Interdisciplinary Collaboration Research Articles

The role of radiology in provenance research - experiences from the collaboration between radiology and anatomy at the University of Rostock and future perspectives.

Worldwide, the study and examination of human remains and the circumstances of their acquisition for anatomical collection have received great interest. As part of provenance research projects, a large number of collections are being investigated to determine whether the human remains have been acquired in a correct or unlawful way because the people could have been killed in order to be used as "anthropological objects" for research purposes and to become so-called "specimens". These topics have also been addressed by the Institute of Anatomy at the University Medical Center Rostock. The role of radiology in this interdisciplinary project will be presented using selected examples.The anatomical collection at the University of Rostock includes 40 human skulls, 14 plaster casts, 6 Egyptian mummy heads, and 1 full-body mummy. In addition to the examination by a historian, an anthropologist, and forensic pathologists, additional computed tomography was carried out on nine skulls and the full-body mummy. Micro-computed tomography was also carried out on seven skulls in order to enable a look behind the mummification material and tissue remains.(Micro-)computed tomography was able to close diagnostic gaps and the results presented some rather unexpected findings.Due to interdisciplinary collaboration, individual fates could be determined, which provided information about the individual's life and death circumstances. None of the examined individuals showed evidence of colonial-era injustice or the use of violence that would have led to their inclusion in the collection. (Micro-)computed tomography was a valuable addition to this provenance research project. · Computed tomography enhances interdisciplinary provenance research projects.. · Computed tomography enables a non-destructive examination of human remains.. · The future of research and presentation of human remains will increasingly be virtual.. · Steinhagen I, Brinker U, Kolbe V et al. The role of radiology in provenance research - experiences from the collaboration between radiology and anatomy at the University of Rostock and future perspectives. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; DOI 10.1055/a-2303-0312.

Assessment of visual problems after acquired brain injury: a survey of current practice in Danish hospitals.

To explore current hospital practice in relation to the assessment of vision problems in patients with acquired brain injury. A survey study. A total of 143 respondents from hospital settings, with background in occupational therapy and physical therapy, participated in the survey. The survey questionnaire, developed collaboratively by Danish and Norwegian research groups, encompassed 22 items categorically covering "Background information", "Clinical experience and current practice", "Vision assessment tools and protocols", and "Assessment barriers". It was sent out online, to 29 different hospital departments and 18 separate units for occupational therapists and physiotherapists treating patients with acquired brain injury. Most respondents worked in acute or subacute hospital settings. Few departments had an interdisciplinary vision team, and very few therapists had formal education in visual problems after acquired brain injury. Visual assessment practices varied, and there was limited use of standardized tests. Barriers to identifying visual problems included patient-related challenges, knowledge gaps, and resource limitations. The study emphasized the need for enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, formal education, and standardized assessments to address visual problems after acquired brain injury. Overcoming these challenges may improve identification and management, ultimately contributing to better patient care and outcomes in the future.

Delayed closure of ventricular septal defect with prolonged mechanical support

Introduction: Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a severe complication following acute myocardial infarction (MI) resulting from mechanical disruption of the interventricular septum due to extensive myocardial necrosis. Despite advances in management, the mortality rate approaches 50%. We report a case of a 58-year-old male with VSD following MI who was successfully treated with a delayed surgical approach after haemodynamic support using Impella. Case description: A 58-year-old man with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension presented with three days of chest pain. Testing revealed late presenting acute anterior ischaemic infarction and left-to-right shunt in the apical ventricular septum. Urgent cardiac catheterisation showed near-total occlusion of the left anterior descending artery. An Impella CP® was placed before angioplasty with a drug-eluting stent to optimise haemodynamics. After a multidisciplinary discussion, the Impella CP® was upgraded to Impella 5.5®, and surgery was delayed allowing for scar formation. The patient remained in the intensive care unit, where he underwent physical therapy, showing improvements in exercise tolerance by the time of surgery. He underwent a left ventriculotomy with a successful repair via an endocardial patch 28 days after initial presentation. Post-operative recovery was uneventful, with the patient discharged five days later, reporting no physical limitations one month post-discharge. Conclusion: The successful management of VSD post-MI relies on interdisciplinary collaboration, careful timing of surgical intervention and the strategic use of mechanical support devices such as the Impella. This case highlights the potential for favourable outcomes when tailored treatment approaches are employed.

Cybersecurity’s Role in Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development: Bridging Technology and Sustainability Goals

This study investigates the pivotal role of cybersecurity in bolstering environmental protection and sustainable development, a critical yet underexplored nexus in contemporary research. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research scrutinizes peer-reviewed articles, conference proceedings, and industry reports from 2015 to 2023, sourced from databases such as IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The methodology is anchored in a rigorous search strategy, leveraging keywords related to cybersecurity, sustainability, and communication technologies, and adheres to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and quality of the literature reviewed. Key findings highlight cybersecurity as an indispensable enabler of sustainable development initiatives, safeguarding the technological infrastructure essential for environmental conservation efforts. The study identifies evolving cyber threats as a significant challenge, necessitating adaptive security measures that anticipate and mitigate potential vulnerabilities. Furthermore, it underscores the opportunities presented by advanced cybersecurity technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, in enhancing the security and efficiency of sustainable practices. Strategic recommendations emphasize the need for comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, cybersecurity education, and alignment with regulatory standards to fortify the resilience of sustainability initiatives against cyber threats. The study concludes that integrating robust cybersecurity measures is paramount in the pursuit of sustainable development goals, calling for ongoing vigilance, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to navigate the complex landscape of digital threats and opportunities. This research contributes valuable insights into the critical intersection of cybersecurity and sustainability, offering a foundation for future studies and strategic initiatives aimed at securing sustainable development in the digital age. Keywords: Cybersecurity, Sustainable Development, Environmental Protection, Advanced Security Technologies.

MACHINE LEARNING AND THE STUDY OF LANGUAGE CHANGE: A REVIEW OF METHODOLOGIES AND APPLICATION

Language change, a fundamental aspect of human communication, has long been a central focus in linguistic research. Traditional methods of analysis, while valuable, have been limited by the scale and complexity of linguistic data. The advent of machine learning (ML) offers transformative potential in this field, enabling the analysis of vast datasets and the discovery of subtle patterns that may elude manual scrutiny. This review paper comprehensively examines the current state of ML methodologies in the study of language change, synthesizing findings from 67 peer-reviewed articles. We delve into diverse ML approaches, including supervised, unsupervised, and deep learning techniques, and critically evaluate their applications across various linguistic domains, such as historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and language contact. We address challenges related to data availability, bias, and model interpretability, emphasizing the need for transparent and rigorous methodologies. By summarizing key findings and outlining future directions, this review aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration between linguists and computer scientists, advancing our understanding of the complex dynamics of language evolution.

Report of a small feasibility study involving group analysts and groupwork practitioners in facilitating self-practice/self-reflection groups in the training of cognitive behaviour therapists

This article provides a narrative account of a small research study run with a grant from the Institute of Group Analysis (IGA) Legacy Fund. It discusses the challenges and opportunities of engaging in research involving interdisciplinary collaboration between trainee cognitive behaviour therapists working in the NHS and group analysts/groupwork practitioners. It makes the case for building on the results of this study by developing a protocol for a pre-post pilot study using a mixed methods approach to explore whether IGA-led groupwork in CBT training has any effect on patient outcomes and service key performance indicators.

Glowing wonders: exploring the diversity and ecological significance of bioluminescent organisms in Brazil.

Bioluminescence, the emission of light by living organisms, is a captivating and widespread phenomenon with diverse ecological functions. This comprehensive review explores the biodiversity, mechanisms, ecological roles, and conservation challenges of bioluminescent organisms in Brazil, a country known for its vast and diverse ecosystems. From the enchanting glow of fireflies and glow-in-the-dark mushrooms to the mesmerizing displays of marine dinoflagellates and cnidarians, Brazil showcases a remarkable array of bioluminescent species. Understanding the biochemical mechanisms and enzymes involved in bioluminescence enhances our knowledge of their evolutionary adaptations and ecological functions. However, habitat loss, climate change, and photopollution pose significant threats to these bioluminescent organisms. Conservation measures, interdisciplinary collaborations, and responsible lighting practices are crucial for their survival. Future research should focus on identifying endemic species, studying environmental factors influencing bioluminescence, and developing effective conservation strategies. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, advanced technologies, and increased funding, Brazil can unravel the mysteries of its bioluminescent biodiversity, drive scientific advancements, and ensure the long-term preservation of these captivating organisms.

Carbon‐based nanodots for biomedical applications and clinical transformation prospects

AbstractCarbon dots (CDs), emerging as a promising class of nanomaterials, have garnered significant interest in the field of biomedicine due to their unique physicochemical properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements in the biomedical applications of CDs, emphasizing their potential for revolutionizing diagnostics, therapy, and bio‐imaging. We discuss the synthesis and functionalization of CDs, which are pivotal in tailoring their properties for specific biomedical applications. The applications of CDs in bioimaging include fluorescence imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, photoacoustic imaging, etc. Additionally, this review delves into the benefits of CDs in the treatment of diseases including cancer, inflammation and Alzheimer's, etc. Finally, we look forward to the future of CDs in the field of biomedicine, emphasizing the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration to overcome current obstacles and facilitate the clinical translation of CDs‐based technologies. This review aims to provide a summary and perspectives on the latest developments of CDs in biomedicine, hoping to inspire further research in this rapidly advancing field.

Collaborative Action Research As an Approach to School Improvement to Develop Inclusive Education in Pakistan

ABSTRACT Education in Pakistan continues to be underfunded and only one in three children complete primary education. Children with special needs face further barriers to access good quality education, with an estimated less than one in ten disabled children attending any school. In this situation, mainstream schools struggle to provide an inclusive education environment. Given these multiple challenges, Collaborative Action Research (CAR) was used to attempt to improve educational services, by facilitating teachers, school management, and families and parents to work together to promote inclusion. A research team consisting of occupational therapists and teachers worked with five local primary schools, using the Action Research cycles of plan-act-observe-reflect to develop practical strategies, materials, and inclusive lesson plans to facilitate the participation of all children in all school-based occupations. Support from school management as well as interdisciplinary collaboration were crucial factors for implementing Action Research and the innovations resulting from this process. Resulting strategies were found to benefit all children in class, leading to enhanced engagement and attainment of children with special needs as well as their peers. Both occupational therapists and teachers discovered the value of interprofessional collaboration through this process. A Resource Guide has been produced and is freely available.

QIP on VTE prevention in stroke patients within 24 hours

This abstract focuses on the initial problem of suboptimal venous thromboembolism(VTE) prevention among stroke patients in our hospital’sstroke unit. The relevance to acute medicine and the subsequent analysis,intervention, and results are discussed. Lessons learned, additionalchanges, and the authors’ plans for sustainable practice change are alsoaddressed.The QIP revealed inadequate adherence to VTE prevention guidelinesin stroke patients, posing a significant risk. The relevance to acute medicinelies in the vulnerability of stroke patients to VTE due to immobilityand altered coagulation profiles.The analysis found that only 60% of eligible stroke patients receivedappropriate VTE prophylaxis, necessitating an intervention to improveadherence. A multidisciplinary team developed a protocol for risk assessment,pharmacological prevention, early mobilisation, and patienteducation.The intervention significantly improved adherence to VTE preventionmeasures, with 85% of eligible stroke patients receiving appropriate prophylaxis.Lessons learned emphasised collaboration, standardised protocols,and ongoing education. Regular audits and feedback facilitatedsustained improvements.Further changes were made to enhance sustainability, including integratingthe protocol into electronic medical records, educating new staff,and appointing a VTE prevention champion.In conclusion, this study successfully implemented an intervention forVTE prevention in stroke patients, resulting in improved adherence toguidelines and reduced VTE events. The findings underscore the importanceof proactive measures and interdisciplinary collaboration in acutemedicine, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and safety.

Development and Validation of the Bone Tumor Surgery Complexity Score

Bone tumors often manifest with non-specific symptoms such as pain and swelling, often posing diagnostic challenges. Optimal treatment requires centralized care in specialized centers, emphasizing the need for complete tumor removal and interdisciplinary collaboration. We developed the Bone Tumor Surgery Complexity Score (BT-SCS) based on a retrospective study of 501 patients. The BT-SCS, structured around patient demographics, tumor biology, and surgical parameters, categorizes surgical cases into four groups to comprehensively assess complexity. Application of the BT-SCS resulted in scores ranging from 3 to 33, with an average score of 14 ± 7.2. Patients with malignant tumors had higher scores (19.6 ± 5.2) compared to those with benign (10.0 ± 3.8) or intermediate malignant tumors (14.6 ± 7.1). Patients with pelvic tumors registered the highest scores (16.0), followed by extremities/trunk (14.3) and spinal tumors (13.6). The BT-SCS was validated against the Case Mix Index (CMI), using an independent cohort of bone and soft tissue cases. This validation process, utilizing Loess smoothing, illustrated the BT-SCS’s granular differentiation of surgical complexity, particularly in the lower-to-mid-range of case severities. The BT-SCS represents a significant shift from volume-based to complexity-based assessments in surgical care, aligning with evolving healthcare paradigms. It serves as a tool for strategic patient allocation to treatment centers, aiming to improve outcomes and benchmarking in sarcoma care. The score’s development and application in clinical practice align with the focus on patient-centered and value-based healthcare. Future enhancements, including machine learning integration and outcome data, will refine its categorization process, enhancing clinical utility.

Juvenile Justice-Based Interdisciplinary Collective Care: An Innovative Approach.

Mental health concerns among juvenile-justice-involved youth (JJIY) continue to be a major health crisis in the United States (US). While scholarship has explored mental health concerns among JJIY, and the link to negative life outcomes, there are gaps in the existing research, particularly in effective interventions and models aimed at addressing both the mental health concerns and criminogenic risk contributing to recidivism and other negative life outcomes of this population. In this paper, we present Justice-Based Interdisciplinary Collective Care (JBICC), an innovative framework to address both the mental health needs and delinquent behavior of youth offenders. The model bridges community partners, with the purpose of informing future interventions, implementations, and research in this area. Increased justice-based interdisciplinary collective collaboration between the juvenile justice system and community programs/organizations would be a major benefit to youth offenders and their families. We also focus on the need for cultural responsiveness to be interwoven throughout all aspects of treatment. JBICC offers an opportunity to expanded services outside traditional settings and methods to ensure that youth offenders and their families receive validating and culturally responsive access to services.

The development of “Marine Ranching” requires global interdisciplinary collaboration and academic sharing

The development of “Marine Ranching” requires global interdisciplinary collaboration and academic sharing

Ionic Liquid-Based Green Solvents for Extraction and Purification of Natural Plant Products

Introduction: This research paper explores the environmental sustainability of ionic liquid-based green solvents in the extraction and purification of natural plant products, with a focus on their entire life cycle. The objectives of the study were to assess the environmental impact of ionic liquid synthesis, energy consumption, water usage, emissions, recycling rates, policy effects, and stakeholder perceptions. Method: Methodologically, we conducted a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) that involved primary data collection through field surveys and interviews with key stakeholders in the ionic liquid production and usage industry across various regions in India. The data were analyzed using specialized LCA software tools to quantify environmental impacts. Key findings include the identification of synthesis as a major contributor to environmental impact, emphasizing the need for greener synthesis methods. Result: The study revealed the significant carbon footprint, energy consumption, and water usage during production, highlighting opportunities for improvement. Emissions data underscored the importance of emission control measures, particularly for greenhouse gases and volatile organic compounds. Recycling and reuse were identified as environmentally friendly disposal methods. Policy compliance varied among stakeholders, indicating room for stricter regulations. Stakeholder perceptions varied, with researchers having the most positive outlook. Implications of the findings extend to sustainable chemistry practices, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and the importance of considering the entire life cycle of chemical processes. Conclusion: This research contributes to a deeper understanding of green solvents and provides a foundation for promoting sustainable practices in industrial processes in India and globally

Immunoinformatics assisted profiling of West Nile virus proteome to determine immunodominant epitopes for the development of next-generation multi-peptide vaccine

Emerging infectious diseases represent a significant threat to global health, with West Nile virus (WNV) being a prominent example due to its potential to cause severe neurological disorders alongside mild feverish conditions. Particularly prevalent in the continental United States, WNV has emerged as a global concern, with outbreaks indicating the urgent need for effective prophylactic measures. The current problem is that the absence of a commercial vaccine against WNV highlights a critical gap in preventive strategies against WNV. This study aims to address this gap by proposing a novel, multivalent vaccine designed using immunoinformatics approaches to elicit comprehensive humoral and cellular immune responses against WNV. The objective of the study is to provide a theoretical framework for experimental scientists to formulate of vaccine against WNV and tackle the current problem by generating an immune response inside the host. The research employs reverse vaccinology and subtractive proteomics methodologies to identify NP_041724.2 polyprotein and YP_009164950.1 truncated flavivirus polyprotein NS1 as the prime antigens. The selection process for epitopes focused on B and T-cell reactivity, antigenicity, water solubility, and non-allergenic properties, prioritizing candidates with the potential for broad immunogenicity and safety. The designed vaccine construct integrates these epitopes, connected via GPGPG linkers, and supplemented with an adjuvant with the help of another linker EAAAK, to enhance immunogenicity. Preliminary computational analyses suggest that the proposed vaccine could achieve near-universal coverage, effectively targeting approximately 99.74% of the global population, with perfect coverage in specific regions such as Sweden and Finland. Molecular docking and immune simulation studies further validate the potential efficacy of the vaccine, indicating strong binding affinity with toll-like receptor 3 (TLR-3) and promising immune response profiles, including significant antibody-mediated and cellular responses. These findings present the vaccine construct as a viable candidate for further development and testing. While the theoretical and computational results are promising, advancing from in-silico predictions to a tangible vaccine requires comprehensive laboratory validation. This next step is essential to confirm the vaccine’s efficacy and safety in eliciting an immune response against WNV. Through this study, we propose a novel approach to vaccine development against WNV and contribute to the broader field of immunoinformatics, showcasing the potential to accelerate the design of effective vaccines against emerging viral threats. The journey from hypothesis to practical solution embodies the interdisciplinary collaboration essential for modern infectious disease management and prevention strategies.

Cardiotoxicity of checkpoint inhibitors: focus on immune side effects

The indications for the use of checkpoint inhibitors in cancer diseases continue to expand in the coming years, which is a promising area for future clinical research. However, diagnosis of immune-related side effects is challenging due to its heterogeneous clinical manifestations, which range from subclinical to fulminant manifestations with high in-hospital mortality. A potential mechanism may be proliferation and clonal expansion of antigens by T-lymphocytes in tumor cells and affected self-tissues. The exact pathophysiological mechanism remains unclear and the risk profile of patients experiencing cardiotoxicity is unknown. Continued intensive efforts by the research communities and interdisciplinary collaborations in oncology and cardiology will help address these challenges and thereby allow immunotherapy to achieve its maximum potential benefit in the treatment of cancer

A Systematic Review of Using Deep Learning in Aphasia: Challenges and Future Directions

In this systematic literature review, the intersection of deep learning applications within the aphasia domain is meticulously explored, acknowledging the condition’s complex nature and the nuanced challenges it presents for language comprehension and expression. By harnessing data from primary databases and employing advanced query methodologies, this study synthesizes findings from 28 relevant documents, unveiling a landscape marked by significant advancements and persistent challenges. Through a methodological lens grounded in the PRISMA framework (Version 2020) and Machine Learning-driven tools like VosViewer (Version 1.6.20) and Litmaps (Free Version), the research delineates the high variability in speech patterns, the intricacies of speech recognition, and the hurdles posed by limited and diverse datasets as core obstacles. Innovative solutions such as specialized deep learning models, data augmentation strategies, and the pivotal role of interdisciplinary collaboration in dataset annotation emerge as vital contributions to this field. The analysis culminates in identifying theoretical and practical pathways for surmounting these barriers, highlighting the potential of deep learning technologies to revolutionize aphasia assessment and treatment. This review not only consolidates current knowledge but also charts a course for future research, emphasizing the need for comprehensive datasets, model optimization, and integration into clinical workflows to enhance patient care. Ultimately, this work underscores the transformative power of deep learning in advancing aphasia diagnosis, treatment, and support, heralding a new era of innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing this challenging disorder.

Indigestible Trichobezoar Mimicking Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Case Report and a Literature Review

A 15-year-old girl was admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Department due to abdominal discomfort, anorexia, diarrhea, emesis, and weight loss. An inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis was suspected and a complete endoscopic investigation was deemed necessary. Initially, only colonoscopy with ileoscopy was performed, with evidence of widespread ileal ulcers, whereas a subsequent esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a huge trichobezoar that was further surgically removed. Trichobezoars are intraluminal conglomerates composed of ingested hair and are typically associated with underlying psychiatric disorders. Bezoars can be asymptomatic or present with various gastrointestinal symptoms, mimicking, among other conditions, inflammatory bowel disease. They may extend through the pylorus into the jejunum leading to Rapunzel Syndrome, which may cause intestinal obstruction. The treatment of trichobezoar depends on its location and volume. An endoscopic approach is possible for small-sized trichobezoars, but to avoid bezoar tail migration along the intestine, causing obstruction, conventional laparotomy is the only valid treatment for patients with Rapunzel Syndrome. Due to the increasing incidence of psychiatric disorders in pediatric age during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and their relationship with trichobezoars, an increase in cases of trichobezoars was observed. Thus, interdisciplinary collaboration between psychiatrists, pediatricians, and surgeons is crucial not only during the acute phase but also for long-term management and prevention of recurrence.

Utilizing digital technologies for rapid damage assessment and reconnaissance: the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş-Türkiye earthquakes (Mw 7.7 and Mw 7.6)

AbstractThis paper presents a comprehensive overview of the rapid damage assessment and reconnaissance efforts following the devastating earthquakes on February 6, 2023, in Türkiye. It specifically focuses on implementing the SiteEye Disaster Plugin, an additional component of SiteEye software developed by i4 Company engineers and Middle East Technical University researchers. This tool played a critical role in managing and analyzing a massive dataset comprising over 28,000 images and videos. The research highlights the plugin’s innovative features, such as offline data collection, georeferenced-based layering, and an integrated damage classification system, significantly improving earthquake impact assessments’ accuracy and efficiency. It also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration involving national and international teams and the role of open data in disaster management. The findings demonstrate how digital technologies can transform the field of disaster response, offering new approaches for rapid assessment and effective management in the aftermath of seismic events. This research contributes valuable insights into enhancing disaster preparedness and response strategies, particularly in earthquake-prone areas.

Challenges and efforts in managing AI trustworthiness risks: a state of knowledge

This paper addresses the critical gaps in existing AI risk management frameworks, emphasizing the neglect of human factors and the absence of metrics for socially related or human threats. Drawing from insights provided by NIST AI RFM and ENISA, the research underscores the need for understanding the limitations of human-AI interaction and the development of ethical and social measurements. The paper explores various dimensions of trustworthiness, covering legislation, AI cyber threat intelligence, and characteristics of AI adversaries. It delves into technical threats and vulnerabilities, including data access, poisoning, and backdoors, highlighting the importance of collaboration between cybersecurity engineers, AI experts, and social-psychology-behavior-ethics professionals. Furthermore, the socio-psychological threats associated with AI integration into society are examined, addressing issues such as bias, misinformation, and privacy erosion. The manuscript proposes a comprehensive approach to AI trustworthiness, combining technical and social mitigation measures, standards, and ongoing research initiatives. Additionally, it introduces innovative defense strategies, such as cyber-social exercises, digital clones, and conversational agents, to enhance understanding of adversary profiles and fortify AI security. The paper concludes with a call for interdisciplinary collaboration, awareness campaigns, and continuous research efforts to create a robust and resilient AI ecosystem aligned with ethical standards and societal expectations.