contribute to numerous health benefits. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the impact of apples on human health.
State of knowledge: The paper reviews the current literature on the health benefits of apples, focusing on their impact on various health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, it examines the role of apples in improving intestinal, immune, and cognitive function. The paper also discusses the potential mechanisms by which apples exert their health benefits, such as high levels of flavonoids, polyphenols, and dietary fiber.
Summary: In conclusion, the vast body of evidence reviewed in this paper supports the notion that consuming apples regularly can contribute to better health outcomes. They may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, as well as promote healthy gut microbiota and immune function. Despite the controversy surrounding the use of pesticides in apple cultivation, the benefits of consuming apples outweigh the risks. Therefore, it is highly recommended to include apples as part of a balanced and nutritious diet to promote optimal health and wellbeing. As the saying goes, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away".
Development and validation of teacher competency perception scale in Indonesia: The Rasch analysis
Authors: Arikunto Suharsimi , Saputra Wahyu Nanda Eka , Khoirunnisa Dewi Afra , Sawai Rezki Perdani
Published: January 2024

Teachers have a role in building a civilization that upholds values and norms. Students are the party that the teacher focuses on to be educated. Of course, they have perceptions of teacher competence. This study aims to develop and validate a scale of perceptions of teacher competency. The instrument consists of four aspects: pedagogic, professional, personality, and social. This study uses Rasch analysis to test the construct validity of the teacher's competency perception scale. The construct validity test involved 400 students. Data analysis using WINSTEPS Rasch Software provides information about respondents' quality and instruments, easy and difficult items for respondents to agree on, fit order items, and unidimensionality. The results of the application of Rasch analysis showed that the teacher's competency perception scale is good, precise, and has item conformity with the model. The teacher competency perception scale is a reliable and valid tool to measure students' level of peace accurately. This study discusses the implications and recommendations for further research for implementing learning that optimizes the four teacher competencies.
Seven insecure academic conditions for students as a basis for implementing teacher professional learning
Authors: Hartini Sri , Mulyana Ade Rendi , Abidah Jilan , Sabri Farhana
Published: January 2024

Student academic performance as a measure of future success. Students who can develop academic performance in the classroom and outside the school are a big part of the success process. However, some children have academic insecurity problems that impact academic performance and may influence future success. Professional teachers must be able to analyze students in this condition. This research aims to analyze students' educational insecurity conditions using seven indicators—a quantitative study with a survey with random sampling on 521 students at school. The academic insecurity scale distributed to students randomly was analyzed through percentages and standard deviations with four categories: very high, high, low, and very low. The results of the research show that the average student's insecure academic condition is in a standard category on seven indicators: students do not want to get out of their comfort zone, like to compare themselves with other individuals, look down on themselves, have to get praise and recognition from other individuals, avoid interaction with the surrounding environment, experiencing failure, and lack of gratitude. Then, 54% of students have an insecure academic condition in the low category and 14% in the shallow category. Academic insecurity is also in the high category at 29% and very high at 3%. The high and very high categories require significant attention from schools and teachers at schools with exceptional handling. Professional teachers must be able to implement fair and enjoyable learning to prevent gaps who experience academic insecurity because they do not receive proper appreciation in the teaching.
Perancangan Interactive Puppets Edukasi Diskriminasi pada Anak 10-12 Tahun
Authors: Ruhita Safira Dyapramesti Ruhita , Dwitasari Putri , Ramadhani Nugrahardi , Noordyanto Naufan
Published: January 2024

Discrimination is a problem that is still often found in society, especially among children. Children still cannot distinguish between right and wrong treatment regarding the actions and words they do and say. This design was created to educate children through interactive learning media so they do not behave discriminatorily. This design uses several research methods, namely existing studies, literature studies, observation, in-depth interviews, and quantitative data collection in the form of questionnaires. The data will be processed at the experimental study stage, pre-test, and user testing stages. This method was carried out to obtain child behaviour, child psychology, and media data, which became a reference in this design. From the results of research and interviews that have been conducted, the output chosen as the primary media is a contemporary puppet. This media is designed to make learning more enjoyable. Children will be invited to participate in the stories being told and be able to interact freely with the stories as well as supporting media in the form of interactive guidebooks as references and instructions from the leading media. Through this media, it is hoped that it can educate children to respect and love themselves and others, respect differences, and prevent them from discriminating against others.
At a glance: a guide to venepuncture in adults
Authors: Ford Claire , Skarparis Katy
Published: January 2024

This article will provide clinical guidance on carrying out venepuncture on an adult. It will discuss site, equipment selection and aseptic non-touch technique. The aims are to increase knowledge of the anatomical structures associated with venepuncture, demonstrate the clinical procedural technique of venepuncture, and provide an awareness of the dangers and complications of this invasive technique.
Patient engagement, patient empowerment and patient safety
Authors: Tingle John
Published: January 2024

John Tingle, Lecturer in Law, Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham, discusses several recent reports on the role of patients in patient safety policy
What do we mean by accountability?
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: January 2024

Sam Foster, Executive Director of Professional Practice, Nursing and Midwifery Council, considers the concepts and principles of professional accountability
The locked knee
Authors: Rhind John-Henry , Khawar Haseeb , Webb Mark , Guthrie Hugo
Published: January 2024

The acute locked knee is an orthopaedic emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. It can be classified as acute or chronic. The term ‘locked knee’ refers to a knee that demonstrates fixed flexion or which has a ‘block’ to complete extension. Some degree of active or passive extension may be achievable, but not full extension. The most frequent causes of a locked knee are a meniscal tear, rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament or loose bodies. Magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard in diagnostic imaging. Knee arthroscopy is considered the gold standard in management. This article gives an overview of the presentation, assessment and management of the locked knee for core surgical, acute care common stem and emergency medicine trainees.
Variation of weekly home range characteristics of Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) in Bentang Seblat, Bengkulu Province, Indonesia
Authors: NINGRUM IRMA KUSUMA , SANTOSA YANTO , SETIAWAN YUDI
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Ningrum IK, Santosa Y, Setiawan Y. 2023. Variation of weekly home range characteristics of Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) in Bentang Seblat, Bengkulu Province, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 5854-5862. Bentang Seblat is one of the areas of conflict between Sumatran elephants and humans arising from space use problems because Sumatran elephants have specific preferences for habitat characteristics. This study aims to identify the characteristics of the weekly home range and analyze the relationship of weekly home range with habitat characteristics of Sumatran elephants in Bentang Seblat. GPS collar data from November 2020 until August 2022 were obtained from the Natural Resources Conservation Agency of Bengkulu-Lampung Province and habitat characteristics were obtained from Landsat 8 imagery. The data obtained were analyzed using chi-square test and Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) with five variables: land cover, slope, distance from water sources, roads, and settlements. The results showed that the weekly home range was between 2.67 ha-239.98 ha, averaging 46.1 ha. The highest percentage of each habitat characteristic includes secondary forest (55.38%), flat slopes (59.01%), distances of 0-450 m from water sources (35.11%), distances of 0-400 m from roads (70.81%), and distances of 6-8 km from settlements (50.37%). The weekly home range is closely related to all habitat characteristics, with the highest level of relationship significance being the distance from water sources and the distance from the settlement.
Effect of lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus on anthracnose disease in postharvest papaya fruit
Authors: THI QUACH VAN CAO , DUNG TRAN QUOC , HUYNH NGUYEN THI NHU , TRUC NGUYEN TRUNG , THUY NGUYEN PHUONG
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Thi QVC, Dung TQ, Huynh NTN, Truc NT, Thuy NP. 2023. Effect of lactic acid bacteria and Bacillus on anthracnose disease in postharvest papaya fruit. Biodiversitas 24: 5883-5894. Anthracnose disease of papaya fruit caused by Colletotrichum (isolate TD1), identified by 5.8S rRNA sequence homology, is a main obstacle in papaya fruit, influencing fruit quality and minimizing shelf life. Therefore, to diminish the disease and sustain the fruit quality, the impact of Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) and Bacillus on the growth of anthracnose disease and fruit quality was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, 13 LAB and 12 Bacillus isolates were collected from traditional fermented vegetables and papaya rhizospheric soils. The results showed that 13 LAB isolates and 6 isolates of Bacillus were inhibitory against Colletotrichum in an in vitro test. Two isolates of LDC11 and BHL21 with the highest antifungal activity were selected to evaluate their effect on Colletotrichum growth and papaya fruit quality under in vivo conditions. These findings indicated that the isolates LDC11 and BHL21 at a density of 106 CFU/mL reduced the disease incidence and severity. The LAB and Bacillus treated papaya fruit increased a number of parameters, such as weight loss, TSS, and L*, a*, and b* values. However, vitamin C content, TA, and fruit firmness were reduced compared to the control. The research shows a potential applications of LAB and Bacillus in the postharvest preservation of papaya fruit. To our knowledge, this is the first study to apply Bacillus and LAB bacteria to control diseases in postharvest papaya in Vietnam.
Physical, mechanical, and anatomical properties of 12 jabon (Neolamarckia cadamba) provenances wood in Indonesia
Authors: ANNA NELLY , SIREGAR ISKANDAR Z. , SUPRIYANTO SUPRIYANTO , SUDRAJAT DEDE J. , KARLINASARI LINA
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Anna N, Siregar IZ, Supriyanto, Sudrajat DJ, Karlinasari L. 2023. Physical, mechanical, and anatomical properties of 12 jabon (Neolamarckia cadamba) provenances wood in Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 5895-5904. Jabon is a raw wood material for paper industries and has a fast-growing ability. Comprehensive information on the fundamental qualities of wood from the 12 provenances of jabon (Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) Bosser) is a critical aspect of understanding their superior properties. The age of the samples at the trial was 42 months old, and the number of trees tested was 12, representing one provenance. Wood samples for physical (disk samples), mechanical, and anatomical properties were sampled at a height and length of 1.3 m and 35 cm. The logs were divided into 5 cm and 30 cm for wood samples with anatomical and mechanical properties. The physical and mechanical properties were tested according to ASTM D 4442, ASTM D 2395, and ASTM D 143 standards. The physical (density, specific gravity, and moisture content), mechanical properties (MOE and MOR), and anatomical properties (fiber length and microfibril angle) were carried out on wood from 12 provenances. Physical and anatomical properties were tested, from the pith to the outer bark. The average green wood density was 0.94 gcm-3, while the highest was obtained in the Rimbo Panti, Nusakambangan, Kapuas Tengah, and Batu Hijau provenances. The average specific gravity value from the 12 provenances of jabon was 0.46 in Batu Licin and Batu Hijau provenances; the average moisture content on oven-dry weight was 105.13%; and the highest value was in the Kuala Kencana provenance. The average MOE and MOR values were 51,039.93 kgcm-² and 488.37 kgcm-², with a dry air moisture content of 13.62%. The highest MOE and MOR values were in the Batu Licin and Gowa provenance, with MFA testing varied at 11.54°. The fiber length from the pith to the outer bark tended to increase, with an average of 1183.28 ?m. Based on the value of physical, mechanical, and anatomical properties, 12 provenances of jabon can only be used as non-structural raw materials. The Batu Hijau provenances have the highest density and specific gravity. However, the highest fiber length was found in Gowa provenance.
Antibacterial activity of Paederia foetida leaves using two different extraction procedures against pathogenic bacteria
Authors: YUNITA MELDA , OHIWAL MORGAN , ELFITRASYA MUHAMMAD ZEIN , RAHAWARIN HALIDAH
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Yunita M, Ohiwal M, Elfitrasya MZ, Rahawarin H. 2023. Antibacterial activity of Paederia foetida leaves using two different extraction procedures against pathogenic bacteria. Biodiversitas 24: 5920-5927. The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the extraction methods between maceration and infundation of Paederia foetida (Linn.) leaves in suppressing the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli with concentrations of 10, 25, 50, 75, and 100% using the disc-diffusion method. While phytochemical testing was performed by decoction method. The results of this study revealed that the macerated extract was able to inhibit both S. aureus and E. coli at all concentrations with the inhibition zones varied ranging from 5.8 ± 0.85 - 20.43 ± 0.06 mm and 4.9 ± 0.57 - 18.18 ± 0.67 mm, respectively. While the leaf infusion obtained from infundation method was found to be less able to inhibit both pathogenic bacteria (<1 mm). Results of phytochemical testing confirmed the result of inhibitory testing where macerated extract contained alkaloids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, and tannins, while the leaf infusion only contained alkaloids and terpenoids. It can be concluded that macerated extracts of P. foetida leaves were far more effective in inhibiting the growth of S. aureus and E. coli. The study implies that the leaf extract of P. foetida can be considered and developed into a strong antibacterial in the future through good and appropriate bioprospecting.
Hibiscus tiliaceus ethanolic leaf extract modulates quorum sensing-facilitated virulence factors
Authors: HUSNAH MILDA , SUHARTONO SUHARTONO , ISMAIL YULIA SARI
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Husnah M, Suhartono S, Ismail YS. 2023. Hibiscus tiliaceus ethanolic leaf extract modulates quorum sensing-facilitated virulence factors. Biodiversitas 24: 5962-5971. Bacterial pathogenicity and infections are often associated with the presence of virulence factors generated mostly through quorum-sensing (QS) mechanisms. Therefore, QS suppression is considered an effective strategy for combatting pathogens. Many studies to search for new anti-QS agents, particularly those of plant origin, have been intensively conducted. Hibiscus tiliaceus L. is one of the medicinal plants exhibiting various pharmacological activities including antibacterial potential; however, the study regarding its effects on bacterial QS systems has not been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potency of Hibiscus tiliaceus ethanolic leaf extract (HELE) as a modulating agent against Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC122472, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01. The extract was obtained through maceration and phytochemical screening was carried out by GC-MS. To evaluate antibacterial and anti-QS potentials of HELE, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC); minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC); growth inhibition rate; disc diffusion; and inhibition of violacein, pyocyanin, swarming motility, and biofilm formation were assayed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPPS software and Analysis of Varian (ANOVA) was employed to determine significant differences between the control and treatment groups. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of 16 different compounds in HELE, represented predominantly by diterpenoids (phytol), fatty acids (palmitic acid and oleic acid), and p-Tolualdehyde. MIC was found at 10 mg/mL against both C. violaceum ATCC122472 and S. aureus ATCC 29213, and 160 mg/mL against P. aeruginosa PA01. The MBC for the first two bacteria was 20 mg/mL, whereas that against P. aeruginosa PA01 remains to be determined. HELE was able to suppress the production of violacein, pyocyanin, and swarming motility at sub-MIC concentrations, highlighting the anti-QS potential of the extract. HELE at sub-MICs was found to stimulate biofilm formation, whereas at 2 x MIC exhibited an inhibitory effect. These findings justified that HELE might serve as a promising candidate not only as a future QS-inhibitory but also as a concentration-dependent QS-modulating agent.
The migratory locust (Locusta migratoria) as a potential source of protein and biopolymer compounds in the future
Authors: KLEDEN YASINTA LETEK , MUKKUN LINCE , NDAPAMURI MELYCORIANDA HUBI , PRAMATANA FADLAN
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Kleden YL, Mukkun L, Ndapamuri MH, Pamatana F. 2023. The migratory locust (Locusta migratoria Meyen) as a potential source of protein and biopolymer compounds in the future. Biodiversitas 24: 5979-5987. The migratory locust Locusta migratoria Linnaeus 1758, is an edible insect posing significant challenges to the agricultural industry in Indonesia, particularly in East Nusa Tenggara (ENT) Province. However, apart from the status of the migratory locust as a highly destructive insect pest, it has great potential as a source of protein, amino acids, and other bioactive compounds. This study aimed to determine the nutritional and other bioactive characteristics of locusts. Proximate analysis was performed using SNI 01-2891-1992 to identify protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, and energy. The amino acid analysis was conducted using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). The chitin from the nymph and imago stages of the locust was obtained through a process including demineralization and deproteinization. Subsequently, the chitin was subjected to deacetylation in order to obtain chitosan. Proximate content analysis shows that locust has promising potential as a source of nutrients in order to address the nutritional problems of the population that are still a problem in Indonesia including in ENT Province. The protein content of locust ranged from 63.72 to 75.26%  dry weight. These contents are close to those of egg protein (83%), beef protein (85%), and even most plant proteins, like soybean (81%). The imago stage exhibited the highest total amino acid content, measuring 411.41 mg/100 g, with essential amino acids such as lysine, isoleucine, leucine, valine, phenylalanine, threonine, histidine, and tryptophae.  Imago contains chitin from 8.79 to 12.05% dry weight and chitosan from 59.3% to 71.26% by weight of chitin. The study suggests that locusts can be an alternative source of nutrition to dial with stunting in term of  their availability of protein and amino acid. Additionally, chitin and chitosan in migratory locusts are promising nutrient sources for agriculture and health applications.
Brij V. Lal & K.L. Gillion: The apprentice and the sorcerer
Authors: Munro Doug
Published: January 2024

Brij Lal was mentored by Ken Gillion during the former’s doctoral work at the Australian National University in the late-1970s. The resulting thesis was a pathbreaking quantitative analysis of the 45,439 North Indians who went to Fiji as indentured labourers between 1879 and 1916 – centering on such variables as the places of origin, their age, gender, marital status, caste, and family circumstances.1The much-reduced monograph that derived from the thesis is a thoroughgoing statistical profile that has stood the test of time and been a model for subsequent work.2So we can thank Ken Gillion for his part in the ‘making’ of Brij Lal. Gillion and Lal became good friends, each holding the other in high regard. I knew them both, Lal far better than Gillion. As will be seen, Lal and I have contrasting views on Gillion as a person and as a scholar. Bringing to bear my own observations dating back to 1973, the archival record and a reading of Gillion and Lal’s writings, I discuss the evolving relationship between these two major historians of Indo-Fijian indenture.
Indentured archives and speculative futures in Singapore: A conversation with artist Priyageetha Dia
Authors: Shankar Karin
Published: January 2024

Priyageetha Dia is a Singapore-based transdisciplinary artist whose work brings together South-East Asian plantation histories, postcolonial memory, migration politics, and extractivism as it relates to both labour and data. The conversation focuses on submerged and speculative archives of indentureship in Dia’s work. Dia describes how specific strategies, such as layering archival images, embodying diasporic Tamil ritual, as well as incorporating CGI and 3D animation in her moving image installations create a counter archive of the histories and afterlives of indentureship in present-day Malaysia and Singapore.
Perversion, Sublimation, and Ethic
Authors: Boué-Widawsky Rachel
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This article focuses on the notion of perversion in early sexual life, coined by Freud as a polymorphous perversity, in offering a rereading of the three prefaces to Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality . From there I comment on Lacan's study of Sade in order to highlight the tragic melancholia that underlies perversion, using sexual drives to compensate for the lack and the loss of objectal satisfaction. The study of the psychosexual dynamic of perversion leads us to the key role of sublimation as the reverse of perversion. This review of the notion of perversion, as an agieren out of depression and out of the lack of satisfactory sublimation, thus provides a conceptual frame to reflect on the paradoxes of the contemporary sexual landscape, sexually liberated but diseroticized.
The Power of the Dog : Whose Gaze? Reading Savage's Novel, Watching Campion's Film
Authors: Willbern David
Published: January 2024

Abstract: The chapter compares and critiques two versions of one story: the original novel and its cinematic treatment over 50 years later. It briefly reviews changes in clinical and social ideas about gender and sexuality, especially homosexuality, during the 20th and 21st centuries. Then it addresses theoretical differences between the genres of text and film, and the idea of the "male gaze." Through close readings of the novel and the film, it demonstrates energies and tensions between concepts of male and female, gay and straight.
When the Shoe Doesn't Fit: Reading Cinderella as Colonial Children's Literature in the Philippines
Authors: Lee Gabriela
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This essay explores how non-Anglophone versions of the Cinderella story are used to affirm or challenge certain colonial or imperial ideals that were carried by canonical Eurocentric children's texts circulated during the Golden Age of children's literature. Examining two specific Philippine versions of Cinderella that were initially produced during the American colonial period (1898-1946) in the Philippines demonstrates that children's literature—particularly texts imported by colonial educators as well as texts produced by local writers—was a site of contestation and creation. This analysis focuses on how these adaptations were used as a tool for colonial expansion and education, but at the same time, were adapted to suit the search for a Philippine national identity.
Yoknapatawpha’s Rhyming Events
Authors: Railton Stephen
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This essay by the creator of the Digital Yoknapatawpha project explores a category of intertextual events that it calls “rhyming” –events that involve different characters, locations and dates in Yoknapatawpha’s larger history but are nonetheless closely linked together by various kinds of echoes. This pattern has two major claims on our attention: for what it reveals about Faulkner’s willingness, or perhaps his need, to keep recreating Yoknapatawpha each time he returned to it as the site of his long struggle to come to terms with the legacy of the Southern past; and for what it implies about the potential limitations of digital humanities projects like Digital Yoknapatawpha .
The Absence of Animals in Kafka's Fiction
Authors: Warodell Johan Adam
Published: January 2024

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Introduction
Authors: Nitis Maya
Published: January 2024

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Imagining Otherwise: "Wake work" in/as German Studies
Authors: Merritt Adrienne N.
Published: January 2024

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Emotional Resistance to Decolonial Efforts
Authors: Pahl Katrin
Published: January 2024

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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and policy response on access to and utilization of reproductive, maternal, child and adolescent health services in Kenya, Uganda and Zambia
Authors: Kuria-Ndiritu Shiphrah , Karanja Sarah , Mubita Brenda , Kapsandui Tonny , Kutna John , Anyona Dona , Murerwa Joyce , Ferguson Laura
Published: January 2024

Global health crises can negatively impact access to and utilisation of essential health services. Access to and utilisation of reproductive health services were already challenged in Sub-Saharan Africa with the COVID-19 pandemic further complicating the critical situation. This cross-sectional qualitative study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and policy responses to it on the access to, and utilization of reproductive, maternal, child and adolescent health services in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia. It sought to explore the perspectives of women of reproductive age (18–49), frontline health workers and government representatives, all from geographies that are under-researched in this context. Using purposive sampling, key informant and in-depth interviews were carried out with 63 participants across the three countries between November 2020 and February 2021. The study population included women of reproductive age (18–49 years), front-line health service providers, and government representatives We established that COVID-19 and the policy response to it affected access to and utilization of services in the three countries, the most affected being antenatal care, delivery, family planning, and immunization services. Women reported not accessing the health facilities for various reasons. Barriers to access and utilization of services cut across all the socioecological levels. Movement restrictions, particularly in Uganda where they were most severe, and fear of contracting COVID-19 at health facilities were the most reported barriers. Weak structures at community level and inadequate supply of commodities in health facilities exacerbated the situation. Mitigation factors were put in place at different levels. There is need to strengthen the health system, particularly the supply chain and to have services closer to the community to enhance access to and utilisation of services at all times and particularly during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
Use of isotretinoin among girls and women of childbearing age and occurrence of isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies in Germany: A population-based study
Authors: Reinold Jonas , Kollhorst Bianca , Wentzell Nadine , Platzbecker Katharina , Haug Ulrike
Published: January 2024

Background

Exposure to isotretinoin during pregnancy must be avoided due to its teratogenicity, but real-world data on its use are scarce. We aimed to describe (i) isotretinoin use in women of childbearing age in Germany; (ii) the occurrence of isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies; and (iii) malformations among children exposed in utero.

Methods and findings

Using observational data from the German Pharmacoepidemiological Research Database (GePaRD, claims data from approximately 20% of the German population), we conducted annual cross-sectional analyses to determine age-standardized prevalence of isotretinoin use between 2004 and 2019 among girls and women aged 13 to 49 years. In cohort analyses, we estimated the number of exposed pregnancies by assessing whether there was prescription supply overlapping the beginning of pregnancy (estimated supply was varied in sensitivity analyses) or a dispensation within the first 8 weeks of pregnancy. Data of live-born children classified as exposed in a critical period according to these criteria were reviewed to assess the presence of congenital malformations.

The age-standardized prevalence of isotretinoin use per 1,000 girls and women increased from 1.20 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16, 1.24) in 2004 to 1.96 (95% CI: 1.92, 2.01) in 2019. In the base case analysis, we identified 178 pregnancies exposed to isotretinoin, with the number per year doubling during the study period, and at least 45% of exposed pregnancies ended in an induced abortion. In sensitivity analyses, the number of exposed pregnancies ranged between 172 and 375. Among live-born children, 6 had major congenital malformations. The main limitation of this study was the lack of information on the prescribed dose, i.e., the supply had to be estimated based on the dispensed amount of isotretinoin.

Conclusions

Isotretinoin use among girls and women of childbearing age increased in Germany between 2004 and 2019, and there was a considerable number of pregnancies likely exposed to isotretinoin in a critical period. This highlights the importance of monitoring compliance with the existing risk minimization measures for isotretinoin in Germany.
Development of a multivariate predictive model for dapsone adverse drug events in people with leprosy under standard WHO multidrug therapy
Authors: de Araujo Ana Carolina Galvão dos Santos , Hacker Mariana de Andrea Vilas-Boas , Pinheiro Roberta Olmo , Illarramendi Ximena , Durães Sandra Maria Barbosa , Nobre Maurício Lisboa , Moraes Milton Ozório , Sales Anna Maria , da Silva Gilberto Marcelo Sperandio
Published: January 2024

Background

The occurrence of adverse drug events (ADEs) during dapsone (DDS) treatment in patients with leprosy can constitute a significant barrier to the successful completion of the standardized therapeutic regimen for this disease. Well-known DDS-ADEs are hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, hepatotoxicity, agranulocytosis, and hypersensitivity reactions. Identifying risk factors for ADEs before starting World Health Organization recommended standard multidrug therapy (WHO/MDT) can guide therapeutic planning for the patient. The objective of this study was to develop a predictive model for DDS-ADEs in patients with leprosy receiving standard WHO/MDT.

Methodology

This is a case-control study that involved the review of medical records of adult (≥18 years) patients registered at a Leprosy Reference Center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The cohort included individuals that received standard WHO/MDT between January 2000 to December 2021. A prediction nomogram was developed by means of multivariable logistic regression (LR) using variables. The Hosmer–Lemeshow test was used to determine the model fit. Odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. The predictive ability of the LRM was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

A total of 329 medical records were assessed, comprising 120 cases and 209 controls. Based on the final LRM analysis, female sex (OR = 3.61; 95% CI: 2.03–6.59), multibacillary classification (OR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.39–4.66), and higher education level (completed primary education) (OR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.14–3.47) were considered factors to predict ADEs that caused standard WHO/MDT discontinuation. The prediction model developed had an AUC of 0.7208, that is 72% capable of predicting DDS-ADEs.

Conclusion

We propose a clinical model that could become a helpful tool for physicians in predicting ADEs in DDS-treated leprosy patients.
A randomized controlled trial on the effects of decision aids for choosing discharge destinations of older stroke patients
Authors: Aoki Yoriko , Nakayama Kazuhiro , Yonekura Yuki
Published: January 2024

Background

In Japanese medical practice, older stroke survivors are overwhelmed with information regarding their discharge locations, creating more decision-making challenges. A randomized controlled trial evaluated the influence of decision aids (DAs) for matching older stroke patients and their families’ values concerning decisional conflict and participation in discharge destination decisions.

Methods

Participants were randomly allocated to intervention and control groups. The intervention spanned two months, from admission to discharge, at which times participants were surveyed. DAs were provided to the intervention group, and brochures to the control group. The primary endpoint was decisional conflict, assessed using the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS). The secondary endpoint decision-making participation was assessed using the Control Preference Scale (CPS) decision-making roles and a 10-point Visual Analog Scale for participation rate. An independent t-test analyzed decisional conflict scores and participation rates to examine between-group differences. The chi-square independence test evaluated roles in decision-making scores. Post hoc subgroup analyses were performed.

Results

Ninety-nine participants (intervention group n = 51; control group n = 48) were included in the full analysis set, with a dropout rate of 38.4%. No significant group differences were found in decision-making conflict [t (99) = 0.69, p = 0.49, d = 0.14] and roles in decision-making scores [χ2 (5) = 3.65, p = 0.46]. However, a significant group difference was found in the participation rate [t (99) = 2.24, p = 0.03, d = 0.45]. DA tended to reduce uncertainty and promote participation rates, especially in participants living alone and unable to decide their discharge destination.

Conclusions

The use of DA with older stroke patients did not significantly decrease decisional conflicts. In addition, the participation rate in decision-making increased, but their active role did not. Further studies should be conducted to understand the methods of offering DA, their ideal durations, and identify their beneficiaries.
Anti H. pylori, anti-secretory and gastroprotective effects of Thymus vulgaris on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Balaky Salah Tofik Jalal
Published: January 2024

The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the acute toxicity, gastroprotective, therapeutic, anti-inflammatory and anti H. pylori activities of T. vulgaris total plant extract against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in Sprague Dawley rats. Animals were divided into five groups i.e G-1 (Normal Control), Group 2 (ulcer control) were administered orally with 0.5% Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), Group 3 (omeprazole treated) was administered orally with 20 mg/kg of omeprazole and Groups 4 and 5 (Low dose and High dose of the extract) were administered orally with 250, and 500 mg/ kg of Thymus vulgaris extract, respectively. After 1 hour, the normal group was orally administered with 0.5% CMC (5 ml/kg), whereas absolute alcohol (5ml/ kg) was orally administered to the ulcer control group, omeprazole group, and experimental groups. Stomachs were examined macroscopically and microscopically. Grossly, rats pre-treated with T. vulgaris demonstrated significantly decreased ulcer area and an increase in mucus secretion and pH of gastric content compared with the ulcer control group. Microscopy of gastric mucosa in the ulcer control group showed severe damage to gastric mucosa with edema and leukocytes infiltration of the submucosal layer. However, rats pretreated with omeprazole or Thyme vulgaris exhibited a mild to moderate disruption of the surface epithelium and lower level of edema and leukocyte infiltration of the submucosal layer. The T. vulgaris extract caused up-regulation of Hsp70 protein, down-regulation of Bax protein, and intense periodic acid Schiff uptake of the glandular portion of the stomach. Gastric mucosal homogenate of rats pre-treated with T. vulgaris exhibited significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities while malondialdehyde (MDA) level was significantly decreased. Based on the results showed in this study, Thymus vulgaris extract can be proposed as the safe medicinal plants for use and it has considerable gastroprotective potential via stomach epithelium protection against gastric ulcers and stomach lesions.
System identifiability in a time-evolving agent-based model
Authors: Robin Tal T. , Cascante-Vega Jaime , Shaman Jeffrey , Pei Sen
Published: January 2024

Mathematical models are a valuable tool for studying and predicting the spread of infectious agents. The accuracy of model simulations and predictions invariably depends on the specification of model parameters. Estimation of these parameters is therefore extremely important; however, while some parameters can be derived from observational studies, the values of others are difficult to measure. Instead, models can be coupled with inference algorithms (i.e., data assimilation methods, or statistical filters), which fit model simulations to existing observations and estimate unobserved model state variables and parameters. Ideally, these inference algorithms should find the best fitting solution for a given model and set of observations; however, as those estimated quantities are unobserved, it is typically uncertain whether the correct parameters have been identified. Further, it is unclear what ‘correct’ really means for abstract parameters defined based on specific model forms. In this work, we explored the problem of non-identifiability in a stochastic system which, when overlooked, can significantly impede model prediction. We used a network, agent-based model to simulate the transmission of Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) within hospital settings and attempted to infer key model parameters using the Ensemble Adjustment Kalman Filter, an efficient Bayesian inference algorithm. We show that even though the inference method converged and that simulations using the estimated parameters produced an agreement with observations, the true parameters are not fully identifiable. While the model-inference system can exclude a substantial area of parameter space that is unlikely to contain the true parameters, the estimated parameter range still included multiple parameter combinations that can fit observations equally well. We show that analyzing synthetic trajectories can support or contradict claims of identifiability. While we perform this on a specific model system, this approach can be generalized for a variety of stochastic representations of partially observable systems. We also suggest data manipulations intended to improve identifiability that might be applicable in many systems of interest.