bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Katastrophenhilfe und Green Social Work in Stolberg
Authors: Genenger-Stricker Marianne , Lauscher Laika , Hieronymus Simone
Published: October 2024

Soziale Arbeit kann Katastrophenhilfe – dies zeigt das studentische Engagement in der vom Hochwasser im Jahr 2021 zerstörten Stadt Stolberg. Aber es braucht mehr. Denn mit der Klimaerwärmung werden Extremwetter-Ereignisse zunehmen. Auch die Soziale Arbeit braucht ihren eigenen »Green Deal«. Mit dem Ansatz der Green Social Work von Lena Dominelli wird ein Weg vom Katastrophen-Management zur Katastrophen-Prävention skizziert.
»Community Healing und Empowerment Praktiken«
Authors: Or Yari
Published: October 2024

Das Risiko einer globalen Poly- oder Metakrise, in der sich mehrere systemische Risiken synchronisieren und verstärken, erfordert dringende Aufmerksamkeit. Vor diesem Hintergrund werden im folgenden Beitrag die Auswirkungen der Krise in ihren tiefgreifenden Auswirkungen auf marginalisierte Communities in Deutschland beschrieben und das Phänomen lokaler, selbstorganisierter psychosozialer Unterstützung in diesen Gemeinschaften erörtert. Dabei wird die sich verändernde Rolle einer Transformativen Sozialen Arbeit in Bezug auf diese emergenten Formen der Selbstorganisation erörtert.
Herman Nohls Pädagogik der Verwahrlosten (1924): Ein Text im Kontext des jugendfürsorgerischen Ausgrenzungsdiskurses der Weimarer Epoche (1997)
Authors: Niemeyer Christian
Published: October 2024

Beiträge
Carcinoma Espinocelular de Pavilhão Auricular em Paciente com Doença de Jorge Lobo: Relato de Caso
Authors: Castro Rafael Bustamante de , Araújo Matheus de Vasconcelos , Carreiro Filho Fernando Porto , Santos Ana Carla Albuquerque dos , Costa Igor Santos , Nogueira Cleto Dantas
Published: October 2024

Introdução: A lobomicose (também chamada de doença de Jorge Lobo) é uma doença granulomatosa crônica, causada pelo fungo Lacazia loboi, acomete principalmente trabalhadores rurais, geralmente após traumas locais em áreas cutâneas expostas. É mais comum em homens, de 20 a 40 anos, caracterizando-se por progressão lenta, no decorrer dos anos, de lesões cutâneas variadas, notadamente nódulos e placas coalescentes de aspecto queloideano. Sabe-se que lesões crônicas como essas podem malignizar, resultando principalmente no carcinoma espinocelular. Ao analisar os cânceres de pele, sugere-se que a lobomicose também tem correlação com a carcinogênese, embora seja pouco descrita na literatura e uma elucidação completa ainda não tenha sido traçada. Relato do caso: Homem, 63 anos, natural do Pará, trabalhador rural, portador de lobomicose e com história prévia de carcinoma basocelular com diferenciação escamosa em lóbulo da orelha e região pré-auricular direitos. Ele foi submetido à ressecção da lesão com margens em 2018, porém evoluiu após cerca de três anos com o surgimento, nas mesmas topografias, de nova lesão tumoral, desta vez com maior agressividade e com anatomopatológico compatível com carcinoma espinocelular. Conclusão: Tendo em vista a raridade da lobomicose em áreas não amazônicas, o caso em questão é fundamental para evidenciar que essa afecção pode associar-se com neoplasias de pele, contribuindo como fator de risco em razão da formação de cicatrizes e úlceras crônicas, além de alertar para a necessidade de diagnóstico e tratamento precoces, a fim de evitar a degeneração carcinomatosa.
ЕФЕКТИВНІСТЬ РЕДЬКИ ОЛІЙНОЇ У ЗНИЖЕННІ ЗАБУР’ЯНЕНОСТІ ПОЛЯ ЗА ПРОМІЖНОГО (ЛІТНЬОГО) СИДЕРАЛЬНОГО ЇЇ ВИКОРИСТАННЯ
Authors: Цицюра Ярослав Григорович
Published: October 2024

Досліджено та обґрунтовано доцільність та ефективність сидеральних систем землеробства у варіантах біологічного контролю рівня забур’яненості поля за використання варіанту проміжної (літньої) сидерації. У десятирічному циклі досліджень (2014–2023) застосовано базові методичні підходи до оцінки як біопродуктивного потенціалу редьки олійної, так і міжнародні методики щодо оцінки загального рівня забур’яненості та фітоценологічного статусу облікованих видів бур’янів. Проаналізовано видову структуру бур’янів у агроценозі редьки олійної та оцінено його за такими показниками як щільність (D), частота появи (F, %), поширеність (Ab), відносна щільність (RD, %), відносна частота появи (RF, %), відносна поширеність (RAb, %), індекс значущості (IVI), сумарний коефіцієнт домінування (SDR), клас частот виду бур’янів (Fcl). Оцінено результати післядії застосованої сидерації на кількісний та ваговий показник рівня забур’яненості ряду сільськогосподарських культур відповідно до схеми сівозміни. Встановлено ефективність застосування редьки олійної у варіанті сидерації для контролю як видової структури відповідного агроценозу у рік сидерації, так і у варіанті технологічної післядії, особливо на просапній групі сільськогосподарських культур. Відмічено у співставленні до контролю без сидерації загальне зниження чисельності ярої ранньої групи бур’янів на 66,1 % за кількістю та 49,7% за масою, ярої пізньої групи на 37,7% (39,5%), зимуючої на 72,2% (63,6%) та багаторічної на 48,0% (46,8%) відповідно. Встановлено загальне зниження фітоценологічного статусу домінуючих видів бур’янів на 8,5–18,9% із зміною класу частоти виду (Fcl) на один розряд та редукцію сумарного коефіцієнту домінування (SDR) на 23.7%. Доведено тісний достовірний обернений зв’язок між обсягом сформованої надземної біомаси на час заорювання сидерату із кількістю бур’янів (r = -0,717, dxy = 51,4% при р<0.001) та їх масою (r = -0,677, dxy = 45,8% при р<0.001). Аналогічний характер зв’язку встановлено між біопродуктивністю редьки олійної у рік сидерації та її післядією на наступні культури із рівнем детермінації на рівні 54,4% для кількості та 49,1% для маси бур’янів (при р<0,05). На підставі отриманих результатів рекомендовано редьку олійну як високопродуктивного та ефективного кандидата у системі літніх (проміжних) сидераційних технологій для контролю рівня сегетальної деградації поля.
ОЦІНКА СТАНУ ПОПУЛЯЦІЇ РЕГІОНАЛЬНО РІДКІСНОГО ВИДУ РОСЛИН ANEMONE SYLVESTRIS В МІСЬКОМУ СЕРЕДОВИЩІ (М. СУМИ)
Authors: Клименко Ігор Михайлович , Лещенко Дмитро Олексійович , Клименко Ганна Олександрівна , Тимощук Вікторія Віталіївна
Published: October 2024

В епоху глобального розширення міст важливим аспектом збереження біорізноманіття є розуміння впливу на нього урбанізації, оскільки низка антропогенних факторів, включаючи зміну середовища існування та інтродукцію нових видів, безпосередньо впливають на стан місцевих видів і їх генофонд. Окремим аспектом нині можна виділити неконтрольоване поширення інвазійних видів, яке не лише негативно позначається на місцевих видах і природних екосистемах, але й завдає значних економічних збитків та загрожує здоров'ю людей. Крім того, значний руйнівний вплив на місцеве біорізноманіття міст мають житлова та комерційна забудова. Для забезпечення відповідних умов існування, росту та розвитку місцевого біорізноманіття необхідно розвивати систему природно-заповідного фонду (ПЗФ) в умовах міського середовища. Саме об’єкти ПЗФ містять відповідний режим території, який дозволяє забезпечити збереження в природному стані компонентів ландшафту та біорізноманіття. У зв’язку з вищевикладеним, дослідження популяцій рідкісних видів рослин у межах міст, зокрема м. Суми, є актуальними для забезпечення подальшого розширення вже існуючої мережі ПЗФ. У межах урбанізованого місця зростання (м. Суми) проведена оцінка стану популяції Anemone sylvestris – виду, який підлягає особливій охороні в Сумській області. Середня щільність квітуючих особин складала 14,3 рослини на 50 см2. Максимально було зафіксовано 37 квітуючих рослин на ділянці. Характер розміщення рослин в межах популяційного поля – контагіозний. Морфометричний аналіз показав, що рослини мали досить довгі квітоносні пагони, які сягали 49 см, а в середньому були заввишки 43 см. Рослини мали від 4 до 6 листочків, розташованих на довгих черешках (від 8,6 до 18,4 см). Довжина і ширина листка складала 4,3 та 7,5 см відповідно. Віталітетний стан кожної рослини Anemone sylvestris, які потрапили до вибірки, показав, що усі рослини належали до найвищого стану віталітету, а їх індекс якості (Q) був в діапазоні від 0,71 до 0,98. За результатами інтегральної оцінки віталітету було встановлено, що дана популяція у 2023 році мала найвищий рівень віталітету, що дорівнював 0,5, та відповідно, належала до категорії «процвітаючих».
Premio FIL de Literatura en Lenguas Romances. Mia Couto 2024
Authors: Leite Couto António Emílio , Zúñiga Chávez Dulce María , Alves dos Reis Carlos António , Larios Solórzano Ana Lilia , Ledezma Carbajal Imelda Lizette
Published: October 2024

El Premio FIL de Literatura en Lenguas Romances nació de la necesidad de contar en América Latina con un premio de primer nivel, equiparable a los grandes premios internacionales. Doce instituciones mexicanas, agrupadas bajo la forma jurídica de asociación civil no lucrativa, se propusieron otorgar anualmente un reconocimiento semejante en su calidad, monto y prestigio a los galardones más importantes del mundo literario. El premio pretende brindar el mayor reconocimiento a los escritores cuya lengua de expresión artística sea alguna de las lenguas romances: catalán, español, francés, gallego, italiano, portugués o rumano. Mia Couto fue el ganador de este año, nació en 1955 en la ciudad de Beira, en la provincia de Sofala. Vivió en esa ciudad hasta los 17 años, momento en que se mudó a Maputo para estudiar medicina. Interrumpió sus estudios para iniciar una carrera periodística que se prolongó hasta 1985. Por su propia iniciativa, regresó a la universidad para estudiar Biología, licenciatura que terminó en 1989. Trabaja desde entonces como biólogo en Mozambique, además de que es miembro de la Academia Brasileña de Letras. Ha publicado más de treinta libros traducidos y editados en treinta países. Sus obras abarcan diversos géneros literarios, desde novela, poesía, cuento y literatura infantil. Su novela Tierra sonámbula fue considerada, por un jurado internacional reunido en Zimbabue, como uno de los diez mejores libros africanos del siglo XX.
La ola autoritaria y el extremismo en el mundo durante la pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Moreno Valencia Rafael
Published: October 2024

La actual pandemia de COVID-19 ha tenido impactos económicos, políticos y sociales en el mundo. Sin embargo, la actual crisis sanitaria ha traído consigo otra pandemia: una ola creciente de autoritarismo y extremismo en muchas sociedades. Factores como crisis económicas, humanitarias o sociopolíticas han detonado polarización y malestar social, mientras que movimientos políticos han aprovechado estas crisis para llegar al poder o avanzar en sus agendas políticas. La crisis sanitaria no hizo más que agravar la deriva autoritaria ya existente mientras que los grupos extremistas han aprovechado la actividad y conectividad en línea de las personas confinadas para atraer a más seguidores y tomar acciones violentas a través de las redes sociales. Si crece la ampliación del poder y la autonomía de los Estados-nación durante la pandemia de COVID-19, junto con pocos contrapesos al interior, existen riesgos de efectos duraderos para la privacidad, la seguri-dad y la democracia de todos los países.
n diálogo cultural transatlántico: América Latina y Marruecos
Authors:   International Tourism Institute, Abdelhak Hiri
Published: October 2024

El propósito de este estudio es intentar alumbrar las raíces de las vinculaciones histórico-culturales de América Latina con Marruecos. Nuestra intención es examinar cómo se dieron los primeros pasos en dichas relaciones y dar a conocer la forma en que esas interconexiones se llevaban a cabo, tomando en cuenta diversos factores como: los lazos lingüísticos, la dimensión atlántica, la variante histórico-cultural y el legado árabe-andalusí y mediterráneo. Además, se analizarán las influencias recíprocas en términos de arte, literatura, música y religión. También se abordarán las relaciones políticas y económicas entre ambos lugares a lo largo de la historia. Para lograr estos objetivos, se llevará a cabo una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura académica existente sobre el tema, así como la consulta de fuentes primarias como documentos históricos, crónicas y testimonios. Este estudio tiene el potencial de ser una contribución significativa al conocimiento de las relaciones entre América Latina y Marruecos. Su objetivo es fomentar el diálogo y la colaboración entre ambos espacios geográficos, enriqueciendo el conocimiento y promoviendo una visión más amplia y plural de las relaciones internacionales.
A review of the value of transvaginal sonography in the management of caesarean scar defects or pregnancy
Authors: Dinh Hoang The , Vo Tuan Minh , Tran An Nguyen Phuong
Published: October 2024

The global increase of caesarean sections (CS) has led to a significant rise in the prevalence of caesarean scar defects (CSD) and caesarean scar pregnancies (CSP) in recent years. The diagnosis of CSD and CSP depends on the chief complaint along with imaging techniques such as 2D or 3D transvaginal sonography (TVS), saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS), gel infusion sonohysterography (GIS), hysterosalpingography (HSG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or hysteroscopy. However, there is no gold standard diagnostic test. This narrative review aims to highlight the role of sonography in the management of CSD and CSP. Despite the availability of abundant techniques and equipment used to examine CSD, TVS remains the most popular tool in examining CSD due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and short examination time. In addition, several studies have been conducted to evaluate the essential roles of 3D sonography, SIS, and GIS in the management of CSD before surgery. In those studies, CSD was defined as a discontinuation of myometrium at the site of the previous CS with a depth of at least 2 mm identified by greyscale, 3D ultrasound, or contrast-enhanced sonohysterography. Similarly, TVS is also considered the first-line diagnostic modality in cases of CSP. There is a new sign called Crossover Sign (COS) which explains the relationship between the gestational sac in the CSD and the anterior wall of the uterus. TVS remains integral to the diagnosis and treatment of CSD and CSP. However, further research is necessary to incorporate newer TVS technologies in the management of those conditions.
Evaluation of triglycerides, total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol stability in human whole blood and plasma samples
Authors: Nguyen Thuan Thi Minh , Nguyen Dung Thi Van
Published: October 2024

Lipid tests are routinely performed in the laboratory for early diagnosis of lipid disorders and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol (TC), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) in human whole blood (WB) and plasma samples stored at different temperature conditions in order to improve the quality of lipid testing.

This cross-sectional study was conducted at Buon Ma Thuot Medical Testing Center. Ten mL of WB collected from 10 healthy volunteers from 18 to 60 years old were anticoagulated with dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. Five mL of WB were centrifuged to separate plasma. WB and plasma samples were stored at 20°C–25°C and 2°C–8°C. The concentrations of TGs, TC, and HDL-C in WB (WB-TGs, WB-TC, WB-HDL-C) and in plasma samples (P-TGs, P-TC, P-HDL-C) at each time point were determined simultaneously on Erba XL670 system. TGs, TC, and HDL-C were considered stable when the difference between concentrations at the later time point and baseline was not statistically significant.

At 20°C–25°C, the concentrations of WB-TGs, WB-TC, P-TGs, and P-TC were stable for less than 4 hours, while the concentrations of WB-HDL-C and P-HDL-C were stable for less than 12 hours. At 2°C–8°C, the concentrations of WB-TGs, WB-TC, WB-HDL-C, and P-HDL-C were stable for up to 48 hours, while the concentrations of P-TGs and P-TC were stable for up to 24 hours.

The stability of TGs, TC, and HDL-C in WB and plasma samples was not the same at different temperatures.
Hypocoagulability and hyperfibrinolysis in polycythemia vera: a case report
Authors: Huynh-Duong Tram Bich , Nguyen Tuan Huu , Tran Tung Thanh , Nguyen Thanh-Thang Thi , Le Tuyen Ngoc
Published: October 2024

Polycythemia vera (PV) is classified as a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), a group of hematologic disorders. In PV, thrombosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality; however, hemorrhage is also a potentially life-threatening complication. The mechanisms of bleeding in PV are complex and multifactorial, including disturbances in platelet aggregation, vascular endothelial function and von Willebrand factor activity. Despite this, there are limited reports on the incidence of hyperfibrinolysis in PV and its role in bleeding events. We present a case of a PV patient with severe bleeding which was linked to both hypocoagulability and hyperfibrinolysis. We propose that PV patients with hemorrhage should be evaluated for all potential coagulation disorders, including hyperfibrinolysis, to ensure optimal patient care.
Advances in the Foundations of a Theory of Career Problem Solving and Decision Making
Authors: Peterson Gary , Osborn Debra , Bullock-Yowell Emily , Hayden Seth
Published: October 2024

The Cognitive Information Processing (CIP) theory of career problem-solving and decision-making, introduced over 30 years ago (Peterson et al., 1991), builds on the foundational work of Parsons (1909) and Janis and Mann (1977), as well as cognitive information processing theories from Hunt (1971) and Sternberg (1980). To maintain consistency and to prevent theoretical drift, the original authors have made minimal changes to the core concepts throughout the years (see Sampson et al., 2023). However, we believe that for theories to remain valid and viable, it is essential to embrace changing empirical and conceptual perspectives. Thus, the purpose of this manuscript is to advance constructive modifications to CIP theory and its practical applications, which we present briefly herein. The overarching goal of the present manuscript is to provide and describe updated versions of three key aspects of CIP theory: (a) the Pyramid of Information Processing (Figure 1), (b) the CASVE Cycle (Figure 2), and (c) competency skills undergirding each phase of the CASVE Cycle (Table 1). The ideas presented in this report are further explicated in Peterson et al. (in press).
Application of Laser In Neurosurgery
Authors: M Afzal Hossain
Published: October 2024

Abstract not available
Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 55
Correlation of Pre-Operative Myo-Inositol/Creatine Ratio with Histopathological Grade of Glioma
Authors: Sikder Md Shahidur Rahman , Hasan Md Motasimul , Farzana Alam Toon  , Islam Md Rokibul , Hoque Md Moududul , Hossain Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Background: Introduction: Gliomas are the most frequent primary intracerebral tumors in adults & constitute 35–50% of all intracranial neoplasms. In determining a treatment plan, tumor grade is a key consideration for minimizing the risk of unnecessary morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate Correlation of pre-operative Myo-inositol/Creatine ratio with histopathological grade of glioma. Materials and method: This was a cross sectional experimental study. Total 33 patients consistent with selection criteria were enrolled in this study. Myo-inositol/ Creatine ratio was obtained from MRS. Histopathological grade of glioma was obtained from biopsy (hematoxylin and eosin stain or HE stain) report. The obtained results were then grouped categorically. Result: Out of 33 patients, 22 were male and 11 were female. According to histopathology, 14 gliomas were confirmed as high grade and 19 gliomas were confirmed as low grade. Spearman Rank Correlation Test showed a moderate negative association between Myo-inositol/Creatine ratio with glioma grading with coefficient value of r = -0.611 with a statistically significant p-value (p<0.001). We were able to differentiate between low grade (II) and high grade (III + IV) gliomas using the Myoinositol/ Creatine ratio. The levels of MI/Cr were higher (e”0.48) in patients with lowgrade glioma, and lower (<0.48) in patients high grade glioma Conclusion: This study has shown a significant correlation between pre-operative Myo-inositol/Creatine ratio with histopathological grade of glioma. It may help neurosurgeons in taking clinical decisions about patient management and counselling.
Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 57-63
Surgical Outcomes of Patients with Benign Spinal Tumors: Insights from A Prospective Quasi Experimental Study
Authors: Tapas Sarker  , Mohammad Humayun Rashid  , S M Noman Khaled Chowdhury  , Syeda Asfiya Ara  , Mohammad Sanaullah  , Ansar Uddin Ahmed  , Mahfujul Quader  , Sirajul Munir Ohi  , Saumen Sarker  , Abul Hasan Md Touhidur Reza  , Md Motasimul Hasan  , Shahnewaj Chowdhury  , Narayan Dhar  , Majed Sultan
Published: October 2024

Background: Spinal tumor is one of the causes of back pain, sensory motor deficit  and bowel bladder dysfunction. Evaluation of postoperative mortality, morbidity and  outcomes after resection of spinal cord tumors is critical to the practice of evidencebased  medicine. Hence, it is important to carefully examine surgical outcomes at an  institutional level.  Objectives: The aim of the study was to describe the results of benign spinal tumor  after surgical treatment according to location.  Materials & Method: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Department of  Neurosurgery, Chittagong Medical College and Hospital for a period of 12 months. Twenty  eight cases of benign spinal tumor underwent surgical treatment were enrolled in the  study. Average hospital stay from surgery to discharge was 12-15 days. Postoperative  neurological outcome in Frankel’s grade and bowel bladder involvement were assessed  from 1st POD to 3rd month after surgery and data were recorded at 7th POD, 1st month  and 3rd month after surgery. Collected data were analyzed by using SPSS-23.  Results: Among the 28 cases, 15 were men and 13 were women. The mean age was  36.19 (±14.29) years and age range was 15 to 62 years. Twenty three (82.14%) patients  improved by at least one Frankel grade and remaining five (17.86%) patients maintained  their preoperative Frankel grade. Out of eight (28.6%) cases with absent bowel bladder  dysfunction before surgery six (75%) recovered within three months. Postoperative  deterioration was not observed in any of the included case. Ten (35.7%) patients had  excellent outcome (having Frankel grade E with normal bowel bladder control) and 18  patients (64.3%) had good/fair outcome (partial recovery or clinically insignificant recovery)  after 3 months. Age, gender and location (axial and sagittal) of benign spinal tumor were  not found to have significant variation of neurological outcome.  Conclusion: Majority of patients irrespective of the location (axial/sagittal) of the  tumor had a favorable clinical outcome three months after the operation.
Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 130-139
Pure Spinal Epidural Cavernous Hemangioma: A Rare Cause of Thoracic Myelopathy
Authors: Sukriti Das  , Md Mamunur Rashid  , Saiful Islam  , Shamit Barua  , Md Motasimul Hasan
Published: October 2024

Cavernous hemangiomas mostly occur in intracranial structures but they also may   occur in the spine very rarely. Even if found, spinal hemangiomas are commonly   vertebral origin and solely epidural hemangiomas not originating from the vertebral   bone are very rare. Our case is a 65-year-old man presented to us with progressive   paraparesis from six months with motor power 3/5 in both lower extremities. The   pathology was total epidural spinal hemangioma at D9-10 vertebral level with typical   myelopathy like presentation.  
Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 149-151
Outcome of Surgery in a Patient with Blindness and Inter- Hemispheric Cyst: A Case Report
Authors: Kaisar Haroon  , Taher T , Ahmad MU , Md Motasimul Hasan  , Md Shafiul Alam  , Hossain SK Sader
Published: October 2024

Interhemispheric cysts are rare congenital condition which is also associated with corpus callosum agenesis. Most patients present at neonatal age or early childhood with some neurological deficiency. Some patients may present at older age. Here we present a patient with acute blindness of the right eye and dimness of vision of the left eye. He had no mental retardation or other neurological deficit. His fundus showed bilateral papilloedema. His MRI showed an interhemispheric cyst with agenesis of the corpus callosum. He was urgently operated in this hospital. The cyst was approached through interhemispheric fissure. It was excised and communicated with the third ventricle. His post-operative period was uneventful. Immediately after surgery he had improvement of his vision over a period of two week. He could return to normal life following discharge. Therefore, prompt surgical intervention is important for saving vision of these patients.
Bang. J Neurosurgery 2024; 13(2): 165-169
Public health rapid response in managing COVID-19 outbreaks in residential aged care facilities: a regional public health unit perspective
Authors: Hashan Mohammad Rashidul , Walker Jacina , Charles Margaret , Le Brasse Susie , Odorico Danielle , Smoll Nicolas , Kirk Michael , Booy Robert , Khandaker Gulam
Published: October 2024

We describe here the impact of managing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks, during January–August 2022, in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) in Central Queensland, Australia, following the deployment of a public health rapid response team (PHRRT, comprising a medical officer, a communicable disease nurse, and an epidemiologist) from a regional public health unit (PHU). Our existing vaccine preventable diseases surveillance framework was used in identifying any symptomatic resident, triggering a PHRRT response. We found that the Hospital in the Home (HiTH) admission and death events were significantly lower after the introduction of the PHRRT than in the outbreaks that occurred before. Based on our experience with a PHRRT-led approach in mitigating the burden of outbreaks, we recommend regular reflection on optimising resources and practices in RACFs. Effective communication from PHUs can improve the RACFs’ preparedness and capacity to respond, and can inform the best practice model to protect the highly susceptible elderly residents and their staff.
Community-led diphtheria vaccination campaign to manage a diphtheria outbreak in a remote Aboriginal community
Authors: Hempenstall Allison , Neville Joanne , Taunton Caroline , Fisher Valmay , Connellan Vince , Tayley Alice , Keys Georgina , Hanson Josh
Published: October 2024

In 2022, five cases of diphtheria were identified in and around Wujal Wujal, a discrete Aboriginal community in Far North Queensland. This prompted a mass diphtheria vaccination campaign in the community which increased the proportion of residents aged ≥14 years receiving a diphtheria containing vaccine in the prior twelve months from 5% to 74%. No further cases were detected in the subsequent twenty-two months.
An outbreak of double carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae, harbouring NDM-5 and OXA-48 genes, at a tertiary hospital in Canberra, Australia
Authors: Mhango Malizgani , Sheehan Frances , Marmor Alexandra , Thirkell Callum , Kennedy Karina
Published: October 2024

In July 2023, a carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (CPKP) with New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM-5) and oxacillinase (OXA-48) carbapenemase genes was detected in the urine sample of a patient. A similar CPKP organism had previously been isolated from a surveillance rectal swab of an admitted patient, prompting an outbreak investigation. A confirmed case was defined as any suspected case in which a species of Enterobacterales was isolated from a clinical or surveillance specimen (infection or colonisation) exhibiting an NDM-5 or OXA-48 CPE gene or both, irrespective of phenotypic susceptibility. A descriptive epidemiological investigation was conducted to describe the investigation, infection prevention and control responses, and public health intervention carried out. Three confirmed cases of CPKP were identified, including the index case; 62 contacts were identified, of which 13 contacts were screened. CPKP transmission occurred between two patients on contact transmission-based precautions in separate single ensuite rooms. Despite being in the same ward, the patients did not share medical teams but shared nursing teams and ancillary staff. This study emphasises the importance of strict adherence to infection prevention and control practices and contact transmission-based precautions for patients admitted with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales.
Learning from COVID-19: strengthening Australia’s research capacity through preparedness and collaboration
Authors: Smith Miranda Z , Bowden Janelle , Cristine Linda , Cunningham Anthony L , Kaldor John , Lewin Sharon R , Singer Andrew , Ward Robyn L , Sorrell Tania C
Published: October 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted that preparedness for and responsiveness to pandemics requires public health platforms and processes which are nimble and evidence-based and a research ecosystem which is rapidly responsive to the evolving needs of society and decision-makers. The national BEAT COVID-19 research consortium was funded in 2020 by the Snow Medical Research Foundation (Snow Medical). Its Expert Advisory Committee met with the consortium post-pandemic to summarise the research undertaken and to consider lessons learned through the research response to COVID-19 in Australia. The panel observed that philanthropy offered an important ‘kick-starter’ funding mechanism for urgent research, which facilitated leveraging of additional funds. It further agreed that research requirements for strengthening Australia’s pandemic preparedness and response include: (1) development of a national health and medical research strategy for pandemic research; (2) long-term investment in pre-established research partnerships and networks; (3) systemic procedural improvements, e.g. in ethics, governance and resource allocation; (4) responsive funding mechanisms including philanthropy; and (5) integration of research outputs into health practice and decision-making.
Status Quo of Interfaith Marriages in Indonesia after Supreme Court Circular Letter Number 2 of 2023
Authors: Antari Putu Eva Ditayani , I Kadek Budiadinata Satriatama Adnyana  , Luh Putu Yeyen Karista Putri
Published: October 2024

The trend of interfaith marriages is currently gaining interest in Indonesia. Data shows that by 2022, data on interfaith marriages will total 1425 spouses. The presence of the polemic about interfaith marriages in society has resulted in the government, through the Supreme Court, issuing SEMA 2/2023, which prohibits courts from accepting applications for interfaith marriages. Therefore, it is necessary to know the legality of interfaith marriages after SEMA 2/2023, especially regarding the legal ratio of the issuance of SEMA 2/20232. This study aims to determine the basis for the publication of SEMA 2/2023 and the validity of interfaith marriages after the publication of SEMA 2/2023. The study's novelty is demonstrated by the actuality of regulations published related to interfaith marriages in Indonesia, where previous studies analyzed the legality of interfaith marriages before the publication of SEMA 2/2023. The normative legal writing method is used by several approaches, such as the statutory regulations approach -invitation, case approach, and conceptual approach. The collection of legal materials in this study used literature study techniques. At the same time, the legal material analysis method is the descriptive analytical juridical method. The results show that the basis for preparing the circular letter is intended to guide judges in recording religious marriages in Indonesia. Also, since the circular letter came into force, the courts no longer have the authority to register interfaith marriages held in Indonesia.
OBSERVING EARTHWORM NEURONAL ACTIVITY USING
PHASE SENSITIVE SD-OCT MICROSCOPY
Authors:   , Asgari Pegah
Published: October 2024

This thesis focuses on detecting sub-nanometer rapid structural changes in biological and non-biological samples. The core method used throughout this work is phase-sensitive spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) microscopy, which is microscopy, as it provides high-speed detection and tomography imaging.
We use SD-OCT to detect structural changes in dye-doped microspheres, revealing both elastic and inelastic responses to modulated laser excitation. The resulting optical path length difference was measured with a sensitivity of $0.4~mathrm{pm/Hz^{1/2}}$ limited by photodetection noise. Further analysis of SD-OCT's capabilities involves modeling the relationship between refractive index and reflectivity. This model enables measuring refractive index and volume changes in microspheres. The sensitivity achieved for refractive index changes is $5.5times10^{-6}~mathrm{RIU/Hz^{1/2}}$, demonstrating the potential of combining amplitude and phase data for precise nanometer-scale elasticity measurements.
The technique is then extended to biological samples, specifically earthworm ventral cords, where SD-OCT measures transient changes in optical path length during neuronal signal transmission. The results show a displacement of 0.5~nm, suggesting SD-OCT's suitability for noninvasively detecting axonal changes during action potential propagation. The thesis addresses the challenges tissue motion poses and the resulting impact on phase and amplitude data. The moiré effect and its influence on phase noise are examined through synthetic modeling, revealing insights into how such superposition effects can be mitigated.
Overall, this thesis establishes SD-OCT as a powerful tool for non-invasive, high-sensitivity detection of structural changes in various samples, with significant implications for biological and materials research.
Two Communist Esperantists: A Bulgarian-Japanese Dialogue
Authors: Lins Ulrich
Published: October 2024

The Japanese Kurisu Kei (1910–2009) and the Bulgarian Nikola Aleksiev (1909–2002) never met. They were devoted to communism (for which they were imprisoned several times) and at the same time enthused about Esperanto. In 1933–34, Kurisu received a coded warning from a Soviet citizen (a veteran Communist and Esperantist) against Stalin’s terror regime. Kurisu put this experience aside for a long time. In the 1930s, he used Esperanto to spread Georgi Dimitrov's plea for an anti-fascist popular front in Japan. He became a renowned translator from Czech literature and maintained a worldwide correspondence. It was not until 1951 that he left the Japanese Communist Party. His Esperanto involvement contributed significantly to the departure from communist beliefs. In 1992, after the collapse of the Eastern bloc, he got in touch with Aleksiev, who had been a leading figure for the party in Bulgaria and for the Esperanto movement as well. Kurisu accused him of having unswervingly defended the imperialist policy of the Soviet Union. Aleksiev exercised some self-criticism. He admitted that communist rule had not been brought down by the class enemy , but by its own mistakes and crimes , and recalled an old taboo: the murder of Soviet Esperantists under Stalin.
Segmentation methods for quantifying X-ray Computed Tomography based biomarkers to assess hip fracture risk: a systematic literature review
Authors: Falcinelli Cristina , Cheong Vee San , Ellingsen Lotta Maria , Helgason Benedikt
Published: October 2024

Background

The success of using bone mineral density and/or FRAX to predict femoral osteoporotic fracture risk is modest since they do not account for mechanical determinants that affect bone fracture risk. Computed Tomography (CT)-based geometric, densitometric, and finite element-derived biomarkers have been developed and used as parameters for assessing fracture risk. However, to quantify these biomarkers, segmentation of CT data is needed. Doing this manually or semi-automatically is labor-intensive, preventing the adoption of these biomarkers into clinical practice. In recent years, fully automated methods for segmenting CT data have started to emerge. Quantifying the accuracy, robustness, reproducibility, and repeatability of these segmentation tools is of major importance for research and the potential translation of CT-based biomarkers into clinical practice.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed up to the end of July 2024. Only segmentation methods that were quantitatively validated on human femurs and/or pelvises and on both clinical and non-clinical CT were included. The accuracy, robustness, reproducibility, and repeatability of these segmentation methods were investigated, reporting quantitatively the metrics used to evaluate these aspects of segmentation. The studies included were evaluated for the risk of, and sources of bias, that may affect the results reported.

Findings

A total of 54 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The analysis of the included papers showed that automatic segmentation methods led to accurate results, however, there may exist a need to standardize reporting of accuracy across studies. Few works investigated robustness to allow for detailed conclusions on this aspect. Finally, it seems that the bone segmentation field has only addressed the concept of reproducibility and repeatability to a very limited extent, which entails that most of the studies are at high risk of bias.

Interpretation

Based on the studies analyzed, some recommendations for future studies are made for advancing the development of a standardized segmentation protocol. Moreover, standardized metrics are proposed to evaluate accuracy, robustness, reproducibility, and repeatability of segmentation methods, to ease comparison between different approaches.
Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of silver nanoparticles stabilized with C-phycocyanin against drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Chegini Zahra , Shariati Aref , Alikhani Mohammad Yousef , Safaiee Maliheh , Rajaeih Shahin , Arabestani Mohammadreza , Azizi Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Background

Biofilms are bacterial communities that can protect them against external factors, including antibiotics. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were formed by modifying AgNPs with C-phycocyanin (Ag-Pc) to inhibit the growth of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CR P. aeruginosa) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and destroy biofilm of these bacteria.

Methods

The AgNPs were prepared with the green synthesis method, and Pc was used to stabilize the AgNPs. The Ag-Pc’s antibacterial and antibiofilm effects were evaluated using the Microbroth dilution method and microtiter plate assay. The inhibitory effect of Ag-Pc on the expression of biofilm-related genes was evaluated by real-time PCR. Moreover, the MTT assay was used to assess the Ag-Pc toxicity.

Results

The Ag-Pc minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 7.4 μg/mL for CR P. aeruginosa and MRSA. Pc did not show antibacterial effects against any of the strains. Ag-Pc suppressed biofilm formation and destroyed matured biofilm in both bacteria more efficiently than the AgNPs (P< 0.05). The expression of all genes was not significantly reduced in the presence of synthesized nanoparticles. Finally, the MTT assay results did not show toxicity against a murine fibroblast cell line (L929) at MIC concentration.

Conclusion

The present study showed the promising potential of Pc for improving the antibacterial and antibiofilm function of AgNPs and inhibiting drug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, Ag-Pc nanoparticles can be considered a promising therapeutic approach for the managing of the bacterial biofilm.
Exploring the black box of human reproduction: endometrial organoids and assembloids - generation, implantation modeling, and future clinical perspectives
Authors: Kleinová Mária , Varga Ivan , Čeháková Michaela , Valent Martin , Klein Martin
Published: October 2024

One of the critical processes in human reproduction that is still poorly understood is implantation. The implantation of an early human embryo is considered a significant limitation of successful pregnancy. Therefore, researchers are trying to develop an ideal model of endometrium in vitro that can mimic the endometrial micro-environment in vivo as much as possible. The ultimate goal of endometrial modeling is to study the molecular interactions at the embryo-maternal interface and to use this model as an in vitro diagnostic tool for infertility. Significant progress has been made over the years in generating such models. The first experiments of endometrial modeling involved animal models, which are undoubtedly valuable, but at the same time, their dissimilarities with human tissue represent a significant obstacle to further research. This fact led researchers to develop basic monolayer coculture systems using uterine cells obtained from biopsies and, later on, complex and multilayer coculture models. With successful tissue engineering methods and various cultivation systems, it is possible to form endometrial two-dimensional (2D) models to three-dimensional (3D) organoids and novel assembloids that can recapitulate many aspects of endometrial tissue architecture and cell composition. These organoids have already helped to provide new insight into the embryo-endometrium interplay. The main aim of this paper is a comprehensive review of past and current approaches to endometrial model generation, their feasibility, and potential clinical application for infertility treatment.
Synthesis of new triazole derivatives and their potential applications for removal of heavy metals from aqueous solution and antibacterial activities
Authors: Xu Chunyun , Yang Na , Yu Haichun , Wang Xiaojing
Published: October 2024

In this paper, triazole derivatives were prepared by a three-step mild reaction using carbon disulfide as starting material. In face of microbial threats, we found that compound 3-cyclopropyl-[1,2,4]triazolo [3,4-b][1,3,4]thiadiazole-6-thiol (C2) has good antibacterial activity, inhibition and clearance ability against biofilms, low hemolytic activity and toxicity, good anti-inflammatory activity. At the same time, we found that B and C series compounds have good metal ion scavenging ability, with removal rates of C series ranging from 47% to 67% and B series ranging from 67% to 87%.
Anomalous electrocaloric behaviors in (anti)ferroelectrics: a mini-review
Authors: Li Feng , Wang Chunchang , Shan Lei
Published: October 2024

Solid-state cooling, represented by the electrocaloric effect (ECE) in (anti)ferroelectric materials, has emerged as an alternative green refrigeration technology by virtue of its high efficiency and miniaturization and is expected to substitute conventional vapor-compression. Significant progress has been made in developing high-performance EC materials since its revival. However, anomalous EC behaviors are frequently observed, including asymmetric and negative EC profiles, and the physical mechanism behind this is still under debate. Its rationalization is of great importance since full utilization of anomalous EC behaviors could enhance EC strength and/or cooling capacity. This mini-review gives a brief overview of research advances in EC anomalies in (anti)ferroelectrics with the hope of provoking thought on the design of reconstructed refrigeration cycles and superior EC materials for application in solid-state cooling devices.
Promoted room temperature NH3 gas sensitivity using interstitial Na dopant and structure distortion in Fe0.2Ni0.8WO4
Authors: Lee Jong Hyun , Lee Seung Yong , Choi Myung Sik , Lee Kyu Hyoung
Published: October 2024

The demand for gas-sensing operations with lower electrical power and guaranteed sensitivity has increased over the decades due to worsening indoor air pollution. In this report, we develop room-temperature operational NH3 gas-sensing materials, which are activated through electron doping and crystal structure distortion effect in Fe0.2Ni0.8WO4. The base material, synthesized through solid-state synthesis, involves Fe cations substitutionally located at the Ni sites of the NiWO4 crystal structure and shows no gas-sensing response at room temperature. However, doping Na into the interstitial sites of Fe0.2Ni0.8WO4 activates gas adsorption on the surface via electron donation to the cations. Additionally, the hydrothermal method used to achieve a more than 70-fold increase in the surface area of structure-distorted Na-doped Fe0.2Ni0.8WO4 powder significantly enhances gas sensitivity, resulting in a 4-times increase in NH3 gas response (Rg/Ra). Photoluminescence and XPS results indicate negligible oxygen vacancies, demonstrating that cation contributions are crucial for gas-sensing activities in Na-doped Fe0.2Ni0.8WO4. This suggests the potential for modulating gas sensitivity through carrier concentration and crystal structure distortion. These findings can be applied to the development of room-temperature operational gas-sensing materials based on the cations.
Predicting long-term risk of sudden cardiac death with automatic computer-interpretations of electrocardiogram
Authors: Järvensivu-Koivunen Minna , Kallonen Antti , van Gils Mark , Lyytikäinen Leo-Pekka , Tynkkynen Juho , Hernesniemi Jussi
Published: October 2024

Background

Computer-interpreted electrocardiogram (CIE) data is provided by almost all commercial software used to capture and store digital electrocardiograms. CIE is widely available, inexpensive, and accurate. We tested the potential of CIE in long-term sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk prediction.

Methods

This is a retrospective of 8,568 consecutive patients treated for acute coronary syndrome. The primary endpoint was five-year occurrence of SCDs or equivalent events (SCDs aborted by successful resuscitation or adequate ICD therapy). CIE statements were extracted from summary statements and measurements made by the GE Muse 12SL algorithm from ECGs taken during admission. Three supervised machine learning algorithms (logistic regression, extreme gradient boosting, and random forest) were then used for analysis to find risk features using a random 70/30% split for discovery and validation cohorts.

Results

Five-year SCD occurrence rate was 3.3% (n = 287). Regardless of the used ML algorithm, the most significant risk ECG risk features detected by the CIE included known risk features such as QRS duration and factors associated with QRS duration, heart rate–corrected QT time (QTc), and the presence of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). Risk score formed by using most significant CIE features associated with the risk of SCD despite adjusting for any clinical risk factor (including left ventricular ejection fraction). Sensitivity of CIE data to correctly identify patients with high risk of SCD (over 10% 5-year risk of SCD) was usually low, but specificity and negative prediction value reached up to 96.9% and 97.3% when selecting only the most significant features identified by logistic regression modeling (p-value threshold <0.01 for accepting features in the model). Overall, CIE data showed a modest overall performance for identifying high risk individuals with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values ranging between 0.652 and 0.693 (highest for extreme gradient boosting and lowest for logistic regression).

Conclusion

This proof-of-concept study shows that automatic interpretation of ECG identifies previously validated risk features for SCD.