bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dhammapada: A Sacred Path toward Liberation from Harm Cycles
Authors: Storbakken Jason
Published: September 2023

abstract: This project began as an interreligious exercise during Lent, a Christian season of increased spiritual practice. What resulted, in part, is this work, a translation and commentary on the Dhammapada (included here: the introduction and translations of three chapters with chapter commentaries). Like the Sermon on the Mount to Christians and the Bhagavad Gita to Hindus, the Dhammapada is considered the heart of Buddhist teaching. Ultimately, this work is a secondary translation or popular interpretation, akin to Thomas Merton's translations of Chuang Tzu and Coleman Bark's translations of Rumi's poetry. And rather than a scholarly translation, this work is a spiritual and devotional interpretation. Among the choices I have made in this translation include gender-inclusive and affirming language, often opting for they/ them pronouns. In chapter intros, I have included resources, brief commentary, and cultural and academic notes that have helped to shape this translation. Such influencers of this translation include Ella Baker, Kendrick Lamar, Bessel van der Kolk, Lama Rod Owens, and others. The next choice I have made, instead of translating the words dukkha and samsara to sorrow/suffering and reincarnation , respectively, I have often translated these terms to harm cycles and generational suffering . My hope is that these terms capture the original meanings while also creating expansive language to hold possibilities for new understandings within Gautama Buddha's teaching. As the translator of this text, it is important to name my twenty-first-century context, influences, and identity as a person raised mostly in the Upper Midwest of the United States and who has lived in Brooklyn, New York, for the past twenty years. This translation is filtered through the lenses of my lived experience, education, social-familial position, economic status, ethnic-cultural and gender identity (as a cis male of Scandinavian-Hutterite descent, who is identified as white ), and multiple other influences. My sources include peace studies, trauma/resilience studies, liberation theology, and more than fifteen years of experience as a spiritual teacher and minister in the Anabaptist tradition (i.e., the historic peace church) of Christianity. It is through these lived experiences that this translation emerges. And, specifically, what has emerged, at least in part, is a trauma aware, liberationist interpretation of the Dhammapada.
Bright Guardians of the Way and the World: Penthos and Hiri-Ottappa
Authors: Geiman Shodhin K.
Published: September 2023

abstract: The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to a fundamental, yet frequently over-looked, component of Christian contemplative and Buddhist meditative practice: the cultivation of shame in the face of one's lapses of body, speech, and mind. In this Christian tradition, this is called penthos , or compunction; in the Buddhist sutras and subsequent commentarial literature, it is referred to as hiri-ottappa , or moral shame and moral dread. According to both Evagrius of Pontus and many in the early Buddhist tradition, no progress can be made along the spiritual path as long as one has not squarely recognized—and openly admitted to—such failings. In a cultural context in which contemplative prayer and meditation are cast either as exercises in self-affirmation or as propaedeutics to social transformation, I suggest that repositioning Buddhist-Christian dialog on a forthright acknowledgment of our common human frailty and unskillfulness can lead to a more robust, and grounded, form of mutual engagement.
High-frequency plasma spark discharge assessment in pulse-scanning digital holographic interferometry
Authors: Kozhevnikova Anastasiia M. , Alekseenko Igor V. , Schitz Dmitry V.
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we consider the method for observing and detecting of high-frequency pulsed plasma spark discharge by means of stroboscopic digital holographic interferometry to demonstrate the feasibility of the electron concentration assessment in nonthermal plasma. A spark discharge with a 5 kHz frequency and 1250 ns duration has been exited between two electrodes in atmospheric pressure. The sequence of holograms acquired due to the proper synchronization between plasma pulses, laser radiation, and the camera’s frame grabbing that ensure the recording of the plasma pulses at different moments of time, and the temporal optical scanning of plasma pulse were realized. We also show that the phase difference contrast variation corresponds to the plasma’s instant and indicates a change in the electron concentration in the discharge. The concentration of electrons at different moments of plasma existence has been estimated. The limitations of the proposed method are considered, and its applicability for the study of low-temperature pulsed plasma are discussed.
Rapid azoospermia classification by stimulated Raman scattering and second harmonic generation microscopy
Authors: Huang Jie , Tang Xiaobin , Chen Zhicong , Li Xiaomin , Zhang Yongqing , Huang Xiangjie , Zhang Delong , An Geng , Lee Hyeon Jeong
Published: September 2023

Disease diagnosis and classification pose significant challenges due to the limited capabilities of traditional methods to obtain molecular information with spatial distribution. Optical imaging techniques, utilizing (auto)fluorescence and nonlinear optical signals, introduce new dimensions for biomarkers exploration that can improve diagnosis and classification. Nevertheless, these signals often cover only a limited number of species, impeding a comprehensive assessment of the tissue microenvironment, which is crucial for effective disease diagnosis and therapy. To address this challenge, we developed a multimodal platform, termed stimulated Raman scattering and second harmonic generation microscopy (SRASH), capable of simultaneously providing both chemical bonds and structural information of tissues. Applying SRASH imaging to azoospermia patient samples, we successfully identified lipids, protein, and collagen contrasts, unveiling molecular and structural signatures for non-obstructive azoospermia. This achievement is facilitated by LiteBlendNet-Dx (LBNet-Dx), our diagnostic algorithm, which achieved an outstanding 100% sample-level accuracy in classifying azoospermia, surpassing conventional imaging modalities. As a label-free technique, SRASH imaging eliminates the requirement for sample pre-treatment, demonstrating great potential for clinical translation and enabling molecular imaging-based diagnosis and therapy.
Area-based determinants of outreach vaccination for reaching vulnerable populations: A cross-sectional study in Pakistan
Authors: Chen Xiaoting , Porter Allan , Abdur Rehman Nabeel , Morris Shaun K. , Saif Umar , Chunara Rumi
Published: September 2023

The objective of this study is to gain a comparative understanding of spatial determinants for outreach and clinic vaccination, which is critical for operationalizing efforts and breaking down structural biases; particularly relevant in countries where resources are low, and sub-region variance is high. Leveraging a massive effort to digitize public system reporting by Lady and Community Health Workers (CHWs) with geo-located data on over 4 million public-sector vaccinations from September 2017 through 2019, understanding health service operations in relation to vulnerable spatial determinants were made feasible. Location and type of vaccinations (clinic or outreach) were compared to regional spatial attributes where they were performed. Important spatial attributes were assessed using three modeling approaches (ridge regression, gradient boosting, and a generalized additive model). Consistent predictors for outreach, clinic, and proportion of third dose pentavalent vaccinations by region were identified. Of all Penta-3 vaccination records, 86.3% were performed by outreach efforts. At the tehsil level (fourth-order administrative unit), controlling for child population, population density, proportion of population in urban areas, distance to cities, average maternal education, and other relevant factors, increased poverty was significantly associated with more in-clinic vaccinations (β = 0.077), and lower proportion of outreach vaccinations by region (β = -0.083). Analyses at the union council level (fifth-administrative unit) showed consistent results for the differential importance of poverty for outreach versus clinic vaccination. Relevant predictors for each type of vaccination (outreach vs. in-clinic) show how design of outreach vaccination can effectively augment vaccination efforts beyond healthcare services through clinics. As Pakistan is third among countries with the most unvaccinated and under-vaccinated children, understanding barriers and factors associated with vaccination can be demonstrative for other national and sub-national regions facing challenges and also inform guidelines on supporting CHWs in health systems.
Diabetes health care specific services readiness and availability in Kenya: Implications for Universal Health Coverage
Authors: Onteri Stephen N. , Kariuki James , Mathu David , Wangui Antony M. , Magige Lucy , Mutai Joseph , Chuchu Vyolah , Karanja Sarah , Ahmed Ismail , Mokua Sharon , Otambo Priscah , Bukania Zipporah
Published: September 2023

Diabetes is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide yet preventable. Complications of undetected and untreated diabetes result in serious human suffering and disability. It negatively impacts on individual’s social economic status threatening economic prosperity. There is a scarcity of data on health system diabetes service readiness and availability in Kenya which necessitated an investigation into the specific availability and readiness of diabetes services. A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out using the Kenya service availability and readiness mapping tool in 598 randomly selected public health facilities in 12 purposively selected counties. Ethical standards outlined in the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki and its later amendments were upheld throughout the study. Health facilities were classified into primary and secondary level facilities prior to statistical analysis using IBM SPSS version 25. Exploratory data analysis techniques were employed to uncover the distribution structure of continuous study variables. For categorical variables, descriptive statistics in terms of proportions, frequency distributions and percentages were used. Of the 598 facilities visited, 83.3% were classified as primary while 16.6% as secondary. A variation in specific diabetes service availability and readiness was depicted in the 12 counties and between primary and secondary level facilities. Human resource for health reported a low mean availability (46%; 95% CI 44%-48%) with any NCDs specialist and nutritionist the least carder available. Basic equipment and diagnostic capacity reported a fairly high mean readiness (73%; 95% CI 71%-75%) and (64%; 95%CI 60%-68%) respectively. Generally, primary health facilities had low diabetic specific service availability and readiness compared to secondary facilities: capacity to cope with diabetes increased as the level of care ascended to higher levels. Significant gaps were identified in overall availability and readiness in both primary and secondary levels facilities particularly in terms of human resource for health specifically nutrition and laboratory profession.
Socioeconomic differences in the impact of prices and taxes on tobacco use in low- and middle-income countries–A systematic review
Authors: Guindon G. Emmanuel , Abbas Umaima , Trivedi Riya , Garasia Sophiya , Johnson Sydney , John Rijo M.
Published: September 2023

There is indisputable evidence that increases in taxes that raise tobacco prices reduce tobacco use. Consumption taxes on manufactured tobacco products, however, can be regressive in socioeconomic status (e.g., when the ratio of tax paid to income is lower for higher-income groups than for lower-income groups). Nevertheless, if the poor or less educated are more price responsive, a change in tobacco tax may be progressive in socioeconomic status. Existing reviews clearly indicate that populations with lower income or education are more responsive to tobacco tax and price changes than higher-income and more educated populations in high-income countries. Research pertaining to low- and middle-income countries was, however, limited and inconclusive. We conducted a review of quantitative studies that examined if socioeconomic status modified the association between prices and taxes and tobacco use in low- and middle-income countries. We searched two electronic databases, two search engines, and two working paper repositories. At least two reviewers independently screened articles for inclusion, extracted detailed characteristics, and assessed the risk of bias of each included study. Thirty-two studies met our inclusion criteria. Overall, we found that the evidence in low- and middle-income countries was too limited and methodologically weak to make any conclusive statements. Our review highlights a number of data and methodological limitations in existing studies. The most important limitation was the lack of formal assessment of socioeconomic differences in price responsiveness. Only seven of 32 studies assessed statistically whether own-price effects were modified by socioeconomic status. Many modelling studies have examined the distributional effect of a tax increase on tobacco use, while assuming a strong own-price elasticity gradient in income. The poor were generally assumed to be more responsive to price by a factor of two to five, relative to the wealthy. Although there are theoretical reasons to expect poorer individuals to be more responsive to monetary prices than wealthy ones in low- and middle-income countries, our review provides little empirical support.
Cardiovascular disease risk stratification in the Pakistani population with and without metabolic syndrome: A single centre cross-sectional study
Authors: Palla Amber Hanif , Fatimi Asad Saulat , Virani Salim S. , Fatima Syeda Sadia
Published: September 2023

Existing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk stratification algorithms are predominantly validated only for Western populations, and do not include parameters of metabolic syndrome (MetS) which may increase the relative risk for cardiovascular disease in South Asians. This study aimed to compare the differences between 10-year ASCVD risk by the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), Pooled Cohort Risk Equations (PCE), and QRISK3 calculators in a cohort of apparently healthy Pakistani adults and stratify the ASCVD risk by MetS status.A cross-sectional study recruited 179 subjects between the ages of 40 to 74 years from the outpatient department of the Aga Khan University Hospital between May 2019 to November 2022. Anthropometry, demography, and blood samples were collected from each subject after informed consent. The IDF criteria were used to categorize subjects as MetS positive (n = 122) and MetS negative (n = 57). The mean age of study participants was 51.07±7.38 years. The average 10-year ASCVD risk (%) for our cohort was calculated to be 15.34 ± 11.60, 9.66 ± 10.87, and 17.02 ± 14.66 using the FRS algorithm, PCE calculator, and QRISK3 calculator respectively. MetS status did not show a statistically significant association with the risk categories determined by any of the calculators, although numerical ASCVD risk estimates were significantly higher in the MetS positive group for all calculators.Although ASCVD risk is a useful way to reduce CVD burden by identifying asymptomatic individuals at the highest risk of developing ASCVD, a high proportion of individuals with MetS may still be identified as low risk by the current risk stratification algorithms in South Asians. Powered validation studies with larger sample sizes and longitudinal follow-up are needed in South Asians to modify existing calculators to make them more applicable to South Asian populations.
Chronic rhinosinusitis is not associated with increased incidence of acute myocardial infarction: A national population-based study
Authors: Kim Hyun Jung , Ahn Hyeong Sik , Mo Ji-Hun , Son Sumin , Kim Seung Ho , Kim Ikhee , Lee Ki-Il
Published: September 2023

Background & aims

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is one of the most prevalent upper respiratory tract diseases. However, little is known the effect of CRS on the cardiovascular aspects of patients. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with CRS compared with that in the general population.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was performed using the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database. To minimize confounding, age, sex, and cardiovascular risk profiles were adjusted. The primary endpoint was newly diagnosed AMI in patients between January 2005 and December 2018. The relative risk of AMI in patients with CRS was compared with that in controls. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional regression tests were used for statistical analyses.

Results

Among 5,179,981 patients from the NHIS database, 996,679 patients with CRS were selected. The control group was 10 times (n = 9,966,790) the number of individuals in the CRS group. The CRS group had better cardiovascular profiles than those of the control group and had an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.99 (95% confidence interval, 0.97–1.02) for AMI.

Conclusion

There was no significant association between the two groups regardless of the presence of nasal polyps. This is the first study adjusting cardiovascular risk profiles and analyzing the relationship between CRS and AMI. CRS was not associated with a high incidence of AMI after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors.
Overemphasis on publications may disadvantage historically excluded groups in STEM before and during COVID-19: A North American survey-based study
Authors: Rowland Freya E. , Prats Kyra A. , Alshwairikh Yara A. , Burak Mary K. , Fanton Ana Clara , Duguid Marlyse C.
Published: September 2023

Publishing is a strong determinant of academic success and there is compelling evidence that identity may influence the academic writing experience and writing output. However, studies rarely quantitatively assess the effects of major life upheavals on trainee writing. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced unprecedented life disruptions that may have disproportionately impacted different demographics of trainees. We analyzed anonymous survey responses from 342 North American environmental biology graduate students and postdoctoral scholars (hereafter trainees) about scientific writing experiences to assess: (1) how identity interacts with scholarly publication totals and (2) how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced trainee perceptions of scholarly writing productivity and whether there were differences among identities. Interestingly, identity had a strong influence on publication totals, but it differed by career stage with graduate students and postdoctoral scholars often having opposite results. We found that trainees identifying as female and those with chronic health conditions or disabilities lag in publication output at some point during training. Additionally, although trainees felt they had more time during the pandemic to write, they reported less productivity and motivation. Trainees who identified as female; Black, Indigenous, or as a Person of Color [BIPOC]; and as first-generation college graduates were much more likely to indicate that the pandemic affected their writing. Disparities in the pandemic’s impact on writing were most pronounced for BIPOC respondents; a striking 85% of BIPOC trainees reported that the pandemic affected their writing habits, and overwhelmingly felt unproductive and unmotivated to write. Our results suggest that the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on writing output may only heighten the negative effects commonly reported amongst historically excluded trainees. Based on our findings, we encourage the academy to consider how an overemphasis on publication output during hiring may affect historically excluded groups in STEM—especially in a post-COVID-19 era.
Dexmedetomidine use for patients in palliative care with intractable pain and delirium: A retrospective study
Authors: Yu Shi-Yuan , Schellenberg Jacqueline , Alleyne Alison
Published: September 2023

Patients seen by the palliative care team often have difficult and intractable symptoms. The current standard of practice to manage these symptoms is the deeply sedating midazolam continuous subcutaneous infusion for patients who are expected to expire within hours to days. Dexmedetomidine provides sedation but lacks evidence in palliative care use. This study describes continuous subcutaneous infusion of dexmedetomidine’s effect on refractory pain and delirium. Retrospective, observational chart review and conducted in accordance with SQUIRE (quality improvement study). Twenty adult patients (18 years of age or older) with metastatic cancer disease admitted to three palliative complex care units of Fraser Health who received continuous subcutaneous infusion of dexmedetomidine between January 2017 to August 31, 2019. Average length of dexmedetomidine use was 9 days (1/3 length of stay). Eight of the 13 patients with pain symptoms exhibited an overall decline in pain. Four of the 6 patients with delirium had an initial decrease in delirium, but it did not last beyond the first day. Despite progressive clinical deterioration, adjunctive medications decreased or remained the same for 53% of as needed medications and 65% for regularly scheduled medications. Forty-five percent of patients had ≥50% days of rousable sedation. Hypotension occurred in 85% of patients. Dexmedetomidine provided benefit in managing intractable pain while allowing patients to remain rousable, but only had a short effect on delirium symptoms.
Prior physical illness predicts death better than acute physiological derangement on intensive care unit admission in COVID-19: A Swedish registry study
Authors: Stattin Karl , Hultström Michael , Frithiof Robert , Lipcsey Miklos , Kawati Rafael
Published: September 2023

COVID-19 is associated with prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay and considerable mortality. The onset of persistent critical illness, defined as when prior illness predicts death better than acute physiological derangement, has not been studied in COVID-19. This national cohort study based on the Swedish Intensive Care Registry (SIR) included all patients admitted to a Swedish ICU due to COVID-19 from 6 March 2020 to 9 November 2021. Simplified Acute Physiology Score-3 (SAPS3) Box 1 was used as a measure of prior illness and Box 3 as a measure of acute derangement to evaluate the onset and importance of persistent critical illness in COVID-19. To compare predictive capacity, the area under receiver operating characteristic (AUC) of SAPS3 and its constituent Box 1 and 3 was calculated for 30-day mortality. In 7 969 patients, of which 1 878 (23.6%) died within 30 days of ICU admission, the complete SAPS3 score had acceptable discrimination: AUC 0.75 (95% CI 0.74 to 0.76) but showed under prediction in low-risk patients and over prediction in high-risk patients. SAPS3 Box 1 showed markedly better discrimination than Box 3 (AUC 0.74 vs 0.65, P<0,0001). Using custom logistic models, the difference in predictive performance of prior and acute illness was validated, AUC 0.76 vs AUC 0.69, p<0.0001. Prior physical illness predicts death in COVID-19 better than acute physiological derangement during ICU stay, and the whole SAPS3 score is not significantly better than just prior illness. The results suggests that COVID-19 may exhibit similarities to persistent critical illness immediately from ICU admission, potentially because of long median ICU length-of-stay. Alternatively, the variables in the acute physiological derangement model may not adequately capture the severity of illness in COVID-19.
A Study of Blood Glucose Level in the Newborn
Authors: Munir Muzief , Husada T. , Rotty R. E. J.
Published: September 2023

One hundred and thirteen newborns admitted to the nursery ward of the Child Health Department from June 1, 1976 until December 31, 1976 were selected for this study. They were, 34 normally delivered term infants, 26 SGA with birth-weight ranging 1750-2400 gm and 30 high risk term infants and 23 premature. Blood glucose was examined at l, 3 and 6 hours after birth using 0-Toluidine method.

It was found that in the normal term infants there was a significant increase of mean blood glucose level at 3 hours after birth (p<0.05), followed by a slight decrease at 6 hours of age. In small for gestational age and premature infants a slight increase was observed at 3 hours of age, followed by a moderate but insignificant decrease at 6 hours of age. In the high-risk-term-infants, almost no fluctuation of blood glucose level was detected throughout the study.

This study shows that 6-hour-fasting period for normal term, S.G.A. and premature infants with birth weight ranging from 1750-2500 grams, and high risk-term infants is justified to be safe with regard to the risk of hypoglycemia.
Measles Morbidity and Mortality in the Department of Child Health, Dr. Pirngadi General Hospital, Medan, in 1973-1977
Authors: Rangkuti S. M. , Nazir Nasril , Sutanto A. H. , Lubis Aswin , Siregar Helena
Published: September 2023

One hundred seventy-six cases with measles have been hospitalized at the Department of Child Health, Dr. Pirngadi General Hospital, Medan in 1973 - 1977.

The case fatality rate was 26.1%. The most frequent complications found were Pneumonia, Encephalitis, Diarrhea and Dehydration.

Age specific mortality, as expected, was highest in the 0 - 1 year age group (38.6%). A high proportion of the survivors (22.2%) showed recidual signs of brain damage and blind-ness.

This study proved that active immunization against measles in Indonesia must have priority.
Acupuncture in Poliomyelitis
Authors: Zulkarnain Zuraida , Bisanto Yulfina
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the result of acupuncture in the early and late stage of the disease.

From January 2974 to December 1977, a total of 276 paralytic cases due to post-poliomyelitis were treated with acupuncture, with the age betseen 3 months and 12 years.

Clinically and electromyogram examination were eveluated only on 146 cases. Of the se, 78 cases (53.4%) showed marked improvement, 65 cases (44.5%), showed some improvement and only 3 cases (2.1%) showed no improvement.

There is a correlation between the result of the treatment and the duration of the disease. Of the 93 cases starting treatment within one month of the onset of paralysis, 71 cases (76.3%) showed marked improvement, while 22 cases (23.7%) showed some improvement or no improvement. Of the 53 cases starting treatment after one month of the illness, 7 cases (13.2%) showed marked improvement and 46 cases (86.8%)showed some improvement.

The technique of the treatment and applicable acupuncture points are described. The method is simple and without risk for the patient.
Nocturnal Enuresis
Authors: Ramayati Rafita
Published: September 2023

In Indonesia and in other parts of the world a child with nocturnal enuresis is not an uncommon disease. Studies on nocturnal enuresis is still restricted in Indonesia. It is highly recommended to understand the disease because wetting problems can continue to more serious psychic developmental problems in our

young generation. This paper represents a review on some aspects of nocturnal enuresis.
The Knowledge of Parents of Children With Diarrhea on Oralit at the Department of Child Health, Dr. Pirngadi General Hospital Medan
Authors: Saragih Martinus , Ramayati Rafita , Karo-Karo Mansur , Harahap Effendi , Sutanto A.H. , Siregar Helena
Published: September 2023

At Dr. Pirngadi General Hospital Medan 285 parents of children with diarrhea had been interviewed about their knowledge on oralit. Only 57.7% of the parents know and use oralit, 12.2.% have known but

never used, 13.7.% have only heard while 20.4% never heard of oralit.

The main source of information were doctors (63.9%), next come radio and television (7.9%) and then newspaper or magazine (1.8.%). The main supplier or distributor was the dispensary (86.9%).
The Relationship Between Birth Weight and a Number of Body Measurements of Neonates at Dr. Pirngadi Hospital Medan
Authors: Hamid Nurhayati , Lubis Helmi , Saragih Martinus , Ramayati Rafita , Lubis Chairuddin P. , Aldy Dachrul , Raid Noersida
Published: September 2023

From January 1980 to November 1980 a survey on the relationship between birth weight (BW) with body length (BL), head circumference (HC) and chest circumference (CC) was carried out on 1689 newborn infants bom in the Dr. Pringadi General Hospital Medan. They were divided into six groups, based on their BW i.e.:

Group I : 1501 - 2000 g

Group II : 2001 - 2500 g

Group Ill : 2501 - 3000 g

Group IV : 3001 - 3500 g

Group V : 3501 - 4000 g

G1011p VI : 4001 - 4500 g

The average of BL, HC and CC in cm is shown below: 

The mean values of total BL, total HC and total CC can represent the anthropometric values for the certain BW group.

No significant differences were found between male and female newborn infants in each group.
High Dosage Diazepam as Single Antispasmodic Agent in the Treatment of Neonatal Tetanus
Authors: N. Sugitha , P. Suwendra , Suraatmaja Sudaryat
Published: September 2023

An evaluation of diazepam as a single antispasmodic drug in the treatment of neonatal tetanus was made on 30 neonates, who were admitted to the Dept. of Child Health, General Hospital, Denpasar. Diazepam (Valium) was given with the dose of 2,5 mg intravenously at 2 hours intervals. It can be increased in very severe cases, to a maximal dose of 40 mg/kgbw/day.

The overall mortality of this study was 20%. Almost all deaths occurred within the first 5 days. Incubation period of less than 7 days, period of onset of less than 48 hours, age on admission of less than 5 days and spontaneous paroxysmal spasm were important factors to contribute to the high  mortality. The mortality also rose in proportion to the severity according to Patel and Joag criteria.
Child Care Monitoring for a Better Child Health Service
Authors: Meliala Rajaidup , Manoeroeng S. M. , Lubis Chairuddin P. , Purba Djaman , Sinaga Jaminsen , Siregar Helena
Published: September 2023

Three hundred under five years of age patients admitted to Dr. Pirngadi General Hospital Child Health during a two months period (October-November, 1981) were studied, using child care monitoring form. The age group with highest morbidity (86.7%) was found in the age group of 0-2 years.

Only 54.3% of the children get breastfeeding until the age of 6 months. Supplementary food was already given at the age of 0-4 months.

Undernutrition was still high (41.7%) particularly under the age of 2 years (32.7%).

BCG and DPT immunization were still low respectively 22.7% and 10%. Gastrointestinal disease and respiratory tract infection were the two leading diseases; tetanus neonatorum was also frequent.

The percentage of discharge on parents request was high (31%) which might be related to low level parental education and low socio economic condition.
Serological Investigation of Persistent Villous Atrophy in Celiac Disease
Authors: Gong Changlin , Saborit Claudia , Long Xin , Wang Ao , Zheng Beishi , Chung Howard , Lewis Suzanne K , Krishnareddy Suneeta , Bhagat Govind , Green Peter H R , Kong Xiao-Fei
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Persistent villous atrophy (VA) is not uncommon in celiac disease (CeD) while patients take a gluten-free diet (GFD).

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study with 122 serum samples collected from controls and CeD patients either at the initial diagnosis or follow-up during endoscopy. These samples were assigned to three groups: non-celiac control, non-VA CeD (Marsh score 0-2), and VA CeD (Marsh score 3a-3c). We established an in-house multiplex assay to identify potential serological biomarkers for villous atrophy. We assessed autoantibodies reported to affect the small intestine, including IgA and IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase (tTG), interferons, villin, actin, autoimmune enteropathy-related 75 kDa antigen (AIE-75), and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH)-1, as well as 27 cytokines. The apolipoproteins quantified included apo A1, apo B-100, and apo A4, which were produced predominantly by the intestinal epithelium or expressed specifically in villi.

Results:

Autoantibody levels were high only for tTG antibodies, which performed well in initial CeD diagnosis, but suboptimally for VA prediction during follow-up, as 14.6% of the follow-up patients with VA had low tTG-IgA. Increasing dilution improved tTG-IgA quantification, particularly when the antibody levels were extremely high, but did not significantly improve VA detection. Among those with low tTG-IgA and persistent VA, high proinflammatory cytokines were observed in two patients. Median LDL-C levels were significantly lower in the VA CeD group (P = 0.03). Apolipoprotein levels were similar in patients with and without VA, but diverged between those on a gluten-free diet (GFD) or not.

Conclusions: tTG-IgA as a biomarker is suboptimal for villous atrophy prediction while on a GFD. Persistent villous atrophy is associated with low LDL-C levels, and partially related to persistent high proinflammatory cytokines.
Forensic analysis of toxic substances in fatalities with suspected companion animal cruelty
Authors: Kang Jeong Woo , Kim Ah-Young , Chae Hyun Young , Lim Hanae , Kim Suncheun , Ku Bok-Kyung , Lee Kyunghyun
Published: September 2023

The increasing prevalence of toxic substance-exposure in pets in South Korea endangers the health and safety of numerous companion animals, and has become a cause for concern. Notably, the annual incidence of forensic analysis in pets has increased by more than 150% in South Korea, mainly in populous regions such as Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi. In response to this growing issue, veterinary forensic examinations were conducted on 549 dogs and cats from 2019 to 2022. This study revealed the presence of various toxic substances, including pesticides, insecticides, and drugs such as analgesics, anesthetics, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants, in pets. Among the 38 different toxins identified in pets, coumatetralyl, methomyl, terbufos, and buprofezin were the most frequently detected. In this study, toxic substances for pets were identified based on the “toxic agent list for humans,” developed by the National Forensic Services, because no list of toxic agents for animals currently exists and data regarding potentially toxic substances for dogs and cats is limited. This is one of the limitations of this study, and necessitates the establishment of a toxic agent list for animals. Continued monitoring and research is also recommended to reveal the incidence, causes, and solutions of toxicity in animals.
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Lespedeza cuneata in Coal fly ash-induced murine alveolar macrophage cells
Authors: Wahab Abdul , Sim Hwayong , Choi Kyubin , Kim Yejin , Lee Yookyeong , Kang Byungwook , No Yu Seong , Lee Dongyeop , Lee Inseo , Lee Jaehyeon , Cha Hwajun , Kim Sung Dae , Saba Evelyn , Rhee Man Hee
Published: September 2023

Lespedeza cuneata (LC) is a perennial plant used in herbal medicine to treat numerous diseases, including prostatic hyperplasia, diabetes, early atherosclerosis, and hematuria. Reference collections of bioactive compounds of LC are crucial for the determination of their pharmacological properties. However, little is known regarding its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in alveolar macrophage (MH-S) cells. This study examined whether LC can inhibit reactive oxygen species and Coal fly ash (CFA) induced inflammation in MH-S cells. The anti-oxidative effects of LC were evaluated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays, anti-inflammatory effects were examined using nitric oxide (NO) assay, and cytotoxicity was analyzed using methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. The expression of inflammatory cytokine genes was assessed through a reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Our results revealed that LC exhibited high radical scavenging activity and a dose-dependent (7.8–1,000 μg/mL) inhibition of oxidation as compared to ascorbic acid and Trolox. It also inhibited CFA-induced NO production in MH-S cells. Moreover, it suppressed the CFA exposure-mediated expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, including inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. These results suggest that LC is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that can be useful as a nutraceutical product.
Peritoneal lymphomatosis with pleural and peritoneal effusions in a dog: a case report
Authors: Kang Minjeong , Bae Hyeona , Jung Rankyung , Kim Minji , Cha Sumin , Hwang Tae-Sung , Lee Hee-Chun , Jung Dong-In , Cho Kyu-Woan , Yu Do-Hyeon
Published: September 2023

Peritoneal lymphomatosis (PL) is a rare lymphoid neoplasm in dogs. A nine-year-old spayed female Labrador retriever presented with pleural and peritoneal effusions. Diagnostic imaging revealed diffuse nodular to massive lesions in the mesentery, particularly in the caudal abdomen. While the superficial lymph nodes did not show significant changes, enlargement was observed in the intra-abdominal and intra-thoracic lymph nodes. Cytological and flow cytometric analyses of the effusion indicated the presence of large B-cell lymphocytes expressing CD3-/CD5-/CD14-/CD21-/CD34+/CD45+/CD79a+. PL was diagnosed using diagnostic imaging and fluid analysis. This case report highlights the clinical and diagnostic features of canine PL.
Successful treatment of a severe open wound in a raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides): antibiotic susceptibility testing supported
Authors: Kim Myeongsu , Rhim Haerin , Gim Seulgi , Lee Chang-Eun , Yoon Hakyoung , Han Jae-Ik
Published: September 2023

An adult raccoon dog with extensive, deep, and contaminated wounds on the right hip and multiple fractures was rescued. The open wound was managed daily by debridement and flushing for 3 weeks. Modified active drainage was then performed, and antibiotics administered according to the antibiotic susceptibility test. After 2 weeks, the exudate disappeared and the drain was removed. After monitoring for 1 month, the animal was released in to the wild. This case shows that even if infection remains, rapid wound repair is possible if appropriate antibiotic selection through regular examination and active drainage are combined.
Alkaloids Lead to Potential Inhibition of the Acyl Carrier Protein Reductase to Attenuate Tuberculosis; an in-silico Analysis
Authors: Kamran Pernia , Ibrahim Ahsan
Published: September 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infection that mostly affects the lungs. Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis infection, leading to granulomatous lesions in affected lung tissue. It is one of the most prevalent and deadly infectious diseases among the under developed countries. This study aims to investigate the possible inhibition of the acyl carrier protein reductase for preventing tuberculosis by well-known alkaloids, thereby reducing Mycobacterium tuberculosis growth in the lungs and thereby reducing the incidence of latent and active TB. About five natural alkaloids were subjected to the molecular docking analysis, which produced favorable findings in terms of best pose and binding energies of these compounds towards the active residues of mycobacterial ACP reductase, with values ranging from -10 kcal/mol to -9.1 kcal/mol. The molecular dynamics simulation produced similar encouraging results. All of the prospective alkaloid compounds were subjected to an in-silico toxicity investigation, which determined that every compound was safe and non-toxic. Further studies may be necessary for effective formulation development employing these compounds as part of the process of drug discovery and development. The findings from this study may be helpful in the development of the novel nanoformulations using natural products for pharmacotherapy of tuberculosis infection.
Bio-larvicidal Potential of Betel Leaves (Piper betle L) Ethanolic Extract in Addition of PEG 400 Diluent on Aedes aegypti Larvae
Authors: Dewi Listiana Masyita , Ariffah Hilda Zaniba , Aisyah Riandini , Nurhayani Nurhayani
Published: September 2023

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a kind of vector transmitted disease, by Aedes aegypti. It is one of major public health problem around the world, including Indonesia, because it may lead to epidemics and death in a short time. The use of plant extracts as bio-larvicidal is thought to be a promising solution, and one of them is the betel leaves (Piper betle L). The addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a diluent is thought may increase the dispersity of plant extract in the water which is larval medium of growth. Objectives: To determine the bio-larvicidal potential of 95% ethanolic extract of betel leaves (EEBL) in addition of PEG 400 diluent on the Aedes aegypti larval mortality. Material and Method: Betel leaves were extracted by maceration using 95% of ethanol. There are two kinds of EEBL concentration used, 0.2% dan 0.4%. PEG 400 was also added as diluent. The samples in this study were Aedes aegypti larvae at instar III-IV, with a total of 400 larvae. Evaluation was performed at 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours. The data obtained was then analyzed by Kruskall Wallis test and post-hoc Mann Whitney test. Result: In all of treatment groups, larval mortality was reached 100% at 24 hours. From the Kruskall Wallis test, p-value obtained was <0.05. From post-hoc Mann Whitney test, the p-value obtained in the comparation between treatment groups and positive control group was >0.05, and the p-value obtained in the comparation between treatment groups and negative control group was <0.05. Conclusion: EEBL in addition of PEG 400 diluent is potential as bio-larvicidal on Aedes aegypti larvae. It is also known that EEBL at concentration of 0.2% and 0.4% in addition of PEG 400 are as effective as temephos as larvicides on Aedes aegypti larvae.
Identification of Medicinal Plants and Their Utilization by Community in Kendal Village, Kendal Sub-district
Authors: Hanum Aghnia Rahmi , Wijayanti Erna
Published: September 2023

Traditional medicine is a cultural heritage from ancestors deeply rooted in the nation's heritage; therefore, its use is still based on spoken and written experience from generation to generation. Even though most people have turned to modern medicine, some still use these medicinal plants as ingredients for medicine, food, and other processed consumption. This study aims to identify the types of medicinal plants found in Kendal village and how to use them, obtain them, and then transform them into effective medications. This study employs qualitative descriptive methodologies. Observation and interviews are employed to collect data. Based on the results of community interviews, it was determined that many Kendal village residents continue to use plants to treat various diseases. The plant parts utilized are rhizomes, leaves, and stems. This medicinal plant has various uses, ranging from direct consumption to boiling.
Nephroprotective Activities of Ethanol Root Extract and Fractions of Hippocratea africana Against Doxorubicin-Induced Kidney Toxicity
Authors: Noah Kufre U. , Udobang John A. , Okokon Jude E. , Anagboso Martin O. , Ebong Nwakaego Omonigho
Published: September 2023

Hippocratea africana root used locally in the treatment of poisoning was investigated to confirm its antidotal potential in rats. The root extract (200-600 mg/kg) and fractions; dichloromethane (DCM) and aqueous, 400 mg/kg) were evaluated for nephroprotective activity against doxorubicin-induced kidney injury in rats. Kidney function parameters, kidney oxidative stress markers and kidney histology were used to assess the kidney protective effect of the extract. The root extract and fractions (200-600 mg/kg) significantly (p<0.05-0.01) reduced the levels of creatinine, urea and electrolytes that were elevated by doxorubicin. Also, the MDA level elevated by doxorubicin was reduced by the extract and fractions co-administration, while the levels of GSH, GST, SOD, GPx, and CAT that were decreased by doxorubicin were significantly (p<0.01) elevated by the root extract/fractions. Histology of the kidney sections of extract/fractions -treated animals showed reductions in the pathological features compared to the organotoxic-treated animals. The chemical pathological changes were consistent with histopathological observations suggesting marked nephroprotective potential. The anti-toxic effect of this plant may in part be mediated through the chemical constituents of the plant. The plant, Hippocratea africana possesses anti-toxicant properties which can be exploited in the treatment of doxorubicin related toxicities.
Phytochemicals and Larvicidal Activity of Sonneratia alba Root Extracts from Ngurah Rai Mangrove Forest, Denpasar-Bali
Authors: Wijaya Made Dharmesti , Indraningrat Anak Agung Gede , Kirtanayasa I Gede Yoga Ayuning
Published: September 2023

Dengue is an endemic disease with a high incidence in almost all Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia. This infectious disease is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of Aedes aegypti mosquito as the main vector. Effective mosquito vector control is a crucial step in stopping the spread of this virus. Of the several methods available, the use of larvicides is considered one of the most successful treatments in reducing the number of mosquito vectors. However, widely used synthetic larvicides can have undesirable side effects on the environment and non-target organisms including human health. The aim of this study was to discover a new biolarvicide from natural materials that is relatively safer. In this study, the biolarvicidal activity of mangrove plant species that are commonly found in Ngurah Rai Mangrove Forest Bali was tested, namely Sonneratia alba. Mangrove root simplicia was extracted by reflux method using three different solvents namely methanol, chloroform, and n-hexane. The content of compounds in the extract were analyzed using GC/MS method. The larvicidal activity of the extracts were tested on A. aegypti instar III/IV larvae with concentrations of 0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 1000 ppm for 24 hours. Subsequently, the average value of larval mortality was used to calculate the LC50 of each extract. The results showed that S. alba methanol extract provided the best larvicidal activity compared to chloroform and n-hexane extracts, with mortality of 69.33% at a concentration of 1000 ppm and LC50 of 1265 ppm. GC-MS analysis showed that the methanol extract of S. alba contained five dominant compounds namely Methyl 2-hydroxy-eicosanoate (19.55%); 4H-1-Benzopyran-4-one, 3,5-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-7-methoxy (16.48%); 4-((1E)-3-Hydroxy-1-propenyl)-2-methoxyphenol (10.06%); Benzamide, N-[4-(2-naphtyl)-2-thiazolyl]- (9.40%); and 2,3-Dihydro-3,5-bis(3-methoxyphenyl)-1H-inden-1-one (6.52%). The results of this study provide a preliminary result on larvicide activity from mangrove S. alba in order to develop bio larvicides from nature which is safer for human health and environment.
Using multiple lenses to see an invisible group
Authors: Farkas Kathleen J. , Romaniuk Jaroslaw Richard , Mamzer Hanna
Published: September 2023

Social work in Poland and in the United States shares the values of human dignity and self-determination, but there are often value conflicts in terms of how various groups experience social roles and social expectations. This paper explores the use of multiple lenses to understand the past and current conditions for LGBT+ people in Poland. An international, university-level collaboration uses a framework of “invisible groups” to highlight the needs of those who are on the margins of society and whose human and individual rights are suppressed. The article reviews the results of a recently published on-line survey of LGBT+ populations and their views of their experiences in Polish society to illustrate their “invisibility” and the need for advocacy from the international social work community.