bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase II study of pembrolizumab in combination with radiation with or without olaparib in localized high-risk prostate cancer.
Authors: Myint Zin , St. Clair William H , Strup Stephen , Hensley Patrick J. , Yan Donglin , Tward Jonathan David , Maughan Benjamin L.
Published: February 2024

TPS351

Background: Definitive radiation therapy (DRT) combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) remains the standard of care in patients with high-risk prostate cancer (HRPC) who do not want surgery. However, up to 50% experience biochemical recurrence (BCR) within 5 years. A phase 3 NCIC group reported the 10-year biochemical recurrence free survival was 63% in ADT plus DRT vs. 27% in ADT alone. There is an urgent need for effective novel combination strategies. We hypothesize combined immune sensitizing effects of PARPi and radiation will result in significant activity of immunotherapy in men with HRPC. Methods: This is a multicenter phase II randomized study to assess biochemical response rates, safety and tolerability of combined therapy in pts with localized HRPC who elected for concurrent DRT. A total of 64 pts will be randomized 1:1 to receive either pembrolizumab (P) combined with olaparib or single agent P in addition to the standard of care ADT with DRT. Hypofractionated IMRT (2.4 to 4 Gy per fraction over 4-6 weeks) will be delivered and all pts will receive adjuvant P for one year and ADT for at least 18 months. All pts will undergo germline testing. Key eligible criteria include biopsy confirmed prostate adenocarcinoma who meets at least one of the four high-risk features: 1) clinical T3a, T3b or T4, 2) N1, 3) Gleason grade group 4 or 5, and 4) PSA >20 ng/ml. Patients with less than 2 cm pelvic nodes and received ADT therapy within 3months prior to study enrollment are allowed. PSA >150 ng/ml and patients with distant metastases will be excluded. The primary endpoint is to assess the proportion of patients who achieve a PSA nadir level of ≤ 0.06 ng/ml within six months after completion of radiation therapy in each arm. The secondary objectives include safety/tolerability, BCR and metastasis-free survival at 3 years. BCR is defined by the Phoenix definition. The study is designed to detect a 15% improvement in PSA nadir ≤ 0.06 ng/mL within 6 months after completion of the combined therapy versus historical control group data Geara FB et al., 2017. Enrollment began in August 2023. Clinical trial information: NCT05568550 .
Continuous PEGasparaginase Dosing Reduces Hypersensitivity Reactions in Pediatric ALL: A Dutch Childhood Oncology Group ALL11 Randomized Trial
Authors: van der Sluis Inge M. , Brigitha Leiah J. , Fiocco Marta , de Groot-Kruseman Hester A. , Bierings Marc , van den Bos Cor , de Haas Valerie , Hoogerbrugge Peter M. , Tissing Wim J.E. , Veening Margreet A. , Pieters Rob
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

The primary objective of this randomized study was to determine whether a continuous dosing schedule (without the asparaginase-free interval) would result in less hypersensitivity reactions to PEGasparaginase (PEGasp) compared with the standard noncontinuous dosing schedule.

METHODS

Eight hundred eighteen patients (age 1-18 years) with ALL were enrolled in the Dutch Childhood Oncology Group-ALL11 protocol and received PEGasp. Three hundred twelve patients stratified in the medium-risk arm were randomly assigned to receive 14 individualized PEGasp doses once every two weeks in either a noncontinuous or continuous schedule after the first three doses in induction (EudraCT: 2012-000067-25). Hypersensitivity reactions were defined as allergies, allergic-like reactions, and silent inactivation. Secondary end points were other asparaginase-related toxicities, asparaginase activity and antibody levels, and outcome.

RESULTS

During induction, 27 of 818 patients (3.3%) experienced hypersensitivity reactions. After random assignment, 4 of 155 (2.6%) in the continuous treatment arm versus 17 of 157 (10.8%) patients in the noncontinuous treatment arm had hypersensitivity reactions ( P < .01), of which two (1.3%) versus 13 (8.3%) were inactivating reactions ( P < .01). The occurrence of inactivating hypersensitivity reactions was seven times lower in the continuous arm (odds ratio, 0.15 [0.032-0.653]). In addition, antibody levels were significantly lower in the continuous arm ( P < .01). With exception of a lower incidence of increased amylase in the continuous arm, there were no significant differences in total number of asparaginase-associated toxicities between arms. However, the timing of the toxicities was associated with the timing of the asparaginase administrations. No difference in 5-year cumulative incidence of relapse, death, or disease-free survival was found between both treatment arms.

CONCLUSION

A continuous dosing schedule of PEGasp is an effective approach to prevent antibody formation and inactivating hypersensitivity reactions. The continuous PEGasp schedule did not increase toxicity and did not affect the efficacy of the therapy.
Every Move Counts to Improve Bone Health at Clinical Sites in Young Pediatric Cancer Survivors: The iBoneFIT Project
Authors: MARMOL-PEREZ ANDRES , MIGUELES JAIRO H. , UBAGO-GUISADO ESTHER , GIL-COSANO JOSE J. , RODRIGUEZ-SOLANA ANDREA , REDONDO-TÉBAR ANDRÉS , LLORENTE-CANTARERO FRANCISCO J. , LABAYEN IDOIA , ORTEGA FRANCISCO B. , RUIZ JONATAN R. , GRACIA-MARCO LUIS
Published: February 2024

Purpose

We aimed to examine the associations of 24-h movement behaviors (moderate to vigorous physical activity [MVPA], light physical activity [LPA], sedentary behavior [SB], and sleep) with age-, sex-, and race-specific areal bone mineral density (aBMD) z-score parameters at clinical sites in young pediatric cancer survivors.

Methods

This cross-sectional multicenter study was carried out within the iBoneFIT framework in which 116 young pediatric cancer survivors (12.1 ± 3.3 yr old; 42% female) were recruited. We obtained anthropometric and body composition data (i.e., body mass, stature, body mass index, and region-specific lean mass), time spent in movement behaviors over at least seven consecutive 24-h periods (wGT3x-BT accelerometer, ActiGraph), and aBMD z-score parameters (age-, sex-, and race-specific total at the body, total hip, femoral neck and lumbar spine). Survivors were classified according to somatic maturity (pre or peri/postpubertal depending on the estimated years from peak height velocity). The adjusted models’ coefficients were used to predict the effect of reallocating time proportionally across behaviors on the outcomes.

Results

In prepubertal young pediatric cancer survivors, reallocating time to MVPA from LPA, SB, and sleep was significantly associated with higher aBMD at total body (B = 1.765, P = 0.005), total hip (B = 1.709, P = 0.003), and lumbar spine (B = 2.093, P = 0.001). In peri/postpubertal survivors, reallocating time to LPA from MVPA, SB, and sleep was significantly associated with higher aBMD at all sites (B = 2.090 to 2.609, P = 0.003 to 0.038). Reallocating time to SB from MVPA or LPA was significantly associated with lower aBMD at most sites in prepubertal and peri/postpubertal survivors, respectively. Finally, reallocating time to sleep from MVPA, LPA, and SB was significantly associated with lower aBMD at total body (B = −2.572, P = 0.036) and total hip (B = −3.371, P = 0.015).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that every move counts and underline the benefits of increasing MVPA or LPA, when low MVPA levels are present, for bone regeneration after pediatric cancer treatment completion.
Μελέτη των αυθόρμητων εξηγήσεων των μαθητών της Γ' γυμνασίου για την εξέλιξη και των παραγόντων που επηρεάζουν τη μετάβασή τους στις εξελικτικές εξηγήσεις
Authors: Καμπουράκης Κωνσταντίνος
Published: February 2024

Η παρούσα μελέτη είχε ως στόχο να διερευνήσει τις εξηγήσεις των μαθητών της δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης για τις εξελικτικές διαδικασίες και να καθορίσει πόσο συνεπείς ήταν αυτές μετά από μια συγκεκριμένη διδασκαλία για την εξέλιξη. Οι ερωτήσεις που δόθηκαν στους μαθητές απαιτούσαν εξελικτικές εξηγήσεις, ειδικότερα εξηγήσεις για την προέλευση των ομολογιών και των προσαρμογών. Aναπτύξαμε μια διδακτική ακολουθία προκειμένου να ξεπεραστούν οι προκαταλήψεις των μαθητών, καθώς και να επιτευχθεί εννοιολογική αλλαγή και εξηγητική συνοχή. Οι μαθητές διδάχθηκαν τις θεμελιώδεις βιολογικές έννοιες και τα διάφορα επίπεδα βιολογικής οργάνωσης, καθώς και τους μηχανισμούς της κληρονομικότητας και της προέλευσης της γενετικής ποικιλότητας. Στη συνέχεια, όλες αυτές οι έννοιες χρησιμοποιήθηκαν για τη διδασκαλία της εξέλιξης, συσχετίζοντας τις μικροέννοιες (π.χ. γονότυποι) με τις μακροέννοιες (π.χ. φαινότυποι). Επιπλέον, κατά τη διάρκεια της διδασκαλίας οι μαθητές οδηγήθηκαν σε μια κατάσταση εννοιολογικής σύγκρουσης, όπου οι διαισθητικές τους εξηγήσεις αμφισβητήθηκαν, καθώς δόθηκε έμφαση σε δύο έννοιες εντελώς αντίθετες με τις προαντιλήψεις τους: την τύχη και το απρόβλεπτο. Από τις εξηγήσεις που έδωσαν οι μαθητές στο μετά τη διδασκαλία συνάγεται το συμπέρασμα ότι η εννοιολογική αλλαγή και η εξηγητική συνοχή στην εξέλιξη μπορούν να επιτευχθούν σε κάποιο βαθμό από τους μαθητές της δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης μέσω της προτεινόμενης ακολουθίας διδασκαλίας και του εξηγητικού πλαισίου, το οποίο μπορεί να αποτελέσει τη βάση για την περαιτέρω διδασκαλία της εξέλιξης.
Διερεύνηση των πρακτικών του τέλους της ζωής και του κόστους σε μονάδα εντατικής θεραπείας
Authors: Κουτσούκη Σωτηρία
Published: February 2024

Εισαγωγή: Ο περιορισμός των μη ωφέλιμων παρεμβάσεων υποστήριξης της ζωής, είτε με τη μη κλιμάκωση είτε με την απόσυρση, είναι μια διαδεδομένη πρακτική παγκοσμίως στις ΜΕΘ. Η συσχέτιση τους με τα κλινικά χαρακτηριστικά των ασθενών και το κόστος υγειονομικής περίθαλψης στη ΜΕΘ χρειάζεται περαιτέρω επιστημονική τεκμηρίωση. Σκοπός της μελέτης: Η διερεύνηση των πρακτικών του τέλους της ζωής, η συσχέτιση τους με τα κλινικά δεδομένα των ασθενών και το κόστος περίθαλψης στη ΜΕΘ ενηλίκων.Υλικό και μέθοδοι: Όλοι οι ασθενείς που εισήχθησαν στη γενική ΜΕΘ ενός νοσοκομείου στην Ελλάδα σε μια διετή (2019-2021) προοπτική μελέτη. Η συλλογή δεδομένων περιελάμβανε δημογραφικές και κλινικές μεταβλητές των ασθενών, δεδομένα σχετικά με τις αποφάσεις περιορισμού μη ωφέλιμων παρεμβάσεων, μεταβλητές και οικονομικά δεδομένα της ΜΕΘ. Οι ασθενείς παρακολουθήθηκαν μέχρι 60 ημέρες από την είσοδο τους στη ΜΕΘ. Πραγματοποιήθηκαν συσχετίσεις των δεδομένων που συλλέχθηκαν μεταξύ ασθενών με και χωρίς αποφάσεις περιορισμού. Αποτελέσματα: Από τους 454 ασθενείς του δείγματος στους 164 (36,1%) εφαρμόστηκαν περιορισμοί μη ωφέλιμων παρεμβάσεων. Στο σύνολο των ασθενών η μη κλιμάκωση και η απόσυρση παρεμβάσεων εφαρμόστηκε στους 123 (27,0%) και 41 (9,0%) αντίστοιχα. Οι ασθενείς με αποφάσεις περιορισμού εμφάνισαν συνολική νοσοκομειακή θνητότητα (35,1%), ήταν κυρίως άνδρες (66,5%), σχετίζονταν με μεγαλύτερη ηλικία (median [IQR]), 70[14] έτη έναντι 62[22]έτη, p<0,001), μεγαλύτερη βαθμολογία βαρύτητας νόσου (median [IQR], APACHE IV 71[42] έναντι 50 [31], p<0,001), μεγαλύτερη διάρκεια παραμονής (median [IQR], 7 [13] ημέρες έναντι 4,5 [11] ημέρες, p<0,001), χειρότερη πρόγνωση θανάτου (median [IQR], APACHE IV PDR 48,9 [31,9] έναντι 17,35 [27,2], p<0,001), αυξημένο αριθμό χρονίων νόσων (p<0,005) και μικρότερο μέσο νοσηλευτικό φόρτο εργασίας (NAS) (median [IQR], 64,32 [9,56] έναντι 69,9 [10,5], p<0,001). Όλες οι κατηγορίες κόστους και το μέσο συνολικό κόστος ανά ασθενή ήταν υψηλότερο από των ασθενών χωρίς περιορισμό (mean [SD] 9247,79 [9582,97] € έναντι 8029,46 [10490,42] €, p<0,004), το μέσο ημερήσιο κόστος δε διέφερε μεταξύ των ομάδων, p<0,716). Ωστόσο, αλλάζοντας το μοντέλο φροντίδας μετά τον περιορισμό σε παρεμβάσεις ανακούφισης, το μέσο ημερήσιο κόστος μειώθηκε σε σύγκριση με το κόστος πριν από την απόφαση (p<0,001).Συμπεράσματα: Η αλλαγή του μοντέλου φροντίδας από τους επαγγελματίες υγείας και τους εμπλεκόμενους σε θέματα πολιτικής της υγείας, μπορεί να συμβάλλει στην καλύτερη κατανομή των διαθέσιμων πόρων και να αποτελέσει κίνητρο για την ανάπτυξη πολιτικών με εστίαση στην αξιοπρέπεια στο τέλος της ζωής.
Ο φθοροποιός καταναλωτισμός και η ελληνική κρίση
Authors: Λάλλας Δημήτρης , Ζαρίκος Ιάσωνας , Σωτηροπούλου Μαρία (Μάνια)
Published: February 2024

Στο άρθρο αυτό αναδεικνύουμε τον τρόπο νοηματοδότησης του καταναλωτισμού και της προβληματοποίησης της σχέσης του με την ελληνική κρίση, αναλύοντας τη σχετική αρθρογραφία στο έντυπο της Καθημερινής της Κυριακής κατά την περίοδο 2010-2016. Αξιοποιώντας τη μεθοδολογία της Θεματικής Ανάλυσης, παρουσιάζουμε τα βασικά θεματικά μοτίβα μέσα από τα οποία αναδεικνύονται συγκεκριμένες πολιτικές νοηματοδότησης του καταναλωτισμού και της πολυδιάστατης (όχι μόνο δημοσιονομικής) ελληνικής κρίσης ως φαινομένων στενά συνυφασμένων. Η ανάδειξη του καταναλωτισμού ως φθοροποιού και παθογενούς ήθους σε κεντρικό θεματικό μοτίβο υποδεικνύει πολιτικές νοηματοδότησης του καταναλωτισμού ως αιτίου, συμπτώματος και ως παράγοντα επίτασης της πολυδιάστατης κρίσης του ελληνικού κοινωνικού σχηματισμού. Πρόκειται για πολιτικές νοήματος μαζικής απεύθυνσης  και φαίνεται ότι εγγράφονται στην ευρύτερη φιλελεύθερη προοπτική  επιχειρώντας να ερμηνεύσουν την ελληνική κρίση μέσα από το αναλυτικό πρίσμα της κατανάλωσης και, κυρίως, του καταναλωτισμού.
Micronutrients in Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: . Sairoz , Prabhu Krishnananda , Dastidar Ranita Ghosh , Aroor Annayya Rao , Rao Mahadev , shetty Sahana , Poojari Vidyashree G , BS Varashree
Published: February 2024

About 10 to 20% of reported pregnancies have complications like spontaneous abortion (SA), preeclampsia (PE), preterm birth (PTB), and fetal growth restriction (FGR); 60% are attributed to maternal nutritional alterations. Multiple micronutrients (MMN) are supplemented in the antenatal period, but no proper validation/guidelines are available regarding dosing/time, the need for initiation, and the duration of supplementation. Studies have reported adverse pregnancy complications related to the overuse/unwanted use of multiple micronutrient supplementations during pregnancy. Identifying the exact population requiring supplementation is necessary to prevent its abuse. This article attempts to review the impacts of micronutrient deficiency/supplementation in cases of SA, FGR, and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preterm delivery and PE. The study used a literature search using PubMed, Google Scholar, Mendeley, and Scopus Databases using search words pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), fetal growth restriction (FGR), preterm delivery, preeclampsia (PE) or “adverse pregnancy” associated with minerals, micronutrients, or supplementation. The review also considered in-house literature databases, a single-window search at Kasturba Medical College (KMC) Health sciences library, MAHE (Manipal Academy of Higher Education). The figures included in the study were created by Biorender.com. Micronutrients play multiple roles during pregnancy and fetoplacental growth stimulating growth hormone secretion, Lysyl oxidase (LOX), involved in the crosslinking between collagen and elastin in the amniotic membrane, downregulation of interleukin (IL)-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-4, IL-6, Il-10, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and several chemokines involved in hypertension, immune-inflammatory pathways, attenuate insulin resistance a structural development of neurons and glia. Over-supplementation has led to complications such as spontaneous abortion and gestational diabetes mellitus. Since there is a lack of standardization concerning micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy, there is a need for systematic study related to the role of micronutrients during each trimester of pregnancy to optimize its supplementation and to prevent hazards associated with its abuse.
Metrical Ambiguity
Authors: Scherr Barry P.
Published: February 2024

In most instances the meter of a Russian poem becomes clear virtually from the start, after a single line or perhaps just a few lines. However, there are also poems for which a simple metrical classification remains problematic even upon consideration of the entire work. In some cases, an abundance of internal rhyme leads to the appearance of a “shadow meter” that creates an alternative way to describe the meter over at least a portion of the poem. In others, it turns out to be possible to interpret an entire poem as belonging to any of two or more meters, often because the work does not precisely match the norms for any one type while bearing reasonably close resemblances to more than one metrical category. In this paper I examine several instances of metrical ambiguity in Russian verse and conclude that for such poems it is best not to employ a single metrical label but to offer a more detailed characterization that does justice to the work’s complexity.
Diagnostic value of radiological examination methods in the detection of odontogenic sinusitis
Authors: Storozhchuk Yuliia , Kundina Viktoriia
Published: February 2024

It is emphasized that odontogenic sinusitis frequency for at least 9–11% of the total number of inflammatory diseases of the maxillofacial area, and the frequency of their complications ranges from 30% to 50%. Emphasis is placed on the fact that a frequent cause of the development of odontogenic sinusitis is errors in the endodontic treatment of teeth and errors in dental implantation, which is accompanied by the use of tools for processing root canals (root needles, drills, canal fillers, pulp extractors), as well as filling material and an implant behind the apex tooth root into the sinus cavity.

Radiological research methods play a leading role in the diagnosis of odontogenic sinusitis. Traditionally, for the evaluation of paranasal sinuses, radiography in the nasolabial projection, inspection radiographs of the skull in direct and lateral projections are used. The advantages and disadvantages of multispiral computed tomography (MCT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) are given separately. For a group of 130 patients, the results of the diagnostic informativeness of radiological examination methods in the detection of odontogenic sinusitis are given.

The obtained results allow to conclude that in all cases computer tomography (MCT or CBCT) made it possible to accurately diagnose the form of the disease, determine the extent of sinus damage, assess the condition of the lower bone wall of the sinus (reveal a violation of its integrity and report a tooth socket with a sinus), to determine the center of inflammation in the periodontium, as well as to detect the presence of foreign bodies in the maxillary sinus. At the same time, MCT and CBCT data were fully compared with each other, surpassed traditional radiological methods in terms of diagnostic informativeness and had such advantages as the absence of superposition, high contrast resolution, and the possibility of obtaining higher-quality image reconstructions in different planes.

The aim of study. To analyze the diagnostic value of radiological examination methods in the detection of odontogenic sinusitis.Material and methods: We examined 130 patients in the period from 2022 to 2023. X-ray examinations were performed on a Planmeca ProMax 3D cone beam computed tomography scanner and MCT.Results: Regarding the data of СBCT, it is possible to specify the localization of the foreign body and its connection with the odontogenic factor with high probability. It is worth noting that these sinusitis belong to the iatrogenic group of diseases.Conclusions: CT methods (MCT or CBCT) are a necessary component of the complex diagnosis of odontogenic sinusitis.
Review of pharmacological treatment registered for obesity in Poland
Authors: Wyrwał Julia , Nowak Karolina , Olejarz Zuzanna , Drygała Zuzanna , Zielińska Zuzanna , Słowik Magdalena , Nowak Karolina , Nieć Maria , Gierlach Katarzyna , Krasuska Martyna
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Obesity is a persistent chronic condition. It is associated with an increased riskof premature death and the development of accompanying diseases. According to statisticaldata, half of the population struggles with excessive body weight, with one in five Polesbeing obese. [2]Aim: Our study aimed to evaluate the current literature on pharmacotherapy for obesityavailable in Poland using the PubMed database. We emphasize the crucial importance of anindividualized patient approach to attain therapeutic success, aligning with the latestguidelines and scientific research.A brief description of the state of knowledge: In Poland, we have three registeredmedications intended for the treatment of obesity: naltrexone/bupropion, liraglutide, andorlistat. It's crucial that they assist in weight reduction, hence they should be used alongsidea proper diet and physical activity, not as the sole form of treatment. Using them assists inachieving therapeutic targets determined in partnership with the patient, and lowers levels ofparticular indicators linked to chronic inflammation and arterial issues. Moreover, theydiminish the chances of complications and early mortality due to the advancement of thecondition.Summary: Obesity is a serious condition, and there should be no fear in incorporatingpharmacotherapy in patients with it. It is incredibly important to effectively treat this diseaseand take proactive health measures, even at the stage of overweight, considering it as aprecursor to obesity.
Cutaneous manifestations associated with COVID-19: summary of current knowledge
Authors: Jung Magdalena , Woźniak Kinga , Jung Maximilian , Sysło Oliwia , Hedesz Patryk , Gardian-Baj Monika , Szczerbiak Alicja , Jędral Krystian , Żuk-Łapan Aleksandra , Doryń Aleksandra
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purpose: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), had been spreading rapidly throughout the world, mainly affecting respiratory system. Except pulmonary symptoms, skin lesions might also occur. The precise percentage of patients with confirmed COVID-19 who presented cutaneous manifestations is still unknown (0.2% - 20.4%). Part of the skin lesions might be drug-induced.

Brief description of the state of knowledge: Cutaneous manifestations in the course of the coronavirus disease could be divided into six main groups: maculopapular rash, urticarial lesions, chilblain‐like lesions, vesicular eruptions, petechial/purpuric lesions and livedoid lesions. The most common skin lesions are maculopapular eruptions (47%). Trunk is the most affected location, whereas pruritus is the most frequent additional symptom among patients with skin lesions associated with coronavirus disease. These lesions appear mainly in elderly patients except pseudo chilblains which are present among children and young adults with SARS-Cov-2 infection. The majority of cutaneous manifestations occur after COVID-19 systemic symptoms, but the appearance of vesicular lesions before the respiratory signs was also reported. Cutaneous manifestations resolved spontaneously at different times, ranging from a few days to 2-4 weeks. Moreover, patients with severe course of COVID-19 with maculopapular rash have better prognosis (2% mortality rate) in comparison to patients who developed livedoid lesions in course of the coronavirus disease (10% mortality rate).

Summary: Pseudo-chilblains and vesicular lesions are the most specific cutaneous manifestations of coronavirus disease. Healthcare professionals should pay attention to patients who present skin symptoms in the course of COVID-19. Cutaneous manifestations can facilitate the doctor the diagnosis and even estimate the severity of coronavirus disease.
Surgical treatment of a bilateral superficial flexor tendon luxation
Authors: Atmaca Katarzyna , Montano Hilario Gonzalez , Padley Hannah , Pennington Catrina
Published: February 2024

A two-year-old, male, neutered, crossbreed dog was presented to Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists with a history of bilateral pelvic limb lameness. Right pelvic limb lameness was first noted 3 months prior to presentation. Right superficial digital flexor tendon tendinopathy and associated bursitis were diagnosed based on computed tomography scans performed by the referring veterinarian. Conservative management, consisting of analgesia and exercise restriction, did not resolve the clinical signs and referral was sought. At the time of presentation, left pelvic limb lameness of 1 week's duration was reported additionally by the owner. Clinical examination and imaging findings were consistent with bilateral superficial digital flexor tendon luxation. Surgical management consisting of relocation of the superficial digital flexor tendon into the central position of the calcaneal groove alongside a retinaculoplasty and calcaneoplasty was performed bilaterally. Half-cast dressings were placed on both pelvic limbs and were removed after 3 weeks due to mild soft tissue complications. The patient was cage rested for 5 weeks in total. The re-examination 8 weeks after surgical treatment revealed that the tendons remained stable and could not be manually luxated.
Loving your oral health
Authors: Lane Laura
Published: February 2024

Laura Lane gives her thoughts on oral health and Valentine's Day… With some romantic dental tips thrown in!
Research on a Two-stage Plane Adaptive Sampling Algorithm for Near-field Scanning Acceleration
Authors: Liu Xiaoyong , Zhang Peng , Shi Dan
Published: February 2024

As one of the most useful methods in electromagnetic interference (EMI) diagnosis, near-field (NF) scanning is widely used in electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) evaluation of complex devices under test (DUTs). In this paper, a two-stage plane adaptive sampling algorithm is proposed to reduce the acquisition time in the process of NF scanning and to make reconstruction of the radiation source more efficient. The sampling method is based on the region self-growth algorithm and the Voronoi subdivision principle, significantly reducing the number of NF samples in the stage of solving the radiation source model through uniform and non-uniform two-stage sampling. Two experiments were conducted to verify the correctness and effectiveness by comparing with the traditional uniform sampling method.
Gain-enhanced and Mechanical Reconfigurable Slot Antenna with Metasurface
Authors: Song Xueyan , Dong Ang , Li Xuping , Zhang Yunqi , Lin Haoyuan , Li Yapeng , Yang Hailong
Published: February 2024

A novel wideband slot antenna with metasurface is presented. In order to achieve broadband, high-gain, and mechanical reconfigurable performance, a metasurface is adopted and combined with a new-type planar slot antenna The antenna and metasurface are designed on F4B substrate, and the overall dimension of the antenna is 1.48λ0×1.48λ0×0.2λ0 (λ0 is the free space wavelength at center frequency). Different from the traditional square metasurface, a structure with different properties in the x and y directions is utilized in the proposed antenna, which can be reconstructed by adjusting the relative position between the slot antenna and the metasurface. By introducing the metasurface, the maximum gain of the whole antenna is improved. The antenna works in two states with respect to the two locations of the metasurface. The impedance bandwidth of the proposed antenna in state A is from 5.49 to 9.40 GHz (52.5%), and the impedance bandwidth of the proposed antenna in state B is from 5.83 to 6.01 GHz (3%) and 7.05 to 9.62 GHz (30.8%). The gain of the whole antenna in both states is higher than that of the original slot antenna (without metasurface), and the maximum gain is 9.1 dBi.
High-precision Solution of Monostatic Radar Cross Section based on Compressive Sensing and QR Decomposition Techniques
Authors: Shi Chaofan , Sun Yufa , Ou Mingrui , Wang Pan , Wang Zhonggen
Published: February 2024

In solving the monostatic electromagnetic scattering problem, the traditional improved primary characteristic basis function method (IPCBFM) often encounters difficulties in constructing the reduced matrix due to the long computation time and low accuracy. Therefore, a new method combining the compressed sensing (CS) technique with IPCBFM is proposed and applied to solve the monostatic electromagnetic scattering problem. The proposed method utilizes the characteristic basis functions (CBFs) generated by the IPCBFM to achieve a sparse transformation of the surface-induced currents. Several rows in the impedance matrix and excitation vector are selected as the observation matrix and observation vector. The QR decomposition is adopted as the recovery algorithm to realize the recovery of surface-induced currents. Numerical simulations are performed for cylinder, cube, and almond models, and the results show that the new method has higher solution accuracy, shorter computation time, and stronger solution stability than the traditional IPCBFM. It is worth mentioning that the new method reduces the recovery matrix size and the number of CBFs quantitatively, and provides a novel solution for solving monostatic RCS of complex targets.
Stock assessment using spawning potential ratio in data poor fisheries for mahseer Tor tambroides (Bleeker, 1854) in Aceh Province, Indonesia
Authors: HASER TEUKU FADLON , NURDIN MUH. SALEH , SUPRIYONO EDDY , PRIHADI TRI HERU , FEBRI SURI PURNAMA , PERSADA ANDRI YUSMAN , WIBOWO TEUKU HADI , SARI HERLINA PUTRI ENDAH , PUTRI KARTIKA APRILIA , ANTONI ANTONI
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Haser TF, Nurdin MS, Supriyono E, Prihadi TH, Febri SP, Persada AY, Wibowo TH, Sari HPE, Putri KA, Antoni. 2023. Stock assessment using spawning potential ratio in data poor fisheries for mahseer Tor tambroides (Bleeker, 1854) in Aceh Province. Biodiversitas 24: 6039-6047. Overexploitation of mahseer has led to a decline in population, posing a threat to its sustainability in the wild. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the length-based spawning potential ratio of the fish from Atu Suasah and Lawe Melang Rivers in Aceh Province. The experiment was conducted from January to August 2023, and the population dynamics parameters were calculated through Response Surface Analysis using Electronic Length Frequencies Analysis in the Fish Stock Assessment Tools program. Meanwhile, the spawning potential ratio (SPR) was analyzed based on data uploaded to the Barefoot Ecologist's Toolbox. The results showed that the asymptotic length (L?) at Atu Suasah and Lawe Melang Rivers was 750 mm and 759 mm, respectively, with K coefficients of 1.40 year-1 and 1.55 year-1. The length at first maturity (Lm50) of mahseer in these rivers was 372.52 mm and 438.88 mm. Total mortality (Z) is 3.88 year-1 and 3.24 year-1, while natural mortality (M) values are 1.06 year-1 and 0.91 year-1, with corresponding fishing mortality (F) rates of 2.82 year-1 and 2.33 year-1. The Beverton and Holt analyzes of per recruitment results showed that mahseer in Lawe Melang and Atu Suasah River have exceeded Emax, where the current E values ??were 0.73 year-1 and 0.72 year-1 respectively. These implied that mahseer stock was overfished with SPR 9% and 16% respectively, falling below the standard biological reference point. To ensure sustainability, conservation efforts should be put in place, including establishing a capture size limit and reducing fishing gear by 42%.
Detection and analysis of mangrove cover change in Kepalajerih Island, Batam, Indonesia using Landsat Imagery
Authors: AUNURRAHMAN AUNURRAHMAN , ANGGORO SUTRISNO , MUSKANANFOLA MAX RUDOLF , SAPUTRA SURADI WIJAYA
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Aunurrahman, Anggoro S, Muskananfola MR, Saputra SW. 2023. Detection and analysis of mangrove cover change in Kepalajerih Island, Batam, Indonesia using Landsat Imagery. Biodiveritas 24: 6126-6133. For small islands, the mangrove ecosystem is crucial since it offers a variety of goods and services. In this study, we analysed the distribution and coverage of the mangrove ecosystem in Kepalajerih Island, Batam, Indonesia as well as the changes in mangrove ecosystem coverage over time. We also identified the required bands and their value range of Landsat data for mangrove detection. The research was carried out by applying reflectance selection to detect mangrove ecosystems. Landsat Imagery was used in the analysis, including Landsat 5 TM imagery of 1997 and Landsat 8 OLI imagery of 2015 and 2022. The result found that the combination of bands 1 and 5 of Landsat 5 TM or bands 2 and 6 of Landsat 8 OLI are applicable for mangrove detection. Reflectance of B1 or B2 less than 0.0325 indicates vegetation, while reflectance of B5 ranges from 0.0337 to 0.0837 or B6 ranges from 0.0454 to 0.0928, indicating wetland area. Therefore, the combination of both bands makes up for the mangrove area. Based on the analysis result, mangrove coverage in Kepalajerih Island fluctuated from 1,310.27 ha in 1997 to 1,117.29 ha in 2015 and then to 1,188.77 ha in 2022. The fluctuation was caused by a mangrove loss of as much as 262.17 ha and an expansion of 69.18 ha during 1997-2015, and a mangrove loss of 99.39 ha and an increase of 170.88 ha during 2015-2022. The natural drivers likely caused the fluctuation of mangrove coverage.
Characterization of 16S rRNA of the gut microbiome in long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) with spontaneous type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: RAMADHANTY PRAMESTY WULAN , SAEPULOH UUS , SUPARTO IRMA HERAWATI , DARUSMAN HUDA SHALAHUDIN
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Ramadhanty PW, Saepuloh U, Suparto IH, Darusman HS. 2023. Characterization of 16S rRNA of the gut microbiome in long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) with spontaneous type 2 diabetes mellitus. Biodiversitas 24: 6191-6199. The gut microbiota in the body is very complex and varied. It is known to influence human health. Imbalance (dysbiosis) of the gut microbiota can lead to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and become a new feature in the development of the disease. Several human studies have compared the bacterial community in T2DM and non-T2DM patients. Until now, research on gut microbiota associated with T2DM in non-human primate animal models is still rare. T2DM can be developed by long-tailed macaque with clinical features similar to humans, which provides important information about the relationship between gut microbiota and T2DM. This study aims to characterize full-length 16S rRNA genes to obtain gut microbiota profiles in long-tailed macaques with and without spontaneous T2DM. The characterization was carried out using a metagenomic approach targeted at the full-length 16S rRNA gene with Nanopore technology (GridION) as one of the third-generation sequencing. The sample used was rectal swabs from adult male long-tailed macaques in the spontaneous T2DM group (n=3) and non-T2DM group (n=3). An increase in the alpha diversity, Firmicutes phylum, Oscillibacter genus, Oscillibacter valericigenes, and Oscillibacter ruminantium species, as well as a decrease in the Proteobacteria phylum were found in the T2DM group. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was also increased in the T2DM group compared to the non-T2DM group, which indicates dysbiosis. Based on these results, the metagenomic marker of the gut microbiome T2DM was obtained in long-tailed macaque primates, similar to humans with T2DM.
Pioneer plants of calcareous land in its early succession and the existence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi
Authors: SUHARNO SUHARNO , SUFAATI SUPENI , WULANDARI DEWI , ALFARABBI MUHAMMAD BONDAN , MAULANI SHERLITA , RUHANI ANNISA ALFAADHILAH
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Suharno, Sufaati S, Wulandari D, Alfarabbi MB, Maulani S, Ruhani AA. 2023. Pioneer plants of calcareous land in its early succession and the existence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi. Biodiversitas 24: 6209-6217. Calcareous land is characterized with the high presence of calcium carbonate and classified as marginal land because it does not have the quality to support plant growth. The soil quality in calcareous land is poor physically, chemically, and biologically. Nonetheless, certain plants and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) thrive in this area. This research aims to determine plant diversity and the existence of AMF on calcareous land in Jayapura City, Papua, Indonesia. Data were collected through field observations in former limestone mining areas for a year. The results show that 41 types of plants were found at the study site. Based on the important value index, the most important plants were Bidens pilosa, Borreria sp., Piper aduncum, Pteris vittata, Polystichum sp., Axonopus compressus, Muntingia calabura, Pteris cretica, Cynodon sp., and Eleusine indica. Family with the largest number of species were Poaceae followed by Fabaceae, Pteridaceae, Moraceae, and Asteraceae. Based on plant habitus, 14.64% were ferns, 34.15% grasses, 39.62% herbaceous plants, and 12.20% trees. Plants sampled for the presence of AMF included B. pilosa, M. calabura, and P. aduncum. These plant species had level of AMF colonization of 71.2, 71.4, and 63.3%, respectively. There were 13 morphospecies of AMF belonging to the genera Glomus (46.15%), Claroideoglomus (7.69%), Acaulospora (38.46%), and Scutellospora (7.69%). The mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship between plants and AMF can be capitalized for managing the revegetation of former mining land with calcareous soil.
Short Communication: Rediscovery of the Zamboanga peninsula endemic Boesenbergia longipetiolata (Ridl.) Merr. (Zingiberaceae) after a lapse of over a century, including an amended description and an updated distribution
Authors: YONGCO JANNAH E. , AMPARADO OLIVE A. , NAIVE MARK ARCEBAL K.
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Yongco JE, Amparado OA, Naive MAK. 2023. Short Communication: Rediscovery of the Zamboanga peninsula endemic Boesenbergia longipetiolata (Ridl.) Merr. (Zingiberaceae) after over a century, including an amended description and an updated distribution. Biodiversitas 24: 6305-6309. Zamboanga Peninsula is one of the important sites for biodiversity studies in the Philippines. Despite that, there have been limited attempts for field explorations focusing on the floral diversity and plant inventories in the region, resulting in the scarcity of floristic data and has left many of its plant species, including their status, unknown. Included is Boesenbergia longipetiolata, a poorly known plant species belonging to the Zingiberaceae family, endemic to the Zamboanga Peninsula, Western Mindanao, Philippines and considered a long-lost species as its existence had not been reported since it was first collected in 1909. A meticulous examination of a specimen collected from a recent botanical exploration conducted in Mount Timolan Protected Landscape of Zamboanga Peninsula in July 2022 revealed the rediscovery of B. longipetiolata after a lapse of over a century. This species is unique among all other Philippine endemic Boesenbergia species by having a very long petiole and is closely similar to the Malay Peninsula endemic B. longipes but differs significantly by having lower stature, narrowly ovate to lanceolate lamina, a longer calyx and a slender corolla tube. In this study, an amended taxonomic description, including information on its geographical distribution and habitat, and a proposed conservation status are provided.
Adaptation and local knowledge of the Marind Anim Tribes in the utilization of Paperbark trees (Melaleuca leucadendron) in Merauke, South Papua, Indonesia
Authors: SUHARNO SUHARNO , KADIR AKHMAD
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Suharno, Kadir A. 2023. Adaptation and local knowledge of the Marind Anim Tribes in the utilization of Paperbark trees (Melaleuca leucadendron) in Merauke, South Papua, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 6323-6331. Papuan rainforests are one of the most immensely diverse in the world. Such rich biodiversity provides a source of livelihood for the inland communities in Merauke, South Papua Province. For example, Paperbark trees (Melaleuca leucadendron) or kayu bus in the local language, which grow dominantly in lowland areas, are essential for the lives of the local inhabitants, the Marind Anim tribe. This research aims to elaborate on the use of Paperbark trees (M. leucadendron) by the Marind Anim tribe in their daily lives. Data were collected from surveys, interviews, and field observations. The interviews were conducted in multiple locations: Merauke, Sota, Muting, Semangga, and Tanah Miring. The results show that all members of the Marind Anim tribe (100%) depend on Paperbark for their livelihood, especially for the need for housing. The community has been using Paperbark trunks for house frames (92.31%), either unprocessed or in the forms of wooden blocks (5 x 5, 5 x 10, 10 x 10 cm) and boards (2 x 20 cm). They also utilize the wood for firewood. Other tribe members, i.e., the residents of the Wasur National Park, extract essential oils from Paperbark leaves. This utilization receives assistance and support from the area manager of the national park. Other than that, the community also utilizes the bark for house roofs, mats for crops, and firewood. In brief, the community's dependence on Paperbark trees is high because, other than being versatile, they are endemic to the lowland areas of Merauke, dominating other tree species. The findings suggest the importance of establishing a sound management system for the utilization of Paperbark trees to maintain sustainability in meeting the needs of surrounding communities.
The Wind That Shakes the Turbines: Analysis of Irish Energy Production and Sovereignty
Authors: Lefeuvre Elise
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: Ireland's answer to transitioning, greening and securing energy production is essentially to develop offshore wind, thereby leveraging its large maritime territory. Ireland supplies and runs an all-island grid, and has export potential to other EU countries by means of interconnectors. This article argues that energy transition is an opportunity for Ireland to rank as a key energy supplier and technological leader for offshore wind. Reaching these positions requires a range of political and industrial measures to achieve strategic management of Irish waters. The Irish government, together with the national electricity company, the Electricity Supply Board, is now rolling out a roadmap of programmes and investments to dramatically increase offshore wind share in the national energy mix by 2030. A very clear governmental transition strategy, the recent launch of several infrastructure construction works and significant financial firepower, combined with strong EU support, give confidence that Ireland can deliver on its objectives.
Familiar Theories in Exotic Lands: The Case of 'O Segredo do Bonzo' by Machado de Assis
Authors: Annunciação Viviane Carvalho da
Published: February 2024

Abstract: This article analyses Machado de Assis's short story 'O Segredo do Bonzo' (1882), contending that, beneath its exotic façade, it confronts entrenched disciplinary power dynamics associated with the idea of scientific progress. Through uncanny situations, such as nose removal surgeries, Machado scrutinizes prevailing scientific paradigms which hierarchized races in nineteenth-century Brazil. In doing so, he questions the supposed philosophical and moral advances of white Eurocentric theories while also challenging conventional gender roles, fostering a comprehensive critique of societal norms. Resumo: Este artigo analisa o conto 'O Segredo do Bonzo' (1882), de Machado de Assis, argumentando que, sob a sua fachada exótica, ele confronta arraigadas dinâmicas de poder disciplinar associadas à ideia de progresso científico. Através de situações estranhas, como cirurgias de remoção de nariz, Machado examina os paradigmas científicos predominantes que hierarquizaram as raças no Brasil do século XIX. Ao fazê-lo, questiona os supostos avanços filosóficos e morais das teorias eurocêntricas brancas, ao mesmo tempo que desafia os papéis convencionais de gênero, promovendo uma crítica abrangente das normas sociais.
Saikaku's Evanescence
Authors: Black Scott
Published: February 2024

Abstract: This essay explores how Ihara Saikaku's new form of fiction— ukiyo-zoshi —both adapts and adopts traditional Japanese aesthetics. Saikaku's Five Women Who Loved Love (1686) is a paradigmatic example of the modern conception of ukiyo , which inverts the traditional Buddhist sense of ukiyo , written with a different character, to express the ephemeral, often erotic pleasures of the floating world, rather than sadness in the face of its transience. I argue that, though the modern pleasures of ukiyo are the drivers of the plot, the imagery and the traditional aesthetic pleasures associated with the Buddhist sense of the transience of a floating world run throughout the stories. Saikaku's characters are often presented as avatars of classical characters and in turn they often end up generating additional stories. Characters and stories alike are nodes in a cycle of infectious stories, versions of earlier stories that seed further stories and so transmit the evanescent pleasures of love in a self-conscious circulation of stories. The older resonance of the floating world sounds through its modern meaning. Saikaku ironically invokes the Buddhist significance of the floating world, but he may also ironically suggest the limitations of its modern pleasures. Saikaku's modernity inheres in this double irony.
Converted Republic: Lemuel Haynes, Timothy Dwight, and the Anti-Racist Politics of the Republican Sermon
Authors: Monescalchi Michael
Published: February 2024

Abstract: This essay explores the under-examined philosophy of evangelical republicanism that preacher-reformers Lemuel Haynes and Timothy Dwight developed at the end of the eighteenth century. To demonstrate their evangelical critique of classical republicanism, Haynes and Dwight invented a new genre: the republican sermon, which allowed them to champion evangelicalism's understanding of disinterested virtue as a corrective to self-serving ambitions that dominated ancient republics. Civic republicans believed that elite white men were the only ones disinterested enough to contribute to politics and participate in the public sphere. By contrast, evangelicals transformed disinterestedness from an intellectual attribute to an affective quality available to all persons who had undergone a conversion experience. Because evangelical republicans vacate individual interests and consider all persons to be dignified and worthy of benevolence, their approach to condemning race-based injustices does not accord with the autobiographical impulse of antebellum genres like the slave narrative. Instead, evangelical republicans like Haynes protest slavery and racism by disinterestedly focusing on the suffering that all Black Americans collectively experience.
Highly stable mixed-phase Cs-Cu-I films with tunable optoelectronic properties for UVB photodetector applications
Authors: Dan Tian , He Shunli , Zhang Lichun , Xia Bin , Cao Ning , Chu Xinbo , Lu Taiping , Zhu Yadan , Xie Guanying , Zhao Fengzhou
Published: February 2024

Ultraviolet (UV) photodetector plays an important role in military, civilian and people's daily life, and is an indispensable part of spectral detection. However, photodetectors target at the UVB region (280-320 nm) are rarely reported, and the devices detected by medium-wave UV light generally have problems such as low detection rate, low sensitivity, and poor stability, which are difficult to meet the market application needs. Herein, Cs-Cu-I films with mixed-phase have been prepared by vacuum thermal evaporation. By adjusting the proportion of evaporation sources (CsI and CuI), the optical bandgaps of mixed-phase Cs-Cu-I films can be tuned between 3.7 eV and 4.1 eV. This absorption cut-off edge is exactly at both ends of the UVB band, which indicating its potential application in the field of UVB detection. Finally, the photodetectors based on Cs-Cu-I/n-Si heterojunction are fabricated. The photodetector shows good spectral selectivity for UVB band, and has a photoresponsivity of 22 mA/W, a specific detectivity of 1.83*1011 Jones, an EQE over 8.7% and an on/off ratio above 20.