bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which Fiscal Instruments Do Corrupt Governments Prefer During Fiscal Consolidation Episodes?
Authors: Arin Kerim Peren , Boduroğlu Elif , Celik Esref Ugur , Spagnolo Nicola
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the fiscal policy choices of corrupt governments during periods of fiscal consolidation. By using the same dataset by Arin et al. (2011), our analysis of pooled observations for 18 OECD countries reveals two key findings: (i) corrupt governments tend to raise indirect taxes rather than reduce expenditures during fiscal adjustments, and (ii) they yield to political lobbying and pressure by lowering corporate taxes and increasing social benefits and subsidies during substantial fiscal adjustment episodes.
The Impact of Trade and Financial Globalization on Cross-Border Investments
Authors: Ustalar Sinem Atıcı
Published: October 2024

This study analyzes the impact of Newly Industrialized Countries (NICs) trade and financial globalization on bilateral financial asset trade. The analysis is carried out using the financial gravity model. The model is estimated with the PPML estimator using bilateral portfolios, debt securities, and equity investments of 120 countries between 2001-2022. De facto and de jure trade and financial openness variables are used to control globalization in model estimation. Estimation results show that the impact of trade and financial openness on financial asset trade in NICs is higher than the world average. When compared with G7 countries, show that the openness of NICs' goods and capital markets is not yet at the level of industrialized countries.
Uneven Human Development
Authors: Kozal Özge
Published: October 2024

This study examines the factors influencing uneven human development in OECD countries from 1995 to 2021, focusing on industrial structure, governance, and environmental degradation while controlling for income inequality, trade openness, and unemployment. The MMQR analysis reveals that increasing industrial output alone does not enhance human development; however, medium and high-technology manufacturing exports significantly boost HDI. Additionally, CO2 emissions per capita negatively impact HDI, highlighting the need for zero-carbon industrialization. Democracy improves HDI in lower quantiles, while income inequality negatively affects HDI, particularly in higher quantiles. Trade openness supports HDI. The study suggests that OECD countries should pursue high-tech industrialization, reduce CO2 emissions, strengthen democratic governance, address income inequality, and manage trade openness for sustainable and equitable human development, requiring integrated policies to connect economic, social, and environmental aspects.
Sustainable Finance Practices for Handling Climate Change
Authors: Garayev Bakhtiyar , Afşar Aslı
Published: October 2024

Global climate change has emerged as one of the world's most urgent issues, with climatic catastrophes having significant economic and environmental impacts. These challenges play a crucial role in Türkiye's development strategies and policies. Financing the necessary transformation to reduce carbon emissions and adapt is vital in the fight against climate change. Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into investment processes promotes sustainable development and the achievement of environmental goals. Consequently, sustainable finance practices have gained importance, supported by good practices from various organizations and banks in Türkiye. This research examines Türkiye's position in international climate agreements and its actions aligned with sustainable development goals. Additionally, the study analyzes the integrated reports of eight banks that are members of the UN Global Compact, exploring their sustainability strategies.
Green Industrial Policies and Sustainable Economy Approaches Ensuring Industrial Growth and Environmental Balance
Authors: Çakmak Tuğba Koyuncu
Published: October 2024

The aim of this chapter is to analyses the effects of industrial growth on environmental degradation in terms of green industrial policies. The relationship between environmental pollution and economic growth has been explained from two different perspectives. The first approach points to the existence of a potential duality between economic growth and environmental protection and the existence of a trade-off relationship in terms of achieving economic growth or reducing environmental pollution. The second approach claims that the negative impact of economic growth on environmental pollution can be corrected by green industrial policies. Numerous empirical studies and country-level data in the literature suggest that economic growth also stimulates the development of sustainable technologies and innovations that can enhance environmental protection. Recent evidence, especially from developed countries, shows that there is a decoupling between environmental pollution and economic growth, and, thanks to green industry policy measures, between economic growth and emissions. This draws attention to the fact that while economic growth increases thanks to green policy measures, environmental pollution decreases at the same time. Therefore, it is pointed out that it is possible to reduce carbon emissions without compromising economic growth. Therefore, it is very important for policy makers and decision makers to support green industrial policies in the fight against climate change and global warming.
Traditional Knowledge System of the Cold Desert of Leh-Ladakh (India) for the Environment Management
Authors: Gaur Mahesh Kumar
Published: October 2024

Situated in the northernmost reaches of India lies the Cold Desert of Leh-Ladakh, the temperatures fluctuate dramatically from -30°C to 30°C. This region is inhabited by indigenous communities whose traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is deeply intertwined with their environment, aiding them in adapting and thriving in this harsh landscape. Over centuries, the Ladakhi, Tibetan, and Changpa peoples have developed intricate understandings of the area's ecology, climate, and biodiversity, passed down through oral traditions. TEK plays a crucial role in natural resource management, bolstering locals' resilience to climate change impacts. However, as modernization and globalization encroach upon their lifestyles, there's a need to preserve their age-old practices. The rich cultural heritage of the region faces a challenge as younger generations display dwindling interest in these traditions, emphasizing the necessity of documenting traditional knowledge before it fades away.
Women at the Crossroads of Climate Change
Authors: Sahiwal Tanmeet Kaur , Gupta Jay Kumar
Published: October 2024

“We are still living with the results of millennia of patriarchy that excludes women and prevents their voices from being heard,” - António Guterres. In underprivileged countries including Ghana, Egypt, Costa Rica, and Malawi, women face such challenges and risks regularly as per the IMF Report. Unique challenges have often been faced by women and girls when it comes to climate disasters because of deep-rooted inequalities, especially towards girls and women which make them much more vulnerable to its effects. Issues in health care, food security, earning for living, and being forced to migrate often show up because of disasters. Hence, it would be correct to say tackling climate change needs to be equal from the ground up, or everyone suffers. Including women and girls in the climate policies will make solutions more practical and relevant. It will consider the needs of everyone, not just a select few. Empower girls and women to be not just victims, but as an active participant in shaping a sustainable future and will make the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 26 & 33) successful.
Women Labour Force Participation in India and Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Vidya A. R. , Chakraborty Arpita
Published: October 2024

Women, constituting nearly half of India's population, are crucial for the nation's economic growth. Gender equality as a core global agenda, is encapsulated in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5, which focuses on gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. Despite educational advancements, women in India continue to face significant barriers in other areas. Therefore, it is imperative to implement relevant legal instruments and policies to support environment-friendly agricultural practices, benefiting both ecological sustainability and women's economic participation. Judicial pronouncements related to women also contribute to sustainability and women's participation in labour.
The Unequal Burden: Climate Change and Vulnerable Populations
Authors: John Sini , Singh Surima
Published: October 2024

Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable people, exacerbates inequalities and threatens human rights. In this chapter the author has explores the complex interplay between climate change and human rights, focusing on rights to life, health, food, water, shelter and culture highlighting the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples, women, children and poor meet on climate change adaptation emphasis. The chapter discusses the role of international instruments such as the UNFCCC and human rights treaties in addressing these issues and explores the need to create stronger legal safeguards, greater public participation and focus on stronger groups to build a just and equitable future
Honor Killing
Authors: Chandola Tapan Kumar , Rajput Garima
Published: October 2024

Using a few chosen documentaries, the current study examines honor killing cases. The chapter focuses on the moral, religious and social pressures that some people face when defying social norms, which leads them to take the lives of their family members. The documentaries chosen as case studies present the perspectives of both the perpetrators and the victims when it comes to the concepts of honor, dishonor and honor killings. Some societies perceive attempts to tarnish their idealized cultural purity by rejecting progressive new ideas. In an effort to prevent their alleged negative influence on society and to set an example for future female rebellions, women who attempt to challenge established traditions are labelled as rebellious and punished. Hence the chapter examines how society's influence plays a significant role in honor killings. The chapter will also give a general overview of media reports and reported case law regarding the apparent frequency of killings related to honor.
Understanding the Criminology Behind Honor Killing
Authors: Singh Indra Kumar , Vashistha Tanuj
Published: October 2024

This chapter deems to highlight the criminology, state of mind and the conditions which involves and interferes when a man thinks of honor killing as a problem which he may seem unfit to the society, at large. Furthermore, it will highlight who are involved in such crimes and how does such mindset get developed and carry forward to the coming generations. This chapter will further inquire about the stand of women so far as contributing to this mentality. Thus, making such crimes unpredictable and also raising a question upon human race and its psyche. The chapter will throw light upon the criminalization of young minds and how the crime is normalised in the society, in addition to, discussing the concentration of social power in the hands of few which eventually leads to their dominance and autonomy in re-writing the societal rulebook.
Honour Killing Among Women in India
Authors: Iyengar Divya Raghunath , Varghese Soumya T.
Published: October 2024

Honor killing is a form of homicide where an individual becomes a victim if s/he engages in any act, unacceptable to the norms of the society. As per the data reported by National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), crime rate with respect to honor killing has seen a rise in the last few years. Women are more likely to become victims because they are assumed to bear the weight of protecting the family honor and any deviance from the family's protocol is considered to affect the prestige of the family. Recent research has also found individuals belonging to LGBTQ community to also be a victim of honor killing. Given this backdrop, the current research reviews the literature regarding honor killing with the objective of understanding why women are more prone to be victims of honor killing. Further it aims to trace the role of technology, social and cultural aspects of honor killing. Research will aid in contributing to literature by identifying gaps in policy and human rights interventions to facilitate better implementation and advocacy regarding honor killing and help reduce crime in India.
The Methodology of Technical and Economic Justification for the Construction of Irrigation Systems to Prevent and Reduce Risks in Agriculture
Authors: Usatyi Serhii , Romashchenko Mykhailo , Polishchuk Vitalii , Usata Liudmyla
Published: October 2024

The methodology for developing the technical and economic justification for the construction of irrigation systems is presented, based on a multidisciplinary approach. The goal of this approach is to provide a thorough and persuasive rationale for the implementation and construction of irrigation systems to reduce risks in agricultural practices and enhance agricultural productivity, considering a complex array of influencing factors. This approach involves quantitative modeling of various scenarios with different sets of parameters that characterize the state of irrigation management taking into account the increased level of agricultural production considering climate changes, natural moisture conditions, soil characteristics, crop structures, irrigation methods, types of irrigation equipment, efficiency coefficients of irrigation systems, etc. The development of the technical and economic justification is considered using the example of land use by the State Enterprise “State Farm “Pioneer” in the Kherson region.
Simulation of Wetted Zones Under Subsurface Drip Irrigation
Authors: Romashchenko Mykhailo , Bohaienko Vsevolod , Sardak Anastasiia
Published: October 2024

Irrigation plays an important role in solving the food security problem. Hence, subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) becomes more and more widely used. Its expansion requires studies to determine the parameters of wetted zones for various conditions. We propose to study the process of wetted zones formation in soil using mathematical modeling by solving the initial-boundary value problem for moisture transport equation in vadose zone of soil. Using the proposed approach, the determination of wetted zones under SDI was performed for Ukrainian soils of different texture. Based on the results of mathematical modeling, the main parameters of wetted zones were determined. Empirical dependencies of wetted zone parameters on the structural parameters of SDI systems and pre-irrigation threshold were also established. With a decrease in the pre-irrigation threshold, all wetted zone parameters increased and the process of zone's formation for sands, sandy loams, and light loams can be described by linear dependencies, while for medium loams, heavy loams, and clays they have a polynomial form.
Strategic Ways of Post-War Restoration of Irrigated Agriculture in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine
Authors: Lavrenko Sergiy , Ladychuk Dmytro , Lavrenko Nataliia , Ladychuk Valentyn
Published: October 2024

The chapter outlines strategic approaches to the post-war restoration of irrigated agriculture in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine, with a focus on the Kherson region, which has been severely impacted by military operations. The region has faced significant anthropogenic damage, including military degradation of soil cover, destruction of the Kakhovka Dam and Reservoir, looting of reclamation systems, and loss of fertile soil layers. The chapter proposes a comprehensive set of ecological and remedial measures, including agronomic, remedial, and technical interventions, to restore the irrigated agriculture system. One of the keys is the restoration of hydro-technical structures such as the Kakhovka Hydro Power Plant in a revised framework. This entails an evaluation of the infrastructure and the implementation of necessary upgrades or modifications to ensure reliable functioning in the post-war context. The chapter emphasizes the importance of integrating ecological considerations into restoration efforts, such as soil conservation practices and the protection of natural habitats.
The Role of Biologicals Azotohelp®, Liposam®, and Organic-Balance® as Mitigators of Abiotic Stress in Maize Plants
Authors: Bolokhovskyi Vladyslav , Nagorna Olga , Bolokhovska Valentyna , Yakovenko Dmytro , Boroday Vira , Zelena Liubov , Likhanov Artur , Bukhonska Yaroslava
Published: October 2024

In this study the expression of drought-resistance marker genes ZmNHL1, ZmVPP1, ZmNAC111: the antiradical activity, relative water content and biochemical chromatographic profiling of the phenolic compound complex in the leaves of maize plants treated by biopreparations under drought stress, was investigated. Drought stress significantly affected the expression of stress-responsive genes in plants under the action of biopreparations (in 4-7 folds). The maize leaves in the variant with «Organic-Balance®» 0.5 l/ha + «Azotohelp®» 0.3 l/ha + «Liposam®» 0.25 l/ha were characterized by the high content of total content of phenolic compounds, highest antiradical activity (88.2%), the most active glycosylation processes of flavonoids (up to 13%), the highest relative water content (97.3%) compared to the control. PCA and PLS-DA showed that the alterations of secondary metabolites, induced by biopreparations, serve as an initial mechanism for activation of the plant's antioxidant system, leading to a more robust defence system post-stress signals.
Effective Leadership Strategies for Enhancing Student Success in Higher Education
Authors: Sipahioglu Mete
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines the connections between leadership strategies and enhanced student achievement at higher education institutions. As pressures grow around outcomes, affordability and inclusion, effective leadership has become key to accelerating reforms focused on student success, including increased retention, progression, degree completion and career readiness. Theories explored include transformational, distributed and culturally responsive models. Competencies for contemporary contexts cover cultural competence, change leadership, talent development and data literacy. Examples of successful initiatives promoted include predictive analytics, transition programs, pathway redesigns, early intervention systems and student-centric cultures. Vision, community-building, resource optimization and change management provide frameworks to facilitate progress despite complexity. Findings synthesize scholarship and practice into recommendations translating leadership capabilities to institutional environments enabling all students to thrive.
Comparative Analysis of Traditional vs. AI-Driven Network Security
Authors: Choudhury Nobhonil Roy , Paul Shyamalendu
Published: October 2024

The increasing sophistication of cyber threats has driven the evolution of network security mechanisms. Traditional methods like firewalls, IDS, and antivirus software, which rely on established guidelines and signature-based detection, are now limited in addressing new and unknown threats. AI has introduced a new paradigm in network security, utilizing machine learning, behavioral analytics, and automated threat detection. AI-driven methods offer improved efficiency, accuracy, response time, adaptability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. They analyze large data sets to detect patterns, recognize anomalies, and respond to threats in real time. While AI systems are costly and complex, their advantages in reducing false positives and handling zero-day attacks make them essential. The integration of AI with traditional methods can enhance security, combining strengths for a proactive defense against evolving cyber threats.
A Security and Privacy Validation Methodology for E-Health Systems Using Cloud Storage
Authors: Datta Aparna , Sen Sanchayan
Published: October 2024

E-Health applications enable one to acquire, process, and share patient medical data to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient monitoring. Despite the undeniable benefits brought by the digitization of health systems, the transmission of and access to medical information raises critical issues, mainly related to security and privacy. This paper describes a safe e-health data management system that employs the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express, React, and Node.js) and strong encryption algorithms. The solution improves security by using client-side encryption with the AES-256-CBC technique to encrypt e-health files before uploading them to MongoDB. To improve security, encrypted files and keys are stored separately. User authentication employs bcryptjs for password hashing and JSON Web Tokens (JWT) for permission, ensuring that only authorized users can access and decrypt data. The study demonstrates the efficiency of coupling MERN stack development with encryption in protecting sensitive patient information, establishing confidence, and boosting the adoption of e-health solutions.
Teaching Model of Swimming Skills Training Under the Background of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Guo Yujie
Published: October 2024

Global swimming competitiveness, driven by enhanced training science, necessitates innovative strategies. High-level swimmers worldwide follow common principles, underscoring AI's potential in training enhancement. Software engineering education actively seeks to align talent development with industry needs, particularly via AI-driven creation of immersive training environments for students. Despite UWB's prominence among wireless positioning technologies and ongoing Chinese research, its application in sports arenas is yet limited. This paper presents a graphical representation of AI in swimming training, proposing a 20% accuracy boost and data visualization, enriching discussions on AI-assisted learning platforms in software engineering and athletics.
Incorporating Web Semantics, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Theory of Planned Behavior for Analyzing User Intentions on Dating Apps
Authors: Moslehpour Massoud , Dwikesumasari Phima Ruthia , Pappachan Princy , Lin Pei-Kuan , Sakina Nurul , Rahaman Mosiur
Published: October 2024

Online dating apps have become increasingly popular in recent years as a tool for finding partners. However, there is a gap in research on the comprehensive factors that influence users' intentions to prefer online dating apps over traditional means, specifically in Indonesia. The present study thus proposes using web semantic techniques and integrates the technology acceptance model and the theory of planned behavior to get a holistic perspective on predicting users' intentions in online dating. The questionnaires analyzed using SEM-PLS indicate that the attitude toward online dating is positively affected by the perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. Additionally, attitude, subjective norms, and self-efficacy positively affect the intention to utilize online dating apps. The research thus introduces a consolidated technology to offer new insights and implications for the design and marketing of online dating apps by highlighting the importance of user-friendly interfaces, perceived benefits, social influence, and individual confidence in using the apps.
Enhancing Bearing Fault Diagnosis With Deep Learning Model Fusion and Semantic Web Technologies
Authors: Chen Shichao , Zou Shiyu
Published: October 2024

Given the limited accuracy of a singular deep learning model in bearing fault diagnosis, this study seeks to investigate and validate the efficacy of a deep learning model fusion strategy. It also aims to enhance the performance of deep learning models in bearing fault diagnosis using semantic web technology. Utilizing a publicly available bearing dataset, we employ semantic web to represent data in a structured format that is easily interpretable by machines. We then train separate convolutional neural network (CNN) and long short-term memory network (LSTM) models, and implement three distinct fusion strategies: voting fusion, weighted fusion, and stacking fusion. The experimental results indicate that the model fusion strategy significantly improves both the accuracy and robustness of fault diagnosis. Notably, the stacking fusion strategy outperforms the others in recognizing complex fault patterns. This study offers novel ideas and methodologies for the application of deep learning in the realm of bearing fault diagnosis.
Os clubes negros como espaços educadores
Authors: Ribeiro Jonatas Roque
Published: October 2024

O artigo analisa a experiência histórica dos chamados clubes negros como espaços educadores. A partir do estudo da trajetória de uma escola isolada, mista, multisseriada e subvencionada pelo Estado de Minas Gerais, que funcionou entre os anos de 1935 e 1937, criada no interior do Clube 28 de Setembro, na cidade de Pouso Alegre, identifica-se a organização das suas estratégias de escolarização formal, as práticas escolares e a conformação de uma cultura escolar. Discute-se, ainda, os sentidos que a sua comunidade deu aos projetos de ampliação da ideia hegemônica de escola e da escolarização do social e aos processos de definição e extensão dos direitos de cidadania através do acesso à escolarização formal, estruturados pelo Estado. Recorrendo ao diálogo com o arcabouço teórico da história da educação da população negra e com um variado conjunto de fontes, como documentos do poder executivo e legislativo (leis, pareceres, atas), relatórios de inspeção escolar, imprensa e os registros produzidos pelo próprio Clube 28 de Setembro (atas, estatuto e regimento interno), foi possível reconhecer quais formas de contestação racial deram sentido e configuração à forma e cultura escolares dos projetos político-educativos elaborados no âmbito do associativismo negro, na primeira metade do século XX.
Presenting, Dr. Deepanee Wewalwala for the honorary fellowship of the College of Ophthalmologists of Sri Lanka
Authors: Gamage Chanika
Published: October 2024

No abstract available
CFTR Exon 10 deleterious mutations in patients with congenital bilateral absence of vas deferens in a cohort of Pakistani patients
Authors: Bakhat Khush , Mateen Irsa , Saif Hina , Anwar Kanwal , Sarfraz Sadaf , Javaid Sheza , Ur Rehman Khaleeq , Arshad Adnan , Mustafa Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Congenital bilateral absence of vas deferens (CBAVD) is a urological syndrome of Wolffian ducts and is responsible for male infertility and obstructive azoospermia. This study is designed to explore the integrity of exon 10 of CFTR and its role in male infertility in a cohort of CBVAD patients in Pakistan. Genomic DNA was extracted from 17 male patients with CBAVD having clinical symptoms, and 10 healthy controls via phenol-chloroform method. Exon 10 of the CFTR gene was amplified, using PCR with specific primers and DNA screening was done by Sanger sequencing. Sequencing results were analyzed using freeware Serial Cloner, SnapGene, BioEdit and FinchTV. Furthermore, bioinformatics tools were used to analyze the mutations and their impact on the protein function and stability. We have identified 4 mutations on exon 10 of CFTR in 6 out of 17 patients. Two of the mutations were missense variants V456A, K464E, and the other two were silent mutations G437G, S431S. The identified variant V456A was present in 4 of the studied patients. Whereas, the presence of K464E in our patients further weighs on the crucial importance for its strategic location to influence the gene function at post-transcriptional and protein level. Furthermore, Polyphen-2 and SIFT analyze the mutations as harmful and deleterious. The recurrence of V456A and tactically conserved locality of K464E are evidence of their potential role in CBAVD patients and in male infertility. The data can contribute in developing genetic testing and treatment of CBAVD.
The association of anatomical renal mass complexity with surgical approach, Hb drop, and the rate of blood transfusion
Authors: Said Shakhawan Hama Amin , Arkawazi Saiwan Lusan Abdulhameed , Jaafar Mzhda Sahib , Majeed Nadhm Kanabi , Bapir Rawa , Aghaways Ismaeel , Qadir Abdullah A. , Abdalla Berun A. , Abid Ayoob Asaad Mohammed , Kakamad Fahmi H.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The third most prevalent malignant neoplasm involving the urinary tract is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), encompassing nearly 3.5% of the entire cancers afflicting the body. The aim of this research was to explore how the R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score relates to the decisions made regarding surgery in individuals with localized RCC.Methods: This prospective study, assessed patients with localized parenchymal renal masses (stages I and II) tentatively diagnosed as RCC. Utilizing preoperative multiphasic renal CT scans and MRI, the R.E.N.A.L. score categorized masses for nephrometry values. Inclusion criteria involved collecting patient data, and data collection utilizing a structured format focusing on the nephrometry grading system.Results: The study included 64 patients aged (mean ± SD) 49.78 ± 12.35 yrs. Undergoing renal mass surgery, there were 17 (26.5%) low, 28 (43.8%) moderate and 19 (29.7%) high-complexity lesions. All patients with a low Nephrometry score (n = 17) underwent partial nephrectomy, and all cases with a high score (n = 19) underwent radical nephrectomy. For those with a moderate Nephrometry score (n = 28), 13 (46.4%) underwent partial nephrectomy, while the remaining 15 (53.6%) cases underwent radical nephrectomy. Morbidity was low, and no mortality occurred at 180 days. Patients who had lesions fully above or below polar lines were less likely to need blood transfusions. A trend towards higher Fuhrman grades in patients receiving transfusions suggests a potential link between tumor aggressiveness and bleeding risk.Conclusions: Our findings provide insight on the utilization of the R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score in forecasting perioperative, post-surgical, and oncological results. Such data might help optimize surgical methods and pre-operative patient counseling.
Monkeypox: a new threat for healthcare and urology?
Authors: Leonardi Rosario , Cafarelli Angelo , Calarco Alessandro , Colombo Renzo , De Cobelli Ottavio , De Marco Ferdinando , Ferrari Giovanni , Ludovico Giuseppe , Pecoraro Stefano , Tuzzolo Domenico , Mantica Guglielmo
Published: October 2024

Monkeypox is an emerging zoonotic viral disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, traditionally confined to central and west Africa, which has recently spread to other regions worldwide, making it a global health concern...
Bullous Pemphigoid with secondary Acquired Reactive Perforating Collagenosis: a challenging clinical case report
Authors: Ruffo di Calabria Valentina , Mariotti Elena Biancamaria , Corrà Alberto , Verdelli Alice , Quintarelli Lavinia , Aimo Cristina , Di Zenzo Giovanni , Maio Vincenza , Massi Daniela , Caproni Marzia
Published: October 2024

Bullous Pemphigoid (BP) is a common autoimmune blistering disorder with unknown aetiology. During the last decades, its association with various common comorbidities, including cardiovascular, metabolic, neuropsychiatric, and neoplastic disorders, has been established. However, in recent years an increasing number of BP cases have also been reported in association with rarer diseases, including Acquired Reactive Perforating Collagenosis (ARPC). Patients with coexisting BP and ARPC have been reported to share common clinical features including metabolic comorbidities e.g., Diabetes Mellitus (DM). As the evolution from ARPC cutaneous involvement to classic BP lesions has been more frequently described, it has been suggested that it may represent a new clinical variant of BP with a specific pathogenetic background. Here is reported a challenging case in which a typical onset of BP was later followed by the eruption of atypical ARPC lesions in a patient with multiple non-compensated metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities.
Economic impact of extending reflexed cryptococcal antigenaemia CD4 threshold in South Africa
Authors: Cassim Naseem , Coetzee Lindi-Marie , Da Silva Manuel P. , Glencross Deborah K. , Stevens Wendy S.
Published: October 2024

Background: Reflexed cryptococcal antigenaemia (CrAg) testing has been offered since 2016 in South Africa, on remnant CD4 specimens, for people with a count 100 cells/μL. Local guidelines recommended extending testing to 200 cells/μL.Objectives: This study assessed the cost per result and annual equivalent costs (AEC) for CD4 counts 100 cells/μL and 100 to 200 cells/μL, as well as determining the cost to find one CrAg-positive case.Method: An ingredients-based costing was used to determine the cost per result. The CrAg detection rate for 100 cells/μL was obtained from operational reports of 2019. For 100 cells/μL to 200 cells/μL, a CrAg detection rate of 2% was assumed. One-way sensitivity analysis determined the impact of varying CrAg detection rates on the cost to find one case. Local data from the Western Cape province, which offers testing for counts of 100 cells/μL to 200 cells/μL, from September 2022 to January 2023, were interrogated to establish detection rates.Results: There were 283 240 (AEC: $1 670 370) specimens with counts of 100 cells/μL and 300 624 (AEC: $1 772 890) with counts of 100 cells/μL to 200 cells/μL. A cost per result of $5.897 was reported. The cost to find one CrAg case ranged from $589.74 to $73.72 for a detection rate of 1% to 8%. Local data for a count of 100 cells/μL to 200 cells/μL revealed a CrAg detection rate of 1.6%.Conclusion: The study findings reveal that extending reflexed CrAg testing to 200 cells/μL would double test volumes with fewer positive cases reported for those with a count of 100 cells/μL to 200 cells/μL.
Novel Case of Streptococcus Mitis-infected Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Asserson Derek B. , Kassicieh Alexander J , Ghatalia Desna V. , Kassicieh Christian S. , Shah Smit P. , Kazim Syed F. , Cole Kyril L. , Schmidt Meic H. , Bowers Christian A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

Subdural hematoma (SDH) is a common pathology found in neurosurgery. Infected SDH, however, is less common, and reports have typically identified Escherichia coli as the causative organism.

Case Report:

We present here a case of an infected chronic SDH caused by Streptococcus mitis, likely for the first time, following a burn injury in a 40-year-old male patient.

Conclusion:

The workup for infected SDH should now include S. mitis as a possible culprit.
Is chest tube omission safe for patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax scheduled for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery?
Authors: Kim Chang Wan , Park Il Hwan , Byun Chun Sung
Published: October 2024

AIMS:

Primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) is a sudden pleural disease predominantly affecting healthy adolescents and young adults, making it a prevalent thoracic disorder within this demographic. This study evaluated the necessity of preoperative chest tube insertion for PSP patients and reassessed current clinical practices.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective analysis of medical records for individuals aged 14–30 years diagnosed with PSP who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) at Wonju Severance Christian Hospital from January 2016 to December 2022. Patients were categorized retrospectively into two groups based on their initial treatment: Those who had a chest tube inserted and those who did not. We collected and compared clinical data, including demographics, treatment specifics, and outcomes.

RESULTS:

The study included 128 PSP cases. There was no difference in preoperative clinical data between the two groups, and there were no differences in operation time, number of wedge resections, and number of mechanical pleurodesis. However, the use of single-port surgery was significantly higher in the nonchest tube group (P = 0.001). The nonchest tube group had a significantly shorter hospital stay (P < 0.001), attributed to the absence of preoperative chest tube insertions. There were no significant differences in postoperative complications or recurrence rates between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

In young PSP patients, proceeding directly to VATS without prior chest tube insertion in stable individuals does not lead to serious complications or negatively affect outcomes. This approach may offer an effective alternative for PSP management.
A Mixed Method Study on Supportive Supervision of Community Health Workers From Central India
Authors: Revadi G , Joshi Ankur , Pakhare Abhijit P.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Supportive supervision of the Community health workers (CHWs) is critical for their efficient functioning in various health programmes. CHWs in India are supervised by facilitators known as ASHA Sahyogini. Our study aimed to investigate the linkage between the knowledge and skills of CHW facilitators and their CHWs. To understand the problems encountered by the CHW facilitators while assisting their CHWs. Also, to determine the perceptions of CHWs on the nature of supportive supervision of their facilitators.

Materials and Methods:

A mixed-method explanatory study using purposive sampling was conducted in a rural block of Madhya Pradesh (Central India). The CHWs were categorized into relatively high performing (RHP) and relatively low performing (RLP) groups based on their performance-based incentives received during (2017-2018). The quantitative component comprised of self-administered questionnaire and skill assessment while the qualitative component comprised of three focused group discussions with RHP, RLP CHWs and their facilitators.

Results:

The mean (SD) supportive supervision score given by CHW facilitators were found to be significantly associated with CHW’s performance. Problems faced by CHW facilitators while assisting their CHWs resulted from inadequate education of CHWs, insufficient incentives, transport problems and repetitive surveys. While some CHWs perceived to have received good assistance from their facilitators, there were a few who were not dependent on their facilitators and executed duties by themselves.

Conclusion:

CHW’s performance cannot be ascribed completely to the CHW facilitator’s performance. The challenges perceived by CHW facilitators were unmodifiable and required them to strongly motivate and support their CHWs to improve their functionality.
Storage time affects the level and diagnostic efficacy of plasma biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Zhao Lifang , Zhang Mingkai , Li Qimeng , Wang Xuemin , Lu Jie , Han Ying , Cai Yanning
Published: October 2024

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Several promising plasma biomarker proteins, such as amyloid-β (Aβ), tau, neurofilament light chain, and glial fibrillary acidic protein, are widely used for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases. However, little is known about the long-term stability of these biomarker proteins in plasma samples stored at –80°C. We aimed to explore how storage time would affect the diagnostic accuracy of these biomarkers using a large cohort. Plasma samples from 229 cognitively unimpaired individuals, encompassing healthy controls and those experiencing subjective cognitive decline, as well as 99 patients with cognitive impairment, comprising those with mild cognitive impairment and dementia, were acquired from the Sino Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Decline project. These samples were stored at –80°C for up to 6 years before being used in this study. Our results showed that plasma levels of Aβ42, Aβ40, neurofilament light chain, and glial fibrillary acidic protein were not significantly correlated with sample storage time. However, the level of total tau showed a negative correlation with sample storage time. Notably, in individuals without cognitive impairment, plasma levels of total protein and tau phosphorylated protein threonine 181 (p-tau181)also showed a negative correlation with sample storage time. This was not observed in individuals with cognitive impairment. Consequently, we speculate that the diagnostic accuracy of plasma p-tau181 and the p-tau181 to total tau ratio may be influenced by sample storage time. Therefore, caution is advised when using these plasma biomarkers for the identification of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, in cohort studies, it is important to consider the impact of storage time on the overall results.
Bidirectional regulation of the brain–gut–microbiota axis following traumatic brain injury
Authors: You Xinyu , Niu Lin , Fu Jiafeng , Ge Shining , Shi Jiangwei , Zhang Yanjun , Zhuang Pengwei
Published: October 2024

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Traumatic brain injury is a prevalent disorder of the central nervous system. In addition to primary brain parenchymal damage, the enduring biological consequences of traumatic brain injury pose long-term risks for patients with traumatic brain injury; however, the underlying pathogenesis remains unclear, and effective intervention methods are lacking. Intestinal dysfunction is a significant consequence of traumatic brain injury. Being the most densely innervated peripheral tissue in the body, the gut possesses multiple pathways for the establishment of a bidirectional “brain–gut axis” with the central nervous system. The gut harbors a vast microbial community, and alterations of the gut niche contribute to the progression of traumatic brain injury and its unfavorable prognosis through neuronal, hormonal, and immune pathways. A comprehensive understanding of microbiota-mediated peripheral neuroimmunomodulation mechanisms is needed to enhance treatment strategies for traumatic brain injury and its associated complications. We comprehensively reviewed alterations in the gut microecological environment following traumatic brain injury, with a specific focus on the complex biological processes of peripheral nerves, immunity, and microbes triggered by traumatic brain injury, encompassing autonomic dysfunction, neuroendocrine disturbances, peripheral immunosuppression, increased intestinal barrier permeability, compromised responses of sensory nerves to microorganisms, and potential effector nuclei in the central nervous system influenced by gut microbiota. Additionally, we reviewed the mechanisms underlying secondary biological injury and the dynamic pathological responses that occur following injury to enhance our current understanding of how peripheral pathways impact the outcome of patients with traumatic brain injury. This review aimed to propose a conceptual model for future risk assessment of central nervous system-related diseases while elucidating novel insights into the bidirectional effects of the “brain–gut–microbiota axis.”
Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) in India: A Qualitative Review
Authors: Patel Jay , Sen Abhishek , Rai Sandeep , Shah Harsh , Desai Nisarg
Published: October 2024

This review examines TB preventive treatment (TPT) implementation in India, highlighting barriers and potential solutions to improve outcomes under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme. Qualitative insights from beneficiaries, healthcare workers and policymakers reveal barriers and facilitators in TPT implementation. Key findings include requirements for strong policy commitment and customised interventions to address system-level barriers such as limited human resources, inadequate infrastructure, treatment adherence issues and community engagement barriers. The findings also revealed to create a responsive system that addresses the specific supportive system to ensure treatment adherence and successful outcomes. The integration of TB infection algorithm in existing TB diagnostic and treatment algorithms and comprehensive active case findings could result in positive outcome in reduction of TB, advancing India’s goal of TB elimination.
The Many Benefits of Sharing Data in Professional Practice
Authors: Alderman Chris
Published: October 2024

For a "society" journal, the work of soliciting, selecting, and fostering contributions is perhaps a little more complex given that the publication must serve dual purposes. On the one hand, maintaining a
steady flow of quality research papers is certainly important and it is beyond any doubt that these submissions are certainly welcome for this journal. From another perspective, it could be argued that the greatest
purpose any journal serves (including and perhaps especially a journal that exists in large part to serve the needs of the members of an organization as well as the broader scientific community) is to foster the
exchange of all types of information.
Embracing the Changing Season: Quantifying Pharmacy’s Role in Improving Medication Quality and Safety
Authors: Cost Micah
Published: October 2024

As a profession, pharmacy is experiencing its own changing season. The health care industry's capacity for addressing pharmacy's role in medication quality and safety is becoming more favorable. State
pharmacy associations continue to expand pharmacists' scope of practice, and ASCP and other national pharmacy associations are united in their push for the passage of the Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist
Services (ECAPS) Act (H.R. 1770/S. 2477) legislation. These forward-looking policy priorities are creating a climate that is ripe for change in pharmacy. Further, the need for team-based approaches to address the
soaring costs and increasing complexity of medication therapies could not be more apparent. Undoubtedly, pharmacists and pharmacy team members are essential in improving medication quality and safety, especially in
the older population, but accurately and consistently quantifying the impact of pharmacists remains complex and challenging.
Paucity of Published Data and Protocols for Hypoglycemia Management in Long-term Care
Authors: Krecic Matthew R. , Meyer James , Chavanu Kathleen J.
Published: October 2024

Background: Older people with diabetes are at high risk for hypoglycemia. Implementing a hypoglycemia treatment protocol in long-term care (LTC) settings may positively affect patient-related outcomes and health care resource utilization and costs. Anecdotal experience indicates
little has been studied and published regarding this clinical practice. Objective: To identify hypoglycemia treatment protocols established for LTC settings and assess their effects on patient-related outcomes and health care resource use. Data Sources:
The authors performed a systematic literature search of English-language articles and abstracts published between January 1, 2003 (PubMed), or 2018 (Google Scholar) and May 10, 2023. Search terms were “hypoglycemia,” “diabetes mellitus,” “longterm care,”
“nursing facilities,” “assisted living facilities,” “geriatrics,” “elderly,” “aged,” “disabled,” “disease management,” “evidence-based medicine,” “clinical protocols,” “guideline,”
“glucagon,” and/or “blood glucose.” Included were publications with hypoglycemia treatment and management protocols or hypoglycemia-specific recommendations for LTC settings. DATA SYNTHESIS: The authors identified 405 articles and abstracts, removed 36 duplicates, screened
369 titles/ abstracts, and analyzed the full text for 93. Five met the inclusion criteria. Two originated from the American Diabetes Association: 2016 position statement regarding the management of diabetes in LTC and skilled nursing facilities, and 2023 standard-of-care guideline for managing
older people with diabetes. One included the results after implementing an overall diabetes clinical care management algorithm in LTC facilities. A 2020 abstract and 2019 article were the only 2 publications involving specific hypoglycemia treatment protocols in LTC settings. Conclusion:
This systematic literature search identified lack of published hypoglycemia treatment protocols in LTC settings and their effects on patient outcomes.